Elaine Mahon Keeps Reaching For The Stars

Photo by Randy Batista

Elaine Mahon’s songs, as her new album is titled, may Reach for the Stars but they are also deeply rooted in the natural world we all live in. Elaine’s sensibilities as a songwriter developed from a childhood spent roaming the woods and the beaches of North Florida. But it was her work in extragalactic astronomy, which earned Mahon a Ph.D., that broadened her perspective and strengthened her appreciation for nature. Elaine left her career in order to remain near family, and to begin to explore her creativity through music. A masterful storyteller and tunesmith, Mahon has made her mark. Elaine forms an immediate and intimate emotional connection with her audience by drawing them into lyrical songscapes that shimmer with imagery gleaned from the natural world.

Elaine’s newest release, Reach for the Stars, builds on themes of life and love that Mahon explored, through story and myth, in her 2013 release, RISE. However, in this new, cohesive collection of songs, Mahon subtly introduces her astronomical perspective in order to evoke wonder and offer hope and empowerment. A deft finger-style guitarist, Mahon employs alternate tunings to create a rich harmonic palette for the melodies of her songs which often take unexpected, yet pleasing turns. Add to that a sweet, resonant voice capable of expressing a wide range of emotion and you have a winning combination.

Recently, KC Cafe Radio Music Director Kathy Forste visited with Elaine via Skype. They talk about growing up musically, including a very pivitol moment in her life when she discovered her skill as a songwriter. They also talk about the interesting diffences and similiarities between musicianship and songwriting, her decision to pursue music full-time, and her plans beyond Reach for the Stars.

Listen to the interview here:

Download the interview here: Interview: Elaine Mahon 4/20/2017