Jenn Grant is a creative shapeshifter whose new album, Queen of the Strait, is both dynamic and tender-hearted. We asked her about her music and her career as she prepares for two shows in Alberta.
You’ve said that your newest album, Queen of the Strait, tells the stories of your life, beginning with your childhood. What prompted you to make your most personal album to date?
As a woman now in mid-life, with two young kids, I can relate even more to my own mother’s experience. Watching my kids grow up has inspired me to share more of my story.
The accompanying show, Cradled by Waves, offers an immersive multimedia experience. Why did you want to create a concert experience that blurs the line between audience and artist?
I am a multimedia artist. I’m drawn to music, film, painting and performance. This feels like the beginning of something where I’m being given the opportunity to explore new artistic territory, which is something that I crave as an artist. For this show, my hope is to create a new world or realm of sorts for the audience to explore their own human experience. And to tie into the greater needs of the world right now.
The first single, “Jim Cuddy Dress” is a remarkable song. You’re not the first songwriter to describe losing a parent, but your approach is so tender and unique. Can you tell us about writing it?
I wrote this with my friend Ken Yates. It ended up being a lyrical exploration born of telling stories to Ken about my youth. At some point while writing songs for this album, I realized I’d somehow gone this long without telling the more factual truths of my life. There may need to be a Part Two, though. I draw inspiration from my mother on a daily basis. Watching her turn heartbreak into joy is one of the greatest lessons of my life.
Your work has included so many cool collaborations. What do you like about inviting friends and fellow musicians on stage and in the recording studio with you?
I think music is a wonderful way to bond with others. It’s been part of my life for so long now that I’m not sure I would know who I am without sharing it.
Your first EP came out in 2005, and you’ve released numerous albums over the past twenty years. How do you remain creative and engaged over a long career?
It’s just who I am; someone who has always expressed themselves through art. But I feel a difference now. I believe I’m coming to it with a new perspective, which comes from motherhood, age and life experience. I hope I can continue to stretch myself in new ways so that there is always a beautiful risk in art making.
Jenn Grant will share her Cradled by Waves Show in St. Albert on April 1 and in Calgary on April 3. Find details and tickets here.
“Jim Cuddy Dress” is from Jenn Grant’s album Queen of the Strait.
