Welsh-born, NYC-based queer singer-songwriter Bright Light Bright Light joined us for our first ever JOY Listening Party to celebrate the release of his new album.

Written as a love letter to the LGBTIQ communities, Fun City is a record full of collaborations with queer artists.

In the second hour of the party, Bright Light Bright Light aka Rod Thomas hangs out with Michael to chat about how the songs came about, especially in the current context of queer rights and representation. John P, from In The Studio, caught up with rapper Big Dipper and singer KAYE to talk about their tracks on the record.

Show your support by streaming and buying the album at orcd.co/funcity

Playlist

Bright Light Bright Light ft Niki Haris, Donna De Lory & Initial Talk – This Was My House

Bright Light Bright Light ft KAYE – Never be Lonely

Bright Light Bright Light ft The Illustrious Blacks – These Dreams

Bright Light Bright Light ft Big Dipper – Love Song

Bright Light Bright Light ft Mark Gatiss – Next To You

Bright Light Bright Light ft Justin Vivian Bond – Saying Goodbye Is Exhausting

The post #JOYListeningParty: Bright Light Bright Light releases queer collab album ‘Fun City’ (Hour 2) appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Welsh-born, NYC-based queer singer-songwriter Bright Light Bright Light joined us for our first ever JOY Listening Party to celebrate the release of his new album.

Written as a love letter to the LGBTIQ communities, Fun City is a record full of collaborations with queer artists.

In the first hour of the party, Bright Light Bright Light aka Rod Thomas had a chat with Michael about the purpose of the album and the messages he was trying to convey with its songs. The Sound of Now‘s Ti Butler got a chance to chat with Aussie singer-songwriter Brendan Maclean about meeting Rod and creating the song Touchy. Fellow Aussie Sam Sparro caught up with Turn the Beat Around‘s Robbie Molinari to share his story behind the collab.

Show your support by streaming and buying the album at orcd.co/funcity

Playlist

Bright Light Bright Light – I Used To Be Cool

Bright Light Bright Light ft Brendan Maclean – Touchy

Bright Light Bright Light ft Jake Shears – Sensation

Bright Light Bright Light ft Andy Bell – Good at Goodbyes

Bright Light Bright Light ft Sam Sparro – You Make It So Easy Don’t You

Bright Light Bright Light ft Caveboy – It’s Alright It’s Okay

The post #JOYListeningParty: Bright Light Bright Light releases queer collab album ‘Fun City’ (Hour 1) appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Since last being at JOY, Zak’s been performing all over Australia and busy writing new music. He caught up with Michael, JOY’s Music Director, to talk about performing in suits and on boats and the story behind the new single Fallin.

Plus:

• What happened when Zak tried to gate crash a Madonna gig?
• Whose music would he love to make a cover album of?
• How did Zak get his foot in the door?

Grab your copy of Fallin through your preferred music distributor and like Zak on Facebook.

The post Zak’s back and Fallin for you appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Michael and John took you on a journey through time with one song for each of the years since the very first Mardi Gras in 1978.

The fourth decade: 2008 – today

2008: Agnes – Release Me (Cahill Radio Edit)

2009: Beyoncé – Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)

2010: Beverley Knight & Chaka Khan – Soul Survivor (Bimbo Jones Radio Edit)

2011: Lady Gaga – Born This Way

2012: Scissor Sisters – Let’s Have a Kiki

2013: Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ft Mary Lambert – Same Love (JOY radio edit)

2014: Sam Smith – Stay With Me (Mark Picchiotti Groove Reconstruction Radio Mix)

2015: Adam Lambert – Ghost Town

2016: Dami Im – Sound of Silence (7th Heaven Radio Edit)

2017: Halsey ft Lauren Jauregai – Strangers

2018: Troye Sivan – My My My

The post 40 Songs for 40 Years: 2008 – today appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Michael and John took you on a journey through time with one song for each of the years since the very first Mardi Gras in 1978.

