To Indie Or Not To Indie… That Is The Question

Welcome back to The Expressionist Magazine

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.

Country’s In The Cards – Jenna Zablocki

In the music industry today we find an abundance of talented performers, however, with such mass numbers it’s easy to fall into a niche where you sound like or act like the rest of the stars, losing your individuality.  It’s important to find your specific niche that sets you above the rest, giving you that brand that when your song comes on the radio, people know you sang it.

Being a celebrity musician is the dream of just about anyone in the modern music era, and with MTV and VH1, it’s been glorified and glamourized.  So when a talented artist comes along that can take that childhood dream and turn it into reality with their own unique sound, style and brand, then you have found a star.  For Jenna Zablocki, she has not only found her niche in the music industry, but also gives something extra to the package because she can act too.

Since the young age of five, Jenna has been tinkering on the piano playing her heart out.  She loved to perform and let the music run through her, releasing her soul.  Jenna continued to pursue singing and music for eleven more years.  She studied classical composers and tried her hand at opera and gospel music.  It was her love to perform that gave her the idea to also act, and her first act was at a school production.  Jenna decided to stop music for a while, and pursue the acting career she enjoyed so much.

Jenna’s acting career got started in a strange place.  As the saying goes, sometimes you are where you are for a reason.  Jenna was discovered by a casting director at the JFK airport in Boston, and never looked back.  She would move herself to Los Angeles to make this dream a reality.

Her first major role came when she played April Meadows in The Portal, which airs on the silver screen in 2010.  She has also performed in supporting roles and fill-in’s on Repo Chick as Eggi,  Project Solitude as Sara, and Killer Weekend.  However, she never lost her love for music either, and her home in Los Angeles made it possible to pursue both loves at once.

In 2009 Jenna went into the recording studio to record an album, and it was there that she sang a song which defined her musical style.  It was very different from her childhood training.  The producer said, “Man, that sounded almost country.”  So, from then on Jenna was a country singer and produced her debut CD, Powerful Stuff, set to be released nationwide in January 2010.

Hearing Jenna sing on her new CD you will understand exactly what I am talking about with her unique style.  Her voice is sultry smooth, feminine and powerful with a mix of  slight country feel, but not being overpowering, which can land her music on easy listening, country, and top 40 radio stations.  If you don’t like country, you will still love Jenna and her CD has something for everyone to enjoy.

Jenna intends to set her ambitions high, and succeed in both acting and music, and a role in a musical movie would fit her just fine.  When her career has ended she hopes to someday win a CMA, as well as an Oscar, Grammy and Tony award.  “An award is the ultimate symbol of success.  I would be lying if I said I didn’t want to win one… and it’s the utmost honor because your fans voted for you to win it,” Jenna states.

With the launch of her debut album and her ability to act and sing well, Jenna’s career is only heading up, and success is on the horizon for this young star.  You’re sure to see her name in lights and a star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame one day.

You can get Jenna’s CD Powerful Stuff through iTunes and Amazon.com.  Find out more about Jenna, her amazing budding career, and her current projects at www.jennazablocki.com

Nerves Of Steel – Hollie Steel

Like Americans, the British love talent and reality shows, making them quite the rage across the pond.  One of the more popular shows is Britain’s Got Talent, which is like American Idol but they allow different kinds of performers to compete, making it not just a singing competition.  Unlike American Idol, they allow any age to compete as long as they have the talent to move to the next round.  However, here is a similiarity between the two shows: on the judging panel is the man who makes them quiver, Simon Cowell.

About a year and a half ago the multi-decked theater was sold out.  The judges sat waiting for their next performer in the initial audition, when out comes a ten-year-old dressed in ballerina garb and a beautiful tiara that sat upon her head, sparkling in the stage lights.  The judges ask her, “What’s your name?” and with a soft English accent she mutters, Hollie Steel.  Little Hollie points off stage to queue the music, and starts to perform a interpretive ballet dance.  The judges sit back with baited breath knowing she will probably sing, mainly because she has a small head mounted microphone on.  Her dance didn’t last long before coming to a complete stop.  She then looks at the audience, cool and collected, and belts out one of the most amazing sounds ever heard.  Simon Cowell’s eyes grow wide in shock over the vocals of this young lady, and with a heart felt passion she sings, “I Could Have Danced All Night.”  That performance won her a trip to the next round, allowing her to compete in the finals last year.  Sadly, she didn’t win the competition, but is proud to say she made it farther than she ever expected.

