Do you like music that has a swing, a soul, and a smile? A voice that harkens to tradition and a bouyant spirit that fills every heart in the room? Then you will L♥VE Jazzy Ash! Her new album, “Swing Set,” is the perfect example of what makes Jazzy Ash one of our favorites. “Swing Set” invigorates timeless songs handed down by African-American children, adults, and musicians for more than 90 years to inspire and move a new generation.
Want a chance to win your own copy of Swing Set? Just comment on this post with your favorite Jazzy Ash song that we featured in this article! All comments must be made by 9/7/2017 to be eligible.
For this #8isEnoughQuestions interview, each question was written and asked by one of our Full Van Fun family members and answered directly by Jazzy Ash. Enjoy!
What inspired you to take traditional songs and make them “Jazzy”?
Traditional folk music is important because that’s how “normal” people tell their own history, through song. A lot of people think that jazz is boring “elevator music”, but I think of jazz as fun and energetic, so I think singing these songs in a jazzy style brings them new life, and makes them fun to listen to.
Are there other types of music you like beyond jazz?
Yes! I really do love all kinds of music (except maybe heavy metal). I grew up listening to country music so there is a special place in my heart for that. I studied musical theater and teach it too, so I love the music from musicals. Also,I’m really enjoying the music that’s coming out of London these days.
Do bubbles have to be at concerts?
No… we hardly ever bring bubbles anymore, but we do sometimes throw beads. 😉
How does living in New Orleans inspire you?
Well, I actually live in Los Angeles now, but I visit New Orleans every chance I get. There’s something about being in a certain part of town where you’re able to hear live jazz coming out of every door… it makes me feel so alive and inspired.
Who is Liza Jane?
Hahaha, that’s a good question. A lot of songwriters made up names to represent girls (or boys) in general. Other times, songwriter might have made up a name in order to keep the identity of the real person a secret. On top of that, many of the authors of the songs on this album are anonymous. So I guess never really get to find out who the real Liza Jane is.
What kind of vocal training did you go through to obtain your unique singing voice?
I had private lessons growing up. As I mentioned before, I studied music theater, so most of my vocal training was for that. I was also in a choir, and we had a fantastic director to taught us musicianship. I think my singing voice is unique because even my speaking voice is unique… kinda raspy and low. Kids used to make fun of me, but I’ve learned to love it.
What is the best part of collaborating with other artists?
Collaboration is the best! Projects have a way of taking on a life of their own during collaboration. You just never know what your gonna get- in the best way! The final project is always a wonderful surprise.
How do you know I’m such a good dancer?
Because you listen to good music… duh!
Thank you Jazzy Ash for a jazzerific #8isEnoughQuestions interview and remember to comment with your favorite Jazzy Ash song, from this article, to have a chance to win your own copy of Swing Set! All comments must be made by 9/7/2017 to be eligible. If you have missed any of our other #8isEnoughQuestions interviews with authors like Daniel Pinkwater and artists like Lisa Loeb, Andrew & Polly, Caspar Babypants, Justin Roberts, Secret Agent 23 Skidoo, Emily Arrow, Mista Cookie Jar, The Not Its, Mike Phirman, Danny Weinkauf of They Might Be Giants, Turkey Andersen, Lucky Diaz and Alisha Gaddis, Bryan Vander Ark of The Verve Pipe, Play Date, Recess Monkey, Greg Page (Original Yellow Wiggle), Rissi Palmer, Jim Cosgrove, and Tim Kubart, be sure to check them out! What if you like interviews with celebrity chefs like Fabio Viviani, recipes, or travel stories about amazing destinations? You can find all of this and more at fullvanfun.com as well. Finally, don’t forget sign up for our mailing list so you don’t miss any of our Full Van Fun!
Photo credits: Steve Lorentzen
My girls and I love Ballin the Jack! We love Jazzy Ash and the Leapin Lizards. ☺