Tamarama Jay Lyon Interview

Taking their name from a little known Australian beach where they grew up, Tamarama's Jay Lyon and Nicolas "Pottsy" Potts have nurtured a sound reflecting life on the shores of OZ. With a mix of folk, rock, and reggae rhythms, breezy melodies and easy going lyrics this new collection of songs will surely catch your attention.

Tamarama is now based in New York City, far from the tranquil settings of their old stomping grounds, but their vibe has never strayed too far from the beaches at home where the memories feed the music. The new surroundings and it's diversity have helped develop their sound, broaden their influences and deepen their style, not to mention given them a solid local and celebrity following in the US.

Now in the recording studio Tamarama has had the chance to record their first album "Wonderland City" with a full band and are scheduled for a fall release and upcoming tours in October.

Listen, enjoy and let "Blue Skies Prevail"


1. How did it feel to hear your song played all over the airwaves?
At first its a little strange but after a while you get used to it.

2. Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?
Not really i didnt know what to expect. Its what i want to do so you have to learn lessons along the way in order to grow as an artist and learn the realities of the business.

3. Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?
Yes we write all our own material. We both bring a different element to the writing process.Nick is good with melody and i am better with Lyrics. Generally we find the feeling of the song and work the melody line then the lyrics will usually flow. We stop and usually come back to it to finish.

4. What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?
I am re going through my beatles phase, Paul Simon, The beautiful girls, Jack Johnson, Bob Marley, Led Zeppelin,Simon and Garfunkel.

5. What's next? Tour/Album/Single?
Release the album then head out for a college tour around the states both East and West Coast. Then another single followed by a second record.

6. Was there a moment you contemplated throwing in the towel?
Yes there have been moments when i contemplated it but its only for a short while. If you believe in something enough there is not much that can hold you down. There are obstacles in all areas of life but we go through the motions and come out better for it.

7. Do you prefer performing live or recording?
For me i love the performing side of it the buzz you get from playing shows. The recording process is a lot more stressful but usually when we get the final product it is worth the hard work.

8. What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?
No one particular person just a real love for music. Music is universal and can be felt on every level. I wanted to be part of that creative process and share something that hopefully people can relate to.

9. What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?
A year ago we went in to the Virgin records office here in New York and we played in front of the entire board and played terrible. It was a massive wake up call for us and we have really pulled it together since then.

10. What's a typical day like?
Rehearse, contact people, book shows and work out marketing schemes to get it out there.

11. What has been your favorite part of becoming a music artist?
Making a CD that i am so proud of and getting up and getting that amazing rush on stage and feeling like this is where i want to be.

12. If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?
There are a range of artists i really like. To name a few artists like The Beautiful Girls and Jack Johnson, Xavier Rudd.

13. Do you have a website fans can visit?
www.tamaramamusic.com

14. Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy & enjoyable life?
1. love what your doing
2. stay positive
3. dont give up on your dreams
4. excercise
5. LOVE

15. What message would you like to say to your fans?
Thanks for getting behind us and letting us have the opportunity to do something we love.Hope you dig the tunes....

60 Second Quiz

Full Name: Jay G. Lyon
Nickname(s): JG
Star Sign: Gemini
Music Talent: Guitar and Vocals
Favorite Food: Vegetarian lasagne at Bread in NYC
Favorite Film: The Goonies
Favorite Actor: Johnny Depp
Pet: Frankie "Yorkie"
Describe yourself in 3 words: Open, honest and passionate
Best Feature: Music
Worst Feature: Left deltoid
Person You Would Most Like to Meet: You
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, writing and painting
First Job: Model
Are you a Pub, Bar or Club kind: Depends on the occasion
What Can You Never Leave Home Without: Wallet, phone and ciggarettes
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning: Depends on the occasion.