MAS: Congrats to Sakgra on winning the Duo or Band song category for December 2010! Visiting us from Athens, Greece to claim victory on MakeAStar.com First off, tell us how it feels to have won. Are you happy, surprised, relieved?
Sakgra: Relieved and happy....it was our first time taking part in a competition.
MAS: Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
Sakgra: Yes. The name was created by the 3 first letters of the name and surname of the creator.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Sakgra: At first it was the creator writing and composing music and singing some of the songs. And 6 years later he found the 2nd member who wrote the lyrics and at the same time the 3rd member, his cousin, who sings now most of the songs- the winner song as well.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Sakgra: Only the creator... in songs and remixes
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Sakgra: No story except that it was our first song in English.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Sakgra: It's the best of all. It gives you the opportunity to see how good you are in different contests.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Sakgra: We try to make hits. We do not make songs for ourselves. We always ask our friends' opinions.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Sakgra: We love 80’s and we mix the 80’s with today’s sound
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
Sakgra: We started small concerts in our town in small clubs and we try to advertise our band from many internet sites...thats for now.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Sakgra: Favorite musician...Modern Talking,First album...Alphaville – Big in Japan and concert...Pet Shop Boys.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Sakgra: If you love your work there’s no worst part!Music is my life(creator of Sakgra)
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Sakgra: Because of the financial crisis most people download music from the internet illegally.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Sakgra: It’s difficult to be famous especially in our country(Greece)You can succeed only with good connections and that is very bad.But we never let it get us down...especially when sites like Makeastar.com give us the opportunity to have a victory like this.Thank you!!!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Instrumental Song winner Jacki Wheeler
MAS: Congrats to Jacki Wheeler of Vancouver, Washington. Winner of the December 2010 Instrumental Song contest! First off, tell us how it feels to have won. Are you happy, surprised, relieved?
Jacki: I am so happy. I’ve been trying for a few months and it feels good to win, finally!
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a composer and how your recording career began.
Jacki: I got a late start learning how to play the piano (I started at 25), and I wrote my first song in 1996 – I’d always wanted to write, but never knew where to start. I bought a Roland XP50 synth and started experimenting with sequencing, and all of a sudden I was coming up with melodies and recording them. I had so much fun even though my early recordings were really bad!!! (haha). I kept at it, though and in the fall of 2007 started recording with Reason. This was also when I started uploading my songs online.
MAS: What attracted you to recording instrumental music instead of other styles?
Jacki: I’ve always had kind of a connection with the piano – ever since I was little I was fascinated with watching someone play it. I just knew that was what I wanted to do. I have always had a passion for it. And instrumental music is so relaxing in any setting.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Jacki: The title “Urbanity” actually came from just paging through my Reason program, looking for a drum loop to write to. Sometimes when I get writers block I’ll do that, and I found this lovely patch called “Urban”, and just put “ity” at the end! I started playing a chord progression upon writing it, and then the melody and supporting parts happened from there.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Jacki: I think there is a wonderful sense of community and support on this site, and I appreciate knowing that people actually like what I do!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Jacki: I have been compared to George Winston (which REALLY blows my mind!!!), and I’ve also been compared to Jan Hammer for my electronic work.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Jacki: I’d have to say the equipment I use, for one – I only use Reason for tracking/mixing/mastering, and Goldwave for mixdown. Also I think I’d have to say my late start, I hope to encourage other adults to go for their dreams, if they think it’s too late for them (which it isn’t!!)
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Jacki: I get a lot of inspiration from a lot of my online friends – I have one friend that is working in music full time, which I really want to do. My online community is a great inspiration for me.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Jacki: I would love to write piano-only songs (no drums, no synth) and put together a piano album. I already have ideas for a title, stay tuned!!! Also I’m rehearsing with a band in Milwaukee, OR – we want to start playing gigs in the summer. Also, I’d like to get some work playing in restaurants, malls, and in other kinds of settings like that.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Jacki: I can’t say I really had a favorite – I liked all kinds of music. My first album was the Partridge Family (Hey, I was 9 years old!!) – My first concert was Tower of Power in 1975.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Jacki: The best part: The creative process, working hard on a song, and having someone say they like it! The worst part: Comparing myself and coming up short (it happens a lot) I am hoping to build my confidence more this year.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Jacki: The best part? The fact that a rookie like me can participate! The worst part? I don’t have an answer for that as I need more knowledge to do it.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Jacki: It’s January 3rd and I haven’t taken my tree down yet!!!!!!
Jacki: I am so happy. I’ve been trying for a few months and it feels good to win, finally!
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a composer and how your recording career began.
Jacki: I got a late start learning how to play the piano (I started at 25), and I wrote my first song in 1996 – I’d always wanted to write, but never knew where to start. I bought a Roland XP50 synth and started experimenting with sequencing, and all of a sudden I was coming up with melodies and recording them. I had so much fun even though my early recordings were really bad!!! (haha). I kept at it, though and in the fall of 2007 started recording with Reason. This was also when I started uploading my songs online.
MAS: What attracted you to recording instrumental music instead of other styles?
Jacki: I’ve always had kind of a connection with the piano – ever since I was little I was fascinated with watching someone play it. I just knew that was what I wanted to do. I have always had a passion for it. And instrumental music is so relaxing in any setting.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Jacki: The title “Urbanity” actually came from just paging through my Reason program, looking for a drum loop to write to. Sometimes when I get writers block I’ll do that, and I found this lovely patch called “Urban”, and just put “ity” at the end! I started playing a chord progression upon writing it, and then the melody and supporting parts happened from there.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Jacki: I think there is a wonderful sense of community and support on this site, and I appreciate knowing that people actually like what I do!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Jacki: I have been compared to George Winston (which REALLY blows my mind!!!), and I’ve also been compared to Jan Hammer for my electronic work.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Jacki: I’d have to say the equipment I use, for one – I only use Reason for tracking/mixing/mastering, and Goldwave for mixdown. Also I think I’d have to say my late start, I hope to encourage other adults to go for their dreams, if they think it’s too late for them (which it isn’t!!)
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Jacki: I get a lot of inspiration from a lot of my online friends – I have one friend that is working in music full time, which I really want to do. My online community is a great inspiration for me.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Jacki: I would love to write piano-only songs (no drums, no synth) and put together a piano album. I already have ideas for a title, stay tuned!!! Also I’m rehearsing with a band in Milwaukee, OR – we want to start playing gigs in the summer. Also, I’d like to get some work playing in restaurants, malls, and in other kinds of settings like that.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Jacki: I can’t say I really had a favorite – I liked all kinds of music. My first album was the Partridge Family (Hey, I was 9 years old!!) – My first concert was Tower of Power in 1975.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Jacki: The best part: The creative process, working hard on a song, and having someone say they like it! The worst part: Comparing myself and coming up short (it happens a lot) I am hoping to build my confidence more this year.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Jacki: The best part? The fact that a rookie like me can participate! The worst part? I don’t have an answer for that as I need more knowledge to do it.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Jacki: It’s January 3rd and I haven’t taken my tree down yet!!!!!!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Music Video winner Westcott Avenue music video director Jeremy Tremp
MAS: CONGRATULATIONS Jeremy on winning the Music Video category for the month of November 2010! First off, tell us how it feels to have won. Are you happy, surprised, relieved?
Jeremy: Pretty surprised I guess. I submitted the video and kind of forgot about it, so I am happy that the Make A Star network liked the video enough to keep it moving along!
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Jeremy: I knew the Westcott Avenue guys since I was a kid. I was back in Arizona visiting my family and I called them up and said I would shoot a music video for them. We came up with the idea of integrating goofy channels on TV throughout the song. So we shot the whole video in a day with little to no professional gear except my camera. Everyone had a great time and loved the finished product!
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Jeremy: The Westcott Avenue guys shared the idea of a guy watching them on TV as different characters and we all came up with the different scenarios and how they would play out. It was definitely a little bit ridiculous haha.
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Jeremy: I have worked on numerous feature films, produced and directed many commercials and I shoot as many music videos as I can. My most recognizable videos I have worked on would be Carolina Liar, Pop Evil, and Big Sean. You can see all my music videos at www.Jeremytremp.com
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Jeremy: Make a star has a very unique idea behind it. It is very simple to use and upload your video. There is a very wide variety of music and videos on the site. It is very enjoyable to browse all the work from other artists.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos?
Jeremy: The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…As a director, I love collaborating with the artists to hear their ideas and feelings behind the song. I then like to bring my take on the song and imagery within it. We come together on the ideas and I bring them to life in a way that everyone might share in the enjoyment of watching and listening to their art. Music inspires emotion. I like to bring that emotion into something tangible that you want to be a part of after seeing it.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Jeremy: I was always into Blink 182 as a kid, my first album was some Creed album. First concert was Skillet and Thousand Foot Krutch.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Jeremy: The best and worst part of the music industry today is that it is so easy to make music that everyone is doing it.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Jeremy: I have a brown Chihuahua named Rockstar.
Jeremy: Pretty surprised I guess. I submitted the video and kind of forgot about it, so I am happy that the Make A Star network liked the video enough to keep it moving along!
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Jeremy: I knew the Westcott Avenue guys since I was a kid. I was back in Arizona visiting my family and I called them up and said I would shoot a music video for them. We came up with the idea of integrating goofy channels on TV throughout the song. So we shot the whole video in a day with little to no professional gear except my camera. Everyone had a great time and loved the finished product!
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Jeremy: The Westcott Avenue guys shared the idea of a guy watching them on TV as different characters and we all came up with the different scenarios and how they would play out. It was definitely a little bit ridiculous haha.
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Jeremy: I have worked on numerous feature films, produced and directed many commercials and I shoot as many music videos as I can. My most recognizable videos I have worked on would be Carolina Liar, Pop Evil, and Big Sean. You can see all my music videos at www.Jeremytremp.com
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Jeremy: Make a star has a very unique idea behind it. It is very simple to use and upload your video. There is a very wide variety of music and videos on the site. It is very enjoyable to browse all the work from other artists.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos?
Jeremy: The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…As a director, I love collaborating with the artists to hear their ideas and feelings behind the song. I then like to bring my take on the song and imagery within it. We come together on the ideas and I bring them to life in a way that everyone might share in the enjoyment of watching and listening to their art. Music inspires emotion. I like to bring that emotion into something tangible that you want to be a part of after seeing it.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Jeremy: I was always into Blink 182 as a kid, my first album was some Creed album. First concert was Skillet and Thousand Foot Krutch.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Jeremy: The best and worst part of the music industry today is that it is so easy to make music that everyone is doing it.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Jeremy: I have a brown Chihuahua named Rockstar.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Stand Up Comic Winner Katsy Chappell
MAS: A big congratulations Katsy on being the November 2010 Stand Up Comic winner! Tell us the story behind the video you submitted.
Katsy: The story behind the "seat belt" joke I submitted went down like this. I was sitting in the exit row on a Southwest Airlines flight. The flight attendant was right in front of me doing her inflight presentation. When she finished a call bell rang and she looked around for a place to put her flight tools. When she looked my way I gave her a look that said I'd hold them for her and just as quickly she handed me the yellow oxygen mask, safety placard and seat belt. She came back to find me playing with the seat belt and as she thanked me for holding her supplies she told me that these seat belts tend to grow legs and walk off the plane. She explained that young tiny waisted girls sneak them around their waists under clothing and steal them. I said really and started trying to get it around my waist which made her laugh. She says to me "if you can get that on your body" you can have it. She giggled and went to help a passenger. She didn't realize what a gauntlet she'd laid with that statement. In a flash it had become a competition. I wanted to win that seat belt fair and square. After some thought, I nixed my calf, thigh and neck....too easy. I wanted to be able to show it off if I got to keep it so a light bulb moment later, I had clasped and adjusted it perfectly around my HEAD! I sat there and waited for her to walk by. She did after a while and we started chatting again. In the midst of that chat she burst out laughing and walked away. She came back and had another flight attendant with her and she started to laugh too. Other flight attendants walked by and laughed at my seat belted head. I was pleased to make them laugh. I wear it as a headband cause I'm the ultimate "green comic" able to recycle, upcycle, renew and re-use just about anything!
MAS: You are one funny lady, Katsy, tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Katsy: I am back to stand up after a 10 year hiatus. I did stand up from 1988 to 1998 and started up again in 2008. Both times I took Judy Carters comedy workshop. Her classes are great and what can I say...She wrote the book on how to be funny. In fact, she was putting finishing touches to her Comedy Bible book back in 1988 when I first took her class. I will forever be grateful for what she taught me about the art of funny.
MAS: That’s a long time, how do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Katsy: As a comedian, when I am onstage making people laugh, I feel like I’m giving them a little downtime away from life's troubles. They get to put aside, the bad day, burned steak, bills, etc., and just enjoy some humor. I like giving my audience a mini-vacation. Laughter is good therapy and I feel high as a kite walking the comedy boards connecting with the audience and feeling their laughter envelope me like grandmas handmade quilt.
MAS: How do you go about gathering the situations or information to write your jokes and put together a routine?
Katsy: How do I write my jokes? Well, my jokes tend to come from slice of life, everyday situations that I stumble upon or get smacked in the face with. When my friends and even strangers laugh at something I've told them, I put it on layaway in my joke cellar till I can work it into the act. As far as putting together a routine, I like to see what kind of audience I'm going in front of. I don't use profanity in my act. Nothing wrong with it, but it's just not for me. But my set will be different if I know there are kids in the audience as opposed to an adults only show. I enjoy bringing my humor to all types of audiences. Comedy clubs to Church's to Corporate to Children....it's all good.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Katsy: Comedically, some people have told me that I remind them of Mom's Mabley and Pearl Bailey.
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Katsy: My comedy heroes... there are lots of them but off the top of my head and without the benefit of coffee I'd have to say Shelley Berman, Tim Conway, Richard Pryor, LaWanda Page, Phyllis Diller, Flip Wilson. Charlie Hill, Mort Sahl.
MAS: What are you career plans for the year ahead?
Katsy: My career plans are to take my eco-green comedy tour on the road to as many places WORLD WIDE as I possibly can.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Katsy: The best part of being a comedian is making someone laugh when you know they are going through a rough spell. Sometimes I feel like the Johnny Appleseed of comedy especially when I've unknowingly paid it forward by just spending a few moments with someone, lightening their spirits with humor and a hug. level. It's annoying in this day to be back to stand up and have far too many doors of opportunity closed to me. The best and worst part of the industry for comics today. In my opinion reality TV played a part in this. All those shows where every joe blow thinks he can, spilled over to comedy stage. Now you can go to a comedy show and might catch someone onstage walking back and forth ranting about something that clearly should be shared while they are laid out on the therapist's sofa in a quiet room. The audience has had to pay admission and a two drink minimum.
MAS: How does MakeaStar compare to other sites?
Katsy: I dunno. This is the first time I've done an online contest like this. Since I won, I guess I'd have to say "IT'S AWESOME"!!! now where's my duckets?
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Katsy: Randomness: I make soap from scratch. I am a Soaper!
