I have always loved how songs can mean something different to everyone, but my real "aha!" moment happened after college. My parents treated me to my first Michael Ball concert as a graduation present, and it blew me away. I realised that when a singer truly feels the music and connects with the lyrics, they aren't just performing - they're storytelling. It was like an emotional rollercoaster and showed me just how magical song-writing can be. The experience made me feel alive!

I became a dedicated fan and bought all of Michael’s albums in the years that followed. His first original song “Someone Else’s Dream”, I resonated strongly with. Through listening to Michael and trying to sing along (in my own way), I've become more vocal – well, what I mean is I make more noise than I used to!

Over time, I developed a bond with Michael (pictured right). He noticed the passion I had for music and theatre, spotting me at shows and seeing how much I enjoyed them. He saw that I related to the song lyrics as much as he does when he becomes the character.

Shortly after, I also discovered The Overtones, the vocal harmony group (originally consisting of Lockie ‘Lachie’ Chapman, Timmy Mattley, Mike Crawshaw, Darren Everest and Mark Franks), I was captivated by their harmonies and their ability to write songs that feel both classic and fresh. These influences eventually collided, giving me the spark I needed to try and attempt writing my very first song. When I re-read my first attempt, I can’t help but think it’s more like a poem.

A long way from the songs I write today, after what I’ve learnt with RAWD and since collaborating with a local musician, Dan Astles.

If you’d like to hear my first original song “Everybody’s BITCHIN’ about AL”, click here. I wrote it with guidance from Dan and features the vocal talents of Hayley Sheen (pictured left). The experience was a joy, from start to end.

I would like to continue to write songs, both for musical theatre and stand-alone singles.