At just 22 years old, grentperez has already established himself as one of the most exciting names in Australian pop, reinventing his own sound with every ultra-colourful, lively and dynamic release.

Most recently, the Sydney (Eora) artist shone throughout 2023 with a whopping five standalone singles: Old With You kicked things off in February, followed by Us Without Me in March, the Cavetown-assisted When We Were Younger in July, the Lime Cordiale joint Op Shop Lover in September, and of course his annual Christmas song, Christmas Starts Tonight, in November.

Next Saturday (June 8), grentperez will link up with fellow trailblazer Friday* to perform a free hometown show in Tumbalong Park as part of this year’s Vivid Sydney program. Ahead of the gig – more info on which can be found here – we caught up with grentperez to chat about some of his all-time favourite songs, such as...

A song you wish you’d written: Stevie Wonder – As

I believe this song to be one of the best out there, the lyrics are so witty and so honest, the chord progression and arrangement is so done so well, the song just plays on whether you're listening closely or not. I'm just yapping at this point, anyways, As.

A song you think is perfect: Bread – Make It With You

I think it takes the cake as having such a lovely and perfect combination of elements. The tone, the instrument choices, panning, dynamic and melody, and maybe more are simply great. Every part of the music serves the song, it's so simple but still draws you into its loving world so easily. For me it's like being high without any substances.

A song that makes you happy: New Radicals – You Get What You Give

This song never fails to make me happy (unless it gets too popular again for some reason). I remember hearing this song at the end of the film Click, rewatching the movie again as an adult I was hit with a huge wave of nostalgia, and now I like the song.

A song that makes you sad: Arcade Fire – A Song On The Beach

This song comes from the film Her, it feels so beautiful and fragile, it's the type of song that makes you feel still while the world seems to continue around you. It gets me every time.

The most “underrated” song: Kidsnot$aints. – Burn

This song is so so sick. I've heard it so many times now and it still gets me when I hear it. Just feel like this song needs more eyes on it.

Your favourite song of your own: Silver Lining

I think it's so clever and carries a good meaning. The groove is really great, the chords are just enough to be in between worlds with sad and vibe.