The third decade: 1998 – 2007

1998: Mousse T vs Hot’N’Juicy – Horny (1998 rework)

1999: Delerium & Sarah McLachlan – Silence

2000: Anastacia  – I’m Outta Love

2001: Kylie Minogue – Can’t Get You Out Of My Head

2002: Shakira – Whenever Wherever

2003: Britney Spears & Madonna – Me Against The Music

2004: Eric Prydz – Call On Me

2005: Mariah Carey – We Belong Together (Pete Rauhofer reconstruction radio mix)

2006: Scissor Sisters – I Don’t Feel Like Dancin’

2007: Mika – Grace Kelly

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Michael and John took you on a journey through time with one song for each of the years since the very first Mardi Gras in 1978.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bf4gJqjle8F

The second decade: 1988 – 1997

1988: Yazz And The Plastic Population – The Only Way Is Up

1989: Cher – If I Could Turn Back Time

1990: The B52s – Love Shack

1991: Kylie Minogue – What Do I Have To Do

1992: CeCe Peniston – Finally

1993: Janet Jackson – If

1994: Toni Pearen – Walkaway Lover

1995: Christine Anu – Party

1996: Johnna – Pride (Radio Edit)

1997: Aqua – Barbie Girl

The post 40 Songs for 40 Years: 1988 – 1997 appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Michael and John took you on a journey through time with one song for each of the years since the very first Mardi Gras in 1978.

The first decade: 1978 – 1987

1978: Alicia Bridges – I Love The Nightlife (Real Rapino 7″ Mix)

1979: ABBA – Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!

1980: Diana Ross – Upside Down

1981: Soft Cell – Tainted Love

1982: Human League – Don’t You Want Me

1983: Prince – 1999

1984: Bronski Beat – Smalltown Boy

1985: Dead Or Alive – You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)

1986: The Communards – Don’t Leave Me This Way

1987: Bananarama – Love In The First Degree

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The out-and-proud singer sat down with JOY’s Music Director Michael and they chatted about performing a song about his ex on national TV, the effects of the current Marriage Law Postal Survey and the story behind his new song, Love is Love.

He also teamed up with Matt, his guitarist, to perform Love is Love live in studio.

Plus:

• What does Alfie think about Eurovision?
• What are the plans for 2018?
• Which big British singer does he want to work with?
• And what did little Alfie get up to in big LA?

Connect with Alfie

Facebook: Alfie Arcuri

Twitter: @alfiearcuri

Instagram: @alfiearcuri

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Incognito

The 19-member ensemble will be performing at Alumbra in Melbourne, 29 September.

JOY 94.9’s  very own Soul Provider, Matt Warne, was in London this week and took the opportunity to catch up with the band’s frontman – composer, record producer, guitarist and singer – Jean-Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick.

This podcast is the full length Soul Provider program including interview and tracks.

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Incognito is a British acid jazz band. Their debut album, Jazz Funk, was released in 1981, with 15 more albums following, the latest of which, Amplified Soul, was released in June 2014.

The 19-member ensemble will be performing at Alumbra in Melbourne, 29 September.

JOY 94.9’s  very own Soul Provider, Matt Warne, was in London this week and took the opportunity to catch up with the band’s frontman – composer, record producer, guitarist and singer – Jean-Paul ‘Bluey’ Maunick.

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Pumeza opens up about her childhood, the death of her father at age eleven and discovering opera music on the radio.

Pumeza chats about moving to Europe to enhance her career, her three year scholarship at the Royal College Of Music in London and a masterclass with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa.

Pumeza talks about signing to Decca Records, her debut album Voice Of Hope, performing at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, The Royal Variety Performance and earlier this year with US singer Josh Groban.

Pumeza also chats about the new album ARIAS, her love of rock music, her time in Melbourne and much more.

The new album ARIAS by Pumeza Matshikiza is available in store and online now – visit the official website for further information and follow Pumeza on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Alfie began posting videos on Instagram and YouTube, gaining a growing global audience – which lead to him auditioning for The Voice. Alfie reflects on his time on the show, working with his coach Delta Goodrem and follow contestant Adam Ladell.

