Who or what inspired you to take up singer-songwriter, and pursue a career in music?
Vocals: Everyone who has ever given me feedback, leads me to know what I do well.
Writing: Like my dad, I go around humming and singing nonsense tunes – his creativity comes out no matter what task he is at.
Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career?
1. Josh Groban has been my biggest influence as a classical crossover artist. Classical vocals, light and contemporary.
2. Loreena Mckinnett has become another mixed-style influence. Her vocals are less classical and tell a story. I had fans at a Renaissance festival shout out that I sounded just like her – actually sometimes I think our voices are strangely similar!
3. Celtic Woman and movies like The Lord of The Rings! They brought my love for Celtic music, closer to my realm – cinematic, leaning toward a classical style, and creative-liberties.
What have been the greatest challenges of your career so far?
Booking a tour and promoting an album – it takes your focus off of the music and onto business.
Which performance/recordings are you most proud of?
Definitely “When the Wind Blows.” It is the perfect cross between Classical and Celtic. I wrote the song and sat back from my keyboard and said, “It’s perfect.” The chords and melody variations are intricate, led by the lyrics. The vocals are demanding, constantly changing vocal registers and styles, with warm low tones and the soprano notes that take it to another level.
Which particular works do you think you play best?
Anything that gives high soprano notes a chance. People love it! I sang in the chorus of “Evita,” and starting rehearsals, the conductor said, “I can’t believe I’m asking, but can anyone sing a high D or Db?” (not sure which it was). I sang it, and it looked like every head in the room turned to look at me with open mouths and eyes unblinking. Me singing those notes always gets crowds cheering!
How do you make your repertoire choices from season to season?
Mostly, I go with songs I love.
Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in and why?
Not yet. Since recording my own music, I have performed at a lot of outdoor festivals, which is a bit exciting, singing in the elements, the wind mysteriously starting to blow when I start the chorus of my song. I can’t wait to get some indoor lighting, though, for the ambiance of some of the songs.
Who are your favourite musicians?
Russell Watson – just love to watch him sing on YouTube.
Gavin Degraw – passion, creative lyrics!
Howard Shore – I can’t help it…I love movies (The Lord of the Rings)!
Chris Daughtry – after seeing him live this year, he has gone up on my list for sure. That voice!
What is your most memorable concert experience?
For a concert I have attended – Chris Daughtry at the Texas State Fair, this year. His vocals stayed with me for days. He just sings!
For a concert I have performed, oddly it would be when I sang as an Elsa look-a-like. In the middle of the song, I came across the stage and pointed to a little girl who couldn’t believe she had been singled out. I was a rock-star that day.
As a musician, what is your definition of success?
Oh, hard question when you’re in the middle of trying to achieve so many steps. Just got to keep building the fanbase!
What do you consider to be the most important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians?
Patience. As my parents taught me – be humble. Thank God for every day.
Where would you like to be in 10 years’ time?
People often say that my songs sound like they should be in Disney movies, which always catches me a little off guard. However, since I usually have a movie in my head when I write (real or imaginary), it would be great to have my music in the movie theatres! And I would love to have 5 or 6 albums, with strong tours that reach my UK and Irish fans and with dedicated musicians on stage with me.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Time with family.
What is your most treasured possession?
My writings – whatever they are…music, stories – irreplaceable adventures of the soul.
What is your present state of mind?
Believing in a little magic. I think I am always in the fantasy realm half-way: a student at Hogwarts, tidying my hobbit hole in The Shire, shooting arrows alongside Legolas. Among the trees, in the air, with the seasons, I know there is a kind of magic, and it inspires everything in me.
Misty Posey, often referred to as “Opera-girl,” is a Celtic Classical Crossover Artist from the USA., currently touring festivals and events in the U.S. to kick off the release of her upcoming debut album. Her classical voice melds styles with Celtic, Pop, and Opera creating an exciting sound, crossing genres with beauty and a punch.
Misty Posey’s debut album is available now. More information
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