By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
August 22, 2003
The daughter of Texas blues guitarist Johnny Copeland, Shemekia Copeland is an old soul, though she was born in 1979. She made her Cotton Club debut at 8. She released her first album when she was 19. And she hasn’t stopped working since she was 17.
Poised for stardom, the artist talks about her love for Steven Tyler, her favorite Golden Girl and why she’s coming back to Chicago in October to do nothing.
What you’re going to do about that: I’m taking all of October off to just rest. But during the first week, my cousin and I are coming to Chicago for a little vacation.
Your idea of a good time: When I’m not on the road, it’s to come home and clean up.
Your cleaning pet peeve: I don’t clean windows.
Best thing about your job: I enjoy the whole thing about being onstage. Period.
How you take care of yourself on the road: The best thing you can do is rest. And drink plenty of fluids. The throat will be the first thing to get messed up when you’re sick, so you have to watch out.
Favorite acts to see live: I like to check out a lot of older artists, ’cause they might not be around next year to see. I’m not gonna mention any names, though.
Favorite artists: I’m a big Marvin Gaye fan.
Favorite music video: I loved that Run-DMC/Aerosmith video for “Walk This Way.”
Last book you read: I just read this biography on Marvin Gaye that was really great.
Worst place to read: On the tour bus. It’s hard for me to read when I’m bouncing around. You start to feel a little sick.
Where you fit into the music business: I’m a baby even compared to the babies in this business. They’re, like, 15 years older than me.
Your dream collaboration: I love Steven Tyler. If I could work with him, I would be eternally grateful.
Favorite actors: I love Audrey Hepburn, Kate Hepburn and Cary Grant. I’m an old-movie freak.
Favorite actors who are still alive: I’ve always loved Steve Martin. Eugene Levy is such a great character actor. And I’ve always loved Queen Latifah.
Last good movie you saw: “Bringing Down the House.”
Your theory: Movies are just like music now. It’s really hard to find anything good.
Favorite TV show: I used to love the “Golden Girls.” They just cracked me up.
Which Golden Girl best represents you: I always wanted to be like Blanche when I got to be her age. I couldn’t believe her!
Best advice you ever got: To not take everything so damned seriously.
Who you are: I’m an old lady living in a young woman’s body. It’s my blessing and curse.
Your goals: I look forward to growing into myself.
Your last word on Chicago: Chicago is like New York. You’ve all supported me 100 percent from the start. I love Chicago.
