Tell us about your music. How did you develop your sound?

All of my music is different, but all of it still feels like me. I'd like to think by the end of any given track there's a different perspective being offered. In terms of development it's just been a matter of experiment; writing a bunch of shitty songs before figuring out the right way to convey a message lyrically/sonically. 

What’s your greatest source of inspiration for making music?

Feelings and experiences that make me feel present or stuck. 

What can punters expect from a Liyah Knight live show?

Grade A energy and a healthy amount of dad jokes. I have really long limbs and people often don't expect it, so yeah heads up there too. 

What’s the best advice you’ve been given and who was it from?

"You might as well be present, because that's all you have right now" 

Someone actually dropped this gem at a party a couple weeks ago and it's my new favourite (bathroom line friend, if you're reading this, thank you!). Super obvious advice but I feel like sometimes it's so easy to forget about being present in the midst of future plans and past events! 

What Australian track would you play to cheer up someone who was crying?

'Final Form' by Sampa the Great; that intro alone is triumphant enough to pull anyone out of a solemn slump. 

What Australian track would you play to someone to make them cry?

Ha! The power of music. Stevan did a cover of 'Ain't No Sunshine', which I can guarantee will make you cry. 

You’re the DJ at a party. The dance floor is pumping. What Australian track do you put on next?

I am the most shameless hype person so I am playing all my friends' music, kicking it off with 'Throw it Back' by Manu Crooks and B Wise. 

What was the last local gig you went to? How was it?

I saw Boy Soda at the Soda Factory and he kicked a speaker off the stage. It was sensational.  

Tell us about the bands or people in the local music community that inspire you.

I'm lucky enough to work with a lot of people that inspire me. Diesel is a great role model for any young musician. I think society sells us this narrative that drug use and partying is an integral part of the creative process, so to be in a session with an OG Australian musician sipping kombucha and making bangers, it's eye opening/gives me some perspective. 

Also places like the Lord Gladstone in Chippendale, and a Little Lagos in Enmore. These places are like extensions of the music; places that show genuine and ongoing support for local artists. 

What are your plans for the rest of 2020?

Sweet f*** all if I'm being honest. I feel like I haven't seen my family in a hot minute between work and sessions, so probably just bug them all summer!