INTERVIEW: Sarah Saint James Is Calling Out Music Industry Snakes On ‘Big Boy’
Sarah Saint James. Photo by Adam Kafo.
Australian pop artist Sarah Saint James has had enough of the cat and mouse games that go on in the music industry. She’s just dropped her new single, Big Boy, and it’s a playful reminder that if you want to be involved in her rise to the top, you’ve got to get on board now. Don’t hedge your bets, or you’ll end up with some serious FOMO.
I spoke to Sarah about the origins of Big Boy, and what to serve here if you want to take her to breakfast. Big Boy is a pop hit in the making, and it’s sure to have a few music industry types quaking in their boots.
Ben Madden: Firstly, can you introduce yourself and your music?
Sarah Saint James: My name is Sarah Saint James. I’m originally from Adelaide but moved to Sydney for music last year. I write pop music, with the full intention of it just being a little alt-pop. I like weird stuff, so I want to make sure my stuff is kinda weird too.
Your new track Big Boy has an interesting origin story – can you tell me a bit about how it came about?
I’ve been writing now for two years and working with my own artistry for a little over twelve months. In that time I’ve had lots of chats with people about where my career is going, and how they can help. I went into this song after a frustrated interaction I had had with someone who wanted to keep close to me to see what happens with my career before they ever took a risk on me. I thought it would be a funny take to write a song from a future suitation where I’ve blown up and it’s too late.
It’s been a hard year to be a musician – how have you made the most of this year?
I’ve spent so much time this year writing, but also reconnecting with myself and figuring out what I want to do. I thought writing for others would be my path, but this year has bought out the artist in me. I’ve spent so much time alone at home doing nothing, I had to fill it with something!
When you’re writing a track like Big Boy, there’s a big chance that the people you’re talking about will hear it – does that scare you or is it exciting?
I love it. Most of the people who have heard it are either friends who have had the same or similar experiences, or people who will find it funny. You have to have a thick skin in this industry, and everyone knows what the business is like. There’s no point trying to pretend that it’s something it isn’t. I also love the fact that it’s specific to me, but also could just be about a stupid boy. Hopefully others can relate to the story and mood too.
What’s been the most surprising thing you’ve discovered about the music industry from starting out making music to now, and what advice would you give to someone who wants to get into the industry?
It is everything people say it is, and nothing at the same time. Most people are actually very kind, and welcoming, but I never thought it would be. My biggest piece of advice is to come into it willing to learn, start from the bottom, and be a sponge to those willing to share their experiences and knowledge with you.
If someone’s preparing a breakfast for you, they’ll want to know what you like to eat – so what’s your favourite breakfast cereal and why?
Controversial, but I’m not a huge cereal gal! If I had to choose it’d be milo cereal BUT if they had crumpets I’d be there in a heartbeat.
Similarly, you mention that it’s your superpower that makes you stand out – if you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
I don’t know if it’s considered a superpower but if I could, I’d make any dog live forever.
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Finally, where do you want to be in 12 months and what do you want to be doing?
I really just want to spend the next twelve months finding myself a fan base. All I want is people who connect to my music. Then I guess whatever happens, happens! I’d love to be in London or LA definitely though.
You can follow Sarah Saint James on Facebook here, Instagram here and Twitter here.