People in Minnesota: Andrea Swensson

People in Minnesota- where we focus on you, the Minnesota music fan!

We are excited to have the first People in Minnesota of 2019 focus on none other than Andrea Swensson, host of The Local Show and on-air personality at 89.3 the current

Name: Andrea Swensson
Occupation: Author, music journalist, and host at The Current

How did you get involved with The Local Show: When I started at the Current in 2012, my main focus was writing — before coming to MPR, I had worked as the music editor of City Pages and done a bunch of other writing around town. I launched the Local Current Blog, and would appear on The Local Show to discuss local music stories with the show’s longtime host, David Campbell. He was always a huge supporter of my work and had encouraged me to develop my on-air voice and audio production skills, so over time I began to create my own segments and specialty shows. When Campbell left his position at the end of 2015, I transitioned into the role of host and have completely fallen in love with the radio format. Putting together the playlist is a highlight of my job, and I am constantly in awe of just how much new music is produced in Minnesota week to week.

What’s your favorite Minnesota venue: First Avenue and Icehouse both feel like homes away from home. I’m also really enjoying the burgeoning scene and vibe at Mortimer’s.

What you are currently listening to: Gully Boys and Scrunchies because they give me life, Willie Murphy’s entire catalog because he’s a legend (rest in peace), Mountain Man because they help my baby fall asleep, Janelle Monae because she’s the future.

What was your first concert: Moody Blues at the DECC in Duluth, maybe 1993?? I don’t recall much of it. My first vivid concert memory happened a few years later, when I saw No Doubt at the Warped Tour. Gwen Stefani was in her pink hair phase and I was feeling it.

What is your most memorable musical experience: Watching Prince perform Nothing Compares 2 U at the Dakota Jazz Club with the NPG, who were all crammed onto that tiny stage. He and Shelby J traded verses while the entire room held its breath and wept.

What local artist is currently the “Must See”:
J.S. Ondara

What concert are you most excited about in 2019?
Elton John

Who do you think is the most overrated band/artist of all time:
Father John Misty (ducks)