Carl De Villa is an extraordinary and multi-talented performer, known for their remarkable journey in the entertainment industry. They made their mark on Australian television as a judge on Channel 7’s All Together Now and as a featured singer on The Voice, earning praise, “a visual splendour,” from Boy George for their captivating stage presence and vocal prowess. Fans shower praise on Carl De Villa saying that they are “oozing sex appeal” and that their “stage presence was mesmerising.”
As an indie artist, Carl De Villa released the album, War Cry, featuring original pop, soul, and RnB songs, and has close to one million streams on this and subsequent releases including their cover of Freddie Mercury’s “Love of My Life.” Carl De Villa also released a quirky EDM song, “Just Another Love Song” and “Deja Vu,” a soulful pop ballad that demonstrates their musical range.
With “GOOD ENOUGH” out now, we took some time to hear from Carl De Villa. Read below to learn more about Carl De Villa, the story behind “GOOD ENOUGH,” and what’s to come.
Hi Carl De Villa! What city are you from, and where are you based now?
I’m a singer-songwriter, originally from Lapu Lapu City, Cebu, Philippines, but now an Australian citizen (by way of Singapore, Okinawa and Nagoya) and living and performing in Sydney and around Australia and New Zealand.
At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music? How did you get started?
I’ve been performing since a very young age when I was in the church choir, and was part of a few bands in the Philippines. Notably, I was with the band Redlites and later Serendipity. In Australia, I released my debut solo album, War Cry, and now releasing “Good Enough,” which will be on my next album.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound moves from pop to dance and RnB. I’m heavily influenced by these genres and would describe my sound as moving, upbeat and fun.
Who are some of your main musical influences?
My preferred genre to listen to is jazz and RnB. I’m drawn to artists with unique voices, significant stage presence and power behind their songs. Indie singers as well as massive stars like Adele really inspire me in my own music.
What’s one of the proudest moments of your music career so far?
Stepping out of my comfort zone and playing major musical roles on stage including Angel in Rent: The Musical and two productions of Kinky Boots as the main protagonist, Lola.
Now onto your release, “GOOD ENOUGH.” What inspired this song? What is “GOOD ENOUGH” about?
My new single, “Good Enough,” is about my ongoing transformation as my identity shifts with time. It’s a fluid song about belonging that hits in all the right places in my life, and I hope listeners’ lives now.
What was the inspiration behind the cover artwork for “GOOD ENOUGH?”
The cover art for “Good Enough” was inspired by the lyrics of the song, wanting to capture the feeling of being more than good enough, and not caring what other people think.
What was the creative process like when making “GOOD ENOUGH?”
I work with my creative collaborator and lyricist Adrik Kemp to form a story in my lyrics, then spend some time working on the music and with Ben Worsey, a very talented producer. It’s gratifying to me to be able to share my story through music and songs like “Good Enough.”
What is your favorite lyric in “GOOD ENOUGH” and why?
My favourite lyrics in “Good Enough” are below. I love the rhythm of them, and the layered meaning behind it.
“Not enough you’re just a creep
Take the flowers you can leave
Our chords don’t sing, the words don’t flow
I try so hard, but it won’t show”
What do you hope fans take away from “GOOD ENOUGH” and your music in general?
I hope that fans love the song, and that it gets people up and dancing and feeling free, confident and sexy in their own bodies, no matter what shape or age or gender.
What’s next? Are you working on any upcoming projects, or do you have any upcoming shows that we should be on the lookout for?
I have a lot of exciting gigs coming up around Australia and New Zealand that I’m really looking forward to. Check them all out on my website here: https://www.carldevilla.com/tour.
Where can we follow you on social media?
Please listen to all my music on Spotify and follow me on social media.
Website: https://carldevilla.com
Facebook: @carldevillaofficial
YouTube: @carldevilla
Instagram: @carldevilla
Before you go, let’s ask an off-topic question. What is an unusual talent that you have?
I can make the sound of a crow.
Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!
