ArtView March 2015 | Page 28

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...