Name: Aaron Davvid

Birthplace: Bronx, NY

Currently residing: Lagrangeville, NY

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Got my start in church, released some records nothing came of it and switched genre to pop music.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Growing up I listened to a lot of Gospel music and a lot of contemporary Christian artists. Crystal Lewis, Carmen, Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary, Helen Baylor was on repeat- and in my teens it was Israel Houston. On the flip side, pop music was all the top acts of the 90’s N’sync, Usher, Pink, Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera. But when it comes to writing and vocals I love Bruno Mars, Mariah Carey and Katy Perry. True performers that have the entire package.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Love Like This (Fat Man Scoop Remix) -NEVER fails to get me moving on the dance floor. Its just a real fun track and Scoop just takes it over the edge. It just makes me happy to dance and sing along to.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

I’m a hopeless romantic so I would have to say waking up next to your soul mate, enjoying every moment together, at a beach or amusement park preferably.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Dependability, being a man of my word.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My health, you can have everything in the world at your feet but if you are not well you won’t be around to enjoy it very long.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Gosh so many celebrities. I don’t know i always manage to say something dumb. I got to meet Angela Johnson at one of her shows and i completely clammed up. I had no words.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

The beach! I just love the summer, the sand and the waves. Any place that’s remote and tropical with close friends.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Acting, I think that’s the next frontier for me. Maybe some tv shows then movies would be cool.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Rich lol ! This is gonna sound strange but i would love to own an amusement park. Growing up playing rollercoaster tycoon for hours on end and just loving the tech that goes behind the state of the art rides would be an awesome fantasy come true.

Name: Avion Blackstone

Birthplace: Biloxi, MS

Currently residing: Austin, TX

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Singing in church and playing the old family pianos led to recording with Jason Sewell of One Eyed Doll, which blossomed into music to share and revel in across the musical world of Austin, which lead to meeting my many wonderful twitter fans.

Website: www.avionblackstone.com

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I worship Michael Jackson, Mozart, and Lady Gaga. I love meticulously creative pop music, from all generations.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Born to amuse, to inspire, to delight…” – Gone to Soon – Michael Jackson

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Any day I wake up on satin sheets, after 3pm, and can start the day with coffee, fine writing paper, and a fountain pen at my piano… that’s a perfect day.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I’m a naturally intense person. So I’m intensely loving, intensely loyal, intensely and radically accepting of people. The more themselves my friends are, the more I love them. And I think that is what they appreciate most in me.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

Gemini; my beautiful, pearl white, baby grand piano. She’s the best girlfriend I have.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Malala Yousafzai; she is 7 times the woman I will ever be and I’d love to get to meet her and hopefully learn some of the passion for kindness and peaceful power that she has.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Flying over Minneapolis St Paul at night. That city is the most beautiful thing on earth when it’s lit up and seen from above.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I want to do music videos next; good ones. I am still looking for the right concept and people to make it happen but it will happen. I can’t wait!

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I want to be the background song to first dances, and kisses, and marriage proposals, and divorce celebrations. I want to be a beloved household name. I want to be present in sound and spirit to comfort the broken hearts, encourage the dreamers, and witness the all the important changes of their lives. All I really want to be is loved like that.

Name: Jimi Priceless

Birthplace: Cape Town, South Africa

Currently residing: Cape Town, South Africa

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I first started writing raps, then started making beats towards the end of high school. I started taking making music seriously and released my first songs in 2011. Since then, I have been working on my craft and exploring different styles. I am now working on my upcoming album, I’m Fine, Thanks for Asking, which will be released on March 13th 2017.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? A$AP Rocky, Ab-Soul, Action Bronson, Amy Winehouse, BADBADNOTGOOD, Better Person, Chance The Rapper, Childish Gambino, CHVRCHES, Curren$y, D.R.A.M., Daft Punk, Doja Cat, Earl Sweatshirt, Eyedress, Flying Lotus, Frank Ocean, Gorillaz, Hawk House, HONNE, Isaiah Rashad, JAY Z, Jay Electronica, Jessy Lanza, Joey Bada$$, Kali Uchis, Kanye West, Kiiara, Kilo Kish, King Krule, Kodie Shane, Lana Del Rey, Lil Uzi Vert, Lil Wayne, Lil Yachty, Linkin Park, Lupe Fiasco, Mac DeMarco, Mac Miller, Marilyn Manson, Melanie Martinez, Mick Jenkins, Oxford Drama, Pharrell Williams, Post Malone, Purity Ring, Pusha T, Rick Ross, Rodrigiez, Sasha Keable, Skepta, Snoop Dogg, Stalley, Submotion Orchestra, T.I., Tame Impala, The Game, Travis Scott, Tuxedo, TWENTY88, Ty Dolla $ign, Tyler, The Creator, Vince Staples and Whitney

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

My Song by Labi Siffre & If You Think You’re Lonely Now by Bobby Womack.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Spending time with close friends somewhere scenic on an overcast day.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Probably my sense of humor.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My laptop.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

 As a child I used to get nervous when meeting pretty girls.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

At home.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I’d like to start performing more and getting my name out to a larger audience.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would like to be successful and wealthy with a big house, a beautiful wife and all that but as long as I’m happy and still passionate about what I do, I’ll be good.

Name: Hannah Richardson

Currently residing: State College, Pennsylvania

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I began singing in my church choir at the age of six, and fell in love with performing in front of people. As of now, I’ve sung in over 450 shows across the U.S., been featured in The Wall Street Journal, and released my third album, “Roots”.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I have so many! I adore bands from the 70s and 80s like Led Zeppelin, The Who, Queen, etc. I also draw inspiration from newer artists like Taylor Swift, who are always on the cutting edge of both music and lyrics. For some reason, I also love listening to film scores while I study, so John Williams is kind of a hero to my brain.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

My Blood by Ellie Goulding.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

It’d be hanging out with my friends while eating food, running around in the backyard, watching movies, and sitting on the roof drinking iced tea. In the evening, I’d work on writing a song, and that night, I’d go to perform!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Probably my sense of humor. It’s very dry, and sometimes, it’s difficult to find people who understand what makes you tick.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

Definitely my laptop. My films, songs, compositions, and scripts are on it!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I was really nervous to meet The Apollo Band at The Apollo Theater. The first time that I was to perform, I had a track rather than sheet music and felt terrible because of how world-renowned these people were, and how I was choosing to play karaoke. However, it all worked out, because I ended up winning that night, which gave me the opportunity to play with the band during later shows!!!

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Exactly where I am; home. I just got back from a long roadtrip, and am currently in love with living in my own room and sleeping in my own bed.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I’d love to do more collaborations! I’ve began working with other writers, and have found the experience to be an incredible way to get better songs, and make amazing friendships along the way.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In ten years I will be 25! Realistically, I’ll likely be living in Nashville or L.A., just out of law school, and continuing to live the dream of singing and performing for people.
I would love to find myself completely stable on money from my performances/albums. I realize the odds of being a Taylor Swift or Justin Bieber are quite small, (although I’ll still shoot for the stars), but many artists can make a living simply by having 10,000 fans. Think about it; if 10,000 fans bought your $10 CD, you’d be making $100,000! That’s without counting the merchandise, performance gigs, and more.

Name: Makala Perry

Birthplace: Puerto Rico

Currently residing: Portsmouth, VA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started out recording myself in a studio once I left I was blessed with the opprotunity to be on a reality show called I Got This on Wavy Fox 43TV now I am preparing to put out my EP called “Sometimes”

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I love Frank Ocean, Lauryn Hill, I LOVE R.Kelly songwriting, I discovered Tina S (AMAZING Guitarist) and instantly fell in love with her!

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Lauryn Hill – Zion

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

I would say just relaxing in a open mic and just watching a whole bunch of talent and performing as well!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

The fact that i’m so encouraging, funny, trustworthy and supportive!

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I would say my phone, It has all of my songs in it lol!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Rihanna! She’s so amazing and seems down to earth but i know i would be nervous to meet her.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Somewhere and ANYWHERE tropical!!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Collaborate with more artists and just network and discover more types of talents. I love different stuff!

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

With a Grammy and still doing music plus very successful!

Name: Jeff Glatz

Birthplace: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Currently residing: San Antonio, Texas

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Like most kids, I loved music while growing up, but never had confidence to sing or write, and then I started playing percussion while my brother played guitar, and, after that, I played bass until he finally taught me guitar, which helped me with the confidence issue, especially when I moved to New York, where I auditioned for Echo & the Bunnymen when Ian McCulloch left, but I sucked — still, it helped me gain confidence to sing in front of people, so I made a band called Peacefield, in Pittsburgh, with my brother, Don, and we made a bunch of albums and played a bunch of places including CBGB’s in NYC and some beautiful festivals, while also having songs in a movie and on TV, which brings me to my first solo EP called “Multiverse” which will be out sometime this summer, and it was recorded and played on by one of my all time favorite singer/songwriters, Steve Tagliere, who was in the band Gingersol, and it was mixed by the brilliant Duane Lundy of Shangri-La, and I’m very proud of it, plus it’s getting positive reviews, and now I’m starting my next EP with Steve next month.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

This question always overwhelms me, because I love so much from many genres. Early on, I do remember listening to Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You” on 45. I also recall listening to The Beatles on 8 Track! Ha. My new wave period was full of The Smiths, REM, Echo & the Bunnymen, Big Country, INXS. Pretty typical. During my New York years, I was into Sex Pistols, The Clash, Godfathers, Suicidal Tendencies, Ramones, The Replacements. I love everything — from The Doors to AC/DC to Fleetwood Mac. Lindsay Buckingham is an unbelievable guitar player. Wire Train, Gingersol, Centro-matic, Jeff Buckley, Elliot Smith, Big Star. Right now I’m listening to The War on Drugs, Band of Horses, Kurt Vile, My Morning Jacket. I’m liking a lot right now, and I’m lucky to live in a part of Texas that’s always bringing fresh new music to live venues and house shows.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

It’s constantly changing but “Don’t Tell a Soul,” by The Replacements, can take me there. The whole album is pretty powerful. I know some critics call it a “sell-out” album or say it’s too polished, but I think it’s some of Paul Westerberg’s best stuff. They grew up.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Waking up with family and friends on a camping trip, knowing we have the rest of the day to hang out together, relax and play music. Simple.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My humor. Sometimes I’m so funny I can’t stand it. My good looks would be a close second.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I guess I’d have to say my 1990 Martin D-28. It was the first *real* guitar that I bought new, and I wrote lots & lots of songs on it. Some great songs & some embarrassing songs. It’s been in a lot of studios & on many road trips with me. I love that guitar. I would marry it if I could.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I’m easily star-struck. I either clam up when I meet a celebrity, or I speak, but make no sense. I remember finally building up the courage to meet Alex Dezen from The Damnwells, who I really dig, and, at the end of the conversation, I said, “I really love you.” Believe it or not, it was awkward after that. So the answer is, any celebrity in the world.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

The Cayman Islands. I love it there — the whole culture and mood of the place is something that has stayed with me. I’ve always wanted to be a surfer, but I’m actually worse at surfing than I am at talking to celebrities. It’s really very sad.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would like to start touring again. At the moment, I’m not ready mentally or musically. But the time will come soon — maybe after the next solo EP is released.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I love playing live. I love making new music, but it’s hard to make a full-time living at it, especially these days. I hope to be signed with a publisher that markets my music enough so that I can tour and be able to make a comfortable living. All I really want is a mansion.

Name: Chris Sand

Birthplace: Vancouver, BC, Canada

Currently residing: Missoula, MT

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I’ve been writing raps & strange lyrics since 1984 but didn’t learn guitar until 1988 and then by the early-to-mid 90s I was recording my stuff mostly in Olympia, WA, where I’d moved to go to college, and it just took off from there, so now I have about 13 albums, one documentary (Roll Out, Cowboy), and an undeniable future as an inscrutable and obscure troubadour.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I like Prince, Hank Williams, Run-DMC, LL Cool J, Woody Guthrie, Phil Elverum, Calvin Johnson, Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, Anthony Hamilton, The Carter Family, Robert Johnson, Sonny Boy Williamson, Stephan Said, Jimi Hendrix, Drive By Truckers, Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, King Sunny Ade, Moustaches, Timezone Lafontaine, Eminem, Nas, Andras Jones, Chaka Khan, Led Zeppelin, Jonny Fritz, The Best Westerns, Caroline Keys, Arrington de Dionyso, Townes Van Zandt, Dolly Parton, Modest Mouse, Cat Power, James Brown, Jonathan Richman, Bruce Springsteen, Butter, more…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Three way tie:

Prince’s “When You Were Mine”

Dylan’s “Visions of Johanna”

Led Zeppelin’s “Tangerine”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Hiking to a hot spring. Swimming in a river. No urgency and a warm breeze. Grazing on wild berries.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Kindness & creativity.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My $200 guitar.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

William Shakespeare.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On Killdeer Mountain in western North Dakota where my dad lives.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I’ve never been off the continent; I want to travel the world.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In a borderless world nestled in an infinite universe swimming in cosmic bliss.

Name: Sharon Glassman

Birthplace: Philly

Currently residing: Longmont, CO

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started playing classical violin in fourth grade and after a lifetime of trying to hide in the second violin section, became a fiddler in Northern Colorado and thought, “Wow, I remember I used to play guitar, too, so how about writing some songs to go with that draft a novel I moved here with an Oh, look, now I’m a singer who tells stories fueled by songs on little stages where folks can eat, drink and smell beautiful things, too.”

