- Bryon Harris
Steve McNaughton
Steve McNaughton is a Contemporary Country/Soft Rock artist out of Australia. He has earned high praise as one of Sydney’s best contemporary rock songwriters as well as achieved independent chart success and overseas airplay. From radio friendly hooks, to passionate, upfront and personal songs, Steve has something for everyone. He has been writing songs for over 20 years and performing with various artist in the Sydney area crafting his distinct sound. With his most recent album, “Eagles Aloft,” Steve takes a big leap into the realm of Contemporary Country using Americana and Nashville influences for inspiration. This album is easy listening that you won’t want to miss out on.
What got you into music?
A teenage band of University students then getting back into years later, with local musicians at jam nights and discovering that I could write songs.
What is your favorite part about being an artist or band? Songwriting, performing, recording, etc.? Tell us why.
All three are equal favorites! I love songwriting as you virtually start with a simple idea and see it row eventually into a complete song that you can share with everyone. I love performing with a band as you get lifted by the energy of every other musician who is helping to give all the crowd their best musical experience. Recording is great as you can develop the song along with a good producer and work it up to a great product.
Can you tell us what being in the recording studio is like for you?
In the studio you have to have an excellent relationship with the studio producer or engineer. This means being able to explain all your ideas for the song and understanding and respecting the ability and experience that the producer will impart into the song as well. There is a lot of satisfaction from working to achieve the best vocal and instrumentation for each song.
As an artist or musician, are there any obstacles you have had to overcome or obstacles that you are facing right now in your career?
There are always obstacles to progressing your career. The record companies in tandem with commercial radio stations are reluctant to give time to new artists or music. You have to get airplay through community radio and try other ways to get exposure for your music.
Who do you admire most in the music scene today and why?
Elton John for his great longevity at the peaks of the worldwide music community. For all the collaborations he has done with other artists and all the huge number of great hit songs he has co written and performed.
If you could be granted one wish, right now, as an artist, what would you ask for?
Commercial radio play so that a bigger audience can hear my music.
What is on the horizon in the next year for you?
A new album of 12 songs hopefully my best album yet.
To date, what do you think your best song is? Can you describe the song for us and what makes it great?
Journeyman. It is my latest song and tells the story of a hardworking guy and his experiences on the road of life.
Tell us where fans can access your music.