The music started at the foot of Dulconghi Mountain in Crescent Head.
Growing up in the country by the coast gave Clay a sense of space and peace to create music. Encouraged and influenced by his family at a young age gave Clay the opportunity to be surrounded and encouraged to create music.
The piano was Clay’s first choice of instrument at the age of 7 followed by guitar in the years to come. Performing at eisteddfods, local youth events and festivals, the stage was Clay’s second home. Throughout Clay’s teenage years he played in bands with friends and school mates, whilst in the background still found the time to be classical trained in acoustic guitar.
As son of respected 70’s surfboard shaper and builder, Alan Blyth, Clay either played music, surfed or built houses with his dad.
Taking the opportunity to become a qualified carpenter after finishing high school, Clay also teamed up with local musicians in Crescent Head and got an Open Mic night up and running at the Crescent Head Tavern. With a guitar on his back and a trade under his belt, Clay left Crescent Head and started out on his musical journey.
The first real taste of life on the road was when Clay jumped on tour with the late Mick Hart, opening shows up and down the east coast of Australia in his early 20’s.
This stepping stone lead Clay on his musical career. Opening shows for other Australian artist such as The Black Sorrows, Llyod Spiegel, Nathan Cavaleri, Tijuana Cartel, Marshal & The Fro and more. In the years that followed, Clay performed at professional surfing events and a variety of music festivals including Bluesfest, FOTS and music venues all over the east coast of Australia.
Clay’s debut album in 2010,“Stone Road” was inspired by life up until this point. An album of vulnerability & truth, connecting Clay’s music with a lot of people.
As the momentum grew so did the song writing and recognition. Being invited to the APRA Music Awards in 2010 was a humbling experience for Clay. A finalist in the 2013 NCIEA Dolphin Music Awards and support by Cole Clark Guitars & Bigfoot Stomp Boxes through this period.
After doing 150 shows a year for a number of years the wheels were slowing up, something was missing. That was about to change with the news of a baby girl on the way. The PA was packed away and Clay and his wife embraced parenthood.
Living on the North Coast, it was easy to get a live music fix with all the incredible local and touring artists that performed in the area. Between sporadic performances, writing and home recordings the music kept flowing and a few years later another blessing was given and a baby boy arrived.
Clay was craving the country life again and wanted the same for his family. The removalist truck was packed and the decision was made to relocate to the quiet and historic town of Tenterfield in the Northern Tablelands. The space and quiet has given Clay’s song writing a whole new lease on life.
The taste of the stage is still there, so don’t be surprised if you see Clay Blyth start to return with his unique blend of guitars, mouth harp & foot stomp. An artist that soulful and humble lyrics accompanied by original music, creates a sound that is honest and true.
Please leave you're name and email along with your comment or enquiry and I will reply as soon as possible or feel free to give me a buzz 0431 024 095
   | ||