Simply Six: Kellen Ross of 'Opium Symphony'

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?

Yes! The moment I knew that I wanted to start/sing for a rock band was after I heard the Smashing Pumpkins album, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness. I was 14, and heard it for the first time from my older brother's CD collection. I knew then that rock n' roll was something that I wanted to be a part of. I was so frustrated with the music at that time, and I felt that bands like the Smashing Pumpkins set a great example of how to "break the mold". I wanted to do just that!

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

My band always makes fun of me because I rarely listen to music! Haha, but when I do, I enjoy bands that are timeless (in my humble opinion). I listen to The Beatles, Queen, Stone Temple Pilots, Radiohead, and Dire Straits, to name a few.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

The greatest moment was the first time that I heard one of my songs, "Deaf Radio" to be exact, on the radio! I had spent my teenage years in Abilene, TX daydreaming of all the things I would do/accomplish once I graduated high school, and moved to Dallas to start a band. This was one of those things! 

I was waiting tables at the time while performing on the weekends around DFW. One night I was driving "home" (I was sleeping on my bass player's couch), and I turned on the radio about 3 miles from home. It took me a second to realize that the familiar song I was hearing was mine! I couldn't believe it! An Opium Symphony song being played one of the biggest rock stations in DFW! I knew that if a rock station was playing a song I wrote on their own accord, then I had something that the rock community deserved to hear!

I felt like I had crossed off one of the goals from my "musical bucket list".

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

Of course I believe that music can change the world. It can do whatever the listener wants it to. For some people, music is "just something to listen to", or to dance to. I tend to delve into the music that has/speaks a certain message or encourages some time of change within the listener. You can't listen to John Lennon and avoid catching yourself thinking about life/the world. You can't listen to Marilyn Manson and not feel just a little pissed off at society. 

Music is always influencing current events, or at least it is always reflecting current events, and acting as a voice for the Zeitgeist. For example, Muse's single "Uprising" was perfect for the way that the world was feeling at the time. The bank bailout just happened, economic recession was at it's peek, and people were feeling slighted by big brother/corporations. It isn't as if Matt Bellamy spawned the idea of speaking out to these injustices, but I can bet that the song was a huge hit partially because he "hit the nail on the head" relating to what people were feeling at that time.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology is affecting everything. It makes things easier, yet more complex. I think technology is a great thing to embrace in the music industry as long as you don't use it as a crutch. In recording, I spent about $19,000 dollars on a record that just 20 years ago would have cost me well over $300,000. In the realm of recording, if someone uses technology to do something that they could do if they practiced (or worked harder), then I would call that using it as a crutch. But pushing the boundaries with technology and creating sounds that are humanly impossible is a good use of technology. 

Lastly, anyone who doesn't use technology to get noticed is simply ignorant to the possibilities, or has an extreme "purist" view on "getting noticed". If a band isn't using the Internet to get their music out into the public, they're missing out big time, and I would say they have no chance of ever having a voice in the future of music.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Well Barbara, I mean John, if I were a pair of shoes, I would be a pair of Marty McFly Nikes. Simply because I am mentally willing their existence so I can have a pair before I die!

Simply Six: David Bronson

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 distinctly remember one day in 6^th grade when I felt an overwhelming urge to learn to play the guitar. I was around music, listening to a lot of rock (Guns n Roses, Tom Petty, Pearl Jam, INXS – stuff that was kind of mainstream popular at the time), and my brother was already playing drums and had a little band with some of our good school friends, so it wasn’t really ‘out of the blue’ or anything. But I do remember all of a sudden this intense kind of pang to play guitar. And my mom had an old nylon-string folk guitar in the basement that I just dug out and started messing around with. As far as when I ‘knew’ I wanted to be a singer, per se, there was no real single kind of moment like that. It was just a natural outgrowth of being a very personal songwriter and realizing at a certain point that I needed to be the one to kind of define the vocal interpretation of these songs, all of which are very autobiographical.

 

 

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

 

I like a lot of different things and listen to a decent variety of stuff but my true musical heart has never swayed very far from rock; traditional kind of vocal-based verse/chorus song structure just tends to move me the most. I also do get very much into certain types of instrumental music, both modern as well as classical, but 99% of the time I’m completely about the song as my format of choice (followed closely by the album).