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer (they wrote the classic “One for My Baby“; Arlen also wrote the music for Somewhere Over The Rainbow); Tom T. Hall (those lyrics!!), Peggy Lee (she wrote some very cool tunes); Tim O’Brien, Darrell Scott, Claire Lynch, Dexter Payne, Stacey Earle, Matraca Berg…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

One for My Baby: “It’s quarter to three; there’s no one in the place but you and me.” Talk about a world in a line!

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Most of my days in Colorado fit that description of perfection: sunny, quiet, friendly, open-spaced, time with my dog and my beau and my books/music, home-cooked meals, and a walk by the lake (the lake!!) near our home.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My large-hearted, warmhearted, good-hearted creativity – on and off the page/stage.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My violin.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I met the solo stage performer Spaulding Gray many years ago – had been so excited to meet him! But upon meeting him, could not say a thing.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Italy, with my dog and my beau and our musical instruments.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I’d love to do more “jewel-box shows” where I can perform for audiences of five people or less in a super-fun, yet quiet way.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Doing what I love (performing, combining art forms, collaborating) in a way that flows beautifully, organically and rewardingly on all levels for everyone involved (and beyond)!

Name: Monica

Birthplace: Martin, TN

Currently residing: Portland, OR

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Two decades obsessed with music (and going strong)….. I collaborate well with others, engineer, play shows, write songs, experiment, and work with a myriad of different bands, artists, and genres and I’m an exploratory multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer, engineer, and music director who also teaches music and facilitates therapeutic music workshops for youth at risk and I recently released my first solo folktronica album under Moniker called, “The Cruelest Month“.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Moondog, Django Reinhardt, Alt J, Bjork, Radiohead, Little Dragon, Devendra Banhart, Sufjan Stevens, Tori Amos, Joni Mitchell, Grant Green, The Meters, Wye Oak, Chet Faker, iamamiwhoami, Paul Simon, Roberta Flack, 2Pac, Frank Ocean, Jeff Buckley, Coco Rosie.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Whatever pulls on my heartstrings…”Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley never fails to move.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

A slow morning writing in my breakfast nook. Music. A jaunt to the dog park with my pup. Music. Good food. Music. Good conversation. Music. Campfire. Bed.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I’m a good listener and always down to process with friends about their trials and tribulations.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Martin OM-15 acoustic guitar

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Bjork

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On Sunset Beach in Koh Lipe, Thailand

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Collaborate, write, and record more music! I would also like to help others find their voice.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Satisfied and passionate about my life.

Name: Emaximus

Birthplace: Oakland California

Currently residing: Susanville Ca

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Ive been listening to hip hop since I was 4 years old been writing lyrics since I was 10 ten years old hip hop dance and freestylling help mold me as a MC then started recording at 19 started music marketing with my OGs from the neighborhood then hooked up with Chandler Bolt and started recording more never looking Back moved to the North Bay and opened for E-40 Rappin 4-Tay , San Quinn kept recording then Moved further North and signed with VOD Recording spent allot of time slanging Burned CD’s to everywhere I go

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

The artist of the past that made me love music and gave the vision to MC NWA, Eric B&Rakim Michael Jackson, Parliament Big Daddy Kane, KRS-One Grandmaster Flash&The Furious Five, ICE-T, TOO Short,, EPMD Run DMC, Beastie Boys, Whodini, Tribe Called Quest,
The ARTIST THAT INSPIRE me and I still listen to this day 2Pac, Scarfasce Snoop Dogg , DPG, Eminem , Notorious B.I.G.
ICE Cube, 50 Cent, Del The Funkee Homesaipen E-40 Bad Influence , Out Kast , YukMouth(Luniz), Above The Law, Jay-z, Lil wAYNE, jUVINILE , Dr. Dre, Nas

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

2Pac Killuminatii Track “Hold Ya Head, Track from Strictly For My N.I.G.G.A.Z Title Track, Thug Life -“St8 Ballin”
Eminem The Eminem Show “Til I Collapse” “Lose Yourself
Jay-Z Blueprint “Never Change”
Notorious”Juicy” “Skys The Limit”
Scareface ” Mary” The Fix-“Someday”
Yukmouth”If I Ever Ball Again”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Wake up get liffted after morning sex Bump my favorite tunes get grub then hit the studio for hours lay down 3 tracks come home clean up and head to a show rip the show hit the afterparty for a little bit the head to the crib and watch FX Half Baked or Adult Swim

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I genuinely want people to succeed and I can be a motivator during their struggle

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Headphones&IPOD

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I would be nervous to meet President Obama I guess. I see celebrities as special people with talent but are down right basic people. Their talent makes them unique but they can be talked to regular

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Somewhere in LA at a studio

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Travel business, Label Ownership, perform worldwide, Help Troubled Teens and kid with mental disorders

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I still want to be relevant writing recording and performing all over. I also plan on owning several companies in the Travel & Entertainment industries Fashion and Media. Also, I will focus on building a legacy and empire while giving back to my community and society as a whole

Name: David Gregory

Birthplace: San Antonio, TX

Currently residing: Dallas, TX

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Well… I think it started for me in the Hill Country outside of San Antonio where me and my friends used to go see artists and bands as they would tour through the state in a really intimate setting (we were broke and young… so this was sporadic) which is where that desire to connect with people was planted for me, and looking back on my time with my first band (49 Anonymous) or my next endeavor (The Vinyl Affair) I can still say that regardless of the incredible exposure and experience I got playing with other talented musicians and friends, that in the decade or so since those shows in the Hill Country, those nights have remained some of the most formative and influential in my reasoning for becoming a singer/songwriter.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Glen Hansard, Bend Folds, Jeff Tweedy, Rich Mullins, Bob Dylan (Highway 61 Revisited… perfection), David Ramirez, Jeremy Casella, Chris Taylor, Sara Bareilles (Girl and SANG), The Beatles (cliché, but for a reason, people), Jim Croce, The Killers, John Mark McMillan, and one of the most under rated band of the 90’s… Third Eye Blind… ya, i said it.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Jesus, etc” by Wilco

“Tall buildings shake,
Voices escape singing sad sad songs
Tuned to chords
Strung down your cheeks.
Bitter melodies turning your orbit around”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

A cool fall day in the city kicked off with brunch with friends (Is there anything better than brunch?), followed by engaging/energetic/insightful/stupid/hilarious conversations around the table with people I love. Then home/nap/couch time and a regroup that night in some perfect little listening room. Somewhere relaxed and comfortable where people can eat/caffeinate/drink and enjoy laughing and singing along with something honest.

Oh, and probably some ridiculous dance party afterwards… Don’t judge.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Off the top of my head?

My brute strength, natural musk & sense of humor… just the top 3.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

A mug from a little coffee shop in Nashville called Sam & Zoe’s. Excellent memories of city that’s really special to me.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Any fascist world dictator… way too unstable.

But seriously… Paul McCartney. Effortless icon. Incredible creative.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On the porch of the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, CO with a few good friends, an excellent bourbon and my guitar. Nothing beats the sunset in Estes Park.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

There’s something that’s been incredibly freeing about being a solo artist for a few years now, but I miss the community and creative energy of playing with a band. Not just guns for hire or one-time collaborations, but a group of people that’s totally bought into the vision and vibe of what you’re creating.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

This has changed a lot for as of recent. I mean, the dream is to make it big right? It has been for me for years, but as of recent, i’m discovering more and more that I’d be completely content to just be allowed to continue.I really believe that people can tell when they’re being catered to or pursued by art that is ultimately empty and only looking to make a buck, but to be able to connect with a total stranger through some form of art and identify so completely is a gift. In ten years, I’d just hope to still be able to see glimpses of those connections being made.

Name: Northern National

Birthplace: Dallas, TX

Currently residing: Dallas, TX

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Well, Northern National is made up of Michael Kanne, Michael Rossi, & Michael Wilson and our paths are all incredibly different, but basically Wilson (songwriter, producer and guitarist) met Kanne (a pianist and songwriter) through an ex-girlfriend, and Kanne was currently writing and working with Rossi (a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter) (Kanne and Rossi met on Facebook) and together they formed Northern National and wrote a bunch of songs and ended up putting ten of them on a record called “Young & in Love” which has an Alternative/Pop/Rock vibe.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Kanne: Ron Pope, Jon Mclaughlin, Jason Reeves, John Denver, Green River Ordinance, Parachute, Matt Wertz, John Mayer, Taylor Swift, Elton John, Les Miserables

Rossi: Sam Cooke, John Mayer, Allen Stone, Ray LaMontagne, Amos Lee, Jason Mraz

Wilson: Beethoven, Bach, The Beatles, U2, Dave Matthews, John Mayer, Johnny Cash, Coldplay, Peter Gabriel, Jason Mraz, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Michael Jackson, Billy Joel

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Kanne: Human – Jon Mclaughlin

Rossi: Shelter – Ray LaMontagne

Wilson: Cats in the Cradle – Harry Chapin

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Kanne: A little bit of love, a little bit of music, a little bit of basketball – all during autumn. That’s a perfect day.

Rossi: Relax and not worry about ANYTHING – oh and hang out with my wife (she made me say that lol) – but seriously, hang out with the wife.

Wilson: Sleep late, hang out with friends, play some music in the evening for people to enjoy, and revel the rest of the night away until we start all over again the next day!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Kanne: My passion. I get enthralled and caught up with a person or a moment and I get others excited too. It’s a good and bad thing.

Rossi: My humor. I’m pretty funny. No I’m not going to tell you a joke.

Wilson: My dependability. If I say I’m going to be somewhere or do something, they usually don’t have to worry if

I’m going to flake out on them. This is a great characteristic to have in the music world!

5. What is your most valued material possession?

Kanne: A jar of notes that a loved one wrote me.

Rossi: I don’t really believe in valued possessions.

Wilson: I try not to become too attached to material possessions (I say this as I’m tethered to my Apple devices every moment of the day), but I sure do love my Taylor 914ce guitar made out of Brazilian Rosewood. It’s beautiful and sounds amazing!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Kanne: Michael Jordan. I grew up as a huge basketball player and MJ fan.

Rossi: BB King.

Wilson: It will be my wife (cue Michael Buble’s I just “Haven’t Met You Yet”).

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Kanne: Ft. Collins, Colorado. Growing up I made some of my fondest memories in that city. Would love to visit again.

Rossi: Italy. I spent a short period of time there a while back and have wanted to go back ever since!

Wilson: Hawaii, or any place tropical where I don’t have to worry about cold. Cold is evil! Haha!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Kanne: Travel more. I’ve never been out of the country – I hope that will change!

Rossi: Play more music! Up until this point its been a hobby, so I am excited to play our songs more and more.

Wilson: I’d like to travel and share these songs, or cowrite more songs with gifted musicians.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

We are going to answer this question as a band, but in ten years from now, we all agree we’d like to be writing songs, playing shows, and spending our down time with each other and our families (God willing).

Name: Jordan Corey

Birthplace: San Jose, CA

Currently residing: Venice, CA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: When I was a kid I was painfully shy and literally wouldn’t talk to anyone so in third grade my mom forced me to do a musical and I thought for the first time that I had seen heaven all the while I was taking classical piano lessons and absolutely hating it so I eventually threw up my 12-year-old hands and quit only to continue to do musical theater when I was 14 I sat back down at my piano and started writing moody songs and decided that I would MAKE MUSIC FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE then I joined a classic/rock cover band and played oldies all around the bay area for fun-loving people then I turned 18 and went to college at UCSB where I played in a soul/reggae/funk band that rocked the streets of isla vista all the while working on my own side projects – my first record ‘Do Me Wrong’ was released my senior year of college, it was awesome, I got named iHeartRadio Artist to Watch and finally started “making a name for myself” a year later I wrote and recorded my sophomore record, ‘Trilogy’ and raised over $16,000 to do a video project alongside the release I played music video producer for 9 months and at the end of the blood, sweat, and negotiations we had 3 beautiful music videos that are my children today as I sit here writing this ridiculously long stream-of-consciousness sentence I have just completed a track called “The Power” for my friends at Dr Pepper and Complex Magazine it was great fun creating it and I have been so ecstatic as the power spreads its little wings and makes its way into your eardrums I am also finishing up my third record, “All That”, which is set to release SOON and will undoubtedly be a joyous occasion of non-stop live shows, good vibes, and more beautiful people to meet 😉

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

– Most anything touched by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

– Supertramp
– Stevie Nicks
– Heart
– Foreigner
– Neil Young
– Etta James
– Darlene Love
– Alicia Keys (songs in A minor changed my damn life)
– Amy Winehouse (duh)
– Adele (19)
– Sade
– Dan Carey
– Jungle
– Emiliana Torrini
– Tycho
– Blood Orange
– Flying Lotus (his video projects are ridiculous, “Until the Quiet Comes” inspired my “Trilogy” video project)
– Edo Lee
– Ben Kahn
– Chet Faker
– Rhye
– Yumi Zouma
– RAC

I can keep going, but I should probably stop. This list is never-ending, always evolving.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Many many songs. A couple examples:

The Classics:
– Old Man – Neil Young
– Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
– I Would Rather Be Blind – Etta James
– There is No Greater Love – Amy Winehouse
– The Chain – Fleetwood Mac

Newbies:
– Cavalier – James Vincent McMorrow
– Sweetest Thing – Lulu James
– Open – Rhye
– Youth – Ben Kahn
– Rice Queen – Superhumanoids
– Chosen – Blood Orange
– Feet In The Sand – Rose Wintergreen
– Tookah – Emiliana Torrini

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Living entirely in the present, embracing the unique perfection of each day. (Being the beach with an incredible book wouldn’t hurt either 😉

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I literally asked two friends:

“Positive outlook on life. A shining light. Seeing everyday as a new opportunity to love, learn, and experience.”

