Holly Humberstone Reveals Her Influences in Song Shuffle
During a recent appearance backstage at New York City's Gov Ball, singer-songwriter Holly Humberstone participated in Rolling Stone's 'Song Shuffle' segment. The artist randomly selected tracks from her phone, emphasizing the spontaneity of the process. She candidly remarked that the authentic nature of the shuffle made her anticipate each new song with a mix of excitement and trepidation.
Humberstone's musical journey began with Flyte's 2021 track, 'Everyone's a Winner,' which she hailed as a masterpiece from an underrated UK band, best experienced during moments of quiet contemplation. Next, Big Thief's 'Change' prompted her to reflect on contemporary artists destined for legendary status, likening lead singer Adrianne Lenker to a modern-day Bob Dylan and a profound source of inspiration. The shuffle then transported her back to 1994 with Tom Petty's 'Wildflowers,' a song she cherished from her formative years. She described its dreamy quality, layered acoustic guitars, and backing vocals as perfect for touring with friends, emphasizing its underrated status as a beautiful love song. Further back in time, Van Morrison's 1970 classic 'Into The Mystic' emerged, a track she instinctively knew the words to, envisioning it as the soundtrack to a coming-of-age film or a memorable road trip. Her eclectic playlist concluded with ML Buch's 'Working it Out' from the 2023 album 'Suntub,' a recent favorite that evokes summery dreams and a comforting embrace.
Humberstone is currently on an extensive tour across North America and Europe to promote her latest album, 'Cruel World.' She revealed that much of the new material was crafted with live performances in mind, driven by her passion for performing with her band and connecting with audiences. For her, music transcends mere entertainment; it is a universal language that fosters connection and unity among people, creating a shared experience that levels the playing field for all.
Music is a powerful medium that transcends boundaries, fostering connection and shared human experience. It is a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, unite, and elevate our spirits, reminding us of our common humanity and the beauty of creative expression.