Today we’d like to introduce you to Alana Wilkinson.
Hi Alana, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, you could tell our readers some of your backstory.
I started to write and play songs in a pop-punk band when I was 14. It was an angsty, excellent way to express the weirdness of being a teenager, and it taught me how to turn big feelings and life experiences into songs. I fell in love with the stage, songwriting, and the magic connection that happens when it comes together, and somewhere along the way, I turned into a folk songwriter and storyteller. I jumped into music as a full-time job in 2018 and have been chasing those magical moments of connection ever since. I fell pregnant in 2021, and my son was born extremely prematurely at 24 weeks. We had a 3 month NICU stay and took our little fellow home on oxygen, only to be airlifted out of the floods two weeks later. It’s been a crazy few years, but there’s been plenty of twists and turns to inspire new songs and stories.
It wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been a long and winding road, lots of learning, trusting my instincts, and knowing when to get out of my way, but the obstacles always seem to make great songs!
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a singer, songwriter, and folk musician from Australia. My work is writing, recording, performing my music, and writing for and with other artists. Oh, and all of the admin! As an independent artist, I am the CEO, secretary, graphic designer, and tea and snack maker. Please insert any other fancy title you can think of! I am known for the way I celebrate the weirdness of the human experience – I have songs about those funny and embarrassing moments that connect us with a giggle, like having a kinky dream about your friend or accidentally flashing a boob at the postman in postpartum! While also sharing songs of love, a tribute to the best pal as they begin to share their queerness and true self, and songs of grief and loss, a love song for a little person placed in palliative care. My shows are a safe place for a big old cackle and cry. Sometimes at the same time!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
There are many industry networking opportunities, and I recommend applying for them as they can be so helpful. If someone in particular you feel may be able to help, I advise reaching out. They can only say no; every no helps guide you to a YES!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alanawilkinson.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alana.wilkinson/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alanawilkinsonmusic/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/alanawilkinson
Image Credits
Taylor Paige Photography, Claudia Sangiorgi Dalimore, Natasha Curato
