JPF Home Page Forums General Messages General Message Forum 10 or 20 Most Influential Artists/Writers on YOUR career?

Wow, great thread! My list (most of them are relative "newbies" I guess):

1. Mary Chapin Carpenter -- she has taught me so many things. That I want to write thoughtful songs. That simple words can have the most profound impact. That girls play guitar, too. That you can carry yourself and your career with integrity and bring joy to so many.

2. Susan Gibson - a JPF'er. I saw her live my freshan year in college and after that I have not stopped writing (I'm a first year senior now, hehheh). She's a brilliant human being and a brilliant songwriter. http://www.susansongs.com

3. Kristyn Osborn - she's in the country group Shedaisy, who often get knocked for being too "pop" or Dixie Chick copycats, but if you delve into Kristyn's words (she does all their songwritng), wow. She's amazing, one of the best out of Nashville lately. Check out heir "Knock on the Sky" album.

4. Kris Delmhorst - she's just good. A Boston folkie who should be more popular -- she has lines that will lift you up and break your heart.

5. Dar Williams - she's more "complex" verbally that most, and that's why she's so cool.

6. Patty Griffin - Patty has a soaring voice and the gift of melody, and her songs are beautiful and simplistic but so deep.

7. Shawn Colvin - Well, she just kicks butt. Her career speaks to that. She does things on her own terms.

Others:
Lucy Kaplansky, Tori Amos, Kasey Chambers, Terri Hendrix, John Mayer, and those who inspired these guys, like Joni Mitchell, Joan Baez, and of course, Dylan.