In a recent broadcast on KGNU 1390 in Denver, celebrated musician Cris Williamson joined host Meredith Carson to discuss her upcoming concert at Swallow Hill. This concert marks a significant milestone—the 50th anniversary of her landmark album, “Changer and the Changed.”
Williamson expressed her astonishment at reaching this remarkable 50-year mark, noting that while time flies, she feels as vibrant and self-sufficient in her artistry as ever. The concert promises to be a captivating reflection on her musical journey, featuring original solo performances interspersed with selections from her most recent albums, “Motherland,” “Harbor Street,” and “Ravens and the Roses,” culminating with a full rendition of “Changer.”
“Ravens and the Roses” stands as her latest release, crafted with an urgency and relevance that Williamson says stems from a deep understanding of the current world. One of its standout tracks, “Broken Idaho,” highlights pressing issues such as the struggles faced by women today, particularly in relation to reproductive rights. Williamson emphasized that as an artist, reflecting the jagged realities of life is both an obligation and a privilege.
The discussion then took a poignant turn when the recent passing of Jill Bull was addressed. Williamson reminisced about her relationship with Bull, a cherished friend and ally in the community whose unexpected death left a significant impact on those who loved her. Williamson reflected on the fleeting nature of life and how it invigorates her appreciation for her own journey.
Forty years gone, Williamson feels as if it was just a blink of an eye. She recounts how life, especially as we age, tends to accelerate. For her, being present and aware makes the fast passage of time evident. This sentiment resonated with Carson, who shared her own experience of feeling unchanged over the decades.
According to Williamson, remaining true to one’s essence is vital. She articulates this while teaching songwriting, emphasizing the power of personal experiences that connect to universal themes. Her music aims not only to depict raw feelings but to address broader social issues, a philosophy she has held since the inception of her career.
“Changer and the Changed” represented a groundbreaking moment in music history, launching Olivia Records—the first women-led record label. Williamson stood at the forefront of this movement, using music not just as a means of expression but as a tool for community building and activism. She discussed the challenges of establishing a platform in a male-dominated industry, where their collective vision often went unrecognized.
In a heartfelt reflection, Williamson noted, “We kicked down some doors, man.” She spoke about the creation of community, open forums, and alternative worlds that blossomed from the movement they sparked. They offered a welcoming space for those who felt marginalized, proving that inclusion enriches the cultural tapestry.
As she prepares for her upcoming show, Williamson fondly recalls her early musical endeavors in Denver during the mid-1960s. Looking back, she reminisces about her time playing in clubs and her experiences with her rock band, The Crystal Palace Guard, where she began to hone her craft. The experiences shaped the musician she would become—combining both hard work and passion.
Young artists today, according to Williamson, may underestimate the effort needed to build a successful career in music. The industry today often inaccurately frames social media and influencer culture as instant pathways to success, while Williamson urges newcomers to learn the value of hard work, dedication, and resilience.
As the conversation wrapped up, both host and guest expressed excitement for the upcoming concert at Swallow Hill on the 18th, celebrating fifty years of Williamson’s music, which continues to resonate across generations.
In Williamson’s words, approaching the stage now feels just as vital as it did decades ago, embodying the same compassion and power. Her journey of self-discovery through music transcends time and continues to inspire both long-time fans and new listeners alike.
With anticipation building for her return to Denver, Williamson remains a testament to what it means to create art that nurtures, empowers, and invites all into its warm embrace. Congratulations to Cris Williamson for an incredible fifty years of her music journey—here’s to many more!
image source from：https://kgnu.org/music-posts/interview-cris-williamson/
