Lauren Winans-No Boys Allowed

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Lauren Winans was born to entertain.  When this 19-year-old West Virginia native was just a tiny tot, she had already found her voice and love for music.  Hardly shy, Winans would delight in performing musical routines in front of her family, classmates and neighbors.  However, it wasn’t until she was fourteen that she started taking singing seriously. Growing up in a town called Buckhannon, Winans was always surrounded by a loving and supportive family.  Her parents, although not singers themselves, influenced Winans as a young child.  They often had music playing on the radio or by way of the television, exposing Winans mostly to the country music genre.  She also remembers finding her favorite movie during childhood.  Beauty and the Beast became a much loved and much watched movie for Winans. She adored Belle, the lead character, and often found herself singing all the beloved songs from the Disney classic.  ”It got me into singing,” states Winans.

Today, the beautiful and talented Winans not only sings, but writes her own songs.  ”I keep a musical diary.  If I want to remember something, I’ll write it down.  When it comes to songwriting, the idea comes first and then the melody,” she explains.  According to the performer, feeling the words is just as important as feeling the rhythm.  ”It’s hard to explain [the feeling] of how wonderful it is to hear your own song being played or to hear someone else singing it,” reveals Winans when asked what it is like to be a songwriter.  She goes on to say that it is especially true if you are writing your songs from experience.  In such a way to Winans, it is like unloading your feelings and emotions; getting your thoughts off your chest.  Her song, “About a Boy,” was inspired by a personal experience and when Winans was finished writing it, it made her cry.  No doubt, a very emotional song for the teenager to create, but it has since become one of her all time favorites.  To Winans, country music affects her more than other genres because it is about “real things in life,” making it more emotionally charged.  Seth Maynard, a fellow songwriter, helps Winans with some of her songs. Winans, who describes herself as “super girlie,” says it is a little funny to have a man like Maynard try to understand her thoughts and feelings and put them into words.

Winans, who says she associates most with country music and enjoys it considerably, does not want her music to only reflect that kind of genre.  Instead of being labeled as strictly a country music singer, she wants to be recognized more so as a multi-genre artist.  On Winan’s upcoming CD set to debut in the summer (she says she still has a few more songs to record), there will be a variety of musical styles reflected in her songs.  There will be something for everyone to enjoy, from country to pop.  The song, “No Boys Allowed,” is the only one not written or co-written by Winans on her CD.  However, she felt strongly connected to the song, and believed in it.  Winans decided then to include it.  It’s a song that Winans could relate to and understand; something you would hear anytime and anyday on a playground.  Winans says she thinks about a group of girls playing happily, creating their own private world where no boys are allowed.  The song is also featured in Winan’s debut video.

And we all know that Winans can sing and write, but can she play an instrument?  ”I play the guitar,” states the talented young entertainer.  Even though she can play the guitar, Winans confides that her studio musicians usually are the ones who provide most of the music.  Winans did reveal that she will be playing the guitar in an upcoming song, and that in all of her original songs, it is just her singing.  Seth Maynard, who owns the studio, plays all kinds of instruments, minus the drums.  So, there are times too when Maynard will take over to provide the beat.

So where does Winans see herself five years from now?  It was an easy answer for the singer/songwriter.  ”A single on the Top 10.  That would be huge!”  And in ten years?  ”I want to be a household name.”  With the way this 19-year-old is performing now, that dream will easily become a reality, and possibly a whole lot sooner than in ten years.

It is apparent that Winans enjoys entertaining her fans, so we couldn’t help but ask what has been her best experience to date singing in public.  With a slight giggle, Winans recalls a time she performed in Nashville at a club.  She had just finished her set, exited off the stage and got approached by a very tipsy bar patron.  The man had been calling her name, and motioned for her to join him.  Winans walked over and was greeted by the man who proceeded to compliment her.  ”You’re fantastic!  You really touched me.  Please don’t leave.  I want you to sing me a song.”  Winans admits that she was honored, but a little unnerved.  She did continue to talk to the man and soon found out that he played hockey.  It wasn’t until later on that she realized who this hockey player really was.  Winans says she was watching the Team Canada hockey team defeat the U.S. in the winter Olympics.  The winning goal in the nail biting game was made by her number one fan.

