Jan 07, 2012         Editorials         by Leah-Marie Roqueza

Timomatic appeared on our TV screens on So You Think You Can Dance in 2009, and reached the top eight. After a stint as Tyrone in the Australian version of Fame the Musical, he appeared in Australia’s Got Talent in 2011, and reached the top three. On the show, he proved he was more than just a dancer and unleashed his singing talents, fully becoming an all-round performer. Now, the rising star is out of the reality TV spotlight and has released the track titled Set It Off.

Planet Urban asked him about his new music, previously released independent album, supporting Salt-n-Pepa on tour, and he also reveals his US goal.

Where did the name ‘Timomatic’ come from?

I started getting called ‘Omatic’ when I was 16 by a few mates of mine who dug the way I danced, Tim was put in front [of] it later on, so people knew who I was.

How did you find the courage and confidence to audition for Australia's Got Talent after Australia had already seen you in So You Think You Can Dance two years earlier?

It wasn't easy, but I knew I had to take a massive risk for the chance of pushin’ my career and my life to the next level. A lot was on the line, but I was well prepared, so it went well. 

How would you describe your song Set It Off and what is it about?

“Set It Off” is a feel good summer banger that makes [you] want to dance wherever you hear it. It has an infectious beat and very catchy lyrics. The song is basically about having fun on the dance floor. No hidden meaning, it's about lovin’ life

Can you tell us about your independent album, Welcome, and how you worked on it?

Welcome album was a project I kinda fell into. In 2010, I was in a really creative mind space. While I was touring in Fame the Musical, I would go to my hotel room after each show and write, record and produce songs. They just flowed out of me. One night I wrote three, I couldn't stop. I sent about 20 songs to my manager and he was like, “You should choose the best 12 and make them an album”. That's how the Welcome album came about. The title 'Welcome' represents what I want listeners to feel the first time they hear it. 

Will you be releasing more singles and an album?

Most definitely. Plan to release a lot in the new year with some really cool international collaborations.

What would your upcoming album sound like?

I have a quite eclectic taste in music, but generally the album will be up tempo, full of urban/pop tracks that have soul and that will inspire listeners to dance like crazy.

What artists would you like to collaborate with?

Beyonce, Tinie Tempah, Will.i.am, Rihanna and Kanye West.

What was it like to support Salt-n-Pepa, Flo Rida and Janet Jackson on tour, and did you get to meet them?

It was incredible to say the least to be support for these artists. I had a great time performing in front of their audiences. I got to meet Salt-n-Pepa; they were real cool, down-to-earth ladies. We partied a little, hehehe.

Is it still challenging for you to sing and dance at the same time?

I find singing and dancing simultaneously easier the more I perform, but it just means I rehearse harder to make it look easier. 

Do you plan to release your music in America?

For sure. US has the most competitive pop music market in the world and it would be an honour to release music there. My goal is to win a Grammy. 

What would be your advice to aspiring entertainers?

Two words - Hunger and Humility. Always be willing to learn more, rehearse more, perform better and just want more! And know that the power to connect with people through music and performance is a gift and one you should be very grateful for because it's rare.