Pulse Insider: How did you get your start in music?

Christine Sweeney: I have been singing all my life, but it wasn’t until I was 12 when I was offered guitar lessons because I was really interested in music—I used to watch live performers and I loved it.

Pulse Insider: What/Who are your greatest musical influences? 

CS:I love Grace Potter and the Nocturnals, Rilo Kiley, Regina Spektor, John Mayer—I love John Mayer’s bluesy quality and I also like the quirkiness of Rilo Kiley and Regina Spektor.

Pulse Insider: How would you describe your music to someone you just met?
CS: I would call it bluesy-indie pop.

Pulse Insider: Do you write your own songs? Where do you draw inspiration for your music?
CS: I write all of my own songs. I draw a lot from personal experiences but I sing all day. A melodic line pops into my head that I really like and—I don’t know—if a phrase just comes to mind and I sing that phrase I will craft around it. Certain phrases or ideas—they sort of bubble up from inside. Just one bubble pops and you’re like ‘oh what’s this?’ and it just keeps coming out.

Pulse Insider: Favorite NYC venue(s) to play at and why:
CS: The Way Station in prospect heights. I like it because it’s a themed bar: Doctor Who themed. I think that’s kinda fun. The staff their doesn’t take themselves too seriously. The main reason I really like it is the people who work there. From the booking agent to the bartender to the sound guy, I’ve only had positive experiences from playing there. People that go there on a regular basis are neighborhood people. Everyone is really cool and there’s always a good vibe. And they just redid their stage!

Pulse Insider: You are both a solo artist and with a band—explain:
CS: I released my solo live EP recorded in New York City. I am currently recording my first album with my band, Christine Sweeney and the Dirty Stayouts. We have been together for a year and a half. This album is bluesy—a little heavier. There’s more distortion on the guitars, good edge and good attitude.