Thoughts

“Elizabeth’s voice reminds me of Karen Carpenter…”

I heard this from a producer yesterday. I wish it were true. Flattery is a big part of this business I realize – but you don’t have to lie! I would have been more impressed with this comment if this guy didn’t already know that The Carpenters are a huge musical influence for me. 

I used to spend hours as a child emulating the voices of Anita Baker, Whitney Houston and Karen Carpenter. I used to think I came very close to the latter. I have won Amateur Night at the Apollo for my renditions of Anita Baker though, so shouldn’t leave that out.  

If I had a magic wand, I hope that parts of my Christmas record will evoke The Carpenters – known for her perfect pitched pre-autotune vocals, timeless production, clean chord progressions making up these rich, gorgeous songs. Happy in chord progression, but sad in lyrical content. Very clever Carpenters, very clever. 

Karen’s last public appearance was in December 1982, singing Christmas carols. 

If I had a second magic wand, I would hope that John Mayer will play guitar on my record.  I received a text message last night informing me that John Mayer wanted to give me an STD. I’d much prefer a lick. My producer is funny like that.