Jody Joseph Interview (2010)

Jody Joseph

Jody Joseph’s concert, One Diva…One Legend…One Woman is this Saturday night, September 25th at Brookdale Community College Theater in Lincroft, New Jersey. 

In this show, Jody concentrates on singing songs made famous by Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks, in addition to singing some of her own songs. 

If you read my August 17th post about Jody, you will know that she is a very talented singer!

Interview With Jody Joseph

Jody has graciously answered some questions I had about the show!

Jody, you have a very musical background, being related to both Bon Jovi and Mario Lanza! Did your family listen to a lot of music when you were growing up? Who were your favorite artists?

Jody: Yes, my mom and dad always had the radio on from the minute I woke up til the minute I was told to go to bed. My favorite artists-I was influenced by: Joni Mitchell, Bette Midler, Stevie Nicks, Led Zeppelin, Aztec 2-step, and Shirley Bassey to name a few.

You have a new EP out! Please tell us about the songs on this album.

Jody: This EP is my first Inspirational CD. These songs were actually some of my conversations with God, or as I like to call it, praying.

In addition to your regular career as a singer, songwriter, and vocal coach. you have developed a musical show: “One Diva…One Legend…One Woman” where you pay tribute to Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks. When did you start emulating Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks? What is it about them that you admire so much?

Jody: The One Diva…One Legend…One Woman show was first performed at The Paramount Theater in Asbury Park NJ on May 30, 2009. Then it was performed at the Gramercy Theater in NYC on Jan 23, 2010 and now it will be at Brookdale on Sept 25th. Throughout my life, I have always been told I look or sound just like Stevie Nicks and also sound just like Janis Joplin. I would say it is my audience over the years that planted the seed.

How did you create your show: One Diva…One Legend…One Woman?

Jody: Renee Ludwig happened to be one of those people in the audience one night and it was her concept to put both artists together into one show. I felt it was important not to lose my identity, so I also have a part as myself.

You have an upcoming show on September 25th of One Diva…One Legend…One Woman. Are you planning any more performances of this musical?

Jody: I sure hope so.

Are tickets still available?

Jody: A limited amount.  

Some of the proceeds from the show are going to Mary’s Place By The Sea. Please tell us about this organization.

Jody: Mary’s Place By The Sea was created to give women with cancer a place to rest and revive during and after treatment. Their staff cares for their needs as they work through the demands of their treatment. Guests may stay a few hours or a few days if needed.

Additionally, they provide Reiki, guided meditation, yoga, and spa services. They are a center that focuses on the individual getting well and gaining strength to win the battle with cancer.

Other than your musical, when are your next concerts scheduled?

Jody: I hold an annual Christmas Show in December at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ. It is always a benefit show, and, in the past few years, has benefited Pediatric Cancer Research, Animal Rescue, and this year we are looking at Prevent Child Abuse NJ. The show consists of some of my students and their bands as openers, a mini-concert with my band (The Jody Joseph Band), and approximately 45-50 students in groups or solo. There is always a gift basket auction and a buffet is included in the ticket price.

I want to thank Jody Joseph for giving me this interview!

Thanks for visiting New Jersey Memories!