Tag: Interview

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Festivals Interviews

Basia Bulat

I recently spoke with Canadian singer-songwriter Basia Bulat for AOL Music and Spinner.com’s South By Southwest coverage. The site has a pretty ambitious goal of interviewing and featuring all 2,000 bands that will be attending SXSW in Austin, Texas, this March.

For my complete Q&A; with Basia Bulat, click here. Be sure to watch her powerful performance of “Gold Rush,” the first single off her latest album, Heart of My Own below. And those of you attending SXSW, be sure to check out one of her four showcases!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hANYD0_qQl4]

Categories
Interviews

Dion Roy

While he’s been compared to Ben Gibbard and Jamie Walters, Dion Roy manages to make his own mark on the music scene. I chatted with the bassist turned singer-songwriter after catching his set at Highline Ballroom where he opened for Ryan Cabrera.

Roy filled me in on his transition to frontman, what it’s like having his song featured in a national ad campaign and his songwriting process. “That’s why I write music. I enjoy doing it. I enjoy giving people, even if it’s three or four minutes, a way to feel better or a way to relate.” Read on to find out more about Dion Roy and be sure to visit him on MySpace.

You originally played bass in another band. What made you decide to switch roles and become a singer? Was it a big transition for you?
I played in bands and I was a bass player. As time went on I was becoming less and less of a bass player and began writing melodies on bass that could have been the vocal line. I started to write more of the songs. I always played a little bit of guitar. At a certain point, when I wasn’t getting credit for writing songs it became annoying dealing with the band situation. I said, “You know what? I think I have a decent voice and I know how to play guitar. I’m going to give it a shot. Why the hell not?” That was about a year and a half ago and I’ve been at it since June. We’ve played a lot of shows since June and it moved pretty quickly after that.

You recorded your first solo album in June. How was that experience?
It was really tough. There were 10 songs on there that were widdled down from 25 or 26 and it was more of an undertaking than I thought it would be because I played bass and most of the guitar, I even sequenced some of the drums on it. Half of that album was me in my home studio and the other half, the ones with live drums; I did in a studio in New York. The mixing and mastering is insane with how much money and time has to go into it for me to be happy with it and feel that it’s presentable enough for the masses. I learned to become a songwriter on that album.

Since then, I’ve grown as a songwriter significantly. The new EP that I’m working on is going to be four or five songs, maybe six. Four full ones and two acoustics. I’m doing half the amount of songs because I want to spend double the time on them. Not having a five piece band makes the process a little bit longer, but it’s coming along. It should be done in a couple months.

What can fans expect from it?
One of the songs that are going to be on the new EP was one of the first things I wrote, it just got developed a little bit more. In general, it’s going to be a little less ballad-y. It’s going to be more upbeat. The tempos on all the songs are quite a bit higher than some of the stuff off the first album. The first album was very personal. A lot of the content of it had to do with my own life and situations that I’d been going through for a long time. I feel like I got that out of the way and I’m writing about new ideas and other stories. That’s what you can expect.

Pete joined the band in June right after the album came out and his influence is going to be on it too. He sings a lot of backup harmonies. We’re integrating that to give it a Guster-esque sound on the vocals. We’re really getting into the harmonies and making them more a part of the song.

I wanted to ask you about “Wants It.” I know it’s been featured in some films.
“Wants It” is the song everybody likes. It’s also the song we’ve played the most. We’ve played it on the TV shows and it genuinely attracts the widest audience. Actually, “Reconsider,” has the most name brand association. It’s been featured on a Huggies Pull-Ups commercial. “Wants It” was used for a couple indie films.

How did that come about?
It just got picked. It was unmixed, unfinished and it was just a concept and I uploaded it to one of the music placement companies and they randomly picked it, which I was really surprised about. One of the few ways we can still make money as a musician. People are not making money from album sales anymore; they’re making it all on merch and shows. I read somewhere that six percent of a major label artist’s income comes from album sales. The rest comes from touring and merch.

It’s really a harsh environment when you’re indie. I do it because I love it, but even some of the more successful bands out there are still broke. They don’t tour with a full band because there’s not enough money to pay a drummer or tour bus. Something has to change soon. I think you’re seeing that a little bit now when online radio stations are starting to pay for streaming music. There is a little bit of light at the end of the tunnel.

