New York’s Ingrid Michaelson has shared the stage with the likes of Jason Mraz, Dave Matthews Band, and Keane, and next month she’ll bring her original brand of acoustic power-pop to Australia for the first time. Before she packed her bags for the land Down Under I caught up with her to chat about her upcoming shows, the importance of MySpace, and love of the ukelele.
I know this is your first time touring Australia. Have you ever visited here before? And what are you looking forward to about your stay?
I have never been to Australia. I have always wanted to go but it is so far that it seems impossible. So I am delighted that my work is allowing me to see this amazing place that I have only heard about.
You’re playing a different city each night. Will you have any time for sightseeing while you’re here?
We have one day off in Melbourne. I have to do some research to find out where I should go!
You live in New York, which is such an intense city. How do you think you’ll adjust to our laid back Australian attitude?
I live in New York but I can turn off the “intensity” when needed. I look forward to experiencing this laid back atmosphere! Maybe I will even bring some home with me.
While you’ve created some real buzz back home, you haven’t released any music here in Australia. How would you describe your sound to people who aren’t in the know?
I’m not even in the know! I never know how to explain my own music. Poppy? Folky? Ingridy?
What can Australian fans expect when they come to see you live?
I love playing music and singing but I also love making people laugh. Hopefully my sense of humour will come across.
You’ve supported some of my favourite live acts including Dave Matthews and Jason Mraz. What did you learn being on the road with them?
Jason came out and sang with me every night on my set. It was very kind. I learned that in doesn’t matter how famous you become, you still have to treat people with kindness and respect.
You were discovered on MySpace. How important is the internet now to your career?
Very. As you said, I was discovered there. And it is a great way to connect instantly to your supporters.
Your father is a composer and your mother a sculptor. Did you ever consider rebelling and having a career away from the arts?
I wouldn’t say that it would be rebelling if i did. My brother teaches math. My parents never pushed me into anything. They support me in any decision I make.
Amongst all the instruments you play, I was most interested to see you’re a dab hand at the ukulele. It’s a little left of center, so what inspired you to take it up?
I play a tenor uke which has a deeper tone. It is small and light weight. It travels easily and it adds a dimension to the recordings and live shows that you can’t get from guitars alone.
After the Australian tour, what’s next on your agenda?
Continuing to tour and make a new album. It never ends!
Ingrid Michaelson will showcase tunes from her debut album Everybody at the following Aussie shows.
10 November 2010 – Clarendon Guest House, Katoomba
11 November 2010 – Factory Theatre, Sydney (All Ages)
12 November 2010 – Globe Theatre, Brisbane
13 November 2010 – Corner Hotel, Melbourne
Image used with permission from Positive Feedback