Raquela: From Opera to Latin Dance

February 2, 2012 By Leave a Comment

For the New Year, International Dance Artist Raquela isn’t making your typical new year’s resolutions. She is hitting the Latin market hard. Her year has already started off with a small release of the Spanish version of “Tell it to my Heart.” The version will be widely available just after Valentine’s Day.

This version allows Raquela to embrace her Hispanic side, which she’s always been connected to through her mom. She was raised bi-racial, both Mexican and German. “I looked odd to everybody,” she explained. “So I guess I had to build my own world around me.” That world started at a record store in Northern California where she grew up. She bought Broadway musicals and Freestyle dance music and it grew into an obsession with music, singing and live performance.

Raquela has been singing since she was 9 years old. She started out in the choir of a Baptist church in the little town of Elk Grove. The teachers helped her learn all about music and train her voice throughout her adolescence. From there she got a scholarship to study Opera in Los Angeles at Biola University. Although it seemed like a perfect opportunity, Raquela realized she didn’t want to do opera. She wanted to do Broadway. So she packed up her bags and transferred to University of California of Irvine to get her BFA in musical theatre.

Throughout the 80s she was a huge part of the theatre scene. But this supportive group of artists was greatly affected by the AIDS epidemic. Some of the most supportive people in her life were lost. Raquela never forgot them though. As her career progressed, she knew it was part of her job as an artist to give back to society. When Raquela became Miss Orange County she focused a lot of her pageantry on fundraising towards AIDS research. Miss Orange County was an opportunity. She sang her heart out at benefits to raise money for a cause so close to her heart and history. The experience, she said, helped her grow as a person and a performer.

“I’m addicted to applause,” Raquela admitted. Music and performing is how she expresses herself, whether it’s through Dance music or musical theatre. Yet as an artist she is also reaching out to her audience. She wants her music to bring something to other people. Whether it’s three hours on stage or three minutes in a song, her performance helps someone get through their day. Raquela believes each person can “find a song or a performance that explains exactly what they’re feeling or going through or who they are as a person.” The applause is what solidifies that idea. They don’t clap just for Raquela; they clap for the feelings that they understand and they connect with.

That resounding moment, when she can catch her breath and listen to the sounds of approval rippling from the audience, is why she sings. That record store in California drew her into dance music, along with her mother’s Latina influence. She hopes that dance will catch up with technology and make a comeback. “Dance music is about the celebration of life,” Raquela said. “That’s what it’s about and that’s why I do it.”

Look out for her Latin version of “Tell it to my Heart” this February. Her music can be found on ITunes, CD Baby, eMusic and Amazon Music. Keep an eye out for more Taylor Dane songs from the 80s, because she’s not done with him yet.

Filed Under: articleimg, Bands & Singers, Music

Alana Lee – Synchronizing into the Music World

January 5, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Alana Lee is definitely your average teenager, and if you ask her, she’ll tell you the same.  She gets up each morning and tries to find the perfect outfit to wear to school.  She goes to her high school dances.  She hangs out with friends and loves to shop.  If you looked at her, you would see the typical, bright-eyed American girl with aspirations of greatness.  And, there is no doubt, Alana’s voice will excel her to that level.

At the tender age of 14, Alana produced her first single written by her production company for the music video called “Butterflies.”  When Alana first set out to create the video, she had no idea what to expect; all she knew was she was having fun with her friends in a way most teens can’t experience.  What came next was nothing shy of amazing.

After a few months of being live on YouTube, Alana’s video recorded over 11.5 million views, and that number continues to grow.  She was almost an overnight Internet recording sensation!

Maybe the video is so successful because of Alana’s good looks, or maybe it’s because the youth today love YouTube and simply watched it over and over- but I don’t think so.  The real reason the video has done so well is because of Alana’s fresh voice that’s full of passion for whatever she sings about.  The talented young singer puts heart into her music, and it shows.  The video also does quite well because of its great cast and story plot.

Few adults really know what goes on when they send their kids to school.  It’s actually a downright brutal experience for most, and this video shows how vicious kids can be.  The cast is comprised of all Alana’s close friends who create the “perfect” chemistry, giving the video believable reality.

It’s tough enough for adults to break into the music world, but imagine a 14-year-old doing it – and she’s succeeding.  Some musicians would do anything to have the kind of views for their music videos as Alana has for hers.  In fact, she is in great company; many top legends in the music industry have as many hits as she does, including her inspiration – Taylor Swift.

Now, let’s go back nine years ago.  Alana made her first live performance on a cruise ship while vacationing with her family, at the sweet age of six.  Even then she had stardom written all over her, because she wasn’t shy in the least.  Alana got on that stage and wowed the audience, and her parents, as it was at that moment they realized she had a wonderful talent.

