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Australia is bursting with musical talent, from street performers to backyard legends, but breaking into the mainstream is tough. That’s where I’m With the Band comes in. East Coast Car Rentals is hitting the road to give emerging Aussie musicians the chance to tour, perform, and be discovered against some of Australia’s most iconic backdrops.
This isn’t just about gigs, it’s about celebrating the grassroots music scene that makes Aussie culture so vibrant. From buskers on the street to hidden talents in small towns, these artists are Australia’s undiscovered gems. By giving them the tools, support, and exposure they need, I’m With the Band helps turn passion into opportunity, and helps audiences across the country hear the next big sound in Aussie music.
Q&A with Gilroy
For Sydney musician Gilroy, the journey from busking on the streets to finding a national audience has been marked by passion, persistence, and plenty of hurdles. Like many up-and-coming artists, Gilroy has faced the realities of breaking into an industry where 76% of Australians believe new musicians encounter major barriers, chief among them, a lack of connections, support, and performance opportunities.
- 77.4% of Aussies report that they would stop and explore a town if they noticed live music or street performers
- 76% of Aussies say the biggest barriers facing emerging Australian musicians are tied to breaking into the music industry
- 59% of Aussies reported the lack of industry connections and support reports the biggest barriers for emerging Australian musicians trying to enter the music industry
- 54% of Aussies reported limited performance opportunities as the biggest barriers for emerging Australian musicians trying to enter the music industry
- 56.90% NSW residents say they discover new music while driving.
- 66% of NSW residents say discovering local arts and music (including buskers) is important in their overall road trip experience.
East Coast Car Rentals’ I’m With the Band campaign is tackling these challenges head-on, offering artists like Gilroy not just financial support and transport to gigs, but also the platform and exposure to reach new audiences. For Gilroy, who has already captured an audience online with their performances, the campaign represents both recognition of their journey and an opportunity to take their music further than ever before.
What draws you to performing?
Performing for us is the best part of being a band. Being able to get on stage and express ourselves and our friendship collectively is an unmatched experience. We love watching people in the crowds enjoy our music and immersing themselves in our sound. Performing is just a magical, exciting, adrenaline filled experience which we just can't get enough of.
Can you provide a brief background on your music journey?
Our music journey simply started from music class in High School. We became really good friends in music class and then just started jamming together at any time we could (recess, lunch, assembly!!). Once we finished High School we had a few different occasions where our friends asked us to play at house parties. After doing a few house parties we saw some potential, really enjoyed each other's company and so we just kept playing. 2-3 years later and we have released 9 original songs, have toured interstate and are working towards making this a full time thing.
Would you be inclined to visit destinations with live music?
Absolutely. 100%. This is our dream.
What being part of I’m With the Band means to you, and what you’re most looking forward to?
Being part of the "I'm with the Band" campaign is very special for us. As aspiring musicians with a goal of travelling domestically and internationally across the world, being part of a travel campaign is awesome. The 1st place prize could genuinely have a massive impact on helping us achieve our goals and aspirations. We're looking forward to seeing what comes from it!
Q&A with Andryel Jung
What draws you to performing?
Performing lets me connect with people in ways that words alone can’t. Music creates moments where strangers feel united, and that energy inspires me every time I step on stage or play on the street.
Can you provide a brief background on your music journey?
I’ve been playing guitar for years, carving out my path as a busker and performer across Australia, particularly around Sydney. Over time, my online videos have reached millions, opening incredible opportunities to share my music with wider audiences. From the streets to larger stages, my journey has always been driven by a passion for bringing authenticity and heart through the guitar.
Would you be inclined to visit destinations with live music?
Absolutely, I love exploring cities through their live music scenes. It’s one of the best ways to feel the culture and energy of a place.
What being part of I’m With the Band means to you, and what you’re most looking forward to?
Being part of I’m With the Band feels like a true celebration of my journey so far, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my story with new audiences. I’m also excited to connect with other incredible artists and create unforgettable musical experiences together along the way.
Q&A with Ash Morse
What draws you to performing?
