SXSW Preview: Shelly Colvin

Shelly Colvin plays the Billy Reid Shindig on Wednesday, March 14, 2012, at Swan Dive. Click here to RSVP. Read reviews and get a free download of tracks from each of our Shindig artists, including Colvin’s “All Right Now,” by downloading our Sampler.

Tell us about the song “All Right Now,” which kicks off our sampler. When did you write it, and what inspired it?

I wrote “All Right Now” in early 2011. I’d been kicking that chorus melody around for a long time, hearing it with full harmonies – just simple and pretty. Once I got the shape of that, the lyric just fell into place. I’d hoped that it would convey that peaceful easy feeling of being holed-up at home alone with your loved one.

How did you get hooked up with Mando Saenz, and what is your collaboration process like?

Mando and I were introduced by his publisher, Frank Liddell.  Frank took an interest in my songs when I first moved to town and he thought Mando and I would pair well together. He was right. Mando is one of my favorite people, firstly, and one of my favorite singer-songwriters.  He’s a brilliant poet, and I’m honored that he co-wrote the entire record with me. We wrote these songs in my cozy East Nashville log cabin over many beer-soaked afternoons.

Will this be your first time performing at SXSW?

Yes.

Do you have a favorite SXSW memory as an attendee?

My favorite experience was hearing John Grant (backed by Midlake) perform last year at Central Presbyterian Church. It was close to the end of the festival and I was exhausted and foggy-headed. It started real late at night and when I got to the church it was overflowing – balcony and all.  It was so quiet you could hear a panty hose rip. John’s music is so emotive and moving and it was completely restorative.

What are you most looking forward to about SXSW this year?

This year I just can’t wait to play!

What will you do down there when you’re not playing?

I’m really excited to attend two film premieres that feature friends of mine. One is the documentary of the Train Tour with Mumford and Sons, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Edward Sharpe. I got to experience that tour from back stage, so it will be a blast to re-live that.  Also, some dear friends of mine from Alabama are premiering their documentary, “Eating Alabama,” which is about sustainable farming and eating local.  I’m so proud of them.  I feel like Alabama is being well represented at South-By this year!

Who would you most like to jam with at SXSW?

The Boss! Haha!

What should people expect from your new album, and when will it be released?

I think it rocks a little more than people might expect. When you’re playing with Gibb Droll and Ken Coomer you sort of have no choice. Good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise, we’ll release this May.