A gorgeous blonde rolls up to the scene on a Schwinn bicycle. She has her friends in tow, all of them toting baguettes and wine in their bags. A bluetooth player is bumping something incredibly obnoxious, and all you can think is, “Who IS that girl?”
That’s how Charlotte Day Wilson would prefer to be introduced to the world. Simple, fun, and infinitely charming. But all three adjectives speak to this musician on a regular basis, as she is an incredible artist -classically trained as a vocalist and saxophonist, with roots in R&B, soul and folk – and human. We caught up with Charlotte when she was prepping for her performance at Crossroads KC on September 24th – in case you’re wondering, she is touring in support of THE Local Natives – and we fell in love. Check out the interview below.
What’s the first album or song you remember hearing, and who played it for you?
The first song I remember hearing was “Downtown” by Petula Clark and I memorized all the lyrics by age 4. I think my mom probably played it first.
What made you decide to pursue music? Did you have an “a-ha!”moment?
I knew I wanted to do music when I had my heart broken for the first time. The only thing I was able to do that didn’t make me feel like I was going to vomit was make music, so it was kind of then that I realized the power that writing had over me. After that I just continued making music to work through whatever else was going on.
How has the production process and live performance aspect changed since your days with The Wayo?
It’s changed entirely because I’ve been writing and producing everything on my own rather than with a group. My live shows differ depending on the show so that’s kind of an evolving thing right now.
“Find You” is our favorite track to date from you. What inspired it, specifically?
“Find You” is about making peace with yourself before being able to properly love someone else. I wrote the song sitting at a piano and just hashing out some of the thoughts I was having towards my love life.
You’re currently touring with Local Natives. What’s that been like? Any fun stories from the road?
It’s been amazing. The guys in Local Natives are such sweethearts. I’ve been singing on “Dark Days” with them during their sets which has been blessed. Their fans are obsessed with them, they get such great reactions every night. Touring is slightly exhausting because we are always moving. There’s not a ton of downtime and when there is downtime it’s in the car and I can’t sleep in cars very well. But aside from that it’s been incredible to play in front of so many different crowds every night.
We know traveling is kind of a pain in the ass sometimes. Do you have a go-to routine or unique way you handle everything?
I have certain herbal remedy routines, lots of oregano oil and eucalyptus. I try not to party too hard but still have fun. Humour is very important when traveling. If you can joke around with your travel buds you’re all good.
What venue are you most looking forward to playing?
I’m really excited to play in New Orleans and Chicago.
What makes you laugh so hard you cry?
Poop jokes.
Be sure to check Charlotte out on one of the tour dates listed above, and keep up to date with all of her shenanigans at CharlotteDayWilson.com. CDW is available now.
