Madi Colville Walker Interview

First up, can you please give us a quick intro to Madi Colville-Walker?

 Marking the third sublime single released in conjunction with the Singing Our Futures program, aka The Archie Roach Foundation's mentoring experience helping emerging First Nations artists on their songwriting and recording journeys, the glistening new track Yinyarr Mulana Winyarr from Yorta Yorta artist Madi Colville-Walker is a warm and calming ode to home and country, and it comes off the back of Colville-Walker picking up the coveted Archie Roach Foundation Award at the NIMAs

How would you describe your music?

Storytelling plays a huge role in my music, it's how I find I connect with people. If I had to pick a sound for my music, I would say Country/Pop, as I grew as an artist from the age of sixteen, I came to realise how storytelling and country music came together. For a long time I didn't acknowledge that this was my sound, I think the main reason was fear of judgement from school peers, I didn't think it was the most popular genre at the time either.

Can you tell us about your single? What inspired your song Yinyarr Mulana Winyarr?

My new single is  about my country, how I feel when I come back home after being away.  There is definitely a part of me in this song, for as long as I can remember lots of people within community, particularly elders, gifted me the name "Winyarr" translating to "Woman" in Yorta Yorta language; this inspired the name "Yinyarr Mulana Winyarr" or "Free Spirit Woman" in english.

Is there a particular message you hope listeners take from your music?

The key part of my performances and songs are the stories that are told with them. I hope when people listen to my set or songs that they can relate to them in some way or another.

Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Although I love spending time in a  studio, there's something about a live performance that is really special. I think it allows people to be present in the moment and gives artists that motivation to continue those live shows. 

Which is your favourite song to perform live and why?

When it comes to my originals, I think my favourite song is "Hooked" which is written about bad habits and addiction, although my Mum originally thought I wrote it about shoes, which is one of the stories I tell on stage. My favourite cover is "Neon Moon" by Brooks And Dunn.

I write a lot about life experiences, when I first started I really had no understanding of what I was really talking about in a song, basically writing for the sake of writing, which isn't a bad thing. Lyrics  hold this magic where you can get a point across, without actually having to say it, which is one of my favourite things. 

Which music/artists are you currently listening to?

I have a love and appreciation for all music genres, some of my all times favourite artists include:Loretta Lynn, Jimi Hendrix, Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley

What or who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

My Grandfather is one of many who plays a huge role as to why I have a love for music. I didn't have a lot of self confidence when I first started my journey, I was very shy and quiet; eventually, I got enough courage to do a couple of performances with my school band, and I remember my family being right there for me with all the support in the world. 

If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

I would love to work with Dolly Parton! I have a lot of admiration for her and her work. The detail she puts into songwriting holds so much emotion, one of my favourites is "Coat Of Many Colours". 

How does it feel to hear your song played all over the airwaves?

It's a little bit surreal! I'm very grateful for each opportunity, I'm proud that I kept pushing my younger self with music, it's become my heart and soul, I wouldn't change it for the world!

What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?

I feel I have been very fortunate with my career in the industry, I'm so grateful for all of the opportunities and support along the way. I think the most challenging thing for me is not noticing that "burn out" if I have overworked myself, self care as a musician is very important!

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

I love being able to travel, connect with many communities and share my stories. I feel honoured to feel welcome in so many places and communities that are far away from my home.

What's a typical day like?

Most of the time I'm usually on the road going to a gig, but when I get a chance to be at home I'm spending time with family or friends. One of my favourite catch-up sessions is with my Nan, iced lattes and frapés are a must each time!

Can you share your socials? (links please)

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/madicolville_

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/MadiColvilleWalkerMusic

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/71okcppOlWzuqymaeWQmP2?si=6e5irTbrSdKhwsgafOaxBQ 

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madiolivia247?_t=8fGHCohRTUt&_r=1