Richard Dollarhide
It’s hard to define what’s current in the Minnesota music scene and not mention Mae Simpson Music, as the group seems to be playing every club, venue, and room in the Twin Cities, and for a good reason.
Mae’s powerful voice has remnants of Janis Joplin and Ella Fitzgerald, tied together with a rasp of Joan Jett. Brought together by an extremely talented and passionate band, Mae Simpson Music is a ticking timebomb for breaking into the national array of local artists to make it “big.”
From their 2018 EP release Feel It Comin’, the song “Words” has gained local rotation on 89.3 The Current. Mae Simpson is set to drop another recording in the coming weeks, which brings us this Month’s “People in Minnesota.”
What/Who are your biggest musical and artistic influences?
For me, that is going to be Patsy Cline, Tina Turner, Janis Joplin, Brandi Carlile. For me, I connect with them because I feel what I believe they did: the passion, gumption, and the need to push the envelope. I can not explain this drive I have. It is just built in me.
Rumor is that you are about to drop another single? Can you tell us about it and what has influenced the songs on the upcoming release?
We are dropping our single: “Wrap Around.” March 30th. Available on all social networks. You can pre-save this to your Spotify. Also iTunes as well. “Wrap Around” means so much to me. It is about my time living in the south with my family. The things we used to do as kids, reminiscing on old memories and always keeping that place safe in my soul. To remind me of coming from humble beginnings. Every time we perform this song, we all just smile at each other. Maybe in a way, we also feel like what we have built together is also our “Home”.
What has been your Minnesota venue to perform in?
This is a hard one. I really loved First Ave. However, I think for me and the band we feel the Dakota has been our number one spot. The energy there may be different from our usual crowd, but Dakota has always given us support and let us be who we are on that stage. Not to mention, I always think about all the legendary acts that have stood right where I did, and that just gives me the warm fuzzies.
What other artists are you currently listening too now?
So many to name here. I think my favorite band right now is Mt.Joy (Hey! Let’s do a show together; please read this) Haha. I am also really feeling Dermot Kennedy, Alabama Shakes, and Shovels & Rope.
What is your number one performing bucket list item this year?
I think I speak for the whole band on this. When I performed at First Ave Main Room, it was everything I thought it would be and more. However, my guys were not with me, and I felt a bit sad actually — bucket list: First Ave Main room with my bandmates. I want them to feel exactly what I had the opportunity to.
One thing people are surprised to find out about you?
That I have lived in 8 states. What can I say? I have lived an interesting life, and I think it’s made me who I am today.
Check out Mae Simpson Music live!
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