Tag: Q&A

Categories
Interviews

Dave Barnes

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

Well known in the Nashville scene, singer-songwriter Dave Barnes is often referred to as Nashville’s favorite non-country artist. He’ll be playing Dierks Bentley’s benefit this Sunday, opened for Lady Antebellum in New York last Monday and just wrote a song for Billy Currington. Not to mention, Amy Grant and Vince Gill call themselves fans.

During his opening set at Nokia Theatre last week, Barnes joked with the crowd, had them cheer on cue and even brought out Lady A’s Hillary Scott to share the stage. “Dave Barnes is one of the sweetest and most talented guys I know,” Scott told the sold-out audience.

With his recent release, What We Want, What We Get, topping the iTunes charts, singles “God Gave Me You” and “Little Lies” receiving radio airplay and a tour with Brandi Carlile in the works, you can expect to hear much more from Dave Barnes in the near future. To learn about his latest album, songwriting process and the Nashville music scene, read below.

I caught your set opening for Lady Antebellum and the crowd loved you. Do you prepare any differently as an opening act than a headlining show?

Yeah. I really want to respect them and make sure they don’t feel like I’m trying to do my own thing too much. The deal with the opener is you’re trying to set up the closure to win. But it was fun, it was really fun.

Was the recording process any different on What We Want, What We Get from previous albums?

No. It was the same producer, Ed Cash. He’s done the last few records. The only thing that was different was that we rehearsed the songs before, which I’ve never done. I think it helped once we got in the studio, because we knew the songs and were a little more rehearsed. We took time off to record, so we had a chance to get them under our fingers so we weren’t walking straight in and didn’t have to figure them out on the spot.

I love “Little Lies.” What was your inspiration for writing it?

It’s as much to myself as it is to my wife. It’s a reminder to me that, “Hey it’s okay. Everything’s going to be alright.” And at the same time, it’s beating myself up about not being the man I want to be or the husband I want to be. I like the music because it’s still up. I really, really like it because it’s up and happy and it’s not too sad or distraught.

What’s your typical songwriting process like? Do you always carry a notebook around?

The beauty of the iPhone is that I can record so many ideas, both lyrically and melodically in there. It makes it a lot easier. I’m not having to struggle along and try to sing a melody 15 times so I remember it. I’m able to file stuff away which is so convenient. I’ve heard of guys calling their answering machines back in the day and all these different ways for remembering stuff, but now it’s just so much easier.

You wrote your current single, “God Gave Me You” about your wife. Do you feel it’s easier to write about real relationships or do your write about fantasy as well? (video below)

I try to keep it as real to life as I can. For me, I think I sing it with more conviction. And, it’s hard for me to write from a place that’s not true. It feels a little concocted.

Is there a song on the album that means more to you than the rest?

Lyrically, I really love “Amen.” I love what it has to say. But all of them, thank goodness, really resonate. It’s like children, it’s not that you like one more than the other, but they all mean something different.

You co-wrote two songs with Nashville artists, Trent Dabbs and Gabe Dixon. How is co-writing different then when you write by yourself?

By myself it is more work, which I really enjoy. I enjoy the work, not everybody does. It’s more of a challenge, but you also have more freedom whereas co-writing with someone is a lot quicker. The flow of ideas is faster paced. It can be so fun because sometimes by yourself it just gets so frustrating and laborious and it just feels like it’s taking forever. When you write with someone else, if you can’t find the groove they may be able to so it’s helpful.

What is it about the Nashville scene that’s so different from the rest of the country?

I really love the community of it. It’s such a healthy, vibrant place. So many people are rooting for each other. You’re not having contention and in competition with other people. Everyone gets to root for each other and cheer for each other and write for each other.

I’ve been reading so much about the floods. How can people get involved and help out?

There’s a lot of great stuff online. I’ve been following this one Twitter feed that is Nashvillest. They have tons of great ways to get engaged. I’m excited about getting home because I want to see what I can still do. Being gone the whole time has been really hard to watch from afar.

You went to Africa last year. How did you get involved with Mocha Club?

I got involved because my best friend runs it and he came to me about four or five years ago right when it started. He told me about it and then he took me on a trip to show me what they’re doing. I was in, I thought it was awesome. It was a pretty easy sell. It wasn’t something I was very skeptical of. It’s been awesome to see the amount of people that have joined with us as we do it. I think we may be going back this summer.

What are you thinking about while you’re performing?

It depends what show, what night, if I’ve eaten before. The Lady A show was a lot of trying to read the crowd and make sure everybody was into it and feeling it. ‘Cause you’re opening, you want to make sure everybody is interacting with you. Is there anything you could be doing to make them interact more with you? I’m just trying to make sure everyone’s with me and at the same time, trying to make sure I feel comfortable and I’m enjoying it and I’m always in it too.

When you told the crowd it was your birthday and you wanted them all to scream, were you afraid that they wouldn’t?

Oh yeah. I’m always like, “Man, this is a risk. We’ll see if this goes well.”

The music industry isn’t the easiest to break into. What has kept you motivated?

A lot of it was, it’s just such a muse. It sounds redundant because it’s in the name, but it really is. There are so many things I want to say, so many ways I want to say it. There is still so much to be conquered and explored.

