Clinton Hoy is a staple of the Dubbo original music scene…
…fronting local rock band One Proud Monkey and recently, releasing his debut solo album Pieces of Different Puzzles.
Clinton is a member of the SOMAD Committee, and spends just as much time – if not more – working to develop the local scene as he does his own creative output.
Clinton’s music covers a range of genres, particularly evident on his solo work. However, he describes it as “honest and energetic - which doesn’t necessarily mean fast or upbeat but all my songs, to me at least, feel like they have something propelling them, a story I want to tell or (increasingly) a point I’d like to make.”
These stories and points seem to be core to his songwriting process, covering a range of topics from family and upbringing to politics and environmentalism. This carries through to his live performances.
“[People can expect] honest ruminations on my life and the state of the world, hopefully a knowing smile and the occasional laugh - with not too much preaching. I’d like to think half an hour hanging out listening to my music is time well spent and rewarding for both of us. Probably don’t expect a cover of “The Horses” though!”
Clinton has been writing original music for a long time, sometimes as a part of a band, and sometimes solo. He also hosts song writing workshops, and brings his industry experience to support and coach other local musicians. He describes his love for song writing as something he is naturally compelled to do: “Writing saves my sanity. It balances me. Needing to get my thoughts and ideas down is akin to my need to breathe. It’s rewarding and frustrating and mysterious and inexplicable at different times. I just know I love it.”
“Don’t wait for inspiration, get out and live, love, learn from others and travel. Find the stories you
need to tell and say them in a way only you can.”
“I’ve been lucky to have many [highlights], but top of the pile is any time I catch someone tapping or even singing along. That’s a buzz.”
A review of Clinton’s latest release by 100 Mile Groove writer Pat Coomey can be found on the SOMAD website.
When asked about what the future will bring, Clint explains that “everything is on the table - new projects, revived old projects. Something that’s only in the first stages of planning right now involving international songwriters which is exciting me and another non-music (kinda) project which will be the most personal thing I’ve ever created which is scaring me as much as thrilling me. A million ideas really, hopefully some really cool stuff for 2020.”
You can find releases by Clinton and One Proud Monkey here:
Follow him on Facebook here: