Tracy Bonham, once a prominent figure in the Boston rock scene, has shifted her focus to incorporate her classical music background into her artistry. “You could say I was thumbing my nose at it and rebelling,” she stated during a recent interview. Despite her early resistance to her classical training, Bonham recognizes that these influences were always a part of her identity that she couldn’t fully abandon.
On Monday, Bonham will return to Boston to perform at the City Winery, where she will showcase her new album, “Sky Too Wide.” This album features a blend of her edgy pop style with refined, classical melodies. “The voice is still familiar, but the songs also embrace a beautiful aesthetic,” she explained, reflecting on her artistic evolution.
Bonham noted that life experiences, including the constant questioning about her emotions regarding her mother, have pushed her to explore a range of sentiments in her songwriting. “Life is short, and if I die tomorrow I don’t want to only be remembered for bitching and moaning,” she shared.
A standout track from the album, “Dear God Should I Hit Send,” captures the relatable experience of sending a regrettable email. “I’ve done so many tweets and Facebook posts that I regret; that can be especially easy in the political realm,” she said, explaining the humorous concept behind the song. Honoring her classical roots, Bonham drew inspiration from Chopin’s “Nocturne No.2” when crafting the piece.
In a notable shift from her Boston rock days, Bonham recorded the album with a jazz trio. During rehearsals, a conversation with the bass player made her reconsider her role as a bandleader. “He took me aside and said, ‘You’re the bandleader, why isn’t everyone listening to you?’ that impacted me greatly,” she recounted. Bonham realized that previous collaborations had sometimes left her feelings unrecognized and her leadership ignored.
While her 1996 hit “Mother Mother” may seem at odds with her current style, Bonham continues to hold the song dear. “It still feels like mine,” she affirmed. The song reflects her struggle to improve communication with her mother and in her personal relationships, effectively becoming a thematic anchor for her.
Bonham’s experiences with major labels have left her with mixed feelings. Reflecting on her early career, she remarked, “That era was so misleading, so much anticipation and expectation.” Initially drawn to Island Records because of its affiliation with artists she admired, she quickly found herself under pressure to replicate her earlier success, including being urged to modify her image.
As she revisits Boston, Bonham holds onto both fond and challenging memories. “I remember how we could always go out, hit any club and know that we would see something inspiring,” she recalled with nostalgia. However, she also faced adversities from those who wished to undermine her. Today, Bonham approaches her return to the city with an open mind and heart, ready to embrace the experiences that lie ahead.
image source from：bostonherald
