Quick Q and A with Carrie Rodriguez
 by Kathy S-B  ·  3 November 2010

Carrie Rodriguez has been on the me&thee radar for some time. We are thrilled to present her and know that you’ll love her too. We’ve been wanting to host her for some time and hope you’ll all agree that she’s an awesome talent. Please check out information about Carrie on her website. Here’s a video of a captivating performance.

Please tell us about your dad’s influence on your music? What kind of passion and work ethic did he instill in you?

My dad introduced me to folk music at a very early age. He used to play me serious political songs, Townes Van Zandt songs, murder ballads, etc to put me to sleep at night when I was a toddler. He gave me a Leonard Cohen tape for my 9th birthday . . . so whether or not I liked it at the time, I was certainly surrounded by GOOD music and GREAT songwriting.

I heard that you opened for John Prine for many shows. What was that like? How did his audiences receive you?

Amazing! Not only is John Prine one of America’s greatest songwriting treasures, he is also an extremely sweet and gracious man! The best part about opening up for John is that he has me sing a few duets with him at the end of his show (“In spite of ourselves, we’ll end up a sittin’ on a rainbow...”) . . . and as for his audiences . . . they are the best!

You have collaborated with oh-so-many wonderful musicians over the years. Have you had one or two truly transcendent moments that ultimately assured you that you are following the right path?

Yes. Playing with Bill Frisell, the great jazz guitarist. I’ve been lucky enough to collaborate with him on a few of my albums, as well as with his band at a gig in Germany a few years ago. He feels music in such a unique and joyful way . . . and it is infectious!

You’ve worked a lot with Chip Taylor who was perhaps best known for the infamous song, “Wild Thing.” Did you sing that infamous song with him? Did you have any connection to that tune since you are so much younger than the iconic songwriter who composed it.

Yes, Chip and I would usually close the show with Wild Thing or Angel of the Morning (another one of his big hits) when we played together. I think every American has a connection to that song, no matter how old they are . . . it’s just part of our popular culture. I never imagined I would be singing that song with the man who wrote it though . . . that’s for sure!

And what’s next for Carrie?

Next . . . well, I’ve been touring almost nonstop for the last 3 years, and this winter I’ve scheduled 2 months off in Austin, Texas. I’m looking forward to some sunny weather, good Mexican food, and hopefully the inspiration for some good new songs!