Norah is joined by Alynda Segarra aka Hurray For The Riff Raff, a masterful singer-songwriter. They discuss Alynda's musical evolution, finding inspiration during the pandemic, and perform a heartfelt duet cover. They also explore the symbolism in song lyrics, memories of Tomkins Square Park, and the recording process in North Carolina and New Orleans. They also discuss a song that evokes strong emotions and helped with self reconnection.
Alynda Segarra's music journey from the Bronx to New Orleans shaped her passionate and powerful sound.
The collaboration between Alynda Segarra and Norah Jones on a heartfelt Lucinda Williams duet showcases their mutual admiration for storytelling in music.
Deep dives
The Impact of Music on Identity and Healing
This podcast episode features a conversation between Nora Jones and Elinda Sagara, also known as Hooray for the Riff Raff. Elinda's soulful and profound music, with elements of punk rock, is praised by Nora, who has been a long-time fan. They discuss Elinda's journey from the Bronx to New Orleans and how her sound evolved. Elinda shares her experiences of being a street musician in New Orleans and the sense of family and safety she found with her band. They also touch on the inspiration behind Elinda's songs, her experiences during the pandemic, and her current projects.
Creating a Musical Play and Exploring Identity Through Art
Elinda discusses her recent collaboration with Joe's Pub on a play based on her album 'The Navigator'. The play, co-written with Julian Jimenez, explores Elinda's vision of turning her album into a theatrical experience. They touch on the process of creating the play and the unique perspective it offers on Elinda's music and life. Elinda reflects on the connection between music and identity and how her experiences growing up in the Bronx and visiting Florida helped shape her musical style. They also mention the positive experience of working with Ethan Hawke and Chris Kristofferson in the Blaze Foley movie.
Exploring Trauma, Healing, and Vulnerability Through Songwriting
Elinda shares the inspiration behind her songs 'Saga' and 'Drunken Angel'. 'Saga' is a deeply personal song about her journey through trauma and reclaiming her identity. The song reflects her desire to embrace healing and move beyond identifying with past hardships. Nora praises the vulnerability and honesty conveyed in 'Saga'. They also discuss Elinda's cover of 'Drunken Angel' for the Blaze Foley movie and the impact of Blaze Foley's story on her. The conversation delves into the complexity of personal experiences, the power of music to encapsulate emotions, and the importance of storytelling through songs.
The Influence of New Orleans and Country Music on Elinda's Art
Elinda shares her connection to New Orleans and the influence of the city's vibrant music scene and powerful plant life on her songwriting. Growing up in the Bronx, Elinda found solace and inspiration in country music and iconic artists like Lucinda Williams. Nora and Elinda discuss their mutual admiration for Lucinda Williams and their experiences playing her songs. They talk about the unique storytelling elements in country music and how it resonates with their own musical journeys. The conversation concludes with a playful discussion of future plans and the potential for collaborations in New Orleans.
Today Norah is joined by masterful singer-songwriter, Alynda Segarra aka Hurray For The Riff Raff. Though a Bronx native, Alynda found a grounding music community in New Orleans, and through songwriting and performing, they evolved into the passionate and powerful musician they are today. The stillness of the pandemic inspired them to write. You’ll hear some of those songs in this episode, and Norah and Alynda come together on a heartfelt Lucinda Williams duet. Recorded 6/12/23.