To make it in this cut throat industry, Alana will have to overcome many tough obstacles including finding time to practice, record and produce more music.  She will have to do this while going to school and keeping up her grades.  In addition, Alana must also create moments to hang out with her friends, and, in general, experience childhood to its fullest.

She will have to battle the politics and harsh criticism that comes with the fame and glam of being a musician.  But heck, Alana’s in high school; it should just be like any other day in class, except she won’t get bullied.  This is one task she will be able to pass with flying colors.

It won’t be hard to do, especially with the love and guidance of her family and friends.  Alana credits their support as the main reason she has accomplished so much already.

In 2011, Alana released another single titled, “Synchronize,” written for her by her manager.  This song boasts a message of what it’s like to have a  true friend – a bond that cannot be broken.  Everyone in life can think back to that one person this song talks about.  That special someone who could finish your sentences, or all they had to do was look at you and you knew exactly what they were thinking.

When I first listened to the song it blasted me back to 1990 through 1993 – one of the best times in my life as I was surrounded by great friends.  It brought back memories of my best friend, who sadly we lost in 2006, and all those good times we had together.  Times I hold dear to my heart, and memories nobody can take from me.

Just listen to this song and you will know exactly what I’m talking about.  It will bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes as you reminisce about good times with your best bud.  Add in Alana’s youthful voice, and it completes the formula for time travel.

Lastly, she completed and released, “This is Me,” a song that talks about something we all hold dear- ourselves!  Alana compliments this song with a pictorial montage of her life from her days as a baby to her teenage years where she is today.  It’s a wonderful video that shows you how she’s grown and matured throughout the last decade to today.

I can’t say I am a true “psychic” or anything, but I can predict we will see a whole lot more of this young, talented artist in the future.  In fact, don’t be surprised if you see Alana someday accepting her first Grammy Award.

To find out more about Alana Lee and view her videos, visit http://alanaleemusic.net  or go and LIKE her Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/alanaleeproductions

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured

Leave it to Bieber

November 4, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Justin Bieber has made it a long time without any major scandal or controversy, which is an oddity in the public eye.  I think the worst thing that almost cost him his career was that he cut his signature hairstyle, and that really disappointed the ladies.  Now, Bieber is facing the worst scandal of his career at the age of 17, and should it be true, it could destroy his career.

It’s been alleged that Bieber has fathered a child and the mother is so sure it’s his, she’s demanding a court ordered paternity test to prove what she already knows and will validate her claim for child support.

Now I am personally not a fan of Bieber, but the mother’s story is delusional at best.  If it did happen, it’s a stroke of bad luck and proves that testosterone is the worst thing in the world, making young teenage boys go temporarily insane.

The girl involved states that a security guard saw her getting into a concert, which she attended at the Staples Center last year.  The guard asked her if she wanted to come backstage and meet Bieber after he performed – now what girl would say no to that.  However, why didn’t he take a few of the other thousands of screaming tweens backstage?  Then, her story gets even more strange.  She alleges that when Bieber met her it was love at first sight.  They started making out, then he asked her to come to a place a bit more private, which she obliged.

You’d think it would be his changing room; however, the young pop star took her to the bathroom where she conceived this baby.

Come on, this is a person who rented the very same arena to watch a movie in private with his girlfriend, Selena Gomez.  So, why in the world would Bieber take this other girl to the bathroom?  I personally think the popular singer is the victim of a girl’s fantasy.  I know this young woman has a child, but she probably thought back to the guy she slept with that is actually the father and said, “Hmm, I have an idea!”  Realizing he would never pay, she went after her dream man.  On the other hand, she may not know who the real father is, and it may get very Maury Povich up in here.

If this is Bieber’s child, it is very out of character for the pop star and this could destroy his career.  Why?  Teen idols don’t tend to have it very easy in their adult years because their fan base goes on to the next young heartthrob.  In other words, these girls throw them to the curb like yesterday’s designer looks. Bieber, being 17, is almost at that plateau where he would make it or become another victim to teenage stardom.  Since he’s at that critical age, and if he has a child, he will no longer be as desirable among teenage girls.  Moms will not want to have their girls look at him as a role model.  It could spell tragedy.  Hopefully, he has invested that money into something other than renting arenas.

Only time will tell, but it’s not looking good for old Bieber!

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured

Hank Williams Jr. Fired from NFL Monday Night

October 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Its been over 30 years that we’ve heard “are you ready for some football” sung by the Country legend Hank Williams Jr.  Unfortunately that tradition will come to an end as last week the legendary kickoff of Monday Night Football was fired.

ESPN who purchased the rights to Monday Night Football a few years ago fired Williams for his comments about President Obama.  He openly criticized President Obama as a “mass murderer who tried to destroy an entire race of people”.

