Melissa Ferrick is back in full force

Two decades and 16 albums later, Melissa Ferrick has become a legendary mainstay in the lesbian music scene. With more than 150 original songs under her belt, this dynamic musical genius still performs with the same fervor and passion as she did 20 years ago.

Her guitar acts as an extension of her body. The gusto of her vocals hits full force from a petite frame. Ferrick is undoubtedly a one-woman-band. Her commanding vocals melt into the acoustic melodies that gallop from her guitar. She hypnotizes the audience and saddles us onstage with her to experience “rock-folk” perfection.

Ferrick is making a comeback at the age of 40 with the recent release of her first studio album in five years, Still Right Here. She spoke freely with Out Front Colorado about the sexuality that drives her music, turning Gaga gay and coping with a panic disorder.

After your song “Drive” which is very sexual, how would you describe the importance of sexuality to your music?
I think sexuality in art is really everywhere. I am currently mostly interested in the concept and visualization of merging genders. I have always been drawn to artists who morph their sex … Prince, Bowie, k.d. lang, Boy George, Amy Ray … artists who release themselves from being one thing or another. So, when I go on stage I don’t think about my vagina or my breasts. I actually don’t think about anything and when I perform I’m free from everything. These moments to me feel sexual in the most pure way; they are complete and fluid. I wish I could walk through life in this kind of space, but for now, I get it for a few fleeting moments on stage, and sometimes in bed with someone!

You mentioned Tori Amos as one of your inspirations.
Tori is a force of nature. I saw her perform … and was blown away. She has, through the years, maintained a strong sense of self while making outstanding recordings.

Where or when do you feel the most creative?
Usually when I’m falling into an obsession with someone … or out of frustration! I tend to write all at once, in groupings. I have to be careful of this because I can tend to have, say five songs that seem similar in either subject matter or melody. I am getting much better at recognizing this though and I am finally able to edit myself and re-write.

Do you attribute your success to your LGBT fans?
Absolutely!

What do you think of the LGBT community’s obsession with Gaga? She’s not even gay!
Well, she hasn’t met me yet … so there’s hope! I could maybe give her a toaster (Laughs). Listen, Gaga is awesome. She is honorary queer, she has done so much for the gay community. She is taking over where Elizabeth Taylor and then Madonna left off. I am a fan of how she pushes the envelope. I gotta say she can really sing and dance and she knows how to get people talking about difficult issues that affect us all.

A few years ago you talked about your struggles with a panic disorder. How did you get through it?
(Laughs) It’s something that doesn’t go away totally, ever. I deal with it on a daily basis. I use breathing techniques and meditation. I sometimes have to constantly tell myself “you are not going to die.” So, for advice – breathe … and trust.

What can you say about performing in Colorado?
OK, first, it’s really hard to sing there because of the altitude. I drink enormous amounts of water when I’m there.  I really love the Denver local music scene.

If you had to categorize yourself in lesbian terms, where would you fall?
I don’t categorize myself.

Do you feel a responsibility to be involved politically as an “out” entertainer?
I feel a responsibility to be myself and to be as honest and kind as I can be on a daily basis. I have been out since 1995 so it’s kind of old hat to me.

Ferrick performs in Colorado Friday, August 12 at the Soiled Dove. For more info., visit www.melissaferrick.com.