 

That being said, a few of my all time favorites are many of the classic rock giants: certainly The Stones and the Beatles (including most of their solo recordings), Neil Young, Van Morrison, David Bowie, Tom Petty, Pink Floyd, Paul Simon, Cat Stevens. I’ve always been an enormous fan of Peter Gabriel. And Joni Mitchell. And as far as all time favorites go, (and I know this is certainly not any kind of novel sentiment or anything) Radiohead is pretty much one of the very best things we’ve been given as a culture, artistically speaking. I see them in a certain way like being the modern analog to the Beatles.

 

And these days, some of the ‘newer’ stuff I’ve been listening to: I’ve become a huge fan of Iron and Wine (Sam Beam) – love his older stuff and completely love his newest record. I’m a big fan of TV on the Radio, especially their last 2 records, and, much like the rest of the world, I really love Adele’s last record. I also couldn’t stop listening to The Killers’ Day & Age record for a little while, and also recently heard the Mumford & Sons record start to finish for the first time and thought that was really great. And from a writing/recording/production/arrangement point of view I’m extremely impressed whenever I hear Janelle Monae’s stuff.

 

 

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

 

It wouldn’t be possible for me to pick one moment or thing that has happened in a very specific sense. There have been a lot of great moments as an artist (as well as a lot of difficult ones), but I would have to say that the best kind of ‘single’ thing that has happened, which has been the result of a much more gradual process, has been the honing in on what it is that I want to do as a creating individual; what I want to express and what that expression would look like, in a very over-arching kind of 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 definitely don’t believe that music is just something to listen to. Obviously to very, very many people (including myself) it’s much more than that. And I think it can change the world probably as much as anything else can or cannot. I definitely think that pieces of music, being pieces of expression, can change a person’s level of awareness or perspective in direct correlation to the degree to which that person allows it in. But it is no different than any other form of expression or communication or art in that sense.

 

 

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

 

I think anyone who has anything do with the music industry realizes how much of an effect technology has had on almost every aspect of the industry side of music (i.e. the production, marketing, replication, distribution, promotion, selling of music, as opposed to the music / art side, which has remained the same as it always has been).

 

Technology (specifically the computer, software, and the internet) has completely affected my career as a musician. Not only have I recorded every piece of music I’ve ever made digitally, but my entire ability to self-release, promote, and broadcast my music online is something that has only become possible in the last few years, due to the development of numerous internet-based platforms, systems, and applications.

 

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

 

Easy – Converse All Stars.  

Simply Six: Adam Cross

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?

My Dad says when I was young if I saw a guitar I had to hold it and "play" it.  He said it didn't matter if we were in Wal-mart or a music store.  If it looked like a guitar I wanted it in my hands.  That urge never seemed to leave me.  When I turned 15 I started playing and haven't let go since.  Singing was a bit different.  When I was a kid I sang everything.  If you asked me if I liked peas, I'd sing "no no no no no no no" from The Isley Brothers.  But somewhere between GI Joe and High School I lost that.  Then it happened... I was 18 and a Christian youth organization asked me to sing a praise and worship tune.  The place was full of about 50 people and my parents were included.  My girlfriend at the time didn't know I could sing and neither did my parents.  Much to their surprise, I belted out a tune called "Break Like a Wave".  I'll never forget their faces or the overall reaction from the crowd.  I felt singing digging its hooks deep in me.  I haven't looked back since.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

Some of my favorite are: Josh Ritter (anything he does is gold), Amos Lee, Ray LaMontagne, Matthew Mayfield on the songwriter side to Death Cab for Cutie, Modest Mouse, Soundgarden, Radiohead and more on the band side of things.  I enjoy pop music for the hooks and excitement, but don't know if I regularly listen to many pop artist.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Hands down the best moment in my music career has been "Sirens".  This album has been an incredibly intense experience for me.  My album release show was also one of the greatest moments for me.  Everything came together, the venue was packed and people were dancing and singing along.  I loved it.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

People change the world. BUT, music changes people.  Think about any major sporting event, movie, commercial or... think about an elevator.  Music consumes our everyday life.  It is the mantra by which we find energy, emotion, passion, strength, sorrow and life.  There is a reason radio comes standard on all automobiles.  What would we do without it?  I think a song has the potential to be the anthem of a generation.  It has the potential to stir emotions that make us better people through introspection and encouragement.  In these ways, I believe music effects most of the our decisions. Whether you know it or not.  It is subtly woven into the fabric of how we think and how our choices make us feel.  I'm sure it can help change the world and has effected our current state.  I'm hoping we can remember to love one another and put aside petty differences.  Maybe music will lead our way.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology inverted and disrupted our entire industry but in an interesting and great way.  Suddenly you can't just have the backing of a label to be a success in music.  Now it takes dedication, drive and enthusiasm to network on social media and uniquely brand yourself as a friend to your fans.  Gone are the days of wondering what an artist is doing today... Hello Twitter! Its nice to meet you! Hahaha. But the Truth is, it has winnowed music and artists down into finite niches where only the strongest survive.  In the last 10 years think about all the great songs that have been written AND think about how many artist have been discovered through social media. Hello YouTube! How are you today ;) Not that I'm advocating or saying this artist is great, but look at Justin Bieber (spelling?... haha).  His fan base is massive and it started online.  For me as a musician it has made me take more careful notice of my friends and fans.  I have to be more actively involved with each person and remember that they are all VERY important to my success and any success I have is only due to them.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Beat up old 1950's Italian boots.  Been through the ringer, but you still want to put them on :)