Related Links:
• Song of the Week: “God Gave Me You”
• Lady Antebellum Talk Dating, Drunk Dialing and Dylan
• Lady Antebellum Bring Nashville to New York at Sold-Out Show
• Artist of the Week: Billy Currington
Categories
Festivals Interviews

Reba McEntire

Singer-producer-actress Reba McEntire is one of the most beloved acts in country. Her fans have been with her throughout 30+ years in the industry and continue their devotion. Whether it’s traveling hundreds of miles to witness her live or sleeping outside overnight before an autograph signing, they demonstrate their loyalty. At 2009’s CMA Music Festival press conference, McEntire explained what makes the festival so special, her admiration for Taylor Swift and Kelly Clarkson and her constant amazement of fans. Read below to find out more.

Your fans are very devoted. What are some of the fun things they’ve done for you over the years?
Oh my gosh, there are so many. When we were doing our backstage fan club program we would play fairs and have to empty the grandstands and then bring the fans back in. I had to hold the microphone and we would take questions. We didn’t do a meet and greet, per say as far as take pictures and sign autographs. We would just visit. That was the thing I loved most of all about the backstage program. They are very loyal, very sweet and some of them have been with me for over 30 years.

You were in the autograph booth for the first time in 13 years. How long were you autographing? What are some of your experiences, anything particularly moving?
Two hours, we went from 3-5 o’ clock. A cute little boy, his name was Riley and he was six-years-old. I got in a picture with him. I got down on my knees, and when we were saying goodbye he said, “Ms. Reba, can I come see your house?” I said yes. What else you gonna say? He was just a doll. There was one lady who told me she was reading my book, Comfort From a Country Quilt, when her mother was passing away. At the end of the book there is a title of a song and she said, “I didn’t know much about your music until this book and that was the last thing I was reading when my mom passed away. Would you sign this page?” It got us all very emotional.

A lot of those fans came down last night and slept outside to see you. What are your thoughts on their dedication?
It never ceases to amaze me, the dedication of the country music fan. They always come up with something new for me to go, “Wow. Now why would you do that?” But they were there, they’ve always been there.

Can you talk about your new album?
Sure. It’s called Keep On Loving You. It’s an eclectic group of songs. It’s got a story song in it. It has a western swing, bluegrass song, feel good time songs, sassy songs. It’s got songs for all age groups.

I read that you credited Kelly Clarkson with inspiring the new feel of the album. Can you talk about her influence on your sound?
Kelly Clarkson and I toured last year in the spring and fall and we stayed onstage the whole time together. So, she was singing harmony to my songs and I was singing backup harmony to her songs. When you’re singing to “Miss Independent” four nights a week, you’re having a big time getting that attitude going. So, when I started listening to songs, that’s what I was looking for. Attitude, sassy, women’s songs. It really made a huge difference.

Does anything make you nervous?
The thing that makes me the most nervous is a new outfit or new shoes. That’s why I’ve worn these boots since 2001. I’ve had them resoled probably 10 times. I’m getting to the point in my life where I like to be comfortable and I like security. That’s what really makes me very, very nervous. My advice to young entertainers is never wear new shoes. If you’re going to wear a pair of shoes to the awards show, wear them two weeks before. Break them in.

What makes CMA Music Festival special compared to other festivals?
Well, this festival is different because it’s for the fans. Everybody is here, but we all know it’s Fan Fair. It’s for the fans. That’s what makes it special. It’s our thank you to them.

13 years ago you probably signed autographs in Sheep Barn. Can you describe other ways that process has changed over the years?
Air conditioning is the main thing. To not sweat. They had told me that they cranked the air conditioning down, so be prepared. So I wore long sleeves and a t-shirt underneath just in case and I was just perfect. That’s the biggest difference that I can find.

Well, 13 years ago Taylor Swift was about this tall. What’s it like to be a veteran in the industry and to watch her grow as a woman and as an artist?
I’m thrilled to be in the same business as she’s in because I’ve learned from Taylor. She’s a very smart, old soul and she’s very in tune with what’s supposed to be going on. She knows how to think. She has a very great business sense so I like to eavesdrop in on what Taylor’s doing. I always learn something.

Everybody talks about you as an influence. Do you see your influence as a businesswoman in country music, or as a vocalist? Which do you see being imitated more?
I think I’ve always considered myself a stylist more than a vocalist. Businesswoman, absolutely. In the 80s I was saying to my manager and booking agents, “I want one agent to deal with my career. Not 10 different agents, we are getting all mixed signals here.” Back when I didn’t need to be playing arenas, they were booking me in arenas and it looked like sound check.  I said, “This has got to stop.” And they said, “No, well we don’t do it like that.” So after I let my manager go, divorced my husband and made my tour manager my manager, Narvel Blackstock and I started Starstruck Entertainment and we got a promoter and a booking agent that only dealt with me. That’s what I know worked real well because I wanted that personal, individual attention. I didn’t want to be divided with 15 other artists. I had to have the individual attention. Being a businesswoman is very important in this way of life. Look at Dolly Parton. I learned a lot from her. And now I’m learning from Taylor also.

Related Links:
• Q&A; with Taylor Swift
• CMA 2009: Six Artists to Watch
• Friday Song Addiction: Country Music Edition
• You Sing I Write’s Top 5 CMA Week Songs
Categories
Festivals Interviews

Zac Brown Band

Of all the bands that performed at 2009’s CMA Music Festival, I was most impressed with Zac Brown Band. Their stage show is dynamic and their musical interludes bring reference to both classic jam bands and rock & roll groups. While they’re most often placed in the country genre, don’t let that fool you — Zac Brown Band know how to rock more than most groups out there today.