“Ability to help others see the positive in everyday”

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I’ve been trying really hard not to have valued material possessions BUT lets be real, I’m a human…..my books, my juno-G, my cast iron pan, my platform shoes

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I met RAC a couple weeks ago and thought I might explode with nerves. Every time I get nervous to meet people I remember they’re just humans.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

A secluded island with my closest homies

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Write more, do more, be more. Always.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Making music, spending time with good people, and sipping in the beauty that life gives me each day

Name: Marques Robinson

Birthplace: Juneau, Alaska

Currently residing: Wills Point, Texas

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I played French Horn in the highschool band and grew tired of the constriction so I started playing more instruments including guitar, bass, drums, piano, trumpet until I had gotten pretty good at the guitar in which I began to record little jams on my macbook and slowly the jams became more and more like songs until I had enough to produce an albums worth of music.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I love Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix, those are my go to artist of the 60’s and 70’s. I also have a massive amount of respect for Joe Satriani for everything he has done. My more current favorite artist are Coheed and Cambria, Incubus, and Arctic Monkeys.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

There are so many, Led Zeppelin’s stairway to heaven was the first song I learned on guitar so that will always stay with me. Right now I just bought Coheed and Cambria’s CD “No World For Tomorrow” and I am wearing that out. I would have to say that the entire CD moves me emotionally for sure.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Wake up around 9 or 10 in the morning and eat a nice breakfast, then either listen to music or read up on one of my books about a band or musician. Then once I get in mood I set up my recording equipment or go out to my home studio and begin laying down some tracks and getting some ideas out. I would do this until I got hungry, then eat, then do it again. Just constantly engulfing my world with music, what a great day!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My friends tell me that they love my Determination and Commitment. When I decide to do something, Im going to do it.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I would have to say my Signature Eric Clapton Fender Stratocaster is my most valued possession.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I would be so nervous to meet Coheed and Cambria. They are my main influence at the moment. I would also be nervous to meet any musician from the 60’s and 70’s that got to live through that time period and express themselves through music.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Juneau Alaska, I was born there and have only been back once since we moved to Texas. There is so much emotion in that place, I love just being there.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would love to have the opportunity to tour more in the future as my career continues to grow.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would like to have moved out and be stable performing musician. In ten years I would like to say that I am a true professional musician who can make a living off the music I create.

Name: Devin “Steezy” William Johnson

Birthplace: Walla Walla, Wa

Currently residing: Kirkland, WA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started on violin when i was 3, played until i picked up cello in addition, played both for a couple years, all while playing in orchestra and having private lessons, picked up guitar around 2 years ago, joined this band (my first), and here i am!

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I’ve always liked Patrick Watson, Jeff Buckley, Keaton Henson, Manchester Orchestra (favorite of all time), Bon Iver, Pontiak, Grizzly Bear… i also enjoy playing Bach, Elgar, the list goes for too long.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Dude looks like a lady…”

-Aerosmith

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Playing guitar in space.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

my long, luscious locks.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Telecaster

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I would be nervous and fan-girling hardcore if I met either Andy Hull or Isaac Brock

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

In space.. DUH

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

play huge shows with ma homiez 4 lyfe dog!

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Supporting myself with music. I dont care about fame, or even being rich, i just want to do what i love and be comfortable.

Name: Andrew Ryan

Birthplace: Seattle, WA

Currently residing: Seattle, WA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I’ve been playing in garage and punk bands since before high school, I’ve been grinding the small-time Seattle club scene and have had the chance to play a few big venues with a couple of big name bands, all that work has led me to my current position behind the kit for Gliceryn.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My musical taste is all over the place, but being a drummer, I like anything that brings the heavy. I’ve been known for my love of 80’s glam metal, so I’m gonna say, that bands like Motley Crue, Def Leppard and Dokken have had a major influence on me, but I love my 90’s So Cal punk rock like Bad Religion, Pennywise, Offspring and Strung Out.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“It’s better to burn out… than fade away,” -Rock Of Ages / Def Leppard (Although they didn’t do a good job of that haha)

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

This is a tough one because I could have like, a week of perfect days. But let’s say, in my working life, I wake up on a tour bus and Toby (our manager) tells us what city we’re in and what time we have to be at the venue and then Devin and I shred our BMX bikes around the city until we either get arrested or need to be at the show. In my personal life, I wake up in my riding gear and ride my dirt bike until I can’t move haha.
4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I keeps it real.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Kasher lighters haha. No, but seriously, I really appreciate everything I have in my life, but I love my beautiful drum set. And my dirt bike is pretty crispy too.
6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I think the drummer from Strung Out (Jordan Burns) is a really cool dude and I’d probably be pretty geeked out to meet him.

 7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I’m jut gonna go with the easy answer, and say Riverdale Motocross Track, here in beautiful Washington State.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Play my drums in front of as many people as possible.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Staring at the backs of George, Devin and Christian, playing in front of way too many people.

Name: George “Young Moolah” Silver

Birthplace: Kirkland, WA

Currently residing: Issaquah, WA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started playing guitar on a crappy half-sized acoustic at age 12, played upright bass in orchestra and jazz band all through middle and high school, became interested in programming drums and mixing and constructed a crude home studio, played in a few bands, played some musical theater gigs, and joined the band i’m currently in.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Some of my favorite bands from the past and present are Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Queens of the Stone Age, Foo Fighters, Kyuss, and Dream Theater. However, the artists that I like to listen to more recently are Devin Townsend, Periphery, Mastodon, Gojira, and Animals As Leaders.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The bridge of “Got Me Wrong” by Alice in Chains never fails to make me cry through every pore of my body.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Blasting Mastodon at full volume, stripping down to nothing but a loincloth, slathering myself in mud, and terrorizing villages.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My bass skills.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My white Fender Stratocaster named “Lily.”

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I was a bit nervous when I met the members of Valient Thorr, but they were nice and they each signed my shirt. I would be extremely nervous to meet John Petrucci, because he is a god and he could kill me with a single note of his mighty guitar.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On stage in front of a packed audience.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Get money.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Flying down the highway in my hoover car.

Name: Ke’Shay Love

Birthplace: Oakland, CA

Currently residing: Oakland, CA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Starting singing as a child in the church and as an adult I have become more of and entertainer than just a singer.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My 2 favorite artist/group is Prince and Cameo, hands down. But, who I feel has had a musical influence on me past to present are: Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin, Patti LaBelle, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Atlantic Starr, Mtume, Rene & Angela, Ashford and Simpson, Mary J Blige, Faith Evans, Guy, Anita Baker, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Ledisi to name a few….

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Above all, Gospel Music will always move me emotionally.  It touches my soul to hear the word in music.  It’s how I started so it will always be a part of me. I will say if I had to name a song in particular, Father Can You Hear Me, from the Tyler Perry’s Diary of a Mad Black Woman Soundtrack, gets me every time, hands down.  Also the new song by Jill Scott, Hear My Call does as well.
3. How would you describe your perfect day?

My perfect day is when I wake up in the morning, first off, then I am productive in someway. Be it accomplishing a goal for myself or assisting someone in accomplishing theirs.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

That I tell them the truth. I have a lot of people that come to me for advice and I believe that you should be totally up front and truthful with people rather the outcome is good or bad.  I would also have to say that they appreciate that  am very open and sociable.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I can’t say that I have one.  Material thing come and go, so there is no real value in that. What I value is my well-being, family, and friendships.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I can’t say I would be nervous to me anyone in particular, but I would be very excited to meet any of my musical influences.  Of all, I would love to meet Tina Turner.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On a stage performing in front of a stadium/room full of people.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Perform… I love being on stage and to be able to do that for the masses is one of my ultimate goals.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Very successful in my craft. For everyone to know who I am both in music and film.

Name: *AUDRA*

Birthplace: New Haven

Currently residing: West Haven

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I guess my life has always been a long quest for the formation of Chaser Eight. I have been playing music with Pat, lead guitarist, since I was 10 and Billy, bassist, since I was 18, so even though we have been in different projects doing different things it has now always felt like we were doing all of this just to end up in Chaser Eight.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My favorite band is Pink Floyd, but I also love Stevie Nicks and everything she writes about and does. From the present I would have to say Lana Del Rey.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Yes. “The Rain Song” by Led Zeppelin moves me every time. And “Sugarplum Fairy and Cavalier Pas de Deux” from The Nutcracker Suite by Tchaikovsky.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

My perfect day involves beer, my friends, a fire, and my guitar.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My loyalty. I’m fiercely loyal to those I love.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My white Gibson SG. That’s my baby.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Freddie Mercury. He’s my idol. I’ve based my whole life around him and his work.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Bora Bora. I just want to go where I can see the bottom of the water.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would love to play bigger stages like Mohegan Sun’s Wolf Den or Madison Square Garden. I was born for a big stage and I should be playing them all the time.
9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would like to find myself as a full-time, working, successful musician. I would like to be married with kids and living the rock star lifestyle with rock star kids.

Name: Frank Peters

Birthplace: Azores Portugal, Boston Mass

Currently residing: Columbia SC

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: My musical past consists of the honing my craft by working with some of the best videographers, producers and artists in the game like Alex Borisnikin (filmed juicy J and Wiz Khalifa) Big Russ (produced tracks for Webbie) and Keith Robinson (Dream Girls movie). Currently I’m expanding my brand in Film while focused on the music

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

As far as artists it would go BIG, Tupac, Redman, Jay Z.
As far as composers it would be The Dream, Just Blaze, Kanye West and 40
My favorite bands go: Mars Volta, Aerosmith, blink 182 and Red Hot Chili Peppers

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Purchased my Range people throwing dirt on my name/ women left me cause they thought I was finished shoulda knew she wasn’t true she came to me when her man caught a sentence”- NAS “One Mic”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

On a island with pretty women smiling!!!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My loyalty

5. What is your most valued material possession?

Rosary beads given to me by a near and dear loved one who passed

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Nobody really cause I’ve met a lot of people. Never been the star struck kinda guy

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I’d probably say Amsterdam

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I know this is vague but I would have to say a ill bit of everything

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Even more successful than I am at this point

Name: Christian Durden

Birthplace: Germany

Currently residing: Seattle

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started playing clarinet when i was in 4th grade, moved on to saxophone then trumpet, eventually started playing guitar, joined multiple bands, tried to do some solo projects, recorded way too many shitty songs.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Ok, im just going to list a few of the bands ive been listening to recently in no particular order. The used, Nirvana, Mudhoney, Senses Fail, Pearljams first album, The beetles, Sublime, and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
But I’m very eclectic so that changes often.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The song “Sometimes I just go for it” By the used. Really its a piano composition thrown onto one of their live albums just as an extra track, and was written by their lead singer, Bert mccracken. Every time it hits that part in the middle of the song where he just starts hitting the keys, and its nothing but discord, with no discernible melody, beat, or real music, then the song picks back up faster and more upbeat, that whole part always gives me chills, i couldn’t think of a more perfect song.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Not night.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

When im not around haha

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My guitar, I honestly play it everyday and couldn’t imagine life with out it…as cheesy and cliché as that is.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I met Buddy Nielsen of senses fail at warped tour one year, and i was nervous as hell when i met him, kinda lost my shit.
7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I don’t necessarily have a favorite place, but i’d love to wake up in cinque terra in italy, just chillen out by the ocean with my guitar.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Not be in the past.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Playing music.

