Robertson artist Amber Kenny's debut songs are a 'legacy' to her family and friends
Amber spoke with Briannah Devlin from Southern Highland News
Amber Kenny's upcoming EP Out in the Open features three songs that are close to her heart, and she cannot wait to share them with the world. The Robertson singer and songwriter is going to showcase the songs for the first time in Bowral in mid-February.
"It's really nice to think about it [because it's been] brewing in me for so long," she said. "I love the real nuts and bolts of these songs, [they] come from the ground." The performer and writer prepared them in a studio in October 2020, which was a first for the upcoming artist.
Mrs Kenny always had a love for music, but kept it as a hobby on the side, whilst she pursued a 20 year career in the arts and entertainment industry. That changed when she became a mother and decided to pick up a guitar once again.
The songs Little Ones, Surrender and Too Much are "little stories" from Mrs Kenny's life that she has brought together. The artist's favourite song of the moment Little Ones, is a tribute to motherhood which she wrote while her kids ran around a dairy shed in Milton. "I want to leave a legacy for my family and friends...I love writing and telling stories," she said.
Mrs Kenny recorded the song and collaborated with singer and former The Whitlams band member Ben Fink. "Whatever she does, it is clear she does with 100 per cent commitment, and this is exactly what has happened with her singing and song writing on Little Ones," Mr Fink said.
The mother said all of her songs also allowed her to connect with the Highlands community. She said she wanted listeners relate and connect with her stories, but also have their own interpretations and challenge and question them.
The rising talent was selected to perform at the Tamworth Country Music Festival this month, but it has been put on hold due to the uncertainties of COVID-19. Mrs Kenny said she was "pretty bummed" with the news, but was guaranteed a spot to perform at the event in 2023, which excited her. The Robertson local said she was determined to travel there during the year to network with other industry professionals.
Although gigs have been on hold, that does not mean Mrs Kenny's passion and creativity have been on pause. "I've been writing so much in lockdown," she said.
Mrs Kenny will be showcasing songs from Out in the Open, and other songs she has been working on at T Guitars Bowral on February 12. The artist said the place where guitars are handcrafted locally, was a fitting venue for the launch, which reflected her "ground-up melodies". "I love being in there," she said. "...sitting against hammers and nails and guitar frets...I love it, it's the most perfect venue."
Doors will open at 7pm with a supporting act and the EP will be performed from 8pm. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at the door on the night.
Read the article online at Southern Highland News here.