1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvison the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?
Shayna: Television was very scarce for my sisters and I growing up in Malaysia, so we relied on activities and creativity to keep ourselves busy. I was 6 years old when I had one of my first epiphanies - the year I tore my lip/mouth open from a mini freak accident during playtime. I was in the hospital when my mother gave me my first CD to keep me entertained. I remember very vividly because I'd also received a my-little-pony coloring book which ended up covered in a purple Vitagen surge later on that day. In any case, the CD - Whitney Houston. She became my hero after I heard TheGreatest Love of All (I was a total cheeseball). Nevertheless, it became my bed-ridden jam, so I learned it word for word until the stitches healed and I could open up my mouth again. I think having my voice being taken away (with my mouth sewn shut) for a couple weeks had a profound impact on me - the deprivation made me realize how fulfilling it really felt to express my feelings through song. That's when I truly realized this was my biggest passion.
Yan: I never had one defining moment, I've wanted to be a professional musician ever since I can remember because of a series of childhood memories. I was born and raised in Cuba, where television and information in general was extensively controlled by the government, so I didn't have massive exposure to many styles of music. Nevertheless, my family is full of avid music enthusiasts and some professional musicians too. My parents raised me with all the classical music standards, which largely shaped my musical background and, of course, my training. My uncles were huge fans of the Beatles, Supertramp, Queen, Chicago, and they managed to somehow acquire many of their records, which were not sold or even legal to own in Cuba. We used to sing along to all the songs in the family trips and reunions, which I always looked forward to. My uncle Rene, who lives inToronto now, was a producer for a Cuban radio station, and through him, I was introduced to the rich Cuban music heritage, meeting many of the Cuban music stars that have become international sensations since then. Music always brought a level of joy and unity in my family unlike anything else, and because of that, I always knew that I wanted to be a musician, so that I can give that same joy and pleasure to my audience and loved ones forever.
Christopher: Neither of my parents are musicians but music was always a big party of my growing up. My mom would listen to doo wop, r&b, and pop music (mostly the Beatles) all day long everyday since I was old enough to remember so I think that planted the seed in me to become a musician. I do remember when the movie The Doors came out I was in my freshman year of high school and my mother took me to see it, by the end of the film I was hooked with the idea of becoming a rockstar…:)
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Shayna: Lots of favorites, some I'm still discovering - new, oldies, throwbacks, remixes etc. Currently in my player: Mixtapes from my best friend (where I discover a lot of new music), Aretha Franklin, Billy Holiday, Charlie Christian (and the likes of his peers- including Al Casey & Django Reinhardt), M. Ward (his voice makes me melt), Madeleine Peyroux and Miles Davis. I also enjoy listening to music by fellow artist friends - there's a plethora of new independent music out there and the best part is stumbling upon the good stuff. For the most part, I am attracted to great songs (and ones that make me want to dance, haha).
Yan: I consistently listen to the classical music repertoire, at least a full work (symphony, sonata, song cycle, etc...) every day. I listen to the classical music radio station in my car almost exclusively, it's a perfect way to cope with the road rage which you inevitably get from driving in New York City. Aside from classical, I love Muse, White Stripes (which Chris, our drummer got me into), The Raconteurs, Radiohead, Jamiroquai, everything Chick Corea ever made, Jean-Luc Ponty, etc... I also have an unnatural obsession for electronic and dance music, which gets me in a lot of trouble (I grew up in Spain, I can't help it), so I love Daft Punk, Aphex Twin, BT, Plaid, Chemical Brothers, Infected Mushroom, Deadmau5... Oh, and everybody that knows me knows that my favorite band is Pink Floyd...I know, not very unique, but oh so very true.
Christopher: I play music so much that I don't really get a lot of spare time to just listen to music for my own personal entertainment so when I do have some time I usually stick to just what I know I love. The doors, the Beatles, the Mars Volta. I feel that if I have time to listen I don't want to waste it so I go right to what I know I like..
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
Shayna: Playing in Times Square on New Years Eve - the energy was incredible.
Yan: I'd have to agree with Shayna on that one, that was the best night of my life.
