Ransom

KYRON SMITHSON

I’ve caught Tanya Ransom perform in multiple settings over the past few years - Club 75 at the Cannery Arts Centre, in full flight at Nannup Music Festival, and most recently on top of the WA Art Gallery for WAMfest 2023. Each and every time I’ve felt drawn in by her lyricism, honesty, depth of character, and exceptional knack for writing great tunes. For most of her career, Tanya has been based in the remote North West of the state, but the tyranny of distance has had little impact upon her ability to feature strongly within the WA music scene. “Tanya Ransom exudes beauty, from her music and performance,” Nannup Music Festival Director, Phaedra Watts, says. “She delivers with strength and passion. Radiating her Kimberley glow. Her shows at Nannup Music Festival are always loved, from the audience and fellow musicians who embrace her magic.” Honestly, I couldn’t have said it better.

Our readers in Esperance may not be aware that you’re currently residing within the South West. How has the move impacted your ability to perform regularly?

I’ve spent a lot of time in the South West over the past decade, touring each summer when the wet season kicks in up north. It’s been a nice and natural progression to live somewhere, although still regional, that has more venues to perform at and I can happily drive a few hours to a show instead of a few days. The North West will always have a massive place in my heart.

Greatest highlight from the past six months?

Probably the extreme of going from a show in Kununurra where it was close to 40 degrees and a day later, I was in the snow in NSW. Snow! That was one of my highlights after living up north for over 20 years and having not seen snow for much longer than that. And, of course, the run of shows I did through regional NSW after not being there since before Covid.

Pivotal moment that drove you to follow a career in music?

To be honest, I don’t think there was just one moment. It was consecutive moments over a couple of years in my early 20s when I realised that was what I wanted to pursue. I was and still am grateful for always having supportive musician friends who encourage me.

If you could give one piece of advice to upcoming WA musicians, what would it be?

Persistence and patience. Keep writing. Keep playing shows. Find a mentor or another musical friend that you can work alongside and support each other with your goals. It helps to keep you accountable and is less isolating for self-managed artists.

Being a musician entails a number of different roles. Where do you feel most at home?

When I give myself the time and space to just focus on songwriting. I love that place! I want to live there all the time.

How

do you approach each performance?

Over time I’ve come to realise that I like a bit of quiet time before a gig, to sit and mentally prepare myself for a performance. Along with some vocal warm ups.

Do you think collaboration is important when it comes to songwriting?

For me personally, I’ve mostly written on my own and then taken songs to a good friend or mentor in my preproduction and recording process. I think it’s good to have someone who is next level, honest, and trusting, who will give you constructive feedback and genuinely wants your songs to be the best they can be.

Who are you currently listening to?

I’ve recently been introduced to the music of Courtney Marie Andrews. Super beautiful songwriting.

Greatest influence on the lyrical element of your songwriting?

Early on in my discovery of songwriting and stories in song, I listened to a lot of Paul Kelly and The Waifs. Favourite restaurant you have eaten at in the last 12 months?

About 12 months ago I went for the first time to Emily Taylor in Freo. The most delicious Asian-influenced share plates. My mouth is watering just thinking about it.

Anything else you would like to add?

I can’t wait to be back in beautiful Esperance!

Tanya hits Lucky Bay Brewing for South Side Of Summer on March 11. For tickets and further details, visit www.kyzapresents.com.

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