Australian pop trailblazers The Veronicas, comprised of twin sisters Jess and Lisa Origliasso, recently made a significant appearance on triple j’s revered Like A Version series, delivering a compelling rendition of sombr’s acclaimed track "12 to 12." This performance, recorded during the station’s specially expanded Like A Version month, marked a notable milestone for the Brisbane-raised duo, signifying their proper debut on the iconic segment after nearly two decades in Australia’s pop landscape. In addition to their chosen cover, the sisters also treated listeners to a powerful live version of their enduring breakout hit, "Untouched," a testament to their lasting influence and continued relevance in the global music scene.
The Veronicas’ Deep Dive into "12 to 12"
The decision by The Veronicas to tackle sombr’s "12 to 12" was not arbitrary, as the duo themselves articulated in the studio. They introduced their choice by hailing sombr as a "compelling songwriter," expressing an immediate and profound connection to the track. Jess and Lisa described "12 to 12" as a standout piece of contemporary pop writing that swiftly became an "obsession" for them after their initial listen. Their appreciation stemmed from the song’s meticulously crafted structure and infectious melody, which they lauded as prime examples of "sharp pop craftsmanship." As seasoned songwriters with a career spanning close to two decades, The Veronicas possess a keen understanding of musical composition, making their endorsement of sombr’s work particularly resonant. They emphasized their admiration for artists who exhibit a strong, instinctive ability to construct memorable and impactful pop songs, a quality they clearly identified in "12 to 12." This selection not only showcased The Veronicas’ discerning musical tastes but also served to shine a broader spotlight on sombr, an artist whose work may now reach a significantly expanded audience through the twins’ endorsement and the widespread platform of Like A Version.
The Enduring Legacy of "Untouched"
Beyond their innovative cover, The Veronicas’ performance of "Untouched" served as a powerful reminder of their indelible mark on pop music. Released in 2007 as a single from their critically acclaimed album Hook Me Up, "Untouched" quickly became a global phenomenon, characterized by its rapid-fire vocal delivery, soaring chorus, and dramatic strings. The track not only achieved multi-platinum status in Australia but also broke into international charts, including the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, cementing The Veronicas’ reputation as international pop stars. In recent years, "Untouched" has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, particularly across various social media platforms like TikTok and streaming services. This renewed attention speaks volumes about the song’s timeless appeal and its ability to connect with new generations of listeners. The live rendition on Like A Version undoubtedly reignited nostalgia for long-time fans while introducing its infectious energy to a fresh audience, reinforcing its status as one of the duo’s most recognizable and beloved releases. The performance highlighted not just the song’s musical brilliance but also the sisters’ unwavering vocal prowess and stage presence, which remain as captivating as ever.
The Cultural Phenomenon of triple j’s Like A Version
triple j’s Like A Version has evolved into one of Australia’s most influential and cherished musical segments since its inception. Launched in 2004, the weekly feature invites prominent and emerging artists into the triple j studio to perform a cover song of their choice, alongside one of their original tracks. Over the years, it has become a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its capacity to unearth unexpected musical interpretations, introduce new audiences to diverse genres, and often catapult both the covering artists and the original songs into renewed public consciousness.
The segment’s impact is multifaceted. For many Australian artists, an appearance on Like A Version is considered a significant career milestone, offering unparalleled exposure to triple j’s dedicated national listenership, which averages over 1.6 million weekly listeners across its various platforms. The performances are meticulously recorded and subsequently uploaded to YouTube, where many covers have garnered millions of views, far exceeding the reach of typical radio broadcasts. For instance, several Like A Version videos boast over 10 million views, with some even surpassing the 50 million mark, demonstrating the immense viral potential of the segment. This digital longevity ensures that these performances continue to resonate long after their initial broadcast, frequently leading to spikes in streaming numbers for both the covered track and the artist’s original discography. Beyond commercial metrics, Like A Version fosters a unique space for musical dialogue, allowing artists to pay homage to their influences, showcase their versatility, and connect with their audience on a deeper, more personal level. It underscores the power of reinterpretation in music, highlighting how a familiar melody can be transformed and infused with new meaning through a different artist’s lens.
An Expanded Month of Musical Innovation
The Veronicas’ performance arrived during triple j’s special, expanded Like A Version month, an initiative designed to feature a wider array of artists delivering both covers and originals. This strategic expansion signals triple j’s commitment to celebrating the breadth and depth of contemporary music, offering more opportunities for artists to showcase their talent and for listeners to discover new sounds. The decision to extend the series beyond its traditional Friday morning slots demonstrates an understanding of the segment’s immense popularity and its capacity to engage audiences across different days of the week.
The expanded schedule kicked off with a memorable performance from Baltimore hardcore band Turnstile, who delivered a powerful rendition of The Stone Roses’ classic "I Wanna Be Adored." This particular cover was imbued with a poignant tribute to the Stone Roses’ late bassist, Mani, showcasing the segment’s capacity for emotional depth and respect for musical heritage. Such performances not only highlight the versatility of the covering artists but also introduce classic tracks to younger audiences who might not be familiar with the originals.
