Album Focus: Mahalia Barnes & The Soul Mates

Answered by: Mahalia Barnes

 

Album title? Ooh Yea – The Betty Davis Songbook

 

Where did the title of your new album come from? It’s a record of Betty Davis songs, and one of our favourites was called Ooh Yea... Seemed like the right fit!

 

How many releases do you have now? Five releases with The Soul Mates: three EPs (one was a live one) and two full albums. 

 

How long did it take to write/record? This one’s a tribute to Betty, so we didn’t write the songs (wish I’d written a few!), but we tracked it live over three days.

 

Was anything in particular inspiring you during the making? Yes, my incredible band, The Soul Mates, Kevin the producer. Also we were joined by Joe Bonamassa on guitar, he was awesome! The whole process, the songs and the people were really inspiring for me. 

 

What’s your favourite song on it? I think it would have to be either Nasty Gal or He Was A Big Freak.

 

Will you do anything differently next time? It’s a little different doing covers, but for me it’s all about honesty and heart, so live is the best!  

 

When and where is your launch/next gig? We’re playing at Lizottes Dee Why and Newcastle on 1 & 2 May. We’ll be at Peak Festival, Perisher Valley, 5 Jun too.  

 

Website link for more info? mahaliabarnes.com.au