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Jon Eldridge
of The Eldridge Band
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Table of Contents Page 4-5 Beamer Wigley
Page 13-17 Jon Eldridge
Page 26-27 YERXEY
of The Eldridge Band
Page 6-7 Maalik D’wan York Page 9-11 Stephanie Angelini
Page 19-22 Dave Miller Page 24-25 iLO
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MUSIC
LISTEN NOW!
Bailey Elora “All the Feels” EP Out Now, Everywhere! Facebook: @baileyeloramusic Photo by @urbanimpressions
Beamer Wigley
Country Singer-Songwriter Who are your inspirations? (as in other artists) I always try to pull my inspiration from every corner of music. Keith Urban was the really big first inspiration I had, but the artists that have really been inspiring me lately are Alec Benjamin, Sasha Sloan, Charlie Puth, among MANY others. When did you first start singing? I was 7 years old when my guitar teacher at the time recommended that I sing at a talent competition that I signed up for. Up until that point I had absolutely no interest in being a singer, I really only wanted to play guitar and drums. But, I tried it, and I fell in love with it! Singing and playing on stage became the only thing I want to do for the rest of my life.
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What did your family do to encourage you? They are always so supportive. Knowing that they always have my back and are willing to help me chase all the crazy dreams I have is the most encouraging thing in the world.
Who else in your family sings? It’s just me! I‘m kind the musical oddball in the family. Who are your musical inspirations? I take my inspirations from the artists I mentioned above but often find something special in other artists that I find and listen to. What kind of music do you listen to today? My music taste is all over the place. I’ve been on a large Jazz and Funk bend lately. A lot of Vulfpeck, a lot of Snarky Puppy. But I love listening to everything, because music is like a language, the more you hear it especially if it’s a diverse range of feels and genres, you’re going to understand it more! What embarrassing songs might I find on your playlist? Too many, wayyyyy too many. My phone is littered with guilty pleasure songs. Where would you most like to perform? The Grand Ole Opry has kind of always been my dream venue to perform at. But honestly, I would most like to play all over the world, as many places as I can. Who would you most like to open for? I think I have to say Keith Urban just because he is the reason I got into music, he gave me the spark I needed to set out on this crazy journey I’ve been on for the past decade. So being able to open for him would really be this crazy full circle moment. If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing? Music production for sure. Being completely on the other end of the album making process would be really cool. I’m really lucky that I get to work very closely with my producer to create my records. But being a full time producer, working with different artists, creating new unique bodies of work, that would be really fascinating. Where can fans-to-be gain access to your music? ReverbNation: https://www.reverbnation.com/beamerwigley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeamerWigley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beamerwmusic/
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Maalik D’wan York
Chanting them Rhymes
When did you first get into music? At the age of 18, right after High School is when I started to take music seriously. Plus everyone in my family did, so I guess it just rubbed off of me. Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music? Pac and especially NaS inspired me. My first hip hop song I liked was, One Mic by NaS. I was 5 years old and it was dope that all you need is “One Mic” to change the world. And what inspired me, well that’s to do things that has never been done.
How has your music evolved since you first began performing? It has evolved a lot. As far as to help me in controlling my breathing when recording.and to make songs a certain way, knowing how the crowd reacts to my particular songs or chants. I’m sure you have shared the stage with a lot of talented artists/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us? Well, we were at the Summit Music Hall and there was a lot of talent around the city. And that drove us to perform better, than we had performed before at any other show. It was a “Man-Up” type of deal and to be honest, I like being around great talent like that. It truly brings the best out of me. If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why? Probably Desire.That’s just how hungry I am to be successful. Because, I feel like throughout High School and in my childhood, I just did what everyone was comfortable with and I didn’t do what was comfortable for me. So, I promised myself that no matter what, I won’t be denied my destiny again!!!
