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Interviews

Black Eyed Peas

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

They’ve sold millions of albums and have battled breakup rumors for years, but the Black Eyed Peas proved Saturday night that they’re not going anywhere. Their energetic Zootopia set at the IZOD Center in New Jersey had the crowd dancing and partying the night away. And, if their current radio hit, “Boom Boom Pow” is any indication of their upcoming June 9 release, The E.N.D. BEP’s will surely have the summer ’09 record.

While signing autographs for fans, Fergie was nice enough to chat with me about what’s going through her head while performing. Extremely down to earth, her answer may surprise you. Read on to learn what the rest of the gang had to say about the new album, working with Michael Jackson and what President Obama thinks of the Peas.

So tell us about your new album, The E.N.D. The Energy Never Dies. What does that mean? What is it all about?
Will.i.am: The E.N.D. The Energy Never Dies means a lot of things. But, most importantly it means the end of the rumors that the Black Eyed Peas are breaking up. It’s the end of an era. There used to be record stores like Virgin and Tower and Warehouse and Sam Goody and they’re no longer. The era is moving towards…we don’t know yet. But we’re going to continue to make music and tour and make people dance and make music that can change people’s lives and change our lives as well.

Everybody’s excited about Michael Jackson’s comeback tour. You and Fergie worked with Michael. What was that experience like working with him?
Will.i.am: The experience working with Michael Jackson was phenomenal. I flew out and worked with him in Ireland and produced songs on his Thriller 25 and a couple of songs on his new record. I don’t know what’s going to end up on the record, but it’s great. He’s a gift to the world.

You just did X Men. Have you ever thought of taking the acting route?
Will.i.am: That would be cool, but right now I’m focused on the Peas. X Men I filmed last year and I’m so thrilled to be a part of it. It’s a great movie. After the Peas run maybe I’ll think about it.

You set up a scholarship. Why?
Will.i.am: I set up a scholarship, the i am scholarship, because someone at some point in time believed in me and my dreams. I made it out of the ghetto. I’m able to take care of my family and I want to provide that same opportunity for some kid that has dreams – especially in this economy. You don’t bail out on kids just because the finances are not there. You still have to let them know that their dreams can become a reality, so I wanted to do my part.

Fergie, looking back on all you’ve accomplished, what’s the highlight of your life so far?
Fergie: The highlight of my life – going on tour with these guys. Seriously. Honestly, joining this band was such a blessing for me. Just them accepting me into their circle and becoming friends, it really gave me the confidence to be the artist that I had always wanted to be. I never would have been able to do a song like “My Humps” if it wasn’t for these guys and “Fergalicious” or anything like that, if they didn’t give me the confidence to tour and explore Hip-Hop music, one of the loves of my life.

Can you tell us about your next single?
Will.i.am: Our second single is called “I Gotta Feeling.” It’s dedicated to all the party people out there in the world that want to go out and party. Mostly every song on the Black Eyed Peas record is painting a picture of our party life. It was a conscious decision to make this type of record. Times are really hard for a lot of people and you want to give them escape and you want to make them feel good about life, especially at these low points.

Taboo: This is the first time we actually had all four of us on a song simultaneously with the verses, which is something different for us. Usually we break up the verses and everybody has their parts. It was a good opportunity for us to show the world what would come of it.

What was the best thing Barack Obama has said to any of you? Will.i.am: He told me that he likes my style and he likes the way that I dance.

Are you guys playing the “American Idol” finale? If so, what are you going to perform on it?
Will.i.am: Oh. I don’t know if we can say that, ‘cause they told us not to. Guess I just blew it, right?

So what are you going to do?
Will.i.am: [starts singing] Boom Boom Boom.

What do you think about when you’re onstage performing?
Fergie: When to breathe ‘cause jumping around with these guys I realize I do have to sing so I can’t be too out of breath. I’m learning now to perform in heels. I used to not perform in heels. I only did three songs in heels; “Glamorous,” “Fergalicious” and “Big Girls.” “Big Girls” I really don’t have to move much. It’s a new thing for me, learning to dance in heels, so we’ll see how that goes. Also, connecting with the fans. It’s really not just performing out to the light, but really connecting with the people and looking at people.