I love being a part of moments with people where we're all getting out of our critical minds and enjoying the present - where our differences matter less than what connects us. Nothing does that quite like live music.
Can you provide a brief background on their music journey?
At just 20, Sydney artist and composer Ash Morse dared to take the path less traveled; he left the security of the Conservatorium of Music to follow his instincts - writing, producing, and releasing his debut, genre-straddling album Lost in the Music and fronting a self- funded seven-piece band.
His subsequent electrifying live shows quickly drew the attention of industry heavyweight Glenn A. Baker, who was so impressed he called Channel 9 and secured Ash a national TV performance within days. The live performance led to a repeat appearance, an ABC feature, and a wave of national radio interviews, performances and recognition.
Despite early momentum, the financial strain of leading a large band without industry backing or mentorship forced Ash to pause his career and train in another field - vowing to return when he could afford to create sustainably. Though music never truly left his life, he didn’t return to full capacity until 2019.
After the sudden passing of his father, who died before achieving his goals, Ash was driven to pursue his art with renewed purpose. Despite Sydney lockouts, lock downs, venue closures, shrinking music revenue, industry uncertainty, and skyrocketing living costs, Ash worked three jobs, seven days a week, to fund a new body of work born from years of quiet innovation and creative evolution. The costs and time demands were almost insurmountable until a silent patron - moved by the impact of Ash’s earlier music - lifted the financial burden, freeing him to focus entirely on his craft. This major turning point, along with his introduction to producer and engineer, Ryan Miller, ushered in a new era of unprecedented creative output that continues to this day.
Since the release of his second album in 2022, Ash has delivered new music every year, winning awards, industry recognition, and a growing audience. Now, in 2025, he’s preparing his boldest artistic statement yet: ‘Nowhere Land’, a genre-shattering, mind-altering, 45-minute musical masterpiece that opened to a standing ovation at its pilot Avoca Theatre show in mid July. Nowhere Land is now set to expand to theatres across the country and around the globe.
Would you be inclined to visit destinations with live music?
Absolutely. I try to get out to regional destinations a couple of times a year to connect the wonderfully supportive communities.
What being part of I’m With the Band means to you, and what you’re most looking forward to?
In a climate of closing venues, rocketting living costs and dwindling music income streams, having a company have the courage to invest in music opportunities is massive. I want to be involved with anyone willing to back Australian music at the grass roots level. I'm looking forward to adding energy and enthusiasm to the cause and connecting with a growing community of music lovers and creators.
Q&A with Ben Whitmore, CEO of East Coast Car Rentals
Why is East Coast Car Rentals supporting emerging artists?
"We know how tough it can be for talented musicians to get their start in the industry. There are so many barriers - finding gigs, connecting with the right people, and just having the resources to pursue their passion. This campaign is about giving them a real chance to grow their careers, share their music with more people, and take meaningful steps toward achieving their dreams."
What excites you about supporting grassroots programs?
"We’ve always loved supporting grassroots programs around the country. Whether it’s community sports, local music events, or youth initiatives, we’ve seen firsthand how much these opportunities can transform someone’s journey. Being able to back local talent and give them the support they need is incredibly rewarding."
How does this campaign practically support emerging artists?
"What excites us most about this campaign is that it provides practical, hands-on support for artists. That might mean financial backing to fund their next project, access to a car to get to gigs and destinations, or exposure through media that helps people hear their music. These small things can make a huge difference early in their careers."
What’s the benefit of providing a platform for artists?
"Being able to provide a platform for emerging artists to perform, connect with fans, and reach new audiences is really exciting. It’s amazing to see their talent shine, their confidence grow, and their dreams start to take shape. That’s why we love being part of this journey."
Why does supporting emerging talent matter to East Coast Car Rentals?
"Supporting emerging talent is about more than just music, it’s about fostering creativity, community, and opportunity. If we can help even one artist overcome the barriers that so many face and take the next step toward their goals, then it’s absolutely worth it."
East Coast Car Rentals | https://www.eastcoastcarrentals.com.au/im-with-the-band/
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