INTERVIEW: America’s Sweethearts band pays tribute to WWII era at NYC concert

Photo: America’s Sweethearts features singers recreating the sounds of yesteryear. Photo courtesy of Kris Rogers Photography / Provided by Fortune Creative with permission.

America’s Sweethearts, a tribute band founded by Carly Kincannon, has a simple motto that defines the sound and attitude of this musical project: “history through harmony.” These sentiments are included on the band’s recording effort and in their live concerts.

The band, which has a rotating lineup, includes several soprano singers, like Kincannon, and several mezzos. Throw in some altos and a touring group, and America’s Sweethearts knows how to share their harmonizing love.

The group pays homage to big band music and the World War II era. Their inspiration are The Andrews Sisters, and they work many of the classic tunes into their routine, including “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Straighten Up and Fly Right.”

Their new concert residency at The Green Room 42 in New York City is called Sing, Sing, Sing, and the next date is Saturday, Dec. 15 at 9:30 p.m.

Recently, Kincannon exchanged emails with Hollywood Soapbox about the concert and the foundation of the group. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.

How did the idea for America’s Sweethearts come about?

I met a lot of the original members of the group singing and freelancing in the city. Being a woman in this business (and in the world right now!) isn’t easy, and I found that I knew too many talented women who weren’t getting work. With the current social and economic turmoil, people are reacting in a multitude of ways. Some are holding fast to traditional values, some are lighting fires and forging a new path forward, some are banding together to find strength.

I think we are doing all of those things. America’s Sweethearts is bringing the modern woman to vintage music. The tradition and unity is front and center; female empowerment and camaraderie is the backbone. 

What can fans expect at your residency?

A dazzling trio of women; intricate harmony and dance moves; a wide variety of music from the Great American Songbook, 50s pop, jazz, and Broadway hits; and a spectacular live band. We’ve been dubbed ‘a slice of old-fashioned fun!’

How are creative decisions handled in the band?

We started this as a collaborative effort, and I do try to keep it that way. For example, in the beginning we all voted on the name of the group. Every March, we create a music video together in honor of Women’s History Month. As for our material, the girls have a lot of say, but the final decision is left to me as the music director.

Going into this venture with no idea how to run a business, I’ve needed a ton of help. And the Sweets, all brilliant and business-minded themselves, have been there every step of the way to guide me. It’s been an extremely fulfilling and humbling experience. 

When did you first fall in love with this style of music?

While she might say it was just for fun, my grandmother had quite the career singing on the radio with her sister in the ’50s. She introduced me to The McGuire Sisters. My Dad introduced me to The Manhattan Transfer. The rest is history.

Do you like the intimacy of a venue like The Green Room 42?

I think that’s one of the best things about the space! Our shows are best when we can truly connect with our audience, and The Green Room 42 allows its artists that kind of freedom.

By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com

America’s Sweethearts presents Sing, Sing, Sing Saturday, Dec. 15 at 9:30 p.m. The Green Room 42 in New York City. Click here for more information and tickets.