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Go-Jo, an Australian singer-songwriter known for his TikTok hit “Mrs. Hollywood,” visited Manila for the first-time in June. He performed at The Wish Bus and had an exclusive interview with The Manila Times' Music Geek. Marty Zambotto in real life, the artist revealed that his stage name came from his middle name, Joe, and that his mother used to cheer him “Go Joe!” all the time in his younger years.
When he made his social media debut, he was immediately known as Go-Jo, a amassing 557.3k TikTok followers, 261,000 YouTube subscribers, and 1.6 million monthly Spotify listeners.
Notably, “Mrs. Hollywood” became viral on TikTok with its catchy chorus and guitar hook. The official visualizer's launch succeeded through the effortless setup on the streets and audience participation, topped with a brilliant TikTok challenge promotion. It showcased his caliber as a musician and his talent for collaborating harmoniously with other performers.
Go-Jo's introduction to songwriting was simply encouraging. Enthusiastically, he shared how it surprised him it was simple to produce music.
“My friend started making music, and I just found out all you needed was a computer to make music, and I just became obsessed!”
The pop artist also revealed that the 2000s music era was his favorite, along with Max Martin and Katy Perry.
“I love her production. Her melody writing is insane! I try to keep those elements and blend other things.”
Furthermore, Go-Jo revealed that he finds the initial creative conceptualization stage the most challenging of the various stages of songwriting. He added that completing a track could take from an hour to years. As a matter of fact, “Missing You,” a song about a girl who passed away in school, took him 10 years before he was content to release it.
Solid determination drives the singer-songwriter to continue pursuing music. Go-Jo shared that one must overcome constant challenges, adding, “I go by the saying that there are no problems, only solutions.”
Moreover, when asked about what he wants his listeners to acquire from his music, Go-Jo replied that he wants to bring positivity and be someone they can relate to, further exemplifying that he doesn't want them to feel alone.
“I feel like loneliness is probably one of the darkest emotions the universe gave us.”
More than anything else, Go-Jo insisted that a musician must have a passion for their craft. Indeed, if one is not obsessed with their work, they should consider exploring other skills they enjoy.
“If you're not obsessed with what you do, you probably shouldn't be doing it.”
Subsequently, the musician imparted some advice on how to put one's work out as an artist, “Experimenting is key as well as realizing not everything is going to be good, especially when you start out. It's going to be terrible, and you need to realize that the more you put out, the better it's going to get.”
For instance, it could take a hundred songs or videos until the proverbial shot at success comes along. Go-Jo emphasized, “You need to accept that and know that you need to be patient.”
The growing interest in Go-Jo is only the beginning for sure, as the Australian artist is getting ready to drop an album and plans to tour Australia and the United States soon. Go-Jo also appreciated everyone tuning in to his activities, especially his listeners in the Philippines.
“This country is amazing! I've been here for two days, and it's been so good! I tried street food yesterday, and it was unbelievable. I can't wait to return here and would love to meet everyone. Thank you again for listening, salamat po!”
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Credit belongs to : www.manilatimes.net
