We were delighted to have singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Valerie June visit Amoeba San Francisco for a What's In My Bag? episode. A native Tennessean, June found some classic records by artists from her home state, including Big Star. "They say sometimes that music coming out of Memphis can only make it so far," she told us, "and that story kind of became a thing with them. To me they're (as) big as The Beatles." Not only does she feel connected to the music, but she also has recorded at Ardent Studios, where Big Star recorded some of their most beloved tracks. June had much to say about all of her eclectic choices, making for an insightful and sincere video.
Valerie June began her music career at the age of nineteen. Based in Memphis, she first attracted attention through her solo work, which draws on elements of gospel, Americana, blues, folk, soul, country, and bluegrass. In 2010, she recorded the Valerie June and the Tennessee Express EP with the help of Old Crow Medicine Show. She launched a Kickstarter to fund the album that would become her breakthrough, 2013's Pushin' Against a Stone. The LP was recorded with assistance from The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach and record producer Kevin Augunas.