Simply Six: Pheroze

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 was 12 and in my last year of living in Saudi Arabia, my friend Mus called me up to tell me he just bought a guitar. Playing music was a completely foreign notion to me at the time, I don't come from a musical family, so I wasn't really impressed with his new gain. That (pre-hipster era) douchey nonchalance changed like a wet diaper as soon as I went over to his place and picked up his guitar. It just felt so... right; like I had found a missing limb that fell off at birth. That was the defining moment of knowing that I wanted to eschew all semblance of a standard balanced life and pursue music with extreme diligence. I spent the next 8 months 'playing' a tennis racket along to albums until I managed to save enough dough to get my own guitar.

As far as knowing when I wanted to be a singer? Frankly, I never wanted to be a singer. Sure I did it on my own, but never really wanted to be a front man. It usually ended up defaulting to me to sing in bands, though. I became aware that I was actually decent at it when I was at a Berklee summer session in Boston for guitar and a bunch of people I was hanging out with wanted to form a band. If you ever stepped foot in Berklee you'll quickly find out that EVERYONE plays guitar- and bands with 6 guitar players just don't work (even if you're the Allman Brothers). So I sang. And screamed. But mostly sang.

I never really had an 'a-ha' take on me moment with singing. I had to develop it slowly and painfully - not just the skill but the confidence level in being a front man. These days I'm pretty comfortable just stepping up and doing it, but it was a journey to reach this point.

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

I like silence. I like to hear myself think. I like to hear the music that's rumbling in my head- whether it's mine or others. I have my own version of Spotify in my brain. I tend to go in phases with listening to music. I'll go months without listening to anything and then months where music is on constantly.
My go to band is always Soundgarden - they're my security blanket for musical relevancy.

Right now I'm listening to The Joy Formidable. Today I listened to Kvelertak, Chris Cornell, Stevie Wonder and Mastodon. 

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

I don't have one. I'm pretty much always in the moment when it comes to creating music so, while certain moments do stick more than others, I consider myself to constantly have my 'greatest' moments. The feelings within the processes of creating, recording and playing music are what I live for and whenever I'm doing those things I'm indulging in my share of absolutely fantastic moments. These moments are internal, though I do dig seeing the feeling reflected back at me through a listener.

That said, there was a moment not too long ago when I realized I had crossed a certain goal line that I never knew I had - the transition from making what I would consider to be good music to making what I consider to be GREAT music. Again, this is internal and, as egocentric as that transition may comes across, it's what keeps me fueled to keep going. If you're not self driven as an artist then you will constantly face a significant amount of crippling defeat - so I take my internal victories very much to heart to better deal with, and grow from, my failures. Next step: Make GREATER music.

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

Art changes people and people change worlds. The world doesn't have to be the physical Earth or politics in as much as it can just be someone's personal world. I know music has gotten me through terrible times and elated me at joyous ones. 

Music is always a world and event influencer; it depends on how you relate to it and its place in your life. There's stupid fun music that plays on emotions in the same way that Reality Shows do- factory produced scripts written to hand the listener an emotion - musical McDonald's. This crap doesn't change anything - it's all media hype and marketing vessels to artificially sway people to a certain side. I think of this as music for lazy people - the people who just want to be told what to listen to and how to feel when they listen to it. If you're reading this, don't be that person.

Then there's the stuff that actually evokes the creation of feelings within the listener. Music like this brings out the emotion in people and the best part is that the listener gets to own it. It's THEIR emotion, the music acts as an attenuator. That's the stuff life runs on.

As much as certain movements and scenes have played a part in social history, I don't like infusing music with community, it's too personal to me to get mixed up in the will and ebb of others like some inane religion. I do think that exceptional music will permeate certain people's sense of self and that, in the right hands, the resultant charge can move social and political mountains.

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

I love technology. Here's the deal: These days I can record, market, make videos, broadcast shows, and interact with fans completely on my own and, more importantly, on my own terms. This is directly due to technology. Ten years ago, any of these steps were part of a process that required a team of people (aka a label) to get done with any level of proficiency.

To be a musician in this day and age you have to not only embrace technology, you have to embrace the spirit of the DIY ethos that has been a mainstay of punk rock for decades. There's a notion that the music industry is dying. It's not. The power has just shifted from the labels and their cliques to the ARTIST and the FANS.

