A Quick Chat with Clancy

You’re heading into BIGSOUND with your very first song, ‘Oh Why’, already on full rotation at triple j. What does it feel like to be walking into one of the biggest weeks in Australian music with your debut single getting that kind of response?

I’m completely stoked with the response Oh Why has gotten and extremely grateful for the support it’s received from Triple J. It definitely has given me some extra pep in my step. Also, earnest alert… Kinda feel like I’ve made friends with some of the presenters and I’m really looking forward to bumping into them. Friendship is awesome.

‘Oh Why’ is essentially a plea for connection, born out of a pretty deep feeling of loneliness. What made you want to put something so vulnerable out into the world as the very first introduction to Clancy?

I always wanted to release Oh Why as the first single because I really like the way it sounds. I actually sat on it for a few years before releasing I think because I felt quite emotionally exposed. I wrote it after my first big heartbreak and to be honest I think the real insecurity came from the simplicity of the lyricism. It’s not poetic, it’s straight up and vulnerable. No meaning hidden behind pretty language but I think that’s actually part of its charm. Sometimes honesty feels embarrassing when you’re in it but I don’t feel embarrassed anymore, I think its relatable and I think it’s human and I love the idea it might make other people feel less alone. It’s okay to be vulnerable, actually, it’s wonderful.

There’s a really fun tension in ‘Oh Why’ between insecurity, loneliness and this slightly obnoxious, chaotic energy. Was that balance intentional, or did it just naturally become part of figuring out who Clancy is?

Thank you! That was intentional and I’m glad it came across. So often I notice how things we might usually perceive as opposing exist alongside each other quite comfortably, for example - strength and softness or even the classic sentiment it’s kind to be cruel. It also feeds into the question above as I’ve found a willingness to be vulnerable about loneliness has led to connection. I LOVE this example of insecurity and obnoxiousness! They’re not that far away from each other when you think about it but musically it adds contrast and excitement in a cool way.

The song started as a humble bedroom pop demo before Liam Downey gave it a complete facelift. What was that process like, and how did the track change once you started building it into the version people are hearing now?

Working with Liam is the best ever. Usually I write the parts using mostly ableton presets and record my vocals (with a mic I think I acquired from an ex) then I send it to Liam who mixes and adds more sophisticated and exciting sounds and effects and manipulations boosting the energy while maintaining the tracks original quirky diy charm.

BIGSOUND can be a pretty surreal experience for a brand-new artist, especially when you’re suddenly meeting people who have only just discovered your music. What are you most excited or nervous about when it comes to bringing Clancy into that world?

I really enjoy being on stage so the most exciting part about Bigsound for me is playing the showcases. There’s only 1 single out in the world so the rest of the set is completely fresh and I think it’s a really strong first impression. My band are awesome too! To be fair I am equally excited and nervous about this but it’s good, nerves show you care.

You’ve only just started this project, but ‘Oh Why’ is already getting people’s attention. After BIGSOUND, what do you want the next chapter of Clancy to look and sound like?

I have more to release soon! I’m super keen to keep building momentum so that I can play and travel more. I’m also super keen to get these songs out and hunker down on more writing. My life is a happy when I’m writing and playing so ultimately the goal is to do just that!