For more information on Lauren Winans, please go to her website:  www.laurenwinans.com

Saving A Broken Heart Through Music

Everyday people swarm to Vegas to test their luck and gamble with the money in their pockets, hopefully turning that into a quick fortune. Gambling is something millions of people thrive on, testing the hands of fate and hopefully defying the odds. For Sean Semon, Vegas is his home and he’s in a game of chance with stakes far greater than any amount of money you can have. Those stakes are his life and the gamble is getting a heart transplant.

Sean is a hard working American like you and I. He pays his taxes and he never complained about working. He picked up health insurance from his place of employment and expected that coverage to protect him should he really need it. However, when Sean developed congestive heart failure and required a heart transplant, he was denied by his health care provider because of a small clause written that they don’t cover heart transplants. Now, this is not us justifying a social health plan, or showing the fallacies of the health insurance industry, rather what we are saying is there is hope and we’re going to point out how.

Vegas happens to be the birth city of Holes and Hearts, and one day their grandmother heard Sean’s story on the local news. She told her grandsons about this man because his story is very close to the tragedy Riley had at birth. Riley was born with a hole in his heart, which could have been fatal. Luckily, All Children’s Hospital and the doctors there were able to save his life. Now the hard rocking kids of Tampa Bay want to reach out across the United States with a campaign to help save Sean.

Casey and Riley, along with their dad and uncle, decided on a way to help raise money for this cause. Holes and Hearts is offering a download for a donation of $1.00 to benefit Sean’s cause. The idea is simple; we spend $1.00 on a soda, candy bar, newspaper, etc. everyday and never even think twice about it. What if 700,000 people were to donate just $1.00 to his cause. That would give Sean the $700,000.00 he would need to cover this surgery. Once he has enough money he can be placed on the transplant list. Time is of the essence because he doesn’t have long to live without a heart transplant, and the waiting list could be lengthy in itself. Holes and Hearts asks for each of us reading this article, visiting their MySpace or Facebook accounts, and those hearing about this cause to please find it in their heart to donate $1.00. And for your generosity, Holes and Hearts will give you a single song download. In essence, Holes and Hearts is giving up $700,000.00 that could be theirs off their song sales, so you have something great to listen to.

It’s hard to believe that two young boys ages 12 and 13 can have such a generous heart. They didn’t even flinch when they heard about this unfortunate young man, who at 30, is gambling with his life and time is the house. These kids should be considered saints and heroes, but ask them and they will tell you, “We’re not any of those things. We just want to help out, and if we can help with our music then that’s enough payment for us.”

If you know and follow Holes and Hearts one of their first major gigs was playing at the Relay For Life Cancer Walk at Sun Lake High School back in 2008. It was where we first caught a glimpse into the talent they possess. They also played for the American Cancer Society at another event, The Expressionist’s own “Rocktober Fest” and for the Humane Society Of Pinellas. They were the ambassadors of the Fight Against Homelessness, and are pleased to lend their support and name to any worthy cause that needs their help.

For more details please see www.myspace.com/holesandhearts and donate $1.00, or more if you can. Help them help Sean and give this man a chance at life; a gamble he must win and where better to do it than the greatest stage in the world… Las Vegas!

American Idol Season 9 Top 12

If you didn’t catch American Idol last week, you would have seen some pretty great performances.  As usual there were some lacking luster, but they really did well their first time on a stage of this magnitude.  The crowds were bigger, the stakes higher, and the song choices more challenging especially with the Rolling Stones.

The Rolling Stones are classic. I don’t know anyone that hasn’t heard at least one of their tunes, and probably those that have know at least one song by heart.  They have been performing since the 60s, giving them more than 40 years of songs to choose from.  The problem with songs from this band isn’t the fact they are hard, but that the Stones are so famous that changing the song could be suicide.  And for those that do the song the way the Stones did, they will be compared to them almost like karaoke.

Each performer brought their A-game to the stage, in hopes it would show.  For three performers their performances were far from perfect.  In the bottom three was Paige Miles who happened to be suffering from laryngitis but managed to belt out some pretty intense notes. In fact, many didn’t even know she was sick.  The others joining her were Lacy Brown singing “Ruby Tuesday” and Tim Urban singing “Under My Thumb.”

