SIMPLY SIX: Matthew Ryan

Matthew Ryan is a singer/songwriter from Tennessee.

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?

When I saw Sinead O'Connor tear up the picture of the Pope on Saturday Night Live. My feeling at the time was that she had a point. And I felt that it was a clear lesson in that one should speak so not to be misunderstood rather than speak to be understood.

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

I listen to crickets and coyotes a lot. Tree frogs are loud around here as well. But as far as music, I listen to a lot of Sinatra lately.

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

It's been something that's starting to happen more often, almost every night these days. But when people start singing along at shows is beautiful. It's not an ego thing, and it's not meant as a manipulation to get be engaged. My assumption right or wrong is that we are connected through our experiences and that there's a sense of community in heartbreak and hope. When we sing together, we're honoring that thread. I 've always felt that the "I" in my songs were meant for "WE" and "US."

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

Music is a lightening rod. It's a mirror into the collective mind and mood. And sometimes it's beautiful, and sometimes it's vapid. Sadly, our collective vigilance only seems motivated when things are coming unwound. But clearly vigilance should be a permanent watch post. People change the world. Songs rarely do. But a song can change a person. So, in a way, yes... A song can change the world.

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

Technology giveth and technology taketh away. I still have a career because of technology, and for that I'm grateful. But I think the marketing of technology is dangerous. The line between art and entertainment has been completely compromised to a blurry mess. Art connects, inspires and comforts us; entertainment wastes our time.

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

Interview: Michelle White

Michelle White is a singer/songwriter and the daughter of legendary Tony Joe White.

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?


Hearing a new song as a little girl, by my father in the mornings over coffee. He played very quietly, with an acoustic. And I loved that.
Also, Roberta Flack's voice singing "That's the Time I Feel Like Making Love".

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

I listen to everything...currently Van Morrison, the Rebirth Brass Band, Peter Gabriel's new tune, Pat McLaughlin, Mary J. Blige's version of ONE with U2, Backwater Blues by Irma Thomas, Tony Joe White's crazy new album, DEEP CUTS and I have been revisiting some Waylon and WIllie and Stevie Wonder... and Bebel Gilberto, Sinead O'Conner,..telepopmusic has a great song, Buckley, Jason Isbell, soundtrack from The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, ...peaches.

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

Playing The New Morning in Paris with my friends in the band, my cousin on guitar, and my Dad joining me...complete with a horn section from France. It was a perfect night.

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

Music changes everything. Music influences most of us every day. I think everything we say or do has an effect like a stone in a pond...rippling on and on- so what we create in music....does this in a profound way especially those artists who are listened to by the masses. I hope artists realize this...many I listen to are very aware of their effect. Just listening to Peter Gabrielle's song from Wall-E lifts my spirits and the molecules in my body.

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

Technology has given me quicker access to new music. Unfortunately it has all but stopped the income of small or middle ground artists like myself. Many of the greatest musicians and artists of my generation had to quit music as their full time job because there was not enough money generated due to the pirating of music. It is not in good shape and very disheartening. I wish that consumers understood that if they do not pay for their music, then many of the artists cannot continue doing music. Only the hugely successful and very young and willing to starve survive this industry right now.

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

I go barefoot.