Katsy: The story behind the "seat belt" joke I submitted went down like this. I was sitting in the exit row on a Southwest Airlines flight. The flight attendant was right in front of me doing her inflight presentation. When she finished a call bell rang and she looked around for a place to put her flight tools. When she looked my way I gave her a look that said I'd hold them for her and just as quickly she handed me the yellow oxygen mask, safety placard and seat belt. She came back to find me playing with the seat belt and as she thanked me for holding her supplies she told me that these seat belts tend to grow legs and walk off the plane. She explained that young tiny waisted girls sneak them around their waists under clothing and steal them. I said really and started trying to get it around my waist which made her laugh. She says to me "if you can get that on your body" you can have it. She giggled and went to help a passenger. She didn't realize what a gauntlet she'd laid with that statement. In a flash it had become a competition. I wanted to win that seat belt fair and square. After some thought, I nixed my calf, thigh and neck....too easy. I wanted to be able to show it off if I got to keep it so a light bulb moment later, I had clasped and adjusted it perfectly around my HEAD! I sat there and waited for her to walk by. She did after a while and we started chatting again. In the midst of that chat she burst out laughing and walked away. She came back and had another flight attendant with her and she started to laugh too. Other flight attendants walked by and laughed at my seat belted head. I was pleased to make them laugh. I wear it as a headband cause I'm the ultimate "green comic" able to recycle, upcycle, renew and re-use just about anything!
MAS: You are one funny lady, Katsy, tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Katsy: I am back to stand up after a 10 year hiatus. I did stand up from 1988 to 1998 and started up again in 2008. Both times I took Judy Carters comedy workshop. Her classes are great and what can I say...She wrote the book on how to be funny. In fact, she was putting finishing touches to her Comedy Bible book back in 1988 when I first took her class. I will forever be grateful for what she taught me about the art of funny.
MAS: That’s a long time, how do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Katsy: As a comedian, when I am onstage making people laugh, I feel like I’m giving them a little downtime away from life's troubles. They get to put aside, the bad day, burned steak, bills, etc., and just enjoy some humor. I like giving my audience a mini-vacation. Laughter is good therapy and I feel high as a kite walking the comedy boards connecting with the audience and feeling their laughter envelope me like grandmas handmade quilt.
MAS: How do you go about gathering the situations or information to write your jokes and put together a routine?
Katsy: How do I write my jokes? Well, my jokes tend to come from slice of life, everyday situations that I stumble upon or get smacked in the face with. When my friends and even strangers laugh at something I've told them, I put it on layaway in my joke cellar till I can work it into the act. As far as putting together a routine, I like to see what kind of audience I'm going in front of. I don't use profanity in my act. Nothing wrong with it, but it's just not for me. But my set will be different if I know there are kids in the audience as opposed to an adults only show. I enjoy bringing my humor to all types of audiences. Comedy clubs to Church's to Corporate to Children....it's all good.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Katsy: Comedically, some people have told me that I remind them of Mom's Mabley and Pearl Bailey.
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Katsy: My comedy heroes... there are lots of them but off the top of my head and without the benefit of coffee I'd have to say Shelley Berman, Tim Conway, Richard Pryor, LaWanda Page, Phyllis Diller, Flip Wilson. Charlie Hill, Mort Sahl.
MAS: What are you career plans for the year ahead?
Katsy: My career plans are to take my eco-green comedy tour on the road to as many places WORLD WIDE as I possibly can.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Katsy: The best part of being a comedian is making someone laugh when you know they are going through a rough spell. Sometimes I feel like the Johnny Appleseed of comedy especially when I've unknowingly paid it forward by just spending a few moments with someone, lightening their spirits with humor and a hug. level. It's annoying in this day to be back to stand up and have far too many doors of opportunity closed to me. The best and worst part of the industry for comics today. In my opinion reality TV played a part in this. All those shows where every joe blow thinks he can, spilled over to comedy stage. Now you can go to a comedy show and might catch someone onstage walking back and forth ranting about something that clearly should be shared while they are laid out on the therapist's sofa in a quiet room. The audience has had to pay admission and a two drink minimum.
MAS: How does MakeaStar compare to other sites?
Katsy: I dunno. This is the first time I've done an online contest like this. Since I won, I guess I'd have to say "IT'S AWESOME"!!! now where's my duckets?
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Katsy: Randomness: I make soap from scratch. I am a Soaper!
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Music Video winner Shovelman
MAS: Congratulations Shovelman on winning the Music Video category for the month of October!! What is your reaction to winning? Are you happy, relieved or surprised?
Shovelman: Well to be honest the filmmaker entered us in the competition so I was surprised to know that we had even been entered. But everyone loves a winner.
MAS: I bet there an interesting story behind your band’s name, isn’t there?
Shovelman: Well I play a guitar that is made out of a shovel so I’m the Shovelman. Uh huh.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Shovelman: Well, I was doing some diggin’ up in Northern California and after a long day’s work I turned in early. The next morning I woke up and . . . my shovel had turned into a guitar over night....... The air in Northern California can do some strange things. I defiantly don’t leave anything outside for too long anymore. So anyway I decided right then and there to do the band thing. And now I’m a musician and it’s a blast although it doesn’t pay as well as digging holes.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Shovelman: Well it’s a collaboration between my shovel and I. I mostly just bang it around and see what happens.
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Shovelman: Well, Jason the filmmaker and I were just kind of driving around and we picked up this hobo girl who was hitchhiking and then we just started filming.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Shovelman: A bit of gas in the tank, some light drinking and then we aimed the camera at the sky.
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Shovelman: He has some amazing video compilations of his experiences at Burning Man.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Shovelman: I’m not sure.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Shovelman: I get Tom Waits, Les Claypool and Beck sometimes.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Shovelman: I play it all on farm equipment.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Shovelman: I’m usually just inspired turning mother earth but I can list just one or two other inspirations if you like: scrap metal, circus clowns, dogs, spaceships, moldy bread, coffee, urinals, power tools, a sunny morning street, telephone polls, newspapers, ashtrays, light from my beer mug, bikes, bridges, giant floating heads, cactus, cobwebs, snapshots of slingshot highways at sunrise.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Shovelman: I had a great time working with Jason. We had a blast. I love how accessible technology is these days. It’s making it possible for all kinds of independent musicians to make pretty professional looking videos on shoe- string budgets.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
Shovelman: I’d like to start touring more. I’m also going to be digging a few holes to lay a foundation for a house in a few weeks.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Shovelman: When I was kid maybe Michael Jackson. I use to love his Pepsi commercials.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Shovelman: Free drinks are the best and worst part about being a musician.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Shovelman: Everything about the music industry today is freaking awesome! That’s why there are so many talented artists in the main stream.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Shovelman: I was playing a gig in San Francisco at this venue that had recently been a Chinese grocery store. The sign outside was still flashing “Beef, Fish, Poultry”. And in the middle of a song this drunken Russian woman stumbles in and starts banging on the piano right in the middle of my song. Well I played along and when I was done I found out that she was the pianist for the San Francisco symphony. So I had my set crashed by the San Francisco symphony pianist!
Shovelman: Well to be honest the filmmaker entered us in the competition so I was surprised to know that we had even been entered. But everyone loves a winner.
MAS: I bet there an interesting story behind your band’s name, isn’t there?
Shovelman: Well I play a guitar that is made out of a shovel so I’m the Shovelman. Uh huh.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Shovelman: Well, I was doing some diggin’ up in Northern California and after a long day’s work I turned in early. The next morning I woke up and . . . my shovel had turned into a guitar over night....... The air in Northern California can do some strange things. I defiantly don’t leave anything outside for too long anymore. So anyway I decided right then and there to do the band thing. And now I’m a musician and it’s a blast although it doesn’t pay as well as digging holes.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Shovelman: Well it’s a collaboration between my shovel and I. I mostly just bang it around and see what happens.
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Shovelman: Well, Jason the filmmaker and I were just kind of driving around and we picked up this hobo girl who was hitchhiking and then we just started filming.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Shovelman: A bit of gas in the tank, some light drinking and then we aimed the camera at the sky.
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Shovelman: He has some amazing video compilations of his experiences at Burning Man.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Shovelman: I’m not sure.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Shovelman: I get Tom Waits, Les Claypool and Beck sometimes.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Shovelman: I play it all on farm equipment.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Shovelman: I’m usually just inspired turning mother earth but I can list just one or two other inspirations if you like: scrap metal, circus clowns, dogs, spaceships, moldy bread, coffee, urinals, power tools, a sunny morning street, telephone polls, newspapers, ashtrays, light from my beer mug, bikes, bridges, giant floating heads, cactus, cobwebs, snapshots of slingshot highways at sunrise.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Shovelman: I had a great time working with Jason. We had a blast. I love how accessible technology is these days. It’s making it possible for all kinds of independent musicians to make pretty professional looking videos on shoe- string budgets.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
Shovelman: I’d like to start touring more. I’m also going to be digging a few holes to lay a foundation for a house in a few weeks.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Shovelman: When I was kid maybe Michael Jackson. I use to love his Pepsi commercials.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Shovelman: Free drinks are the best and worst part about being a musician.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Shovelman: Everything about the music industry today is freaking awesome! That’s why there are so many talented artists in the main stream.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Shovelman: I was playing a gig in San Francisco at this venue that had recently been a Chinese grocery store. The sign outside was still flashing “Beef, Fish, Poultry”. And in the middle of a song this drunken Russian woman stumbles in and starts banging on the piano right in the middle of my song. Well I played along and when I was done I found out that she was the pianist for the San Francisco symphony. So I had my set crashed by the San Francisco symphony pianist!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Female Solo Artist winner Vanessa Littrell
MAS: I think a double congratulations is in order Vanessa, because you won the October Female Solo Artist AND Music Video categories!! I don’t think that’s been done before. First off, tell us how it feels to be a double winner? Are you surprised, relieved and happy?
Vanessa: Very excited. It’s been a busy year performing locally, and winning this contest affirms, affirms, affirms.
MAS: Tell us what the inspiration was for the song and the video.
Vanessa: Sanctuary is a song about leaving behind the expectations of your family and creating your own story. In the video we chose symbols of strength and transition. The key on a ribbon literally represents opening up the door to your potential. The suitcase represents the baggage that people try to weigh you down with. As the main character (or myself) gets closer to the river, the case becomes heavier and heavier, until finally everything is emptied into the water.
MAS: What musical influences have other people compared you to?
Vanessa: Generally people from my generation will draw comparisons to Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan. However, I find that most listeners of my parent’s era will immediately compare my work to Carol King.
MAS: What sets you apart from the other artists in your genre?
Vanessa: What sets me apart as a musician is that I don’t really see an end or beginning to all this. Many people rate their career on whether they’ve “made it big” or not. But how can you possibly measure your life on that scale? For me music is an everyday thing . . . I play, I write, I sing.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Vanessa: I am inspired by any musician who is passionate. But, if I have to choose I would say Peter Gabriel, for his artistic use of imagery; Willie Nelson, for his radiant smile; Bono, for always speaking his mind; Tracy Chapman, for bringing folk music back to the pop scene; Tori Amos, for being unselfconscious; and Joni Mitchell, for knowing that the musician on the corner is only one degree separated from the one on stage.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Vanessa: John Denver, without a doubt. My first album was “Grease.” My first concert was Depeche Mode. You can see what a wide range that makes. I guess that makes me a country, techno musical !!!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Vanessa: The best part about being a musician is getting paid for what I love to do. The worst part used to be the unpredictability of the audience. However, I’ve learned to just roll with it. Sometimes the best connecting moment with your audience is right after you thought you couldn’t possibly finish the night. You’ve got to just break on through.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Vanessa: The best and worst part of today’s industry is the opportunity to be independent. On the one hand you can represent yourself. On the other hand, the “sale” end of representation can get tiring. The thing is, a good artist is already selling his or herself. You start by selling a story, then an album, then your image. At least as an independent, you get to decide just what it is you are selling. And, if you’re lucky, it isn’t your soul!
MAS: You music and talent is huge, now tell us something completely random.
Vanessa: I was Snoopy in the 8th grade.
Vanessa: Very excited. It’s been a busy year performing locally, and winning this contest affirms, affirms, affirms.
MAS: Tell us what the inspiration was for the song and the video.
Vanessa: Sanctuary is a song about leaving behind the expectations of your family and creating your own story. In the video we chose symbols of strength and transition. The key on a ribbon literally represents opening up the door to your potential. The suitcase represents the baggage that people try to weigh you down with. As the main character (or myself) gets closer to the river, the case becomes heavier and heavier, until finally everything is emptied into the water.
MAS: What musical influences have other people compared you to?
Vanessa: Generally people from my generation will draw comparisons to Tori Amos and Sarah McLachlan. However, I find that most listeners of my parent’s era will immediately compare my work to Carol King.
MAS: What sets you apart from the other artists in your genre?
Vanessa: What sets me apart as a musician is that I don’t really see an end or beginning to all this. Many people rate their career on whether they’ve “made it big” or not. But how can you possibly measure your life on that scale? For me music is an everyday thing . . . I play, I write, I sing.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Vanessa: I am inspired by any musician who is passionate. But, if I have to choose I would say Peter Gabriel, for his artistic use of imagery; Willie Nelson, for his radiant smile; Bono, for always speaking his mind; Tracy Chapman, for bringing folk music back to the pop scene; Tori Amos, for being unselfconscious; and Joni Mitchell, for knowing that the musician on the corner is only one degree separated from the one on stage.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Vanessa: John Denver, without a doubt. My first album was “Grease.” My first concert was Depeche Mode. You can see what a wide range that makes. I guess that makes me a country, techno musical !!!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Vanessa: The best part about being a musician is getting paid for what I love to do. The worst part used to be the unpredictability of the audience. However, I’ve learned to just roll with it. Sometimes the best connecting moment with your audience is right after you thought you couldn’t possibly finish the night. You’ve got to just break on through.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Vanessa: The best and worst part of today’s industry is the opportunity to be independent. On the one hand you can represent yourself. On the other hand, the “sale” end of representation can get tiring. The thing is, a good artist is already selling his or herself. You start by selling a story, then an album, then your image. At least as an independent, you get to decide just what it is you are selling. And, if you’re lucky, it isn’t your soul!
MAS: You music and talent is huge, now tell us something completely random.
Vanessa: I was Snoopy in the 8th grade.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Male Solo Artist winner Cliff Gundersen
MAS: Huge congrats Cliff Gundersen for the take all in the October Male Solo Contest! Tell us how you got started as a singer and how your recording career began.
Cliff: I started singing about the same time I started playing guitar around age 13. Started recording about 15yrs ago on a Tascam 4 track tape machine.
MAS: It’s clear your love of music shines through. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative venture?
Cliff: My sound has been influenced by too many artists to list, but I think if I could play like Joe Satriani and sing like Michael Buble that would be sweet. My guitar is mostly the result of playing in cover bands listening to bands like SACH, AC/DC and a lot of southern rock like ZZTOP, SKYNYRD, MOLLY HATCHET and of course I really like bands like Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance. I am a solo artist. So yep the whole production is just me. Guitars, vocals the works.
MAS: How did you go about picking the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Cliff: The idea was built around the theme of someone just thinking about writing music, but not really doing anything to make it happen. The opening verse kinda sets it up: “Spend the day lying on the couch and watch re-runs of where they now” This is a reference to me lying on the couch watching VH1’s “Where Are They Now” and thinking why am I wasting my time doing this…when I should be in my studio writing a new tune.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Cliff: Well so far it has beat all of them hands down. A lot of great talent and great prizes…which I will be using to buy more gear.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Cliff: Ya know that’s funny, because my style has been compared to everyone from Ozzie to Bryan Adams and from the Beach Boys to ELO. I never really hear that in my music, but if that’s what they hear I guess it’s better to sound like someone than to sound like no one. Who do you think I sound like?
