Bonnie’s Back!
Photo by: Sean McDonald
Australian Singer, Songwriter and Actor, Bonnie Anderson has returned with her brand-new track ‘Bad Advice’ A soulful, yet funky track that showcases the power of Bonnie’s rich vocal prowess. Co-written with David Schuler and Leeanna James in Los Angeles earlier in the year, ‘Bad Advice’ marks a new chapter for the hugely talented artist, and we caught up with Bonnie to chat about the new song, her creative process and what the future holds now she is recording again.
Bonnie, you're about to release your brand new single 'Bad Advice', tell us about your new song. What inspired you to write this one?
This song was written after a huge amount of time between releasing music and feeling completely creative again. So, it was a real reflection of overcoming a lot of personal experiences and really looking at where I am today and feeling proud and grateful. Life is a wonderful journey of highs and lows. I’ve loved learning and growing through all of my phases in life.
“this stage of my life is by far my favourite.”
Do you have a favourite line or part of the song? Which lines resonate with you most?
My most favourite line of the song would be “Hello to my new life”, as cheesy as it may sound, it feels so right and so refreshing. It’s a statement of where I am at today, physically and emotionally. I have overcome things just like everybody else in life. And this stage of my life is by far my favourite.
Did you play a part in the production side of the track?
For the first time ever, I have had something to do with the production of my own music. I really like to be a part of the sounds and all-round feel of my music. I have learnt a lot over the years writing and working with incredible producers. We recently built our own home studio, so I have thrown myself into that side of the music and really enjoyed learning. David Schuler the producer of my recent music is a musical genius. He also has taught me a lot, and we really understand each other musically. It’s been so much fun.
You recorded 'Bad Advice' at The Base in Melbourne, the same recording studio you used to complete your very first EP at the tender age of 15. What was it like returning after all this time?
For me, recording at ‘The Base’ has a lot of special memories. I have spent a lot of time there over the years with Phil Threlfall who produced my first EP and we also did a lot of recording there whilst I was on ‘Neighbours.’ The original plan was to record earlier in the year while I was in LA, but my voice was still in recovery after my vocal throat surgery, so it worked out perfectly to be able to finish the record back home in a familiar place that I absolutely love!
“I trust my instincts a lot more now and I believe in my story and what I want to share with the world”
Has the recording process changed for you from those early days?
Completely. I trust my instincts a lot more now and I believe in my story and what I want to share with the world. Being so young at the beginning of my career, I was never truly sure of the artist I was meant to be. It has taken me a long time to feel confident in the work I create and I’m truly excited for my music to be heard. This time I have had a lot more creative control because it’s on my terms.
Can we expect an album out soon or will 'Bad Advice' be a stand-alone single?
I have answered yes to this question many times over the years because I have been dreaming and planning to have my own album out all this time. But I can finally say that ‘Bad Advice’ is not a stand-alone single, there is PLENTY more to come and this is just the beginning. I am beyond excited to continue releasing music.
Are there plans to head out on the road to showcase the new song live for fans?
I will be announcing shows around the release of my music. Next year looks like a big year of touring for me, which is incredibly exciting.
“Next year looks like a big year of touring for me”
Given your experience across a variety of mediums and your exposure to our vast talent pool, do you think the 25% minimum quota of Australian music on our radio stations is a fair number? Do you think that number needs to be increased or even the creation of a dedicated Aussie station is warranted?
I feel that it has always been a hard one to get on. I would love for radio to showcase more of our own homegrown talent. There are so many incredibly talented Australian musicians, but the world is a very different place. Social media plays a huge part in what radio is going to play. The world is forever changing and it’s fun to grow and evolve with it. I will keep creating the music that I am beyond proud of and that I truly love and I just hope it connects with people. That’s the most exciting part about creating music. It’s connection to other people.
Bonnie, you have won Australia's Got Talent, performed internationally, hosted TV shows, and sung the National Anthem at the Melbourne Cup and the Australian Grand Prix so what has been the highlight in your career so far personally? And why?
There are so many highlights, it’s really been a wild journey, thinking back to the beginning as a 12-year-old til now. Over the years there have been so many stand-out moments. Singing the anthem at the Formula One Grand Prix in Melbourne was a special moment for me. I was in the very early stages, pregnant with my son Bobby and I will never forget that special moment singing and knowing he was there with me. This moment now is a highlight to me because I am finally releasing the music I want and I have created something I am really proud of. Real moments like these, feel the best to me.
“I have learnt that the team you have behind you is everything”
Who in your crew or team deserves a shout out but never gets one? And what is it they do that keeps your world turning?
My husband Sam is THE one who keeps everything turning. If it wasn’t for him, this record wouldn’t be what it is. He is somebody I turn to in every situation and my biggest supporter. I also am so grateful for my family in general, just for having my back through all of the highs and lows; they have been my rock and always believed in me. David Schuler who I have written ‘Bad Advice’ and also produced the record. He has been my voice of reason and a huge player in the lead-up to this release. I’m incredibly grateful for all of his knowledge and his huge heart. And lastly, I had to mention Sean McDonald. He is a guy I met years ago, we did a photoshoot together and since then he has been a huge part of my creative rollout and just somebody I can always count on. I have learnt that the team you have behind you is everything. You need to have solid people around you that help you and you help them. I am forever grateful for good humans that you can trust.
Do you have a message for all of your fans and supporters?
Thank you for never giving up on me. I hope this music makes you proud and that it makes you feel on top of the world. Dream big and love harder.
Bonnie xx
For more information, go to:
https://bonnieandersonmusic.com
Facebook & Instagram: @bonnieandersonmusic
