Dreamy, gritty, and visceral, the music of singer/songwriter Paige Shannon brings Americana and folk-tinged flare to today’s country-pop landscape. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Paige began playing guitar and writing songs at age 12, self-releasing an EP by 13. Honing her craft by playing gigs around L.A., writing, and recording, she released her EP “Boxes” in 2019, followed by singles “Keep on Running” and “This House,” the first single off of her forthcoming project due to arrive Spring 2022.
Shannon cites Joni Mitchell as an influence, but the searing vocals on “The Deep End” pack an enormous punch. With a brooding banjo line that recalls Linkin Park’s “In the End,” Shannon unflinchingly digs into her fear of failure and the family dynamics that contribute to those fears. In our interview, Shannon discusses her goals and how she sees commits to being an ally.
Name a perfect song and tell us why you feel that way.
My favorite song of all time is “Woodstock” by Joni Mitchell. I really think it’s a perfect song, both musically and lyrically. It captures an eerie, gritty, foreshadowing mood, while also describing an event that is still so iconic in our cultural lexicon. Woodstock was supposed to be a symbol of peace, love, and unity, but ended up falling victim to the unpredictability of human nature – and the song relays the story in such a beautiful way.
How are you using your platform to support marginalized people?
I believe that it is essential for white artists to hold themselves accountable and support/create space for people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and all other marginalized groups. I don’t have much of a platform yet, but I do what I can to speak out about injustices through social media, and I also donate to Go Fund Me’s and various social justice organizations like the Minnesota Freedom Fund and Planned Parenthood whenever I have the extra money to do so. I will continue to speak out against injustices and use my privilege as a white woman to amplify the voices of people who are often not heard or seen enough in society.
What 5 albums are you going to make your kid listen to and why?
Great question! I think my answers would be Blue by Joni Mitchell, Folklore by Taylor Swift, Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers, The Nashville Sound by Jason Isbell + the 400 Unit, and Tom T. Hall – Stoyteller, Poet, Philosopher by Tom T. Hall. I think that all these albums are masterclasses in both songwriting and the study of the human condition.
Recent release you cannot stop listening to?
Recently, I can’t stop listening to Kacey Musgraves’ most recent album star-crossed. I love the production and the way that Kacey blends country music with more modern influences, and I also just adore her voice. The songs are so moving, but also empowering.
Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off?
One day, I would love to tour. I’ve played a bunch of shows around Los Angeles (my hometown), but I haven’t had the chance to tour yet. My dad was a touring musician for years, so I grew up hearing stories about life on the road, and it’s something on my bucket list that I want to experience.