Amy Millan

Amy Millan

Canadian indie rock singer and guitarist
Date of Birth: 03.12.1973
Country: Canada

Content:
  1. Early Life and Education
  2. Early Musical Collaborations
  3. Return to Toronto and Band Formation
  4. Joining Stars and Broken Social Scene
  5. Solo Album Debut
  6. Touring and Music Videos
  7. "Masters of the Burial" and Personal Life

Early Life and Education

Emily Fox-Genas Milligan was born on December 3, 1973, in Cabbagetown, a neighborhood in Toronto, Canada. She attended Jarvis Collegiate and later transitioned to the specialized arts program at Etobicoke School of the Arts, where she studied drama alongside future Broken Social Scene bandmates Kevin Drew and Emily Haines.

Early Musical Collaborations

During her high school years, Milligan joined forces with Emily Haines and Ibi Kaslik to form the short-lived group Edith's Mission. After graduating, she relocated to Montreal for three years to attend Concordia University, performing solo shows in cafes to hone her craft.

Return to Toronto and Band Formation

Upon returning to Toronto, Milligan co-founded the roots-rock band 16 Tons. She penned numerous songs during this period that would later form the основу for her solo career. After 16 Tons disbanded, she briefly moved to Los Angeles, where her song "Bury Me" was featured in the 2000 comedy film "Drowning Mona."

Joining Stars and Broken Social Scene

In 1999, Milligan was invited to join the New York City-based band Stars. She contributed vocals and songwriting to their 2003 album "Heart." Although not an official member of Broken Social Scene, Milligan frequently collaborated with her friends in the band, providing vocals on their recordings and live performances.

Solo Album Debut

In 2006, Milligan released her debut solo album, "Honey from the Tombs." Inspired by Tom Waits' comparison of resurrecting old songs to uncovering honey from ancient Egyptian tombs, the album featured songs written during her time with 16 Tons. With a focus on country and folk influences, the album explored themes of loss, loneliness, and the solace found in alcohol.

Touring and Music Videos

To promote "Honey from the Tombs," Milligan embarked on an extensive tour across North America, Japan, and Europe. Two music videos, "Skinny Boy" and "Baby I," were created to accompany the album's release.

"Masters of the Burial" and Personal Life

Milligan's second solo album, "Masters of the Burial," was released in 2009. Featuring collaborations with Evan Cranley and members of Broken Social Scene, the album expanded her musical palette while maintaining her signature introspective lyrics. She has been in a relationship with Stars member Evan Cranley since 2010, and the couple have one child together.

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