Tennessee native Valerie June feels a deep connection — if not responsibility — to her home state's musical traditions, pointing to such pioneers as Memphis Minnie, Elvis Presley and Booker T. Jones. "I have a lot to live up to, being from Memphis," she says.

While touring in support of her new album, Pushin' Against a Stone (co-written and produced by Dan Auerbach), June stopped by The Current's studios to talk to Mac Wilson ahead of her show that night at the Cedar Cultural Center in Minneapolis.

During her interview, June describes how she met Booker T., and how the multi-instrumentalist and producer has become a mentor to her. She ponders the possibility of country music becoming part of the lineup at Lollapalooza. And when asked about her entry into music, June explains how, as a little girl, she was inspired by Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car."

Almost mystical in her approach to music, June shares how the idea for her song "Twined & Twisted" came to her in a dream and how she assembles each show's set list after having time to absorb the energy of the venue.

Songs Performed

"You Can't Be Told"
"Workin' Woman Blues"
"Twined & Twisted"

All songs off Valerie June's new release, Pushin' Against a Stone, out now on Sunday Best Recordings.

External Link

Valerie June - official site