MOLONG’s main street is among the Central West locations featured in singer-songwriter Clancy Pye’s new music video, My Hometown, with the artist describing it as one of her favourite filming locations.
Pye, originally from Oberon and now based in Orange, said her single My Hometown was inspired by growing up in a small country community and was written as an anthem for small towns.
While the lyrics were born from memories of Oberon, the accompanying music video showcases a string of Central West communities including Molong, Manildra, Eugowra, and more.
“We went to Molong first up and got some of my favourite shots of the video there,” Pye said.
“I’ve always thought the main street of Molong had so much character. Some of the key singing shots were filmed there at sunrise and it was a really beautiful time of day.
“We were catching a few of the locals coming to get their coffee as well.”
Pye said the video was designed to celebrate the qualities that make country towns special.
“I think it’s so easy to look at small communities for all the things they don’t have,” she said.
“We didn’t grow up with a McDonald’s or chain stores, but you know the person who serves you at the grocery shop, your schoolteacher probably coaches the local football team, and everybody knows everybody.
“I wanted this song to shine a light on all those little things that make growing up in a small town really unique and special.”
She said she deliberately chose towns that reflected the song’s lyrics.
“We wanted to show off towns where there are no traffic lights, no big department stores and it’s just local businesses. They’re communities where the locals are involved in everything.”
Pye hopes people feel a sense of pride when they recognise their own town on screen.
“I wanted people to feel proud of the places they grew up,” she said. “You never know who’s going to be watching, and I’ve had so many people discover my music because they recognised one of the towns in the video.”
Looking ahead, Pye plans to release two more singles this year before her debut 10-track album arrives in early 2027.
She also hopes to tour village halls throughout the Central West, bringing live music back to the community venues that once hosted regular dances and performances.
“I’d love to see those places being used for what they were built for,” she said.