I sat in on their interview at last year’s CMA press conference and was amazed at the band’s humility and dedication to fans. Read below to find out about the band’s hit single, “Chicken Fried,” and why CMA Music Festival is so important to them. Be sure to catch Zac Brown Band live tonight on “Late Show With David Letterman.”

You were at Bonnaroo and are now at CMA Music Fest. With two big events in Tennessee, can you tell us what has gone on at each?
Last night [at Bonnaroo] was amazing. Just an amazing night and amazing fans. We were able to pull out all of our other styles that we do and played 100 minutes. Tonight’s going to be amazing as well. There’s 70,000 people out there and a lot of these folks we’ve never played in front of before, so we have the chance to blow them away.

You recorded a song at Kid Rock’s studio. How was that?
We had an amazing day in Detroit. We played Hoedown for between 300,000 and 400,000 people there. Kid Rock came and sat in with us during our show and we ended up hanging out with Willie Nelson on his bus for a while after that. Sat in with Willie Nelson that night. Then, at midnight, went back to his house at his studio. We actually woke up a couple of the guys from sleeping and recorded this new song that we’re working on and it’s called “Colder Weather.” It’s actually my favorite song that we have ever written.

Did you ever imagine “Chicken Fried” would do so well?
We all had a feeling because we used to play around a lot. We played for five years together as a band, just playing in bars and small clubs and the amount of people that kept showing up and requesting that song. A lot of the songs we played were originals that they liked. But, especially with “Chicken Fried,” it was a show stopper. People went crazy. We had a little bit of an idea, but when you see it all come about and the rest of the country realize how much they love the song, it was pretty surprising as well.

I heard Alan Jackson was pitched “Chicken Fried” first. How do you think things would have gone if he cut it instead of you? What single would you have put out first instead? (video below)
I was excited to find that he found the song and wanted to do it. We share the same producer. I was honored. Anything he wants to cut of mine, he’s welcome to cut. He’s a legend. I think career wise, it was a little bit challenging at first when we put “Chicken Fried” out because the only thing people knew about us was that song so we were the chicken band. So now, I’m glad we have other singles coming out now. We’re not so much the chicken band, people are realizing we have more than just that song.

You said in an article that you’d love to put out two albums a year. Do you have other ways to get all that creativity out there before they accumulate so much?
We’re doing a live DVD and double CD in October. We’re going to be recording in Fox Theatre in Atlanta and that’s going to have a bunch of the new songs on it. Our creative outlet is that we write at a much faster pace than we could even arrange the stuff as a band, much less release it for the fans. We’re going to be on track to do one studio record and one or two live CD’s a year so we can have an outlet to do these kinds of things. We have so many songs and we’re always writing along the road so we’re going to figure it out. Even Brad Paisley, having four number ones in a year is an amazing pace to be able to continue and have four songs released and recorded out there and be able to do it, it’s definitely a challenge. But as more as the singles are getting out there, the awareness of the record itself has been there and there are people in towns that we don’t even know that know words to all our other songs so we’re very blessed.

What makes CMA Festival special to you guys compared to other festivals?
It’s our way to give back to the fans because we realize that we wouldn’t have our life in music if they didn’t buy our music and buy a ticket to come see us play. We try and have as many meet and greets and signings as we can on the road. Essentially [CMA Fest] is one giant meet and greet. A chance to give back to those people and make new acquaintances with them and to let them know that they’re really our bosses and our fan base that allows us to have our lives the way they are. We’re very blessed to do what we love to do and to make a living doing that. All the fans are responsible for that.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4ujS1er1r0]

Related Links:
• Q&A; with Brad Paisley
• CMA 2009: Six Artists to Watch
• Friday Song Addiction: Country Music Edition
• You Sing I Write’s Top 5 CMA Week Songs
Categories
Festivals Interviews

Jason Aldean

Country rocker Jason Aldean is known for his energetic stage show and unapologetic southern rock. He’s toured with everyone from Keith Urban to Rascal Flatts and Tim McGraw. Many of his singles have topped the country charts and he is currently leading nominations for the upcoming CMT Music Awards. Read below to learn about Aldean’s live show, his thoughts on rap music, Kid Rock and more from last year’s CMA Music Festival press conference.

You are moving up to that next level. From the inside looking out, are you able to feel that?
I think you can feel a little bit of a momentum. When “She’s Country” was out and peaking and doing it’s thing, I knew it was different than any other song I had. It’s not rocket science, I could tell that. When you play a show and you start seeing more people coming to your shows. One thing I noticed was that they were a lot more rabid than they were before. A lot more stage jumpers and things like that. I think you feel a little bit of it. It’s not an overnight sort of deal, but gradually you can feel a little bit of a momentum there.

Is there anything that’s happened in your career that you didn’t expect?
I don’t know. I think there are a lot of things like that. I remember the first time I played an awards show I remember thinking that it was going to be so crazy. But, all of a sudden you play and it was two minutes and you’re done and I thought, “What the hell happened? That was so quick I didn’t even have time to enjoy it.” It’s like anything, you always have things set in your mind the way you think things are going to go. A lot of times they exceed your expectations and a lot of times they fall a little short, but it’s fun nevertheless.

