Where are you from?
I was born in Germany, raised in Louisiana and Florida, moved to California, and now reside in Brooklyn, New York.
What is your earliest memory of music?
My parents gave me a small recorder when I was 3. I sat on the steps in the backyard and blew into that little flute until I could make a musical sound with it. Then I tried adding some other notes to make a song. I was hooked.
When did you start being an artist?
Growing up, I was very devoted to classical music. I studied and played Bach, Mozart, and sang in Madrigal groups. When I started to live in cities, I was drawn into the visual arts and became a photographer. It was a fulfilling career, but I heard lots of jazz and once again, music called me. I started to perform in cabaret clubs to learn more about performing live. I
eventually studied jazz more seriously through workshops and ensembles, and finally was able to lead my own band, which, at first, focused on swing dancing. New York City became a university for me.
How would you describe your style?
Cajun Bleu is a study of a variety of blue chord changes and styles, but it also was a loving inquiry into my Cajun French roots. I started to imagine how the blues and Acadian folk tunes were connected to New Orleans traditions. My “jazz band” offers a unique mix of instruments that range from the tuba and trombone to the accordion and electric keys, conjuring memories of both the old and new. On one end of the spectrum, Clark Gayton (trombone/tuba) serves as a living link to the past as the great-grand nephew of New Orleans legend Manuel ‘Fess’ Manetta. On the other hand, drummer Shawn Pelton brings a contemporary flair as the go-to percussionist for the Saturday Night Live TV show. Together, we created a sonic tapestry that evokes the pioneering spirit of King Oliver’s Creole Band one moment and the sultry French sophistication of pop icon Serge Gainsbourg.
It’s an eclectic jazz mix that aspires to be a unique sound that is hauntingly familiar.
Are there any particular themes or messages that you often explore in your
music?
For Cajun Bleu I was working with memories of lost love and lost homelands. The
mood is a theatrical interpretation of jazz and blues. I also want a positive message of singing, and how it is a natural gift that everyone can use to keep life lighter, even in the darker times.
What is the meaning behind your stage name?
“Jazz Band” is to reference the traditions I am drawing from and also for the improvisational nature of the players. Give a jazz musician a good chart and the melodies and harmony come alive. I want to evoke that spirit.
What is the story behind your most famous song?
Sing High Sing Low seems to be getting the most streaming right now. That song is based on a traditional 12 bar blues tune. I was telling a story about the thrill of pursuing love at first sight,
and how it can quickly fade. But the story, told in retrospect, is directed to the past love. The lyrics are encouraging to laugh about the past. La Pa La Patate is the Cajun phrase I use, which literally means don’t drop the potato, but figuratively means don’t give up. Don’t ever give up.
What is the hardest thing about being an artist?
Keeping motivation to make art when there is no one telling you (and often not paying you) to do it.
What’s the best thing about being an artist?
No one is telling you to do it….you do it because you have to.
What are your goals for your music career?
I’d like to continue performing in small jazz clubs and recording. I plan to write more songs and collaborate with more musicians.
What do you like to do in your free time (outside of music)?
Garden. Cook. Teach. Hang out and watch B&W films with my husband.
Do you get involved with charities or causes that are important to you?
Right now, much of my energy is teaching critical thinking and inspiring young
adults to read literature in an urban public school. That is an important cause.
What is something that people would be surprised to know about you?
I was a photographer for fifteen years in San Francisco.
Do you have any upcoming projects we can be excited about?
I definitely have some song cycles brewing in my mind. I am collecting ideas and listening to sounds. It’s the gathering state. I also have several songs that I haven’t released that aren’t finished. I will work on those soon.
What are some of the standout tracks on your latest project?
I find myself singing the lyrics to Old Spot and Sing High Sing Low once in a while. I think that’s a sign that those songs stick.
What are your favorite topics to write about?
Lately I have been writing about living in Brooklyn. Favorite topics are memories, places, unresolved emotions, questions about aging…
How do you deal with creative block or artist block?
I read books, look at gardens, and go to shows.
What was the best show or tour you have ever been on?
I’ve never toured…that would be a goal. But I have had many shows and for me, they are all special. I love the collaboration with other musicians and the thrill of sharing with an audience. It adds a lot of joy and glamor to my life.
What’s been your favorite moment of your career so far? Where can people find
your music online?
At my last performance I had a sold out crowd. There were lots of CD sales too. That was gratifying. I love to share my music live. You can purchase a CD and listen to my music via my website at http://www.julietvarnedoejazz.com and of course, streaming.
