Some artists chase answers. Others find meaning in the act of searching. Melbourne-based songwriter Gary Hubber belongs firmly in the latter camp as a storyteller who walks beside uncertainty rather than trying to resolve it. On his latest single 'Running From The Light', lifted from his forthcoming album 'A Dangling Thread', Hubber leans into that outlook with warmth, wit, and a steady, rolling groove.
Known for his conversational lyricism and ability to let meaning unfold gradually, Hubber’s songs resonate like letters from the road; thoughtful, personal, and full of lived-in wisdom. 'Running From The Light' plays with the idea of finality, only to nod politely and keep walking. With southern-tinged guitars and a quietly defiant heart, the song becomes a celebration of motion itself: of staying curious, of resisting the urge to settle, of choosing life again and again.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My mother owned a button accordion which she used to play to me when I was a child. She was self-taught and could only play a handful of songs, but I thought it was wonderful. I still have it and it is one of my most prized possessions and a wonderful memory of her.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was a teenager in the mid 70’s and Bohemian Rhapsody stands as a wonderful memory of when I first started to appreciate music. Abba was big in Australia at this time but I preferred more rock and roll songs by Bruce Springsteen, Born To Run, The Ted Mulry Gang, Jump In My Car and Tom Petty, American Girl.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Dreamboat Annie by Heart. The opening acoustic guitar sequence on Crazy On You made me want to learn the guitar, and I was in love with both Ann and Nancy.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Message To My Girl written by Neil Finn, released by Split Enz in 1983.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I always write new music sitting on my big brown chesterfield couch with my Mini Maton guitar. It’s the same spot, regardless of which stage in the process I am up. From the beginning of a new song idea recording chords and melody on my phone, or shaping and reshaping lyrics, the brown chesterfield is my constant.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Rum Jungle – very fresh rock and roll feel.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Bob Dylan – still such a unique artist and individual.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Seeing something that started as an idea in my mind turns into something that people enjoy listening to.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Self-promotion and marking my music.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Project to the balcony!
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Gary Hubber's new single 'Running From The Light' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.