Simply Six: Laura Distasi

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 can't say I do have a defining moment like that.  From as early as I can remember singing and performing has just been something I've just done.  Of course the platform and process has evolved over the years, from the steps (aka stage) in my childhood living room to clubs and venues, and I grew and am growing into myself as an artist, but I'd be confident saying that I've always known that being a performing artist is what I've wanted.

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

Artists I am loving these days are Feist, Bon Iver, Death Cab For Cutie, Metric, April Smith and the Great Picture Show, James Vincent McMorrow - I could go on and on and on.  There's so much incredible music and inspiration out there.

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

Every time I finish an album, it is a truly satisfying moment.  It's rare that I don't feel either anxiety, inspiration, or momentum pushing me to the next thing.  Completing an album gives me a moment to pause and reflect on having created something that didn't exist before and put it out there, which I think is a really good thing.

So I would say moments like that, and some touring moments as well, would be my greatest so far.

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

Well this is a big question, that could be approached from many angles and reference points.

Speaking only from my experience as an individual, music has had a profound effect on my growth, development and self expression.

If music affects every person in a similar way, as a piece of of what shapes and inspires us as we grow into ourselves, then of course it will have an effect on the world - as the world is made up of all of us affected individuals.

We are not all listening to the same music or from the same perspective, but everything we are exposed to changes us and expands the boundaries of our experience - so yes, music can change the world.

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

How has technology not affected the music industry?  In a nutshell, for the better: it's put a lot more power to create music and reach fans into the hands of artists.  For the worse, it's made it easier for the public to pay a minimum amount, if anything, for a product it takes lots of time and money to create, leaving less resources for record companies, etc, to invest in new or non-mainstream artists.

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

Ha!  I'm defaulting to black, Saucony originals, which I would wear every day if I could and have owned about 10 pairs of - as I wear them out.