Christopher: I would have to say playing the 2010 New Years party at Times Square. That was pretty amazing.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
Shayna: Personally, I'd like to think it goes both ways; listening for pure pleasure and/or exploring the introspective side of powerful messages. In some cases, creating more empathy/understanding with the world and our relationship to it. Songs can be very powerful vehicles of emotional expression when it engages with our psyche (at least for me) - perhaps have an effect on our actions as well, which inadvertently changes the world around us. As far as influencing current events, music has the power to deliver messages to people of all ages, especially to our youth. It can also bring people together in the aftermath of an event, through concerts/fundraisers that can help benefit those in need. Music has the ability to bridge our hearts, our minds and our actions, unlike anything else.
I'd also like to add that I am a strong advocate for personal dance parties at home with loved ones - dance is the best form of therapy (in my opinion) and it goes hand in hand with music. What better way to enjoy it with the people we love.
Yan: Of course music can change the world, and the proof is all around us. David Hasselhoff single-handedly took down the Berlin Wall with his powerful performance. I mean, that's music history at its finest.....................
Isn't it?
Christopher: I think music has the ability to inspire people and give them motivation to do things, I'm not sure if can change the world though. people have to make that choice on their own.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Shayna: Technology is creating more and more transparency in today's world. Options are expanding, opportunities are becoming more accessible, tools are increasingly available, and because of that, creativity is pushing new thresholds - people are becoming increasingly self-sufficient these days. The landscape of the music industry is evidently changing - it will always exist, just "how" it will continue to exist is what we are all trying to figure out. I find myself learning new things everyday so I guess it's a matter of how we embrace/apply this DIY information. Having open platforms to connect with fans gives a lot of great room to include them in the process of creating/sharing, and in my opinion, it's a very valuable exchange between people - ideas, human connection and experience. Of course, there is always two sides to the coin.
Yan: Technology has done wonders to bridge the gap and level the playing field between major and independent artists. It has allowed us to be a self-sufficient band and see a good amount of success on our own. It has also allowed me to pursue my other passion project, to be the biggest Cuban rapper of all time. My name is Young Yizzy, my first single drops March 21st, you dig?
Christopher: Yes, and I think it has all for the better. Even recording has become more inexpensive. Music is one click away now, and I think as in your last question, "Can music change the world?" - if music is something that people consider something that can make people speak up and inspire people to do good, isn't that best thing then to have it as available as possible?
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
Shayna: Boots, sturdy black leather riding boots (with no zippers). I like to walk, move, get dirty and always be ready for any occasion (also in case I get kidnapped by a ninja).
Christopher: I think music has the ability to inspire people and give them motivation to do things, I'm not sure if can change the world though. people have to make that choice on their own.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Shayna: Technology is creating more and more transparency in today's world. Options are expanding, opportunities are becoming more accessible, tools are increasingly available, and because of that, creativity is pushing new thresholds - people are becoming increasingly self-sufficient these days. The landscape of the music industry is evidently changing - it will always exist, just "how" it will continue to exist is what we are all trying to figure out. I find myself learning new things everyday so I guess it's a matter of how we embrace/apply this DIY information. Having open platforms to connect with fans gives a lot of great room to include them in the process of creating/sharing, and in my opinion, it's a very valuable exchange between people - ideas, human connection and experience. Of course, there is always two sides to the coin.
Yan: Technology has done wonders to bridge the gap and level the playing field between major and independent artists. It has allowed us to be a self-sufficient band and see a good amount of success on our own. It has also allowed me to pursue my other passion project, to be the biggest Cuban rapper of all time. My name is Young Yizzy, my first single drops March 21st, you dig?
Christopher: Yes, and I think it has all for the better. Even recording has become more inexpensive. Music is one click away now, and I think as in your last question, "Can music change the world?" - if music is something that people consider something that can make people speak up and inspire people to do good, isn't that best thing then to have it as available as possible?
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
Shayna: Boots, sturdy black leather riding boots (with no zippers). I like to walk, move, get dirty and always be ready for any occasion (also in case I get kidnapped by a ninja).
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