We recently had the chance to connect with Linn Holmstedt and have shared our conversation below.
Linn, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: When was the last time you felt true joy?
My mother flew into town a few weeks ago and cut some background vocals for one of our new tracks, that felt very special. She was super instrumental in why I started in music (no pun intended) – having been a bassist in a touring punk band and being very active in this gospel choir when I was little and would often bring me with her! Some of my earliest musical memories was mom practicing her harmonies and urging me to sing along. Us singing the gospel standard “Oh Happy Day” together in the living room is one of my earliest musical memories. That for sure laid a huge foundation in practicing harmonies and how much I fell in love with it!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Linn Holmes and I’m a blues/rock artist, currently based in LA.
Mixing the influences of mother’s time singing gospel and my dads love for Rock ’n Roll – acts such as the Allman Brothers Band, Aretha Franklin, B.B King, Bonnie Raitt and Fleetwood Mac I think really came kind to shape my sound.
I recently released a new single featuring guitar virtuoso Lance Lopez and legendary bass player Greg T. Walker (Lynyrd Skynyrd) – a blues/rock version of Chris Isaacs’ “Wicked Game” – on Cleopatra Records.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I think my parents definitely did. They saw how much I loved music and really inspired me and encouraged me to explore it more.
My mom was in a gospel choir with whom she rehearsed and did shows with frequently – often she’d bring me with her and they would sort of pass me around between the choir members when I was a baby. On of my absolute earliest memories that I can recall is my mother practicing her parts in the living room – dancing around with me and urging me to sing along, trying to teach me the parts for fun. She used to play bass in a punk band and has always been such a music fan.
My dad also played music briefly in the past and would always be so thrilled to share with me his favorite records or new finds that he’s discovered. He’d take me to lots of concerts growing up and music was always kind of a pivotal point in whatever we were up to. We’d go on lots of roadtrips and totally carpool karaoke the whole way – lots of Y&T, Queen, Deep Purple, KISS and Scorpions. We’d scream the songs at the top of our lungs and we still do whenever we get a chance.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Resilience and patience.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I have just a magical group of friends, whom I am so blessed to be making music with regularly. My producer, Rev. Tom Chandler, always leads with love and empathy – but also always in a very truthful manner.
My dear bestie and rockstar Jules of Jules & the Howl, whom I also sing background vocals for, is such a powerful human being. Not only because of her incredible music and musicianship, but because of her kindness. She embraces people and HEARS them. She makes everyone is her surroundings feel seen, valued and loved. An incredible quality.
Two incredible human beings – not just in their craft but also as people!
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
On a long run blasting “If It Makes You Happy” by Sheryl Crow
OR just sitting in silence by the piano and playing whatever.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.linnholmstedt.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linnholmstedt/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Linn-Holmes-100068852104753/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkTtV8BVv-U
- Other: Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/5b1Iz7JrUzJJzVRxLmgbSq
Image Credits
Photos of me by Luckyshot Photography
Artwork by Alexia Nikitakis
