Deep Dive
Why is the breath control in singing important?
Breath control in singing changes the meaning of a phrase, similar to how punctuation affects a sentence. It can alter the emotional impact and storytelling of a song.
How did Cynthia Erivo first discover Aretha Franklin's music?
Erivo first heard Aretha Franklin on a UK radio station called Magic FM, which played a mix of music. The first song she remembers hearing was 'Sisters Are Doing It for Themselves' with Annie Lennox.
What challenges did Cynthia Erivo face when learning Sondheim songs?
Sondheim songs are challenging due to their complex phrasing and limited opportunities to breathe, requiring strong breath support to sustain long sentences.
How did Cynthia Erivo's vocal training at RADA help her career?
At RADA, Erivo learned to connect her singing and speaking voices, which helped her perform a wide range of roles, from classical music to contemporary musicals like 'The Color Purple'.
What was Cynthia Erivo's reaction to meeting Aretha Franklin?
Erivo was starstruck and didn't know what to say. Franklin's humor and praise, such as singing a line from Erivo's song back to her, left her speechless and deeply honored.
How did Cynthia Erivo's upbringing in the church influence her music?
Erivo grew up singing Christian hymns in a Roman Catholic church but was drawn to gospel music. She eventually joined a choir that allowed her to incorporate gospel songs, despite objections from the church.
What does Cynthia Erivo's song 'The Good' reflect?
The song reflects on the importance of remembering the positive moments in relationships, even when they end on a less-than-ideal note.
How does being short impact Cynthia Erivo's daily life and performances?
Being short often leads to assumptions of weakness or childlike behavior. It also poses practical challenges, such as finding chairs that fit her height and navigating podiums during performances.
What is the plot of the TV series 'The Sticky'?
The Sticky is a whimsical take on the real-life Canadian maple syrup heist, focusing on a trio of unlikely co-conspirators who plan to steal a massive amount of syrup for profit.
What new Christmas music does Ken Tucker recommend?
Ken Tucker recommends new holiday albums by Ben Folds, Little Big Town, and a duet by Jason Kelce and Stevie Nicks singing 'Maybe This Christmas'.
- Cynthia Erivo's upbringing in South London and her parents' Nigerian heritage
- Her early exposure to diverse music genres through Magic FM
- Her training at RADA and its impact on her acting and singing
- Her experiences with religious music and the differences between gospel and Catholic church music
- Her unique vocal training and the influence of her teachers
Shownotes Transcript