The Sergeant Bluff native channels some familiar sounds in this new release that will bring enjoyment and nostalgia to all who listen.
A new star is forming in a small town known as Sergeant Bluff. Ione, a small-town girl with a big rock ‘n’ roll dream, is quickly making waves with her undeniable talent and ability to channel a timeless sound in a contemporary way.
Having secluded in a cozy cabin surrounded by farm animals in Omaha, Nebraska, she’s poured her effort into constant improvement and mastery of her craft. She is ready to take her career further and continue to bring smiles to those who listen.
Ione’s love for classic rock was nurtured from a young age, as she would belt out classic tunes by the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Fleetwood Mac in her dad’s convertible. During a life-changing sixth-grade talent show performance, Ione's path took a fateful turn, leading her to join a band and embark on a musical journey to shape her future.
Despite her tender years, Ione and her band quickly became dedicated and serious about their craft, honing their skills through regular rehearsals and weekend gigs. This commitment paid off when they won a competition to open for the legendary Bon Jovi in Chicago. This momentous occasion introduced Ione to Obie O’Brien, Jon Bon Jovi’s long-time engineer and collaborator, setting the stage for a fruitful creative partnership fueled by their love for Motown and classic rock.
Fast forward to the present day, and Ione is ready to take the world by storm with her latest single, “Why Anna.” Over instrumentals that combine oozy grooves, horn bursts, and deliciously bluesy guitar licks, “Why Anna” blends touches of the Rolling Stones disco era, Rumours era Fleetwood Mac and a touch of ’70s, making a sound that is both comfortable and nostalgic but also contemporary.
Dropping lyrics like “Why Anna why / Do you turn your bed / Into a spider's web” and “If your heart’s in my hand / Then you can’t break mine,” “Why Anna” is a skillfully executed exploration into the navigation of modern romance. Having gripped our attention with this release, we can’t wait to see what’s in store for this talented artist.
As Ione grows musically, there is an undeniable excitement surrounding her future. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Ione’s new release, “Why Anna,” available on all major streaming platforms, and prepare to be blown away.
Welcome to BuzzMusic, Ione! We loved “Why Anna.” What a moving piece! We heard touches of Fleetwood Mac and Rolling Stones, but you undoubtedly made that song your own! Although the inspiration for “Why Anna” was born a little by chance through discussion with friends, how do you usually find inspiration for your music?
Twelve-year-old me would scream at that comparison, an ecstatic scream for clarification. I grew up listening to classic rock, and my love for it runs deeply. Some of my fondest childhood memories are cruising in the back seat of my father’s convertible, rocking out to bands such as AC/DC, The Stones, Fleetwood Mac, Janis Joplin, etc. So ‘thank you’ doesn't come close to expressing the elation I feel from your compliment. Not only recognizing the influence of the classics but also the individuality and uniqueness of my song humbles me.
Creating “Why Anna” was a little unusual compared to my typical writing process. The hook, Why Anna Why, came first and was unintentional. My friends and I were joking around and ‘Why Anna Why,’ was shouted out. Immediate light bulb moment! I thought that has to be put in a song when writing “Why Anna,” I had just started dating around and meeting new people after getting out of a long-term relationship. “Why Anna” is about the struggle of having different wants and needs from new partners. While “Why Anna” began differently, it quickly fell into the rhythm of my typical writing process. My inspiration for writing always comes from personal experiences that I feel are largely relatable. Everything written intends to make my personal experience a shared experience.
You mentioned that Obie O’Brien, Jon Bon Jovi’s longtime engineer and collaborator, has been somewhat of a mentor to you. What’s it like having someone like that in your corner, and how has he helped you grow as a musical artist?
Having someone like Obie in my corner has been an incredible opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Whether we are writing, recording, or just chatting about our shared love for Motown, I’m constantly absorbing new valuable information. The process of recording has also been a huge point of growth for me as an artist. Before working with Obie, I hadn’t recorded in many professional recording studios. Having access to a studio and Obie as my producer, I have undeniably grown as a vocalist and musician.
What do you want to achieve with your music, and do you have a favorite music-related memory?
I HAVE TWO ANSWERS when I think of what I want to achieve with my music.
1. Financial independence through writing, creating, and performing my music.
2. Maybe accidentally or intentionally, become a household name?
Either would be great, but if I HAD to choose, I’d choose the latter. One of my most memorable and favorite memories is the spring of 2017 when my band and I won the honor of opening for Jon Bon Jovi at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois. It was a sold-out show! There were 23,000 people in the crowd, and I remember not being nervous at all, just excited and ready to share my music. Performing in front of 23,000 people was such an unbelievably cool experience at 17- hard to top that!
What would you want it to be if your fans could take one thing away from your music?
I’d hope after listening to my music; they would feel empowered. The common themes that run through most of the music I’ve written thus far are empowerment and overcoming obstacles. I believe we are all stronger and more capable than we may think. SO DO THE DAMN THANG.
What’s next for Ione? Can we expect to hear more new music soon, and is there anything you want to say to your fans?
OH, YES, I’ll be releasing my second single in July! Big time excited to share this tune with everyone. Its message is powerful, so buckle up.
Besides my next single, I’ll continue to record new music, hone my craft, and book more shows; maybe near you?
Check out my webpage, ucancallmeione.com, for all upcoming performances, new releases, etc. Lastly, I would like to give the warmest thank you to all old and new fans for your continued encouragement and support. It means the world to me. I love sharing new music with you.