Interview with Tammy Cochran
By Janelle Landauer (April 2007)
How would you describe your style of music for those who haven't heard you yet?
My music is certainly country, just different styles of country. I try to write and perform songs that have meaning and songs that are close to my heart. Mostly, music that people can relate to in their daily lives.
What has been your main focus lately?
My focus has been on promoting the new album and writing songs. Of course, I'm always traveling to do shows too.
How and when did your first break in the music industry come about?
I was out at a local club called "The Broken Spoke" and a friend of mine in the band asked me to get up and sing. After I sang, a man named Shane Decker approached me and told me he had someone he'd like me to sing for. The next night I went back, and Shane brought with him Blake Chancey from Sony Records. The rest, as they say, is history.
What goals have you accomplished and what do you still hope to accomplish with your music career?
The big goal that I've accomplished is simply making it in country music. That was always my dream when I was a little girl. My future goals are to keep making music and making people feel something when they hear my songs. And of course, I will always do the best I can to spread awareness about Cystic Fibrosis.
What is your motivation behind your accomplishments and what continues to motivate you?
My motivation is simple... I love what I do. And I'm so thankful that I get to make a living doing what I love.
Who has been the greatest influence in your life (music related or not)?
The greatest influences are, and always has been, my family - my parents who always supported my dream, and always believed in me.
What is the most difficult part of the music industry in your opinion?
The most difficult thing for me is just keeping up with the ever-changing industry.
What advice would you give to those who plan to get into the music business?
My advice is to surround yourself with people who believe in your dream as much as you do. And of course, work, work, work.
In what ways do you feel you have changed (if any) since your self-titled CD and your Life Happened CD?
I don't think that I've really "changed." I have focused a lot more on my writing in the past few years. I think I've grown as a writer and I hope I continue to grow. I still just write from the heart, and I hope everyone can hear that in my songs.
How would you describe the whole process of recording your new album and what is a typical day in the studio like for you?
This album is totally different in the fact that I had a hand in the song choice, producing, mixing, and everything from day one. The process was a pure delight, working with Anita Cochran and Mark Thompson. A typical day? There isn't one. :-) Everyday is different. That's what makes it so much fun!!!
Do you have a favorite song on your new album, Where I Am? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite song?
Hard question!!! They are all my favorites for different reasons. "Where I Am" is an inspirational song, which can be interpreted a couple different ways. Spiritual or personal... it's about knowing that the ones who truly care about you will never go away. "Nobody's Home" is a song about a 30-something woman who has spent her life climbing the corporate ladder, only to turn around one day and realize she neglected to get married or start a family. "On My Side Of The World" is a song about the family members who are left here at home while their loved ones leave to fight a war. The people who are left here, fight their own type of war... worrying about the ones they love, and wondering each day if they are safe.
What kind of songs do you look for (or write) when you go into the studio to record albums?
I love songs that are real life. Sometimes they're silly and sometimes they're emotional, but they are songs that people can relate to.
Where do you find the ideas and inspirations when writing songs?
Personal experiences or experiences of others, like my friends. Music is a form of therapy for me. It is a way to get my feelings out, but in a way that is not confrontational or hurtful.
Do you have a favorite song that you've written overall? If so, what is it and why is it your favorite song?
"Angels in Waiting," the song I wrote for my brothers Alan and Shawn, who passed away from Cystic Fibrosis. That song has helped me and my family so much. And, I think it's a way to keep them alive forever, since music is everlasting. It also pleases me greatly that this song has touched so many people, and helped them through difficult times in their lives.
Straybranch Records
Added: May 2007
