Junior's Cave Online Magazine Blogs

Sebastien Parentin

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 00:00:53 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Sebastien Parentin

Late Winter (February 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Sebastien Parentin

Photographer: Etienne List - Styl'List im@ges

Musician/Singer/Songwriter Sebastien Parentin certainly makes listening to his music easy with his angelic voice. He sings with such passion and warmth that his vocal creates a level of intimacy throughout Parentin’s many wonderful tunes. If you are a music lover of fine crafted music, then Sebastien Parentin is going to win you over with his style. Here is a recent interview I completed with the talented musician. Enjoy!

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Sebastien: DIY that's the word. DIY is surely what characterizes me the most, in so far as every part of the process actually goes through me (from lyrics and music writing to mixing). I like the freedom that comes with, even if it's pretty time consuming, when you are like me, a kind of perfectionist. It is not really a choice. I am not against working and playing with other members, but I did not really find yet the good ones...

What's cool nowadays with Internet, social networks development, more and more powerful and affordable DAW and plugins, is that you can easily get your home-made music heard from anywhere in the world. That's why precisely it's an amazing time to be a DIY artist... but, on the other hand, there is plenty of indie bands growing from Internet, and it's up to you then to wonder what sets your music apart from the mass, or if your music is really worth it.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have build up over the years about you in the process?

Sebastien: Maybe yes... or no. Like a lot of things, it depends on the terms of contract... As a very emerging French songwriter, I would say that signing with a label, despite a certain loss of freedom, would not be a bad thing for me, provided that I keep the control on the production and songwriting process.

In my opinion, working with some talented musicians and producers would be a heaven-sent opportunity to broaden my scope and make some fulfilling relationships. But, being a marketing product.... no thanks!

Sebastien Parentin

Photographer: Etienne List - Styl'List im@ges

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Sebastien: It's not easy to answer that question. I do not pretend being better than others. I just try to make my music conveying to the listeners something beautiful that resonates somewhere with their deep feelings. Since the day I entered songwriting contests (2 years ago), I know that my music can touch people... I was indeed selected as finalist in a few of them with some very encouraging feedback from industry professionals.

That's also the reason why I keep on writing until now. More generally speaking, for me, a song is a dice roll. Even if this song really satisfies me, I will never be sure of the impact it will have on listeners, how they will interact with my music. That's why their feedback whether negative or positive, is really the key for improving myself, and precisely developing my “it” factor.

Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

Sebastien: I do not control emotions that listeners can feel when they are listening to my music. Fans feedback always surprises me. Very often, I hear from them feelings that I would never hope to convey: delightful, calming, heartwarming... What more can I expect than that?! It makes me feel “helpful” in some way and gives me a little bit more self-confidence.

A thing that I really miss. More technically speaking, people particularly like my voice, songs harmony, and the way I let space for strings (violins, cellos) in my arrangements, as well as evolving atmospheres.

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

Sebastien: Actually, I am still feeling that I am in my early beginnings. Nothing really concrete has happened to me since I really began to devote my time to songwriting. I gained some little recognition through several international songwriting contests (the artist forum, billboard, etc.), but on the other hand I know that I need to work more on my branding, imaging and online presence.

Very often, this is the main reason mentioned by magazine promoters when they refuse me a feature. Fans need to identify themselves to the artist they listen to; they need to know more about him beyond music and words. So, I can understand promoters’ position. As I said in my EPK, my dearest wish would be to meet industry leaders to make all my projects a reality. For the moment, I think that submitting online to song contests is a great and best opportunity I have to achieve my dream.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

Sebastien: Definitely Coldplay, even if I feel less and less close to their last artistic choices, more, I would say, electro pop. I think they moved away from their debut spare and melancholic universe: simple soft rock arrangements with leading piano, and bright pure echo guitars are less present. However, I don’t really disapprove. I notice this band is just trying out new ideas (sometimes very audacious) again and again… but without losing their precious songwriting talent.

A few years ago, it is definitely when I listened to “A Rush of Blood to the Head” that I thought to myself: “I want to do that!” It was the trigger. Songs like “Politik”, “The Scientist”, “Amsterdam” or “Clocks” (of course) made me realize that we could create some beautiful airy rock creations with a piano-driven tapestry. Since this day, I decided to go one step further in songwriting with the objective of maybe reaching one day this level of sound pureness and beauty. I also think about bands like Keane, Sigur Rós, or Radiohead… They all succeed to create a very attractive sound atmosphere, which deeply resonates in me.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Sebastien Parentin

Photographer: Etienne List - Styl'List im@ges

Sebastien: My vision is quite limited, because I can only talk about the situation of indie music in France. Indie music is still in its infancy in my country. I would even say that the word to qualify this kind of music exists here, but is not very widespread. Majors lay down the law. Like in the US, there are several TV shows meant to promote young “talents”, but the idea is to look for a great performer with a short term marketing vision rather than true songwriters. I don’t know any good radio station dedicated to Indie music, and festivals are very few. In other words, it is quite impossible to earn a descent living here if you’re not affiliated with a major. A lot of work has to be done!

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Sebastien: I think music industry should give more “tools” for young songwriters to help them meeting industry leaders by making their work more accessible. I often have the feeling that music industry is split into two very separated worlds: the have (established artists that are over-promoted everywhere in TV shows, music videos, great radios…), and the have not (maybe very talented but unknown songwriters). It is actually not really original to say that, a lot of people observe the same thing. Maybe music industry should be more present in social media network, and organize from the Internet more events to excite isolated songwriters inspiration.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

Sebastien: To be honest, I have absolutely no idea of what near future will look like. I just notice that we are in a transition time. In one hand, majors are more and more complaining about the damages of piracy, which prevent them from taking risky choices like giving a chance to young unknown artists. On the other hand, music creation has ever been as accessible as today with the ever-growing selection of powerful digital tools offered to songwriters.

With the development of Internet, and particularly social networks, it has also ever been so easy for a musician to get heard from anywhere in the world. So, we come to a point where we have a few established artists who are over-promoted in every radio, every TV-show, and on the other side, a huge number of emerging artists from the Indie world who try to get heard by any means. The offer is so huge, disparate, and fleeting, that consumers get easily lost.

However, among them, a few talented artists, maybe future hit-makers, and no really efficient way to put the light on them, giving them the success they deserve. Once music business will understand that, the transition will be really done, and big record companies more and more limited, I think… unless they try to get their share of indie music market mutation.

Sebastien Parentin

Photographer: Etienne List - Styl'List im@ges

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Sebastien: Up to now, and I am the first surprised; almost always very positive, and I think, sincere. When it is not positive on some specific points, it is always constructive, so I take it. Feedbacks come from different backgrounds: family, fans, accomplished musicians, well-known producer, songwriting contests judges, or magazines.

I already partially answered to that question on question #4, but words that have been used to describe my music are often touching, and really encourage me to move forward. I am never fully satisfied with my work, and because sometimes I feel uncertain about myself, this positive energy helps me.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Sebastien: No hesitation, yes! Simply because making music does make me happy. It helps me to face the things of life. The process of songwriting is definitively like an outlet to clear my mind. Moreover, whatever fame and fortune, as long as my little circle of fans likes my music, I see no reason to stop.

Currently, music is an all-time consuming passion, precisely because I am spending much time on fine-tuning my songs to get a kind of radio-ready sound, with the hope of interesting industry leaders. So, of course, if I knew that I would never gain exposure, I would spend less time on these things, and let more space in my spare time for my other passions, family, and friends.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Sebastien: It all depends if the negative feedback is constructive, and finally helps me to improve myself, or not. I always said that I prefer sincere feedback rather than nice one… Of course, if I can have both, it is even better. The “Why?” question can be very useful in this case, to find out if, whether negative or positive, the criticism is considered or not.

Not considered, feedback has the same effect on me: positive one means the person lies to me; negative one means the person does not like me. Thus, it sounds very close, and false to me, so I pay no attention to it. But, when the negative feedback is very strong and insulting (meant to hurt), it is never an easy thing to forget it…

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your quest of a music career?

Sebastien: My father and brother do the dirty work! They are in charge of pointing out every bothering aspect in the mix or in the structure of my brand new songs. I consider them as my most reliable “beta testers” team. I know that their opinion is right and frank, always pertinent (even when we disagree), so I blindly trust them. As long as every bad aspect has not been fixed or compromise been found, I do not release the song; it is as simple as that!

Throughout my childhood until now, my father has also worked as singer/songwriter with some great international class artists on different French pop albums. I enjoyed sharing with him this musically intense time: listening to his new songs, watching him writing them, supporting him through his few concerts. Since this time then, I was dreaming of writing one day my own song. So, without my father I think I would be nothing (musically speaking).

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…

Sebastien: Nothing to add. Just, because it is really important to me, I would like to address some very special thanks to René, Guillaume, Marianne, Ivan, Dominika, and Sarah for their lovely support!

And, everyone is welcome to follow me on my Facebook page, or on reverbnation:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Sebastien-Parentin/167448216644263
http://www.reverbnation.com/sebastienparentin

I need your support!

Jonny Debt

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 23:03:29 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Jonny Debt

Late Winter (February 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Jonny Debt pours his heart & soul into making his wonderful music. His rusty vintage style is what makes him one of the best singer/songwriters out in the music industry currently. Junior’s Cave recently spent some time speaking to the talented artist about his music and what is his drive to continue to create amazing songs. What I learn from this honest and candid interview is why this publication is enjoying the music of Jonny Debt. Here is the complete interview for your reading pleasure.

Isaac: I believe it is the best time currently to be a DIY performer. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie/DIY performer?

Jonny: It’s absolute freedom. It’s like being a gun slinger in the Wild West (). If you are strong enough, you live how you want to live. When you have to fight, you have the element of surprise, nothing like winning over the crowds that don't see it coming.

Isaac: Would you ever consider signing on to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Jonny: When I was a lil’ kid, I use to dream about being on a record label like my child hood hero Jim Morrison. I'm a poster boy for calling the Taurus stubborn and men immature because I haven't changed much in the last 20 years.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Jonny: I get to be myself and people like me for it. I'm my own person when I’m writing and performing.... honest living feels good

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Jonny: I don’t know! I write/play songs and sell albums, and the only thing I know about indie artists besides that is I am one.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Jonny: My first 60 songs I recorded I couldn’t afford to be in a studio and nobody wanted to work with me. So I recorded and experimented mostly by myself at a lake side ware house in the distillery district I rented out for about three years. The experience gave me some seasoning and professionalism. Now when I walk into a studio I’m fast and confident with putting creative ideas to tape.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived); affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Jonny: I started living on my own at fifteen, and I've lived in major cities such as Toronto, New York, Austin, La. and small beach towns of Franklin County Florida, Victoria, Banff and Oakville Ontario. It left me with no limits to genre, and I like it all as long as it’s good.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Jonny: When writing, you must serve the music and act in the moment with no thoughts of outcome. If you try to sound like someone else or be something you’re not, it will show in your writing. Timeless art comes from the subconscious followed by creativity, hard work, and spiritual sense. If you’re a geek, you will write geeky music. If you’re shallow, you will write shallow music and that gives people a reason to relate to you. Nothing is lamer or more Dorkish to me then a lazy lyricist, spitting negative ego cause it sounds like what somebody else did.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Jonny: I always expect NOT to be famous or make any money. I'm Jonny DEBT!

But, I always make music, spending time in my day creating gives me a positive break from drugs, sex and binge drinking.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How do they support you financially, emotionally, spiritually, etc.?

Jonny: Nobody helps simply because they don't understand the creative process; they want you to do what they have done. There are very few handouts in this business. If you can’t do it yourself, you probably can’t do it!

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Jonny: I never seek out music. I'm not that cool or trendy. I just listen to what reaches me and sticks. I have around 6500 vinyl records some are new some are old.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Jonny: The 60's!!!!

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Jonny: JonnyDebt is on MySpace, iTunes, Facebook and Twitter. What else is there?

Isaac: Friendsmix.com coming soon by the folks of Junior’s Cave---just saying!!!

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Jonny: I'm a 100 shows deep into the (Jonny Debt "I Like U " 1000 Shows to Success tour) in celebration of my newest album called " I Like U" so if you see some random guy napping parked on your street in a flat black 92 Jimmy don't call the cops. It’s just Jonny Debt on tour ().

Thanks for the read everybody.

And Thank you Isaac for the interview of your friend jonny Debt

Official Facebook Page:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jonny-Debt/119378524777514

BLOW FLYY

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 02:47:50 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with BLOW FLYY

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

BLOW FLYY

Photo Credit: homegrondaproducer

Junior’s Cave presents an interview with Indie Hip-Hop artist (BLOW FLYY) who is showing others that an artist does not need profanity in his or her music to showcase one's lyrical skills. Blow Flyy does this perfectly throughout his music. Here is his story.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

BLOW FLYY: I enjoy having creative freedom.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

BLOW FLYY: I would not sign with a major label do to the fact I like my creative freedom. I also trust my older cousin whom is my manager. If I signed with a major label, they might want to bring in their own management.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business? BLOW FLYY: I don't try and sound like anyone else or sound like I’m from a certain place. I found and created my own sound along with my producer. Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

BLOW FLYY: Fans should listen to my music because it’s good story telling without the usual profanity. When they listen to me, they are going to get a good story and not just me rapping about whatever comes to mind, about the streets, or just a catchy hook said over and over again.

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

BLOW FLYY: At 17, I started out writing Poetry then took it to a studio and put music to it.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

BLOW FLYY: I relate to Kanye West and Tupac; in the sense that they are and was story tellers. Indie music does not get the respect it deserves because most indie artists like me do not have the funds it takes for the right amount of Marketing & Promotion. There are DIY artist living paycheck to paycheck.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

BLOW FLYY: IF I could change one thing about the music business, it would be that all artists had to pay their dues and go through the grind like most DIY artists and not through reality shows like American Idol etc.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

BLOW FLYY: Yes, due to the Internet this is happening little by little.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

BLOW FLYY: Yes! Due to the Internet…this is happening little by little.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

BLOW FLYY: The feedback I have received from fans state that they like the fact that I created good Hip-Hop without the usual profanity that is in lots of the majority of Label Hip-Hop artists’ music. Critics say that all in all my music is radio ready as a DIY it’s not sounding like it’s from the underground it sounds more commercial.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

BLOW FLYY: If I knew I would not gain fame, I would still make music because I enjoy writing and giving people something other than major artist to listen to. There always are going to be people that want to hear something besides major artists especially on the NET.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

BLOW FLYY: When I receive negative feedback & energy about my music, I use it to keep striving, writing and recording Hip-Hop music that radio listeners want to hear I use it to continually challenge myself to create something better ever time I put something out.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your quest of a music career?

BLOW FLYY: A few of my family and friends encourage me and help me this is what keeps me writing and putting out music and challenging myself to get better and better.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

BLOW FLYY: The best sites to see Blow_flyy on are (http://www.indiecastle.net/Blow_flyy) also (http://www.folrecords.com/profile.php?user_id=161)

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

BLOW FLYY: The Internet is helping DIY artists like me have some success we otherwise would not have in the music industry. This allows us to reach fans we would not be able to reach and them hearing our music.

Glenn White

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 01:52:17 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Glenn White

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Glenn White

Junior’s Cave interviews Jazz Saxophonist Glenn White in this special spotlight that showcases why he has been making amazing music for over 20 years. Learn more about the man behind the saxophone and why our publication thinks others should check out White’s music for themselves. Here is the entire interview for your reading pleasure.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Glenn: Being an Indie performer allows me to keep things small and manageable. Nothing happens without my knowing about it, so I have the opportunity to be selective in regard to what I choose to involve myself with.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Glenn: I have released three CDs: the first by myself, the second with a well-known and recognized Indie label, and the third with a smaller, less-known Indie label. All three have their merit. A label (Indie or otherwise) gains recognition for the effort it puts into its projects. But, as is reasonable, this effort takes time, resources, and money, and you pretty much get what you pay for.

