'Fairy Gig Mother' Frances Martin has cast an unmistakable figure in the crowd of countless shows in the Sydney live music scene for decades, supporting and spruiking independent musicians and providing an enveloping hug for all who need it.

But her own story is a compelling tale of defiance, survival and magic. Throughout her career in radio and live music, she played an integral role in forcing the inclusion of independent Australian artists on our recorded music charts - risking losing her job and standing her ground against major label figures as one of the few women working in the industry at that time. 

In this episode of Out of The Box, Fran sat with Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen to reflect on family, grief, growing up against the backdrop of Australian counter-culture and civil rights, and the magic of live music - "it only happens once". Fran treats us to stories about her time with Joni Mitchell, Neil Finn, and shouts out the Australian artists for whom she provided a loving, supportive embrace in their early years as Fairy Gig Mother, including Julia Jacklin and Andy Golledge. We hear about finding a sense of belonging in music and film, and Fran weaves her magical life lessons throughout her song choices.

This episode was produced by Jaimee Taylor-Nielsen.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.