Join us for an inspiring and unfiltered conversation with Australian country music star Tori Darke as she shares her journey from shy childhood singer to powerhouse performer and full-time recording artist. With honesty, grit, and a touch of humor, Tori opens up about her path through the music industry, her time on The Voice, and the power of authenticity, resilience, and backing yourself fully in a competitive creative world.
In this episode, Tori and Steve explore what it really takes to make music your full-time career, how she overcame self-doubt, and why having the right support network makes all the difference. From the pressures of being a woman in the spotlight to the evolving landscape of country music, this is a must-listen for creatives, dream-chasers, and anyone navigating their own path in life or business.
About our guest:
Tori Darke is one of Australia’s most exciting country music artists, known for her powerful voice, heartfelt storytelling, and down-to-earth stage presence. A two-time The Voice contestant and long-time live performer, Tori has toured across Australia, shared the stage with country greats, and continues to write and release music that connects deeply with fans. Her passion for storytelling through song and her commitment to authenticity have earned her a growing fanbase and a respected place in the country music scene.
Follow Our Guest:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toridarkeofficial/
Website: http://toridarke.com.au/
Follow Us On:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thestevehodgson/
Show Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharewithsteve/
Episode Highlights:
00:00 - Episode Trailer
01:19 - Tori’s early love for music and first ticketed show
03:34 - From shy child to full-time country artist
05:04 - Facing the nerves of her first performance
08:16 - How her parents' support shaped her career
09:42 - Early musical influences: Shania Twain & LeAnn Rimes
10:42 - Being coached by LeAnn Rimes on The Voice
11:43 - From Season 10 to Season 13: growth, authenticity & risk
14:25 - Breaking the stigma around country music
16:37 - The new wave of country: youth, fashion & fandom
19:14 - Country is for everyone, not just the bush
19:36 - The value of a strong support system
23:04 - Overcoming self-doubt and bouncing back
24:17 - Working in aviation and rediscovering her love for music
27:21 - Navigating the pressures of being a woman in the music industry
30:22 - On being real: brand, image, and honesty in lyrics
31:07 - Real advice for aspiring musicians
32:18 - Tori’s biggest challenge: overcoming inner critics
33:01 - Touring, festivals & new music coming in 2025
34:15 - Vision boarding, manifestation, and building momentum
36:01 - The dream: albums, tours, and overseas shows
37:25 - Writing music that connects with people’s lives
40:00 - The story behind the song she wrote for her husband
41:14 - Music as a personal journal for universal moments
42:47 - Redefining success and finally living the dream
44:09 - Her parents’ belief: not “if,” but “when”
45:04 - Dream collaborator? Dolly Parton
46:39 - Why being your authentic self is everything
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