Interview with Wendy Dale Young
Wendy Dale Young is a Jazz musician.
Why did you want to do music professionally?
Why not do music professionally? I was a professional performer since I was nine years old and it just unfolded for me.
What inspires your music?
Anything can trigger inspiration... an event, an emotion you may be experiencing, the sky, the birds, the ocean.
What things get you in the mood to write songs, or do lyrics come spontaneously?
I find the mood comes to me to compose or write the lyrics. An urge, an inspiration. If I have to come up with a song right away, so many times I have been given a track of music to hear. Sometimes I'm given a title for the song. The music itself inspires me. The music basically gives me the words spontaneously. I've been very fortunate when that happens.
How do you want your music to affect people?
I want them to have a good time! Take them on a journey. Feel the music and lyrics strike a chord in their heart.
Do you test out your songs before releasing them? How do you do this?
Writing with my Producer and co-writer Michael B. Sutton we don't usually test our songs. We immediately submit to the project, and they will judge. We had several film title songs recorded this way. My own songs that I write I play for my friends.
How do you prepare for a gig?
I prepare for a gig by really being in vocal shape, rehearsing like crazy. I rest the day before the best I can and the day I sing. I eat well, hours before the gig.
What is your favorite song you've written?
My favorite song "Dancing in the Rain" I wrote with co-writer Michael B. Sutton. Also one I wrote on my own "In the Ways of the Heart."
Has there been a reaction to one of your songs that you've been surprised by?
Hmmm. No. I can't think of any songs getting a reaction that surprised me.
What are some ways you promote yourself?
I am not great at promoting myself. These days I hired my fabulous Producers Michael B. and Anissa Sutton to do my social media, etc. I do check my Facebook, instagram, etc. In the old days I did everything myself by pounding the pavement going to cold calls and submitting myself directly to the projects that were holding auditions. Even when I had an agent! It is very different now!
What would you say has been the biggest challenge of your career?
I had to quit the performance part of my career decades ago due to health conditions. It broke my heart. Just recently I jumped in and started all over again by recording and making a video of "The Look of Love" and a recording of "Unconditional Love." At first it seemed a challenge bigger than life and a little scary but it actually has been a happy and fun challenge!
What have been your favorite places to tour?
My favorite places to tour were England and Scotland.
Are there advantages to being an independent musician?
Yes. I can make my own calls and do exactly what I want.