I have had both sides of this, in that one label I worked with impressed the hell out of me and charged me through the nose to do it, whereas another charged nothing, and did little other than put their logo on the discs. Ideally, it would be nice to be met half way. I'll hand over the reins if I have to, but I think it would be nice to approach production and promotion more collaboratively.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Glenn: Lately, I have become fascinated with the many different ways of creating music apart from what has been done for the past few centuries. We have always had things to strum, pick, hit, and blow into, and our flyspeck notation system is a great way of communicating data from one person to another (especially before recorded music was possible). But now we have people going into rehearsals with Logic and DP files instead of chord charts and lyric sheets. In addition, many people are treating composition more as a form of found art, as they digitally arrange preexisting materials. There so many ways of making music now and it's all fascinating.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Glenn: Finding an audience. I have played far too many times to a room populated with little more than the waitstaff and the sound man. I've tried everything . . . email lists, Facebook blasts, hiring publicists, putting together bands with brand-name players, and by and large it has all amounted to the same thing. And it's like this for a vast majority of the concerts I go to as a listener. It would seem that the days of performing as a means of building an audience are over. It just seems like so much work with so little pay off.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Glenn: Sure it does. We're in an age when major labels consider a new release a success if it gets a few hundred thousand sales (as opposed to the multi-platinum releases that were commonplace before iTunes). The only possible explanation for such huge declines in major label sales is that people have turned to Indie music en masse.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Glenn: While I can think of some funny stories about places that I've played over the years, most of them aren't followed by stories of things coming out better as a result. Suffice to say, when you're in your element, you play better, and the audience feedback is more rewarding.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived); affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Glenn: I moved to New York (three times) specifically because nearly everyone I listen to who is alive lives here, and I want to be part of what they are part of. I grew up in Phoenix, and have also lived in Denver, Boston, and Fairbanks. And while each has their merits, the circumstances surrounding my presence in these areas had more to do with non-musical reasons.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Glenn: I've been performing, composing, and putting my own groups together for more than 20 years without fame or fortune. What do you think?

Isaac: I think you are doing what you need to do successfully no matter the financial outcome is.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Glenn: I'm always looking for something new to listen to, whether it be something altogether new or something older that I just haven't discovered yet. I have always been a sponge for new information, and am constantly on the lookout for people who find new ways of composing, improvising, and producing.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Glenn: I tend to gravitate towards what most people would call modern or progressive jazz. My favorite group of all time is the Miles Davis Quintet of the late 1960's, but I'm also a huge fan of Miles's Bitches Brew period, and all of the side projects that that amazing music inspired.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Glenn: http://GlennWhite.net

Noshir Mody part 2

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 01:06:02 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Noshir Mody

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Noshir Mody

Photo Credit: Brian Csencsits

Our publication interviewed guitarist Noshir Mody almost two years ago. Many things have changed since that first encounter with our online magazine for the talented guitarist but some things remain the same. What remains the same is Mody’s masterful commands of the guitar which he continues to make beautiful and intoxicating sounds.

Without a single word, the command that Mody has with his guitar is the strongest point to the guitarist’s music. In our online conversation with Mody, the artist reveals more about his music and further fascinating facts about him and his upbringing.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Noshir: As an indie artist, I have always had the ability to make music the way I heard it, but with today’s technology I am also able to bring this music to a global audience. I love that my music is now played on Jango.com, a free internet radio website, where listeners world-wide can hear my music and decide if they would like to support me.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

Noshir: I understand that in order to scale at any level, one has to be able to collaborate with multiple entities to achieve a common goal. But for me it’s not the major label deal that is attractive but rather the ability to work with experienced, class-act individuals who can positively impact me and my music. So a major label deal in itself holds no appeal for me.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Noshir: I truly believe it is the music. The music is easy to listen to but the subtle complexities of the phrasing, rhythmic structures and improvisational elements keep the music fresh for the listener and full of surprises.

Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

Noshir: This music creates a mood for the listener that is thought provoking and fosters conversations. The music is presented as instrumental narratives performed with a blend of virtuosity and creativity. My latest release, Union Of Hearts - a trio CD, with Daniel Foose on bass and Kim Garey on drums is a great album to listen to whether you are hanging out with friends over dinner or taking a long drive by yourself as it creates an inspiring and uplifting atmosphere.

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

Photo Credit for Union of Hearts (Album Cover): Noshir Mody

Noshir: I'm a self-taught musician and to this day I cannot read a note to save my life. I've developed my musical skill by spending time with advanced musicians in improvisational settings and on my own leveraging gadgets and gizmos. I have used loop stations like the Boss RC-20 to create arrangements, software programs like Cakewalk to preview these arrangements and websites such as Gootar.com to reverse look up guitar chord names so that I can create minimal chord charts for the ensembles.

But all this aside, the single biggest influence on my development as a musician has been life itself. I am deeply interested in human nature and consider myself incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by amazing, caring and compassionate people. They have always been my inspiration and it is through our interactions that I am able to create this music.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

Noshir: I love the way Ulf Wakenius approaches the guitar. His album 'Forever you' is easily one of my favorites. I feel he delivers the melodies in a pure, heartfelt manner which resonates with me.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Noshir: I think it’s getting there. Indie artists are now getting heard on a larger scale which is a big step in commanding respect within the industry. Commercial formats have historically put forward artists that they believe will fit within a box and cater to the already cultivated audience demographics. In contrast, the independent music scene allows for artists and listeners to challenge these confinements and identify what works for them across a number of genres and formats.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Noshir Mody

Photo Credit: Sueyoung Yoo

Noshir: Commoditize the business side of things, not the art form. I believe varied artists should be able to engage a business model that works – what we have now is a business model that dictates what the artists should be like.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

Noshir: Yes. I believe very soon every artist will be able to produce top quality recordings. However to perform at that commercial level of multimedia frenzy which includes cross selling across movies, TV, commercials and multiple book deals - artists will always need an infrastructure that is typically only made available to them by the big record companies.

Isaac: What type of feedback have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Noshir: It's been very positive! I typically post the feedback and reviews on my website www.NoshirMody.com. Check it out.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Noshir: Yes. I experienced a musical dry spell where I did not record or perform publicly for a number of years. While I continued to be successful in other areas of my life, I felt quite lost. The music I make sustains me to function on every other level, so it is my deepest desire that it does not leave me.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Noshir: It’s never been easy for me but over the years I believe I’m handling it a lot better. I try to identify the intent of the person providing the feedback. If it feels like it is coming from a reasonable place, I will typically focus my energies in finding the value in their comments.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your pursuant of a music career?

Noshir: I feel very blessed in that everyone has been incredibly supportive.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Noshir: www.NoshirMody.com

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Noshir: At this point in my life I have spent near equal parts of my years in the Eastern and Western hemispheres of this world. It resonates within me that the principles of rhythm and harmony are an intuitive inheritance that we all possess. Given our varied diversity I believe this is our universal heritage. I am deeply grateful to belong to a community that is involved in developing its artistic endeavors to fruition.

Noshir’s original interview with our publication:

http://www.juniorscave.com/Noshir-Mody.html

Matt Smithey of Injustice Down

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:30:44 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Matt Smithey (Guitar) of Injustice Down

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Injustice Down

Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine recently interviewed Matt Smithey (Guitar) of the Indie Hard Rock Band Injustice Down about the band’s music. We enjoyed our one on one conversation with Smithey as he detailed the band’s passion to bring their music to the masses. If you are a fan of the hard rock genre, then Injustice Down delivers on all counts. Check out this exclusive spotlight with Matt Smithey of Injustice Down in this ultra-cool spotlight.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Matt: It’s has to be the creative freedom. We are making music purely for the joy of making music. We realize we are not using the same rock formula that the current rock artists are using but that’s what makes us different. That’s what seems to grab people’s attention. Although we are obviously influenced by our heroes that have now found themselves without a home on radio, we write the way we hear it in our head, not someone else’s. Right or wrong, it’s straight from the soul.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Matt: Of course we would be willing to sign with a Major or Indie Label, assuming it was the right situation. We would love the opportunity for greater exposure and the chance to be heard on a wider scale. The more chances we get to use additional resources the better. But until then, we will continue to use everything at our disposal as an independent artist.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Matt: Besides the excitement of writing a song and hearing it all come together as a band, it has to be the studio. There is no better feeling than going into the studio and hearing that song you’ve spent months perfecting come to life. Leaving the studio with the rough mix and playing it over and over. Knowing you captured what you set out to do. It’s an awesome feeling. It’s a sense of accomplishment that is hard to describe.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Matt: The cost! For Independent artist to do what we love to do, it costs a lot of money. For a band to accomplish their goals, it takes complete cooperation from each member in the band and a lot of times those commitments involve financial decisions. Continuing to write and record is something we want to continue doing, but to record at a level that we want, costs money. Asking your band mates to spend money on recording without putting anyone in a financial bind can be a tough balance sometimes.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Matt: I believe there are areas that respect and appreciate Indie music. Indie music definitely has a bigger voice than it did years ago. More and more music fans are becoming willing to listen to Independent artists. Unfortunately, we still battle the stigma of being independent. Main stream influence is a hard battle to win. Radio today is nearly hopeless for an Independent artist unless it’s an Independent station. My understanding is main stream radio has on average 25 songs in rotation, which is why we hear the same song numerous times per day. That is hard to compete with. So until the stations start playing music based on quality instead of which song a Label is pushing, Indie will not get the respect it deserves.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Matt: For us, energy is everything. The one gig that I would say had an “unusual” feel was when we recently played the San Antonio Rock n Roll Marathon. The sound was great, everything was organized well, but it was definitely a weird vibe on stage. First of all, we hit the stage at 8:55 in the morning with a slight fog still lingering, we are at the 17th mile marker, runners are slowly coming by, some have ear phones in their ears, some could care less, a few look like they want to puke, while others throw up the rock hands. Trying to jam out on stage in that environment definitely impacts the energy a little but we still gave it our all.

Injustice Down

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived); affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Matt: All four of us grew up and still live in Seguin, Texas which is a small town about 40 miles from San Antonio. I’m not sure if the location had much of an influence on our music or not. It’s very possible that it did.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Matt: Our process is the same for each song. Carlos and myself get together specifically to write. Our songs are always based around guitar riffs that I have in mind or something that I hit on during the writing session. Once we both agree that a certain riff feels good, we begin building around it. I usually continue playing the riff over and over with variations for bridges or possible chorus options but always come back to the main riff.

As I play, Carlos begins doing what he does best. He starts to feel the vibe of the riff and begins shaping a vocal melody to the music and laying down lyrics. Before long we have worked our way through the major components of the song. We will continue shaping and molding the song until we feel it’s ready to introduce to the band. As recently as last week, we used this process to begin writing the next album. After about 3 hours we came out with 2 solid songs that we feel will grow into a couple of powerful songs for our sophomore album.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Matt: No doubt. This is one of the best things I’ve ever accomplished and fame and fortune does not come into the calculation of whether or not to continue. We set out to write and record a rock album and it took over a 1 ½ years to do it, but we did it. Nothing compares to the feeling of completing our goal. Hopefully, we have the opportunity to do it again, with or without fame and fortune.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How do you help you as your pursue your music dreams?

Matt: We definitely have a strong support system and that is the most important thing. Our families completely support the time and financial sacrifices that we make. Without that, bands will fall apart quickly. As far as our friends go, if it wasn’t for their encouragement and excitement about the music we were writing, who knows what would have happened.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Matt: I would have to say that my interest has seemed to grow. It’s probably because of the knowledge of how to access more music. As we try and get our music out there, we find a lot of new resources to explore which makes it easy to find great music. Now when someone suggests a band or artist, we can instantly find them and give it a listen. It’s become very easy to follow and discover new music.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Matt: It’s probably obvious when you listen to our music where our influences are. Within the group we are divided a bit, but still from the same era. While Carlos and Chip are huge Iron Maiden fans, I was a bit on the Hair Metal side while Ron gets into Godsmack and Staind. Overall, we are influenced by the 80s/early 90s.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Matt: We can be found on numerous ways. Our band website is www.injusticedown.com, iTunes, Facebook www.facebook.com/injusticedown, Reverbnation www.reverbnation.com/injusticdown, Youtube www.youtube.com/injusticedown, Twitter www.twitter.com/injusticedown

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words……

Matt: We would love it if folks would give our debut album “Smoke and Mirrors” a listen. The production is very professional. We hired Grammy Award winning engineer Stuart Sullivan, and recorded the album at Wire Recording in Austin, Texas. The album is something we are very proud of and most rock fans will enjoy it. You can find it on iTunes, Amazon, etc. for download or you can order the CD straight from our website for $9.99 and we pay the shipping.

We want to thank Isaac and Junior’s Cave for giving us this opportunity. It’s great to see the support for Independent artists.

Clouds Make Sounds

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 00:28:16 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Clouds Make Sounds

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Clouds Make Sounds

Photo Credit: Christina Moliterno

We have had the pleasure to interview an indie band that is taking the indie music scene by storm. Meet Clouds Make Sounds made up of sincere friendships, youthful musings, and genuine talent. The band is heavily influenced by such musical iconic giants as Jeff Buckley and Fiona Apple. These influences create an amazing tune that is the signature sound for Clouds Make Sounds. In this spotlight with our Webzine, Josh Hines of Clouds Make Sounds tells us the band’s story.

Clouds Make Sounds are: Josh Hines, Deron Johnson, Joe Marchese, Jeff Mach, and Shannon Cantor.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you feel you contribute musically to the Indie Music Culture?

Josh: I think we contribute a sort of youthful freedom and passion for music. Also, we are all educated musicians who respect musical complexity. This combination makes for some very interesting and dramatic sounds that show our commitment to the music.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

Josh: No, we wouldn't sign if that were the case. There are a lot of bands that are making it on their own these days and I don't think that any amount of money is worth our musical freedom.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Josh: Though we are fairly young we are very committed to the music. I think our ability to create interesting and original music at such a young age is what will make us stand out in the music industry. We also take pride in our live performances which is something that young indie bands tend to lack.

Isaac: What do you think makes your band stand out from the rest of the musicians/artists out in the music industry?

Josh: Our music is powerful, emotional, and dramatic. All of our songs tell a story people can relate to.

Isaac: Do you feel you have given it your best when pursuing your musical dreams so far? Why or why not?

Josh: Personally, we are all pursuing music whole heartedly. We are planning on moving to a better location once Joe graduates from college. Jeff and I have already dropped out of college in order to work and save money for when the band moves.

Isaac: Who do you look up to for your own influences and why?

Josh: My biggest influence is Jeff Buckley. His ability to create beautiful melodies is something that I strive to emulate especially in my vocal performances.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Josh: I think indie music is beginning to make huge steps in the music industry. A lot of indie music is now even being recognized by hip hop artists such as Jay Z and Kanye West.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Josh: I wish that the music business would start to recognize talented and original music instead of hiring cute kids and auto tuning everything they sing. The success of artists like Mumford & Sons and Esperanza Spalding is a step in the right direction for the music industry in my opinion.

Isaac: What has been one of your biggest setbacks and how did you overcome it? What lesson did you learn about yourself?

Josh: My biggest setback actually happened back in April 2011. I broke my left wrist skateboarding and it was difficult to play certain things on guitar. I took the time to learn how to write songs in different ways. Also, I've spent some time learning how to play Ukelele and lap steel.

This setback has taught me how valuable my hands are and that I really should take good care of myself so that I can pursue my dreams. I also learned that I can write music in many different ways and even if I couldn't play guitar it would not stop me from creating music.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Josh: We have been getting extremely good feedback from our audiences. A lot of people have been coming to shows, bringing friends, and spreading the word. We have many dedicated fans and are supported heavily by people of all ages. Our publicity has been growing rapidly and it doesn't seem like it will be slowing down anytime soon.

