A voice that holds its own in a pop world overflowing with generic-sounding artists, Gold Coast singer-songwriter Lily Papas' authentic brand of folk-rock flavoured indie pop has her destined for airwaves for many years to come.
Nominated for three awards at next month's Gold Coast Music Awards – Artist Of The Year, Release Of The Year ('Encore'), and Song Of The Year ('Heaven') – last year Lily released the sonically beautiful album 'Encore' showcasing her immense musical ability that transcends genres.A sound that encompasses the vibes of Florence & The Machine, Lana Del Rey, and London Grammar, earlier this year Lily returned with the single 'Exile' that highlights the young artist's progression, confirming her talent as one of Australia's most promising new stars.
"'Exile' is a feeling," affirms Lily. "When your affection for someone is obvious but they have no intention of returning that feeling. 'Exile' is a place you find yourself in every time you give someone everything and they give you nothing."
Back for its eighth year in 2022, the Gold Coast Music Awards celebrate the resilience of local artists in challenging times, celebrated across 12 categories in a glittering daytime ceremony and live concert event (3 September).
This year's finalists include Wildheart, who have received the highest number of nods in five categories. Casey Barnes and Eliza And The Delusionals have each been named as finalists across four categories. Other notable nominees include Sofia Isella, and Chutney. Lily is also playing as part of the Awards after-party.
Here, Lily shares five local Gold Coast businesses she can't live without.
1: Fat Freddy's Diner
If you haven't been to indulge in a Fat Freddy's burger then I highly suggest you head there right after reading this top 5, because I'm a self-proclaimed burger queen and the Fat Freddy's burger (any of them) is at the top of my list when it comes to comfort food on the Gold Coast.
2: Bee's Blossoms & Plants
Voted #1 florist on the Gold Coast for good reason, the visionary behind Bee's Blossoms & Plants sure as hell knows how to arrange a spectacular collection of florals. If ever I'm feeling down and need a pop of colour to brighten my day or someone else's day, fresh blooms it is.
3: Salte Designs
If you don't yet own a piece from Salte then you need to get online now and get something! The reason I love this brand so much is because all of the material is ethically sourced and sustainable. The Frankie flares are a personal favourite of mine and you'll often catch me at the show wearing them onstage. They are perfect to dress up or down and so damn comfy.
4: Miami Marketta
I cannot stress enough how much I LOVE this venue. I love what they do for the music scene here on the Coast and how they really bring a community together with their inclusion of other local businesses and vendors. Whether it's me performing or I am there watching other artists perform, Miami Marketta never fails to create an incredible atmosphere.
5. FG Corner Store
Amazing coffee, amazing food and the cutest little corner store/ coffee shop. Every time I'm there I feel so much happiness and peace. It's where I go for morning coffee to clear my head and I can honestly say I leave there feeling so refreshed.
Gold Coast Music Awards 2022 Finalists
Artist Of The Year
ButteredCasey Barnes
Eliza and the Delusionals
Hussy Hicks
Lily Papas
Wildheart
Breakout Artist Of The Year
ButteredChutney
Dennis.
Gaudion
Girl and Girl
Hinterland
Latour
Lily Grace
Sofia Isella
Live Act Of The Year
ButteredCasey Barnes
Eliza and the Delusionals
Girl and Girl
Heavy Wax
Hussy Hicks
Peach Fur
Sofia Isella
Tijuana Cartel
Wildheart
Musician Of The Year
Brendan HuxleyEUCA
Harry J Hart
Josh Beattie
Lindsay Waddington
Ronnie
Sofia Isella
Release Of The Year
Casey Barnes - 'Light It Up'Cold Ghost - 'Dominoes'
EUCA - 'Transitional Period'
Girl and Girl - 'A Typical Friday Night (Shame, Sex & Misery)'
Lily Papas - 'Encore'
These Idle Hands - 'Meraki'
Wildheart - 'Global Crisis'
Studio Producer Of The Year
Blake MaloneBrad Hosking
Guy Cooper
Jared Adlam
Matt Bartlem
Song Of The Year
Buttered - 'Love'Casey Barnes - 'God Took His Time On You'
Chutney - 'Talk'
DENNIS. - 'False Truths'
EUCA - 'Only Fools'
Eliza and the Delusionals - 'Save Me'
Georgia Horeau - '17'
Hollow Coves - Purple
Lemaire - 'Ford Laser'
Lily Papas - 'Heaven'
Vulture - 'Conversations'
Wildheart - 'Show Me What It's Like To Be Worthless'
Venue Of The Year
Dust Templeelsewhere
Mo’s Desert Clubhouse
Vinnies Dive
Video Of The Year
Atticus Chimps - 'Liquid Percussion'Baltimore Gun Club - 'Deniro'
Chutney - 'Life I Like'
DENNIS. - 'Stuck In My Ways'
Eliza and the Delusionals - 'Give You Everything'
Geniie Boy - 'Elevator To The Sky'
Gimmy Flowens - 'Don’t Be Afraid'
Hussy Hicks - 'Same Boat'
Lemaire - 'Ford Laser'
Syrup - 'Kaleidoscope'
The Riot - 'Pissed'
Wildheart - 'Backburner'
Visual Creative Of The Year
Bianca HintonHussy Hicks
Jared Hinz
Shane Budini
Simone Gorman-Clark
Gold Coast Music Prize
EUCAGeorgia Hoareau
Girl and Girl
Harry J Hart
Lemaire
Mad WXrld NXT
People’s Choice Award
Open to all finalists – detail on how to vote, coming soon.Gold Coast Music Awards takes place at Home Of The Arts 3 September.