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Cliff: Well I believe I have strong guitar and vocal skills along with a good sense of rhythm all in the same package.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Cliff: I don’t know about emulating anyone because I feel that I’m pretty well grounded about my purpose in life…which is to help as many people as I can before I leave this earth. As far as inspiration I get that all the time when I hear a song that moves me and that can come from anyone such as Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida” to Kelly Clarkson’s “My Life Would Suck Without You”. A few weeks ago I was driving to California and a song came on the radio from “The Men” called “The Church of Logic Sin and Love” I hadn’t heard that in years..I just had to go look for it and found it on YouTube…the chorus is just right up my alley.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Cliff: To finish this damn album I started this summer…2 songs down and 8 to go.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Cliff: I loved the Beatles - had my hair cut like Paul’s. My first concert was Led Zeppelin.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Cliff: Realizing that I wasted too many years in cover bands…while it helped me become a better musician/singer… I feel I should have spent more time writing my own songs.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Cliff: I love the fact that my music is now out there for thousands of people to hear on places like Make A Star, MySpace, Facebook, Amazon and iTunes. I’m kinda bummed about the radio thing. A few years ago I paid a promoter $$$$$ to get my songs on the radio. He did what he promised he got me national airplay and both songs even made the New Music Weekly top 40 chart of over 3 month each.. I was the only unsigned artist on the chart. Problem was I didn’t realize that I needed to have CD’s or downloads ready to go. I found out it wasn’t the promoter’s job to tell how to get things lined up before I spent the money for the airplay….listeners were calling the stations trying to find out where to buy my song…big lesson learned.
MAS: Very nicely put, tell us something completely random.
Cliff: When I was 9yrs old I got separated from my family around noon on the 4th of July on the beach in Long Beach Ca. (not to far from where the Queen Mary is now) it wasn’t there then. We were living in San Pedro so I started walking home through the Port of Long Beach…There was a big tower on a hill in San Pedro with blinking lights that I kept walking towards. Every time I came to the water I would just go to the right inland and I finally made it home around 10pm…of course by then the police and hospitals were looking for me.
Cliff: I started singing about the same time I started playing guitar around age 13. Started recording about 15yrs ago on a Tascam 4 track tape machine.
MAS: It’s clear your love of music shines through. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative venture?
Cliff: My sound has been influenced by too many artists to list, but I think if I could play like Joe Satriani and sing like Michael Buble that would be sweet. My guitar is mostly the result of playing in cover bands listening to bands like SACH, AC/DC and a lot of southern rock like ZZTOP, SKYNYRD, MOLLY HATCHET and of course I really like bands like Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance. I am a solo artist. So yep the whole production is just me. Guitars, vocals the works.
MAS: How did you go about picking the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Cliff: The idea was built around the theme of someone just thinking about writing music, but not really doing anything to make it happen. The opening verse kinda sets it up: “Spend the day lying on the couch and watch re-runs of where they now” This is a reference to me lying on the couch watching VH1’s “Where Are They Now” and thinking why am I wasting my time doing this…when I should be in my studio writing a new tune.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Cliff: Well so far it has beat all of them hands down. A lot of great talent and great prizes…which I will be using to buy more gear.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Cliff: Ya know that’s funny, because my style has been compared to everyone from Ozzie to Bryan Adams and from the Beach Boys to ELO. I never really hear that in my music, but if that’s what they hear I guess it’s better to sound like someone than to sound like no one. Who do you think I sound like?
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Cliff: Well I believe I have strong guitar and vocal skills along with a good sense of rhythm all in the same package.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Cliff: I don’t know about emulating anyone because I feel that I’m pretty well grounded about my purpose in life…which is to help as many people as I can before I leave this earth. As far as inspiration I get that all the time when I hear a song that moves me and that can come from anyone such as Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida” to Kelly Clarkson’s “My Life Would Suck Without You”. A few weeks ago I was driving to California and a song came on the radio from “The Men” called “The Church of Logic Sin and Love” I hadn’t heard that in years..I just had to go look for it and found it on YouTube…the chorus is just right up my alley.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Cliff: To finish this damn album I started this summer…2 songs down and 8 to go.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Cliff: I loved the Beatles - had my hair cut like Paul’s. My first concert was Led Zeppelin.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Cliff: Realizing that I wasted too many years in cover bands…while it helped me become a better musician/singer… I feel I should have spent more time writing my own songs.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Cliff: I love the fact that my music is now out there for thousands of people to hear on places like Make A Star, MySpace, Facebook, Amazon and iTunes. I’m kinda bummed about the radio thing. A few years ago I paid a promoter $$$$$ to get my songs on the radio. He did what he promised he got me national airplay and both songs even made the New Music Weekly top 40 chart of over 3 month each.. I was the only unsigned artist on the chart. Problem was I didn’t realize that I needed to have CD’s or downloads ready to go. I found out it wasn’t the promoter’s job to tell how to get things lined up before I spent the money for the airplay….listeners were calling the stations trying to find out where to buy my song…big lesson learned.
MAS: Very nicely put, tell us something completely random.
Cliff: When I was 9yrs old I got separated from my family around noon on the 4th of July on the beach in Long Beach Ca. (not to far from where the Queen Mary is now) it wasn’t there then. We were living in San Pedro so I started walking home through the Port of Long Beach…There was a big tower on a hill in San Pedro with blinking lights that I kept walking towards. Every time I came to the water I would just go to the right inland and I finally made it home around 10pm…of course by then the police and hospitals were looking for me.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Stand Up Comic Winner Robby Millsap
MAS: What’s the story behind the video clip you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Robby: My comedy is really just an exposition of my life and how I see the world. I always find the truth or a perspective on the truth to be funnier than any one-liner. This particular performance was filmed in front of a large crowd in Mission Viejo, California last August.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Robby: I took a class taught by my comedy mentor Tom Riehl. It was something I had always wanted to do but wasn’t sure how to get started. If your readers are in the southern California area, they should check out ComedyInTheOC.com to sign up for his class. It was informative and super safe.
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Robby: Exhilarated...or frustrated. Depending on how prepared I am and how well this specific crowd is responding to my material. When it’s good it’s GREAT and when it’s not good...well, you can guess. You can’t put your guard down for a second. I’ve started strong and lost them in the middle because I got too confident.
MAS: How do you write your jokes and put together a routine?
Robby: I could write a book about this. First off, I write about something that really has emotion for me. It’s hard to fake that you actually think “cheese is funny” if you don’t really think cheese is funny. Then I freeform into a recorder a few times while I’m driving around or sitting at a computer. Then I’ll sit down and transcribe the mess I recorded and try and see the story I want to tell.
Next I try and punch it up. I “bold” the spots I anticipate laughter. Then I step back. Is there enough bolded stuff? Tom taught us you want to have 4-6 laughs per minute. If I think I’m ready, I take it to an open mic (any comic can tell you these are the hardest crowds to please) and try out the material. It’s not a very glamorous practice. I video and audio record every performance. Then I take the tape back and check the laughs against what I thought and give myself a grade based on some criteria (material, confidence, performance). Makes changes, rinse and repeat.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Robby: No, not really. But you can learn a lot based on what the big boys say about you. I performed with a big headliner and he said my act was “cute.” The word I wanted, of course, was “funny.” So I went back and reviewed my material. He was right. I was as adorable as a bucket of fluffy kittens.
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style? Robby: Too many to name. I like the storytellers though: Louis CK is the gold standard, Patton Oswalt, David Cross. I think these guys are the ones I find myself trying to emulate the most. I love the nuts too like Steve Martin and Zach Galifiankis, but I can’t do what they do. I don’t have the courage. And the observationalists are great too: Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan.
MAS: What are your career plans for the year ahead?
Robby: I recently heard comedian Chris Hardwick say, “You have to take control of your own career.” That has dramatically affected my view as a comedian. The pre-defined routes of do this show, then you get to do this show and so on kind of wear me down. I have some ideas to do some really new and interesting stuff with new media and social networking. I’m too old (30) to grind it out in comedy clubs for the next 10 years. Stay tuned to RobbyMillsap.com for more!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Robby: Best part - is telling a great joke and having a great set. I love when people tell me that I was “too soon” in the order, meaning I should have been closer to the headliner. That fires me up. Worst part - drunks, silence, regret.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Robby: Best part - is there are so many opportunities now. There are comedy clubs, open mics, and classes held in every major area. Worst part - there are so many opportunities now. There are comedy clubs, open mics, and classes held in every major area. You get my point? You are nobody and nobody cares. There are a million comics out there funnier than me and I’ve got to somehow trick the producers into booking me instead of the really funny ones so I can get stage time. It’s a grind. The first year is just constant humility.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Robby: I haven’t used any but I won so obviously you guys are geniuses!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Robby: Everybody should check out RobbyMillsap.com for my YouTube videos and some of my new projects coming soon. And if you become my friend on Facebook I’ll give you a kidney. Peace, love and the consumption of many delicious burritos!!
Robby: My comedy is really just an exposition of my life and how I see the world. I always find the truth or a perspective on the truth to be funnier than any one-liner. This particular performance was filmed in front of a large crowd in Mission Viejo, California last August.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Robby: I took a class taught by my comedy mentor Tom Riehl. It was something I had always wanted to do but wasn’t sure how to get started. If your readers are in the southern California area, they should check out ComedyInTheOC.com to sign up for his class. It was informative and super safe.
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Robby: Exhilarated...or frustrated. Depending on how prepared I am and how well this specific crowd is responding to my material. When it’s good it’s GREAT and when it’s not good...well, you can guess. You can’t put your guard down for a second. I’ve started strong and lost them in the middle because I got too confident.
MAS: How do you write your jokes and put together a routine?
Robby: I could write a book about this. First off, I write about something that really has emotion for me. It’s hard to fake that you actually think “cheese is funny” if you don’t really think cheese is funny. Then I freeform into a recorder a few times while I’m driving around or sitting at a computer. Then I’ll sit down and transcribe the mess I recorded and try and see the story I want to tell.
Next I try and punch it up. I “bold” the spots I anticipate laughter. Then I step back. Is there enough bolded stuff? Tom taught us you want to have 4-6 laughs per minute. If I think I’m ready, I take it to an open mic (any comic can tell you these are the hardest crowds to please) and try out the material. It’s not a very glamorous practice. I video and audio record every performance. Then I take the tape back and check the laughs against what I thought and give myself a grade based on some criteria (material, confidence, performance). Makes changes, rinse and repeat.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Robby: No, not really. But you can learn a lot based on what the big boys say about you. I performed with a big headliner and he said my act was “cute.” The word I wanted, of course, was “funny.” So I went back and reviewed my material. He was right. I was as adorable as a bucket of fluffy kittens.
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style? Robby: Too many to name. I like the storytellers though: Louis CK is the gold standard, Patton Oswalt, David Cross. I think these guys are the ones I find myself trying to emulate the most. I love the nuts too like Steve Martin and Zach Galifiankis, but I can’t do what they do. I don’t have the courage. And the observationalists are great too: Jerry Seinfeld, Jim Gaffigan.
MAS: What are your career plans for the year ahead?
Robby: I recently heard comedian Chris Hardwick say, “You have to take control of your own career.” That has dramatically affected my view as a comedian. The pre-defined routes of do this show, then you get to do this show and so on kind of wear me down. I have some ideas to do some really new and interesting stuff with new media and social networking. I’m too old (30) to grind it out in comedy clubs for the next 10 years. Stay tuned to RobbyMillsap.com for more!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Robby: Best part - is telling a great joke and having a great set. I love when people tell me that I was “too soon” in the order, meaning I should have been closer to the headliner. That fires me up. Worst part - drunks, silence, regret.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Robby: Best part - is there are so many opportunities now. There are comedy clubs, open mics, and classes held in every major area. Worst part - there are so many opportunities now. There are comedy clubs, open mics, and classes held in every major area. You get my point? You are nobody and nobody cares. There are a million comics out there funnier than me and I’ve got to somehow trick the producers into booking me instead of the really funny ones so I can get stage time. It’s a grind. The first year is just constant humility.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Robby: I haven’t used any but I won so obviously you guys are geniuses!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Robby: Everybody should check out RobbyMillsap.com for my YouTube videos and some of my new projects coming soon. And if you become my friend on Facebook I’ll give you a kidney. Peace, love and the consumption of many delicious burritos!!
Monday, October 11, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Stand Up Comic Winner Guy Copland
MAS: Congratulations Guy Copland, the winner of the Stand Up Comic: September 2010 Contest!! What’s the story behind the video clip you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Guy: This video was recorded at Chaplin’s Comedy Club in Clinton, Michigan. I was the MC this night, and edited out the announcement stuff. It’s also the club where Jeff Foxworthy was inspired to do his “you might be a redneck if…” jokes for the very first time.
MAS: That’s a great location! Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Guy:I was doing comedy for a radio show. Writing the bits, doing character voices & impressions and heard about a comedy contest at The Comedy Barn. So I wrote a routine using voices and entered. I placed 2nd, and became friends with the guy who won with a juggling routine. We didn’t know each other before, but discovered we were both also children's entertainers. He had a clown act, and I did shows as The Magic Guy, Go Go the Clown, and Jelly Bean the Genie. We started doing kid shows and comedy shows together across the state!
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Guy: With a history of being on the stage as a magician and doing theatre starting back when I was 12, and then a career as an actor and radio personality, getting on stage or on a microphone is something I’m very comfortable with, and really enjoy. Scripted or ad-lib.
MAS: How do you gather information to write your jokes and put together a routine?
Guy: Jokes are things that just happen during a day that I find funny, then find a way to say it. A new joke could be inspired by something on the news, I see happen, or just about any situation. Comedy is all around us, we just have to watch for it. Once I have new jokes, I try to fit them into the routine, or use them as a building block for a new routine.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Guy: I’ve been told that I remind people of Ron White and Tim Allen. I don’t see it, but thanks for the compliments!
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Guy: Johnny Carson was the king. I love a classic monologue opening. And he started out as magician too! Soupy Sales was a big inspiration along with Robert J. McNae (Oopsy the Clown), Karol Fox (Milky the Clown), and Larry Thompson (Mr. Whoodini’s Magic Shoppe). All four of these men had kid shows on television. My dad was a weatherman on TV so these guys became true mentors for the fundamentals of entertainment for me. Tim Conway was great for character and expressions study, and listening to Bill Cosby, The Smother Brothers, Rowan & Martin, The Firesign Theatre, and Cheech & Chong albums was a past time for me at home growing up.
MAS: What is your career plans for the year ahead?
Guy: Write new material, and stay on stage! The film industry is picking up in Michigan, so I’d like to concentrate (if that’s possible for someone who is ADHD) on becoming more involved with it.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Guy: The best is making them laugh! When someone laughs they forget about the worries of life. Yeah the kids need braces, you’re worried about your job situation, the bills are stacking up… whatever. For a few moments they let go, have fun, relax, forget, and enjoy. When I can make a moment like that happen, it’s very rewarding. And, if I can also turn that moment into a memory… wow. The worst is the pay grade and how hard it is to make a living doing just comedy.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Guy: Everyone wants to be a star.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Guy: MakeAStar is by the far the easiest to navigate, and consistent with its prizes and contests. I hope Fuse will pick it back up for more episodes!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Guy: You should try peanut butter, bacon, & lettuce on toast sometime… put a little garlic powder in the pan when frying the bacon!
Guy: This video was recorded at Chaplin’s Comedy Club in Clinton, Michigan. I was the MC this night, and edited out the announcement stuff. It’s also the club where Jeff Foxworthy was inspired to do his “you might be a redneck if…” jokes for the very first time.
MAS: That’s a great location! Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Guy:I was doing comedy for a radio show. Writing the bits, doing character voices & impressions and heard about a comedy contest at The Comedy Barn. So I wrote a routine using voices and entered. I placed 2nd, and became friends with the guy who won with a juggling routine. We didn’t know each other before, but discovered we were both also children's entertainers. He had a clown act, and I did shows as The Magic Guy, Go Go the Clown, and Jelly Bean the Genie. We started doing kid shows and comedy shows together across the state!