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Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas? My energy, people say that when I perform, I have great energy and it stands out to others. My great energy carries
me throughout the performance. And they say that it sounds like I recorded a song onstage, like it was already mixed when I’m performing. What has been your biggest challenge as a performing artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? My biggest challenge as a performing artist at first was that I wasn’t looking up as I was performing. And remembering my lyrics. How I overcame that challenge was nothing but rehearsals. You know, rep after rep and like I said already, I have great energy, so it carries over quite well. A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art? Well, yes cause you gotta make sacrifices period. I’m talking about staying up whole weeks and barely seeing family in-between time writing music for hours and hours. I lost some friends that I considered my family. And I’ve been trolled a lot! So, I have suffered a great deal, but my resilience keeps me going. And like they say… “No Pain, No Gain!” How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business? It has made it great for independent artists, like myself and many others. It gives the opportunity to put yourself were you wanna be in the industry. But, the only negative I can think of is that the industry is just too oversaturated with content, that’s all. Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans? I have live-streamed my concerts before, but it was on Facebook and Instagram. The quality as far sound was kind of messed up a little bit. I am working on some other live-streaming platforms to get better sound quality. If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be? Everything would be based on merit, not just numbers. Meaning, actual talent would be in the forefront, not just due to how popular you are. Your art will make you popular, instead of your looks. What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why? First, “Ilmatic” by NaS just influenced me on what it means to be an emcee and being creative. Second, “The Carter 2” probably just swag alone and proving people wrong and just being dominant when it comes to this industry as much as possible. Third, “Late Registration” by Kanye West showed me not to limit yourself or put yourself in a box. Fourth, “Me Against the World” by Tupac taught me you know, just resilience Itself and the will to push through being strong in the face of adversity. Fifth, “Ready to Die” inspired me to be witty, cunning and flashy, you know walk that walk and talk that talk and being unapologetic. Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album? I am working on finishing the rest of our EP, “The Rule of 2” with my brother, King York. Then, after that, working on my personal project “Lone Ranger”, that’s going tell my story and who I am as a person. What is your baseball walk on to the field song? My song, no joke, “The Rule of 2” KoK. What’s next for you? What next for me, going out-of-town performing and more videos. Getting our exposure up. The more you’re in people’s face, the better. And finishing up these EP’s and promotion. And expanding the label and getting some merch for people to support our label and our movement. How can fans-to-be gain access to your career? Facebook is Maalik D’wan York (God Leo Lion) and my music, Facebook Page is kok king of kingz and you’ll see a purple and black symbol. My Twitter is Leo Nagasaki @303_Lion5280 and our Spotify is KoK king of kingz same name on SoundCloud and it will be a black and purple logo, you will see and thats us. Our YouTube: K.O.K network and all our songs are on there as well.
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Stephanie Angelini
Artist on the Rise
Who are your inspirations? (as in other artists) Kate Bush, Shania Twain and Taylor Swift.
How did you get started? I was 13 years old at the time when I wanted to take up professional singing lessons, so I did. Then from there I spiralled into all aspects of musical theatre, stage and TV acting, a TV singing group called ‘Jamie Redfern’s Superkids’ and when reaching my late teens and early 20’s I delved into a cover band and solo live performances. Since then, I continue to perform as a solo artist and with a cover band while writing, recording and releasing original songs!
Who are your favorite bands/singers? Kate Bush, Shania Twain, Taylor Swift, The Carpenters, John Denver, Chris Isaak, Keith Urban, Belinda Carlisle and Jewel. What do you think about when your performing? I’m usually keeping an ear out for the music so I am in time and beat with the song and portraying what the song is about to my audience. What else can we expect from you in the future? More original music and hopefully a world tour! What was your first song ever sung? Not Me, Not I. - Delta Goodrem
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When did you first start singing? When I was around 5 years old, just around the house. I would put on little shows in my living room by myself and pretend I was singing to thousands of people. What did your family do to encourage you? My family til this day continue to support and encourage me in every way they can. It’s through their love, supporting words and actions that keeps me going. I believe they are one of the very reasons why I am here today. They’ve assisted me a lot in organising promotional material too, like my brother Michael takes a lot of my promo photoslike the one on my album LIFE LESSONS. Have you always enjoyed the art of music? Absolutely! The process is magical. Turning something that was literally just an idea, a one liner, a dream sequence or an experience to a musical story is my life. Any loves, other then music?Who are your musical inspirations? I’ve always been an empathetic person and have a natural ability to connect and care for others. I love it. Without each other, who and where would we be? What was the best advice ever given to you? From my gorgeous Mum: “It takes patience, persistence and perseverance” I live by this not only with my music, but in my everyday life. if you could have any style wat would it be? I’ve always loved fashion from the 60’s. So cool! Maybe I’ll bring it back... What kind of music do you listen to today? Literally anything that gravitates towards my liking on a certain day. One day I’ll feel like listening to old school 90’s party tunes. The next day it might be the top 40 and then another day throw me the 60’s, 70’s or 80’s and I’ll be engulfed in that.
