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 Elvis on 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?
Well, I've been singing since I was a kid and I've had a few bands growing up, but for me my defining moment as a singer was when I saw this scene in the Scorcese's documentary about Bob Dylan, when he had just turned electric and people were calling him ''judas''. That scene touched me in so many ways and it felt so inspiring watching Dylan breaking boundaries and facing the crowd, who felt totally betrayed, and yet he was absolutely passionate about it and believed in whatever he was doing and opening doors for. That was when I sad: That's it for me. That's the life time inspiration I needed to make sure I wanted to become a real artist.
2. When you're not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Well, I kinda dig classic, melodic rock and folk music, so you'll always hear me mentioning The Stones, Joni Mitchell, Sheryl Crow. But I also like to hang out in the Lower East side and listen to what's new, find new bands and new favorite songs. Depending on my mood I even listen to Coldplay, Jeff Buckley, Oasis, what I listen is directly related to however I'm feeling in that particular day. But I guess I really dig music in a general way.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
I would say both: having the chance to work and co-write songs with my amazing producers (Ken Rich and Tomek Miernowski) and share the stage with these awesome musicians that have been teaching me so much along the way.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
I'll take Friederich Nietzsche's quote for that: Without music, life would be an error. Music is inspiring , it's such a magical tool that has the power to heal people, it brings them hopes and dreams but just like any other kind of art, it could express bitterness, darkness and take emotions to a very obscure path. Well, that's why we're fortunate enough to have freedom to express ourselves, I just think that artists should know better how much of this wonderful power they hold in their hands, so that they could try to make a brighter and more colorful world out of it.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
These are revolutionary times in a way, internet, itunes, mp3, social networks. So it's really about making the best of it, using these gates to expose something good about yourself and your work, so that your fans will get to know you better and they will respect and support you even more for that. It's not about exposing yourself , it's about sharing the dream with as many people as you can. I don't see this revolution as a bad thing for Indie artists at all. There has never been in history of music so much freedom to create and expose your work the way we can do now, so it's really a matter of how you manage all that.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
Oh I love this question! I would be a pair of country boots for sure! I have quite a collection of them, I really love it
Jensen Keets is a singer/songwriter from the New Jersey/New York area.
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 Elvis on 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?
I was a little girl the first time I heard “On The Radio” by Donna Summer. There was something about the soulful resonation in her voice that really spoke to me. I couldn’t stop listening and singing it over and over.
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
We’ll Sarah McLachlan is a staple for me. I am really moved by her voice and her writing. I never get tired of Fumbling Towards Ecstasy, or Surfacing. I have been listening to some of Billy Joels' early work with fresh ears. Masterpeices! I often listen to Paula Cole, Sheryl Crow, and Melissa Etheridge as well. I love strong, gutsy women, with big voices and fantastic writing styles.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live? I'd have to say in the studio. This is where all the magic happens. I just love creating a song from concept to finish.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events? I'm not sure that it can completely change the world, but it sure is an incredible source of healing. The world needs a lot of... healing and unity right now. As far as influencing current events, I do believe artists who push the envelope create awareness. Many times it might be a bit shocking. Usually there is some truth, but because of societal repression toward. But they can force new awareness toward greater good and change for sure.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician? Well technology is taking over. Musicians are making records right out of their homes now, and applications are the way of the future sales for distribution. Technology is fast and furious.
It has effected me and many musicians today. You have to take part in the social media world. It is hugely time consuming, but essential to keep the audience abreast of live performances, new merchandise, etc.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be? Boots for sure. I just love boots, even in the summer. Maybe I'm a cowgirl at heart, Ha!
Trishna Amin is a singer/songwriter from New Jersey.
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 Elvis on 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?
For me it was when I saw Michael Jackson's HBO special from his Dangerous tour in Bucharest. My parents recorded it when it came on t.v. and I watched it on VHS over and over again I remember watching, stunned at the power he had to touch so many people just by his voice. I wanted to strive be able to do that someday with my music.
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
I listen to everything basically, depending on the mood. I listen to a lot of Hip Hop when I feel like dancing, or classic when I'm chilling in my room. My favorite artists are Michael Jackson, Selena, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alicia Keys, Beyonce, The Beatles.
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
The greatest moment so far was holding all of the mastered and fully finished tracks for my first album in my hands, because it showed me that this is real. My career can happen, and it that moment was the start of showing my original talent and work to a wider scale of people. It made my work seem more legit lol. It was finally here!
