Now one of Winnipeg’s newest notable acts, Olivia continues to push her creativity and build herself a bustling musical career. She spoke with us about her songwriting roots and the whirlwind year she’s had since the release of her debut self-titled EP.
How did you get started in music?
Music has always been the centre of my life. Growing up my parents did an awesome job of exposing me to every genre of music. When I was younger I also took piano lessons for a few years. The lessons taught me basic theory, however, I grew annoyed when the formal lessons didn’t provide me with the freedom to make my own songs and write my own progressions. After a few years of these lessons, my parents figured they’d let me try my “DIY” way of playing and composing - I’m very happy they did!
You released your debut EP in February and have since been playing shows after shows, and are now nominated for Pop Artist of the Year at BreakOut West – how has the last year been for you? Receiving so much support and positive feedback surrounding the EP has made me incredibly happy. Lots of work and love was put into it, therefore, it’s a great feeling knowing people really do listen to and appreciate my music!
This past year has also been incredibly humbling. With the momentum I have built, I feel as though I’ve entered a whole new world of music. I feel so excited and fortunate that opportunities are starting to lead into a direction that runs parallel with making music my career. In regards to the Nomination, the caliber of talent in this category is tremendous, I’m truly taken aback to be recognized amongst such established artists.
Can you talk about the transition you’ve made from the acoustic singer/songwriter genre to creating a more indie-pop/rock sound?
I will always maintain my love for acoustic singer-songwriter roots, However, I think it’s important to push yourself and your sound as an artist. With the new addition to my project, I’ve brought on board a group of amazing guys (Julian Brown, Dylan Summers, Ian Ingram) to help me transition this acoustic sound to a more alt-pop focused one. These guys are so talented - I’m very grateful for them and their creative collaboration and ideas. I’ve also been mindful of this “new sound” when writing and co-writing (Roman Clarke) lately and the songs that have been written really do sound different from the stuff I was writing a year ago. I can’t wait to keep evolving this sound, and I’m anxious to share it with others!
I‘m influenced by such a broad spectrum of music it’s hard to really pinpoint where I find the most inspiration! I think the variation in genres I listen to allows me to draw inspo from different places, so it makes for a nice recipe and freshness in the sound.
Talk about Harvest Sun a bit – why do you think a festival like that is important to have in Manitoba?
Manitoba is a hub for up-and-coming and seasoned musicians. Having a festival that showcases them is such a great opportunity for both the artists and audience get a taste of homegrown talent! It also brings us together as a community for a lovely (hopefully sunny!) weekend.
You'll be playing twice, once full-band and another as part of the Goddess Songwriters Workshop, so can you tell me about that and what people can expect when they catch your performances?
The workshop is going to be a fun one! A bunch of lovely ladies playing killer songs - I’m pumped. I think it’s fair to expect a more acoustic-based vibe from the workshop and to maybe bring your dancing shoes to the band show!
What are you looking forward to the most in regard to playing Harvest Sun?
Myself and the band are so excited to play this festival! I’m really looking forward to seeing the other acts, and playing alongside some fellow musician friends. :)
What else do you have planned for the rest of the year?
Writing, writing writing! New music and recording will be in the works come fall 2018! Along with this, I’ll be constantly playing (both band & acoustic shows). Stay tuned!
Catch Olivia Lunny at The Harvest Sun Music Festival in Kelwood, MB - August 17 - 19th. Tickets are on still available but they're going fast!
Follow Olivia Lunny on Facebook, Instagram and her official website. Her debut EP is available on Soundcloud, Apple Music and Spotify.
Be sure to check out @harvestsunmusicfest on Instagram on August 12th, as Olivia takes over our account for the day!
Janet Adamana is the Founder/Editor-In-Chief of Sound, Phrase & Fury Magazine - a Winnipeg-based digital publication dedicated to promoting independent artists and industry professionals from all over the world. More than just about inciting hype, she interviews/writes to capture an artists’ essence and their greatest passions to ignite meaningful connections between fans and really great bands.