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What embarrassing songs might I find on your playlist? No such thing as an embarrassing song in my eyes. Where would you most like to perform? Madison Square Garden, O2 Arena, Royal Albert Hall and in my home city- Rod Lava Arena. Who would you most like to open for? Kate Bush If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing? A motivational speaker Do you play any instruments? The acoustic guitar If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be? Alternative Pop What genre of music can’t you stand to listen to? I can pass on heavy metal What hidden talents do you have? I love to act Do you enjoy writing music and/or lyrics? Yes, all the time. What is your favorite quote to say to other? Same thing my Mum always says to me: “It takes patience, persistence and perseverance” Do you have a website or social media for our readers? I sure do! FACEBOOK PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/ stephanieangeliniofficial INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/stephanieangeliniofficial TWITTER: https://twitter.com/steph_angelini YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/StephanieAngelini WEBSITE: www.stephanieangelini.com
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Jon Eldridge
The Eldridge Band Creating a Future in Nashville
Photo by Sarah Adams Boyd
When did you first get into music? I got into music the first time I heard it. We always had music playing in the house and there was always music in the car. My mother would sing along to the oldies stations, the old musicals, and the timeless classics. My father, a rock musician, was into classic rock. My sister took piano lessons and I remember hearing her practice and while watching what she was doing, I thought to myself hey I could do that. Music was a lot different when I was growing up in the 80s and I tended to listen more to music from the 60s and 70s. The Hotel California album really sent me over the edge. I remember being in the mall with my dad while my sister and my mom shopped. And he bought me the Hotel California cassette along with a Led Zeppelin cassette and I just remember being all struck by the harmonies and melodies that were coming through those tapes. I’m thankful my parents never kicked me off the piano while I was trying to learn, even though I was probably hitting a lot of sour notes a lot of the time. But fate had its hooks in me the day I learned and understood a C chord on the piano. Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music? I’d have to say my good friend Sadler Vaden who is one of the best guitar players I’ve ever heard. Before I met him I didn’t take music seriously. I played for fun. Music was just something to broaden my artistic horizons. Sadler changed all that. I joined Sadler’s band. It was the first band I was ever in. I had played with some kids from my church but no one was ever really serious about it. I’d hear things all the time but before Sadler it was just a hobby. Then I’d hear Sadler play music. Watched how he approached it. And for the first time ever I really believed I could play music for a living. After I joined up with him there
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The Eldridge Band Johnny Boyd, Jon Eldridge, Caroline Browning and Will Morrison. Photo by Sarah Adams Boyd
was no turning back. I knew he was destined to make it. Now, he plays guitar for Jason Isbell and The 400 unit. We remain close to this day. When we record we always end up playing on each other’s projects. How has your music evolved since you first began performing/writing music? Music is always evolving. I think every artist goes through different stages of evolution from the time they begin writing. For me it started out writing what the universe gave me. Then, as time passes and more people hear your work they often try to put you in a category. And if you don’t fit a category then you’re usually pretty close to the mark. Kinda like not reinventing the wheel. I’ve learned to stick with the gifts the universe sends me. I remember being in a band around 2007 when Emo and hard rock were the only band genres being picked up by major labels. Then it all came crashing down in 2008. Now, in 2020 you have more blues, classic rock bands and psychedelic groups making the rounds. So, in short I embrace the evolution as it occurs in my writing. It’s almost like you don’t want to have a baby, then when you do, you raise it as an elephant. It is what it is. Each has his own path. I’m sure you have shared the stage with a lot of talented artists/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us? One of my fondest memories is getting the call to play a benefit show in 2007 for Col. Bruce Hampton. He had heart trouble and needed help paying his bills. We put together an all star cast of local musicians and the drummer that night was Duane Trucks. He’s the brother of Derek Trucks and the drummer for Widespread Panic. He was only 16 when he played the Col. Bruce Hampton fund raiser and it was also his first gig. I brought my 2 track reel to reel and recorded the whole show. We became friends that day and I ran into him in Colorado back stage at the Ogden when Jason isbell and the 400 unit opened up for his band. While he had a group with the Hard Working Americans and told him I had the tape of his first gig. Later on in 2018 I brought a Clavinet I’d rebuilt for his brother, Derek Trucks, backstage at Red Rocks and gave Derek a tape his brother’s first show. It was a full circle moment.
