She is a little bit special, is blues vocalist Sari Schorr, but if you haven't already met her acquaintance, you've not too long to wait.
The New York based singer is currently on this side of the pond, and her tour calls in to The Stables at Wavendon on Wednesday, April 12.
Sari, who originally gained prominence throughout the blues world after consistently touring the US and Europe with Blues legend Joe Louis Walker and guitar ace Popa Chubby has recently been in Bath (the historical hub, not the tub!) recording the follow-up album to her critically acclaimed debut album ‘A Force of Nature.'
Sari went On Track with Total MK sharing the music that has soundtracked her life...
The song that first awakened your musical senses
“Strange Fruit” performed by Billie Holiday made me aware of the immense power of music. I could feel Billies’ voice actually penetrating my body. I was literally ‘touched’ which is why music is so intimate.
Physical or digital - how do you take your music?
When I’m on the road I’ll buy digital music. But, I prefer the tactile connection of a physical album. I enjoy reading through lyrics and album credits curled up on the couch. I have a huge record collection in my studio and I get a sense of comfort being surrounded by the music I love.
The first time you thought 'Music - this is the job for me’
I always knew I wanted to be a singer. I was 7 years old when I first sang for a few neighbors in the small living room of my parents apartment in Queens, New York. But, when I began to hone my craft as a songwriter in college, I started to seriously think about making music my life’s work. My dream was to be good enough to have the privilege of making music professionally.
Your best on stage memory…
When I was in Haiti after the devastating earthquake, I attended a Sunday mass with one of the other relief workers. He told the congregation that I was a singer. They invited me to lead the congregation in song. Beyond the humble walls of the church, there was nothing but rubble. The lives of thousands of people were shattered and yet there we were singing together, finding strength through music. The joyous voices of the congregation were rising over the debris, and I was in tears.
And the worst gig you've ever done
I was singing in a shoddy club in New York that was run by a wannabe gangster. We were halfway through the first song when two thugs came in. A fight broke out, the owner was stabbed, the kitchen went up in flames and my terrified cousins from out-of-town were unfortunately there to hear my band for the first time.
What made you take up singing
My love for music and people. And, perhaps because I’m very sensitive to sound. I think even as a young child I experienced myself through music. Singing helped me understand myself.
Which one song by another artist do you wish you had written
“Imagine” by John Lennon. It’s a gorgeous song with an enduring message.
And one - by yourself - which holds special significance
All of my songs are deeply personal. “Ordinary Life” does have special significance because it was written during a difficult and confusing period in my life.
Are there any current influences you look to
Lately, I’ve been listening to some of the lesser known folk artists of the late 1960’s. I’ve been listening Sandy Denny, Vashti Bunyan, and Linda Perhacs. When I’m looking for inspiration to help me with lyrics, I turn to the poetry of Emily Dickinson.
David Bowie. Like many people, I find him completely fascinating.
And any genre of music that you simply can't stand?
I try to be open minded about different genres, but I’ll never support any kind of music that promotes violence, glorifies guns, or degrades women or men.
Finally, plug your show at The Stables in Milton Keynes - what can we expect?
It will be our first time at The Stables. I know it will be a special night. The Engine Room and I will be performing songs from the new album, “A Force of Nature,” along with a few surprises, and we’ll be ready to do our best to deliver one hell of an unforgettable show.
To book tickets click www.stables.org
