MELBOURNE GUITAR SHOW Q&A – MINNIE MARKS

What do you think makes the Melbourne Guitar Show such a special event for musicians and fans?

MGS is such an adrenaline rush for all. It’s such a good time for everyone, punters and artists. I mean, who doesn’t love seeing world class guitar players and being surrounded by the industry’s best instruments all in one building? Truly endless amounts of fun shared with likeminded people all under one roof.

What does it mean to you to be performing alongside so many talented Australian guitarists?

For me, it’s always such an honour to be asked to play my six string among the heavy hitters. Australia has such a high calibre of musicians and to get to come have a burn with them is out of this world.

Do you prefer writing music on acoustic or electric guitar, and why?

Depending on the location is mostly how it comes about for me (whether or not you’re on the road and have ample electricity etc). Mostly these days I write on the electric though

How has your playing style evolved over the years?

I started off mostly acoustic in the earlier days until I acquired an old ’56 Gibson Goldtop which definitely opened the doors up sonically for me. In the last few years I’ve gotten into a lot of slide playing (fretting behind the slide).

Are there any non-guitarists who have influenced your playing or songwriting?

Absolutely, although I have to admit I’m a sucker for  a good guitar floating around somewhere in the mix haha.

What’s your favorite guitar riff of all time?

Ooh that’s a tricky one to pin it down to one.. Hmm here are a couple of contenders though: ‘Reelin’ In The Years’ – Steely Dan and ‘If I’m Unworthy’ – Blake Mills.. I could sit here all day and rattle them off, there’s SO many!

Was there a specific moment or artist that made you want to pursue music seriously?

Definitely. When I was younger I went and saw Sarah McLeod for the first time and thought ‘Holy Moly I want to do that!’. After that when I was roughly 15, I played in a duo with Matt Zarb (one of my favourite musicians) who really started to get my right hand going and my chops up. Then I met the Hussy Hicks, which was an absolute game changer. They’ve consistently inspired me to this date to be better, play harder and have the most fun whilst doing it. Julz Parker and Leesa Gentz are my beacons. 

How do you overcome creative blocks when writing music?

I’m the kind of person to just wait until it’s time, if it’s not flowing – that’s ok, come back later when the sparks are flying high again.

Is there a particular guitar tone you’re always chasing?

I love Sean Costello’s and Joey Landreth’s tone – but at the end of the day that’s their hands doing that, no pedal or amp can emulate that fully, so I just like to see what comes out of my hands. If the patch leads aren’t crackling I’m a happy chappy haha. 

How do you balance technical ability with emotional expression in your playing?

I play a lot everyday as much as I can, so by the time it comes to being on stage it’s purely emotional, which is nice to just be in the flow state and see what happens.

What’s next for Minnie Marks, new music, tours etc?

I’m currently working on an album which I’ve been sitting on for a few years. I finally feel like it’s ready to be out in the world very shortly (which is exciting) then It’s time to take it around the country and overseas and let the songs be swirling out and around in the world.