He won over hearts all over the country last year when he made the final 12 on Channel 7’s The X-Factor, and it seems that the team at TONI&GUY Australia were also put under Barry Southgate’s spell. The hair care brand and its affiliate product partner Professional Haircare are proud to announce the singer as their new brand ambassador.
But it’s not just singing that is Southgate’s claim to fame. Boasting a multifaceted career, Southgate has landed a couple of acting roles, is an advocate for the health and fitness industry and has done a host of modelling gigs. He also has a prolific social media following, with 29,000 highly engaged followers on Instagram.
To find out more about this up-and-coming star, beautydirectory nabbed Southgate for five minutes to discover more about being the new brand ambassador for TONI&GUY and label.m, projecting the right image, and how he keeps his Instagram followers interested.
What makes you a good fit for each other?
To me, TONI&GUY and label.m embody style, innovation and excellence, all qualities I strive for in everything I do. And iron sharpens iron. Because of that, I think we're a great fit.
How important is having good hair to you?
So important. I think the way we wear our hair plays a massive part in the impressions we make on people. Hair is an extension of fashion, it should reflect a bit of my vibe and personality.
Do you believe it affects the persona you want to project?
100 per cent. You can't really judge a book by its cover, but it's safe to say we all wear our hair a certain way on purpose, for a reason. We're deliberate about it, because we want to "say" and project something about ourselves to people before even speaking.
You're an actor, model and singer. Which is your favourite?
Definitely music. Singing and writing songs is my favourite, followed by acting, then modelling.
Do you feel that being on The X-Factor has opened you up to doors that would have otherwise been shut?
Absolutely. Doing the show was one of the best things I've ever done in my life, and it's opened up so many doors. I learned so much professionally, met incredible people both on and off set. I got to travel and connect with my fans doing what I absolutely love for a living. Man... I don't think I'd even be chatting to you guys if I hadn't done the show!
With such a high number of followers on social media, do you feel pressured to do regular interesting posts?
I try not to over-think it. Even before The X-Factor, I was always a pretty "organic" poster. I'm more aware now of what I say and post, for sure. There's no hard or fast rule for me though, other than to just stay as true to myself and keep it as real as I can. I really think people can pick up whether you're being authentic or not through social media.
Who are your favourites to follow on social media?
Aargh, that's tough! I have lots, but a few of my favs right now are @Tiniegram, @TheRock, @180nutrition and @GQAustralia.