Basic Folk 34 – Bridget Kearney

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Bridget Kearney, bassist for Lake Street Dive, has been deeply immersed in studying music since childhood. From the “super nerds” she met at jazz camp to the nights in her parents’ basement transposing songs to the New England Conservatory of Music, Kearney has dedicated herself to the betterment of her craft.  Originally from Iowa, Kearney joined up with Lake Street Dive in Boston at the Conservatory as their upright bassist, songwriter and harmony vocalist. In our conversation, we talk about how her experience in playing in orchestras prepared her for collaborative life in a band like Lake Street Dive. From talking to Bridget and reading about the band, LSD is an extremely functional operation! Their communication skills, while not perfect, are very impressive!
Bridget also talks about her solo career and how she is beginning to explore the full potential of her voice. For instance, when talking about writing a song for Rachael Price (lead singer for Lake Street Dive), she goes for a more powerful sound versus when she’s writing for herself. Her own voice has a certain fragility that she can use to a song’s advantage. She also talks about what it’s like to be a utility player and singer in the band. It’s a role she’s taken on for most of her musical career and to hear here explain is very insightful. Bridget is one of the coolest people I’ve ever spoken to and she doesn’t even know it (that’s what makes her cool). Hope you enjoy! Please subscribe, review and share!

Bridget Kearney performing “Love Doctor” live in London

Bridget’s solo album from 2017