How has your songwriting developed since you wrote Hallelujah?
I have become more aware of what it takes to have a good song, as before when I was writing couldn't really tell a song that people would like or not like. My life is heading down the road of doing music as a career which has thrown my writing into turmoil a bit, as I am now writing my songs to appeal to an audience rather than just me, it's pretty tough making that changeover.
What is the most challenging aspect of songwriting for you?
Lyrics that describe the perfect image of whatever may have inspired me to write.
Who has been your biggest influence?
I would have to say David Gray primarily. I love his songs, his style and his underground life. But, I think my friends and family have also been a big influence. Many things can influence me, it is hard to pinpoint my biggest influence as even a ferry boat ride or a day with a guitar guru could influence or have impact on my life.
What advice can you give to your fellow songwriters?
Write for yourself! And make sure that your songs truly mean something to you, so that when you perform them 20 years down the track they still have the same heartfelt impact on yourself and your audience as the day you wrote it.
What does being the 2004 Grand Prize winner mean to you?
Fame and fortune!! And a huge helping hand into the music industry, that I otherwise wouldn't have had.
What is the Auckland music scene like?
Hard to get into if you don't have the connections.
What's next for Gin? What are your ambitions?
--America, London and Europe to be inspired, enthused and dedicated to write
some amazing songs. My goal is to have an awesome record out in the next few
years.
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About John Moxey
John Moxey started Songstuff in 2000 and is an active songwriter and musician as well as a regular Songstuff author of music and music technology related articles and member of the site crew.
John started playing his first instrument (piano) in 1971, and has been writing songs since 1979. He began playing his now main instrument, the guitar, in 1982. In 1986 he finished training as a studio engineer and in 1997 obtained an Honours Degree in Electronics and Music from the University of Glasgow.
John now plays several other instruments including mandolin, violin, bagpipes, didgeridoo, bodhran, and vocals.
John has a broad range of performance experience from choirs and orchestras to pipe bands. He has sung for, played in and written for various bands, and produced songs across a number of genres.
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