Joanna Long spoke with Davina Sowers, vocalist and pianist behind Davina and the Vagabonds, ahead of their show at The Cluny, discussing musical roots, staying authentic, and why she refuses to play the industry’s game.
You grew up with everything from The Ink Spots to Black Sabbath. How did that shape your sound?
It just became second nature. My mum’s records subconsciously introduced me to the history of Americana music and showed me why it, along with the blues, has been so influential around the world. I didn’t have cable television, but I had my stepfather’s Edison phonograph and a Reader’s Digest songbook for piano. That shaped my understanding of musical standards, and I fell in love with the simplicity and freedom of it all. It made me feel liberated, even though I didn’t necessarily live a free life growing up. Music enabled me to express myself with a sense of honesty rooted in the fundamentals of emotion. That shaped everything I do.
Your journey of getting clean, building the band, and working hard ever since is incredibly honest. Does that feed your songwriting?
Everything I write is as authentic as possible. I tend to be a bit tongue-in-cheek. I often write upbeat music paired with darker lyrics. People will sing along, and I sometimes think, you have no idea what this is really about, but it’s still wonderful that they connect to it with an open heart. When I sit down to write, it absolutely has to act as a conduit for what’s around me, so that we can build a sense of community through the music.
Your sound’s been called an ‘Americana mishmash’ (Rolling Stone) with ‘sugar and sass’ (DownBeat). Fair?
‘Mishmash’ is probably accurate. I’m never going to be a purist; that’s simply not in my nature. As for ‘sass’, I think there’s sometimes an assumption placed on women, particularly those who don’t fit a conventional mould, that they must be ‘sassy’. That said, I do try to counter whatever sadness I encounter with a bit of determination. There’s always a low-level hum of melancholy in me; it’s just part of who I am. It becomes easier to carry when I meet those moments with gritted teeth and a small wink. That’s how I get through.
Your live shows have a reputation for serious energy. Is that intentional?
That’s just how I am, generally speaking – very go, go, go. No matter what energy I’m receiving from the audience, I’ll always try to convey as much of the story as I possibly can. When you’re playing up to 200 shows a year, there are inevitably moments when you have to dig deep to find that energy. Fortunately, we have a wonderful fan base in the UK, and they really help shape the story I’m telling, simply through the expressions in their eyes.
You played ‘Later…with Jools Holland’, a big UK moment. How was it?
He was incredibly kind. At the end of the show, he came up behind me, placed his hands on my shoulders, and said, “thank you for keeping this music alive.” When I turned around, he was gone – like a fleeting angel. I’d actually lost my voice the day before, but it somehow worked out. Jools, if you’re reading this, I’d love to do it again. Please have me back.
You’ve turned down major TV opportunities. How do you stay true to yourself?
I follow my instincts. Music isn’t a competition to me. I’m running a band, and I have people depending on me; it’s never just been about myself. I’ve always wanted to create an ensemble and arrange music for a group. There’s nothing worse than dishonest music – you can feel it immediately. I couldn’t contort myself to fit a television format and still look my band in the eye.
What’s next after the UK tour?
I’m writing a great deal at the moment. I want to release an album that I’m truly proud of and continue putting in the work on the road. I hope live performance remains as vital as ever because I want to keep singing directly to people – that’s the dream. And, of course, winning the lottery wouldn’t hurt either.
And for anyone in the North East still deciding about The Cluny?
Please come. I love you already. I promise we’re good – we work incredibly hard at it. I’m not great at elevator pitches, but…please come along! I’ll even do your dishes.
Davina & The Vagabonds will play The Cluny 2, Newcastle on Saturday 23rd May. Tickets, priced at £20.00 in advance, are available at thecluny.com.
