· By Tarleton Walmsley
This month, I'm inviting folk singer Norma Tanega over for dinner. I've been listening to her record "Walking My Cat Named Dog" on repeat at the shop and have become entranced with her voice. Norma began her career after having been "discovered" while working at a summer camp in the Catskills. After touring around England, Norma became acquainted with Dusty Springfield, and penned a few songs for her. Eventually the two would form a romantic relationship.
First, we'd talk about how she did actually have a cat named Dog, which she did actually walk on the streets of Manhattan. I'd ask for tips because my cats refuse to walk with me (rude). Then of course I'd want to know what it was like to tour with the late 60s folk scene circuit. I mean, personally over here dying to know what Chad & Jeremy were really like. Finally, we'd talk about what it's like to work with your romantic partner--when recalling Dusty in an interview, Norma closed her eyes and said, "She heard me." I think that's such a sweet, tender thing to say and have felt.