What is it like performing live? How do you sustain your energy?
I grew up playing in clubs. I came up playing in bars in Georgia, Alabama and Florida. It was my job to go out and play. I used to have to play four hours a night so to have to go out now and only play for an hour in a half, that’s nothing. It’s fun. I love getting onstage and playing my show. It gets me excited when people show up and you walk out and you see all those people that are there to see you play. They spent their money to come watch you play, especially nowadays. It’s up to me to give them a show and make it worth their while. You want them to come back and you want to make it fun and interesting and exciting so the next time we come to town this is one of the things they want to see. It’s all about creating a fun atmosphere. Some of my best friends are the guys onstage with me every night, so that helps. We’ve got a great job so we have fun with it.

How is it sharing the stage with Kid Rock?
You know what, I’m a big fan of his. I love Kid Rock. I’ve had the chance to hang out with him a few times. Talk about things that weren’t what you expected, he’s a prime example. I expected him to be this wild head case, but he’s not. He’s really cool. Really down to earth, fun dude and I’m a huge fan.

You were really looking forward to touring with Keith Urban and did more dates than you originally expected. You’ve opened for Rascal Flatts and Tim McGraw also.
I’ll say this. His show is the best show I’ve seen in a long time by far. I love the Flatts guys, they’re great friends of mine and they put on a great show. McGraw and those guys do as well. But, Keith Urban’s show is good. I don’t throw out compliments on people’s shows very often. His is really good. It’s one of those things, if you’re going to spend money to see a show this year, whether or not  we’re the opening act on it, I would check his show out ’cause it’s amazing.

Your song “She’s Country” has more of a rock vibe to it. How much do other genres of music influence your style? (video below)
I’m influenced by a lot of different genres. I grew up in Georgia. My dad always had traditional country music in our house. His favorite singer was a guy named Johnny Rodriguez. So, I used to listen to that stuff. Hank Jr., Merle Haggard. When I got a little older, I started to get into the 80s rock stuff. Guns N’ Roses, Poison, all the really bad hair bands. Then a little later I got into the southern rock stuff. The Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd. I’ve listened to everything. Rap has been the only thing I’m a little dicey on. It’s either hit or miss. There’s maybe a song I like every couple of years. I think most of that is probably because I don’t understand half of what they’re saying. For the most part, I think music is music and if it’s great, I listen to it.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AZLUohDCGo]

Related Links:
• Q&A; with Rascal Flatts
• CMA 2009: Six Artists to Watch
• Friday Song Addiction: Country Music Edition
• You Sing I Write’s Top 5 CMA Week Songs
Categories
Festivals Interviews

Luke Bryan

Awarded Top New Solo Vocalist and Top New Artist at the Academy of Country Music Awards last month, singer-songwriter Luke Bryan is making a name for himself in the country music scene. While hit ballad, “Do I” topped the charts, current single “Rain Is a Good Thing” is following suit as 2010 gears up to be a promising one for Bryan. Most recently, he was nominated for CMT’s Breakthrough Video of the Year for “Do I.”

Last year, I attended CMA Music Festival’s nightly press conference and asked Bryan a few questions. To find out more on his hit song co-written with Lady Antebellum, his thoughts on headlining and plans for this year’s CMA Music Fest read below. Stay tuned for more interviews from 2009’s CMA Fest next week.

How has your experience been so far this week at CMA Fest?
It was good! We did our fan club party yesterday and I realized that…I guess we had two hours and I was like, “We gotta do four next year.” I really wanted to sit down and talk. My drummer does a mean Aaron Neville and we let him come around and sing a little Aaron Neville. I actually wanted to do more [of that] because that’s stuff we do on the bus. Whatever gets you through the monotony of riding down the road. I wanted to do stuff like that with every musician in my band but we were running out of time. I wasn’t doing any songs and I think they probably wanted to hear a few of those. It’s been great watching the fan club grow. Next year we’re thinking about having two fan club parties or a bigger event.

What do you want to do when you have the headlining stage?
You dream your whole life to headline and I’m using this time now to work out kinks and get smarter and get bigger. I’ve got it all in my head, but it’s just the time to get there. I love when people say, “We feel like you already are a headliner.” But, I know I’m a long way from it. The beauty of last year getting to tour with Kenny [Chesney], you see headlining at the largest scale possible and what’s involved. I remember that whole tour I just sat back and watched it all and took it in and saw the things he did. Even when I was out front watching Keith Urban on a lot of those dates, I’m always memorized by the headliners. Just how they take over you. That’s what you work at and work hard for. The best answer is, I’m constantly dreaming of it and being prepared for that moment when you feel that momentum to where you’re fixing to start selling out 5,000 seaters. That’s what I pray for every night to get to that point. But, not to say I’m going to join that right now either.

What about the 60,000 outside at LP Field tonight?
Well, talking about Kenny, that was the beauty of that tour. It gets me comfortable in that environment. It’s been a year, but I walked out there [tonight] and I felt like I knew how to point at them way over there because I got a chance to do it last year with Kenny. It feels good to walk out there and have that many people looking at you. It’s what it’s all about. If you’re not prepared…you gotta go do that, so you have to be ready for it. It’s fun be comfortable up there.