Simply Six: Lenny Marcus

  

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 went to see jazz/blues pianist Ray Bryant perform at Blues Alley in Wash, DC.  He had the whole place rockin, I couldn't believe so much music could come out of one piano! I knew I wanted to be a jazz pianist right then.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

    I listen to so many different bands and performers; some of my jazz favorites are Dexter Gordon, Ray Bryant, James Drew, Keith Jarrett, McCoy Tyner, and my rock favorites are Radiohead, Death Cab for Cutie, The Beatles.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

   My favorite recording was "Jazzaphrenia," in which I got to play and record with two of the greatest sax players in jazz, Frank Foster of Count Basie fame, and Sonny Fortune from the Miles Davis era.  They each did 4 tunes on the album, and I had so much fun during that whole session.  As far as live performances, getting to play in a big outside jazz festival with Ray Charles' tenor sax man David "Fathead" Newman; that was a blast!

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

   I watched a documentary last year that told of archeologists finding primitive drums and flutes dating back to almost the beginning of man.  I believe music has shaped and continues to shape the world.

   Recorded music and masterpiece compositions can last for centuries, but for me, live music is where it's at; going to live shows, experiencing "once in a lifetime" moments....truly wonderful.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

   I was a regular jazz pianist in New Orleans, LA for 12 years, and one of my gigs was playing solo jazz piano on the top floor of Jackson Brewery, where they made Dixie Beer.  I thought it was a steady gig, but one night I showed up to play, and there was a stuffed bear on the piano seat and one of those "new" CD players hooked underneath the grand piano; the piano was playing itself!  I think it was Oscar Peterson's music playing on the CD.  That changed my life, I went back to school to study other things besides music, just in case piano players were no longer needed.....

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

  I would be a pair of Frye boots, not sure why, but I had a favorite pair when I was growing up!

Simply Six: Zeeshan Zaidi from The Commuters

The interview was done with Zeeshan Zaidi from The Commuters.

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?

There were 2 such defining moments for me.  

The first was when I heard "Alive" by Pearl Jam -- I was a high school senior in the Philippines.  I was an avid musician and played a lot of instruments for much of my life -- guitar, piano, trombone, saxophone, some drums, had taken some music theory classes, been in the school concert and jazz bands for years, etc.  I sang a lot on my own with my guitar or piano but never performed as a singer and never thought of myself as one.  One of my best friends, Sid, was a year older than me and was already at college in Oxford, England.  He mailed me the "Alive" cassette single when it came out with a note saying I absolutely had to listen to it.  I put it on and was totally blown away.  Something in that song, in Eddie Vedder's voice woke something up in me.  

That's when I said to myself "I need to do this." 

The other moment came several years later when I was in grad school in Cambridge, MA.  One day instead of studying for an exam as usual I was fooling around on my guitar.  As I was playing "Fake Plastic Trees" by Radiohead I suddenly froze.  For the first time in my life my singing voice sounded decent to me.  I called a my brother and bunch of friends and started singing the song to their answering machines.  

That's when I said to myself "I CAN do this."

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

I've always listened to and appreciated all sorts of music!  A lot of alternative rock, but also hip-hop, R&B, pop, world music.  Too many favorites to list, but a couple of my favorite albums from this year are Wasting Light by Foo Fighters and the eponymous Bon Iver album.  

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Again, I'm going to give you two! 

The first was completing the first album Rescue.  For me it was a culmination of life-long dreams, hopes, and efforts.  I had written all the songs on the album, done all the vocals, the piano, almost all the guitars (Uri Djemal did a few parts) and co-produced and arranged it with Uri, who I've known since I was 6 and is a producer in NY, at his studio.  All those skills -- songwriting, singing, guitar, piano, arranging, producing -- were ones that I had spent years learning and honing and to have them all come together was awesome.  And to produce it with someone I'd known practically all my life, who had seen my musical journey and whose journey I had watched, was really special.  Uri and I spent a lot of time at his studio working on it -- lots of hours laboring away on nights and weekends over many months -- and it paid off.  When we got back the mastered album and I listened to it I had to pinch myself. 

