#87. From Stage Fright Teen To The Voice Finalist …What Every New Artist Needs To Know - Tori Darke

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