At just 20 years old, emerging country music talent Lucy Parle has clocked up some serious miles. She’s notched numerous accolades to her name – including nods from Triple J’s Unearthed High and the International Songwriting Competition – and a slew of performances and collaborations alongside many of the country’s best. The singer-songwriter reflects on the road so far in her latest offering, ‘Best of Me’.
It’s a deeply personal track that marks a pivotal moment in Lucy’s musical journey. “The song is about me not being happy with my life and where my music was heading and the realisation that I had to make some major changes.”
Lucy was personally invited to receive mentorship from country music legend Gina Jeffreys when she was just 14. This partnership led to collaboration with Jeffreys’ husband, Rod McCormack (The Wolfe Brothers, Adam Harvey), who not only produced the new single, but co-wrote the hit alongside Lucy and Nashville-based songwriter Sam Gay.
The recording process for ‘Best of Me’ was both invigorating and collaborative. “We had a live band in the studio, which included myself, Rod McCormack, Jeff McCormack, and Glenn Wilson. The experience was a lot of fun and brought an authentic feel to the track,” Lucy reflects.
Authenticity is taking centre stage in the next chapter of Lucy’s career. “I decided to leave my record label and publisher as they were pushing me in a direction I didn’t want to go.” Returning to her country music roots, ‘Best of Me’, radiates confidence; Lucy’s cosy vocal, anchored upon a wash of mandolin and fiddle.
“I have seen Lucy develop into an artist who, I believe, has the potential to be one of Australia’s and the world’s finest writers and performers,” shares Rod McCormack.
The accompanying music video, produced by Duncan Toombs from The Filmery, pictures Lucy amidst Sydney CBD’s grungy metro. “It was the most embarrassing day of my life,” she laughs. “He was shooting me walking through the city and on buses singing the song. There were lots of random people staring at me, probably thinking I was a crazy person,” The video also features a special cameo appearance from her beloved pup, Charlie.
Lucy’s previous releases have garnered significant attention and praise from industry professionals and fans alike. Triple j Unearthed’s Nick Findlay describes her music as “classic songwriting at its finest”, while Lucy was a standout songwriter in Triple J Unearthed High in 2020 and 2021. She was crowned the winner of the Teen Category in the 2020 International Songwriting Competition and twice named Australian Songwriters Association Youth Songwriter of the Year.
As an ardent animal rights supporter, Lucy’s compassion extends beyond her music. She supports Animals Australia and the Animal Justice Party, has adopted a koala, and previously volunteered at Moo To Ewe, a farmed animal sanctuary on the coast. Lucy’s love for animals is evident in her personal life, where she dotes on her dog, Charlie – aka Pup, Charles in Charge, Fatty or Sir.
Lucy Parle’s dedication to her craft and unwavering commitment to authenticity shine through in ‘Best of Me’. With her soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and a genuine passion for country music, Lucy Parle is undoubtedly an artist to watch.