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Guy: With a history of being on the stage as a magician and doing theatre starting back when I was 12, and then a career as an actor and radio personality, getting on stage or on a microphone is something I’m very comfortable with, and really enjoy. Scripted or ad-lib.
MAS: How do you gather information to write your jokes and put together a routine?
Guy: Jokes are things that just happen during a day that I find funny, then find a way to say it. A new joke could be inspired by something on the news, I see happen, or just about any situation. Comedy is all around us, we just have to watch for it. Once I have new jokes, I try to fit them into the routine, or use them as a building block for a new routine.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Guy: I’ve been told that I remind people of Ron White and Tim Allen. I don’t see it, but thanks for the compliments!
MAS: Who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Guy: Johnny Carson was the king. I love a classic monologue opening. And he started out as magician too! Soupy Sales was a big inspiration along with Robert J. McNae (Oopsy the Clown), Karol Fox (Milky the Clown), and Larry Thompson (Mr. Whoodini’s Magic Shoppe). All four of these men had kid shows on television. My dad was a weatherman on TV so these guys became true mentors for the fundamentals of entertainment for me. Tim Conway was great for character and expressions study, and listening to Bill Cosby, The Smother Brothers, Rowan & Martin, The Firesign Theatre, and Cheech & Chong albums was a past time for me at home growing up.
MAS: What is your career plans for the year ahead?
Guy: Write new material, and stay on stage! The film industry is picking up in Michigan, so I’d like to concentrate (if that’s possible for someone who is ADHD) on becoming more involved with it.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Guy: The best is making them laugh! When someone laughs they forget about the worries of life. Yeah the kids need braces, you’re worried about your job situation, the bills are stacking up… whatever. For a few moments they let go, have fun, relax, forget, and enjoy. When I can make a moment like that happen, it’s very rewarding. And, if I can also turn that moment into a memory… wow. The worst is the pay grade and how hard it is to make a living doing just comedy.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Guy: Everyone wants to be a star.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Guy: MakeAStar is by the far the easiest to navigate, and consistent with its prizes and contests. I hope Fuse will pick it back up for more episodes!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Guy: You should try peanut butter, bacon, & lettuce on toast sometime… put a little garlic powder in the pan when frying the bacon!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Male Solo Artist Steve Rupert
MAS: Congratulations! Steve Rupert the winner of the Male Solo Artist Contest for September, tell us how you got started as a singer and how your recording career began.
Steve: I started my career as a singer somewhere around 1969, when some friends and I started a band called Live Peace, which was lucky enough to play at a few high school dances and some private parties.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Steve: My recording career began in the mid 80s, when I bought a 4-track cassette porta-studio; it was cool, but 4 tracks never seemed to be enough for an amateur like I was at the time. As far as my being the primary songwriter or a collab writer, I write all of my own music, but would love to co-write with others. Other influences can be very helpful.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Steve: The story behind the song is based on a truth/fiction account of the way I was feeling when it was written. I always try to write in a manner that will relate to as many people as I can reach.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Steve: MAS is a great site, but I feel that the number of songs a person enters should be limited to a max of 6 songs for all of the categories. Some people have so many, that it gets boring after awhile.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Steve: Musical influences that I have been compared to, vary greatly, because I love so many styles of music, and refuse to stick to just one genre.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Steve: I feel what sets me apart from other people in my genre, is that I try to be honest in lyric, and I really don't stick to one genre.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Steve: I get inspiration for writing songs from true life experiences, and I feel that my life is inspired by these same experiences. Truth in writing can inspire many people to listen.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Steve: As far as musical plans for the year ahead, I really have none other than trying to write a better song; I no longer enjoy playing in a full time band, and have no plans of going back on the road.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Steve: John Lennon/ The Beatles were by far the biggest influence in my childhood, but there are many others that also served an important role in my musical upbringing, such as James Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Cat Stevens, Chet Atkins, and the list goes on! First album purchased- Introducing The Beatles First concert- The Guess Who
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Steve: The best part of being a musician, is people letting you know how great you are. The worst part of being a musician is people letting you know how great you are :)
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Steve: The best part of the music industry today is that musicians can eliminate big business and do it on their own. The worst part is- it still costs money!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Steve: In finishing, I would like to thank all of my musician friends at liquidaudio.org, and I would also like to thank Ed/E-ISME for creating such a wonderful site for musicians to hang out and chat!
MAS: And thank you Steve Rupert for the amazing song you entered, the win is well deserved and we wish you the best!
Steve: I started my career as a singer somewhere around 1969, when some friends and I started a band called Live Peace, which was lucky enough to play at a few high school dances and some private parties.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Steve: My recording career began in the mid 80s, when I bought a 4-track cassette porta-studio; it was cool, but 4 tracks never seemed to be enough for an amateur like I was at the time. As far as my being the primary songwriter or a collab writer, I write all of my own music, but would love to co-write with others. Other influences can be very helpful.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Steve: The story behind the song is based on a truth/fiction account of the way I was feeling when it was written. I always try to write in a manner that will relate to as many people as I can reach.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Steve: MAS is a great site, but I feel that the number of songs a person enters should be limited to a max of 6 songs for all of the categories. Some people have so many, that it gets boring after awhile.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Steve: Musical influences that I have been compared to, vary greatly, because I love so many styles of music, and refuse to stick to just one genre.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Steve: I feel what sets me apart from other people in my genre, is that I try to be honest in lyric, and I really don't stick to one genre.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Steve: I get inspiration for writing songs from true life experiences, and I feel that my life is inspired by these same experiences. Truth in writing can inspire many people to listen.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Steve: As far as musical plans for the year ahead, I really have none other than trying to write a better song; I no longer enjoy playing in a full time band, and have no plans of going back on the road.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Steve: John Lennon/ The Beatles were by far the biggest influence in my childhood, but there are many others that also served an important role in my musical upbringing, such as James Taylor, Frank Sinatra, Cat Stevens, Chet Atkins, and the list goes on! First album purchased- Introducing The Beatles First concert- The Guess Who
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Steve: The best part of being a musician, is people letting you know how great you are. The worst part of being a musician is people letting you know how great you are :)
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Steve: The best part of the music industry today is that musicians can eliminate big business and do it on their own. The worst part is- it still costs money!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Steve: In finishing, I would like to thank all of my musician friends at liquidaudio.org, and I would also like to thank Ed/E-ISME for creating such a wonderful site for musicians to hang out and chat!
MAS: And thank you Steve Rupert for the amazing song you entered, the win is well deserved and we wish you the best!
Make A Star Interview with Female Solo Artist Melissa VanFleet
MAS: We are proud to announce the talented Melissa VanFleet as the September Contest Winner for Female Solo Artist. Tell us how you got started as a singer and how your recording career began.
Melissa: When I was a child, I was lucky enough to be constantly surrounded by the widest range of music styles, ranging from big band music of the 1930's and 1940's to 80's heavy metal. As a toddler, my days were spent standing three inches in front of MTV with a microphone in hand, watching intently and singing along to Aerosmith, Debbie Gibson and Lita Ford music videos. I was a dancer since age two and thought that was the direction I'd be headed in, but after completing my first studio recording at age 12, I was hooked on creating music in every single aspect and it became my passion. I was in choirs all through school and began singing the National Anthem at sporting events and ceremonies, performing in weddings and cocktail hours, and playing with cover bands. After high school, I started working with producers at Pennsylvania, New York City, and New Jersey studios, and then was recruited to come to Nashville to pursue my dream further.
MAS: It’s in your soul. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Melissa: Lately I've been writing a lot on my own, but I also have a tight-knit group of co-writers. I find it very therapeutic to write alone sometimes-- I actually wrote songs and poetry to help cope with my father's health complications during my childhood, which I think initially sparked my love of songwriting. I believe my best vocal training was a karaoke machine that I received as a gift when I was seven. I used to record my voice singing popular 90's songs and then listen back and critique every single note and write down what I thought I could improve on. I was a perfectionist even back then!
MAS: What's the story behind the song you've entered in the Make A Star contest?
Melissa: I wrote "Setting Myself Up For A Heartbreak" with Brittany Moses, one of my most frequent co-writers. The title was pulled from an informal conversation we were having, an actual situation. On a tiny Casio keyboard I came up with the intro/verse riff, and then the rest of the song just flowed from there.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Melissa: This was my first song entered into Make A Star and I love how the competitions are set up in bracket style. I have never taken part in a bracket contest before...it's a lot of fun! I usually have horrible luck with contests because they are either fixed or predetermined in some way, so regardless of if I won or lost this one, I would have just been happy knowing that it was fair!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Melissa: I am influenced by an extremely vast array of artists and genres of music. I definitely have an old soul and adore the Glenn Miller Orchestra (who I recently had the amazing opportunity to perform with), Rosemary Clooney, and Bing Crosby. As I began to take music more seriously, I was inspired greatly by the vocal stylings of Christina Aguilera, LeAnn Rimes, and Elton John. One thing I am always happy to hear after a performance is that I have a very unique style with a lot of soul and a tone to my voice that is recognizable.
MAS: We would have to agree, so then what sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Melissa: I consider my sound to be piano-driven soul pop. I love catchy, unique and fresh melodies and combining them with interesting lyrical ideas. My ultimate goal is to be a complete entertainer, combining soulful vocals and piano with dance and a vivid artistic vision to create a full musical experience. I love constructive criticism because it undoubtedly makes you a better performer and a more well-rounded person. I am extremely driven, determined, and will let nothing stand in the way of my dream!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Melissa: I am inspired by artists who are not afraid to be themselves in their music. I don't believe in "being the next (insert artist here)." I am so glad to have the opportunity to write and sing songs that I feel represent me-- that way, no performance or recording will ever seem contrived. I've learned that you can't conform or fit into a mold that's not you. Once you can be yourself in your music, your heart and inner spark will shine through and people will believe you. There are two people in my life that I truly wish to emulate-- my mom for her consistency and work ethic and my dad for his levelheadedness and positivity. I try hard to put those attributes toward my everyday life, in music and aside from it.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Melissa: I plan on writing new songs, recording, producing and arranging, and playing live shows in new and exciting venues in New York City, Nashville, and hopefully other cities as well. I'm also looking forward to working on my next CD, continuously expanding my repertoire, and finding new opportunities.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Melissa: I listened to absolutely everything. Music was always on, no matter what, and I'm so thankful for that! The first two CDs I remember buying with my own money were Janet Jackson’s "Rhythm Nation" and Elton John's "The One" in the early 90's. I received LeAnn Rimes' "The Early Years" album in 5th grade and heard something in her voice that I felt I could relate to. I saw her in concert soon after and my grandfather and I were first in line to go backstage and meet her after the show. That was the day I officially realized that music was my path!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Melissa: I think the best part about the music industry today is new media and all of the online tools available to help artists succeed and advance in the industry on their own. In contrast, I always say I was born in the wrong era-- I wish it was still like the 30's and 40's when artists would sing one pass and that's the exact take that would end up on their album. No comping or fixing pitch was necessary, and I feel like it's kind of used as a crutch for vocalists nowadays. Things were so raw and heartfelt back then, and that's one of the things that I strive for in my recordings.
MAS: Beautifully put, now tell us something completely random.
Melissa: I have loved harp seals since I was six years old and am an activist against the Canadian seal hunt. My aunt made it possible for me to have a dream come true experience a few years ago in the Magdalen Islands where I took a helicopter out to the ice on the St. Lawrence River and was up close and personal with harp seals. I even got to hold one...it’s the most amazing thing!
MAS: As are you Melissa VanFleet, congratulations on your win and beautiful future ahead!
Links:
Melissa’s Official Website: www.melissavanfleet.com
Melissa’s MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/melissavanfleet
Melissa’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/melissavanfleet
Melissa’s Email: info@melissavanfleet.com
Melissa: When I was a child, I was lucky enough to be constantly surrounded by the widest range of music styles, ranging from big band music of the 1930's and 1940's to 80's heavy metal. As a toddler, my days were spent standing three inches in front of MTV with a microphone in hand, watching intently and singing along to Aerosmith, Debbie Gibson and Lita Ford music videos. I was a dancer since age two and thought that was the direction I'd be headed in, but after completing my first studio recording at age 12, I was hooked on creating music in every single aspect and it became my passion. I was in choirs all through school and began singing the National Anthem at sporting events and ceremonies, performing in weddings and cocktail hours, and playing with cover bands. After high school, I started working with producers at Pennsylvania, New York City, and New Jersey studios, and then was recruited to come to Nashville to pursue my dream further.
MAS: It’s in your soul. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Melissa: Lately I've been writing a lot on my own, but I also have a tight-knit group of co-writers. I find it very therapeutic to write alone sometimes-- I actually wrote songs and poetry to help cope with my father's health complications during my childhood, which I think initially sparked my love of songwriting. I believe my best vocal training was a karaoke machine that I received as a gift when I was seven. I used to record my voice singing popular 90's songs and then listen back and critique every single note and write down what I thought I could improve on. I was a perfectionist even back then!
MAS: What's the story behind the song you've entered in the Make A Star contest?
Melissa: I wrote "Setting Myself Up For A Heartbreak" with Brittany Moses, one of my most frequent co-writers. The title was pulled from an informal conversation we were having, an actual situation. On a tiny Casio keyboard I came up with the intro/verse riff, and then the rest of the song just flowed from there.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Melissa: This was my first song entered into Make A Star and I love how the competitions are set up in bracket style. I have never taken part in a bracket contest before...it's a lot of fun! I usually have horrible luck with contests because they are either fixed or predetermined in some way, so regardless of if I won or lost this one, I would have just been happy knowing that it was fair!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Melissa: I am influenced by an extremely vast array of artists and genres of music. I definitely have an old soul and adore the Glenn Miller Orchestra (who I recently had the amazing opportunity to perform with), Rosemary Clooney, and Bing Crosby. As I began to take music more seriously, I was inspired greatly by the vocal stylings of Christina Aguilera, LeAnn Rimes, and Elton John. One thing I am always happy to hear after a performance is that I have a very unique style with a lot of soul and a tone to my voice that is recognizable.
MAS: We would have to agree, so then what sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Melissa: I consider my sound to be piano-driven soul pop. I love catchy, unique and fresh melodies and combining them with interesting lyrical ideas. My ultimate goal is to be a complete entertainer, combining soulful vocals and piano with dance and a vivid artistic vision to create a full musical experience. I love constructive criticism because it undoubtedly makes you a better performer and a more well-rounded person. I am extremely driven, determined, and will let nothing stand in the way of my dream!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Melissa: I am inspired by artists who are not afraid to be themselves in their music. I don't believe in "being the next (insert artist here)." I am so glad to have the opportunity to write and sing songs that I feel represent me-- that way, no performance or recording will ever seem contrived. I've learned that you can't conform or fit into a mold that's not you. Once you can be yourself in your music, your heart and inner spark will shine through and people will believe you. There are two people in my life that I truly wish to emulate-- my mom for her consistency and work ethic and my dad for his levelheadedness and positivity. I try hard to put those attributes toward my everyday life, in music and aside from it.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Melissa: I plan on writing new songs, recording, producing and arranging, and playing live shows in new and exciting venues in New York City, Nashville, and hopefully other cities as well. I'm also looking forward to working on my next CD, continuously expanding my repertoire, and finding new opportunities.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Melissa: I listened to absolutely everything. Music was always on, no matter what, and I'm so thankful for that! The first two CDs I remember buying with my own money were Janet Jackson’s "Rhythm Nation" and Elton John's "The One" in the early 90's. I received LeAnn Rimes' "The Early Years" album in 5th grade and heard something in her voice that I felt I could relate to. I saw her in concert soon after and my grandfather and I were first in line to go backstage and meet her after the show. That was the day I officially realized that music was my path!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Melissa: I think the best part about the music industry today is new media and all of the online tools available to help artists succeed and advance in the industry on their own. In contrast, I always say I was born in the wrong era-- I wish it was still like the 30's and 40's when artists would sing one pass and that's the exact take that would end up on their album. No comping or fixing pitch was necessary, and I feel like it's kind of used as a crutch for vocalists nowadays. Things were so raw and heartfelt back then, and that's one of the things that I strive for in my recordings.
