Q&A : Prinnie

Fresh new Aussie urban songstress Prinnie (Miss Prinnie to us) first captivated us with her performances on Australian Idol, but since then she's been travelling the world to create what will ultimately become her debut album.
In only our second auspOp Q&A, we ask Miss Prinnie about the difficulties in getting her music out there, the mega-names she's worked with and when we should expect that LP.

Q : Miss Prinnie, some of our readers remember you as a contestant on the second season of Australian Idol, but you've been far from idle since you appeared. What have been some of the highlights of the past seven years for you?

Highlight for me would have to be landing a record deal and moving to New York City. It has moulded the singer I have become. New York brings out the best in you and doesn’t allow you to be complacent. Good is never enough...
Just when you think you have given your all, it demands more and surprisingly you produce!

Q : You've done musical theatre, you're a dancer, you're a singer - is there anything you can't do!?

I’m hopeless at putting things away... I’m that person who always leaves the milk out! Lol.

Q : Music is obviously your primary passion though?

Yes! Music is in my every thought! Whether I’m thinking about how I can improve a show by adding new songs or watching something in life and being inspired to write about it... Music is constantly on my mind!

Q : How difficult is it to break through and get your music heard here in Australia?

Hard work and persistence pays off in the end. I believe that the music industry has been very narrow minded in the past, but we have come leaps and bounds. I am trying to do my part in breaking down the stereotypes of Aussie urban artists.
In the past I think that we felt like it was only a US trend that we were trying to emulate... I’m definitely inspired by both the US and UK but I believe I have my own sound - unique to Aus!

Q : Do you think Australian media on the whole is lacklustre in its support of Aussie music?

In the past I may have said yes, but I have seen people like Kathy McCabe, who is one of the most respected music journalists in the country, stand up for me and my battle with getting radio play. I have recently gained much respect for the journalists in this country!

Q : You've spent plenty of time away from our shores working on your solo material - New York and London in particular. What's the best thing about those two cities and where do you call 'home' now?

I still call Australia home! And always will!
The best thing about New York for me is the hustle and bustle. When I’m in Sydney, I live on the northern beaches and the contrast is just insane!!!!
London - has got to be the shopping! Two words... Top Shop! Die! .... OK that’s three..

Q : You've been working with some big name producers on your album. How did that all come about?

I’ve been really blessed to work with the best along the way.
I worked with most of the bigger name producers - Rodney Jerkins, Dallas Austin etc when I was signed in New York. Our label had a great relationship with them and they wanted to be a part of the project.
I’m now fortunate enough to have maintained great relationships with these guys to continue our musical journey together.

Q : Tell us all about 'Lion' and why you're so thrilled to have it as your debut single.

Lion is all about empowerment! Finding the fire within. Whether it’s a man getting rid of the inner boy or a girl finding herself... It’s all about letting ya lion roar!!!
After years of performing in ensembles or doing backing vocals, I feel that that’s exactly what I’m doing now!!! Letting MY Lion ROAR!

Q : Beyond this single, what's in the pipeline for you musically?

I am about to return to LA/London and NYC to finish the album ... I’m looking at releasing my next single soon after my return and then the album later this year.

Q : Live performance is obviously incredibly important for you - are there plans for any live shows?

Yes! Whilst I’m away I will be performing in all the cities... LA, NYC and London... Can’t wait!
Then of course, when I get home, it’s back into shows and a national tour to promote the second single!
I’m dying to get out to the regional areas and perform, the real heart of this country. I’ve got a lot of fans that write me from everywhere and I can’t wait to meet them all in person!

Prinnie's single 'Lion' is out now.
Her debut album is expected later this year.