Tim Wheatley has a music pedigree most artists would only dream about, so it’s no surprise he became a successful musician, with a career spanning 20 years so far. April has seen Tim release the single ‘Shiny Tacoma’ of his forthcoming Ep of the same name which is out on the 19th of May via His father, Glenn’s, Wheatley Records label. We spoke to Tim about the making of Shiny Tacoma, playing The Americana Festival in Nashville and being the support act for Humphrey B Bear.

For those that haven’t heard your music before , how do you describe your sound?

You would think that after nearly 20 years playing music I could answer this question, but I can’t. It’s always just been ‘poetry to a tune’ for me.

Tell us about your new song 'Shiny Tacoma', What does the song mean to you?

Shiny Tacoma was a song that evolved as all good songs should, in my mind. I love it when a song pops up in your head, flows when you start singing and doesn’t need much production when you’re piecing it together. It sounds almost ‘lazy’, but I prefer the term ‘natural’. Especially when it is then recorded ‘live’ with flaws and all, which is what the very song is about - moving forward when you make mistakes rather than dwelling on them.

Who came up with the concept for the video? Any memorable moments during the making of it?

The concept of the video was from my dear friends Andy Noel & Tegan Butler. I’ve always had a strange relationship with music videos. I find them hilarious how some people feel the need to dress up, dance or ‘sex up’ the music. Where did it come from? And how does it relate to the music? MTV has a lot to answer for - haha. We decided instead to just show you how honestly the song was made. During the making of it, Andy proposed to Tegan which was certainly one of the more memorable moments in our time together and something I fondly think of every time I watch the clip.

Shiny Tacoma is the lead single from your forthcoming EP, are you excited to finally release the EP, or is it a little bittersweet?

This EP is being released and I couldn’t be happier. But that is because I couldn’t have been more upset when my old label cut these songs from my album two years ago. They decided they wanted to release an EP instead of a full album, so I put these songs aside because they were recorded together and seemed cohesive. It’s always exciting to be releasing music, especially when it’s been sitting around gathering dust.

What can fans expect from the new release?

Honest music, good songs & lyrics that I put lots of thought into. That’s all I ask for in the music I listen to.

You recorded, mixed and engineered the EP at Rockinghorse Studios in Byron Bay with the help of Steven Schram. Do we see any of that Byron Bay atmosphere & influence sneak into the music?

Absolutely. This was recorded pre-pandemic, and I was back in Australia visiting my family and friends and recording new music in the summertime. Happier times I can’t recall. And it’s definitely reflected in songs that weren’t necessarily as upbeat and happy as they ended up on the EP. I put that down to the place, the people and the state of mind that puts you in.

“I have been lucky to work with very talented musicians and producers, and to not let them contribute massively would be an absolute waste”

— Tim Wheatley

How big is the part you play in the production side of your music?

I always demo my songs before I take them to the band, so as to solidify the direction and vibe I want for the song. But then I always let others contribute and steer the song in other directions based on my initial vibe. I have been lucky to work with very talented musicians and producers, and to not let them contribute massively would be an absolute waste. Besides that, I feel like letting others contribute to production brings the element of surprise into the equation. Be it good or bad. Ha

Do you have plans to tour for Shiny Tacoma, Tim?

Not at this point. I have spent the last two and a half years away from my family, and would rather stay put than dance around covid guidelines. It just seems every tour and show announcement these days is met with ‘we are so sorry to announce the show has been cancelled’. So, I’ll just ride it out a little longer, but rest assured, I’m itching to hit the road soon!

Where was your first gig? Was it a success or flop?

My first ever show was in 1998 at the ‘Ashburton Festival’. We opened for Humphrey B. Bear. I wore blue cargo shorts. I still wake up in cold sweats thinking about that.

Tim’s father Australian Music Icon Glenn Wheatley

This is probably an obvious question, but how did you get your start in music?

It was a combination of something that came naturally and the weight of expectation. I love music and performing in particular, and I grew up with every instrument and influence at my disposal. But none of that guaranteed a start.

Besides your father Glenn, who else do you credit as your musical influences?

I guess his mate John. He is not only the greatest performer and singer I’ve had the privilege of witnessing hundreds of times, but family.

Others include - Jackson Browne, Springsteen, Tim Buckley, The Eagles

“ I believe the best collaborations are with people or bands you wouldn’t expect. ”

— Tim Wheatley

Collaborations are big in the world of music these days, are they something you are interested in doing ? If so, who would your ultimate Collab Partner be?

I agree, collaborations are big at the moment and I’d be a fool to not jump on the bandwagon. So, I have, and without spoiling the surprise - I believe the best collaborations are with people or bands you wouldn’t expect.

What’s been the highlight in your career personally so far? And why?

The Americana Festival in Nashville. It wasn’t just being able to play there, but being a part of it with so many like-minded bands. Every show I saw was just so good, and the vibe wasn’t one of competitiveness or judgment, we were there to have fun and play music. Simple as that. A career highlight for sure.

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 publicist Emily Cheung. She is more like a manager, sister and lawyer combined.

What's planned for the rest of 2022 for Tim Wheatley?

I’ve learned that it isn’t up to me to decide anymore. But if it was, it would be music music music. I have plenty of lost time to make up for.

Watch: Shiny Tacoma

Audiobook Preview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8Srdeu0-OQ

Pre-Order the Audio book https://www.booktopia.com.au/paper-paradise-glenn-wheatley/audiobook/9781669678526.htm