Based on the Podcast Episode: “Understanding the Artist’s Journey with Vika & Linda” – Episode 43, The Magic of Songwriting with Francesca de Valence

Vika & Linda need no introduction, but we’ll give them one. These two powerhouse vocalists have been making waves in the music scene since the late ’80s, starting off as backup singers for Joe Camilleri’s soulful ensemble, the Black Sorrows. Vika even stole the show with her vocals on hits like “Chained to the Wheel,” but they didn’t stop there; they jumped ship and hopped on board with none other than the legendary Paul Kelly.

These sisters have serenaded some big names, rubbing shoulders with Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama, and even the King of Tonga. For their solo endeavours, Iggy Pop even popped in to lay down some backing vocals on their first solo album back in ’94. That’s some serious rock ‘n’ roll cred, but it wasn’t until 2020 that they really hit the jackpot, scoring their first Aussie No. 1 with their anthology ‘Akilotoa. And let’s not forget about their latest gem, ‘The Wait,’ which debuted at a solid No. 2 when it was released.

These ladies have been grinding for decades; their success is a testament to their talent and tenacity. We caught up with Vika & Linda at the 2023 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival to discuss and learn from their journey as artists and songwriters.

The story of Vika & Linda is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of collaboration

With three classic albums under their belts with The Black Sorrows, Vika & Linda embarked on a solo journey, releasing many studio albums and live recordings and earning nominations for the prestigious ARIA Awards. 

Their musical odyssey has taken them to diverse stages. Initially, however, they relied on reaching out to fellow musicians (over the phone) for songs that resonated with their voices and harmonies, which led to a mixed bag of music that lacked a common thread.

They soon realised the importance of clarity and direction in curating their repertoire, emphasising the significance of their unique sound as the guiding thread. Their voices and harmonies became the regular thread that would tie their sound together, regardless of genre.

Navigating collaboration and songwriting

Transitioning from interpreters to creators, Vika & Linda were guided by none other than the legendary Paul Kelly in 1988. He would pop over every couple of weeks to teach the duo about the art of songwriting. Their collaboration with Kelly marked a pivotal moment in their artistic journey, instilling in them the patience, storytelling prowess, and confidence needed to craft their own compositions. 

Through trial, error, and unwavering dedication, they discovered the transformative power of laying their hearts bare through songwriting via a specific theme. A fearless embrace of musical diversity sets Vika & Linda apart. From soul-stirring gospel anthems to foot-stomping country melodies, they’ve easily traversed genre boundaries, defying expectations and captivating audiences with their versatility. Their willingness to explore new horizons and challenge the status quo reflects a deep commitment to artistic growth and innovation.

The heartbeat of authenticity

At the core of Vika & Linda’s music lies authenticity—an unwavering commitment to truth, passion, and raw emotion. Whether interpreting others’ songs or penning their own, they strive to capture the essence of human experience, inviting listeners into a world of shared stories and shared emotions. Where do they hear and discover this? It all starts with the demo. The more raw, authentic and relaxed the demo is, the clearer the message of the song will be.

In an era marked by superficiality and artifice, their music is a beacon of sincerity and genuine expression. Vika & Linda make a point to emphasise the importance of passion, authenticity, and courage in the creative process, urging other artists to trust their instincts, embrace vulnerability, and above all, keep the music alive. Their journey serves as an inspiring reminder that behind every melody lies a story waiting to be told.

Follow your heart, trust your instincts, and above all, just do it

Vika & Linda’s musical odyssey is a testament to the transformative power of songwriting, collaboration, and artistic evolution. From humble beginnings to global acclaim, they’ve navigated the ever-changing currents of the music industry with grace, integrity, and unwavering dedication. Are you ready to take the next step in your songwriting journey? Consider making it a weekly practice by joining our Club. Learn more here.