You can also read this interview on MarieClaire.com.

Categories
Concert Reviews

Zootopia Brings Diverse Lineup to New Jersey

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

Before I give my full report on Saturday’s Zootopia concert I have to preface this entry by explaining that I grew up listening to Z100. It was always my dream in middle and high school (I’ll admit in college too) to win tickets and attend a show. In fact, I can’t even count how many times I called the radio station in hopes to be caller 100!

Whether it was the Backstreet Boys in the 90s or the Jonas Brothers last year, Zootopia is one of the biggest concerts showcasing today’s hottest music and being behind the scenes always seemed so glamorous to me. Never in a million years would I have imagined I’d be attending and sitting in the press room interviewing the artists I grew up listening to. But, that’s exactly what I was doing Saturday night and loved every minute of it!

Upon arrival at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, NJ, Wendy and I were ushered into the press room shortly before 6 p.m. The back wall was lined with video cameras while the front of the room had a dozen or so photographers vying for the perfect location to capture the best shot of each artist. We made our way to the seats and shortly after none other than teen heartthrob Jesse McCartney entered the room. After his photo opp. he made his way to the mics for a quick Q&A.;

I realized right away how aggressive you have to be in a press conference set up and by the time the third artist came in, I made sure I got a question in. While one-on-one interviewing will always be my favorite, this set up was definitely a learning experience. I plan on typing up the Q&A;’s from each artist so you can have complete access to what was discussed. Each night this week I’ll post a new interview for you — how does that sound?

As much as I enjoyed the interviews, I had to catch some of the show. While I’ve seen the All-American Rejects numerous times in concert, their live show is always a treat. Whether it’s frontman Tyson Ritter making peculiar comments to the crowd or funny facial contortions, AAR’s energy and stage presence is undeniable. Playing a solid set of crowd favorites, “Dirty Little Secret” and “Move Along,” they switched gears up a bit by ending with latest single, slower ballad “The Wind Blows.” Riding the waves off chart topper “Gives You Hell,” “The Wind Blows” is sure to do the same. The guys talked about touring with Blink 182 this summer, so be sure to catch them soon!

Kelly Clarkson is another must-see live. Her arena friendly pop rock is solid and her vocals are always impressive. Not to mention, she had everyone around me singing along to “Since U Been Gone” (yes, even the guys). “I’m all about quality over quantity,” Clarkson told the crowd. “My personal philosophy is I do not hook up…unless it’s Hugh Jackman or Russell Crowe or someone really hot,” she joked before introducing current radio hit “I Do Not Hook Up.”

Jesse McCartney opened the night and most likely had all the girls swooning in the crowd. While I watched most of his set from the press room, his dancing and singing style was impressive. Having recently been hailed “The Heir to Justin Timberlake’s Throne,” while McCartney definitely has big shoes to fill, I’m rooting for him. As if that’s not enough, he’ll be touring this summer with New Kids On the Block and will surely win over the older women if he hasn’t done so already.

The rest of the night included appearance by Sean Paul, LMFAO and Taylor Momsen as well as the hosts for the evening — Z100’s radio station djs. Ciara’s performance made me wish I paid more attention in dance class, as her moves were like no one I’ve ever seen while Flo Rida and Soulja Boy wowed the crowd and surely increased the energy for Black Eyed Peas’ closing set.

If anything is certain from their performance Saturday night, the Peas will have the album of the summer. While “Boom Boom Pow” is heating up the charts, next single, “I Gotta Feeling” undeniably will to do the same. The band proved the breakup rumors to be false and their show demonstrated that they’re in it for the long haul. Playing past chart toppers, “Where Is the Love,” “My Humps” and “Let’s Get Retarted” the Peas had concertgoers at the IZOD Center on their feet, dancing and partying along until the last beat of “Boom Boom Pow” was played.
Stay tuned this week for interviews with each of the performers!

