I get a chance to listen to Katie Buchanan, a talented singer-songwriter and producer whose debut CD "Glow", was released at the end of 2015. I immediately added her music to the list of my favorite singers.
As Katie wears glasses, I recently contacted her for an interview and she agreed very kindly to discuss her sound, her musical inspirations, her upcoming album and the art of songwriting.
Her voice is really amazing, this is another singer to discover quickly. Coincidentally, this is the second interview with a singer from New-York.
Pending her next video, you'll find on the bottom of this page the wonderful song "Glow In The Dark" from the album "Glow".
I invite you to read this interesting interview with Katie. Please share and subscribe to: Youtube channel, Facebook, @Katie_Buchanan
Can you tell us about yourself, where were you born? Where did you grow up? Where do you live now?
I was born and grew up in Kansas, more specifically in a suburb of Kansas City, MO, in Kansas...confusing I know. Point being, it was a suburb of a city, not a farm. I've been in NYC for nearly 10 years now.
How did you discovered your nice voice?
Lots and lots of vocal lessons, with lots and lots of teachers until I found the one that got me. I don't have a naturally, technically "good" voice. But I was writing song after song and I needed to learn how to communicate them, which meant learning how to become a good singer. And that's all to do with finding what you do well, how to use it, and how not to hurt yourself in that whole process.
How did you get started with playing and creating music?
When I was four, my grandfather put a fiddle in my hands and taught me the basics. That led to my first "writing" of songs, then piano, drums, and finally guitar, which is just an extension of myself at this point.
What was the first tune(s) you learned?
Probably some little fiddle tune. Again, I was four so I really don't remember too well. But I know "MMMBop" was the first "riff" I learned on guitar, all on my own. I was really proud of that one.
Can you remember the first time you wrote a song?
There are videos of me as young as three, making up little tunes and songs. I think I recognized it as "writing" pretty early on, maybe five or six, well before I really had the tools to do it well. But that also meant I collected those tools as I grew up, alongside things like reading and writing. So songwriting to me is very much my natural state.
When did you decide to become a singer and songwriter?
I don't know that I ever decided, it's just what I was. My mother was super aware of that and made sure to get me in the right rooms with the right people--the right teachers, the right cheerleaders, and the right critics--so that I could hone my craft properly and early on.
Is your family members are musicians?
Yes. I have a huge extended family on my mother's side and nearly all of them play something. From my grandfather teaching me fiddle to my uncle showing me blues riffs by the campfire, it was a very musical upbringing.
You has released two EPs, Another Beat (2013) and Go (2014) and a debut album, Glow in 2015. Have you written all the songs?
All of them. I produced and recorded them as well, played all the parts. In fact, no one else touched those records until they got mixed.
You're currently working on a new album. Can you give us some details of this recording?
Similar to my first few releases, I recored and produced it all. But there were some major upgrades across the board so even on a technical level it's a better record. Also, as any artist should, I've been very careful to give myself the room to grow and experiment. I've done a bunch of side projects and things since the last record, so my skill as a producer has definitely evolved alongside the usual growth you go through as a writer and artist.
When does this album come out?
No idea, hopefully there will be a single or two by the end of the year.
Which song you have written is your favorite and why?
It changes, all the time. "Run" (from Glow) has really been speaking to me recently. Maybe that's because it's a direct foil to the record I just wrapped, which is very much about learning to stand still and just be.
Do you have favorite places or times where you like to write?
The closet thing I have to a routine are my notebooks. I've been writing in the same exact type of notebooks for years now (Moleskine Cahier, black, lined). They are just nice enough to feel real but not heavy enough to feel permanent. I just started number 24. Yes, I keep them in order. You never know when you might need to go back.
How would you describe your current sound?
Americana-influenced indie pop. I love a catchy melody, an accessible and cool production, but when it comes down to it, the song is the star. Always.
Which is your favorite instrument and why?
Guitar. It just makes sense. There's something so personal about literally touching the thing that's making the sound, while it's making the sound. A piano key hits a lever which hits another lever which hits a hammer which hits the string.
On guitar you, at worst, have a pick and maybe a slide (and usually not both at the same time) between you and the string. It's a thrilling level of control and expressiveness. There's a reason they haven't gotten close to a useable midi guitar.
What do you think about the internet as a tool for promoting yourself & your music?
It's not really even a "tool" anymore, it's just where music lives. The internet is the world.
Then there's the myth of the democratization of music. That the internet would free the music world from the gatekeepers. That's patently untrue. Nearly every "indie" or "undiscovered" act that's breaking through has a team behind them, carefully constructing the "they don't have a team" image. Sure people come from nowhere occasionally, but it's so, so rare. And that seems horrifically demoralizing, but it's also something incredibly important to recognize as a new artist. That even with the internet, talent does not immediately equal success. The old systems are still in place, they just look different, leaner, and move faster. So you have to learn to see them, learn to use them, and keep making the best music you can.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
http://katiebuchanan.com will take you any where else you need to go.
Have you ever read my blog and if yes, have you discovered some singers?
I have! Actually that's were I first heard Magana, despite living in the same town, playing the same venues, and knowing a lot of the same people.
You recently got a pair of frames, why did you decide to change your appearance?
I've always gone between glasses and contacts. Oddly enough, my eyes have gotten significantly better over the last few years (my doctor's confused by it too) and I've just started preferring glasses. Plus, how often do you see black out Clubmasters? Had to wear them for at least one shoot.
In general, do you think the appearance is important for the music? (Knowing you never show up in your videos like "Run" or "Honey, don't" but that the work seems very important)
I don't know that appearance is the right word. I think it's more image, being consistent with your image and how that speaks to you as an artist and to the music. I'm actually in the "Go" music video (a singing corpse, obviously). But "Run" and "Honey, Don't" are both more about a feeling than a story and I wanted to do the opposite of "Go" for that album. So we went from hyper narrative 50's era murder story, to these lush visuals paralleling isolation and community.
Did you released yourself these beautiful videos?
All three of those videos were helmed but Nicolas Pesce, who's now off making Sundance-premiering horror films and the like. He's brilliant.
Do you plan to release a new music video soon?
As the music gets bigger and bigger, I'm simplifying the corresponding visuals. Contrast and balance. So there will be something but not what you're expecting and not yet.
Who are the biggest inspirations for your career?
There's a lot of artists with career blueprints I'd like to emulated. Most of them now indie (Matt Nathanson, Ingrid Michelson, Brandi Carlile) who have found a way to make honest music on their own terms with a lot of success. I think it mostly comes down to getting to a sustainable level that is solid, and that takes time. And a lot of other things...
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I've actually been on a musical theater kick as of late. Jason Robert Brown somedays, Sondheim others, Lin-Manuel Miranda (specifically Hamilton) always. They all play with words so wonderfully and intricately, and in ways that never sacrifice the song itself, only inform it.
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
I've been doing a lot more production work for other artists these days. So not a straight ahead collaboration but very much a joint creative work. I'd give you names, but they haven't been announced yet. I did do a record for Adrienne Tooley (http://www.adriennetooley.com) last year that I absolutely adore.
What is important to you other than music?
Food and words. Words and food. I'm a total nerd for both.
Can you describe a typical week of work for you?
Emails, emails, emails. I usually say my job is a "creative handy person," so my weeks are, thankfully, rarely the same. But I'm mostly at my desk creating music and visuals, in sessions with other artists, or writing and rehearsing my own stuff.
Are there any plans for a tour? US, Europe? In case, alone with your guitar or with musicians?
Just the distant rumblings of a tour at this point. We've been revamping a lot of the live show, so how that will translate to any touring is a bit up in the air. But eventually, and probably soon, yes.
Few words to convince the reader to listen to your music?
You made it this far in this interview, don't let that be wasted time.
What are some of your personal and/or professional goals for the future?
Of course there's the standard, boring "reach a bigger audience" goal, and all the pieces that have to fall in place for that to happen. But when it comes right down to it, the only thing I can actually control is creating the best, most honest work I'm capable of. So as long as I can continue doing that, all the boring little pieces are worth tracking down.
mercredi 21 septembre 2016
mercredi 29 juin 2016
Magana
The new interview is with an incredible singer from New York called Jeni Magana. I have been a fan since I discovered her music few weeks ago.
She has already singing with many bands like "Jeni and the Bets" or "Oh Odessa" and now she uses her own name: Magana. I'm convinced that in a few years she might be one of the most popular singers with specs in the world (like Ingrid Michaelson but a lot more rock).
Her voice is really beautiful and the sound of her music is amazing. This is the first time I'll post two videos at the bottom of this page but you must absolutely listen to one of her songs and also her great cover of this classic song: Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) on electric guitar.
I am very proud that she has agreed to answer to my questions and you will discover much more by reading this interview.
Remember her name: "Magana", you will see!
Please share the interview and subscribe to: Youtube channel, Facebook, @maganarama
Her first CD with Oh Odessa
The new Golden Tongue E.P.
Thank you so much for the interview Jeni. Can you tell us a little bit about you, where were you born, where have you lived?
My pleasure! I was born in Bakersfield, CA and I lived there until I moved across the country to Boston to go to a music school there. I played upright bass in school and when I graduated I moved to New York City. I've been in New York since 2008 so I'm starting to look around and see where I want to move next.
How did you first get started writing music?
I guess I've always written music; I can't really remember a time when I wasn't making up songs. I sang a lot when I was a kid and when I was still young I learned how to play piano. I started playing bass when I was about 13 and I think that inspired me to pick up the guitar and put chords behind what I was singing. The songs were not very good but I think it was teaching me lessons about how to write that are useful now.
When did you realize that’s what you wanted to do?
It wasn't really a conscious decision. It was more like a series of events that led me to this moment. I've always loved music and been curious about different instruments. For a long while I wanted to play classical bass and I remember my teachers at school telling me that was such a depressing field and that I should go do something original. That didn't change my mind and I still played classical bass when I got to NY for a while but it always stuck with me and I think it helped me make the decision to start playing my music out.
Is your family members are musicians?
They are not, although they could be. My mother can sing and play piano but only does it sometimes. I taught her how to play a tiny bit of bass and I tried to teach her clarinet but it's more of a sort of hobby for her. My brother played the violin when he was young but he really didn't like it and didn't stick with it.
Have you studied music or did you learn on your own?
I did a little bit of both! I took a few piano lessons and a lot of clarinet lessons, and even more lessons on bass. I went to music school and focused on bass, but the other instruments that I dabble in I have mostly just taught myself.
You released a first album with the band "Oh Odessa" (January 29, 2012) http://ohodessa.bandcamp.com/releases
This is true. That is also my birthday!
Why have you changing your name for "Magana" and not "Jeni Magana"?
To be totally honest, a lot of that decision was that it's hard for a lot of people to spell both names. It's a little less overwhelming when it's only 6 letters. Plus I wanted to separate my personal self from my performing self a little bit. And I really like my last name.
Magana is considered as a band or a solo project?
Currently it is entirely a solo project. I had some help working on the EP but I'm still playing by myself and making as many decisions as possible on my own.
Do you think your sound has changed since you released this first album in 2012?
Definitely. I think I've grown as a musician and really been able to focus on the things I want to sound like. It's still me, but I'm evolving as a person and a musician.
What do you expect with this new project?
I don't know! I'm trying to figure that out now. So far I'm just enjoying the ride.
What musicians have the greatest impact on you and why?
So so so many. But in terms of recent changes, I think St. Vincent has been a huge influence. She made me feel ok about being a little weird and the value of being fearless. Also most recently I started listening to Daughter and they made me feel like it wasn't a crime to be sensitive and emotional but it's actually what a lot of people relate to.
Do you have a new CD soon?
Yes! I'm working on an EP right now and it's almost done! It's 4 songs and I hope to release it in September.
What is your favorite part of creating and performing music?
My favorite part is being on stage and hearing my music and seeing it resonate on people's faces. I love sharing those moments with people.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing?
Generally, I have an idea of a subject that I want to write about. And I play around with guitar or piano lines until it matches that feel and then I write a bunch of lyrics and then realize that I'm writing about something totally different than what I planned, but it's something that is on my mind and it's how I really feel. It's much easier to write once I get to that point.
Which of the songs you have written are the most meaningful to you, and why?
I just wrote a song called Inches Apart. It was going to be about something totally different but I ended up writing it about my boyfriend and my fears about our relationship. It's really honest. And people have listened to it and related very specifically to the words even though the scenarios are totally different. I think that's because even though specific circumstances are different for everyone, a lot of emotions are similar and I love that it relates as much to them as it does to me. I just played a show and I saw a few people crying in the audience and I thought about what it meant to a friend of mine and I almost cried with them.
How would you describe your musical style?
Emotive and a little creepy.
Your Bang Bang cover with electric guitar is amazing! How did you get the idea to make this cover?
Thank you so much for listening! I have always loved that song because it's so simple but has a very strong image. And if you listen to Cher's Bang Bang and the one that I came to cover, it feels like an entirely different song.
I remember a message saying " I am also a singer with glasses!" and I discovered a very beautiful voice! How did you find my channel?
Thank you! I tend to go through a lot of youtube music videos throughout the day because I'm a photo editor and need something to listen to while I work. A video of my friend Hannah Winkler came up and it was on a playlist called female singers with glasses or something. It's just so specific and I thought that was great.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I think it's great! I love things with a specific purpose, like this. And I really like learning about people's stories so I think these interviews are great. I also streamed some of the "girl singers with glasses" videos while I was editing and got to hear a variety of stuff that way. Some people I knew of already but I definitely found some new artists in there as well that I enjoyed.
You seem to be wearing your glasses in many videos. Is there a story behind them?
Mostly the story is that I'm blind. I wore contacts for several years but when I got out of college I couldn't afford them and so I just decided to embrace the frames. I just recently got a prescription for contacts but I'm not used to them anymore so they make my eyes hurt. I got new glasses, too! They'll be making an appearance in my next video on youtube.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
I'm waiting until the new EP is done before I put anything major out, but you can find any news about my recordings and shows on my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MaganaOfficial
Have you ever perform your music in public?
I try to play a show once a month. I'm taking July off to go on tour as a bass player for another band but am planning some major events when I come back. I'm also interested in touring as a solo artist, which I've never done alone before.
Any plans for a tour? Which country would you like to play first?
Yes! In my dreams I will be on tour forever. I'm planning a tour here in the US for October which will hopefully work out. I would honestly love to go to any country that would be interested in having me, so hopefully I can work that out! But in general my favorite country so far (in my limited experience) has been Spain and if I didn't need to worry about money I would just go travel around Spain and play music for whoever was there and call it a tour.
If you could go open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?
Radiohead! I love their music and also I think their fans would enjoy it.
Are you open to the idea of collaborating with other singers?
I think that collaboration is a great way to learn and to get out of your comfort zone and help you get a different perspective. And I love harmonies so I really enjoy working on those with people. I sing on a lot of projects that I play bass for and I love how it sounds. Right now this solo project is all about the freedom for me to explore myself without outside influence, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy collaborating.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I have been really into female singers recently; I think I'm getting personal inspiration from them. AURORA is beautiful and inspiring. Also Laura Mvula, Daughter, St. Vincent, Julien Baker, Trixie Whitley, Lianne La Havas. The list goes on and on.
Have you ever been signed up by a record label?
I have not. I think it's important to do a lot of the work yourself so that if and when a label takes interest in you, you're in a position to have a little more control. I heard once that Regina Spektor did that and it really stuck with me.
What are your dreams in life?
To work as a musician! I'd love to make some money touring as Magana, have some songs licensed for a TV show, and continue to play bass for the projects I enjoy.
Is there anything else that you are working on that you’d like to talk about?
Indeed! As my day job I'm a photographer and photo editor. But recently I started trying to learn a little more about video and I want to start producing videos of musicians playing in non-studio settings into a single microphone. I'm not sure what I'm going to call it yet but I've just gotten the sound gear that I need and will be hopefully putting up my first video soon! If I go on tour, I'd like to be able to promote great artists in other cities, states and countries as well so please keep a look out for that.
She has already singing with many bands like "Jeni and the Bets" or "Oh Odessa" and now she uses her own name: Magana. I'm convinced that in a few years she might be one of the most popular singers with specs in the world (like Ingrid Michaelson but a lot more rock).
Her voice is really beautiful and the sound of her music is amazing. This is the first time I'll post two videos at the bottom of this page but you must absolutely listen to one of her songs and also her great cover of this classic song: Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down) on electric guitar.
I am very proud that she has agreed to answer to my questions and you will discover much more by reading this interview.
Remember her name: "Magana", you will see!
