Natalie Merchant
Natalie Merchant is best known for her swirling style of dancing and simple dress while performing with 10,000 Maniacs.
Rock Singer
October 26, 1963
61
Natalie Merchant, an American singer-songwriter, is renowned for her soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics. She gained fame as the lead vocalist of the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs and later achieved critical acclaim and commercial success in her solo career with albums such as Tigerlily and Motherland. Merchant has also collaborated with artists like R.E.M. and Billy Bragg and contributed to various soundtracks. As an activist, she supports numerous social and environmental causes.
Some of her most notable works include her solo debut album, Tigerlily, featuring hit singles like “Carnival,” “Wonder,” and “Jealousy.” She continued her success with albums such as Ophelia and Motherland. In recent years, she released a memoir-style film, “Paradise Is There: The New Tigerlily Recordings,” which includes live performances, archival footage, and interviews discussing her music’s influence. Merchant has also published several photography books, including “25 Years of Photography” and “Leave Your Sleep.”
Merchant began her career as the lead singer and primary lyricist for 10,000 Maniacs in 1981 while attending Jamestown Community College. She became known for her distinctive swirling dance style and simple attire during performances. After leaving the band in 1993, she pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums that demonstrated her artistic growth and musical versatility. Merchant remains a prominent figure in the alternative rock and singer-songwriter genres, captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and thought-provoking lyrics.
