Photo Credit: Amber Renee Photography
- Artist Name: Karen Jonas
- Hometown: Fredericksburg, VA
What project(s) are you currently working on?
Right now we’re recording our FIFTH record! I can’t wait for y’all to hear it.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
I’ve told this story a few times before, but it’s true so I’ll tell it again (my other option is to make up something really outlandish): My dad played me Joni Mitchell’s Miles of Aisles when I was 16. I remember watching that record spin on the turntable. That was my “aha” moment, and I thought, “Well if she can do that, then I’m going to, too.” I think if I was going to make up an answer instead, I’d say that Bob Dylan came to me in a dream and bestowed The Gift of Song upon me which I now carry, with great respect and responsibility to do good for mankind.
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
I’d be raising my four kids, mostly. I’m not sure what else I’d do. Maybe I’d work at a coffee shop, just to get out of the house and drink extra coffee.
What is your favorite downtime activity?
I really like to take naps. In regards to your last question, I could probably look into Professional Napping Championships.
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
Bob Dylan.
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
I don’t watch much Sportsball. My grandma was a big Redskins fan, so I do have some fond childhood memories of watching football with her.
What is the last movie that you watched?
I watched “Forrest Gump” just before I had my last baby, and I haven’t had time to watch a movie since. One day, I’m going to watch “Napoleon Dynamite” again. And that Ken Burns Country Music series. And the Queen movie. Maybe when they’re all in school.
What is the last album you listened to?
Unfortunately it was Lisa Loeb’s kid’s songs album, but it wasn’t my choice (though it is very sweet and listenable, as far as kids music goes). The last album I listened to on purpose was Joni’s For the Roses. I always listen to it in the fall – it reminds me of my first basement apartment in college.
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tough call! Joni Mitchell’s Hissing of Summer Lawns would go a long way. But I also fall back on Paul Simon’s Graceland, Bob Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks, Jason Isbell’s Southeastern, and more…
What is the greatest country song of all time?
Geez, I don’t think I’m qualified to know. I sure do like Hank Williams though, so let’s go with “Your Cheating Heart.”
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
New York City will always be my favorite city/town. We’re heading that way in a few weeks!
What is your favorite meal?
Any meal that I don’t have to cook! And/or a good steak.
Who is your dream duet partner?
Bob Dylan, of course. I think he wouldn’t like me, but I would understand and try not to talk too much, and we’d carry on with the duet anyway.
Who would you like to go on tour with?
Brandi Carlile.
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
Ultimate goals are dicey, I like to enjoy the steps along the way. Our next step for 2020 is to release another record, gear up our regional touring, and make a trip to Europe.