This week on the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast, host Ira Sternberg sits down with the incomparable Storm Large, who is set to perform at Myron’s at The Smith Center on March 10-11 at 7 p.m. In this compelling episode, Storm opens up about her journey as a musician, actor, playwright, and author. She delves into her early life, the experiences that shaped her, and the humor that became her defense mechanism. Storm also discusses her memoir, “Crazy Enough: A Memoir,” which she wrote at a relatively young age, reflecting on her tumultuous yet fascinating life. Known for her dynamic presence and powerful voice, Storm shares why performing gave her a sense of value and how it served as a form of self-defense during her challenging years.
The Early Life of Storm Large: Humor as a Shield
Coping Through Humor
Growing up in a challenging environment, Storm Large developed a sharp sense of humor early on as a way to cope with her surroundings. She shares with Ira how this humor not only helped her navigate difficult situations but also became a core part of her identity. Storm's wit and resilience are evident in her performances, where she often blends humor with her powerful musical presence.
Writing “Crazy Enough: A Memoir”
Storm Large’s life has been anything but ordinary, and she chronicles her experiences in her memoir, “Crazy Enough: A Memoir.” Although many might find it surprising that she penned her memoir at a relatively young age, Storm explains that her life experiences provided her with enough material for a lifetime. The book offers an unflinching look at her struggles, triumphs, and the journey to finding her voice. Fans of Storm can explore more about her life and career on her official website.
Finding Value in Performing
The Stage as a Form of Self-Defense
For Storm, performing was more than just a career choice—it was a way of finding value in herself. She talks about how the stage became a place where she could express herself freely and where she felt most in control. Performing, in many ways, was a form of self-defense, allowing her to channel her emotions and experiences into her art. Storm’s performances are known for their raw energy and emotional depth, making her a captivating presence on stage.
Why “You Will Be a Huge Success Just as Soon as You Aren’t You”
Storm recounts a pivotal moment in her career when she was told she would be a huge success “just as soon as you aren’t you.” This statement, though initially disheartening, fueled her determination to stay true to herself. Rather than conforming to industry expectations, Storm embraced her uniqueness, which has since become her greatest asset. Her authenticity resonates with audiences, drawing them into her world and making each performance unforgettable.
Storm Large and the Great American Songbook
A Love-Hate Relationship
Storm Large has a complex relationship with the Great American Songbook. While she appreciates the timeless quality and emotional depth of many of the songs, there are aspects that she finds less appealing. In her conversation with Ira, she elaborates on what she loves about these classic tunes and what she feels could be improved. Despite her critiques, Storm’s interpretations of these songs are always infused with her distinct style, making them uniquely her own.
What She Loves About Las Vegas Audiences
Having performed in venues around the world, Storm Large has a special appreciation for Las Vegas audiences. She shares why she enjoys performing in Las Vegas, highlighting the city’s vibrant energy and the diverse mix of people who come to her shows. According to Storm, Las Vegas audiences are some of the most enthusiastic and engaged, which makes performing in the city an exhilarating experience.
Storm Large’s Musical Journey: From “Rock Star: Supernova” to “America’s Got Talent”
Rising to Prominence on “Rock Star: Supernova”
Storm Large first gained national attention in 2006 as a finalist on the CBS show “Rock Star: Supernova.” Despite being eliminated just before the finale, Storm’s performances left a lasting impression on viewers and helped her build a dedicated fan base. Her time on the show showcased her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence, qualities that continue to define her career. Fans of Storm can follow her journey and stay updated on her latest projects through her official Instagram.
