Smitten, a collection of songs crafted over the last two years, is evidence of Nancy's unique perspective and musical abilities. Her songs capture an air of innocence -- evidence of her early years spent on the beaches of New Jersey - yet her style is definitely street-wise after years in the neighborhoods of Philadelphia. Guests on Smitten include legendary keyboardist, Ian "Mac" McLagan (Gadfly Records), who was a founding member of the
Small Faces and has recorded with the Rolling Stones and many others. Another guest is Mike "Slo-Mo" Brenner, whose lap steel guitar and dobro skills are heard on the latest Marah (Artemis/E2) release, as well as his own debut CD (Acid Blues Records). Then there's, Warner Chappell staff writer Scot Sax, producer of Nancy's first release. He donated a song and appeared on the recording. Not to mention the many great Philadelphia area musicians (Steve Margulis, Jennifer Lynn and Joann Schmidt) who lent a hand!
While Nancy's talent and craft have been the reason for her success, her widely-respected do-it-yourself attitude is also key. Through the force of her motivation and determination she has single-handedly earned the recognition of the most demanding of Philadelphia music critics, the elite of the New York Anti-Folk scene, and judges of the Lilith Fair. Nancy was honored as the winner in the Philadelphia area Lilith Fair Talent Search, which culminated with an appearance with Sarah McLachlan and the Indigo Girls to a sold-out crowd of 25,000! Nancy was nominated for 2000 Best Female Vocalist (alongside Jill Scott and others!) in the Philadelphia City Paper Music Awards, and also in both 1999 & 2000 for Best Folk Artist (Singer-Songwriter). Her self-titled debut EP received much critical acclaim and is still played on radio stations from Philadelphia to New England to London, England! Hers were the infectious songs that first caught the ear of Steve Madden Shoes (a major shoe and accessory company), who featured her as their first official music spotlight, and then, to top it all off, sponsored a recent tour! Nancy's first major label singing credit (background vocals on 8 songs) was on Wood's Songs From Stamford Hill (Columbia,) a AAA, critically acclaimed release of 1999.
Nancy has had the pleasure of sharing stages with the likes of Sarah McLachlan, Patty Griffin, the Indigo Girls, and Ron Sexsmith, to name a few, and was recently personally requested to open four shows for Richie Havens at Philadelphia's venerable Tin Angel. In February 2001 Nancy sang with LaBelle Band background singers on two Shirley Caesar/Patti LaBelle duets for upcoming Myrrh/Word Records release. Her distinct sweet voice was also recently sampled on Patti LaBelle's new single "Call Me Gone" (MCA) for Patti's live performances. If you listened, you would've heard Nancy in the background during LaBelle's performances, including appearances on Jay Leno, Rosie O'Donnell, and Queen Latifah, as well as on her tour. Halloween 2000, Nancy joined moe. at the legendary Tower Theater to sing all the female vocal parts on their version of Pink Floyd's, Dark Side of the Moon. (yup, "Great Gig in the Sky!")
Nancy is a strong guitarist with a wide range of skills both electric and acoustic - from quiet finger-style picking to full-out rockin' chords. Falkow's finest instrument is a rich voice that sweeps and soars through intricate and original melodies. To complete the package, she writes melodies both comfortable and distinct. With her many musical abilities and accomplishments, Nancy is as comfortable and competent with solo acoustic performances as she is fronting a band. Her ease on-stage ensures that her live shows are an intimate experience - you feel she is singing just for you! According to Ian Percival of Billboard Magazine, "Falkow is writing infectious pop/folk songs with palpable soul." Nancy writes songs - songs for her to sing and songs she would be happy hearing others sing. Just getting her music to as many people as possible is Nancy's number one goal. As if she isn't busy enough, Nancy currently writes a weekly online music advice column at The Women of MP3.com called Ask Nancy! which receives over 500 hits per day. Her knowledge as a performing artist, recording studio manager, and publicist, coupled with a kind heart, has enabled her to share her experiences with up-and-coming musicians and industry hopefuls. Check it out! Finally, on a side note, she still finds time to play bass in an all female rock band called The Dirty Triplets!