MAS: Beautifully put, now tell us something completely random.
Melissa: I have loved harp seals since I was six years old and am an activist against the Canadian seal hunt. My aunt made it possible for me to have a dream come true experience a few years ago in the Magdalen Islands where I took a helicopter out to the ice on the St. Lawrence River and was up close and personal with harp seals. I even got to hold one...it’s the most amazing thing!
MAS: As are you Melissa VanFleet, congratulations on your win and beautiful future ahead!
Links:
Melissa’s Official Website: www.melissavanfleet.com
Melissa’s MySpace Page: www.myspace.com/melissavanfleet
Melissa’s YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/melissavanfleet
Melissa’s Email: info@melissavanfleet.com
Make A Star September $100 Winners
October contests begin Thursday, October 7th at noon pacific time. Enter the contenders round of your contest category today to have the best chance to qualify for the October charts!
Congratulations to all the September winners of the $100 Make A Star Talent Competitions! It was a busy month with lots of fan votes pouring in especially in our music categories. The Make A Star judges had their say, but in many contests it was the fans that made the difference!
Favorite Music Video 1 : Michelle Vanda "Regret"
Favorite Music Video 2 : Dinosaur Feathers "History Lessons"
Favorite Male Solo Artist : Steve Rupert "One Beer For A Hard Days Work"
Favorite Female Solo Artist : Melissa VanFleet "Setting Myself Up For A Heartbreak"
Favorite Duo or Band : S-1 Operations "S-9"
Favorite Instrumental Artist : Rene Saucier "Rapture"
Favorite Stand Up Comic : Guy Copland "Comedy & Magic"
Congratulations to all the September winners of the $100 Make A Star Talent Competitions! It was a busy month with lots of fan votes pouring in especially in our music categories. The Make A Star judges had their say, but in many contests it was the fans that made the difference!
Favorite Music Video 1 : Michelle Vanda "Regret"
Favorite Music Video 2 : Dinosaur Feathers "History Lessons"
Favorite Male Solo Artist : Steve Rupert "One Beer For A Hard Days Work"
Favorite Female Solo Artist : Melissa VanFleet "Setting Myself Up For A Heartbreak"
Favorite Duo or Band : S-1 Operations "S-9"
Favorite Instrumental Artist : Rene Saucier "Rapture"
Favorite Stand Up Comic : Guy Copland "Comedy & Magic"
Make A Star Interview with Band S-1 Operations
MAS: Congratulations S-1 Operations for your win in Duo or Band August. Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
S-1: Yes, the theory of sound in motion, partly from Euclid’s theory of division of scale, we arrived at S-1 sound.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
S-1: I started this project 2 years ago, with S-2, I am the producer and song writer backed up by 9th Cat Recording Studio in New Ulm, MN. By S-3 we had Josh Wittman our lead guitarist...and Tim Tworzynski our drummer and now co producer and owner of 9th Cat Recording joined. Angel Mitchell joined as our bassist. The St. John Choir joined along with Vickie Tworzyanski in the back up vocal dept and came to help us on S-4 thru S-6 and as I had produced S-7, Tere Lang became our lead violinist and then it really got big. Vanessa Littrill came with us as a special guest for S-15 and we now have 13 world class musicians of all types mostly classically trained and they have backed me up ever since. I sometimes don’t know why, I cannot sing very well. I have to work very hard on my vocals to get by...but the core band is a very tuff 4 piece old school band and we are better live. We will continue to do things old school, the right way, with integrity. I do not name my songs. Call them what they mean to you as part of the art. I know what Tim calls them in the studio. When S-1 gets to the concert phase, we will have our fans name them for prizes...for now every song is just S-1 , sound named in the order they were recorded for copyright and in this way our fans see their bands progressions, victories and defeats.
MAS: Very interesting, how did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
S-1: Hard work and development since S-2 thru S-9; each song got us a little closer to S-1 sound and by S-12 we knew we had it. We have our own sound and music that’s original without pinching but done as the masters from the days of George Martin and in the revolver tradition- traditions of the Beatles, Byrds and Zombies. I am the songwriter and producer and loser. I am grateful and very lucky to have these wonderful fine musicians helping me. I owe everything to them.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
S-1: Annies song is actually S-14. Annie is a very close and long time friend, she used to dance at clubs we all would go to. Not professional but she likes to dance and I loved to watch her…she could stop an entire dance floor and people would just watch her. She was so beautiful. I missed that so much.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
S-1: I have never known a site that was so alive, so much fun and to have such an outstanding A&R team judging. Even when I disagreed with their song ratings, I felt they were fair and consistent and I use and will continue to use makeastar as a tool for continued upgrades in song design. I am truly grateful.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
S-1: The Beatles, Byrds the Zombies and Steppenwolf, even though I do not really sound like any of them. Our music will remind u of this old school excellence.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
S-1: Hard work, dedication, sacrifice, not taking shortcuts and a little genius behind my maddening stupidity.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
S-1: No one. We don’t worry about the competition; we let the competition worry about us.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
S-1: We are champions for independent artist. We are not beggers, I have never begged for listens. S-1 operations 1st CD GUNFIGHTER will be released in the summer of 2011 and the S-1 organization will themselves together take it to the people on every major radio station in the country. I believe we can afford a 3 month blitz bypassing the A&R of the big labels and not allowing them to decide our fate. Here the people will decide if S-1 operations lives or dies. The world will decide, the world always decides.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
S-1: My 1st concert as a child was the Beatles at the Hollywood bowl, most powerful performance I had ever witnessed to this day. Of course the Byrds and the Zombies and most of all was Steppenwolf. My favorite all time album is of course the most perfect album ever produced to this day, Revolver.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
S-1: The hard work, the sacrifice, the long hours, the hardship and being constantly tired and worn out on the road. Always on the hunt for money, and praying that it’s enough to get thru another day. The isolation, surrounded by a crowd and u still feel alone. Then the joy and magic of a song coming together in the studio, the joy of someone walking up to you and telling you that the song meant a lot to them. Then one day after so many defeats ,so many disappointments and days of despair you have a day like this day. They don’t come often and I thank you, I thank you all for this day. Wolf
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
S-1: I really don’t see the music industry in those terms. I was a child in the 60s so I know a great band when I hear one. And I cannot be fooled by all this, technology band in a can stuff. I seen the degradation of music starting at around the late 70s, I turned the radio knob to the left around mid 80s. The fight for the consumer dollars is fierce now. I understand the companies need to reduce cost in production but there was no excuse for not cultivating artist development. With more and more labels on the ropes, I think they finally get the point. Greed has no place with us now. The new generation is here, they are tuff, old school and they absolutely want to be the best, they have to start working with real talent as a team, truly believe and they must truly care. Because as S-1 will on their own, take it to the people, no matter what the hardship or sacrifice…others will follow. When that happens, the artist will win and the true talent will again take its rightful place. The big labels only right of being was the fact that most bands get stopped dead in their tracks in the marketing and promo phase of operations, it’s very expensive. But as new technology has come in to play it is now possible for a band with at least a solid budget on their own, go all the way and reap the rewards for themselves. When this starts happening and it is as we speak, the big labels will themselves be nothing but a whisper of the past.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
S-1: The great pyramids outer walls have an estimated 2.5 million 10 ton blocks built in a time frame of just under 21 years, quarried, cut, and transported over 600 miles, so if they worked night and day, and 24/7 they would have had to lay a block every 4 to 7 seconds for it to be finished in its time frame. Old guys with hand tools? I think not.
S-1: Yes, the theory of sound in motion, partly from Euclid’s theory of division of scale, we arrived at S-1 sound.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
S-1: I started this project 2 years ago, with S-2, I am the producer and song writer backed up by 9th Cat Recording Studio in New Ulm, MN. By S-3 we had Josh Wittman our lead guitarist...and Tim Tworzynski our drummer and now co producer and owner of 9th Cat Recording joined. Angel Mitchell joined as our bassist. The St. John Choir joined along with Vickie Tworzyanski in the back up vocal dept and came to help us on S-4 thru S-6 and as I had produced S-7, Tere Lang became our lead violinist and then it really got big. Vanessa Littrill came with us as a special guest for S-15 and we now have 13 world class musicians of all types mostly classically trained and they have backed me up ever since. I sometimes don’t know why, I cannot sing very well. I have to work very hard on my vocals to get by...but the core band is a very tuff 4 piece old school band and we are better live. We will continue to do things old school, the right way, with integrity. I do not name my songs. Call them what they mean to you as part of the art. I know what Tim calls them in the studio. When S-1 gets to the concert phase, we will have our fans name them for prizes...for now every song is just S-1 , sound named in the order they were recorded for copyright and in this way our fans see their bands progressions, victories and defeats.
MAS: Very interesting, how did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
S-1: Hard work and development since S-2 thru S-9; each song got us a little closer to S-1 sound and by S-12 we knew we had it. We have our own sound and music that’s original without pinching but done as the masters from the days of George Martin and in the revolver tradition- traditions of the Beatles, Byrds and Zombies. I am the songwriter and producer and loser. I am grateful and very lucky to have these wonderful fine musicians helping me. I owe everything to them.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
S-1: Annies song is actually S-14. Annie is a very close and long time friend, she used to dance at clubs we all would go to. Not professional but she likes to dance and I loved to watch her…she could stop an entire dance floor and people would just watch her. She was so beautiful. I missed that so much.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
S-1: I have never known a site that was so alive, so much fun and to have such an outstanding A&R team judging. Even when I disagreed with their song ratings, I felt they were fair and consistent and I use and will continue to use makeastar as a tool for continued upgrades in song design. I am truly grateful.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
S-1: The Beatles, Byrds the Zombies and Steppenwolf, even though I do not really sound like any of them. Our music will remind u of this old school excellence.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
S-1: Hard work, dedication, sacrifice, not taking shortcuts and a little genius behind my maddening stupidity.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
S-1: No one. We don’t worry about the competition; we let the competition worry about us.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
S-1: We are champions for independent artist. We are not beggers, I have never begged for listens. S-1 operations 1st CD GUNFIGHTER will be released in the summer of 2011 and the S-1 organization will themselves together take it to the people on every major radio station in the country. I believe we can afford a 3 month blitz bypassing the A&R of the big labels and not allowing them to decide our fate. Here the people will decide if S-1 operations lives or dies. The world will decide, the world always decides.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
S-1: My 1st concert as a child was the Beatles at the Hollywood bowl, most powerful performance I had ever witnessed to this day. Of course the Byrds and the Zombies and most of all was Steppenwolf. My favorite all time album is of course the most perfect album ever produced to this day, Revolver.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
S-1: The hard work, the sacrifice, the long hours, the hardship and being constantly tired and worn out on the road. Always on the hunt for money, and praying that it’s enough to get thru another day. The isolation, surrounded by a crowd and u still feel alone. Then the joy and magic of a song coming together in the studio, the joy of someone walking up to you and telling you that the song meant a lot to them. Then one day after so many defeats ,so many disappointments and days of despair you have a day like this day. They don’t come often and I thank you, I thank you all for this day. Wolf
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
S-1: I really don’t see the music industry in those terms. I was a child in the 60s so I know a great band when I hear one. And I cannot be fooled by all this, technology band in a can stuff. I seen the degradation of music starting at around the late 70s, I turned the radio knob to the left around mid 80s. The fight for the consumer dollars is fierce now. I understand the companies need to reduce cost in production but there was no excuse for not cultivating artist development. With more and more labels on the ropes, I think they finally get the point. Greed has no place with us now. The new generation is here, they are tuff, old school and they absolutely want to be the best, they have to start working with real talent as a team, truly believe and they must truly care. Because as S-1 will on their own, take it to the people, no matter what the hardship or sacrifice…others will follow. When that happens, the artist will win and the true talent will again take its rightful place. The big labels only right of being was the fact that most bands get stopped dead in their tracks in the marketing and promo phase of operations, it’s very expensive. But as new technology has come in to play it is now possible for a band with at least a solid budget on their own, go all the way and reap the rewards for themselves. When this starts happening and it is as we speak, the big labels will themselves be nothing but a whisper of the past.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
S-1: The great pyramids outer walls have an estimated 2.5 million 10 ton blocks built in a time frame of just under 21 years, quarried, cut, and transported over 600 miles, so if they worked night and day, and 24/7 they would have had to lay a block every 4 to 7 seconds for it to be finished in its time frame. Old guys with hand tools? I think not.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Music Video Winner Sergeant Fu
MAS: August Music Video Winner- Sergeant Fu, we congratulate you on your winning song ‘Vuvuzela’. Tell us how it feels to have won. Are you happy, surprised, relieved?
Sergeant Fu: Yeah, honestly it was a bit of a surprise. We initially entered the competition because one of our friends suggested it. In the beginning we won the first few rounds but didn’t get too excited, but in the end, we were really amped to win it! It’s a good feeling to know that a South African band can compete on the international stage.
MAS: Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
Sergeant Fu: Funny enough, it’s kind of an inside joke and a story that only a handful of people know! Let’s just say that its one of the band members’ old nickname.
MAS: It will remain a secret then. Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Sergeant Fu: Well I (Matt) came up with the concept while I was on a large theatre production touring Cape Town. It actually came to me in a dream! Lol. The very next day I phoned Ryno to tell him about it, and the rest, they say, “Is History …”
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Sergeant Fu: Every song is different for us and we each take turns to “lead” on different songs. It all depends on who’s feeling it the most, and who conceptualised the song. Plus we have our different strengths to contribute to Sergeant Fu – so Ryno is a master on Guitar, Bass, Synths and the general music production of the album, and I (Matt), do vocals, drums and percs. Obviously we both write the lyrics so it’s a collaborative effort there.
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Sergeant Fu: Well that’s actually a bit of a crazy story. The track “Vuvuzela” wasn’t even supposed to be in the album as we had already finished with its production. But as it was 2010 and the World Cup, everyone was getting into the spirit of things, and so we made it to add to the “Feel-Good” factor. Then it all snowballed from there as everyone seemed to respond really well to it. So we called up our mates at Indie Village Creative, conceptualised it in around a day, shot it that weekend, edited it and there you go! “Vuvuzela” done and dusted!
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Sergeant Fu: It’s pretty simple actually. We just aimed to highlight the “Feel-Good” nature of the band and so decided to show everyone joining in on the Sergeant Fu party. But seeing as though we’re just musicians, we needed a bit of help, so with Indie Village Creative (Dale Ballantine and Brian Mason) and Gemma Donnelly (choreographer), we managed to get everything in order and make a tight-looking video.
MAS: A great video it is, what other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Sergeant Fu: Dale Ballantine is a top-drawer director, producer and cameraman. Quite a few people know him in the industry as he’s been around for the past 5 years or so. He’s worked on projects for guys like Christian Heath, Inersha, The Greg Jorden Project and Fevertree. Dale is not just restricted to music videos though – he’s done some really awesome work for Coca-Cola, FNB and ABSA (major SA banks), Investec and quite a few other blue-chip companies.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Sergeant Fu: We really dig it. I mean, you get all the cool stuff like news and competitions, but we really enjoy the fact that it’s promoting new music. It levels the playing field in a way. So a band from South Africa gets the same exposure as a local US band. It’s really fantastic.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Sergeant Fu: Cliff Richard, Miley Cyrus and Justin Beiber! Haha. Well we don’t really fit into a standard category per se, but we are attempting to create a new music genre called “Feel-Good”. It’s got its vibey pop tunes and party beats, but then it also goes way down for the sentimental ballads. The thing we are proud about most are the lyrics – we take pride in how clever they are, yet simple and how easy it is to relate to them!
