 Erin Harpe Here is my latest blog, I got the chance to see Erin Harpe at The Blues City Deli in 2015. It was an amazing show, I was hooked on Erin’s music right away. Erin has a unique sound, kind of like a Swing/Blues combination. Which makes for some good music, the kind of music you can really shake your tailfeathers too. Erin is an amazing Guitar player, no matter if she is playing some upbeat Blues songs or some Down-Home Delta Blues like on her album “Blues Roots”. She has such smooth style with the fingerstyle playing sort of reminds me of Memphis Minnie. Erin learned a lot from her father Neil Harpe, who himself was a master at The Piedmont Blues. Now Erin’s singing is not the usual style you think of when you think of the Blues. But it’s a beautiful sound, which is a pleasure to listen to. Erin can put the emotions in to the songs so much that you can get the real feel of the song. On top of being excellent guitarist and an amazing singer, Erin is also a great entertainer. Weather you are at one of her shows to just listen to show great music or to get up on the dance floor and boogie the night away. Erin Harpe is the complete show. I highly recommend checking out the websites below to hear what Erin can do. If Erin ever comes to your town I also highly recommend going to see her. https://www.erinharpe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/Erinharpemusic I Recently got to ask some questions to Erin. Here are the answers. Enjoy. 1. How long have you been playing music? Pretty much my whole life. I started learning Fingerstyle blues over 25 years ago. Before that I played flute in school. 2. How many bands have you been in? I’ve been (and still am in) two bands that I formed with my husband, Jim Countryman: Erin Harpe & the Delta Swingers (“boogie, blues and beyond”) and Lovewhip (dance rock). I also play acoustic blues with my Country Blues Duo or “CBD”. Before that I played solo. 3. Where were you born? Baltimore, MD. 4. Are you self-taught? Pretty much, I never went to music school, though I did study the flute in school. Growing up, I was surrounded by music. My dad, Neil Harpe, who is a master acoustic fingerpicker in a style called Piedmont blues, was part of a scene based around Archie’s Barbershop in Washington DC. I got to watch and listen to some of the greats of the style like Cephas & Wiggins, John Jackson, Eleanor Ellis, Archie Edwards and many others. By the time I decided to pick up a guitar and learn from my dad, I had already soaked in a lot of it, so I picked up fingerstyle guitar pretty quickly. Eventually I went away to college and then moved to Boston, where I continued learning acoustic blues from recordings. I did have a few guitar lessons here and there, especially when I first picked up an electric guitar, and as I expanded into other styles like afro pop, rock and reggae for my band Lovewhip, but I mostly learn by ear (or nowadays YouTube videos!). 5. Who are your biggest influences? My dad, Memphis Minnie, Koko Taylor, Howlin’ Wolf, Bonnie Raitt, Toots & the Maytals, and so many others. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? American roots dance music. Whether playing acoustic country blues, electric boogie blues, or original rock, it’s always about moving the audience with a danceable beat. 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? I know my first paid gig was solo, opening up for two of my Washington DC blues heroes – Warner Williams and Jay Summerour. I can’t remember the name of the venue, but it was in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia. I think I was still in high school. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? Do it for the love of the music, and the lifestyle (i.e.. be prepared to work very hard and still be poor and be able to enjoy playing for audiences no matter how small). Don’t do it to get famous! 9. Do you write your own songs? Yes, I write quite a few of my own songs, and I also do my own interpretations of songs I love. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal song collection? I’m all over the place with my collection of favorite artists and songs. From acoustic blues and early electric blues to post punk/electro dance rock, reggae and afro pop. 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? At this point I’d be great as a graphic designer and social media promoter for music! I am also a music producer, so I could help other people with their music. 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? Slim Harpo’s “Shake Your Hips” is a really fun one! I play it with my electric band Erin Harpe & the Delta Swingers, and it’s a big highpoint of the show. Everybody dances, and I often go out into the crowd with my guitar. 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? It would be cool to see what Bonnie Raitt did with one of my songs, she’s probably my all-time favorite vocalist.
