Local artist profile: Cameron Mason

THIS week we speak with country singer and guitarist Cameron Mason.

 

Considering it’s such a cutthroat, competitive industry, what initially motivated you to become a musician?

My grandfather was a musician who played multiple instruments and my father just loved country music. Our home was always filled with music and I couldn’t wait to learn to play the guitar when my parents bought me one for my ninth birthday.

 

You have a truly unique approach to your music. How would you describe your style and how did you develop it?

Having grown up on my father’s eclectic collection of bush ballad, traditional country, western swing, blues, southern rock and rock’n’roll, I ended up with a broad spectrum of musical influences and I still like to play anything from country, blues, to rock. I love the country twang of a Telecaster through to the distorted growl of a Les Paul.

 

Are there any themes you like to feature in your music? What draws you to these themes?

I have many themes in my music and I guess the country influence has led to writing and singing quite a few heartache songs and the rock side of things brings on the rowdy drinking songs.

 

There’s so much music out there these days, it’s difficult to sift through it all to uncover the truly quality stuff. For yourself, which other musicians inspire you and why?

Neil Young is probably the one who inspires me most as he can deliver sweet acoustic melodic tunes and then bring on full on grunge when he performs with his band Crazy Horse. Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson and Chuck Berry also have given me plenty of inspiration with the impact they have had on music down through the years.

 

It must be a thrill being able to perform to big crowds and also support some of your idols. What are some highlights or fond memories you have from your career so far?

 

I have been so lucky throughout my career having been given the chance to work with many great artists such as John Paul Young, Slim Dusty, Hot Chocolate, Lee Kernaghan, Troy Cassar Daley, and the Goanna Band. I have also been so lucky as to have seen a lot of this great country of ours performing on stages from Burnie in Tasmania to Far North Queensland, and including the Sydney Opera House.

 

The past couple of years have been pretty tough for the entertainment industry. How has your practice been affected by COVID? Has there been little change or has it had a substantial effect?

Prior to COVID I was very busy with gigs, performing every weekend. There was a lot of travel and not much rest. I have actually enjoyed slowing down with the music, but not initially, and have probably gained a much bigger appreciation of music and being a musician.

 

Despite being able to follow your dreams, it’s important to put food on the table too! How can people check out your work and, most importantly, purchase it?

I have some music up on ITunes or catch me at a gig somewhere

 

What would you say to young regional aspiring musicians who are thinking of making a go of the creative life, but might be a little reticent?

Don’t take yourself too seriously and just enjoy it. It can be a wild ride.