Alfie chats about some of the songs he performed on the show, including John Legend’s All Of Me and discovering Jack Savoretti’s Catapult, which he performed on the grand final – together with a duet with Delta.

Alfie chats about the two original tracks which appear on his debut album Zenith – the winner’s single Cruel and Careless Game, which was co-written by Troye Sivan and his upcoming live shows in Melbourne and Sydney in November.

Alfie also chats about his family, private messages on Instagram, his ideal date, tips on the perfect pizza and much more.

The debut album Zenith, from Alfie Arcuri, is available in store and online now.

Alfie plays The Palms at Crown on Friday 4 November – tickets available now through Ticketmaster.

Follow Alfie on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Alfie Arcuri chats with Leo in the JOY studio.

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She talks about how she got started in the music business, performing on The Graham Norton Show, her breakthrough hit ‘Tilted’ and the debut self titled album.

The debut album ‘Christine And The Queens’ is available instore and online now.

Visit the ‘Christine And The Queens’ website for further information and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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Barb spoke with Jenny Berggren from Ace of Base about her work with her siblings in the band, her autobiography (yes, the English language version is done and awaiting publication!) and her thoughts on the music industry.

As a key woman in the industry, Jenny has years of experience. Listen to this podcast for just a few of her words of wisdom, key amongst them: Have fun! You’ll also be amazed to hear her speak of the family support behind Ace of Base and the role her parents played in getting the band started back when she was just 14.

Jenny is touring Australia for 90’s Mania this September. The lineup also includes Haddaway, La Bouche, Amber, & Katrin from Black Box, tickets available here.

Visit Jenny’s website for news and updates and catch Triple X: Songs of a Generation every Sunday night at 10pm on JOY 94.9.

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Michael and Stuart chat with the lead singer and songwriter Lukas Graham.

Lukas chats about the music influences, his songwriting process, the worldwide success of 7 Years and the upcoming Australian tour.

The new self titled album featuring ‘7 Years’ and ‘Mama Said’ is available instore and online now.

Lukas Graham are playing live dates in Sydney and Melbourne in August, to book tickets visit Frontier Touring.

Visit the Lukas Graham website for all the news and updates.

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The Idea Of North have just released their 13th album, Ballads, and who are currently touring nationally. Founded in Canberra in 1993, the group comprises Sally, Naomi Crellin (alto), Nick Begbie (tenor) and Andrew Piper (bass).

The new CD allows the group the opportunity to explore their love of ballads and indulge in the intricate harmonies for which they have become renowned. Katie and Sally chat about the art of harmony singing and about some of the tracks on Ballads, including Sarah McLachlan’s famous song ‘Angels’.

For more information and upcoming tour dates please visit The Idea Of North website.

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Dannii chats about her early days on Young Talent Time, her impressive music career, being a mum, her upcoming gig with Culture Club at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne and much more.

Support JOY this Radiothon – visit JOY.ORG.AU to become a member and/or make a donation.

Don’t miss Dannii live at the GH in Melbourne on Thursday 9 June – tickets on sale now.

Dannii will also be supporting Culture Club in Melbourne on Friday 10 June, tickets on sale now.

Check out Dannii’s website for all the latest information and follow her on social media.

Photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY Photographer)

Dannii & Leo having fun in the JOY studios.

Dannii in the JOY studio

Dannii & Leo after the interview

Dannii with some of the JOYsters in studio.
L-R: Tennille, James, Leo, Chris & Mike (in front)

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Dean Ray in the JOY studio.

Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Dean Ray came into the studio for a chat with Katie on 22 May. Dean and Katie spoke about Dean’s musical influences, his love of performing live, and the story behind his latest single, ‘I O U (A Heartache)’ – which he performed live and acoustic during his visit.

