You might not know her name yet, but you’ll be thanking Her Campus when she’s selling out arenas around the world. Currently on the verge of releasing her debut album, Ridley Barbet wants the world to know she’s coming for it. And boy, are we ready! If you’re searching for your Mr. Right, going through hard times, or just need a reason to smile, Ridley Barbet’s got a song for everyone. Seriously, she kicks some major butt in the lyric department! Lucky for you guys Ridley Barbet has taken some time off from her busy schedule to have a little chit chat with Her Campus USF.
Q: What should those who have yet to fill their iPods with Ridley songs know about you?
I have done my fair share of folky, singer-songwriter music. Everyone will be in for a treat when they hear the new sound with the band.
Q: Music seems to be a big part of your life. When did you know you wanted to perform and make music?
I have always known I have wanted to perform from the first time I used to make up lullabies to sing to my brother. Having the confidence to sing has taken a long time. It wasn’t until I went to uni and [felt] the encouragement from my friend who supported me when I auditioned to join a gospel choir. I can’t imagine life without music. It just took me a while to get there.
Q: What’s the hardest thing you’ve had to go through in your music career? Also, the most exciting?
The hardest part wasn’t the first performance because I knew I had the support from my friends. The hardest part is now, getting the support from strangers and hoping that they like the music I write and sing. And also accepting that my voice is mine and I just have to make it the best it can be. Hearing your own voice and accepting it is the hardest thing.
The most exciting time was performing at my end of year show this past July because I finally didn’t feel nervous. I just felt like me, not judged. I didn’t care who liked it because I knew if I [got] one new supporter, I did it and that was who I would sing for.
Q: Most artists write about experiences they have gone through in relationships or life in general. What’s the story behind most of your music?
I write about anything and everything that comes to mind. I tend to write as an observer of life rather than writing about myself nowadays. My song “Party Days” was my most personal song, about drugs, relationships, parties and no regrets. That was possibly the most personal song I have ever written. And if you have watched the video you will see that, my mums response to it was, “Why did you do that?”, and I said, “Because that’s how much the music meant and still means to me.”
Q: I listened to “You’re The One” (like a million times) and I’m obsessed! What’s the story behind that song?
I have not had that many relationships. I fantasized about a person who is “The One” and imagined what it would be like to meet them and want to be with them so much that when they are gone they are still with you.
Q: If I read right, you’re going to be releasing an album later this year. Any hints you can give us about what the album will consist of?
That’s right I will be releasing an album, my debut in fact. It may be more like January 2013 depending on how long the finishing off takes. I want every song on that album to be fun, uplifting, and inspiring—hopefully.
Q: Will the U.S. potentially be serenaded by Ridley Barbet sometime in the future?
I’m really hoping that next year myself and the band will do a tour and make it over to the states. I would really love that [because] I just love it over there! Hopefully we can play at SXSW or some of the other amazing festivals that you have.
Q: Final question! Do you have any advice for girls currently trying to pursue a career in music?
Don’t get caught up in what you think you should sound like, look like or what your style should be. There are too many women that are treated like objects in the media industry; we need to stand up for ourselves. Just be yourself and accept your voice, because it is yours and you’re unique.
Download Ridley Barbet’s song “Summer in the City” here!
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ridleybarbetofficial
Website: www.ridleybarbet.com