Conrad Sewell

Conrad Sewell – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes

Discover the journey of Australian singer-songwriter Conrad Sewell: his early musical roots, breakthrough hits like “Start Again” and “Firestone,” evolution of his artistry, and his inspiring words on creativity and identity.

Introduction

Conrad Sewell (born March 31, 1988) is an Australian singer and songwriter whose rich, soulful voice has earned him international recognition. Kygo’s hit “Firestone” and for his own chart-topping single “Start Again.”

His career reflects both vulnerability and ambition: from sending demos as a child, to confronting personal challenges, to crafting songs that resonate. This is a story of artistic evolution, resilience, and the power of voice.

Early Life and Musical Roots

Conrad Ignatius Mario Maximilian Sewell was born in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, on March 31, 1988.

He grew up in a musical family. His grandparents performed with the Bee Gees early in their career, and his sister, Grace Sewell, is also a successful singer. age 8, he began sending recordings and demos, indicating an early passion and determination to be heard.

As a teenager, he joined the band Sons of Midnight (initially The Frets), experimenting with rock and pop elements.

These early years laid the foundation: exposure to live performance, collaboration, recording, and the resilience to pivot when needed.

Career and Breakthrough

Collaboration & Exposure: “Firestone”

One of his major breakthroughs was his collaboration with Kygo on the song “Firestone” (2014). Sewell sang the vocals and co-wrote the song.

Solo Work & “Start Again”

In 2015, Sewell released the single “Start Again”, a deeply emotional ballad about heartbreak and renewal. No. 1 in Australia, and won Song of the Year at the ARIA Music Awards.

That same year, he released an EP titled All I Know, which included singles like Hold Me Up, Who You Lovin, and Remind Me.

Following this success, he toured, opening for major acts including Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, and Jess Glynne, expanding his reach.

Albums & Recent Work

In May 2019, Sewell released his debut studio album Life, which debuted at No. 1 on the ARIA charts in Australia.

In 2023, he released his second studio album, Precious, on March 3.

Between albums, he has released singles (e.g. Make Me a Believer, God Save the Queen, Caroline) and participated in projects such as singing for Coca-Cola’s campaign “Taste the Feeling” (produced by Avicii).

His story also includes a well-documented struggle with addiction, recovery, therapy, creative renewal, and self-discovery.

Style, Themes & Artistic Identity

Musical Style & Influences

Sewell blends pop, soul, and emotive balladry.

His songwriting often centers on themes of love, loss, redemption, and vulnerability. Start Again is a prime example of how he conveys heartbreak while layering hope.

In interviews he has cited influences including soul music, Nineties music, and artists known for emotionally rich vocal delivery.

Artistic Philosophy

Conrad has expressed that certain songs should remain “untouched” — produced with minimal interference so their raw emotion remains intact. He has said:

“You have those songs that are very special to you that you don’t want to get ruined by production.”

He also acknowledged the challenges of visual media:

“I think videos are really hard. I’m yet to be happy with a video. It’s very weird watching yourself on camera …”

And on his ambition:

“I want to be remembered as a great performer.”

These statements show both humility and aspiration — he cares about authenticity, emotion, and how his work connects.

Personal Life & Challenges

Sewell’s journey includes periods of struggle, particularly with drug and alcohol addiction, which he has spoken about openly.

Between creative highs and lows, he has remained committed to creating music that matters and nurturing his own mental, emotional, and artistic well-being.

Legacy, Influence & What’s Next

While still active, Conrad Sewell is carving a legacy grounded in sincerity, emotional connection, and the power of voice. He stands as a modern example of how artists can grow, stumble, recover, and still create work that resonates.

With Precious, he aims to deliver songs with timeless appeal. As his career continues, his influence is likely to spread not just through his music but through example — that vulnerability, authenticity, and perseverance matter in artistry.

Selected Quotes by Conrad Sewell

Here are a few thoughtful remarks by Sewell that reflect his mindset:

• “I want to be remembered as a great performer.”

• “You have those songs that are very special to you that you don’t want to get ruined by production.”

• “I think videos are really hard. I’m yet to be happy with a video. It’s very weird watching yourself on camera …”

• “I don’t think I’ll ever be a person who likes to work out.”

• “Even though I am signed to an American label, I want Australia to fall in love with my music because if it doesn’t work here, it won’t work anywhere.”

These quotes show a balance: ambition and humility, artistic self-protection, and a deep connection to his roots.

Lessons from Conrad Sewell

1. Protect the heart of your work.
   Some songs deserve minimal alteration — their emotional core must remain intact.

2. Vulnerability is strength.
   Being open about struggle can humanize an artist and deepen connection.

3. Root in home.
   Sewell stresses the importance of succeeding in his home country — “If it doesn’t work here, it won’t work anywhere.”

4. Art evolves with you.
   From early band work to solo ballads to evolved songwriting on Precious, his career is an evolution, not a static identity.

5. Ambition with humility.
   He wants to be remembered, but not at the cost of authenticity or overproduction.