Being a musician is a constant struggle. What motivates you to wake up every day and continue making music?
People relate to my stuff. I get at least a couple emails a day saying, “I get it. I get ‘Wants It.’ I get ‘You Can’t Take.’ It really moves me.” That’s why I write music. I enjoy doing it. I enjoy giving people, even if it’s three or four minutes, a way to feel better or a way to relate. Every interaction you have, people want to relate to something or feel part of something. I enjoy letting people feel like they’re part of something. I take a big interest in my fans too. I try to answer every single Twitter, Facebook, MySpace message. It’s getting a little out of control now. I spend about an hour-in-a-half a day just responding to stuff. I think that’s a good part of it. People are buying tickets for shows and they’re not even coming. They’ll be on the West Coast, but they’ll buy a ticket anyway. It’s kind of cool. People tend to give back if you treat them well and that’s what I plan to do.

What’s your songwriting process like?
There are a couple different ways it happens. Sometimes I’ll think of a really cool lyric and I’ll email it to myself. Sometimes I’ll write an entire song based around that. “Gray,” which is on the new album, I liked “She’s made of gray.” I liked the way that color associated with someone I knew and I was like, “Okay, I’m going to write a song about that.” If I have a guitar in my hands for 30 minutes I’ll write at least one or two melodies. I have more ideas recorded on my phone than I can count right now. I’d love a chance to finish all of them. I usually wind up picking one out of five and developing it because I’m so picky. I don’t want to put out a million songs that are pretty good. I’d rather put out six or seven that are undeniably catchy.

I use my BlackBerry voice recorder. That’s usually the first step if I’m just noodling around on guitar. In my home studio I’ll lay down guitar and lay down vocals, put in a synthesized drum beat if it needs it, lay some bass or synth parts and get the skeleton of a song together and listen to it for a couple of days and see if I like it. If it lasts that long, then I start gigging and playing the song to see how people react to it. And, if people really like it then it gets recorded.

I read that you don’t
like to tell the stories behind your songs.
I’m a pretty private guy. I don’t like to reveal specific things about me. I think it ruins it for people if they know exactly what it’s about. People can listen to a song like “You Can’t Take.” I’ll tell you it’s a very specific situation for me. But, anybody that’s been pissed off at somebody or wronged by somebody is going to be able to relate to that. I prefer them to draw their own conclusions. When people see art they take away different things. I like to be a little vague to keep it interesting.

Is there a certain song you’ve written that means more to you than others?
“You Can’t Take” I accomplished something for myself with that song. That was a situation that was super hard for me to deal with. Just not having control. Most people think it’s a romantic situation, but it’s actually not at all for me personally. I feel like I got it off my chest. It’s there and resolves certain things for me. “You Can’t Take” and “Wants It.”

“Wants It” is actually a collection of different relationships I’ve been in. It sounds at first glance that I’m heartbroken. If you listen or read the rest of the lyrics it shows how I was heartbroken but when she decided to come back into your life it was like, “See you later.” Those are pretty personal and are closest to me and songs I’ll definitely be playing throughout my career.

When you introduced one of your songs, you said that it’s about a girl and how most of your songs are. Are you ever afraid to reveal too much in your songwriting because maybe that girl will hear it?
Knock on wood, I haven’t had too much drama over the past couple years. They are all old situations based on things I went through and I’ve moved past. Getting specific with them now is almost like talking about something that happened in grade school. It seems silly to get specific with it now. The new EP is going to be very, very specific and much more current. I don’t know if it’s going to be like Songs About Jane by Maroon 5 where they were very clear about someone in particular. But, it’s going to be a little more specific. Rather than encompassing years of my life into an album, it will be more current and things I’ve experienced in the past year or less. I might get a little bit more revealing. We’ll see.

Would you rather someone hear you first on your CD or see you perform live?
I would say the CD just because … you saw me at Highline Ballroom and the sound is amazing there so I could hear my instruments and nothing was feeding back and I was in a good spot. That’s a good show and people connect live with things more. They can see emotion. They can see the human aspect of it a little more. Would I take a crappy sound system live versus a CD? I’d go with a CD any day. For the right room with the right crowd is great. A noisy sports bar where people are watching the game eating buffalo wings, then maybe not. I’d like to know that from my fans. I should ask them. I’d be curious to know.

Categories
Q&A Videos

Video Interview with Orianthi

Photo and video credit: Wendy Hu

A few weeks ago I featured my full interview with guitar goddess Orianthi. She’s played with all the guitar greats including Carlos Santana, Steve Vai and of course no one can forget her jaw-dropping performance in Michael Jackson’s This Is It film.

I met up with the 24-year-old Australian virtuoso when she was in New York promoting her debut album, Believe, and performing for fans. While she began playing guitar at the age of six, being a female guitarist hasn’t always been easy.

“Guitar is a guy’s thing. I’d get picked on a lot and school wasn’t exactly the easiest time,” Orianthi said. “Actually, my teacher told me I should play the harp, it’s more feminine. It’s kind of like being a male ballerina in a way … I loved playing guitar so much that I stuck at it. I just want to inspire more girls to pick it up and stick at it and believe in themselves with whatever they do. You just have to follow down your path.”

