What first got you into music?
Music chose me and not the other way around. I’ve been singing for as long as I can remember. In High School I would sing with my friends and one day they heard a band was looking for a female singer and encouraged me to try out. I did. I sang Tobacco Road. They hired me. And my life in music began.
Who inspired you to make music?
I was always moved by great singers, especially Gospel, where it appeared the soloists were simply vessels of God and that music flowed through them in such deep ways that their sound soared directly to my heart. And Blues moved me. Singing through pain and simultaneously touching a joyous part of that pain was miraculous to me. I loved that feeling of connectedness. To something greater than myself. It was palpable. I knew I had to dig into my own life and find that place of soul that would be brought to my music. It was clear that it was because these singers were simply telling the truth. It was so honest and they so freely “gave it away”, it was received by me (and anyone else listening!) It was then that I realized that the most important thing for me to know about singing was that it was how you left your audience feeling was more important than the actual notes you might sing. Or the technique you might display. So I better know 1) what is the song about . 2) Who am I singing to? 3)Why it matters…and what is the risk? I had to do my own inner work, and be specific.
How would you describe the music that you typically create?
Because of the above, I am drawn to lyrics. Lyrics that speak to me, and resonate with something I want to share about life, love.
Can you discuss a career achievement you’re aiming for?
Regardless of my age, I would like to make a large impact with my music by getting my work out there on a large scale.
How do you overcome writer’s block?
Lately, I have been working on Standards – of the 40’s and of the 60’s , 70’s and reimagining them to a more current feel.
What album do you recommend everyone should listen to?
There are so many fabulous albums it is hard to choose. But, lately, I am listening to Jon Batiste, World Music Radio. I think he is genius. And another remarkable artist is Jacob Collier. Just WOW.
Can you share one of your favorite music-related memories?
A highlight for me was, after winning Best Vocalist for the The American Songwriter’s Assoc. International Contest , I recorded at Motown with writers Ron Miller and Ken Hirsch. They wrote songs for Anita Baker, Stevie Wonder, like “For Once In My Life”. “If I Could”. As a team they wrote wonderful tunes. I recently recorded one of Kenny’s songs – a Christmas song called “Almost Christmas Eve.”
What’s your go-to song or artist when you need a boost? Jon Batiste.
Do you have a favorite venue to play at or attend concerts?
I’ve been playing at a beautiful club in Bel Air, CA owned by Herb Alpert called Vibrato. One of the top venues in Los Angeles.
Who would you swap lives with for a day in the music industry?
As strange as this may seem, I would actually love to swap with Taylor Swift for a day. I have so much respect for this young woman! To sing in front of one of her massive audiences would be a great thrill.
What’s your favorite music decade and why?
I am biased because I grew up with this music, but I would say the 60’s 70’s. The music is still relevant. It was a crazy creative time and I am so fortunate to have been in the music scene then.
What’s a truly unforgettable concert you’ve attended? I have to say Prince. He totally blew me away with his show.
Tell me about your most recent released song.
The last song I released was a remake of “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas. The lyric is haunting. I am in the studio now recording more music. Stay tuned.