"I started singing in bars when I was still in high school," says . "It's not the easiest thing to do if you like to eat something besides ramen noodles and have insurance."
Difficulties notwithstanding, Hogan paid her dues: She went on tour, put out an album, toured some more. And after 11 years as what she calls a "backup singing ninja" for acts such as , , , and many, many others, Hogan became known as a singer's singer — the kind such big names mention when they're asked whom they admire.
Then one day, a record producer suggested she call in a few favors. Hogan sent some emails to her musician pals.
"I just professed my undying love and humbly asked if someone wanted to write a song for me — either for my sensibility or for my vocal tendencies."
The result: I Like to Keep Myself in Pain, Kelly Hogan's first album in 11 years, which features songs written by , , , Vic Chesnutt and more. She discusses making the record and more with NPR's Scott Simon.
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