Today we’re visiting with someone who’s been here before…the very wonderful Cory Sipper. Last time we learned about her sewn sketches (you can read that interview here). This time, Cory talks about her music, her just-do-it attitude, and her newly released album. Here we go…
As a creative mama myself, I find it challenging to weave my creative work into that of my family and home. Can you share a bit about how you honor your musical passions while also tending to those you love?
I just do it…like most things in my life. In fact “Just Do It” is my mantra. My kids are used to me practicing my music, writing music and working on the computer. Of course it’s easier when school is in session, because then I have the time to work while they are there. But my husband and I are both artists, and both self-employed, and it’s all my kids know. Ultimately my kids are used to doing a lot of crafting on their own. A glue gun goes a long way!
Do you have any rituals surrounding your music writing? Or do you grab paper/pencil/guitar when inspiration strikes and just get it down quick?
I usually sit down with an intent to write. Inspired or not. Sometimes the creativity happens and sometimes it doesn’t. Sometimes I have to work harder. Sometimes it comes easier, like it’s “sent” through me. That’s always fun and something most artists can relate to at some point in their lives- the feeling of being channeled, for lack of a better word.
Does being a mother inspire your music?
Being a happy wife and mother has inspired some songs, like “Big Love” off my new album. Ultimately I’m inspired by life itself. Its joys and struggles.
Can you share one or two things you learned (about the music biz, the creative process, yourself…whatever comes to mind) in the process of writing and producing your new album, “Make Your Magic”?
Oh. So much. And there is so much I’m still learning now and always. It’s an incredibly hard business, so I guess ultimately my learning is in staying with it, going with the flow and riding the waves. The writing is very easy for me. It’s the business part that is painfully hard. So- in answer to your question- what have I learned….to keep going. Forging onward. That is my ongoing lesson.
Now a few fun ones…
What was your favorite thing you did this summer?
Our one and only vacation- a two day tent camping trip we took to Montana De Oro – near San Luis Obispo, CA.
When was the last time you laughed?
I laugh everyday. Even when I have a shitty day I usually laugh at some point. My husband and my relationship runs on humor and I’m in general a very irreverent person.
Are you currently reading a book? If so, what is it?
I AM! People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks. I read to get myself to fall asleep.
If you close your eyes right now, what word comes to mind?
Shelter. I don’t know why- but that’s the word that came to mind. I’ll have to meditate on why that might be.
Cory is generously giving away a CD of “Make Your Magic”. I’ve listened to my copy many (many) times and I’ll tell you that it’s really (really) good. Knowing what a sweet lady Cory is, then listening to her voice and lyrics…well, here’s your chance to see what I mean. Leave a comment below if you’d like to enter the giveaway. Maybe tell us your favorite song right now or one from college or high school days. Or maybe just say hello. Comments will close at midnight PST on Monday, September 14. The randomly-selected winner will be announced here in this post on Tuesday, September 15.
I hope you enjoyed this chat with Cory as much as I did. Thanks to Cory for being here with us. Now leave a comment for your chance to win her beautiful CD… Comments for the giveaway are now closed. The winner is Grace! (I’ll be sending you a email, Grace.) Thanks to all who played along!
Sending a little love your way, m
Cory Sipper has been writing and performing songs since the tender age of 13. She has four critically acclaimed albums out and her fifth “Make Your Magic” was released in May, 2015. Cory’s songs and voice have been used in hundreds of TV shows, films and commercials over the years, both nationally and internationally. After a 10 year break from actively releasing albums, Cory is now excited about the release of “Make Your Magic”, playing live shows and connecting with her fans. Cory lives in Goleta, CA.
You can follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
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Michelle GD 
up town funk runs in my mind lately although that is not “new” anymore is it? Old….well I remember loving to slow dance to stairway to heaven with a boy in high school knowing it would last forever!!
Thank you for introducing me to Cory! And for throwing my name in the hat. Favorite songs? The ones my Dad would play on his guitar on Friday nights and the ones my little one makes up to sing me at night. The song my sister sang on my wedding day. The songs around a fire with my beloved tribe. xx
I have a mad crush on Cory. and oh those sewn sketches !!!
John Denver was the first album I ever owned. ” Rocky Mountain High ”
I was so in love with that man. His lyrics. His Spirit. I wanted to marry him.
Oh well. I still listen to his music on occasion for warm fuzzy memories !
Cory is one of my favorite people and I love her voice, such talent. Great interview.
A song from high school? Anything by the Eagles or Styx. :)
Have a great weekend.
Such a great interview with Cory, Michelle. Hmm, my favorite song right now? I would have to say Ed Sheeran’s ‘Photograph’! Have a wonderful week! xx
I loved this interview. And I love how she sits down with the intent to write whether she is inspired or not. She just does it. I need to do that. I keep saying I want to write but am not inspired by anything so don’t! I would say that right now I enjoy the song “Try” (But I can’t remember who it’s by!) It has a beautiful message though.
hhmm.. would love a new CD. I’m a bit behind in technology so still figuring out how to download and make my own playlists. Thank you for the opportunity to listen to a new female voice!
Congrats to Cory on her new release. I love her mantra..”just do it”…yes to that!
My taste in music changes like the seasons. Lately, I’ve been listening to Carla Bruni’s albums. Her music is soft, like a lullaby and so peaceful.
I enjoyed the interview. A real, creative, hardworking, musical talent. Inspiring! I would enjoy winning the new album.
I LOVE the line “I sit down with the intent to write, inspired or not.” That’s going up on my white board right now! Thank you, Michelle, for introducing us to Cory!