Categories
Features Q&A

Poll of the Week: Which Zootopia Interview Are You Looking Forward To Reading?

Yesterday I had the privilege of covering New York radio station Z100’s annual Zootopia concert. With a high energy lineup of artists like Kelly Clarkson, Jesse McCartney, All-American Rejects, Ciara, Solja Boy, Flo Rida and Black Eyed Peas the packed crowd got everything they came for and more. Not to mention special appearances by Sean Paul, LMFAO and Taylor Momsen from “Gossip Girl.”

I’ll have a full recap of the day’s event tomorrow as well as each interview throughout the week. However, for this week’s poll question I’m curious as to which artist you’re most excited to read about. This will help me figure out which interview to post first. Let me know!

Black Eyed Peas
Jesse McCartney
Ciara
All-American Rejects
Soulja Boy
Flo Rida

I had some great responses to last week’s poll, What New Features Do You Want to See on You Sing, I Write? and definitely plan on adding the “Recommendations” portion to each album and live review so you get a better sense of whether you’d like the featured artist. Also, thanks to Karen’s response I really have to consider buying a flip camera and start doing some live video blogging. What do you think?

Categories
Song of the Week

Song of the Week: “New York, New York”

My first full week back in New York, what better song to feature than “New York, New York” by Frank Sinatra? Such a classic! Reminds me why I want to move to the city that never sleeps . . . any apartment hunting tips for me?

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ro7Uz4jEfmg]

Categories
News

Zootopia 2009 – What Do You Want Covered?

I’ll be covering radio station Z100’s infamous Zootopia concert tomorrow night at the IZOD Center. For those of you that don’t know the line-up, Kelly Clarkson, Jesse McCartney, All-American Rejects, Ciara, Soulja Boy, Flo Rida and Black Eyed Peas will be performing along with some unannounced special guests.

I’ll have access to the press room where I can ask each artist questions as well as tickets to cover the show. My question for you is, what do you want to know? What are you dying to ask one of the artists?

I’m going to have to juggle the press room and the performances from the looks of it, so what would you rather read about — an exclusive interview or concert review? Let me know! Question submissions always welcome. For more information on the show and for last minute tickets, click here. I’ll be reporting live via Twitter so if you don’t yet, make sure you follow me for up-to-the-minute coverage!

Categories
News

Parachute Lands No. 1 Album On iTunes

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

The rain didn’t stop concertgoers from attending Parachute‘s standing room only performance last Monday night at Mercury Lounge. In fact, if anything, last week was just a preview of what’s to come in the upcoming weeks for the Virginia-based band.

This week, their single “Under Control” is featured as the iTunes single of the week and their debut album (due in stores Tuesday, May 19) is already No. 1 on the iTunes chart! Not to mention, my exclusive interview with frontman Will Anderson was just posted on Marie Claire today. You can read it on the blog as well as MarieClaire.com.

I first came across the band last year while they were known as Sparky’s Flaw. Catching their performance at The Knitting Factory, I loved what I saw and reviewed it for MTV’s concert blog as well as interviewed Will. It’s truly amazing to see their progress over the past year — from touring Thursday – Sundays so it wouldn’t conflict with college classes to a record deal, national ad campaign and now the top of the charts. I have a feeling this is only the beginning for Parachute.

Playing songs off their debut full-length, Losing Sleep, Parachute gave all in attendance a glimpse into the future last Monday. Having been on tour with Switchfoot, Matt Nathanson and O.A.R. the band proved they’re equipped for a headlining show. From the arena friendly pop rock sound of “Back Again” and “Under Control” to the solid saxophone feature in their cover of Billy Joel’s “Movin’ Out,” Parachute truly left an impression.

