Who is Lisa E Edwards?
Born in Adelaide. This is where my music began to take shape as the youngest girl of four siblings. I am a Singer/Entertainer… Musician? Well, I love playing many instruments, Yet I haven’t really mastered any yet. Mostly self-taught and by observing… as I do love to challenge myself. My career is well documented in Wikipedia.
On a more personal note, I am a passionate person in everything I do. I am sensitive and I wear my heart on my sleeve, and of course, I use that sensitivity in my performances. I love people, on and off the stage, and I’ll always give them my all.
That same passion for music and life, I used as a sportswoman, which I have also been for most of my life. Reaching State level in Lacrosse, which I’m sure kept me in good stead, health wise and gaining a stamina so useful for me on and off stage.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
This is a rather difficult question for me, as music has always been my first love and a strong force in my life, since a young child… Although, coming from a strong sporting family, I enjoyed swimming, tennis, squash and I loved horse riding and of course, I excelled at lacrosse, as did my 3 siblings, Father and Grandfather, all at State and Australian level.
So, in answer (finally) to this question, I may have strongly pursued a career in sport. That, may have led me to a career in the athletic world. Now having experienced many years/decades in recording and studio work. I would dearly love to pursue, further, a career in producing.
Who inspires you and why?
First and foremost: My late Mother and Father, in fact, my whole family inspired me. My Mother and Father for their love of music. My Father was a Jazz pianist and my Mother loved to sing and had a wonderful voice, but never pursued a career in music (she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis when she was 21. She bore four children, and ran a business with my father and was highly respected throughout the community – a total inspiration!
So it was through them and my siblings fabulous record collection, and our weekly singalongs with family and friends, that my wonderful introduction to the world of music began and that a bigger world of music was available.
That and a very encouraging music teacher who took me under her wing. Also, there are too many artists to mention here, from the world of music that inspired me on the way – and, I have been very fortunate to have worked and shared the stage with many of them.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I would love to be able to help the homeless and to work with children. For everyone to start respecting each other and treating each other with kindness. In the words of Michael Jackson… and with my overpowering love. “I would Heal the World to make it a better place” and the world we once believed in, will shine again in grace!
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Once upon a time, I would have said Maui, or the Maldives, even Bali. They are still an option! I have been fortunate in my career to travel the world and I have seen extraordinary sites.
Yet, I am a lifetime Ambassador of the Victorian and South Australian Bash (A Wonderful Children’s Charity) and as that Ambassador, whether performing or travelling on their behalf, I have been to the most incredible places in our very own country (Australia).
Places I never even knew existed and could make you feel like you were anywhere in the world. So I would love to get in a camper van, or even a reliable 4 wheel drive or car, and just drive into the Australian sunset again…
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
As I love to cook and I am away often, my home is my favourite destination. If I haven’t seen my friends in such a long time, I would prepare a big lunch/spread and spend hours catching up and just hanging out with them, enjoying some nice vino or cocktails… If they would specifically like to see something special of their choice, I would of course, opt to be their driver…
What are you currently reading?
I always have a few books on the go, and I have just finished reading for the 3rd time now… Simple Dreams – a beautiful memoir of Linda Ronstadt. She writes beautifully and it is a captivating memoir of her origins and rise to fame. Given to me on tour many years ago by my friend/singer/colleague, Lindsay Field. I am now currently reading Keith Urban – his amazing journey from daydreamer to superstar, given to me as a gift from my delightful neighbour. I love reading biographies.
What are you currently listening to?
What I listen to, usually depends on how I am feeling at the time but what I am currently listening to at the moment are the many songs that I have to learn for the Eulogy of a Genius. I will be performing in a two-part concert on the music and times of Ray Charles, which starts on 21 September at the Collins Street Baptist Church, Melbourne. We are currently in the rehearsal stage.
Happiness is?
Happiness for me is spending time with my daughter Madison… and listening to her sing, brings absolute Pride and Joy to my heart, that’s just a bonus! Happiness for me is also being on stage performing, being in my world and feeling great; Being in that moment.
What does the future hold for you?
None of us know what is around the corner and I don’t have any fear of that, so I do try to stay in the moment. But what the future holds for me? Endless possibilities, Laughter and Many Many More Happy Moments.
Lisa stars in Eulogy for a Genius – Featuring Music of Ray Charles – which will be presented at Melbourne’s Collins Street Baptist Church from 21 September 2024. For more information, visit: www.eulogyforagenius.com.au for details.
Image: Lisa E Edwards (supplied)