Wollongong singer-songwriter musician Harriet Lowe is being supported to open doors in the music industry. Photo: Supplied.
For emerging talents like Wollongong singer-songwriter Harriet Lowe, breaking into the music scene can come with seemingly endless barriers, such as a lack of industry connections, funding, and performance opportunities.
However, new initiatives are helping overcome these challenges and open doors within the music industry.
Backed by East Coast Car Rentals’ national campaign I’m With the Band, 19-year-old busker Harriet is one of several Aussie artists gaining financial support, a car to get to gigs, and media exposure to reach wider audiences.
According to data from the company, 76 per cent of Aussies believe emerging musicians face major barriers to entry, with many citing the challenges of building a career from the ground up.
Among these obstacles, 59 per cent highlighted a lack of support, while 54 per cent pointed to limited performance opportunities as a significant roadblock.
For Harriet, the campaign has been a pivotal moment in her journey to turn her passion into a career.
“I loved sharing my music, meeting other artists, and being part of such a supportive scene,” she said.
“I’m most looking forward to the connections, both with audiences and other musicians.
“It’s all about celebrating live music and the communities that make it happen.”
Harriet grew up on a sheep and cattle farm near Crookwell and started writing songs when she was about 15.
“Since then, I’ve played at festivals like Tamworth, opened for artists like Fanny Lumsden and Ross Wilson, and had the chance to co-write with some amazing musicians,” she said.
“I’m now focused on recording and releasing more of my original work.”
Now living in Wollongong, she is pursuing her studies at the University of Wollongong and earlier this year was chosen to participate in the Music NSW Future Sounds Tour, which highlights emerging talent in regional NSW.
In the Illawarra, she’s sometimes seen performing at North Gong Hotel in Wollongong, Headlands Hotel in Austinmer, Collegians Figtree, and The Grand in Kiama.
“I love connecting with people through music,” she said.
“There’s nothing like seeing someone in the crowd smile, sing along, or feel something from my performance.
“Performing is where I feel the most myself. It’s the best feeling when a song I’ve written resonates with someone else.”
Harriet has had the chance to travel, too, performing at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Bundanoon Folk Festival and Crookwell Country Weekend Buskin Competition, with each resulting in her receiving awards and recognition for her talent.
“I’m always drawn to places with live music,” she said.
“There’s something special about experiencing new towns and venues through the lens of music, and I love the way live shows can bring people together and showcase local communities.”
East Coast Car Rentals chief marketing officer Ben Whitmore said he knew how tough it could be for talented musicians to gain their start in the industry.
“There are so many barriers – finding gigs, connecting with the right people, and just having the resources to pursue their passion,” Ben said.
“This campaign is about giving them a real chance to grow their careers, share their music with more people, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their dreams.”
Ben said the campaign provided practical, hands-on support for artists.
“That might mean financial backing to fund their next project, access to a car to get to gigs and destinations, or exposure through media that helps people hear their music,” he said.
“Supporting emerging talent is about more than just music; it’s about fostering creativity, community, and opportunity.
“If we can help even one artist overcome the barriers that so many face and take the next step toward their goals, then it’s absolutely worth it.”
The campaign supports everyone from street performers to small-town backyard legends who want to break into the mainstream, and allows audiences across the country to hear the next big sound in Aussie music.
Learn more about Harriet Lowe and upcoming shows.