Please share the interview and subscribe to: Youtube channel, Facebook, @maganarama
Her first CD with Oh Odessa
The new Golden Tongue E.P.
Thank you so much for the interview Jeni. Can you tell us a little bit about you, where were you born, where have you lived?
My pleasure! I was born in Bakersfield, CA and I lived there until I moved across the country to Boston to go to a music school there. I played upright bass in school and when I graduated I moved to New York City. I've been in New York since 2008 so I'm starting to look around and see where I want to move next.
How did you first get started writing music?
I guess I've always written music; I can't really remember a time when I wasn't making up songs. I sang a lot when I was a kid and when I was still young I learned how to play piano. I started playing bass when I was about 13 and I think that inspired me to pick up the guitar and put chords behind what I was singing. The songs were not very good but I think it was teaching me lessons about how to write that are useful now.
When did you realize that’s what you wanted to do?
It wasn't really a conscious decision. It was more like a series of events that led me to this moment. I've always loved music and been curious about different instruments. For a long while I wanted to play classical bass and I remember my teachers at school telling me that was such a depressing field and that I should go do something original. That didn't change my mind and I still played classical bass when I got to NY for a while but it always stuck with me and I think it helped me make the decision to start playing my music out.
Is your family members are musicians?
They are not, although they could be. My mother can sing and play piano but only does it sometimes. I taught her how to play a tiny bit of bass and I tried to teach her clarinet but it's more of a sort of hobby for her. My brother played the violin when he was young but he really didn't like it and didn't stick with it.
Have you studied music or did you learn on your own?
I did a little bit of both! I took a few piano lessons and a lot of clarinet lessons, and even more lessons on bass. I went to music school and focused on bass, but the other instruments that I dabble in I have mostly just taught myself.
You released a first album with the band "Oh Odessa" (January 29, 2012) http://ohodessa.bandcamp.com/releases
This is true. That is also my birthday!
Why have you changing your name for "Magana" and not "Jeni Magana"?
To be totally honest, a lot of that decision was that it's hard for a lot of people to spell both names. It's a little less overwhelming when it's only 6 letters. Plus I wanted to separate my personal self from my performing self a little bit. And I really like my last name.
Magana is considered as a band or a solo project?
Currently it is entirely a solo project. I had some help working on the EP but I'm still playing by myself and making as many decisions as possible on my own.
Do you think your sound has changed since you released this first album in 2012?
Definitely. I think I've grown as a musician and really been able to focus on the things I want to sound like. It's still me, but I'm evolving as a person and a musician.
What do you expect with this new project?
I don't know! I'm trying to figure that out now. So far I'm just enjoying the ride.
What musicians have the greatest impact on you and why?
So so so many. But in terms of recent changes, I think St. Vincent has been a huge influence. She made me feel ok about being a little weird and the value of being fearless. Also most recently I started listening to Daughter and they made me feel like it wasn't a crime to be sensitive and emotional but it's actually what a lot of people relate to.
Do you have a new CD soon?
Yes! I'm working on an EP right now and it's almost done! It's 4 songs and I hope to release it in September.
What is your favorite part of creating and performing music?
My favorite part is being on stage and hearing my music and seeing it resonate on people's faces. I love sharing those moments with people.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing?
Generally, I have an idea of a subject that I want to write about. And I play around with guitar or piano lines until it matches that feel and then I write a bunch of lyrics and then realize that I'm writing about something totally different than what I planned, but it's something that is on my mind and it's how I really feel. It's much easier to write once I get to that point.
Which of the songs you have written are the most meaningful to you, and why?
I just wrote a song called Inches Apart. It was going to be about something totally different but I ended up writing it about my boyfriend and my fears about our relationship. It's really honest. And people have listened to it and related very specifically to the words even though the scenarios are totally different. I think that's because even though specific circumstances are different for everyone, a lot of emotions are similar and I love that it relates as much to them as it does to me. I just played a show and I saw a few people crying in the audience and I thought about what it meant to a friend of mine and I almost cried with them.
How would you describe your musical style?
Emotive and a little creepy.
Your Bang Bang cover with electric guitar is amazing! How did you get the idea to make this cover?
Thank you so much for listening! I have always loved that song because it's so simple but has a very strong image. And if you listen to Cher's Bang Bang and the one that I came to cover, it feels like an entirely different song.
I remember a message saying " I am also a singer with glasses!" and I discovered a very beautiful voice! How did you find my channel?
Thank you! I tend to go through a lot of youtube music videos throughout the day because I'm a photo editor and need something to listen to while I work. A video of my friend Hannah Winkler came up and it was on a playlist called female singers with glasses or something. It's just so specific and I thought that was great.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I think it's great! I love things with a specific purpose, like this. And I really like learning about people's stories so I think these interviews are great. I also streamed some of the "girl singers with glasses" videos while I was editing and got to hear a variety of stuff that way. Some people I knew of already but I definitely found some new artists in there as well that I enjoyed.
You seem to be wearing your glasses in many videos. Is there a story behind them?
Mostly the story is that I'm blind. I wore contacts for several years but when I got out of college I couldn't afford them and so I just decided to embrace the frames. I just recently got a prescription for contacts but I'm not used to them anymore so they make my eyes hurt. I got new glasses, too! They'll be making an appearance in my next video on youtube.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
I'm waiting until the new EP is done before I put anything major out, but you can find any news about my recordings and shows on my facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/MaganaOfficial
Have you ever perform your music in public?
I try to play a show once a month. I'm taking July off to go on tour as a bass player for another band but am planning some major events when I come back. I'm also interested in touring as a solo artist, which I've never done alone before.
Any plans for a tour? Which country would you like to play first?
Yes! In my dreams I will be on tour forever. I'm planning a tour here in the US for October which will hopefully work out. I would honestly love to go to any country that would be interested in having me, so hopefully I can work that out! But in general my favorite country so far (in my limited experience) has been Spain and if I didn't need to worry about money I would just go travel around Spain and play music for whoever was there and call it a tour.
If you could go open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?
Radiohead! I love their music and also I think their fans would enjoy it.
Are you open to the idea of collaborating with other singers?
I think that collaboration is a great way to learn and to get out of your comfort zone and help you get a different perspective. And I love harmonies so I really enjoy working on those with people. I sing on a lot of projects that I play bass for and I love how it sounds. Right now this solo project is all about the freedom for me to explore myself without outside influence, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy collaborating.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I have been really into female singers recently; I think I'm getting personal inspiration from them. AURORA is beautiful and inspiring. Also Laura Mvula, Daughter, St. Vincent, Julien Baker, Trixie Whitley, Lianne La Havas. The list goes on and on.
Have you ever been signed up by a record label?
I have not. I think it's important to do a lot of the work yourself so that if and when a label takes interest in you, you're in a position to have a little more control. I heard once that Regina Spektor did that and it really stuck with me.
What are your dreams in life?
To work as a musician! I'd love to make some money touring as Magana, have some songs licensed for a TV show, and continue to play bass for the projects I enjoy.
Is there anything else that you are working on that you’d like to talk about?
Indeed! As my day job I'm a photographer and photo editor. But recently I started trying to learn a little more about video and I want to start producing videos of musicians playing in non-studio settings into a single microphone. I'm not sure what I'm going to call it yet but I've just gotten the sound gear that I need and will be hopefully putting up my first video soon! If I go on tour, I'd like to be able to promote great artists in other cities, states and countries as well so please keep a look out for that.
mardi 14 juin 2016
The Early Spring
It spent much time between the interview and the previous one, but only few singers with glasses this year.
The new interview is with a singer-songwriter called "The Early Spring". She's the first Belgium singer interviewed on this blog. I like her voice and I share her videos often on my pages. She's often classified in my playlists "favorite singers of the year".
Her first E.P. "Meeting With A Guitar" is available: http://theearlyspring.bigcartel.com
Listen to the video shared on the bottom of this page and take a few minutes to listen to her music and subscribe to her channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheEarlySpring
Thank you so much for accepting the interview.
Of course, I’m pleased you reached out to me.
Can you tell us a little bit about you, Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I grew up in a small town in the province of Liège. I studied in Liège and then I started travelling. I studied in Berlin for a while, then found a job in Belgium and went to Munich one year later to start a career in the pharmaceutical area. I am now back in Belgium in the province of Limburg.
What were your dreams of future when you were a kid?
There were a few… I wanted to be a great singer and travel the world to play gigs every night and meet new people every day. I also wanted to save animal lives and have a big shelter to rescue and take care of them. At the age of 6, I started wearing my boots to go on the field behind my house, and I would go wash the cows with my bucket full of water… Then when I grew up, I started dreaming about learning all those different languages and being able to find a job where I could use all of them.
Your name is Aurore F., why have you choose the name "The Early Spring"?
I was in a rock band before and when the band split, and I had some time to think about what I wanted to do, I didn’t want to keep my real name. First of all, because I wanted to keep some distance between the person and my music. Then, I also thought that no one who’s not speaking French would be able to pronounce my name correctly (which I don’t mind, I think it’s quite funny) but I thought I might as well find something easier and that’s when I came up with the idea of The Early Spring. I didn’t want to use a fake name, and I liked this concept of a "theme" representing my music. So I browsed a little bit to get some inspiration and when I saw this one word (which I don’t even recall) I had this name popping in my head and it made perfect sense to me.
You had the idea of working with other musician(s) for this project?
To be honest, after being in a band for a few years, I loved the idea of being completely free to do what I love, what I want without having to compromise. It is also easier because the way I write my music, I need to get in a “bubble” and everything needs to come together smoothly within the time I am in this bubble. If later on, I have to pick up the song unfinished (I mean if the structure of the song and the lyrics are not done), It is really unlikely that I will give a life to the song. But, with that said, I do miss the energy of being on stage with a team, and to be able to give my music more dimension…Because what I can do, when I’m at home, recording many different tracks, adding vocals and instruments, I can’t do on my own during a gig.
Your first video was posted 7 years ago. Can you remember the first time you decided you wanted to be a singer?
Hahaha…yes…it is almost embarrassing. I was 5, and I was singing the Little Mermaid in my bathtub. Mom was in the bathroom too and I had this fork in my hand, trying to brush my hair like Arielle and after humming “haaaaaa, haaaaa….” for a while, I said to mom something like: I know who I want to be when I grow up. I want to be a singer mermaid. And I never stopped singing after that… I eventually dropped the mermaid part though… but music has been my passion ever since.
Are your family members are musicians?
One of my brothers played a lot piano when I was a kid. My siblings are 12-13 years older than me and so they would come back from university on weekends and when I was really small, I remember that the basement was magical to me. That’s where the piano was stored. And when my brother was playing, I always had those small butterflies and I would go downstairs and sit next to him… I’m sure that helped me getting so much in touch with music at a young age. My dad was a singer when he was a kid but unfortunately, there are no videos or recordings...
How many instruments do you play and why?
My best instrument is my voice. I love using it and try to sing lower and higher, etc… Then I play guitar, I learned by myself. I play a little bit of piano but I also learned alone and it is not easy. And then I like to play around with everything really. I have a ukulele at home, as well as some drums and instruments for kids, harmonica, Glockenspiel, … I just use my ears and try to trust what I think sounds good.
What was the first tune(s) you learned?
Wow that is a difficult one… I’m trying to remember… I would say Little Mermaid if we go all the way back. But with my guitar, I think it would be "Message from your Heart" from Kina Grannis.
What are the different types of music that you sing?
I really sing everything just because I love learning new ways of singing, I love exploring other styles too and I like the challenge. I would not sing heavy metal though, that is just not my thing… But the music I write and sing, I guess it is more folk acoustic if you have to give it a name.
You have recorded many covers that you have perfectly adapted to your sweet voice (Sound of Silence, Giving Up, Stay....), how do you choose them?
Thank you :) I actually just cover the songs that touch me in a way or another. If I find a track so pretty that I can’t stop humming it, then I’m sure I need to cover it. It’s a feeling thing. I also like having requests so I have the opportunity to sing something that I would probably not sing otherwise.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing your songs? Music or lyrics first?
Sure. Like I said, I need to get into a bubble. I can’t just decide to sit there for some time and force myself to come up with something. I did it, and I think that once or twice I came up with something, but the best case scenario would be that once I get this inspiration and idea in my head, I would have a guitar at hand, and I would just lose myself in the creation of the song. It usually takes less than an hour and everything is slowly building together (lyrics and music) as I go on.
Do you plan to record an album or to write more songs?
That would be my dream. I was playing gigs and I was writing a lot but then I moved to Munich, and for some reasons, I lost touch with my guitar and I couldn’t write anymore. But I’ve been back in Belgium for a year now and I started writing music again and my inspiration and motivation came back so I plan on working hard and maybe record something soon...
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really like it and I think it is a nice platform to give artists a chance to get to know each other. I am actually planning on listening to every artist that gave you an interview!
Do you have a favorite musician among those I regularly share?
I don’t know yet, as I was not aware of this blog of yours, but I will make sure to tell you once I listened to this playlist I made :)
You remove your glasses for the majority of your videos, is my page could make you change your mind?
Haha, it might :)
What kind of music do you listen to today?
Right now, I am actually listening to this playlist on Spotify called “Cuban Roots Playlist”. I’m in the need of sun and vacation vibe, and I really enjoy Cuban music. (When I told you, I listen to a LOT of different kinds…). In general, within one day, I could go from folk, to electronic, and stop for some reggae or rock or pop or even classical music...
Which famous musicians do you admire and why?
I have to say, without a doubt, Kina Grannis because she is the one who inspired me to take my guitar on my own and not being afraid to be myself and write and sing what I love and not what people expect me to sing. She has a great heart and sense of integrity and that shows in her music and in the way she treats other people and I admire that.
Can we know your favorite song?
Favorite song…it changes all the time… If I have to think of one right now, one that will stay forever is “Yellow Eyes” from Rayland Baxter.
What are your hobbies apart from the music?
I love cooking, travelling, hanging out with my friends and family, hiking, reading, working out, watching sport games, playing video games, gardening, meeting new people, talking different languages,...
What hidden talents do you have?
I guess I can cook ok? :)
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
I unfortunately don’t have a website for The Early Spring. You can find me on Facebook and Twitter and YouTube (always with ‘TheEarlySpring’ and there is bigcartel.com where I used to sell my EP “Meeting with a guitar” but I need to follow up with this last one...
Do you have plans for 2016 (concert, EP,....)?
Yes!! I am working hard on getting my tracks back together and I am hoping to start getting pro-active with gigs really soon. There are some emails and things getting planned so fingers crossed! A new EP… is also on the agenda :)
The new interview is with a singer-songwriter called "The Early Spring". She's the first Belgium singer interviewed on this blog. I like her voice and I share her videos often on my pages. She's often classified in my playlists "favorite singers of the year".
Her first E.P. "Meeting With A Guitar" is available: http://theearlyspring.bigcartel.com
Listen to the video shared on the bottom of this page and take a few minutes to listen to her music and subscribe to her channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheEarlySpring
Thank you so much for accepting the interview.
Of course, I’m pleased you reached out to me.
Can you tell us a little bit about you, Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I grew up in a small town in the province of Liège. I studied in Liège and then I started travelling. I studied in Berlin for a while, then found a job in Belgium and went to Munich one year later to start a career in the pharmaceutical area. I am now back in Belgium in the province of Limburg.
What were your dreams of future when you were a kid?
There were a few… I wanted to be a great singer and travel the world to play gigs every night and meet new people every day. I also wanted to save animal lives and have a big shelter to rescue and take care of them. At the age of 6, I started wearing my boots to go on the field behind my house, and I would go wash the cows with my bucket full of water… Then when I grew up, I started dreaming about learning all those different languages and being able to find a job where I could use all of them.
Your name is Aurore F., why have you choose the name "The Early Spring"?
I was in a rock band before and when the band split, and I had some time to think about what I wanted to do, I didn’t want to keep my real name. First of all, because I wanted to keep some distance between the person and my music. Then, I also thought that no one who’s not speaking French would be able to pronounce my name correctly (which I don’t mind, I think it’s quite funny) but I thought I might as well find something easier and that’s when I came up with the idea of The Early Spring. I didn’t want to use a fake name, and I liked this concept of a "theme" representing my music. So I browsed a little bit to get some inspiration and when I saw this one word (which I don’t even recall) I had this name popping in my head and it made perfect sense to me.
You had the idea of working with other musician(s) for this project?
