Tori Darke made a sensational entrance
onto the country music scene, winning many
awards and performing alongside some of
the greats in the industry at a very young
age. Her recording career includes many
chart-topping singles, with her debut album
Dreams & Chances released in 2011 to great
acclaim. Lee Kernaghan said:
"She's got something, it's a kind of
magic, and we just hope that Tori takes it to
the limit from here...”
Tori’s new album Silver Lining is
released this month.
Why did you want to be a country music singer?
I became attached to country music by the story – I
love the story that a country song can tell, and how so
many people from different walks of life can relate to
the lyrics in different ways. Being able to have that
type of a connection with your audience is one of the
most amazing feelings you can possibly have on
stage.
Who are your musical idols?
My country music idols growing up were Faith Hill,
Leanne Rimes & Shania Twain. I would add to the
list now Martina McBride, Keith Urban, Miranda
Lambert and Carrie Underwood.
What have been some of your most memorable
moments as a performer?
Performing in the Solomon Islands for the
Australian and New Zealand troops was one of the
most amazing experiences of my life. Being on
stage, looking out to see the smiles of enjoyment on
their faces said it all. I was so honoured to be
chosen to sing for our troops. My brother-in-law is
also a soldier, and has served in Afghanistan and
Iraq, being away from his family for months on end
and sometimes even longer. So I know first hand
what these troops are going through – being so far
from their families and loved ones. Speaking to
some of the soldiers and hearing how much they
appreciated our visit and performances, it meant so
much to know that we were able to give something
back to them. It was also great to share a little
social time with them and the village children.
In 2012 you also made a songwriting trip to
Nashville, and performed at some legendary
venues there...