Martha Wainwright
Martha Wainwright didn’t want to go into the family business, but eventually music won out. To say that singing and songwriting are in her blood is an understatement. Her father is American folk singer Loudon Wainwright, her mother is Canadian folk singer Kate McGarrigle, and her brother Rufus Wainwright is a Grammy-nominated cabaret singer and songwriter. Growing up in Montreal, Wainwright was exposed to music constantly, through her mother and aunt, who perform together as a folk duo. “I had no classical training, but I had angst and heartbreak and fantastic music all around me," Wainwright has said, “What more could I need?”
Her unique sound blends traditional folk music with rock and roll, brimming with anguish, heartbreak, and wry humor. Her music is as thoughtful and literate as the best folk, while showcasing an edgier, more confessional style influenced by country, rockabilly, and traditional rock.
After working for years as a background singer for other artists, including her own family, Wainwright burst onto the music scene with her 2004 EP, BMFA. The title song’s full name, “Bloody Motherf***ing Asshole,” was inspired by her father, Loudon. While growing up, Loudon communicated with his daughter through song, and she was devastated to learn that his track “I’d Rather Be Alone” was written about her. With BMFA, she repaid the favor, and grabbed the attention of producers, fans, and fellow artists.
She followed up BMFA with her self-titled, first full-length album in 2005, and just released her latest album, I Know You’re Married But I’ve Got Feelings Too, featuring guest artists such as The Who’s Pete Townsend and Donald Fagen of Steely Dan.
In 2006, Wainwright appeared in the concert documentary Leonard Cohen: I’m Your Man, singing his legendary songs “Tower of Song” and “The Traitor.” She also performed at the 2007 Bonnaroo and Lollapalooza festivals as well as the 2008 SXSW festival. She also made a brief appearance as a torch singer in Martin Scorcese’s The Aviator.
Although they have collaborated on a number of projects, Wainwright has sought to distance herself from her famous family, both professionally and musically. "I was insecure and fearful of making the leap because the bar is set so high with the McGarrigles and Rufus and Loudon that I didn't want to fall flat on my face," said Wainwright. "I also think I needed to go through a certain amount of life experience to know for sure that this is what I wanted." ALLISON FORD
