Joanna Newsom
Joanna Newsom (born 1982 in Nevada City, California) is a San Francisco harpist, harpsichordist, singer and songwriter. Though a former music student at Mills College, she sees her harp style as being distinct from that of classically-focused harpists, even going as far as referring to herself as a "harper" rather than harpist. Her songwriting incorporates elements of indie pop, Appalachian music, avant-garde modernism and a sensibility that some listeners describe as quirky. Having recieved no formal vocal training, her idiosyncratic vocal style, described by many as being child-like and weathered, has been a sticking point for many as it is very unconventional; nevertheless her songs' artistic merit, especially her songwriting ability, has generally been acknowledged. She also previously played keyboards in San Francisco bands Golden Shoulders and The Pleased.
After touring with Will Oldham she was quickly signed to Drag City and released her debut album The Milk-Eyed Mender. Shortly thereafter, Newsom toured with Devendra Banhart and Vetiver. Since then she has become a prominent indie musician and even appeared live on The Jimmy Kimmel Show on ABC.
Newsom is a distant cousin of San Francisco mayor Gavin Newsom.[1]
Joanna is currently working on new songs for her next album. Some of which have been previewed in recent live shows. Some of the working titles are, Sawdust and diamonds, Be a woman and Emily.[2]
Discography
- Albums
- EPs
- Walnut Whales (self-released, 2002)
- Yarn and Glue (self-released, 2003)
- Singles
External links
- Joanna Newsom on dragcity.com - discography, music video, and information
- Joanna Newsom on MySpace - includes streaming audio
- Milky Moon fansite - news, discography, gigography, lyrics, quotations, photos and a message board.
- BBC Collective - includes streaming video
- Joanna Newsom SFgate article