Known for her ever-popular hit, “A Thousand Miles,” Vanessa Carlton will perform live Dec. 12 at The Southern Café and Music Hall. The artist has entered into a new stage in her musical career, one that is focused on helping listeners relax in her music rather than on catchy lyrics or snappy beats. Arts & Entertainment had the opportunity to talk to Carlton about the evolution of her artistry and listeners’ responses to her new album, “Liberman.”
Arts & Entertainment: You graduated from the School of American Ballet, then changed your focus to music. Can you talk a little bit about this transition?
Vanessa Carlton: I started skipping ballet class to write music when I was 16. It was the beginning of the end of the path to become a professional ballerina. You can't skip classes.
A&E: What advice would you give to a young artist in the very early stages of their career?
VC: Take lessons. Seek out fringe artists. Stretch out of your comfort zone. Look for a mentor. Any or all of this can be helpful.
A&E: How has the first half of the “Liberman” tour gone so far?
VC: The shows have been great. The reception for “Liberman” has made everything feel easier. I so appreciate people accepting and supporting the direction I've chosen to take my career.
A&E: Will you be able to spend any time sightseeing before heading to North Carolina the next day?
VC: We travel every single day. I try and hang a bit in each city we are in, but it can be tough. We are on the move.
A&E: What is it like balancing family life while on tour? Are you able to speak with your husband and daughter often?
VC: Sid is only 10 months, but she did pretty good on the road. She started out with us for two weeks, and then my husband came out as well, once his shows were done. My husband and baby are now home in Nashville. We are figuring it out. I don't want her to get too tired.
A&E: Do you listen to music while on tour? How do you decompress in the time you’re not performing?
VC: I dance almost every day. I do Tracy Anderson combinations off my laptop. It keeps me sane. I listen to lots of music but mostly [classical music radio station] WQXR streamed through my computer.
A&E: What is your favorite song on the radio right now?
VC: I love “Dunes” by Alabama Shakes. I don't know if it gets played on the radio. Only a few stations in this country play great music. That's the truth.
A&E: How would you describe “Liberman” to an unseasoned listener? Which of the 10 songs from the album is your favorite to perform live?
VC: I want “Liberman” to feel like an escape from someone's day. It's supposed to exist as its own little sonic world. My favorite song to play live is “Take It Easy.”
A&E: Looking back on all five of your albums, do you think “Liberman” presents the best representation of your true musical style?
VC: Yes. I've been honing in on this sound for a while.
A&E: Could you describe how you would like listeners to feel when they leave one of your concerts?
VC: Understood and peaceful.
Canadian singer-songwriter Joshua Hyslop will start off the show. The doors will open at 6 p.m.
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