INTERVIEW: MONTANA SHARP IS RADIATING ‘POWER’ WITH HER LATEST SINGLE + VIDEO
Tell me more about your new single, Power?
I wrote it at the tender age of 21, mainly because it was cathartic but also because my upcoming show’s set was one-song short and I was running out of time, so I had to whip something together very quickly. I was mid-break up and just feeling frustrated that I kept creating the same dynamics over and over, so I documented that feeling in the story.
Is this a taste for an upcoming EP or Album?
Upcoming EP at the end of the year! This is the second song on the track listing. The Ep kind of starts in more of an angsty angry place like this and then moves into more of an uplifting vibe.
What was it like filming the video for this? I love the Alice in Wonderland vibes – it also reminds me of parts of Taylor Swift Blank Space video.
Oh I love that! My roommate is a die-hard Swiftie so I wonder if she agrees. I shot this video and my last video (Greenhouse) with Majella Productions and I think they just really get my vibe and my music. They always make it as fantastical as possible and are so creative and imaginative. I was so nervous the first time I shot a music video, but this time round I just had fun and enjoyed getting to know everyone on set. In reality, the artist has the easiest job on the day - just gotta stand on your mark and lipsync like you’re on RuPaul’s Drag Race.
What was the production process for this single? Did you record in a formal studio or home setup?
I record in a formal studio - Soggy Dog Studio in Melbourne. I also work there as a session musician. Steve (my producer) has been doing this for 35 years and has such a wealth of knowledge. We started laying down the track in early 2019, and continued working on it together till earlier this year - partly due to Corona and also partly due to me being a maximalist who wants to keep adding parts in.
You had a recent show at Wesley Anne? How did it go! Any favourite moments?
It was honestly one of my favourite performances to date. The audience rapport was so fun and I felt very comfortable. It was my first gig back since Covid and it made me remember how much I love performing. My favourite moment was me walking around in disguise before the show because I really had to pee and didn’t want to reveal my outfit. The band was particularly amazing to work with as well - I had a little string trio and they just immensely elevated the sound. I also enjoyed chucking a bouquet of faux-roses to the audience as I walked off stage.
I am curious to know more about how you blend your classical training with the pop influences?
My vocals are pure pop - no classical influences there. However, I did the whole classical piano route through childhood and I think that has really influenced my songwriting in terms of chords. I like to go for harmonic progressions that are atypical and may seem a little bit ‘extra’ for modern pop.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Alanis Morissette. Barbra Streisand. Judy Garland. Beyonce. ACDC. Sia. Queen - weird mix of artists really.
What songs are in your ‘On Repeat’ playlist at the moment?
The High Road - Joss Stone, Dancing With The Devil - Demi Lovato, Stars - Grace Potter and The Nocturnals, You Oughta Know - Alanis Morissette.
What can fans expect to see next from you?
More shows, more songs, more merch, more memes - more Montana :)