You have a trio of friends that helped you out on your new single.
Charles [Kelley] and Dave [Haywood] of Lady A helped me write my current single, “Do I.” I wouldn’t say helped. We all wrote it together. They drove up to the house, we sat on the porch and drank a couple beers and now I have a single out. When we demoed it Hillary [Scott] heard it and flipped out over it and said, “Luke you have to cut it!” When we recorded it, there was no other background singer I could use other than Hillary. Lady A is all over that song. It’s been fun. I was on their bus earlier and showed them the video. We just got done with the video for it. To see their excitement…they’re there winning all the group awards and to watch them get excited about having a Luke Bryan song out there is a pretty special thing.

What are you thinking about while you’re onstage performing?
I really don’t know. I went through a point when I was out with Trace [Adkins] and I started thinking about what was going through my mind and the only thing that would happen was I would forget the words to my song. You try not to get too heady with it. Back to the headlining thing, there will be a day where I’ll have to be in one spot. Right now, that’s the fun part. My guitar player and I have been playing together for 13 years and we can just look at each other and make a move that hopefully looks somewhat planned and not stupid. I think the spontaneity and the non-structure of it makes it more comfortable. When you see someone walk to that spot and do their run of the mill poses, I’ve never been a fan of that. I’m crazy when we’re out there doing 140 shows a year. When we get 10 in a row where they’re the same that’s when I start losing momentum and talk to the band and say, “Guys I’m going to start calling out crazy stuff” just to break the monotony of it.

On September 26th, you’re the honoree spokesperson for National Hunting and Fishing Day. How is it to share something you already love and are passionate about?
It’s funny, when I heard I was doing that you don’t know exactly how big of a deal it is. About two months in, after several PSA’s and doing all that, I remembered the time with my dad we spent outdoors and just how important that is for children. You’re fishing and you’re hunting and that’s not the real deal that’s going on. You’re spending time with your family. I remember all the lessons. Me and my dad would fish every weekend it seemed. It’s been an honor to share some stories of mine and hopefully build more awareness. More and more of the outdoors are getting smaller. I just hope I bring awareness to it and get some people out there enjoying the outdoors.

Your single “Do I” has really allowed you to spread your wings both creatively and vocally. Was there any anxiety about new single because it is a departure for you?
Yeah. My first departure with “We Rode in Trucks,” my second single, didn’t go as well as I had planned. With “All My Friends Say” I think everybody wanted to keep hearing up-tempo, fun, party stuff. Everyone wanted a big summer hit and to come out with a ballad, we thought about it for a second, but we had so much excitement about the song. When you hear this song recorded you feel like it’s great. I feel like it’s really a great shot and my chance to show a different side of me where I sing some. To branch out and have a shot at hopefully a big top 5 or even a number one and have everyone so excited about it was fun too.

Watch Luke Bryan perform “Do I” below, for the official music video click here. For more, visit his Web site.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AOsHL3Dyck]

Related Links:
• Q&A; with Lady Antebellum
• CMA 2009: Six Artists to Watch
• Friday Song Addiction: Country Music Edition
• You Sing I Write’s Top 5 CMA Week Songs
Categories
Benefit Interviews

Shontelle

With her soulful voice and catchy beats, Bajan singer-songwriter Shontelle is making a name for herself in the music scene. The 23-year-old has toured with big name artists including Beyonce and New Kids on the Block. Additionally, she recorded “Stuck With Each Other” with Akon while Rihanna, Alison Hinds and J-Status have performed Shontelle’s song, “Roll.”

Gearing up for her second album release later this summer and a performance at June 10th’s Girls Who Rock benefit concert for She’s the First, Shontelle shows no signs of slowing down. To find out more on Shontelle, read below and visit her Web site.

What first sparked your decision to pursue a career in music?
I always wanted to make music. It was the only thing I never got bored of. Still is. I made the final decision to pursue mainstream music professionally when SRP Records contacted me and offered me an opportunity to sign a production deal with them. I couldn’t turn it down.

What inspires you?
Life in general for the most part. I’m obsessed with life.

What are some of the obstacles you’ve faced? How did you overcome them?
The biggest obstacle I’ve faced in music is proving that I have something beautiful and enjoyable to offer. In the beginning I felt a crippling resistance. I wasn’t sure why. But it felt like climbing the steepest, tallest mountain, with no tools, forever. Like struggling to breathe every day. It’s not easy trying to get complete strangers to believe in you. I still have a lot to overcome but I feel like I have come really far. I just try to stay focused on my goals and aspirations. When I look back on my life, I think to myself, “Why on Earth would I start walking backwards now?” So I guess I’m simply determined.

What’s your songwriting process?
It’s random actually. There really is no specific procedure I have. It varies. I just write when something comes to me.

What was your favorite subject to learn in school, besides music?
I love Spanish, Geography, Art and Biology. Hated Math. Still do! Numbers….not my thing. I’m logical yes, so I’m good with Semantics. I guess that’s why I also enjoyed studying Philosophy, but figures and numerals and formulas just make me short circuit!

What were you the first to do?
I was the first person in my family to be enrolled in the highest ranking high school in Barbados. I was pretty proud of that. I was even prouder when all two of my younger sisters also followed me to be accepted there. My parents are pretty proud too. I don’t really want to tell anyone what I want to be the first to do just yet. I’ve found lately, that whenever I share my ideas, they end up getting stolen…or at least so it seems. Remember, the animals told Cinderella to keep her dreams a secret. Do not tell…just do…

What’s the next big thing happening in your career?
Who knows? I just want to keep moving forward. I’m really looking forward to the release of my second album, No Gravity this summer.

