Exclusive Interview With Country Music Legend Lynne Taylor Donovan

Lynne Taylor Donovan is one of the premier voices in the Canadian country music scene. She has a lifetime of experience in the artistic world, including television appearances and working as a commercial voiceover artist. Donovan is one of the most inspiring artists of our time. Donovan is not only a fabulous singer but a brilliant songwriter whose work has produced chart-topping music. Recently, I had a chance to chat with the legendary songstress and get some insights into her formula for life’s success. I think you will find her words to be wise and beneficial.

Interview with legendary singer and songwriter Lynne Taylor Donovan.

Warlock Asylum: I must say that I have been a fan of your work for quite a while and consider it an honor that you’ve taken the time to answer a few questions about your musical career and life perspective. However, for some of our readers who may not be familiar with your person, please introduce yourself. Who is Lynne Taylor Donovan?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: Well, first let me thank Warlock Asylum International News for your support and interest in my music and life. It is an honor for me to take the time to answer your questions.

To answer your first question, in order of importance, I am a mother, a wife, a daughter, and last but certainly not least, I am a musician and songwriter. I value each and every role with gratitude and commitment. I need three of me to serve all these aspects well. I do my best to leverage my time, which is always a challenge. But I consider myself one of the most blessed people I know.

Warlock Asylum: How did you did get involved in music?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: I have been a working professional musician from the time I was 15 years old. I began singing and playing guitar at the age of 8 and was terrible at it for several years. I wrote silly songs that made no structural or lyrical sense and had to work hard at not singing flat or sharp for about as long as it took me to play a chord on the guitar without the strings buzzing!

Many family members and friends tried hard to discourage me from pursuing music, with the exception of my loving mother who saw the desire within me to express myself through music and continued to support me as my biggest fan until this very day. I had what I believe today to be the most important part of being a success in music whether you play an instrument or are a vocalist, you must be able to emit emotion to sell a song. The rest of it can be learned, but casting emotions cannot be. So, I worked hard at the technical stuff and eventually, it all came together and here I am.

Warlock Asylum: You are recognized as being a major part of Canada’s country music scene. How big is the country music scene in Canada?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: I think the country music scene in Canada has changed quite a bit since I first began. It has evolved quite a bit which I think is good in some ways and not in others. It varies so much from province to province. But, overall I think the popularity of traditional country music has lessened. I think country music in Canada and the U.S. is not as rigid as it used to be in terms of now allowing a little more expression of pop and rock integration, and as a result, a lot of new country music has become a blend of styles creating sort of an offshoot of the traditional sound. I am considered “country” in many places and “country pop” in others. Labeling is something that radio stations and record companies felt the need to invent, which does make some business sense, but I consider myself an artist and pigeonholing restricts artistry.

Warlock Asylum: What obstacles did you have to overcome in order for your music career to blossom to the extent that it has today?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: Well, just as I said earlier, it’s hard to be expressive and true to who you are when radio and record companies restrict that expression. So fitting into a certain format has been tough for me but something that thousands of other artists have been successful in overcoming. I’m happy to share a little bit of that.

Warlock Asylum: How has your career in music affected your relationship with family and friends?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: Being in the music business can be extremely hard on any relationship. I have had to make sacrifices on both ends to achieve a balance of success on both sides. My family comes first for sure! I’m certain that I could have had more success in my career without the responsibilities that come with home life, but I wouldn’t change a thing. My career is doing well and I am fortunate to have a thriving family life and very strong friendships.

Warlock Asylum: You are widely known for your ability to put together some sensational lyrics that read like a storyboard to a movie. How are you able to come up with the ideas for the songs that you sing?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: This is an easy one, life. There’s so much out in the world and inside of me to pull from. The world is full of love, life, sadness, achievement, challenges, heartbreak, joy, and so much more to sing about and put out there for people to ponder upon. It’s such a blessing to be able to share the wealth of emotions and stories that there are out there in the form of a song.

Warlock Asylum: What lessons have you learned about life from your work with the community as an artist?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: People want truth and authenticity. You have to be who you are to sell what you’ve got. If you do that it’s a guaranteed win-win. Never try to be something your not to be successful because you can’t fool people’s hearts.

Warlock Asylum: What can we expect to hear from Lynne Taylor Donovan in the near future? Any final thoughts?

Lynne Taylor Donovan: More records. More touring. I miss the touring. Finally, I just want to thank you and all my fans for hanging in with me, media for all the great reviews, and radio for finding a place for me to share my music. Love you guys!

On behalf of Warlock Asylum International News, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and wish you the best always in your artistic and earthly endeavors. Peace and blessing to you!