Greg Gould On New Single “Who Gave You Permission?”
Primal, moody and inescapably moving, the powerful new single Who Gave You Permission? out now from Australian powerhouse Greg Gould is a potent blend of pop, soul and searing intimacy. With an accompanying music video slated to land next week, and also set to captivate crowds with his latest release live in action throughout 2024, including onstage at SYNTHONY, Australia’s biggest orchestrated dance party this June, Gould also vigorously tackles exceedingly difficult narrative terrain via Who Gave You Permission? with unwavering finesse and poise.
Opening with a melancholic piano line, Who Gave You Permission? swells alongside Gould’s cogent vocals, ultimately building into a formidable primal pop anthem. Equally gripping musically as it is lyrically, Who Gave You Permission? weaves nods to the likes of Benson Boone, Rag’n’Bone Man, Teddy Swims and Sam Smith while also profoundly detailing an exceedingly personal experience for Gould himself.
Seeking to empower fellow survivors through Who Gave You Permission?, Gould co-wrote the compelling new single with Benedict, working alongside Gould to unpack his trauma and ultimately pen a connective and sonically robust ode to survival, along with production by Sydney duo Cressbrook, with live strings composed by Ryan Youens. With a striking music video accompanying this deeply powerful song , filmed in Gould’s home state, the clip for Who Gave You Permission? flourishes with its sonic elegance alongside poignant visuals to further amplify the driving message at the track’s core. Greg answers a few more questions about the single.
How has the build-up been leading up to the release of Who Gave You Permission? How are you feeling now that it’s out?
The build up was definitely more than normal cos I was nervous but also happy I was telling my story. It’s a relief and it’s been really beautiful and powerful to connect with other survivors.
I can imagine this would have been a challenging and confronting single to write and release, why is now the right time to share your story?
I’m not sure when the right time is but it felt great to get it finally out there. I think I had to be healed myself in order to be strong and brave with it. My last experience was only six years ago when I was and it was the worst one because it was a woman who I trusted as a close friend – so six years on I’m ready to tell my story, from ten years old right up till thirty.
Sonically, how would you describe your music?
Soulful pop – but I also love jazz/blues and dance music / I don’t like to be defined by any one genre.
Who would you consider to be the biggest influence on your music and why? Whitney Houston and Beyonce growing up for sure – but now Rag’n’bone Man and Sam Smith are up there as major influences.
Best piece of advice you have been given?
Stay true to who you are and don’t get distracted by too many opinions.
What is the “Greg Gould” life story?
Oh gosh.. how much time have you got?! I think I’ll have to write a book one day. It’s a story of survival, passion, love, heartbreak, struggle but ultimately strength and bravery.
Are you looking to tour more broadly?
Absolutely – can’t wait to get back to Adelaide – lots of touring and shows to announce soon and a few already on sale now.
What’s next for you?
Laser focused on establishing myself as an original artist but honestly just keep continue to evolve and perform and connect as much as possible.
Who’s your favourite Adelaide artist/group at the moment?
Can’t go past the Gospo Collective – so talented!!! Charmaine Jones is amazing.
Interview By Rob Lyon
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