What’s your favorite ‘girl power’ song?
I’m going to be biased and say, “Roll,” a song I wrote, performed first by Alison Hinds and later by myself, J-Status and Rihanna. I’m all about girl power. My song “Superwoman,” produced by Stargate on my first album, Shontelligence, is also a huge “women anthem.” But if you really want a song that’s not mine, then I’d have to say, “I’m Every Woman” naturally.

Why did you decide to get involved with She’s The First?
I’m always so excited to be a part of anything that supports, celebrates and uplifts females. After all, I’m one!

Related Links:
• Save the Date: June 10 Benefit Concert for She’s the First
• Meet the Artist Who Inspired Girls Who Rock
• Girls Who Rock: Meet Cara Salimando
• Q&A; with Orianthi
Categories
Festivals Q&A

Poll of the Week: Which CMA 2009 Interview Do You Want to Read?

This week is country music week on You Sing I Write. I’ll be attending Lady Antebellum, Laura Bell Bundy and Taylor Swift concerts throughout the week and figured it makes perfect sense to introduce you to some up-and-coming country acts too. Stay tuned to Twitter for live reporting and recaps of each show!

As far as this week’s poll, I have some press room interviews of last year’s CMA Music Festival that I haven’t gotten up on the blog yet and I want to know which one you’re dying to read. I’ll transcribe the artist that gets the most votes for you the end of the week. (And, if you’re lucky maybe the rest next week!)

Which CMA 2009 Interview Do You Want to Read?

Jason Aldean
Luke Bryan
Reba McEntire
Zac Brown Band
Need You Now
Categories
Benefit Interviews

Cara Salimando

Last week, I introduced you to Kelli Pyle, the artist who inspired our Girls Who Rock benefit concert for She’s the First.We’re thrilled to welcome Jersey girl Cara Salimando to the lineup! Having recently toured with Ingrid Michaelson and Mat Kearney and performed at Bamboozle, things are going well for the 18-year-old singer-songwriter. Salimando is set to play at Lilith Fair later this summer as well as Girls Who Rock June 10th!

While she’s been compared to Regina Spektor and Ingrid Michaelson, Salimando’s descriptive songwriting and distinct vocals make her stand out. Read below to find out more on Cara and be sure to give her a listen on MySpace.

What first sparked your decision to pursue a career in music?
I’ve always loved music. I can’t exactly pinpoint one exact moment or instance. I think taking voice and piano lessons from a young age helped me realize this was the only thing I could be doing with my life. I had two very inspirational teachers; Stacy Smith of Red Bank, NJ was my first voice teacher and Gregg Zubowics of Woodbridge, NJ was my fourth piano teacher. They both encouraged me to write my own songs and learn how to write on an instrument. I never thought I would even make it as far as I have so quickly. Without their guidance and assistance, I have no idea what I’d be doing right now.

What inspires you?
I’m mostly inspired by relationships between people. My friends, my family, myself. Romantic or platonic. I write a lot about people, and from other peoples point of view. I guess you could say that I’m inspired by the people in my life.

What’s your songwriting process?
It’s always different. But I can’t lie. I come up with my best ideas in the shower. I pretty much wrote “Cigarette Smoke” in the shower. Maybe it’s because I have so much time to think in there. I have no idea. I just came up with a pretty cool riff the other day that I’m excited to develop. Honestly, I think I just need a piano and an empty house to write. Lyrics, for me, come first. Usually the vocal melody comes with the lyrics simultaneously. I mostly do chord changes and piano very last. But like I said, it’s always different.

What are some of the obstacles you’ve faced?
In high school I had a music teacher that wasn’t very supportive of my “budding career.” He was very discouraging to work with. I wasn’t a “favorite” so very little attention was paid to me. I liked popular music, which isn’t a part of the curriculum in a high school music program, only classical and jazz were [so] I dropped the music program. But, it turned out to be a good thing. I think if he had given me his approval and given me opportunities he gave other kids, I wouldn’t be where I am right now. I think it’s a bad thing when too many people believe in you. You get a big head. I think a little adversity is great fuel for your own fire. Believing in yourself is what really counts.

What was your favorite class in school, besides music?
English, hands down. I love to write and read. I read so many books. I’m a nerd.

What were you the first to do or what will you be the first to do?
I don’t know if I’m the first to do anything! There’s a lot of people in the world, how can you be sure? I’m the first to be Cara Salimando. And I’m okay with that! I suppose it could be said that I’m the first girl from Little Silver, New Jersey to get a record deal at the age of 17.

What’s the next big thing happening in your career?
I’ll be playing at the Lilith Fair festival this July in Indianapolis! I’m really excited. Sarah McLachlan is a huge influence of mine, so it’s a completely mindblowing opportunity to be involved in something she’s so passionate about.

What’s your favorite ‘girl power’ song?
I don’t know if this counts as a girl power song, but probably “Sleep to Dream” by Fiona Apple. It’s empowering in it’s own way.

Why did you decide to get involved with She’s The First?
Education is important. I’m lucky. I grew up in a small town, in a pretty house, and went to great schools ever since Pre K. I’m aware that other girls aren’t so lucky. No one should be denied a good education for any reason. The fact that there are so many girls that don’t have the advantages I did growing up is upsetting, because something CAN be done about it, unlike so many other issues that are out of our hands. I’d love to be a part of anything that helps other girls get the education they need to be successful, well spoken adults and professionals.

