Songwriter

I first discovered Over the Rhine’s music after picking up their double-disc album, Ohio, on a whim. Those songs quickly became like old friends who kept me company on long drives in the Michigan countryside where I grew up. When Ryan and I started dating, Drunkard’s Prayer had just been released and quickly became a favorite—that album will forever spark memories of where “we” began. The Long Surrender, OtR’s first fan-funded effort—which we happily contributed to—was released in 2011 and is full of songs we’ve worn in like a well-loved pair of blue jeans. Over the Rhine’s music has accompanied us from season to season, across the miles we’ve travelled, both literally and figuratively. And in celebration of their latest release, Meet Me at the Edge of the World, and our 100th issue of TGD, it’s an honor to feature an interview with Karin and Linford, who share about their roots, their relationship, the music, and the hope of the legacies they will leave behind when the last song is sung. —Tina

Singer-songwriter Sarah Jaffe has worked hard to get to where she’s at. From her early years as a starry-eyed teenager who burned her own CDs and decorated handmade press kits, to partnering with award-winning hip-hop producer and Kanye cohort, S1, Sarah has been evolving her creative chops as an artist. Although her career began in a DIY fashion, Sarah is insistent that much of her success is due in part to the kind and generous mentors who have helped her along. And while the music world has developed in surprising ways, Sarah has remained true to her vision. Her story is a reminder to all of us that irrespective of naysayers or ever-changing industries, doing what we love is a timeless art—and if we’re passionate about it, we’ll find a way to continue doing it wholeheartedly and without compromise. —Tammi

We’ve been listening to Ryan’s music since we discovered his album, Mescalito, a few years back. Whether accompanied by a lone acoustic guitar or an electric guitar and full band, Ryan’s voice is unmistakably gritty and lived-in—it’s the voice of a man who clearly has a good story or two to tell. And he does. Ryan told us about growing up in Texas, traveling with the rodeo, personal challenges, and why playing music was a turning point for him. If you’ve ever doubted yourself or thought you weren’t good enough, this interview is for you. May Ryan’s words help you find the courage to pursue whatever is in your heart to do. —Tina

We’ve had Catcall’s album on steady rotation since its release in May. Yes, it’s good, fun pop music that makes us wanna dance, but it’s not just another glossy, forgettable pop album; it’s got soul—and so does Catherine. We had a great time talking with this amazing lady who shared with us about her musical beginnings in the punk band, Kiosk, how she was so shy about performing that her high school friends had no idea she could sing, her brief venture into the film industry, and how music became “a real savior” for her during a difficult time. Thank you, Catherine, for sharing your music and your story with us! —Tina

With a background in classical piano and a love for everything electronic, Bell’s music is her own confection—a world of layered beats, swirling synth textures, and sometimes poppy, sometimes haunting, but always beautiful vocals. We can’t believe she never considered singing professionally—more about that in the interview. Olga shared with us about the years she spent studying classical piano, the risk she took in branching out into new musical territory, her brief dream of being an MTV news anchor, why she’s not yet satisfied creatively, and her hopes for the future. —Tina

Rosie knows how to pull at your heartstrings—just listen to her music and you’ll know what we mean. She’s got a voice as clear as a bell and lyrics that go beyond the typical pop song. When we talked, Rosie didn’t pack any punches. Without hesitation, she shared about her journey to becoming a full-time musician, the importance of finding her own “voice”, her love for people, and her thoughts on the new album, With Love. Thanks for being our valentine, Rosie! —Tina

We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of our conversation with Derek. The wisdom he shared with us about making it in today’s music business was damn impressive—especially the story of how Noisetrade came about in a time when nobody was giving away music for free. Derek also got personal, sharing about quitting college to join a band, how his definition of success has changed, and why he’s not defining the legacy he wants to leave. —Tina

We’ve got a crush on self-taught musician, Ivana XL, and are partial to hearing her sing against the backdrop of a lone guitar or piano. Her voice is rich, sultry, and ethereal—it welcomes and carries us to another place. Ivana writes her own material and has also done some achingly good covers of classics sung by Neil and Carly. So go ahead and turn on some music before you read on about Ivana’s journey as a musician, the community she’s found in Brooklyn, how she learned to sing by listening to R&B, and why—in the end—all that matters is the music. —Tina