Entertainment

Jason DeCrow

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals have earned their stripes primarily on the road, hitting the stages of festivals and clubs. But in 2007 they released a debut album, This Is Somewhere, and this summer they'll play select dates opening for the Dave Matthews Band.

Using acoustics and electrics, organs, pianos and a mike, Ms. Potter has established herself as an able, magnetic frontwoman in a rock landscape where many female songwriters struggle. She recently discussed her band's newfound recognition.

What were your expectations while you were recording and releasing This Is Somewhere?

We were really committed to making the kind of record that would go beyond just the basic "throwback sound." As much as we love and pull from classic rock, those records have been made already, and they were great the first time around. This was an opportunity to make our own sound.

How does it feel to suddenly gain all of this recognition when you've been making records and touring for years?

It's funny when people come up to me and say, "Wow, you're an overnight success!" It makes me want to say, "Have you been asleep for five years?" But I don't.

How do you feel when the press compares you to other female singer-songwriters, such as Bonnie Raitt, Norah Jones and Sheryl Crow?

When people see a talented girl, it calls to mind the very rare breed of women who have managed to succeed.

Billboard.com