Dean Ray has had platinum and gold records, with his debut single hitting #1 on the iTunes chart. With over 150 shows performed in 2015, Dean is currently on a national tour with fellow singer-songwriter Karise Eden. He has reportedly started working on a new album of original material, which we look forward to hearing!

Check out Dean’s website and follow him on social media.

In studio photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY Photographer)

Dean Ray with Katie in the JOY studios

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Originally from New Zealand, Tom has called Melbourne home for 10 years. Katie and Tom chat about Tom’s musical influences and his great new single, ‘As Far as India’, which is about growing up and the memories that shape us.

The video for ‘As Far As India’ is a collection of real childhood moments given by Tom’s friends and fans and he has shaped them into a fascinating journey from the past forwards.

Follow Tom on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

Tom Lee-Richards with Katie in the JOY studios.

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GANGgajang have been part of the Australian music landscape since 1984; their self-titled debut album dropped in 1985 and contained the hits ‘Gimme Some Lovin’’ and the classic ‘Sounds of Then (This Is Australia)’. Now they have an excellent new single, ‘Circles in the Sand’, and a striking music video shot in front of majestic Uluru. They are the first band to be given permission by the traditional landowners to shoot a music video at the sacred site.

In their wide-ranging chat, Katie and Buzz talk about the band’s origins, the distinctive riff in ‘Sounds of Then’, Buzz’s work with the Jimmy Little Foundation and the Mutitjulu community near Uluru, and the new single. Buzz tells Katie that ‘Circles in the Sand’ was inspired by the painters of the Western Desert, who drew sand ‘paintings’ that evolved into the modern ‘dot painting’ style. The music video was shot by filmmaker Chris Tangey and edited by Phil Evans, and features Dani Young and Indigenous icon Warren H. Williams singing in the Arrernte language.

‘Circles in the Sand’ has been added to a totally remastered release of the album GANGgajang.

GANGgajang are currently on tour, playing live everywhere from Gladstone to Perth – for tour dates and further info visit the official website.

https://youtu.be/MzS9m5Qh8gU

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Patrizio chats about the early days of his career, the success of his debut 2005 album The Italian and his loyal Australian audience.

Patrizio talks about covering the Robbie Williams hit Angels, filming the video for I Will Love You and marriage equality.

Patrizio also chats about his new jewellery range, the new album Bravo Patrizio and the upcoming Australian tour.

The new album Bravo Patrizio is available in store and online now.

Tickets for Patrizio’s Australian tour are on sale now.

Follow Patrizio on his social media channels for all the updates.

In studio photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY Photographer)

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Jason chats about his time on the 2014 season of X Factor, meeting Nicole Scherzinger in Las Vegas during home visits and working with mentor Redfoo.

Jason talks about visiting LA, hanging out with Redfoo and meeting Motown founder Berry Gordy, Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross and sharing ribs and cocktails with Stevie Wonder.

Jason chats about his new album Chasing Love, the new single Save Me and perform with Reigan Derry at his album launch gig in Melbourne.

Jason and Leo also reflect on the passing of the legendary Prince.

To buy the new album Chasing Love, visit Jason’s website and follow him on social media to keep updated!

Jason Heerah chatting with Leo in the JOY studios.

Jason Heerah with Leo in the JOY studios.

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Sinead reflects on her early musical influences, getting signed to ABC Music as a teenager, recording in Nashville and working with hit producer Stuart Crighton on her debut single Goodnight America.

Sinead chats about living in the US, writing and recording, her new EP Wolf, including the track Fickle Heart with singer-songwriter Tom Jordan and the fans reaction to the new material.

Sinead also talks about the success of fellow Queenslander Conrad Sewell, the recent passing of her first co-writer Karl Broadie and the legendary David Bowie.

The new EP WOLF featuring the new single Outlaw is available online now.

Visit Sinead’s website – sign up to her newsletter and follow Sinead on Social Media.

Sinead Burgess with Leo in the JOY studios.

