Viv Albertine Interview: SXSW 2010

Viv Albertine is a UK-based singer and songwriter who has captured an appreciative audience with her whispy vocals and relatable lyrics. Albertine is a former member of the Slits, a London punk band that formed in 1976 and is considered one of the most original-minded and important figures in the British 1970s punk scene. She'll perform March 18, 19 and 20 at the 2010 SXSW festival.

Describe the sound of your music in your own words.

My music sounds like you are sitting on the end of my bed listening to me talk about stuff that's going on in my life. I only choose sounds that describe my feelings, to go with my words. I write all my songs on guitar, a Telecaster. I use the top three strings a lot and often leave other strings ringing and droning along, accompanying the melody picked out on the top three. I play solo and with a band, Viv Albertine's Limerence.

When did you decide to start making music?

I jumped into music not because I was a musician -- I had never touched an instrument in my life -- but because there was nothing else in the world to do in 1977. Well, that's how I felt anyway.


What music were you inspired by growing up?

I belonged to an organization called the Woodcraft Folk when I was young. We went camping and sang songs 'round the fire. The boys were pretty with long hair and called Noah and Toby. The girls were confident and sexy with long hair. We sang protest songs, Dylan, Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie, Phil Ochs. Songs for me have to say something strong. This was the '60s, which was full of music trying to change the world.

Who are some of your favorite musicians today?

Why do I find it so hard to answer this question whenever it is asked? I am not influenced by musicians, I come across music in a time and place, and if it is from the heart I get it. People, poems, conversations, feelings -- these are the things that make me want to create. I don't think of myself as a musician.

What do you consider your biggest vice?

Caring what other people think.

What's your favorite part about touring?

Being in between places.

Have your received any notable awards?

Nope. Takes 30 years for the establishment to get me. I'll be dead next time they cotton on.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?

Playing in Paris in the early hours of my birthday last year, training it to London and playing another show in the evening. I was so happy. I knew then I had made the right choice of what to do with my life.

If you could be any type of candy, what would it be?

Very dark organic chocolate.