Naomi Diane On Debut Single ‘Chasing The Sun’
Bursting with warm grooves, supple basslines and glossy vocals, the divine debut single Chasing The Sun out now from Gamilaroi singer-songwriter Naomi Diane is an entirely sunny affair, capturing carefree summer vibes with polished delivery. Now based in Melbourne but originally growing up in Wollongong, Naomi Diane’s experience adapting from coastal living to city life ultimately sparked the core thematics at the heart of Chasing The Sun, with the buoyant and joyous track also drawing inspiration from Lianne La Havas, Tennis, Men I Trust and Harry Styles’ sophomore 2019 album Fine Line. An upbeat amalgamation of pop elements, indie hues and jangly grooves, Chasing The Sun is the ultimate summertime bop painstakingly crafted to soundtrack warm adventures
Inspired by her own personal experiences, with heightened inspiration also arriving courtesy of her housemates at the time, producer and co-writer Tyler Millott (The Terrifying Lows) and the sun-soaked stylings of fellow singer-songwriter Ben Wright Smith, Naomi Diane’s maiden solo release traces its origins far beyond its joyous release in 2023, with the irresistible ear worm recorded two and a half years ago amongst Melbourne’s extensive lock downs.
How was the build-up been leading up to the release of Chasing The Sun?
A bit stressful and exciting all at once. I was really busy with work and big family stuff at the time too. I recorded this song two and a half years ago and held onto it, as I went through a huge life shift. Now finally felt like the right time to release it, couldn’t be more stoked!
Was the process of making your single Chasing The Sun as challenging as you thought?
It was so easy, surprisingly! Tyler Millott and I wrote it together in a day in our share house lounge room, Tyler put the arrangement together the next day, and then off it went to Josh Barber for drums and mixing! It was all so wild and joyous, especially so because we were all in lock down number 1000000 and feeling a bit stagnant.
Sonically, how would you describe your music?
Upbeat, dreamy, we captured the south coast vibe well. I’ve also had a work colleague tell me they could hear it as a big gay dance party – love! Hope that happens soon.
Who would you consider to be the biggest influence on your music and why?
Estelle Conley – a dear friend I’ve performed and recorded with for ten years across Sydney and Melbourne. Working with Estelle on her project has built my confidence so much as a performer. And she gives me opportunities to help write backing vocal parts for her songs too. It’s also such a brilliant way to strengthen a friendship.
Best piece of advice you have been given?
Don’t chase something or someone that doesn’t want to be chased. Know and love your power. What is meant for you will come your way.
What is the “Naomi Diane” life story?
I’ve involved in music all my life. Mum put me in a early childhood music program when I was four, I moved on to play recorder at six and violin at nine through Bathurst and Wollongong Conservatoriums. I was in the choir and school band all throughout high school, I also picked up uke in year twelve. I went to Australian Institute of Music in Warrane/ Sydney to study a Bachelor of Contemporary Performance (Voice). When I moved to Naarm/ Melbourne my music world exploded, I have this crazy incredible web of friends and connections down here. I’ve been performing backing vocals with Estelle Conley, The Deans of Soul, Quinny and Angus Montaign for over a year now. Working with all of those amazing musicians has helped grow my confidence to step into being a solo artist.
Are you looking to tour more broadly?
For sure! It would such a dream to do a little east coast tour next year (Meanjin/Brissy, Warrane/Sydney, The Gong, and Naarm/Melbourne).
What’s next for you?
I’m putting together an EP next year. I’ll be spending the summer fleshing out demos I already have and then write, produce and record with Linc Yow Yew and Kittling.
Who’s your favourite Adelaide artist/ group at the moment?
Sons of Zoku! My friend who grew up in Adelaide introduced me to them and she’s booked them for her wedding in Jan. I’m so keen to see them!!
Interview By Rob Lyon
Connect with Naomi Diane
Instagram ~ Spotify