To be honest, after being in a band for a few years, I loved the idea of being completely free to do what I love, what I want without having to compromise. It is also easier because the way I write my music, I need to get in a “bubble” and everything needs to come together smoothly within the time I am in this bubble. If later on, I have to pick up the song unfinished (I mean if the structure of the song and the lyrics are not done), It is really unlikely that I will give a life to the song. But, with that said, I do miss the energy of being on stage with a team, and to be able to give my music more dimension…Because what I can do, when I’m at home, recording many different tracks, adding vocals and instruments, I can’t do on my own during a gig.
Your first video was posted 7 years ago. Can you remember the first time you decided you wanted to be a singer?
Hahaha…yes…it is almost embarrassing. I was 5, and I was singing the Little Mermaid in my bathtub. Mom was in the bathroom too and I had this fork in my hand, trying to brush my hair like Arielle and after humming “haaaaaa, haaaaa….” for a while, I said to mom something like: I know who I want to be when I grow up. I want to be a singer mermaid. And I never stopped singing after that… I eventually dropped the mermaid part though… but music has been my passion ever since.
Are your family members are musicians?
One of my brothers played a lot piano when I was a kid. My siblings are 12-13 years older than me and so they would come back from university on weekends and when I was really small, I remember that the basement was magical to me. That’s where the piano was stored. And when my brother was playing, I always had those small butterflies and I would go downstairs and sit next to him… I’m sure that helped me getting so much in touch with music at a young age. My dad was a singer when he was a kid but unfortunately, there are no videos or recordings...
How many instruments do you play and why?
My best instrument is my voice. I love using it and try to sing lower and higher, etc… Then I play guitar, I learned by myself. I play a little bit of piano but I also learned alone and it is not easy. And then I like to play around with everything really. I have a ukulele at home, as well as some drums and instruments for kids, harmonica, Glockenspiel, … I just use my ears and try to trust what I think sounds good.
What was the first tune(s) you learned?
Wow that is a difficult one… I’m trying to remember… I would say Little Mermaid if we go all the way back. But with my guitar, I think it would be "Message from your Heart" from Kina Grannis.
What are the different types of music that you sing?
I really sing everything just because I love learning new ways of singing, I love exploring other styles too and I like the challenge. I would not sing heavy metal though, that is just not my thing… But the music I write and sing, I guess it is more folk acoustic if you have to give it a name.
You have recorded many covers that you have perfectly adapted to your sweet voice (Sound of Silence, Giving Up, Stay....), how do you choose them?
Thank you :) I actually just cover the songs that touch me in a way or another. If I find a track so pretty that I can’t stop humming it, then I’m sure I need to cover it. It’s a feeling thing. I also like having requests so I have the opportunity to sing something that I would probably not sing otherwise.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing your songs? Music or lyrics first?
Sure. Like I said, I need to get into a bubble. I can’t just decide to sit there for some time and force myself to come up with something. I did it, and I think that once or twice I came up with something, but the best case scenario would be that once I get this inspiration and idea in my head, I would have a guitar at hand, and I would just lose myself in the creation of the song. It usually takes less than an hour and everything is slowly building together (lyrics and music) as I go on.
Do you plan to record an album or to write more songs?
That would be my dream. I was playing gigs and I was writing a lot but then I moved to Munich, and for some reasons, I lost touch with my guitar and I couldn’t write anymore. But I’ve been back in Belgium for a year now and I started writing music again and my inspiration and motivation came back so I plan on working hard and maybe record something soon...
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really like it and I think it is a nice platform to give artists a chance to get to know each other. I am actually planning on listening to every artist that gave you an interview!
Do you have a favorite musician among those I regularly share?
I don’t know yet, as I was not aware of this blog of yours, but I will make sure to tell you once I listened to this playlist I made :)
You remove your glasses for the majority of your videos, is my page could make you change your mind?
Haha, it might :)
What kind of music do you listen to today?
Right now, I am actually listening to this playlist on Spotify called “Cuban Roots Playlist”. I’m in the need of sun and vacation vibe, and I really enjoy Cuban music. (When I told you, I listen to a LOT of different kinds…). In general, within one day, I could go from folk, to electronic, and stop for some reggae or rock or pop or even classical music...
Which famous musicians do you admire and why?
I have to say, without a doubt, Kina Grannis because she is the one who inspired me to take my guitar on my own and not being afraid to be myself and write and sing what I love and not what people expect me to sing. She has a great heart and sense of integrity and that shows in her music and in the way she treats other people and I admire that.
Can we know your favorite song?
Favorite song…it changes all the time… If I have to think of one right now, one that will stay forever is “Yellow Eyes” from Rayland Baxter.
What are your hobbies apart from the music?
I love cooking, travelling, hanging out with my friends and family, hiking, reading, working out, watching sport games, playing video games, gardening, meeting new people, talking different languages,...
What hidden talents do you have?
I guess I can cook ok? :)
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
I unfortunately don’t have a website for The Early Spring. You can find me on Facebook and Twitter and YouTube (always with ‘TheEarlySpring’ and there is bigcartel.com where I used to sell my EP “Meeting with a guitar” but I need to follow up with this last one...
Do you have plans for 2016 (concert, EP,....)?
Yes!! I am working hard on getting my tracks back together and I am hoping to start getting pro-active with gigs really soon. There are some emails and things getting planned so fingers crossed! A new EP… is also on the agenda :)
jeudi 26 novembre 2015
Vanessa Murray
I'm very excited to introduce to you an incredibly talented singer/songwriter from Liverpool: Vanessa Murray.
Vanessa released her debut E.P. "It's About Time" on iTunes 7th November 2015 and she received many positive reviews (Including Sandie Shaw who praised Vanessa’s musicality as ‘Astonishing’, Paul Carrack who described Vanessa as a “Great New Artist” and Jo Dipple Cwho described Vanessa’s songwriting ability as “Incredible”).
This talented young singer is often described as "a small girl with a big voice", she's a very talented woman. Just listen to any song she sings, she is literally a powerhouse of emotions.
An absolutely awesome artist!
Another beautiful song "Tell Me Something" written & produced by Joung Hee Chai and performed by Vanessa Murray (Vocal) & Audun Laading (Bass) here on Soundcloud.
The Vanessa Murray's channel and her complete last live show on the bottom of this page.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Vanessa.
Let’s start at the beginning, where did you grow up, are you originally from Liverpool?
I was born in Liverpool and have lived here ever since. I do however get asked if I am from spanish descent because of my olive skin tone haha!
What started your love for music, and how old were you?
I remember watching a lot of the music channels on TV when I was younger. The band BUSTED in particular caught my attention because they played guitar and I thought they looked really cool haha. I was inspired to pick up guitar from then and have been playing since I was 11 years old.
How did you figure out you can sing and do you remember the first song ever sung?
I always sang along to songs when I was younger. I joined the school choir and that was my first opportunity to perform in front of an audience. But the first song I ever sang by myself in front of an audience was ‘A Thousand Miles’ by Vanessa Carlton. It was for a school competition and my performance was chosen to win the competition.
Is what you studied music or did you learn on your own?
I learned a lot of chords from watching my musical friends around me, but I have also picked up other things by myself. I think the internet has played a big role in recent years with the amount of tutorials on YouTube.
Who were some of your singing influences growing up?
When I first started writing songs I was really into rock bands such as Paramore. So I would stylistically sing with an american twang. I think this was because at that point I hadn’t found my own voice but I have definitely found it now.
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard you perform?
I would describe my music as catchy acoustic pop
How would you define your approach toward music?
I think my approach is quite relaxed. I know some music theory but I tend to write and compose music by using my ear and really listening to what I think sounds nice. I’ve been experimenting on different instruments when it comes to songwriting which has helped with the creative side.
What was your first recording?
My first recording was a song I wrote with a couple of friends from school. We were 11/12 years old and it was our first attempt at writing a song. It was called ‘It Ain’t Cool To Be A Bully’. I was singing the song and playing rhythm guitar on the song. I couldn’t play the guitar very well at that point so it wasn’t very good. It’s quite funny to listen back to though!
You released your first E.P. " It's About Time" the 7th November 2015. Have you written all the songs for this album?
That’s right! Yes I wrote all of the songs for the EP. The collection of songs were written over the past 4 years (since I first starting my solo project).
Are your songs mostly fictional or autobiographical? Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
My songs are mostly autobiographical although some songs have been inspired by another persons life events.
There are many reasons why I write the way I do. Firstly, I believe that an audience can connect with the songs more if they have a personal approach. Also it really helps to write down your thoughts and emotions and then turn it into a song. It’s therapeutic in a way.
Will you release an album? Can you tell us a little more?
I would love to eventually release an album! I’m working on my songwriting and I'm constantly building my repertoire. I’m definitely not going to leave it 4 years until I release something else!
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really like the blog, there’s a variety of artists and some really great questions asked. I really loved Ray Gibsons video. She has a beautiful voice! I also see that you interviewed Billy The Kid, I supported her at her Liverpool show back in 2013.
How long are you wearing glasses?
I have been wearing glasses since I was 11 years old
Is this appearance is important to you? Do you really need glasses?
When I was younger I only really needed glasses for watching TV and going on the computer but I continued to wear them so now I wear them permanently. I quite like having the option to wear glasses or contact lenses. I think the glasses give off a more distinctive look.
Is that you have a web site to disseminate your music?
I have a website because it looks professional and I can edit it how I like. It’s also easier for an audience to contact if they don’t have social media accounts such as Twitter and Facebook. I do need to update it more often though!
Website: Vanessa Murray
Facebook: Vanessa Murray
Twitter : @vanessamurray95
Soundcloud: Vanessa Murray
What artists do you like listening to?
I will always love Sara Bareilles but quite recently I have found a love for the duo Oh Wonder. They have such a great style and really catchy songs.
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
Yes! I’ve written a single with collaboration group Operation Lightfoot which is available on iTunes. I’ve also recently collaborated with Ross 248 on an electronic pop song called Tell Me Something which can be heard on SoundCloud.
If you could collaborate with one singer, who would you choose and why?
It would have to be Sara Bareilles because she is my favourite artist lyrically and stylistically. I don’t think there is a song of hers that I don’t like. Sara writes from the heart and isn’t afraid of being honest in her lyrics. I really admire that.
What are the challenges you face today getting your music out?
The internet is a great place to promote your music across the world but it’s also becoming increasingly difficult to be seen because of the sheer volume of musicians. I think it’s sometimes difficult to find your market and target them specifically. As a musician you also need to be a jack of all trades, so as well as writing and performing, you need to manage yourself, edit photo’s and videos, update and be active on social media. Sometimes I find it distracting from creating music.
Are there any plans for a tour?
At the moment I’m focussing a lot on my final year at university. I’m studying music at LIPA. In the spare time that I have, I hope to start gigging outside of Liverpool to keep building my profile and help promote the EP.
What are your goals/dreams in life?
My ultimate dream is to travel the world playing my music and to know that my music is relatable and has inspired someone.
What's next for you?
I’m going to be working on a single next year. I have one in mind as I’ve received a lot of positive feedback with that song recently.
Vanessa released her debut E.P. "It's About Time" on iTunes 7th November 2015 and she received many positive reviews (Including Sandie Shaw who praised Vanessa’s musicality as ‘Astonishing’, Paul Carrack who described Vanessa as a “Great New Artist” and Jo Dipple Cwho described Vanessa’s songwriting ability as “Incredible”).
This talented young singer is often described as "a small girl with a big voice", she's a very talented woman. Just listen to any song she sings, she is literally a powerhouse of emotions.
An absolutely awesome artist!
Another beautiful song "Tell Me Something" written & produced by Joung Hee Chai and performed by Vanessa Murray (Vocal) & Audun Laading (Bass) here on Soundcloud.
The Vanessa Murray's channel and her complete last live show on the bottom of this page.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Vanessa.
Let’s start at the beginning, where did you grow up, are you originally from Liverpool?
I was born in Liverpool and have lived here ever since. I do however get asked if I am from spanish descent because of my olive skin tone haha!
What started your love for music, and how old were you?
I remember watching a lot of the music channels on TV when I was younger. The band BUSTED in particular caught my attention because they played guitar and I thought they looked really cool haha. I was inspired to pick up guitar from then and have been playing since I was 11 years old.
How did you figure out you can sing and do you remember the first song ever sung?
I always sang along to songs when I was younger. I joined the school choir and that was my first opportunity to perform in front of an audience. But the first song I ever sang by myself in front of an audience was ‘A Thousand Miles’ by Vanessa Carlton. It was for a school competition and my performance was chosen to win the competition.
Is what you studied music or did you learn on your own?
I learned a lot of chords from watching my musical friends around me, but I have also picked up other things by myself. I think the internet has played a big role in recent years with the amount of tutorials on YouTube.
Who were some of your singing influences growing up?
When I first started writing songs I was really into rock bands such as Paramore. So I would stylistically sing with an american twang. I think this was because at that point I hadn’t found my own voice but I have definitely found it now.
How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard you perform?
I would describe my music as catchy acoustic pop
How would you define your approach toward music?
I think my approach is quite relaxed. I know some music theory but I tend to write and compose music by using my ear and really listening to what I think sounds nice. I’ve been experimenting on different instruments when it comes to songwriting which has helped with the creative side.
What was your first recording?
My first recording was a song I wrote with a couple of friends from school. We were 11/12 years old and it was our first attempt at writing a song. It was called ‘It Ain’t Cool To Be A Bully’. I was singing the song and playing rhythm guitar on the song. I couldn’t play the guitar very well at that point so it wasn’t very good. It’s quite funny to listen back to though!
You released your first E.P. " It's About Time" the 7th November 2015. Have you written all the songs for this album?
That’s right! Yes I wrote all of the songs for the EP. The collection of songs were written over the past 4 years (since I first starting my solo project).
Are your songs mostly fictional or autobiographical? Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
My songs are mostly autobiographical although some songs have been inspired by another persons life events.
There are many reasons why I write the way I do. Firstly, I believe that an audience can connect with the songs more if they have a personal approach. Also it really helps to write down your thoughts and emotions and then turn it into a song. It’s therapeutic in a way.
Will you release an album? Can you tell us a little more?
I would love to eventually release an album! I’m working on my songwriting and I'm constantly building my repertoire. I’m definitely not going to leave it 4 years until I release something else!
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really like the blog, there’s a variety of artists and some really great questions asked. I really loved Ray Gibsons video. She has a beautiful voice! I also see that you interviewed Billy The Kid, I supported her at her Liverpool show back in 2013.
How long are you wearing glasses?
I have been wearing glasses since I was 11 years old
Is this appearance is important to you? Do you really need glasses?
When I was younger I only really needed glasses for watching TV and going on the computer but I continued to wear them so now I wear them permanently. I quite like having the option to wear glasses or contact lenses. I think the glasses give off a more distinctive look.
Is that you have a web site to disseminate your music?
I have a website because it looks professional and I can edit it how I like. It’s also easier for an audience to contact if they don’t have social media accounts such as Twitter and Facebook. I do need to update it more often though!
Website: Vanessa Murray
Facebook: Vanessa Murray
Twitter : @vanessamurray95
Soundcloud: Vanessa Murray
What artists do you like listening to?
I will always love Sara Bareilles but quite recently I have found a love for the duo Oh Wonder. They have such a great style and really catchy songs.
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
Yes! I’ve written a single with collaboration group Operation Lightfoot which is available on iTunes. I’ve also recently collaborated with Ross 248 on an electronic pop song called Tell Me Something which can be heard on SoundCloud.
If you could collaborate with one singer, who would you choose and why?
It would have to be Sara Bareilles because she is my favourite artist lyrically and stylistically. I don’t think there is a song of hers that I don’t like. Sara writes from the heart and isn’t afraid of being honest in her lyrics. I really admire that.
What are the challenges you face today getting your music out?
The internet is a great place to promote your music across the world but it’s also becoming increasingly difficult to be seen because of the sheer volume of musicians. I think it’s sometimes difficult to find your market and target them specifically. As a musician you also need to be a jack of all trades, so as well as writing and performing, you need to manage yourself, edit photo’s and videos, update and be active on social media. Sometimes I find it distracting from creating music.
Are there any plans for a tour?
At the moment I’m focussing a lot on my final year at university. I’m studying music at LIPA. In the spare time that I have, I hope to start gigging outside of Liverpool to keep building my profile and help promote the EP.
What are your goals/dreams in life?
My ultimate dream is to travel the world playing my music and to know that my music is relatable and has inspired someone.
What's next for you?
I’m going to be working on a single next year. I have one in mind as I’ve received a lot of positive feedback with that song recently.
dimanche 17 mai 2015
Klara
The new interview is with the sweet singer-songwriter Klara. She's the first Polish singer interviewed on this blog.
