Fri 18 Nov
The Grand Magoozi are Melbourne based band with a sound rooted in folk, blues and country. Their first self titled LP features original compositions written by beguiling lead vocalist Susie Scurry. Her music has been described as “smoky vocals and simple song writing [that] deliver tenderness and subtle wit in equal measure”. Sounds like a dream.
The Grand Magoozi will be performing during our Breakthrough Get Together on Sat 26 Nov, featuring MC Jan Fran and music from the Brunswick Women’s Choir. We chatted to Susie about her music and the challenges specific to women in the music industry.
Your music has been compared to the likes of Patsy Cline, Karen Dalton and Billy Holiday. How important were female role models in the development of your own musical style?
To be honest I never really consider gender when I listened to music. I’m either drawn to someone’s sound or not. Yet the common thread that links all the female musicians I admire and love is their honesty, strength and their vulnerability. It is a very difficult thing to sing and write about your inner thoughts, dreams and emotions and when it is done right it is a wonderful thing.
What changes do you think need to be made to the music industry in order to make it more inclusive?
I think a good to place to start is less emphasis on a female artist’s physical appearance and more emphasis on her music. For the majority of women their music career will terminate before they reach 40 years old because of an age-old perception that women in music should be young, vibrant and beautiful. This gender inequality is very frustrating.
Do you have any advice for young women hoping to enter the music industry?
I know it sounds cliché but its true: believe in yourself.
What excites you about Breakthrough?
I’m hoping to shake Tanya Plibersek’s hand.
Witness the soothing sounds of The Grand Magoozi between 3pm-4pm, Saturday 26 Nov during our Breakthrough Get Together, featuring MC Jan Fran and music from the Brunswick Women’s Choir.
Happening over 25 + 26 Nov at the Melbourne Town Hall, Breakthrough features 100+ speakers and performers (such as Judith Lucy, Rosie Batty, Jessica Rowe and more!) and real gender equality action. Tickets on sale now.
