Violet Town’s Killing Heidi lands in Triple J’s Hottest 100 of Australian songs

Lead singer Ella Hooper said it was amazing to make the countdown and be recognised alongside some of Australia’s most iconic music.

“It was a real honour, and such a nice compliment from the voting public to see how they feel about that song,” she said.

“I love that it was a surprise, and I think everyone enjoyed the anticipation of finding out what landed where. Seventy-seven feels like a good, lucky number to me.

“I love that we were nestled in with some of our touring buddies, like Eskimo Joe and other icons, which is an honour.”

Hooper said she never thought Weir would still be resonating with listeners so many years later — but it was huge for the band to be part of the historic countdown.

“You never think about legacy when you’re writing or recording a song,” she said.

“You’re so in the moment, trying to capture that feeling — whatever it is — you have to be very present.

“Whenever your art and efforts are recognised and celebrated, it’s a lovely feeling because you know it comes from some sort of connection.

“That’s what we — or I at least — do it for. To touch people and feel connected through music.

“But it's a beautiful thing how the meaning, the effect and the gravity of it even can change and grow over time, as it has with Weir.

“I think the song has a youthful naivety and honesty to it that people love being transported back to, as it can become harder and harder to feel that way as we age and the world wears you down.”

Weir was released as a single from Killing Heidi’s debut studio album, Reflector, in 1999, and it came in second in Triple J’s Hottest 100 countdown that year.

Their song Mascara also made an appearance in the countdown from 200 at #174, which Hooper said they loved.

“It’s funny that back in the day, that song actually charted higher than Weir,” Hooper said.

“It went to number one, but as time has passed, Weir has become more so the song we are known for.

“I love both songs equally and feel like they are kind of ying yang — opposite but complimentary sisters.

“You never know how time will shape things.”

Hooper said coming from Violet Town massively shaped Killing Heidi’s music and journey as a band.

“I think my country roots show through in everything I do, and it certainly helped Killing Heidi stand out at the beginning too,” she said.

“It's always good to have an unexpected backstory in music.

“I always think it’s my secret weapon, coming from a tiny town like Violet Town.

“We appreciate you and feel blessed to be having this purple patch in our career 25-plus years in, it’s a real joy to be a part of your listening history.”