Creator Spotlight: Talya Jacobson

Talya Jacobson is a favorite on Vocal—Her series, “Friday’s Five at Five,” shine a spotlight on up-and-coming artists in Sydney’s indie scene, spreading word on musicians and creators who rock under the radar. Now, we’re shining a spotlight on Talya herself. We got a chance to speak with this outstanding journalist, artist, and music-enthusiast to hear more about who she is, and why she does what she does. Read on to see what we learned!

On Talya's passions and inspirations

Whether you’re having a drink at the pub or in the middle of a crazy mosh pit, the music will carry you away into another world. My passion is to capture those moments through photography and writing, and create works of art from what these musicians play for us. My name is Talya, and at 21 years of age, I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by a talented music scene in Sydney, Australia. I hope that my passions will take me around the world, to places like the UK and America. From “Friday’s Five at 5” to collaging photos of the artists I write about, I can’t help but be creative and think outside the box.

I love the works of Georgia Moloney; she is an incredible artist and photographer, and I am inspired by her art, passion, and ability to travel for work every day. Ange McCormack is a huge influence on the Australian music industry, especially for women in music. I am honoured to be working in the same industry as her. Also, every single up-and-coming musician that has the passion and drive to create new works of art drive me to do what I do.

On the beginnings of “Friday’s Five at 5"

I am lucky enough to be surrounded by wonderful and talented friends that have been bursting into the music industry themselves, and seeing the passion they had sparked something in me. I knew I had to use my writing and artistic abilities to support them and their music, so I started “Friday’s Five at 5” to ensure more people would know about them. Through doing this, I came to realise there are millions of other incredible small artists that not enough people know about, and that is what “Friday’s Five at 5” is all about.

On favorites she’s featured

Callum Maritz (a.k.a Ritzz) was one of the artists who inspired me to start the series in the first place. Having him as a friend is so rewarding, as I get to see the absolute passion and drive he has, and the hard work that goes into producing music. He features in Volume One and Three, as well as Volume Nine as part of his new band Garden Gnomes. Another one of my favourites is Max Jackson (Volume Six), as she brings such love and joy to everything she does. She’s like the human version of fairy dust, glitter and everything that sparkles, and it’s such a joy to share her art.

On the indie scene

Yes! As much as I enjoy listening to bigger artists like Ed Sheeran and Paramore, indie musicians have always been more exciting to listen to. With the indie music scene, you never really know what you’re going to get, and that feeling is riveting! It is also so important to support indie artists in any industry, and I am privileged to be able to do so and share it with others.

There’s an Aussie indie artist called G Flip who is doing exceptionally well over here, and I’d be honoured to interview her! Otherwise Hayley Williams of course. She is my spirit animal.

On her message to her readers

The main message I want to get across is for people to explore new music! Wouldn’t it be great if we all listened to one new artist a week instead of listening to the same old Top 40 hits? There is so much good music out there and people will never know that they love it if they don’t step out of their comfort zone. No matter who you are or what you’re doing in life, there is no better way to gain inspiration than to take in the works of others. I believe if more people were to do that, we’d all be that little bit more inspired.

On her hopes, dreams, and future plans

I’d love to write and take photos for a music magazine, anywhere in the world. One day, I’d want to start my own little music magazine featuring my art and interviews I’ve done. It could even feature "Friday’s Five at 5" in it! All in all, I’d like to be writing, traveling, and continuing my passion of collaging and art making with my photography. Whether the projects involve indie artists or bigger musicians, I want to share with the world what music has done for me and make a difference to people’s lives; that’s the main goal.

On challenges she faces

Being a journalist is like being any creative artist; it is hard work, but it’s extremely rewarding. As an up and coming journalist, the financial income isn’t as stable as one would hope, and it is time consuming as well. However, the reactions from others makes it all worthwhile. I guess you could call me an indie artist as well, in the sense that I’ve started off small but strive to grow a name for myself. This is challenging in today’s modern digital age, where everyone would rather watch videos or read tweets than actual stories. This is why I try to make my photographs and stories more intriguing by collaging my works, in order to interest more people. There will always be challenges ahead of me, and I can’t wait to overcome them and be the best person I can be.

On pursuing your dreams

The way I look at my own work is that if even ONE person has read the blog, loved it, and found their new favourite artist from it, I have done my job. Any musician should look at their music the same! If you busk or play in a pub, and someone tells you how much they enjoyed your music or buys a CD, or even just smiles at you, you have done your job. My Grandpa always used to say to me, “Don’t look back; keep your head on the track," which is so important because, as an indie artist, you just need to stay focused and keep driving your passion, no matter how many others are trying to do the same. Pursue your dreams, and success will follow—but follow success, and your dreams will dwindle.

On the importance of storytelling

Everybody loves a good story, and everything has its own story. Whether it’s writing, painting, film or photography, everyone is affected differently, and that is the magic of storytelling. It has the ability to change someone’s day, put a smile on their face, get them thinking, or even take them away into another world for a little while. I try to tell stories through writing as well as through art, and I hope that people find as much magic in it as I do.

On her favorite Vocal story

"Friday’s Five at 5" is my baby; I don’t know if I can choose! But Volume One will always be my favourite. It is so pure, and the love people had for it sparked the whole series. My other favourite would have to be the latest story, which is Volume Nine. I had the honour of writing a concert review from David Taylor’s "Chapter Two" tour, and it was awesome. I hope to have the opportunity to include more in future volumes.

What’s on her mind:

What is one thing you couldn’t live without? My collaging arts and crafts box!

Cats or dogs? Dogs

Go-to late night snack? Straight up Nutella, or celery dipped in peanut butter

All time favorite movie? 10 Things I Hate About You

What playlist are you currently listening to? Spotify’s Comfort Zone playlist, OR the "Friday’s Five at 5" playlist (Yes—I do listen to it regularly!)

What are you currently binge watching? The Nanny! I love it.

If you could go anywhere for vacation, where would you go? The South Coast of New South Wales in Australia is so beautiful. I always love going there. But, maybe Italy or Greece? I’ve never been!

Favorite concert you’ve been to? Paramore (duh), or Michael Bublé, because his voice is just incredible, and you could hear a pin drop while he sings. And also P!NK! So many...

Favorite local bar, coffee shop, or restaurant? The Grounds of Alexandria is always loads of fun, and Frankie’s Pizza Bar is a go-to.

Best thing to do in your city on a rainy day? Stay inside! Haha, read a book, watch a new film, or find a new artist!

Favorite story you read on Vocal? As a photographer myself, I LOVED reading Romon Yang’s piece, "Just Me and My Camera." I found it so captivating as well as educational! The fact that he’s from Sydney is pretty cool as well. I should get in touch with him!

Stay connected with Talya by following her on Instagram and Twitter, and check out her latest story below!