Renowned as one of Queensland’s hardest working independent artists, enigmatic pop dream weaver LT returns in joyful and theatrical fashion via her brand new single Rollercoaster. Also armed with a hard-hitting accompanying music video, Rollercoaster is a shimmering blast of polished dreamy pop with stirring thematic that you’ll fall in love with over and over again. We caught up with LT for a quick Q+A

Hi, thanks for taking the time to chat with Hear 2 Zen, what have you been up to today? 

I spent the day cooking and cleaning.  It doesn’t sound very exciting but it was the perfect day.  It’s been raining super heavy this past week and I love getting the opportunity to hide away at home, bunkered up in the rain and getting on top of things.  I find it extremely therapeutic and a form of self-care getting on top of my s**t.  I’m an introverted home-body at heart.

Tell us about yourself, how long have you been performing/creating music for?

I’ve been performing and writing music ever since I was about 16.  I’m a bit older than that now, so it’s been a while.

Who are your greatest inspirations?  Why? Seeing indie artists crushing it is my greatest inspiration.

When I see other independent artists who are carving out a career and not letting the hurdles get in their way, and thinking outside the box inspires me to do the same.

How do you create music?  Are you lyrics/story driven, or does the music/melody come first?  Explain your process.

The music/melody generally comes first with me.  I love mucking about on the guitar and trying different vocal melodies and then will find suitable lyrics to match the melodies.  Sometimes the lyrics do come first, however not often.

What has been your greatest challenge so far in performing/creating music?

The biggest challenge I would have to say is having to fight so hard for radio air-play.  That would have to be the largest hurdle, and following that is the expense of touring bands around the country, or taking part in opportunities in Metro areas when you’re a Regional artist.

Tell us about your new release ‘Rollercoaster’, how did it come about? 

Rollercoaster is a co-write between myself, Joel Quartermain, and Edwin White.  We got together over a Zoom session and threw around a few ideas and something about Rollercoaster really resonated with us all.  It’s written about the challenges of those who are living with a mental illness, in particular manic depression (Bipolar disorder).  It’s also about the highs and lows that come with being someone who cares for someone battling with their mental health, and how this can affect your own.  It’s about love, hope and perseverance.  

What advice do you have to artists who are just starting out? 

Be driven.  If you live, breathe, and dream music – you will most likely end up doing it.  Get good at the admin side of things and get savvy with writing grants.

Tell us your favourite Zen practice. 

I’m obsessed with the Calm app.  I use it nearly every day and find that it helps immensely with my anxiety.  I also love to walk.