A Memorable Run on “America’s Got Talent”
In 2021, Storm returned to the national stage as a contestant on “America’s Got Talent.” Once again, she captivated audiences with her unique style and powerful performances. While she did not win the competition, her appearance on the show further solidified her status as one of the most dynamic performers in the music industry. Her performances on AGT are a testament to her versatility and her ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Exploring the Music and Impact of Storm Large
Hits and Fan Favorites
Storm Large has an extensive repertoire of songs that have resonated with fans around the world. One of her most iconic songs, “8 Miles Wide,” has become a fan favorite, known for its bold lyrics and infectious energy. Storm’s music spans a wide range of genres, from rock and pop to jazz and classical, showcasing her versatility as a singer and songwriter. Fans can listen to her music on her official YouTube channel.
Performing with Pink Martini
In addition to her solo career, Storm Large is also known for her performances with the popular band Pink Martini. Her collaboration with Pink Martini has taken her to stages around the world, where she has performed a mix of original songs and classic covers. Storm’s dynamic vocals and the band’s eclectic sound create a unique musical experience that has delighted audiences everywhere. For more information on her collaborations and tour dates, visit her official website.
Storm Large’s Thoughts on Art and Suffering
“You Don’t Have to Suffer for Your Art”
Storm Large has a clear perspective on the relationship between art and suffering. Contrary to the popular belief that artists must suffer to create meaningful work, Storm believes that it’s possible to create powerful art without enduring unnecessary pain. She discusses how this philosophy has shaped her approach to her music and performances, allowing her to maintain a healthy balance between her personal life and her career.
Inspiration from Those Who Saw Her Value
Throughout her career, Storm has been inspired by those who recognized her talent and saw value in her work. She credits these individuals with helping her stay true to herself and encouraging her to continue pursuing her passion. Their support has been instrumental in her success, and Storm’s gratitude is evident in the way she speaks about her mentors and supporters.
Connecting with Storm Large
Stay Updated and Engaged
Fans of Storm Large can stay connected with her through various online platforms. Her official website offers comprehensive information about her upcoming shows, including her performances at Myron’s at The Smith Center on March 10-11. You can also follow Storm on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to get behind-the-scenes content, updates, and interact with her directly.
Explore More of Storm Large’s Work
For those who want to dive deeper into Storm Large’s world, her official YouTube channel is a great place to start. Here, you can find music videos, live performances, and other content that showcases her incredible talent and dynamic stage presence.
Storm Large Podcast Episode Conclusion
This episode of the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast provides a captivating look into the life and career of Storm Large, a performer who continues to break boundaries and captivate audiences with her powerful voice and unapologetic authenticity. From her early days navigating a challenging environment to her rise to fame on “Rock Star: Supernova” and “America’s Got Talent,” Storm’s journey is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for performing. Tune in to hear Storm share her thoughts on humor, music, and the importance of staying true to oneself in an ever-changing industry.
For more engaging and insightful conversations, don’t forget to subscribe to the Talk About Las Vegas Podcast. Stay connected with Storm Large and explore her extraordinary work through the links provided.
🔗 Useful Links:
- Storm Large Official YouTube Channel
- Storm Large Official Website
- Storm Large Official Twitter
- Storm Large Official Instagram
- Storm Large Official Facebook
Watch the full Podcast Video
Read The Full Transcript
Talking with Storm Large Full Transcript
Ira David Sternberg: I've never had a Pink Martini, but I always enjoy singer, songwriter, actress, and author Storm Large, who is performing in Myron's at the Smith Center this Friday and Saturday, March 10th and 11th at 7 p.m. For ticket information, go to thesmithcenter.com, and for everything about Storm Large, visit stormlarge.com. You can follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Patreon. Storm, welcome to the show.
Storm Large: Thank you, Ira. Nice to be here.
Ira: Have you ever thought of changing your name slightly depending on the situation—Storm Medium, Storm Small—or have you always been Large?
Storm: My real birth name is Susan Storm Large. When I was younger, I wanted to change it, wishing I’d wake up named Sarah, be five foot two and 90 pounds. But that never happened—thank heavens for all of you, you're welcome.
Ira: So where did you get your sense of humor from? Was it growing up in that household you wrote about in your memoir, or was it just inherent?
