Lessons Learned from a Music Career, with Duncan Toombs, Singer-Songwriter and Director

Today, we’re heading to Australia to welcome Duncan Toombs—one of the country’s powerhouse vocalists and storytellers. Duncan’s music reconnects us to our humanity and reminds us of the importance of love, life, and family. I first heard Duncan live this summer when I visited Sydney and stopped into Jolene’s country bar and I was blown away by his performance.

Then, I learned Duncan appeared on Channel Seven’s The Voice, where his raw, powerful vocals won over the hearts of millions. His original song, Steel on Steel, went viral with nearly 3 million viewers tuning in, and it has since reached audiences worldwide on TikTok and Instagram.

Duncan is also a nine-time Golden Guitar Award winner, an ARIA #1 album artist with Steel on Steel, and a Hands of Fame inductee.

Duncan's Website

@duncantoombs on Instagram

Duncan's Facebook page

Duncan on YouTube

Here is an overview of our conversation, plus you'll hear samples from 3 of Duncan's songs:

The Voice & Viral Breakthrough

• Duncan, your performance of Steel on Steel on The Voice captivated millions and went viral globally. What was that moment like for you—and how did it change the way people connect with your music?

Storytelling Through Song

• Your songs are deeply rooted in love, life, and family. How do you translate personal experiences into stories that resonate so universally with listeners?

Crafting an Album

• Your album Steel on Steel reached ARIA #1. What was your creative process in pulling that project together, and what makes it different from your earlier work?

Sustaining a Career in Music

• With nine Golden Guitars and a Hand of Fame induction, you’ve already built an incredible legacy. What has kept you inspired to keep writing, performing, and pushing your artistry forward?

The Other Creative Pursuit: Filmmaking & Content Creation

• Many of our listeners are creatives themselves—writers, musicians, makers—trying to find their voice. What advice would you share about staying true to your craft while navigating other creative pursuits and an ever-changing industry?

Duncan, what’s one message you’d like to leave with listeners about the role of music in keeping us connected to each other and to what really matters in life?

Thanks to our sponsor, White Cloud Coffee—fueling creative conversations everywhere. Listeners, enjoy 10% off your first order at whitecloudcoffee.com

And before you go, don’t forget to download your free e-book of Your World of Creativity when you visit mark-stinson.com