Watch my video interview with Orianthi below to learn more about her passion for guitar, what it was like to perform with Santana and her experience working with Michael Jackson.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=taVupYVVT3g]

For the complete transcription, click here.

Categories
Festivals Interviews

The Ting Tings

The Ting Tings exploded in America last summer with their hit, “That’s Not My Name.” Since then, UK duo Katie White and Jules De Martino, have been traveling the world in support of their album, We Started Nothing.

I sat down with White and De Martino when they were in town for All Points West. Watch below as the UK sensation discuss the success of their album, hit single and being fashion icons. For more, be sure to visit their Web site and be on the lookout for their upcoming album, Massage Kunst due out later this year!

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C6zv02x2ocY]

Categories
Interviews

Orianthi

Orianthi exploded on the music scene in 2009. After her jaw-dropping performance at the 2009 Grammy Awards with Carrie Underwood, Michael Jackson’s music director approached her via MySpace to audition for his world tour. Unfortunately, the tour never developed, but if you saw the film This Is It, you will recognize Orianthi as the killer guitarist in his band.

I met up with Orianthi when she was in town in December for a few shows and promoting her debut album, Believe. Having shared the stage with guitar legends including Carlos Santana and Steve Vai and the goal to inspire more girls to pick up the electric guitar, Orianthi is a stand out role model. Read below to learn more about Orianthi’s songwriting process, the ideas behind her songs and her experience working with Michael Jackson.

Every time I turn on the radio your single, “According To You” is being played! Did you ever expect for it to do so well?
I’m really happy and thrilled people are connecting to it and really dig the track. We have a lot of fun playing it live.

How did it feel to hear it on the radio for the first time?
The first time I heard “According To You” I was actually in Vegas. We were driving to a radio station and it was so awesome. It felt great. When you’re in a radio station you know they’re going to put it on but when you’re driving in the car and it just comes on when you’re switching stations and you hear it, it’s an awesome moment. Everyone in the car was so excited.

How was the process of recording your debut album, Believe?
The process was great. I moved to the States about three-and-a-half years ago. So the first year moving out I was writing the record and for two years off and on I was recording with Howard Benson and had an awesome time working with him. We actually recorded 18 tracks and narrowed it down to 11. It’s got a real 80s feel to it. It’s pop rock. I’m proud of it. I think it’s an empowering record. I want to inspire more girls to pick up the electric guitar and keep at it. And guys too. Just follow their dreams and believe in themselves. That’s why the record’s called Believe. I think it’s so important to believe in yourself and follow your dreams, because they do come true. If you’re persistent, it’s a lot of hard work and you have to have passion for what you do, but just stick in there.

You really exploded in 2009 performing with Carrie Underwood at the Grammy awards and later Michael Jackson.
Getting invited to the Grammy Awards to jam out with Carrie Underwood was awesome. I’m a big fan of hers and her band is great. Being out there was pretty surreal looking at rock royalty in the audience. It was a great night. I had a lot of fun. Mark Vaden, who is music director of MJ’s band, saw me at the Grammy Awards. He contacted me through MySpace and asked if I’d audition to be part of the band. That was crazy, life changing working with Michael. I was so nervous going in and auditioning for him. It’s been a crazy year. But, I’m just really, really grateful I got to play with Michael and the band and learned so much.

Is there one lesson he taught you about navigating the music industry?
He basically didn’t want us to be nervous. He wanted us to project our energy out and put on a show. He made me believe in myself more for choosing me to be part of it. Just have fun and do your best. He did his best all the time and he was such a perfectionist. I think everyone that was chosen to be part of the tour is going to carry on with his spirit and just follow down our paths, whether it be music or dancing. I think everyone that was involved in the tour; we all have that bond for being a part of it. It felt like a family.

The last song on your album, “God Only Knows,” was that dedicated to him?
Yes. Dedicated to Michael and my good friend Diane who passed, who was only 25. Losing them within two months of each other was really hard. Going through that, writing a song that just means a lot to me. Every time I sing it, it’s pretty emotional. It’s an emotional track.

Have you performed it?
Actually, I did. I was hosting a viewing of This Is It and I played it before the movie acoustically.

What is your songwriting process? Do you work from guitar riffs first or do lyrics come to you?
Both. The writing process is always very different, whether it starts with lyrics or a melody or guitar riff or chords. That’s the exciting thing about it; it never starts the same way. It keeps it interesting. And, working with different people while collaborating, it’s a lot of fun. Sitting in a room and by the end of the day coming up with a song you didn’t think you would have. I actually wrote a new song two days ago.