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 Lisa Mann This blog is about Lisa Mann, Bass player and singer/songwriter. I believe I first heard of Lisa thru Gil Anthony’s radio show. It’s only been a few years that I have been listening to Lisa’s music. I think the one thing that got my attention about Lisa was her amazing Bass playing and vocals. Lisa’s voice has a bit a Southern tinge to it that gives it a Bluesy feel to it. But she can also bring out the raspy and rough side of the Blues when it’s needed. Now her Bass playing in just Top-Notch. Lisa seems to have her own unique sound on the Bass, which really puts the raw feeling into her songs. I have two CDs of Lisa’s “Hard Times Bad Decisions” & “Old Girl” I am not sure which one I like better; I would have to say that Hard Times Bad Decisions is one that people should get if they are just finding out about Lisa Mann because it shows all of her many talents and styles of music that she does so well. Now as far as songs, couple of my favorites are “Two Halves Of One Broken Heart” duet with Andy Stokes. This song is a soulful sad song, Love it. The next few songs all have that New Orleans vibe to them… The other CD I have is “Old Girl” this is an EP. The Tittle song is an amazing song that really shows off Lisa’s vocal skills. “It’s The Monkeys or Me” is a lighthearted song, which has been said that it’s based on a true story. The last song “Around Here” to me is a celebration of Music Legends, possibly ones that had influence Lisa Mann. I highly recommend checking out Lisa Mann’s music, she is one powerful performer. Here is Lisa’s website and other ways to find her music, http://www.lisamannmusic.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/lisamann https://www.facebook.com/LisaMannBlues https://open.spotify.com/artist/119v7X6k46bE5xgwuWawbt 1. How long have you been playing music? I started singing and playing bass at a very young age, I actually walked home from school every day at age 11 & 12 to save my lunch money and buy my first bass. I was in a few garage punk and metal bands, but when I was 19 I decided to play professionally and started doing Top 40 in bars. Of course, I couldn’t be in the bar on breaks- I got to know a lot of dishwashers and doormen! 2. How many bands have you been in? It’s hard to say, because frankly I’ve been in a lot of side projects and done a lot of sub work in the past. But I was in a metal cover band in Seattle called Dixon Hill for a while (named after a Star Trek character), as well as an Irish drinking song band, a funk/ soul band, and a few blues bands. I came to front my own band in the mid-2000’s. We didn’t have a name, until one show we were discussing it while packing up, and during that time three people came up and said “hey, you guys are really good!” So, we named it “Lisa Mann & Her Really Good Band.” 3. Where were you born? I was born in Charleston, WV. I moved here to Portland OR as a young teen after my parents broke up, but I can never completely get rid of the accent. 4. Are you self-taught? I am mostly self-taught, though I did take one year of music theory at a local community college. I learned by playing and singing along with records. First my parents’ albums-Deep Purple, Cream, Led Zeppelin- then later my own metal records- Iron Maiden, Dio, Rush, etc. As I’ve learned different styles of music along the way (blues, funk, soul) it was always through playing along with recordings of artists I love. 5. Who are your biggest influences? For blues, I would say most of my influences are the local musicians in Portland OR. I was blessed to hear vocalists like the late Linda Hornbuckle, and local bass players like Marco Savo and Phil Haxton. For major artists in blues, I’m influenced by Little Milton Campbell, Etta James, Johnny Guitar Watson, Bonnie Raitt, and for songwriting, Jimmy Reed. I’m influenced by pretty much everything I hear and enjoy in some way. For heavy metal, my main influences are Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Mercyful fate and Dio. But again, anything I enjoy listening to may creep into my performances or recordings. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? I walk in two worlds, in contemporary blues and in heavy metal. But I have performed country songs, folk songs, indie rock songs, Americana. While I mostly make my home in blues, I don’t consider any style necessarily my own. Who knows what crazy thing I may do in the future? I am a musician and recording artists first and foremost, and I like to leave things open for personally creativity. 