What does Chelsea Wolfe listen to when she’s not making her own beautifully haunting music? From the dark, hypnotic sounds of Nico to the raw emotion of Joni Mitchell and the unexpected influence of Fleetwood Mac, her musical world is full of surprises. We asked Chelsea to take us through the records that shaped her life, inspired her songwriting, and stayed with her over the years. Here’s a little glimpse into the music behind the music.
The most important album of my life: Nico – Live at Reims Cathedral – December 13, 1974
I love to play with the sound of spaces. Natural reverb is such a gift. Hearing the recordings of Nico’s droning, mystical music and otherworldly voice in the natural reverb of this cathedral was life-changing.
The first record I ever bought: Tricky, Martina Topley-Bird – Maxinquaye
As a teen, I was drawn to the red door on the cover of this album in the local record store. I bought the CD and was obsessed with the sound of this album. Both of them are incredible vocalists and opened me up to the world of trip-hop.
An artist whose influence on me nobody would guess: Lindsey Buckingham z Fleetwood Mac
My dad loved Fleetwood Mac, and in 1997 they did a live performance on MTV called The Dance. We eventually had a copy of it on VHS and I watched it so much. Lindsey Buckingham’s solo performance of “Big Love” was so incredible to me, and influential. I think I still borrow some of his vocal inflections in my own singing.
The album that taught me the most about songwriting: Johnny Cash – At Folsom Prison
I could say this album taught me most about both songwriting and performing. Johnny Cash was a powerhouse. I grew up driving past Folsom Prison on the way to Folsom lake so when I found this live album it meant even more to me as a Johnny Cash fan, and also I genuinely think these performances are some of his best. Wild energy in that room. I love this version of 25 Minutes to Go.
The record my parents introduced me to: Black Sabbath – Vol. 4
A very important metal record for a young person to listen to in the 1990’s! As I grew older, I would sing Snowblind or Changes at karaoke. I found Ozzy’s vocal range to be similar to my own and enjoyed singing along with him.
A record I stole from my parents’ collection: Joni Mitchell – Blue
This was on the record player a lot when I was a kid. It was one of my mother’s favorite albums. “River” was probably the song I was most drawn to, and Joni Mitchell’s voice really stuck with me over the years.
The record I want everyone to hear at least once: Sibylle Baier – Colour Green
It’s the only record she made, and was found by her son years after her death. It’s full of really beautiful, intimate, delicate folk songs that are so warm and comforting.