Q: If I may be so bold…I’d like to share my artwork with you. I’ve recently decided to upload my paintings online for public view in an attempt to make a livelihood (or at least contribute to one) by doi

A: Thank you for sharing your artwork with me. I appreciate it when artists want to invite me into their worlds.
Not sure if your question will be truncated here-- I got the full version in an email, but the part where you say-- "Before I had ever heard of you, I had heard your music in my dreams"-- is such a beautiful statement. Meant the world to me.
Wishing you great things. xox
Answered on 04/20/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: How did you develop your unique voice? Do you have formal training, or does it just come naturally?

And (if I may ask a somewhat shallow question) how do you care for that gorgeous face of yours?

A: I've only had a few voice lessons here and there, no formal training. So perhaps that's why my style is unique! I just know the mood I strive to capture.
But I am rather meticulous when working with vocal melody and phrasing. Every little crack and oddity in my voice is purposely crafted and calculated. I figure out exactly what I want within the crevices of each song.

And, I am a bit obsessed about skincare! I stay out of the sun, and have a few amazing products in my arsenal. Pure jojoba butter, for one, is the most amazing thing on earth.
My quick tips: stay out of the sun, remain hydrated, exfoliate, avoid white sugar and dairy, and never go to sleep without removing your make-up and moisturizing!! Good luck! xox
Answered on 04/19/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: would like up to date tour dates/Shows

A: I'm not on tour at the moment. I'm spending most of this year composing. But you can always check the CALENDAR here for the latest:
http://jilltracy.com/jt/calendar/" title="http://jilltracy.com/jt/calendar/">http://jilltracy.com/jt/calendar/

NEWS page too! http://jilltracy.com/jt/
Answered on 04/19/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: What do you do when you're scared?

A: Feeling scared is a wonderful gauge---it simply means you really care about the outcome of something that matters to you, something meaningful...or at least has the potential to be.
So that's a great thing. Be thankful you have the depth of passion, of desire. To go through life numb and indifferent means you've stopped dreaming. What's the point then?
And truthfully, it's much easier to not take a chance, to take the easy way, wallow in misery, make excuses. But in the end, anything worthwhile involves a risk, challenging yourself.

One of my favorite sayings of all is-- "Be brave, and if you can't be brave, pretend to be brave. No one can tell the difference."
I used to think of that many times when I first began performing and was terrified to go onstage. I realized that I could just pretend that I wasn't. Pretty soon, I even convinced myself.

Change and new possibility is vital to feeling fully alive.
Embrace the butterflies. There are wondrous things ahead if you allow them. ♥
Answered on 04/12/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: I LOVE your music....especially entire "Diabolical Streak" album....so soothingly creepy and Gothic to make it through all those sunny days. Will there be a sequel that is even more diabolical?

A: I'm honored to offer a little lovely ray of darkness to help you survive the sunshine...

I write what I'm feeling at the time, and although my mood and aesthetics will always be somewhat consistent, I don't think in terms of a "sequel."

There have certainly been more releases since "Diabolical Streak." You will find my entire discography here, with more to come soon! Here's the URL:
http://jilltracy.bandcamp.com/
Answered on 04/12/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: Coming to Portland,OR anytime soon?

A: Portland is one of my favorite places to visit. I don't have anything planned right now, but don't worry-- I will be back! Stay tuned!
Answered on 04/12/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: What about the tour in Russia?

A: Sounds exquisite!
Answered on 04/12/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: Dear Miss Jill, I've been a fan for years and felt that you should know that for my debut drag performance I shall be featuring 'Evil Night Together'. I hope I have your blessing.

A: Absolutely! Blow their minds! If you film it, send me a link please. xox
Answered on 03/09/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: Dear Miss Tracy, I absolutely love your music, it is such a good source of inspiration for my own graphic projects! Thinking of performing in Europe anytime soon? Kisses from Italy!

A: It would be a dream to perform for you in Italy! And believe me, when it happens, I'll make sure you are the first to know! xox
Answered on 02/06/2012 by JILL TRACY

Q: I'm so glad to have found you. You're music and style inspire me like no other artist. You've helped me 'find myself' and made me feel far less alone. Do you have any advice for an aspiring performer?

A: Thank you, thank you! When I read words such as yours, it makes me realize I have achieved everything I have ever set out to do with my work. So honored to be there for you.

So, if i have helped you to "find yourself"--- that's the key. Don't lose yourself in the midst. Hold on to those reins with all your might because every frustrating step of the way the industry and naysayers are going to want to turn "myself" into "everybody else." That's my advice: Don't listen to them.
Cultivate your own inner world and inhabit it, honor it, unapologetically. Don't let them come in and make you second guess yourself. Don't change what you're doing to market to trends, fashions, or what others are doing.
If you choose to follow the crowd, you will eventually only get lost in it. And there's so much more to life than that. xox
Answered on 02/05/2012 by JILL TRACY