Name: Steve Rapp

Birthplace: New York

Currently residing: Japan

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Music has always been a big part of my life from self-expression to happiness to sadness to whatever the emotion may be it has helped me cope with life’s issues as they arise and provided a release of sorts from the weight of the World my first instrument was a clarinet then on to the bass later on down the line I picked up the acoustic guitar and taught myself how to play that’s when the real creativity of writing my own music came along I can’t even read or write music I just play what’s in my head but I never did anything with the songs until my Daughters birth then I became inspired to start recording so that I could open some doors for her and have a little knowledge about the business I never intended for me to have any success she’s the one to watch at 4 yrs old she can already play piano and drums she makes her own songs and can mimic Whitney Lyman’s voice on I’m Still Here she can also mimic Frozen songs Anywho I have a good amount of my songs left to do as well as a bunch of collaborations lined up I have enough work musically to keep me busy for the next 10 yrs now if only I could figure out how to make money at it 😉

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bob Marley, Elvis Costello, The Rolling Stones, Cold War Kids, Rick Ross, Hopsin, Bon Iver, Rage Against the Machine, Led Zeppelin, Too Short, Westside Connection, Neil Young, Chopin, YoYo, Rush, I can keep going all day…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

That could be hard to narrow down It’s constantly changing with my moods and I got a lot of them… I am always quoting phrases from songs just in everyday normal conversation, I just thought how annoying that must be to people, sorry. Yeah, so its living, organic, moving, I’d say right now I’ve been stuck on Bob Marley’s 400yrs… 400yrs and it’s the same, the same philosophy, 400yrs and people hiding from reality… Werd!!!!  That moves me emotionally in a sad way, but even as a child I was always most happy when sad, I would have my Mother sing me a Deep Purple song, can’t remember the name right now, as she put me to bed so  that it made me cry to sleep at least that’s what she says… Boy’s Don’t Cry… see..annoying right

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Just waking up and having my Wife, Daughter and I all sleeping on the floor together then a nice cup of cheap freeze-dried coffee oh how I miss you Stumptown Coffee Seattle, then walking my Daughter to pre-school, working on some music, picking her up from pre-school hanging out with her until my Wife gets home from work and then enjoying dinner while those two babble to each other in Japanese, which I can’t understand It took me a long windy road to figure out how important Family is, I never knew the secret until now and so many people have lost the way and tend to forget that but that’s what Japan has taught me

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

When I leave… I don’t have many friends, but I would hope they would say that I am genuinely kind and peaceful I know for sure they would all agree I’m a lunatic.. lol

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I don’t have any material possessions except my clothes and my guitars, so my guitars when I was leaving the USA to come to Japan I tried to bring all 4 of my guitars and keyboard as carry on luggage and then was pissed off when they said no…  lol  Then they were like OK for $US1,000 you can bring them I was like ok cancel my ticket, my poor Wife, so I didn’t go I had to ship them and ended up missing them dearly 😦

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Just about anybody, but I would have to say any one of The Rolling Stones, True Rock Stars I love the film Martin Scorsese did with them. I could really see them up close and personal and man they are legends for sure intimidating but I also would like to think we would have a lot of fun once the formalities were out of the way and I changed my undies you’re not gonna print that last one right changed my sweaty T-shirt that’s better cause I don’t wear undies aah just kidding boxer-briefs

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Where I am now other than I’d like to build a little add-on space at Yoko’s Parents house, it’s a little more in the country, less people a nice mountain to walk up, great food and lotsa lotsa love, a Family Temple across the street, real actual rice patties like in the movies, the community literally grows all their own fruits and vegetables amazing stuff, I’ve never eaten so much food right from the Earth, where does a guy get a cheeseburger around here

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Just continue making music I love working with different Artist’s and kinda of being more behind the scenes than in front. Continuing to spread the message of World peace and love If I can help one child or help one person through music than that’s worth more to me than any amount of money I can make with music because right now we don’t have much but have never been happier

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would say see question 7, I truly feel content where I am in life right now and that’s broke in the country surrounded by people whom I truly love and who love me back equally as much or at least I think that’s what they’re saying does anybody know what baka means??…

Name: Jessee Havey

Birthplace: Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Currently residing: Winnipeg, MB, Canada

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Original singer and co-founder of Canadian folk band The Duhks who left for a few years during which time started a funk/R&B band in Winnipeg called Jessee Havey and The Quirks and toured and recorded with her ex-boyfriend and musical partner, the phenomenally talented JD Edwards, and is now back with The Duhks.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? Sarah Siskind, Mike & Ruthy, The Mammals, Kat Goldman, Amelia Curran, Laura Cortese, Jonathan Byrd, Corin Raymond, Fish & Bird, Treasa Levasseur, New Country Rehab, The Steel Wheels, The Traveling Wilburys, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, My Morning Jacket, Volcano Choir, Ollabelle, Dolly Parton, Bettye LaVette, Cyndi Lauper, Amy Winehouse, Scott Nolan, Brandy Zdan, Tim O’Brien, Darrell Scott, Guy Abraham, Ray LaMontagne, Ruthie Foster, SIA, Adele, Bonnie Raitt, Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, Etta James, Roberta Flack, Candi Staton, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, Charles Bradley, Elizabeth Cotten, John Prine, Ricardo Lemvo, Parliament, The Andrews Sisters, Ben Harper, Ben Folds, Nina Simone, Radiohead, Lucinda Williams, Jim Lauderdale, Björk, Lauryn Hill, The Bros. Landreth, Buddy Miller, Carole King, Danny Barnes…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You by Colin Hay.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Sleep in, then lounge in my house coat while drinking coffee and reading a book until I feel like doing yoga and taking a shower, getting dressed, having dinner with my family, visiting with an old friend, playing a show, and cuddling up with a good movie, popcorn, and tea in my sweats until I fall asleep.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My candour, compassion, and sense of humour.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

An mp3 recording of the voicemail Dolly Parton left on my machine.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Dolly. I basically lost the ability to speak English and turned white as a ghost, as exhibited in the photo I got with her, in which she looks perfectly poised and gorgeous and I look pretty hilarious.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Lake of the Woods, Ontario, where I went to summer camp as a kid. It’s a magical place.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Yoga, meditation, re-learning French, and becoming a better ukulele player. I think I would like to learn to play the bass at some point, too.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Settled down in a humble abode (somewhere in North America, most likely) with a partner and starting a family while still maintaining my music career. In my dreams, I fall in love with a musician who I can play and tour with.

Name: LA Cat

Birthplace: USA

Currently residing: Santa Monica, California

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I learned Progressive Jazz ear training while my Jazz musician/mechanical engineer dad from Hawaii, drove me to school as a child, I taught myself guitar and started writing my own style songs as a teen, and then  in young adulthood I rocked every club in LA, went to tour in Asia with a latin band, then top 40 band as the bandleader, to Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore, returned to LA and fell in love with Reggae music now working with producers from Haiti, St. Johns and LA now working on a new album  with styles of Haitian Reggae, Rootsy Reggae and LA Urban vibe sending my main belief in life… One Love, Oneness and our connection to all things for this new energy that has arrived on our beautiful blue planet.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Bob Marley

Damien Marley

Stephan Marley

Stevie Wonder

Aretha Franklin

Sade

Steel Pulse

Tibetan Chanting

Mozart

Peter Gabriel

Youssou N’Dour

Salif Keita

Chet Baker

The dead can dance

Nat King Cole

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Nature Boy

…The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return…

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Being at the Ocean in Malibu surfing the perfect wave on a perfect 75 degree day.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

That I love and care for them, accept them for who they are and am there for them in every way.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Kitty. Then my voice and guitar, then my ability to be a healthy physical being so I can dance and move.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I don’t really get nervous meeting people. A big shark would be unnerving but one has to stay calm in this situation.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Malibu surfrider beach.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

More gigs, touch more people with my music and make a good living at it.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Secure myself in the music business I am creating as an artist/vocalist/songwriter/musician and my record company, Lion Records LA. My goal is selling licensed music and helping artists, particularly in Haiti. If the universe put the biggest heart in music it is in Haiti. These people music keeps their souls going as the economy is so very difficult. They are just the same urban people like any city folks not what the media shows. It’s just so hard to survive, with even eating daily. They are proud and just want to be independent like anyone. I hope I can help to let the world know of this amazing music coming out of Haiti, from totally cool Hip Hop to their amazing traditional Rhythms of Kompa, Karnaval music and Reggae to name a few. Then Let me surf, dance, love and be happy!!!

I’m a simple Girl…

Name: Robert Hamilton

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I am from The Cranford Nix school of music that taught me that great songs with catchy choruses that are real life stories are much better than being a virtuoso singer or guitar player and that describes The Hamiltons perfectly where we came from and where we are

Birthplace: Detroit

Currently residing: Detroit

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

The Rolling Stones

The J. Geils Band/Peter Wolf

The Grateful  Dead

Tom Petty

Rick Ocasek

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

There are 2 that immediately come to mind

The Rolling Stones Wild Horses;

“I know I  dreamed you, a sin and a lie, let’s do some living after we die”

The Grateful Dead The Wheel

“Small wheel turn by the fire and rod, big wheel turn by the grace of God, every time that wheel turn round, bound to cover just a little more ground”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Waking up next to a wonderfully kind beautiful woman to the oceans roar. Meditating and praying as the sun rises followed by a nice healthy breakfast of fresh fruit and strong black coffee. Spending the day planting flowers and taking in mother natures earth. The evening would then be spent playing a huge concert singing and dancing. Sharing this wonderful blessing that is called music that connects all of us earthly souls and brings so much joy into people’s hearts

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My kindness, positive attitude and gift of sharing the love that is absolutely free for all of us on earth

5. What is your most valued material possession?

2 things:

My Bible and my old beat up acoustic guitar

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

When I first met Peter Wolf of The J Geils Band but he’s such a sweet guy whom I have got to see time and again.

There are  a couple people that I would be absolutely nervous to meet:

Mick Jagger and Keith Richards from The Rolling Stones

Phil Lesh and Bob Weir from The Grateful Dead and lately from Furthur

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

A tropical island surrounded by the oceans roar and palm trees. I guess Hawaii would fit the description 🙂

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would love to be able to take The Hamiltons to a world-wide audience so that I could share my love of life love and spirit with as many people as possible to help promote the greater good of all. So the short answer is to be able to play as much and to as many people as possible

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would love to be in a position to where The Hamiltons have become a huge success so that I can accomplish my true goal which is to help as many people as possible (especially Women and Children). I want to be a spark plug for people of all faiths and walks of life coming together for the greater good of all. We live in a world of plenty yet kids are dying of starvation which is wrong. I would love to be in a position to teach people that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts and that if you have been blessed materially that it is your duty to give something back.

Name: Geoff Hicks

Birthplace: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Currently residing: Vancouver, BC

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Failed academic drops out of SFU to pursue non-stop Canadian touring and drinking of domestic beer in the early 90’s then band signed to MCA and tours some more then breaks up only to send me into a career of freelance studio, live and touring drumming with artists from all genres ranging from Colin James to Harry Manx to The Paperboys to Barney Bentall to Jim Byrnes, to Craig Northey to Steve Dawson to The Sojourners and various sundry folk, jazz, country, blues, and rock artists.

Website 

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I grew up listening to my Dad’s eclectic record collection.  He was a disc jockey on the Pirate Radio boats off the UK coast in the 60’s and he returned with albums ranging from the Rolling Stones to Roland Kirk to Stephen Stills to John Coltrane. I adore Miles Davis, Coltrane, and their Be-Bop ilk. I also like funk and soul music like The Meters, James Brown, Sam Cooke… I listen to lots of melody-heavy new music and especially dig Grizzly Bear, Bill Calahan, Beck, Tortoise, Calexico, Animal Collective….

My Mother passed on a love of classical music to me as well, mostly romantic stuff from Hayden and Mozart, Dvorak…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The aria Nessun dorma from Puccini’s Turandot as sung by Pavarotti always did it for me. It’s so rich and manipulative – I’ll always tear up like a sucker. A close second would be Coltrane’s Naima, written for his daughter.  Heartbreaking.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

A late sleep-in followed by a hot shower with sports radio blaring. A full pot of dark roast coffee from a french press, a walk with my favorite podcast, a noodle lunch over a newspaper, then hours in front of the computer with great music playing. A glass of crisp white wine with the evening news, a great home cooked meal with my gal followed by some great local music at a bar. Then, catch the red-eye to San Fran or NYC….

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

A good listener, generous, kind, damn funny. slightly off.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Grandma’s necklace. Or my Juno Award.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I clammed up when I met Russell Crowe. But I would have loved to have met Oscar Peterson.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Helliwell Park on Hornby Island, BC

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Practice my instrument. Listen to music. Travel. Be kind to people I love.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In good health, travelling with music and doing tons of recording work.  And also a successful voice actor. That’s a damn hard business to crack.

Name: Charlie Scott

Birthplace: Flushing, New York

Currently residing: Whitestone, New York

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: grew up with 2 deaf parents who didn’t want to judge music so they let me pick anything I wanted, I blindly chose a rap album and proceeded to write poetry all my life fused with dirty rap lyrics, I picked up a bad drug habit and it ran on for 4 years until I was kicked out of my home, went to rehab, wrote an inspirational, musical good-bye letter to drugs, and when I came home I continued to write positive, reflective music that relieves issues and thoughts that rent space in my head.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Jadakiss, Tim McGraw, Mike Buble’, Eminem, J. Cole, Macklemore.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Yes! Ordinary People by John Legend gives me chills every single time!

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Wake up on my own time, take as long of a shower as I would like, find a check in the mail, eat Italian food all day long, watch a New York Ranger hockey game, and enjoy a nice cup of coffee.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My honesty, If you look bad, sound bad, say something arrogant or have a misconception, I will not let it slide, I will not let my friends look bad.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Rosary Beads given to me by my Grandfather.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

The president of Iran. In Iran.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

At Madison Square Garden watching a hockey game.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Yes, I would ultimately like to open a rehab facility in New York that I can run, I help addicts and alcoholics regularly, but I want to be able to reach them on a larger scale, I don’t approve of the way many treatment centers across the United States operate.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Working just as hard as I do today, my mind always races, and I go insane when I’m standing still, literally and metaphorically. I don’t look forward to retirement, and I hope that I am never forced to.

Name: Zeiss

Birthplace: Long Island, New York

Currently residing: New York

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started singing and songwriting when I was in the seventh grade and from there it just kind of went off into something even bigger and I realized how much I loved it and that this would be the rest of my life hands down so I started putting together my songs into a best of the best list worth making an album from and after that I started booking shows and that routine has kind of become just my way of life.