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Jordan, Drew and Matt chat about how they all got into music and the debut EP …Like It’s Saturday.

Jordan chats about his dad Dr Phil and meeting his mentor, Grammy Award winning producer David Foster, who has given the band advice during the EP recording process.

The guys also chat about Qantas PJ’s, favourite cereal and their obsession with Violet Crumble chocolate bars.

The debut EP featuring ‘Love Me Like The Weekend’ and ‘She Was The One’ is available online now!

Visit the Hundred Handed website and follow the band on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Hundred Handed L-R – Matt, Drew and Jordan

Hundred Handed get their Violet Crumble fix in the JOY studios, L-R Matt, Drew and Jordan

Hundred Handed with Leo in the JOY studios

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Originally from Sydney, Jackson is currently based in Berlin. Over the last few years he has toured extensively throughout Europe supporting the likes of Hozier, Hiatus Kaiyote, Jamie Cullum and Mighty Oaks. He was briefly back in Australia to try to establish a more regular touring path at home and to do a gig at the Grace Darling in Collingwood.

At the moment Jackson is immersed in the production of his next EP, which is due for release in the first half of 2016. His latest single, ‘Steal Away’, has garnered some nice reviews, including ‘a track that fills your soul with beach-vibes’ (Stereofox) and ‘Jackson Dyer has maintained and matured his magnificence within the new single “Steal Away”’ (The Music Ninja).

Listen to Jackson Dyer’s chat with Katie about life as an expat musician in Berlin and touring with Hozier, and a beautiful acoustic performance of his song ‘In Pursuit’.

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Courtney Act

Courtney chats about getting involved in theatre from a young age, the big break on Australian Idol and releasing the debut single Rub Me Wrong in 2004.

Courtney also talks about appearing on RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2014, the new EP Kaleidoscope and collaborating with Jake Shears and Sam Sparro.

Courtney chats about the show Gentlemen Prefer Blokes with theatre stage Trevor Ashley and the upcoming performance at the Sydney Mardi Gras party.

The new EP Kaleidoscope is available online now.

Courtney is currently starring in the stage show Gentlemen Prefer Blokes with Trevor Ashley  – check out Courtney’s website for dates.

Courtney Act performs at the Sydney Mardi Gras party on Saturday 5 March.

Follow Courtney Act on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and watch the videos on YouTube.

Shane Jenek (aka Courtney Act) in the JOY 94.9 studios

Shane Jenek (aka Courtney Act) with Leo

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Bananarama

Keren talks the talk about Robert De Niro, David Bowie, Steps and the Australian tour.

Tickets for Bananarama’s Australian tour are on sale here.

Visit the Bananarama website and follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

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Melissa chats with Dee about the launch of her 13th studio album This is M.E.,  how Australian audiences differ from those in the USA, why having breast cancer was the kick in the pants she needed, her upcoming new secret music project and her decision to lock herself away on a boat with hundreds of lesbians for a boat cruise!

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Måns chats about his early musical influences, how he got into music, appearing on the Swedish version of Idol and winning the Let’s Dance competition.

Måns also talks about appearing in the stage production of Grease, competing in Melodifestivalen in 2007 and 2009 and winning the 2015 competition with Heroes, which went on to win the Eurovision Song Contest for Sweden.

Måns talks about the concept of his Eurovision performance for Heroes, the latest album Perfectly Damaged, filming the video for Should’ve Gone Home and his successful European tour following his Eurovision win.

Måns also chats about his love of tennis, performing at the Australian Open, his LGBTI fans, touring with Guy Sebastian and much more.

The latest album Perfectly Damaged, featuring the singles Heroes and Should’ve Gone Home is available online now.

Visit Måns’ website for all the updates and follow Måns on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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The guys chat about the success of Shut Up And Dance, touring the world and how the late David Bowie has been an influence on the band.

The guys talk about the new album Talking Is Hard, the second single Different Colours, the LGBTI community and the latest single Work This Body.

The latest album Talking Is Hard is available in store and online now.

