Laurie Anderson on Amelia Earhart’s Timely Story and Crafting a Doomsday Comedy

Earlier this summer, avant-garde musical pioneer Laurie Anderson attended Billboard’s inaugural Indie Power Players event at the Soho Grand Hotel in Manhattan to receive the Indie Icon Award. Reflecting on this over a Zoom interview, Anderson laughed off the title. “That was a little embarrassing – or a lot embarrassing,” she admitted. “Yeah. Icon. But you know, it’s flattering. It was sweet.”

Despite her humility, Laurie Anderson is undoubtedly a significant figure in indie music. From making waves in New York City’s art scene in the ‘70s to releasing her groundbreaking album “Big Science” on Warner Bros. in 1982, Anderson has consistently brought her unique vision to a broader audience. The album’s single “O Superman (For Massenet)” even reached No. 2 in the U.K. charts. Over the years, she has explored the convergence of music, technology, and performance art, while also lending her voice to projects like “Rugrats,” directing films, and winning a Grammy.

Her Grammy for “Landfall,” a collaboration with the Kronos Quartet, marked a significant achievement. Anderson’s latest work, “Amelia,” released on Nonesuch, delves into Amelia Earhart’s final flight. Unlike the perpetual questions surrounding Earhart’s disappearance, Anderson’s “Amelia” refrains from seeking answers. Instead, she immerses listeners in Earhart’s experiences during her flight using storytelling, sing-speak, and intricate soundscapes. Drawing from flight logs, diary entries, and contemporary interviews, Anderson evokes the vastness of the ocean and the loneliness of exploration, while highlighting the challenges faced by female pilots in the 1930s.

“They called her Lady Lindy, they didn’t even take her seriously,” Anderson remarked. “But she was doing this really dangerous thing. She was very hands-on, unlike Charles Lindbergh.” Anderson finds Earhart’s story relevant today, stating the lack of encouragement for girls in engineering remains a poignant issue.

Discussing her latest project, Anderson explains the creation of her handmade electronic devices and her expansive work titled “ARK,” which combines music, visuals, and electronics. This production, set to debut in Manchester, explores themes of the end of the world through what she describes as a “doomsday comedy.”

Anderson also touches on the evolution of “Amelia.” Originally commissioned by Carnegie Hall in 2000 for a piece about flight, Anderson chose Amelia Earhart as the subject. Initially, the piece didn’t turn out as planned and was set aside until conductor Dennis Russell Davies suggested revisiting it for a string orchestra. Recorded during the pandemic, the piece evolved into its current form, incorporating additional elements that enhance its narrative.

“Carnegie Hall wanted something about flight, so I chose Amelia,” Anderson elaborated. She admired Earhart’s engagement with the public and her advocacy for women’s education in technical fields. “She said, ‘Girls should find out how engines work, too,’” Anderson emphasized, highlighting Earhart’s progressive vision which remains relevant today.

Despite societal advancements, Anderson notes the persistently patronizing attitudes towards women in fields like engineering. This inspired her to create a work that not only honors Earhart’s bravery but also encourages reflection on today’s gender norms.

Discussing collaborator ANOHNI, Anderson expressed her admiration for the singer’s versatility and inspiration across various projects, including “ARK” where ANOHNI voices the Buddha. The collaborative process for “Amelia” involved spontaneous and intuitive contributions, particularly from bassist Tony Scherr, adding a raw and dynamic layer to the composition.

Reflecting on her career with Warner Bros. and her current label, Nonesuch, Anderson appreciates the creative freedom and supportive environment. “It depends more on the people than on the actual label,” she said.

When asked about revisiting past works, Anderson prefers to move forward. “I want to move forward. If there’s a point in incorporating it into anything, then I would, but not just to go back and set the record straight,” she stated.

Laurie Anderson’s new album, “Amelia,” showcases her enduring creativity and commitment to exploring profound themes through her art. Her ability to weave historical and contemporary elements into a compelling narrative underscores her status as a pioneer in the music world.

Source: Billboard