Interview: Brigitte London Discusses Austin, Nashville, And Drinking Whiskey

Some of you may remember Brigitte London since she participated in our iPod contest last month, and others of you may know of her from somewhere else. Recently she contacted us to see if we had received her album for the iPod, which we had, and since we adored the style of music she’s creating we took the opportunity to ask her a few questions. She also agreed to let us use one of her songs which you can find following the interview.

If you came across someone who hadn’t heard any of your music before and they asked you to pick one song from your collection for them to hear, which song would you pick?

Hmm. I guess I’d pick “Faith In You.” It was written in a cabin in the North woods of Wisconsin, during a time of reflection and change. It’s about learning to let go, and even though things may have gone wrong, there comes a time for understanding and forgiveness. Unconditional love.

What would you like to accomplish in your career that you haven’t accomplished already?

A lifelong career of recording. Still performing in my 70s, like Willie. That’s what matters.

I see that you’ve spent a lot of time in Austin and currently reside in Nashville, both cities have rich music scenes. From the time you’ve spent in both cities, have you noticed any difference between the two music scenes?

That is a huge question. One I have spent many hours thinking about, as I lived in Austin a long time. In some ways, they couldn’t be more different. The talent in Austin is unbelievable. There’s such a support of being unique and different, musical integrity is strong. But Austin is its own world, keeping the rest of the music world at bay. I had a tendency to get lost in only Austin music when I was there. I had to leave to grow, but Austin still remains in my soul.

Nashville is more business-based, focusing on getting songs cut. A lot of music business folks here are more interested in image than content. I don’t have much to do with that part. Yet, there is so much history here, and legendary performers in all genres reside here. And getting to make music with them is wonderful. My dream came true here, hooking up with the Waylon guys, and now performing with them regularly. That only happened because I opened myself up to Nashville. But I think Nashville needs more of Austin’s independent spirit, and Austin needs more of Nashville’s understanding of connecting to the rest of the world. They have a lot to offer each other. That’s why I am going to bring in an Austin artist every month to the Outlaws show I do here in town. Both cities are filled with artists chasing a dream. And I love them both for different reasons.

Listening to your album it’s easy to see that you draw influences from several different genres and try to blend them all together to create your own unique sound. But, out of the music you’re influenced by, would you say any specific genre has more influence than another, or is it fairly balanced?

Roots country definitely. That weaves its way into even my soul and rock- n- roll songs.

People can find out about artists who have influenced your career on your website and MySpace, so I want to know, are there any up and coming bands that you enjoy and would like to share with the readers?

James McMurtry is a remarkable writer. He’s unbelievable. Shelley King is quickly becoming a legend in Texas with her amazing voice and songs. The Skeeters, HonkyTonk Disciples, and Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash are my fave bands. Allison Moorer is the ultimate singer. Of course, Shooter Jennings. Now there’s a guy who can mix genres!!

I’ve read that you write the majority of your songs. Do you have a process that you follow when writing, or do you write when you feel inspired?

Other than a glass of whiskey? Just kidding! I write what I feel. Always. It’s all truth. So when the urge to purge comes over me, I grab a pen and guitar (and maybe a whiskey!).

What does music mean to you?

Absolutely EVERYTHING. It is the air I breathe. The color of life.

And lastly, is there anything you’d like to say to everyone reading this interview (album/tour dates you want to promote, any insight you’d like to share, etc.)?

Music can change your life if you let it. Go into a song and see where you come out.

As for tour dates: I am heading to Texas (can’t wait) to hit some old stompin’ grounds in April. We’ve got a real good thing going once a month in Nashville with “Spirit of the Outlaws.” I host and book it, and former Waylon Jennings band members back up 4 Special Guests, today’s top independent acts that share the same musical integrity of the outlaw generation. So much fun!!

I appreciate anyone who will take the time to listen to my music. I give it with my heart and soul.

Cheers! Now, about that whiskey.

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Be sure to listen to some more music on Brigitte’s MySpace or by visiting her website at www.brigittelondon.com