Her debut album "Away" was published in 2012. This album has reached the place in the top 20 best-selling CDs in Poland.
I strongly advise you to go and listen to this talented songwriter, you will hear her beautiful songs and her exceptional captivating voice. Incredibly cute.
Her channel: Klara and her last live video on the bottom of this page.
Thank you so much for the interview Klara. Can you tell us a little bit about you, where were you born, where have you lived?
I was born in Lódz, a city in central Poland. Currently, I live in a small village near this city. I also study in Lódz.
Maria-Klara Jedrzejewska is your name but you use only Klara. Why this short artistic name?
It is surprising that you know my full name! Actually, only few people know that there is some “Maria” before “Klara”, even my friends often aren’t aware of this fact. My parents, mates and teachers have been calling me “Klara” since I remember, and I barely use my first name - only in some official situations – it’s sometimes quite confusing. That is why I decided to sign in such a simple way on the records. To tell you the truth, now I wish I could change it into something more abstract. So many artists nowadays use their names as a artistic pseudonyms. I think I will try to change it into something more than just my name in the future.
What is your musical background and how you got started in music? At what age did you start singing?
I started when I was 7 years old. My parents noticed that I was quite good at playing toy pianos and I was able to repeat some melodies on them using just my ears. They decided to sign me up for some piano lessons, but I’ve never attended any music school. After few years, when I was about 10, I began observing how the harmony is created and how do the accords work. That was the moment when I started composing my own songs.
When did you decide to become a singer and songwriter?
I think I’ve never decided to become a singer or a songwriter. Today I am not sure what will I do for my living. Will it be singing, some typical work or both. Music was always a way of living for me, when I was a kid and a teen. It came naturally to me. When I was younger, some people were saying that I had got no talent for singing. I didn’t give up and I was still doing it a lot, especially for myself, because I loved it. Year by year, more people seemed to be interested in my songs and singing. After my album has been released, I finally started believing that maybe there is a tiny chance for me to do in life something which I like, not something which I will just try to like.
You released your first CD "Away" in 2012. Have you written all the songs for this album?
Yes, the songs on “Away” have been written by me. Arrangements were developed by me and producer, Artur Gadowski, who is also my “discoverer”.
You play several instruments on it, piano, guitar, ukulele, xylophone, how many instruments do you play?
Generally, I play the piano, guitar and ukulele. And unfortunately I’m not very good at any of them. I think I’m just not patient enough. I dream about playing cello.
Some of the songs express the sadness. Are you sad in life?
Yes, I think I’m quite sad person in life. People don’t like me when I moan, so it’s nice to have an opportunity to express feelings in songs.
Where do you get the inspiration for your music?
I don’t know, seriously. If I knew, I would probably write much more songs.
Can you describe your music in one sentence?
Simple, sometimes weird, calm songs sung by a little girl, who doesn’t want to grow up.
You make the drawing for the cover of this first album, it's important for you to do everything?
There wasn’t a lot of time for planning graphical design of the album, so I found it much more convenient to be responsible for that. It’s also a nice thing to make a package of a CD yours. I think that in the future I’ll also try my best to do some things on my own and personalize my albums, just as they were my diaries, because they actually are.
Two amazing videos were released: Enchanted and The Cliff. Are you also involved in their creation?
As it can be seen I was merely an actor. Screenplays, ideas and the process of filmmaking are the products of the work of director Klara Kochanska-Bajon and her team.
Klara: Enchanted
Klara: The Cliff
Do you take care of your appearance?
Everyone cares a little bit. I am specific girl, because I hate such things as make-up and I generally don’t wear it on a daily basis. I also hate high-heels. These are two things which I really can’t understand. Especially high-heels. On the other hand, I always wear skirts or dresses. I also keep my hair long, mainly because of the fact that I’m afraid of hairdressers. I think that these points are some of characteristic elements of my appearance.
You keep your glasses on for promotional pics and videos. Is this appearance is important to you? Do you really need glasses?
Without glasses I can hardly see anything. I’m that type of person, who doesn’t wear things that aren’t necessary. For example, I never wear jewelry. Glasses are important for me and I keep them big, because I sometimes try to hide behind them, they make me feel safer.
Have you ever visited my blog and discovered some artists?
Yes, I think that your blog is an interesting idea. You know so many artists with glasses! That’s impressive. I wish you and your blog all the best.
If you weren't singing, what would you be doing?
I study information technology at technical university, but I don’t believe that I could do only such technical-scientific things, because in fact, I don’t like it most of the time. I think that I could get into drawing and painting or writing short stories, I also like taking pictures sometimes. What is more, I was always attracted to herbariums and greenhouses. Sometimes I imagine studying botany, having my own beautiful herbarium and lots of small plants.
What are your plans for the future?
Future is now. I don’t like thinking about next years, as they scare me. I wish I could do something that would make me happy. I’m afraid of getting old or even becoming an adult. Sometimes I’m angry that I spend the most beautiful years of my life in school. Lots of people say it will pay off in the future, but I’m afraid it won’t. It requires a great courage to go your own way if you try to be an artist.
Can you promote some links to discover your music?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klarasounds
Bandcamp: klarasounds.bandcamp.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/klarasound
You speak a little French, are you planning to sing in French?
Maybe it’s possible. However, singing in foreign languages is difficult. I am used to English as I started with this particular language years ago, but unfortunately my accent isn’t perfect and I sometimes get really sad about it. I occasionally write songs in Polish, but this language contains lots of unpleasant sounds and in the result it’s hard to write Polish song, which sounds nice to my ear. French is tough and I’m afraid that my pronunciation would be so awful… Especially now, when I wear braces, it’s sometimes really hard to produce some nuanced sounds. But in the future, why not? I’ve been thinking about it many times already.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I usually tend to choose quiet music. And by “quiet” I mean organized and controlled. I really don’t like chaos and messy songs, filled with tons of different instruments, which are mixing with each other producing noise. The calmest song on an album is probably my favourite, however there are some exceptions. I love when the band is able to keep the energetic, rhythmic song tidy.
Are you working on any new material?
I am constantly working on some new songs. I’m still looking for something even more exciting and hopefully I will find it one day.
Can you leave us with one last thought about your next album?
If I think of one illustration, which can describe my plans, I see my blue bed with me in it, drifting across the ocean.
Her debut album "Away" was published in 2012. This album has reached the place in the top 20 best-selling CDs in Poland.
I strongly advise you to go and listen to this talented songwriter, you will hear her beautiful songs and her exceptional captivating voice. Incredibly cute.
Her channel: Klara and her last live video on the bottom of this page.
Thank you so much for the interview Klara. Can you tell us a little bit about you, where were you born, where have you lived?
I was born in Lódz, a city in central Poland. Currently, I live in a small village near this city. I also study in Lódz.
Maria-Klara Jedrzejewska is your name but you use only Klara. Why this short artistic name?
It is surprising that you know my full name! Actually, only few people know that there is some “Maria” before “Klara”, even my friends often aren’t aware of this fact. My parents, mates and teachers have been calling me “Klara” since I remember, and I barely use my first name - only in some official situations – it’s sometimes quite confusing. That is why I decided to sign in such a simple way on the records. To tell you the truth, now I wish I could change it into something more abstract. So many artists nowadays use their names as a artistic pseudonyms. I think I will try to change it into something more than just my name in the future.
What is your musical background and how you got started in music? At what age did you start singing?
I started when I was 7 years old. My parents noticed that I was quite good at playing toy pianos and I was able to repeat some melodies on them using just my ears. They decided to sign me up for some piano lessons, but I’ve never attended any music school. After few years, when I was about 10, I began observing how the harmony is created and how do the accords work. That was the moment when I started composing my own songs.
When did you decide to become a singer and songwriter?
I think I’ve never decided to become a singer or a songwriter. Today I am not sure what will I do for my living. Will it be singing, some typical work or both. Music was always a way of living for me, when I was a kid and a teen. It came naturally to me. When I was younger, some people were saying that I had got no talent for singing. I didn’t give up and I was still doing it a lot, especially for myself, because I loved it. Year by year, more people seemed to be interested in my songs and singing. After my album has been released, I finally started believing that maybe there is a tiny chance for me to do in life something which I like, not something which I will just try to like.
You released your first CD "Away" in 2012. Have you written all the songs for this album?
Yes, the songs on “Away” have been written by me. Arrangements were developed by me and producer, Artur Gadowski, who is also my “discoverer”.
You play several instruments on it, piano, guitar, ukulele, xylophone, how many instruments do you play?
Generally, I play the piano, guitar and ukulele. And unfortunately I’m not very good at any of them. I think I’m just not patient enough. I dream about playing cello.
Some of the songs express the sadness. Are you sad in life?
Yes, I think I’m quite sad person in life. People don’t like me when I moan, so it’s nice to have an opportunity to express feelings in songs.
Where do you get the inspiration for your music?
I don’t know, seriously. If I knew, I would probably write much more songs.
Can you describe your music in one sentence?
Simple, sometimes weird, calm songs sung by a little girl, who doesn’t want to grow up.
You make the drawing for the cover of this first album, it's important for you to do everything?
There wasn’t a lot of time for planning graphical design of the album, so I found it much more convenient to be responsible for that. It’s also a nice thing to make a package of a CD yours. I think that in the future I’ll also try my best to do some things on my own and personalize my albums, just as they were my diaries, because they actually are.
Two amazing videos were released: Enchanted and The Cliff. Are you also involved in their creation?
As it can be seen I was merely an actor. Screenplays, ideas and the process of filmmaking are the products of the work of director Klara Kochanska-Bajon and her team.
Klara: Enchanted
Klara: The Cliff
Do you take care of your appearance?
Everyone cares a little bit. I am specific girl, because I hate such things as make-up and I generally don’t wear it on a daily basis. I also hate high-heels. These are two things which I really can’t understand. Especially high-heels. On the other hand, I always wear skirts or dresses. I also keep my hair long, mainly because of the fact that I’m afraid of hairdressers. I think that these points are some of characteristic elements of my appearance.
You keep your glasses on for promotional pics and videos. Is this appearance is important to you? Do you really need glasses?
Without glasses I can hardly see anything. I’m that type of person, who doesn’t wear things that aren’t necessary. For example, I never wear jewelry. Glasses are important for me and I keep them big, because I sometimes try to hide behind them, they make me feel safer.
Have you ever visited my blog and discovered some artists?
Yes, I think that your blog is an interesting idea. You know so many artists with glasses! That’s impressive. I wish you and your blog all the best.
If you weren't singing, what would you be doing?
I study information technology at technical university, but I don’t believe that I could do only such technical-scientific things, because in fact, I don’t like it most of the time. I think that I could get into drawing and painting or writing short stories, I also like taking pictures sometimes. What is more, I was always attracted to herbariums and greenhouses. Sometimes I imagine studying botany, having my own beautiful herbarium and lots of small plants.
What are your plans for the future?
Future is now. I don’t like thinking about next years, as they scare me. I wish I could do something that would make me happy. I’m afraid of getting old or even becoming an adult. Sometimes I’m angry that I spend the most beautiful years of my life in school. Lots of people say it will pay off in the future, but I’m afraid it won’t. It requires a great courage to go your own way if you try to be an artist.
Can you promote some links to discover your music?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klarasounds
Bandcamp: klarasounds.bandcamp.com
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/klarasound
You speak a little French, are you planning to sing in French?
Maybe it’s possible. However, singing in foreign languages is difficult. I am used to English as I started with this particular language years ago, but unfortunately my accent isn’t perfect and I sometimes get really sad about it. I occasionally write songs in Polish, but this language contains lots of unpleasant sounds and in the result it’s hard to write Polish song, which sounds nice to my ear. French is tough and I’m afraid that my pronunciation would be so awful… Especially now, when I wear braces, it’s sometimes really hard to produce some nuanced sounds. But in the future, why not? I’ve been thinking about it many times already.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I usually tend to choose quiet music. And by “quiet” I mean organized and controlled. I really don’t like chaos and messy songs, filled with tons of different instruments, which are mixing with each other producing noise. The calmest song on an album is probably my favourite, however there are some exceptions. I love when the band is able to keep the energetic, rhythmic song tidy.
Are you working on any new material?
I am constantly working on some new songs. I’m still looking for something even more exciting and hopefully I will find it one day.
Can you leave us with one last thought about your next album?
If I think of one illustration, which can describe my plans, I see my blue bed with me in it, drifting across the ocean.
mercredi 15 avril 2015
Andrea Hamilton
I'm honored to share the new interview with the amazing singer Andrea Hamilton. She is an indie-folk singer/songwriter from Kansas City.
I recommend you listen to her past albums: 'Stronger Than I Seem' (2006), 'Deciding What to Keep' (2008), 'Green and Blue' with Valeri Lopez (2009), 'Slow Miracle' (2011) and 'Salvation Come' (2012) as well as her two live albums: 'Live at Safe Haven' (2007) and 'Live at The Culture House' (2010).
I advise you to visit her website for more informations: Andrea Hamilton.
Thank you so much for acepting this interview. Can you tell us more about yourself? Where did you grow up, where do you live?
I was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. I now live in the L.A. area, where I moved to pursue music when I was 18.
When did you start singing and how did you get started?
I started singing at school and church as an elementary student.
What is your favorite instrument?
Piano, because I never get tired of hearing it!
When and how did you become interested in pursuing a music career?
When I was 16 and was booking gigs for the band I was in, and touring in the U.S.
You recorded five studio albums as well as two live albums. Is there a new album soon?
I'm currently writing my next album, which will be full of new, hopeful pop songs! I'm excited
Can you describe your music?
I always describe my music as Hopeful Pop music. It's a bit indie singer/songwriter as well
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
I write lyrics first most of the time, but I never finish them until I have a melody
Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
I feel inspired by life and especially by people who overcome hard times!
Can you give us the main links to buy your music?
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/piano-ep/id527022867
Have you discovered some singers on this blog?
I hadn't heard of too many independent french artists and groups but your blog about Lou and Dust helped me out with that!
You seem wearing your glasses more often since few years. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Your encouragement definitely helped me feel good about my glasses!! thank you!
How long are you wearing glasses?
I've been wearing glasses since I was 12.
How important is image?
I don't think image is the most important thing. It helps people discover my music, but I hope their impression of me is that I have a big, caring heart and not just a good image.
Do you plan to release a new music video soon?
My latest video is my story about healing after being sick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joY38tnF5bo
What was the first CD you ever bought?
Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill - great album!
What are your five favorite songs?
some favorite songs are: There's Hope by India.Arie, Always by Stevie Wonder, and She's Out of My Life by Michael Jackson
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
I wrote "It's a Gift" with a really great artist Jess Penner.
Have you ever perform your music in public?
Yes absolutely I had the privilege of traveling around Asia and the US performing my music
What do you recall of your first performance?
My first performance was at church - a song about Mary the Mother of Jesus - I was 5 or 6 years old.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
Pop, R&B, and worship music
Any loves, other than music?
I love reading and cooking for people
What are the five things you can’t live without?
my husband Trent, vegetables, my car, my guitar, and knowing Jesus
What is a typical day/week like for you?
i sing a lot at Inland Hills Church in California, so a typical week includes planning for that, writing for my next album, marketing and doing youtube videos (or promoting them), scheduling shows, and hanging out with my husband and friends!
Are you living your dream life now?
yes absolutely.
What plans do you have for the future?
I just want to keep making music that brings people hope and healing, and makes them feel less alone
I recommend you listen to her past albums: 'Stronger Than I Seem' (2006), 'Deciding What to Keep' (2008), 'Green and Blue' with Valeri Lopez (2009), 'Slow Miracle' (2011) and 'Salvation Come' (2012) as well as her two live albums: 'Live at Safe Haven' (2007) and 'Live at The Culture House' (2010).
I advise you to visit her website for more informations: Andrea Hamilton.
Thank you so much for acepting this interview. Can you tell us more about yourself? Where did you grow up, where do you live?
I was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and raised in Kansas City, Kansas. I now live in the L.A. area, where I moved to pursue music when I was 18.
When did you start singing and how did you get started?
I started singing at school and church as an elementary student.
What is your favorite instrument?
Piano, because I never get tired of hearing it!
When and how did you become interested in pursuing a music career?
When I was 16 and was booking gigs for the band I was in, and touring in the U.S.
You recorded five studio albums as well as two live albums. Is there a new album soon?
I'm currently writing my next album, which will be full of new, hopeful pop songs! I'm excited
Can you describe your music?
I always describe my music as Hopeful Pop music. It's a bit indie singer/songwriter as well
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
I write lyrics first most of the time, but I never finish them until I have a melody
Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
I feel inspired by life and especially by people who overcome hard times!