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
I think music has the power to accomplish both dynamics. It has the power to bring important issues, messages and emotions to a wide group of people and bring them together. Music can also purely entertain and bring joy and relaxation to people if they choose to use music in that way. The purpose of music is ever changing and molding to fulfill the individual and that is really special. It has already done so much to influence current events, as artists have come together to raise money and awareness on issues such as breast cancer, and people like Bonousing his music to push for the fight against AIDS.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Technology has allowed for people to get a chance to listen to a more diverse group of genres in one location. The internet is an extremely useful place for people to be exposed to music from all over the world. Technology has definitely helped me put my foot further into the door of the business by showcasing my music on various online podcasts, allowing for people to buy my single online, and know more about me through my website and online profiles. Technology has played an immense role in the music industry. Mixing, editing, marketing. All of these things go hand in hand with technology and programming.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
5 inch, bright, possibly multicolored leather heels. Either that or high top colorful sneakers. It's hard to choose because I'm kind of a shoe freak.I hope I answered this correctly lol.
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 Elvis on 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?
Actually, there was no defining moment at all. It was more of a metamorphosis. Originally, I just wanted to write songs and hope for other artists to cut them. I slowly realized that if I wanted anyone to pay any attention to the songs, I was going to have to learn to perform them myself. So, I learned how to play the guitar (my first instrument was piano) and got on stage! From there I realized that once the nervous jitters went away I really loved performing for people! There’s a contagious energy a live crowd gives you that a songwriter can’t experience when they’re cooped up inside with all their ideas swimming around in their head!
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Most recently, I’m listening to all things Beatles! Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson are two of my favorite singer/songwriters. I have adored Sheryl Crow since I was a kid and Duffy’s voice just knocks me over with its unique qualities and throwback style!
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
It was an internal moment. Before I became a musician full time, I had a completely different career as a teacher. I quit my job at the end of the school year, moved, and didn’t even turn in an application for a new teaching job. I realized that I HAD to do something with my life that I loved. The moment I said out loud to myself, “I can do this!” was my greatest moment as an artist. Believing in yourself is the first step, but if you don’t have that you’ll never get anywhere.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
Music has the ability to draw out our emotions. A happy song makes a good day better and a sad song at the right moment can cause us to cry in our cars as we’re driving down the road (well, me at least!). Yes, music can cause change in people. Some of the most amazing philanthropic events are centered around music. The right song can create a magical moment that just may inspire others to do good or to give a little extra.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Technology has put artists’ careers in their own hands. Social networking sites have the ability for you to communicate and reach fans directly. There is no middle man for the indie artist which is amazing! You don’t have to sit around and wait for a major label to knock on your door. If you’re dedicated to your art and a hard working anything is possible and technology is a tool that has tremendous empowering effects! And then there’s bloggers, podcasters and internet radio programmers... There’s an entire group of music lovers out there who make it their mission to seek out the newest and best tunes and then share them with everyone they know! Take this website, Voices to Hear for instance… isn’t it cool that you’re exposed to new cool songs you’ve never heard of before?! Music listeners don’t have to be “passive” anymore. You can create your own internet radio stations now that are catered to your specific tastes. It’s amazing! I wonder where we will be in 10 years?!
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
I’m from Iowa so I’d need my winter and summer shoes! In the winter I’d be a pair of knee high brown boots, fashionable on the outside, but warm and fuzzy on the inside. In the summer, I’d be a strappy flat sandal that’s comfortable to walk in but still looks good with a dress!
Jessica Dawn is a singer/songwriter from Nashville with a new ep, "Graffito" just released.
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 Elvis on 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?
I don’t have one defining moment, but rather a series of moments that eventually progressed into an inner knowing that making music is what I wanted to do for a living. I started writing songs when I was eight years old and I remember the time I wrote my first song. Melodies were always coming to me as a child from then on…it was just fun to be creative and in my own little world. I started making my own tapes for my friends in elementary school. And while everyone was into Madonna, I loved Debbie Gibson because I thought it was so cool that she was only 17 and writing her own songs and played piano. When I hit my pre-teens, right when Mariah Carey came out, I definitely knew I wanted the life she was living. I even tried to sing like her, but of course, it didn’t come out the same way! Ha I was obsessed at an early age…not only was I always singing, recording, writing, and playing piano but also did silly things like pretend I was being interviewed, accepting Grammys awards in my bedroom, and coming up with music video ideas in my garage!