Talking with Hollie, I discovered she originally was in ballet.  She loves to dance which frees her spirit, allowing her to express herself through her movements.  I don’t know too many young ladies who don’t want to be beautiful ballerinas performing on stage.  I know many also that wish to be singers, performing for their adoring fans.  Hollie, at the age of ten, got that chance for both of her loves which soared her into the hearts of millions.  Singing came later, but it was something she loved to do, so combining the two was like the cherry on the cake for Hollie.

Her appearance on Britain’s Got Talent led her to record her first album, set to be released in 2010; a feat Hollie is quite excited over and hopes the enthusiasm will trickle down into the album for her fans.  The album will contain mostly contemporary-crossover and opera-like compositions.  Granted, Hollie loves pop music and rock, but prefers to sing the music that expresses her young heart the best.

Despite the success, Hollie has a great head on her shoulders and hasn’t let the fame and success get to her.  When she is not singing, she loves playing with her teddies, listening to music, playing with her friends and doing what a typical now eleven-year-old girl would do.  She also loves spending time with her family, who have supported her all the way on this amazing journey.  If you see Hollie around town, or walking down the road she will gladly give you her autograph and thank the people who cherish her music.  That’s how you can tell she hasn’t let stardom affect her, which is also a sign of great parenting.

Hollie has performed on TV,  and has an album coming out this year, but believe it or not she still has one dream she hopes to fulfill in her new career.  Hollie wants to tour the U.S. and sing for her fans here in America.  Hollie’s mom says that she has a tremendous following here in the states, and is touched how the American people have taken Hollie into their hearts.  I have a great feeling that this will come true faster than she expects and she will get to greet those fans here face to face.

If you want to find out more about this amazing young lady, you can visit her official website and sign up for her fan club at www.holliesteel.org.uk and tell her how much her music touches your life.  There is no greater compliment than that for an artist.  Once you see her, you will know why she can capture your heart with her voice and charm and not ever have to meet you in person to do so.

Don’t forget to listen to her podcast where she sits down and talks with The Expressionist Magazine on “Artist One On One.”  The podcast is found on our podcast link, or you can search The Expressionist Magazine on iTunes.

Drifters- The Legend Continues

It’s hard to believe that fifty-six years ago, five men would grace the country and the world with their amazing singing talent.  They would help define a new style of music called doo-wop, which was branching away from the traditional music like that of Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and even some of the big band and jazz era melodies.  This was a whole new style and look, complete with fancy stage outfits and fun lyrics you could dance to.  Those five men made up the legendary group called The Drifters, and their name says it best, they drifted right into our hearts.

Back in 1953, a man by the name of George Treadwell, creator of Atlantic Records, started a conversation with Clyde McPhatter to start a group.  This group was to be recorded with Atlantic Records, and McPhatter did just that, naming the group The Drifters. Their first hit would come three years later in 1956 called “Money Honey,” which also was their first number one hit.  The five man band became quite popular, and started a trend among other artists such as The Temptations and The Four Tops.

Clyde McPhatter wanted out, and the group would go down to four members and continue that way.  A few years after McPhatter left The Drifters, they started to get in trouble, showing up late for practice and even for some shows. George Treadwell wouldn’t stand for this kind of behavior and fired the whole band.  Infuriated with the band, Treadwell went across the street and hired a five man band called The Five Crowns to replace his Drifters.  That move would turn out to be special because they lifted The Drifters to super stardom.  In fact, in that new group was vocalist Ben E. King, also noted for his solo career following his stint with The Drifters, giving us a hit called “Stand By Me.”  The new line up included Ben E. King, Charlie Thomas, Doc Green, Elsbury Hobbs, and James “Poppa” Clark.

