Vic Manuel Newsletter Interview

Vic Manuel is a singer songwriter whose first instrument was Flugelhorn in a cadet band. At age 13 he found an old guitar and taught himself how to play. He had to become a musician, joined a band at 15 and has been writing songs, singing and performing ever since. Vic answered the following questions for muzic.net.nz:

How did you become involved in music?

I played flugelhorn in my high school band and then I found a guitar, that was it.

If you could perform with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

Steve Earle as he is such a passionate songwriter and very prolific .

Which one of your songs are you most proud of, and why?

Love Is A Terrible Thing because I never run out of things to say about love and it’s a great song to do live.

How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?

Alternative, acoustic folk.

What can we expect to see from you in the next year?

I’m presently writing songs for a new album in the new year.

What NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?

Aldous Harding, great songwriter and arranger, and Marlon Williams, I really like his voice.

What local albums have you been enjoying recently?

I love Honk, an Auckland band from way back, they have an album called Arse and some very crazy songs.

What is your favourite NZ venue, and why?

So far Moon 1 and The Southern Cross Hotel in Wellington.

Have you got any tips for dealing with nerves before a gig?

Mindful breathing and a glass of red wine, or two.

How do you balance your music with other obligations; family, job etc?

I only work one day a week plus gigs, my partner is my manager as well.

Where do you get your inspiration to create music from?

Life in general, politics and I hate the way indigenous people are treated.

Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?

If you are serious about music, be prepared for a hard slog and never give up.