Young singer looks to the old pop classics for inspiration.

Dani Paige, 21, is not that impressed with the music being made by contemporary pop musicians. Rather, the Santa Cruz-based vocalist is influenced by artists that appeal to more mature audiences, including the late blues guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan and soul pop singer Bill Withers.

Probably, Paige’s biggest influence is modern blues woman Bonnie Raitt. “I was raised hardcore on Bonnie Raitt,” she says. “My mom is a big fan.”

While listening to Paige’s songs, including “Love That Fire” and “Fortune Teller,” it is hard to believe that the full-bodied, soulful vocals come from a woman who is in her early twenties. The husky singing seems to be from a seasoned vet instead of someone in her first real band.

Paige credits her co-writer and guitarist Jesse DeCarlo as instrumental in helping her find her voice as a songwriter. Paige met DeCarlo, a Monterey resident who was in the local group Cold Front, this past November on Craig’s List. In just a matter of months, the two have written 10 original numbers and formed a band with bassist Rhonda Kinard and drummer Jen Schaaf, who also plays in the local jazz act Wamado.

“It’s kind of amazing how quickly it’s coming together,” Paige says.

While Dani Paige’s live shows will feature plenty of her own material, the band will also pay tribute to their influences with covers of Bill Withers’ “Use Me” and Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Proud Mary.”

DANI PAIGE AND OPENER CHIARA ANGELICOLA perform at 8:30pm on Wednesday, May 16, at Monterey Live, 414 Alvarado St., Monterey.  No cover. 646-1415.