MAS: Indeed, the lyrics are very clever and interesting. What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Sergeant Fu: Well like we said, it’s a completely new genre of music! But what’s also great is that in South Africa, we are so eclectic in our cultures and that comes through on the album as well. There is something for everyone, and no matter who you are, it’s going to make you “Feel Good”!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Sergeant Fu: I guess I get my inspiration from looking at our lives from different, funny and new angles….So I guess I want to emulate us.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Sergeant Fu: We love music videos, in fact a member of Sergeant Fu, The Godfather, is in video production himself, so its great to call on that resource. We have a local music channel in South Africa that flights all the local and international stuff. Whenever we get the chance we just flop down in front of the TV and let ourselves be corrupted for hours on end! In terms of filming them, it’s even better! We’re all about having a good time, so we make sure we have a hot product and then we try and make it as great as possible. This is the first one that we’ve done though, so we’ll have to maybe revisit that question in the future!
Sergeant Fu: Well, we have just, just, just received our album from the printers so we’re lank stoked about that. Then in the next month or so we are launching it at our local gig spot called Tanz Café to media and friends. Thereafter, it’s a long road of gigs and tours, securing sponsorship, and promoting our very own cocktail (“Sergeant Fu’s)!
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Sergeant Fu: In my childhood I was a big Weird Al Yankovic & Hanson fan so I guess that might be where this musical fusion came from. Weird Al gave me the funny side of music and Hanson gave me the pop side of things. My first album was Hanson’s Mmmmmbob Single Release…Don’t Judge…and Don’t be Jealous ?
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Sergeant Fu: Best part: Partying like a rockstar and inventing new drinks when there is nothing else left in the house!
Worst part: Being invited to fancy parties and being treated like a king, only to realize when you go home, you only have 2-minute noodles to look forward to! Haha!
MAS: Great answer! What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Sergeant Fu: Best part: Somewhere, someone is busy creating something new. Whether it’s a music genre or a new sound that will infect the whole world you always need to be on your toes or someone could come up and overtake you without you even noticing.
Worst Part: Um … dunno! Next question!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Sergeant Fu: Our mascot’s name is a Super Duck and his favourite drink is a strawberry milkshake. Also, Ryno’s one bicep is bigger than one of Matt’s, but the other one is not … weird!
MAS: And there you have it, the great Sergeant Fu, our luck to you on a successful journey!
Sergeant Fu: Yeah, honestly it was a bit of a surprise. We initially entered the competition because one of our friends suggested it. In the beginning we won the first few rounds but didn’t get too excited, but in the end, we were really amped to win it! It’s a good feeling to know that a South African band can compete on the international stage.
MAS: Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
Sergeant Fu: Funny enough, it’s kind of an inside joke and a story that only a handful of people know! Let’s just say that its one of the band members’ old nickname.
MAS: It will remain a secret then. Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Sergeant Fu: Well I (Matt) came up with the concept while I was on a large theatre production touring Cape Town. It actually came to me in a dream! Lol. The very next day I phoned Ryno to tell him about it, and the rest, they say, “Is History …”
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Sergeant Fu: Every song is different for us and we each take turns to “lead” on different songs. It all depends on who’s feeling it the most, and who conceptualised the song. Plus we have our different strengths to contribute to Sergeant Fu – so Ryno is a master on Guitar, Bass, Synths and the general music production of the album, and I (Matt), do vocals, drums and percs. Obviously we both write the lyrics so it’s a collaborative effort there.
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Sergeant Fu: Well that’s actually a bit of a crazy story. The track “Vuvuzela” wasn’t even supposed to be in the album as we had already finished with its production. But as it was 2010 and the World Cup, everyone was getting into the spirit of things, and so we made it to add to the “Feel-Good” factor. Then it all snowballed from there as everyone seemed to respond really well to it. So we called up our mates at Indie Village Creative, conceptualised it in around a day, shot it that weekend, edited it and there you go! “Vuvuzela” done and dusted!
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Sergeant Fu: It’s pretty simple actually. We just aimed to highlight the “Feel-Good” nature of the band and so decided to show everyone joining in on the Sergeant Fu party. But seeing as though we’re just musicians, we needed a bit of help, so with Indie Village Creative (Dale Ballantine and Brian Mason) and Gemma Donnelly (choreographer), we managed to get everything in order and make a tight-looking video.
MAS: A great video it is, what other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Sergeant Fu: Dale Ballantine is a top-drawer director, producer and cameraman. Quite a few people know him in the industry as he’s been around for the past 5 years or so. He’s worked on projects for guys like Christian Heath, Inersha, The Greg Jorden Project and Fevertree. Dale is not just restricted to music videos though – he’s done some really awesome work for Coca-Cola, FNB and ABSA (major SA banks), Investec and quite a few other blue-chip companies.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Sergeant Fu: We really dig it. I mean, you get all the cool stuff like news and competitions, but we really enjoy the fact that it’s promoting new music. It levels the playing field in a way. So a band from South Africa gets the same exposure as a local US band. It’s really fantastic.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Sergeant Fu: Cliff Richard, Miley Cyrus and Justin Beiber! Haha. Well we don’t really fit into a standard category per se, but we are attempting to create a new music genre called “Feel-Good”. It’s got its vibey pop tunes and party beats, but then it also goes way down for the sentimental ballads. The thing we are proud about most are the lyrics – we take pride in how clever they are, yet simple and how easy it is to relate to them!
MAS: Indeed, the lyrics are very clever and interesting. What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Sergeant Fu: Well like we said, it’s a completely new genre of music! But what’s also great is that in South Africa, we are so eclectic in our cultures and that comes through on the album as well. There is something for everyone, and no matter who you are, it’s going to make you “Feel Good”!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Sergeant Fu: I guess I get my inspiration from looking at our lives from different, funny and new angles….So I guess I want to emulate us.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Sergeant Fu: We love music videos, in fact a member of Sergeant Fu, The Godfather, is in video production himself, so its great to call on that resource. We have a local music channel in South Africa that flights all the local and international stuff. Whenever we get the chance we just flop down in front of the TV and let ourselves be corrupted for hours on end! In terms of filming them, it’s even better! We’re all about having a good time, so we make sure we have a hot product and then we try and make it as great as possible. This is the first one that we’ve done though, so we’ll have to maybe revisit that question in the future!
Sergeant Fu: Well, we have just, just, just received our album from the printers so we’re lank stoked about that. Then in the next month or so we are launching it at our local gig spot called Tanz Café to media and friends. Thereafter, it’s a long road of gigs and tours, securing sponsorship, and promoting our very own cocktail (“Sergeant Fu’s)!
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Sergeant Fu: In my childhood I was a big Weird Al Yankovic & Hanson fan so I guess that might be where this musical fusion came from. Weird Al gave me the funny side of music and Hanson gave me the pop side of things. My first album was Hanson’s Mmmmmbob Single Release…Don’t Judge…and Don’t be Jealous ?
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Sergeant Fu: Best part: Partying like a rockstar and inventing new drinks when there is nothing else left in the house!
Worst part: Being invited to fancy parties and being treated like a king, only to realize when you go home, you only have 2-minute noodles to look forward to! Haha!
MAS: Great answer! What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Sergeant Fu: Best part: Somewhere, someone is busy creating something new. Whether it’s a music genre or a new sound that will infect the whole world you always need to be on your toes or someone could come up and overtake you without you even noticing.
Worst Part: Um … dunno! Next question!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Sergeant Fu: Our mascot’s name is a Super Duck and his favourite drink is a strawberry milkshake. Also, Ryno’s one bicep is bigger than one of Matt’s, but the other one is not … weird!
MAS: And there you have it, the great Sergeant Fu, our luck to you on a successful journey!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Stand Up Comic Kenny Klein
MAS: You are one funny guy- Kenny Klein winner of the August Comedy Contest, what’s the story behind the video clip you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Kenny: I was performing for a private party at the World Famous Geisha House in Hollywood California.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Kenny: When I was 17 my interest was peaked by a comedy special I saw. I went down to the LA Laugh Factory in Hollywood and tried their open mic. Been hooked ever since.
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Kenny: It’s the only time I truly feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be.
MAS: Agreed, definitely where you should be. How do you write your jokes and put together a routine?
Kenny: It usually starts with an ordinary conversation with somebody, and something will just hit me.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Kenny: I’ve had people compare me to Steven Wright and Mitch Hedberg. Sometimes girls will compare me to Dane Cook.
MAS: Intersting, who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Kenny: Brian Regan, Steven Wright, Dave Attell, just for starters. But I think we’re all influenced by everything we see.
MAS: What are your career plans for the year ahead?
Kenny: Comedy is a bumpy ride, and one not always filled with money, but I’d like to think I’ll scratch out a living with it anyway.
MAS: We believe in you Kenny. What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Kenny: I think the best part is making people laugh, I know it sounds corny, but it really is an amazing feeling. I think the worst part would have to be how saturated the market out here in LA really is.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Kenny: Personally I believe the internet has given all of us a great chance to show the world what we can do. The worst part would have to be the stiff competition, but hey, they keeps us all on our toes right?
MAS: Indeed, but you may be a toe ahead you take the win the Make A Star Contest. How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Kenny: I have nothing but respect for what MakeAStar.com is doing. Always great to see people supporting other people that tackle their dreams.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Kenny: I stabbed myself in the stomach once. I was trying to kill my Voodoo Doll…
MAS: And a win for random comments, good luck on your journey Kenny Klein!
Kenny: I was performing for a private party at the World Famous Geisha House in Hollywood California.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a stand-up comic.
Kenny: When I was 17 my interest was peaked by a comedy special I saw. I went down to the LA Laugh Factory in Hollywood and tried their open mic. Been hooked ever since.
MAS: How do you feel when you are on stage as a comedian?
Kenny: It’s the only time I truly feel like I’m where I’m supposed to be.
MAS: Agreed, definitely where you should be. How do you write your jokes and put together a routine?
Kenny: It usually starts with an ordinary conversation with somebody, and something will just hit me.
MAS: Have other people compared you to any other comics?
Kenny: I’ve had people compare me to Steven Wright and Mitch Hedberg. Sometimes girls will compare me to Dane Cook.
MAS: Intersting, who are your comedy heroes that have influenced your style?
Kenny: Brian Regan, Steven Wright, Dave Attell, just for starters. But I think we’re all influenced by everything we see.
MAS: What are your career plans for the year ahead?
Kenny: Comedy is a bumpy ride, and one not always filled with money, but I’d like to think I’ll scratch out a living with it anyway.
MAS: We believe in you Kenny. What is the best and worst part about being a stand-up comic?
Kenny: I think the best part is making people laugh, I know it sounds corny, but it really is an amazing feeling. I think the worst part would have to be how saturated the market out here in LA really is.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the industry for comics today?
Kenny: Personally I believe the internet has given all of us a great chance to show the world what we can do. The worst part would have to be the stiff competition, but hey, they keeps us all on our toes right?
MAS: Indeed, but you may be a toe ahead you take the win the Make A Star Contest. How does MakeAStar.com compare (good or bad) with other talent websites?
Kenny: I have nothing but respect for what MakeAStar.com is doing. Always great to see people supporting other people that tackle their dreams.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Kenny: I stabbed myself in the stomach once. I was trying to kill my Voodoo Doll…
MAS: And a win for random comments, good luck on your journey Kenny Klein!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Male Solo Artist Nick Storey
MAS: Congratulations Nick Story for the take all in the August Male Solo Contest! Tell us how you got started as a singer and how your recording career began.
Nick: It all started when I was 14 years old. I spent a lot of time alone in a big old empty house – it was just me and my dad living there. I picked up my father’s old Classical guitar and gave the bottom E-string a pluck. I was so amazed by the effect and the resonance that I was pulled towards this instrument. Once I could play a few tunes the songs just started coming (and have done ever since).
MAS: Well, your love of music definitely shines through. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Nick: I dropped in and out of schools drifting about the city of Auckland where I was from as a teen. During this patch I was an unhappyish sort of angsty type of kid – playing a battered ol classical but influenced by grunge rock (Nirvana, Soundgarden) and also in awe of the Classical Guitarists (Sergovia Williams) – so my verses would be melodic finger plucky things, and the chorus would fly in with chunky power chords and heavy strumming. Heal and Bind is no exception to this! On Heal and Bind there is a collaboration with Anne Marie Sanderson on Cello and backing vocals, Alex Jarman on Drums, and Jean Narwocki on Bass. Like most of my stuff, I write the song and then invite others to contribute.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Nick: It was written while on the road and away from home. It captures how I felt one time when I was disenchanted with the drifter's lot in life. I have also written songs from a more settled place within, romanticising the drifter's way of life. Heal and Bind also speaks of folks back home and how important a part of life they are, and the need to heal the rifts of your past.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Nick: The MakeaStar.com website is a good platform for musicians to gain exposure. As a musician I treat the idea of musical competitions somewhat skeptically; however the makeastar.com formula of a wide panel of judges and public voting seemed to work pretty well.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Nick: I've been compared to Dylan, Neil Young, Magnet (a Norwegian songwriter) J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr) and someone once told me I was like a male version of Ani DeFranco! You might not hear any of these strains in Heal and Bind but my style and stuff changes year to year...
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Nick: The dynamic of finger plucking and heavy strumming is pretty unique to me from what I've seen. Originality is one of the biggest drivers in my songwriting and performance. After quite some time searching, I was able to find a voice that I'm pleased to call my own.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Nick: I'm based in London and am surrounded by some phenomenal people doing some amazing things. They have thrown ego and self gratification aside and are beautifully focused on what gives life meaning. People like Oz Bayldon, who works tirelessly to help orphaned children in Nepal through his charity music4children, or Martin Harley – who has helped rejuvenate Blues in the UK. I host an open mic night in London and I'm always inspired by anyone who takes the stage for the first time in their life, whatever the age and whoever they are, they are freeing themselves of fear and learning to fly as the free creatures they truly are. Inspiration seems everywhere I look to be honest.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Nick: To continue to build on my profile, write more songs, play many gigs, collaborate further and to fill my life with music and new musical opportunities.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Nick: First record was BAND AID (Feed the World). First concert was a strange one: it had SNAP, Meat Loaf, 2 Live Crew, Nilsson Bros – an interesting line up you could say. Meat Loaf eclipsed them all- that guy rages with intensity.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Nick: I cannot think of a bad thing about being a musician at all. Music is pure joy when created with an open heart and pure intention. Collaborating with other musicians is an amazing way to connect. As with anything, music may become hard when there is a lot of ego involved – but that is more about ego, and not about music itself.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Nick: I've noticed a powerful shift back to the live form of music. There is only so much of the experience that can be had via a web browser – and a thirst for live performance is as healthy as it ever was. Festivals sell out within hours in the UK, and any given night of the week people will be out and about to have their ears massaged and their senses tickled by live musical performances. Best and Worst parts of the industry? It's all one big evolving organism really, so I don't want to label things as good and bad – you must take both aspects of it and roll with the changing times.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Nick: Every second of every day of our existence, we are creating the world we see, hear, taste and experience. It's a beautiful thing.