Can you give us the main links to buy your music?
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/piano-ep/id527022867
Have you discovered some singers on this blog?
I hadn't heard of too many independent french artists and groups but your blog about Lou and Dust helped me out with that!
You seem wearing your glasses more often since few years. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Your encouragement definitely helped me feel good about my glasses!! thank you!
How long are you wearing glasses?
I've been wearing glasses since I was 12.
How important is image?
I don't think image is the most important thing. It helps people discover my music, but I hope their impression of me is that I have a big, caring heart and not just a good image.
Do you plan to release a new music video soon?
My latest video is my story about healing after being sick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joY38tnF5bo
What was the first CD you ever bought?
Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill - great album!
What are your five favorite songs?
some favorite songs are: There's Hope by India.Arie, Always by Stevie Wonder, and She's Out of My Life by Michael Jackson
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
I wrote "It's a Gift" with a really great artist Jess Penner.
Have you ever perform your music in public?
Yes absolutely I had the privilege of traveling around Asia and the US performing my music
What do you recall of your first performance?
My first performance was at church - a song about Mary the Mother of Jesus - I was 5 or 6 years old.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
Pop, R&B, and worship music
Any loves, other than music?
I love reading and cooking for people
What are the five things you can’t live without?
my husband Trent, vegetables, my car, my guitar, and knowing Jesus
What is a typical day/week like for you?
i sing a lot at Inland Hills Church in California, so a typical week includes planning for that, writing for my next album, marketing and doing youtube videos (or promoting them), scheduling shows, and hanging out with my husband and friends!
Are you living your dream life now?
yes absolutely.
What plans do you have for the future?
I just want to keep making music that brings people hope and healing, and makes them feel less alone
lundi 16 février 2015
Lou & Dust
An interview with the French duet Lou & Dust. Their music is beautiful and the voices are also co-dependent and complementary .
Listen to the video shared here but the others on their youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/louanddust
Thank you so much for the interview Aïcha & Esther. Can you tell us a little bit about you? Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
It's a pleasure ! We are musicians and we play in a women’s duet called Lou & Dust. We grow up in two different areas of France.
Esther grow up in the south of France and now she’s living in Nancy (Lorraine).
Aïcha grow up in the region of Paris, and that’s where she still lives. We're 23 and 24 years old.
Have you had previous experience as a solo singer? Can you give us details of past singing experiences?
We had some experiences but not a lot. We like doing music in solo but… when you meet your artistic alter ego, you have an energy that you couldn’t even imagine before.
Can you remember the first time you decided you wanted to be a musician?
Esther : Wow ! I remember me at 10... Music was the thing I loved the most. But music as a job ? Didn't seem real ! I was afraid to talk about it, it was my secret. I really decided to be a professional musician when I was working in a cultural center in Paris.
Aïcha : Well, at 10 I was in elementary school doing some choreography like the Spice Girls and talking with my BFF about how I'll become a famous singer ! But it was just a little girl's dream, I knew that I have to study and get a “real” job... So I played piano and guitar in my room and choose medicine studies... And thanks god I failed ! And then had nothing to lose to do what I like the most.
Where and when did you meet for the first time?
We've met at music school, “Music Academy International” in Nancy. We saw each other for the first time in backstage in October 2013.
When did you decide to create a group?
A few weeks after we met ! It was obvious.
Who chose the name "Lou & Dust" and why?
Both of us chose the name. It's a balance between the names, a karma thing. We would take hours to explain.
When did you get the idea to start uploading videos?
We did covers at first, we like to choose a song and do it in our way, so why not sharing it ?
Your covers are very eclectic. Who are your main musical influences, and where do you get your inspiration to write your songs?
We have a lot of different influences. And not only musical, everything can be an inspiration.
If you had to name your top 3 artists, who would they be?
Emma Louise, Julien Doré, The Do, Half-moon run, Jeff Buckley, Lola Wolf…That’s more than 3 but you know, we’re two !
Do you prefer write/sing in French or in English?
Definitely in English and we don’t even know why !
How many songs have you written? Who write the music? The lyrics? Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs?
There is no process, we both write music and lyrics. Sometimes together, sometimes not, sometimes with a piano and sometimes with a guitar ! That a lot of sometimes but we do music with our heart, we don’t anticipate.
Is your album soon due?
Not an album but an EP, our first CD, we hope it will be available in spring.
Do you really need glasses? It was a will or a coincidence?
We do really need glasses ! And it's totally a coincidence that we have almost the same. Karma thing again...
Have you discovered some singers through my blog?
Actually, to be honest, we don’t. Sorry ! But we don’t read a lot of blogs, we prefer discover some artistic and weird Tumblr.
Do you have a website to publicize your music? Can you give us few links?
Yeah, you can follow us on Facebook, Soundcloud, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube of course !
https://www.facebook.com/louanddust
http://soundcloud.com/louanddust
http://instagram.com/louanddust
http://lou-and-dust.tumblr.com
https://twitter.com/louanddust
You have a show in Paris soon, are you anxious?
Not really anxious, we can’t wait for it ! It’s gonna be the first time that we’ll be 3 on stage (with our lovely musician, Shrek).
Have you touring or any plans for a tour?
We’d like to organize a tour after the release of our CD.
How many members with you for shows?
We are only 3, both of us and the luckiest guy (haha joke).
What’s the most exciting thing about being on the road?
We didn’t have a tour yet so we don’t know much about that. But we think that being on stage every night and discover cities and people would be amazing.
What are your goals/dreams in life?
We know exactly what we want to do and who we want to become in the music industry. We also know what we don’t want obviously. But it would take hours to explain, and we like to keep it secret ;)
What's next step for "Lou & Dust"?
Run the world ! (Isn’t that a famous song ?!)
Listen to the video shared here but the others on their youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/louanddust
Thank you so much for the interview Aïcha & Esther. Can you tell us a little bit about you? Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
It's a pleasure ! We are musicians and we play in a women’s duet called Lou & Dust. We grow up in two different areas of France.
Esther grow up in the south of France and now she’s living in Nancy (Lorraine).
Aïcha grow up in the region of Paris, and that’s where she still lives. We're 23 and 24 years old.
Have you had previous experience as a solo singer? Can you give us details of past singing experiences?
We had some experiences but not a lot. We like doing music in solo but… when you meet your artistic alter ego, you have an energy that you couldn’t even imagine before.
Can you remember the first time you decided you wanted to be a musician?
Esther : Wow ! I remember me at 10... Music was the thing I loved the most. But music as a job ? Didn't seem real ! I was afraid to talk about it, it was my secret. I really decided to be a professional musician when I was working in a cultural center in Paris.
Aïcha : Well, at 10 I was in elementary school doing some choreography like the Spice Girls and talking with my BFF about how I'll become a famous singer ! But it was just a little girl's dream, I knew that I have to study and get a “real” job... So I played piano and guitar in my room and choose medicine studies... And thanks god I failed ! And then had nothing to lose to do what I like the most.
Where and when did you meet for the first time?
We've met at music school, “Music Academy International” in Nancy. We saw each other for the first time in backstage in October 2013.
When did you decide to create a group?
A few weeks after we met ! It was obvious.
Who chose the name "Lou & Dust" and why?
Both of us chose the name. It's a balance between the names, a karma thing. We would take hours to explain.
When did you get the idea to start uploading videos?
We did covers at first, we like to choose a song and do it in our way, so why not sharing it ?
Your covers are very eclectic. Who are your main musical influences, and where do you get your inspiration to write your songs?
We have a lot of different influences. And not only musical, everything can be an inspiration.
If you had to name your top 3 artists, who would they be?
Emma Louise, Julien Doré, The Do, Half-moon run, Jeff Buckley, Lola Wolf…That’s more than 3 but you know, we’re two !
Do you prefer write/sing in French or in English?
Definitely in English and we don’t even know why !
How many songs have you written? Who write the music? The lyrics? Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs?
There is no process, we both write music and lyrics. Sometimes together, sometimes not, sometimes with a piano and sometimes with a guitar ! That a lot of sometimes but we do music with our heart, we don’t anticipate.
Is your album soon due?
Not an album but an EP, our first CD, we hope it will be available in spring.
Do you really need glasses? It was a will or a coincidence?
We do really need glasses ! And it's totally a coincidence that we have almost the same. Karma thing again...
Have you discovered some singers through my blog?
Actually, to be honest, we don’t. Sorry ! But we don’t read a lot of blogs, we prefer discover some artistic and weird Tumblr.
Do you have a website to publicize your music? Can you give us few links?
Yeah, you can follow us on Facebook, Soundcloud, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube of course !
https://www.facebook.com/louanddust
http://soundcloud.com/louanddust
http://instagram.com/louanddust
http://lou-and-dust.tumblr.com
https://twitter.com/louanddust
You have a show in Paris soon, are you anxious?
Not really anxious, we can’t wait for it ! It’s gonna be the first time that we’ll be 3 on stage (with our lovely musician, Shrek).
Have you touring or any plans for a tour?
We’d like to organize a tour after the release of our CD.
How many members with you for shows?
We are only 3, both of us and the luckiest guy (haha joke).
What’s the most exciting thing about being on the road?
We didn’t have a tour yet so we don’t know much about that. But we think that being on stage every night and discover cities and people would be amazing.
What are your goals/dreams in life?
We know exactly what we want to do and who we want to become in the music industry. We also know what we don’t want obviously. But it would take hours to explain, and we like to keep it secret ;)
What's next step for "Lou & Dust"?
Run the world ! (Isn’t that a famous song ?!)
vendredi 6 février 2015
Fanette
Fanette is an amazing singer always very busy with different musical projects! (Thanks to her for this interview!).
Listen to her music and you will discover this fantastic french singer!
Quickly visit her website at: https://www.facebook.com/Fanettemusic
Is "Fanette" is your real name?
“Fanette” isn't my real name, it's a nickname even though for me I feel like it is. Most of my family and friends call my like that since I was 4 years old.
Can you tell us a little bit about your personal background? Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I'm quite a traveller, I just love people so I'm trying to meet as many people as I can, from everywhere, I think it brings so much to your life to try to understand other cultures. It opens your mind.
I was born in the South of France, Saint Raphaël but I grow up in a little town close to Nancy, in the North East of France. 5 years ago I left for Toronto in Canada, where I lived for about 4 years, and where I started Music, and recently recorded my 1st CD, so that city is very special for me, showed me and taught me so much. She would always be in my heart.
Few months ago, I came back to the East of France, to get a new set ready to start an European tour, that I would begin in the summer 2015. It's gonna be a new challenge for me, I love challenge, I need them in my life. I always performed with a band in Toronto, and right now I wanna come back to myself.
When and why did you start playing music?
Music has been a big part of me all my life. I don't remember not listening to music. I started playing piano for a few years when I was 10 years old. Then I stopped music for a bit and I came back to it at 22 years old, where I taught myself the guitar, and only 4 months after that I wrote my first song..
And then, I never stopped writing, performing , recording.. It became a real drug. I'm not sure about why I start playing, I think I had it in me for a long time, and my first year in Canada was the perfect timing for me to start. I ended up with friends who were all musicians, I had not much to do at that time, so I took the guitar that my dad bought me few years ago..
And this crazy story begins. Now I play Guitar, Ukulele, Concertina, Kalimba and Keyboard.
What was the title of your first song? What do you think of that song now?
Actually there is a funny story behind my first song. It's called “No One Loves Loneliness”, I was staying at a friend's place in Toronto when I wrote it, because I had no home at that time. So I wrote it in their living room one day..
And two years later, when they moved out, and I moved in, and that living room became my bedroom, that special living room where I wrote my first song. I really love that song actually. I worked so hard on it, because I was so scared I was gonna do something so bad, and I didn't want it to happen, so I put so much time and energy to write something as interesting as I could.
It was not as natural and real as what I write right now, for sure, but I still enjoy that song very much and I'm still performing it at shows.
What are the different types of genres that you sing?
I sing what I feel like singing. I'm honestly very bad at covering songs and sing exactly what the singer does, I just can't do it. I can't help but putting my own universe on the songs, so singing the way I like.
I don't like singing too loud or pushing my voice too much. I want to be as real as possible when I sing, this is why my voice is between talking and singing sometimes. And when I sing, I like suggesting a sweet melody, without pushing it too much.
But if one day I feel like screaming a bit, or singing louder, I'll do it, I do it in one of my songs actually.. It really depends on what I feel, I try not to think about it, because that would take away realness for me.
Can you describe your music?
I never know how to answer that question, and every person that come to my show, tell me that they can understand why! My friends use to say about my music that it's “haunting poetic folk” , and I like that, I think it's the best description.
My music is Folk, this is for sure, but also is a very atmospheric, ambient music as well.
What musicians have the greatest impact on you and why?
My dad was a big fan of the Rolling Stones and classical music, and my mom of the French Singer Francis Cabrel, which is a poetic, pop/folk artist. And I'm very glad I grow up between those two kind of music which are very different from each other, but both powerful and with so much talent, because it makes me open to like different kind of music, and when I hear my music, I can feel that influence for sure.
Because I use a lot of classical instruments, like violon, viola, double bass to create something very deep and atmospheric. Also because I like playing with different kind of music to create my own one and doing something original.
More recently, singers such as Leonard Cohen inspired me a lot. I just think it's so beautiful how you can be so powerful by singing quietly. And he's also a genius to me as a songwriter.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I listen to all kind of music. I have a special love for quiet, intimate songs, where I can feel the emotions of the singers. I love listening to lyrics and try to understand the artist, I can spend so many hours reading lyrics.
I also love when people use instruments to create something new. I love Chilly Gonzales, who used a symphony orchestra to create a rap album, to give only one example.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really love the blog, I love discovering new artists, being on internet and trying to find artists that would touch me or that would make me want to collaborate with them , for example. And this blog made me discover great talent, so it's great.
It's very hard to be an artist nowadays and to try to push our art as far as we can, and being able to live from it, so those blogs have so much importance for us, we definitely need them.
You usually wear your specs. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Not really, I mean I've always loved glasses. I was 5 years old when an eye doctor told my parents I would need to wear glasses. At first I found that fun, but after few years.. When I became a teenager who was “too cool to wear glasses” I stopped.
But few years ago I had migraines so I had to wear glasses again but I went to see different shops and I was tired of seeing all those “big black glasses” .. So I decided to ask if I could turn sunglasses into viewglasses.. and he said yes. And my actual glasses were born ;)
Do you think your glasses will become your trademark?
I don't know if my glasses would become my trademark, I don't think that way in general about my music neither, I'm thinking more in a simple way. I like to wear them (and my headaches tell me thanks too!) so you'll see me very often with them that's for sure.
You worked with another great singer who wear glasses: Sara Wilkinson. How did you encountered?
Sara Wilkinson is my best friend, we've known each other since almost 3 years now. We met at a pub one night in Toronto through a common friend.. And start to talk in french for hours!
We literally became best friends that day. And then roommates for almost 2 years.
You plan to work together again?
Oh definitely. I mean, she would be singing on my upcoming CD, and she is planning on coming to France and Europe with me, where I will be playing shows..
So yes, I think we'll be always doing music together, even if it's just for fun.
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
I love collaboration. I love meeting new people in general, I think it makes you. I did work with a band called Drone Doctors when I was in Toronto, which was a lot of fun! I would definitely collaborate again in the future!
I love seeing what new people could see in my music, that maybe I never saw! It's a beautiful sing. And I would love to work on other people's work as well!
Do you participate in other projects as singer/songwritter?
I would like to do it one day, but for now I'm focusing on my music and it's taking me so much time that I don't have time to do something else. A friend wrote a song a while ago and wanted me to write the music for it. Which I did, and it would be actually on my 1st CD. And I'm working on some other projects as well, that would happen in the future, once I'm done working on my CD.
You will release your first album soon. Can you tell us a little more?
Yes for sure. I'm very excited about it. It's a lot of work and I'm a perfectionist, so you'll have to be a bit patient, but you won't be disappointed! I put all my heart on it! I was lucky to meet Mike Timmins (Cowboy Junkies) in Toronto, he came to one of my shows one day, loved my music and came talking to me after, saying he would like to work with me. And he's gonna produce that 1st CD.
We already recorded a bunch of stuff and it sounds so great, we still have more recording to do, and all the mixing process, that's why I'm saying you'll have to be a bit patient!
Are you going to sing in French or English, and why?
I'm gonna have 4 song in French and 8 in English. It was very important for me to have both on my CD. Because I love writing in English and it's usually what comes first to me.
