I don't know how you keep on giving

Natalie Merchant is not a movie, television show, or song, but rather a highly accomplished singer-songwriter who has established herself as one of the most influential voices of her generation. Born on October 26, 1963, in Jamestown, New York, Merchant rose to fame as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of the alternative rock band 10,000 Maniacs, before starting a successful solo career in the mid-1990s. Formed in 1981, 10,000 Maniacs gained widespread recognition with their alternative rock sound and Merchant's captivating vocals. The band's original lineup included Dennis Drew on keyboards, Steven Gustafson on bass, John Lombardo on guitar, Robert Buck on guitar, and Jerry Augustyniak on drums. Together, they released several albums during the 1980s, including "The Wishing Chair" (1985) and "In My Tribe" (1987), which achieved critical acclaim and commercial success. Merchant's unique voice quickly became a defining characteristic of 10,000 Maniacs' sound. Her ability to convey intricate emotions through her lyrics and haunting melodies resonated with listeners, making the band a staple in the alternative rock scene of the time. Some of their most popular songs from this era include "Like the Weather," "Trouble Me," and their breakthrough hit "These Are the Days." After leaving 10,000 Maniacs in 1993, Merchant embarked on a successful solo career. Her debut solo album, "Tigerlily," was released in 1995 and became an instant success. Some of the notable tracks from this album include "Carnival," "Wonder," and "San Andreas Fault." Merchant's solo work showcased her growth as an artist, exploring a wider range of musical genres while maintaining her distinct storytelling style. In the following years, Merchant continued to release highly acclaimed albums, including "Ophelia" (1998) and "Motherland" (2001). Each album showcased her exceptional songwriting skills and soulful voice, earning her a dedicated fanbase. Merchant's versatile vocals allowed her to delve into different musical styles, ranging from folk and pop to rock and blues. Throughout her career, Merchant collaborated with numerous renowned artists, demonstrating her ability to work across genres. She joined forces with artists like Tracy Chapman, R.E.M., and Billy Bragg on various projects, showcasing her versatility and collaborative spirit. To this day, Natalie Merchant's music continues to captivate audiences around the world. Her powerful lyrics, combined with her heartfelt delivery, create an emotional connection that resonates deeply with listeners. Whether performing with 10,000 Maniacs or as a solo artist, her contributions to the alternative rock and folk genres have left an indelible mark. Merchant's expressive and timeless music has earned her a place among the greatest singer-songwriters of her generation. If you would like to explore the sounds of Natalie Merchant further, you can play and download her music on various streaming platforms. Her discography, including both her solo work and albums with 10,000 Maniacs, offers a vast collection of beautifully crafted songs that continue to inspire and captivate music lovers all over the world.