Amy Henderson is One Rockin’ Lady

Andrew Cothern
April 27, 2011

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Read More: Amy Henderson, GayRVA Live, The Camel

Singer-songwriter Amy Henderson has been a Richmond music staple for several years, making a name for herself. Right now, she’s playing with the Orderlies and plays with a few other bands. You can catch her every Wednesday as the host and usual performer at Open Mic at Shenanigan’s.

Henderson will be performing at the Camel as part of the GayRVA Live concert series on Monday, May 2. We caught up with her to get to know her a little better.

GayRVA: Describe the type of music you play.
Henderson: I would call it acoustic alternative pop with a tinge of sass.

What are your shows usually like? Do you normally play certain areas?
Totally depends on the venue. Usually the mood is festive and fun – but depending on the setting can be more contemplative, particularly if I play some of my more somber originals. But even my most depressing songs seem to have a ray of hope and sunshine to them. I have been sticking close to home lately. I have two small kids and it is hard to be away from them for too long. I will be playing in Damascus, Va. and Isle of Palms, SC this spring and summer, but that’s about as far as I’ll go lately.

Who are your musical influences?
I grew up listening to a lot of Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Beach Boys, REM, and…Olivia Newton-John. When the Indigo Girls came out, I was really drawn to their music. As a child of the pop-synth 80s, you just didn’t hear anybody playing acoustic guitar and sing and write like they did. They, of course, were a huge influence. I remember living in Atlanta and they would host an open mic at this little bar called Trackside Tavern and we would go play. They were amazing to see in such a small space. Very inspirational.

What made you decide to perform at GayRVA Live?
GayRVA has always been so supportive of the arts scene in Richmond. I’d do anything to pay them back!

Check out more of Amy Henderson at amyhenderson.com.  GayRVA Live is Monday, May 2 at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m. DJ Amy Alderman will be spinning tracks before and after the show. Tickets are $5 at the door. Get more information at gayrva.com/live.

Andrew Cothern is a music lover and media professional in Richmond, Va. specializing in photography and video production. Check out his music blog Richmond Playlist.