2025 has been a productive year for richly-voiced Tāmaki Makaurau pop artist Lottie, with four singles released and her first ever Australian show. Lottie has an extensive background in dance and is no stranger to the stage, or the unexpected challenges of life. Not right now is a smooth, emotional, chill playlist track that was included on NZ On Air Music’s November NewTracks compilation.

What is your given name and where are you from? What instruments do you play?

Charlotte Gilmour. I was born and raised in the Manawatū (Palmerston North/Pahiatua) and I’m currently living in Auckland. I play piano and guitar.

Any previous music projects that we might know you from?

Possibly some of my earlier singles released last year. My first release, Gimme, made the Aotearoa Hot Charts. I also put on my first-ever headline show this year, which fortunately gained a lot of traction.

What were the first steps to Lottie becoming a recording artist?

I’ve honestly always dreamed of becoming a recording artist, but it wasn’t until I was diagnosed with a rare condition that I actually took the leap. Once I got out of hospital in 2023, I started sending my demos out to producers — that’s where the whole project really began.

You also have a background in professional dance.

Yes. I started dancing when I was four and never stopped. By 13, I was training 20+ hours a week in all genres. At 17, I received a full scholarship to a full-time dance school in Sydney, where we trained over 40 hours a week and started auditioning for work. A huge part of my love for dance came from the music — I was obsessed with how it made me feel. I knew I wanted to try and create that same emotional impact in my own music for other people.

How has your songwriting evolved over time?

I think my songwriting has evolved more in the process of how the music gets made. I’ve always had a clear idea of what I wanted to say, but if I overthink things, I get lost in my own head. Now I trust my first ideas and gut instinct a lot more, which has let me enjoy what comes out so much more.

Aside from this release, what’s been the big music highlight to date?

Definitely my Melbourne show. It was my first time performing overseas, and the energy was unreal.

What made Not right now stand out for you as a single choice?

Dan Martin pitched the song to me. He and Keenan Te wrote it together in a session. The first time I heard it, I connected instantly — it felt like someone had taken a feeling I’d had a hundred times and put it into the exact words I could never quite say.

What is the story behind Not right now?

It’s about being in a relationship where you both keep saying “forever,” but things just aren’t working right now. Even though I didn’t write it, that feeling hit me so hard. It’s that mix of love, frustration, and honesty that makes the song feel so real.

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, of the single?

My favourite moment is the lift into the chorus. It’s the point where everything opens up and the emotion really lands. It’s the moment the song stops holding back.

Who did you record/produce the single with and where?

Dan pitched it to me and I was lucky enough to be the one to cut it. We recorded it at Parachute Studios in Auckland. We actually laid all the vocals in one session — one of the quickest recording sessions we’ve ever done together!

What would you like listeners to take away from the song?

I hope listeners feel seen. Relationships aren’t always perfect, even when the love is real — and it’s okay to admit when things just aren’t working right now.

Who else is in your team?

In my team at the moment are Dan Martin and Ben Malone, who produce most of my work. On the creative side, I have Kate Stacey. She handles all styling and visual direction for my projects, she helps me with everything. I feel super lucky to have her.

What sort of socials channel content works well for you?

TikTok isn’t my only main channel, but it’s definitely one of the strongest for reaching new people. I switch between that and Instagram the most. The content that works best for me is when I’m being vulnerable about how life is going — whether that’s health, music or personal things. People really connect with the real moments. 

You played in Melbourne ahead of your single release. How did that come about?

A dance school over there had been using my songs in their classes and reached out. They invited me to teach and perform. What was meant to be an intimate 30-person show turned into almost 120 people showing up. It was the most beautiful, welcoming crowd — such a special moment for me.

Please name three other local tunes that would fit well on a playlist alongside your song.

Robinson: Nothing to Regret
Lucy Gray: Trying So Hard
Lorde: Liability

Have any of your previous singles been included on NewTracks?

Between The Lines was part of NewTracks, around February or March this year.

Have you previously applied for NZOA funding with other singles? Any advice for artists starting out?

Yes, I’ve applied before. My biggest advice is build a clear vision first. Know your story, your sound, and what you want to achieve. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get funding straight away — keep creating, keep applying, and keep growing your audience.

Are there any musical blogs, YouTube channels, or podcasts you’re super into?

I loved the Tahi podcast. It’s unfortunately finished now, but their support of Kiwi artists was amazing. I also love Jake Shane’s podcast. It’s not just music-focused, but he interviews a lot of artists and it’s always a great listen.

How can we find you on social media?

Instagram

TikTok

YouTube

Is there a music video?

We actually didn’t do a music video for Not right now. I wanted to keep this one audio-focused and let the emotion of the track lead.

Any last words?

Just a massive thank you to everyone who continues supporting me and streaming my music. I genuinely wouldn’t be able to keep doing this without you — I’ll forever be grateful.