Words-Art Jefferson
Photograhy-Fernando Barraza, Pat Supsiri
While Sydney, Australia may boast a reputation for its high quality of life and beautiful people, the city has also been a recent focal point for a wave of incredible musicians and artists creating an array of outstanding music and self definition. You can say that singer Sarsha Simone has inherited all of Sydney’s shining rays of goodness, packing a voice that of a classic soul vocalist and gorgeously stunning looks that will stop you dead in your tracks. Building a name in the nu soul, r&b, as well as Hip-Hop circuit, Simone’s sincere approach to music and fashion unquestionably makes her one to watch out for as a force to be reckoned with.
Many people may be familiar with Sarsha Simone’s voice as the singer of the Sydney based funk and soul band Dojo Cuts. However, the Australian artist has proven to be multifaceted, gracing everything from jazz to electronic. Her recent EP “Gold” points to the direction of head nodding soul, working with local Sydney producer Colourd Noyz. Blending raw talent and a fashionable, cutting edge presentation, Sarsha Simone is by all means…fierce.
Art Jefferson-How long have you been performing and singing? Give me a little insight on your musical heritage.
Sarsha Simone-I’ve been performing since I was 18 and started live with the soul/funk band Dojo Cuts. Since then I’ve been collaborating with different producers, bands, and on my solo projects. It’s been a crazy journey but I’m enjoying every second.
Art Jefferson-There have been a number of great releases coming out of Sydney. Would you say that artists in Sydney are coming into their own identity musically?
Sarsha Simone-Definitely, I can see a lot of people here really focusing on their original music and finding their own identity. There is a tonne of amazing music coming out at the moment. Definitely keep an ear out for Milan Ring, Rosie Henshaw, Mike Champion, Thandiwe, and Gang of Brothers, just to name a few.
Art Jefferson-You also sing with the band Dojo Cuts. How long have you been performing with those guys?
Sarsha Simone-I started with them about 5 years ago after they had posted online that they were looking for a soul/funk singer. Nathan (the guitarist) sent me some instrumentals and I wrote on all 3 of them and then sent them back. I hadn’t met any of the guys till I walked into the rehearsal room. We played the song “The 123’s” once through, and boom the stars aligned.
Art Jefferson-One thing that goes unnoticed is your striking looks. Did you model as well?
Sarsha Simone-Well thank you. I have dabbled in a bit of modelling but more on a request basis. I’ve got to say that I love striking a pose. Ha ha!
Art Jefferson-Your love of fashion is also undeniable. How would you describe your personal style?
Sarsha Simone-I sure do. I would say street meets couture; I love a fly pair of sneakers but I love an amazing couture piece any day.
Art Jefferson-As a fashionista, what designers and brands are you enjoying at the moment?
Sarsha Simone-Jamie Lee, a Perth (Western Australia) designer has some amazing pieces. I love me some Sass and Bide any day of the week. Josual Molou, a Sydney based designer has some cool street wear and I stroll into shops that I didn’t know existed for some treasures.
Art Jefferson-In your opinion, how important is the fashion aspect of one’s character in relation to music and performance?
Sarsha Simone-I think it’s huge. Hip Hop is defined by music and fashion, or look at punk, the style goes hand in hand. If you want to be iconic, your own individual style is key.
Art Jefferson-What are you currently working on musically and what direction will your sound be taking?
Sarsha Simone-I’m just in the works of finishing my album, which is taking this 80’s soul vibe direction. I started writing over a year ago and now we are on the home stretch, finally. I can’t wait to share!
Art Jefferson-If you had to sum up Sarsha Simone in three words, what would those words be?
Sarsha Simone-Determined. Positive. Striking.
http://soundcloud.com/sarshasimonemusic
https://www.facebook.com/sarshasimone