You’re such a stand-out performer and well respected among guitarists. I saw an interview with Carlos Santana where he said he wants to pass his baton onto you.
It’s so awesome to have the support of your idols. Santana and Steve Vai. Writing a song with Steve Vai for the new record was so much fun. My first ever support was opening for Steve when I was 15 in Adelaide, Australia. Getting Santana’s support, he was the reason why I picked up electric guitar when I was 11, so having that is just so awesome. I look up to them both immensely. I don’t think you can ever stop learning off of players like that.

How do you feel being a woman in such a male dominated industry?
Playing guitar growing up and going to school wasn’t easy for me because guitar is a guy’s thing. I’d get picked on a lot and school wasn’t exactly the easiest time. When you’re lined up at auditions with other guys and you’re going for the same part, they’re like, “You shouldn’t be playing guitar.” Actually, my teacher told me I should play the harp, it’s more feminine. It’s kind of like being a male ballerina in a way.

I think there should be more female guitar players. But, it was really hard going through school so I can see why maybe some would pick it up and then give it up. If they’re going to the same auditions or playing in a band and they’ve got a lot of problems from the guys. Some guys are really supportive, but quite a few weren’t. It was an interesting time for me, but I loved playing guitar so much that I stuck at it. For me, I just want to inspire more girls to pick it up and stick at it and believe in themselves with whatever they do and guys too. You know, you just have to follow down your path. Whatever you get in life, just keep on going down that path.

That goes along with your song, “Feels Like Home.” The lyrics are so inspiring: “Failure never crossed my mind/I will take a chance every time/And spread my wings/I’ve never been afraid to try/Put everything on the line.” It seems like you had this motivation to keep going no matter what anyone else said.
Yeah. ?
??Feels Like Home” is one of the first tracks I wrote coming over from Australia to LA. It feels like home in America now because I have great people around me, awesome friends, people I work with. It just feels like a second home for me. It’s a great place. Ever since I was six and I picked up the guitar for the first time playing along with Elvis songs and looking on the back [and reading ] Made In America, I wanted to come over to America to make a record one day. It was a dream come true to have made the record and to hold the hard copy not too long ago. It’s been crazy. It’s been a real journey.

I love “Think Like A Man.” What was the inspiration behind that song?
Well, it’s pretty lighthearted track with the lyrics, “I’m gonna shorten my attention span/Think like a man.” Actually, Doug [Robb] from Hoobastank, the lead singer, is singing backup in the chorus. I got him to sing the harmonies. He’s like, “Wait a second; I’m bagging men in this song.” He realized after he sang the song. I’m like, “Yup. Sort of, not really.” It’s all in good fun. It’s got a real AC/DC vibe to it as well. The lyrics are really lighthearted. We love playing that song live.

What’s going on through your head when you’re performing?
Lyrics. Chords. Leads. There are quite a few things to remember, but to have fun is the main thing for all of us. We love playing our instruments. I just want to inspire more kids. Mike, my drummer, wants to inspire more kids to play drums. He still has that childlike enthusiasm for playing. I think everyone does in the band. We just try to do our best, but at the same time have fun with it. It’s been a pretty crazy few months. Getting to play full sets has been awesome, when we get to actually play for 45 minutes. I just have a lot of fun playing with my band.

What’s next for you? Do you have any more dream collaborations?
I would love to do a song with B.B. King. That would be awesome. Keith Urban would be amazing. I want to do a song with a rapper, I think that would be pretty awesome to play some leads while someone raps. Timbaland or Jay-Z, that would be really cool. To win a Grammy award would be amazing. And to go on a world tour, just to play around the world and put on an awesome show. I’m already thinking lots of sparkles and pyro extravagance.

Do you remember the first time you picked up your guitar and the moment you decided, “This is what I want to do the rest of my life?”
Yeah. It just felt right picking it up when I was six. I don’t know, it probably sounds weird, but when I first picked it up I remember that feeling of it being almost familiar. It was a challenge, yet it felt familiar. I just have such a passion for it. I want to continue to learn as much as I can from musicians that I jam with. It’s an instrument that’s not an easy thing to play, but every day picking it up and wanting to move forward so when I’m 80 and look back I’ll think that I’ve progressed and evolved as a musician.

What’s your advice to aspiring guitarists?
Practice as much as you can. Play out as much as you can. Form a band. Write as many songs as you can and put it on a CD. Record yourself and send it out to people that you respect. Just get yourself out there. I get a lot of emails like, “What do you suggest I do to make it?” And all I just said is what I did. I put myself out there all the time. If someone came into town that I wanted to support, you just send your CDs to them. Bombard them.

