Clinton Hoy epitomises the essence of a modern-day troubadour. Whether he's immersed in the responsibilities of fatherhood, imparting knowledge to eager minds in the realm of Visual Arts, engaging in heartfelt conversations, or even in the quiet moments of rest, his passion for songwriting is an ever-present force, an undeniable calling that permeates every facet of his being.
His journey with music began at the tender age of 13, when he first laid hands on a guitar, only to momentarily set it aside in frustration at his inability to match the virtuosity of his idols like Joe Satriani. It took nothing less than Slash rising from the ocean with a Sunburst Les Paul to reignite the desire to play music. That and he couldn’t tackle, so the family dream of Rugby League stardom was a non-starter.
Fast forward three decades, and Clinton finds himself unable to envision a life devoid of the cathartic embrace of songwriting. To him, it transcends mere expression; it's a form of meditation, a source of healing, and a conduit for genuine human connection. He has written lyrics for every band he’s been in, initially intended for other people to sing, an accidental singing lesson created a spark that would become an insatiable inferno.
These days, Clinton wouldn’t dream of giving his words away or hiding behind someone else - there’s a pride alongside the catharsis. Four albums, five EPs and a few singles in various guises; he’s found his home creating earnest, honest music under his own name.
It’s 2024 - and in the formative time of writing a third album, Clinton is digging deeper than ever, really examining his life for the stories that need to be told and hoping there’s others who need to hear them.
“I am asked often if I get disappointed that I can’t do this full time, but making money isn’t goal number one, I’m here to make music. To create. And it’s not a want so much as a need. Likes, streams etc don’t worry me, I want to make things I love - and share them with the world”
Clinton recalls the humble beginnings of his musical endeavours, marked by the release of his first EP in 2003, a labour of love marred by imperfections. Yet from this experience he gleaned invaluable lessons in perseverance, authenticity, and the importance of seeing projects through to fruition. Subsequent ventures, such as the formation of Dubbo band One Proud Monkey, underscored his resilience and commitment to his craft, culminating in a decade-long journey of artistic growth and community building.
Amidst the whirlwind of life's demands—parenthood, global crises, career obligations, and academic pursuits—Clinton has steadfastly dedicated his precious moments to honing his songwriting skills. His debut solo album, "Pieces of Different Puzzles," released in 2019, marked a pivotal milestone in his artistic evolution, followed by a succession of EPs and his sophomore album, "The Soundtrack of Our Lives," which showcased a growth in both lyrical depth and musical prowess.
Now, as he sets his sights on his forthcoming release, "Life Between The Seconds," Clinton is driven by a desire to encapsulate the essence of existence itself. Through his music he endeavours to inspire listeners to embrace the present moment fully, recognising the inherent beauty in every fleeting second.
Above all, Clinton Hoy aspires to be not only a masterful songwriter but also a beacon of empathy, compassion, and authenticity—a testament to the transformative power of music and the human spirit.