Music brings harmony
So much! They gave us an upbringing that was rich in culture, in stories, in love and in faith. They taught us that we should always trust in God, live with integrity and hold on to hope during hard times. They taught us the value of loving our family well, of a good work ethic, of living within our means and of never forgetting your roots. These things I carry in my heart each day, but I think they also come out in my songwriting too.
What inspires you and your songs?
I get really inspired by words. The story in the song is usually the starting point for me. In life in general, I'm inspired by simple things really: the love of my husband, my faith, my struggles and the experiences and issues facing people I deeply care about. I love reflecting on memories and thinking about the bigger picture of life.
What is your model of success?
Well to me, success is all about living a life that is pleasing to God. From that place, I believe flows peace which can give the most amount of satisfaction that I can get. I had a dream which was to record my own songs and see them being released.
Talk about how your career in music developed over the years
I studied for three years and obtained a Bachelor of Arts – Performance (Drama) when I was younger. I spent many years not on the stage while I was busy raising our young family except for playing in church and recording a worship album in 2011. I then started performing in a duo then went solo singing cover shows around the Central West of New South Wales.
Any challenges?
I got sick last year with Ross River Virus and while I was in the hospital and was experiencing debilitating pain in my joints, I really began to feel that I may never be well enough to record my original songs. I told my husband that if I ever did get well enough, I'd like to book in the studio time and do it. When I had recovered from the Ross River Virus, I did exactly that – booked in the studio time and began the process of professionally recording my album as an independent artist and have it produced and marketed as best I could.
Where are you right now in terms of your music?
Right now, I'm so excited that my EP 'Walking Contradiction' is out in the world. The first single 'Back in Town' received a number one on a radio show here called 'My Country Australia' which is played in 71 places throughout the world. Some tracks from the EP have received both commercial and community radio play which has been wonderful. I've been selling CDs and hearing from people who have listened to the tracks on Spotify, Apple Music or YouTube.
What's the feedback like?
It's great hearing from people who have enjoyed what I've produced. It's humbling to hear. Normally, I have a calendar full of gigs but with the COVID-19 lockdown, obviously everything has been put on hold for the last few months and I'm not sure when that will all go back. It's just a bit of a waiting game right now. In the meantime, I've been writing more songs and have been contemplating a new album too.
What are your plans for the immediate future and beyond?
Right now, the focus is in trying to market my music. I don't have a publicist or an agent so I have to do the work myself to get my music heard. I had to build my own website (www.lusiaustin.com) and apply to radio stations locally and internationally to have people hear it. You don't want to spend time and money creating an album for it to not be heard by anyone. So the publicity of it all is the most immediate plan. Beyond that, I will keep writing and hope to do more shows and some festival gigs too.
Any hobbies (when not immersed in your world of music)?
When I'm not doing music, I am home schooling my children. We have been home schooling them for 12 years and so my side gig is my home schooling website www. thathomeschoollife.com.au where I help other home schooling parents by designing templates and sharing stories to encourage them in their journey. My other hobbies include reading, photographing our family, catching up with friends and listening to other people's music.
What advice do you have for Fijian girls and women struggling in music?
Remember why you are trying to get your music out there. For me, it definitely isn't with the hope of becoming rich and famous but it's about sharing my stories through my music with the world around me. It doesn't matter how old you are either - just work hard, act with integrity and give it a good go!
What was COVID-19 lockdown and restrictions period like?
This period of lockdown has been hard for everyone: firstly, for those sick and secondly for everyone not wanting to get sick. It's sad that the arts sector here has been so debilitated by the lockdown, but it can't be helped. It will be interesting to see how venues and entertainers recover.
Some delve into music to escape problems in life. What about you?
Music is a lovely escape from the busyness of my life as a wife and mother. I still get to develop the gifts God gave me and I love doing that through music. It's a great outlet for creativity and for me socially too. I think music also helps to give me perspective and remind me of who I am.
Is there any other thing that you'd like to add?
With Fiji having such a special place in my life, I have also tried hard to have my kids become familiar with Fijian customs, language and traditions. When my parents visit our home, they'll often have a Fijian language lesson with my dad or they'll ask my mum to tell them what it was like when she used to live in Fiji. I always feel blessed to have experienced two cultures and tastes of two worlds: Fiji and Australia. It has made me who I am today.