Schuyler Fisk
By Alex Teitz
There are times when it is just best to wait. When it comes to Schuyler Fisk I’ve been waiting with anticipation for a couple of years now. I first discovered Schuyler Fisk in the film I’m Reed Fish. The film was light and fun, but I kept coming back to the music. Specifically the songs, “From Where I’m Standing” and “On Your Arm.” Scrolling through credits to find the source, and to be amazed by finding the truth, was worth the mystery. Schuyler Fisk performed the songs and co-wrote them with Blu Sanders. She also was the shining light in the film. Fisk has a fire in her songs, and voice that grabs the listener in a woven tapestry of brilliant lyrics. She reminds me of KT Tunstall mixed with Jenny Lewis. Her lyrics demonstrate a knowledge and voice with wisdom we rarely hear. Once you hear Fisk it is difficult to listen to anything else.
You may recognize Fisk for her acting as much as her songwriting. She has appeared in Orange County, One Tree Hill, Snow Day, and The Baby-Sitters Club. Her acting roots can be traced to family. She is the daughter of Sissy Spacek and Jack Fisk. Her music has been in The Last Kiss, and Penelope. FEMMUSIC was honored to speak with her (in an e-mail interview) about her debut album The Good Stuff coming out on February 17, 2009 on iTunes. The album is produced by Dave Bassett. Fisk is currently touring with Ben Taylor. For more information visit schuylerfisk.com
FEMMUSIC: Can you describe your songwriting technique?
SF: I just try to be honest and simple when I write. It’s really different every time. Sometimes it starts with an idea, or a concept for a song, sometimes with a melody in my head, and sometimes I sit at the piano or pick up my guitar and start playing and see where it leads me.
FEMMUSIC: What was the biggest challenge working on The Good Stuff?
SF: Picking what songs to go on the record!
FEMMUSIC: What was the best experience, or one that stood out, while making the The Good Stuff?
The first day and the last day — excitement and elation!
FEMMUSIC: Did you consider working with other people before Dave Bassett for this project?
SF: He was my very first musical collaborater once I moved to LA. From day one, Dave and I had a musical connection — he just got me like no one else had. I have been fighting for Dave to produce my record for the past 4 years and I feel so grateful that I got to make my first record with him. Of course, other producers were talked about, but I always knew he was my guy for this record.
FEMMUSIC: Your parents come from a history of film. Was there ever any pressure to pursue theater or acting vs. songwriting?
SF: No, not really. They have always told me to “follow my bliss,” whether that was acting, songwriting, politics, archeology… they have always been supportive and wonderful.
FEMMUSIC: What are your greatest joys in songwriting? acting?
SF: Songwriting. I love the feeling it gives me.
FEMMUSIC: As a woman in the music industry, have you ever been discriminated against?
SF: I’ve never really thought about that. I guess I’m kind of a glass half full kind of girl, so even if I have been discriminated against I’d rather not give negative things power by talking about it.
FEMMUSIC: If you could work with any music artist, who would be it and why?SF: Only one!? I certainly have a growing list of musicians I’d love to work with, but to pick just one would be rough. Maybe Bonnie Raitt because her music has influenced me so much and she has been such an idol of mine. Honestly, I don’t know if I could keep it together if I were to perform with her. I would be staring a hole in her!
FEMMUSIC: What are your goals for the next 5 years?
SF: Well, I’d for sure like to make a few more records. I’d love to make a Christmas record. I would love to tour the world. I’d love to be able to tour in a bus; that would be amazing. I really just want to keep doing what I’m doing and hopefully reach more and more and more people with my music. Oh, and also, I’d love to become a much better cook!