"I feel empowered now because I chose to surround myself with good people and develop my people-reading skills."
Women are killing it in the music industry, and song lovers couldn't be happier! In our column, #WomenCrushWednesday, each week, we'll feature an awesome lady whose tunes are blowing up our playlists and ask them about their musical journey.
This week, Dorothy Martin of the band Dorothy speaks with us about her alternative-rock band's whirlwind career thus far, which includes a super expansive tour (we've got all of the dates for you to check out). She also discusses the recent release of their second album, experiences as a female fronting an all-male band, and who has inspired her as an artist.
How did you become interested in music?
Ever since I was a little girl I loved to sing. I would do karaoke in my room, learning every song I could get my hands on and later on I picked up the guitar in my late teens.
What artists have inspired you in your writing and recording?
Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fleetwood Mac, Pink Floyd, Aerosmith, The Doors, The Rolling Stones, Janis Joplin, Mama Cass, Jefferson Airplane, and in the past Sabbath and blues classics.
You perform with a band. How did all of you begin making music together?
Our latest record ( 28 Days in the Valley) was produced by Linda Perry so she brought in some new players. We all became friends, except for Eliot Lorango, who was my original bass player. We go way back.
How do you feel as the female lead of an all-male backing band?
I don't even think of that to be honest. We are all equal and we all love music.
What's your experience been like as a woman in the music industry?
I'd be lying if I said I never had sketchy experiences and didn't get taken advantage of. These experiences made me wiser and more aware. I feel empowered now because I chose to surround myself with good people and develop my people-reading skills.
Your band recently released your sophomore album, 28 Days In The Valley. What was the writing and recording process for that like?
We got in a room and jammed, and we wrote at Linda's studio until we had about 16 songs. At least 10 of those told a story and sounded like they went together. Her studio has good energy. It's full of vintage gear and iconic rock and roll photographs.
I read that this album for inspired by events in your personal life. What was it like working with writing about this material?
It was cathartic and healing.
Have you got any favorite tracks off the record or has it changed for you in the short time it's been released?
I love the songs "Mountain" and "On My Knees."
What's coming up next for you?
We will be playing ARROYO SECO, LOLLAPALOOZA, SUMMERFEST, VOODOO FEST, and a headlining leg of our own FREEDOM TOUR.
