Australian powerhouse Greg Gould is bravely sharing his experiences with sexual assault with his incredible new single “Who Gave You Permission?” A potent mix of pop and soul, the anthemic song calls out his abusers and reveals his own strength. He hopes the track might empower other survivors on their own journey through the trauma.
“To be honest I’m only just starting to feel comfortable to talk about this,” he shared. “The first time I performed the song live I burst into tears. I have been a victim of sexual abuse on four separate occasions in all very different circumstances from when I was 10 years old, right up until I was 30. Each time left me feeling so violated, so powerless, paralysed. Nobody has the right to touch you without permission. No means no. It was a very emotional, heart-wrenching, and confronting experience to write this song to be honest as I’d pushed a lot of those feelings and experiences down and hadn’t dealt with them – it took a while for me to be OK to admit it. There is a stigma around sexual abuse in general, and I do think it can be really difficult for men who are the victim – whether it be at the hands of another man or a woman. In my case, it was both on separate occasions. I want other men to feel comfortable to talk about this and speak up too.”
Greg has a string of shows happening over the next few months, including several where he’ll play this stirring single.
“Whether the subject matter is darker or lighter, guests at my shows can expect big vocals, big moments and a lot of fun,” he enthused. “I love to perform and I’m excited for the next 12 months! I’ve got big plans and even bigger dreams. I am so proud that ‘Who Gave You Permission?’ is out now and I’m moving forward both personally and professionally! I would love if even one survivor of abuse feels stronger as a result of hearing this song. I want people to know they are seen, they are heard and they are believed. We won’t be broken.
You can see Greg at the following events.
10 May 2024 – Greek Legends of the 20th Century @ Palais Theatre, Naarm/Melbourne
18 May 2024 – Keep the Faith – George Michael & Whitney Houston @ Royal Brighton Yacht Club, Naarm/Melbourne
1 June 2024 – Gippsland Pride Gala @ Lardner Park, Gunai Country/Gippsland
7 June 2024 – Synthony @ Carriageworks, Eora/Sydney (SOLD OUT)
8 June 2024 – Synthony @ Carriageworks, Eora/Sydney
Photo credit: Cain Cooper