Bruce Cockburn: Slice O' Life and Musical Pursuits
Bruce Cockburn, the Canadian singer-songwriter and guitarist, is celebrated for his extensive career. Bruce's musical talents have earned global recognition. Among his notable accolades are the Order of Canada, with an elevation to Officer status in 2003, along with several honorary doctorates bestowed upon him by renowned institutions such as York University, Berklee College of Music, St. Thomas University, Queen’s University, the University of Victoria, McMaster University, Carleton University, and Memorial University. His achievements include a momentous performance at the Presidential Inaugural Ball in 1993, induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the reception of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and the esteemed Allan Slaight Humanitarian Spirit Award in 2014. Further accolades encompass the Denise Levertov Literary Award in 2015, the Folk Alliance International People’s Voice Award in 2017, and induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame during the same year. Most recently, in 2021, he was honored with recognition on Canada's Walk of Fame.
Aditya begins the interview by engaging Bruce in a conversation about his cultural background and how it influenced his earliest musical memories. Bruce reminisces about his exposure to classical music during his childhood, largely due to his father's influence, who believed in exposing his firstborn to important cultural elements.
Bruce's parents also enjoyed musicals, Broadway tunes, and pop music, which contributed to his early musical exposure. However, as rock and roll emerged in the late 1950s, it captivated him and played a significant role in shaping his musical preferences. As he delved into his teenage years, Bruce rekindled his interest in classical music, explored jazz, and self-studied jazz composition and musical theory.
The interview then shifts to Bruce's memorable encounter with Ali Farka Touré in Timbuktu, Mali. This unplanned meeting occurred during the filming of a documentary about desertification, a critical issue in the region. Bruce vividly recounts the experience, including an unusual dinner involving two sheep. He describes how he was invited on stage by Ali Farka Touré during a performance, even though they had limited language in common, making for an interesting and slightly awkward collaboration.
The discussion transitions to Bruce’s environmental activism, which is reflected in his music. Aditya inquires about the impact Bruce hopes to achieve through his music in raising awareness about environmental issues. Bruce explains that his songwriting often stems from emotional responses to these concerns. He shares insights into the collaborative process behind his song To Keep the World We Know, which addresses climate change and wildfires, highlighting the intentionality behind the creation of this song.
Aditya asks about Bruce's hopes and aspirations for the future of environmental activism and the global response to climate change. Bruce acknowledges that he writes songs based on his emotional responses to various issues, including environmental concerns. He believes that songs alone may not bring about significant change but can serve as anthems or rallying cries for popular sentiment. He hopes that songs can provide reassurance and encouragement to those concerned about climate change.
The conversation then shifts to global efforts to address environmental issues. Aditya mentions the initiatives in India, such as combating pollution and protecting the environment. Bruce acknowledges the growing consciousness worldwide regarding the need to address environmental challenges. However, he notes that resistance persists, with some individuals denying the existence of climate change or its human causes. He highlights the complexities of balancing economic prosperity with environmental sustainability and emphasizes the importance of imagination and will in decision-making.
Aditya praises Bruce's role in spreading awareness through his music, and Bruce expresses his intention to make music meaningful and relatable to his audience.
Aditya inquires about the symbolism and emotional resonance of the song Colin Went Down to the Water. Bruce shares that the song was inspired by a tragic incident where a friend of his, Colin Pierce, drowned in a scuba diving accident while they were in Maui. He describes the beautiful tropical setting in which the song was composed and how it evokes both the beauty and the poignant loss of that environment.
Bruce's creative process is characterized by writing songs that capture his emotional experiences and make them relatable to others. He also discusses how his musical style and approach have evolved over the years, from rock and electric guitar to more contemplative and acoustic music.
Aditya then engages Bruce in a thoughtful discussion about his song, Pacing the Cage, which is featured on one of his earlier albums. Bruce opens up about the inspiration behind it, revealing that the song is a product of his own aging process and his growing awareness of mortality. He describes how the horizon of mortality seems closer as one ages, and he shares that he's both apprehensive and curious about what comes next. However, he emphasizes that the song isn't meant to be mournful; instead, it serves as a celebration of life, even in the face of inevitable mortality.
The conversation then transitions to a discussion of Bruce's unique guitar style. Bruce shares that he was influenced by artists like Mississippi John Hurt, Mance Lipscomb, Brownie McGhee, and Sonny Terry. He describes how his guitar style evolved, combining fingerstyle guitar techniques influenced by jazz with the fingerpicking style commonly associated with blues musicians like Mississippi John Hurt. He also mentions that Pacing the Cage utilizes techniques like drone bass and alternating bass with chords and melodies played atop them.
Bruce goes on to reflect on the evolution of his guitar playing and how, due to arthritis, he is considering reworking the guitar part for Pacing the Cage. This adaptation is necessary to accommodate his physical limitations while preserving the song's original feel and essence.
The conversation then takes an intriguing turn as Bruce vividly describes the origins of the song's lyrics. He paints a picturesque scene of driving back to his horse farm in Canada, where he once lived. He recalls a stunning sunset behind the Niagara Escarpment, which resembled an angel weeping while holding a sword. This striking visual image served as the catalyst for the song's creation. Bruce mentions that Pacing the Cage explores themes of feeling confined by one's choices and finding oneself in situations that don't feel fulfilling.
