Four Brisbane Women Making Waves: A QMusic Spotlight By Viv Mellish

Luna Greco

5 min read

Post on May 29, 2025

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Sarah Mary Chadwick: Indie Folk with a Dark Heart

Musical Background and Influences:

Sarah Mary Chadwick's journey began with a deep love for storytelling through song. Influenced by artists like Leonard Cohen and PJ Harvey, her music blends haunting melodies with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of darkness, vulnerability, and resilience.

• Won the Queensland Music Award for Best Folk/Roots Album in 2018.
• Performed at numerous festivals, including Woodford Folk Festival and BIGSOUND.
• Collaborated with acclaimed artists such as [insert a collaborating artist's name].

Sound and Distinctive Features:

Chadwick's signature sound is characterized by her captivatingly melancholic vocals, sparse yet evocative instrumentation, and deeply personal songwriting. Her music is both intimate and expansive, drawing listeners into her emotionally resonant world.

• Key albums: The Wolf, Slightly Sunny.
• Her style is often compared to artists like [insert similar artists], but her unique vocal timbre and lyrical depth set her apart.

QMusic Involvement and Support:

QMusic has played a significant role in Sarah Mary Chadwick's career progression, providing invaluable mentorship and networking opportunities.

• Participated in QMusic's industry development workshops.
• Benefited from QMusic's grant programs supporting album production.

Ecca Vandal: Electrifying Pop-Punk

Musical Background and Influences:

Ecca Vandal's high-energy pop-punk sound is a result of her diverse musical upbringing. Influenced by artists like Gwen Stefani and Paramore, she crafts catchy hooks with a fierce edge.

• Nominated for multiple Queensland Music Awards.
• Featured in major Australian music festivals like Splendor in the Grass.
• Supported international acts on their Australian tours.

Sound and Distinctive Features:

Vandal's music is instantly recognizable for its powerful vocals, driving guitar riffs, and infectious energy. Her lyrics tackle themes of empowerment and self-discovery with a bold and unapologetic attitude.

• Key singles: "Endo," "Jane Doe."
• Her sound is often described as a blend of pop-punk and alternative rock, similar to [insert similar artists], but with a uniquely Australian flavour.

QMusic Involvement and Support:

QMusic has supported Ecca Vandal's career through various initiatives, enabling her to connect with industry professionals and expand her reach.

• Received funding through QMusic's export program.
• Participated in QMusic's songwriting workshops and networking events.

Cub Sport: Genre-Bending Indie-Pop

Musical Background and Influences:

Cub Sport's Tim Nelson, who leads the band, created a unique sound that defies easy categorization, blending indie-pop sensibilities with electronic elements and soulful vocals. Influenced by a broad range of artists, from [Insert influences], they constantly evolve their sound, maintaining a vibrant energy.

• Achieved significant airplay on national radio stations.
• Toured extensively across Australia and internationally.
• Gained a large and dedicated following through their captivating live performances.

Sound and Distinctive Features:

Cub Sport’s music is characterized by its lush melodies, dreamy soundscapes, and emotionally resonant lyrics. Their sound blends indie-pop, electronic elements, and soulful vocals in unexpected and captivating ways.

• Key albums: Silent Party, Like Nirvana.
• Their unique style blends elements of [mention similar artists] but boasts a distinct originality.

QMusic Involvement and Support:

QMusic has been instrumental in assisting Cub Sport’s growth and exposure.

• Benefitted from QMusic’s professional development programs.
• Received invaluable support through their networking opportunities.

Thelma Plum: Soulful Indigenous Pop

Musical Background and Influences:

Thelma Plum’s music is deeply rooted in her Indigenous heritage and personal experiences. Influenced by soul, R&B, and pop, she weaves stories of resilience, identity, and cultural pride.

• Won ARIA Awards for Best Blues and Roots Album and Breakthrough Artist.
• Performed at major music festivals nationally and internationally.
• Received critical acclaim for her powerful and emotional songwriting.

Sound and Distinctive Features:

Plum’s distinctive vocal style, blending soulful melodies with captivating storytelling, makes her music instantly recognizable. Her lyrics often explore themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage.

• Key albums: Better in Blak, Thelma Plum.
• While her sound shares similarities with artists such as [mention similar artists], her unique voice and message of cultural pride define her sound.

QMusic Involvement and Support:

QMusic has provided ongoing support for Thelma Plum throughout her career, championing her as a leading female voice in the Queensland music scene.

• Received support through various QMusic programs designed to promote Indigenous artists.
• QMusic has helped Thelma Plum access opportunities for development and broader exposure.

The Impact of QMusic on Brisbane's Female Musicians

QMusic plays a vital role in fostering the careers of female musicians in Brisbane. Through mentorship programs, grants, networking opportunities, and industry events, QMusic actively supports and empowers women in the Queensland music scene. While specific statistics on the number of female artists supported may require further research, the impact of these initiatives is undeniable, creating a more equitable and thriving environment for female musicians. QMusic's commitment to gender equality is evident in their proactive initiatives to promote and celebrate female talent.

Celebrating Brisbane's Rising Female Music Stars

These four Brisbane women making waves represent a small but significant portion of the incredible female talent flourishing in Queensland. Each artist has carved a unique path, showcasing their distinct musical styles and captivating audiences with their artistry. QMusic's support has been instrumental in their success, providing resources and opportunities that allow them to thrive. Discover the incredible music of these four Brisbane women making waves, and explore the vibrant talent nurtured by QMusic. Support local music and keep an eye out for their upcoming shows! Let's celebrate the power and artistry of Brisbane female musicians and the crucial role of QMusic in supporting the Queensland music scene.