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
I’m constantly listening to music and I always gravitate towards artists that move and evoke me in some instinctual way. I’m attracted to artists who I can respect and learn from as a musician and songwriter, usually people who have some longevity or aren’t trying to fit some generic mold…and definitely artists who take chances and are unique because they don’t compromise who they are. If I listed ALL of my favorites, it would be too lengthy, but here’s a good handful: Led Zeppelin, Sheryl Crow, Tori Amos, Lenny Kravitz, Maroon 5, Carole King, Aretha Franklin, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alicia Keys, Muse, Fiona Apple, Marc Broussard, Jimi Hendrix, Nikka Costa, Stevie Wonder, Wolfmother, Kanye West, Jonny Lang, Black Keys, Beyonce, Evanescence, Beck, Janis Joplin, Black Rebel Motor Cycle Club, Jet, Ani DiFranco, Black Crowes…shall I go on ?
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
I played this really fun show at a little club in Bowling Green, KY, a college town where the crowds just really dig original music. They’re receptive to new and upcoming artists there. I was playing with a full band and we were performing the last song…by then, everybody was cheering and dancing. And so because the exchange of energy was so strong at that point, I spontaneously took the song in a different direction and the band just went with it-I stopped playing guitar and got the audience to start clapping with me and singing along. As cheesy as it sounds, there was something magical and beautiful in the air when that happened. It was quite euphoric. And that was when I really understood “crowd participation” and how that fire can start, as well as experiencing that “high” feeling you can have on stage as a performer. It was a moment I’ll never forget.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
The beauty of music is that it affects people in different ways. Some people like it only in the background, some like to listen carefully, pick it apart and discuss its theory,…some people like to dance to it, sleep to it, cry to it, drive to it,…some people are so inspired it can change their minds or their hearts or they use it as therapy to deal with difficult emotions…there’s such a broad spectrum of inspiration. Some artists like to mix politics with music and that’s because they feel the need to express those thoughts and ideas. There are people out there who will listen to an artist’s interpretation of what’s going on in the world verses a politician sometimes. Maybe that’s because it comes from an authentic, honest, and more relatable source. And plus music adds momentum and power to the words.
Music can change a person’s attitude, demeanor, heart, even perception…and since real change for the world comes from the change that occurs within individuals, then maybe in a sense, it can change the world. One thing’s for sure, music can bring people together, there’s a unity that forms at a concert and music really is the universal language. I also believe it’s the language of our souls and that’s why it can be such a spiritual experience.
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
Technology has affected the music industry in the sense that it’s more accessible now…it’s very consumer-friendly. A person can go online and if they only like two songs off of the 12-song album, they can just buy those two songs. They have the luxury of finding almost any song or artist online they’re looking for, get what they want, and never have to leave their computer and set foot into a record store again. It’s immediate, it’s faster, it’s easier, it’s cheaper…the consumer feels more in control with getting what they want. As an artist, I believe in not fighting change and accepting this new digital wave. In retrospect, it’s always been changing…we’ve come a long way from the gramophone! Change is inevitable. I believe the music business will always be alive and thriving because no matter what, people are always going to want music. So the only thing that’ s changing is HOW people are getting the music,…in different formats which will affect the “record” industry because of compact discs, but not the “music” industry itself. There will have to be new ways, new approaches to how music is sold. In my personal experience, technology has helped me. I can reach a wider audience online, and appeal to friends and fans who want to purchase the songs on iTunes, etc. The internet has shifted the way the whole game runs now and it actually caters to the independent artists who can do so much on their own now without relying on the big dogs in the suits (who are currently sweating bullets trying to come up with how to survive in such a do-it-yourself music market). Artists have more leverage now because they don’t have to be as dependent. The best thing about the internet for a band is all of the networking and being accessible to the public and therefore, you can have a fan in Germany because he found you on Myspace.:)
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be? The first kind that popped in my mind was a pair of boots. Maybe because I hope my music will make people feel warm. Maybe because most boots are comfortable but can also be stylish…my music, in my opinion, is somewhat familiar and sonically comfy, but yet also unique with a lot of personality. So if music is a reflection of the self, then these are some of my characteristics. Boots can be fun or practical, adventurous or sexy, girly and sophisticated, cozy or tough….perhaps these boots are ready to walk over a Man for causing her pain or walking up to a Man to give him a kiss.