Dust 
Categories
Interviews

NEEDTOBREATHE

One of the most talked about bands over the past few months, NEEDTOBREATHE has been gaining attention with their impressive release, The Outsiders, and energetic live show. Even Taylor Swift is a fan, recently tweeting “Trying to find a @needtobreathe concert close to one of our tour dates– dying to see their show!”

Taylor Swift isn’t the only one taking notice. NEEDTOBREATHE earned three Dove Awards last month, winning the most of any artist at the awards show. The band’s wins included group of the year, rock/contemporary album of the year for The Outsiders and rock/contemporary song of the year for “Lay ‘Em Down.”

Set to play Bonnaroo next month, the South Carolina natives don’t show any signs of slowing down as their tour continues throughout the fall and winter. I chatted with drummer Joe Stillwell on the phone before their hometown performance in Clemson, South Carolina, just seven miles from where the band grew up. Stillwell filled me in on the origin of the band, the story behind some of their songs and what has kept the band motivated over the past 11 years.

“If I wasn’t playing music then there would be something missing from my life,” Stillwell said.

Read my exclusive interview below. For more on NEEDTOBREATHE, visit their Web site and watch the band perform their award-winning hit “Lay ‘Em Down” below.

Congratulations on your 3 wins at the Dove Awards! Did you imagine the album would have this much success?
It’s pretty cool. The rewarding thing is that this is based mostly off of people talking about the record. We’ve seen so much growth and people coming out to live shows recently. Ever since the fall tour, right when the record came out and up until now, it’s exploded as far as the number of people that are coming out to shows. It’s not based off of one big single on radio. It really feels like these are people who have heard the record and were told by their friends, “You need to listen to this record.” For us, that’s really rewarding because it says that people really connect with the art that we make and not just hear one song on the radio.

I wanted to ask you about “Lay ‘Em Down.” What was the inspiration behind it?                                                                                                                                                           
We were working on a different song in the studio when we were getting demos together for this record and it just wasn’t going well. We were hitting a wall working on that other song so we took a bit of a break. Bear and Bo [Rinehart] went into another room and started messing around with guitar parts. I think they had the lyrics written within 10-15 minutes. It was a really quick, organic songwriting process. But then of course, because we’re such studio rats, we spent two days getting the stomps and claps perfect. It was really fun doing that song. It’s got a lot of soul to it.

One of my favorite tracks is “Stones Under Rushing Water” with Sara Watkins of Nickel Creek. How did that collaboration come about?
After we had written “Stones” we knew, after running through it a few times, it needed to be a duet. It needed to have a female voice on there. We had a few different ideas as to who we might want to do it. When we went to record it, turns out [producer] Jim Scott actually worked with Sara Watkins and was good friends with her. He gave her a call she was all about it. She came out to the studio in LA for one day. She came in and laid down some vocals. We almost had her play the fiddle too. She was absolutely amazing, just a beautiful, beautiful voice and she’s such a sweet person. It’s definitely one of my favorite tracks on the album.

You all grew up in South Carolina and there really wasn’t much of a music scene there. What sparked the decision to start a band?
Bear and I roomed together when we went to college at Furman University in Greenville, South Carolina. We just started playing music in our dorm room and around campus and got the band together. Because there aren’t a whole lot of places to play close, you just start traveling and play anywhere that will have you. College weekends consisted of driving several hours to play a show somewhere in the southeast instead of hanging out and fooling around on campus with our friends on the weekends. Instead, we were driving around in borrowed cars and playing rock shows. And it’s paid off now.

NEEDTOBREATHE has been together the past 11 years. What has kept you motivated?
I think it’s the fact that we know this is absolutely what we’re supposed to be doing. For us, people ask us the question of what you’d be doing if you weren’t in a band and we’re just like, “I haven’t even thought about that.” I would be a completely different person. If I wasn’t playing music then there would be something missing from my life. It’s that kind of knowledge that we feel like we’re supposed to be doing it and the drive to make it happen.

I heard Taylor Swift is a fan and even tweeted that she wants to catch a show. Has she made it out yet?
Not yet. We’re still waiting to get that call to tell us that we to need to add extra security because Taylor’s coming to the show. It’s pretty cool especially since she has like three million followers on Twitter. A ton of new people got turned onto us from that so it’s pretty awesome. We saw Twitter comments after she did that from her fans saying, “I love this band now” and then we also saw some Twitter comments from our fans saying, “Well I guess it’s cool to like Taylor Swift now.”

You’ll be playing Bonnaroo in June. Is that the first big festival for you?
It’s not our first festival. It’s our first time at Bonnaroo. We’ve done festivals before, but this is definitely the biggest we’ve done so far. We’re pretty excited about it.

Do you prepare any differently for a festival?
A little bit. The show that we do in clubs, it’s a lot easier to get quiet and be a little more subtle with the show. With a festival, there are so many people and its outdoors. Everything is so huge you have to play the bigger songs and you can’t really do the more intimate type of things that we do in a club setting. It becomes a little bit more of a high energy show. Our normal show is already high energy, but you’ve gotta do bigger movements and bigger songs in order to get people to see you all the way in the back.

How would you describe your music to someone who has never heard it before?
When somebody asks me how I describe the sound of NEEDTOBREATHE I typically say its good rock & roll. Rootsy rock & roll with a lot of soul to it. That’s the only real genre I can put our music in. It’s just rock & roll. You can’t pigeon hole it much more specific than that because it does cover such a broad range. I always say rock & roll and let them make their own decisions.