Aditya expresses his hope that Bruce is currently in a better place, both in terms of health and life circumstances. Bruce responds positively, suggesting that people can relate to the song's themes, which are universal aspects of the human experience.
Aditya then engages Bruce in a profound discussion about spiritual and existential themes within Bruce's music and his personal beliefs. Bruce begins by sharing that his awareness of spirituality and the non-physical aspects of life started in his late teens. He mentions that, while he was exposed to Christianity in his upbringing, it was initially presented as something people did rather than a personal experience.
This realization led him to explore various spiritual paths, including Buddhism, the occult, and different philosophies. Over time, he returned to Christianity but emphasized that he never believed it to be the only valid spiritual path.
He underscores the importance of honoring the human hunger for a relationship with the divine and expresses the belief that how individuals manifest their spirituality is influenced by culture, personal experiences, and inclinations. Bruce is open to the idea that various major religions have something valuable to offer in terms of spiritual connection. He emphasizes that it's ultimately about the personal relationship with the divine, transcending cultural limitations.
Aditya appreciates Bruce's perspective and acknowledges the value of faith passed down through generations. Bruce further discusses the limitations of culture and how different cultures have their own unique ways of communicating spiritual concepts. He expresses a desire for people to be open to learning from other cultures and not to fear change.
Bruce also delves into the idea that fear can be a significant obstacle to human development, impacting spirituality, environmental awareness, and even adaptation to change. He believes that understanding one's relationship with God on a deeper level can help reduce fear and lead to a more open and compassionate perspective.
The discussion then shifts to the timeless quality of Bruce’s music and how it relates to contemporary trends. Bruce acknowledges the role of fashion and radio airplay in the short term, but he expresses hope that his music can transcend time and resonate with future generations, much like the music of old blues musicians who found renewed popularity years later.
The conversation then turns to the themes in Bruce's music, which often tackle sensitive topics. Bruce admits that while some people may object to political themes in songs, he believes in telling the truth as he sees it, and not all listeners will share the same opinions. He mentions that he's sometimes labelled as anti-American due to his political songs, but clarifies that he's critical of certain policies, not the entire country.
The topic of competition in the music industry is broached, and Bruce emphasizes that he doesn't view art as a competitive arena. While he admires other talented guitar players and feels occasional jealousy, he values the uniqueness of each artist's contribution and doesn't see the need for rivalry.
The interview then explores how Bruce's extensive travels around the world have influenced his artistic perspective. Bruce describes his experiences in various cultural settings and how they have been educational and eye-opening. He highlights the universal aspects of humanity that he has observed, even in the face of extreme poverty or hardship, which has deepened his understanding and empathy.
The conversation briefly touches on Bruce's limited visits to India, and he expresses appreciation for Indian food and music. Aditya extends an invitation for Bruce to visit India, and Bruce expresses his interest in the idea.
Furthermore, the discussion touches upon the challenges and obstacles Cockburn has faced throughout his career and life. He mentions his early physical condition, a condition called spinal bifida, which could have been crippling but turned out to be relatively minor in his case. This physical aspect of his life influenced his choices, leading him to pursue music instead of sports. It's a testament to his ability to adapt and find his own path despite perceived limitations.
Cockburn's upbringing in a comfortable middle-class North American household also plays a role in his perspective. He didn't grow up feeling the need to dominate or constantly strive for more because his basic needs were met. This allowed him to approach his music and life with a sense of contentment and authenticity.
In essence, Bruce’s insights from overcoming obstacles and maintaining authenticity in his music and life emphasize the importance of staying true to oneself, adapting to challenges, and finding one's unique path without being overly influenced by external comparisons or societal pressures. His philosophy extends beyond music, emphasizing the importance of having a well-rounded life that includes family, philanthropy, and personal growth.
In this final segment of the interview, Aditya introduces a Rapid Fire segment, asking Bruce Cockburn a series of quick questions to gain insights into his preferences and thoughts. Despite the rapid nature of the questions, Cockburn provides thoughtful responses.
First, Cockburn shares that the song I’m Going to Take It With Me When I Go by Tom Waits always makes him cry. He then reveals his favorite guilty pleasure song, God Save the Queen by the Sex Pistols.
When asked about the members of an all-star indie folk band, Cockburn envisions a diverse ensemble featuring Irish, Indian, and Turkish musicians, banjo players, accordion players, and maintaining gender balance.
The discussion shifts to cuisine, with Cockburn mentioning that he enjoys the standard meat and potato diet he grew up with, although he can no longer eat potatoes, so he opts for meat and rice. He also expresses his appreciation for various types of food.
The interview concludes with Cockburn sharing five essential qualities for a singer-songwriter: imagination, musical ability, integrity, maintaining artistic control, and commitment. Aditya wraps up the interview by asking how Cockburn would like to be remembered, to which he humbly responds that he hopes to be remembered as someone who did their best with respect to the art and contributed something positive to the world.