A Quick Chat with Bailey Perrie

Bailey Perrie is ready to shatter expectations with her bold new single, No Main Character. With theatrical vocals, brooding pop-rock energy, and an electrifying mix of piano and horns, the Perth rising star delivers an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like a background player in their own story. Known for her infectious songwriting and powerhouse performances, Bailey turns vulnerability into strength, proving she’s more than ready to take centre stage. We caught up with Bailey to find out more about her release, her influences, and more.

Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
No Main Character is really a fun, experimental song for me because I had a lot of fun writing it. I was kind of in the mindset of, what if I thought of it as a movie scene? But then it turned into a whole deeper meaning. Just because you are in the background of someone else's life doesn't mean you need to be a background character in your own life. I hope people take away from it that life changes, and just because you might feel like you're not seen at one point, the next moment you could be living life—everything could be happening for you. And yeah, life is a bit of a rollercoaster.

Who are some of your influences, and why?
I have a few, but my main one would be Avril Lavigne, which is heard in my music. I love her pop-rock vibes. She definitely influences my music. I’d also say Olivia Rodrigo is an inspiration because the vibes of her music are similar to what I want to achieve. When it comes to songwriting, I take a lot of inspiration from Taylor Swift—her storytelling, clever lyrics, and imagination. I really enjoy putting that into song and giving it a go.

What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?
Generally, I write very late at night, just chillin' in my room. I’ll start strumming some chords, think of a theme, and start adding lyrics. If I like where it’s going, I keep working on it. Then I show my parents, and if they like it, I bring it into the studio. I always play a few songs for my producer, and whichever song he gets the most excited about is the one we record. He was super pumped about No Main Character, and he did an incredible job on the track.

What do you think makes a great song?
I think any song can be a great song; it really depends on when and why you’re listening. Not every song has to be vocal perfection or great storytelling. It can just be the right song at the right time. It’s all about the feeling it evokes.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
If I could collaborate with anyone, it would have to be Jon Bon Jovi. Growing up and going on car rides with my dad, he would blast Bon Jovi. It has definitely influenced my music taste and how I write. I think there would be a lot to learn, and it would be awesome to do a track with him.

When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
When I’m not working on music, I’m either dancing or watching shows. I love hanging out with my friends—they give me a lot to write about. I’m up for anything; I like to get involved in life and just live it up.

Who are some local bands we should check out?
If I were to recommend one band in particular that I really like, it would be Better Late Band. Their pop-rock vibe is what I love to listen to. I remember watching them for the first time and just thinking, we need more of this music. Everyone in the band is so lovely. I’ve played on the same lineup as them a couple of times, and every time, it’s hugs and chats. I definitely recommend checking them out.

Winter or summer and why?
If you had asked me this three years ago, I probably would have said winter. But now I’d say summer for sure because I have a summer job working at a water park—it’s like being on summer camp. I’m also a lifeguard now. Who would have thought I’d be doing that? All my friends are there, so we kick on to the beach after work. The heat has grown on me, so definitely summer.

What do you have planned for 2025?
I’m hoping to do lots of gigs, just get out there as much as I can, meet lots of new people, and go see more gigs. I’ll continue working on my album, releasing singles as I go.

Interviewsaustralianmusicscene7 February 2025