Bio
Broke N’ Busy is a four-piece alt/soft rock band based in Cairns, blending heartfelt melodies with gritty punk energy. Formed in mid-2024, the band has been carving out a name for themselves with raw, relatable lyrics and dynamic live shows that keep the crowd buzzing. With Alex on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, Josh shredding lead guitar, Michael laying down the basslines, and Ethan driving it all home on drums, Broke N’ Busy brings a tight, honest sound that hits hard and stays with you. Currently grinding toward their debut album, the band is proving that even when you’re broke and busy, there’s always time to make noise.
About
Broke N’ Busy is a punchy rock/punk band turning heads in Cairns, Queensland. Formed in 2024, the band blends nostalgic grit with youthful drive, carving out a sound inspired by classic rock and punk from the ’70s to ’90s—with a modern edge.
Fronted by Alex Govan (17)—a Gordonvale local and rhythm guitarist/vocalist—the band got its start as a music project at TAFE. After forming with classmates, the project quickly grew into something more. The current lineup includes:
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Alex (17) – Rhythm guitarist and lead vocalist. He’s been playing guitar since high school, starting with “Riptide” by Vance Joy, and hasn’t looked back since. Influenced by artists like Green Day, Guns N’ Roses, and INXS, Alex now manages the band and books all their gigs.
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Ethan (21) – Drummer. Originally a lead guitarist, Ethan transitioned to drums and brought years of experience from bands like Novocation, Soul-Jah, and Mørtal Wound. He and Alex met at TAFE and quickly clicked musically.
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Josh (20) - Lead guitarist. Alex met Josh through a Broke N’ Busy gig, and his style instantly fit. With a Diploma in Music and a solid stage presence, Josh adds a slick, driving force to the band's evolving sound.
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Michael (22) – Bassist. Self-taught and raised on Nirvana, Metallica, and Tool, Michael connected with Alex through another band. His gritty, melodic basslines round out the group’s punchy rhythm section.
The name Broke N' Busy nods to Alex’s love for Guns N' Roses and captures the band’s grind-hard, play-louder attitude. They’re building a reputation for passionate live shows and tight musicianship, playing a mix of original songs and covers across local venues like the Tanks Arts Centre, Performing Arts Centre, Parkview Hotel, and Mountain View Hotel.
Some standout moments so far include playing Relay for Life in support of cancer patients, and gearing up for appearances at the Tablelands Folk Festival. They’re currently working on their debut album, slated for release later this year.
For Alex, the dream is big: from local stages to the MCG and Madison Square Garden. With their raw sound, relentless drive, and deep love for music, Broke N’ Busy is just getting started.