Walk The Moon are currently on a wold tour – check out the website for dates and information.

Follow Walk The Moon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

*This podcast contains bonus content not aired on JOY 94.9*

Photos courtesy Hamish Blunck (JOY Photographer)

L-R: Eli, Nick, Sean and Kevin with Leo in the JOY studios.

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Braden, Ben, Moli and Jamie chat about their Christmas holidays, getting signed to Universal Music and the 2014 single Summertime Girls.

The guys also chat about the Summer Series EP, supporting The Vamps and Demi Lovato, the new single Love Me Like That and getting the fans involved with Masketta Missions.

The new single Love Me Like That, along with the Summer Series EP and Summertime Girls are all available from iTunes now.

Follow Masketta Fall on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Masketta in the JOY studios

Ben, Braden, Jamie and Moli in the JOY studios

Masketta Fall with Leo in the JOY studios

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Shaun chats about what he got up to over the holiday break, attending the ARIAS and the latest album Homecoming.

Shaun also talks about the new single Elvis, filming the video for the last single Gravity and the upcoming Australian tour.

Shaun also answers some fan questions and tells fans what’s in store for Short Stack in 2016.

The latest album Homecoming is available in store and online now.

Visit the Short Stack website for all latest news and tour information and follow the guys on Facebook and Twitter.

Subscribe to their podcast ‘Short Stack Radio’ and check out all the videos on YouTube.

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Tim chats about his big break appearing on the 2011 season of Australia’s Got Talent which lead to his single Set It Off reaching number two on the ARIA singles chart and going four times platinum.

Tim talks about how his music has changed, working with US producer Joe London on the new single Go To Work and the video which features some of Australia’s leading female athletes.

Tim also chats about his plans for next year, keeping fit and this weeks ARIA Awards in Sydney.

The new single from Tim Omaji – Go To Work, is available on iTunes now.

Visit Tim’s website for all the updates and follow Tim on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY 94.9 Photographer)

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Justice Crew reflect on their success since winning Australia’s Got Talent in 2010, six top 10 singles including two number one’s – selling over 1.75 million units with a social media reach of over two million followers.

The guys chat about the success of last years single Que Sera which spent nine weeks at number one, going five times platinum and becoming the longest running Australian number one single since the ARIA charts began.

They also talk about filming the video for I Love My Life – filmed in Sydney‘s Parramatta using a one-shot camera, their Halloween video, supporting Janet Jackson and the new single Good Time.

The new single from Justice Crew, Good Time is available from iTunes now.

Visit the Justice Crew website for all the updates and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This interview contains podcast only content, previously not aired on JOY 94.9 

Photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY 94.9 Photographer)

Justice Crew L-R – Lukas, Solo, Samson, John and Paulie (Lenny sadly couldn’t make it)

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Sheena Easton has released sixteen studio albums, notched up eight top ten singles in the US and selling more than 20 million units worldwide.

Sheena reflects on her success with hits such as 9 – 5 (Morning Train), the James Bond theme For Your Eyes Only, Strut and working with the legendary Prince on Sugar Walls and U Got The Look.

Sheena talks about her 2000 album Fabulous, her gay fans and performing at the Sydney Mardi Gras party.

Sheena also chats about her Australian tour, what audiences can expect from the show.

Tickets for Sheena Easton’s Australian tour are on sale now.

Visit Sheena’s website for all the updates and follow her on Facebook.

This interview contains exclusive podcast only content not aired on JOY 94.9.

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Samantha Jade

Since their last chat in July, Samantha chats about getting slimed on Slimfest, visiting Australia Zoo, this year’s X Factor and her performance of Shake That on the show.

Samantha also chats about the new album Nine, influences from the 90s and the special songs for her mum – who sadly passed away from cancer last year.

Samantha also chats about next week’s ARIA Awards, her upcoming role on Home And Away and plans to tour next year!

The new album Nine is available in store and online now through Sony Music.

