The Backstory
We met Carrie by way of an advertisement on KUTX for the Latinx music series she organizes, Laboratorio. Held here on campus at Cactus Cafe, the frequently sold out series features an exciting slate of guests artists with whom she and her band set out to both explore and stretch the boundaries of what is considered to be Latin Music in America today. We did a little field research and stopped by this past Wednesday's Laboratorio, which featured lead vocalist and gaitero of local Colombian funk band, Superfónicos, Jaime Ospina. It was an eclectic and wild ride, jumping from cumbia versions of Langston Hughes poetry to rock to blues to gaitas, and even a brand new song from ¡Americano!, a musical that debuts in Phoenix next week and for which Carrie wrote the music and lyrics! We love Carrie's commitment to what Felix Contreras of NPR Music called "the kind of bicultural existence so many of us live."
If you don't know her already, allow us to introduce you to proud Austinite, Carrie Rodriguez.
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Carrie RodriguezCarrie Rodriguez, a singer-songwriter from Austin, Texas, finds beauty in the cross-pollination of diverse traditions. A passionate performer, she melds fiery fiddle playing, electrifying vocals and a fresh interpretation of new and classic songs with an “Ameri-Chicana” attitude. Her most recent release, the critically-acclaimed bilingual album, Lola, was named as one of NPR’s top 50 albums of the year. Carrie has performed on stages across North America and Europe for the last decade, as well as on programs such as Austin City Limits, The Tonight Show, A Prairie Home Companion, and NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts. In the words of author Brené Brown, “She’s the trifecta for me – beautiful singer, soulful songwriter, and kick-ass fiddler.” |
The Questions
What is your idea of perfect happiness? A slow Sunday morning at home with my husband, son, and a well-made cappuccino in my hand. What is the trait you most deplore in yourself? Trying to please everyone. What is the trait you most deplore in others? Narcissism. Which living person do you most admire? Ruth Bader Ginsburg. What is your greatest extravagance? Danish boiled wool slippers. What is the quality you most like in a man? Empathy. When and where were you happiest? Right now. Which talent would you most like to have? Organizational skills. What is your most treasured possession? My violin - I’ve been playing the same one since I was 13. What is your favorite occupation? Being a musician. Who are your favorite writers? Anne Patchett, ire’ne lara silva, Louise Erdrich, Isabel Allende, Gabriel Garcia Marquez.
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