Singer-songwriter Floramay Holliday delivers a powerful vocal performance on her latest single, ‘Song to Myself’. Musical layers – including an excellent trombone interlude – provide the foundation for her voice, resulting in a classic, timeless sound. Written and produced by Holliday, the song carries a rousing message about valuing yourself: “I’m going to write a song to myself // To remind me I don’t need to please everybody else.” The accompanying video features live footage shot by Bruce Richardson at the Kessler Theater interspersed with recordings from the studio, all put together by Daniel Rockey at Kessler Studios.
In an acclaimed career, Holliday has recorded with the likes of Ray Benson and members of Asleep at the Wheel, Guy Clark and Bobbie Nelson. Meanwhile, she’s shared stages with Willie Nelson, Billy Joe Shaver and James McMurtry. All the way back in the year 2000, her first album was recommended for nomination in the 42nd GRAMMY Awards. Despite these early successes, Holliday took a break from the music industry. Last year, Holliday released the ‘Hearts Have Wings’ EP, which was her first new music in fourteen years. This latest release, ‘Song to Myself’, was actually recorded before ‘Hearts Have Wings’. Featuring members of New Bohemians, it’s taken on a special significance due to the death of Brad Houser, founding member of Edie Brickell & New Bohemians. Brickell says of the collaboration: “Floramay and the New Bohemians make beautiful music together. I’m so glad Brad got to shine on this soulful album before he left this world. It’s a gift to us all.” Holliday was joined for the recording sessions by Kenny Withrow (guitars), Brad Houser (bass), John Bush (drums) and Matt Hubbard (organ), with guest appearances from Gabor Racz (harmonica), James Ervin (guitar) and Milo Deering (pedal steel).
Holliday explains what it was like to record with these talented players and, above all, friends: “Our time in the studio was magical. We worked three twelve-hour days in the first sessions, completely losing track of time in the process. Recording this album truly was an inspiring collaboration, and I am so grateful to work with the members of New Bohemians, a band I have admired for years.” ‘Song to Myself’ is the title track from the collaborative album and, as one of the last musical contributions from New Bohemian founder-member, Brad Houser, it is a fine tribute to friendship and musical partnership. Check it out.
