After a lengthy career of working with others, Grey Tower Heights was created as a solo effort. Melancholy permeates the tracks, which deal with the loss of love, fragility, and our frail sense of self.
Songs with haunting voices and rich harmonies boost the piano-driven, lyrically sombre, and narratively oriented compositions. In Grey Tower Heights, Leonard Cohen, Tom Waits, and Nick Cave are among the musicians who have inspired the author.
Read along as she gives us more insight into her music
What is your real name?
My name is as mysterious as my songs and I couldn’t possibly divulge it.
What’s your official Showbiz name?
Grey Tower Heights
How did you get into music?
I started playing the piano when I was five and it all went from there. Not long after that, I got a little tape recorder (yes, I’m that old) and spent hours making up songs and listening back to them. I probably still have them somewhere.
What field or genre are you into and how would you describe it?
I listen to a wide range of music but I particularly love anything that’s a bit weird. Weirdness is something I strive for in all areas of my life.
What are some of the challenges you face in your career path?
Music is a tough business and I think we have to be really creative to carve out a living.
How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?
I think it’s hugely positive for independent artists and gives us an opportunity to be fully in control of all areas of our art. I don’t feel the pressure to be constantly performing live these days as I’m able to promote my music in different ways.
Do you have any advice for aspiring songwriters?
Write the music that you want to write, not what you think they want to hear.
What is your current project about?
The fragility of the human spirit and any other weirdness my mind can conjure.
What are your hobbies?
Contemporary dance
What do you do aside from this profession?
Drink beer, eat pizza, and debate strategies for world peace.