On his website following the firing William’s stated this: “After reading hundreds of e-mails, I have made MY decision. By pulling my opening Oct 3rd, You (ESPN) stepped on the Toes of The First Amendment. Freedom of Speech, so therefore Me, My Song, and All My Rowdy Friends are OUT OF HERE. It’s been a great run.” — Hank Williams Jr.”

Who will be introducing Monday Night Football is yet to be seen, but a three plus decade tradition is now gone.  Honestly, like President Obama or not, that statement was not based on sound facts, but did they have a right to fire him?  Did ESPN step on his right to freedom of speech?  Hank Williams Jr.’s comments do not reflect the opinions of ESPN or their affiliates?  To me this does prove that we are not truly “free” to say what we want regardless how right or wrong it is.  I guess American’s do have to be more careful for what they say or face stiff penalties.  True, he’s not jailed for talking about our President but he sure is being treated like one.

Would this have happened had he chastised a Republican or President Bush?  The world may never know!

 

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured

Singer Sandy Atkinson: Her True Love of Music

September 25, 2011 By 1 Comment

I recently had the great honor of catching up with the very talented Sandy Atkinson over freshly made sangria and tapas at a hip basement bar in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida.

The singer encompasses many musical genres such as blues, rock, soul, folk and even jazz, making her hard to categorize but delightful to listen to.  Atkinson’s smoky and sultry vocals captivate the soul.  Beautifully dynamic, this amazing singer offers something for every type, no matter their style.

Atkinson, originally from the Appalachian foothills in South Carolina, also known as The Piedmont, began singing back when she was only five-years-old.  She started out at school and church events.  Raised with a strong gospel influence, Atkinson participated in tent singings.  At fourteen, her mother presented her with a guitar, and it wasn’t long after that Atkinson began songwriting.  From that moment, the young singer’s love of music escalated.

In 1988, Atkinson performed a song, along with some of her friends, at a local festival.  The head of the venue, also a club owner, heard her voice and asked if she could play at his club on a Friday night.  For years to follow, Atkinson did indeed perform at the club and at the festival, thus gaining the highly esteemed reputation of a songwriter and gifted blues singer.

Wanting to explore the option of singing as a career, Atkinson decided to spend a summer in Maine, near Portland.  The gig, held at a resort called Camp Ellis, was a great way of allowing Atkinson to expand upon her musical abilities.

Then, in 1994, the singer moved to Florida and it was at this juncture that her life changed.  Atkinson fell in love with the “Sunshine State” after visitng her sister.  The warm climate also proved to be quite inviting.  Many great musicians in Florida began recognizing Atkinson’s great musical talents and encouraged her to further her career.

In 1995, Atkinson released her first CD, which was self-titled.  The CD featured ten original songs and was performed with Little Juke and 1 Nite Stand, a band which Atkinson put together and named.  Little Juke performed as the lead guitarist.  The CD received outstanding reviews from critics, and earned airtime on many radio stations around the nation, Australia and Europe.

Four years later, Atkinson’s second CD came out.  It also got much praise and played on blues shows all over the world.  Why Baby Why was produced by Tampa Bay’s Blues Godfather, Rock Bottom.  Rock achieved great popularity as a bluesman, especially in Europe.  He was also a tremendous help to Atkinson over the years, mentoring her with her musical career.  “I learned about the business from him.  He was always there to help others.  Rock believed it was important to give something back, like with a charity,” stated Atkinson.  In 2001, Rock died of a heart attack.  On Sept. 25th, Atkinson will play in Rock’s honor at Skipper’s Smokehouse in Tampa, marking the 10 year anniversary of his death.

Atkinson’s third CD, Million Dollar Baby, emerged in 2001 and featured guitarist Tomcat Blake; it had twelve more original songs on it.

In 2005, From There to Here was released, which included a compilation of Atkinson’s songs from her first three CD’s along with five new selections.  There would be twenty-two songs in total.

Atkinson’s fifth CD debuted in 2010, featuring a collection of her studio sessions and a live recording from a show at The Palladium Theatre in St. Petersburg.  This CD was the first to be recorded with Atkinson’s band, The True Loves, named after her first true love- music.

There is no doubt that Atkinson has come far since her early days singing at church events and small town festivals.  In addition to her CDs, Atkinson served as the committee chairperson for the Suncoast Blues Society’s “Blues in the School” program, which Rock Bottom was initially asked to be head of.  Rock booked the first session, but sadly passed away before he was able to participate. Atkinson took over for Rock and acted as chairperson from 2001-2005 in order to develop the project.  Atkinson was excited to tell me about some of her experiences while on this very special committee.  “I went to this fourth grade class in Clearwater.  I  showed the kids how the guitar works and talked about who Rock {Bottom} was.  I played a song by Rock, too.  I also sang, “Hound Dog” to them, by Big Mama Thornton.  I let them all touch the guitar.  I tried to think ahead of time what could I write for a group of kids about the blues; something thye could relate to at that age and still be entertaining.  I came up with ‘I Lost My Homework’,” Atkinson chuckled.  The singer still occasionally visits schools and does sessions.  The Suncoast Blues Society established a scholarship fund in Rock’s name for children that want to study music.  The schlolarship is awarded annually.

