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

Aside from my own releases, I spend a lot of time in the studio producing and writing for other artists - here in Australia and also overseas - and as a result have worked on a wide range of genres and styles. I pick up all kinds of knowledge from these different collaborations, and my own music is somewhat an amalgamation of all of it. I’d describe my own sound as left-leaning R&B / hip-hop, but I’m not focused about putting a label on my music - it is what it is and if someone likes it then my job is done.

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

Inspiration hits me at the oddest of times, and I’ve learnt to chase the idea all the way through when I’m feeling inspired. From a production standpoint, I don’t have a set process per se - sometimes I start with a melody that I have in my head, other times browsing through various samples, and sometimes just jamming out on a piano. I’ll just keep tinkering around until I find that spark that inspires me to make the whole song.

What can punters expect from a Taka Perry live show?

Live guitar, live synths, live keys, guest appearances, high energy, good vibes…

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

‘Don’t be an a******’ - I can’t remember who I heard it from because it was so long ago, but it has stuck with me and it’s true not just in the music industry but just everyday life in general.

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

‘WUTD’ by Genesis Owusu. The groove in that song is undeniable and I think it would definitely cheer someone up.

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

‘Love Me First’ by Stellie. The lyrics and melodies in that song is sure to make someone cry. I also had the pleasure of producing the song, so I guess it’s a bit of a shameless self-plug.

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

‘Contrast’ by ANH. I love how many unexpected twists and turns that song has and the production keeps you on your toes the whole time.

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

I saw my mate Kilter play at Oxford Art Factory. His live show is so dope - so much raw energy coming from the stage and when he brought out Lil’ Spacely for his latest single the vibe was so good.

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

I’m constantly surrounded by talented people in Sydney that I couldn’t begin to list them all. I’m inspired by a lot of artists that I’ve worked with - A.GIRL, Jeida Woods, Ruel, Cyrus, Jack Gray, and Ned Houston to name a few. I also love what’s going on in the hip-hop scene out in West Sydney with artists like Manu Crooks, Cult Shotta, and Anfa Rose making some really cool stuff.

What are your plans for 2020?

I want to keep releasing music, both for myself and for other artists, play a whole bunch of shows, and travel the world a bit to expand my horizons and meet new people.