Jennifer O'Connor first picked up a guitar and started singing in 1996, and since then her voice has been described as that of an angel and also being that of "everywoman." As such, it seems everyone has fallen for her (even the NY Post!). She's collaborated with the likes of Yo La Tengo's James McNew and Spoon's Britt Daniel—but below tells us the one rapper she hopes to join up with in the future. Currently winding down a tour, she'll be back in her home borough of Brooklyn this Saturday night, playing a special Valentine's Day show at Southpaw.
What local bands or musicians are you currently intrigued by? The bands we are doing the show with at Southpaw are two of my favorites: Hotel Lights and Mascott.
Do you have anything special in store for your Brooklyn Valentine's Day show? We plan to promote love and good feelings for all!
Did you ever manage to watch The Strangers for long enough to hear your song? I watched up to the point where they play the song. In my living room, on demand, so I could turn it off.
You've collaborated with a few famous names, is there anyone you would like to work with in the future? Kanye West.
What has influenced you throughout your career? My family.
Please share your strangest "only in New York" story. Meryl Streep was at a show I did in December because her son was also playing. That kind of thing only happens in New York. [ed. note: this was our holiday show.]
Which New Yorker do you most admire? I admire all the New Yorkers, walking around the city, doing their thing. From the pretzel sellers to the stock brokers to the restaurant workers, to the musicians and actors. I love them equally.
Given the opportunity, how would you change New York? I don't know that I would change it. Well, maybe cheaper rents.
Under what circumstance have you thought about leaving New York? I have left a couple of times, but I always come back. It's part of me now and I don't know that I will ever be able to really leave.
Do you have a favorite New York celebrity sighting or encounter? I've seen Q-tip at the movies on 3 separate occasions. It's weird.
What's your current soundtrack to the city? Clint Michigan's Hawthorne to Hennepin (out April 14 on my label Kiam).
Best cheap eat in the city. Grand Morelos (Mexican place on Grand St in Williamsburg).
Best venue to see/play music. See: Town Hall; Play: Mercury Lounge.
