The Playlist: Amy Feezor of Real Simple (and Lifework)

A few weeks ago, Cerentha suggested that I create my own playlist for this series. So I took her up on the idea—and learned a couple of lessons in the process. First, everyone I’ve interviewed is right: the last question I ask about an artist that represents your work is a toughie (I’m still keeping it in, though!). And second, sharing your personal music picks is a more intimidating thing than I had expected (it’s the equivalent of making a mix tape for your crush, except in this case, you’re trying to woo the whole-wide world). My thanks to everyone who has been kind enough to let me take a peek at their playlist and their work life thus far.

Does music inspire your work? If you’re interested in being a part of this series, contact me here. Or leave your details in the comment section.

What do you listen to while you work? Strangely enough, when I am writing—whether for my magazine or for my blog—it needs to be something I already know. I can’t sit around and listen to something new because it distracts me (as a “words” person, I can get especially caught up in song lyrics). I need music to serve as a background of sorts; it can get too quiet while I am writing otherwise.

How do you listen? Through my Mac and through some less-than-glamorous speakers I’ve hooked up to it and placed randomly throughout my bookshelf. It’s all I have since my studio apartment and office are so small–there’s no need (or space) for anything bigger or fancier. On occasion, I will wear headphones; and when I do, that means serious “do-not-disturb-me” business.

Do you have any favorite music websites or providers? iTunes for convenience. I used to use Pandora, but I have recently switched over to Grooveshark—no interruptions or ads, and you get to choose all the music you want to listen to. It’s awesome.

Does music influence your work? It truly can influence my mood, which can in turn influence my writing. But for me, I think that music is more of a motivator than anything.  It helps me stick around the computer, encourages me to write at times (or at least sing along/chair dance if I need a break). And this is small, but music can directly play a part in my copy, as I may sometimes use song titles or music lyrics in headlines.

Where do you find music recommendations? Friends and co-workers. Mentions on Twitter or blogs I read. NPR shows. Magazines also lead the way—I’ve been particularly loving the recommendations I’ve been finding lately in Entertainment Weekly.

What song or artist best represents the work you create? Lyle Lovett. It’s sometimes weird, sometimes refined, and always with a slight Southern accent and uncooperative hair.

AMY’S PLAYLIST

Crown on the Ground, Sleigh Bells

Wide Eyes, Local Natives

The Ruminant Band, Fruit Bats

Up from the South, The Budos Band

Better Things, Passion Pit

White Winter Hymnal, Fleet Foxes

Let Your Loss Be Your Lesson, Robert Plant & Alison Krauss

Stylo, Gorillaz

Paperweight, Schuyler Fisk and Joshua Radin

California, Rogue Wave

Blue and Gold Print, Mates of State

No Moon, Iron & Wine

It’s a Heartache, Wellington Ukulele Orchestra
Images: Amy Feezor

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