Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Its You!’?

The inspiration for “It’s You!” really came from wanting to flip the classic breakup line “it’s not you, it’s me”, and rewording it to “it’s not me, it’s you”. I was in a session with Anna Laverty and we started brainstorming lyric ideas around that phrase, and it felt a little fun and cheeky to flip it around. From there, the song became vengeful but also really cathartic.. It’s about that moment of clarity when you realise you’re not actually the problem in a relationship, they are. Once I brought it to my producer Michael Belsar and drummer Ben Ellingworth, we had so much fun experimenting with sounds and shaping it into the upbeat energetic song it is now.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?

Two big influences for me are Olivia Rodrigo and Hannah Montana. Olivia’s music really showed me how powerful honesty can be in songwriting, she captures emotions in such a raw, relatable way but still makes it fun and energetic, which has definitely inspired the way I approach my own songs. And Hannah Montana was honestly my first real introduction to pop rock music. Growing up watching the show and singing along to those songs made me want to be on stage and write music in the first place. Those influences, mixed with my own experiences, push me to write songs that are emotional and honest but also playful at the same time.

What’s the creative process like for you?

For me, the creative process usually starts with chords either on guitar or piano, and then I’ll start journaling or writing down what I’m feeling in the moment. From there, the lyrics and melodies start to take shape together. I like to let the emotion lead the song, and once I have that spark, I’ll bring it into the studio to experiment with sounds and production. I love collaborating with my producer Michael Belsar, because that’s where the songs really come to life. It’s a mix of being really honest with myself and then having fun with the creative side once we’re building it together.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?

If I could change something about the Australian music industry, it would be creating more opportunities and support for emerging artists. There’s so much talent here, but it can be really difficult to break through without the right resources or connections. I’d love to see more platforms, funding, and spaces dedicated to helping smaller artists build their careers and reach wider audiences.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?

I honestly can’t imagine my life without music, it’s been my outlet for as long as I can remember. If I didn’t have it, I think I’d still be looking for some other way to express myself, whether that was writing, art, or something creative. Music has always been how I process my emotions and connect with people, so without it I think things would feel a lot heavier. It’s definitely the thing that keeps me grounded and gives me a sense of purpose, I love it so much.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?

I’d really love to collaborate with Lizzy McAlpine. She is one of my favourite artists and I think her songwriting is so beautiful and intimate. She captures raw emotion in such a simple, honest way and it’s something I really admire about her. I feel like working with her would push me creatively and bring out a really special side of my songwriting. She also has the most stunning voice and it would be a bucket list experience to be able to sing and harmonise with her!

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?

My advice would be to stay true to yourself and your vision. It’s so easy to compare yourself to other people, but your uniqueness is what makes you stand out. Keep writing, keep creating, and just put yourself out there even if it’s scary, you never know what opportunities are waiting for you right around the corner. And I would also say to surround yourself with people who support you and lift you up, and remember to have fun with it, music should always be something that excites you.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?

I think the most interesting person I’ve worked with is my producer, Michael Belsar. His brain works in the most wonderfully hectic way, he has such an incredible ear for music and is always coming up with ideas I’d never think of myself. He pushes me creatively in the best way, and I honestly love working with him so much.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

Yes! I am going on a small headline tour playing shows in Melbourne and Sydney at the end of October and I am seriously so excited! Performing live is one of my favourite things ever, so I cannot wait to perform all of the songs off the EP in a room full of people, it’s going to be really special.

A Quick Chat with Tilly Fenton