Nick: It all started when I was 14 years old. I spent a lot of time alone in a big old empty house – it was just me and my dad living there. I picked up my father’s old Classical guitar and gave the bottom E-string a pluck. I was so amazed by the effect and the resonance that I was pulled towards this instrument. Once I could play a few tunes the songs just started coming (and have done ever since).
MAS: Well, your love of music definitely shines through. How did you develop your sound? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Nick: I dropped in and out of schools drifting about the city of Auckland where I was from as a teen. During this patch I was an unhappyish sort of angsty type of kid – playing a battered ol classical but influenced by grunge rock (Nirvana, Soundgarden) and also in awe of the Classical Guitarists (Sergovia Williams) – so my verses would be melodic finger plucky things, and the chorus would fly in with chunky power chords and heavy strumming. Heal and Bind is no exception to this! On Heal and Bind there is a collaboration with Anne Marie Sanderson on Cello and backing vocals, Alex Jarman on Drums, and Jean Narwocki on Bass. Like most of my stuff, I write the song and then invite others to contribute.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Nick: It was written while on the road and away from home. It captures how I felt one time when I was disenchanted with the drifter's lot in life. I have also written songs from a more settled place within, romanticising the drifter's way of life. Heal and Bind also speaks of folks back home and how important a part of life they are, and the need to heal the rifts of your past.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Nick: The MakeaStar.com website is a good platform for musicians to gain exposure. As a musician I treat the idea of musical competitions somewhat skeptically; however the makeastar.com formula of a wide panel of judges and public voting seemed to work pretty well.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Nick: I've been compared to Dylan, Neil Young, Magnet (a Norwegian songwriter) J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr) and someone once told me I was like a male version of Ani DeFranco! You might not hear any of these strains in Heal and Bind but my style and stuff changes year to year...
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Nick: The dynamic of finger plucking and heavy strumming is pretty unique to me from what I've seen. Originality is one of the biggest drivers in my songwriting and performance. After quite some time searching, I was able to find a voice that I'm pleased to call my own.
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Nick: I'm based in London and am surrounded by some phenomenal people doing some amazing things. They have thrown ego and self gratification aside and are beautifully focused on what gives life meaning. People like Oz Bayldon, who works tirelessly to help orphaned children in Nepal through his charity music4children, or Martin Harley – who has helped rejuvenate Blues in the UK. I host an open mic night in London and I'm always inspired by anyone who takes the stage for the first time in their life, whatever the age and whoever they are, they are freeing themselves of fear and learning to fly as the free creatures they truly are. Inspiration seems everywhere I look to be honest.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Nick: To continue to build on my profile, write more songs, play many gigs, collaborate further and to fill my life with music and new musical opportunities.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Nick: First record was BAND AID (Feed the World). First concert was a strange one: it had SNAP, Meat Loaf, 2 Live Crew, Nilsson Bros – an interesting line up you could say. Meat Loaf eclipsed them all- that guy rages with intensity.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Nick: I cannot think of a bad thing about being a musician at all. Music is pure joy when created with an open heart and pure intention. Collaborating with other musicians is an amazing way to connect. As with anything, music may become hard when there is a lot of ego involved – but that is more about ego, and not about music itself.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Nick: I've noticed a powerful shift back to the live form of music. There is only so much of the experience that can be had via a web browser – and a thirst for live performance is as healthy as it ever was. Festivals sell out within hours in the UK, and any given night of the week people will be out and about to have their ears massaged and their senses tickled by live musical performances. Best and Worst parts of the industry? It's all one big evolving organism really, so I don't want to label things as good and bad – you must take both aspects of it and roll with the changing times.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Nick: Every second of every day of our existence, we are creating the world we see, hear, taste and experience. It's a beautiful thing.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Male Solo Artist Sell Ski
MAS: Congratulations Sell Ski for your win in the Male Solo Artist Contest! Tell us how you got started as a singer and how your recording career began.
Sell Ski: Well I got started in the Navy and while overseas on deployment, me and a few of my friends formed a group at the time named "Cold Cash" and after I moved away from all my friends I continued doing music on my own and started to realize that a lot of people were taking notice.
MAS: You have a great sound going; how did it develop? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Sell Ski: Well I've been taking a lot of advice from people who listen to my music to come up with my unique sound. I really pride myself on being different and people saying you don't sound like anyone I've heard before but I like it. I write all my songs myself no help needed to do what I love.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Sell Ski: The song I entered Named ‘Never Get Enough’ was a song that just came to me as soon as I heard the beat, it was one of those, I know this song is made for this type things, and when I finished the song everyone that heard it really agreed.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Sell Ski: Since I've started being active on the website I notice that this website is really about the artist and all the artist has to offer, I've been to a lot of sites that you have to pay to be a part of a community, that doesn't get you anywhere with your music and the fan base on this site is one of a kind, it's full of people that love music no matter the genre.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Sell Ski: I've been compared to no one so far, I like other artists but I never mold myself after someone, I feel I'm a born leader I always find myself at the front of the pack no matter the situation.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Sell Ski: One big thing that sets me apart from most southern rappers I do not use profanity in my music, but I still am able to catch your attention with my catchy tunes and the way I do put words together.
MAS: Always a positive and the music is well put together. Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Sell Ski: I get a lot of inspiration from T.I. seeing all he has been through, and how it’s really made him a better person and I emulate my music after my own life, if it's things I want, or things I have, to the things I've been through, or have close ones going through right now.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Sell Ski: Well for the year ahead I'm really trying to get more radio airplay, whether its' local or not, I think my music needs to be heard, and it has the certain sound that will make anyone listen, I have something for everyone.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Sell Ski: When I was a child my favorite was Heavy D, I just liked the way he used his word play. The first Album I owned myself, was a DJ Smurf mixtape and it really was a tape not CD but tape.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Sell Ski: The best part for me is seeing the smiles and the happiness in people when they hear your music, and the worst part is all the people trying to make it off of your name and your talent, it's a dirty but also rewarding business.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Sell Ski: Best part is how most artists that's not too into themselves work together to help each other out, and the worst part is the greedy nature of the industry.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Sell Ski: I love watching family guy every night on cartoon network LOL....... Check out my myspace account new music added there before anywhere www.myspace.com/sellski Thanks to everyone for voting I love each and every one of yall......
MAS: And they love you, Congrats Sell Ski
Sell Ski: Well I got started in the Navy and while overseas on deployment, me and a few of my friends formed a group at the time named "Cold Cash" and after I moved away from all my friends I continued doing music on my own and started to realize that a lot of people were taking notice.
MAS: You have a great sound going; how did it develop? Are you the primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Sell Ski: Well I've been taking a lot of advice from people who listen to my music to come up with my unique sound. I really pride myself on being different and people saying you don't sound like anyone I've heard before but I like it. I write all my songs myself no help needed to do what I love.
MAS: What’s the story behind the song you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Sell Ski: The song I entered Named ‘Never Get Enough’ was a song that just came to me as soon as I heard the beat, it was one of those, I know this song is made for this type things, and when I finished the song everyone that heard it really agreed.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Sell Ski: Since I've started being active on the website I notice that this website is really about the artist and all the artist has to offer, I've been to a lot of sites that you have to pay to be a part of a community, that doesn't get you anywhere with your music and the fan base on this site is one of a kind, it's full of people that love music no matter the genre.
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Sell Ski: I've been compared to no one so far, I like other artists but I never mold myself after someone, I feel I'm a born leader I always find myself at the front of the pack no matter the situation.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Sell Ski: One big thing that sets me apart from most southern rappers I do not use profanity in my music, but I still am able to catch your attention with my catchy tunes and the way I do put words together.
MAS: Always a positive and the music is well put together. Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Sell Ski: I get a lot of inspiration from T.I. seeing all he has been through, and how it’s really made him a better person and I emulate my music after my own life, if it's things I want, or things I have, to the things I've been through, or have close ones going through right now.
MAS: What are your musical plans for the year ahead?
Sell Ski: Well for the year ahead I'm really trying to get more radio airplay, whether its' local or not, I think my music needs to be heard, and it has the certain sound that will make anyone listen, I have something for everyone.
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Sell Ski: When I was a child my favorite was Heavy D, I just liked the way he used his word play. The first Album I owned myself, was a DJ Smurf mixtape and it really was a tape not CD but tape.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Sell Ski: The best part for me is seeing the smiles and the happiness in people when they hear your music, and the worst part is all the people trying to make it off of your name and your talent, it's a dirty but also rewarding business.
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Sell Ski: Best part is how most artists that's not too into themselves work together to help each other out, and the worst part is the greedy nature of the industry.
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Sell Ski: I love watching family guy every night on cartoon network LOL....... Check out my myspace account new music added there before anywhere www.myspace.com/sellski Thanks to everyone for voting I love each and every one of yall......
MAS: And they love you, Congrats Sell Ski
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Make A Star August $100 Winners
The Winners are here! Congratulations to the August winners of the $100 Make A Star Talent Competitions!
Favorite Music Video 1 : Sergeant Fu "Vuvuzela"
Favorite Music Video 2 : Brogan Kelby "Rescue Me"
Favorite Male Solo Artist : Nick Storey "Heal and Bind"
Favorite Female Solo Artist : Tamara Miller "You Made Me See The Light"
Favorite Duo or Band : S-1 Operations "Annie's Song"
Favorite Instrumental Artist : Lil LuLu "Queen of the Seven Seas"
Favorite Stand Up Comic : Kenny Klein
A special thank you to everyone who shared their talents on Make A Star and competed in this month's contests. For all of those who came close but did not win, we encourage you to try again! It's still always free to enter the contenders round and advance to the monthly brackets, even with the same song or video. A few more fans coming out to vote for you every day could make the difference.
Keep writing, recording, filming, performing and reach for the stars. We provide the stage, but the talent is all yours.
Favorite Music Video 1 : Sergeant Fu "Vuvuzela"
Favorite Music Video 2 : Brogan Kelby "Rescue Me"
Favorite Male Solo Artist : Nick Storey "Heal and Bind"
Favorite Female Solo Artist : Tamara Miller "You Made Me See The Light"
Favorite Duo or Band : S-1 Operations "Annie's Song"
Favorite Instrumental Artist : Lil LuLu "Queen of the Seven Seas"
Favorite Stand Up Comic : Kenny Klein
A special thank you to everyone who shared their talents on Make A Star and competed in this month's contests. For all of those who came close but did not win, we encourage you to try again! It's still always free to enter the contenders round and advance to the monthly brackets, even with the same song or video. A few more fans coming out to vote for you every day could make the difference.
Keep writing, recording, filming, performing and reach for the stars. We provide the stage, but the talent is all yours.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Final Days of the August Brackets
It's been a great month of music with so many good songs and videos to enjoy.
But only one can survive at the end to reach the top of the charts and claim the $100 cash prizes in each of this month's 7 categories.
Voting ends Sunday, August 29th at noon pacific. Vote daily to help your favorite win!
Music Video 1 - Chelsea Automatic "Sunday" vs Sergeant Fu "Vuvuzela"
Music Video 2 - Brogan Kelby "Rescue Me" vs The Maneken "These Lines"
Female Solo Artist - Vanessa Littrell "If I Should Fall" vs Tamara Miller "You Made Me See The Light"
Male Solo Artist - Nick Storey "Heal and Bind" vs Iceman "Nightwalker"
Favorite Duo or Band - S-1 Operations "Annies Song" vs LilLuLu & Mellowman "Lil Baby Girl"
Instrumental Song - Joy@Play "Come, Run Away" vs LilLuLu "Queen of the Seven Seas"
Stand Up Comic - Kenny Klein vs Guy Copland
But only one can survive at the end to reach the top of the charts and claim the $100 cash prizes in each of this month's 7 categories.
Voting ends Sunday, August 29th at noon pacific. Vote daily to help your favorite win!
Music Video 1 - Chelsea Automatic "Sunday" vs Sergeant Fu "Vuvuzela"
Music Video 2 - Brogan Kelby "Rescue Me" vs The Maneken "These Lines"
Female Solo Artist - Vanessa Littrell "If I Should Fall" vs Tamara Miller "You Made Me See The Light"
Male Solo Artist - Nick Storey "Heal and Bind" vs Iceman "Nightwalker"
Favorite Duo or Band - S-1 Operations "Annies Song" vs LilLuLu & Mellowman "Lil Baby Girl"
Instrumental Song - Joy@Play "Come, Run Away" vs LilLuLu "Queen of the Seven Seas"
Stand Up Comic - Kenny Klein vs Guy Copland
Friday, August 13, 2010
Make A Star Interview with Music Video winner Connekt
MAS: Congratualations on your winning music video ‘Kiss’! How does it feel to take home the win and the $100 cash?
Connekt: I am really excited that I won this month’s contest! Not so long ago I was a stay at home mom working on her style alone in her studio, so winning that contest really is great!
Watch the Music Video for Connekt 'Kiss' on MakeAStar.com
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Connekt: Last December, I was finishing up the mixing of Kiss and was still searching for a stage name. Plus I knew I wanted to produce a music video to help promote myself online and my friends kept telling me "You are so lucky to have the talent to express your emotions through music, I wish I could do it too". So I thought that it would be great if someone would invent a computer that could connect to your feelings and create a song and maybe a video of how you feel. Like a futuristic personal jukebox. That’s basically how it all started. I actually did a “making-of” the video that explains how we did the video shoot and post-production at home. You can watch it on Youtube:
Making the Music Video : Connekt 'Kiss'
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Connekt: I don’t compare myself too much. I love to do pop/electronic music without falling in the usual sets of beats you hear all the time on the radio. Plus I think I’ve got a vibe of my own. To my understanding, we all have different kinds of lives and inspirations that help us create our music. I am still very new to that industry and I am just hoping that many people will feel attracted to what I do, so I can keep doing it.
MAS: What are you or your musical plans for the year ahead?
Connekt: At the moment I am working hard at finishing up a few other songs that follow the same genre as Kiss, to put on a demo and go on the hunt for a record deal. I am also trying to reach for other artists who are in need of good original songs. I might also have a new idea for a second music video for my next release. We will see how it goes. Wish me luck!
MAS: We do wish you luck, though it seems you hardly need it. =)
Connekt: I am really excited that I won this month’s contest! Not so long ago I was a stay at home mom working on her style alone in her studio, so winning that contest really is great!
Watch the Music Video for Connekt 'Kiss' on MakeAStar.com
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Connekt: Last December, I was finishing up the mixing of Kiss and was still searching for a stage name. Plus I knew I wanted to produce a music video to help promote myself online and my friends kept telling me "You are so lucky to have the talent to express your emotions through music, I wish I could do it too". So I thought that it would be great if someone would invent a computer that could connect to your feelings and create a song and maybe a video of how you feel. Like a futuristic personal jukebox. That’s basically how it all started. I actually did a “making-of” the video that explains how we did the video shoot and post-production at home. You can watch it on Youtube:
Making the Music Video : Connekt 'Kiss'
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Connekt: I don’t compare myself too much. I love to do pop/electronic music without falling in the usual sets of beats you hear all the time on the radio. Plus I think I’ve got a vibe of my own. To my understanding, we all have different kinds of lives and inspirations that help us create our music. I am still very new to that industry and I am just hoping that many people will feel attracted to what I do, so I can keep doing it.
MAS: What are you or your musical plans for the year ahead?
Connekt: At the moment I am working hard at finishing up a few other songs that follow the same genre as Kiss, to put on a demo and go on the hunt for a record deal. I am also trying to reach for other artists who are in need of good original songs. I might also have a new idea for a second music video for my next release. We will see how it goes. Wish me luck!
