Front Deck Boom Box: Maya O’Loughlin

Maya O’Loughlin may only be 12 years old, but the rising star has a bright future ahead of her, boasting a style all her own. Combining the sweetness of pop and the story telling of country music, the bright and energetic performer’s voice charms its way straight to the heart.

She recently released her new single, Trouble. The quintessential teen story is a B-side to her December release, Who’ll Ride The Bus With Me (a follow up to her previous release, Friends). Written by Maya (who also co-produced) and her producer Paul Ray, it's a story of a boy who is just plain bad news and how rumour can be hurtful and unkind.

The 7News Young Achiever Award semi-finalist has worked with Countrytown favourite, Kaitlyn Thomas, and will perform at Murrindindi Shire Youth Pool Party in Yea on February 12, as well as Eildon Twilight Market in Victoria on March 19 and April 16, respectively.

We caught up with Maya to find out what songs she’s listening to for this week’s Front Deck Boom Box.

Hey Mum - Lucy Parle

It's a beautiful song and Lucy Parle is telling her mum that she's growing up and wants to be treated more like an adult. I love her voice and I'm not as old as Lucy, but I think I understand where she is coming from. 17 seems a long way away. My mum cries when we listen to this song together. I love following Lucy on Instagram and her livestreams.

Older - Sasha Alex Sloan

It's from the perspective of a little girl who has grown up and realising the changes that life brings. The feeling in Sasha Alex Sloan's voice is full of emotion and it's a bit sad and I love the lyrics. The melody against the music makes me feel like I'm there in the song with her and could give her a hug.

You & I - Alex Blyth

I really like the tone of Alex Blyth's voice and it's a broken heart kind of love song. It's about someone you thought would be in your life always. Alex is from Adelaide and is a really talented songwriter and reminds me of Olivia Rodrigo, who I also love. One of my favourite songs is Driver's License. I like these kind of Pop songs.

Dusty Road - Steph Strings

The song speaks an important message of needing some space to yourself to take time out and recharge. I love Steph Strings' voice, and she is so talented with the guitar. It's a good story telling song and a little bit country, but more on the acoustic roots side. The beat keeps me tapping along and I connect with the song.

Everywhere - Natalie Pearson

I really like the pop-country feel of this cover. She's falling in love and wants to be with him everywhere. Stevie Nicks and Fleetwood Mac are such an iconic group and it's a great song to cover in this style. Natalie Pearson is a great singer and someone I like to follow on their country music journey. There is so much talent in Australian country music.

Keep up to date with Maya O’Loughlin via her Facebook page here.
And check out some more of our Front Deck Boom Box series here.

Image: Supplied