This fall, on October 9th, Atkinson will be performing at a benefit concert to raise awareness for Autism.  The event will take place at The Beach Theatre in St. Pete Beach.  Atkinson and her band, The True Loves will be performing along with a line-up of other amazing Tampa Bay musicians.  Tom Bell, Gale Trippsmith, Ronny Elliott, and the Black Honkeys will all take stage that Sunday from 1-6 pm.  Bobby Collins will be heading the event.  Collins is an advocate for Autism, and took over for Wendy Wrucha, a former speech pathologist who worked at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg.  Wrucha died unexpectedly when she contracted menigitis in March of this year.  The speech pathologist helped Autistic children and was an avid supporter for finding a cure.  She worked hard at raising funds and even ran in the 2010 NYC marathon, where she personally was able to bring in $2600 in sponsorship.  Bobby Collins, a friend of Wrucha’s, along with a few others, took over for her after her passing.  Collins heads the local Autism chapter now, and is very excited for his October concert.  Because of Collins and his friends, Autism Speaks in the Tampa Bay area proudly lives on.  The concert will be sponsored by TBT (Tampa Bay Times) and will be hosted by Marvelous Marvin; it would have certainly made Wrucha proud.  For more information, please go to www.wendyswarriors.org and AutismSpeaks.org.  Tickets for the concert are $7.00.

Atkinson plays some pretty amazing venues, that’s for sure.  “I love performing at Tobacco Road in Miami, as well as Skipper’s Smokehouse in Tampa, the National Women in Blues Fest in North Carolina, Dunedin Wines and Brew, the Naples Jazz Fest and Ribfest here in St. Petersburg,” Atkinson stated.  In addition to performing in the U.S., the singer has traveled to Norway, where she enjoying performing at the Muddy Waters Blues Fest in Oslo.  And if she had a choice of where she would love to one day perform, the answer was an easy one for Atkinson.  “The Chicago Blues Fest would be amazing,” the singer said smiling.

Atkinson is not necessarily considered to be a traditional blues singer.  With musical influenes ranging from Etta James and Elvis to Janis Joplin and Big Mama Thornton, Atkinson has complexity.  She doesn’t fit into a classic mold, and that is a good thing.  Her voice is raw, intriguing and magical.  I get a strong Joplin vibe from Atkinson, which makes sense considering she listened to the famous singer’s albums many times over when younger.  “When I was a kid, I would take a radio into my bedroom.  I listened to many different singers and types of music; it was never just one kind of genre,” explained Atkinson.

The singer also contributes her great love of music variety to her parents, especially her mother.  “She was an influence to me and a huge Elvis fan,” confided Atkinson.

There is plenty of heart and soul in Atkinson’s music.  “For me, words and music come together.  It’s a feeling I get.  Mood defies the style; it’s what I feel at the moment,” states the singer.  “One time I went to Key West with my sister.  While there I saw a bumper sticker which read, ‘A woman’s place is in control.”  Atkinson took a sip from her glass of sangria and laughed.  For the bluesy singer and songwriter, the moment does indeed defy her music.  Passionate, soulful and strong is what describes Atkinson best.  In fact, the singer showcases her personality with her very own t-shirt and tank top logo:  “When the blues reach down and try to steal your soul, it takes a bitch to rock and roll.”  Clever and humorously written, these are words to live by especially in the music world.

With so many other strong and talented female singers out there in the industry, if given the opportunity to meet one of them, who would Atkinson choose?  “I would love to meet Bonnie Raitt.  I hear very good things about her and who she is as a person,” explained the singer.

For Atkinson, life is pretty darn good.  Getting to perform on stage and being able to entertain audiences is a dream come true.  Yet, the singer still can wish for more.  “In music, I would love to be known one day as a writer.  Songwriting is such an important contribution.

With her caring and passionate soul, Atkinson decided to write a song about the BP oil spill disaster.  “To me that was an outrageous, irresponsible incident,” stated the singer.  “I wrote the song, ‘Greed and Lust,’ also known as ‘The Gulf is Crying.’”  The song was featured on Atkinson’s last CD, and is also on a site with songs from other artists sponsored by Blues Revue Magazine.  For more information go to http://bluesrevue.com/2010/blues-for-the-gulf-compilation-available/.