What are you thinking about while onstage performing?
I typically focus on what I’m doing whenever we play. I’m behind the drum kit and at the back of the stage [so] I can’t see as much of the crowd as the guys up front can. I just try and interact with the guys as much as I can and get into my own little world. They play off the crowd a bit more because they’re right there and can get that energy from them.
I react more to what the other guys are doing rather than what the crowd is doing. You can still feel the energy from the audience back there, but I’ve closed myself off behind the drum set. I tend to zone out every now and then.

Is there a song that means more to you now than when first written?
I think for me, a song that I’ve always loved is “Don’t Leave Just Yet” off of Daylight. I’m trying to convince everybody that we need to bring that one back and start playing it live again because it has such a great groove to it. I think “Haley” is a really good song. It stands the test of time.

For more on NEEDTOBREATHE visit their Web site or purchase a copy of their album.

The Outsiders 
Categories
Benefit Interviews

Kelli Pyle

A few weeks ago, I told you about the benefit concert for She’s the First I’ll be helping with. She’s the First is a media campaign that promotes the importance of educating girls who would otherwise not have the opportunity to go to school. In the upcoming weeks I’ll be announcing each artist performing at the June 10th show in NYC. Stay tuned!

This week, I chatted with Kelli Pyle, the singer who inspired the Girls Who Rock concert. With her sultry singing style and seductive dance moves, Pyle sings everything from R&B; to blues, jazz and pop. Not to mention, she has shared the stage with Usher, Alicia Keys and John Legend. The Missouri born and bred singer now calls New York her home where you can catch her performing live. Read on to find out more on Kelli and what She’s the First means to her.

What first sparked your decision to pursue a career in music?
I’ve always loved to entertain ever since I can remember. Music has always meant so much to me. When I was little I used to always ask my dad to turn the radio to the station that played 1930s and 1940s music and I would dance to it and feel so inspired. My mom said she used to play “P.Y.T.” by Michael Jackson for me while I was in her tummy. I think it was something that I was born with. A natural love for music and to perform.

What inspires you?
This is a deep question because so many things inspire me. Something as simple as a flower, a poem, seeing the sunrise, nature, seeing others do good deeds. There are so many inspiring things around us everyday and I think sometimes we overlook them because we get so caught up in the hectic lives we live.

What are some of the obstacles you’ve faced?
I’ve had a blessed life, with good parents and a solid upbringing so that really set a foundation for my life, but I think I face the same challenges a lot of girls my age face. At some point in our lives as girls we face issues with self doubt hoping we can live up to the standard society has set for us. In the music industry the media paints a picture of “perfect women” and there is no such thing. So sometimes you find yourself comparing yourself to others and that’s never good. I’ve learned that I’m exactly who I am for a reason I love every part of me! I’m 100% confident in who I am.

How did you overcome them?
I’m confident in what I do and the decision I make in life. I make sure that when I wake up in the morning I start off positive and I’m thankful for everything I do have. And with that I feel I can overcome anything.

What’s your songwriting process? 
Sometimes it starts off as a poem, sometimes a melody, sometimes a good lyric, sometimes it’s getting in the studio with talented people and feeding off their creative energy. It’s all those wrapped into one big bundle that makes a good song.

What was your favorite subject to learn in school, besides music?
Anything to do with animals. I loved when we were able to study animals and nature and how the world works. I also really enjoyed nutrition and how it applies to the body. I’m passionate about eating organically and taking good care of my body so that was always interesting to me. I also really liked English, especially when we were challenged to write a story. Writing always came very natural to me and was very therapeutic. As a kid I remember writing many poems under a big white birch tree we had my yard.

What were you the first to do or what will you be the first to do?
I want to inspire people with my music. I know I won’t be the first person to ever inspire someone with music, but I want to be the first to inspire someone in a way they’ve never felt. I want girls to feel empowered by what I stand for which is giving back, loving yourself, respecting this world we live in. This is why I’m so honored to be a part of “She’s the First” because it represent the same things I do.

What’s the next big thing happening in your career?
I’m working hard on promoting my Kelli Pyle album which is available and out now on itunes. I will be performing for “She’s the First” benefit so I’m really excited about that. I’m taking steps everyday to climb this ladder of success and reach the top and I always want to make sure I enjoy the journey. I never want to lose sight of why I started in the beginning.

What’s your favorite ‘girl power’ song?
I love the song “Video” by India Arie. I’ve listened to that song so many times to feel empowered. India Arie isn’t your typical artist she is outside of the box and she is truly beautiful for that. That song allows women to really sing a song that says “Hey I’m beautiful no matter what.” And I love that. It’s a great thing to leave women with empowerment instead of degrading them like so many songs do in this day and age! I love it when she says “Go on and love yourself, everything is gonna be just fine.” Girls need to love themselves so they can give back and love the world.

Why did you decide to get involved with She’s the First?
It’s an amazing cause. Girls are the future. If we can shape and mold them into strong women then the world will be a better place. Girls become mothers who set the foundations for our children. So if we start with putting girls first and giving them the love, education, and direction they need then we are securing a bright future!

Kelli Pyle’s impressive debut self-titled album is available now on iTunes. For more on Kelli be sure to give her a listen on MySpace. You can catch Kelli live at Crash Mansion May 6. To find out more about She’s the First, visit shesthefirst.org.