Heather ReidLos Angeles diamond Heather Reid is formerly of the bands The Murmurs and Redcar & Gush, but she's now going solo with plans to put out a new record in a few months.
Rocking parenthood and the life of a musician, we got the chance to chat to Heather about her inspirations, personal life and what to expect from her new material.
When did you realise you wanted to be a musician?
I've always loved music. When I was twelve I wrote my first official song. It was called 'Divorce'. Songwriting became a way for me to deal with the growing pains of life.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
As a musical artist I'd describe myself as a vulnerable, heart on my sleeve, songwriter with a pop sensibility. I love singing and performing live.
What is it about music that you love?
Music is transporting. Through music I can lose myself, be inspired, set a mood, dance and dream. Music is somewhat like a magic wand. Presto, I'm there.
How do you find juggling personal life with work?
My personal life has a big impact on the songs that I write. I use performing at a gig to energize me and and as a creative release. My songwriting is a way for me to process my experiences and emotions. Either way, I'm grateful for the luxury of a juggle. It can feel like the most wonderful circus has come to town around my house.
What can fans expect from your new album?
My new album 'Cross Words' is about relationships and the process of healing and coming to terms with the complexity of the situation. The primary feeling is of hope in love and in life. Sometimes heartbreak is a necessary step along the way to get there. All of this mixed in with music that you can tap your toes to and maybe even sing along with.
Tell us a little bit about the creative process you went through with this album.
I had the great opportunity of recording this album with my dear friend and producer Michael Eisenstein. He was in a band called Letters To Cleo.
At first I was planning on a very bare bones type of production. Once I heard a bell and then a whistle (which I do on 'Be Mine Tonight') there was no stopping us. We recorded the album next to my washer and dryer in a little room just off of my kitchen. On a few tracks you might even hear my blue jeans clanking in the background.
Which artists are you listening to right now?
Well, I'll always be committed to some of the greats- like Joni Mitchell and Carol King but I do enjoy modern artists as well -Lorde, The Lumineers, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Pink, Mumford and Sons... and the list goes on.
I have to admit Idina Menzel's version of 'Let it Go' (from Frozen) makes me very happy. I've probably heard that song about 100 times because my kids absolutely love it and I'm still not tired of it!
If you could collaborate or work with anyone, who would you choose and why?
There are so many artists, producers and songwriters that I'd love to work with. To start I'd love to write a song with Burt Bacharach!
Next... a collaboration with Christopher Martin from Coldplay. I love his soaring, musical sensibility.
Dan Wilson is also an amazing songwriter. I've met him a few times over the years because we were label mates when he was in Semi Sonic on MCA. Dan is amazing lyricist and melody maker.
If I could open for any artist it would be Fleetwood Mac!
Do you have any other projects in the pipeline you can share some details about?
I love musicals and I have written two ("Dear Bernard" & "The Show Must Go On"). I'm hoping to workshop "The Show Must Go On" some time soon here in Los Angeles.
Heather Reid's 'Cross Words' is to be released in the coming months.