Tell us about your tour vehicle. Any notable breakdown stories?
There’s always a breakdown story linked to a tour. It can be anything. Over the years, I’ve used several vehicles. “One Woman Band” started with a regular SUV that broke down as soon as I left from New Orleans to Boise, Idaho. When I shared that online, the fans and friends, without me even starting a gofundme, all sent me enough money so I could buy another vehicle and keep touring. I got a Dodge Caravan, and oh man! To be honest, this such a great ride! It’s invisible,… to cops or thieves, your just driving a “mama van” so it feels safe regarding the equipment. I can fit a lot in there, drums, bass cab, 2 guitars amps, 4 guitars, huge load of merch, and can even take a nap in the back.
How do you eat cheaply and/or healthy while on tour?
I bought a $40 juicer that I can carry with me. Avoiding road food is a real struggle. In the north, it’s easier than in the south. So, I guess “Mexican food” is the easiest solution.
How many strings do you break in a typical year? How much does it cost to replace them?
I don’t often break strings, and I like their muddy sound when they get old. So –real cheap.
Where do you rehearse?
Practice home, or outside in the backyard. Sure… “most” of the neighbors like it. And if you don’t? Well, hey this this is New Orleans. If you don’t like music, you live in the wrong city.
What was the title and a sample lyric from the first song that you wrote?
It’s hard to remember. Some kind of teenage song talking about being different but no matter what, I would make it through the tough times and that would reach my goals.
Describe your first gig.
I used to work in a music store in downtown Brussels. I loved ‘50s rock’n’roll and ‘40s jump blues. But no one of my age would wanna play rock or blues. One time these 2 musicians came into the store to post an ad “Looking for RNB & RNR singer”, mentioning all the bands I listened to. The audition became a practice and soon enough we had our first show. It was success and I played with the Naphtalines for about 8 years.
What was your last day job? What was your favorite day job?
I’ve been playing for a living for almost a decade now. My last jobs before that were at a music store, then in a Champagne store.
How has your music-related income changed over the past 5-10 years? What do you expect it to look like 5-10 years from now?
The first time I busked, I understood I would never have a day job again. And I was right. From busking I got into small local clubs, once a week, twice a week, until 6 or 7 days a week once I moved to New Orleans. Then I started touring and playing internationally.
It’s hard work, but so worth it. Financial success to me is not being rich, but just not having to worry about money. We’re getting there.
What one thing do you know now that you had wished you knew when you started your career in music?
I wouldn’t do anything any other way. Having drive, motivation and goals is the best skill one can have.