But French in my language, I'm from France and I couldn't do a CD without having my own language on it. I wanted to have the french part of me on it too.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
It really depends on the song, on the mood I'm in , and also on the theme of the song. All my songs are true stories, and I write them because I have to, to feel better in my head.
Writing is my way of healing, and also my of expressing my feelings and my thought about Life. So this is not really me who is gonna decide who comes first. It just comes to me, one day.
I remember I really wanted to write about my dad, for personal reasons, but it was very hard for me to write about him. For a whole year I said : “I'll do it, I'll write about it. I want to, I have to.” but nothing were coming. One day I had my guitar in my hands and was playing around, and I played that melody. And I knew. I texted a friend and said : “This is it. I'm writing the song about my dad”. And I called it “Confession”, and it's gonna be on my CD as well. So I think this is my own process of writing.. Let my body telling me how, and when.
Your amazing fever cover will be on this CD?
No it won't, it would only be originals on my CD. I love doing covers though, and I would always do so. But for I do covers as a break from working on my own music for fun. And I always like to change the songs, and make it my own, put my personality on it. This is what I like in covering songs. I would definitely sing it during my shows in Europe though! I'm working on that new set right now!
Have you ever perform your music in public?
Oh yes! A lot of times! Actually you'll find some of my live performances on youtube. I love playing live, I played shows in Toronto for about two years, at least once a month, sometimes 2 or 3 times. I was playing as much as I could! Now I'm back in France since a few months and working on a new set for new shows, so I'm taking a break, but I'll be back on stage this summer, in Europe this time!
For the stage, are you joined by a band?
In toronto, I was. I had at least 3 people with me, and sometimes 7. Viola, Violin, Accordion, Flute, Mandolin, Banjo, Double Bass, or Cajon.
In Europe it's gonna be a bit different though. I want to share my music even more than what I did in the past. I'll be playing different instruments myself, and work on a set where I could invite local musicians from every city to come play on my songs, and also be able to invite people from the audience to come adding something on the set. I'm very excited about this project , actually.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
Yes I definitely do. You can go on my facebook, this is where I'm the most active usually : http://www.facebook.com/fanettemusic
You can also go on my website : www.fanettemusic.com
I also have a soundcloud and a twitter page : https://soundcloud.com/fanettemusic
https://twitter.com/FanetteMusic
What hidden talents do you have?
Hidden talents? Tough one. A lot of my friends, as Sara Wilkinson we talked about before, tell me that I can read through people. I am very good at understanding people and see what they are going through, even when sometimes they didn't even know themselves. I just love understanding the world in general, since I'm a little child, and if it can help my friends.. well it's even better!
What’s next for you?
My shows in Europe in apartments that I can't wait to do! I miss travelling so much and I'm so happy I'm gonna get to meet amazing people again! And my CD of course!
Listen to her music and you will discover this fantastic french singer!
Quickly visit her website at: https://www.facebook.com/Fanettemusic
Is "Fanette" is your real name?
“Fanette” isn't my real name, it's a nickname even though for me I feel like it is. Most of my family and friends call my like that since I was 4 years old.
Can you tell us a little bit about your personal background? Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I'm quite a traveller, I just love people so I'm trying to meet as many people as I can, from everywhere, I think it brings so much to your life to try to understand other cultures. It opens your mind.
I was born in the South of France, Saint Raphaël but I grow up in a little town close to Nancy, in the North East of France. 5 years ago I left for Toronto in Canada, where I lived for about 4 years, and where I started Music, and recently recorded my 1st CD, so that city is very special for me, showed me and taught me so much. She would always be in my heart.
Few months ago, I came back to the East of France, to get a new set ready to start an European tour, that I would begin in the summer 2015. It's gonna be a new challenge for me, I love challenge, I need them in my life. I always performed with a band in Toronto, and right now I wanna come back to myself.
When and why did you start playing music?
Music has been a big part of me all my life. I don't remember not listening to music. I started playing piano for a few years when I was 10 years old. Then I stopped music for a bit and I came back to it at 22 years old, where I taught myself the guitar, and only 4 months after that I wrote my first song..
And then, I never stopped writing, performing , recording.. It became a real drug. I'm not sure about why I start playing, I think I had it in me for a long time, and my first year in Canada was the perfect timing for me to start. I ended up with friends who were all musicians, I had not much to do at that time, so I took the guitar that my dad bought me few years ago..
And this crazy story begins. Now I play Guitar, Ukulele, Concertina, Kalimba and Keyboard.
What was the title of your first song? What do you think of that song now?
Actually there is a funny story behind my first song. It's called “No One Loves Loneliness”, I was staying at a friend's place in Toronto when I wrote it, because I had no home at that time. So I wrote it in their living room one day..
And two years later, when they moved out, and I moved in, and that living room became my bedroom, that special living room where I wrote my first song. I really love that song actually. I worked so hard on it, because I was so scared I was gonna do something so bad, and I didn't want it to happen, so I put so much time and energy to write something as interesting as I could.
It was not as natural and real as what I write right now, for sure, but I still enjoy that song very much and I'm still performing it at shows.
What are the different types of genres that you sing?
I sing what I feel like singing. I'm honestly very bad at covering songs and sing exactly what the singer does, I just can't do it. I can't help but putting my own universe on the songs, so singing the way I like.
I don't like singing too loud or pushing my voice too much. I want to be as real as possible when I sing, this is why my voice is between talking and singing sometimes. And when I sing, I like suggesting a sweet melody, without pushing it too much.
But if one day I feel like screaming a bit, or singing louder, I'll do it, I do it in one of my songs actually.. It really depends on what I feel, I try not to think about it, because that would take away realness for me.
Can you describe your music?
I never know how to answer that question, and every person that come to my show, tell me that they can understand why! My friends use to say about my music that it's “haunting poetic folk” , and I like that, I think it's the best description.
My music is Folk, this is for sure, but also is a very atmospheric, ambient music as well.
What musicians have the greatest impact on you and why?
My dad was a big fan of the Rolling Stones and classical music, and my mom of the French Singer Francis Cabrel, which is a poetic, pop/folk artist. And I'm very glad I grow up between those two kind of music which are very different from each other, but both powerful and with so much talent, because it makes me open to like different kind of music, and when I hear my music, I can feel that influence for sure.
Because I use a lot of classical instruments, like violon, viola, double bass to create something very deep and atmospheric. Also because I like playing with different kind of music to create my own one and doing something original.
More recently, singers such as Leonard Cohen inspired me a lot. I just think it's so beautiful how you can be so powerful by singing quietly. And he's also a genius to me as a songwriter.
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I listen to all kind of music. I have a special love for quiet, intimate songs, where I can feel the emotions of the singers. I love listening to lyrics and try to understand the artist, I can spend so many hours reading lyrics.
I also love when people use instruments to create something new. I love Chilly Gonzales, who used a symphony orchestra to create a rap album, to give only one example.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I really love the blog, I love discovering new artists, being on internet and trying to find artists that would touch me or that would make me want to collaborate with them , for example. And this blog made me discover great talent, so it's great.
It's very hard to be an artist nowadays and to try to push our art as far as we can, and being able to live from it, so those blogs have so much importance for us, we definitely need them.
You usually wear your specs. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Not really, I mean I've always loved glasses. I was 5 years old when an eye doctor told my parents I would need to wear glasses. At first I found that fun, but after few years.. When I became a teenager who was “too cool to wear glasses” I stopped.
But few years ago I had migraines so I had to wear glasses again but I went to see different shops and I was tired of seeing all those “big black glasses” .. So I decided to ask if I could turn sunglasses into viewglasses.. and he said yes. And my actual glasses were born ;)
Do you think your glasses will become your trademark?
I don't know if my glasses would become my trademark, I don't think that way in general about my music neither, I'm thinking more in a simple way. I like to wear them (and my headaches tell me thanks too!) so you'll see me very often with them that's for sure.
You worked with another great singer who wear glasses: Sara Wilkinson. How did you encountered?
Sara Wilkinson is my best friend, we've known each other since almost 3 years now. We met at a pub one night in Toronto through a common friend.. And start to talk in french for hours!
We literally became best friends that day. And then roommates for almost 2 years.
You plan to work together again?
Oh definitely. I mean, she would be singing on my upcoming CD, and she is planning on coming to France and Europe with me, where I will be playing shows..
So yes, I think we'll be always doing music together, even if it's just for fun.
Are there any artists you have, or are planning to collaborate with?
I love collaboration. I love meeting new people in general, I think it makes you. I did work with a band called Drone Doctors when I was in Toronto, which was a lot of fun! I would definitely collaborate again in the future!
I love seeing what new people could see in my music, that maybe I never saw! It's a beautiful sing. And I would love to work on other people's work as well!
Do you participate in other projects as singer/songwritter?
I would like to do it one day, but for now I'm focusing on my music and it's taking me so much time that I don't have time to do something else. A friend wrote a song a while ago and wanted me to write the music for it. Which I did, and it would be actually on my 1st CD. And I'm working on some other projects as well, that would happen in the future, once I'm done working on my CD.
You will release your first album soon. Can you tell us a little more?
Yes for sure. I'm very excited about it. It's a lot of work and I'm a perfectionist, so you'll have to be a bit patient, but you won't be disappointed! I put all my heart on it! I was lucky to meet Mike Timmins (Cowboy Junkies) in Toronto, he came to one of my shows one day, loved my music and came talking to me after, saying he would like to work with me. And he's gonna produce that 1st CD.
We already recorded a bunch of stuff and it sounds so great, we still have more recording to do, and all the mixing process, that's why I'm saying you'll have to be a bit patient!
Are you going to sing in French or English, and why?
I'm gonna have 4 song in French and 8 in English. It was very important for me to have both on my CD. Because I love writing in English and it's usually what comes first to me.
But French in my language, I'm from France and I couldn't do a CD without having my own language on it. I wanted to have the french part of me on it too.
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
It really depends on the song, on the mood I'm in , and also on the theme of the song. All my songs are true stories, and I write them because I have to, to feel better in my head.
Writing is my way of healing, and also my of expressing my feelings and my thought about Life. So this is not really me who is gonna decide who comes first. It just comes to me, one day.
I remember I really wanted to write about my dad, for personal reasons, but it was very hard for me to write about him. For a whole year I said : “I'll do it, I'll write about it. I want to, I have to.” but nothing were coming. One day I had my guitar in my hands and was playing around, and I played that melody. And I knew. I texted a friend and said : “This is it. I'm writing the song about my dad”. And I called it “Confession”, and it's gonna be on my CD as well. So I think this is my own process of writing.. Let my body telling me how, and when.
Your amazing fever cover will be on this CD?
No it won't, it would only be originals on my CD. I love doing covers though, and I would always do so. But for I do covers as a break from working on my own music for fun. And I always like to change the songs, and make it my own, put my personality on it. This is what I like in covering songs. I would definitely sing it during my shows in Europe though! I'm working on that new set right now!
Have you ever perform your music in public?
Oh yes! A lot of times! Actually you'll find some of my live performances on youtube. I love playing live, I played shows in Toronto for about two years, at least once a month, sometimes 2 or 3 times. I was playing as much as I could! Now I'm back in France since a few months and working on a new set for new shows, so I'm taking a break, but I'll be back on stage this summer, in Europe this time!
For the stage, are you joined by a band?
In toronto, I was. I had at least 3 people with me, and sometimes 7. Viola, Violin, Accordion, Flute, Mandolin, Banjo, Double Bass, or Cajon.
In Europe it's gonna be a bit different though. I want to share my music even more than what I did in the past. I'll be playing different instruments myself, and work on a set where I could invite local musicians from every city to come play on my songs, and also be able to invite people from the audience to come adding something on the set. I'm very excited about this project , actually.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
Yes I definitely do. You can go on my facebook, this is where I'm the most active usually : http://www.facebook.com/fanettemusic
You can also go on my website : www.fanettemusic.com
I also have a soundcloud and a twitter page : https://soundcloud.com/fanettemusic
https://twitter.com/FanetteMusic
What hidden talents do you have?
Hidden talents? Tough one. A lot of my friends, as Sara Wilkinson we talked about before, tell me that I can read through people. I am very good at understanding people and see what they are going through, even when sometimes they didn't even know themselves. I just love understanding the world in general, since I'm a little child, and if it can help my friends.. well it's even better!
What’s next for you?
My shows in Europe in apartments that I can't wait to do! I miss travelling so much and I'm so happy I'm gonna get to meet amazing people again! And my CD of course!
lundi 24 novembre 2014
Ray Gibson
I recently discovered Ray Gibson on a promotional website for glasses. Ray has an interesting voice et her music is beautiful. She kindly accepted an interview.
You must discover and visit her website: RayGibsonMusic.com
Can you tell us more about you? Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Maple Ridge, British Columbia.
How long do you play music and how did you get started?
I taught myself the piano before I could speak, so I was fairly young! I then taught myself the guitar, banjo, ukelele and a few other instruments all around the age of fourteen. I've always been singing since I was a young girl for fun, but I began to perform in public around age seventeen.
How many instruments do you play?
I play six instruments, and am starting to learn the accordion now!
What was the first song you learned to play on guitar?
The very first song I ever learnt to play on guitar would've had to have been Desperado by The Eagles.
When and how did you become interested in pursuing a music career?
I became interested in pursuing a career in music when I was around the age of sixteen/seventeen. My close friend Aaron Pritchett, who is a Canadian country artist as well, would bring me out to some of his shows and let me perform along side him. The feeling that came from it was amazing so I couldn't imagine pursuing anything else!
What is the first song ever sung?
That's a tough one. Either something by Randy Travis, Don Williams or
Which famous musicians do you admire and why?
I really admire Hunter Hayes and his ability to master so many instruments. He's a great performer and songwriter as well. I also admire Miranda Lambert for her talent, as well as her image and how she portrays herself. Both two of my favourite artists!
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I listen to all sorts of music. Of course, the majority of my iTunes library is country music, but I really enjoy jazz, folk, and rock. I'm all over the maps!
How would you classify—if you can—your genre music?
My new album is currently in the works right now, and the sound will be very different from what you first heard on my EP I released in 2013. It will still be country, but with a little more edge.
Do you write the lyrics of your songs?
I've co-written all of my songs on my first EP, and plan to do the same for my upcoming album. I'm a big fan of writing my music.
Are your songs mostly fictional or autobiographical?
All of my songs come from personal experience, or other peoples lives that I am around. If you really pay attention to life and everything that goes around you, there's so much you are able to write about.
How many cd's have you recorded?
Currently, my first self-titled EP "Ray Gibson" is available on the iTunes store.
When can we expect a new CD?
My album will be available around the spring-summer time of 2015. An official release date can be expected in the new year.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
www.RayGibsonMusic.com
The link to purchase my music off of iTunes is
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/ray-gibson-ep/id611238638
Have you ever visited my blog and listen to some singers?
Yes, they are all very talented! It's a great blog as well.
Recently, we have seen few videos with your glasses on, you need to wear them more?
Yes, I have got two sets of glasses. My black framed Raybans and then my Derek Cardigan glasses. I wear my glasses often.
Are you going to wear them in the future?
I think I will always be wearing my glasses.
How did you get the idea to advertise the glasses on a commercial website?
Clearly Contacts reached out, then came over and filmed an interview and a live video. They're a great company with great glasses!
Have you developed a new video and when will your video be promoted?
The new video can be expected in the Spring or Summer time of 2015.
What is the importance of your personal appearance?
I believe in just being yourself.
What is your dream venue to play?
It would be a dream come true to play at The Grand Ole Opry.
Do you prefer play solo or with band?
I love playing with the boys in my band, and I also love playing solo. They
Do you have plans for 2014?
Lots of behind the scenes work is going on right now that will be taking up most of my time for the rest of the year. I will be heading to Nashville next month to get started on the new album.
What do you want to say to all the readers of this blog?
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this blog. I hope you enjoy my music if you decide to take a listen!
You must discover and visit her website: RayGibsonMusic.com
Can you tell us more about you? Where were you born and where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in Maple Ridge, British Columbia.
How long do you play music and how did you get started?
I taught myself the piano before I could speak, so I was fairly young! I then taught myself the guitar, banjo, ukelele and a few other instruments all around the age of fourteen. I've always been singing since I was a young girl for fun, but I began to perform in public around age seventeen.
How many instruments do you play?
I play six instruments, and am starting to learn the accordion now!
What was the first song you learned to play on guitar?
The very first song I ever learnt to play on guitar would've had to have been Desperado by The Eagles.
When and how did you become interested in pursuing a music career?