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? My first gig was at a dive called The Satyricon here in Portland OR. I was 16 years old; it was with a crossover punk/metal band called Dead Conspiracy. We opened for a skate punk band from Sweden called Slam. We got paid $13 for the four of us, all in one-dollar bills- I had to ask my cousin for four quarters so we could split the money evenly! 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? If you cook the ramen a little longer, it puffs up, and it feels like you have more. Add a few frozen peas and grated carrot, stir in an egg, and you’ll have a healthy meal! (I think you catch my drift) 9. Do you write your own songs? I write the majority of my recorded material, though I like to throw in a few covers of songs that really strike me or are really fun to play. I have recorded a few songs written by friends, like “Gamblin’ Virgin Mary” by tattoo artist and author Jeff Johnson, and “The Blues is My Medicine” by my dear friend Sonny Hess and the late blues diva Paulette Davis. 10.What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal record collection? I don’t have a record player so mine is more of a CD and digital collection- my husband tells me I listen to some weird music. I can listen to BB King’s Live at the Regal one hour, then Ghost’s Impera the next. I have lots of local Northwest blues artist recordings in my collection, national blues artists, some old school R&B and soul, lots of classic metal, some extreme metal, some world music, some classical, some classic singers like Judy Garland too. It’s all over the map! 11.What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? I would have died of a drug and alcohol overdose at a young age, I am convinced of that. 12.Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? I just love the live version of “You Don’t Love Me” on the Junior Wells album Coming at You. It’s a Willie Cobbs tune that Wells transformed in his studio version to a faster swing with a different riff, then it was straightened out in that live version, with Buddy Guy chanking away on guitar. The drums are Kinda swinging while the rest of the band plays it pretty straight, it’s a really hip version. Whenever we play it live, people immediately get up and dance. 13.If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? I guess it depends on the song- there are a couple of songs that were influenced by Bonnie Raitt, like “You Don’t Know,” and it would be incredible to have her perform one of them. Other songs, like “Old Girl” are more countrified, it would be amazing to hear Dolly Parton sing that one. Hey thanks so much for the interesting questions! -Lisa Mann  Jillian Rae This blog is on Jillian Rae, who I found thru a good friend Vicky Emerson who is also a singer from Minnesota. I have a been trying to broaden my music horizon. Jillian is definitely not in my normal music wheelhouse. I recently purchased her CD “I can’t be the one you want me to be”. I have listened to it at least about 6 times. It is hard to pinpoint the genre of this album, which to me is a plus for any Artist. Jillian has a voice that soothing yet powerful. Jillian’s voice has a great tone to it, and she has amazing control of her vocals even when she breaks into a strong chorus. Jillian’s songwriting style is very refreshing, cause instead of writing about things happening she writes more about feelings and thoughts. Plus, a lot of emotions. I am looking forward to hearing more from Jillian, getting her other CDs. Jillian is someone who I will be listening to for a while and following. I highly recommend you do the same. Here are some places you can find her music. https://www.jillianraemusic.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/jillianraeviolin I recently got to ask Jillian some questions, enjoy her answers. 1. How long have you been playing music? My whole dang life. Well, since I was 7 so most of my whole dang life. 2. How many bands have you been in? I had to make a list just now to figure out the answer… 11ish? (but forgive me I’m sure I am missing some) Jillian Rae The Okee Dokee Brothers Corpse Reviver Fiddle Heirs Steve Kaul and the Brass Kings Brian Just Band Adam Levy Ilika Ward and the Moonlight Riders Blackberry Brandy Boys The Killer Hayseeds Two Many Banjos 3. Where were you born? Eveleth, MN 4. Are you self-taught? No, I am not. I started out learning the Suzuki violin method, mixed with a well-rounded bit of Scandinavian and American fiddle music. 5. Who are your biggest influences? I have so many different influences! I suppose you can either say that I have eclectic taste, or maybe that I have musical ADHD. Both are true, I suppose. A few favorites are Andrew Bird, Itzhack Perlman, Jean-Luc Ponty, John Hartford, Paul McCartney, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Wilco, Sheryl Crow, Dolly Parton, Stevie Nicks, Foo Fighters. