Ana Tijoux’s Grammy nomination for “La Bala” is her second, following one for her previous album, 2010’s “1977.” But this time she definitely won’t be attending the ceremony. Tijoux, known for her conscious lyrics and intensely personal vocal style, will learn who wins the Best Latin Rock, Urban or Alternative Album category at home in Chile as she awaits the birth of her baby. During her pregnancy, she’s been listening to a lot of Chilean folkloric tracks, she told Billboard over the phone, revealing that the sounds of that music could have some influence on her next album, which she plans to start recording after a post-partum break.
What were you doing when you found out that you were nominated for a Grammy?
I was just finishing a concert here in Chile. I was on the stage and was told that someone wanted to speak to me, so I got the news by phone.
What is the most surprising thing that happened to you this past year?
I found out I was pregnant.
So you won’t be going to the Grammys this year…
No. I’ll be more more than eight months by then, I won’t be able to travel.
What is your most important goal for 2013?
To try and combine my personal life with my work. My baby will be born in March. I’ll take some time off, and then I’ll be recording my new album in the studio.
What’s the biggest advice you can give aspiring artists trying to make it in the business?
Be persistent. I think the most important thing is to have vision. Don’t ever stop working. Don’t ever lose your way, and always keep your objective in mind.
What one thing would your fans be surprised to find out about you?
I don’t like having my picture taken.
If you could perform with anyone (dead or alive) who would that be and why?
Maybe someone who is unknown, who I haven’t heard of yet.
If you hadn’t gone into the music business, what do you think you would have done and why?
I would have liked to study sociology or political science.
At what point in your career did you know you had made it?
I don’t think I’ve gotten to that point yet.