MAS: We do wish you luck, though it seems you hardly need it. =)
Make A Star Interview with Music Video winners Dark Every Day
MAS: Dark Every Day - winner of the July Music Video Contest, how does it feel to take home the win for your video ‘Burning’?
DED: We are extremely happy and a little surprised to have had as much support as we did!
Watch the Music Video for Dark Every Day 'Burning' on MakeAStar.com
MAS: The video has a great story behind it and was beautifully executed; is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
DED: We actually got our name from a good friend of ours. None of us could agree on a name and we came to the agreement on Dark Every Day.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
DED: The band started as a few friends playing music together then grew to become what it is today. Tony and Manuel Razo are brothers and founded the band in 2008. Patrick Pressgrove joined soon after on drums from a word-of-mouth recommendation, and Dustin Johnson joined in early 2010 on rhythm when he was contacted through Craigslist.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
DED: We try to make sure our sound is a mix of all of our influences. Some of our members write more than others but in the end all ideas are brought to the table and it is a collaborative effort when the song is being finished.
MAS: Whatever you guys are doing it’s working. What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
DED: Our record label (Rat Pak Records) recommended Ross Wells of ZenFilms out of Houston, TX to do our video for "Burning". He was a great guy to work with and we are very pleased with his vision and the outcome of the video.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
DED: The concept was to play in a gritty, old, run-down spot in Houston and Ross found the perfect spot. It was to be laid-back and fun as if we were in rehearsal but also have a certain edge to reflect the meaning and message of our song "Burning".
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
DED: Ross has done work for Ronny Munroe of Metal Church, as well as multiple videos for another great band who are also our friends, the Southern Backtones.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
DED: MakeAStar.com is a great site! It's very easy to use and is super, super supportive of the artists it promotes!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
DED: Our work has been compared Avenged Sevenfold, Pantera, as well as other bands in the Punk and Hardcore genres.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
DED: We have a tremendous work ethic and are beyond motivated to do the best we can and keep doing what we love.
MAS: It shows. Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
DED: We all have different musical influences which come out in our songs. We draw inspiration from countless different artists from all genres. We do hold our families dear to us and take a lot of our views and life experiences into our songs as well.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
DED: Music videos are great! Everyone in the band grew up watching videos on TV and we were very excited to have one of our own. They are a great way to promote your songs or albums and with the presence of the internet in the music industry it's a great way to spread the word and get people hearing your music even faster than ever before, as well as put faces behind the songs and the instruments.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
DED: We will be finishing up our new album as well as planning out a tour in Texas and a few neighboring states.
MAS: Sounds like a productive year ahead. Who were your favorite musicians as children and what was your first album or concert?
DED: We all have numerous favorite musicians. Some of ours range from classic metal, to prog rock, to hip-hop. It's hard for us to remember our first CDs which we purchased. A few of our first concerts were small, local band shows, the rest of us had our first concerts at festivals or big tours (South by Southwest or the Family Values Tour).
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
DED: The best part is being able to do what you love and having the ability to share it with others. It seems at times the worst part is not being able to get all of our ideas out fast enough and some of them slip away before we have a chance to work on them.
MAS: Unique response, well said. What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
DED: For up-and-coming musicians the worst part would be how hard it is to sell albums and become noticed with so many other artists in the same place and position you are in. The best part is seeing all of the fans at your shows and knowing that this is what we're doing it for.
MAS: Now tell us something completely random.
DED: It's a bad idea to put the four of us in the same hotel room. Unspeakable things can and do happen. Our tour is going to be an experience!
MAS: So will the hotel industry apparently, we wish you an amazing tour!
DED: We are extremely happy and a little surprised to have had as much support as we did!
Watch the Music Video for Dark Every Day 'Burning' on MakeAStar.com
MAS: The video has a great story behind it and was beautifully executed; is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
DED: We actually got our name from a good friend of ours. None of us could agree on a name and we came to the agreement on Dark Every Day.
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
DED: The band started as a few friends playing music together then grew to become what it is today. Tony and Manuel Razo are brothers and founded the band in 2008. Patrick Pressgrove joined soon after on drums from a word-of-mouth recommendation, and Dustin Johnson joined in early 2010 on rhythm when he was contacted through Craigslist.
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
DED: We try to make sure our sound is a mix of all of our influences. Some of our members write more than others but in the end all ideas are brought to the table and it is a collaborative effort when the song is being finished.
MAS: Whatever you guys are doing it’s working. What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
DED: Our record label (Rat Pak Records) recommended Ross Wells of ZenFilms out of Houston, TX to do our video for "Burning". He was a great guy to work with and we are very pleased with his vision and the outcome of the video.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
DED: The concept was to play in a gritty, old, run-down spot in Houston and Ross found the perfect spot. It was to be laid-back and fun as if we were in rehearsal but also have a certain edge to reflect the meaning and message of our song "Burning".
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
DED: Ross has done work for Ronny Munroe of Metal Church, as well as multiple videos for another great band who are also our friends, the Southern Backtones.
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
DED: MakeAStar.com is a great site! It's very easy to use and is super, super supportive of the artists it promotes!
MAS: Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
DED: Our work has been compared Avenged Sevenfold, Pantera, as well as other bands in the Punk and Hardcore genres.
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
DED: We have a tremendous work ethic and are beyond motivated to do the best we can and keep doing what we love.
MAS: It shows. Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
DED: We all have different musical influences which come out in our songs. We draw inspiration from countless different artists from all genres. We do hold our families dear to us and take a lot of our views and life experiences into our songs as well.
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
DED: Music videos are great! Everyone in the band grew up watching videos on TV and we were very excited to have one of our own. They are a great way to promote your songs or albums and with the presence of the internet in the music industry it's a great way to spread the word and get people hearing your music even faster than ever before, as well as put faces behind the songs and the instruments.
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
DED: We will be finishing up our new album as well as planning out a tour in Texas and a few neighboring states.
MAS: Sounds like a productive year ahead. Who were your favorite musicians as children and what was your first album or concert?
DED: We all have numerous favorite musicians. Some of ours range from classic metal, to prog rock, to hip-hop. It's hard for us to remember our first CDs which we purchased. A few of our first concerts were small, local band shows, the rest of us had our first concerts at festivals or big tours (South by Southwest or the Family Values Tour).
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
DED: The best part is being able to do what you love and having the ability to share it with others. It seems at times the worst part is not being able to get all of our ideas out fast enough and some of them slip away before we have a chance to work on them.
MAS: Unique response, well said. What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
DED: For up-and-coming musicians the worst part would be how hard it is to sell albums and become noticed with so many other artists in the same place and position you are in. The best part is seeing all of the fans at your shows and knowing that this is what we're doing it for.
MAS: Now tell us something completely random.
DED: It's a bad idea to put the four of us in the same hotel room. Unspeakable things can and do happen. Our tour is going to be an experience!
MAS: So will the hotel industry apparently, we wish you an amazing tour!
Interview with July Music Video 2 Winner Ejay Ivan Lac
Watch the Ejay Ivan Lac music video 'You Are Not Alone'
MAS: First off, tell us how it feels to have won…..again.
Ejay: Won 3 times and I have almost always gone in the final, feels good, because I know that my music is liked, even if it is different from the usual!
MAS: Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
Ejay: Ejay was my first music program, I used the computer to compose my first songs that were really ugly! So, I decided to put it as the name of art Ejay. Ejay Ivan Lac!
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Ejay: I began making music since I was in the rave. I liked that strange music, electronics, came into my head as a signal, a sound that made me fly. I left home and went into the discovery of the hidden, where they made electronic music, the sounds came from my heart, and slipped inside me!
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Ejay: My songs come from my soul, I think my electronic music is different from everything around me, or everything you hear about, everything that is broadcast on music channels like Mtv or Fuse tv I am different in my compositions, there is a basic rule to create my songs. Every sound, every single noise is created according to my moods, depending on what happens to me, I feel what is around me. I do not write the lyrics of my songs when someone works with me, I let the singer write the lyrics!
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Ejay: I wanted to create something different from usual, I wanted people to remain shocked by what they see, accompanied by a sad song and air, the pieces that went into making this video are commercial spots, drugs are the enemy of humans. Humans use it when they think they can not manage or cope with life, when they feel alone and when they feel disappointed by everything and everyone.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Ejay: My videos are born with the intent to upset listeners and viewers. I like to create videos with direct messages and heavy as my video (suicide) who speaks of death caused by road accidents! Purpose and psychology merge, brain stimulation reasons and to make people think, human beings are influenced by music and videos are a great way to make the person think, my purpose is to send messages and then for all to think!
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Ejay: The only videos I have directed are (chemistry) and (Hot Blood) the rest of the videos are all collaborations and have worked out wonderfully well!
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Ejay: I think Makeastar.com is one of the best sites for artists. You should also make the music categories, like pop, electronica, DJ, or even a selection of music like (best remix):)
MAS: We are always open to suggestions. Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Ejay: I’m compared to the Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy, or Fat Boy Slim, but I think that mine is a genre without a clear label, I have a style that comes from me!
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Ejay: As I said before, my music is different from the usual, I create sounds and rhythms that are distinct from all over the musical world. There was created a new genre when she was born electronic music, not everyone played, there were only 2 or 3 artists that played ... and then gradually evolved and all are taken! My goal is to be able to create a particular sound, able to travel with the soul and body at that time people listen to it!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Ejay: I take inspiration from everything, I take and feel all the situations, events and words, turning everything into music, if I'm in love I create something exciting, if I'm angry I create something bad, every moment of my life I create my songs ...it is not simply my electronic music!
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Ejay: I am working with various directors on the web, I like doing these collaborations! I think music videos should not be done only to advertise a song; I must give something, psychologically and morally. I do not like videos where you see t*ts and asses, stupid videos that do not teach anything in the world that the world and humans need to learn, like to learn that there are things perfect, but there are several things that are beautiful in their own way! When you create a music video, you should be very careful about what you create!
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
Ejay: I think my third album released in December will enclose various musical genres and I will like listening to them on the radio, a trip, I’m really curious!
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Ejay: I listened to Michael Jackson when I was a kid, I lived with the music of Michael not stop and even now I listen to his works, musically I approach like him in that he created rhythms that took you away, and I do the same! But my first concert was the Chemical Brothers!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Ejay: The best part is definitely being known, when people give you compliments and when you want to know the girls ahaha! Also being able to create things that even you can make feel pensavidi realized on paper, there are so many factors to be a good musician. The drawbacks are the continual disappointments, negative comments, the fact that sometimes you can’t always get what you wanted! Another positive side to being an artist is being able to escape from this life of sh*t that has accompanied you all this time!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Ejay: I can be bad, but I think in the music industry there is nothing good. Everything revolves around being cool and singers singing songs in a trivial place and it’s already heard, transforming the listener into superficial people ... I think the music that is wonderful and ingenious is that of the 80’s and 90’s!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Ejay: I wish to use this space to tell everyone that the world needs to change, and that if we all love and live intelligently and we can have so much more!
MAS: First off, tell us how it feels to have won…..again.
Ejay: Won 3 times and I have almost always gone in the final, feels good, because I know that my music is liked, even if it is different from the usual!
MAS: Is there an interesting story behind your band’s name?
Ejay: Ejay was my first music program, I used the computer to compose my first songs that were really ugly! So, I decided to put it as the name of art Ejay. Ejay Ivan Lac!
MAS: Tell us how you got started as a band and how everyone became a part of it.
Ejay: I began making music since I was in the rave. I liked that strange music, electronics, came into my head as a signal, a sound that made me fly. I left home and went into the discovery of the hidden, where they made electronic music, the sounds came from my heart, and slipped inside me!
MAS: How did you develop your sound? Is there a primary songwriter, or is it collaborative?
Ejay: My songs come from my soul, I think my electronic music is different from everything around me, or everything you hear about, everything that is broadcast on music channels like Mtv or Fuse tv I am different in my compositions, there is a basic rule to create my songs. Every sound, every single noise is created according to my moods, depending on what happens to me, I feel what is around me. I do not write the lyrics of my songs when someone works with me, I let the singer write the lyrics!
MAS: What’s the story behind the video you’ve entered in the Make A Star contest?
Ejay: I wanted to create something different from usual, I wanted people to remain shocked by what they see, accompanied by a sad song and air, the pieces that went into making this video are commercial spots, drugs are the enemy of humans. Humans use it when they think they can not manage or cope with life, when they feel alone and when they feel disappointed by everything and everyone.
MAS: How did the concept for the music video come together?
Ejay: My videos are born with the intent to upset listeners and viewers. I like to create videos with direct messages and heavy as my video (suicide) who speaks of death caused by road accidents! Purpose and psychology merge, brain stimulation reasons and to make people think, human beings are influenced by music and videos are a great way to make the person think, my purpose is to send messages and then for all to think!
MAS: What other video work has the music video’s director done in the past?
Ejay: The only videos I have directed are (chemistry) and (Hot Blood) the rest of the videos are all collaborations and have worked out wonderfully well!
MAS: How does MakeAStar.com compare with other websites for music fans and musicians?
Ejay: I think Makeastar.com is one of the best sites for artists. You should also make the music categories, like pop, electronica, DJ, or even a selection of music like (best remix):)
MAS: We are always open to suggestions. Which musical influences have other people compared you to?
Ejay: I’m compared to the Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy, or Fat Boy Slim, but I think that mine is a genre without a clear label, I have a style that comes from me!
MAS: What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?
Ejay: As I said before, my music is different from the usual, I create sounds and rhythms that are distinct from all over the musical world. There was created a new genre when she was born electronic music, not everyone played, there were only 2 or 3 artists that played ... and then gradually evolved and all are taken! My goal is to be able to create a particular sound, able to travel with the soul and body at that time people listen to it!
MAS: Who do you get inspiration from or wish to emulate in music and life?
Ejay: I take inspiration from everything, I take and feel all the situations, events and words, turning everything into music, if I'm in love I create something exciting, if I'm angry I create something bad, every moment of my life I create my songs ...it is not simply my electronic music!
MAS: What are your thoughts on music videos? The ideas, the production, working with directors, how they add to the song, etc…
Ejay: I am working with various directors on the web, I like doing these collaborations! I think music videos should not be done only to advertise a song; I must give something, psychologically and morally. I do not like videos where you see t*ts and asses, stupid videos that do not teach anything in the world that the world and humans need to learn, like to learn that there are things perfect, but there are several things that are beautiful in their own way! When you create a music video, you should be very careful about what you create!
MAS: What are you or your band’s plans for the year ahead?
Ejay: I think my third album released in December will enclose various musical genres and I will like listening to them on the radio, a trip, I’m really curious!
MAS: Who were your favorite musicians as a child? What was your first album or concert?
Ejay: I listened to Michael Jackson when I was a kid, I lived with the music of Michael not stop and even now I listen to his works, musically I approach like him in that he created rhythms that took you away, and I do the same! But my first concert was the Chemical Brothers!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about being a musician?
Ejay: The best part is definitely being known, when people give you compliments and when you want to know the girls ahaha! Also being able to create things that even you can make feel pensavidi realized on paper, there are so many factors to be a good musician. The drawbacks are the continual disappointments, negative comments, the fact that sometimes you can’t always get what you wanted! Another positive side to being an artist is being able to escape from this life of sh*t that has accompanied you all this time!
MAS: What is the best and worst part about the music industry today?
Ejay: I can be bad, but I think in the music industry there is nothing good. Everything revolves around being cool and singers singing songs in a trivial place and it’s already heard, transforming the listener into superficial people ... I think the music that is wonderful and ingenious is that of the 80’s and 90’s!
MAS: Tell us something completely random.
Ejay: I wish to use this space to tell everyone that the world needs to change, and that if we all love and live intelligently and we can have so much more!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