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? This is always hard question for me! If you listen to my music you will notice that I’m not one to stick to one specific style or genre. I suppose you could call my music, “indie alternative violin rock with an orchestral folky twist.” 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? Oh my god, this is going to be a funny answer. Technically, my first “gig” was playing Scandinavian fiddle tunes on a float in the Land of the Loon parade, probably when I was in the third grade, or so. (Ha!) My first “Jillian Rae” gig, as a solo artist, was at The Cabooze in Minneapolis, in 2012. It was either a Wednesday or Thursday night and I remember feeling pumped to have my name on a marquee for the first time. I was 27. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? Let the music come first and play as often as you can, for as many different audiences as you can. 9. Do you write your own songs? Yes. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal record collection? Lol I can’t pick just one! My record collection is all over the place… from Fleetwood Mac to The Beatles and Paul & Linda McCartney’s Ram, to Edgar Winter Group, to Earth Wind and Fire, to Dave Brubeck, to Willie Nelson, to Johnny Horton, to all the great classical violin concertos, to Billy Preston… I have a little of everything. 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? Honestly, I have no idea. I’ve only ever really thought about doing music! I think it would be fun to learn how to work with wood and tools and make things with my hands. 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? I love performing “The Ocean" by Led Zeppelin. And “If It Makes You Happy” by Sheryl Crow makes me pretty happy to play with my band. 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? OooOoo, what an interesting question! It would be an honor to hear the voices of Stevie Nicks, Paul McCartney, Fiona Apple, Janelle Monáe, or Allison Krauss sing my songs.  This Blog is about Nate Lowery, he is not a native St. Louisan but he really seems to fit in. I first met Nate at one of his shows. This was also the first time seeing him perform. I have to say it was real enjoyable listening to Nate sing. I spoke to Nate during his break and told him he reminded me of a cross between Arlo Guthrie & Jim Croce. I won’t spoil on how Nate describes his music you can find that out in his answers. But I will tell you that to me Nate’s music is real feel good and honest music. That old time music, which I really enjoy, and Nate performs it very well. One of the other thing about Nate that I think is a plus, that is his shows are just laid back. He makes you feel like you are there with friends. Nate is one of those rare musician that keeps the Old-Time music alive and does it in a way that is as good or not better than the original. I highly recommend that if you are in St. Louis, MO. or planning to visit. You should add a Nate Lowery show to your schedule. I recently got a chance to ask Nate some questions. Here are his answers. Enjoy! 1. How long have you been playing music? I can’t remember a time that I wasn’t singing songs and tapping out rhythms, but I didn’t seriously start to pursue music until I was 13, so that makes it 20 years that I’ve been working on it. 2. How many bands have you been in? I’ve been in eight bands, some of them good and some truly horrible! 3. Where were you born? I was born in Irving TX, right outside Dallas. 4. Are you self-taught? Mandolin was the first instrument that I dedicated myself to, my dad showed me two chords, that’s the only lesson I ever got. 5. Who are your biggest influences? Boy, there’s so many that have heavily influenced different aspects of my musicianship that it’s really hard to pin down. From my Texas heritage there’s Guy Clark and Townes Van Zandt, Willie Nelson and Billy Joe Shaver. But I also take a great deal from acoustic blues like Mississippi John Hurt, Bill Broonzy, and Snooks Eaglin. Then there’s the New Orleans piano players like James Booker, Professor Longhair, Dr. John. Honky Tonk music like Hank Sr. and Lefty Frizzell. Jazz from Fats Waller to Nina Simone. And then Doc Watson and John Hartford are massive, along with all the first few generations of Bluegrass. That’s a long answer, but they all figure so heavily into what I do I can’t leave anyone out. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? Down Home Music. Kitchen Music. Folk Music, whatever you want to call it. 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? Busking at Sundance square in Ft. Worth with the first band I was in, I was 14. We made 60 bucks and promptly spent it on beer. