For the 12th episode of The Heart Gallery, I am in conversation with Gaelynn Lea. Gaelynn, a violinist and songwriter who won NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Contest in 2016, has a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in the music industry, especially for disabled artists. She has performed over 600 shows in 45 states and 9 countries, but her path hasn't been without obstacles. And according to Gaelynn, 26% of Americans have some type of disability, yet the music industry is far from being fully accessible or inclusive.
Here, Gaelynn talks about accessibility in the music industry, the problem with disability-based "inspiration", and creating transformative art. We also have a surprise for you: three of Gaelynn's songs are featured throughout the conversation. I am sure you will love this episode…
HW from Gaelynn: "I would say, look up those three artists I mentioned (shared below) because they're all really good. If you haven't heard a lot of disabled artists, I think there's maybe a subconscious misconception that you have to be disabled to like their music, but that is not true. They're just so good. So, look them up and then check out rampd.org, because there's around 60 artists right now as a part of RAMPD and it continues to grow. And so if you're ever feeling stuck in a musical rut, go check it out because they cover all genres."
Artists mentioned:
- Wheelchair Sports Camp
-Ruth Lyon
- Eliza Hull
- Charlie Parr
- Recording Artists and Musical Professionals with Disabilities (RAMPD)
Connect:
- Gaelynn Lea Patreon
- Gaelynn Lea website
- Gaelynn Lea Spotify
- The Heart Gallery Instagram
- The Heart Gallery website
- Rebeka Ryvola de Kremer Instagram
Credits:
Samuel Cunningham for podcast editing, Cosmo Sheldrake for use of his song Pelicans We, podcast art by me, Rebeka Ryvola de Kremer.
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