Ben E. King’s Drifter line up is commonly referred to as the “Golden Age” of The Drifters.  They produced great songs such as “Dance With Me,” “This Magic Moment,” “Save The Last Dance For Me,” and so many more.  During this time, this particular line up went into tumultuous situations, because many of the fans knew and adored the first line up giving this one grief.  This new group lasted only two years for a few reasons.  Lover Patterson, the road manager,  had a fallout with Treadwell.  King was under contract with Patterson when he was The Five Crowns, so Patterson refused to let King tour with the band.  King continued to record the songs for one year while another man, Johnny Williams, toured in his place.  To make matters worse, King asked Treadwell for his share of the royalties, which he was denied. King would go on to a very successful singles career.

Despite the fact their lead singer King was gone, Rudy Lewis took over in King’s spot and recorded hits like “On Broadway,” “Some Kind Of Wonderful,” and “Please Stay.”  The band would also find more changes in the future.  Hobbs was drafted and Tommy Evans from the original lineup came back to fill his spot.

Amazingly, the group started to tour in 1953 and still does so today, making them the oldest consecutively touring group in the world that we know about.   Currently, there is a new generation of Drifters.  George Treadwell is no longer with us, but his daughter Faye Treadwell continues the legacy.  She gets new band members from time to time.  Each Drifters member that is chosen must look similar to, and sound similar to the original Drifters to ensure the quality is maintained.  Today, that group has a new CD out titled, The Drifters – Five Decades and Moore.”

This new CD is a tribute to the late band member Johnny Moore.  It contains some of the classic hits from the original Drifters, with a few lost songs from the ’60s decade no one knew existed.  There are also some songs written and performed by the current Drifters line up. This CD can be obtained at Amazon.com, iTunes and their official website.

George Treadwell’s The Drifters would continue to morph members in and out, but they always kept to their roots and sang the songs that brought them to the level they are known for today.   The Drifters were inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in a few ways.  One way was as Ben E. King and The Drifters, and secondly as The Original Drifters (this one was a separate group run by original Drifter Bill Pinkney).  The Drifters would go on to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as well.

To find more about The Drifters, see their official websites:

The Drifters:  http://www.thedrifters.co.uk/
The Original Drifters (Bill Pinkney):  http://www.originaldrifters.com

Destino3- Harmonic Popera At Its Best

In the ’90s, boy bands were all the rage.  They made tween and teen girls fall to their knees with full shreaking screams.  They were pop sex icons put together by large pocketed conglomerates, with amazing sense of marketing.  The bands were like puppets; they all had very similar qualities and most of them sounded very much like the other.  Their voices and talent didn’t matter because their looks were what brought in the money, and when the looks faded and the next rage came about, they fell from grace.

Then, out of Canada, comes another boy band trio.  Before you roll your eyes, I must say they are nothing like the others. They call themselves Destino3.  Sure, they have incredible looks that make the women go nuts, have harmonic vocals that will soothe the savage beast, and unlike the other boy bands of the past, these guys sing something none of the other boy bands even dared to try… classical crossover.  They have everything the other bands don’t, and are set to stand the test of time because they attract the younger generation, but they also appeal to those who love opera, classical, and gospel music.

Their name translated means “destiny,” in both Italian and Spanish.  The name was chosen because they knew they were destined to be singers and perform what they love the most.  Destiny is exactly what they got.  They all had acclaimed solo careers and rich musical training before joining Destino3.  They all had various genre backgrounds such as pop, gospel, opera, and classical, that when combined, would make for a delightfully unique sound.  In turn, that would make them a household name.  The group was joined by Paul Ouellette, the mastermind and founder of Destino3.  He brought in Joey Niceforo and Hans Munoz to complete this dynamic trio.  They originally lost one of their first members, bringing in Munoz in his place.  Munoz brought a new pop style and sound to the band, as well as an amazing song writing ability that Destino3 hopes to utilize in the years to come.

