Singer-songwriter Judy Collins has made a name for herself as one of the “pioneering folk divas” of the 1960s. Now, she’s preparing to bring her repertoire — and reputation as an outspoken social and environmental activist — to Tanglewood, where she performs on Aug. 30.
Ahead of the performance, she joined The Culture Show host Jared Bowen to talk about the upcoming show and her storied career.
Collins took the opportunity to reflect on her history with Tanglewood, which stretches back to 1969. “My co-artists were the Modern Jazz Quartet, can you believe?” She asked Bowen. “And today, of course, I’m going to be with these wonderful artists.”
After over 60 years of performing, Collins says, “a lot of lucky things that have happened to me.” Following a bout in 1965 where she was losing her voice, she consulted friends like Harry Belafonte, Pete Seeger and Chuck Israels, who advised she meet with a coach — Max Margulis.
“I studied with him for 32 years,” she said. “That’s why I can do what I do.”
Looking back at her career as a whole, Collins reflected with gratitude.
“I’m very fortunate because I’ve been doing this for 65 years, and I just turned 85, unbeknownst to me. I get the chance to [...] be part of a new feeling about the show, because I don’t ever do the same show twice.”
She shifts her setlist nightly, which requires constant practice. “I’ve been playing the piano for 80 years, and I still practice. [...] It’s very interesting. You never stop practicing your whole life.”
Listen to the full interview above, and catch The Culture Show. Judy Collins performs at Tanglewood Aug. 30.
