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?
Two moments come to mind immediately, one involving The Beatles actually. That first moment was a few weeks after I entered high school. I heard The Beatles' White Album for the first time and I fell in love. Particularly "Dear Prudence" and "Blackbird" captured my imagination and I became aware of some measure of the power and depth of words placed over a backdrop of beautiful sound. Believe it or not, I had never heard either of these songs until that year (1999). My parents sat me down and asked if I was on drugs, I replied, "No, I've discovered some wonder!" Or something along those lines. The second moment happened when I was 17. I went to the Greensboro Coliseum and heard The Boss. From the moment he took the stage, I felt both inspired and awed. I kept thinking, "I've got to do this. I wonder if I can...maybe, just maybe I've got it in me..."
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
This question is always a blessing to answer because I can pay homage to those on whose shoulders I stand. As a folk singer, I am frequenting studying Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Van Morrison and James Taylor records. As far as current talent, I'm listening to Joe Pug, Josh Ritter, Tallest Man on Earth, Bon Iver, M. Ward, and James Blake, to name a few. I can honestly say that I cherish music, both making and listening.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
Two weeks ago I released a new album entitled BrotherStranger and I had a release event in my hometown of Greensboro, NC. I decided to try something new in the promotion of the record release and in the event itself. Instead of planning a whole tour, I focused all my energy on the release event in NC. I'd say one of the greatest moments of my career to date was the final song. We closed the night with "We Shall Overcome" and because of all the planning and rehearsals, we were able to put together a version that utilized fourteen musicians (cello, upright bass, violin, 2 trumpets, a baritone horn, a banjo, an acoustic guitar, an organ, two electric guitars, a full drum kit, a percussion kit, a floor tom and 6 part vocal harmony). The arrangement called for a steady build until the last song when all the horns came in and we sang at the top of our lungs. It felt to me like I was standing in the middle of a storm of sound and passion. I will never forget it.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
I know that music can change the world. Music can and has set the tone for culture in the past and continues to do so. Music has resulted in conversations about topics that could otherwise be ignored between people who are dissimilar. It can be used to connect people and it touches the timeless parts of humanity. Music can be used to draw attention to injustice, provide balm during seasons of mourning or darkness, and to enrich a celebration. Music is a wondrous and mysterious thing.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Technology has been a huge blessing to me and enabled me to produce my first two albums. Technology enables studios to be more portable and sound quality to be more excellent with less factors controlled. In addition, I now have ways to share music and make my music available all over the world with a few clicks. On the other hand, CD sales have dropped dramatically as a result of technology and there is an overabundance of mediocrity on the scene. I think that technology is neither good nor bad in and of itself. It can diminish beauty or it can heighten it.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
Intriguing question. I've just asked my best friend and fiance, she replied with these words, and I'll agree with her, "Something worn in. Something that can't lie. Old, brown, leather and weathered." Rhyming...nice. She may be a songwriter yet.
