What do you love most about your recent album, Classic?
I love that my amazing arranger Kurt Bestor took so many beloved classic rock themes like “Stairway to Heaven” and “Sweet Child of Mine” and turned them into classical works filled with beauty, majesty, and joyously uplifting emotion. This album is full of gorgeous, soul-filling music. It is an epic album—and I love epic!
How do you juggle your family and your music?
I have an amazing husband who is incredibly supportive of all that I do as a mother and musician, I work hard, and I totally rely on the Lord! I also try to prioritize and not sweat the small stuff.
What do you hope to convey to your audience through your music?
When I perform music that is uplifting and edifying, I feel the Spirit very powerfully. I hope that people who hear my music can feel this Spirit and it brings them peace, comfort and joy. I hope my music can touch hearts and help people feel the love of The Lord. My favorite thing to hear from the audience as a performer is not the applause-it is the tears.
What’s the best lesson you’ve learned from your father, Elder Dallin H. Oaks?
Oh wow! It is hard to choose one-he has taught me so very much! As far as life lessons, I am very grateful my father taught me the value of hard work. He taught all of his children to work first and play later. My father is 81 years old, but he works harder than anyone else I know. He also has incredible integrity. He boldly testifies of truth and lives up to those principles. I hope I can live up to all he has taught me through his teachings and example.
What is something that not a lot of people know about you?
I'm kind of an open book, so there is not a lot that is hidden. Let's see . . . I have an addiction to dark chocolate and buying gowns with sleeves. How's that?
What’s your favorite show on Hulu or Netflix?
Downton Abbey. I can't believe I really have to wait until next year to watch more episodes! Trauma!
What’s your least favorite chore around the house?
Changing the sheets on the top bunk bed. This seems to be an impossibly difficult task! Luckily I have a great husband who loves me enough to change them for me whenever I ask.
What do you “geek out” over?
Really good food! I love food that you remember fondly long after the meal is over. And it is even better when you get to share that food with your family!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Keep the commandments--in this there is safety, in this there is peace!
• • •
Grammy Nominated Artist Jenny Oaks Baker is one of America’s most accomplished violinists. Classic: The Rock Album features classic rock favorites like "Stairway to Heaven" (Led Zeppelin), "Sweet Child of Mine" (Guns and Roses), and "Yesterday" (The Beatles).
We've fallen in love with this rockin' new album, and we're sure you will too!