Website 

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My favorite musicians etc are far and in between. To list a few : Elvis Presley, Billy Joel, Ray Charles, Tom Jones, Muddy Waters, BB King, Jackie Wilson, Jim Croce, Nick Waterhouse, Paolo Nutini, Lenny Kravitz, Dean Martin, Bobby Darin, The Everly Brothers, Luciano Pavoratti.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The song that hits me the same every single time would have to be Pavoratti’s “Nessun Dorma“. And I’ll be honest, I have no clue what he’s saying. But it almost doesn’t matter. The passion and raw emotion of the vocals are heart warming and so incredibly moving. The first time I heard the song I sincerely got choked up.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

To me my perfect day is being creative with music. And I’m not just saying that for the sake of this answer. I don’t truly enjoy my day unless it includes doing something regarding the creativity with my music. Naturally a sunny day and a cheese burger wouldn’t be so bad either.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I think my friends would say they appreciate my straight forward hold no punches honesty. And that would probably go hand in hand with my knack for levity.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I would say my most valued material possession would have to be my necklace. It was my grandfathers, and when he passed away I began wearing it. He was a person who I truly looked up to and aspired to be like.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I would most likely mess myself if I had the opportunity to meet Billy Joel. That man is a modern marvel, a lyrical and musical genius. He is the kind of artist where people 200 years from now will still be talking about him and his music.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

It would hands down be Lake George, NY. Lake George puts me at ease almost immediately. There is this serenity in Lake George that is beautiful. The mountains, the crisp fresh water, the kind and warm people, all while remaining in my home of New York.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would like to just continue doing what I love in the future. That’s really the only thing I can hope for. A life of music and enjoyment.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

On the stage of Madison Square Garden…and being able to say “Wow, can’t believe this is my 15th time playing here” ha.

Name: Sam Capolongo

Birthplace: Seoul, South Korea

Currently residing: Skillman, NJ

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I began playing music (piano) around 5 years old, and began writing songs with the guitar around 12, learning how to improve my music every day up until the present day, where I continue to write music in more of a rock/pop rock tone.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My biggest idol is Dave Grohl, however my favorite band by far is the Foo Fighters as a whole. My other huge influences are Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band, Green Day, the Goo Goo Dolls, Matchbox Twenty, and 3 Doors Down.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen definitely. It was the first true classic rock song I remember my dad showing me one car ride to my elementary school. I truly believe that’s when I realized how amazing music can sound, and very well could have triggered my will to write my own music.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Doing something fun with my best friends. Doesn’t even matter what we do. But every perfect day I’ve ever had has been with people that I love. Spending time with my friends makes me happier than I’ll ever be.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I like to believe they appreciate my company. I try to be there whenever my friends need something, maybe even just someone to talk to. Just being a great friend – that’s what I appreciate the most out of them for and I’m sure that’s what they appreciate in me.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

A picture that was taken by my grandfather. It’s of a sunset on the lake that his house was on in Pennsylvania. He was so proud of that picture; entered it into a photography contest. I have the picture hanging in my room today. I remember him every time I look at it.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Any one of my biggest idols. They’ve had such a huge impact on the type of musician and songwriter I have become. So if I ever got the chance to meet any of them, I wouldn’t want to say anything stupid!

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

My grandparents place in the Pocono Mountains. I had so many amazing memories there with my family. It’s so beautiful and quiet!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I want to continue to coach baseball. It’s a game I’ve always loved and learned about over the years. I’m going to try to be apart of baseball as much as I can in my life.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Obviously, my dream would be touring the country a hundred nights in the year with an all-star band and with a new record to be released in the matter of weeks. However realistically, I just want to find myself in a successful financial situation and a somewhat enjoyable career; and of course, great friends and family to share my life with.

Name: Geoffrey Castle

Birthplace: Maryland

Currently residing: Kirkland

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Started banging on pots and pans, then a friend showed me the fiddle, played in orchestra, played in marching band (the only violin in a marching band in Virginia history), played music on the street in NYC, played with bands like Onan Flan, Sin City, Groovalaya, 2Kool4Skool, ran blues jams, toured the east coast, played in a Broadway play called M. Butterfly (NOT Madame Butterfly:  that’s the opera by Puccini), moved to Seattle and started over with Guarneri Underground, making world music, started hanging out in local studios, played every outdoor concert and festival in the state of WA – twice – then changed band to Geoffrey Castle Band, then started playing solo – which is where I started – made friends with Roger Fisher who introduced me to Alan White who brought me into an all-star band that tours the world in a private jet, and right now I’m getting ready to go play some Irish music in a pub with my friends.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I was always partial to Beethoven and Shostakovitch. Tchaikovsky too, anything with a BIG orchestral sound.

My listening is so eclectic that this is a really really hard question to answer.

It’s a long list that starts with the Hot Club de France in the 1920’s and ends with Dub-step in the present.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Every time I hear “Sugar Mountain” by Neil Young, I weep uncontrollably.  I’m crying right now while I type this.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Any day I’m playing music, and I’m above ground, is a perfect day.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Maybe that I’m always willing to say I’m sorry after I freak out about something?

Or that I’m good to drive…

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My two six-string electric violins. They don’t make ’em anymore…

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I met Elle MacPherson at an event I was playing. I felt like I was 8 years old.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On the beach in the Caribbean! St. Barth’s…

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

See answer #7…

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In 10 years? Alive would be good. Because if I’m alive, and healthy, then I’ll be happy no matter what kind of crazy shit is going on!

Name: Séan McCann

Birthplace: Carbonear Newfoundland

Currently residing: St. John’s Newfoundland

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: There ‘s a cassette recording of me singing “the Wild Colonial Boy” at age three. I went to a catholic boys school and joined the band in grade six so I could sit down next to a girl. I was asked to leave in grade eight for being lazy and having no musical aptitude. I blame the clarinet…and girls. Bought a guitar when I was 24 and learned three chords. Got signed to Warner Brothers at 26. Did 20 years there and am now enjoying the Emancipation of Music.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

All I really need are:

Johnny Cash

The Clash

and

Bob Marley

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Not really.

I tend to gravitate to whatever is going my speed at the time.

I am drawn to power, whether it be Joe Strummer or Nick Drake.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Alone in the woods with my dogs and the makings for fire.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My honesty.

They also hate me for it.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I have a very small personal studio in my house. It used to be my son’s nursery. Now it’s where I watch songs grow.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I have always avoided meeting my heroes as they invariably fail to live up to my ridiculous expectations. I’m not afraid of anyone.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

High.

In the Rocky Mountains.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

LIVE !

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Alive and happy with my beautiful wife and children.

Name: Kyle Davis

Birthplace: Lexington MA

Currently residing: Lexington MA

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I have been singing and performing my entire life and took on guitar and piano at an early age, after progressing through many rounds of the hit show American Idol I attracted the attention of a record label with which I produced my most recent album “Have It All” and my music video for the song “Wow” and I later split from the label because of creative differences and am currently recording a 4 track EP.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

I most look up to artists such as Bruno Mars and Jessie J because of their powerful voices. I also try to make my songwriting as good as Jason Mraz. I love tons of other bands such as Eminem, Paramore, SOTY, Maroon 5 and Ed Sheeran.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The song Get It Right from Glee is one of my favorite songs because of the emotion that Lea Michele projects. It’s hard not to think of many of the emotional parts of my life while listening.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

A perfect day is any day that I am able to perform and share an experience with someone who enjoys my music.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My sense of humor.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My Piano.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I would be extremely nervous to meet Bruno Mars.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On stage.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would like to be able to perform more. I am only able to get a gig once or twice a month and it would be amazing to do it every night.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

On a world tour promoting my own music.

Name: Justin Barwick

Birthplace: San Mateo,Ca

Currently residing: San Mateo, Ca

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Dy-verse Productions released Sweatpants n D-bo’s did a interview with college of san mateo newspapers, went on a tour, printed flyers, and business cards did promo around bay area then went to more of the west coast, send music to different radio stations, did an interview on KPOO, had my own show on KZSU, started a podcast, started making videos releases The Levey vol 2 along with executive producing K-rek No Roads can hold me, put showcases together went to a few open mic rocked sweet fingers foxes, octopus lounge did a college tour, promoted heavily, did more interview with Serena speaks, did more internet pr, did a couple blog interviews including indieminded and ninequestionsformusicians, updates on websites, recorded mix tapes, digital releases, working on an interactive cd

 Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

1.Micheal Jackson

2.Bone Thugs

3.Insane Clown Posse

4.Bob Marley

5.2pac

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“No Luv for the work put, no thanks for help i give” K-rek

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

I would wake up late, then eat breakfast, and spend some time with my girl. Work on some of my music, get a little rest watch some tv, do a workout,more music and have a nice dinner with my girl, check my email and spend the rest of the time with my girl.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My Positivity, that I’m always laughing and happy.

5. What is your most valued material possession? The CD’s that i released, any books that i was published in, and the frame that my girlfriend gave to me for the release of the albums.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I think i would be nervous to meet the former President Bill Clinton.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I think it would be in some tourist place in south america, where the beach is beautiful.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would like to do more travel. Not only for fun, but for music business purposes like touring, radio, performing, selling music. I would also like to do more videos, and different visuals. I would also like to release more music.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I would like to have a stable career, I would like to have my own home or large studio apartment, with enough space to have the master bedroom and space for the studio to record major artists on Dy-verse Productions.

photo: Dandh Photos

Name: Khail

Birthplace: Kingston, JA

Currently residing: Asbury Park, NJ

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: playing drums at church, playing bass at church, playing keyboard at church, playing drums in r&b cover band, playing drums in LIU Post Jazz band, playing drums in LIU Post Jazz Combo, playing drums in Jazz Á Juan Festival in Juan Les Pins, Playing drums in funk, jazz, r&b, cover band, production of Hue-Man Race, Co-Production with Trott Sound, Co-Production with DJ Sky High, lyrics and song writing on 2008 Mix-tape “Dinner For Us” , Playing drums for The F.L.O.W.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Some of my favorite bands are: The Roots, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Linkin Park, Snarky Puppy,  and Robert Glaser Trio . Some of my favorite musicians are: Tony Royster Jr., Dave Weckl, Dennis Chambers, Chris “Daddy” Dave, Flea (from Red Hot Chili Peppers), Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Richard Bona, Victor Wooten  and Papa Jo Jones. Some of my favorite composers are: Verdi, Jazz Saxophonist Frank Foster, Samuel R. Hazo, Beethoven, and The J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Man! Whenever I listen to Tupac’s acoustic version of Thugz Mansion that song always moves me.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

My perfect day would be waking up at 5:00 a.m. praying until about 5:30 and then meditating until about 6. Look at the to-do-list for the day. Hit the gym from about 6:20-7:15 am. Shower, shave, freshen up and all the necessary essentials by 8:00 am. Prepare breakfast while watching an influential speaker, motivational speaker, or something entertaining but still informational. Finish eating Breakfast by 9:00 a.m.  Practice drums for 30 mins and practice Bass for another 30 (or just let the creativity take over and work on a composition for about an hour). Chill out and read a book until 11:00 a.m. Head to the studio wit Trott and Sky High to make magic until about 3:00 p.m. Take a break, chop it up and grab Lunch with some friends until 5:00 p.m. brush up the magic until about 6:00 (but if we end up there all night because the vibes are high then I’m fine with that as well). Head home and check emails, make business phone calls, talk to business partner(s), make sure the team is on point and everyone is doing well. Hang out with the Fam/Girlfriend for the rest of the night, probably going out, doing something to enjoy the night. Head home and then before retiring for the night, hit the shower, make to-do-list for tomorrow…(Plan, Do, Review) Say quick prayers for the night and get some rest.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I would think my friends would say that they appreciate my drive. They would say I’m not afraid to be myself. I’m willing to go the extra mile and take chances. I’m a smart person who knows how to work hard and I am a great team player who can work well with others and can lead by example. My friends appreciate my character.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

I would have to say two things. My most valued material possession(s) is (are) the book(s) I (have) read. They store a wealth of knowledge and have put positive things in my mind that have lead to my current success and position. I can read them again and then get a deeper understanding too, so I believe those were great life investments and I wouldn’t sell them at all. The last would be my drum set. It was given to me as a gift when I was in High- School and I fixed it up, hooked it up, and polished it up and it sounds and looks amazing!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I can’t think of anyone that I would be nervous to meet. We’re all human with different levels of success. I would just be excited to pick their brains and get some keys of wisdom from their experience.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Either somewhere in Jamaica or The Pyramids of Giza

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would love to help out people more in the future, but to effectively help someone you have to be in the position to do so.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I see my self being a successful artist in the music industry; being acknowledged as someone revolutionary, phenomenal, and a sure legend in the making. I see myself being able to take care of my family, traveling the world and enjoying life with my close friends and family, and continue making music while providing services and connections for those who are striving to do great things.

Name: Forever

Birthplace: Boston

Currently residing: Strong Island NY

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Music has always been a big deal to me. Since Michael, Whitney, New Edition I’ve been hooked! I basically stumbled on this talent by accident. Hanging with friends I started to play with words (freestyle) and they were like “your good”! I used to listen to the lyrical geniuses- Biggie, Wu Tang, Redman, Rakim. Guess they rubbed on me. 16 years later I have 9 cds, 100’s of shows,  and now own my own label. I guess persistence pays off! The future Id like to play in stadiums and use music to help people get closer to God!

