Saxophonist, vocalist, songwriter Vanessa Collier
Vanessa Collier is a saxophonist, vocalist and songwriter who is quickly rising in the blues world. She will perform on Thursday, Sept. 19 at Caffè Lena in Saratoga Springs. More information is available online at www.vanessacollier.com.
1. How did you first start playing saxophone?
“I started playing saxophone in 4th grade after falling in love with the sound of it on a TV show. My mom rented me one and I started saxophone lessons in addition to playing in the school band.” 2. What inspired Honey Up? “‘Honey Up’ was inspired by a lot of memories from when I was growing up and also starting my career. There are songs like “Don’t Nobody Got Time To Waste” from my middle school band director’s use of the phrase, “If you’re early, you’re on time; if you’re on time, you’re late; and if you’re late, you’re fired!”. “Honey Up” was about coming off of doing a record with a label and also it’s about the state of the record industry, wondering if labels are necessary or if artists are better off being left to our own devices. “Sweatin’ Like A Pig, Singin’ Like An Angel” is about my first gig under my own name in the hot southern July heat of South Carolina.”
3. Have you ever played at Caffe Lena before?
“I have not played Caffe Lena before! I’m excited to come back to play in the Saratoga Springs area!”
4. You’ve performed alongside some great musicians. Is there any artist who you really hope to collaborate with some day?
“I’d love to work with Bonnie Raitt, Mavis Staples, Vince Gill, and Annie Lennox! All great musicians and powerhouses.”
5. Following ‘Honey Up,’ what’s your goal for the future of your music career?
“My goals are to continue to write music that expresses who I am and celebrates the good things in life, to live a healthy life that I love, and to share life and high-energy shows with audiences throughout the rest of my career.”