So what is people can download my music for free? They're downloading my music and that's what matters. I'll make money other ways and true fans will help me out along the way by coming to shows and nourishing the creation of my music. Hell, I used to give away tapes and CD's for free all the time. As a creator I just want my music to reach whoever wants to hear it - and technology allows me to remove the middle man.

Now, sometimes that middle man can shout louder than I can - so it's not like there's no benefit at all to being with a label or a good management company, but technology has allowed the artist to hold on to their power. Artists who don't embrace technology and the freedom it provides should pack it up and go do something else. You can't afford to pine for the past or be a dinosaur these days.

Let's just use tonight for an example on how I've used technology to directly affect my music career. On this same computer that I'm answering this question on I've done the following in the past few hours: Created drum patterns to demo songs for my next album; lowered the price of my new album, Crows Into Swine, on my website pheroze.com for a holiday promotion; responded directly to a fan question in near real time on Twitter; updated my followers and fans with links to buy my albums for cheap; gotten real time statistics on who's listening to my music on two internet stations; bought a new microphone for my home studio; coordinated drummer auditions for another band I'm in.

That's a 5 hour span. And I took a break to eat dinner. I couldn't have done any of that ten years ago. I love technology.

Simply Six: Megan Blue

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 was five, I was obsessed with the theme song from 'Flash Dance'.  I remember twirling around on the orange shag carpet with my fisher-price plastic microphone.  I was hooked pretty early!  

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

your favorites? I love funky music.  The New Orleans music scene is so inspiring to me!  I especially love Jon Cleary and Papa Grows Funk.  I also love the greats- Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Aretha, Stevie Wonder, Etta James, Susan Tedeschi.  Anything that's got a lot of soul to it, and that makes you want to dance.

 

 

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

or live?  Oh, I have to pick one?  Singing at Jazzfest in 2001 was pretty amazing.  We just did a tour for Sundance Film Festival, and we had an amazing gig up in Park City- brought the house down.  That was incredible!  Any time I can connect with the audience and take them away from their daily grind and into a different world- that is my greatest achievement as an artist.

 

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something   to  listen   to?

How much can music influence current events?  I ABSOLUTELY believe music can and has changed the world.  Artists that have a voice have an incredible platform and influence- Just look at some of the greats- John Lennon, Michael Franti, Ben Harper.  There are artists out there that have gotten me to think about how I can make the world a better place- and I love to be a part of that kind of music.   Music and Art are always intertwined with current events- Political songs have been making us aware and creating revolutions for hundreds of years.  'I think it's time we stop, hey, what's that sound, everybody look what's going down...'

 

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected

your career as a musician?  Technology is a double-edged sword.  The worst of it is, people just don't want to pay for recorded music any more.  They want to burn it from a friend, get it for free off the internet.  That effects all musicians who are trying to make a living off of album sales.  Now it has to be about live shows, which is o.k., except I think that if you start thinking you don't need to pay for the album, why pay to see it live, when I can just watch it on Youtube?  The good thing about it is that you can reach a much wider audience through all of these social mediums we have now.  How has this effected me?  Simple math-  Because record labels are dying out, they don't have the funds to support their talent.  They don't have funds to send out talent scouts and agents in search of new talent.  This means that the ARTIST is now in charge of seeking out labels and agents, not vice versa, and now we are also expected to be promoters in addition to everything else.  You have to be incredibly tenacious, incredibly driven, and incredibly stubborn to make it happen.  Luckily I am all of those things.  In addition to that, you have to believe in yourself, and you have to believe that you have something that HAS to be heard.  

 

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

shoes would you be?

Vintage blue leather cowboy boots-  because blue is my signature color, my last name, and the name of my band, and because cowboy boots can be worn anywhere with anything- dresses, jeans, ball gowns.  And they look great on stage!

I also do a column called POV where you can basically write about anything you want.  I've had everything from the Occupy Wall Street to ghosts to music talked about.  So if you'd like to do that that would be cool.   Do you have any videos I could post, I only found one on youtube....just thinking it would help let people see and hear you.

Simply Six: Richard Kincaid

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 think it was the first time I was performing a solo in church.  I was only 7 or 8 and the energy and experience was amazing.  Even at a young age, you feel an enormous sense of accomplishment when you really connect with an audience.  There is no other experience like performing.  

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

 

I have very eclectic taste in music.  I like everything from classic rock to new alternative and electric/dance music.  I am always, however, drawn to strong vocals.  I really like Danny O’Donohue from The Script, Steve Perry from Journey and everything from Stevie Wonder.  Stevie is such an exceptional composer and singer.  I was amazed hearing him sing at a young age.  I also really respect Christina Aguilera.  She is an amazing singer!.  Some of my favortite new artists are The Script, Band of Horses, Phoenix, Civil Union and the Black Keys. 