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

FAVS- MJ, Metalica, Guns n Roses, Rakim, Redman, Raekwon, Alicia Keys, Biggie Smalls, Jada Kiss, Lecrae, Da Truth, Andy Mineo, Derek Minor, KSalmz, Melvin Garrett, Queen Esther, Jeff Germain, Jeannie Ortega

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Hmmmm……probably Raekwons- Rainy Days or Da Truth- I need you

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Wow!….ok waking up, praying, listening to Gods word, hitting the 7am AA meeting, eating a healthy breakfast, working out, going to the office, booking some events, write some lyrics, hit the studio, eat a healthy lunch, TAKE A NAP, get my kids off the bus, hang w them, do a devotional w them, hit the park, make a healthy dinner, greet my wife from work, rip a concert, see people affected by my music, spend time with my wife ALONE, HIT THE BED ZZZZZZ.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My honesty and the way I don’t give up. My older friends from long ago would probably appreciate the change that God has done in me.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My 2000 Honda civic ex because it gets me where I need to be 4 less!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Jesus

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Miami Fl….LOVE IT THERE

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Spend more time w My Wife alone 🙂

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Having Awesome Relationships!!!!

Name: angelina iapaolo

Birthplace: scarboro, ontario

Currently residing: moncton, new brunswick

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: i got signed to atlantic records in 2000 after playing guitar and being a musician for 10 months. i was racked with insecurity over what it was that people liked about my music/singing, due to total lack of experience. i made my first record “capable egg” to critical acclaim in 2000 but still wasn’t great at playing live. i had a steep learning curve from then til now. i made a record with strings next “garden cities of to-morrow” 2005 but found it very hard to tour because i required at least a string quartet to pull of the material. presently, because i have learned a lot, we use a real piano (robinson st. george), and snare and brushes that i play. we wanted our songs to sound awesome even played with very little accompaniment. we have accomplished that. now we need a few months to finish the gorgeous material we have been working on to be ready to record it with howard billerman for the final month. we are presently in an indiegogo campaign to fund this endeavor.  

Website 

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

satie, shirley horn, nancy wilson, ella fitzgerald, billie holiday, hercules, ennio morricone, duke ellington, vladimir horowitz, glenn gould, joni mitchell, nick drake, alison moyet, tracey thorn, annie lennox, aretha franklin, gladys knight,

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

the entirety of shirley horn’s “here’s to life” record. it’s all string arrangements by johnny mendell. it is so airy, sparse, and beautiful while also being lush. she plays all her own piano and has the most minimalist shimmery rhythm section. her experienced voice is at ease yet rich and restrained, all of which move me.

another song that really moves me is “hide and seek” by imogen heap

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

sourdough bread in the oven at 7 am

espresso coffee with foamed milk and email/fb checking time

rehearsal for a few hours and more coffee

cleaning, puttering, setting the house right

hanging out with my son

going for a walk in the woods

taking a nap

shopping for dinner/sharing it with friends

in the summer gardening/beaching also

watching a really good movie some nights

a great bath

helping others

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

sincerity, generosity, lack of fear in being myself, determination, no-nonsense, artistic integrity, i’m a friend for life.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

i don’t have any that i value that much. i give away “nice things” all the time just cause i don’t want the attachment. i just need a real piano when i perform.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

no one.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

where i am is usually my favorite place to be right now. this doesn’t mean i’m not working towards other places that will also become my favorite place. that being said, i am excited to go to caissie cape nb. (the beach/country) this spring. if i blink my eyes i am in my mini home, with my rocket stove, composting toilet, south facing exposure, wood burning oven outside, huge garden, chickens and goats, and my peeps (the peeps that want to be there)

another big dream at the cape is to build a beautiful outdoor stage to accommodate people coming out to see us perform where we are as opposed to us being on the road all the time. yes it will be equipped with a real piano. the back of the stage will be a gigantic scallop half shell.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

i want to do more not having a job, more performing/practicing, baking, cooking, gardening, art making, music writing, sharing, showing people how to live rent free, bill free, debt free and free of dependence on fossil fuels.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

living off the grid, making music/art, wintering somewhere warm, teaching others to live sustainably and happily,  and with an ever-expanding heart and mind.

Name: Danielle French

Birthplace: Calgary, Alberta

Currently residing: Nomadic (Calgary is home base)

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I’ve been a singer/songwriter for 20 years, have released 4 independent CD’s, toured extensively across North America to the point that Calgary, Banff, Reno and Wisconsin all claim me as a local.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Tom Waits is an all-time favourite. And I feel he is especially relevant in this day and age where corporate music is so contrived, and digital music recording allows us “perfect” things to the point where the soul can get sucked out of it. Tom shows us the perfection and humanness of our imperfections and I am consciously seeking to embody that in my current work. Kate Bush is another fave. She is a true artist in every way and a huge inspiration. Bjork also falls in this category for me. Heroes like Peter Gabriel, Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell are obvious 🙂 In more recent era, I really appreciate artists like Radiohead, Beck, Arcade Fire. And I’ve been doing lots of co-writing with indie artists in Wisconsin who I have become huge fans of in the process. Check out Liv Mueller, Ruby James, pat mAcdonald (formerly of Timbuk3, his current band is Purgatory Hill), the Sonnets, Charlie Cheney, Carley Baer, James Hall, Andrea Wittgens- these are all stellar artists!!

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Peter Gabriel hits this one note that descends a tone in The Blood of Eden and the way he shapes the sound and descends the note gives me chills every time. It reminds of me the power of music, that when delivered with such emotional content and tonality, just one note can have a powerful emotional impact on a listener!

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Right now I’m doing a self-directed music residency at The Banff Centre for the month, so I’ve been experiencing perfect days pretty consistently here. A general breakdown:

– Wake up at 11am (I like to sleep in!), looking out the window at a perfect, majestic snow-capped mountain.

– Leisurely take a shower, check some emails, do a few errands before heading to the cafe where I order a fresh juiced carrot-apple-ginger juice for breakfast

– Head to my “hut” that I’ve decked out with a record player, funky lamps, tarot cards, books, DVD’s, my computer, and it contains a grand piano, PA, 3 guitars, a Neumann U87 microphone so I can record vocals.

– Write, play and record music all afternoon, often collaborating with the other artists in residence.

– Yoga at the gym for an hour

– Dinner at Vistas- a lovely buffet with a stellar view of the mountains

– Back to my hut to do more writing, practicing, recording etc…

– A night out with the other artists at the Centre either playing “Telephone Pictionary”, going to karaoke or an open mic, having some drinks, enjoying the company of friends who are creative geniuses!

– Hitting the hay around 2 or 3am

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I made a new friend here at the Centre just a week and a half ago and she told me that she appreciates me because I am magic. I have the ability to manifest amazing things in my life and I share my magic with others in many ways (for example, I  was offered a $500 gig today and they were looking for other artists, so went out of my way to recommended her knowing she really needs the money at this time).

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My 1935 Martin Archtop that I’ve had for 13 years. Her name is Miss Kitty and we make beautiful music together!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Probably Tom Waits. But it would depend on the circumstances. For instance I got to meet one of my idols, Joni Mitchell, and I wasn’t nervous at all because she was so grounded and conversational, she dispelled any aura of idolization immediately. I suspect Tom would be that cool as well. And Leonard too. I would be more nervous to sing for them!

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I have a lot of favourite places being nomadic and all, so it would depend on the context- I’ll name 3 and tell you why:

– Reno, Nevada- That’s where I feel most at home in my heart

– Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin- During one of the songwriting intensives at the Holiday Music Motel that I’ve been attending religiously three times a year over the past 2 years. It’s an intensive where 40 invited songwriters get put up together in a 50’s retro motel for a week, we spin the bottle to get songwriting partners and write and record all week- it’s songwriter heaven!! And that wish will come true soon as I’m heading there in the middle of February.

– Sedona, Arizona- one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been

I would say Banff, Alberta, but I’m here 🙂

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I’m applying for a grant right now to study vocal lessons in Nashville for a few months with a woman named Julie Christensen. She sang back up with Leonard Cohen for 10 years and has an incredible voice and is an amazing person. We met at Folk Alliance a few years ago, and I’ve wanted to study with her ever since.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I’ll do this in point form cause I have a lot of musical goals that all tie together to help me make a better living doing what I love:

– Be a respected writer/co-writer and have other people cover my songs, hopefully a hit!

– Continue touring and traveling with my music, but only touring venues that I enjoy playing at, which means having a wider audience. Doesn’t need to be large stadiums, preferably intimate halls, folk festivals

– Have regular film and TV placements

– Continue growing as an artist, learning new things about the craft of songwriting, guitar playing and singing

– Be a proficient accordion player

As much as these are career goals, I realized a while back, that even if I don’t achieve these, music makes me a better person. This career choice and lifestyle have made me adaptable, able to work as a team or be self-sufficient as needed, it has given me a balance between structure and going with the flow (right-brain/left-brain blend), it has taught me to be open to the magic of the universe. I feel most in touch with my Divine Source when I am creating, but that can be through music, film, photography, or making a great meal! I know as long as I am in touch with that source and feel connected, all else will flow from there and I will be happy in whatever I do.

Name: Terry Hill

Birthplace: Kalispell, Montana

Currently residing: Waldport, Oregon

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I hail from Northwest Montana, and was raised in the shadow of Glacier National Park and the Rocky Mountains, born just after World War II and grew up listening to  countless  classic singers during those postwar years and I was nine years old the year that Memphis guy had his first hit and so I can say that I literally grew up with rock and roll and during the folk music craze of the 1960s, I was inspired to learn guitar by a teacher with a battered old Martin and during the summer of 1964, I formed a folk music group with Terry Robinson (later a founding member of Mission Mountain Wood Band and The Montana Band) and four other friends called The Greenwood Singers and we had the thrill of hearing our music on the radio for the first time, and then in the mid-60s, I turned to rock and roll with the award-winning Missoula, Montana band The Noblemen and then later in the late 1970s and early 80s, I was a founding member of Dogwater, a country rock and electric bluegrass band that toured extensively in the western United States and appeared on the compilation vinyl album “Montana Gold” and then during the 1980s, I performed as a solo act, in duos (with Steve Sellars and later with Craig Davey in Elmo and Bigarm) and in bands (The Terry Hill Band, TnT, Men With Hair) on stages in the U.S. and Canada, and between 1990 and 1994, I appeared with Steve Sellars in the popular duo The Bookhouse Boys, and we released a sellout album “Fish Dance Music” in 1992 followed by, in 1993, during a season-long engagement at Moose’s at Big Mountain (now Whitefish Mountain) Resort, The Bookhouse Boys were involved in a serious auto accident in which I was badly injured and after I recovered, I decided to enroll in law school and continued to perform part time until graduating from law school in 1997, then retired from an active music career but continued playing and writing, and in 2008, decided to produce a solo album of original material and during production of that project, which eventually became the album “Grapevine Warp,” I resumed his performing career, and after 15 years of law practice, I retired to the Oregon coast, but continue my music career, and say often enough to be irritating: “I’ll keep on playing and singing until they cart me out of here.”

Website 

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Bob Dylan, Tom Petty, that guy from Memphis, Russell Smith, Steve Earle, Rolling Stones, Animals, the Liverpool lads, Hiram King Williams, Byrds, Woody Guthrie, Guy Clark, John Prine, Todd Snider, Cole Porter, Frank Sinatra, Linda Ronstadt, Rodney Crowell, Andrews Sisters, The Fleetwoods, Jack Scott, Peter Paul and Mary, The Kingston Trio, Chad Mitchell Trio, John Denver, Herbert Khaury, Steve Sellars, David Griffith, Gary Snow.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“The End Is Not In Sight” – Amazing Rhythm Aces

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Today.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Sense of humor

5. What is your most valued material possession?

Martin D41

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Nobody I can think of.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Right here

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Yes, but my wife says no.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Still alive.

Name: John Dunnigan

Birthplace: San Francisco

Currently residing: Whitefish, MT

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Saw the Beatles on Ed Sullivan…………and that was all I needed to set me on the path of fame and fortune!

Website 

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? First stuff around my house was my dads musical tastes…Marty Robins was the biggest in the day, and still remains one of my all-time favorites…Then the Beatles…It was all radio stuff back then…Maybe a little TV…but stuff you heard on the radio and the albums you got…Joni Mitchell, Glen Campbell, Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor…And then I started to pick out the guitar players….Chet Atkins, Albert Lee, and all the guys who played behind the “stars”……Red Shea, Terry Clemens…Both played for Gordon Lightfoot.

Then I started playing other instruments…and I was turned on to Harmonica players, Pedal Steel players and Banjo players……So many!!!!

NORTON BUFFALO..Harp/BUDDY EMMONS,,Pedal Steel/GRADY MARTIN Guitar/EARL SCRUGGS..BANJO /WES MONTGOMERY..GUITAR…….TOMMY EMMANUEL..GUITAR….

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

The Sounds of Silence by Paul Simon!

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

As much as I love what I do for a living…I love my time off…Hanging with family, playing with dog, and fishing on a warm summer day!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Probably my sense of humor…:)

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My 24-year-old Breedlove acoustic guitar…

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I have been around dozens and dozens of really famous musical acts…

Springsteen…Jeff Foxworthy….Donovan, and hundreds of “flash-in-the-pan-country-pop performers”…I would be most humbled to meet… Willie Mays!!!

