11 Questions to a Nashville Musician Who Moved Away: Brigitte DeMeyer

Brigitte DeMeyer (Photo by David McClister)Photo by David McClister

I first came across Brigitte DeMeyer back in 2017 when she did a most delightful record as a duo with 11 Questions alum Will Kimbrough. Now, on March 26, she will release “Seeker,’ her seventh solo LP. This one is produced by Jano Rix who is joined by his fellow Wood Brothers supporting Brigitte on the record.

Listen to Brigitte’s sweet and soulful “Sunday Morning” voice on “Louisiana” from the upcoming LP in this classy live performance video. It’s a voice you won’t forget.

We are sad that Brigitte has left Music City, but I’ve got a feeling we will still get to see her from time to time after things clear up. In the meantime, I’m quite thankful to learn more about her through her 11 answers below. Thanks Brigitte!

  

Where are you from originally, when did you move to Nashville and why?

I am originally from the Bay Area in California. I moved to Nashville in 2008, rented a town house there for a couple years and commuted back and forth from the Bay Area.  We then eventually bought our Nashville house in 2010. I moved here because I was commuting so often here to work and play with my musician friends, that it just made sense for my family and I to be here full time.

What are the first and the last records you bought, and where did you buy them? Were they CD, vinyl or digital?

The last record I bought was yesterday and it is vinyl. It is called Ella and Louis. It’s a duet album featuring Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong recorded in Hollywood in 1956. The band was Ella, Louis, Oscar Peterson on piano, Herb Ellis on guitar, Ray Brown on bass and Buddy Rich on drums.  I bought it at Amoeba Records in San Francisco. I guess the first album I ever bought was a long time ago. It was vinyl of course. I guess it would be when I was a kid. The Beatles (White Album), maybe?

First and last live concerts that you’ve seen?

The last live concert I saw was in March of 2020. The Wood Brothers. Before it all shut down for COVID. The first concert I ever went to I think was Fleetwood Mac.

Whose star should be added to the Music City Walk of Fame?

Buddy Miller or The McCrary Sisters.

Where do you go in Nashville for coffee and pizza?

For coffee I always love going to Bongo Java, Frothy Monkey, Fido, or sometimes just where I go to get a bagel is cool too, like Bruegger’s. There are so many places now because Nashville has exploded. I just stick to my usual. J Christopher’s is a great place for breakfast. For pizza, we’ve always liked the Mellow Mushroom.

What’s your favorite record to ever come out of Nashville?

All the Patsy Cline or Hank Williams stuff, or Dolly Parton’s “Coat of Many Colors”. Those are just some of the country ones. There’s a lot of music that comes out of here. Which category?

Where’s the best place to eat late night after a show?

Back in the day, the Sunset Grill in Hillsboro Village was our favorite spot, but it went out of business awhile back. Then it became Athens Family Restaurant on Franklin Pike, but they only stay open until 9pm now. Not sure anymore.

The Bluebird calls and asks you to host an “In the Round.” Pick three local songwriters to join you.

Jano Rix, Oliver Wood and Will Kimbrough.

What are your favorite music venues to play in town?

Rudy’s Jazz Room, 3rd and Lindsley, City Winery, or the Bluebird Café.

Name a musician who you’d like to see move here.

Any musician who thinks Nashville is not only about Country music. While it’s a big export from here, it’s definitely not the only one. But, maybe also, Ry Cooder?

Finally, what’s in your musical future?

Being open to inspiration wherever it may come from. Continuing to write, collaborate, and gig when we are able to again. It’s been such a strange time not being able to go out and make music for folks. Singing is a part of who I am. As long as folks want to hear me, I’ll be getting out there whenever I can. In the meantime, I’ll be doing it from wherever I am.

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