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? Depends on what you want from the business I suppose. Personally, if you care about music, if you have a good ear and know what’s good, then keep your nose to the grindstone and keep working on it until you have something that you can look at and say “That’s good”. If it is actually quality then do everything you can to put it out there, and hopefully people take notice. 9. Do you write your own songs? I do, and I’ve released a few records. But being a folk musician, I like to play a lot of old material, I do my best to keep it alive and give people an opportunity to hear it in a live setting. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal record collection? There are a couple Lou Reed songs in there. 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? Probably something else that doesn’t make much money. Honestly though music is just one of my pursuits, I also put time into writing and illustrating as well as woodworking and sculpting. If I had to choose a career outside of the arts though, I would pick something involving manual labor, I really enjoy that work. 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? That’s a tough one. I would probably say Freight Train be Elizabeth Cotten. It’s my favorite song and also happens to be the first song I ever remember hearing. 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? Colter Wall is good, and Gillian Welch. There are a few really great singers breaking out lately that would be neat to have cover a song, Nick Shoulders and Sierra Ferrell spring to mind.  Christopher Wright I recently found Christopher on Facebook, now as most of you know that I am not a huge fan of today’s Country music. Christopher Wright is not playing today’s style; he is sticking with Traditional Country music. I recently obtained an EP from Christopher; it has 3 original songs and 1 cover. I have to say I am very impressed with Christopher’s sound and voice. Now Christopher’s voice is sort of smooth sound with a whisky roughness to it. Which fits well with his songs, also with the cover he does of Cody Jinks “I am Not The Devil”. I can really see Christopher making a name for himself in Country Music as long as he sticks with traditional Country music. I have seen a few videos of Christopher playing live, he usually plays solo with just his guitar. I have to say that Christopher has a great stage presence, where he really makes you feel comfortable enough that you can enjoy his music. I highly recommend everyone check out the links below to see & hear Christopher Wright’s music. https://www.christopherwrightmusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/CMWRIGHT74781 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClyyApvKBZn4in2W3OB8qig I recently got a chance to ask Christopher some questions, here are his answers. Hope you enjoy. 1. How long have you been playing music? I have been playing music since I was about 11 2. How many bands have you been in? I haven’t been in any bands so far. 3. Where were you born? I was born in Tyler, Texas 4. Are you self-taught? I am self-taught 5. Who are your biggest influences? My biggest influences are all the way from Merle Haggard, Hank Williams Jr, Willie Nelson, George Straight to Layne Staley, Eddie Vedder and Lynyrd Skynyrd 6. What style of music do you consider yours? I’ve been influenced by a host of music genres, so I don’t know if I necessarily fit into a box. I would say it’s Country/Americana 7. What was your first gig? My first paying Gig was at The Millhouse Stage in Garland, Texas. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? Get ready for a frustrating, exhausting, humbling, scary and rewardingly glorious journey. 9. Do you write your own songs? I do write my own music. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal song collection? Run DMC 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? I would probably be in sales in some form or fashion 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? So far it’s probably Turn the Page- Bob Seger 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? Travis Tritt  CD Review Young Avenue By Alex Kramer This CD is from 2016, I just recently got this from Alex Kramer. Title “Young Avenue” Let me tell you it is awesome. I love it when you get an album that you really can’t put into any genre. This is one of those albums, I would say that there are many aspects of Jazz/Rock music on this album. A lot of the songs are remising of the 70’s & 80’s. The album starts out with a song “Loving You is Easy” that sort of has a sound that you could here on Bourbon St. in NOLA. A real upbeat tempo, This song starts out with a little bit of a New Orleans Brass Band sound. The chorus has a real catchy rhythm to with a clarinet in the background with some great harmony backing vocals. That just set the song. Second song “Wait For Me” I really love the rhythm on this track. It has a Funky/Soul feel, especially when they bring the horns in. The lyrics are well written of a guy trying to get his girl back. The described way Alex uses metaphors in this song puts it on a whole different level from your typical love song. Third song is “Chill In My Bones” This song has that T-bone Burnett feel to it. Kind of Jazz/Blues sound. On the lines of the eerie New Orleans sounds, This is one of my favorites on the album. Alex’s voice is perfect for this song, he really brings the whole song together. Another song that has a very descriptive lyrics in it. The lyrics really sets the mood. Fourth song is “The Riddle” is my favorite song on the album, I think the reason that it is. The song has such a simple melody to it, plus Alex’s vocals just glide with the rhythm of the song and then when you get to the chorus it takes a little bit of an upbeat turn with the backing vocals. The other thing that I like about this song is the drum work on it. The drumbeats are so clean and tight. This song is one that I would put into a Top 5 List. Fifth song “Interlude” is just a little over a minute instrumental. It is very good; I am just not a fan of instrumentals. Sixth song “Ain’t Nothing New” Another one of my favs. This song starts off a little on the melancholy style, kind of a Harry Nilsson song. Which is a great thing. Once again Alex lyrics are very well written that you don’t have to think hard about the song it’s painted there on the canvas of the song. Then the song picks up a little bit with the tempo for a few bars and finish with the same melancholy sound. Great job. Seventh son “On The Level” is probably the only hard rock song on the album, Which doesn’t mean that it’s out of place on this album. I think it still fits in with the concept of the album. Cause it’s still got the great vocals that Alex does so well. This song has a much more upbeat tempo & powerful drums. I see people at a show hearing this song just standing there bouncing up & down with their hands held high. From the first note to the last it has that heart pounding thumping. Like the other songs the lyrics do a great job of telling the story. The last song “Testimony” This song is one with the most Funk to it, has a real Prince vibe to it. It’s got me wiggling in my seat as I write this. This song kind brings the whole album together in one song. One of those feel-good songs just to boogie to. Now I have to say your going to think the album is over, the digital counter still shows like 4 mins left and all you got is silence. But wait, when there is about 2:38 left it kicks back it with some more Funky music. Now to put all of this in perspective. I have to say that Alex has an amazing voice that can sing the mellow songs and go to a Rocker style song. Alex’s vocals are very unique, meaning that he doesn't sound like anyone else. Now Alex with the help of some friends wrote on the songs, which to me is a feat in itself cause all of these songs are top-notch. Again, I know this is not a new release (except to me) but it’s one of best albums that I have heard in a while. I can sit and listen to this album from start to finish a few times over. So, I highly recommend you check out Alex Kramer. https://www.facebook.com/alexkramermusic/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/24Y6MdPK7XLkDyBhlurlOv  This issue of my Blog is about Maddi Warren, Maddi is somewhat a Hometown Girl from Missouri. Springfield, Mo. to be exact. I live in St. Louis, Mo. so close enough. I found Maddi on one of her YouTube videos. The first time I heard Maddi’s voice it gave me chills. I believe it was her song “Can’t Be Saved” Maddi’s voice has the same sound of someone that has been singing for decades, not of someone that has been singing for only 11 years. She has such soulfulness & just a beautiful sound of Life to her voice. No matter how many times I listen to her songs, they always transport me to another place. This quality is hard to find nowadays special on the radio. So now for Maddi’s songwriting, you can tell that she writes from your heart & soul. She recently put out album called “These Roads” you can find it digitally form for now she is hoping to bring it out in physical form soon. Maddi’s songs definitely hit home for the average person. There is nothing sugarcoated about her songs, they tell the story straight from the hip. Maddi’s music is the kind that I always look for but can’t always find. I love it when you can put a label on an Artist. For Maddi’s I would say somewhere between Country & American/Roots. It definitely your own sound. I have not fell so strongly about an Artist for a while Like Maddi. So, I very highly recommend you check out Maddi Warren, here are some places you can do