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

At my cabin (I can’t tell you where it is cause I’d have to kill you) on the lake on a summer day!! Pure heaven!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Practice more and perform less………

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Anywhere besides a nursing home…….:)

Name: Andy Dunnigan

Birthplace: Whitefish, MT

Currently residing: Missoula, MT

Website

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Like so many others, I was beckoned into the bohemian musical world by Jimi Hendrix’s distorted guitar tones when I was in high school and soon thereafter I traded my baseball glove for a stratocaster… after Jimi I was enthralled with the fingerpicking of Chet Atkins and the lyrical stories of Bob Dylan… I met bluegrass in college and acquired a Dobro, which I haven’t really set down since… I started a band, “The Lil’ Smokies”, with some of my best musician friends, which I’m currently still playing and touring around with…

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

As far as past influence goes, I will always have an infatuation with the Beatles; No one can touch the melodies they wrote. The same goes for Dylan, Neil Young, Paul Simon, in regard to lyrics and the images they were able to paint in my mind. I love the technical side of music too, I love the savant virtuosos. Bela Fleck, Chet Atkins, Phil Keaggy, Jerry Douglas, Tommy Emmanuel, Pierre Bensusan, Eric Johnson, Tony Rice, Rob Ickes, and Chris Thile. Thile has had the biggest influence on me, especially recently. He’s a space alien, man. He can glide through Radiohead, Bach, The Beach Boys and Fiona Apple without blinking. He also is an absolute genius composer and songwriter.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“Shelter From the Storm” by Bob Dylan is written so well is baffles me… every lyric in that song was crafted to perfection… The opening line always gives me goosebumps,

’”Twas in another lifetime, one of toil and blood

When blackness was a virtue and the road was full of mud

I came in from the wilderness, a creature void of form

“Come in,” she said, “I’ll give you shelter from the storm”

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Waking up with a smile and going to bed with the same smile.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I think my friends probably appreciate my sense of humor the most… I really try not to take anything to seriously. Could be my downfall as well. I guess only time will tell.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My guitar

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I’d be nervous to meet Bob Dylan because he wouldn’t give a shit, and I totally would.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

The fire lookout tower on Numa Ridge in the North fork of Glacier National Park.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Painting.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

buried and smiling in some sort of grandiose musical endeavor.

Name: Rick Brindell

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Well I started playing guitar in the 60s as a kid; changed to bass guitar in the 70s when my brothers wanted to start a band and we could not find a bass player; played bass for 30 years or so and at 50 years old went back to playing guitar; took lessons from Jorma Kaukonen of Hot Tuna; learned finger-style guitar; started writing songs and had them mastered in Nashville; got radio play and here we are….whew!

Birthplace: New York

Currently residing: Bay Shore NY

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? Frank Zappa; Hot Tuna; The Kinks; Beatles; Stones; Who; Creedence; Grateful Dead; Johnny Winter; Eric Clapton; Traffic; Monkees; Steppenwolf; Allman Brothers; Ten Years After; Billy Cobham; Jean Luc Ponty; George Duke; Jefferson Airplane; Standells; Electric Prunes;

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

I always choke up when I hear a nostalgic song that reminds me of good times from my childhood like John Fogerty’s “I Saw it on TV”

3. How would you describe your perfect day? Spending it with my best buddy, my two-year old grandson Jackson. He is so cool and so much fun. Keeps me young.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My sense of humor, of course they would also say I never shut up!

5. What is your most valued material possession?

All my guitars but especially my Taylor 814CE

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Any of the Victoria Secret lingerie models….

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

On a stage playing music for the masses. If it were in Nashville that would make it even better.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Go back to Jorma Kaukonen’s Fur Peace Ranch; take more lessons from him and play on stage with him.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years? Retired from Insurance and making music my full-time gig. Actually 5 years would be better.

Name: Glenn G

Birthplace: Westfield, MA

Currently residing: Memphis TN/Hot Springs Village AR

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I have been involved in music in some way, form, or fashion for the past 40 years or more whether it be simply playing in a local band, in church, accompanying a vocalist or recording some of my own music.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? Talk about a difficult question.  My taste is quite eclectic, so I love a variety of styles and genres of music!  I LOVE classical music and have been influenced quite a bit by the great composers like Bach, Handel, Beethoven, Schubert, and alike although that probably isn’t too evident in my recorded music.  I grew up on Rock n’ Roll (60’s/70’s) so I have also been influenced by such favorite bands as the Beatles, the Beach Boys,, The Ventures, Booker T and the Mg’s,  the Grateful Dead, and others.  Finally I developed a real love and appreciation for Country music through the various Country Rock and Southern Rock bands of the early 70’s including but no limited to the Charlie Daniels Band (one of my favorites…have met Charlie several times…great guy!).  What else?  Wow…I love Bluegrass artists like Rhonda Vincent and Ricky Skaggs, get into some Jazz and Easy Listening and appreciate Celtic and various World Music as well.  So I guess you could say I am into a little bit of everything!!!

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Oh boy…you like tough questions, don’t you?  I love Gospel and Christian music and I am always moved deeply by the great hymns of the faith such as “A Mighty Fortress is Our God”, “Amazing Grace”, “How Great Thou Art”, and others.  I am also deeply moved by great classical works like Handel’s Messiah, Beethoven’s symphonies (particularly the 5th, 7th, and 9th), Mendelssohn’s Reformation Symphony, and a number of other great works.  Then…wow…”God Only Knows” by the Beach Boys really moves me as well.  Again..quite eclectic here!

3. How would you describe your perfect day? Actually I can think of a number of different kind of perfect days, but I think a beautiful day relaxing on the beach with the sound of the surf, the seagulls flying overhead, and breathing the fresh salty air is pretty much as close to perfect as one can get this side of heaven.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Friends tell me that appreciate my sense of humor. I often tell people it’s the only sense that I have most of the time!

5. What is your most valued material possession? Again…another really tough question.  I should say one of my musical instruments!  Probably my most valued possession however would be my home because without a home to live in you can’t do much of anything else, including music!

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I was a little bit nervous meeting Charlie Daniels for the first time I guess, but I have met a number of musical artists before and since then and they are just normal people who have found success in their craft.  Most of them (that I have met anyway) are very humble and down to earth and I have enjoyed my brief interactions with them.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

If I could blink my eyes I would be on a beautiful beach or lake somewhere.  Of course, not in the middle of winter as I am writing this!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Oh yes, I would love to do more with music! Because I have had to work full-time in a non-music profession for most of my adult life and also due to some relocation and family responsibilities, I have not been able to pursue my musical interests as much as I would have liked.   I would definitely like to do more with music in the future!

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Well, considering I am not 56 years old at the time of this writing, I would like to be retired or at least close to it; not in the sense of not working at all, but in the sense of being free to pursue things like music on a full-time or at least a regular basis rather than trying to work it around my full-time job.

Name: John Rosett

Birthplace: Durham, NC

Currently residing: Missoula, MT

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I’ve been playing guitar since I was a teenager, and have played banjo, mandolin, and steel guitar in different bands, from bluegrass to jazz, but now I play guitar and steel in a western swing/honkytonk/kitchen sink band called Cash For Junkers and also a little swing mandolin from time to time.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present? Frank Zappa, Benny Goodman, Dizzy Gillespie, Bob Wills, Hank Garland, Jethro Burns, Django Reinhardt, Andy Statman, Steve Goodman, David Bromberg, Tom Morrell…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

There are too many to list. Much of Django Reinhardt’s music is moving

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Walking my dogs, spending time with my wife, having a band rehearsal and/or gig.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Either my sense of humor or my excellent hygiene.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My 1966 Epiphone Sorrento guitar.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I have met several of my “heroes”, and they were nice, regular people, so I don’t feel very nervous about meeting anyone.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Weiser, Idaho, during Fiddle Week.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Playing more music!

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In ten years, I’ll be 66, and I hope that I’ll still be playing music with great musicians, enjoying my family, and telling bad jokes with my friends.

Oh, and I’d like to have a trust fund…

Name: Robbie Walden

Birthplace: Anchorage, Alaska

Currently residing: Nashville, Tennessee

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I started off as an acoustic artist in the folk/Americana genre with some country roots. Playing anywhere they would let me play, which usually was cafés and so forth. I then created a band, which has become quite known for its lively stage presence and energy. The band style and sound is a cross between the Texas red dirt/outlaw and a rocking vintage country with a mainstream twist, and since that time have become a national touring act.  I released one acoustic album, and a full album with my band, “bartime stories” available on iTunes and so forth. I had a song from the album called  “don’t leave me” which was on the TV show Hart of Dixie, on season one episode four. We have since, recorded a bunch of new songs for our new album which will be coming out as an EP first, in the very near future. So stay tuned.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

My favorite artists and bands consist of “the band”, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Randy Rogers band, the Marshall Tucker band, and the Zack Brown band. I’m also a huge fan of Otis Redding and Ray Charles.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

This old violin by Johnny paycheck. As well as this old road and why me lord by Kris Kristofferson, and seven Spanish Angels by Willie Nelson and Ray Charles.

3. How would you describe your perfect day? Writing a great song and then getting to spend time with my daughter.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

My loyalty and I’m very driven.

5. What is your most valued material possession? Pictures and videos from my training days with my older brother who is since passed away. Next, would be my one of a kind Tacoma guitars.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Jesus.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Lake Crescent in Washington State.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

More touring. I would like to be doing 250 to 300 shows a year if possible.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Leaving a tremendous legacy that my daughter will be proud of.

Name: David Cleaves

Birthplace: Sacramento

Currently residing: Billings

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I play music and love being on stage mainly with my mandolin but i have been known to tickle the keys or toot a horn.

Website

1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Brant Losinski, Mike Dion, Bob Marley, Grateful Dead or anything related, Ben Harper, Peter Paul and Mary, Billy Joel, Tchaikovsky, Nine Inch Nails, Fugazi, Sam Bush, Ryan Montbleau, Tribe Called Quest, Widespread Panic, Leftover Salmon and this list could keep on going but i think i am moving onto the next question

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

pretty much anything that’s about growth….community, personal, environmental, trees or children…..growth could also mean change.  I like songs that give power to the people….bring’s people together to overcome their troubles.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

it would have to be unexpected and different than any other day…part of it would have to be filled with all the people i love in the world…which is everyone in the world.  I would also need time alone and time with my wife.  I would want healthy vegan food but then also a cheesecake and bacon burger at some point. I would be playing music with the whole world dancing.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Not sure….you would have to ask them. I know i try to always be there for my friends no matter what it is and I always try to be the best person i can….so hopefully they appreciate everything i am or do.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

it would be a toss-up between two things….one being my James Curtis Mandolin and the other being my labradorite locket with a picture of my son, Cedar in it.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

I guess anyone dead

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

it’s not a place i would be in…it’s who i would be with.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

breathe

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Northpole making toys for kids

Name: The Lowest Pair

Birthplace: Arkansas and Minnesota

Currently residing: in a Nissan Maxima..but soon to be Olympia

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Kendl is a solo artist on K records.  She grew up listening to punk rock in Arkansas and followed it out to Olympia, picked up a banjo, started super grass group, the Blackberry Bushes, and had just stepped out of that when Palmer T. Lee, Minnesotan, Boys n’ the Barrels, fellow banjo songster called her up and suggested a banjo duet. They…we.. figured what more could you want and hit the road with it before we’d even worked up a full set. We found a good name without much to live up to, The Lowest Pair, and the rest is now.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Kendl: Soophie Nun Squad, Dead Moon, Bela Fleck, Mirah, Tender Forever, Trampled By Turtles, Bonnie Prince Billy, Townes Van Zandt, Mason Jennings, Gillean Welch, Lucinda Williams, Dolly Parton, TLC, The Blow, Foghorn Stringband, Charlie Parr, John Hartford

Palmer: Bob Dylan, Jerry Garcia, Gillian Welch, Charlie Parr, Paul Simon, Led Zeppelin, John Hartford, Punch Brothers, Bruce Molsky,

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Kendl: Oooh Child, by the Five Stairsteps always, without fail.

Palmer: The blind leaving the blind

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Kendl: Early quiet morning, coffee, writing, a long run, stretching, fruits, veggies, friends, practice, finding yummy mushrooms, cooking, hanging, being warm, wine, buddies, music sharing…love

Palmer:  A little bit of coffee, a little bit of sunshine, lots of picking,

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Kendl: creative energy

Palmer: my kind heartedness

5. What is your most valued material possession?

banjos.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Kendl: Bela. my bottom lip just kind of hung out on the floor and it made it hard to talk

Palmer: Kendl’s Mom

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Kendl: home or the Olympic Mountains in early September

Palmer:  Wabasha County

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

Kendl: more music, more hiking, more growing, more hanging, more running, more stretching, more loving, more writing, more drawing, more reading, more

Palmer: gardening and cooking

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

Kendl: doing it all better.

Palmer: satisfied

Name: Terri Hendrix

Birthplace: San Antonio, Texas

Currently residing: San Marcos, Texas

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: I began writing songs when I was about 8. It’s kept me sane but sometimes drives me nuts, too. Especially when I have writers block. I loved music so much that I majored in it. I dropped out when I was about 21. I began doing open mics and then bought a PA and launched a career. It’s over 20 years later and I’m still at it. My idea of “making it” was to be self-employed and write songs. I’m still in chase of the muse and am still performing full-time. I feel like I’ve been on tour for 20 years though and want roots. So I’m building an arts center in Hays County for the next generation of songwriters. It’s called the OYOU and the website is ownyourownuniverse.org …

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Singers

Ella Fitzgerald

Musicians and Bands

Tom Petty

Guy Clark

Nanci Griffith

Mary Chapin Carpenter

Paul Simon

John Prine

Dolly Parton

Joe Ely

Robert Earl Keen

Lucinda Williams

Enigma

B-Tribe

A3

Jonsi

Enya

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“How dark is it? It’s so dark you can smell the moon.”

