TN10: IVA, Vocalist + Songwriter + Band Leader
Your Age: 45
Basic bio: IVA is a vocalist and songwriter with a powerful, ethereal voice and a cinematic feel to her music. Her latest album, “Nobody's Woman,” has garnered rave reviews since its March release and her live shows are not-to-be-missed experiences.
Beyond the bio: Since making the decision to devote my life to my music, I have been through many difficult transition periods, especially when losing people who were not comfortable with my focus and lifestyle. It was worth the mess of moving on, even though it caused suffering for both me and the other person. There is an art to living as an artist, and it takes a great deal of work both internally and externally. That’s where my devotion lies, and when I follow that rigorous path, I am fully at peace.
What makes you a grown-ass lady?
I know how to handle my feelings and let them tell me what’s the next right move. I stopped drinking as it wasn’t making me feel good about myself, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.
Here’s her TueNight 10:
On the nightstand: Simone de Beauvoir’s The Mandarins, Rainer Maria Rilke’s Letters to a Young Poet, Yoko Ono’s Grapefruit; a journal; chocolate.
Jam of the minute: Arlie “Break the Curse”, Weyes Blood “And In the Darkness, Hearts Aglow”, Angie McMahon, Alice Phoebe Lou “Glow”.
‘80s crush: Paul McCartney
Current crush: Paul McCartney
First job: I worked at the Family Court of Delaware. That was an eye-opening experience.
What do you like/hate about getting older: I am having the time of my life right now and doing what I want to be doing, and it’s a powerful feeling. I love that I’m able to make my visions a reality. I do hate worrying about if I look “old”.
Best advice you ever got: A mentor told me that the best way up the mountain of life, and of consciousness, is the steady, steep climb. I’ve worked to wake up and live life on life’s terms, and to do so with patience.
Who has influenced you the most and why: As a musician, The Beatles have influenced me and my concept of music the most. I first heard them when I was five years old and I fell in love with them and their music, taught myself how to play and sing their songs, and worked out the harmonies. They were my best company as a child.
Best thing that happened recently: I had my first show with my New York band, and we killed it. It was at Arlene’s Grocery and it truly rocked.
Looking forward to: I’m looking forward to playing for as many people as possible. I absolutely love performing, I have the music and the musicians, and I love where my voice is right now.