that: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCReYW4jDXw0RD19AnLPwJeQ https://www.maddiwarren.com/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/7wt6uQyg2xWlYhGIU4jne6?si=oztebEZGS2-u0zFZ7NDdhA&dl_branch=1&nd=1 https://www.facebook.com/maddiwarrenmusic/ I recently got a chance to ask Maddi some questions, here are her answers. Hope you enjoy them. To Michael, First of all, thank you so much for sending me these questions. I appreciate your support of musicians. From Maddi 1. How long have you been playing music? I have been playing music for 11 years. I started when I was 15 years old. 2. How many bands have you been in? I have been in 4 bands. The first band was called Madison Avenue. It consisted of myself and a drummer. We played together for 7 years. We played a lot of bars and local venues in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas. I also played with a singer/songwriter named Kimberly Atwood in a duo called Local Honey. We did a lot of writing together, and played local shows along with some songwriting rounds in Nashville. The third band I played in was The Lori Locke Band. I met Lori through an open mic when I was 16, and she invited me to play a music festival that she and Clint Dinkins, rhythm guitarist in the band, put on called Peachtree Music Festival. After that I joined Lori’s band at several local venues. Shortly after we started playing together, Lori and I started a band with Shannon Stine, another female musician based out of Ozark, Missouri. This group was named the Flame Lilies. We played several house concerts and listening room shows. I currently play with my sister Alli Butler as a duo. 3. Where were you born? I was born in Springfield, Missouri, November 13, 1995. 4. Are you self-taught? I am a self-taught guitarist, and kick drum/foot percussionist. I started playing guitar and songwriting when I was 15 years old. 5. Who are your biggest influences? My biggest influences include Brent Cobb and Gillian Welch. I consider both of them some of the most humble and honest songwriters I have heard. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? I believe my music can best be described as “acoustic grit.” Growing up in the Ozarks greatly influenced my songwriting and sound. I believe most of my music is raw and haunting. 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? My first gig was a show at Bass Pro Shops for a Professional Angler. I was 15 years old. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? I would tell them to always do what makes them happy. Being a musician is full of highs and lows, but the highs are so rewarding-they make up for the lows. I would also tell them to not sell themselves short, it is easy to feel beholden to people who want to book you. But “exposure” doesn’t always pay the bills :). If they are a songwriter, I would also tell them to never throw any songs or lyrics away. Keep everything because even though it may not seem like a good idea at the time, it could be the inspiration for a future song. 9. Do you write your own songs? Yes. I just released my debut album, These Roads, on November 20, 2021. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal song collection? As far as songs I have written, I think people would be surprised to learn that I have some softer, simple songs mixed amongst my gritty, upbeat songs. As far as songs others have written that I listen to, they are all over the spectrum. I listen to a variety of genres depending on my mood or setting. Sometimes I enjoy classical music, I also love bluegrass, old country, blues, and rock n’ roll. 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? I am a full time Special Education teacher. So, I would continue to teach if music was not an option. 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? My favorite song to perform at the moment is Wilder Days by Morgan Wade. 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? I would love for Gillian Welch to sing my songs. She’s got such a classic, timeless sound.  This edition of my blog is on Heather Nikole Harper. I first heard of Heather was back in 2020, she was a singer in Nashville. I believe her song “You & Me” was the first song I heard of hers. Heather is not my usual choice for a female singer, but I think what drew me to her was her way to put such emotions into her songs. Heather’s vocals have such a great tone to it and range. Also, Heather’s voice fits into a lot of genres like Pop, Rock, Country & Blues… Now I personally think that Country & Blues best suits her voice. Heather’s songwriting is equally amazing, she can really bring out the feelings in her songs. Heather’s songs are very emotional and relatable to people that have loved and fallen out of love. They are almost on a spiritual plain. I