Casey Donovan Women Of Soul Interview

Casey Donovan Women Of Soul Interview

Soul music comes with a history and legacy that stretches across generations of music artists. A soul singer is not taught the art of soul, but rather born into a world of melodies, deep rhythms and sexy tones. Soul music comes from the -soul' and reaches out to music lovers across genres, connecting with people on all different levels. It is with this ethos that the special Women of Soul live show has been created. Originally launched in 2009, the Women of Soul show already has two successful tours under its belt and this time around brings the talents of two more great Australian soul divas to the stage.

Growing up Mindy Kwanten & Evie J Willie were both inspired by a host of Motown, northern and modern soul international music icons to become professional singers. They grew up listening to the music, captivated by the powerful vocals and melodies. Now these fine and powerhouse vocalists will combine their enthusiasm and energy in this special live show, Women of Soul – Tribute to Soul Divas. These two talented performers have been touring the country over the last year supporting Christine Anu's successful REWIND- The Aretha Franklin Songbook tour.

Women of Soul isn't your ordinary live show, it jam-packs two hours of back-to-back music, paying tribute to the world's greatest soul divas, including Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Tina Turner, Thelma Houston, Diana Ross and many more. Women of Soul pull together a set-list of soul classics and contemporary favorites with remarkable style and energy. Seeing these two amazing performers on stage it's evident they are soul divas within their own right.

Mindy Kwanten is a well-known name in industry circles. She's an accomplished session vocalist who started out in musical theatre and has leant her voice to numerous television and radio jingles. She has also performed backing vocals for some of the country's most prominent touring musicians. In addition to her session work, Mindy has established a name for herself in her own outfit – Bow and Arrow – an eccentric duo with husband Mitchell Kwanten. They've previously released two EPs – Return to Me and Don't Play Roulette in Russia – and are currently working on a third EP due for release in the near future.

Evie J Willie has a similar music history and has been penning her own original material since her teen years. Last year Evie teamed up with producer and friend Phil Rigger to create her long awaited EP Lady Soldier. Recorded with her five-piece band, which features Shane McGrath on lead guitar, the EP is the perfect showcase of her talents. The songs, written about personal experiences and stories, are uplifting and inspirational. As an up-and-coming Indigenous performer making her mark on the local scene, Evie continually draws back to her cultural roots, creating a uniquely Australian soulful musical experience.

Adding something special to this already spectacular concert experience, Women of Soul will be joined on stage by three of Australia's very own soul sisters – Deni Hines, Casey Donovan and 2012 X-Factor finalist Angel Tupai. Women of Soul is the ultimate show – oozing soul, class and musical proficiency. Don't miss this chance to hear soul as it's meant to be performed!

Interview with Casey Donovan

Question: Why did you decide to join the Women Of Soul 2013 tour?

Casey Donovan: I was originally in Women Of Soul back in 2009 and I got asked to do it again and I couldn't have said no because it is a great opportunity and it's great to be on stage alongside four strong women.


Question: What should audiences expect from the shows?

Casey Donovan: They should expect a great show full of soul music, some dancing and me trying to be funny!


Question: Can you talk us through your part, in the show?

Casey Donovan: I am a special guest in the Women Of Soul 2013, it is Mindy Kwanten and Evie J Willie's show and they are very much women of soul. It will be a very entertaining show.


Question: What songs will audiences recognise?

Casey Donovan: There will definitely be some Aretha Franklin numbers along with Tina Turner and songs the audiences will definitely recognise.


Question: What memories do these songs evoke, for you?

Casey Donovan: One thing I love about soul music is the emotions that people put into it as it tells a story; I love to tell a story through music and let my soul be on stage.


Question: What have you been doing for the first half of 2013?

Casey Donovan: 2013 has been a very busy year! I have been working very closely with NITV doing some co-hosting around Australia. I have been getting ready for next year, as it has been 10 years since Australia Idol; I have been recording an album and writing something you'll be able to read, next year. I've been a very busy bumble bee.


Question: What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?

Casey Donovan: I'm listening to a lot of QUEEN at the moment; I watched a Freddie Mercury documentary and fell in love with him all over again. I listen to everything!

Question: Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Casey Donovan: I love both. Performing live gives you the extra bit of adrenalin rush along with the freedom to talk about things and entertain. When you're in a studio it is different because you don't have the adrenalin through your veins, it is very stressful being in a studio and if you can't get something right and have to do many takes. I love both though.


Question: What's a typical day like, for you?

Casey Donovan: Golly goodness! At the moment I am writing music and getting myself ready for the upcoming Women Of Soul gigs and making sure everything is in shape. I'm also preparing to host the Deadly Awards; mostly preparing.


Question: What has been your favourite part of becoming a music artist?

Casey Donovan: My favourite part has been branching off into musical theatre, I challenged myself and reached new boundaries in becoming a character and learning a script as well as keeping it in your head (laughs); it has been great as I've been able to travel the world as well as all over Australia. It has been good to not be Casey Donovan but a character.

I also loved supporting Cyndi Lauper; there has been so much that has happened in the ten years since Australian Idol, it's been an amazing journey and I hope it keeps going.


Interview by Brooke Hunter