Storm: It was definitely character-building from being 12 years old, six feet tall, acting my age and shoe size, no boobs, big mouth, and having the name Storm Large in a small, conservative town where my father taught and coached. It’s a lot of strong character-building. But I never killed anybody or myself, so here I am.
Ira: And you’ve maintained it through all these years, so look at that.
Storm: Hopefully, it’s gotten better and less juvenile, but I doubt it.
Ira: When you wrote your memoir, Crazy Enough, released by Simon & Schuster in 2012, you’re a relatively young person. How were you able to write a memoir at that early stage as opposed to waiting until you’re 90 or 95?
Storm: I actually got bamboozled into it. I was doing Cabaret and talking to the director about the character, Sally Bowles, which led to discussions about my own life experiences. After the play wrapped, the director suggested writing a one-woman show about my mom, which led to the memoir. I was reluctant at first because I didn’t want to share such personal stories, but a friend encouraged me, saying it was important. Now, people tell me how much it meant to them.
Ira: Do you think it was also a self-defense mechanism?
Storm: Oh, absolutely! The book came about in a roundabout way, but it was therapeutic in many respects.
Ira: And the memoir has resonated with so many people.
Storm: Yes, people often come up to me after shows, and they're emotional, saying the story mirrored their own experiences. It's incredible to connect with people in that way.
Ira: Have you thought about writing another memoir?
Storm: Actually, I'm working on something called Tales from Abroad. It’s a collection of stories and experiences—more to come on that.
Ira: You’ve been singing since you were five years old. What drew you to music?
Storm: Music was always my way to connect with people and find value in myself. It was a way to escape loneliness.
Ira: You almost became a chef before pursuing music full-time. Have you considered combining the two passions?
Storm: I still love cooking and might still pursue that in some form someday. I’m passionate about helping others, whether through food or music.
Ira: Tell us a little about your upcoming show at the Smith Center. Are you adding anything new to your performance?
Storm: There will definitely be some new material. I love performing at the Smith Center—it’s one of my favorite venues. The audience there is incredible, and the room has such an intimate, showbiz feel.
Ira: How do you manage the wear and tear of touring?
Storm: Touring has become harder, especially post-COVID. Air travel is exhausting and unsustainable, so I’m looking into alternative ways to tour, like using a tour bus. I also think about taking more time off during the winter months.
Ira: Before I let you go, who was your most important role model?
Storm: In high school, my voice teacher, Ruth Cooper, really saw me and told me I had value when no one else did. She was tough, but she made a huge impact on me.
Ira: That’s a great way to leave it. My guest has been singer, songwriter, actress, and author Storm Large. She’s performing in Myron’s at the Smith Center this Friday and Saturday, March 10th and 11th at 7 p.m. For ticket information, go to thesmithcenter.com, and for everything about Storm Large, visit stormlarge.com. You can follow her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and Patreon. Storm, thanks for being on the show.
Storm: Thank you, Ira. I really appreciate you having me.
faqs about storm large
Who is Storm Large?
Storm Large is an American singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence. She first gained national attention as a contestant on the reality TV show Rock Star: Supernova in 2006. Besides her solo career, she is also recognized for her work with the band Pink Martini. Storm has performed in a variety of musical genres, ranging from rock and pop to jazz and cabaret.
Is Storm Large married?
As of the most recent information available, Storm Large is not married. She has been known to keep her personal life relatively private, so details about her relationships are not widely publicized.
Did Storm Large win AGT?
No, Storm Large did not win America's Got Talent (AGT). She competed on the show during Season 16 in 2021 and impressed the judges and audience with her performances, but she did not make it to the finals.
How old is Storm Large?
Storm Large was born on June 25, 1969, which makes her 55 years old as of 2024.
Is Storm Large still with Pink Martini?
Yes, as of the most recent updates, Storm Large is still performing with Pink Martini. She has been a recurring guest vocalist with the band since 2011 and continues to tour and record with them alongside her solo projects.
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