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

 

Completing my first CD, “Return”, was my greatest moment.  I have talked about recording a CD for years and finally did it.  The whole creative process and the exceptional musicians I worked with was a great experience for me.  I am really proud of the end product.

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 central part of most people’s lives.  For my own life , I associate songs with so many key moments and eras.  I think music can influence current events.  We saw that in the 60’s with protest songs and artists have always been at the forefront of cultural change.  Most importantly, music is a respite from busy lives and troubled times.  Well crafted songs are mini novels that take you away and bring out emotions that all of us have experienced.  It can be very powerful, which is why great songs never really get old.  

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

Technology has dramatically impacted the music industry.  The internet and the reduction in recording costs have really opened up the world to aspiring artists.  You can reach a huge audience now without a record company.  The bad news is that it is harder to make money on recordings.  You really have to tour to be a professional musician these days.  As to me, current technology made it affordable to make a CD and start to build an audience without signing with a major record label.  We will see what happens from here, but I have a chance to find an audience for my music.  I couldn’t say that twenty years ago.  

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

I would be running shoes.  I stay very busy, with a music career, a business career and a non-profit career.  I wouldn’t have it any other way, but my schedule keeps me running. 

Simply Six: Danielle Delaite

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 can't remember when I didn't want to perform but I was particularly affected by a Janet Jackson concert when I was quite young.

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

I'm currently listening to Nelly Furtardo's Loose album from a few years ago and Maroon 5's new album, Hands All Over. I'm also playing  some Australian artists such as Gotye, Thirsty Merc and Sia.Of course I'm always listening to Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Cole Porter, Justin Timberlake etc....There are just too many to name!

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

        It was such an honour as a 13 year old to perform for the celebration of the Torch Relay for the Sydney  2000 Olympic Games. It was in front of over 15,000 people and I was so excited. I loved it!

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

          Music in all its forms touches our emotions and often the lyrics make us think. So songs can be very powerful for example, John Lennon's " Give Peace A Chance " helped strengthen the anti Vietnam War movement.

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

        Wow! This is a huge question! Should I just say "greatly"? Seriously, and briefly there have been huge changes in technology for the industry such as  cheaper cd manufacturing and copying, then internet downloading and piracy, all of which got the jump on the major labels. At the same time new technologies have given independent artists such as myself the opportunity to produce an album (without a major label) and market it on a smaller budget with social media, podcasts, youtube, itunes etc.. and it has also given listeners a wider choice and easier access to discovering new artists.

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

          If you had asked me this question a couple of years ago I would have said, " Kikarse work boots" ( an Australian Brand) as I was having a very frustrating journey at that time. There were a few industry people who had let me down.

          But now, I would say I am a High Heeled Sneaker ( and I actually have a pair ! see photo attached). This is because I love high heels for the glamour and fashion but I also love sneaker activities such as dance classes, tennis, golf, nature walks and just being casual. I really love these fun shoes!

Simply Six: Traum Diggs

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 would say the first time I saw Run-DMC on TV I knew that I wanted to do whatever they were doing.  I couldn't be more than 5-6 but I knew that I wanted   to be just like them.

   

 

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

I'm a real 70s and Early 80s soul music junkie! Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, Jackson 5, Teddy Pendergrass, Donny Hathaway, The Stylistics, The O'Jays, The ChiLites, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Gap Band, The Spinners, Teena Marie, Rick James, Smokey, on and on! If I'm not listening to that it's classic hip-hop or reggae. 

 

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

   I recorded a tribute to Michael Jackson called "Mike Jackin' 4 Beats" which I believe is my greatest lyrical performance on record to date.  I also performed two shows in one night once.  A show with my band in Manhattan and then opened for Talib Kweli at a venue in Brooklyn.  That was the best feeling I have had as an artist thus far. 

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 provided the backdrop to many a movement.  If you are unfamiliar with the state of the world in a particular time or place just listen to the music and you will know.  There is no question that music can change and influence the world. How many Vietnam War protesters do you think were influenced by Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On". 

