A Quick Chat with Flynn Gurry

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Don't Stop Dreaming’?
This song was written post-comedown from my first big tour. The last show I had played on that tour is still one of my most memorable shows and I had begun writing the lyrics in the green room whilst the headline band was playing. The inspiration came from a realisation during that time of “wow I really am living out my 14 year old dreams here”.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?
Some of my biggest influences would be the likes of Mumford & Sons, John Butler Trio – I love the way they are able to write killer lyrics but the music behind it is so energetic and just allows you to escape for a moment.

What’s the creative process like for you?
Usually it will start with a guitar and then I will try and flesh out the song in its entirety before taking it into the studio. I think if it can make someone feel something with just a vocal and an acoustic guitar – you're on a winner!

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?
I would love to see more initiatives like the recent “Michael Rule” in NSW. Things like more Aussie music during prime time.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?
That sounds awful to me to be honest. If I didn’t have music as an outlet, I don’t think I could live without it.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?
Alice Ivy? I loved the song she made with Josh Teskey. I love when genres like that crossover so an electronic-folk song could be sick!

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?
I would say don’t underestimate the power of just getting out and playing live and connecting with your audience and other musicians. Social media is great but it can't beat the real thing!

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?
I had such an awesome time in the studio with Joel Quartermain & Edwin White making this track. They are such industry heavyweights and from the moment I walked into the studio we were cooking! What made this particular experience interesting was that during the recording Melbourne was going through a pretty intense heat wave and the air conditioner in the studio had stopped working meaning we were literally cooking. I'm glad we were still able to push through and get this song.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?
Yeah! I’m going to be heading out on my first headline tour and I’ll be playing Melbourne, Warrnambool, Sydney & Brisbane, dates below:

Fri 6 June – Wesley Anne, Northcote VIC
Sat 7 June – The Space, Warrnambool VIC
Fri 20 June – Low 302, Sydney NSW
Sat 21 June – Junk Bar, Brisbane QLD

Tickets available from www.flynngurry.com.au