The mandolin is an 18th-century instrument, and the Backstreet Boys are a 1990s boy-band sensation; but together, they make for an unexpected surprise.
Amanda Duncan said she strives to make people happy with her music, and she is chock-full of surprises, such as using the mandolin to play some Backstreet Boys songs. She will play a free show as part of the Emerging Artist Series at 8 p.m. Thursday in The Front Room.
“I call my music a folk-pop sock hop mix,” she said. “It’s really upbeat, and my ultimate goal is to make people happy or feel that they can take over the world.”
Since releasing an EP in 2009, Duncan has been touring the country, writing new songs and performing with the likes of Eric Hutchinson, Secondhand Serenade, and, most recently, Zee Avi.
“It’s vindicating as an artist to know that you are doing something good to share the stage with another musician,” she said. “You also get to reap the benefits of their fans. You are gaining fans that will follow you throughout your career.”
Duncan is in the process of writing new songs in preparation for a full album release.
“I’m excited to have a full album,” she said. “It’s not all new to those who have seen me before, but I do want some new songs for the album. Some songs are always going to be new to someone, and I’ll be happy to share it with new people.”
Duncan said she prefers to play most of her own songs because she likes to think that her songs can hold up on their own.
“I love to think of myself as a songwriter,” she said. “I am an entertainer, but when it comes down to it, my songs are mine and I’m proud of them.”
This will be Duncan’s second trip to Athens, although it will be her first performance at Ohio University.
Athens has a great music vibe, and playing music in Athens is different from her home state of New Jersey, Duncan said.
“I think the people are super cool and laid back, and they appreciate music,” she said. “When you play a bar in Ohio, everyone listens. It is a strange experience.”
The show is usually very interactive and audience based, Duncan said.
“If someone is stressed from class or wants to experience a songwriter that is a little bit different, they should come,” she said. “They are going to want to be my friend before leaving, and that is my goal.”
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Emerging Artist Series: Amanda Duncan
WHEN: 8 p.m. Thursday
WHERE: The Front Room
ADMISSION: free
ao007510@ohiou.edu