The second when the music video for our first single "As I Make My Way" was added to rotation at MTVU.  That was amazing.  Every artist grows up dreaming of having a video on MTV, and to have a video played on an MTV channel is just unbelievable. 

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

One of my favorite quotes is from Plato who once said: "When the mode of the music changes, the walls of the city shake."

Music can be our conscience, can make us think, can inspire people to act.  Music   

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology has totally upended the music industry and has defined my career as both a music executive and a musician.  I spent many years working at record labels like Arista and RCA in their digital departments, and then left to work at a couple of technology startups in the music and entertainment space.  As a musician technology has been an amazing blessing all around.  On the creative end, the music production revolution has empowered musicians like me.  When I started off working at a studio in Cambridge, MA years ago I was working with tape and large, expensive analog equipment.  I still love the sound of analog gear, and use a lot of it when we record, but I do all my demos in Pro Tools in my apartment.  On the distribution end, the fact that anyone can get their music into all of the major online retailers so easily is awesome.  And on the marketing end, the internet and new technologies allow artists to identify, reach, and communicate to audiences directly.  None of this guarantees success but now an artist is empowered to things for themselves that when I started my career only major labels could.  That's why I set up Communal Records -- to do this for The Commuters and hopefully other acts that I come across that I think have potential. 

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Probably a very versatile pair of casual shoes.  I like to do lots of different things and feel comfortable in different roles and settings. 

Simply Six: Jason Poe

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?

The moment I remember most, was when I was 16.  I was driving down I-44 in southwest Missouri, and I heard "Cherub Rock" by the Smashing Pumpkins come on.  I had never heard the Smashing Pumpkins, or really, anything that sounded anything like it.  I remember driving down the road in my old 1970 Impala, and blasting the speakers as loud as they would go.  I wanted to be engulfed in that sound.  I still get a chill everytime I hear that song. Especially in the intro when everything finally comes together.  That was the moment I knew I had to play guitar.  I would spend the next two years basically locked away in my room studying the tabs for every Smashing Pumpkins song I could find.  I should start saying Billy Corgan taught me how to play guitar!  

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

Well, as you could probably already tell, The Smashing Pumpkins are always getting played on my iPod or stereo.  I also listen to a lot of Radiohead, U2, Oasis, The Verve, etc...the essentials of 90's rock.  The Beach Boys and the Beatles get spun a lot also. As far as recent releases, I've been listening to the Arcade Fire, Temper Trap, Tame Impala, Grizzly Bear, and Miike Snow to name a few.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

This is something I've never really thought about much.  This might seem like a small thing, but once I was in a band called The Professional Americans.  We were a three piece rock band, and at the time we were given the opportunity to open for a large touring band.  Now, the three of us in The Professional Americans were straight-laced-GAP-sweater-wearing kids, and were asked to open for a band that had a reputation for being a rowdy party band.  I just remember getting on stage, and getting booed by the audience from the second we got on stage.  I had never faced that in a live setting, and especially, never in front of a packed venue.  We pushed our way through the first couple songs.  By the end of the set, we had won the audience over, and they wanted an encore.  I think that was one of the most rewarding shows I've ever played.  Sometimes I feel like I have a chip on my shoulder, and that show, my bandmates and I got to prove ourselves to the crowd.  That was fun!

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

I don't really think that music in and of itself can change much.  It takes people to change things.  I believe music can be used as a catalyst to make people think about things they never thought about before, and because of that, can have an impact on the directions of society.  On an individual level, I do believe music has a ton of significance.  For me, I can often remember the first time I heard a song.  I remember hearing Bittersweet Symphony when I was waiting to watch Titanic in a movie theatre. I've already shared my experience with Cherub Rock.  I remember hearing Karma Police at a Taco Bell.  For me, music instantly transports me to these moments in my life, and that often has an impact on my life in the present tense.   