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

     Technology has affected and will continue to affect the music industry.  From 45s and vinyl to 8 tracks to cassettes to CDs, to mp3s, the landscape of how music is packaged and delivered to the consumer has changed.  As far as the artist is concerned, the technology of today gives the unsigned or never before heard artist an almost even playing ground with the major label artist. If you have a clever or simply rediculous presentation you have a chance to "go viral" and reach millions of people online.  In my career specifically, technology has been essential.  The mere fact that I am doing this interview is the result of the technology that we now have at our disposal.  As a result of the Internet, I have been able to connect globally with folks who would never have access to me or my music 10 years ago.  So although it has created a great deal of absolutely horrible content, it is somewhat of a necessary evil.     

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

        I am definitely a pair of Gortex! Rugged, waterproof, dexterous and stylish all at the same time.  And very New York!

Simply Six: Jane Lui

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'd say it was my idol from Hong Kong - Anita Mui, watching her on TV. She was my everything. I learned vibrato from watching her and ways to sing in a low voice like hers. It's an amazing power that idols have on youth.

 

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

currently playing: Blonde Redhead, & A Charlie Brown Christmas (my favorite album EVER)

- Bjork, Feist, Stevie Wonder, Michael jackson, Sting + Police, Richard Rogers & Oscar Hammerstein, Circus music (I don't know who wrote these), Cat Power, Keith Jarrett, Bill Evans, Louis Armstrong, Billy Holiday, Debussy (choral stuff)

 

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

Live - Playing in front of a sold out theatre of 6600 people. Nothing great comes without some form of fear. it was super scary.
I felt like I had to be very responsible for those few minutes.

 

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 it would be naive to think that music should influence current events and "bring people together", because politics is always more complicated than a three minute song that elongates a single feeling/moment. But I think it does change the world by providing an outlet. Some of the greatest songs come from a need to escape from war and depression. Music certainly doesn't have to beabout current events to be connective and life changing, but I do believe listeners have to have hunger, and openly feed their curiosity by learning sensibilities of others & cultures. 

 

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

It has closed the gap between Artist & Audience. Given, artists have great capacity to make home recordings, bypassing the usual brokerage of studios & labels. It's also come to a point where audience can and expect more interaction with artists through tweets & Youtube videos. The Audience has a much more direct effect to the artist career and success. And in turn, the artist becomes more responsible for the community/empire that comes out of the active audience. It's pretty amazing - I have personally made friends with fans who are now leaders of my street tream, and a huge part of my marketing wall to bounce ideas off of. The hard part may lie in separating the need to feed public demand from doing music that's most authentic to me regardless of how I might change.

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

large indoor slipper shoes with big knit monkey faces on them.

SIMPLY SIX: Steve McLeod

Steve is a singer/songwriter from California.

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 Prince's Purple Rain. I was too young to understand the depth of it but it got me hooked. That was it. I saw what I wanted to be doing with my life.

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

Richie Kotzen, Miles Davis, The Beatles, Prince, Hendrix, Joni Mitchell, John Coltrane, Van Halen, Funkadelic, Empire of the Sun, Australian Crawl, Stevie Wonder, The Black Crowes, Taxiride, N.W.A...So many I could go on and on...

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

Definitely the greatest moment so far is working with Richie Kotzen on a song called "Beautiful Life" for his Wilson Hawk album. He is one of my idols and I have learned so much from him. He is a true genius!

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 can change us as humans. It's inspiration can be instant and powerful. But to change the world, we'd all have to like the same music and want the same things for our world.

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

Technology has been great for me. As a fan and musician. Through the developments of technology I have been able to become studio savvy and record my own records how I want to and when I want. Also, I have discovered so many great bands and artists that I may not have if things were how they use to be.

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

A pair of Nike Air Jordan Cement III's. My favorite shoe of all time. Why? The shoe to me, because of Michael Jordan's greatness, represents passion, drive, persistence and authenticity. The things I try to develop on everyday in my own life.

SIMPLY SIX: Nathan Lee

Nathan Lee's Simply Six.

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….No. There’s no defining moment. Music has always been there for me.The bottom line….This is the only job I’ve never quit, even when I wanted to.



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

Well…..Here’s what I listened to today… Stevie Wonder. Earth, Wind & Fire. Jude Cole. Kings of Leon. And the “Across The Universe” Soundtrack.

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

Survival. Every day is a challenge…..Every day offers another opportunity.

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

Yes…I don’t believe it can change the world…I know it can. As to how….thats up to a mans heart, and his intentions.

