Interview with MICA ROBERTS
by Janelle Landauer
As many country music fans already know, you released your debut single and video earlier this year – “Things A Mama Don’t Know.” Where was that video shot and how long did it take to shoot?
The video was shot near Edwards Airforce Base just outside Lancaster CA. It took just one day of shooting... however we started at 4:30am and ended at 9pm with only 1 food break!
I saw that you recently joined the NCADV (National Coalition Against Domestic Violence)… Can you talk more about how it feels to be involved with such a great organization in efforts to help stop domestic violence?
I have been blessed to have joined with such a tremendous group of people. They do so much. This has also enabled me to be the new spokesperson for Verizons "hope line" program. Through both of these organizations I have learned so much more than I ever dreamed about the silent epidemic in this country. I hope to bring attention to it.
How did your song, “Things A Mama Don’t Know” come about – and why did you decide to record & release it as your debut single from Show Dog Nashville?
Toby brought this song to me. He was pitched the song from our head of A&R at Show Dog. He loved it and he knows me well enough to know that I would love it too. I released it as my debut single on Show Dog be cause I believe in giving people what they need... not necessarily what they want.
Can you tell us more about the new album you're working on? Did you do any writing or co-writing on this album? And, when can fans expect the album to be in stores?
We are currently working on the record. I have 4 songs finished. I will have about half of the songs on the album that I co wrote. Since we are currently touring, it slows down the recording process a bit. I'm sure we will resume this fall when the tour is over.
How would you describe the whole process of recording your new CD and what is a typical day in the studio like for you?
Depends on what's happening in the studio that day. There are tracking days, vocal days, overdub days, mix days! They are all different... and every single one of them is a blessing.
Do you have a favorite song on your upcoming CD? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite song?
Well.. that would be like picking a favorite child. :)
What goals have you accomplished and what do you still hope to accomplish with your music career?
The fact that I can go to work doing what I love and pay my mortgage is a huge accomplishment!
Who has been the greatest influence in your life (music related or not)?
Hands down..... my dad
If you could collaborate with anyone musically, who would it be and why?
Well, Toby would have been my first choice.. but that dream already came true for me! So, number 2 would have to be Willie!
What do you like about touring? What do you dislike?
I love everything about touring. There is nothing that I dislike. I'm living the dream... what could possibly be bad about any of that!
You’ve had the opportunity to tour with artists like Toby Keith… What is one thing that you’ve learned the most from being on the road with other artists?
That would be an incredibly long list. I've learned equally what "to do" and what "not to do"...
How do you balance your career with your family and friends when you are on the road?
My family has always understood, because this is all I've ever done. I have only a few very close friends that don't actually travel with me. They get it, so it works out fantastic. My boyfriend is also in the business, so he understands as well. I've surrounded myself with people that understand and support me, so it's easy. My dogs... they are probably the one's that understand the least... but I try to make it up to them when I'm home... !
What advice would you give to those who plan to get into the music business?
Don't do it unless it is truly "who you are"... if it's just "what you do"... it won't be enough.
Where do you find the ideas and inspirations when writing songs?
That's easy.... LIFE
Do you have a favorite song that you’ve written overall?
"Everytime you fall"... would be my favorite song in my catalogue
Finally, is there anything you would like to say to all your fans and all our readers?
"You only fail when you quit"
Added: September 2008
Featured Artist: MICA ROBERTS
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