You’re really bringing back an iconic era of 90s R&B with this new single “Faraway Lover”, it’s incredible! What was the inspiration behind this new track?
Zara: Thank you so much. The song is influenced by my love for 90s R&B as well! I wanted the song to feel like summer and transport listeners to the tropics. I actually first began writing this song as a teenager when I was helping clean out my mum’s wardrobe. I found a poem she wrote from a school project she completed in the 90s. It felt so nostalgic, I was quickly inspired to write chords, lyrics, and transform it into an upbeat r&b song.
How did you get your start in music?
Zara: I have been involved in music since an early age and I have always loved performing. Over the years I have learnt piano, bass, double bass and guitar. I fell in love with singing and playing acoustic guitar. Since the age of 14 I have been regularly performing acoustic gigs at venues that include bars, corporate functions, breweries, cafes, weddings and private events. I play covers that include favourites from different decades and genres. In recent years I have begun releasing my own original music as an independent artist.
I was checking out your IG and stumbled on your art page, and I am so impressed by the work you and your mom do! Can you share more about how this all came to be and what you both do over there?
Zara: Thank you so much! Absolutely, my mum and I started an Instagram page called Aurora Art Co for our artwork back in 2020 when I was completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Since we started that instagram account we have been lucky enough to receive so much support for our artwork. Some highlights for us have been opening our gallery and running classes/workshops, launching our art print collection, being featured on channel 9’s ‘The Block’, and collaborating with different brands. Last year our artwork was featured on clothing with a slow fashion brand called ‘Arlo and Olive’. We also collaborated with Dr Lewinns and our artwork was featured on their skincare gift boxes which are sold in chemists across Australia.
If you could have dinner with any artist in the world, who would you pick and why?
Zara: That is a tough decision to narrow it down to one artist! If I could pick one artist it would be Alicia Keys. She is a strong woman of colour who I have looked up to since I was a little girl. Her incredible talent and passion in her music has inspired me across my life and through my music. She is one of the reasons I have pursued a career in music.
You’ve performed some awesome gigs in your career from what I can see, so which one has been your favorite so far?
Zara: I have been really lucky to play some great solo gigs at different venues over the years! My favourite gigs are any performances with an interactive crowd that will dance and sing along to the music. I have really enjoyed playing at corporate functions too for Melbourne Victory Football Club and for the AFL ANZAC day function in 2022.
I am so impressed by your talent, in many different facets, and everything you’ve done so far! What can we expect to see or hear next from you? :)
Zara: Thank you so much! You can expect to see more music and accompanying art collections. Since I am a multidisciplinary artist I aim to create artwork and music that are an extension of myself and experiences. I aim to play more gigs this year and hopefully release an EP with my original songs too.
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
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