If you don't have Ani DiFranco's music in your playlist, you're missing out on one righteous babe.
Born in Buffalo, New York, Ani is unlike any other artist out there. She's political, an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, a poet, a pioneer, and she writes and performs awesome music. She has released over 20 albums and is widely considered a feminist icon.
To label her as a folk artist is inaccurate. Part folk, alternative, jazz, punk, funk and hip hop DiFranco's music crosses genres.
At age 18, Ani became one of the first independent musicians to create her own record label, Righteous Babe, and since has produced albums for a variety of artists.
Her clever and raw lyrics mixed with the quality of her musical performances are what make Ani so special.
If you haven't given Ani DiFanco a listen, we're certain after a few samples, you'll want to hear more.
A word to the wise for those just starting out on Ani. She offers a eclectic menu for a variety of tastes and some of her songs are heavily spiced.
To make sure you aren't turned off from this tasty dish before giving her music a chance, here are a few songs to help ease you in to Ani DiFranco.
Born in Buffalo, New York, Ani is unlike any other artist out there. She's political, an entrepreneur, a philanthropist, a poet, a pioneer, and she writes and performs awesome music. She has released over 20 albums and is widely considered a feminist icon.
To label her as a folk artist is inaccurate. Part folk, alternative, jazz, punk, funk and hip hop DiFranco's music crosses genres.
At age 18, Ani became one of the first independent musicians to create her own record label, Righteous Babe, and since has produced albums for a variety of artists.
Her clever and raw lyrics mixed with the quality of her musical performances are what make Ani so special.
If you haven't given Ani DiFanco a listen, we're certain after a few samples, you'll want to hear more.
A word to the wise for those just starting out on Ani. She offers a eclectic menu for a variety of tastes and some of her songs are heavily spiced.
To make sure you aren't turned off from this tasty dish before giving her music a chance, here are a few songs to help ease you in to Ani DiFranco.
OUR ANI PICKS
32 Flavors
1. From the Not a Pretty Girl album, "32 Flavors" is a great example of Ani's clever and powerful lyrics, beautiful voice and hypnotic guitar riffs. It's a must-have for any Ani playlist.
There is also a powerful live version of the song from the Living in Clip album.
There is also a powerful live version of the song from the Living in Clip album.
Fire Door
2. "Fire Door (Live)" from the Living in Clip album is a toe tappin' tune with poetic lyrics. Originally from the Ani DiFranco album, "Fire Door" (live or original) is a great jam whether driving along or hanging at home.
3. From the Dilate album, "Napoleon" is a great song full of anger backed by an alternative rock feel. The jam starts off slow, but it quickly builds with the guitar and drums that come in for the second verse. If you've ever been pissed off in your life then you will certainly relate to this song.
Note: Dilate has several great songs. If you're pissed off about an ex, check out "Untouchable Face." You'll appreciate it. If you're feeling a bit feisty, "Shameless" is also worth a listen.
Note: Dilate has several great songs. If you're pissed off about an ex, check out "Untouchable Face." You'll appreciate it. If you're feeling a bit feisty, "Shameless" is also worth a listen.
Napoleon
Bliss Like This
4. From the Educated Guess album, "Bliss Like This" is a feel good song with great lyrics and upbeat rhythm. It's also a good example of Ani's range as a singer/songwriter. It's a blend of funk and alternative and is great to sing along to.
Deep Dish
5. "Deep Dish" is from the Little Plastic Castle album and is a great jam to get ready for a night on the town. Ani uses a lot of horn instruments in this song, which she commonly does. This song blends alternative with jazz and is one of many great songs from this album.
Note: Worthy mentions from Little Plastic Castle include: "Gravel," "Little Plastic Castles," and "As Is."
Note: Worthy mentions from Little Plastic Castle include: "Gravel," "Little Plastic Castles," and "As Is."
Both Hands
If you've ever loved and lost then you will love this bittersweet tune. Originally from the Ani DiFranco album, "Both Hands" is the perfect blend of poetic lyrics, a beautiful voice, captivating guitar riffs, and raw and universal emotion. "Both Hands" is the epitome of how great her music is, at least in our opinion, and it's one of our favorite Ani songs of all time.
Hell Yeah
From the Out of Range album, "Hell Yeah" is a sweet and simple song about having a crush on someone. Give it a listen and you'll find yourself singing the tune when you least expect it.
