By now, most of us are finally out of our holiday FOMO and getting stuck into what we’ve vowed (yet again) will be ‘our’ year. Hopefully you haven’t already ruined your New Year’s resolution but it’s never too late to reassess and get back on the right track for the next 12 months.

We asked some our creative mates to share their pivotal moments of the past year, as well as their predictions for 2016. First off the mark, Melbourne singer/songwriter Maribelle reveals her thoughts for the year ahead, including the development of her new record label Crush Club.

What was your favourite pop culture moment of 2015? 

Drake’s ‘Hotline Bling’ dancing and the countless memes that followed.

Where was the best place you travelled to last year?

I went to LA which is always an amazing experience. I finally got to link up IRL with the URL homie Djemba Djemba after writing online for a year before that. I’m looking forward to heading back there soon.

What was your favourite gig in 2015?

Playing Groovin’ The Moo with Carmada was a definite highlight. Having so many people singing my lyrics to ‘On Fire’ was an incredible feeling. I also got to meet the lovely Charli XCX who sang my song with Carmada at the Groovin’ The Moo in Maitland.

What are you happy to leave behind as we move into 2016? 

Stress. I overworked myself so much last year, I was writing so much I forgot to go out and live life. It is difficult to stay inspired when you aren’t really experiencing much outside of the studio.

What are you looking forward to this year? 

New adventures, new friends and plenty of new music. I’m keen to get working on releases for my label Crush Club. There is so much untapped talent out there, I’m just hyped on seeking out like minds who want to push the boundaries of pop music.

What are your top three trend predictions for 2016? 

1. Sleepwear as outerwear

2. Low contrast, soft filter

3. More Cowbell

What would you like to see more of this year?

I’d like to see more risks being taken creatively. Often people are so focused on “How do we make the song a hit?” or “Should we dumb the song down?”. If it feels good, the go with it. Hopefully others will feel that too.

Do you have any resolutions for 2016?

My resolution for 2016 was originally to eat better and live a healthier lifestyle but who am I kidding? Pizza still exists. I’d like to make more time to see my friends and spend my time making memories.

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