Clouds Make Sounds

Artwork Credit: Aly Mitchell. Photo Credit: Cameron Goodworth

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Josh: Fame, fortune, debt, or hardship we will continue to create music for the love of it and each other. I don't believe that anything could get in the way of our music or our friendship. If anything, fame and fortune will give us more incentive to write. Also, if we end up having money then we will be able to devote all of our time to writing.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Josh: I can honestly say that the only negative feedback came from an old man with a hearing aid. We tend to play loud and sometimes people can't handle the balls.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your quest of a music career?

Josh: All of our families and friends support our music and hope to see us achieve great success.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Josh: The best site would be www.cloudsmakesounds.com but we can also be found on YouTube, Facebook, MySpace, LastFM, iTunes, ReverbNation, Sonicbids, BandCamp, Twitter, and other music and social networking sites.

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words & wisdom of thoughts...

Josh: I would just like to thank you and Junior's Cave Online Magazine for conducting this interview and helping us promote our dreams.

Rays of Son, week of Jan. 22, 2012

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:10:51 GMT

Sowing and reaping is

a big part of everyday life

By Greg Miller, Christian Syndicated Columnist and Writer/Author

Bradley, a farmer, and Broderick, a banker, were best friends.

　

After the annual autumn harvest, Bradley visited Broderick at the bank to deposit the money he had earned from the sale of his crops. Bradley deposited $50,000 into his checking account.

　

“I see that you had a successful growing season,” Broderick told his friend.

　

“Yes, the Lord was certainly good to me this year!,” Bradley beamed. “I had the right combination of rain, sunshine and hard work. Plus, before I planted my crops, I planted another kind of seed.”

　

“What kind of seed was that,?” asked Broderick.

　

“I set a goal of the amount of money I wanted to sell my harvest for,” Bradley smiled. “And I utilized plenty of daily declarations of faith during the process.”

　

“You know, it’s amazing how this crop growing process works,’ Broderick said. “You plant the seed in the earth and, after a few months, you reap hundreds or thousands of times more than you sow.”

　

“It seems like a miracle to me, too,” Bradley grinned. “But although I’m thrilled with the concept of reaping more than I sow, I’m also keenly aware of the weed pulling that makes up a major part of the process. On some days, it seems like I do more of the work than God does. I think weed killing is one of the parts of the job I enjoy the most.

　

“God expects you to do your part in the partnership,” said Broderick. “And if you know what I mean, God knows that in order for our lives to be productive and fruitful, the weeds of sin must be pulled from our lives each day.”

　

“I know exactly what you mean, Old Friend,” said Bradley “I’ve been farming for almost 40 years, and it only took me a couple of years to learn that valuable lesson, both in the field and in my life.

　

“Something else that’s interesting to me that the law of sowing and reaping will apply equally to any crop I plant. One little seed of corn becomes many ears of corn on the cob for my family to eat. The key is to always sow the right kinds of seeds.”

　

“I’ve made an observation about this seed sowing principle, too,” said Broderick. “Everything we say, and everything we do is a seed we sow into the lives of others. And whatever we sow, good or bad, will result in a gigantic harvest in our own lives, as well as the lives into which these seeds are sown.”

　

“And these kinds of seeds are always in season,” chuckled Bradley.

　

To contact the writer of this column about speaking engagements and/or puppet ministry, please email kidcool4jesus@yahoo.com.

Content copyright 2010-2012. Junior's Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine. All rights reserved.

Pseudo – Blood Of Our Own Film Soundtrack Released

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 03:03:32 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Pseudo – Blood Of Our Own Film Soundtrack Released

JANUARY 16, 2012 – CALGARY, AB – Canadian Bollywood Films is thrilled to announce the release of “Pseudo – Blood Of Our Own: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” on Jan 13, 2012. The audio companion to the film has taken over a year to create and will delight filmgoers and music fans of all generations.

Film producer Harsimran Dhillon and director Gursimran Dhillon collaborated with the talented composer and music director Mandeep Dhaliwal to select the songs featured on the soundtrack which play an

integral role in the film.

“Working with Mandeep on Blood Of Our Own’s soundtrack was an extraordinary experience,” said Harsimran. “The film has multiple levels of reality so, the same concept had to be considered and applied when approaching the music. The selection of songs we made and the various ways in which they were each envisioned had to add depth, dimension and meaning to the sequences they exist within. Mandeep did an amazing job creating an intricate musical landscape to accompany the surreal imagery of the film,” Gursimran added.

Fascinatingly reworked versions of the Punjabi folk song “Jagga” illuminate the soundtrack. The rap version is strong and edgy and is sure to strike a chord with the younger generation while the classic version will be appreciated by the mature audience for its unique presentation. “Paise Da Khel” beautifully sung by Rai Jujhar is the backbone of the film driving the relationship between the characters, their struggles with the inner-self and the lengths they are willing to go to achieve their goals in life.

TRACK LISTING:

1. “Paise Da Khel” – Rai Jujhar

2. “Jagga (Gangster Mix)” – Mandeep Dhaliwal featuring Deep Cold

3. “Jagga (Classic Mix) – Ranjit Teji

4. “Dil Mera” – Mandeep Dhaliwal

Pseudo – Blood Of Our Own is a cross-cultural Bollywood action drama that takes us into the harsh realities of working in the drugs and gang world. It’s a world where friendships, relationships, trust and loyalty are all up sale to the highest bidder. The film stars British model Naresh K and an ensemble of talented Canadian cast led by Manwinder Gill, Tay Shawn Prinse and Paul Grewal.

The soundtrack is available for digital download from Apple iTunes, Amazon MP3, Google Music Store and other online retailers.

For more Information, please contact:

Sonia

Media Relations

Canadian Bollywood Films

Calgary, AB. sonia@canadianbollywood.com

###

Dream Chemistry

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 03:14:23 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Dream Chemistry

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Dream Chemistry

If you are a person who has an eclectic taste when it comes to his or her music, then Dream Chemistry is the perfect band for you. Their music combines several popular genres (Rock, Organic Fusion, & Acoustic Rock) into a wonderful mixture of brilliant sounds/tunes. We had the pleasure to speak to band members about their music and their experience of working, performing, and playing together. Here is their story.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Dellynn: I enjoy the one on one personal engagement of being an indie performer.

Jimmy: I enjoy being able to write what I feel, musically. As an indie performer, there is no corporate entity telling me that I can’t take a simple country riff and marry it to a jazz, classical or heavy metal riff. I can express at will with no boundaries or boxes restricting me.

Neal: The live performance by far… it's all about the live performance for me.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Dellynn: Of course... so long as if they didn’t want to compromise who we are and the message we want to put out there.

Jimmy: At this point in time, I don’t know how willing I would be to compromise Dream Chemistry’s sound or message. It took a lot of time and patience on everyone’s part to find the right pieces to create it. Unfortunately, most labels tend to tear down something unique to make it more ‘commercial.’ On the other hand, if a label was interested in taking Dream Chemistry at face value and developing ‘our style’ further, I would certainly love the resources that a label can offer to exploit it to the masses. And on the third hand, I was signed to Capitol Records for a short time and it didn’t do much for me. So I guess I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it. The terms of a contract are everything.

Neal: Absolutely yes! A lot of opportunities open up for those signed with major labels.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Dellynn: Right now is the time for a real, raw, genuine shift in our society. What better way to be sending the message out than through music!

Jimmy: I can’t choose any one aspect. I love the whole process. I love every minute that I am creating, recording or performing.

Neal: The most amazing aspect to me is sharing what we create in a live setting. Feeling the enthusiasm of the crowd and knowing that we are helping to create that positive and uplifting energy is very cool.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Dellynn: ...that a lot of people think there is a "mold" you should fit into to be "popular" or "excepted".

Jimmy: I’ve done this for so long that nothing discourages me anymore.

Neal: ...moving equipment.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Dellynn: Yes I do believe it does. I think there are numerous indie bands that have paved the way and set the rest of us up to get the kind of exposure that is due. Also, there is a large group of people who are looking for more creative groups they can truly appreciate.

Jimmy: That’s a loaded question. There aren’t many filters when it comes to indie music. I review a ton of indie artists for various webzines. The problem is I have heard, both, the best music and music that lacks all basic essentials, like pitch, meter and key in the indie realm. So it’s really an impossible question to answer. Filtering is a main function of labels. But labels also tend to filter out some quality music in lieu of a pretty face.

Album Cover "Images of White"

Dream Chemistry

Neal: Yes, I think Indie music gets the respect it deserves. An Indie artist typically doesn't have as large of an audience to share their music with, but I think if someone likes a song it doesn't matter if the artist is signed to a Major Label or an Indie Label. It's all about writing good music.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Neal: When we played outside at the Goodyear Gardens right off the I-10 freeway, there was construction going on with loud hammering during our entire performance and there was nothing we could do about it.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived) affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Dellynn: I think living in Arizona has really caused me to appreciate the beauty of nature. I have been inspired by how a desert can be filled with so many beautiful colors from the flowers and cactus to the sunsets that glow in the sky.

Jimmy: I grew up in Hawaii. Hawaiian music tends to be very country sounding with a jazzy flavor. There are definitely some of those influences in what I write.

Neal: I've been in Arizona since the age of 5 and I listen to a very wide range of music... so I don't know if living somewhere else would affect what I write and listen to.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Dellynn: The most recent song I wrote literally came to me in a dream. It was very surreal, I was being carried through a castle hall that was very dimly lit and heard these angelic voices echoing through the pathways. As soon as I woke up, I got out of bed and went straight to my guitar to capture the notes in my memory and later that afternoon went down to the basement studio to record it!

Jimmy: I have a process for producing and recording and even preparing for a gig but I have no set process for writing music. In Dream Chemistry, I’ve written entire chord changes and then allowed the rest of the group to expand on that. Neal has written entire bass lines first and then we have added our interpretations. I have written chord changes to melodies that Michael has played me.

We have literally just jammed in a room and then taken the best parts and melodies and created a song. Lyrics have come, both, completed by one person or in parts with everyone contributing a line or two. The variations of how songs come together in this group are endless. It is a rarity, but this group has 5 true artists within the group. I can honestly say, almost every song has had its own unique process.

Neal: Well, once during a band rehearsal we had decided to take a break, but like most breaks I kept playing around with my Dulcimer. I found myself playing some new rhythm and Tito overheard me and joined in. Pretty soon everyone else stopped their break and joined in as well. We wrote a whole song, on the spot, in just a few minutes. And I should add; it also happens to be the first song we wrote collectively as a band. Pretty cool, huh?

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Dellynn: I would absolutely continue to make music if there were no money involved. It is planted deep within me and would always find its way out.

Jimmy: I have had many brushes with fame and fortune, never getting over the hump. I’ve been making music for 32 years and will be making it for another 50, should I live that long.

Neal: Playing music is healing to my Self. Yes, I would continue, especially if it is with the members of Dream Chemistry.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends?

Dellynn: I do have a wonderful support system. My boyfriend is a musician as well and supports all my musical adventures. He helps in many ways to keep it all alive! My family and friends are all very encouraging also.

Jimmy: I have a great support system. Though, I am mostly self-sufficient through investments I have made, my wife and entire family do support my career choice (music) implicitly.

Neal: I have better than a support system, not only does my wife Cindy support what I am doing, but she asks "how can I help" and then makes it happen. It is such a big part of her life as well and that makes me very happy. I'm just lucky like that. And as far as me helping myself, I married Cindy! hahahaha!!!!

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Dellynn: I have always been interested in discovering new musicians and bands. It has only increased since I have gotten involved with writing. It is inspiring for me to experience other people’s gifts.

Jimmy: As stated earlier, I spend a lot of time reviewing independent artists. So I hear as much music as I always have. It’s just not main stream. I have lost focus on what is happening in the main stream, as I cannot listen to the radio without changing channels until I find something that I like. And that just annoys me.

Neal: At this time, I find that I am less interested in seeking out music by other people. Although there are a few newer heavy bands that I think rock.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles that you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Dellynn: I am most drawn to opposite styles. I absolutely love acoustic mellow dramatic vibes like Iron and Wine, Andrew Bird, Feist, Ray Lamontagne, Sufjan Stevens... but then I also LOVE bands that just play this masterminded, ALL OUT performance as well, like Soundgarden, Rage Against the Machine, Muse, Queen, and Primus!

Jimmy: I like Bach from the Baroque Period, almost everything from the classical period and Gustav Mahler from the Romantic period. I’m not fond of the big band era or rock & roll era, although I do like a lot of the R&B that came out in the 50’s and 60’s. The Beatles, Led Zep, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple (late 60’s/early 70’s), progressive rock and art rock of the 70’s like Kansas, Yes, Genesis and King Crimson. Early 80’s heavy metal (Judas Priest, Merciful Fate, Iron Maiden), late 80’s groove rock (Dan Reed Network, Maggie’s Dream, Extreme), Alice in Chains and Soundgarden from the 90’s grunge era (the rest were too loose and sloppy for my taste).

I also listen to a lot of fusion, progressive rock, and new age from the 90’s (Yanni, Acoustic Alchemy, Symphony X.) Since the turn of the century my tastes have been so diverse that to list them would be futile. Today, I listened to Gypsy Soul, Incubus, Opeth, Sade, Robby Roberson and Dream Chemistry. How’s that for spastic?

Neal: I can't answer that because my taste in music crosses all musical periods and styles. I love everything (except RAP)!

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Jimmy: For starters, we can be found at the following webs and networks. You can also connect with some of us individually on Facebook.

www.DreamChemistry.com
www.cdbaby.com/artist/dreamchemistry
www.facebook.com/dreamchemistry
www.youtube.com/dreamchemistrymusic
www.reverbnation.com/dreamchemistry

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Dellynn: Learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.

Neal: Please go to our website and listen to our music. If you like what you hear buy a CD or two and maybe even a Dream Chemistry shirt. Thanks for listening!

The Skys

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 02:03:39 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with The Skys

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

THE SKYS INTERVIEW

For JUNIOR’s CAVE ONLINE MAGAZINE

The Skys

Meet the Lithuanian Indie Rock Band The Skys who made a big splash on the music scene when the band first got its start. The band formed in the 10th of November, 1995. Years later, the band continues to make awesome music and gain more fans along the way. Here is the entire interview our publication completed with the band recently. Discover the magic of the band and why we know music lovers will enjoy the band too.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Bozena: Artist cannot be as such if he is not free. This is some natural freedom – a gift which cannot be bounded by any difficult tests, contracts, etc. The aim in this Universe is improvement of a soul and freedom is an ultimate condition for this. If an artist is imprisoned, the title INDIE will not free him.

Jonas: So, I guess we enjoy freedom . We work for ourselves we don’t belong to anyone.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have build up over the years about you in the process?

Justas: Depends on the contract agreement and decision by the whole band. Just to be signed by a label without active promotion can be pointless sometimes. However, it can open really “big waters” too.

Bozena: When signing any agreement, the music created before either live or die. Forever lives only what is not chaos what is closed and structured what is guided by beauty and morality what has beauty and good in itself. If a piece is based upon these ideas, it will live forever and if it’s not – then no any contract will save it.

Jonas: Well, I agree depends on the contract. Signing with major is not necessarily a bad thing itself. It also means money and fame. However, as our main goal is neither money nor fame then we don’t see signing with major label as a must. I met many “big” and very rich business people in my life and most of them were assholes standing in a line to the hell. I wouldn’t ever sign a contract with anyone of that kind. Some labels don’t have any respect for the artist. And so artists become slaves – money making machines.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Bozena: We bring the good and we have the best manager in the entire universe.

