Craig Smith: Lyrical songsmith

How would you describe your style of music?

Lyrical, cruisy, easy listening.

What does NZ music month mean to you?

A chance for New Zealand music to have a focal point. It's great to promote home-grown talent.

Have you written any songs about Christchurch or Canterbury?

Only Central Otago and the West Coast … sorry.

Are there any other influences on your music?

Influences come from anywhere, everywhere. Emotions, times, places, things that are said and done for a laugh everything.

What's your favourite New Zealand song / and why?

Depends on my mood, but you can't really go past anything by Split Enz.

Who's you're favourite NZ artist and why?

As above. What I grew up on I guess. The first NZ band that made a real impact on me

Do you have a cd/cds available?

Yes I have an album called 13 originals, and a new album about to be released called Don't shake my tree. Check my website for details. A kids album is in the pipeline.

Tell us a little about your background -your home, your family, non-musical interests and so on…

I was born in 1972 in Central Otago. I first picked up the guitar when I was 12. Initially wanting to play the tunes I grew up with it wasn’t long before I was playing the songs of Neil Young, Bob Dylan and various blues artists. On any given sunny day that i don't have a gig organised i am prone to wandering down to Cashel Street mall or the Cathedral Square to do a little busking. I can't think of anything better than sitting in the sun sipping a cup of coffee and watching good people walk by while singing to songs that I perform. Hope to see you there. Most Sundays you'll find me at Riccarton Market doing the same.