An iconic face in music, lyricist and singer Vyvyan Hammond from Australia is a human with versatile talent. She has spent a lot of her time in New Zealand too. In an exclusive interview, she talks with Rameez Makhdoomi.
A bit on your early life?
I was born in Sydney, Australia - then when I was 3 I moved to a farm in New Zealand. From very early on, I found solace in quiet corners, in nature, in imagining worlds beyond what was immediately in front of me. Music, for me, was always a part of me.
How was your interest in music developed?
I’ve been writing songs for as long as I can remember. When I was little I used to ride my BMX around our little town in New Zealand, singing to the trees, making up melodies and stories as I went.
Your musical journey?
After years of quietly creating, I stepped into the public sphere in 2025 with my debut single “Play Pretend” — released on 29 August. Play Pretend explores themes of self‑erasure in relationships. Just recently, I announced my second single, “Hunter Gathered”, to be released on 10 October 2025.
Your hobbies?
I studied design, photography, drawing and I love to create things with my hands - like knitting. But I also really love science and medicine.
Your favourite singers / musical influences?
Currently on high rotation is Lambrini Girls, Wet Leg, Delacey, Bowen Young, Aleksiah, Florence Road, Evie Erie, BEL and RageFlower.
Your professional works?
Debut single: Play Pretend (released 29 August 2025)
Upcoming / second single: Hunter Gathered (release date 10 October 2025)
Upcoming / third single: Starseed (release date 11 November 2025)
Upcoming album: Lovers Gonna Love, Haters Gonna Watch (release date Feb 2026)
How is life as a woman in Australia?
It can be contradictory. On one hand, Australia is very pro gender equality. Women can, and do, achieve high profile positions and get paid well. On the other hand Australia still suffers with a lot of gender bias.
Your message to humanity?
You don’t have to pretend. The masks, the adjustments, the parts of you that you hide — in hiding them, you lose parts of yourself. Speak, witness, listen. Art is a mirror, a map, a refuge.
