SIMPLY SIX: Sarah Tolar

Sarah Tolar is a jazz/folk singer from New York.

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?

My parents had a steady gig at a local hotel where I grew-up in Colorado. I remember going to hear them and sitting-in when I was 5 years old. I sang "Hey Good Lookin," a Hank Williams song. That moment felt so real and true and I knew this was exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

It changes every week! This week I'm into Wilco, Nina Simone, and a CD of traditional French folk songs a friend gave me. I can't understand a word but its the most beautiful thing I have ever heard!

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Opening for Christopher Cross at the Birchmere near Washington D.C. Christopher's audience was incredibly open and willing to fall in love with new music.

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

I absolutely believe that music can change the world! It changes our human experience everyday. Music is the only universal language. It can heal the depest wounds, breakthrough the hardest walls, and unite us like nothing else.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

I feel so lucky that I am able to have people in other parts of the world hear my music in an instant thanks to internet music sites like MySpace and iTunes. I am also lucky that I have access to a ton of artists and different kinds of music. And in regards to recording, we can all make records in our basement now! Again, lucky us to share our music so easily.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Wow, a question so close to my heart! I would be a good-lookin' pair of cowboy boots: comfortable but sexy and super sassy.