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One more story would be when my good friend Sadler Vaden put together a Tom Petty tribute band and I was on keys. Back in South Carolina my good friends Micheal Trent and Carrie Anne Hurst where getting started with their band Shovels And Rope and they were in the line up. We played for their wedding and later on for Sadler’s bachelor party. The stage that night was Shovels And Rope, Jason, Amanda and me. Both Carrie Anne and Amanda were pregnant and rocking out! Luckily the show was recorded and it remains a fond memory of playing Tom Petty songs and then some Springsteen, Stones and Dylan. Most songs we learned at sound check lol. If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why? That’s a tough question because all those emotions combine in the pursuit of this muse. If I had to pick one it would be Desire. I’ve desired a music career my entire life. For me it starts out as joy, then becomes desire, and as the desire grows it turns into passion for performing and also excellent songwriting. I’ve been angry for sure, especially when I’d get told, by whomever, to sound more like some body else, a name act who’s big at the time. Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas? For me it’s the piano. The guitar has always dominated the rock and roll scene. And piano was my first instrument. It’s been incorporated into pretty much everything I write. I play guitar as well, but piano is always my secret weapon. Everybody and their brother plays guitar, Nashville probably has more great guitar players than anywhere else in the world, but a pianist is rare. So I’d have to say the piano and organ are the secret ingredients for our band. Also it’s the only instrument where you basically have the whole composition at your fingertips. You can run the bass and melody at the same time along with the rhythm. Bottom line, in an ever changing music scene, the piano remains a constant. What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/producer? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? My best answer is Communication. There’s nothing worse than having an idea and not knowing how to translate the sound you hear in your head. Much less explain it to your band. I’ve seen bands break up out of frustration because the members don’t know how to communicate with each other. It’s even happened to me. I’ve watched studio sessions get canceled because everyone gets pissed because they don’t know how to move forward.
The Eldridge Band
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With legendary record producer, Mark Wright.
With my band at Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI. Photo by Sarah Adams Boyd
I think for me, overcoming the communication obstacle comes with understanding exactly what it is you’re trying to do. Then researching every cool sound that interests you until you know how to reproduce it. That way you know exactly what to do when the time comes. And also never shoot down an idea before you try it. That’s a big mistake a lot of bands make in my opinion. Someone disregards an idea which, if tried, could save the song. So becoming a better communicator is an ongoing challenge. But, I feel it’s a challenge anyone can overcome. All it takes is practice and patience. A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art? I feel you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. If you choose to suffer then by all means go ahead, just learn what suffering has to teach you. There’s a term I’ve heard a lot of people use; “he/she was a third album breakout.” Basically stating it took 3 albums to finally garner public attention. Writing is spawned from all of the emotions. And there’s a bit of suffering that comes with this calling. I do feel like the art changes for better or for worse once you reach a certain financial status. Money changes everything. Some people write their best work when their situation is bleakest. Then, after they make it, the pressure is off, and if they’re not careful, the music can lose something. But I personally feel like no one should suffer too long because it can completely destroy your ambition. You have to grow a thick skin, learn to adapt and overcome adversity to really become emotionally available for the music. How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business? It’s a blessing and a curse. On one hand the internet can be used as a DIY to get your art out to the world and on the other hand it can stifle your progression when you find a band with the same name and similar songwriting. I remember back in the 90s you could come up with a band name or song title and there was no real way to see if it was already taken. I have to control myself when I write a song or come up with a title and not check to see if it’s already been taken before I finish writing it. There’s been a few times I felt I came up with something awesome and then I google it and there’s 20 other bands with the same idea. So, I’m less likely to finish it when the rug gets pulled from underneath me and the uniqueness is extinguished. But on the bright side, never before could your music be heard world wide unless you had a major label marketing team behind you. Now you can. Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans? Actually, we just wrapped up a live recording and film a couple of weeks ago. I think in these times with Covid ruling the world, bands need to live-stream. Even if there was no pandemic, I’d recommend live-streaming. Do as much as you can until it becomes so big you need a team to help. Because in the end it’s all about making people feel something with your art. And with the majority of the world on their phones and computers it’s a good way to get noticed. We won’t have a release date for our live concert until it’s finished being mixed and edited. We had special guest musicians on it. Jimbo Hart of The 400 Unit on bass and Micah Hulsher from Margo Price’s band on organ. We plan to do as many live-streams as possible given the circumstances.
