Yamica Peterson
If you haven't seen and heard Yamica Peterson singing with the Amosphere and other local performers than you are missing out. This recent Tucson transplant from New Hampshire is the mother of five and has a business degree in accounting. She says she began her professional music career in 2005 and released her first music compilation last year. "The Mica-Sev Project, Volume 1." Locally, she performed with Jacques Taylor and The Real Deal, Heather Hardy, Trade Secrets; and Kathy Davis and the Groove Tones. "I love the warmness and sense of camaraderie found among Tucson musicians—was welcomed instantly to the scene and have met countless folks I now call family," she says.
—Mari Herreras, mherreras@tucsonweekly.com
What was the first concert you attended?
My first and only concert was a few years ago—I went to see Citizen Cope in Portland, Maine. I don't get to see very many concerts unless they're on TV!
What are you listening to these days?
I have a lot of indie in my playlist right now. I'm diggin' listening to music that is very different from what I write or perform. I have a soft spot of Regina Spektor right now.
What was the first album you owned?
Oh goodness! Hahaha. My very first album was a 45. I'm pretty sure it was Pat Benetar! My parents gave me a little record player for my birthday or something when I was 9. I listened to "Hit Me with Your Best Shot" probably a billion times.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone seem to love, but you just don't get?
Well, I'm so groove-oriented that it's hard for me to relate to music that I can't lose myself in. And I don't really understand any genre or artist that is "hardcore," like "Screamo," or anything with "death" in the title.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
I might be persuaded to lose a finger in order to see Jill Scott or Erykah Badu. I'd lose my mind if I ever met either of these women.
What is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Still rock out occasionally to Weird Al Yankovic, and there's no shame in my game.
What song would you like to have played at your funeral?
That's a hard one ... Guess it would have to be something my dad and I wrote together. I would definitely want people to remember how much I loved playing and singing with my Pops.
What artist changed your life and how?
This one's a no brainer—definitely my dad. He's my favorite "rock star." I wouldn't be as involved in music and performing if it weren't for him. He made it possible for me to put myself through college by not only believing and supporting me, but I gratefully was able to walk in his footsteps and make a name for myself, and enough money to support my kids at the same time. For that, I am ever thankful.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
Eclectic Collective, "Time Flies." They were a fierce band out of Boston, Massachusetts.
