Singer-songwriter Judy Collins made a name for herself as one of the “trailblazing folk divas” of the 1960s. Now she’s preparing to bring her repertoire – and her reputation as an outspoken social and environmental activist – to Tanglewood, where she performs August 30.
Before the performance she closed The culture show Host Jared Bowen talks about the upcoming show and her successful career.
Collins took the opportunity to reflect on her time with Tanglewood, which dates back to 1969. “My fellow musicians were the Modern Jazz Quartet, can you believe it?” she asked Bowen. “And today, of course, I’ll be with these wonderful artists.”
After more than 60 years as a singer, Collins says, “I’ve been very lucky with the things that have happened to me.” After a moment in 1965 when she lost her voice, she consulted friends such as Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger and Chuck Israels, who advised her to see a trainer – Max Margulis.
“I studied with him for 32 years,” she said. “That’s why I can do what I do.”
When Collins looks back on her entire career, she is full of gratitude.
“I’m very lucky because I’ve been doing this for 65 years and I just turned 85 without knowing it. I have the chance to (…) be part of a new feeling for the show because I never do the same show twice.”
She changes her set list every night, which requires constant practice. “I’ve been playing the piano for 80 years and I’m still practicing. (…) It’s very interesting. You never stop practicing your whole life.”
Listen to the full interview above and watch The culture show. Judy Collins performs at Tanglewood on August 30th.
