Imagine you’ve stepped back into the mid 70’s. Steel guitars reigned on country radio and crackling static was heard while turning the dial, as you searched for a good song. Somewhere between the country cool of Emmylou Harris and soaring vocals of Judy Collins is where you find the music of Francesca Brown. Her most recent single “Where You Begin”, moves like a smooth train, then soars like Pegasus in the bridge. You’re in for a treat for those not already a fan. She’s an artist you should definitely know. Here’s our interview with Francesca Brown.

Where did you grow up and where do you call home now?

So… I was born in California moved back n’ forth between northern Illinois and Southern California. It’s kinda a mashup of desert, beach and corn fields.

How have the life experiences of where you lived affected your songwriting or the songs you choose to record?

Stories, leaving places, coming back, holding on to old friends, houses, keeping it all with me to ultimately hold on to who I am. It was all I had and later on songwriting helped that all make sense.

What artists/songwriters have impacted or influenced your work the most?

I always loved singing and so the early voices were Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey.. I was a 90s child so it worked. Later I discovered folk music so it was Joni, Bob, Pete and later came old timey country.

Give me something that I need.
Turn your head while these hands bleed.
California you own me.

from “Where You Begin” by Francesca Brown

When you perform, what do you hope is your audience’s biggest takeaway?

To feel ok and present, at ease and nostalgic. That good ol times are still here and when you come see a show that’s what you get

Tell me a little bit about your latest project?

After multiple singles and EPs my debut album Stolen Land And Broken Dreams hits the airwaves on September 6th. For the album, I got together with producer Kenneth James Gibson. The songs are very personal to me and have a running theme, which is California. I had been living in LA so long it was time to go. When I wrote these songs I was able to see from the outside in.

What was different or unique about your approach to this last project as compared to previous ones?

I had so much time !! And support from producer Kennith James Gibson. I came with My songs and he helped me carve them into masterpieces.

Was there ever a time you felt like you wanted to quit making music?

Yes! I have two kids and it takes a lot of my time up and sometimes, often times people don’t want to pay us what we are worth. But keep hustling to make it all work because I love it so.

What is your funniest or favorite “on the road” story when touring?

Houston .. we were booked at a Metal hookah … if you listen to my music it makes no sense at all. It was a funny night with lots of charters and smoke machines on stage.

Who or what keeps you grounded the most?

Hmm that tough it’s many things. Family, long walks through the woods, writing ..

What advice would you give artists just starting out?

Live your life. Don’t be in a hurry. It doesn’t f’n matter. Just keep singing or playing and have fun.