I became interested in pursuing a career in music when I was around the age of sixteen/seventeen. My close friend Aaron Pritchett, who is a Canadian country artist as well, would bring me out to some of his shows and let me perform along side him. The feeling that came from it was amazing so I couldn't imagine pursuing anything else!
What is the first song ever sung?
That's a tough one. Either something by Randy Travis, Don Williams or
Which famous musicians do you admire and why?
I really admire Hunter Hayes and his ability to master so many instruments. He's a great performer and songwriter as well. I also admire Miranda Lambert for her talent, as well as her image and how she portrays herself. Both two of my favourite artists!
What kind of music do you listen to today?
I listen to all sorts of music. Of course, the majority of my iTunes library is country music, but I really enjoy jazz, folk, and rock. I'm all over the maps!
How would you classify—if you can—your genre music?
My new album is currently in the works right now, and the sound will be very different from what you first heard on my EP I released in 2013. It will still be country, but with a little more edge.
Do you write the lyrics of your songs?
I've co-written all of my songs on my first EP, and plan to do the same for my upcoming album. I'm a big fan of writing my music.
Are your songs mostly fictional or autobiographical?
All of my songs come from personal experience, or other peoples lives that I am around. If you really pay attention to life and everything that goes around you, there's so much you are able to write about.
How many cd's have you recorded?
Currently, my first self-titled EP "Ray Gibson" is available on the iTunes store.
When can we expect a new CD?
My album will be available around the spring-summer time of 2015. An official release date can be expected in the new year.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music? Can you give us the main links?
www.RayGibsonMusic.com
The link to purchase my music off of iTunes is
https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/ray-gibson-ep/id611238638
Have you ever visited my blog and listen to some singers?
Yes, they are all very talented! It's a great blog as well.
Recently, we have seen few videos with your glasses on, you need to wear them more?
Yes, I have got two sets of glasses. My black framed Raybans and then my Derek Cardigan glasses. I wear my glasses often.
Are you going to wear them in the future?
I think I will always be wearing my glasses.
How did you get the idea to advertise the glasses on a commercial website?
Clearly Contacts reached out, then came over and filmed an interview and a live video. They're a great company with great glasses!
Have you developed a new video and when will your video be promoted?
The new video can be expected in the Spring or Summer time of 2015.
What is the importance of your personal appearance?
I believe in just being yourself.
What is your dream venue to play?
It would be a dream come true to play at The Grand Ole Opry.
Do you prefer play solo or with band?
I love playing with the boys in my band, and I also love playing solo. They
Do you have plans for 2014?
Lots of behind the scenes work is going on right now that will be taking up most of my time for the rest of the year. I will be heading to Nashville next month to get started on the new album.
What do you want to say to all the readers of this blog?
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this blog. I hope you enjoy my music if you decide to take a listen!
mardi 11 novembre 2014
Amy Obenski
The new interview is with the amazing singer Amy Obenski. Amy has already recorded 5 beautiful albums: 'What We Tell', 'Kite', 'From the Deep', 'Grow to Catch the Wind' and the lastest 'Restless' this year.
Listen to quickly her music: http://www.amyobenski.com
Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I was raised in San Diego, California. I currently live in San Francisco, California.
When and why did you start playing music?
I started singing at a very young age, maybe at four years old. I started choir at age five and piano at age six. I can't say exactly why I started way back then. I was young and my mother sang and played the piano. My parents gave me an option between a school that focused on music and a school that focused on science. I chose music.
And how did you get started singing?
Most of my singing experience until I was 20 years old came from choirs. Lots and lots of choir.
What was the first tune(s) you learned?
"Tomorrow" from Annie
What singers, musician or otherwise, influenced you growing up?
I had so much musical influence it's hard to know where to start. I used to sing harmonies along with my mom. I learned a lot of classical and jazz throughout my childhood.
My pop and rock influences were all over the place and included Prince, Arrested Development, Pearl Jam, Boys 2 Men, Pink Floyd & The Doors.
You released your last full-length LP 'Restless' this summer. Unlike the previous ones, this one is titled "Amy Obenski & The Carbon Band". Why did you choose to be with a band?
I partly chose the band and they partly chose me. I was planning a trip to Europe and through a series of events, I found a band in France that wanted to play with me. I didn't even expect it. And when I played with them they sounded amazing and we had tons of fun! So naturally, I had to play with them more and return to France to be with them.
I wasn't planning an album with a band from France but it just sort of happened. It was a wonderful series of events and a highlight of my life, personally and professionally.
How many musicians and who are they?
Philippe Crochet on guitar
Mourad Ait Abdelmalek on drums
Josselin Sebille on bass
Those musicians had an impact on your music?
Most definitely. They took my music in a more Rock direction. It was really good for me. And I had to let go of a lot of my ideas of how my songs should sound. It was a great lesson for me in letting go and having things turn out positively as a result.
What are the qualities that you look for in your band?
I want my band to truly love the music, enjoy working with me and feel invested in my music as a project. On a personal level, we need to "jive" somewhat and have a good time.
Musically, I look for different qualities from each musician, but I feel they need to compliment the music rather than dominate it.
Is there a song on this last album that you especially love?
My favorite is "Some Kinda Change". I also really love "Deep Blue Ocean" and "Follow My Own Lead"
Can you explain your process of writing and composing?
Oh boy. What a big question. Usually my lyrics and melody come to me at the same time. Sometimes I sit at the piano or guitar and fool around until I find something that grabs me, and then I add my melody/lyrics to that.
Sometimes I write the melody and lyrics first and then add the instrument after. I don't stick to one writing format. I pull from many different processes until something works.
Sometimes a song just comes to me and I have to find a pen as fast as possible. Sometimes I have to sit down and focus and work really hard.
Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
My lyrics just come from life. I spent a lot of time from about age eleven to sixteen, writing poetry in my room at night. I do a lot of thinking, sometimes too much thinking, but luckily a lot of this thought turns into songs. I analyze and reflect on my life a lot. Life is short and uncertain. It's important to me that I live life to it's fullest. So I think a lot of my lyrics are talking about how to break out of anything that is keeping me from doing that.
I know you like France! What do you like in this country?
Mostly, the people. I find French people are honest and know how to enjoy life. They have a lot less guilt and more fun than we do as Americans. The French really know how to enjoy a good moment.
They can sit and eat wonderful food with wine and great people for hours and not feel bad about it. It's what life is about. In the U.S. there's always this sense that you should be doing something that makes money or is productive.
Have you think singing in French for the next songs?
I have thought about it. I sang one verse in French in my song "In Paris" on the album.
Who are some artists you are currently enjoying?
Laura Veirs, Loch Lomond & Bonobo. I have to speak of my San Francisco based artists and friends too, of which there are far too many to mention. But they include Seth Lael, Artemesia Black, Kenny Schick, Kevin Robinson and so many others. There is so much good music out there that is not on the radio!
Do you like play covers on stage?
Only once in a while. I like to take a tune from an artist that really resonates with me and turn it into my own song. I've done this with Tracey Chapman, Stevie Wonder, Leonard Cohen and Spearhead so far.
What are the most memorable recent gigs times and why?
a) The final concert at the end of my Artist in Residence at La Maison des Arts in Saint Herblain, France. This was the end of my trip to france and also the culmination of everything we had worked on. In addition the auditorium was sold out, we had a string ensemble, I had The Carbone Band with me, and I got to play the Steinway. How can that not be the best?
b) CD Release Party for Restless in the center of San Francisco. I put together a band in San Francisco for this concert. We played the entire album from start to finish. There was also a DJ and live painting and several of my close friends in the audience. We had a great time.
How do you describe your music?
Ethereal Americana with a jazz influence and haunting vocals? I don't know, my description always changes and nothing seems to describe it adequately to me.
Can you promote some links to discover your music?
Of course!
http://www.amyobenski.com
http://www.facebook.com/amyobenski
http://www.twitter.com/amyobenski
Have you ever visited my blog and listen to the singers?
Yes, I believe I have.
Why don't you wear your glasses for any of your album covers?
Usually, the problem is about the glare on my glasses for pictures. I don't like my eyes to be hidden behind the glare. I want to look at people.
Still, you seem wearing your glasses more often. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Maybe a little. Honestly, it has crossed my mind and boosted my confidence in wearing my glasses.
If you could go open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?
Laura Veirs
What's your others hobbies?
Tango dancing, yoga, hiking/walking, travel and cooking.
Any plans for a new tour in France?
Not at this moment. Certain factors have made returning to France difficult which is very sad for me. I hope to return at some point in the future but right now I have no plans.
What’s next for Amy Obenski?
I've been practicing with a "looper". It’s this piece of equipment that allows you to instantly record and play back what you creat in a Live setting. You can then record and play back on top of what you created in a semi-endless fashion. I've been exploring this and practicing a lot. We'll see if it ends up in my Live performance. I hope so. I'm also hoping to make a music video for my song, Deep Blue Ocean. And I'm working on booking a lot of shows for 2015, mostly in the U.S.
Listen to quickly her music: http://www.amyobenski.com
Where did you grow up and where do you live now?
I was raised in San Diego, California. I currently live in San Francisco, California.
When and why did you start playing music?
I started singing at a very young age, maybe at four years old. I started choir at age five and piano at age six. I can't say exactly why I started way back then. I was young and my mother sang and played the piano. My parents gave me an option between a school that focused on music and a school that focused on science. I chose music.
And how did you get started singing?
Most of my singing experience until I was 20 years old came from choirs. Lots and lots of choir.
What was the first tune(s) you learned?
"Tomorrow" from Annie
What singers, musician or otherwise, influenced you growing up?
I had so much musical influence it's hard to know where to start. I used to sing harmonies along with my mom. I learned a lot of classical and jazz throughout my childhood.
My pop and rock influences were all over the place and included Prince, Arrested Development, Pearl Jam, Boys 2 Men, Pink Floyd & The Doors.
You released your last full-length LP 'Restless' this summer. Unlike the previous ones, this one is titled "Amy Obenski & The Carbon Band". Why did you choose to be with a band?
I partly chose the band and they partly chose me. I was planning a trip to Europe and through a series of events, I found a band in France that wanted to play with me. I didn't even expect it. And when I played with them they sounded amazing and we had tons of fun! So naturally, I had to play with them more and return to France to be with them.
I wasn't planning an album with a band from France but it just sort of happened. It was a wonderful series of events and a highlight of my life, personally and professionally.
How many musicians and who are they?
Philippe Crochet on guitar
Mourad Ait Abdelmalek on drums
Josselin Sebille on bass
Those musicians had an impact on your music?
Most definitely. They took my music in a more Rock direction. It was really good for me. And I had to let go of a lot of my ideas of how my songs should sound. It was a great lesson for me in letting go and having things turn out positively as a result.
What are the qualities that you look for in your band?
I want my band to truly love the music, enjoy working with me and feel invested in my music as a project. On a personal level, we need to "jive" somewhat and have a good time.
Musically, I look for different qualities from each musician, but I feel they need to compliment the music rather than dominate it.
Is there a song on this last album that you especially love?
My favorite is "Some Kinda Change". I also really love "Deep Blue Ocean" and "Follow My Own Lead"
Can you explain your process of writing and composing?
Oh boy. What a big question. Usually my lyrics and melody come to me at the same time. Sometimes I sit at the piano or guitar and fool around until I find something that grabs me, and then I add my melody/lyrics to that.
Sometimes I write the melody and lyrics first and then add the instrument after. I don't stick to one writing format. I pull from many different processes until something works.
Sometimes a song just comes to me and I have to find a pen as fast as possible. Sometimes I have to sit down and focus and work really hard.
Where do you get inspiration from for your lyrics?
My lyrics just come from life. I spent a lot of time from about age eleven to sixteen, writing poetry in my room at night. I do a lot of thinking, sometimes too much thinking, but luckily a lot of this thought turns into songs. I analyze and reflect on my life a lot. Life is short and uncertain. It's important to me that I live life to it's fullest. So I think a lot of my lyrics are talking about how to break out of anything that is keeping me from doing that.
I know you like France! What do you like in this country?
Mostly, the people. I find French people are honest and know how to enjoy life. They have a lot less guilt and more fun than we do as Americans. The French really know how to enjoy a good moment.
They can sit and eat wonderful food with wine and great people for hours and not feel bad about it. It's what life is about. In the U.S. there's always this sense that you should be doing something that makes money or is productive.
Have you think singing in French for the next songs?
I have thought about it. I sang one verse in French in my song "In Paris" on the album.
Who are some artists you are currently enjoying?
Laura Veirs, Loch Lomond & Bonobo. I have to speak of my San Francisco based artists and friends too, of which there are far too many to mention. But they include Seth Lael, Artemesia Black, Kenny Schick, Kevin Robinson and so many others. There is so much good music out there that is not on the radio!
Do you like play covers on stage?
Only once in a while. I like to take a tune from an artist that really resonates with me and turn it into my own song. I've done this with Tracey Chapman, Stevie Wonder, Leonard Cohen and Spearhead so far.
What are the most memorable recent gigs times and why?
a) The final concert at the end of my Artist in Residence at La Maison des Arts in Saint Herblain, France. This was the end of my trip to france and also the culmination of everything we had worked on. In addition the auditorium was sold out, we had a string ensemble, I had The Carbone Band with me, and I got to play the Steinway. How can that not be the best?
b) CD Release Party for Restless in the center of San Francisco. I put together a band in San Francisco for this concert. We played the entire album from start to finish. There was also a DJ and live painting and several of my close friends in the audience. We had a great time.
How do you describe your music?
Ethereal Americana with a jazz influence and haunting vocals? I don't know, my description always changes and nothing seems to describe it adequately to me.
Can you promote some links to discover your music?
Of course!
http://www.amyobenski.com
http://www.facebook.com/amyobenski
http://www.twitter.com/amyobenski
Have you ever visited my blog and listen to the singers?
Yes, I believe I have.
Why don't you wear your glasses for any of your album covers?
Usually, the problem is about the glare on my glasses for pictures. I don't like my eyes to be hidden behind the glare. I want to look at people.
Still, you seem wearing your glasses more often. Has my page changed your opinion of glasses?
Maybe a little. Honestly, it has crossed my mind and boosted my confidence in wearing my glasses.
If you could go open up for any artist on tour right now who would it be?
Laura Veirs
What's your others hobbies?
Tango dancing, yoga, hiking/walking, travel and cooking.
Any plans for a new tour in France?
Not at this moment. Certain factors have made returning to France difficult which is very sad for me. I hope to return at some point in the future but right now I have no plans.
What’s next for Amy Obenski?
I've been practicing with a "looper". It’s this piece of equipment that allows you to instantly record and play back what you creat in a Live setting. You can then record and play back on top of what you created in a semi-endless fashion. I've been exploring this and practicing a lot. We'll see if it ends up in my Live performance. I hope so. I'm also hoping to make a music video for my song, Deep Blue Ocean. And I'm working on booking a lot of shows for 2015, mostly in the U.S.
dimanche 25 mai 2014
Bri-anne Swan
The new interview is with the sweet Bri-anne Swan who have already be on this blog few years ago. She is a singer-songwriter from Toronto, Ontario.
After an amazing first CD 'These Are All My Friends', Bri-Anne Swan is coming back for a new album 'Letters Home' next year. You can help her: Indiegogo Bri-anne Swan Letters Home Album Fundraiser
Visit her website and listen to her angelic voice and wonderful songs: http://bri-anneswan.com/
Can you tell us a bit about Bri-anne? What city did you grow up and where do you live now?
I actually didn’t grow up in a city. I grew up in the countryside within a township called Oro-Medonte. It’s near Orillia, Ontario in Canada. I currently live in Toronto.
How did you figure out you can sing and how did you learn how to do it?
I guess when I was little, it never really occurred to me that I couldn’t. Then, when I got a little bit older, nobody was really telling me to stop, so I figured I wasn’t terrible. When I was in 13 I won a singing competition, which really wasn’t a big deal since I was competing in a town with a population of 1000 people, but I was pretty excited about it. I don’t know how I learned. I have never had any instruction on how to sing (although I often wish I had). I’ve just always really loved doing it.
Who were your musical influences growing up?
I listened to so many different artists and genres when I was growing up that it’s difficult to keep track. I’ve always really liked Gordon Lightfoot. He’s kind of always going to be my platonic musical crush. When I was younger I listened to a lot of the music my parents listened to: The Moody Blues, ZZ Top, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, etc. I was in love with musical theatre and at one point wished desperately I could be a stage actress, but I was enough of a realist to understand I don’t have the vocal chops for that. When I first heard Dvorak’s “New World Symphony” I thought it was the most perfect piece of music ever written. I also really liked The Rainkin Family when I was young, as well as Moxy Fruvous. This is basically what I listened to up to graduating elementary school. I even went through a phase of really loving Ace of Base, but I take no responsibility for that. It was the 90s. It wasn’t my fault.