Atkinson is currently working on a Christmas CD, along with a compilation album, which will feature the “best of’s.”  Duke Robelard, who has won many awards in his career, including being nominated for the Grammys, is recording one of her songs, along with a female artist he is promoting.  In addition, Atkinson has started a children’s book titled, “I Lost My Homework,” stemming form her days educating children on the blues.

And perhaps a few of those fourth graders may one day wish to follow in Atkinson’s footsteps.  For those who aspire to be musicians, the singer has some helpful advice.  “Take groups of CD’s, all different kinds, and listen to various songs.  Pick about ten different ones that you like.  Dynamics are important; learn to stretch your voice.  Also, work with other musicians and learn from them.  In addition, try an open mike as this gives great opportunity for feedback, which allows for growth.  And don’t get discouraged, as with this kind of economy there are more bands than gigs.  People always want to be entertained and hear music.  I say, if it’s part of your soul, feed it,” Atkinson spoke proudly.

The wonderfully skilled singer and songwriter has worked hard over the years and knows just what it takes to be successful.  Yet, for Atkinson, music is not just a job; it’s a way of life and who she is as an individual.  “Music is fun and it is my refuge,” confided Atkinson.  “It will always be my first true love, no matter what happens.”

 

For more information on Sandy Atkinson, please visit her website at:

sandyatkinson.net

-or-

www.triviamusicart.com

Atkinson’s CD’s are available for purchase at:

Reverb Nation at reverbnation.com

iTunes

Amazon.com

Daddy Kool Records at daddykool.com

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured

Interview with Sunshine and Bullets

September 14, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Interviewed and Written by Rose Gear

Sunshine and Bullets… who are they?  Simply put, they are one of the coolest bands of all time; a rock fanatic’s dream. Sunshine and Bullets brings a new sound to rock music that’s itching to be heard. They are made up of three powerful performers: Rich Keane, the singer and guitarist, Amanda Hamers, singer and bassist, and the drummer Kyle Wolfman. I had the amazing opportunity to talk to these National Recording Artists on what they love, how their album’s going, and the general life of Sunshine and Bullets.

Expressionist Magazine: How did Sunshine and Bullets get together and decide to make music?

Amanda: We all knew each other through different bands and different projects and it was something new to try.

Expressionist Magazine: How did you decide on the name Sunshine and Bullets?

Rich: We were all going through names. Then suddenly I shot out “bullets of sunshine.” Amanda goes, why don’t we change it around since it sounds like “bullet for my sunshine.” Then that was that, it became Sunshine and Bullets.

Expressionist Magazine: Do you guys have an inspiration or someone you look up to in music?

Rich: Yeah, for guitar players it would be Jimi Hendrix, Mike Einziger from Incubus, and Joe Perry from Aerosmith. For vocalists it would be Brandon Boyed from Incubus and Pete Loeffler from Chevelle.

Kyle: Morgan Rose, Jose Pasillas the drummer for Incubus, and anybody who makes me move.

Amanda: For a bass player it would be Emma Anzai from Sick Puppies, and singer Gwen Stefani.

Expressionist Magazine: How does it feel for your first album to come out?

Kyle: It’s exciting! Pretty tough in the works, but it’s definitely a learning experience. I mean, we were actually in the studio and fans enjoy our work. It took a lot to complete, but it is a good feeling and it spreads like fire!

Expressionist Magazine: What’s the first album Fight for Andromeda about?

Rich: It’s not random. It’s like a theme. CD titles equal code names, kind of like Nine Inch Nails. We thought we should code name ours too. We hired some guy to record us and he took our money.  We ended up recording in a better studio, but unfortunately the hard drive died that contained all of our music. We had to retake all the music. It was a heartbreaker incident, but there was a lot of passion and emotion in the album, which lead to the code name for the title.

 

Expressionist Magazine: What is your favorite song from the album?

Rich: “When We Fall”

Amanda: “Style,” because it’s fun to play!

Kyle: “If You Only Knew”

 

Expressionist Magazine: In general how does the whole process of making a song go?

Kyle: It depends on the mood. We start with lyric ideas and melodic ideas then go from there. Vocals and melodies are first, then drums.

 

Expressionist Magazine: If you had to choose, what is the most favorite place you have played so far?

Keith: CW Network’s The Daily Buzz on television.

Amanda: The State Theater.  I had a connection with the theater before I was in the band.

Rich: The State Theater. They hire real professionals. I also like Corkees because they have the best sounding bar.
Expressionist Magazine: Do you guys plan on doing this for the rest of your life?

Rich: We would love to! It has to be the right person to hear our stuff and give it the old English try, and to take the risk! We’re willing to go forth.

 

Expressionist Magazine: Do you guys work while being in a band?

Rich: Yeah, full time jobs.