I bombarded Carlos. He probably thought, “Put this girl out of her misery and meet her.” When he came to town I was 18 and I got to meet him and I thought he was going to sign my guitar but I got to meet him and I got to jam with him. His support, that’s how I came over to the States. He was showing the DVD of us jamming. It’s been a crazy dream. It’s a lot of work, but if you have a passion for something just go with it. You can’t just sit in your bedroom hoping it will be handed to you on a platter. If you want music to be your life, acting, whatever you do, do your best, put yourself out there and play as much as you can.

Categories
Interviews

Kris Allen

Kris Allen stole the hearts of many this past season on American Idol and, as a result, was crowned winner. Since then, he released his self-titled album and stormed the charts with his first single, a cover of The Script’s “Live Like We’re Dying,” while his performances of “No Boundaries” and “Heartless” garnered similar success.

Before he took the stage at Madison Square Garden for Z100’s Jingle Ball in December, Allen filled the press in on his busy year. Read below to find out more on the singer-songwriter, his album, and his run-ins with the cast of Boy Meets World.

What’s your opinion on the Adam Lambert controversy at the American Music Awards?
The first question, huh? Nice. Get it out quick, that’s good. Okay. I didn’t know what you were talking about. I didn’t know if something new happened. You never know. I thought it was Adam being Adam. I’m going to get a shirt that says, “That’s Adam.” It’s who he is. Obviously, he couldn’t do that stuff on Idol so you’re getting to see the real Adam now.

Can you tell us what songs didn’t make the album?
There are a couple. I wrote a song with Mat Kearney that didn’t end up on the album and there are a couple of mine that didn’t end up on the album. Whatever ended up on the album is what we felt like was the best album stuff, so it was good.

I saw you tweeted about meeting Ben Savage. Was that the highlight of your year?
That was great! I met Topanga earlier this year and I met Corey in the airport last night. We stayed in the same hotel.

How are you and your wife adjusting to the long distance relationship?
We actually have had a long distance relationship for five years before this stuff, so this is nothing new to us. We wanted it to end, but…

What do you love most about her?
What do I love most about my wife? That she puts up with me.

What made you release the B-side to The Script’s song as your first single?
What made me? I thought the song was good and obviously the Script wrote the song. I felt like it would be a good transition from the Idol stuff to what’s going on now.

Do you think it’s a good or bad thing that you and the other American Idol contestants released your albums the same day?
I think that’s usually how it goes. I didn’t see it as a bad thing. I think we obviously share fans. If people want mine, Adam and Allison’s CD they’re going to get it.

What do you do to combat writer’s block?
I usually go take a walk or hang out outside. Usually I like to go outside if I’m having inspiration problems.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3N5CsXYlCk]

Categories
Concert Reviews Features Q&A

So Long, 2009. Bring on 2010!

Earlier this week I compiled a list of my top five moments of 2009. Well, there were a few more than five in there, but I tried to keep it short. I figured I’d do the same today with my top five concerts and interviews. I’d love to know what you enjoyed reading most this year so I can amp up my coverage in 2010. Happy New Year!

You Sing, I Write’s Top 5 Concerts of 2009

There is nothing I enjoy more than that goosebumps feeling you get when an artist sings a song that particularly strikes you or tells a moving tale about the origin of the song. This year I attended more concerts than any year in my life and while it’s hard to narrow down my single favorite, I compiled five that stand out.

5. Mat Kearney — September 29 at The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza

I interviewed Mat Kearney back in May when he was on tour opening for Keane at Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, New Jersey. I hopped on his tour bus and talked with him about his latest album, songwriting process and breaking into the University of Oregon to use their piano to write a song. As an opening band, your set is always cut short so I decided to attend his headlining performance a few months later at Irving Plaza and was blown away. Having had his album, City of Black and White, on rotation over the previous months the songs struck me personally and Kearney put on quite the show. Jumping into the audience mid-set he started his own dance party on the floor with fans. You can bet I’ll be seeing him next time he’s around.

To hear Mat talk about the new album, his writing process and stories behind his songs, click here. For his view on writing about personal relationships, being an opening act and advice to aspiring musicians, click here.

4. Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band — September 30 at Giants Stadium

He is The Boss. Does much more need to be said? Being a Jersey girl, Bruce Springsteen’s songs are anthems to me. I actually have Mat Kearney to thank of how I came to cover his show at Giants Stadium. The night before Springsteen’s performance I was buying my friend a ticket at will call because Kearney’s show was due to sell out. I recognized a photographer I met earlier that year at Ray LaMontagne’s show and we chatted for a bit. Low and behold, the next day he needed a writer to cover Springsteen’s show for a Web site he shot for and thought of me. Wendy picked up the tickets for me and we headed to Giants Stadium to cover the show for Bumpershine. And, guess who was sitting a few rows in front of me? None other than Mat Kearney himself. A bit serendipitous, don’t you think? For my complete review, click here.

