About Marty Simpson
Keen surfer and snowboarder Marty is possibly the most laid-back contestant in this year's competition, and brings his equally laid-back brand of acoustic surfer rock to the competition. Introduced to the guitar by his brother, Marty admits he was "pretty ordinary" when he first started, but has improved greatly since then. The Australian Idol judges obviously agreed, immediately and unanimously sending him through to the Idol top 100 at his audition. "Marty Simpson, welcome to Australian Idol!" cheered judge Kyle Sandilands.
Despite following some stiff competition, he was named one of the Top 12. "It's a wild ride but it's unreal, so I'm gonna enjoy it for a minute," he said as he heard the news.
Marty lists his favourite movies as The Shawshank Redemption and Scarface, love eating seafood and says his favourite bands are The Dave Matthews Band and The Police – even sporting a tattoo inspired by The Police's Synchronicity album on his arm.
Q&A with Marty
Q: I first realised I wanted to become a professional singer when…
I began singing with my guitar. I was pretty ordinary at the time, but I've most definitely improved a little.
Q: What is your favourite genre of music?
I love all Rootsy-feeling music.
Q: Which previous finalist do you find most inspiring and why?
Bobby Flynn, of course.
Q: Have you auditioned for a previous series of Australian Idol? If so, how far did you progress? What motivated you to audition this year?
No, just this year. My Mum was always nagging me, so I guess she was the motivator.
Q: Describe your feeling at your first audition?
A lot of anxiety from the long hours of waiting. It's all been overwhelming. There were so many cool cats but everyone helped me deal with the emotions we were all going through.
Q: Obviously, it's important to have a strong voice, but what other aspects give a performer 'star quality'?
A bright personality will definitely help in this program. I've been really drawn into some of the Idol's musicianship. Some of them can really rip on the instruments.
Q: Idol shows often follow a special theme like Disco, Rock or Big Band. What would your 'dream theme' be and why?
Reggae. I think it would be great seeing everybody in the crowd skanking to some Bob Marley.
Q: What would you call your debut album?
"Walking Out The Door" or "The Way We Are." At this stage anyway!
Q: Why do you think Australian Idol is an important part of our local music industry?
It promotes Aussie artists, very talented Australian artists, who otherwise wouldn't be noticed.
Q: Which artist (dead or alive) would you most like to perform a duet with and why?
Jeff Buckley - because I love his voice and he's very unique with his guitar.
Q: What's the best thing about being on Australian Idol?
Growing and learning as an artist. The great people I've met. Being given the opportunity to get my stuff out there and be noticed.
Q: Who is your favourite judge and why?
I think Kyle, but I haven't got much feedback out of him yet.
Q: How do you prepare yourself before a performance?
Trying to keep relaxed by playing the guitar over and over. I usually drink tea before a performance to help my voice.
Q: Whats the best bit of advice someone has given to you?
"No good musician ever turns down a gig."
Q: If you win, who would you thank first?
All the people I've had the whole experience with.