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If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be? There are so many answers to that question it would take me years to answer. But one major thing I’d change is the way streaming money is handled. Artist’s make diddly squat on their streams and its sickening. You make all your
money touring and being T-shirt salesmen and the labels dip their hands in that too. We are with BMI and I love how they really go after your money for you. I’m glad vinyl made a comeback because that’s an actual physical sale that goes into your pocket to further support your cause. But I would definitely change how streaming is handled. I remember hearing that Peter Frampton had over 4 million streams of one of his songs and he got a check for something ridiculous like $1400 bucks. It’s pretty laughable and angering at the same time. What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why? The first album is Hotel California. It’s sonically brilliant in my opinion. Every song is different from the next but still cohesive and I love it to this day. The second would be Harvest by Neil Young. When I heard that album it changed my life. It goes from country to orchestrated to the birth of grunge like a house with multicolored rooms. The third would be Supertramp Breakfast In America. I mean those guys had it down on that album. Just such good melodies and songwriting. Every song is a masterpiece. The 4th would be Abby Road. There’s not one thing I don’t love about that record. Hearing John , Paul, and George harmonizing on the song Because still sends the goosebumps. The 5th would be Dark Side of the Moon. That album is always an experience. What is your baseball walk out onto the field song? That would be my song Listen To Your World. It was the first complete song I ever wrote and I love the drive and message. I was riffling through some records I bought at an estate sale type store and the inner protective sleeve on a few of them had in bold letters “LISTEN TO YOUR WORLD.” I immediately got the idea for the song and it wrote itself. It remains in our set list and probably will forever. Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album? We just recorded a new album at Sputnik Sound in Nashville, TN with Michael Fahey and Vance Powell. Those guys have worked with everyone from Brandy Carlisle, The Raconteurs, Phish, to Chris Stapleton. Vance mixed the album and Micheal engineered it. We’re still waiting on a release date and thinking the end of summer for a release. We’re super excited to get it out to the world because once we do then it’s time for another one. What’s next for you? I wish I could say what’s next for us but it remains a mystery. A lot of live music venues are closed indefinitely. One big thing I see coming is Drive-In Concerts. I hope one day things will go back to normal, we’ll see. Until then we’re focusing on what we can do across all the social media platforms. As far as music is concerned I’ve always wanted to record an album different from anything I’ve ever written. Maybe make up an alternate band name for it to go under. Kinda like Sgt. Pepper. It was unlike anything The Beatles had previously done and I want to follow in those footsteps. I’ve even got that album half written as we speak. Wink, Wink. How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? You can find our last album on pretty much every platform. And this new one will be on every platform available. We look forward to this new album release and the live concert release with big hearts. These days, all you gotta do is consult what I call, the “oracle”, which is your phone. Just type in The Eldridge Band and you’ll find us. And when you do, drop us a line. We love nothing more than connecting with our fans.
Photo with my Father, Jimmy Eldridge (Screenwriter).
With the late John Prine in Nashville, TN.
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Dave Miller
Photo by Amber Kavan
Musician+Producer+Teacher When did you first get into music? I was interested in music from a young age. I remember plinking around on my dad’s piano and hearing classical music from his radio and turntable. My mom was into country and folk music and my parents took me to square dances often. I was hearing music all the time, but I really fell in love with music when my schoolmate played me “You Can Call Me Al” by Paul Simon on his walkman. Just after that I discovered The Beatles and my obsession with music began. I got a drum set when I was twelve and that solidified everything for me.
Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music? How has your music evolved since you first began performing? I played in bands with friends through high school and was really into practicing and performing. One of these groups recorded a couple demo tapes and I got hooked on recording too. When it came time to pick a focus for college, music was the obvious choice. After a year or so I landed a job teaching drums part-time. It all happened pretty naturally and I’m still recording, performing and teaching 20 years later. I’m sure you have shared the stage with a lot of talented artists/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us? I’ve met a lot of great people in the industry over the years, and through these connections I’ve had some cool opportunities personally and professionally. While playing in bands, I’ve shared the stage with Zigaboo Modeliste (The Meters), Thomas Pridgen (The Mars Volta), Kings X, and countless Colorado bands. Some of my favorite shows were opening for my tabla teacher Aloke Dutta with my band Katalyst. Through my good friend Peter Fletcher (Vessel, Pigmy Love Circus), I was introduced to Danny Carey (Tool) and on a handful of occasions, I got to tech for the drumming legend. If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why? I would have to say passion and joy. I’ve been playing well over half my life and I’m still obsessed with music. It’s just kind of there as a constant calling. I’ve branched out from drums over the years and now I’m producing music for myself and others, as well as playing with a number of bands.
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Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas? It’s overwhelming at times to see the talent this world has to offer. I’m inspired every day by the art and music people are creating, but like many artists, I’m consistently battling feelings of doubt even in times of great inspiration. I hope to be a reflection of the art and music that has given me so much joy and happiness throughout my life. I’m heavily influenced by different kinds of music from all over the world and I’m actively introducing these elements into the art I create. What has been your biggest challenge as a musician? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how? My biggest challenge as a musician and producer has been going deep to learn how to express sounds, thoughts and feelings clearly and truthfully. I’m always working on it and maybe getting closer to what I hear in my heart. The lockdown has been an interesting time. I’ve had lots of time with my family and time to meditate and reflect. I’m excited for us all to emerge from this confusion and chaos and express love again…in person! A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art? Yeah I think part of living and learning anything can feel like suffering at least a little bit. Figuring out how to navigate a career in music is definitely challenging and I’ve had many moments of doubt. I always try to focus on the positives of any situation and strive to be in projects that I feel excited to be part of. How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business? It seems like the internet has flipped the industry on its head. It’s really cool that it is easier to get music out there, but everyone is so inundated with content that it doesn’t seem to be any easier to push through and get noticed. With COVID-19, the internet is virtually the only thing keeping the entertainment industry going. It’s so sad how many venues have closed already and we’re not out of the woods, yet. Here’s hoping for the triumphant return of artists.
Photo by Kristin Drake
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Photo by Kristin Drake
Photo by Amber Kavan
Have you done or plan on doing any Live-stream Concerts? If you have, how has the response been from your fans? I’ve been recording a ton and posted some videos, but I haven’t gone live from the home studio. I played drums on a video session with Matt Skellenger at Mighty Fine Productions in July and it sounds like we may be back doing a live stream for Dazzle in September. Kudos to the live-streamers out there, you really provide a great service during all this. If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be? At this point I think the industry is changing and evolving constantly. I wish mainstream pop-culture was more varied from the usual mold, but it seems like many artist/bands still thrive within their niche. Though struggling and working on passion alone, the fringe has at least enough to sustain and keep making their art. This really is a golden age of music and people have access to so much. Innovative artists will keep coming up with ways to connect with fans and get by. What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why? It’s tough to pick five but here’s some albums that are still important to me: “Graceland” – Paul Simon – For some time as a kid this was one of only a couple tapes I had and I listened to it on repeat. I still love this album to this day. “Vespertine” – Bjork – I love Bjork’s music for so many reasons but hearing the production on this album was very influential on me as I was beginning to work with electronic music. “Exit Stage Left” – Rush – After hearing Tom Sawyer on the radio I knew that I wanted to play drums. This album is a collection of incredible songs played live and was a great source of inspiration for me as a young musician. “Lateralus” – Tool – A good friend turned me onto Tool as a 12 year old kid and I’ve been hooked ever since. This band oozes true artistry and still provides me with a ton of inspiration in life and music. “Give a Monkey a Brain…” - Fishbone – Fishbone is one of my favorite bands of all time. This album really grabbed me as a teenager and let me into their vast catalog of musical excellence.
