Q&A with Stevie Jean

At the age of just 17, Darwin singer-songwriter Stevie Jean has had a hectic couple of months. Having recently topped the triple j Unearthed charts, and been named as one of the five finalists in triple j Unearthed High, she is definitely a rising star to watch.

Tell us about your career. How did you get involved in music?
My parents, while not musicians, have always been great lovers of music. Dad raised me on Zeppelin and Mum on Fleetwood Mac.

How many instruments do you play?
I play the violin, guitar and the vocal chords.

What made you apply for triple j Unearthed High?
Unearthed High is such a wonderful platform for young artists. It was a no brainer.

How did it feel when you found out that you were a top five finalists out of 1,000 entrants?
Absolutely thrilled, humbled and grateful to the judges and the team who made it possible – my parents and my producers James Mangohig and Steven Smith.

And then there's making it to number one on the triple j Unearthed charts. That must have been a bit surreal? Especially at your age?
Hitting number two was incredible. I expected the song to fall but when the charts were updated a week later I found myself at number one. The other finalists had also risen into the top 10, so massive props to them.

Has growing up in Darwin had a big influence on your music?
Living in Darwin presents a unique opportunity to pursue art uninhibited by boxes or stereotypes.

What artists are you listening to at the moment?
I love Icelandic band Kaleo as well as the freak folk sister duo CocoRosie.

Is there anyone in the NT you’d like to collaborate with?
I’m hoping to collaborate with local legends King Klass.

What can we expect from you next?
My main focus is writing and recording. I will have a guitar in my hands for the next six months creating an EP. 

For more info on Stevie Jean see triple j Unearthed.