If you’ve stopped in to Fanny’s, you have definitely met the kind, cool, calm and collected Callan! In addition to being a Fanny’s family member for the better half of a decade, you may have seen her shredding and singing in the local dream-pop four-piece group, Bleary.
Today, we got to check in with her and learn a little bit more about all things Callan!
How long have you been working with Fanny’s?
I’ve worked at Fanny’s for six years! Needless to say I love being a Fanny.
What were the first feelings you remember having when you first stepped in to Fanny’s?
It was amazing to walk into a music store and be greeted by women. To see women on the walls. To feel seen.
The atmosphere was so warm and welcoming, I didn’t feel like I had to prove myself in any way. It was just a completely different vibe from what I had previously experienced in any music store.
You are an incredible guitar player! I am curious to know, how old were you when you began playing?
Thank you! I really appreciate that, being around such amazing musicians at work inspires me to keep going. I was around 12 when I began playing guitar. I was super into punk so I mostly was playing power chords in the beginning, but my middle school metal band got me playing lead and introduced me to “guitarmonies” which is still my favorite thing ever.
What would it have meant for you to have had a Fanny’s growing up?
I don’t think they would have been able to get me to leave! I’m from a small town and it was so hard to find kids to play with who had similar taste in music. To be able to connect with other girls who played rock would have changed my world. It would have been incredible to have a female teacher or mentor. I felt that I had to prove my worth growing up, but Fanny’s helps kids to see their inherent worthiness, and makes it a beacon.
What brings you the most joy at work?
Helping someone find their first electric guitar! To help them plug in, dial in some distortion, and be LOUD. To empower someone to take up auditory space. To see their face when they sense that rocking has been achieved. I am far from the first Fanny to share this sentiment but it really is incredible.
Currently, what’s your favorite in-stock guitar in the shop?
Always a big fan of the Melody Makers! Also we just got in a ’60s Harmony Meteor that’s incredible. It plays like a dream and the gold foil pickups sound amazing, especially when paired with the Mythos High Road fuzz pedal. We also have the sweetest little Martin parlor guitar from the 1860’s. It’s so old!
Are there any guitar makers/brands you stand by above all others?
I love old Epiphones! A 60’s Crestwood Custom is my absolute dream guitar. I got an Epiphone Wilshire reissue at Fanny’s a few years back and I’m still completely obsessed with it. The previous owner had done a metallic purple refin on it and I put rhinestones around the pickguard and headstock. Playing loud rock music on a super femme looking guitar brings me joy.
What advice do you have for young women who want to break in to a music scene?
I feel like the best way to start playing shows is just by going to shows and talking to people! All ages venues like Drkmttr are so supportive of the next generation of musicians. It can be hard not to feel intimidated, but a good power stance can do wonders.
Check out Callan (lead singer and guitarist) and her band, Bleary, here:
To visit Fanny’s online store, visit: https://fannys-house-of-music.myshopify.com/
To learn more about how you can support Fanny’s in fostering a safe, multi-generational arts space, visit https://www.fannysschoolofmusic.org
Blog by Georgia English / a Nashville-based musician, writer, illustrator, and educator.