S. Joel Norman
INTRODUCTION: "Alcohol was abundant and Chinese lanterns flooded the swaying trees as the bands were preparing to entertain our earholes. Suddenly, an incredibly upbeat, jazzy form of Gospel music that I had never heard before, hit me. I was witnessing a modern day Sister Act, right in front of my very eyes, but instead of nuns I was looking at a burley, bearded man. This is S. Joel Norman and we recommend you get to know him now." -Tricia Kaufman
1. Hello, there S. Joel- what does the "s" stand for?
The S. Stands for SuperDuper.
2. Has your hair always been a lion's mane, or did you get a perm? It's a perm, isn't it.
I do have a perm. Because I like to spend money on making my life less manageable.
3. Where did your mama birth and raise you?
I was born and raised in the south suburbs of Chicago and The Region.
4. How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music as gospel-flavored rock and roll.
5. What inspires your music?
I'm inspired by things that stir the very core of our souls -- questions or ordination, meaning in moments, true and passionate and unexplainable love.
6. Do you put all of your albums on vinyl- and, on that topic, how many albums do you have?
Nope. So far Traveling Light is the only album put to vinyl. I have one other official album called "Take it in Stride" which is available on iTunes.
7. How did you find your way into the arts?
I still don't consider myself "in the arts" though I think I understand what you mean. I suppose this is the best way to explain it: it's not because I can't do anything else, it's because I can't do anything else.
8. You have a deeper voice, but how's your falsetto?
My falsetto comes and goes. It depends on how much abuse my pipes are getting at any given time. By now I assume it's permanently damaged.
9. What's your idea of the perfect pizza?
Pizza is such an interesting food. Pizza is kind of like the Beatles of food. I'd say my favorite pizza is thin crust supreme at the moment. Everything you want without the excess.
10. Any last words?
Last words? Yeah. Please destroy my phone.
Interview by: Tricia Kaufman
Photo by: David Leep