Jonas: Well, we come from Lithuania (how many bands do you know from there? ) We have our own sound – most of the bands today all sound the same. However, the most important “it” is we have soul in our music and most of the bands don’t.

Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

Justas: A good punch of positive energy.

The Skys

Bozena: This music will reach the most distant corners of each soul. It will carry away daily problems and will bring peace to everyone’s heart.

Jonas: Because, it is beautiful and they’ll get katharsis

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

Justas: There were quite frequent changes in line-up of The Skys during its existence. It may look as a sign in instability at the first glance, and it affected the band's sound and atmosphere back then for sure. However, I’m happy now with this situation as it led to stable band with good musicians that understand each other and think the same way.

Bozena: I joined The Skys back in 2008. We had to work hard to reach the level we are at now.

Jonas: Well, our beginning was not humble at all . First year of our existence we charted Lithuanian radio kicking down even the biggest Lithuanian “superstars”. Then in one year time we played Vilnius Sports Hall – which was a dream to many Lithuanian bands (good enough for national level). However, as Justas has mentioned frequent changes in line up was always holding us back. It is very difficult to find good musicians here in this small country. Most musicians have a mental disease which is called “Lithuanian mentality”. They think that singing in Lithuanian and doing nothing they’re going to conquer the world. And of course most of them LOVE money.

And we now here at this stage because finally we got all people who think and feel the same (despite different characters). People who are dedicated to what they are doing, band mates who can trust each other. And also, we were lucky enough to get support from the highest quality professionals such as:

John Young (Bonnie Tyler band), Dave Kilminster (Roger Waters band), Snake Davis (Eurythmics), Martin Beedle (Cutting Crew), Tony Spada (Holding Pattern), Anne Marie Helder (Mostly Autumn, Panic Room) and Mr. Steve Rispin (Tina Turner, Elton John, Asia, Tankard, etc) – the guys who worked on our new album “Colours of the Desert”.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

Justas: It's quite difficult to talk about influences from the perspective of the band. And it's sometimes interesting and surprising to read thoughts of our listeners who say of which bands we remind them. Concluding, many of our listeners hear strong influences of 70's like Pink Floyd, Jefferson Airplane, Eloy, early Genesis meeting newer bands like Porcupine Tree.

Bozena: I’m mostly influenced by early morning birds choirs, skies, fresh air from the forest, sea and muses.

Jonas: I try not to listen to the music anymore. Silence is good influence. And then nature too – Bo’s right. Justas mentioned all the great bands we like. I would also add classical music, many nice unknown and indie bands that play great music in many different genres.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Justas: I think much of really good music does not get into mainstream. Therefore, I'd say that many bands deserve higher respect. Most of the popular music these days is not about just creating nice tunes. It is a product for sale, and naturally sellers (= labels) promote it as a better product than it is in reality. TV and radio broadcasts are able to provide big fan bases, which in turn helps to gather even more fans. I think many of independent artists simply lack the skills needed to advertise their music. Also, independent artists have much more limited financial base comparing to major labels, which makes the first step into successful music career much harder for them.

Bozena: Any good music deserves respect. It doesn’t matter if it’s indie or if it’s not. There are positive and negative aspects everywhere. We need an objective look.

Jonas: Well, Yes and No. Most indie bands all sound the same – I hate that. There’s total over production in music. There are billions of bands and labels. Every second guy now plays in a band. And most of them are bad or mediocre. However, there are very good bands which deserve more as not all of them can get through this “battle for the attention” . At the same time many of MTV band are total crap which are no names again in couple of years after when labels sucked everything they could give. Also, here in Lithuania we often have situation when most untalented are on top and try to block the talented ones.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Bozena: If you don’t like something you need to start from yourself. First, you have to understand if you’re doing everything right before changing the rest of the world. If I were able, I would impose control in such small countries as Lithuania. As the present situation, when some man who has no knowledge about rock music at all speaks about it and a person who has no knowledge in music analyzes Pierre Boulez, Luigi Nono, J.S.Bach. Can this be? If yes, then it is obvious that Bach was a composer for cell phones. Music like any other form of art must be controlled by professionals and not businessman who have no clue about it and are interested only in seeing shakin’ asses.

Jonas: Less greedy entertainment and more soul & art.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

Justas: Music business has changed rapidly over last few years, and it will still change in the future. Internet shopping and music downloads is one of such examples - people are turning from listening to physical CDs to using virtual resources. Such changes also make illegal copying of music much easier. I think labels that are able to adapt to all these changes and foresee upcoming ones will be much more successful than those who don’t. However, they will still need professional marketing experts and business analytics, and which is much easier to get for the majors. Therefore, I think majors will still hold the biggest share of the market, even though if DIY artists’ part will increase over next few years because of low budgets needed to promote on the Internet.

Bozena: I don’t know… I think we need big companies as they can present music to wide audiences in an effective and fast way. Many artists would still be unknown if not big labels. I think there must be major and indie artists – everyone has his own way.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Justas: We receive a lot of positive feedback which means we're on the right track and it drives us further. Constructive criticism is also good for a band as it lets to think of things in a bit different way we see them. Of course we receive negative feedback with no arguments, but that's a thing everybody gets, and there is no way to change it.

Bozena: We worked for years to have unique sound and I think we have succeeded. However, people like to compare. Here are what people say:

“If Pink Floyd had sex with Depeche Mode (as of late), this would be the result”, “Sounds like Pink Floyd's older brother who takes steroids.” “reminds a little of The Gathering”, “Sounds like Alice in Chains, minus the heroin” “I can hear elements of bands like Dream Theatre, Symphony X and Queensryche” "Knights in White satin" “No doubt a Pink Floyd influence for all to hear, but you've added your own touches” “reminds me of Grace Slick from Jefferson Airplane” ”I think I'm now hearing the Genesis influence with the Peter Gabriel sound.” “I can see the Roger Waters influence but it seems also you have a David Gilmour presence as well” “Reminds me of Emerson Lake and Palmer and Jefferson Airplane more than some of the other comparisons” “A very 70's, trippy synth prog based sound with a gothic atmosphere and unique, evolving arrangements. Imagine the 70's prog, rush-esq type elements of Opeth and Porcupine Tree exaggerated by 10x with a very wide and lush pink floyd type sound scape that weaves through lots of eccentric style changes within the rock/ alt genre.” “Perfect Circle/Primus/Phish is what influences I hear...” “have an urge to hear some Boston or Nazareth” “Brings back memories of Renaissance, Focus, Triumvirat” Got the picture? Not yet? Then add King Crimson and Eloy and you’ll get it.

Jonas: I would also add that there always are some people who think that our music sux

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Justas: Yes, because music is in our hearts.

Bozena: You never know. If you’re gifted and if you’re able to create – then you must do it because otherwise you can regret it later for ages. And life has many different moments – you must explore both sides: positive and negative. One must go through pros and cons. However, never give up as it’s a natural way.

Jonas: Sure, I would – just to piss everybody who hates us In fact we have a lot of it in Lithuania. If being serious – if destined you will get fame and fortune and music critics all together will not stop you. And vice versa – if not destined all major labels will not help you. The question is what you do if you get fame and fortune? Won’t you become an asshole? If not then you’re worth it.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Justas: As I mentioned earlier, constructive criticism is not a bad thing. Speaking about really negative energy - we just ignore it. Everyone receives it, and that's life.

Jonas: we block it with our positive energy . All bands must know there’s going to be somebody who will hate you and/or your music. Just stay calm. Don’t bother. It’s just waste of time and energy. Music speaks itself.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your pursuant of a music career?

Jonas: I don’t think it is a good idea to involve your mom, dad, grandfather, grandmother, sister, brother, cousins you wife and husband, and your kids as well as grandchildren and some other relatives into your music career . However, it is very important to get support from them. I guess it is sad when your closest people turn their backs to you.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

www.theskys.com

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Thank you, Isaac!

Tallulah Darling

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:08:15 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Tallulah Darling

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Tallulah Darling

Makeup and Hair by:

Jane Nguyen

Vanessa Steele

Indie all girl pop/rock band Tallulah Darling is bringing an excitement back to the popular rock/pop genre. The band, from Toronto Canada, has captured a fantastic sound/style that showcases the band’s amazing talents. When one adds four extremely talented musicians to form one of the coolest bands currently out in the music industry, one gets the magic that is Tallulah Darling. Here is their story in this week’s music spotlight.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Tallulah Darling: There are so many great opportunities for Indie artists right now. With Facebook, MySpace, YouTube and Twitter you can develop an international fan base easily and without cost. Our band has been amazed at the exposure and incredible response we have received from all around the world through these mediums.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Tallulah Darling: Yes, Tallulah Darling would love to be signed by a Major or Indie label, because they have the experience and connections to further our career.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Tallulah Darling: I love having full control over our music. Also being an all-girl band has its advantages and because there aren’t many of them so we tend to stand out.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Tallulah Darling: Probably the uncertainty of it.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Tallulah Darling: Both yes and no, there are a lot of great Indie bands that don’t get the recognition they deserve and there are some not so great performers getting too much attention.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Tallulah Darling: Our strangest show was when we played in the parking lot of an Asian Supermarket, it was an incredibly fun show!

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived); affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Tallulah Darling: I used to go to and play at a folk/country bar all the time in my hometown, where I was exposed to a lot of older music that focuses more on the lyrics and telling a story. Listening to the classic folk songs taught me the value of writing great lyrics. Canada is also home to some amazing songwriters.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Tallulah Darling: I never had issues writing songs, songwriting comes naturally and easily to me. I usually write in spurts, I’ll write lots of songs at once and then I won’t write anything for a while.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Tallulah Darling: Yes of course, I would continue to make music, I many not put in as much time and effort, but I would still do it because I love making music.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Tallulah Darling: I have been fortunate to have a very strong support system with both my friends and family. They always come to our shows, get us where we need to be and our occasional therapist when things aren’t going right.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Tallulah Darling: I love listening to new music; I find I get inspiration listening to new music. Also, there's nothing better than finding a song that you can't help but listen to over and over again!

Tallulah Darling

Makeup and Hair by:

Jane Nguyen

Vanessa Steele

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Tallulah Darling: Almost everything, for me I’ve always been drawn to music that has clever or really good lyrics, it doesn't really matter what genre it is.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Tallulah Darling: We have a website www.tallulahdarling.com we're also on Facebook, YouTube, and twitter.

Rays of Son, week of Jan. 15, 2012

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:47:58 GMT

Husband, wife always compliment each other

By Greg Miller, Christian Syndicated Columnist and Writer/Author

Nick and his wife, Nikki, were deeply in love.

　

The couple rarely disagreed on major or minor issues, because they were constantly saying nice things about each other.

　

“You’re the most handsome husband in the world, Nick,” grinned Nikki.

　

“No, I’m not,” Nick blushed. “But you, Sweetheart, are the world’s most beautiful woman. You always will be.”

　

“You’re always saying that,” Nikki replied. “And I do appreciate the thought. But right now, I would much rather say something nice about you. Like how you’re always volunteering to wash the dishes after we eat a meal.”

　

“It’s really no big deal,” Nick protested. “After all, we do have a dishwasher, you know.”

　

“I know,” Nikki grinned, “but it’s the fact that you want to do it for me.”

　

“I love doing things to please you,” said Nick. “When you’re happy, I’m happy.”

　

“I know that, Nick,” said Nikki. ”That’s one of the things I love the most about you….the fact that you’re always going out of your way to please me.”

　

“Two of my favorite things in the world are saying nice things about you and doing nice things for you,” said Nick.

　

Nick told Nikki that she was the world’s best cook. “Your baked spaghetti melts in my mouth,” he gushed. “And your barbecue chicken is out of this world.”

　

“That’s because I got it from one of the extra-terrestrial menu channels,” Nikki grinned.

　

“By the way, Nick, have I told you today that I love you?”

　

“Not in the last five minutes,” Nick joked with a frown.

　

“Well, I do love you dearly, Sweetheart,” Nikki said. “You are the love of my life, and I’m so glad I married you. Like I said a couple of minutes ago, you’re the most handsome husband in the world.”

　

“You’re beautiful, and you’re a great cook,” Nick marveled. “But you also have a fantastic voice, and I love to hear you singing Christian songs.”

　

“I love to honor and glorify Jesus Christ with my voice,” Nikki admitted. “He is such an awesome God. Just think of His awesomeness. He created the world out of nothing. He came into the world born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died on the Cross, was buried and was resurrected. He now sits at the Father’s right hand, where He is praying for us.”

　

“And He used His awesomeness to bring the two of us together,” Nick observed. “He helps us to have a wonderful relationship with each other, and that’s the greatest thing in the world.”

　

“No,” Nikki corrected her husband. “I agree that our relationship with each other is a great thing. But our relationship with Jesus is the greatest thing in the world.”

　

“As usual, Dear, you’re right,” Nick said. “That’s something else I love about you. You are right all of the time!”

　

To contact the writer of this column about speaking engagements and/or puppet ministry, please email kidcool4jesus@yahoo.com.

Content copyright 2010-2012. Junior's Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine. All rights reserved.

Rays of Son, week of Jan. 8, 2012

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:44:55 GMT

Husband promises wife a cruise for

their 10^th wedding anniversary

By Greg Miller, Christian Syndicated Columnist and Writer/Author

Clarissa and her husband, Charles, had been married for 9 1/2 years.

On their wedding day, Charles had promised Clarissa that for their 10^thwedding anniversary the couple would celebrate with a cruise to the Caribbean.

Over the years, Clarissa had for forgotten about her husband’s promise. Charles, however, kept the promise at the top of his 10-year to-do list. Every day he prayed, “Lord, please help me to earn enough money to take Clarissa on this cruise.

As a high school teacher, Charles earned a small salary, so he asked the Lord to provide the extra money he needed for the cruise. The Lord opened the door for Charles to work part time as a taxi driver.

Charles worked as a taxi driver two evenings each week. Although he was now working two jobs, Charles still wasn’t able to save enough money to pay for all the trip’s expenses.

“Father,” Charles prayed, “I would appreciate it if you would provide another job for me. I just need to earn a little more in order to take Clarissa on the cruise.”

“I have already answered your prayer, My Son,” the Lord replied. “You only need to work about four extra hours each week to be able to afford the cruise. I have instructed Cathie, a believer who manages the fast food restaurant near your home, to hire you. She is expecting you to stop by there tomorrow after you get off work to complete an application for employment.”

“Thank you, Lord,” said Charles. “I can always depend on you to answer my prayers and meet my needs.”

“I’m always watching my children,” replied the Lord. “I love you so much I can’t take my eyes off you. And my ears are always at tentative to your cries.”

Six months later, Charles purchased the cruise tickets. “Thank you for keeping your promise to me,” Clarissa told Charles. “You are a real man of God! Thank you, too, for being willing to work so hard for so many years to make the trip a reality for me.”

“You’re very welcome, Dear,” Charles said. “But I was determined to give you that trip, so it really wasn’t a big deal. God gave me the strength to work and allowed me to have the jobs in the first place. He did all the work, but for Him it was a piece of cake. It was almost as if He used no energy at all to answer the prayer for me.”

“Well, the Bible teaches that His strength is made perfect in our weakness,” said Clarissa.

“Well, I’m glad to trade my weakness for His strength any day,” grinned Charles. “I’m sure that I’m getting the best deal!”

To contact the writer of this column about speaking engagements and/or puppet ministry, please email kidvcool4jesus@yahoo.com.

Ryan Hyde

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 04:07:19 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Ryan Hyde

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Ryan Hyde

It was exactly four years ago that we interviewed Singer/Songwriter Ryan Hyde at the young age of seventeen years old. We wanted to wait until January 2012 rolled around before presenting this newest interview with this amazing and gifted young Singer/Songwriter.

