Sassy: Music brings freedom

New Zealand soul music artist Sassy is performing at the Leigh Sawmill at Matakana on May 18. Hannah Norton talked to her about her love of music.

How would you describe your sound?

Hiphop inspired Soul with fierce vocals. How did you get into music? As cliche as it sounds, music is in my blood but it's true. My mum loved music and always encouraged us to play instruments. I've spent years playing the piano, the violin, writing music and, of course, singing, which has always been my love. I've played in many orchestras and to top it off, have a Bachelor of Music in Jazz vocals.

What do you enjoy most about music?

For me, music brings freedom. It unlocks emotions and creates experiences not only for me, but also for everyone else that listens to it. It's kinda like a common language that everyone enjoys and understands.

It's New Zealand Music Month. Who are your favourite Kiwi musicians?

There are so many great Kiwi musicians it would take up your entire page if I listed them all. Here are just a few - Dave Dobbyn, Kimbra, LIPS, Kora, Katchafire, Homebrew, Ladi6 - my list goes on!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

My family is everything to me. I've got three children that take up a lot of my time and when it's quiet, I love to cook and watch movies uninterrupted. I'm pretty big on design and colour too, love flicking through mags to get inspiration for my SASSY brand/look/style.

Frangelico are supporting SASSY's first solo album, an up and coming soul music artist with well-crafted melodies framed and soaring harmonies.