YoWo Music is a Melbourne-based music program for young women and gender non-conforming youth. In their own words, YoWo is changing futures by highlighting 'viable pathways to a future in music'. Through semester-long programs, with mentoring from a range of industry professionals, Melbourne teenagers are taught skills in music and performance culminating in a gig to showcase what they've learnt. Ultimately though, YoWo shines a light on the need for more gender diversity in the contemporary music scene and is delivering candidates to fill this gap.
Negotiating the complexities of being a teenager in 2018 is a difficult task, but the debut album, Work Like That, is a nine-track is a celebration of the mess we all make getting through. From accepting yourself to navigating relationship drama, the girls and GNC of YoWo have pieced together an album that explores music as much as it does the personal stories behind each track.
Three of the voices behind Work Like That have stopped by to chat about their own influences. With this group of teenagers only just starting out, the future prospects of a diverse music industry are just fine.
Bridget O'Meara says...
Courtney Barnett is a singer/songwriter from Melbourne. She's an amazing artist who often bases her songs off her personal experiences. The way that she sings is so powerful, yet seems so effortless, and she tells stories through her punk/indie rock lyrics. I love that her songs sound so raw and free, and I find that so unique and inspiring.
Pearl Harnath says...
Sir Babygirl's vocals are slightly eerie but are so unbelievably beautiful. She is unashamed to be queer, which shows in her songs. Listening to Sir Babygirl feels like getting the advice you desperately need from your nonexistent bisexual, gender non-conforming, older sibling. I find myself always drawn to listen to Heels whenever it feels time for some personal reinvention. I imagine Sir Babygirl would play in the coming-of-age movie that is every young queer persons' life.
Abby Howes says...
My favourite LGBTQ+ artist is Adam Lambert; an amazing musician now touring with Queen in the place of Freddie Mercury. He has amazing vocal power and his personality and style is evident through his inspiring music.
The program's debut album, Work Like That, was released on November 23 and is available for purchase or to stream.
Find out more about YoWo Music here.