Fifteen-year-old Sophie Toyne possesses a voice that transcends her years – a soft lilt imbued with remarkable power and emotion, instantly captivating all who listen.
Her stage presence is already significant, evidenced by numerous awards on both sides of the Tasman. In a standout achievement, she won the 2024 Intermediate MLT Gold Guitar award, capturing the attention of many country music fans and in Tamworth, where she also achieved further success winning the CCMA National Talent Award this year.
However, it was New Zealand’s legendary producer Dick Le Fort who first recognized Sophie’s exceptional talent. At the tender age of 12, he was driving when he heard her singing in a radio Christmas song contest and was immediately struck by her voice.
Dick Le Fort’s impressive career includes producing multiple gold records for esteemed New Zealand artists such as Brendan Dugan and Jodi Vaughan. Notably, he also produced the 1979 album ‘This Heart This Song,’ the debut album of Sharon O’Neill.
Interestingly, a song written by Sharon O’Neill during that era, titled ‘Service of Mine,’ never ended up on that album and was never released by Sharon.
It’s wonderful that this evocative song, written 40 years ago, has finally been brought to life by Sophie’s exquisite rendition. The tune beautifully portrays a metaphorical scene of a girl in the back pew of a church, its haunting melody perfectly complementing the poignant imagery. It speaks of innocence, touches upon betrayal, and ultimately offers a sense of musical healing.
This first single from Sophie’s forthcoming album ‘Orange Skies’ showcases a bright future ahead.
The Release is out on Tasman Records and available on all digital stores here.