It’s hard to believe they’ve been around since 2006, and started to sell out theaters and opera houses all over their native country of Canada.  The group realized they had a talent that the rest of the world needed to see, and in 2009 started to tour the United States.  Destino3 started a tour throughout the entire southeast, which has been a great success.  They are very honored that the rest of the world is starting see the gifts they bring to the music industry. Their music even brought them their most acclaimed performance to date; it took place in 2008 at the Beijing Summer Olympics.  Ouellette states the band was very honored to be a part of something so special.  It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity which made them feel like they earned a gold medal for their talents.  That performance put their music in front of the nations and set an international stage unlike any other.

In 2009, they released their first major debut CD titled, Forte.  It boasts an exotic name supported by the great variety of tracks contained on the disc.  It contains songs such as ” Adagio” and “Una Furtiva L’Agrima” that have an operatic feel.  Included as well is “Breathe Again,” originally recorded by Grammy Award winning Toni Braxton, thus showing the diversity of the album.  It even has the track “My Baby You,” in both English and French.

The band looks forward to seeing what 2010 has in store; the places they will travel to, the people they will meet.  They look forward to making songs that everyone can love, no matter what your musical style is.  We know that once you hear their soulful, harmonic voices you will be hooked on their “popera” sound and be a fan of Destino3 forever.

To find out more, go to their website www.destino3.com

Ethan’s Angels – Rockin’ For A Cure

Four years ago, a little boy was born into this world; a miracle to his family and a loving brother to his siblings.  Unfortunately, Ethan would never be able to tell his parents or brothers and sister he loves them.  He won’t be able to play video games or take part in any typical childhood activities because Ethan was born with a severe birth defect called Hypo-plastic Corpos Collossom.  However, that birth defect didn’t make Ethan any less human, or any less special than any other boy; in fact, it made him a champion.

Hyperplastic Corpus Corrosum  is an underdeveloped brain, specifically the part that connects the two hemispheres together, resulting in a failure to thrive.  Despite the circumstances, Ethan has overcome many obstacles and manages to fight for life.  He is a brave soul that just wants a chance to live a normal life, no matter the dismal prognosis of permanent brain damage.  Each day Ethan wakes up, and fights to keep his food down, as his parents feed him through a feeding tube.  He goes into an oxygen chamber for an hour each day, and once a week private nurses come in and give him blood transfusions.  Ethan also has a special teacher that visits his home once a week and works with him.  Ethan cannot speak or see well, has developed an immune deficiency, suffers from breathing problems, cannot hold his head up for long or even grab objects. It is heartwrenching to even mention the list of problems.  However, despite these challenges, on July 20, 2008 Ethan managed to smile for the very first time, showing the world he is happy and loves life.

For his parents, caring for Ethan is a 24 hour a day job, one they do without complaining or hesitation.  They love their son and will do anything for him, and that’s why they need to give Ethan a possible life saving procedure called Cord Blood Transfusion. They saved his cord blood when he was born, and that very blood could reverse many or all of his problems.  As a child, the blood is most useful at the age he is at, however, each day they wait the chances of recovery dwindle.  Many doctors in the U.S. won’t even do this 15 to 20 minute procedure that could save Ethan’s life, as they say the risks are too high.

Ethan’s mother says that he gets a blood transfusion every week, exposing him to possible disease and rejection.  This procedure is no different except it’s his own blood that has the possibility to heal him. To get this procedure they have to leave the country and go to China for a 15 minute infusion.  The procedure, with travel, costs $30,000.00.  This kind of money they must raise in order to help their son.  What really angers them is that this could be done right here in the United States. The goal is to find a U.S. doctor that will take the risk, stand up for Ethan and give him the procedure here (probably costing half of, or even a quarter of the price).  However, until that person steps up, China is their only bet.

The worst thing that could happen with this procedure is nothing; Ethan doesn’t get better at all.  On the other hand, the best case scenario would be that the nutrient rich blood could reverse all his problems making Ethan a healthy, young boy.  However, if Ethan only gains slight improvement, that will help his quality of life even in the smallest way, making the procedure well worth it.  That’s why on Saturday, December 19th, 2009 from 6:30 p.m. to midnight, local bands are going to come together to rock for a cure, raising money to help Ethan get that possible life saving procedure.

