In high school, Nellie McKay shared her fondness for Jerry Lee Lewis's music and how it influenced her musical pursuits. She was chosen as a piano player for the jazz band despite being primarily interested in boogie-woogie, a style associated with early rock 'n' roll rather than traditional jazz. Her unique approach to playing piano involved incorporating this energetic rhythm into the more structured format of a jazz ensemble.
This quote reveals much about McKay's creative spirit and her ability to blend different musical styles, even from an early age. By infusing boogie-woogie into the context of a jazz band, she demonstrates adaptability and innovation in her approach to music. Her statement also hints at her individuality; rather than conforming to expectations, she chose to remain true to her own interests and vocal style, which she notes was "very high-pitched." This characteristic reflects her unique identity as an artist who is unafraid of standing out from the crowd.
Nellie McKay is a multi-talented American singer-songwriter known for her sophisticated wit and eclectic musical style. Born in 1978, she has been active since the late 1990s, releasing albums that blend elements of jazz, cabaret, and vaudeville with humor and social commentary. Her work often pays homage to earlier eras while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. McKay's unique voice and diverse musical influences make her a distinctive figure in today’s music scene.
