Peggy Sarlin is a brilliant songstress who has been making her waves in not only her hometown of New York City, but beyond. Her unique styling evokes her musical passion in her work, which makes her stand above the rest. Immersed in the entertainment world for a number of years, Sarlin brings her swift and thought-provoking lyricism, with a dash of charm. We had the opportunity to catch up with Peggy Sarlin a few weeks back, to see what sparks her inspiration.
What is the inspiration behind the new album?
On July 5, 2014, I took a walk, opened my mouth, and a new song came pouring out –I wrote it in real time, writing a new line with each step. I hadn’t written a song in years, but I had an overpowering emotional need to express myself. The next morning, I woke up and wrote another – and the next day, another. I felt on fire with music, because I had so much turmoil inside, as I dealt with the shattering blow of my husband’s stroke. You can hear some of those first songs on my album, Friends and Family.
What made you discover your passion for creating an eclectic and unique sound?
I love all kinds of music, but I feel particularly connected to earthy music, with ablues-infused, soulful sound. That just feels real to me. I love humor and charm inmusic, too, and a certain sly insinuation – music should be fun! I find inspiration in Motown, Ray Charles, Fats Waller, Marvin Gaye, Billie Holiday, Eric Clapton, and the entire canon of the Great American Songbook, among other places. When I stir them all together, I can usually find some songs.
What places in your mind do you channel to craft your songs?
That’s such a great question! Generally, ideas begin with a title. Something pops into my head or I pick up a conversational snippet, and a few words feel like they’re flashing in neon. Then I get very excited to think that there’s some fresh, vivid terrain that nobody seems to have explored yet – and I get to be the lucky one to do it!
What are your favorite venues to perform at? And if you had to choose, do you feel more comfortable in the studio or onstage, and why?
I love performing at The Metropolitan Room in Manhattan – a real swanky joint. I’d love to perform at other venues around the country – something to look forward to. But the ultimate place for me to love and adore is the recording studio, because it’s endlessly creative and you’re playing for keeps.
How do you write your songs? What is the process like? Does it take you days, weeks, even longer? How does the perfect Peggy Sarlin piece come together?
My new single, I’ll Be Right Over, just popped out in one fell swoop, after a visit to the Motown Museum in Detroit put me in a Motown mood. I love when thathappens! Sometimes it involves more time, staring into space, daydreaming, andsipping coffee with a yellow pad in hand. Ira Gershwin had a saying: “A title is vital/Once you’ve it, prove it.” In other words, once you’ve come up with the central unifying idea of the song (which I find is often some kind of metaphor) the rest of the song should expand on that notion. I try to follow that rule, and stick to intensifying the imagery of the title.
How did you create a sound throughout time that is so uniquely your own? What defines your sound to you?
I thank you for that lovely compliment! I think every singer-songwriter aspires tocreate something that’s uniquely their own. These songs come from so deep inside me that they simply are mine. I write like a kid singing to herself on a swing – just that fun and that free. When I hear something I like or that moves me, I sing it again and we’re off to the races.
This year is already shaping up to be a huge year for you. What do you hope toaccomplish in the remainder of the year?
New singles, new shows, new videos, new energy and enthusiasm. And I hope toreach more wonderful people like you! Music comes alive when it’s shared.
