Musician Paula Fong has drawn heavily from her multicultural heritage and extensive travel experiences in shaping her music and artistic identity. The daughter of a Chinese immigrant father, who was raised in Taiwan and Hong Kong, and a mother from the American Midwest, Fong’s diverse background has informed both her personal life and creative output.
Fong’s father moved to the United States for college, where he met her mother, originally from Indiana with familial ties to Kentucky. From a young age, Fong engaged with her Chinese heritage by learning traditional folk songs and lullabies from her grandmother. She further developed her musical foundation through studies in Chinese opera and by playing the dizi, a wooden Chinese flute, as part of the Chinese orchestra at UCLA during her undergraduate years.
Currently on tour to promote her latest album, "A Bird on the Wing," Fong revealed that much of the record was written while she was on the road performing with fellow musician Abby Posner. She described composing "River Run" on the banks of Oregon’s McKenzie River, highlighting how nature’s tranquility can provide mental respite. Another track, "What Are We Running From," was crafted during a tour stop in Georgia and explores themes of using travel as a means of escape and the comfort found in companionship amid life’s challenges.
Fong expressed a particular desire to perform at the Freight in Northern California, a venue she remembers fondly from an early career experience as a backup vocalist opening for Jack Tempchin. She praised the theater’s blend of intimacy and grandeur, as well as its rich history.
Her musical influences are broad and international, encompassing old-time Americana, Celtic traditions, Japanese pop, and Chinese folk music, as well as sounds from various European countries. Fong emphasized that soulful music of any origin can inspire creativity when approached attentively.
When asked about her preferred vacation spot, Fong singled out Japan, where she lived and worked for a summer during college. She cited her appreciation for shrines and temples, admiring their historical weight and tranquil beauty. She also mentioned a fondness for the Sierra mountain range, noting her enthusiasm for camping amid scenic wilderness.
Reflecting on formative travel experiences, Fong recalled a solo trip to France at age 12, which challenged her with language barriers and unfamiliar surroundings but ultimately contributed to her growth. Through her journeys, she has gained a broader appreciation for human diversity and learned practical skills such as minimalist packing—often traveling with just a guitar case and backpack to navigate efficiently.
Fong identified London, Tokyo, Asheville, Montreal, and New Orleans among her favorite cities, underscoring her eclectic tastes shaped by both cultural and musical variety.