What has changed? Everything! He voice has matured, his songwriting skills have improved, and he looks and sounds comfortable in his own element. Ready for an acoustical journey that promises to entertain? Then Ryan Hyde is the perfect place to start.

Here is his interview with our publication at Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine in its entirety.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you feel you contribute musically to the Indie Music Culture?

Ryan: I think, more than anything, that I offer reality. A lot of bands out there have trouble finding their sound or picking the right image, and I don't worry about any of that. I feel I am at a place now where I am producing quality, catchy music without any of the BS. I guess the image is that there is no image, and of course I pull from my influences as far as the sound in concerned, but everything I write comes genuinely from the heart (meaning I am not ripping off my influences, like a LOT of bands do). So yeah, reality is definitely key.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

Ryan: At this point, I would never plan on signing on a major label. I've never wanted the whole rock star glamour thing as far as being blown up in J-14 magazine and being posted all over Hollywood Tonight. Not only that, but the way the music industry works nowadays, you don't even really need a major record label to get famous. The indie scene is becoming as big as the major scene because everything is done on the internet, and nobody really buys their music anymore.

It's kind of sad, but it's also inspiring, because I feel it makes it both easier and harder for me to make a name for myself in different aspects. My dream label, though, is definitely Fat Wreck Chords. I love basically every band that comes out of that label, and their dynamic is so chill. One record contract. But yeah; me, on a major label= not gonna happen.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Ryan: I guess it's that I know what I'm doing more than a lot of guys in other bands I've heard (no offense to anyone.) By that I mean that I'm studying Music Education at the University of Washington (I am a nerd; I want to be a high school choir teacher), and in doing so I have learned a TON about music theory, composition, and how the voice works; more specifically, how to control my own. So while I have a LONG way to go, I still feel like I know what I am doing when I write a song now.

Because of that, I feel like my music speaks for itself, so i don't have to worry about makeup, eyeliner, or wardrobe to fit an "image" and get popular in a certain scene. I love punk. It's where I hope to "fit in," but I don't necessarily strive to be like the other "punk guys." But anyway, yeah; Knowing what I'm doing I guess makes me more confident and proud of my music. What do you know: Knowing what I'm doing is my "it" factor haha.

Isaac: What is one of the important elements that will make you stand out from the rest of the musicians/artists in the music industry?

Album Cover, courtesy of Tunecore.com

Ryan: My live show sounds very different from a lot of my recordings, and I feel fans do not get the full affect until they see me live. It's kind of a hard job make a solo acoustic punk set exciting, and I feel I do a damn good job. I've received nothing but praise so far, and I'm being set up on bills with bands like Fat Wreck Chords' The Flatliners at local clubs in Seattle, particularly Studio 7, and it is solely based on praise and attendance from local shows.

The live show is a HUGE part of the gig for a band, and you find a lot of bands that just don't sound quite like the album at the show. It is very disappointing, especially in a day and age where the quality and intonation of a voice or guitar can be changed with the turn of a knob or a click of the mouse. My live performance is worth seeing; I promise.

Isaac: Do you feel you have given it your best when pursuing your musical dreams so far? Why or why not?

Ryan: So, in my mind, I have two images of myself twenty years from now. In one, I'm a choir teacher in a small town, with a house that has a view. I have a successful program, a wife, and a kid. I am also a published choral composer, so that's extra cash on the side. I sit on my deck, take in my view, drink beers, write choral music, and make lesson plans for my classes.

In the other view, I'm writing punk music, supporting myself through that, and seeing the world. Not E! famous, but famous enough to live quite comfortably. The money isn't the important thing. It's all about meeting people I've idolized through their lyrics and hoping to inspire people in the same way that they did me. Seeing all the places there are to see, and getting paid to play live shows on top of that.

Ryan Hyde

Studio Seven, courtesy of Kat Rodgers

So because I am at college to be a music teacher, I would say these two ideas are constantly clashing in my brain. This makes it difficult to fully commit. That being said, when I do spend time on my music, it is 100% straight from the heart and, in my opinion, some pretty damn good stuff. I have dedicated myself fully to music, one way or another, and that has helped me become a songwriter that I am proud of, which is the most important thing when pursuing a music career: the music itself!

Isaac: Who do you look up to for your own influences and why?

Ryan: As far as musical influences, there are VERY many. The Bouncing Souls have found a way to get under my skin with very inspiring and meaningful lyrics that get me through more than you can know. For that I look up to them a lot. Alkaline Trio has this way of being so poetic about the creepiest, horrifying, and pitiful subject matter that makes you feel what they're feeling and empathize with them.

They're a HUGE influence. Face to Face has this way of bringing up very intense life subject matter in their music and being so in your face about it. They're a huge influence. And of course, if it were not for NoFX, Green Day, and MxPx, I would never have gotten into this kind of music in the first place. These are all bands that I know front and back, and that's only the beginning of the list. It's all about having a message at the START, and using the music as a vessel for getting that point across.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Ryan: I would say it gets respect from the right people. There are a lot of people out there who really have no opinion, in my opinion. They are told what to like, and because they don't know of or look for anything else, they like it. Then there are those who realize the crap they're fed isn't very good, so they go searching. These are the people who really care about the music. These are the people who 90% of the times end up indie music fans.

These are the people who SHOULD be listening to indie music because they actually have a love for it and will support the artists in the right way, fostering and promoting the indie scene the way it should be done. So does it get the respect it deserves? Not from everybody. But do the people who in into the indie scene really care at all about what the other people think. Frankly my dear, they don't give a damn.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Ryan: The way bands are marketed sickens me. You are told to look a certain way because you sound like so and so. You are told, to an extent, what to write based on what is says in your contract. A lot of people don't even write their own songs; they're given cookie cutter BS from a "hit factory" where people with actual musical talent write the song for them. I think an artist is exactly that: an artist. Because of that, they should be given free range to do what he/she wants. If a band or artist gets popular doing what they want to do, and it gets them signed to a major label, why would a label want to change what made them popular? Why does band A have to wear skinny jeans just to fit in with the emo scene? Artists: BE YOURSELVES! Anyway, that's my shpeal.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Ryan: Well, the few comments on my iTunes page for my demo are all positive. I have been sending my music to a bunch of venues around Seattle, and I have been getting booked pretty regularly, so I'll assume they liked what they heard. I sent my music to Scrote, a big time producer in LA, and he wanted to cut a demo with me, but I didn't have the money so it was postponed.

He said he liked the harmonies in my songs and my voice in general. That was very cool for me to hear. He has worked with some big names like No Doubt and Holly Palmer from David Bowie, so it was very cool to hear good things from him. So overall, I'd say good things.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Ryan: I will be writing music until the day I die. It's not about the fame and fortune, and it never has been, at least for me. It's about inspiration. When I hear a good song, it's puts me in the songwriter's condition; it makes me feel what they're thinking and feeling at that point, and it helps me learn about myself through their descriptions and experiences.

Without listening to music, I go through these same experiences in my own life, and it's not only fun, but therapeutic to write a song about them. If I could inspire someone and help them to gain a greater sense of self, then I would feel I have done my job. That is why I write and perform music. It drives me, and I know it can drive others.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Ryan: Take it. It's probably true if someone has the balls to walk up to me and tell me what is wrong with my music. Either that or make it a joke somehow to laugh it off. When I play a live show, I usually crack really bad jokes during and in between my songs if the audience gives off bad energy. So yeah. Take it or make a joke out of yourself.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your quest of a music career?

Ryan: Everything. I'm lucky to have full support from everybody around me. My friends are always the ones rolling to my shows if it's the first time at a new venue or if I'm opening for somebody big. They're the start of everything. My family knows and supports what I'm doing, and I'm very grateful for everything they've done.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Ryan: http://www.ryan-hyde.com (currently under construction) http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ryan-Hyde/192640730757737- My Facebook http://www.sonicbids.com/ryanhyde Or buy the demo on iTunes!

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words & wisdom of thoughts...

I'm opened for Fat Wreck Chords' The Flatliners March 27th of last year at Studio 7 in Seattle. I will have more dates to follow this year too. Check out the demo on iTunes, and add me on Facebook if you dig the stuff so we can chat. Thanks for everything everyone!

1st Interview with our publication (FOUR YEARS AGO!!!)

http://www.juniorscave.com/ryanhyde.html

Rays of Son, week of Jan. 1, 2012

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 03:00:32 GMT

Father Time sends personal messages

to those who appreciate his work

By Greg Miller, Christian Syndicated Columnist and Writer/Author

Father Time decided to send personal messages to a few of the people whom he felt truly appreciated his work with minutes and seconds.

“Only a very small percentage of this world’s population actually realize how hard I work,” Father Time wrote to a senior citizen named Felicia. “And you are one of those special people.”

In a return letter to Father Time, Felicia wrote, “Dear Father Time, thank you for taking few moments out of your busy, busy schedule to write. I’ve lived long enough myself to have a healthy appreciation of minutes and seconds. I believe it’s just as important to be as frugal with our time as it is with our money.”

Father Time’s letter to Fred, a construction worker, praised its recipient for blessing the community’s churches and non-profit organizations each year with a large number of volunteer hours. “You are the perfect example of Christian love,” Father Time wrote. “You go out of your way to show God’s love to others. Thank you, too, for being my best friend.”

Fred replied with the following message, “I don’t want accolades or applause,” he wrote. “My reward will be when the Lord says, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

To a beautiful woman named Frances, Father Time wrote, “When added to the gift of your minutes and seconds, your offering of homemade pies and cakes is shared with love to many poor families on Thanksgiving and Christmas. And every week when you attend church, your angelic voice fills the building will anthems of praise.”

In her response to Father Time, Frances wrote, “Don’t forget that I bake a homemade strawberry jam cake and pumpkin pie for you every year at Christmas time. And you really do deserve those treats.

“I know how busy you are throughout the whole year keeping track of all those minutes and seconds for all of the world’s seven billion people. You’re so sweet to everyone else, I want to make sure that someone else does something sweet for you.

“By the way, we’re always running short of milk. Would you mind stopping at the supermarket on your way home from work this evening and picking up a gallon of milk and a loaf of my favorite bread?

“God bless you and give you a blessed and prosperous new year! I’m counting the minutes and seconds until I see you again. I love you, Sweetheart!”

The letter was signed,

I love you,

Frances, your darling wife

To contact the writer of this column about speaking engagements and/or puppet ministry, please emailkidcool4jesus@yahoo.com.

Tunsi

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 18:49:09 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Tunsi

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Tunsi

If you want to hear music from an artist that pours his heart and soul into his music, then Tunsi is going to be the best place to start for music lovers. We interviewed Tunsi a couple of years ago and am impressed at how much his music has matured and grown. Check out our recent interview with the talented artist in this month’s Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine’s music feature.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Tunsi: The most enjoyable thing about being an indi musician is the freedom to create anything you desire.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

Tunsi: The most enjoyable thing about being an indi musician is the freedom to create anything. The only way I would sign to a major record label is if I could keep my freedom of creation; but I don’t think that is possible.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Tunsi: The most enjoyable thing about being an indi musician is the freedom to create anything I have originality; this used to be the desired “it” factor, but now, originality is considered strange.

Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

Tunsi: Something can be gained by listening to my music. After listening, thoughts can be altered and minds can be stimulated.

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

Tunsi: I’ve always been in the music scene since the break dancing days and hung around great mc’s and producers allowing me to develop many unique styles.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

Tunsi: I don’t think I relate to any other artists, but some tell me I sometimes sound similar to Rakim or Method Man.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Tunsi: No. They will never get the recognition until they are allowed to receive a fair amount of exposure.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Tunsi: I would remove the giant radio stations that only play a selected few and refuse to play independent artists.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

Tunsi: Until the audiences broaden their listening capabilities, the major record companies will continue to profit off of a product that has been molded for the masses.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Tunsi: For the most part, feedback suggests that listeners are relieved to hear something with substance and wonder why it’s seldom heard. Most of my fans tend to come from outside the United States because of my lyrical content.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Tunsi: Yes. My motivation can be driven by one fan. Also, I like to do it; I’m an artist.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Tunsi: I love negative feedback because I am constantly trying to improve, so any opinion is valued as long as it is sincere.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your pursuant of a music career?

Tunsi: Family and friends always offer support that I use when developing material.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Tunsi: http://www.paranarecords.net/tunsi page.htm

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Tunsi: Thank you for the interview. Please spread the word on independent artists because without them your music will continue to dwindle to that one monotonous sound.

Sean Cooney

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 14:30:39 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview

with Sean Cooney

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Sean Cooney

Have you ever had an OMG! Moment? That is what Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine had when we first listened to the music of Sean Cooney. We were instantly hooked with Cooney’s music. We loved his catchy hooks, crafty lyrics, amazing vocals, and fun power pop tunes.

Our publication recently spent some time with the indie singer/songwriter via online who allowed us to enter into his musical world. We discovered many great things about the artist that we wanted to share this with our readers. Here is what formulated from our online meeting.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Sean: I love being able to listen to such incredible music from around the world. With recording equipment cheap enough for consumers, there is so much incredible music coming from all angles. Whether its people you've never heard of, or popular artists who've been around for a while, the standards are getting real high. I think production is the best it's ever been, and artists have a wide scope of influence and inspiration to draw from.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Sean: Well, a couple labels have approached me, but I'm waiting for the right one. You have to be careful, because a major might be able to expose you a whole new playing filed, but they could also shelve you, where as an independent label might put a lot of time and effort into you, or they might not have access to the resources you would like. I think great resources are out there and many people act as their own label. I'm gonna push this on my own as much as possible, and that way when I'm ready to talk to a label, I have a lot of bargaining power because the machine already is up and running.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now? What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Sean: Well, what excites me and gets me discouraged at the same time is how good music is these days! On one hand, I'm so excited and feel so privileged in being able to listen to such great music and experience creative multimedia performances, and at the other hand I'm intimidated! I think from a business stand-point it's hard to compete and standout when so many talented and creative artists are emerging.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Sean: Of course, there is some music that gets pushed to millions while loads of great music goes unheard, BUT... more and more the platform is growing for Independent music. Now more than ever musicians are able to expose their talent to people across the world. Also, I think all this availability to music around the globe is doing wonders for peoples' musical skope.

General audiences are being exposed to a diverse array of styles and genres and many genres are merging. Also, a song done in one take on the built in speaker on a laptop might get millions of plays on YouTube. This growing acceptance of varying sound quality helps level the playing field for artists in their bedroom and basement and artists in million dollar studios.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Sean: Well, making this last album, I did it on my laptop which followed me all over the world. I was in Australia, living in a shed with a Koala living (and making noises) in the tree outside my window when I made several of the songs on the record. I think with all that sunshine, I had so much serotonin pumping through my body I made some really happy, upbeat tracks!

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Sean: I'm lucky enough to have lived in some really great areas. Growing up outside Washington DC, I had a heavy influence of punk and jazz music. Moving to New York, I was influenced by musical theatre, because I spent every last penny I had seeing Broadway shows! Also, crazy artist types from Brooklyn introduced me to Burning Man which made me interested in dance music.

I think the people you are around, and friends can bring different music to your attention that you might get inspired by. And once you've had a taste you can explore these genres further online. Oh yeah, Australia also has a killer radio station, Triple J. This station has no commercial influence so they can play what they want. I hear lots of friends on the radio in Aus, and am exposed to some really great stuff whenever I go back.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Sean: The last time I wrote a song was about 2 hours ago! Sometimes songs just come to me in a dream or when I'm driving or in the shower- I think it's when my right brain takes over. Of course, those are usually the times in which I'm NOT around a pad of paper to write it all down. I'm about to travel to Boston to work with killer producer, Take Igarashi.

I want to have some cool songs up my sleeve for that so I decided to punish a whole bunch of dark chocolate espresso beans to get a little crazy and let that right brain kick in. So pretty much I was just hammering away on the piano like a crazy ten year-old kid who just ate his birthday cake and forgot to take his ADHD meds.