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Tell us about your current project. Are you working on new music? An EP or Album? In the past year, I released the debut “Deep Ocean Creature” album, as well as two ambient albums from the alter ego “Deep Space Creature”. Both projects are co-produced by Kyle Jones (Brotherhood Studios). In 2019 I played drums and percussion on “Vitality” by Matt Skellenger. This album is fantastic and is the fourth album of his I’ve been a part of. I’m working on a new “D.O.C.” release for 2020, and long time project with Peter Fletcher and Neale Heywood, “Vessel” that will both be released on label Vajra Records. I played on a couple tracks for the new project “Man Vs.” from my buddy, Ben Fellows (Lacuna Brotherhood). I have more tricks up my sleeve too, when the universe will allow it. What’s next for you? I’ve been really into making electronic music and I have some great sounds coming out of the studio lately. I’ve been mixing lots of analog synthesizer sounds with acoustic drums and other acoustic instruments. The tones and textures work synergistically and I’m really excited to see where it goes. How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? I’m @tabladave on most social media platforms. Check out my label, Vajra Records for the music I produce and release. www.vajrarecords.com or www.vajrarecords.bandcamp.com @vajrarecords on instagram and twitter @deepoceancreature on instagram @deep_creature on twitter www.mattskellenger.com
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Photo by Michael Call
iLO
Talented Singer-Songwriter
Who are your inspirations? (as in other band or artists) Sade, Michael Bolton, FINK, Sting, 30 Seconds to Mars. When did you first start singing? When I was as young as 6 - I was writing poetry and short stories that later turned into lyrics and full songs, but I didn’t begin singing professionally until my twenties. What did your family do to encourage you? Telling my parents that I want to quit university and my daytime job to pursue music was challenging - my grandmother has been my biggest supporter ever since I sang at home with a hairbrush but it took time for the rest of my family to come fully onboard. When they saw me perform with a full band onstage at a sold-out show, I think they accepted and celebrated my choice and have been very encouraging and proud from then on. Who else in your family sings? Noone, I don’t come from a musical background - my mum is in the medical field and my dad was a journalist and a writer. But I knew I’d be a singer for as long as I can remember. Who are your musical inspirations? Life, my friends, relationships, mental health and self-discovery.
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What kind of music do you listen to today? I love the 80s, classic rock, country-rock. Today I’m listening to Chris Stapleton, HALSEY, The Neighbourhood, Imagine Dragons, Billie Elish, Sting, and Sade. What embarrassing songs might I find on your playlist? Some colourful euro-pop from the 90s, the whole Spice Girls collection (which I dont think is embarrassing, I’ve loved them forever), and a song by Dan Balan called Chica Bomb that was too catchy to escape my mind. Where would you most like to perform? Headline show at the O2 Arena in London. Who would you most like to open for? Michael Bolton! I’d also love to tour with Maren Morris, Ryan Tedder / One Republic, and James Bay. If you weren’t singing, what would you be doing? I honestly would be quite lost, I only ever imagined being a performer. I studied foreign languages (German and Russian) and I love psychology, so maybe along the lines of an interpreter or a therapist but nothing would bring as much happiness as music does. Do you play any instruments? I compose some of my melodies on piano, but voice is my main instrument. If you could dabble in another genre of music, what would it be? I’d love to write and perform toplines for trance/dance/EDM music. My favourites will be Above and Beyond. What genre of music can’t you stand to listen to? I respect and like all genres, but not the hugest reggae fan - although I think reggae brings a beautifully happy and relaxing vibe. A great song is a great song, regardless of the style. What hidden talents do you have? I write comic stories in my native Bulgarian, have done it for years. My childhood friends and I were lucky to spent many summers on holiday together in a little Bulgarian seaside resort and after each holiday, I’d fly back to the UK and immortalize our crazy and funny memories into mini books. Do you enjoy writing music and/or lyrics? Absolutely love it, it’s the ultimate therapy and release. It’s wonderful to put feelings into words andcreate something that others can embrace and gain love from. How can fans-to-be gain access to your music? https://www.reverbnation.com/ilonatmusic https://www.instagram.com/ilonatmusic https://www.twitter.com/ilonatmusic https://www.facebook.com/ilonatmusic https://www.youtube.com/user/ilonatmusic
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YERXEY
¿Qué fue lo que te metió en la música? Desde muy pequeño me interesaba cantar, cada vez que escucha la radio y esos artistas que sonaba en ella, cerraba lo ojos y me imaginaba en una tarima con mucho público donde sentía que era el dueño de la canción, pero era una persona tímida donde no se me veía inspiración o una iniciativa para ser artista , hasta que falleció mi padre donde quise retomar el sueño de el pero esta vez llevarlo a niveles nacionales eh internacionales. ¿Quién te inspiró a hacer música? Mi padre me inspiro hacer música, porque de muy pequeño lo veía cantar y interpretar distintas canciones que al momento de su fallecimiento quise dejar a un lado la timidez eh ingresar a este mundo del entretenimiento para ser el próximo artista que lleve el nombre en alto de su país y también de su papa.
