Published: July 5, 2009 10:40 PM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight July 2009 Edition
Frances Ancheta
Frances Ancheta
Acoustic Singer/Songwriter Frances Ancheta makes beautiful music that fans will easily relate to with her amazing soft vocals and lovely lyrics. She is going to continue the tradition of other female singer/songwriters who have made a big splash in the music industry. In this recent spotlight with the talented artist, our Webzine enters into her world. Enjoy!
Isaac: What was the best part of 2008 for you musically?
Frances: The best part for me musically was the release of my first solo CD, "Now We're Here." I released it last summer after working on it for 3 long years. I've also enjoyed performing, promoting, and selling my CD as well--a very rewarding experience.
Isaac: What do you feel was your biggest accomplishment for 2008?
Frances: I consider the completion of my CD as my biggest accomplishment. After many years of collaborating or supporting other artists, I finally had the courage and the confidence to develop the songs I had been working on for years and record them. Finally stepping out into my own has been a big accomplishment for me, as I've always been an "in the background" sort of person. But, I realized that in order to make things happen, I need to rely less on other people to fulfill my dreams and start relying more on myself.
Isaac: Describe the music scene in area.
Frances: I live in San Francisco; there has always been a steady music scene throughout its history. Many different circles and venues exist for many different music genres, so it's difficult to check out all the different scenes. I was for many years involved in the open mike acoustic scene. There are many musicians in the Bay Area trying their hand at musical exposure at different venues, whether it's the corner cafe, the local tourist areas like Fisherman's Wharf, or at historical venues like The Great American Music Hall or the Fillmore. One of the most exciting musical events to happen recently to SF is the Outside Lands Festival in Golden Gate Park--a 3 day musical adventure with both local independent bands, huge successful artists like Radiohead, Jack Johnson, and Dave Matthews, and classic acts such as Tom Jones, of all people! San Francisco's eclectic enough to appreciate such musical diversity.
Isaac: What has been the best venue to perform at and why?
Frances: I was once a regular featured performer at a place called The Canvas Cafe--it was a cafe, live venue, and art gallery with one of the largest, most supportive and successful open mikes in town. Unfortunately, it closed and many musicians agree that we haven't found a place quite like that one. Presently, I enjoy performing on the outdoor stage at the San Francisco Cannery in Fisherman's Wharf. I meet people from all over the world, as well as local people. It is gratifying and rewarding to know that people from all walks of life and backgrounds can appreciate my music.
Isaac: Elaborate a little about whom were your biggest influences in the music industry and why?
Frances: Growing up in the 80s and 90s, I loved the new wave and British indie/alternative rock of the time. I especially admired musicians such as The Smiths (especially Morrissey and Marr), Robert Smith from The Cure, Neil Finn and Crowded House, The Cocteau Twins, New Order, Roddy Frame from Aztec Camera, The Sundays. I also enjoy singer/songwriters such as Jeff Buckley, k.d. lang, Elvis Costello, Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell, Nora Jones, Eva Cassidy, Jason Mraz, Jack Johnson. I'm not just limited to these styles--I love all kinds of music ranging from classical to funk. I admire the artists who are most earnest and genuine, and are not afraid to draw from a variety of influences to create their own original sound.
Isaac: Let's talk about what you feel you will bring to the music industry?
Frances: I feel that I can bring my own spin to the music I most enjoy. Although my sound is primarily acoustic, I draw from pop and alternative rock in addition to folk sounds. As a minority and an Asian American, I can draw from more international influences and world sounds. I also have an appreciation for music before my generation as well such as classical and old standards, so I try to incorporate that as well.
Isaac: If you had an opportunity to work with one artist or group, who would it be and why?
Frances: Since The Smiths are no longer around, can I mention Morrissey and Johnny Marr? I would love to learn from Morrissey about how he comes up with such original melodies and lyrics. And I would love to learn from Johnny Marr anything he'd be willing to share about great guitar playing and musicianship.
Isaac: How would you describe your music to others?
Frances: I would describe it as tropical new wave folk--acoustic music mixed with pop, folk, new/wave and classic alternative rock, with some classical and world influences mixed in there as well.
Isaac: What type of feedback have you received from fans about your music?
Frances: I've received great feedback. Fans of all ages have told me how soothing, relaxing, and interesting the music is to them. A few have told me how the music has inspired them to be creative and becoming more involved in music, including young Asian Americans. Others have mentioned that the sound and the lyrics are relevant to them in a personal way... I'm happy to hear all this!
Isaac: What can fans expect from you in the next five years?
Frances: I have another CD's worth of material that I'm working on, so hopefully I can come out with a second CD within the next couple of years or so. I'm also hoping to put out more videos on YouTube and continue performing as much as possible.
Isaac: Time for some shout outs to your family, friends, and fans…
Frances: Thanks to my husband, parents, brother, mother-in-law, uncles, aunts, cousins, friends, musical colleagues, and fans for encouragement and support. Through your support I have the courage to create and strive to be the best artist I can be!
Isaac: Final words…
Frances: Thank you for having me! Keep supporting local and independent artists!