Every once in a while something half decent pops out of nowhere, and I write it down. Also, when the sugar high crashes i start thinking about some deep sh**. So that brought out some potential lyrics. Who knows what'll come of it...

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Sean: Yes, but not as much. Haha- I love creating music. Right now, I'm trying to make a successful business out of it. Someday I'm gonna make some babies. Maybe a whole bunch, but I'll need to provide for those little suckas. I think the way to be most successful in the balance of finance and happiness is to do what you love. I don't want to be a weekend warrior with music; I want to be creative always, so I am seeking some fame and fortune.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Sean Cooney

Sean: My friends and family are incredible. I am lucky enough to have a family spanning 4 generations and every continent except Antarctica, so they've given a good variety of feedback. Some of my families give me that blind support that makes you feel amazing, like being wrapped up in a warm blanket. THEN I've got the realists who bring me back down to earth!

These are my peeps who have really helped form my sound over the past few years. I think for any musician really trying to make it, an honest opinion in a sea of hollow compliments can be the most beneficial gift of all.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Sean: I get more and more interested in new music almost daily. Before YouTube, I was more involved in one or two music scenes and that was 90 percent of what I was exposed to. In school, the music you listen to or associate with can be a major identifier of who you are and who you might hang out with.

Nowadays, I'm in NYC and no-one gives a f*** what I listen to. So I end up just bouncing around online and finding cool stuff. Oh yeah, and commercials on Hulu!- I tend to love those songs.

Isaac: Me too Sean!

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Sean: The 70's and 80's! David Bowie and Queen are pretty much my musical DNA. Also, all the Jazz Standards of the 20's and 30's. And then of course, there is contemporary pop. Right now the pop world is infused with dance styles from all over the world, and so many genres have blended. I never went to school for music or production but honestly the best schooling, just listen!

Listen to Black Eyed Peas' biggest songs. Listen to what Dr. Luke, Red One, J.R. are doing. Listen closely with headphones, over club speakers, in the car, while drunk, while totally focused and you can learn what makes those songs so good.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Sean:

www.SeanCooney.com
www.facebook.com/SeanCooneyMusic
www.youtube.com/SeanCooneyMusic
www.twitter.com/SeanCooneyMusic
www.myspace.com/SeanCooney
or if you wanna join the email list, go to:
www.seancooney.com/page5.html

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Sean: Thank you so much for your time! Honestly, I think this is a great time for musicians and artists. People are able to connect, collaborate and share so much more than ever before. I love it when people get at me online- so now y’all know where to find me!

Oh yeah, I got some sweet music videos coming out this January and the next couple moths so check back for those!

PEACE!!!!!

Bobby Boondocks

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 00:42:06 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Bobby Boondocks

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Bobby Boondocks

Photo by Nick Hillemann

Bringing his own original refreshing flavor to the Indie Hip-Hop industry Bobby Boondocks is bringing the noise back with an intelligent twist to the masses. What music lovers will enjoy most about his music is Boondocks’ command of his lyrics.

He is a master of creative lyrical flows that will entertain and educate others. If you want to take a musical journey with an artist who is not afraid to go against the norm, then Bobby Boondocks fits the bill. Here is his story in this new spotlight with Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Bobby Boondocks: I definitely enjoy the freedom. I hear stories and read articles about some famous national recording artists, and it seems like their lives are full of obligations. I love having the freedom to create any type of music about whatever subject I choose. “It’s liberating you know.” I can truly express myself by performing thought provoking and positive songs without worrying if they will be accepted by my “All Powerful” Label.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Bobby Boondocks: Yes, but I am a business man by profession, so the numbers would have to make sense. I would never sign my life away to a “Slave Deal.” I really believe that I have something people need to hear, so if the right label came along that could help me get my opinions to the masses, I would jump at the opportunity.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Bobby Boondocks: It’s the experience I get when someone hears my music for the first time, and I can tell that one of my lines made them think. It excites me when they relate something I said to an event or time in their own life. I lust for that moment! I feel like this is the best possible time for making music because people want to hear substance again. For a while that wasn’t the case.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged? Bobby Boondocks: MONEY! Money makes the world go round, and sometimes the people with the most money, the largest promotion teams, or the most influence, flood the market with a lot of demoralizing music. I am not “Hating” on them at all, but it does get discouraging trying to compete with a much smaller budget.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Bobby Boondocks: No, I feel like Indie music is that awesome basketball player who most people don’t know or care about because he never made it to the pro’s. There are several great Indie artists, but without the validation of a major label, most don’t get the interest or respect that they deserve. The media tells people who to respect, so if Indie music is not embraced by the media, it will not be embraced by many listeners.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Bobby Boondocks: As a rapper, the most interesting place I performed was at a fashion show in front of a large group of older Caucasian women! It really helped me as an artist, because within a few seconds, I had to find a way to relate to people that I didn’t have much in common with. I definitely tried to tone it down and just do poetry, but by the end, I could tell they wanted to hear some real hip-hop. It taught me how to gauge my audience. The initial awkwardness made the show more memorable, and I had those old ladies up dancing by the end of my set!

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Bobby Boondocks: I live in the deep-south (Arkansas). The music I make is definitely affected by my surroundings. I hate the negative stereotypes that we get about being uneducated, simple-minded people. That is part of the reason why I put so much effort into sounding different and having substance in my music. I want to use my songs to show the world that my region is capable of producing great thinkers.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Bobby Boondocks: Most of my songs just start as one phrase or interesting random line. I formed my last song on a 2 hour drive to my hometown. I was listening to a Drake song and began piecing lyrics together in my head with a different approach to the beat. When I got home, I almost had the first verse and chorus memorized. Next, I pulled out my laptop, typed what I could remember, and finished the song. My process is sporadic and unpredictable. I HATE to plan songwriting time. I always write the best songs on accident!

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Bobby Boondocks: Yes, because music gives me more than fame or fortune ever could. It is my counselor when I am down or frustrated. It is like therapy to write a song based off the emotions I am feeling. It is a way to release when I am stressed and celebrate when I am happy. I do this because the music I make has the potential to touch other people’s lives. I want the fortune and fame, but I will always love making music with or without it.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Bobby Boondocks: My family members are my strongest supporters. My parents and my sister have personally sold CD’s to strangers for me! Some of my friends are extremely supportive also. You can’t be a successful artist without help. I’m not a huge Tweeter, but I even have friends that will tweet for me. Family and friends are part of the reason I still pursue my music dreams, and my mom tells me I am going to be a star on a daily basis.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Bobby Boondocks

Photo by Reagan K.

Boondocks: Yes and no. I hate listening to some of the new mindless, pointless music that urban radio stations have begun playing over the years, because I am far less interested with trendy music. On the other hand, I love listening to new artists, or veterans in the music industry, whose albums make me think and feel a certain way about different topics. Kanye’s “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy” and Drake’s “Take Care” both made me listen over and over again. I can feel the emotion in their music, and that inspires me to present better work. The more I listen, the more motivated I become.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Boondocks: If I had to pick a period to listen to, it would be the late 60s-early 80s. I love the way old Motown records make you feel good. Sometimes I don’t even know who sings what song, but music from that period really stands out to me. Even some of the best Hip Hop tracks stem from samples of those records. I am drawn to the musical styles of more current artists such as Lauryn Hill, Lupe Fiasco, and Kanye West. These are rappers who made statements. I especially appreciate the way Lauryn incorporated messages of positivity and religion into her music.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Boondocks: You can always find me at my site www.bobbyboondocks.com. I am also on www.Reverbnation.com/bobbyboondocks. These would be the best possible sites to find exclusives and new music. Of couse anyone can reach me follow me on twitter @bobbyboondocks. I promised people I would tweet more. So follow me and find out what I’m up to.

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Bobby Boondocks: I want the world to know that my music is worth listening to. Whether you love it or hate it, just feel some way about it. I strive to be different but relatable, and I will always give my fans meaningful lyrics mixed with a futuristic sound that is truly Alternative Hip Hop. Please look out for my new mixtape “Dreamin.” An official release date will be given in the near future.

Bobby Boondocks

Dreamin Cover - Nick Amoroso (graphic design artist)

Go Time!

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 20:02:19 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Go Time!

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Go Time!

Photo by Theresa Marketti

Power Pop/Rock gets an upgrade with the magnificent band Go Time! Band members Scott, Marko, Steve, and Paul graced our online pages to speak candidly about their music and journey. Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine discovered some wonderful things about how the band got their start, their tenacious never give up attitude about making music, and their crafted unique sound. Here is what we discovered in this exclusive spotlight.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Scott: I enjoy that we are able to be creative without restraints. There are more options now than use to be for local and indie bands to get heard on the radio, the net and different blogs, and media sources to help you promote.

Marko: Just doing original music and making something come alive from scratch is an exciting process. It is a tight wire act because sometimes we do fall off - but that can be just as interesting.

Steve: I enjoy the rush of playing in front of an audience that digs your vibe. Playing out also provides a fun opportunity to meet other musicians and check out what they have to offer. I also enjoy the feeling of accomplishment derived from taking a new song and molding its rawness into a professional, collaborative arrangement.

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to sign with a major label, would you sign now knowing you may have to give up some of what you have built up over the years about you in the process?

Paul: So many bands today have made successful careers with no major label involvement that they don't seem that relevant for rock music anymore.

Scott: It is great that a lot of bands do not need the major labels – and it has become more lucrative not to be on a major label. If I had the option – I would look at it, but likely use it as a bargaining chip to get an indie label contract. I would not really want to give up our process that easily.

Marko: I think yes in a heartbeat, as long as the songs were protected and the credit went to the songwriters it would be cool.

Steve: I'm a drummer with a mortgage…of course I would. Then again, all of us have been at this game quite a long time, so we'd be able to spot a "deal with the devil" from a mile away.

Isaac: I remembered Simon Cowell from American Idol talking about the “it” Factor that makes a musician/band stand out. What do you think is your “it” factor that makes you stand out from others in the music business?

Marko: I think it goes back to the originality of the music. When you listen to it, we like to think it has parts and pieces of many musical styles yet IT doesn't sound like any one other band.

Scott: I think we stand out because we do our own thing and do not sound like anyone else. I think that there are always a lot of bands that are great at what they do – but you can immediately say that they sound just like band XYZ.

Steve: Ditto for me regarding originality. The music provides something for every taste. Think of it as a rock smorgasbord.

Isaac: Why should music fans listen to your music? Describe what they are going to get when they listen to your music?

Paul: Hearing loss!!

Go Time!

Photo by Theresa Marketti

Marko: They should listen or else we will come to their homes and play out on their lawns at midnight! Seriously, I believe the songs all tell a great short story and have the ability to make you want to re-listen many times over.

Scott: I think that we craft songs that are very listenable – It is like all the power pop songs that you like to hear – with a harder edge, and some very unexpected curves thrown in. We try to create stuff that is interesting to play - and hear...

Steve: While the music is straightforward, we have really worked hard to perfect little nuances that set it apart from formulaic music. You might call these nuances riffs, hooks, noodling, sound effects or even gimmicks, but they are the elements that takes our music a notch or two beyond what similar bands have to offer. We think your tympanic membranes will be pleasantly surprised.

Isaac: Briefly describe your humble beginnings that led you to where you are at musically now.

Marko: We all have different beginnings - from Scott's child prodigy playing and songwriting development with groups to a Steve G pounding the skins in his folks basement with the headphones on and hooking up with a college buddy, to Marko's annexation into a band due to his association with said buddies, fast forward to the drafting of Paul through an Ad for a needed guitarist to form Go Time! with the three remaining members of another Chicago band.

Paul: I started learning riffs and solos off classic rock radio. Now I’m passing them off as my own.

Scott: Marko said it well. I am just very lucky to be playing with this group of people – they force me to be better at what I am doing – and not just settle for OK.

Steve: Well, I vaguely recall banging on pots and pans with wooden spoons in the bathtub when I was three. Four decades later I have lucked out and fallen in with, and learned from, numerous talented musicians over the years - from this band, previous bands and many others we have jammed with or just shared ideas.

Isaac: You have some strong iconic influences. Of these influences, which artist/band do you relate to the most and why?

Marko: Probably the artist that have created their own niche yet sometimes didn't make the biggest splash in the musical pool for various reasons, personal choice or circumstances i.e.Robert Pollard(Guided By Voices), Alex Chilton etc.

Scott: I think that we are influenced by things we happen to like. Both Guided by Voices and Chilton for sure are huge influences. I think that their independent spirit embodies what we do also. I would not discount the replacements – who are also mid-westerners. We have been labeled with similarities to The Smithereens, Matthew Sweet, and Hoodoo Gurus – and I have no problem with any of these. All 3 are solid songwriters with a slightly unconventional approach to pure power pop writing.

Steve: I've personally been influenced by classic rock bands growing up, with a special affection for Cheap Trick. For whatever reason, their music really resonates with me musically and lyrically. However, I also have a great love for 60s bands - the music was so wonderfully raw and experimental back then. It seemed much more heartfelt and personal for the artists and their fans. I think I was born a decade too late, actually. I believe that experimental edginess carries through on many GO TIME! recordings.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Paul: Many people will never know that music outside of commercial radio exists, but I think it gets more than it used to, and it's not immune to elitism and herd mentality. But, it's a big umbrella and includes a lot of great art - unless it's elitist to refer to it as 'art'.

Marko: Yes... it does get respect today. It is a really different animal due to the proliferation of outlets for music, especially the Internet. So although it still requires self-promotion to the max you can be heard and be seen much easier than before.

Scott: I think anyone who gets out there – creates – works on a craft – and believes in what they are doing deserves credit. Realistically – a lot of musicians never are able to get things off the ground – and never get their stuff heard. It is not easy – it is creativity – meets business – meet marketing. I salute anyone who can do it - again it is not easy even though there are more outlets than use to be. Unfortunately, many people don’t take the chance to step outside popular music to experience some of these great indie bands (their loss).

Steve: I think Indie has become an excellent avenue for bands that may never have gotten their music heard to become commercially viable. It also gives struggling bands a fighting chance at fame and fortune. But as Scott pointed out, even Indie bands need the time and resources to properly market themselves, while attempting to churn out music people want to hear. Unless you can get that sweet gig, a foot in the door or the right person listening to your demo, you are still just one band in a sea of millions.

Isaac: If you could change one thing about the music business, what would it be and why?

Marko: We might say as a group, that finding paying gigs for original music should be a lot easier, but there are only so many venues and many bands, but I think primarily the music business could use an injection of UNIQUENESS that is promoted through the major outlets of radio and the Internet instead of the tired lets copy that formula over and over method that currently exists.

Paul: It's cool that it's easy to make music, but it's hard to get people who are overloaded with information to pay attention to what you are doing.

Scott: There is a lot of competition out there – but it is healthier that people can be heard. I wish getting live gigs in our geographic area was easier.

Steve: The bathrooms at the clubs. Many are horrendous. But seriously, I will second Scott's assessment that getting gigs outside the city is tough. Suburban clubs tend to be looking for cover bands and that's not our shtick.

Isaac: Do you think in the near future that DIY artists/bands will be the norm and big record companies will be very limited?

Go Time!

Photo by Theresa Marketti

Marko: There will most assuredly always be more and more DIY artists in this electronic age, but the ultimate Business of Music, like all businesses, need to make MONEY to function, so the big record companies will never go away.

Scott : I would agree – you will see the huge mega stars – U2, Brittany Spears, Springsteen, on major labels – and most of the rest DIY. It is healthier for bands to be on a DIY basis – I don’t think they have the same external pressures, allowing them to remain creative.

Steve: Hopefully, someday the Indie "road to success" will be the norm rather than the exception. However, the record companies still have the mega financial backing and marketing machines to foster the career of the next American Idol. So, whether we like it or not, they will continue to be a huge influencer in the music industry.

