It is rare to find artists particularly in the music industry who constantly dare to bend the rules and reinvent themselves like Ute Lemper. This talented woman has risen to the top using her creative mind and has not been shy of taking risks on stage and on screen.
Following the successful record titled “Time Traveler,” Lemper presents a luxury show with some of the most adventurous performances here. The track “Permanently Confused” is easily the best and most powerful message, which tells the story about her life.
The actualisation of the music in the video gives a personal reflection of the experiences of Lemper. Shot on the streets of New York and in serene countryside it captures her confidence and acceptance of the future. This progressive combination of beat poetry with the contemporary jazz appeals to be a fascinating stream of consciousness in Lemper’s narrative.
This and only this interview we take a closer look at the source of inspiration, the creative procedure, and the further development of this music. Come with us as we delve into the brain of this true musical mastermind.
sWatch Permanently Confused below
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Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration in thoughts about life, relations, hurt, and dreams, but also in reading poetry and philosophy.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
Music was always my best ruined, my escape and the deepest connection to the soul.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
My father and my mother were playing many instruments and enjoying music. None of them were able to make this a profession, to the great regret of my mother.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
I have been making music, singing and dancing, and creating music since my childhood. The career came as a surprise. The industry itself is nothing pure. It is only commercial. I am not. Everything is a labor of love for me and most of my projects are not conceived for the market.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I played piano and listened to a lot of great music, already in the 70s. It formed my taste and identity. All the projects I did over many years are often classic repertoire. But everything inspired somehow.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
The first memorable concert was Pink Floyd. I was 13 and my big brother took me along.
How could you describe your music?
Chill, poetic, jazzy, and soulful. Makes you feel good.
Describe your creative process.
I start with a lyric, poetic and strong with a pulse and a mood. Then I create a succession of chords on the piano and try to lay the poetry inside. It is a puzzle and needs to be shaped many many days until it feels right.
What is your main inspiration?
Al Jarreau, Joni, Adele, Eilish, Hyatus Cayote, John. Legend, Sarah Vaughn, and many others.
What musician do you admire most and why?
The above. They all were soulful and true musicians writing songs. Trying to be authentic and unique. They created their own language and the m music takes you on a journey through life.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
Very much. It keeps evolving every day, with every new song.
What are your interests outside of music?
I take care of my children and love taking walks, cooking and reading, watching great movies, and always creating new projects and developing new ideas.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
Probably being a teacher.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
The commercial machine, the decay in pop music.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
Allow albums as a conceptual entity back in the market. 10 songs with an idea and a beautiful journey. Then there is the monopoly between radio play, big labels, and the deals they have and make to feature their products.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
“Permanently confused” Is a true state of mind, and most people agree with it.
What are your plans for the coming months?
Writing more songs and touring the world.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
Enjoy my music and performances and also my super cool videos that illustrate the songs.
