[Originally published in Vp issue 5 by Kelly McCartney photos by Matteo Trisolini (2003)]
[Originally published in Vp issue 5 by Kelly McCartney photos by Matteo Trisolini (2003)]
A lot of people know Jill Sobule solely from a certain hit song that shall remain nameless (if you know what’s good for you). But, as popular as it may be, that one tune is just the tip of her artistic iceberg. If you have never listened closely to the depth and breadth of Sobule’s music, you might think she was born with her tongue stuck permanently in her cheek. Dig a little deeper, though, and you’ll discover a tender side. That’s the creative equipoise Sobule has mastered, the sweet juxtaposition of humor and heartbreak, each playing off the other with delightfully melodious consequences. Sobule has thus far released four albums with more than enough material recorded for the fifth. Problem is, she’s currently label-less. Ever one to color outside the lines, Sobule has proposed the first fan-financed label of which she would be the chairperson with full veto power in the tradition of Mao. She might just be onto something.
In the meantime, Sobule is keeping herself busy with constant touring (jetting around with Don Henley) and a recent cameo appearance on The West Wing. Despite having such glamorous calendar entries, Velvetpark got her attention long enough to answer the following:
Would you rather be Captain Kirk or Mahatma Gandhi?
Gandhi, of course. He was real, did good things, dressed light, and had less irritating fans.
Do you prefer sweet or savory?
Sweet for sure—I love birthday cake.
Of all of the places you’ve toured, where do you feel the most welcome?
Well, there are quite a few hospitable places. I do love playing for the home team in New York City.
What’s your favorite form of nature?
I suppose the mountains, originally being a Colorado girl. Once, I lived on the ocean in California. I thought it would be so calm and healthy, but those incessant waves made so much noise and never stopped!
What song do you wish you’d written?
“Is That All There Is” (by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller) or “Never My Love” (by the Addrisi Brothers) for the publishing.
What’s the most creative moniker for female genitalia that you’ve ever heard?
My little sombrero.
In your opinion, who’s the greatest female role model of all time?
Eleanor Roosevelt or Elton John.
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Velvetpark Magazine, Issue 5 (Anniversary Issue 2003), 26-27.