Looking ahead, the special month promises an exciting lineup of diverse talent. Additional acts scheduled to appear include electronic artist Oklou, Indigenous Australian rapper Baker Boy, acclaimed indie-folk singer-songwriter Lucy Dacus, rising pop artist MAY-A, hip-hop innovator Kevin Abstract, and promising emerging talent Inkabee. This curated selection underscores triple j’s commitment to showcasing a broad spectrum of genres and artists, from established international names to burgeoning local talents, reinforcing its role as a vital platform for musical discovery and cultural exchange in Australia. The expanded format allows for a more comprehensive snapshot of the contemporary music landscape, offering something for every listener and solidifying Like A Version‘s reputation as a dynamic and essential program.
The Veronicas’ Journey: A Timeline of Australian Pop Dominance
The Veronicas’ journey in the music industry is a testament to their resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication. Their career timeline is punctuated by significant milestones that have cemented their status as one of Australia’s most successful pop exports:
- Early 2000s: Jess and Lisa Origliasso begin their musical career, initially writing songs for other artists before attracting attention as performers themselves.
- 2005: Debut Album "The Secret Life Of…" – The twins release their debut studio album, which quickly achieves multi-platinum status in Australia. It spawns hit singles like "4ever" and "Everything I’m Not," establishing their edgy pop-rock sound.
- 2007: "Hook Me Up" and International Breakthrough – Their second album, Hook Me Up, solidifies their international appeal. The lead single, "Untouched," becomes a global hit, charting in numerous countries including the US, UK, and Ireland. The album showcases a more electronic and synth-pop direction.
- 2009-2012: Hiatus and Creative Evolution – Following extensive touring and promotional cycles, The Veronicas take a hiatus, during which they explore individual projects and refine their artistic direction. This period of reflection contributes to their evolution as musicians.
- 2014: Self-Titled Comeback Album "The Veronicas" – The duo makes a triumphant return with their third studio album. The single "You Ruin Me" becomes their second number-one hit in Australia, proving their enduring popularity and ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes.
- 2016: "In My Blood" Success – "In My Blood" becomes another chart-topping single in Australia, marking their third number one and showcasing a vibrant, contemporary pop sound.
- Late 2010s – Early 2020s: Continued Releases and TV Appearances – The Veronicas continue to release new music, experiment with different styles, and engage with their fanbase. They also make notable appearances on various television programs, further cementing their status as cultural icons.
- Present Day: Their Like A Version debut, performing on the show for the first time with a cover and an original, marks a new chapter, connecting with a key Australian music institution and reaffirming their position at the forefront of the industry. Their continued ability to produce impactful music and deliver captivating live performances underscores their lasting relevance.
Broader Impact and Implications
The Veronicas’ appearance on Like A Version carries significant implications for various stakeholders within the music industry. For sombr, the artist whose track "12 to 12" was covered, the exposure is invaluable. The endorsement from a globally recognized act like The Veronicas, coupled with the immense reach of triple j, can lead to a substantial increase in listenership, streaming numbers, and overall visibility. This kind of cross-promotion often serves as a powerful catalyst for emerging or indie artists, validating their work and potentially opening doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and a wider fanbase. Industry analysts often observe a significant uptick in an original song’s digital metrics after a high-profile Like A Version cover, sometimes by as much as 30-50% in the weeks following the broadcast.
For The Veronicas themselves, this performance serves to reaffirm their status as relevant and innovative artists. Despite nearly two decades in the spotlight, their willingness to engage with contemporary music and embrace new platforms demonstrates their artistic vitality. Performing on Like A Version allows them to connect with a younger demographic that frequently tunes into triple j, potentially expanding their fanbase beyond their established audience. It also showcases their musical integrity and skill, proving they are not just pop stars but also serious musicians with a deep appreciation for songwriting craft. This strategic engagement helps to maintain their cultural currency and ensures their continued presence in public discourse.
Furthermore, for triple j and the broader Australian music industry, the expanded Like A Version month, featuring a diverse lineup including acts like The Veronicas, Turnstile, and upcoming artists such as Baker Boy and Lucy Dacus, reinforces the station’s commitment to fostering a vibrant and eclectic music scene. By providing a platform for both established legends and rising stars, triple j continues to play a pivotal role in shaping musical tastes and promoting Australian talent on a national and international scale. The segment’s consistent popularity and its ability to generate widespread discussion underscore its unique position as a cultural institution that both reflects and influences the evolving soundscape of contemporary music.
The success of Like A Version also highlights the enduring power of cover songs in music. Covers act as a bridge between different genres and generations, allowing artists to reinterpret classics, introduce new material, and showcase their versatility. They can breathe new life into forgotten gems, offer fresh perspectives on well-loved hits, and create unexpected musical fusions that captivate audiences. This dynamic interplay of original and reinterpreted music ensures a constant flow of creativity and discovery, benefiting artists, listeners, and the music industry as a whole.
In conclusion, The Veronicas’ captivating dual performance on triple j’s Like A Version – a thoughtful homage to sombr’s "12 to 12" and a powerful revisit to their own classic "Untouched" – underscores their enduring impact on Australian pop music. This appearance not only celebrated their nearly two-decade-long career but also highlighted the cultural significance of the Like A Version series itself, a program that consistently enriches the musical landscape by fostering artistic discovery and reinterpretation. As triple j continues its expanded month of diverse performances, the event stands as a testament to the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of the contemporary music scene, with The Veronicas firmly at its dynamic core.