 

Expressionist Magazine: If you could go on tour with any band in the world, who would you choose?

Rich: System of a Down, Perfect Circle, and Metallica

Amanda: Foo Fighters!

Kyle: Carnival, from Australia. They are incredible live!

 

Expressionist Magazine: Do you guys have a favorite rock magazine?

Amanda: Used to be Rolling Stone…

Rich: Used to be Rolling Stone, too…

Kyle:  Drum Magazine.

 

Expressionist Magazine: What is your band’s favorite place to hang out?

 

Amanda: A venue called Corkees. We hang out there before and after the show. Fun place to hang out! It has really good hot wings, too!

 

 

Expressionist Magazine: You have awesome style, Amanda! Where do you shop?

 

Amanda: I am blessed to have two sisters and a mother. I shop from their closet!

 

 

Expressionist Magazine: What’s the most memorable moment your band has had together?

 

Rich: The first show; it started it all.

Amanda: On live television; we were on the CW Network’s The Daily Buzz!

Kyle: When we go out, hang out, it’s always an adventure.

 

If you want to learn more about Sunshine and Bullets, check out their website below:

http://www.sunshineandbullets.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: articleimg, Bands & Singers, featured Tagged With:

Mel Majoros: The Cancer Warrior

June 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A lump in her breast was the last thing that Mel Majoros expected to find.  After all, she was in perfect shape, felt great, and was in the process of training for a hockey team.  Not only was the athlete physically fit, she was in her thirties, young and full of life.  Cancer was hardly something that Majoros was ready to process.

*   *   *

Mel Majoros loves hockey.   Without much motivation for the gym, Majoros was in search of an exercise regimen that would keep her going and give her something to become passionate about.  At the time she was living in California, and attending an L.A. Kings game, was a pretty exciting thing.  Majoros got tickets, and quickly became hooked.  In the year ahead, the young woman learned to skate and even spent her tax refund money on hockey gear.  Majoros found great passion for the ice sport.

It was 2007 and Majoros had moved to Michigan and began working for a radio station there.  As an affliate of the Detroit Red Wings, the station gave media credentials to the training camp held in Traverse City.  Majoros typically jumped at the opportunity to go to the camp.  That year though, it was different.  It was the last day of the camp, and the same day that Majoros got diagnosed with cancer.  Instead of heading over to see the Red Wings practice, she drove home and told her fiance.  Majoros then called her friends and told them she would not be going.  They knew something was amiss when she cancelled.  And there, at her home, Majoros sat and cried.

It wasn’t long after Majoros was diagnosed that she encountered her most profound moment; a time when she felt her once very stable world, crumbling all around her.  “It was when I started to lose my hair,” confides Majoros.  “The oncology nurse said it would fall out two weeks after I started the adriaymicin/cytoxan (the first chemo treatment), but I didn’t believe her.”  It was exactly two weeks to the day, according to Majoros, that her hair started falling out in clumps while in the shower.  “That was overwhelming.  It was then that I realized I was in for a battle.”  Majoros recalls the moment as extremely traumatic, and certainly one she will never forget.

Once a hockey player, radio station employee and someone greatly involved in the entertainment industry (she worked on the hit shows, Walker, Texas Ranger and Crossing Jordan), Majoros was now taking on a new title- “The Cancer Warrior.”

Knowing she had to keep strong and fight, Majoros used her sense of humor and athleticism as weapons against her diagnosis.    “I had friends who didn’t even know I had cancer, and they saw me lose weight.  I didn’t look sick, so they thought I had been working out.  I said no, I have cancer, and it’s the best diet I ever had,” said Majoros jokingly.  “You have to keep your spirits up regardless of the disease.  Why would you want to go through life in a bad mood?”  When Majoros wasn’t using her spiritual strength to get her through her darkest days, she was also physically trying to get stronger.  The hockey player continued to keep on the ice, and the game kept her going.  According to Majoros, having a trainer prior to getting cancer was greatly beneficial.  And while Majoros couldn’t go to the gym very often during her chemo treatments due to fatigue and low white blood counts, she continued on with the hockey and also participated in The Pink Ribbon Program.  This is a pilates program designed just for breast cancer survivors.  Majoros says that it helped with learning breathing techniques, posture and even self-esteem.  She loved the program so much, that she has still participates in pilates and goes at least once a week.

Despite Majoros’ strength and courageousness, days were still quite challenging, to say the least.  Chemo came with not-so-fun side effects.  Fatigue would hit without any warning, and there were varying degrees all depending upon the type of chemo and radiation.  “It’s true that the treatment is sometimes worse than the disease,” states Majoros.  In addition, Majoros developed osteopenia, a precursor to osteoporosis, possibly brought on by the chemo.

