In the Green Room: Naomi Keyte

Communicating the experiences that make us human sits at the core of Naomi Keyte’s latest album, Milk Paper Gold. Here, the alt-pop-folk artist shares the journey to releasing the LP and what to expect from its launch show.

Image by rosinapossingham

You started writing Milk Paper Gold in 2021. Why was 2024 the right time to release the album in full?

I was determined not to rush. I consciously chose to release five singles and make the most of my huge investment in these songs. Each release was like its own satellite project, so I felt connected to my work and audience throughout the process. These songs are very human. They engage with universal questions of doubt, letting go, questioning parenthood and sitting with the unknown.

How does storytelling fuel your craft?

Writing songs is how I process my life, so in shaping these sonic narratives, I not only capture experiences and memories but I unravel my subconscious. It’s the way I make sense of things.

You’re launching the LP at the Goodwood Theatre Institute with some exciting special guests on support. What will they add to the evening?

I have the wonderful Ella Ion opening for the show. Ella has a mysterious, soft and feminine energy and she is another songwriter committed to honesty in her work. I think she understands there is a real power in gentle music.

What do you hope 2025 brings you as an artist?

This year will be when I share this record more broadly. I have a six-month national tour planned and I’ll be playing mostly intimate venues and house concerts. My dream for the second half of 2025 is to make it to the UK, Europe, and Scandinavia to perform. Honestly, I just want to have fun.

Naomi Keyte plays at Goodwood Theatre Institute on February 9. Tickets are on sale now via Humanitix.

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