To partake in the festivities, see the info below:

Beef ‘O’ Brady’s (Wilderness Lakes)
US 41 N.
Land O’ Lakes, FL
6:30 PM to Midnight
TICKETS:  FREE CONCERT, DONATIONS WELCOME
Beef ‘O’ Brady’s will be donating 10% of proceeds to the cause, in addition to the money collected from donations.

Bands:
Charlie Nicol
Pine Hill
The Hat Trick
Holes and Hearts
The Ghost Sound
& other great musicians

There will be face painting and some crafts for sale to help raise money for the cause.

If you can’t come, you can still donate and help this little champion by going to www.ethansangels.com.  When there, just hit the contact US link.  You can also make an online donation through PayPal, or send a check.  Please make a notation that it is for the Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Land O’ Lakes fundraiser.

It will be a night of good food, good friends, and great music all for an amazing young boy who will certainly touch your heart. Maybe Ethan can’t be there in person, due to his condition, but he will be there with us in spirit.  The family is very grateful to all the participating bands, and everyone else who is helping the cause, including all the people who unselfishly have donated their time to help organize this.

Photographs by Angel’s Touch Photography

Holiday Mash-Up with Paul of Cannibal Corpse

Drummer machine Paul Mazurkiewicz of death metallers Cannibal Corpse caught up with me while out at the band’s Hollywood stop on the current tour. To talk to me about the upcoming holiday season along with the good and the bad effects of the interviewing process and what the fans can expect from an overall Cannibal Corpse slaughter fest if not having already experienced one.

How was your Thanksgiving?

Paul: It was pretty uneventful but it was good. We had a day off after having 14 shows in a row. When out on the road I’m not with my family. So it was just another day but the fact that we had a day off was nice.

Looking forward to the remaining holiday season?

Paul: Of course we’ve been very busy while on this tour. We’re ending just before Christmas and everyone will be getting home in time for the holidays so they’ll be able to spend time with their family and loved ones so we’re all looking forward to that.

What do you hope to find underneath the Christmas tree come Christmas morning?

Paul: I don’t even know anymore to me I don’t want anything or need anything. I want to see my family, see my wife and daughter and can’t for that. That’s the most important thing to me.

What about your latest record, what can be said about it that hasn’t been covered?

Paul: I don’t know good question really. It’s a great record I think – we felt that we did good job on it. Eric doing the best he can to produce it. We’re happy it’s doing so well and we’re out on the road doing better than we ever have been so it’s a good feeling all around.

Out of all the members of Cannibal Corpse, who goes the longest without showering?

Paul: (Laughs) Probably George, sometimes most of us it’s hard to do because you go and shower the night before a show and then have to go and shower again afterwards – so it’s like pointless. I think it would be a safe answer to say though that George is indeed the one that’s gone the longest without showering. There are going to be days where all of us play not showering and then some where we have showered. I would hope I’m somewhat clean so I would wait it out after a while before needing to shower so it happens.

What have been your best and worst interview/fan experiences?

Paul: Ya know I guess the interviews would be a hit and miss. The Most we do is being one of those a hit and some are like the ones where they don’t even know who you are. It seems like I have some knowledge of who I’m going to talk too. But those are the types are the ones that seem the most pointless. As for fans 99% of the fans are great and down to earth who just want to meet you and have a good time and then get some that don’t know when to keep their mouth shut. You got to take the good with the bad with the business we’re dealing with here.

You’ve toured with pretty much everybody, who do you prefer touring with the most?

Paul: We have toured with a lot of bands and befriended a lot as well. That is also a hard question to answer. We’ve toured with so many but as us being fans of music we full filled our dream of getting to tour with Slayer and watch them perform every night was awesome and we’d love to do that again.

What’s it like going back to being a support act after so many years as a headliner?

Paul: It’s a little different as well. We’ve done headlining since the beginning but at the same time we’re one of the biggest death metal bands around so we look at it expanding the fan base as much as possible. Like we are today this tour is a combination so we got more an eventful chance. We’re not use to doing this type of thing but we’ll do it whenever we can and make it work.

