Erin Bode....

How or when did you first “discover” jazz?
It was a natural process for me. I grew up with a wide range of music in the house; Classical, Bluegrass and Folk, plus we watched a lot of musicals. It wasn't till I was in high school in my rebellious years that I got into jazz. I picked up a recording of Nancy Wilson with George Shearing and Oscar Peterson's Night Train. I also loved the Big bands like Glenn Miller and Les Brown. I was hooked from then on.
Do you remember the first recording you ever purchased (jazz or otherwise)?
Nancy Wilson with George Shearing. Next was Nancy with Cannonball Adderley.

Name one of your greatest creative influences and why?
It is Eva Cassidy. She was the most sincere singer I've ever heard. She sang all different styles but no matter what style she did it was always from her heart. She wasn't doing it for the fame or the recognition, she just loved music and I am always comforted by that. If I'm ever feeling down on myself and I feel like I'm not very good, I listen to Eva. She reminds me why I sing.

What made you decide to become a musician?
I've always wanted to perform. I have never truly wanted to do anything else.

Tell us about your recording DON'T TAKE YOUR TIME.
It is a collection of songs that I love. What better way to get started and introduce yourself to people than tell them what you love? I grew up listening to some of the songs like 'Count Your Blessings' and 'Here There and Everywhere.' Others I came across later on like Dylan's 'Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You' and Stevie Wonder's 'If It's Magic.' I am very proud to have an original on the cd. Adam Maness and I have been busy writing for the past several months and 'Don't Take Your Time' was one of our first efforts together.

Name one recording that you cannot live without.
My desert island cd would be Graceland or Rhythm of the Saints (Paul Simon) or Never Die Young (James Taylor) or Thriller (Michael Jackson). I might also go back into the fire for Ten Summoners Tales (Sting), Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus (Charlie Mingus) and Emmy Lou Harris' Wrecking Ball and maybe some Steely Dan.

What is the best thing about playing jazz?
Getting to be myself.

What is in your CD player right now?
Peer Gynt

What is the last movie you saw?
"Anchorman"

What is the last book you read?
Cold Sassy Tree by Olive Ann Burnes

What is your favorite escape?
My family has a cabin on Lake Superior. There is no where I'd rather be.

Name a few of your musical guilty pleasures.
Eminem and Enya