For me, I could see Tim being in the bottom three; I didn’t like his performance at all.  The vocals were all over the place, and he gave the song a Jamaican type sound which I usually applaud but this was a train wreck in my opinion. Knowing that Paige was sick, and couldn’t practice till she hit the stage, I figured she would be in the bottom three but felt she would be safe based on past performances.  Lacy, I was really surprised for, as she has had trouble finding herself in the competition, however, I really enjoyed her unique voice.  She was far better than Tim was that night and better than Paige, but for some reason America didn’t think so and voted her off.  This surprised Tim when he was the safe one in the bottom three leaving Paige and Lacy facing elimination.  I think he really expected to be going home as did I.

The judges decided not to use the save on Lacy, and sent her packing.  I knew they wouldn’t this soon in the competition.

As for the guest performances, I enjoyed the return performance of David Cook.  His vocals were hot, and he took the stage like we never have seen him do before on American Idol with his rendition of “Jumping Jack Flash.”  On the other side we had two female guest performers including Orianthi singing her hit “According To You,” which was another great performance.  She once played guitar for Carrie Underwood, American Idol Season 6 winner.  Then we heard Ke$ha sing her hit “Blah Blah Blah.”  For me, she looked ridiculous out there, and the song was horrible.  I don’t know how this song ever got on the radio, and how it boosted her to this kind of level in the music industry.  Shame on American Idol for this performance.  I was glad when it was over.

To Indie Or Not To Indie… That Is The Question

The music industry today is far from what it was a few years ago when the Doo Wop bands and hit singles artists of the 60s, 70s and 80s were making names for themselves. The days of lucrative music contracts from top recording companies have all been put out to pasture, unless you’re one of the extreme lucky ones.

The computer is mostly to blame for this debacle with P2P file sharing and illegal music downloads which really hit the pocket books of these recording companies, forcing them to extend contracts on the talented artists of today unless it’s a for sure thing. In order to screw over the music industry and get something for nothing, the P2P really didn’t hurt the big wigs; they still make money on the distribution. Instead, whom we hurt most were the artists.

By not having lucrative contracts, it forces the artist to be what the industry calls an “indie” artist or independent artist. This indie artist can still produce their music and have CDs and digital downloads except they must fork over the millions it takes to make a successful career. Most bands are not endowed with bottomless pockets; rather they start out as garage bands. These artists, unless they have great knowledge of the music industry, are doomed to either stay at the status quo of the band never to be more than a garage or bar band, or excel in the industry. They are at the mercy of a very corrupt business.

The P2P is not totally to blame for the contracts not being dealt. The record industry itself has played a small part in the problem by not taking a good strong hold over the digital download revolution. Many people today prefer digital downloads to conventional CDs and tapes. The reason is simple; digitally you can store thousands of songs on your computer and carry them all around in this neat little box that is the size of a business card at most. The MP3 player was an answer to the clutter and damaged tapes and CDs that angered many music listeners. The digital downloads are great but they don’t make a lot of money for the record industry fast; at small $0.99 downloads, it would take a long time to reach the amount of money they would get off CDs. Yes, the industry does allow full CD downloads of any album along with singles but many people don’t want all the songs so that choice doesn’t get utilized like the singles do.

Disney, on the other hand, has found a way to stronghold the industry. For instance, lets take the Little Mermaid soundtrack for example. Ashley Tisdale did a remake of the famed song “Kiss The Girl” on the re-release of the classic movie. The soundtrack included that version, along with the original version by Samuel E. Wright. If you go to iTunes to purchase the song, you will see that only Samuel E. Wright’s version is available for singles download. If you want Ashley Tisdale’s version, you must purchase the entire soundtrack for $19.99. If the rest of the record industry did this they wouldn’t lose as much money on the digital download aspect and, in turn, could sign more people to full contracts.

Now, full contracts are nice and all but are they really worth it? When a record company purchases your contract, they own all your songs and can force you to be here or be there on a tour, of which you have no say. They can force you to produce a certain amount of songs or CDs in a short period of time which can actually cause lackluster songs that don’t make sense or don’t have feeling because of the “must get it done” rush. They may also require at least one #1 radio or Billboard chart song in the duration of the contract or they can cancel you keeping the rights to your music. Contracts almost destroyed Hall of Fame artist REM in the past.

The “indie” artist on the other hand has a lot more freedom. If you decide enough is enough, in most cases you own the royalties and full rights to your work. You have the choice to go on any tour you wish, when you want, as long as it’s in your budget. You can take the time to write quality songs and record them passionately, which in turn, could roll out a #1 hit or even a Grammy. The only downside is you need money to do this.