3. Tyrone Wells — October 7 at Highline Ballroom

I recently found Tyrone Wells CD Remain and have been listening non-stop the past few days. Previous album, Hold On is quite striking as well. While compiling my top five list I realized I have witnessed Wells in concert three times this year. I first interviewed him during South By Southwest and caught his showcase with Tori Amos. Later this year, Wells opened for Better Than Ezra where a couple got engaged mid-set before he dedicated and performed “Sea Breeze” for them. I was lucky enough to catch his headlining show at Highline Ballroom in October after interviewing his opening act, Matt Hires. Wells truly blew me away as he mixed his soulful and energetic tracks with his emotion-filled ballads. His onstage banter with the audience and tales behind his songs are always enjoyable and like no artist I have ever witnessed. If you have yet to see Wells live, I highly suggest doing so as I foresee him selling out bigger venues very soon.

2. Coldplay — August 2 at Liberty State Park

I’ve heard only praises about Coldplay’s concerts from friends who have witnessed them firsthand. I really don’t know why I haven’t seen them sooner. Luckily, I caught their phenomenal set at the always memorable All Points West festival this past August at Liberty State Park. The way I described APW to friends was it being Woodstock’s reincarnation if it were around in 2009. Mud wrestling, music and beer gardens was more like it. Sunday’s four-hour rain delay resulted in multiple canceled performances and scaled down sets, but Coldplay managed to save the day.

Always comical, after traipsing through the mud onto a stage in the middle of the field, frontman Chris Martin realized what festivalgoers dealt with the entire weekend. “We have infinite respect for you now that we had to walk through that shit. Wish we had backstage passes for all of you,” he said.

Witnessing Coldplay live and up so close, I have incredible respect for the band. While they played many of their hits, they also performed a moving tribute to Michael Jackson and the Beastie Boys, who had to cancel their performance due to member Adam Yauch’s cancer diagnosis. I couldn’t imagine a better band to close the three-day mudfest.

1. The Gaslight Anthem — October 15 at Terminal 5

I’ve been covering The Gaslight Anthem on You Sing, I Write, since last year when I flipped through Rolling Stone to notice drummer Benny Horowitz, former paginator of my college paper, featured as a breaking band. I did a double take and contacted all the people I knew who used to work for Rutgers’ The Daily Targum. Since then, I’ve been trying to cover a show and set up an interview to no avail. You’d think garnering an interview with a rock star you knew would be easy. Think again. After several failed attempts I d
ecided to purchase tickets to their show at Terminal 5 before it sold out. I’m so glad I did. I feel like I reverted back to my high school days of Warped Tour and crowd surfing. Then again, I think the 30-year-olds in the room did as well.

I have never witnessed such an energetic (and frightening) mosh pit in my life. It was like Warped Tour for 30+. No more emo boys, these are grown men dancing in the pit and creating havoc. I’m not going to lie to you, I did fear for my life, but that was the beauty of the concert. From the looks of frontman Brian Fallon’s face, he was just as surprised. By far the most energetic show I’ve been to all year, there is no doubt in my mind that The Gaslight Anthem will be selling out Madison Square Garden. Hopefully, by then I’ll be able to get an interview!

You Sing, I Write’s Top 5 Interviews of 2009

I’ve been trying to cut down on long top 5 posts, but as evident from my concert list above I’ve been a bit verbose. I’ll try to keep it brief with my interviews and post the Q&A; so you can read it for yourselves and see just why I think they’re my top 5 of 2009.

5. Train

They’ve reached worldwide success and many of their songs garnered top spots on memorable songs of the decade. I spoke with guitarist Jimmy Stafford at the start of Train’s tour where he filled me in on Train’s latest release, embracing the Internet and a younger fan base and the reasons behind their longevity. Read it here.

4. Better Than Ezra

After catching BTE live earlier this year, the three-piece band was back in New York for press in August. Unfortunately, I was extremely sick and losing my voice during the interview but didn’t want to cancel. It was 90 degrees in New York and the interview was at a Starbucks that felt just as warm. You know when you’re nervous and feel like you’re sweating, but it’s probably just in your head? Well, it definitely wasn’t in my head…I was dripping wet. Remarkably, the interview turned out much better than I thought. But, I did learn no matter how important the interview, if you’re sick it might be best to postpone it for a later date. Read my interview here. Note my “hottest Starbucks” reference. Clever, huh?