— Guy Clark

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

I go to bed the same day I wake up. I’m a night owl. So for sure coffee. Then I write. All I do is write. The business takes care of itself. I just write. Then I play ball with my dogs. It’s about 80 degrees outside. I take some ranch dressing and go to dinner … in my garden. I don’t even wash it. I just eat it. Sun sets. Moon rises. Friends come over. We have Pine Ridge Merlot and watch a movie.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I know how to listen. I do not give advice.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

My music collection.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

Ann Richards. She passed away before I got to meet her.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Italy. I’ve never been. I want to go.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I would like to write more. I would like to have some time off to just create. When I have time off I sputter and putter.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

House paid off. Great health. I want my parents to be in great health. I want my brother and sister to be happy. I want my 18-year-old dog to still be alive. I want to help other people. I want kids to play music. You can’t knock people out if you’re occupied with art. I’d like to have a part in fixing things. And no matter what, I can’t have any bills. I’d like my art to bring money so I can have the means to do what I want with the OYOU and beyond. I’m not a good fundraiser. So, in ten years I’m gonna need to have created and released a golden football.

Name: Scott Sprague

Birthplace: Boise, Idaho

Currently residing: Boise, Idaho

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: My experience in the McCall-Donnelly High School Jazz Band built the foundation of my musical ambitions, which led to the formation of many different pseudo rock/jam bands throughout high school and college (Civil Disobedience, Grassroots, Tripwire, and Red House), until I took five years off of playing music only to rediscover the passion with familiar faces in our current rock/americana project – Innocent Man.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

Composers that I’ve looked to for inspiration include George Frideric Handel, J.S. Bach, and Claude Debussy. Miles Davis, John Scofield, and Frank Zappa have carved out a little niche in my heart, too. I used to be obsessed with artists and still am, to a degree. In high school, I remember discovering Jethro Tull and I bought every CD I could to try and get to the heart of the music. Amazing music ranging from jazz fueled numbers like “A Song for Jeffery” and “Inside” to woodland-inspired folk music, such as “One Brown Mouse” and “The Whistler” are so artfully crafted against epics like “Thick as a Brick” and “A Passion Play”. Of course, “Aqualung” gets most of the attention, as it should, but there are some real gems in the catalog once you dive in a little deeper. Later, I found the Grateful Dead and that was my go-to main source of inspiration for a number of years. I was too young to understand the weight of what I was listening to, but the acoustic stuff first grabbed my attention. “Uncle John’s Band” and “Friend of the Devil” were two very powerful songs in my youth. After the Dead, Phish captivated my attention for the better part of the last 15 years. Many people know the band (incorrectly) as an extension of the Dead, but that’s simply wrong. The musicality of the individual members of Phish might never again be seen again in a rock band setting – no exaggeration. The problem is, most people have already formed an opinion of the band without ever giving the music a chance. It’s a pity because if you dismiss a band because of stereotype, you’re missing out. Other bands that I’ve gravitated to lately have been Dawes, Vampire Weekend, The National, and Wilco for depth of substance. Incredible groups all the way around.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

J.S. Bach’s St. John Passion Chorale No. 1 “O Wondrous Love” – one of my favorite pieces I sang in choir during college. I still warm up for shows with the tenor part. With the full harmony, it’s just so beautiful. A more modern example would be Owen Pallett’s “Scandal at the Parkade”. The interplay between the percussive, looping violin and the haunting vocal tone is perfectly simplistic and breathtaking.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

I really dislike being idle, so I embrace having a full day. Making breakfast for my wife and feeding my bread starter would be a good beginning. Alternating between listening to music, writing music, and researching wine for most of the afternoon and evening would round out a very productive day. The icing on the cake would be band rehearsal or a show in the evening.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

I tend to be the guy who really wants to know what other people are doing. I’m not a boastful person and I tend to shy away from the conversation when it turns to me. I like casting the spotlight on others and being a good listener. I also bake a lot of artisan bread so there’s always free loaves I am pawning off on my friends. I enjoy a good glutenfest, but sometimes when I’m baking 8-12 loaves a week just to keep practicing and getting better, I’ll need some help getting through all of that bread.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

While my customized electric guitar is extremely important to me, the full truth is that my wedding ring tops the list. My wife is so incredible and supportive in everything I do and when I’m on the road and away from her, it’s one of the things that centers me.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

There are many musical idols of mine that I’d be nervous to meet (Trey Anastasio, Bela Fleck, Ian Anderson, Paul Simon, to name a few). I have met several of my non-musical idols and there was a nervous excitement on my part for both encounters. The first was Aubert de Villaine – the director of the Domaine de la Romanee-Conti at the winery in Vosne-Romanee. He ended up being one of the most delightful and down to earth personalities I’ve ever met. The second was Aldo Vacca – the director of the Produttori del Barbaresco. I met him earlier this year at Vinitaly in Verona and I found that he is a very humble man with a strong desire to share his knowledge to people who are interested in gaining something from it. Being a huge fan of the winery he represents, and Barbaresco wine in general, I could not wait to learn from him. I visited him at the winery a week later and it was a life changing experience. When he agreed to come to Boise this summer and talk about his area of the world, I truly felt we had struck up a friendship. I guess that’s the most important thing for me to realize is that when I’m nervous about meeting my heroes, it’s because I want to take away the right things from the encounters.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

I would love to be on the top of Brundage Mountain with 18 inches of fresh powder, a newly waxed snowboard, and a storm that continues to unload on the hill. Possibly make it a Wednesday in mid January and that really could be the best place and time in the world.

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

I lead a pretty satisfying life right now. I’d always like more time, but not dedicated to one particular thing. I would enjoy being able to bake more artisan breads and write more songs. I’d like to continue studying wine earnestly, particularly Italian wine. All in all, I’d like to learn more about many things in life and have the time to perfect my part in those worlds.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

I am very excited about life and the endless possibilities it presents to each of us. In ten years, I’d like to find myself still believing that and embracing it to the fullest. It really doesn’t matter where life takes me as long as the excitement of living hasn’t disappeared.

Name: Isabella Knight & Sonny Lanegan

Birthplace: Germany & Italy

Currently residing: Los Angeles

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: Originally coming from Europe, Isabella and Sonny met in Hollywood, when these two maniacs fell in love with each other and started their personal journey following their honest and unmodified impressions, creating an alternative rock duo which comes across with female attitude and raw sounds and is known for its unique sound with bluesy elements and a hint of punk.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

There are so many great artists from all kind of genres and different eras to list…A good mixture of a variety of influences and staying open-minded is probably the key to create your own style and necessary to be unique and not just one of many. Here’s a small selection of our favorites: The Doors, The Velvet Underground, David Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Queens of the Stone Age, Nine Inch Nails, Puscifer, The Kills, Radiohead, Blur, Alice in Chains, The Smashing Pumpkins, The Breeders, Depeche Mode and many more…

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

Nine Inch Nails – The Way Out Is Through

This song always gave and always will give my the chills!! I remember when the song came out in 1999 and I was sitting on a bench, waiting for the bus, listening to the song on my headphones, surrounded by dirty old cars in a small little rainy village. While listening to the song my view and reception of the world around me changed… I felt like I was on top of the world, I could change everything and make the time go backwards. As if you rewind what you see in front of your eyes like a video tape…

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

Waking up after 10am (this barely happens in our average life), enjoying a cup of coffee while getting great news in the email and starting the day slowly…Feeling the urge to work, being creative and being fulfilled with energy while working on songs… Breaking through a problem and creating a melody you were searching for…Walking our dog and running into Dave Grohl and remembering that he is just a normal person too… Meeting friends (since our families are so far away, this is an important part in our lives) and enjoying wine and cheese with them (very european)…In general pretty simple things, but you first gotta worship the small things in order to value the big things!

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

Sonny: Being a true and honest personality, to always be authentic and to always say what I’m thinking…I’m pretty sure sometimes I come out like an asshole, but I think the majority appreciates that the most about me. And the minority will forgive me one day for my ruthless, straight and open words!

Isabella: I think my friends appreciate most about me that I’m a very generous, nice and friendly person that always gives someone a second chance… Well, maybe sometimes one too much…

5. What is your most valued material possession?

A wooden treasure chest from the 16th century with heavy iron work, which we found on a yard sale in the Death Valley. It really was a lucky catch; we didn’t pay a lot for it – the price was definitely way below value, but the treasure chest has a huge emotional value for us, since it reminds us of a mind-blowing road trip through the Death Valley and to Vegas…

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

It doesn’t depend on the fame or status of a person that would make me nervous – more the way a person approaches you and their attitude. A police officer who stops me at a DUI checkpoint, even though I’m completely sober, could make me more nervous than meeting Mick Jagger! I actually met Mick Jagger at a video shoot and he was the coolest dude ever and absolutely didn’t give you any reason to be nervous!

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Somewhere close to the magnetic North Pole where you can see the Northern Lights. We both love cold climates (even though we live in California) and being in a snowy area where you could enjoy this phenomena, would be the perfect place right now!

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

There is never enough time to get everything done or to do all the things you want to do. But, us humans can’t do more than one step at a time… So it’s most important to be happy, fulfilled and satisfied with what you are doing. Even if I had the chance, I wouldn’t change anything in my life! I would only promise myself, to stay true to myself and to only do what I like and to say “No” to things that I don’t like. And not to change my mind because it looks like a great opportunity for which you need to sell your soul.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years?

In a nice house with a vineyard and a small restaurant, somewhere in the middle of nowhere, preparing delicious local food paired with great wine and still being able create music for a living and to be free to work from my own place wherever that will be!

Name: michael o’connor

Birthplace: corpus christi,texas

Currently residing: brenham, texas

Musical past and present in one rambling run-on sentence: played guitar in church as a kid, quit the day job in 1986, played south texas biker bars, shrimper bars, witnessed  a few fights and two stabbings, played in wedding bands, country clubs, tuxedo gigs, corporate gigs, hosted open mics, hosted jam sessions, played holiday inns and other hotel lounges, played beauty pageants, slinging lead guitar with bluegrass, jazz, rock n roll, blues, swing bands, playing festivals, working in fifty something different bands, opening shows for a very, very long list of the famous and not so famous, cheap trick, huey lewis and the news…it was the eighties, early 90’s moved to austin, texas and started writing songs and played, recorded and toured and co-wrote with the likes of terri hendrix, ray wylie hubbard – who produced my first album, slaid cleaves – who covered two of my songs on his “unsung” album, susan gibson, adam carroll- who i co-wrote and recorded the “hard times” record with, shelley king, jeff plankenhorn, cary swinney and more and more, wyoming the only state i’ve never been too, played everywhere else a dozen or so times over including canada, england, scotland, ireland, holland, beligum, france, played with willie nelson in luckenbach, tx at his annual july 4th picnic, toured and smoked dope with guy clark, recorded on over thirty albums for other artists as well as recording four of my own, two with producer jack saunders and with three more in the works as i type this, a star on the sidewalk of my old home town with my name on it, a beer named after me the “MOConnor smoked irish stout” at Uncle Billy’s Brewery in Austin,Tx and now currently playing solo gigs around the usa and performing with austin bands “apostles of manchaca” and “the night mothers” and have now painted myself into a corner with no way to stop as i am no longer fit for honest work.

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1. Who are some of your favourite composers, musicians and bands from the past and present?

kiss, alice cooper, black sabbath, elton john, ac/dc, los lobos, tom waits, townes van zandt, chuck berry, robert johnson, the beach boys, the beatles, the rolling stones, miles davis, charlie parker, the band, bob dylan, brian wilson, malcolm holcombe, south paw jones, alejandro escovedo, jon dee graham, billy joe shaver, los tigras del norte, john coltrane, mance lipscomb, daniel johnston, django reinhardt, bill monroe, hank williams sr, gurf morlix, bjork, blind willie mctell and john grimaudo.

2. Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?

“caroline no” by the beach boys.

3. How would you describe your perfect day?

wake up at home with my wife and my dog, smoke a big joint and go eat mexican food for breakfast. then take a nice easy drive to some cool gig like the anderson fair or gruene hall or something…play the early show to a packed house, make a fat stack of cash, smoke more dope and spend the night jammin’ and swapping songs with friends old and new…and repeat.

4. What would your friends say they appreciate the most about you?

i wouldn’t know.

5. What is your most valued material possession?

my 1980 Gibson ES 355.

6. Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?

the only person i was ever truly nervous to meet was Guy Clark. he was very intimidating, it was like going to meet mount rushmore or something. i didn’t bother him for the first few days of the tour and thankfully, when he reached out to me he was very kind and supportive. a hero.

7. If you could blink your eyes and be in a favourite place right now, where would that place be?

Neal’s lodge and campground on the Frio river in concan, tx

8. Is there something you would like to do more of in the future?

more tours in europe, make a little money, write, record and repeat.

9. Where would you like to find yourself in ten years? alive and kicking ass.

*photo: Amanda Thompson