We recently sat down with Indie Folk artist Tommy Drifter to discuss his brilliant new single Salty Days and much more!
When did you start writing music?
When I was 11! I went to a local churches Friday night youth group with my mates. For $5 there was a skate ramp, food and girls . They let me get up on stage one night and I played Greenday and Blink 182. They kicked me off and said I couldn’t play again until it was church music. A couple of weeks later I got up again and played “Which way to go?”, the cheesiest, most bible-bashing song I could dribble out. The ministers daughter loved it. Praise Jesus!
What motivates your song writing?
My songs are generally me trying to figure something out. I pick up my guitar and walk around the house sorting through my thoughts and coming up with lyrics. Typically they’re about a girl, past or present. Picking up my guitar and singing feels saner than walking around talking to myself.
What is the inspiration behind your new single Salty Days?
Salty Days is my escape song. Almost a meditation. Smell that sea breeze? Salty Days baby!
Tell us 5 words that best describe you as an artist?
Fun, Cheeky, Large (I’m 6’6), Charismatic, Honest (most of the time.)
What is the first album you ever bought?
The Offspring – Americana (cassette)….wow!
What is your favourite hobby outside of music?
I spend a lot of time outdoors. Hiking, surfing & camping. My goal is to balance my music career with the outdoors.
Whereas been the highlight of your career so far?
Getting Airplay on Triple J was pretty cool, that was a first, so keep that coming! Haha. Also I’m pretty proud of where I’m currently recording (Hercules Street Studios) with Tim McArtney. There’s been some pretty cool names in that place and I’m stoked to be there.
What is your strangest experience as a musician?
I cant say I’ve had strange experiences yet. I do have trouble receiving compliments from people I don’t know. It doesn’t happen a lot! But yeah, that’s weird haha.
What is some advice you would give to young musicians starting out?
Learn what you want. Play what you want. Write what you want. Repeat 😊
What is the plan for the rest of 2021?
I’m back in the studio recording songs for my debut E.P & hopefully some fun gigs!
