Valerie June: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Short of seeing her live and in person, this is the best way to encounter Valerie June s heartfelt sound. Her new album Pushin Against a Stone is terrific, but when I first heard that voice unadorned, I was hooked. The same may happen to you. Valerie June is a singular performer with an array of singing styles. Sometimes she s channeling an old male voice; at other times, she channels a younger woman or even a child. Her music is steeped in tradition. The striking Tennessee singer on its own, her hair could pass for sculpture can sing the blues or gospel or country or a blend that sounds like nothing else. She learned how to sing during 18 years of church, but the old man s voice comes from deep inside in unexpected ways. Prepare to be surprised, and to become Valerie June s newest fan. BOB BOILEN Set List Workin Woman Blues Rain Dance Somebody To Love Credits Producers: Bob Boilen, Denise DeBelius; Editor: Becky Harlan; Audio Engineer: Kevin Wait; Videographers: Parker Miles Blohm, Denise