Barefoot and heartfelt – busker wears his heart on sleeve

BUSKER David McCredie is preparing to release his debut album in 2025, before embarking on a tour of Europe.

He will also support ARIA chart-topping artist Ziggy Alberts on his Australian tour in March and April.

McCredie, who writes his own folk songs, grew up in Newcastle and began busking with his brother Pete in 2021 when they spent the summer in Byron — surfing and writing songs during the day and performing on the street at night.

“During the warmer months, I’ll be out busking most nights of the week,” he said.

“I love busking in Byron because people from all over the world travel to this beautiful spot. It has such a magical feeling to it. There really isn’t anything like it.”

McCredie lives in his van and also busks in Newcastle, Manly, Coogee and Melbourne. He has also supported Pete Murray on tour.

“I love doing van life as it allows me to freely travel Australia, whilst chasing this dream of mine,” he said.

“It’s so expensive to rent, so I use the money I save in rent to produce my songs and go into the studio.”

His favourite songs include Letter to You, which is a love letter to his future wife.

He is also releasing a new song called How I’m Feeling in February, which is about feeling a little lost as his friends begin settling down buying houses and getting married.

“I love sharing my music with the world,” he said. “Without a label, manager or agent, I feel like busking is a great way to share songs and stories with new people, and to test out new songs.

“I want people to connect with the lyrics and melodies. I want them to see themselves in the stories that I tell.

“I think I’m living the dream.”