Who are some artists you are currently enjoying?
I’ve just discovered a really great Canadian band called Trent Severn. I saw them live a couple nights ago and they really blew me away. Leonard Cohen and Sam Phillips are never far from my CD player right now, as well as The Civil Wars, Iron & Wine, David Ford, A Fine Frenzy, Rose Cousins, The Wilderness of Manitoba, Ingrid Michaelson, Bruce Springsteen, Joni Mitchell, The Tragically Hip, Beth Orton, Vashti Bunyan, Tom Waits, The Great Wilderness, Sufjan Stevens… Did I mention I like Gordon Lightfoot?
Your voice is very soft, we can immediately recognize your songs. How would you define your musical style?
The music you’d be listening to while sitting around a campfire, sipping hot chocolate on a mid-autumn evening.
How many instruments do you play?
None very well.
How many cd have you recorded? Can you give us the list?
I have released an album (...these are all my friends), an EP (Ballad of a Canadian Superhero) and two singles (May it Be & True Love Showers). I am currently in preproduction for my second full length record titled LETTERS HOME. I’m hoping to release it in April 2015. I have a lot of information about this project at http://www.bri-anneswan.com/lettershome
Do you feel you have grown as a songwriter since your first album?
Yes, definitely. Sometimes it’s difficult for me to listen to some of the songs from my first record because I wouldn’t have written them the same way now as I did then. It’s taken some time and some perspective to come to terms with this and be ok with it. My first record captures a certain period of my life. I’ve grown as a person since that record was released, so it only makes sense that I will have grown as a songwriter as well. I hope 10 years from now I listen back to the record I’m working on now and feel the same way - that I’ve grown and matured. In some ways, songwriting is the way I document my life’s journey.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music and can you give us the links?
Yes!
www.bri-anneswan.com
www.facebook.com/Bri-anneSwanMusic
But...your best bet to find me in cyberspace is on Twitter… www.twitter.com/swannybee
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
I start with music and lyrics together, but I usually finish the music and structure of a song first. Then I go back and fill in the rest of the lyrics.
I know you speak a little French, how did you learn this language? Are you planning to write more in French?
Most people in Canada can speak a little French, especially when it comes to food because all packaging in Canada is bilingual. My grandmother speaks an Acadian dialect of French which is used throughout the East Coast of Canada where she grew up. However, most of the French I know comes from what I was taught in school, and a short period where I lived in Quebec. I sing in French better than I speak it. I’m actually embarrassed I don’t speak French more fluently. Surprisingly, I am much better at speaking German. I would consider German to be my second language, although I would never say that I am fluent.
I am planning on singing more in French. Within a few years I hope to release a collection of traditional Canadian folk songs in English, French and even some of our First Nations languages.
There are many talented female singers in Canada, Lindi Ortega, Andrea DeBoer (BlueVenus), Emma-Lee, is what you've already considered working with them? Collaboration, duet or show?
I have had the pleasure of sharing a stage or a show with every single person you’ve listed here. Not only are all these singers Canadian, but they’re also based in Toronto (except for Lindi - she has recently relocated to Nashville). It is entirely possible that we will play shows together at some point, but to be honest, they are all a little further ahead in their careers than I am. I respect them all a lot for what they’ve been able to accomplish.
You have posted new pics and a new song, so does that mean there is a new album on the horizon?
Yes, and I am very excited for this project. “Letters Home” has been a project brewing for some time, and I really excited to be heading into the studio to start recording. We’ve been raising money to fund the project this month at www.bri-anneswan.com/lettershome. So many very generous people have contributed already. I’m very grateful for this, and look forward to creating an album I hope people will love.
Can you give us some details of this recording?
Four years ago, my parents sold their little farm in Central Ontario and moved to the Maritimes.
With the departure of my parents, the last ties to the community where I grew up disappeared. My brothers had moved away. Most of my friends had left the countryside (just as I did) and moved into the cities. The older farmers I knew growing up and saw as adopted grandparents are slowly passing away.
Things have changed. "Home" is different. The small town where I went to high school has changed, dramatically in some ways (actually, my high school was just demolished!), with large suburban box stores.
After my son was born in 2012, my new family returned to the river where I played as a child and planted him a tree, attempting to reestablish roots to a place that holds deep, often bittersweet memories and has shaped who I am. "Here's where I come from. Therefore, here's where you come from."
We made the drive from Toronto to visit my son's tree regularly. We watered it. We made sure the weeds were cleared away so it had enough sun and room to grow. 18 months after we planted our tree, I returned to the riverbank to find it buried under a pile of dirt, carelessly bulldozed over during the construction of a nearby bridge. It got the gears turning for a new writing project creatively based around the idea of "home". Does it ever stay the same? Can we ever really go back? Does it even matter? This project, Letters Home, is just that - artistic love letters to time, people and places that hold influence and are slowly disappearing. The project isn't necessarily specific to where I grew up, but rather the general concept of home and how it shapes who we are.
You seem to be wearing your glasses in a lot of your new pictures. Has my blog influenced you to wear them more often?
Perhaps your blog is one of the influences. When I did my first promo shots, there was an issue with my lenses reflecting light back into the camera so we couldn’t see my eyes. When I received the photos back I thought they were really nice, but I didn’t really think they looked like me. People would comment how they didn’t recognize me from my photos when I was wearing my glasses - and I wear my glasses all the time. I would be constantly walking into walls without them. So, I decided that all of my future photos I’d wear my glasses because it’s a better representation of who I am.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I enjoy the blog a lot. I found Misty Boyce and The Empire Lights though your site and really like what they’re doing.
I think it’s really, really great how you’ve worked so hard to promote independent musicians who are visually impaired.
How important is your overall appearance?
I don’t even know where to begin with this question. I’ve just asked my toddler what he thinks about my appearance and he has responded by pulling my hair out of its ponytail and smearing tomato sauce on my freshly laundered white t-shirt. Most days I consider it an accomplishment just to be able to look after my personal hygiene.
How important is my appearance to my music career? To my sense of self? In my day to day? To the people around me? I don’t really know.
I do know that I like to dress up for shows. It’s about the only opportunity I have these days to wear anything pretty.
What kinds of times and places have you played music in your life?
I have performed in cafes, clubs, theatres, churches, community centres, living rooms and parks in 9 out of 10 Canadian provinces. I once found myself inadvertently booked at a marijuana speakeasy. I also once agreed to be the musical act for a benefit gala, but realized when I arrived that all the other performers were putting on a burlesque show. I was the only one who kept their clothes on throughout the entire performance. Nobody really seemed to mind.
When were you most satisfied in your job?
When somebody told me that they had shared a song I had written with a friend of theirs. This friend was going through a very difficult time and found the lyrics to be very moving and helpful. I also find myself sometimes playing a part in significant life events; singing at weddings, proposals and especially funerals. I find it extremely moving to be able to share these moments with people through my music.
What do you like and dislike about this job?
Likes: Being my own boss, showing up to work in my pyjamas if I want to, connecting with people through art, creating something lasting
Dislikes: Being my own boss, not having motivation to get out of my pyjamas, not having a clear or set path to success, feeling like I spend more time booking shows, writing grant proposals and looking after administrative tasks than I do actually writing songs.
What plans do you have for 2014?
Making a record. Playing more shows. Pushing a baby out of my body.
After an amazing first CD 'These Are All My Friends', Bri-Anne Swan is coming back for a new album 'Letters Home' next year. You can help her: Indiegogo Bri-anne Swan Letters Home Album Fundraiser
Visit her website and listen to her angelic voice and wonderful songs: http://bri-anneswan.com/
Can you tell us a bit about Bri-anne? What city did you grow up and where do you live now?
I actually didn’t grow up in a city. I grew up in the countryside within a township called Oro-Medonte. It’s near Orillia, Ontario in Canada. I currently live in Toronto.
How did you figure out you can sing and how did you learn how to do it?
I guess when I was little, it never really occurred to me that I couldn’t. Then, when I got a little bit older, nobody was really telling me to stop, so I figured I wasn’t terrible. When I was in 13 I won a singing competition, which really wasn’t a big deal since I was competing in a town with a population of 1000 people, but I was pretty excited about it. I don’t know how I learned. I have never had any instruction on how to sing (although I often wish I had). I’ve just always really loved doing it.
Who were your musical influences growing up?
I listened to so many different artists and genres when I was growing up that it’s difficult to keep track. I’ve always really liked Gordon Lightfoot. He’s kind of always going to be my platonic musical crush. When I was younger I listened to a lot of the music my parents listened to: The Moody Blues, ZZ Top, The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, etc. I was in love with musical theatre and at one point wished desperately I could be a stage actress, but I was enough of a realist to understand I don’t have the vocal chops for that. When I first heard Dvorak’s “New World Symphony” I thought it was the most perfect piece of music ever written. I also really liked The Rainkin Family when I was young, as well as Moxy Fruvous. This is basically what I listened to up to graduating elementary school. I even went through a phase of really loving Ace of Base, but I take no responsibility for that. It was the 90s. It wasn’t my fault.
Who are some artists you are currently enjoying?
I’ve just discovered a really great Canadian band called Trent Severn. I saw them live a couple nights ago and they really blew me away. Leonard Cohen and Sam Phillips are never far from my CD player right now, as well as The Civil Wars, Iron & Wine, David Ford, A Fine Frenzy, Rose Cousins, The Wilderness of Manitoba, Ingrid Michaelson, Bruce Springsteen, Joni Mitchell, The Tragically Hip, Beth Orton, Vashti Bunyan, Tom Waits, The Great Wilderness, Sufjan Stevens… Did I mention I like Gordon Lightfoot?
Your voice is very soft, we can immediately recognize your songs. How would you define your musical style?
The music you’d be listening to while sitting around a campfire, sipping hot chocolate on a mid-autumn evening.
How many instruments do you play?
None very well.
How many cd have you recorded? Can you give us the list?
I have released an album (...these are all my friends), an EP (Ballad of a Canadian Superhero) and two singles (May it Be & True Love Showers). I am currently in preproduction for my second full length record titled LETTERS HOME. I’m hoping to release it in April 2015. I have a lot of information about this project at http://www.bri-anneswan.com/lettershome
Do you feel you have grown as a songwriter since your first album?
Yes, definitely. Sometimes it’s difficult for me to listen to some of the songs from my first record because I wouldn’t have written them the same way now as I did then. It’s taken some time and some perspective to come to terms with this and be ok with it. My first record captures a certain period of my life. I’ve grown as a person since that record was released, so it only makes sense that I will have grown as a songwriter as well. I hope 10 years from now I listen back to the record I’m working on now and feel the same way - that I’ve grown and matured. In some ways, songwriting is the way I document my life’s journey.
Do you have a web site to publicize your music and can you give us the links?
Yes!
www.bri-anneswan.com
www.facebook.com/Bri-anneSwanMusic
But...your best bet to find me in cyberspace is on Twitter… www.twitter.com/swannybee
Can you explain your process of writing and composing songs? Music or lyrics first?
I start with music and lyrics together, but I usually finish the music and structure of a song first. Then I go back and fill in the rest of the lyrics.
I know you speak a little French, how did you learn this language? Are you planning to write more in French?
Most people in Canada can speak a little French, especially when it comes to food because all packaging in Canada is bilingual. My grandmother speaks an Acadian dialect of French which is used throughout the East Coast of Canada where she grew up. However, most of the French I know comes from what I was taught in school, and a short period where I lived in Quebec. I sing in French better than I speak it. I’m actually embarrassed I don’t speak French more fluently. Surprisingly, I am much better at speaking German. I would consider German to be my second language, although I would never say that I am fluent.
I am planning on singing more in French. Within a few years I hope to release a collection of traditional Canadian folk songs in English, French and even some of our First Nations languages.
There are many talented female singers in Canada, Lindi Ortega, Andrea DeBoer (BlueVenus), Emma-Lee, is what you've already considered working with them? Collaboration, duet or show?
I have had the pleasure of sharing a stage or a show with every single person you’ve listed here. Not only are all these singers Canadian, but they’re also based in Toronto (except for Lindi - she has recently relocated to Nashville). It is entirely possible that we will play shows together at some point, but to be honest, they are all a little further ahead in their careers than I am. I respect them all a lot for what they’ve been able to accomplish.
You have posted new pics and a new song, so does that mean there is a new album on the horizon?
Yes, and I am very excited for this project. “Letters Home” has been a project brewing for some time, and I really excited to be heading into the studio to start recording. We’ve been raising money to fund the project this month at www.bri-anneswan.com/lettershome. So many very generous people have contributed already. I’m very grateful for this, and look forward to creating an album I hope people will love.
Can you give us some details of this recording?
Four years ago, my parents sold their little farm in Central Ontario and moved to the Maritimes.
With the departure of my parents, the last ties to the community where I grew up disappeared. My brothers had moved away. Most of my friends had left the countryside (just as I did) and moved into the cities. The older farmers I knew growing up and saw as adopted grandparents are slowly passing away.
Things have changed. "Home" is different. The small town where I went to high school has changed, dramatically in some ways (actually, my high school was just demolished!), with large suburban box stores.
After my son was born in 2012, my new family returned to the river where I played as a child and planted him a tree, attempting to reestablish roots to a place that holds deep, often bittersweet memories and has shaped who I am. "Here's where I come from. Therefore, here's where you come from."
We made the drive from Toronto to visit my son's tree regularly. We watered it. We made sure the weeds were cleared away so it had enough sun and room to grow. 18 months after we planted our tree, I returned to the riverbank to find it buried under a pile of dirt, carelessly bulldozed over during the construction of a nearby bridge. It got the gears turning for a new writing project creatively based around the idea of "home". Does it ever stay the same? Can we ever really go back? Does it even matter? This project, Letters Home, is just that - artistic love letters to time, people and places that hold influence and are slowly disappearing. The project isn't necessarily specific to where I grew up, but rather the general concept of home and how it shapes who we are.
You seem to be wearing your glasses in a lot of your new pictures. Has my blog influenced you to wear them more often?
Perhaps your blog is one of the influences. When I did my first promo shots, there was an issue with my lenses reflecting light back into the camera so we couldn’t see my eyes. When I received the photos back I thought they were really nice, but I didn’t really think they looked like me. People would comment how they didn’t recognize me from my photos when I was wearing my glasses - and I wear my glasses all the time. I would be constantly walking into walls without them. So, I decided that all of my future photos I’d wear my glasses because it’s a better representation of who I am.
What do you think of this blog and have you discovered some singers?
I enjoy the blog a lot. I found Misty Boyce and The Empire Lights though your site and really like what they’re doing.
I think it’s really, really great how you’ve worked so hard to promote independent musicians who are visually impaired.
How important is your overall appearance?
I don’t even know where to begin with this question. I’ve just asked my toddler what he thinks about my appearance and he has responded by pulling my hair out of its ponytail and smearing tomato sauce on my freshly laundered white t-shirt. Most days I consider it an accomplishment just to be able to look after my personal hygiene.
How important is my appearance to my music career? To my sense of self? In my day to day? To the people around me? I don’t really know.
I do know that I like to dress up for shows. It’s about the only opportunity I have these days to wear anything pretty.
What kinds of times and places have you played music in your life?
I have performed in cafes, clubs, theatres, churches, community centres, living rooms and parks in 9 out of 10 Canadian provinces. I once found myself inadvertently booked at a marijuana speakeasy. I also once agreed to be the musical act for a benefit gala, but realized when I arrived that all the other performers were putting on a burlesque show. I was the only one who kept their clothes on throughout the entire performance. Nobody really seemed to mind.
When were you most satisfied in your job?
When somebody told me that they had shared a song I had written with a friend of theirs. This friend was going through a very difficult time and found the lyrics to be very moving and helpful. I also find myself sometimes playing a part in significant life events; singing at weddings, proposals and especially funerals. I find it extremely moving to be able to share these moments with people through my music.
What do you like and dislike about this job?
Likes: Being my own boss, showing up to work in my pyjamas if I want to, connecting with people through art, creating something lasting
Dislikes: Being my own boss, not having motivation to get out of my pyjamas, not having a clear or set path to success, feeling like I spend more time booking shows, writing grant proposals and looking after administrative tasks than I do actually writing songs.
What plans do you have for 2014?
Making a record. Playing more shows. Pushing a baby out of my body.
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