Amy Sheppard On New Single ‘Nothing But Wild’
Internationally acclaimed artist Amy Sheppard is packaging up her pop stylings and fusing them with country influences, today releasing her debut solo single Nothing But Wild. While definitely not her first official foray into the genre, previously already a Golden Guitar Award winner for her vocals on Lee Kernaghan’s Spirit of the Anzacs, Nothing But Wild offers an up-tempo and affably jangly stomper that fans can also catch in action this weekend at the Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival and KIX Live in the Park, as well as CMC Rocks QLD later this year.
Nothing But Wild gifts the perfect salve for those who have had their wanderlust evaporate throughout the global pandemic, as travel and leaving one’s own four walls have become distant memories over the past few years. Infused with plenty of country-pop flair, Nothing But Wild also sees Amy stylistically explore deeper into hues of sparkling zest and sharp warmth, with plenty of driving beats, smooth melodics and catchy hooks helmed emphatically by Amy’s powerful lilts. Delving beyond her storied tenure fronting the multi-platinum selling band Sheppard, this triumphant solo project has, in fact, been multiple years in the making, with Amy embracing the hurdles that have accompanied her professionally, while also proudly displaying her seasoned song writing and charming sense of adventure. Amy answers a quick Q&A about the single.
How has the build-up been leading up to the release of the single Nothing But Wild?
Look, this hasn’t happened overnight! I’ve had this song up my sleeve since 2019 and I’ve been itching to get it out since the day it was written. As the release date got closer I got more and more anxious for people to hear it. Being my first solo release, I was definitely feeling the pressure.
Was the process of making your single as challenging as you thought?
Yes and no. Writing the song was the easy part. With a few spanners in the works, including a global pandemic, there were hurdles to overcome but I’m really proud to have stuck with the project and to have been able to finally get it out!
Sonically, how would you describe your music?
It’s a definite blend of country and pop. I grew up listening to country music but my career thus far has taken me down the pop route. I’m looking forward to blending what I’ve learnt from both worlds by incorporating big anthemic melodies and a mix of both live and midi instruments.
Who would you consider to be the biggest influence on your music and why?
In terms of other artists, I’d say my biggest influences for this project has been Kasey Musgraves, Maren Morris + Kelsea Ballerini.
Best piece of advice you have been given?
Be scared and do it anyway! I get struck with impostor syndrome from time to time but I still try to listen to this piece of advice and push forward despite having feelings of self-doubt.
Are you looking to tour more broadly?
Most definitely! I’m really looking forward to seeing where this new venture takes me. I’m planning on heading back to Nashville this year for some more writing and once I begin releasing more music, I hope to get touring.
What’s next for Amy Sheppard?
I’m going to be releasing a ton of new music, I have my first music video coming soon and I’m also performing at CMC rocks this September! More shows to be announced soon no doubt.
Interview By Rob Lyon
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