Lottie McLeod has soared to new heights over the past year, propelled by her debut single, 'Happy Birthday' as well as her highly successful latest track 'Bridge'.
As an emerging artist, Lottie has not only showcased her talent but has also lent her support to a diverse array of fellow musicians. Accumulating performance hours this year, she has firmly established her presence in the music scene, leaving an indelible mark that resonates with the promise of a lasting and impactful career.
You’ve had an awesome year of shows and music releases! What has been your favourite moment so far? "This is the hardest question to answer... There’s been a few, and in no order the top experiences that have been so crazy for me this year have been releasing my first song 'Happy Birthday', winning the QMA in the youth category for it was insane, and completely unexpected. Having Triple J Unearthed make me a featured artist after it’s release… Also crazy in a good way.
And if I’m honest, getting messages from friends saying they heard 'Bridge' while they were in the car on JJJ was fun too. I had a goal this year to support one artist and to have supported artists like Mia Wray and Dulcie, I am just so so grateful. See, I can’t choose!! How do I choose?!"
Can we expect more music in the new year? If so, what can you share about the tracks?
"Yesss you can!! I haven’t been more excited for a release like have been with my upcoming one. If you have been to any of my shows then you would have heard me describe it as my favourite song I’ve ever written. It’s by far my favourite song I’ve recorded so far and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it."
Now on to the questions about the city we call home!
You have a night off to see live music in Brisbane, which music venue are you heading to first?
"It probably depends on my mood. I really love 'It’s Still a Secret' and 'Junk Bar' for a nice intimate gig but am pretty obsessed with the 'Stranded Bar' at the moment. For a larger gig, The Triffid would have to be one of my favourites. How do you choose though? I have so many favourite places honestly!"
Time to give some local businesses some love. What are your go-to restaurants, bars or cafes? "Since turing 18 in October, I’ve been loving Standard Bar!! The music and aesthetic of this place is my ideal place to end a night. Granddad Jacks is a really nice gin distillery for catching up with friends, and the staff are really lovely and knowledgeable.
But my favourite restaurant at the moment is definitely Marinaras. If you haven’t been, you have to go… I love Italian food and the food there is incredible."
You have a day off to explore Brisbane, what’s on the itinerary? "It would probably involve food, op-shops, a film and live music. Is that completely cliche? I’d finish the day with some drinks at Stranded Bar!"
The question that divides Brisbane… Northside or Southside? "Southside. No question. I’ve lived in the Southside my whole life, so it’s my comfort zone."
Who are some of your favourite local bands, musicians or players at the moment? "There’s so many!! Asha Jefferies has been one of my favourite artists for a while and all of her new music has been so beautiful. I’m obsessed with her writing. To be honest most of the MIC (Music Industry Collge) alumni, like Bella Amor, Ixaras, Hanni and Vondetto."
If you could play a show with two local acts, who would they be and why? "I would love to play with everyone listed above because they are all just beautiful people and I love being surrounded by such supportive and positive energy but I think if I had to choose, I would probably pick Thelma Plum and Ball Park Music.
They’re really inspiring and I think I could learn so much from them just by being around them and observing their work up close."
From photographers to visual artists, videographers or booking agents, do you have any Brisbane creatives that you’d like to give a shout-out to? "I’d really like to thank Figjam, Social State and Village Sounds for giving me a go this year. The experiences I’ve had have been so incredible. I’ve met some very supportive artists and industry professionals and grown so much in the last 12 months. I’m truly appreciative. Big thanks to SK (Starving Kids) also, for helping me navigate 2023."
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