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

Well…I’m broke….that explains a lot of it. The upside….it allows for NEW ideas to change the way things used to be done. Its time to focus on our individual cause, not the industry. Art was never intended for the industry’s validation….and I love that technology can make or break us….we live in a time when good decision making is crucial….and I love the challenge!

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

Boots. With good soles!

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SIMPLY SIX: Annie Clements

Annie Clements is from New Orleans and the daughter of noted blues guitarist Cranston Clements. She began playing bass at 13 and is currently the bassist and background vocalist for the country group Sugarland.

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 always involved in something musical ever since I was a small child. Having Cranston Clements for a dad will pretty much guarantee that. If I had to pick a particular moment though, I'd say it was in 5th grade. I was cast as the lead in the school play and sang a solo piece in front of the entire lower school. I made my teacher cry! It was the first moment where I felt like, "I can do this. This is what I want to do."

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

All time favorites include The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, The Beachboys, The Continental Drifters and Aimee Mann. I'm currently really into the new Racconteurs record, the new Kings of Leon, and this crazy band called Black Joe Lewis and the Honey Bears. They're awesome!

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

I've been fortunate enough to have a few of these. Theresa Andersson and I got to play the 50th Anniversary of the Fender Stratocaster at Wembley arena alongside David Gilmour, Brian May, Ron Wood, Joe Walsh and other legends. We got to spend a week rehearsing on a soundstage in London with them, hanging out. Standing onstage for the finale with those guys was one of the defining moments of my life. Another was the first time my band with my dad - The Chillun's - pulled off "Good Vibrations" at Tipitina's in 2004. It was one of the most triumphant musical moments of my life.

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 can dramatically effect change. I recently posted a video on my youtube channel and Warner Brothers muted the sound because I'd used a 20 second clip from En Vogue's "Never Gonna Get It" and they claimed copyright infringement. The video was completely lifeless without the music. Once the music was added back in, the video made people laugh and cheer. I think that microcosm of an example works one hundred fold in the larger scheme of things. When presidents are elected it seems like the first thing they do is plan a huge concert. People want to come together and celebrate their victory with good music.

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

The music industry has been turned upside down by technology. Sugarland may be one of the last bands out there that can still make money selling cd's. Labels are having to re-work their entire infrastructure and most of them are going down. It's a crazy time, but at the same time there's so much more opportunity for anyone and everyone to be heard. It's scary but it's exciting. Technology affects my life every day. You contacted me here on a social networking page. How on earth would we have gotten in touch before all of this? I've made so many connections with people as a result of all this new media stuff. I can even sing background vocals on someone's project, post the files online, and be a part of a record for someone I've never even met. Plus I'm totally addicted to Twitter now which is so much fun.

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

Hmm... Shoes... I'd probably be like a pair of Doc Martin's or something. I'll bet Susan Cowsill answered that too. Or maybe she said moccasins? Those were the only two shoes I ever saw her in all the years I nannied for her. Mostly she was barefoot. I'll have to check her answers! Yeah, Doc Martin's. Sort of rebellious, a little goth, waterproof. Sounds like me!

photo copyright by Annie Clements

SIMPLY SIX: Leslie

Leslie is a three man band that showcases the best of Southern Rock.

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 think the defining moment for me was when my parents took me to
Farm Aid 96 in Columbia, SC. I was about ten years old, and Neil Young
& Crazy Horse was the the last act. Seeing Neil electric changed my
life, the volume and power was so much that it rattled my chest, thats
when i realized thats what i want to do


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

I like to listen to old blues , old soul, and
classic rock when i'm not creating music, we like everything!! Since
we play rock and roll, some of our favorites are Nick Drake, Stevie
Wonder, all over the map

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

I think the greatest moment in our career
so far is the release of our new EP "Rebel Souls" It just has a lot
to say on it, and i feel like people are getting the band that we've
always been but this is the first time they can hear it in a quality
way.

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
universal language. Its not the question of can it change the world,
it already has! Elvis, The Beatles, The Clash, U2....Music can
definitely affect current events because people listen to the artists

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

Technology affects everything. Now you have more ways than ever
to get music and hear about bands, the band thing is that you have so
many ways to get it for free! But I feel good to know that if someone
is getting it for free at least they're getting the music, but if
everyone was getting it for free, i wouldn't be able to have a career
in music! There's a lot of blood sweat and tears that go into making
records and I don't want to be stolen from on the ground level. Lars
can screw off!

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 good boots, cuz they are good in any types
of weather and they look badass'

SIMPLY SIX: Jessica Dawn

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. 

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.