Ziggy Alberts is a singer-songwriter hailing from Sunshine Coast in Australia. At only 24 years old, Ziggy has released five albums, co-founded his own label Commonfolk Records, played sold out tours around the world, and has raked in over 160 million streams globally.
Ziggy’s music has been compared to the likes of early Ben Howard or Jack Johnson. His music is very honest and personal. His latest single “Intentions (22)” is a track that outlines where he’s at as a singer-songwriter. It details the last year of this life, after having released his fifth album Laps Around The Sun.
Laps Around The Sun has received nods from critics and radio stations such as tripe j. The singles “Stronger”, “Love Me Now” and title track “Laps Around The Sun” were all added to triple j’s high rotation. They have been featured in countless playlists worldwide, including New Music Friday, The A-List, Singled Out, Folk Pop, Front Left and featured as New Artist of The Week on Apple Music.
Ziggy Alberts is a very energetic performer who creates a connection with his audiences – no matter what the size. He is no stranger to playing for sold out crowds, and the sizes of the venues he performs at continue to grow. Ziggy will be performing at the Belly Up in Solana Beach tomorrow (October 2nd), and limited tickets remain! Click here for more info.
I got to chat with Ziggy about his life as a musician, his experiences touring, and more! Read below.
Hey Ziggy! So let’s start off with this – how did you get your start making music?
It actually branched from my creative writing. I was already pursuing freelance journalism, then my parents bought me a guitar – next thing you know, I was telling my stories through songs. I still love creative writing outside of songs, particularly in poetry.
You’re the co-founder of your own record label Commonfolk Records. Did you face any challenges when starting up your label?
In setting up the label, not many. But with running the label, it is a big undertaking. I turned down all the major and other independent offers I had received, and my management team and I (made up of family) decided to go for it. It has been amazing.
Your latest album Laps Around The Sun serves up amazing vibes! Can you tell me how it was like making the album and maybe some inspiration behind some of the tracks?
These were songs I’ve written over the last 4 years, I’ve written a lot of songs in these last years and released many during, but these are the ones that told the story. Making the album was really challenging and really rewarding. Most of the songs were driven by deep introspection.
How does touring in the United States compare to touring back home in Australia?
I love touring North America. Its very different to home, but its been a new experience and we’ve seen some amazing places.
What are some of the coolest things you’ve experienced while touring in different countries?
Right now I’m in Boulder, and we went on the most ridiculous hike yesterday. It has been one of my favourite places in America so far ! I have had so many amazing experiences, I couldn’t possibly list them all here.
What advice can you give to any aspiring musicians and creatives?
Beware of shortcuts, they are often too good to be true. Work hard and grind it out, the experience is invaluable.
Follow Ziggy Alberts on Twitter @ZiggyJanAlberts and Instagram @ziggyalberts!
