Valerie June ("VJ" to those closest to her) is an American singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for her unique and eclectic blend of blues, soul, gospel, and Appalachian folk genres. With a powerhouse voice and a stage presence that captivates all who witness it, June has carved out a lane for herself in the contemporary music landscape, captivating audiences worldwide. Let's delve into the immersive universe that is Valerie June.
Raised in Tennessee, Valerie June's musical journey began at an early age. By the age of seven, she was already composing her own songs, a testament to her innate talent and passion for music. But it wasn't until she moved to Brooklyn, New York, that June truly honed her craft and began making waves in the music industry. So, how did this southern girl make New York City her launching pad?
Finding her Sound in the Big Apple
Brooklyn, with its vibrant music scene, provided the perfect backdrop for June to explore and expand her musical horizons. She joined local bands, played open mic nights, and even performed on the streets of Manhattan, earning the nickname "Street Hustle Val." This period of growth was instrumental in shaping her signature sound.
One of the defining aspects of Valerie June's music is her unfettered creativity, drawing inspiration from various musical traditions. From the infectious grooves of Memphis soul to the raw, elemental power of Delta blues, June's music defies categorization, weaving together elements of old-school funk, country, and even traditional African music.
The Rise of Valerie June
June's first official release, 2010's "Valerie June and theosevelt Dime," was met with critical acclaim. The album showcased her prodigious songwriting skills and versatile musicianship, earning her comparisons to legendary artists such as Billie Holiday and Howlin' Wolf. Her breakthrough moment, however, came with her 2013 LP, "Pushin' Against a Stone."
The album's lead single, "Workin' Woman Blues," became a viral hit, and its follow-up, "Somebody to Love," received widespread radio airplay. The album itself reached number two on the Billboard blues chart, and June embarked on a sold-out world tour, bringing her captivating live show to audiences across the globe.
From Radiohost to Renaissance Woman
In addition to her burgeoning music career, June has also made a name for herself as a radio host. She co-hosted the annual Sufjan Stevens-hosted radio show "Chris bro on the radio," where she interviewed renowned musicians and shared her own music. Her broadcasting chops have also earned her her own SiriusXM show, "Sounds Eclectic with Valerie June," where she continues to share her unique perspective on music.
But Valerie June is more than just a musician and a radio host. She's a visual artist, a poet, and a filmmaker. Her debut film, "VJ: Video Journal Legend," premiered at the 2014 Afropunk Film Festival in Brooklyn, and her visual art has been exhibited in galleries across the United States. June's creative output is a testament to her boundless passion and audacious spirit to explore the full gamut of artistic expression.
Pushing Boundaries with the 'The Moon and Stars: Preservation Era' Project
Despite her success, June shows no signs of slowing down or resting on her laurels. In 2017, she launched "The Moon and Stars: Preservation Era" project, a series of concerts aimed at preserving classic blues songs and ensuring their continued relevance in contemporary music.
Partnering with the Library of Congress, June handpicked 24 classic blues songs and reimagined them in her signature style. The project culminated in the 2019 release of "The Moon and Stars: Preservation Era Vol. 1," an album that beautifully bridges the gap between tradition and innovation. By breathing new life into these classic tunes, June underscored her commitment to keeping the blues alive and thriving in the 21st century.
Expanding Her Creative Universe
Speaking of innovation, Valerie June continues to push her creative boundaries with her latest album, "The Moon and Stars: Preservation Era Vol. 2." Set to be released in 2022, the album finds June once again reinterpreting classic blues standards, this time with a greater emphasis on collaborative spirit.
A departure from the stripped-down approach of the first volume, Vol. 2 sees June enlisting the help of a diverse array of guest artists, including country singer Lucinda Williams, rock guitarist Jack White, and folk legend Patty Griffin. The result is an album that not only preserves the rich tapestry of American music history but also weaves a compelling narrative about the future of that history, as told through the unique lens of Valerie June.
As Valerie June continues her relentless journey of artistic exploration and growth, one thing remains constant: her unyielding commitment to the transformative power of music. Whether she's reinvigorating classic blues standards, crafting her own unique songs, or sharing her love of music with the world through radio and film, June's impact on the contemporary musical landscape is undeniable. And as she continues to break barriers and defy expectations, one thing is certain: we've only scratched the surface of the immersive universe that is Valerie June. So, what's next for this incredible artist? Only time will tell, but one thing's for sure - whatever it is, it will be something truly special.