INTERVIEW:
Name: Josef Tabone
Hometown: Marsa
Website / Facebook page? : https://www.facebook.com/josef.tabone
Local/International artists/musicians who inspire you? :
Local – Pamela Bezzina / Kevin Borg
International – Robbie Williams / Jessie J
Previous experience at ‘Indifest’? :
Yes – 2006 Song Bejna t-Tnejn Duet with Amanda Farrugia – 2007 Song Tarantella – 2008 Song Mad-Daqq tal-Vjolincell with vocal group named Laces – 2010 Song Id-Decizjoni tal-Qalb duet with Francesca Scerri.
How do you see your chances in winning ‘Indifest’ this year? :
Well I haven’t yet had the opportunity to listen to all the songs; however I believe that myself a Johanna have a very positive song and we both have a great charisma. Thus we hope that we pass joy, happiness and plenty of positive energy to others listening to our song.
What is your opinion on Competitions (local)? :
I think that more local competitions should be introduced. However, it would be a wise to also promote singers in other foreign competitions. One other thing is that, there are very little local Festivals which promote the Maltese language and this is really a pity in my opinion.
What is your favourite music style? :
I can’t really pin point my favourite style, however I have recently found myself to be much more attracted to pop rock, soul and jazz music. This combination is due to recent achievements that happen during the past three to four years. Reasons being, joining Animae Gospel Choir and joining a pop rock, alternative music style band.
When and how did your life in music start? :
Music seemed to be in my blood since some of my extended family members used to play musical instruments. I‘ve started singing and studying the piano at the tender age of five, when I joined the children’s school choir at Madre Thereza Nuzzo School in Marsa. From there music offered me more opportunities, such as, joining the Marsa parish children’s choir, win local small festivals, take part in musicals, and many more. I believe that the music industry is like a ladder which you build yourself through the experience you gain throughout the years.
Do you write your own stuff? – and if so what inspires you? :
Yes I do. Most my inspiration depends on the mood I’m in and on the situations I find myself into during my life.
What are your biggest ambitions in music?
I don’t really think about my future ambitions that much. I am that kind of person that thinks about the ‘now’. I don’t know what tomorrow will bring and so I take my career day by day and I leave everything in the hands of God. However it is always important to strive and work hard in order to succeed.
A 3 word comment about The Eurovision Song Contest?
Varity, Originality, Commitment
Describe a typical day in your life?
Since I’m still a University student my life usually starts with lectures related to Education and Home Economics. Then I come home, where I spend time with my family, do and finish my assignments and go for a quick walk with my lovely dog Mica. My evening may also involve having to work because I am also a part-time animator during children’s parties, or simply attend for singing rehearsals with my band, rehearsal with Animae Gospel Choir or hangout with my friends and enjoying life.
Favourite sport?
Basketball / Bowling
Favourite book?
Deadline by Simon Kernick
Favourite films?
The Notebook, The Proposal.
Favourite holiday/trip?
New York or France
Do you have a message to The Maltese Nation?
Try to always live life to the fullest and never look back. Live life day by day and never leave your worries and disappointments ever bring you done.
Interviewed by Joseph Portelli – Music News Malta Editor
Good luck!!
