Q & A with musician Vicci Martinez

By JAMIE GRISWOLD
MyNorthwest.com

Northwest artist Vicci Martinez passed on the American Idol factory ticket for a more challenging solo ramp up.

Martinez will play before a crowd at the Showbox Market this Friday, where they’re sure to get a genuine act, as Martinez says, “live your truth’ is my motto, even if it’s in jeans and a t-shirt.”

The first thing that stands out in your bio is you passed up American Idol? Can you tell me what happened? Do you think it was the right choice?

For me, yes it was a great choice. It was the first year running for them and they had a very binding contract that said they would own all of my music, and take credit for my career, which they should, but I’ve always had different goals…I’ve wanted to become a producer, writer, collaborator, musician, just really get into the mix, not just the star or idol.

Did you watch that season? Any regrets watching Kelly Clarkson take it?

No regrets, she’s very deserving. It’s a great show, very entertaining. Since then, a few friends of mine have been on. Blake Lewis, I’ve known for years, Sanjaya, I was good friends with his family, or at least worked with.

You’ve had the opportunity to play and open for many well-known artists including Annie Lennox, who have you been most excited about partnering with?

I haven’t really played with these folks. I guess the most exciting show for me was BB King, a legend, and he actually took the time to meet my family, my band, and me of course, great, great person!

Who’s on the top of your list of people you want to collaborate with?

Of course, the man who has been a big inspiration, Mr. Dave Matthews.

I’ve been a fan of Ray LaMontagne. I think our voices would be fun together.

Vicci Martinez-Joyride

You play a lot around the Northwest, what is your favorite venue to play at?

I love playing the Triple Door in Seattle, what a treat. Luckily we’ve established a great relationship with the staff, great people, great place, and close to the best live music venue in Seattle.

You’re music is pretty mature for a younger artist, who are your main influences?

I’ve always been a fan of jazz, blues and funk, thanks to my father, and anything with great percussion. I love rhythm, as far as singer, songwriters go, Dave Matthews of course, The Beatles, Paul Simon, Bonnie Raitt, and Michael Jackson, RIP.

Who are you listening to most right now?

NPR to be honest, and lots of jazz.

You’ve got a very laid back style, sometimes going barefoot on stage. Is it important for you to be comfortable when you’re performing?

Absolutely, we all should be comfortable in anything we do. Big preacher of that I am, “live your truth” is my motto, even if it’s in jeans and a t-shirt.

How has growing up in the Northwest influenced your music?

Seattle is just so laid back. I’ve always felt very comfortable to be myself in this city, and have been lucky to be so accepted.

Are there any other Northwest artists that you take inspiration from?

Flowmotion, great guys who have started from scratch and are building their own festival called Summer Meltdown. They’re good friends of mine, and its all about the music with them boys.

Do you have anything coming up that we should look out for?

The Showbox this Friday of course, Summer Meltdown on Aug 14th, The Triple Door on my birthday weekend Sept 26th.