eves karydas

With a voice that captivates you from the very first note, Eves Karydas is a name you’ll want to get familiar with. We talked to the Brisbane singersongwriter about the making of her latest single, what’s to come and more!

words by VANESSA SALLES

Tell us about your latest single, “Complicated” – what’s the story behind the track?

‘Complicated’ was born out of the perfect storm. I was in Stockholm at the end of a very long writing trip where I hadn’t come up with anything good for months and was starting to feel pressure/imposter syndrome/self doubt… you name it. I was also dealing with my ongoing mental health journey; I was homesick and struggling with the recent passing of my grandfather. There was a lot going on but I didn’t want to keep feeling down. So, I went into the studio with the intention of just having a bit of a laugh at myself, and ‘Complicated’ was born!

Any memorable moments while writing/recording it that you can share with us?

Stockholm is one of the most magical cities in the world. I was falling in love too, and I think there was something in the air there that helped rejuvenate me. We (my co-writers Calle Lehmann, Max Thulin and I) would go and get Swedish meatballs for lunch and sit at a lookout overlooking the Old Town of Stockholm. It was a very special time, very otherworldly.

What has the reaction been like from fans so far?

It’s the most engaged I’ve ever seen my fans and there have been so many new people discovering me. Despite no touring and no travelling for promo, this song has connected with people in a way I couldn’t have planned. It’s taken on its own meaning this year, with COVID, and how everyone’s lives have been upturned. I’m so grateful for how the song has connected here in Australia.

How would you describe your creative process?

Lyrics are my everything so I spend a lot of time fine tuning and making sure the message I put out is my unique perspective and doesn’t feel like something someone else has already said. I grew up as a singer/songwriter/busker so I’m heavily influenced by folk music and storytelling. All my songs start with guitar and lyrics.

Music-wise, what should fans expect next from you?

Stripped back production, vocals up front, can’tescape-the-lyrics, guitars, feel good! My aim is to remain confessional and super direct and have nothing really getting in the way of the words.

When it comes to ultimate career goals, what comes to mind?

Having a song go big on radio has been my biggest dream from day one. ‘Complicated’ was added to every major radio station in Australia which is my biggest career milestone so far. I’m beyond thrilled with how it’s going. My next goal is international airplay!

What would you say has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned this year?

Remembering why I started writing in the first place. Sometimes I get caught up in the ropes of this industry and spend too much time focusing on what’s not actually very important like the stresses, social media, etc. But, I keep reminding myself that music is what brings me peace and happiness and if I focus on songwriting and my love of the creative life, it all feels alright again.

Any special message to fans?

Everything I do is for you. And I have all the time in the world for you. Thanks for sticking by me!