Behind The Lens: Sue Horowitz

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Where do you go—physically or mentally—when it’s time to write your music?

This is a great question! I get inspiration everywhere- from news stories, interactions, nature, experiences, and a lot from overheard conversations. I am an avid eavesdropper. I keep notes of these gems, some of which become song prompts.  In order for me to write music or lyrics, I need to be in my house, alone. There can't be anything or anyone to distract me or listen in on the process. It is a completely solitary experience. A good cup of coffee is my required. I tend to write with my guitar in hand, which is probably both a good and a bad thing.  When I get stuck in the process, I go outside for a brisk walk and sing and mumble to myself to the rhythm of the music- I must look a little nuts, but it's what works for me. Actually, with everyone talking into their phones on little ear buds now, it probably looks completely normal. All of my solitary process gets thrown out the window, though, when I co-write! Then I love to be in the same place as my co-writer, and be able to throw things at the wall and see what sticks.  If I can't co-write in person, zoom is a great alternative and google docs is very efficient. I am not a techie person, but connecting through technology is a gift.

What’s one thing about life you wish someone told you sooner?

Connection is the key. Networking, making friends, booking shows together, co-creating, is the key to the kingdom both personally and professionally. Plus it's a hell of a lot of fun. 

What do you think is currently missing from the music and entertainment industry?

Well, I'll start with the positive: There is so much opportunity for people to be heard through independent music sources- streaming, downloading, youtube, etc. Of course, it's hard to break through when there is so much talent and good music around, but the opportunity still exists. The flip side of that coin is that there is not much revenue coming to the independent artist through those sources. Fractions of pennies per spin. And with the slow death of CD sales, it is becoming harder and harder to make money off selling your music. Money can be made off of gigs, but there are less opportunities out there due to venues closing and decreased attendance. It's a hustle for an independent musician to make a living wage! 

What instruments or sounds would you like to collaborate with more in the future?

Learning to play the cello is on my bucket list! I just think it's the most beautiful sounding instrument.

What song of yours feels like summer—and what makes it connect with that energy?

Summer song vibes are energetic and joyful, about love, maybe nostalgic. Some are self-referential like Seals and Croft's Summer Breeze or Alice Cooper's Schools Out. I don't know if I have any that specific, but the closing song on my new album Rainy Nights & Rearview Windows has a song on it called Freedom Fly. It was written by me, Sloan Wainwright and Anne Marie Menta. It's a straight up bluesy rock and roll song that has a fun summertime vibe. The positive message of the song is just go out and do it. I'd say it hits the joyful energetic energy that feels like summer.

What’s been your highest achievement in your music career so far?

I am not a big song contest person. Judging someone's art feels weird to me. But I have entered a few contests and won a number of awards for my songwriting which is very satisfying. I also had a record, Strings, Wings & Curious Things that went to #3 on Folk Radio. That was SO rewarding. I know external validation shouldn't count for much, but honestly, sometimes it does. 

What’s your favorite song off your latest project—and why does it stand out to you?

Of course, all of the songs are like my children, so it is hard to pick a favorite. It's important to me that my songs connect with the listener, so for that reason, I would say the song Inheritance, co-written by Jim Terry. It explores what happens when families keep secrets, and how that affects future generations, through the lens of story-telling. I think the chorus is incredibly catchy- audiences can't help but sing along right away, and usually nod their heads in a shared experience. A lot of my songs have the themes of redemption in them, and this is one of them. Everyone likes a good comeback story.

What’s your message to fans right now—and where can they connect with you?

I'd be delighted to share my music with you in live concerts, digitally and purchasing my CDs. You can find me on all of the major streaming services. Contact me on my website for more information and booking at www.suehorowitz.com-  I love small, intimate venues and house concerts. I'm also embarrassingly available on Facebook.