...Julia and the Doogans

Five minutes with...Julia from Glasgow band Julia and the Doogans

Hello, is it me you're looking for?

Yes. I can see it in your eyes. I can see it in your smile.

Anyway, how are you?
I'm good thanks.

What's the feedback on the new EP been like?
It's not really 'new'. These songs have been kicking about for a while but we put it out there for the people that kept asking for something. It's been positive and it's there for people to pop it in their music collection or recycle bin. Whatever they prefer.

Who are your favourite Scottish musicians?
Fran Healy, Amber Wilson, Beerjacket and many more.

Where and when was the best gig you ever played?
They have all had their moments. We played in a power cut once. I want to do that again. Lost and Found in Aberdeen was good as well, great bill that night and they laid out party rings on the tables.

Who are your heroes in life?
My mum, my brother and anyone who buys our EP.

What is your greatest fear?
Losing sight of what really matters. Oh and the dark, I sleep with a light on. Only a little one.

What one thing has the biggest influence on your songwriting?
My imagination. Most of it is how I imagine things to be like if I experienced them. That and watching how people interact with one another.

If you could have any three musicians, living or dead, to play alongside you, who would they be?
As much as I love many well known musicians, I would go for people at the same stage as me. That is the struggling-not-so-well-known but not-any-less-talented stage. Anyone within that bracket can join me.

What song would you most like played at your funeral?
Hakuna Matata - Lion King Soundtrack.

Which is your favourite festival?
None of them. I prefer small intimate gigs in tiny places. Festivals all the family can go to look like fun though.

Who is the best live act you've ever seen?
I'm not that into going to big gigs so it's always unsigned acts I stumble across. Mostly when I am lucky enough to be on the same bill as them. I loved Emily Scott, Esperi and Amber Wilson when I seen them.

Have you had any embarrassing moments on stage?
Probably by other peoples definition of the word but I don't usually feel any more awkward on stage than I do off it.

If the money was good, would you do a TV advert?
Me advertising something as myself - not a chance. My songs in an advert then yes. Depending on the product of course. It's easy to get carried away when money is involved...slippery slope down the drain.

White, red or rose?
Red.

Did you ever know that you're my hero?
No but I can fly higher than an eagle.

What was Kafka's Metamorphosis all about?
The book with the insect man? I have no idea.

Where do you want to be in five years' time?
A happy place. You can come if you like. Everyone is welcome.

What is the most important piece of advice you would give an aspiring musician?
It is always better to be the tortoise than the hare. That, and everyone you meet is your equal whether or not they behave like it - no one is above you or beneath you. Life long rules to live by - musician or not.

Nice, thanks Julia, it's been a great five minutes!




Julia and the Doogans' next gig is July 20th at King Tuts in Glasgow as part of their 'Summer Nights Festival' with Kitty The Lion, Second Hand Marching Band and Martin James & Associates. 

You can buy their EP by clicking here