Rachael Yamagata has been called ‘the troubadour of heartbreak’ by the press and fans are drawn to her ability to ‘turn emotion into song’. She’s got the old soul singer songwriter essence that calls upon Todd Rundgren, Carole King, Joni Mitchell, The Carpenters and Elton John and sonically gravitates towards the darker stylings of Nick Cave, Tom Waits, P.J. Harvey and Danny Elfman. She hits the road again this fall stripping it down to a more intimate show – expect strings, seated venues and wine – all in support of her 2012 independent release ‘Chesapeake’ and a new as yet untitled EP of ‘darker fair – some lush with strings and others stark with vulnerability’. Guest appearances include Liz Phair and Madi Diaz along with Mike Viola (of the Candy Butchers, ‘Get Him to The Greek’, ‘That Thing You Do’). She joined us for our 5GB series before her show at Vinyl.
What’s the first gig you ever attended?
The first concert I ever went to was Huey Lewis and The News!
What is the best gig that you ever played/performed?
There have been so many amazing moments in my touring history, it’s hard to choose just one. Playing on the same line up as Bette Midler and Sheryl Crow for the president was thrilling! I opened solo for David Gray at Madison Square Garden and that of course will always be a fantastic memory.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
I recently saw Martha Wainwright perform solo in a small caberet setting in upstate NY. She was truly phenomenal. Absolutely went to the top of my list.
Gig you would most like to play?
I’d love to go to Coachella – I’ve never been.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Rufus Wainwright, Joni Mitchell, Kanye West… how’s that for crazy!? xox
See Rachel Yamagata Wednesday, Dec. 12th at Vinyl!