There are of course the main songs that we’d “have to” perform and then there are the ones that we can toss to the side that wouldn’t matter as much as the main ones do. If we didn’t perform such songs as “Hammer Smash Face”, then we’d be facing a problem. I don’t think I could go without playing that song either way.

Who does most of the interviews while out on the road, and who do you usually get guys or girls or is it even?

Paul: It’s mostly I or Alex or George does a bunch as well. Unusually us three it’s always a mix. I’d say 60% male and 40% female it’s not like we’re just sticking with just females or just males. Everybody has their share.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Paul: Thanks for the support of death metal and Cannibal Corpse if it wasn’t for you guys we wouldn’t be here today so keep it brutal!

Dirge Within’s 8-Question Round-Up

Dirge Within’s guitarist Shaun caught up with me while out on the road on the band’s most recent stop out on the current tour this one being a fusion of Trivium’s bill and Hatebreed’s. Shaun spoke to me about the current touring route, which band he spends the most time, down to the pranks he’s pulled while goofing off behind the scenes. Aside from those side effects he also threw out details regarding the band’s current music video release, and album output on what the low down is revolving around this reality world of music.

What’s been the highlight so far of the Into the Mouth of Hell We Tour?

Shaun: The two tours were so near one another that the promoter’s decided to put them together into this big festival for the San Francisco and Los Angeles dates. But I think Los Angeles kicks ass better than San Francisco does which is rare.

Which band have you been hanging out with the most on this tour?

Shaun: Trivium, I ride a lot with them and hang with them. Cory, Matt, Paulo, and Nick are great friends of mine I just love those guys.

Is the economy affecting your tour attendance or merch sales? Is it impacting logistics or operation at all?

Shaun: Of course you see it. For the price we have to sell t-shirts they are 4 or 5 other bands you have to match it up with to keep it fair. So there are kids that have to miss out on buying shirts at times which sucks. Its reality so you just got to make the best of it I suppose.

What’s the best prank you’ve played on bandmates or other bands?

Shaun: Gabe of Whitechapel who I call Cartman we bought him an Eric Cartman drivers license and put it in his wallet that was hilarious.

I’m sure you get stories from fans about how your music impacts their lives. What’s one that really stands out?

Shaun: There was a girl in Hartford, Connecticut who said that our music helped her get through her illness. That’s always a very heartfelt to hear from our fans.

Tell me about your latest video for “Forever the Martyr”.

Shaun: It was a long day of bombs and explosions, I think the director got a good vibe of the band and we’re known to be an aggressive type of band when performing live. I want to have fun and crush some skulls.

Why should the fans own a copy of “Force Fed Lies”?

Shaun: I think every song has a different vibe and has a good American metal and do our own thing.

Any last words?

Shaun: Thanks for having me, and keep supporting metal!

Written and interviewed by Natalie Perez

Georgia’s Claim To Fame

What do Ray Charles, Little Richard, The Alman Brothers, TLC, The B-52s, Otis Redding, Gladys Knight, Ludacris, Ray Stevens, Johnny Mercer, Alan Jackson, Trisha Yearwood, Brenda Lee and Ma Rainey all have in common?  They are all musicians, but of completely different genres in different eras, yet there is still something that binds them together. Well, two things that bind them all together… can you guess what they are?

These names listed above, as well as about 75 others, are all musicians that have been inducted into the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame… and they are all from Georiga.

Despite the different genres from country to rock, rap to gospel and even blues and jazz, these performers all came from the humble southern life they all know and love, nestled in the state of Georgia.  It’s actually quite amazing to find out that so many of these great performers have their roots in Georgia, showing how much this state has contributed to the modernization and diversity of the music industry.  Some like Little Richard, Gladys Knight and The B-52s are also included in the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.

The Georgia Music Hall Of Fame is a monument to all the greats from Georgia that have shaped music and inspired the artists of today.  Nestled in the historic downtown of Macon, Georgia the ride is as impressive as the museum.  As you travel down Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. going toward the museum, you will be taken back by the beauty of the old shops, industrial buildings, and medians lined with colorful cherry trees.