Visit Samantha’s website for all the updates and follow Sammi on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Photos courtesy Betty Sujecki (JOY 94.9 Photographer)

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Anthony Callea

Celebrating his first wedding anniversary with husband Tim Campbell, Anthony chats about what Tim has taught him, espresso martinis, setting up a base in LA and Melbourne Cup celebrations.

Anthony also chats about his upcoming This Is Christmas concerts with Rhonda Burchmore and violinist Patrick Roberts and his future music plans.

Visit Anthony’s website for all the updates and follow Anthony on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This Is Christmas is playing at The Palms At Crown in Melbourne from Thursday 10 – Saturday 12 December, tickets on sale now from Ticketmaster.

Anthony’s Christmas album This Is Christmas is available in store and on iTunes now.

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Rhodes chats about growing up listening to blues music, playing his dad’s guitar and playing in bands as a teenager.

Rhodes opens up about his fear of singing, finding his voice and finding confidence performing live on stage.

Releasing four EPs independently from October 2013 to April 2015, Rhodes speaks about his musical journey and getting signed by a major label.

Rhodes also talks about his debut album Wishes, first single Close Your Eyes, Breathe – about a friend suffering from depression, working with Birdy on the track Let It All Go and touring with fellow UK singer-songwriter Hozier.

For more information visit Rhodes’ website, follow Rhodes on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The new album Wishes is available now in store and on iTunes.

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Tim Omaji

Tim reflects on his time on So You Think You Can Dance and Australia’s Got Talent, where he placed third during the 2011 season.

Tim chats about his name change from Timomatic to his birth name, how 2015 has been an evolution for him as an artist and the change to his musical style.

Tim talks about the new single Go To Work, co-written and produced by hitmaker Joe London (Lunchmoney Lewis, Pitbull, Jason Derulo, Fifth Harmony), filming the music video with some of Australia’s leading female athletes and what fans can expect from his forthcoming new album.

Visit Tim’s website for further information and follow Tim on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

New single Go To Work is available on iTunes now.

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Tina chats about her latest album Eleven, working with songwriters Jon Hume (Evermore), Hayley Warner (2009 Australian Idol runner up), Tania Doko (Bachelor Girl), Kate Miller-Heidke and what fans can expect from the new album.

Tina reflects on her first performance at the 1991 Mardi Gras party performing I Need Your Body, her induction this year into the ARIA Hall Of Fame and Tina answers some fan questions.

Visit Tina’s website for the latest updates and follow Tina on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The new album Eleven is available in store and on iTunes now.

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Andy, Ryan, Joel and Adam chat how the band started, chart success in the UK (including six top ten singles and a top 5 debut album)  and what they have learnt about the music industry over the years.

Andy opens up about his brain tumor diagnosis at just 19 years old, the 20 hour operation to remove the tumor by Dr David Lawson (whom the band is named after) and last years liver failure health scare that saw him in hospital and recording for the band’s second album put on hold.

The band talk about recording in Nashville, what fans can expect from the forthcoming second album next year and the new single Under The Sun.

The guys also talk about touring Australia with Robbie Williams, posing naked for Cosmopolitan magazine to raise awareness for male cancer and performing at London’a infamous nightclub G.A.Y.

Visit the Lawson website and follow the guys on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Australian exclusive album containing previous hits, new songs and the new single Under The Sun is available in store and on iTunes now.

**This interview contains exclusive podcast only content not previously aired on JOY 94.9**

Lawson L-R – Ryan Fletcher (bass guitar), Joel Peat (guitar), Adam Pitts (drums) and Andy Brown (vocals) chat to Leo in the JOY studios.

Lawson recording station promos for us in the JOY studios – thanks guys!

Lawson L-R – Lawson L-R – Andy, Adam, Ryan and Joel in the JOY studios

Lawson with Leo in the JOY studios

The post Lawson appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Nick chats about the band’s musical influences, what shapes their sound and the worldwide hit Shut Up And Dance.