3. Taylor Swift

There is no denying it, Taylor Swift conquered the music world this year. I was so excited to attend her press conference during the CMA Music Festival in Nashville and incredibly determined to get a question in. Luckily, I did. Note the “your music is like writing in a diary” question. I can honestly say, she is as nice and down to earth in real life as she seems onstage. There is no doubt in my mind that Taylor Swift will be around for decades to come. Read my interview here.

2. Joshua Radin

Joshua Radin has accomplished much as an independent artist. He bought himself out of his major label contract to go on to release one of the best selling folk albums of the year. Not to mention, he performed at Ellen DeGeneres’ wedding, toured the globe and remains so humble. Case and point: When asked how he feels about being called this generation’s Bob Dylan he responded, “That’s absolutely ludicrous. Bob Dylan invented music. I just feel like that’s putting a bull’s eye on the back of my head for everyone to be like, ‘No you’re not. You’re not really as good.’ And I’m like, ‘Of course I’m not as good, I wrote my first song four years ago!’ And I probably never will be as good. But, I bet you I’ll be much better at being Joshua Radin than Bob Dylan is. That’s all I can hope for.” Read more here.

1. Third Eye Blind

Not many know this, but Third Eye Blind is how I got my start writing for Marie Claire. I remember getting dinner with my friend and colleague Diana last year and venting to her how I had a great interview with 3eb frontman Stephan Jenkins, but no music publication seemed to care. I reached out to every music magazine and Web site you could think of and they all felt 3eb was a band of the past. Boy did 2009 prove them all wrong. Diana must have seen my frustration and thought they might be a good fit for the Marie Claire audience, being that much of the reader age group grew up listening to 3eb and Stephan Jenkins was always a heartthrob. 2009 proved to be a great year for the band who released their album independently and saw a surge in their fan base. Read my interview here.

What were some of your favorite interviews of 2009? 2010 will bring many more I’m sure. Happy New Year!

Categories
Interviews

Ke$ha

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

Having attended several press conferences over the past year, there is always one artist that peaks the interest of those in the press room with their intriguing and shocking answers — this year it was pop singer Ke$ha. At least, this was the case when Ke$ha entered the room at last week’s Jingle Ball concert and told us what she’d be getting for Christmas. You can’t make this stuff up, kids.

The pop newbie will be hitting the road next summer for Lilith Fair, the all-female festival, joining forces with Colbie Caillat, Sara Bareilles, Sheryl Crow and many more women rockers. Read on to find out more about Ke$ha’s fashion style, upcoming album and hit song, “Tik Tok.”

You just got asked to participate in Lilith Fair. How do you feel about that?
That is news to me as of yesterday and it’s really exciting to be in the category of strong women all touring together. I’m really, really excited about it.

How aware were you of Lilith Fair the first time around?
Not. I think I was a baby.

What was “Tik Tok” written about?
“Tik Tok” was written about . . . one morning I woke up surrounded by a bunch of babes. It was like Babe Fest ’09 in my room ’cause all my friends crashed. And then I woke up feeling like Diddy. And so, I wanted to document the night before.

Who is your style icon?
I am inspired to dress like African safari animals and/or Keith Richards.

What are you asking for the holidays?
I’m asking my mom for . . . she found my placenta and she’s crushing it up and making it into a necklace because I think it makes you psychic.

How was it performing tonight at Jingle Ball?
Tonight was mental! There were so many people and I was so nervous and I never thought that I would get the pleasure of playing Madison Square Garden at 22. I feel so lucky, but it was really scary!

Tell us about your album.
My album is coming out in January. It’s called Animal and it’s definitely a super positive, fun record, but it’s not just all party songs. I think people are going to be really surprised at the depth of the record and also the different styles I experiment with.

Is it true you snuck into Prince’s house and got kicked out?
True. I did sneak into Prince’s house. True, I got kicked out.

What surprised you about his house?
Nothing surprised me about his house. I got his address and snuck under the fence and inevitably got in, walked in on him having band practice, left my CD for him and then got out.

Should young girls look to you as a role model?
I think there are certain things young girls can look to me as a role model for. I’m not saying everything. But, I do think it’s an important thing that I’m promoting. Happiness and the amount of money you have or make has absolutely no correlation ’cause the happiest times in my entire life have been when I haven’t had two dollars.

Do you have a favorite fashion designer?
I dig through the garbage.

$1 from every Jingle Ball ticket sold is being donated to Food Bank For New York City. How does it feel to be part of this charity?
I’m excited to finally have some sort of goal to help somebody else. That’s amazing and I’m going to definitely continue to do so with people and animals in the future.

