In thinking about it, my singing style was perhaps an influence of my mother and Cass Elliot (of the Mamas and Papas). I tend to focus my singing so it's clear and the tone is as pure as I can get it. Others that are definite influences include- Kate Wolf, Mary Black, Eva Cassidy, Bonnie Raitt, Lena Horne, Karla Bonoff, Bette Midler and the greatest cabaret singer who died far too early in her career, Nancy LaMott. And those are just the women! The men who have influenced me- well I'll just keep it to the short, short list- Sammy Davis, Jr. and Jeff Buckley (also died far too early like his father, Tim). Both of these men were versatile with passion and a desire to communicate not only the music, they shared entire lives through their songs.

I'm very much a words-oriented singer so I sing pretty unadorned to make sure the words are understood. Not sure if it comes across although that is my intention.

When I've busked here in San Francisco, A LOT of people say that my voice is reminiscent of a young Joan Baez. I don't know if it's true but I'll keep that compliment, thank you very much!

I know there are a million more- this is just the short, short list.

Thanks for starting this interesting thread, Jerry!

---SunnySister