Simply Six: Rachel Brown

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 Sullivanshow, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

For as long as I can remember, I daydreamed about music, but I think it become a goal for me when I started teaching myself guitar at 18. I learned a couple chords and from there on started channeling my creative energy into songwriting. Any live show I go to, it doesn't matter what genre, reinforces my passion for writing and performing.

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

Bob Marley and the Wailers, Wyclef Jean, Jack Johnson, Bruno Mars...with streaming websites like Pandora, I find a lot of what I listen to is a mix of artists on shuffle. A Quickmix of my Ka'au Crater Boys and Smokey Robinson stations get the most use.

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

It's hard to choose, because different moments - big or small - have been so special to me along the way. One that certainly stands out is Wyclef Jean asking me to sing Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" with him at a charity event. That moment was incredible on so many levels - I was singing a song by a huge influence of mine with another another huge influence of mine one week after graduating college to pursue music full-time. Not only was it a moment I can cherish forever, but it gave me the boost of energy and confidence I needed to know I wasn't totally nuts to try and make a career in music.

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

Music can be so many things. It can inspire someone to do something personally or beyond themselves. From cleaning your house to rallies, music can ignite people.

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

My music has existed solely in the digital age, so I have nothing to compare it to other than my experience as a fan pre-internet. While I certainly miss the thrill of running to the record store to get a brand new CD, with the internet, music is so instantly accessible, post it and anyone can find it at any time. And with Twitter and Facebook, I can connect with fans of my music in any part of the world. It's amazing.

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

A well-worn pair of sandals, so I'd be somewhere warm and likely on the beach.