Isaac: What type of feedbacks have you been receiving about your music from fans and music critics?

Marko: Go Time! has gotten great reviews both personally and professionally since we started. The reviewers need to categorize things by nature so we get a kick out of the comparisons. Cheap Trick, Guided by Voices...real guy rock for real people (what?!) Our sound is a little bit of a lot of things but when people tell us it sounds great that’s all that matters.

Scott: Luckily, it has been good. It sometimes makes you wonder – why is this good or bad? I have learned over the years not to let it get to me. Overall, I have to be thankful to all media, press, radio that has supported us thus far, and thank them.

Steve: My kids prefer Ke$ha and Justin Bieber, so what can I say? So far, our first two recordings ("Speak" and "Hit It") have gotten an abundance of positive feedback from friends, fans and critics. We take less positive feedback to heart and use those critiques to continually work toward making our music even better.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Paul: It hasn't stopped me yet. I feel lucky if people still like what we're doing, even if I have to keep going to the day job.

Marko: Up until now, we haven't gained fame nor fortune but making music is a lifetime gig, hopefully we can gain some notoriety at least and leave some songs we can be proud to listen to years from now..

Scott: Every time I get to play out with the other 3, record a new song, get radio play, a good review, etc. -- it is a success. I would like the fame and fortune – but feel we have a lot of vital years in front of us – and we can still get there. If we stay on the path – we will make it.

Steve: Certainly. I'm having too much fun to quit now. Fame and fortune would be the icing on the cake, but having the opportunity to record and play out is still a gas.

Isaac: How do you handle negative feedback or negative energy about your music?

Scott: I do not let it affect me – I use to when I was younger – and then realized that for every negative – there are several positive comments. Not everyone can like everything. It quite often happens that you get a reviewer (who personally likes dance music) and gets your record (that is nothing like that) and they can’t separate themselves from their personal taste – this is obviously going to affect your review. I do think it can be good to take the negative feedback to review and examine what you’re doing at times however – and make things better.

Marko: We use it to change ourselves for the better. You have to or else the band will shrivel up and die. Like all things we do when there are enough positive thoughts and comments (and there are) we build on that and try to reconsider our approach to making music with any negative feedback.

Paul: Rude Photoshop Art!

Steve: If the negative feedback is deserved, you use it to build on and get better. If it's not deserved, you let it go - everyone is entitled to an opinion, even if it's misguided.

Isaac: What role do your family and friends play in the equation of your pursuant of a music career?

Marko: It is a very big role indeed! Family and friends feedback is at times uplifting and other times very grounding (don't quit your day job!) Time constraints for practice and performing can limit productivity as well as creativity. Thank God Scott's brain doesn't take many vacations!

Scott: My family and friends are very supportive. They are really good to all of us. I thank all of them for putting up with us.

Steve: My wife has been supportive in allowing me to "pursue the dream" for many years. It does take away from family life at times, so I am grateful. Friends are your best critics, in that they are brutally honest. If you play a sub-par show or flub something, they will not be shy about letting you know about it.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Go Time!:

www.gotimeband.com

www.facebook/gotimeband

www.myspace/gotimeband1

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Marko: All we ask is give Go Time! a listen and see if you like what you hear...spend some time supporting the bands and artists that create original music and inspire them to keep creating..

Scott: We also want to thank you for your support Isaac and this interview (as well as the past interview) – and your support of local music. It is important for people to make the masses aware of new music they might not otherwise find.

Steve: This weekend, go to a club where three (possibly four or five) bands are playing that you have never heard of and give them a listen. I guarantee you'll be (mostly) pleasantly surprised and if not, you've still had a good time with your friends. If GO TIME! is playing, bring at least 10 friends with you.

Frank Anthony

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 18:29:50 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Frank Anthony

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Frank Anthony

Mathew Guido Photography, November 2011, Toronto Ontario

Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine knows that you will fall in love with the sensual sounds of Frank Anthony. His style and the way he sings create a sensational atmosphere that music lovers will find refreshing. Coming from a musical background certainly has helped solidified Frank Anthony’s R&B/Pop/Hip-Hop flavor. If you are ready to listen to music for grownups, then you have come to the right place. Here is Frank Anthony’s story.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Frank: One of the biggest benefits of being an indie artist is the larger amount of creative input you have in terms of the direction of the project. Having had the opportunity to have that input has allowed the product to be a reflection of who I am as an artist. And even in that freedom, like anything in life, it’s about choices that you later reflect on the decisions on the direction of the future. Having said that, I cannot ignore the value that a major, or a partnership with a major label has in artist development strategies, marketing, promotion and distribution. I think today’s music climate has created opportunities for very good strategic partnerships between Indie's and Majors.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Frank: Yes, I would absolutely keep my options open to signing with a major label if the opportunity presented itself, or if a major showed any interest in the project. In today’s market, making the music is the easy part. Online distribution has made it easier than ever before to reach global markets. But the reality is that relationships are very very important, and major labels have years of historic, and successful relationships with major promotion and distribution. I am not saying it is impossible to go all the way as an Indy….I am saying that unless you have very deep pockets….the journey is possible, but it will be challenging.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Frank: With the availability of the Internet, the ability to have global reach with your music is wonderful. The hours /schedule of this business are crazy at times. For me however, when you know that music is what you were born to do and you have found that inner peace with your life's purpose, you begin to identify where you belong. For me, I really enjoy spending time in the studio and in the booth. It has become my sacred space…my centre of energy…when it’s just me, the microphone, and space to just sing to my heart’s content…there is not a place in the world that feels more right than that, for me.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Frank: Wow…that is a loaded question….look this industry is tough…but a lot of industries are tough. You just have to keep looking forward and be focused to your goal. Unfortunately, from time to time…like many other aspects of life,…..the most discouraging thing for me is when you are all set to go, and you have commitments , and all of a sudden someone lets you down….without any rhyme or reason…..so for me…the most discouraging thing is UNRELIABLE PEOPLE.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Frank: Yes I believe it does. With the introduction of online strategies such as YouTube, and iTunes and such, never before has an artist had the opportunity to share his/her music with the world. Underground/Indy music has really good followings these days. For me, a perfect example of this is "Wiz Kalifah"…he is huge and he is still Indy.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

LOL…I love this question. I have been in some pretty awkward and unusual places and spaces….and to be honest my experience has had nothing to do with the space I am in. The most positive experiences I have had are based on chemistry. Chemistry with your space and crowd, no matter how big or small, chemistry with a producer, makes all the difference. I think when the chemistry is right, the energy is strong….it can bring out the best in an artist. Or at least it does for me. When I am electrified, energized…I peak to be my best.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Frank Anthony

Mathew Guido Photography, November 2011, Toronto Ontario

Frank: I have a very eclectic taste in music. I grew up in a very multicultural neighbourhood, which gave me insight and appreciation and love for urban type music. Music was always a part of my life…since I was a little boy really. My mom is an Elvis fanatic, and my dad was a singer in a band….and he played all kinds of music..all genres. My personality itself influences my taste in music as well.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Frank: The last time I wrote a song, it was about a relationship with my ex-girlfriend. Emotions have a tendency of being able to dig deep in the soul and when you use the deeps roots of your feeling. I think writing a song is almost a natural process. I also find it to be a very healing process. To be able to write about your deepest thoughts and feeling, it is a great way to move forward with life. So you achieve two things…a possible great song…and a cleansing of the soul. At least that is what my experience is. And I think that writing about all emotions has the same effect…sorrow, hurt, pain, joy, happiness, elation, and pride….and on and on and on!!

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Frank: Yes I would for sure. Music is a part of who I am. So whether I become famous or not….music has been a part of me since I was a little boy, and I verily believe it will be a part of me until I reach the tender years of life. The love and passion of music, is not something that is temporary…I think that if it is part of your physiological make up…its part of your presence and purpose.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Frank: My family/friends support is incredible; unexplainable at times. My family is my rock and my biggest supporters. Knowing that unconditional love and support is there no matter, makes the tough times a lot easier to deal with and conquer. It helps me pursue my music dreams, because I know my family has faith in me and believes in me. And it’s not about whether I gain success or not, it’s about trying and walking the journey of your dream, for no matter how long. Not too many people have this opportunity, so I am grateful and blessed.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Frank: I am a lover of music. I always have been, and I always will be. I enjoy discovering new sounds, so whether or not I gain fame as an artist, I will always be the same guy, listening to music, all kinds, with my headphones attached to my ears. Period. That will never change.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Frank: My taste evolves with time and music. So every year, there is something else that I like or learned to like. But the Eras of music that I have to say were the most influential, are the 50's and 60’s and 90's R&B and Hip-Hop. Elvis, Little Anthony and the Imperials, Frankie Valle and The Four Seasons, Otis Redding, R Kelly, Big L, Big E, and Usher.

Frank Anthony

Mathew Guido Photography, November 2011, Toronto Ontario

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Frank: You can go to www.frankanthonymusic.com, YOUTUBE, Frankanthonyofficial (my own page), Follow me on Twitter @thefrankanthony, Facebook – Frank Anthony (Artist Fan Page)

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Frank: I just want to extend special thanks to my family and everyone else (you know who you are) that has played an influential part in the creation of Frank Anthony. I also want to thank God for the Blessing of music in my life. I love to make people smile, and if my music can achieve that….then I am a happy person. TO MY FANS: I love you all, and look forward to creating more music for you all to enjoy and share with me. Much Love….FA- all day!!

Heather Pierson

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 08:00:22 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Heather Pierson

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Heather Pierson

Photo by Tim Shellmer

Singer/Songwriter Heather Pierson is a brilliant artist who is making passionate and sexy music for grownups. It is this type of music that really shows our publication how Pierson is capturing the sultry side of what has been missing in today’s music. This artist also combines Blues, Jazz, and R&B into a creative sound that will simply delight music lovers from all around the world. Want to learn more about this amazing and talented artist? Read on!!

Here is her story for your reading enjoyment.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Heather: I love being my own boss! Of course, with that comes more responsibility, more to think about - but I love being the one steering the ship. Plus, the technology for creating and promoting music has also allowed DIY artists like myself to present their work immediately to a global audience. Amazing time indeed!

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Heather: If the right deal came to me - by that I mean right for me - I'd be a fool not to accept. For the time being though, I'm really happy with the ways things are.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Heather: I'm always excited all the time by the process of songwriting and how, for me, it seems to not have much rhyme or reason to it. I don't have a routine or a discipline that I use to get me into the right frame of mind. The inspiration either comes or it doesn't. I'm also always excited to learn more about my main instrument (the piano) and to discover new ways to articulate the language of music in new dialects.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Heather: Making music is seldom a discouraging process. Occasionally, it will start to feel like a job, and that feeling can be discouraging but it usually only comes when I've been gigging so many nights in a row without any downtime. Even after just one night off I'm usually chomping at the bit to get on stage again!

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Heather: Yes and no. There are a lot of music fans who appreciate good heartfelt music from wherever it may come and seek it out everywhere. Sometimes, though, I'm reminded of that great Joni lyric: "Nobody stopped to hear him/Though he played so sweet and high/They knew he had never been on their TV/So they passed his music by".

Some people are satisfied enough with what they hear on the radio or see on TV and don't venture much off that well-worn path. There's nothing wrong with that, it's just a different group of music fans who, I think, are often depriving themselves of tremendous talent lurking in their own backyards.

Some of the best songwriters I've ever heard in my life are folks that are tucked away in the hills up here in New England that write songs and occasionally put out a CD who do it just for fun and they'll play a few local open mics and gigs here and there as a hobby or as a second source of income. So, I always say support great live local music - because that's how everyone who is now famous got their start!

Heather Pierson

Photo by Tim Shellmer

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Heather: Environment is key in creating great music. The room in which I'm performing or recording has to be inspiring in some way, whether it's with a beautiful decor, great acoustics, interesting vibe, etc. I can't recall the most unusual place I've ever played or recorded, but I can recall unusual items being used in recordings to create just the right sound for a certain moment in a recording. Those types of tricks I usually keep to myself.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Heather: I grew up in Maine and currently live in the Mount Washington Valley, which is arguably some of the most beautiful terrain on the face of the Earth. For sure, the landscape here in northern New England has inspired much in me. I do also continually draw inspiration from some of the beautiful places I've travelled through and to: the desert of Arizona and the Grand Canyon, the mountains of Colorado, the hustle and bustle of places like NYC and Chicago, and, in particular, New Orleans. I've been to the Crescent City twice so far and will be returning again for a spell next summer. New Orleans lights a fire under me like no other place ever has.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Heather: Songwriting is, for me, usually an ongoing process with several songs cooking at once. I always have a notebook and pencil within reach no matter where I am. The most recent song I'm working on is still in progress. The poetry came first, and now I've completed the melody. The chordal arrangement is soon to follow - but I'm letting the melody cook for a while, as I often do. Songwriting isn't something to be rushed, I don't think - although some of my most popular songs were written in one fell swoop in an afternoon.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Heather: Of course. Music is like breathing for me - it's something I *must* do. Having said that, I should also say that it brings me more joy than anything else in life so far ever has. It's my most immediate means of communicating all of my deepest emotions and ideas. If I wasn't making music, I have no idea what I'd be doing.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Heather: I have the best family of friends on this planet.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Heather: I am always seeking out new music - but usually, I always keep returning to what I think of as my "classics" - that handful of artists who have created some of the greatest music ever written and who provide this amazing wellspring from which I continually draw. A lot of new music that I hear pales in comparison to these classic artists.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Heather: Some of my favorite musicians, in no particular order: Mike Patton, Oscar Peterson, Gregg Allman, Paula Cole, Massive Attack, Ray Charles, Frank Zappa, Joni Mitchell, Fats Waller, Jaco Pastorius, The Civil Wars. My tastes are all over the calendar and all over the map.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Heather:

www.heatherpierson.com

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Heather: "Isn't it a miracle to be alive?/To feel that spark of passion along your spine?" Yes it is. I get to do what I love to do for a living, and with some of my closest friends. I'm one of the lucky ones. And without the enthusiasm and support of my amazing and faithful fans, I wouldn't be enjoying that luck at all.

ThaGataNegrra

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 07:19:29 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with ThaGataNegrra

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

ThaGataNegrra

Photo by Candylust Photography

Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine introduces the next stage in indie music. Meet ThaGataNegrra—Tha ORIGINAL GATA who is making a BIG splash on the indie music scene. Her style and how she entertains is something original, fresh, and fun to watch. If you want to witness a star being born, then check out the wonderful music of ThaGataNegrra. Here is her story for your reading enjoyment.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

ThaGataNegrra: I enjoy being able to write what I want, to have more control over what I record, and what makes it to the final project. I love that with the Internet we can reach more people than we ever could before.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

ThaGataNegrra: I am actually on a really small indie label, 3 Miles Entertainment that my family started. As far as major labels...I'm not entirely sure I trust them, especially since the major labels as we know them are radically changing.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

ThaGataNegrra: It's an exciting time because anything can happen, and usually does. We have a lot of tools now to create so many different sounds. What excites me is that I can get a song to the public almost immediately if I wanted to; I don't have to wait for a say-so. Being able to express any emotion or thought is very exciting.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

ThaGataNegrra: That sometimes the market is so saturated you might not be able to be heard. It's hard, with the attention span the public now has, to get and keep the right attention. And it's really hard, obviously, when you don't have the means to promote like you'd like. You have to get the people to care about you and your project; that means promotion. It's also difficult for me because people look at me and think I'm just one thing because I made a fun album; they hear the dance tracks and automatically say, “you're not underground enough” or “you're not a 'real' emcee”. And that just isn't true.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

ThaGataNegrra: Most people hear “indie” and think “crap”. When I tell people I have a CD release, they are always surprised to see a six-panel jewelcase with great artwork when I give it to them. They expect that I'll give them a burned CD with Sharpie titles. On the other side of the coin, there are people who will only listen to indie music...so there's an audience out there somewhere, for everyone.

