Introducing Katy Denney with her debut release ‘Never Thought I Would Miss You”

Katy Denney, a rising star in the Australian music scene, is set to make a profound impact with her debut single, "Never Thought I Would Miss You." With a unique blend of raw emotions, poetic lyrics, and innovative production, Katy Denney is poised to captivate audiences worldwide

Katy Denney's musical journey is a testament to her dedication and creativity. Drawing inspiration from classical piano and guitar, she has seamlessly integrated her influences, including Blondie, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, and Troye Sivan, into a distinctive sound that defies easy categorization. Based in Sydney, her songs are characterized by their honest and introspective lyrics, offering listeners a deep dive into the human experience.

What sets Katy Denney apart is her hands-on approach to production. Her desire to bring her sonic visions to life led her to self-produce her own music, resulting in a sound that is both authentic and innovative. Her creative process is driven by spontaneity, often starting with lyrics that later evolve into a clear vision for production.

Raised in a musical household and exposed to a diverse range of genres, Katy honed her skills through classical training, GarageBand experimentation, and the gift of Logic. Her writing style is marked by its sporadic yet deliberate nature, reflecting her commitment to honesty and poetic expression. Katy's songs draw from personal experiences, keen observations, and a deep well of empathy, weaving compelling stories into her music.

Katy Denney's aspirations extend beyond her own music. She envisions collaborating with other talented artists, touring her own music, and connecting with audiences who often feel like outsiders. In early 2024, Katy plans to release an EP, followed by a full album later in the year.

"Never Thought I Would Miss You" holds a special place in Katy's heart. Written during her university years, the song explores the bittersweet realisation that comes with leaving behind people and places as life moves forward. The intimacy of the song being written and recorded in her bedroom studio adds an authentic touch to the narrative, reflecting the emotional depth of her music.

We caught up with Katy Denney about her new single — out everywhere today!

1. Can you share the personal inspiration behind your debut single, “Never Thought I Would Miss You”, and what it means to you?
This song was written during a time where I’d kind of uprooted my life by moving to Sydney. I then realised I missed the life I’d moved away from. To me this song is an acceptance of missing people and missing feelings, and that sometimes it comes as a surprise.

2. Your musical influences range from classical piano to artists like Blondie and Eric Clapton. How do you blend these diverse inspirations into your distinctive sound?
I think my musical influences helped inform how I think about the structures of making a song. Piano helped me feel comfortable and confident with the instrument and I often just noodle about. Specifically, Blondie and Eric Clapton influenced how I think about production and strong storytelling. My sound at the moment is probably a little more electronic than either of theirs but a 4-piece band production is still my go to.

3. Self-producing your music is a unique aspect of your artistry. Could you walk us through your creative process, from initial inspiration to the final production of a song?
Songs are so weird! I’ll often come out of finishing a song and just go, how did that happen???? The inspiration can come from almost anything, for me it’s often words or cadence, but it can also be a sound.

Production-wise I usually go by writing first then producing. My current process is if I have lyrics, I have a melody, which means I have chords, and a structure down. I have a bedroom studio, so that’s where most of my recording gets done. Because I have a base palate of instruments to go off, the story, mood, and melody all help determine what the production will eventually be. I tend to get in the weeds with tweaking so I enjoy the detail of small production decisions. Then I usually do a pass of a rough mix to see where everything sits.

Collaborating is also really fun at any stage of the process, for this song ‘Never Thought I Would Miss You’ Leon (Seenandan) did additional production.

4. Your writing style is marked by spontaneity and honesty. How do you balance the raw emotions in your lyrics with the intricacies of your music production?
For me at least, I think honesty, more often than not, comes from spontaneous moments. I’m someone who deathly overthinks so I can easily get stuck in a songwriting editing loop. But in general, I tend to write before I produce. As the structure is already written into the song, this helps with balancing the production to the lyrics.

5. Growing up in a musical household, how did your family’s influence shape your journey as an artist, and what’s the most valuable musical lesson you’ve learned from them?
I’m actually the only one in my family who plays instruments but my parents are big music fans. I get the classical side from my mum and the rock-ish side from my dad – we all agree about Springsteen though. They’re the type of people who only really care if they like the way a song sounds – so I learned not to take it all too seriously. Music is art, but it’s also fun, and it’s entertainment.

6. Are there any specific themes or emotions you find yourself consistently drawn to when crafting your music?
I really like the themes of the sense of belonging, and ‘what-ifs’, but it’s always nice to venture out of that space. Sometimes the production just calls for a song with petty emotions.

7. Sydney has a rich music scene. How has your city influenced your music, and do you have any favorite local spots or venues that inspire you?
The Oxford Art Factory is always a good one. But I used to go to an open mic night at place called Staves Brewery, and that had really nice atmosphere. It was a low-stakes music place and encouraged everyone to play songs they loved or some of their unreleased music.

8. You draw from personal experiences and keen observations for your songwriting. Could you share a memorable experience or moment that inspired one of your songs?
Ooo this is interesting, there was one time where I really clicked with someone and had a great conversation, but I only realised after that I never told them my name. That sparked the line:

“I just met you the other day. Caught up in conversation I forgot to tell you my name”

9. As a rising star in the Australian music scene, what are some of the challenges and rewards you’ve encountered on your journey so far?
I’m kind of just a girl who makes music in her bedroom. If people like my music that would be amazing and make me really happy. The process of finishing this track has been pretty challenging but so rewarding. I’m a bit nervous, but I’m so excited for this song to be out.

10. What’s next for Katy Denney? Are there any upcoming projects, collaborations or goals you’d like to share with your fans?
This is my first release, so I’m hoping it goes well! I’m not really sure what to expect. After this I might make a music video, and release another song. Currently I’m narrowing down a track selection for an EP.

Follow Katy Denney on TikTok @katyxdenney and Instagram @katyxdenney for updates on her music journey and upcoming releases.