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?
I pretty much knew I wanted to be a singer from a very young age. I used to sing around the house and record little songs on my record player until I drove my grandma crazy. But when I heard a great singer named Natalie Dessay live in NYC, it sent chills down my spine and inspired me to have the kind of discipline it takes to really study singing.
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Right now I’m in a Lady Gaga phase. I especially enjoy 80’s and early 90’s pop music, Madonna, and movie soundtracks – I love them. I also listen to other types of classical music.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
This might sound funny, because I’ve been enjoying so many moments recently, but I’d have to go with the time I was ten years old and sang in front of the whole school for the first time and got a really enthusiastic response. On that day my private wish to be a performer went public for the first time, and it felt phenomenal.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
I definitely believe music can and does change the world and profoundly influences current events. Just look at what a huge part The Beatles played in the USSR. Music influences people every day, and people shape events.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Technology has had a profound effect on the industry, both good and bad. In my own case technology has enabled me to realize my vision for the production of my songs without needing to be financed by a record company and without having access to a major studio. It allows me to get my videos in front of people via You Tube and it makes my songs available to the world via iTunes downloads. I believe that if record companies had not been so slow to embrace and set a fair price for music downloads they would not have suffered so much loss due to technology.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
A pair of Jimmy Choos. Something in a sandal.
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