In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Cecily, a vocalist and songwriter based in Washington, DC.
We will discuss her love for 70s soul music and the creative process behind her latest album, Awakening Part II (2024).
What do you do when an artist’s music instantly connects with you?
For me, that initial spark of interest goes beyond just the music.
I feel this pull to know their story, to understand the influences and experiences that shaped them.
I’m not exactly sure why, but I think it helps me connect with the music in a more meaningful way
I recently felt this pull when I discovered Cecily.
While hosting a playlist challenge in our Club Membership, a Bandcamp shuffle introduced me to her album, Awakening Part II.
As I listened, I was curious to learn more and soon discovered that her trip to Italy’s Umbria Jazz Festival had been a key moment in her decision to fully pursue her art.
This was fascinating to me—not only because I grew up in Italy, but because it showed how much of a global influence an artist’s journey can have.
Now, if you’ve ever found yourself relaxing on the couch with a warm cup of tea, lost in thought about your day, Cecily’s music is exactly what you need to enhance those moments.
In Conversation with Cecily – 70s Soul Music & Love Songwriting
Cecily is an amazing vocalist and songwriter based in Washington, DC.
She describes her music as a blend of soul with strong influences from jazz to 90’s R&B.
She’s shared the stage with some incredible talent, opening for award-winning artists like Gregory Porter and Jose James, as well as R&B stars like Johnny Gill, Kenny Lattimore, and Elle Varner.
She’s even performed alongside folk artist Becca Stevens and alternative soul pioneer Bilal.
Just this past June, she released Awakening Pt. II, the follow-up to her critically acclaimed 2019 project Awakening Pt. I.
I had the pleasure of chatting with her virtually on Zoom, and it turned out to be a great interview.
We explored her musical influences, reminisced about her experience at the Umbria Jazz Festival, and discussed her connection to Gil Scott-Heron.
We also delved into the messages and creative process behind Awakening Pt. II.
We wrapped up our conversation by talking about her approach to songwriting and the challenges of releasing an album independently.
It was such a delightful exchange, and I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as I enjoyed our conversation! 🎧
In addition, read this blog article: Navigating the Cultural History of Jazz w/ Natalie Greffel
TABLE OF CONTENTS
03:10 Umbria Jazz Festival – Becoming a professional vocalist
05:42 Cecily’s parents’ music
07:36 The connection to 70s Soul Music
11:44 Favorites tracks/albums from Gil Scott Heron
14:30 Cecily’s songwriting process (Part 1)
17:32 Seeking to make music about love & joy
23:07 A Closer Look Into Awakening Part II (Album, 2024)
33:10 Cecily’s songwriting process (Part 2)
36:37 “If you would collaborate with an artist from the past, who would it be?“
38:23 Advice for Independent Artists
EPISODES LINKS
CECILY | “Acceptance” Live Recording
Subscribe to the Newsletter!
Join the monthly newsletter and discover the finest events in Berlin and Europe + music marketing tips, and the latest updates from the community.
