Every week, Entertainment South Wales regular feature – My Music DNA will shine a light on musicians, singers and people connected with the music industry and discover the songs that have inspired them on their musical journey.
This week we feature singer-songwriter Oz whose debut single Money’ is the first taste of the alt-pop artists debut EP to be released later this year via Truth Records.
Oz has been a songwriter since her early teens, after her father’s passion for music inspired her immersion in the worlds of bold musicians like The Clash and Kate Bush. Her fascination with life’s rough edges is inspired by her youth spent in her family’s pizzeria in a pre-gentrified Soho and the colourful characters that visited it.
Some of Oz’s early demos attracted attention, bore fruit working with producers and writing songs from just 15-years-old. Oz penned a deal with a music publisher writing for other artists before a session with Biff Stannard instigated her new direction.
To coincide with the release of Money, Oz reveals her Music DNA to Andy Howells.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
I think the first song that made an impact on me would have to be Last Goodbye by Jeff Buckley. I remember my dad playing it on his record player and just hearing the way his voice danced around the music sparked something in me. I still have that vinyl and Grace is easily still in my top 10 albums
What was the first single /download you bought?
I used to go to a record store in Croydon called Beano’s every weekend and buy tapes, CDs and records with my pocket money. I think the first single I bought was In The End by Linkin Park and I was probably about 7 or 8.
What was the first album you owned?
The first album I ever owned was was Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds The Boatman’s Call. I was about 8 or 9 at the time and a family friend gave it to me on Vinyl for my birthday. I didn’t really get it at the time…
What is your constant go to track?
My go to always changes but currently it’s probably Interstate Love Song by Stone Temple Pilots
What is your constant go to album?
Go to album is almost always musicforthemorningafter by Pete Yorn. Every track on the album is amazing
Who’s your latest music discovery?
My latest obsession is probably Donna Missal. Her voice is RIDICULOUS and I love the way she writes. I saw her play last year and her energy on stage is infectious.
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
I think my debut single Money really nails down who I am as an artist from the get-go. It has all the elements of my style in one song. I’m super proud of it