Major thanks to Cologne, Germany based pop artist Ant Utama who connected with DCWS for an exclusive interview to discuss his debut single and video “Brave”. During our conversation with Ant, we also had the opportunity to discuss his move from New Zealand to Germany, what he learned about himself as an artist during his time as a street performer, what we can expect next musically and much more.

After reading our Q&A with Ant, be sure to stream “Brave” on your preferred music service, connect with him on his website and social media, and check out the official “Brave” music video.

Congratulations on the release of your debut single "Brave"; can you tell us about the experience(s) which inspired you to write the song?

Thank you, it's great to have one on the board! Well 18 months ago I left my home in New Zealand for Germany to pursue music, which started with me playing on the streets. Some people were a bit surprised and concerned, my parents in particular. I wrote the song after a phone call with my Dad, who was worried that I was drifting and told me to get a real job. After the call, I was upset, I had a cry and wrote the song. It was intended to be a manifesto to myself, to keep that fire burning when things got tough.

The more I played the song in public the more people that would tell me how much the lyrics resonated with them. People of all backgrounds, not just musicians. Creatives, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and even people wanting a career change could relate to what I was singing. From that moment, it became a song for everyone going out of their comfort zone to pursue their own form of happiness.

How did you connect with Julian David, the producer of the "Brave" song?

Funnily enough, we didn't connect the normal way people in the music industry do (networking, and knowing someone who knows someone). I was literally two weeks into living in Cologne and had no contacts so I googled "Pop producers in Cologne". He had his SEO sorted and was top of the list. We caught up, enjoyed each other's vibe and started working. We're still working currently on future tracks.

How would you compare the pop music scene in Cologne to that of New Zealand, where you are originally from?

I wasn't writing original music in New Zealand, I was focusing on my marketing career and had little time for music so I can't really speak for the scene; however, it's a very small market so in order to make a living from music full time, you have to be the best of the best.

In Cologne and Europe in general, there are lot more opportunities for developing artists to take advantage of, so I'm definitely in the right place.

What are some things that you learned about yourself as an artist during the transition from New Zealand to Germany, and from playing on the street?

I learnt how to hustle! I had a comfortable job with a lot of perks and a guaranteed income coming in each month. Now, I only get paid when I'm out there working! Time is money and when you're working for yourself, every minute counts. I also had to develop discipline. It's one thing to meet deadlines because your boss tells you to, it's another if you're your own boss! (I tend to forgive myself pretty easily...)

More importantly though, I got to see the good side of humanity from playing on the street. People are so kind and generous. On a cold day, people would buy me coffee. On a hot day, a lemonade. I would busk with my adopted Mexican street dog, Daisy (which is a story for another day) and people would buy her dog treats. People have on occasion mistaken me for being homeless and offered me a place to stay! And I've even had homeless people throw money in my guitar case, despite being in a rough situation themselves.

When you watch the news and read the headlines, it can be very easy to become negative about the world we live in. I am so blessed to have a completely different perspective. Playing on the street has given me an appreciation for how genuine and good people can be. It's made me more aware of helping those in need and I've learned far more about myself and humanity after one year on the street vs. five years in the office sitting behind a desk.

What can we expect musically to come next after "Brave"?

I'm not mucking around, my second single titled “I Got Your Back” is dropping on November 29th, and from there we have regular releases planned. So there's a lot in the pipeline to be excited about! Make sure you're following me on Spotify and my socials to keep up to date! Stay brave!

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