How did you come to work with Dr. Luke?
Dr. Luke called me actually, one day out of the blue and flew me out to New York and then L.A. We just got along. At this point, he’s like my brother so it’s amazing.

What are you looking forward to for Christmas?
Honestly, I’m not looking for anything this year, except my placenta in a necklace, but I’m excited about being able to give presents this year that are going to be badass.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFakO7paiPY]

Categories
Interviews

Justin Bieber

I was backstage at the Jingle Ball concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City last Friday night, where Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Owl City, Boys Like Girls, and the other hot artists of 2009 performed. Before Justin sang “One Less Lonely Girl” and “One Time” for the screaming crowd, he beatboxed for press behind-the-scenes, professed his love for Beyoncé (multiple times!), and told us what he looks for in a girl. Check out the revealing Q+A!

Who is your favorite singer?
Beyoncé.

With all of your success, is there anything you’ve gone out and splurged on?
Not really. I buy a lot of candy.

What’s your New Year’s resolution?
My New Year’s resolution is…I’m going to stop eating as much candy.

You’re going on tour soon. What can a fan do to stand out from the crowd?
Be really loud. Be as loud as you can.

Who is your celebrity crush?
Beyoncé.

Have you ever had to deal with stage fright?
Not really.

What’s your favorite album of the year?
Blueprint 3.

What are some of your favorite songs from the year?
I liked “Use Somebody” [by Kings of Leon] and “Battlefield” by Jordin Sparks.

What has been the most misunderstood thing about you?
I don’t know. I think people have gotten their points pretty straight.

What’s the most important item to you?
Probably luggage because I travel so much.

Out of everything that has gone on this year for you, can you point to one highlight?
I got to go to Germany and I got to perform for 17,000 people.

How is it being in New York for the holidays?
It feels great. Being in New York for the holidays is great. The spirit here is fantastic and among that, being able to perform at Madison Square Garden is legendary. It’s going to be awesome.

You and Taylor Swift seem to be pretty close friends. Has she given you any advice about the industry?
Not really. When we talk, we talk about fun stuff.

What do you want for Christmas?
For Christmas I just want to go and see my family up in Canada.

Who’s an artist you’d like to work with?
Beyoncé.

What’s your favorite candy?
My favorite candy is Beyoncé.

What qualities do you look for in a girl?
I look for a girl that has a nice smile and pretty eyes and a girl that can make me laugh because I like to laugh.

What’s going on through your head when you’re onstage performing?
My fans usually.

You can read this interview, originally posted on Seventeen.com here.

Categories
Interviews

Boys Like Girls

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

The music video for Boys Like Girls’ most recent single, “Two Is Better Than One,” featuring Taylor Swift, was just released last Friday. Have you seen it? I chatted with lead singer Martin Johnson (who also wrote the song), guitarist Paul DiGiovanni, and drummer John Keefe at New York radio station Z100’s Jingle Ball concert that very day and got the scoop on what it’s like working with Taylor Swift.

I just heard your duet with Taylor Swift and love it! How did that come about?
John: We saw her say something about us in The Wall Street Journal and our paths crossed.

Paul: She wrote something about us in the paper, and we saw it and got in contact and became friends. We finished up the whole song “Two Is Better Than One.” It was all produced and recorded and we wanted to make it a little bit better. We thought she would do a killer job on it and we just hit her up, and she said she’d do it and it was the coolest thing ever.

Have you found people to be receiving the new single well?
Martin: I just got told in the gifting lounge that one of the people had been to a wedding and the cover band was playing it as the wedding song. We are now a wedding band. [Laughs] I’m blown away. When people react to it and say, “That’s our song” or “That’s my song and that made me fall in love.” That’s really special.

How was working with Taylor Swift on the song?
Martin: It was amazing. She’s really such a nice girl. We had known her for a really long time and had been friends for a while. John played drums on Fearless and then she became the biggest star in the universe. It was like shooting for the stars asking her to sing on the record. We were so delighted and fortunate enough to have her on the record. It’s going to be fun to perform with her tonight.

You have been friends with Taylor Swift for a long time. Have you noticed a change in her?
Martin: No, she stayed the same the whole time. She’s the best.

John: Taylor Swift is the perfect human being. She’s great. She’s such a nice, whole-hearted sweet girl and the biggest super star in the world. My mom would be stoked if I brought her home.

Do you have plans for the New Year?
John: We’re going to Michigan to play a New Year’s show outside. It’s going to be awesome!

Watch the “Two Is Better Than One” music video below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E231TF4CzU0]

You can read this interview, originally posted on Seventeen.com here.