This museum is a town landmark, and one the locals take great pride in.  You can just tell by the enormous size of the building mixed with the art nouveau exterior.  The fountain outside dons the walkway as you come to the great rotunda of the museum. The inside is lined with faux building facades that mimic the style of music encased inside the room.

Two of my favorite exhibits in the museum were the Gospel Chapel, and the Rock Room.  There, in the Gospel Chapel, you walk up to a typical Southern Baptist or Congregational church type facade, making it feel like you’re actually going into a church.  Around the hall you see memorabilia from some of Georgia’s most famous gospel performers, such as the Lewis Family.  After making your way around the hallway, you come into the “chapel” where you sit on a pew and watch an 18 minute video about the gospel heritage in Georgia.

Being a rock man myself, visiting the rock exhibit and seeing memorabilia such as The Alman Brothers guitars, The B52s and Little Richard’s costumes, as well as many other great artifacts from Georgia rockers, was impressive to me.  I just sat in awe knowing how much great music once came from those very instruments, and all the amazing concerts these musicians put on in those onstage costumes.  Plus, the outside of this room looked like an old bar.

It was also amazing seeing the memorabilia of the great Ray Charles, whose iconic voice and charm wooed its way into our hearts. Sure, he was more of a jazz and blues artist, but some of his hits like “Hit The Road Jack” would also serve the rock lovers well.

Walking the halls, I learned a lot about these artists, in addition, learning just how many came from Georgia. 

So, what qualifications do you need to get into this magnificent hall?  Well, it’s a lot more complicated than the Hall Of Fame in Cleveland, like you must be a musician first and foremost.  Then, if you fit into that category, you must be born in the state of Georgia; that is the complicated part.  Unlike the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame, you don’t have to have played for a certain amount of years, or made a certain amount of money or records in sales of your album.  I know this because people like Keith Sweat, Ludacris, and Collective Soul are inducted into the hall.  If you know anything about them, you will know that they haven’t been around as long as others on the list, some less than ten years.  However, they have played a major impact on their respective genres which qualifies them for the hall, even if they are a one hit wonder.

To see who is inducted in the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame, click this link.  I assure you it will blow your mind, and if you are searching for more information about the Hall Of Fame, you can visit their website at www.georgiamusic.org.

Keep an eye out because over the next few months we will he spotlighting some of the inductees from the Georgia Music Hall Of Fame.

Accolades For Nora Foss Al-Jabri

When The Expressionist Magazine first featured Connie Talbot, we were engulfed with requests from other greatly talented children from across the world.  We just love the talents of young budding artists in any respected genre or medium of art they choose, and feel it’s our duty to show the world the talent they possess.  One of the names that crossed my desk was Nora Foss Al-Jabri.  After hearing her version of “Heaven Is A Place On Earth,” a song originally done by one of my favorite artists, Belinda Carlise, I was amazed by the similarities they shared.  I knew this talented young lady was going to go far, as long as she pursues her passion for singing.  We had the chance to interview this budding diva and here is what she had to say in her own words.

Q.  Tell us about yourself, and how you got into singing.
I was born January 29, 1996, and I am thirteen-years-old.  I have always liked singing, and started singing even before I had learned to speak.  When I was eight-years-old, I started singing in a more serious manner.  At that time, I participated in my first talent contest and acted on a stage for the first time.  This was something that I enjoyed very much, and I knew that this was something I wanted to do in my future.  I started singing in a musical chorus and took private lessons to develop my voice.  I practiced several hours each and every day.  At the age of nine, I performed in the stage once again, in a similar song contest, and this time I won.  I think that it was after this contest that other people started recognizing my singing.  However, it wasn’t until 2007, when I was eleven-years-old, it carried away. Without my knowledge, my sister uploaded a video of me singing on a large Norwegian Internet site.  More than 100,000 people saw the video within the first five days, which is much in a small country like Norway with its 4.9 million citizens.  This led to the biggest newspapers and the biggest TV channels coming to my home to interview me, taking pictures and filming me. I remember that I found it somewhat frightening.

Later on, I signed up for the contest called Norway’s Got Talent.  I ended up placing third, which I was very satisfied with.