Nick opens up about supporting marriage equality, the meaning behind the new single Different Colors and performing live.

Nick also chats about the new album Talking Is Hard and the upcoming national Australian tour in January 2016.

Walk The Moon tour Australia in January 2016, book tickets here.

• Visit: Walk The Moon website
• Follow: Walk The Moon on Twitter
• Like: Walk The Moon on Facebook
• Buy: Talking Is Hard on iTunes

The post Walk The Moon appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Adam talks about being back in Australia again, his upcoming Australian tour in January 2016 and what fans can expect from the show.

Adam also talks about his new album The Original High and the success of lead single Ghost Town.

Adam Lambert is touring Australia in 2016 – tickets go on sale Friday 7 August.

Visit: Adam’s website
Follow: Adam on Twitter
Like: Adam on Facebook
Buy: The Original High on iTunes

The post Adam Lambert appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Samantha chats about her Dancing With The Stars performance, her gay fans and performing at Melbourne gay club The GH, she also reflects on her time on X Factor and winning the competition.

Samantha talks about songwriting in LA, recording Shake That, getting superstar Pitbull on the track, filming the ultra glam music video and her wish to perform at the ARIA awards.

Samantha also opens up about touring with One Direction, her friendship with Niall Horan, being single and her ideal man.

Samantha chats about attending the Logie Awards, coping with social media trolls, her upcoming new album and losing her beloved mum to cancer.

• Visit: Samantha’s website
• Follow: Samantha on Twitter
• Like: Samantha on Facebook
• Buy: Shake That from iTunes

The post Samantha Jade (Extended Drive Podcast) appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Paulini reflects on Australian Idol, the Young Divas and working with Ronan Keating.

Paulini chats about songwriting overseas, her new record deal and the new album Come Alive

Paulini also talks about the video for new single By My Side, remixes and her upcoming tour.

• Visit: Paulini’s website
• Follow: Paulini on Twitter
• Like: Paulini on Facebook
• Buy: Come Alive on iTunes

The post Paulini (Friday Morning Show) appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Bonnie Anderson

Bonnie reflects on winning the first season of Australia’s Got Talent in 207, touring with Jimmy Barnes, her debut single Raise The Bar and walking the red carpet at the ARIA Awards.

Bonnie chats about last years top 20 single Blackout, filming the video, touring with Olly Murs and songwriting in LA.

Bonnie talks about her upcoming single Unbroken, filming the video and what fans can expect from the new track.

The new single Unbroken is available for pre-order now – released Friday 24 July 2015.

• Visit: Bonnie’s website
• Follow: Bonnie on Twitter
• Like: Bonnie on Facebook
• Buy: Unbroken

The post Bonnie Anderson appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Grace chats about her early music inspirations, recording demos in her bedroom in Brisbane and signing her record deal with RCA/Sony Music.

Grace talks about working with the legendary Quincy Jones, recording her ARIA number one debut single You Don’t Own Me, her new EP Memo and what fans can expect from her upcoming debut album.

• Follow: Grace on Twitter
• Like: Grace on Facebook
• Buy: You Don’t Own Me and Memo on iTunes

The post Grace appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.

Mans chats about growing up with Swedish music and how he’s developed as an artist since appearing on Swedish Idol in 2005.

Mans talks about performing his song Heroes on Eurovision, the background behind the song and performance and opens up about bullying in schools.

Mans chats about the new album Perfectly Damaged, working with a couple of Aussies on the album and addresses those internet reports and visiting Australia.

Leo takes Mans through some quick fire questions, who he’d like to duet with, personal maintenance, appearing naked swinging on a wrecking ball for the Swedish Gay Awards and who he would turn gay for.

Mans also records a message for JOY 94.9’s Radiothon.

• Visit: Mans website
• Follow: Mans on Twitter
• Like: Mans on Facebook
• Buy: Perfectly Damaged on iTunes

The post Mans Zelmerlow appeared first on JOY Music Highlights.