BIGSOUND 2019 Artist Focus: Stevan

Answered by: Stevan

Give us a short description of your music: My music sounds like a really nice sunset. It's really chill and gives off a warm and inviting feeling. I also think it’s very relatable and nostalgic because I write about things we all feel.

Which acts are on your must-see list at BIGSOUND? Chakra Efendi, Gordon Koang, Nerve, and that kid Stevan. I've heard he's got a solid live set.

Why should people come and see you among the many amazing bands at BIGSOUND? My sound is in the development phase so my live set blends styles. I'm 18 so my music reflects my age and kids my age can relate. I'm also musically inspired by the ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s so an older audience can relate to the music as it's a callback.

What music trends do you think are dominating right now, and do you have any predictions for the coming year? Hip hop is starting to take over, especially Australian grime. Outside of Australia, rap is still a huge thing at the moment, however music is shifting again. I feel like people want to see themselves in the artist they listen to. I think a lot of different styles are gonna get a chance.

In your career to date, what have been the key watershed moments? Aligning myself with Astral People was one of the smartest moves I've made this year. I'd already secured a great deal internationally and had great booking agents but not much was happening. I feel like since signing to Astral my exposure to Australian listeners skyrocketed. So that meeting, for sure.

What industry lessons would you like to take away from the BIGSOUND conference? How to network with other musicians/music people. Knowing how to put my best foot forward and be involved in my music beyond making it. Meeting new personalities, seeing what works for them in terms of public persona and how it might help me moving forward. Just general stuff.

What do you identify as the most pressing issue impacting the Australian music industry at present? A lot of Australian artists including myself feel like it's necessary to blow up or become successful overseas before we’re known nationally. Or that we won't be taken seriously as musicians unless we're recording overseas. That's an issue of perception and it holds us back in a lot of ways.

What is the best bit of advice you've been given to prepare for your time at BIGSOUND? Vic Edirisinghe, one of my managers, not too long ago stressed the importance of time management and professionalism. Basically keeping track of my time and being ready on time and prepared. I think that mentality is gonna be relevant during my time at BIGSOUND and also in life generally.

When and where is your BIGSOUND showcase? 3 Sep, Ric’s Big Backyard, 8.20pm; 4 Sep, Levi’s Showcase, The Valley Drive In, 5pm; 4 Sep, Famous Nightclub, 11.30pm.