520 Etc.: The Rising Stars of Sundown: Anne McCue
A native of Australia, McCue hadn't planned on a life in the music world at all, although she could play a bit. She focused her time and talents on degree in Film Studies at the University of Technology in Sydney. After graduation, she gathered up a few necessary objects, including a cheap guitar, and headed to Melbourne. When the ol' post-graduation life uncertainty set in, she decided to get a little wild.
She bravely responded to a classified listing that said, "Wanted: Wild Women For Rock'n'Roll Band". She got the job and began playing as the lead guitarist for a suprisingly successful pop group. Even though she could rip though the basic chords, she admirably took it upon herself to learn music theory. (Anyone who's studied music theory knows what a daunting task that must have been!) Soon, she was able to write songs for the group which ultimately led to the Australian equivalent of a Grammy nomination. As her skills increased, so did her desire to be a solo artist. She took another leap of faith and left the band to pursue her own place in the music business.
Since then, there's been no looking back for Anne McCue. Her hard work and dedication has brought her attention from the likes of Lucinda Williams, The Pretenders, Emmylou Harris and Sarah McLachlan. She's even had the opportunity to tour with Lucinda Williams on several occasions and released a live recording from a joint 2002 performance called, "Ballad of an Outlaw Woman". She has played Lillith Fair and appeared as guest guitarist/vocalist on albums by Michelle Shocked and Gina Villalobos.
Be sure to catch up on past Sundown 2007 openers, too!
Watch the time-lapsed video of last week's show here.