The side effects weren’t just physical.  Majoros suffers from “chemo brain,” a condition from the treatments that affects memory.  For Majoros, it is sometimes a struggle to just form a thought or recall a simple word.

As a warrior of cancer, Majoros knows how important it is to have a good army on her side.  She did not have to go through her fight alone.  Shortly after Majoros’ lumpectomy, The Vic McCarty Show contacted her.  The radio show out of Michigan features news and sports talk.  They were in need of a producer, and were hoping Majoros would want to step up to the plate.  Happy to do so, she accepted and was soon producing the popular show.  McCarty and Majoros became co-hosts and clicked almost immediately.  “Vic and I had instant chemistry, which is pretty rare,” says Majoros.  The show provided an outlet for Majoros to openly and honestly talk about her cancer. It wasn’t long after that The Cancer Warrior was born.

“The Cancer Warrior on Empoweradio came about after I was producing Empower for five months.  The owner of the station wanted to add more shows.  He read my blog that I was writing and thought that having a show which focused on positive aspects of cancer would be a great addition to the station,” adds Majoros.  Despite being a little nervous about hosting her own show at first, she soon realized that this show would be unique and unlike any others out there.  Majoros quickly took the offer.  “It’s always fun finding inspirational survivors or organizations to feature that might be overlooked by a larger show, station or network,” explains Majoros.

It wasn’t just being on the radio that helped Majoros get through her battle.  “I had a great support system.  The doctors and medical staff were amazing,” recalls the courageous cancer fighter.  She also gives much praise to her then boyfriend, now fiance.  “He took me to all my surgeries, doctors’ appointments, and chemo/radiation treatments.”  Majoros feels that caregivers often do not get the recognition they deserve.

She also thanks her mentor, Matt Zachary, for his great support and guidance.  Zachary is the head of the “I’m Too Young For This!” foundation which focuses on teenagers and adults ages 15-40 and what they must endure when they are suffering with a disease like cancer.  According to Majoros, “We are an undeserved population of the cancer community.”  Majoros found Zachary online when he was looking for guest bloggers for his website.  She had her own blog site, but eventually guest blogged on Zachary’s.  “Matt is a mentor, an inspiration, and best of all, a friend,” fondly states Majoros.  To this day, she will call Zachary if she needs advice on anything cancer related.  Majoros encourages other young adult survivors to seek out Zachary and his foundation if they need support.

Majoros has also found strength through the Internet.  “It has been a good resource,” states The Cancer Warrior. “It would have been nice though to have had Facebook or Twitter when I was going through treatment.”  Social networking was not available then like it is today.

Today, Majoros makes great use of sites such as Facebook so she can network and friend other survivors, advocates and organizations.  She also spends time blogging about her experience with cancer and attends as many charity events as possible.  In the summer particulary, her weekends are filled.  Relay for Life, Bike for Breast Cancer, and Cruising for the Cure are just a few of the events that Majoros participates in.  She is on the board of directors for Cruising for the Cure. Majoros is also passionate about speaking and sharing her story with others.

On September 18, 2011, Majoros will be four years cancer-free.  Even though each and every day for the survivor is a celebration, she still struggles.  “Survivorship is hard,” confides Majoros.  ”It is hard getting back to the everyday life.”  She describes her daily challenge as the “new normal.”  Majoros now suffers from depression, which she takes medication for.  Her hair has grown back, but is now entirely grey; something that Majoros says she is finding hard to deal with now that she is free of cancer.  However, Majoros is very thankful to be a survivor and tries to maintain a positive attitude.  She is active and exercises as much as possible.  In the winter months, Majoros goes to the gym regularly, participates in pilates and plays hockey.  While in the summer, she incorporates bike riding, tennis and other outdoor activities into her routine.

Majoros says that she feels that there is a strong analogy between hockey and cancer.  She explains how hockey is a team sport and you need the help of your teammates to get you through the game.  Cancer is much the same way.  You need a support system, including doctors, nurses, family and friends.  Without these people, you would not be able to overcome the disease.  In hockey, Majoros says that if you get knocked down on the ice, you cannot stay down; you have to be able to get up and keep skating.  With cancer, you must get up and keep on going in order to endure.  Majoros finds great significant in these similarities.  A fighter on the ice, and a fighter for her life, Majoros really is The Cancer Warrior.

As a warrior, Majoros has much to advocate to others going through her battle.  “Be proactive about your health, whether you have cancer or not,” urges Majoros. ”If you feel your doctor isn’t giving you the best treatment, seek out another doctor.”  Obviously, taking care of yourself is one of the most important things you can do.  And it is important to find others going through similar treatment.  Once again, a good support system is key.

Majoros began playing on a co-ed hockey league this year.  Her team ended up winning  the season and the playoffs.  “I scored the first goal in the finals,” proudly states Majoros.  ”It felt so good.”  It was her first goal after battling cancer.

