Recording My First English Song in Nashville
The story begins with stars aligning and magic happening. It was on the 21st of July 2023, in Phoenix, Arizona. I was attending my Up With People reunion and after 30 long years, that fate brought me face to face with Duane Grischow an Up With People alum. As we reunited, reminiscing about our shared experiences, he posed a question that sparked a fire within me: “Why don’t I know your songs? Why don’t you sing in English?” His words lingered in the air, igniting a sense of possibility and prompting me to ponder.
“Do you think I would be capable of that?” I responded, the seeds of doubt and curiosity planted in my mind. And so, with those words echoing in my thoughts, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and artistic exploration.
The Carpenter project emerged as a beacon of inspiration. Karen Carpenter, with whom I shared not just a passion for music but also a surname, felt like a long-lost sister. Together with my steadfast pianist, Andy Willems, we delved into their timeless repertoire, each note resonating with a sense of familiarity and belonging. But it wasn’t just about paying homage to the past; it was about embracing the future. It was about daring to dream bigger, to transcend boundaries, and to share my voice with the world, in a new language.
From the moment I participated in the pre-selections of the Eurovision Song Festival at the age of 28, I knew that music was my calling. But now, twenty years later, at the age of 48, I suddenly realize that at least half of my life is behind me. If I want to fulfill all my dreams, it’s time to take action.
So, with that thought on my mind, I took a leap of faith and journeyed to Singapore to catch Coldplay live in concert. The experience wasn’t just about the music; it was a catalyst for change in my artistic path. Watching Chris Martin pour his heart out on stage ignited a spark within me, urging me to explore new musical horizons.
One of my greatest aspirations is to translate my own songs into English and share them with the world. The idea of recording in a foreign studio, particularly in Nashville, the mecca for musicians, captivated my imagination.
With those words in mind and a burning desire in my heart, I am determined to take my musical journey to new heights. My story is one of perseverance, of pursuing dreams, and of the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect hearts. And I can’t wait to see where this journey will take me.
Stay tune for my next blog where I discuss becoming my best version with Amaryllis 2.0. You will learn more about my new English projects including the launch of the workshop Fly On My Wings.