Their eight song set was diverse, showcasing their ability to switch up the faster tempo tracks with the slower ballads. Introducing “She Is Love” Will Anderson said, “I just wanted to write a simple love song and this is what came out.” A beautiful acoustic ballad, the track showcased his soulful, yet angelic vocals.

Quite surprised at the turnout for a 7 p.m. show on a Monday night, Anderson expressed the band’s appreciation to the crowd. “Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. We couldn’t thank you enough for coming out tonight,” he said before ending the night with high energy song “Out of Control.” I have a feeling they’ll be back to New York in no time.

To download Parachute’s song “Under Control” for free on iTunes click here. If you like it, you can purchase the full album for $6 here or buy it in stores May 19th. As if I haven’t promoted them enough, I just bought it myself and it’s definitely one of the best albums I’ve heard this year. Check them out on MySpace and catch a show when they’re in town!

Recommended: For fans of Maroon 5, The Fray, John Mayer, Matt Nathanson, Jason Reeves.

Categories
News

Presenting the Brent Shuttleworth House Concert Tour

I caught two of Brent Shuttleworth‘s performances last year and raved about his live show in one of my reviews. Imagine then, my excitement to find out about his *Best Version of Yourself* House Concert Tour 2009. Where, at your request he will show up to your door and serenade you, your friends and family.

Shuttleworth’s Facebook page states: “For the next 30 days, in preparation for his national summer tour, he will be taking his vitamins, waking up early, reading, writing, painting, booking, recording, exercising and performing the better part of every single day. He will be respecting the overall health and well-being of himself and his music.”

Wait . . . it gets better.

“Let it be known that now, on 10 May 2009 the BEST VERSION of YOURSELF TOUR (BVYT) has officially begun and Brent Shuttleworth WANTS to recruit YOU. Have you ever caught yourself wondering what it would be like to have Brent Shuttleworth playing for you, your friends, family and everyone you have EVER known? WHEREVER you are and WHEREVER you may be, Brent wants to play for you!

If you are interested in organizing a show this summer for your:

TOWN
CHURCH
SYNAGOGUE
TEMPLE
MOSQUE
GRANDPARENTS
NEIGHBORS
FRIENDS
FAMILY
CO-WORKERS
ETC…

Then, Brent will come to you!”

A personal concert? I’m so in, what do you think? Give him a listen, and if you like what you hear be sure to contact booking@brentshuttleworthmusic.com for booking.

Watch Brent’s video for “When I Reach California” below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FT-MlVxQcoc]

Categories
Concert Reviews

The Alternate Side Launch Party with Pela and The Postelles

Photo Credit: Maryanne Ventrice

Mercury Lounge was packed last night in celebration of the official launch of WFUV’s new indie music channel, The Alternate Side. And, what better way to kick off the channel than New York’s very own indie darlings Pela and The Postelles?

After a short introduction by the station’s staff and founders, The Postelles (photo above) took the stage playing tracks off their upcoming debut full length which is being produced by none other than Strokes’ guitarist Albert Hammond, Jr. The band has garnered rave reviews as of late with their 60s inspired pop and rock ‘n’ roll sound. With hooks galore encompassing tracks like “Hey Little Sister” and “123 Stop” it’s no wonder they’ve landed a spot at this year’s All Points West Festival.

Watch The Postelles play “123 Stop” last night below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RMbIQuyhpQ]

A Monday performance while the sun is still shining can’t be enticing for any band, but Pela sure showed concertgoers that it’s quite possible and rather enjoyable. Playing a 45-minute set Pela reminded everyone of what a real rock show should be. Their energetic set and engaging stage presence permeated throughout the room, having the crowd hooked and screaming for more. Whether it was frontman Billy McCarthy leaping off the stage into the crowd or tearing panels off the ceiling (photo below), Pela sure knows how to grab the audience’s attention.

The band has been getting quite a buzz and their recent tour dates with The Gaslight Anthem has only helped them gain the recognition they deserve. From last night’s performance, it is evident that Pela will be selling out their own headlining shows across the country in no time. Whether it was catchy track, “Tenement Teeth” or their solid cover of The Clash’s “Guns of Brixton,” Pela left those in attendance impressed.