Q.  Can you compare your sound to any major singer out in the industry?
I have noticed that other people compare me with Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and Eva Cassidy.  It is kind of hard to define my style, as I feel I have several styles.  I think it is a common opinion that I have a jazz/pop/country voice. However, it is Celine Dion and Eva Cassidy that have inspired me to sing the way I do.  I’m also very fond of Beyonce, and would have loved to try singing some of her R ‘n’ B songs.

Q.  Has your family supported your singing career?  Do you consider that a big part of your success so far?
My family has been very supportive to me all the time, and they have followed me on everything.  They have supported me during th

ick and thin, and have given me comfort whenever I have needed it.  I would definitely not have gotten to where I am today without them.

Q.  Do you have a CD out currently or is there one in the works?  If so, can you tell us about it?
I have still not released a CD, but we are working on it.  We are producing the record at the moment, and it will be released next year.  I’m looking forward to this; I think it will be exciting.  I can’t tell too much about the record yet, but I can reveal that some of the songs are written by me.

Q.  What is your favorite song that you sing, and what makes it so special to you?
I have several favorite songs.  Earlier this year, I performed in a memorial show for Michael Jackson.  I participated on the s

ong “We Are The World,” along with several other artists.  This song is magical to me.  The song was written in the 80s, but the lyrics are still valid today.  Too many innocent people in the world, children and adults who have not done anything to deserve it, are suffering greatly.  I am half Iraqi, and I often think about how my family in Iraq are doing.  However, the song I love to sing the most is “Gabriella’s Song.”  It is a Swedish song that is about a woman that

is being dominated by her man, but at the end of the song, she can’t take it anymore and says she wants to live her life. The song has a strong lyric: “I want to feel that I am living all the time I have got.  I want to feel that I have been living my life, knowing that I am adequate.”  I think that lots of women feel the same way.  I have even heard from people that they started crying when they heard me sing it on Norway’s Got Talent because they could associate themselves with the song.

Q.  If you could share the stage with any artist, dead or alive, who would it be? I would have loved to perform on a stage with lots of artists.  Some of them are Eva Cassidy, Celine Dion, Michael Jackson or Beyonce.  All of them are fantastic musicians and singers.  There is, or there was something unique with all of them.

Q.  Have you done any live shows?  If so, where and what was your favorite show and why?
I have been at some live shows, for instance, Norway’s Got Talent and Oprah. Both experiences were incredible and exciting, and I was very nervous.  One of my best memories was when I sang in the semi-finale in Norway’s Got Talent, and the audience never stopped cheering me and shouting my name after I was finished singing.  The whole audience was fantastic!

Q.  What do you like most about your fans?  Do they have an impact on your singing?
I love my fans!  They are the ones that make me want to continue singing.  They are there for me and support me, even if they don’t know me.  I think that is fantastic.

Q.  What are some of your greatest accomplishments or experiences you’ve had so far in your singing career?
The greatest moment in my career so far was when I was on Oprah.  It was amazing.  However, I was so nervous that I felt I wasn’t completely able to show what I was capable of.  However, what an experience; I loved it!  I would say it is partly due to Oprah that I’m releasing a record next year, and probably due to her that I’m being interviewed by this magazine.  I recently heard that Oprah will end her show in 2011, which I think is sad, but I fully understand her decision.  I would like to send a greeting to Oprah and thank her for having me on the show.  It was a memory for a lifetime.

Q.  Is singing something you want to to do the rest of your life as a career?
Singing is something I want to do for the rest of my life, but it is hard to make it so we will have to see what happens.

Q. I hear you have been invited to sing in both California and Hawaii. Have you ever been to the United States before and how exciting is it to go to Hawaii?
I have been contacted by some people from both Hawaii and California, wanting me to sing there.  However, this is not confirmed yet, so I can’t comment on it any further at this point of time.

Q.  What do you like to do when you’re not singing?
When I’m not singing, I like to write music and songs, spend some time with my friends, travel and to play soccer.

Q.  Do you enjoy school? How do you manage school with singing and still maintain good grades?
I enjoy school very much.  It is important to get an education, so I am trying my best at school at the same time that I’m focusing on my singing career.

Next Page »