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology has done two primary things to the music industry, as far as I can see.  For one, it has leveled the playing field.  Now, I have nearly the same access to potential listeners/fans as a major label.  I don't have the same type of funding as the majors, but with ingenuity, I now have the opportunity to reach those fans effectively, and on a large scale.  The second thing it has done, is water down everything.  What I mean by that, is that anyone can now record a decent sounding demo on Garageband, and can upload it to Purevolume or Myspace, and instantly start reaching potential listeners.  So the new challenge for independent artists is to stick out from the crowd.  Your songs have to better at a quicker pace.  There is an urgency to create more and more, and to get it out for consumption faster, and faster.  People have shorter attention spans.  If you release an album every two years, like the old industry model, you're going to be left in the dust, unless you're already an established act. 

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

I would love to say that I would be an awesome pair of Chuck Taylors.  Those have been cool since the beginning of time.  However, I am probably a pair of Dee Brown Reebok Pumps.  I'm often full of air, and if you pump me up to much I'll make your feet hurt.  I have no idea what that's supposed to mean.  Sorry.

Simply Six: J-Punch and Dave Moonshine

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?

We knew we wanted to make music when we saw Nirvana on the Ed Sullivan Show.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

Nirvana, Weezer, Beck, Smashing Pumpkins, Nine Inch Nails, Hum, Placebo, The Cardigans, Liz Phair, Arcade Fire, The Pixies, Massive Attack, Lonely Island, Depeche Mode, Radiohead, Silversun Pickups, Doves, Bjork, Pinback, House Music.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

(DAVE) Recording an album in the same music studio Michael Jackson had used, with the same engineer the Foo Fighters were working with. It lasted about 2 weeks, off and on. The studio smelled like egg rolls, and I had a 102 degree fever. Either that, or when a tube amp gives nice feedback on stage, and people think I'm doing it on purpose.
(JUSTIN) - When "Temple," became the #2 song on the MUSIC CHOICE electronica station on my television. That felt awesome.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

I don't think music "changes" the world. It's a part of the world already. It is one of the more pleasant aspects of the natural course of human events. It does appear to alter mindsets and emotions, though that effect, as well as the existence of the music, is likely fated to have existed, both from a spiritual and scientific perspective. If the "current event" is a volcano errupting, music has little to no effect. If the "current event" is a little kid crying or not crying, then music is likely to at least appear to influence that situation

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

All musical instruments and methods of recording or amplifying sound are forms of technology. Modern technology, specifically digitization of sound and computerization of the recording process has greatly increased the amount of music available to audiences. As such, the audiences have learned to make their own music. Now, basically everyone can make high quality sound experiences to share with others. Due to this, when we try to participate in this infinite miasma of sound, our contributions, however decent, are lost in the screech of the hive. "Technology" has both enabled and doomed our careers as musicians, in that it has allowed us to more effectively create music, but also created a system wherein we cannot profit reliably.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Converse All Stars.

SIMPLY SIX: John Brodeur

John Brodeur is a singer/songwriter from New York.

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?

As a small child I discovered music through my parents' records--the Beatles and their solo records, the Best of the Bee Gees, '70s songwriter stuff like Billy Joel and Neil Diamond and Cat Stevens, and so forth. Those records were my best friends back then, and I knew from a very young age that I wanted to make music. I guess if there was one defining moment, it was just after I got my first electric guitar for Christmas after my 11th birthday--the kind with the built-in speaker, from the back of a JCPenney catalog. After playing along with the radio for a few days I had learned my first song (Poison's "Talk Dirty to Me," if you must know), and I realized that this wasn't just something that lived in my head.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

Everything. Not kidding--my playlist today was Gil Scott-Heron, Sparklehorse, Ke$ha, and Jawbreaker. I really try to listen to anything I can get my hands on. Some favorites: Elliott Smith, Big Star, Jellyfish, the Flaming Lips, Beatles, Radiohead.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Don't take this as a cop out, but . . . I'm proud of all of my records, and I think my greatest moments are yet to come. A few things that stick out in my 15 years of playing original music: The first review (a rave!) of my first "real" band's demo tape; releasing my first solo album; and sharing stages with bands and songwriters that I admire, like Sloan, Glenn Tilbrook, Freedy Johnston, Fountains of Wayne, and Greg Laswell.

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 capacity to drastically affect our moods and emotions, so it can definitely have an effect on social change. But I think more often music is influenced by current events, not the other way around.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

How hasn't technology affected the music industry? In many respects technology has made recording, marketing, and touring much easier. But it's a double-edged sword: The industry is now more crowded than ever, and it's harder to get your voice heard without relying on some kind of gimmick.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Probably an old beat-up pair of Converse All-Stars. Or maybe that's just how I'm feeling tonight.

SIMPLY SIX: Shayna Zaid & The Catch

Shayna Zaid & The Catch  are a musical group.