“Pela rhymes with Layla,” McCarthy told the crowd. Soon after guitarist Nate Martinez chimed in, joking, “In Spain it would be paella, but we’re not in Spain.”

Songs like “Waiting On the Stairs” and “Chapel Song” had solid guitar buildup throughout, fitting the urgency of McCarthy’s vocals. Listen to”Waiting On the Stairs” below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyZ7tY5CX5g]

Pela’s talent is undeniable and I highly recommend checking them out live for yourself, as listening on MySpace just won’t cut it. For more on Pela be sure to visit their Web site and catch a show when they’re in town. You won’t regret it. If that’s not enough for you, watch a video of them covering The Clash below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou8yxVDNhf8]

For more on The Postelles, be sure to visit their MySpace and to hear more of your favorite indie bands, be sure to tune into 90.7 or check out The Alternate Side online!

Categories
Band of the Week

Band of the Week: Looking Glass Wars

Former band of the week singer Alex Bondarev of A Moment’s Worth passed along Looking Glass Wars‘ MySpace page, telling me he thought I’d enjoy what I heard. He couldn’t have been more right! The New York natives’ most recent release, A Place in a Parlor contains tracks that touch upon the varied musical influences of the band’s members, including rockabilly, surf, and alt-country, while still maintaining the dark pop-rock sound of their debut album. Do I have you intrigued yet?

“Is This Really Poison” encompasses that punk rock feel, but mid song the tempo unexpectedly changes bringing more of an anthemic, atmospheric feel to the track. Not many bands can make this work, but Looking Glass Wars succeed remarkably. In fact, all the songs featured on their MySpace page have this same result. The listener never knows what to expect and is often pleasantly surprised.

Another unique track, “3AM” starts slower than the previous. With soft and eerie vocals at first, frontman Brendan Rivera quickly crescendos into a scream amidst fitting heavy percussion and bass accompaniment. Eventually the song fades out with soft piano and bell features. While the listener assumes this is the song’s eminent end, he is fooled once again as the music picks up, enticing the listener to pay more attention.

While “Oh What A Party It Will Be” is self explanatory with it’s title, “Addicted To Your Touch” follows suit with high energy and solid electric guitar riffs. Heavy bass and percussion beats make up the backbone of the track, never faltering.

Having garnered a spot on AbsolutePunk.net’s 2008 “Absolute 100,” Looking Glass Wars show no sign of slowing down. For their music and tour dates, be sure to check the band out on MySpace. What do you think?

Recommended: For fans of The Killers, Panic at the Disco, The Gaslight Anthem, early Yellowcard.

Photo Credit: Joel Sneak

Categories
Features

Poll of the Week: What New Features Do You Want to See on You Sing, I Write?

Well, I successfully (or unsuccessfully) however you decide to look at it, applied to be Diddy’s assistant as you may have read from yesterday‘s post. The majority of you voted last week for me to apply and wrote the most encouraging messages, which definitely persuaded me to audition. All in all, it was an experience I won’t forget anytime soon!

Now onto this week’s poll question: What New Features Do You Want to See on You Sing, I Write?

This is more of an open-ended question than a multiple choice selection, so I really want to read your ideas in the comments. I’ll give you a few suggestions, but ultimately I’m looking for your creative input this week. While I’ve learned that many of you enjoy the artist features and interviews from a previous poll, I’m curious to see what my blog may be lacking that you want to see. More contests? Auditions? (for my sake, I hope not!) Music streams? Live Twitter updates on the sidebar? Or, how about recommendations? For example, maybe at the bottom of an album or concert review I’ll put a list of artists the musician sounds like. See my Mat Kearney review for an example.

Let me know. My friend Jennilyn and I have been brainstorming in our free time and it’s so important to get your ideas as well! Please leave your suggestions in the comments. I look forward to reading each one!