Mel Majoros’ blog:  http://www.thecancerwarrior.blogspot.com

website:  www.thecancerwarrior.net

e-mail:  thecancerwarrior@gmail.com

Majoros is available for speaking engagements and for anyone who has questions about cancer.

Filed Under: featured, Music Industry

Fred Shafer – Writing Music For The Ages

July 1, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Fred Shafer has been compared to Bruce Springsteen, Otis Redding, Joe Cocker & Jimi Hendrix. Not because he looks or sounds like any of them, but because his talent is as unique and powerful as these legends. It is because he shares something truly special with them, something so rare that you can’t buy it or manufacture it. It’s truth. He exudes it. His inspired and acclaimed performances bleed with utter sincerity.

Every song, every word he sings is delivered with unparalleled passion and heartfelt honesty. Shafer gives you everything he has, every moment. He is no stranger to success in the music industry, having repeatedly defeated the odds that this highly competitive industry breeds, because he eats, sleeps and breathes his music. His relentless work ethic and never give up attitude only adds depth to his world-class talent.

This year, Fred Shafer has reached a major milestone as he finished his first full-length solo album, “Resistor”, which will be released October 5, 2010 through Northview Media/ Intensity Entertainment. The album was coproduced with Jamey Perrenot (Taylor Swift, LeAnn Rimes, Paul Brant) and mixed by Rob Burrell (Michael W. Smith). “Resistor” is an eclectic work, which includes songs Shafer wrote last year while on tour, as well as songs co-written with Nashville songwriters including Autumn McEntire. Being a singer/songwriter (an endangered species in the music industry today), Shafer is able to combine his in-demand, timeless songwriting with heartfelt emotion and tireless conviction.

Standout tracks include first single, “Letting You Go”, “Why You’re Gone,” “Hello,” “Into the Ground”, “Mama Said” and “Gone”. They tell the story of trials and tribulations, love and hope, heartache and maturity; feelings most of us are accustomed to in our own lives. In these songs, Shafer is able to give us hope and comfort in knowing we’re not alone and we are not the only ones going through these troubled times in our lives. Having a song that describes what we’re going through or allows us an insight to our feelings, and that escape and understanding is a medicine far better than any drug you can take. Shafer’s passionate sincerity and soulful performance are both comforting and intoxicating. “Letting You Go,” the current single off the album, has gained some incredible success charting six times on commercial radio, quickly gaining on his previous mark with “All On Me”, reaching #1 on two stations across the country. In addition, Shafer’s music has already appeared in FX’s The Shield and the Ultimate Fighting Championship as well as in the full-length film The Station Agent by Miramax. He has even been featured in Vanity Fair, Hit Parader and Billboard magazines.

Shafer continually undertakes a grueling 250 show per year schedule, Coast to Coast and abroad. “I consider it an honor and blessing to be able to play my guitar for a living, helping those who work hard each day relax and have something to escape in,” explains the talented musician. Some of these tours include playing LIVE for the US Armed Forces in battle stricken countries across the world. Shafer just returned from Asia where he performed in China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan and Diego Garcia. There he became the FIRST ARTIST EVER to perform at the US Embassy in China. He says, “One of my biggest memories of this trip was when I played in South Korea. South Korea and North Korea were at a military readiness standstill over the sinking of a USFK ship. It was amazing to be in the area when that happened; like being in the center of a historic moment filled with tension”. When asked why he decides to put himself in these positions he proudly replies, “When I was born with Polycystic Kidney Disease, they removed my left kidney. Though all the men in my family are in, or were in the Armed Forces, my kidney condition prevented me from joining the Armed Forces. So I serve my country and lend a hand the best way I can, by bringing a little piece of home to the troops stationed abroad and some good old fashioned Rock n’ Soul!” Shafer will be returning to Asia in the fallof 2010 with another invitation from the Armed Forces; an invitation he is VERY proud to accept.

Shafer’s current tour will start in July and will take him through the Midwest US making stops in Ohio, New York, Indiana, Illinois, Tennessee, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Nebraska, and Iowa before starting heading to the southern US to hit Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Texas and more. Check out www.fredshafer.com for the exact dates and times of his performances.

Pick up your copy of “Resistor”(Northview Media/Intensity Entertainment) available now at www.fredshafer.com, iTunes, Napster, Rhapsody and available in stores October 5th. See you at the show!

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured Tagged With: , ,

Lauren Winans-No Boys Allowed

March 31, 2010 By Leave a Comment

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

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured, Music, Music Industry, Songs Tagged With: ,

Saving A Broken Heart Through Music

March 31, 2010 By 1 Comment

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!

Filed Under: Bands & Singers, featured Tagged With: ,
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