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). 

SIMPLY SIX: Beth Bombara

 Beth Bombara is a singer/songwriter currently living in St. Louis.


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 never experienced a defining moment quite like that. I started out mainly as an instrumentalist on keyboard and guitar. I liked being in the background. But a couple years after I leaned to play guitar, my friends decided to start a band. I remember sitting in the basement, everyone with their instruments, and one of them said "Ok, so who is going to sing?" And they all looked at me. "Why me?" I asked. They figured since I'd been playing my instrument longer than them, I could probably handle singing and playing guitar at the same time. I couldn't say no since I was the youngest, and that's when I discovered I could really sing! Now I absolutely love it!

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

When I'm not creating music, I love discovering underground independent music. But some of my favorites artists include Wilco, Lucinda Williams, Radiohead, Nada Surf and Neko Case

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

My greatest "moment" so far has been to be performing in a packed room and hear the audience singing along. The first time that ever happened, it was an amazing feeling!

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

When I think of changing the world, it seems like a big task. But I think music can do that in more unassuming ways. It can have the power to encourage someone who is feeling down, it can console, it can rally people for a good cause. It's hard to say how that effect is felt in the world, but I know it has to be in some small way. I think it's possible for music to influence current events, but I don't think I see it happen a lot.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology has totally changed the music industry game, especially by leveling the playing field. The industry is no longer controlled by a small number of record labels. That means there are a lot more independent artists who are writing, recording, and performing live. This is all made possible by advances through the internet, accessible recording and distribution, as well as other technology. It's also easier for fans to connect with artists through the internet.


6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?


If I were a pair of shoes, I'd be red Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars.

SIMPLY SIX: Cary Grace

Cary Grace is a singer/songwriter from Nashville but currently living in England.

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?

The first time I heard Blonde on Blonde. I found the LP in my dad's record collection. It was rather fascinating looking with that grainy photo printed the whole length of the gatefold, so I played it. I was completely awe-struck. I can't quite remember if it was, "my warehouse eyes, my Arabian drums," or if it was, "the ghost of 'lectricity howls in the bones of her face." Perhaps the cumulative effect of both.

At any rate, some time during that album was most definitely the moment I said to myself, "I don't just want to do that, I have to do that. It is necessary. I have no choice."

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?

This week...Pink Floyd, Leonard Cohen, Miles Davis, Gong, Cream, Neil Young, NEU!, Amon Düül II, Mazzy Star, Frank Zappa, Beethoven, Tangerine Dream, Radiohead, The Velvet Underground, The Doors...my musical travels are far and wide, but somehow I always find my way back to Dylan.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Right now. No, right now. No, NOW. This is definitely...no, it's actually right NOW...

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?

Everything changes the world, even if nobody notices. Change and influence can appear to be very subtle, but small things can actually be very important.

If somebody hears a piece of music, and it changes who they are a little, or how they think--even slightly--the music has affected that person's life, and has affected the way they will react to events, what they will do when faced with choices, etc. That person might go on to do something very significant to society or culture, but it's more likely that the person's life will only really be significant to those close to him or her...maybe a few dozen people.

Now imagine a million people so affected by a piece of music. Maybe 10 million. Even if none of those people are individually considered to be very significant, collectively they are very significant, and collectively those they influence are even more significant.

A small thing can be far-reaching. Influence spreads like ripples, and is very difficult to quantify or prove, or to trace back to a source, when it reaches to places far removed from the source. One should not mistake a lack of proof or direct traceability for a lack of potential, or a lack of power.

I think that because of this great potential, we also have a great responsibility as artists.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?

The music industry is certainly in a state of flux right now, very much instigated by technology. It will be interesting to see how it all shakes out. I think the technological thing that has affected me most is the cost of recording equipment coming down, and the fact that making quality recordings is now very accessible. I love the recording and production process, and it is wonderful being able to do it on my own time and my own terms.

Also, the internet has made it easier and easier to distribute music directly to the music buying public. I think this allows for a level of interaction that was not possible before, but it also makes it more difficult to be heard through the noise. I hope that eventually the anarchic freedom the technology provides will be balanced by order, but not of the same type the old regime forced upon us. I hope that the free exchange of information afforded us by technology will eventually put the power of music recommendation back in the hands of real music lovers, and take it out of the hands of big corporations with monetary agendas which have nothing to do with music. I think that is beginning to happen now, but it is very fragmented. Many people don't know where to go to find new music anymore.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Shiny, shiny, shiny boots of leather.