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

ThaGataNegrra: So far, the most unusual place I've played a show was stuff like the New York City Marathon, and the Philadelphia AIDS Walk. Your audience is constantly moving. You get people popping out of the crowd to take pics with you, you have people walking by—like in the case of the Marathon—taking pictures and video and dancing in the street with you, bringing you stuff from the bodega on the corner where we were.

We performed right in front of it, and we saw all kinds of people. It was amazing. And they were giving us so much positive energy at both events, and that made me perform better. I really like gigs like that.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

ThaGataNegrra: I'm a native of Newark NJ, and I was raised on hip-hop from the source. It came from New York, which is like, fifteen minutes from me. So, I tend to be a bit biased sometimes about how it really is. The most common misconception is that rap is commercial hip-hop, and hip-hop is pure, underground “real shxt”. The reality is, hip-hop= culture, rap=message, emcee=messenger. It turned out to be my weapon of choice as far as creating. I'm not that great of a singer, so I chose rhyming, never looked back. I've just always been different, influenced by so many different kinds of music, that people don't really get my sound sometimes, and just dismiss it. That can really be frustrating.

ThaGataNegrra

Photo by Candylust Photography

I don't know that living where I do had much influence on what music I prefer. Most people think I grew up in the suburbs, when I've lived in Newark most of my life. I like nearly everything except country music. Perhaps that's due to my parents, I dunno. We don't have much of a music scene here, except for venues that play house music, and the sporadic bar that might have a rock band come in. I'm hoping that this will change someday. Perhaps I'll have a hand in that.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

ThaGataNegrra: The last few things I wrote were a few verses I was to perform on someone else's song, and an extension of an interlude off my CD. My process is to play the track over and over and just let the words come. I'll tweak it here and there to make sure it falls on the beat right, and make sure it's as I want it—as it sounds in my head. Sometimes it doesn't take long for me to write a song; I've been known to write one in a half an hour, and it's a solid song.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

ThaGataNegrra: I honestly don't think I have much of a choice, as it's in my blood. My father was a frontman for two bands, he toured the world. He used to do stuff with George Clinton. He still writes music now. I don't think I would be able to stop writing and performing if I wanted to. There have been times I just wanted to stop because it seemed nobody cared, I wasn't making money, any number of deterrents... but I never could. It's just in me. If I never “make it”, I still will be in the studio anyway.

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

ThaGataNegrra: My boyfriend is both the hypeman (when my brother isn't doing it) and one of the dancers for me. My father and stepmother are the label, my brother is the producer, so it's a family outfit. My kids think their mami rocks, no matter what she does, for some reason, so they are my biggest supporters. They all do their parts to help me keep going. I can bounce ideas off both my boyfriend and my brother; they will give me feedback, and sometimes some ideas of their own. It's great.

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

ThaGataNegrra: I don't listen to the radio as much as I used to anymore, I admit it. I get exposed to newer music through my boyfriend, mainly, because he does parties, or I might hear something in a commercial and go, “What is that?” I'm not really impressed with some of the stuff out there in the mainstream, but there are a few things I like.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

ThaGataNegrra: I'm an eighties girl. I'm a rock chyck, and I love new wave and golden-era hip-hop. I mainly listen to rock and electronica, I have a bunch of that on my mp3 player. The music on it is all over the place with songs from 70s, 80s, 90s...

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

ThaGataNegrra

Photo by Candylust Photography

ThaGataNegrra: My own site, thagatanegrra.net, but you can find me on Facebook (facebook.com/thagatanegrra), Twitter (twitter.com/thagatanegrra), ReverbNation (reverbnation.com/thagatanegrra), Bandcamp (thagatanegrra.bandcamp.com), Soundcloud (soundcloud.com/thagatanegrra), Sonicbids(sonicbids.com/thagatanegrra)...almost anywhere you can find music, I am. I have a YouTube channel for my music (youtube.com/trueoriginalgata), but no official music video yet.

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

ThaGataNegrra: My cd is available on iTunes, CD Baby, Bandcamp, and Amazon.com. Download away-- you won't regret it. Keep supporting good indie music!

Mike Stocksdale

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 06:49:08 GMT

Junior's Cave Music Interview with Mike Stocksdale

Late Winter (January 2012) Edition

Music Now Spotlight

by Isaac Davis Junior, BGS, MBA

Stocksdale by Wendy Bloomingdale

Junior’s Cave Golden Isles Online Magazine enjoys indie music especially from those indie artists that have a flair, passion, and desire to express themselves through the music being produced. Mike Stockdale is an amazing singer/songwriter who writes music that brilliantly showcases his talent to capture words into meaningful musical expressions. Our magazine enjoyed listening to Mike and his band’s tunes and knows that music lovers will enjoy listening to his music too. Here is his story for your reading enjoyment.

Isaac: It’s an amazing time to be a DIY artist/performer/band/musician. What do you enjoy the most about being an indie performer?

Mike: In a nutshell...I get to call the shots. I'm my own boss, so I get final say on the music I make, the venues I play, the people I play with, etc. It's inspiring and allows for a lot of exciting and creative freedom of expression. But DIY can also amount to a lot of responsibility and pressure if you let it get to you, so there's a down side as well. It's hard work to be more than just a songwriter and musician, but it's better than being somebody's bitch.

Isaac: Would you be up to signing to a Major or Indie Record Label? Why or why not?

Mike: Sure. Truth is that most of my favorite artists are signed to a record label, or they were at some point in their careers. Signing with a label would alleviate some of my responsibilities, allow me to focus more on music, open doors to new places and new people, and possibly allow me to make music a lifetime career. I would still want to retain a lot of control if I signed a deal, and I would need to trust the people I was signing with. Most likely I would go with a smaller indie label. That might mean less money and more work, but if I wanted money I would have become an accountant.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that excites you the most right now?

Mike: I'm really excited about getting back into home recording. For my first two albums, Searching for September and The Hill, I recorded at home using a 16 track digital recorder and a few mics. The next two albums, Chase You and Ashland, were recorded in studios in more of a live band environment. Don't get me wrong, I love playing with other musicians and jamming, but studios cost money and therefore you have less time to make the record. We made this last one (Ashland) in three days not counting mixing. I spent months on The Hill because I could, trying different parts or bringing in different players. Some of the quality may be sacrificed when you record at home, but it's made up for with the hours of work and love that you can put into the recording process. I'm working on building up a portable Pro Tools rig at the moment, and can't wait to start experimenting with this new set of songs that I've written. The road is so open with home recording...I could do anything, play anything, write anything, and sound however I choose.

Isaac: What do you feel is the one aspect of making music that gets you the most discouraged?

Mike: At my level, I get the most discouraged when I start thinking about other people. Whether it's envying other bands with bigger fan bases, being dismayed that I haven't generated fans from TV placements or radio, or being disappointed that I didn't pull as many people at the last show as I thought I was going to. But that's all bullshit. It's stuff I can't really control. What I can control is the music I make, and if I keep my focus there, all of that discouragement fades away.

Isaac: Do you feel that Indie music gets the respect it deserves? Why or why not?

Mike: Yeah, I think so. Maybe it's just in the circles I'm in at the moment, but it seems that more and more people are actively searching for good, interesting music. Whether it's online, at their local record stores, or local radio stations it seems that there is a strong faction of people that aren't going to settle for crap. It's much harder to fool people into buying bad music or fake music these days, because it's so much easier to find the music that truly speaks to you thanks to the Internet. Radio hits and pop stars come and go, but the power is returning from the huge labels to the hands of the people. Indie artists who are staying true to what they believe in are beginning to get the respect they deserve.

Stocksdale - Ashland Cover photo by Mike Olekshy

Isaac: In your opinion, what are your thoughts on how the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording impact the qualities of the show/recording?

Mike: I've played a lot of weird shows at weird places in my life. It turns out the way you perceive the situation and the attitude you take will make or break the show. I guess that's true for most things in life. Perspective is everything. Recently, my band and I drove down to Carlsbad, CA, to play a show at a Daphne's, which is a fast-food Greek restaurant. It's actually really delicious, and I was working with them on a new music promotion they were doing. The plan was to have us come down and play in this courtyard next to the restaurant as a way for Daphne's to do something nice for the community, and for us to play some music and get some exposure.

Well it turned out that nobody got the permit for us to play outdoors, so after a two hour drive in traffic, we had to set up INSIDE the restaurant, which was not at all suited for music. It was really weird to have people ordering and eating fast food right next to us in that tiny space, but we just said "whatever" and had a great time playing our music. No big deal. I was pissed at first, but thanks to my level-headed bandmates, I got a little perspective on the situation and made the best of it. They treated us graciously and paid us nicely too, which always helps.

Isaac: I am interested in knowing if in what ways does the place where you live (or places where you have lived), affect the music you create, or your taste in music?

Mike: Yeah, I would say that everything and everyone around me can creep into my songs now and then, so the places I've lived always affect the songs I write. I often write about places and times in my life that I feel nostalgia for. I just released Ashland, named after my street. It has a bright, summery side to it, and those songs came after I moved to Santa Monica near the beach. It's probably not a coincidence. As far as taste in music goes, I'm heavily influenced by my friends, so the places I live can affect me in that sense.

Isaac: What can you tell our publication about the last time you wrote a song? What can you tell us about the whole process?

Mike: I have a new set of songs that I've been working on for the past four months, and for this batch I've really been letting things be. I have a tendency to force songs into what I want or think I should be writing, but lately I've been trying to just let them come to me. These new songs are more like discoveries than anything. I'll sit around the apartment playing and singing little melodies. If I start to feel something, then I'll grab my iPhone and use the voice recorder to get the idea down. Lately, I've been trying to postpone the critic in me. I keep the ideas pure when they come, and then the next day I'll sift through them on the headphones and see if there are any lyrics, melodies, riffs, or chord progressions worth keeping. If I like what I'm hearing, I'll try and figure out where the song wants to go. It's also important to work on writing every day, even if you don't feel inspired. I find that inspiration seems to come around if you're putting in consistent hard work.

Isaac: If you knew that you would never gain fame and fortune with what you are doing now, would you continue to make music? Explain.

Mike: Yep. Very recently I've conceded that I will never gain fame or fortune from my music. It's kind of liberating actually. Songwriting is my creative outlet; it is a part of who I am, so whether I make money or gain popularity from it is irrelevant. Fame and fortune don't make the music better anyway, so what's the point of that?

Isaac: Do you have a strong support system with your family and friends? How have your family and friends help you emotionally, financially, spiritually, etc. with your music?

Mike: Yeah, I'm very blessed with supportive friends and family. My parents think anything I've ever done is amazing, which has been really helpful in simply relieving any stress of them thinking I shouldn't be wasting my time with music, a thought all too common among parents. They bought me a guitar recently too, which was really sweet of them. It's a metal body tricone resonator with a lot of character, and I've been using it all the time. My wife, on the other hand, has been affectionately labeled "The Queen of Call Outs," by our circle of friends, because she always tells it like it is. This can be shocking for a fragile yet egotistical songwriter like myself, but she has been incredible through my music career by combining brutal honesty with genuine support. She's really pushed me to become better and better over the years.

Stocksdale by Mike Olekshy

Isaac: As you continue your own path for making music, do you find yourself getting more or less interested in seeking out and listening to new music made by other people...and why do you think that is?

Mike: I read in a newspaper article a few years ago that after 25, the human brain becomes much less interested in new music, and most people don't change the styles they listen to much after that. I hope it's not true. I guess there's very little chance that I'm going to all of a sudden become interested in death metal, but I'm still always on the lookout for new music or old music that I can re-discover. I find more often than not that word of mouth is the best way to discover something new.

Isaac: As far as your influences, what would you say are the musical periods or styles do you find yourself most drawn to as a listener?

Mike: I've been drawn to blues and classic rock ever since I could play guitar. Something about those two styles just resonates with me. They're closely related anyway. In the last ten years, I've become more influenced by folk and old country music, maybe because I'm drawn to the stories and lyrics and raw nature of the music. Ironically, I'm a little wary of brand new music, because it hasn't had a chance to stand the test of time. Most of the records and music on my computer are from the 60s and 70s, but there is some new stuff out that's pretty cool. I've been listening to a lot of Tom Waits' Mule Variations, Frightened Rabbit's The Midnight Organ Fight, and The Black Keys' The Big Come Up. Those aren't exactly brand new, but they're more recent than Blonde on Blonde (Bob Dylan) or Graceland (Paul Simon) or Abbey Road (The Beatles). I always seem to come back to those records sooner or later.

Isaac: What is the best site/s that you can be found on the Internet?

Mike: Stream Ashland and download two songs for free at BandCamp -

http://mikestocksdale.bandcamp.com/album/ashland

Buy all four of my albums on iTunes -

http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/ashland/id433798714

Website - www.mikestocksdale.com

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mike-Stocksdale-Music/14020671922

Isaac: The floor is yours; final words…..

Mike: These were really great questions. I really enjoyed answering them. Thanks for taking interest in DIY artists.

Rays of Son, week of Dec. 18, 2011

isaacdavisjr@juniorscave.com (Isaac J Davis Junior) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 04:39:13 GMT

Reporter, interviewee decide to open

Christmas-themed business

By Greg Miller, Christian Syndicated Columnist and Writer/Author

Sarah, who worked as a nurse at the local nursing home, loved to sing Christmas carols.

She work up every morning with a song...a Christmas song… in her heart.

The Christ-child-in-a-manger-songs. Rudolph-and-Santa songs. Christmas tree-decorating songs. Sweethearts-at-Christmas songs. Christmas wedding songs.

The local newspaper learned about Sarah’s love of Christmas songs and wanted to publish a story about her. Sarah agreed to meet Sandra, the newspaper’s ace Christmas reporter, to discuss her love of Christmas songs.

Sandra, who immensely enjoyed Christmas songs, too, eagerly anticipated her interview with Sarah. The women met at a Christmas café, which was open year round.

Christmas music played softly in the background as Sandra interviewed Sarah. “So why do you enjoy Christmas music so much?,” Sandra asked.

“Every time I hear a Christmas song, I think about the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, and how he came into the world to save us from sin,” Sarah replied.

“When did you begin to develop your love of Christmas songs?,” Sandra asked.

“Oh, I didn’t develop a love of Christmas music,” Sarah answered. “I was born with the love for it. And when I’m on duty at the nursing home, I can sing Christmas songs to the residents all day long.”

“I know what you’re talkin’ about!,” Sandra exclaimed. “I believe the Lord instilled a love of Christmas music in me when I was still in my mother’s womb!”

Sandra continued, “My mom even says that when I kicked her she could hear me humming the tune to ‘Silent Night.’”

“And my mother tells me that within a few weeks of when I was born, I was crying the tune to the song, “’Away in a Manger,’” Sarah said. “But she says I cried softly, like I was peacefully crying myself to sleep.”

“Hey, Sarah,” said Sandra, “I have an idea. “Why don’t we team up and open our own Christmas-themed business?”

“That’s a great idea, Sandra,” said Sarah. “What kind of business do you think we should open?”

“I’m not sure,” Sandra said. “We probably need to get together a few times and discuss the details. Since we both enjoy Christmas songs so much, one idea might be to incorporate Christmas music into the theme of the business. I do believe we need to make sure the business honors and glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. After all, He is the reason for the Christmas season!”

“Actually,” Sarah replied, “He is the reason for every season!”

“Even winter, spring, summer and fall,” laughed Sandra. “The Lord Jesus Christ created them all!”

To contact the writer of this column about speaking engagements and/or puppet ministry, please email kidcool4jesus@yahoo.com.