Musical mind
Singer-songwriter Sophie-Maude credits her unique perspective with fuelling her creativity in music and in life.
Interview | Hayley Barnett
Sophie-Maude Turner is a surprisingly confident, self-assured, immensely talented musician. Surprising not only because she’s only just graduated school, but also due to the fact that she faces far more challenges than the average teenager.
The 19-year-old BOP singer-songwriter has Tourette syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism and obsessive compulsive disorder. But what might be seen as a barrier to others has become a source of inspiration and point of difference for Sophie-Maude, and she’s fast becoming a role model for young people across the country – something she never dreamed would happen just a few years ago.
Earlier this year, she was given funding from NZOnAir to film her single "Comfortable" on the sands of Mount Maunganui main beach, and it quickly soared in the charts, making this local teen one to watch for 2023.
How would you describe your style of music?
My most recent releases have been a cross between Indie/synth pop. My style is constantly evolving. Since I'm still in my early days of being an artist, there are still so many exciting styles to try and play with until I find something that really reflects me. The whole process of writing lyrics and matching them with my ideas for music is part of my learning journey. Belting high, long notes is my real passion and my journey will be in that direction.
How did you get into singing and music?
When I was young, I had a habit of inviting myself up on to the stage at local events when there was a break in the entertainment. I liked going up to sing and just enjoyed performing. It was a way for me to connect to people – something I found difficult. Those random appearances resulted in an article in a local magazine which showed my picture, asking if anyone knew me! Luckily my mum saw the photo and I was then formally asked to appear the following year. That was my first real break.
How do you think the Bay has helped shape you?
Those first few appearances led to lots of opportunities to put myself out there. I have always been honest about how I function, how my brain is wired. It is really important for me to be me. No two performances will ever be the same because of that. It has meant that I have been able to give back to the communities that have helped make my life better, and living in a small town made this so much easier to do. There is a fantastic local music community too, with so much expertise and passion for what they do. Everybody knows everybody!
Who and what inspires you?
Musically I have so many to choose from but, local artist Georgia Lines, Riiki Reid and Benee are three Kiwis that really inspire me through their own journeys. Aussie artist Tash Palmer too. I also strive to be as vocally consistent as Christina Aguilera. Personally, I look up to anybody that isn’t afraid to give things a go, to follow their passions. Do what makes you happy.
You've talked about your struggles with Tourette syndrome, ADHD, Autism and OCD in the past. How has that affected your journey into music?
In some ways, it was my gateway into the industry, through my hyper-obsession with singing and my lack of filters when just rocking up on to a stage! But the struggles are all triggered by anxiety. The higher my anxiety, the higher my challenges from each of those things. This can affect simple functioning on a day-to-day basis. The most important thing for me as an artist is to recognise that and so my team and I have steps in place to keep my anxiety low. This means that a lot of the everyday elements of the industry are managed
for me. I have input and I have my jobs to do with reminders to keep on task. This allows me to focus on the creativity. I am hugely grateful to my whole support team, as I would not be in the position I am today without them.
How old were you when you released "Comfortable’? What is the meaning behind it and what was it like to create it on one of New Zealand's most famous beaches?
I had just turned 18 and it was my first experience of releasing with a video and through a PR company which certainly helps. The song is about being comfortable with yourself, accepting you for you and not having to change to fit in. The dancer is local Wes Graham and we have known each other for many years. We have both had personal journeys of accepting ourselves and so they were the first person that came to mind when we discussed doing a video. As well as being a talented dancer, we had a connection that enabled us to really feel the lyrics and musical journey together. Everyone that took part in the video has in some way been a part of my life, which was special in itself, and being on one of our beautiful beaches made it even better.
What are your plans for the future?
My last release, "Take Me Away", reached number one in the Hot New New Zealand Singles and so will be followed by my next release in early 2023. I have a busy time with live performances, which includes opening for Hollie Smith locally as well as singing on the stage for Auckland’s CocaCola Christmas in the Park. That will be followed with some local summer festival performances and then hopefully my first small taste of a tour with my own live show. We are working towards a plan that will see us maintain momentum in a steady way which will allow me to enjoy a successful long road of music.
Listen to Sophie-Maude’s latest releases on Spotify and YouTube.