So what should an artist do? How do they stay away from the shysters of the industry and maximize their investment? Simple. Find a reputable manager who can help you all the way through. You want to find someone who keeps close records on radio hits, sales and your budget. Most artists have no idea what the music industry is about, what’s fair and right; therefore, teaming up with a veteran who knows the ropes can save you from getting ripped off, and make your career prosperous.

R.L. Blair: The Art of Wood Carving

For some, it may be hard to imagine life without cable television, Playstations, and the Internet.  R.L. Blair never knew of these luxuries as a child growing up on a farm in Washington.  At the age of twelve, Blair found something great to occupy his time with and it had nothing to do with video games or remote controls.  Blair had discovered whittling wood with a knife.  He began carving creations that could be found on any boy’s wish list.  Sling shots, toy guns, and bows and arrows were favorites of Blair’s to make.  Eventually the novice carver moved on to bigger and better projects.  Shortly before Blair’s high school graduation he carved the mascot, a totem pole.

Today, Blair’s beautiful and original artwork is known all around the world.  In fact, it is estimated that more than 30 million people view the talented carver’s creations each year.  Many of those people see Blair’s work while on vacation, perhaps without even realizing it.  After all, he is the premier wood carving artist for Disney and has been doing so since the mid-1980s.  Blair’s work can be seen at all of the Disney owned theme parks.  In addition to the six major theme parks, Blair’s sculptures are displayed all around the country at restaurants and in private collections.

The wood carver, who resides in Oceano, California, is famous for creating contemporary fine art sculptures, wood carvings and statues which include figurative and animal designs, marine life and carved wood wall works for both the home and garden.  Blair’s sculptures are beautifully detailed, each one uniquely carved with great skill.  There is the proud eagle, handsome and strong, with outstretched wings.  A mermaid with her long hair flowing in unseen waters. And then there are the whimsical, silly faces carved in eternal laughter.   But none of Blair’s sculptures are more popular than his wooden bears.  These life sized carved creations are done in caricature style, giving these typically grizzly and menacing beasts a much softer, cuddlier side.  With these kinds of sculptures and wood art, it is no wonder Blair has made such a name for himself as an artist, earning much respect and admiration with each new creation.

An artist in other mediums such as paintings, steel, glass and stone, Blair says wood is his favorite.  ”I like to carve because I can create a tangible object.  It is something I made with my hands and will hopefully enhance your surroundings and have some affect on the viewer,” states Blair.  The artist also reveals how much he loves wood for the warmth of the patina and the unique character found in each piece.  ”It {wood} was once a living thing and is becoming rare, so this is how it can be preserved,” explains Blair.  For many years Blair studied wildlife and describes himself as an avid nature lover; therefore, he feels strongly about being able to carve anatomically correct pieces. However, one of Blair’s favorite wood designs exposes his sillier, more carefree style.  ”I like the whimsical, “goofy off-the-wall stuff,” states Blair.

And when Blair is ready to carve a masterpiece, where does he find his canvas?  Blair says he uses salvaged and recycled logs, mostly from fallen coastal redwood trees cut over 100 years ago and left on the ground, still lying in the forests.  Trees like this are no longer harvested, but many were cut in the 19th Century.  Today, redwood harvesting is closely managed to insure the future of forests and their environment.

And how exactly does Blair carve these fallen redwoods?  He uses chainsaws, various power tools, carving knives and a mallet and chisel.  Blair carves the wood with one tool at a time, working his way from the top to the bottom.  The artist explains that each tool adds increasing degrees of detail to the wood.  When finished with one tool, Blair will then move on to a new and different tool which helps to give even more detailing til the product is finished.  The process may seem simple enough, but the fact of the matter is, very few artists have the skill to do what Blair can do with carving wood. He is a master; self-taught and doing what he loves for 35 years now.

R.L. Blair’s wood creations are full of whimsy, originality and pure magic.  These pieces are a definite must-have for the person who already has everything, but could always use that extra special something.

If you are looking for that extra special something, contact R.L. Blair at 512-820-1409 or by his email address: rl.blair@yahoo.com.  His hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can view some of Blair’s work on his website which can be found at www.rlblair.com.  Blair is available to do commissions and special requests.

Blair was also recently featured in the book, Art of Chainsaw Carving, published by Fox Chapel.