Nancy Rost has been called "the love child of Tom Lehrer and Tom Waits" (KnowYourMusic.com). Her distinctive songs combine a jazz-influenced piano style with lyrics that are quirky, witty and heartfelt, often all at once.
This former toy-piano-playing street musician has garnered songwriting awards in multiple genres, including pop/rock, folk, jazz and comedy. Nancy is known internationally for her participation in songwriting marathons and her versatility as a collaborator.
Nancy is also known for her adventurous performances: "The laughter in the crowd is contagious, as everyone's thoughts are mixed in a tart, though refreshing, concoction of high witticisms and ardent applause." - The Capital Times
Discography:
Likely Stories, Likely Stories
March 2009
This is the debut album of chamber-folk trio Likely Stories (Nancy Rost, Tracy Jane Comer, Dave Schindele.)
Auto-Pseudo-Mondo
July 2008
Lyrics by Nancy Rost, Chords by Tim Wille and Paul Turrell; interpretations by 18 different artists internationally.
14 Songs in 28 Days, Vol. 4, FAWM.ORG
February 2009
Compilation of songs written for February Album Writing Month; featuring three "Auto-Pseudo-Mondo" bonus tracks with Nancy's lyrics.
14 Songs in 28 Days, Vol. 3, FAWM.ORG
February 2008
Compilation of songs written by various artists for February Album Writing Month; featuring Nancy's song "Golden Gate".
Made at Home, Vol. 2, Madison Songwriters Group
December 2005
Compilation featuring Nancy's song "Welcome to Boscobel".
Speedwritten, Helen Robertson
June 2009
Download album by English performing songwriter Helen Robertson; features Nancy on banjo, harmonica, and backing vocals on several songs.
Ship of State, Mike Skliar
May 2009
CD by New York songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mike Skliar; features Mike and Nancy's song "Helen" and backing vocals by Nancy.
Binary for Babies, Errol Elumir & Friends
December 2009
CD of kids' songs by Toronto songwriter Errol Elumir; includes Errol and Nancy's co-written duet "Sing Together".
Because We Can, Andina & Rich
September 2005
CD by Midwestern variety duo Andina & Rich features backing vocals by Nancy.