¿Cómo describirías la música que normalmente creas? Alegre, divertida, contagiosa, Motivadora. ¿Cómo es tu proceso creativo? Me gusta estar en la soledad al momento de crear, mirar al cielo y cerrando los ojos y sentir cada una de las sensaciones que siento para poderlas transmitir en una composición real y consentimiento. ¿Con quién te gustaría colaborar? Reik, Justin Bieber, j balvin, Andy rivera. Si pudieras abrir un show para cualquier artista, ¿quién lo sería? De Reik. ¿Cuál es un mensaje que darías a tus fans? Que nadie hará lo que uno no haga por si mismo, que luchen por sus sueños que para cumplirlos solo hay un paso, que es empezar y creer. ¿Cuál es el talento más inútil que tienes? Siento que ninguno.
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¿Cantas en la ducha? ¿Qué canciones? Realmente si, pero tengo una playist con todas las clases de música como, salga, merengue, rap, pop etc. Soy muy variado a cantar en la ducha ¿Qué estarías haciendo ahora mismo, si no fuera por tu carrera musical? Siento que lo mismo de la sociedad, en una univerdad, con un trabajo y aburrido de la vida tan simple que llevaría .. con la música es una vida de experiencias que no es solo una carrera es nuestra vida expresada en canciones y letras. ¿Tienes algún próximo espectáculo? Por ahora con toda esta situación que esta pasando el mundo no, pero si tengo algo seguro que estamos trabajando con diversas personas para traer mucha música para el año 2021. ¿Cómo cree que Internet ha impactado en el negocio de la música? Uff si el internet no hubiera crecido esta forma como lo esta haciendo día a día .. no tendríamos las oportunidades que tenemos los artistas para llevar nuestros trabajos a diversos partes del mundo. ¿Cuál es tu canción favorita para interpretar? Reik – Ya me entere , seria mi canción favorita para interpretar en diversos lugares. ¿Qué músicos famosos admiras? J balvin , Reik serian los artistas que admiro mucho. ¿Cuál es el mayor problema en el que te has metido? Por ahora ninguno. En parte personal varios pero gracias a dios eh aprendido de eso ¡. ¿Cuál es el mejor consejo que te han dado? Vive tu sueños como si fuera tu trabajo hasta que algún dia se convierta en el Si pudieras cambiar algo sobre la industria, ¿qué sería? Mas apoyo a los artistas que vienen comenzando, hay mucho talento que no se a descubierto . ¿Qué sigue para ti? Ahora estamos preparando mi segundo single MIA acompañado del Artista Kanty que se lanzaría a principios de octubre y después vendríamos el próximo año a principio con el lanzamiento de 11:11 con el acompañamiento de mis amigos LEES Y FEER . y si dios lo permite y si las cosas salen bien se lanzaría a finales del 2022 mi primer álbum titulado “Adromedai” vienen muchas cosas con la bendición de dios. https://www.reverbnation.com/yerxey https://www.instagram.com/yerxey https://www.facebook.com/Yerxey Subscribir https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UC8ybewFy4Aw5q0jdaIo84Mw
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