Song of the Day: Sera Cahoone - Only One

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of our Song of the day podcast subscription . This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJ’s think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Midday Show with Cheryl Waters, is "Only One" by Seattle singer-songwriter Sera Cahoone, from her 2017 album, From Where I Started, self-released on Lady Muleskinner Records.

Sera Cahoone - Only One (MP3)Before Cahoone became a local favorite under her own name, savvy Seattleites might remember her behind the drum kit for bands like Carissa's Wierd and Band of Horses. But even that bit of music trivia isn't where Cahoone's story with Seattle begins. Originally hailing from Littleton, Colorado, she moved to the Emerald City in 1998 after the snowboarding company she worked for decided to open up a Northwest location. Eight years later, she'd finally embark on a solo career with a highly celebrated self-titled debut that was later rereleased on Sub Pop. She'd later release two more albums on the label.

Fast-forward to today, Cahoone continues to stir up emotions not just with locals but also a growing national fan base. From Where I Started  is an apt title for the record, beckoning back to her early solo recordings and capturing the magic of a songwriter eagerly embracing their craft. Lead single "Only One" captures the wistful, methodical spirit of the record. Her voice dips and rises over a steady, stomping rhythm while mandolins and fiddles chime around her. As she told American Songwriter earlier this year, the song was written on her front porch while overlooking Lake Washington on a sunny day. It feels that way too. It's a meditation on love and how miraculous it is to find someone to share your life with. That heart fluttering feeling carries with each word she sings, coalescing into an honest and poignant reflection on intimacy.

Sera Cahoone will play a sold-out show tomorrow night, April 1st, at the Tractor Tavern – no, joke. If you didn't get tickets, you can catch her at The Bartlett in Spokane on April 14. You can find her full tour dates and other updates on her website and Facebook page. From Where I Started is in stores now. Revisit her performance from on top of the Space Needle below.