Johnny Utah is a 22 year old indie/alternative Hip-Hop solo artist from Sydney, making up one part of the ‘I Forget, Sorry!’ artist collective (Johnny Utah, Phatchance, Coptic Soldier and Mind Over Matter). Johnny Utah is currently on the ‘I Forget, Sorry! 2010’ National Tour alongside Phatchance & Coptic Soldier, and is set to release his debut LP early next year.
What was the first band you saw live?
The first band i saw live were Bliss ‘n Eso in like, ’05. It was an all ages show at the Round House beer garden at Sydney Uni, So being under 18, I jumped at the chance, Haha.
What’d you learn from them?
Honestly, It wasn’t until now that I’d actually taken anything from it. Looking back now, They played to maybe 20 people, So I guess it just goes to show that hard work pays off, and everyone has to pay their dues.
Got any pre-gig rituals?
Haha, practice! There’s nothing worst than going to see a band live and their set is grossly under-prepared. I guess I just practice my tracks/live show whenever i can, not neccesarily before gigs. I drink alot of tea a day or so before shows? But i think that’s just Phatchances paranoia rubbing off on me, Haha.
What do you think is the most important issue facing artists in NSW is?
I really think there just needs to be more all-ages shows. I know for a fact that when i was under 18, I was constantly bummed out that it was so few and far between gigs. I guess as an artist in NSW the most important issue we face is just trying to get more all-age venues.
If you weren’t a musician, what do you reckon you’d be doing?
Serving coffee somewhere and definitely not having as much fun/being as creative!