Robby Thorne Newsletter Interview

Robby Thorne is New Zealand’s latest solo artist combining Country themes, life & stylings to hard rock heritage born from the mind of Rob Sadd. Whilst performing with Puppeteer, Rob completed multiple North Island tours, two albums and an EP, all the while keeping his blues / country playing style in the background of songs. Rob answered the following questions for muzic.net.nz:

How did you become involved in music?

When I was 14 I joined a band & bought a guitar (before even knowing how to play a note). From there I developed my passion & craft throughout high school with Punk band Whitethorne & classic fuelled rock band Acid Rain, however when I turned 18 I formed Metal act Puppeteer with whom I co-wrote & recorded two albums & performed on multiple North Island tours.

If you could perform with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

Lynyrd Skynyrd, they have been a massive influence since I began, Freebird was the first Guitar solo I ever sat down and actually learnt correctly

Which one of your songs are you most proud of, and why?

The debut single, Quick Whiskey as I feel it perfectly combines where I’ve been with my music & where I’m headed now.

How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?

It is Country Rock but not without turning my back on my Heavy Metal / Hard Rock roots. It’s about playing the style that comes natural to me & fits the person I truly am. A simple Kiwi bloke who likes to drink a beer & enjoy the country we live in.

What can we expect to see from you in the next year?

I am currently putting the final touches on my debut solo album & there will be a lot of shows to accompany that. That’s my focus right now.

What NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?

Any & all of them, from the new garage bands through to the household names, we’re a special breed of music down in our part of the world and everyone has their place.

What local albums have you been enjoying recently?

The Debut EP from Mae Valley is one of the coolest NZ country releases to come out in the last little while, also there’s a lot of the local Tauranga metal acts that are starting to see the value in high quality recording so I’m sure they’ll be some favourites there soon.

What is your favourite NZ venue, and why?

Krazy Jacks in Tauranga, you always gotta love where you cut your teeth

Have you got any tips for dealing with nerves before a gig?

Haha, I still get nervous & I been doing this a long time now. Staying focused from the time you wake up helps though, you can’t just be lounging round all day!

How do you balance your music with other obligations; family, job etc.?

My Fiancée, Grace, is my Muse & my career is in the Audio Industry so it’s all inclusive really. I’m surrounded by a bunch of talented musicians a lot of the time too.

Where do you get your inspiration to create music from?

Daily life, art & story telling. All things that come together with music.

Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?

Get out & play as soon & as often as possible.