Cathy Richardson: Embracing Legacy and Diversity in Jefferson Starship
Cathy Richardson has been the lead singer of Jefferson Starship since 2008, but she still feels like the new member of the band. She has a long history in the rock music scene, starting in the early '90s with her own band in Chicago. Richardson also portrayed Janis Joplin in an off-Broadway production of Love, Janis. Despite facing challenges as a gay woman in the industry, Richardson is now happily married and raising two children with her wife, Rachel. She continues to tour with Jefferson Starship and recently shared her thoughts on the band's legacy and her role as a non-original member.
Richardson is excited about the upcoming shows with Jefferson Starship and other classic rock bands like Kansas and .38 Special. She looks forward to meeting fellow musicians on the road and playing for larger audiences. The band's current lineup, including the talented David Freiberg, is in top form, and Richardson is proud of the band's evolution over the years.
Despite being a member of Jefferson Starship for 17 years, Richardson still feels like she's the new addition to the group. She acknowledges the iconic status of former band members like Grace Slick but believes in her place within the band. Richardson values the band's journey and the opportunity to continue its legacy as they celebrate their 50th anniversary.
Reflecting on her experiences as a gay woman in the music industry, Richardson recalls a time when being openly LGBTQ+ was not as accepted as it is today. She shares her journey of coming out publicly and the challenges she faced along the way. Richardson also expresses concerns about the current political climate and its impact on LGBTQ+ rights, particularly regarding marriage equality.
As a veteran in the music industry, Richardson offers advice to young LGBTQ+ artists looking to establish themselves. She emphasizes the importance of creating quality music, performing live, and building a dedicated fan base. Richardson believes in the power of live performances to connect with audiences and build a successful music career.