have not gotten the chance to see Heather perform live yet, but I do enjoy listening to her music online. Here are some questions I got to ask Heather; hope you find her answers interesting. Also check out her music on these formats: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYktg6gIdchO1IJCQecO7Eg https://heatherharpermusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/2365568033715898 How long have you been playing music? My parents first learned I could sing at age 3 and I got my first guitar from my mom when I was 7. Then not long after I started writing my own songs. How many bands have you been in? One, just me and my band Where were you born? Tyler, Texas Are you self-taught? Yes Who are your biggest influences? My mom, she’s a singer/songwriter and guitarist too What style of music do you consider yours? I like to just consider myself a songwriter since I enjoy all genres of music. But at the moment I am releasing country. But when you come catch a show of mine, you’ll hear me playing all genres. I mostly play country, pop, classic rock, 90s and originals. What was your first gig? How old were you? I first started out singing in church. But my very first gig was with my mom when I was 10 at the Chandler City Hall. I was so nervous. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? Don’t give up, you got to keep putting yourself out there. And keep writing songs. Take your time. Learn from your mistakes. And last but not least, practice, practice. Not every performance is going to be perfect either Do you write your own songs? Yes What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal song collection? I think people would be surprised that I listen to Rock Music. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? Photographer Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? Hmm that’s very hard to decide on just one. But if I had to pick one of them, I would say Shine by Collective Soul. It’s one that gets the crowd going. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? That’s a good question, honestly it would depend on the song that is written since I write in different genres. It would have to be someone who I felt the song would match up with that’s current in the industry at the time.  Ivy Ford This blog is on Ivy Ford, I have recently discovered Ivy about 6 months ago. What drew me to Ivy was her awesome guitar playing, which is right up there with some of Blues Elders like Buddy Guy, BB King, & Freddie King. In my opinion Ivy is one of the top slide guitar players. Ivy plays guitar with such power & finesse, that when you hear her play you just can’t help from getting the chills. Now this not to say that Ivy doesn’t have an amazing voice, because she does. Ivy’s voice has got a lot of soul in it, with a little be rasp to it. She has a such deep Chicago Blues tone to it, Ivy can sing a down & dirty blues song then go to a good old Rocker, ad let’s not forget about a sweet ballad. Back to the Blues when Ivy sings them she can really make you feel the Blues and that’s not a bad thing. I have not yet gotten the chance to see Ivy Ford in person, I do plan on it. But I have seen some of her live videos. I can tell that she puts 110% into her shows and plays her heart out. So, if you are looking to go hear some awesome guitar playing with an amazing singing, then Ivy Ford is what you are looking for. I highly recommend checking out a live show plus her music if you haven’t yet. I put some links below, so you can hear & buy some of her music. https://www.ivyfordmusic.com/home https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQqht5fusY-GcRThEx84bzg/videos https://www.facebook.com/IvyFordMusic Here are some questions That I recently got to ask Ivy. Hope you enjoy reading them. 1. How long have you been playing music? Professionally I've been a full-time musician going on 8 years. But I've always been into performing since I was a little kid. Before going full time, I still was gigging here and there but had a "day job." But I remember singing in my first talent show at age 5 and I knew from then on out that music was what I wanted to do. 2. How many bands have you been in? Officially and on some regular basis probably three. At 19 I was in a band as an extra singer, and I played keyboards from time to time. That band evolved into what was known as “Ivy Ford and the Cadillacs," which was my band. It was from there I went to being a trio and I also with JB Ritchie's bass player too. 3. Where were you born? I was born in Chicago, but raised primarily in Waukegan, IL. During my childhood, my family and I did move to California and back twice. 4. Are you self-taught? I took a few piano lessons when I was nine, and I was in actual band playing saxophone starting from elementary through high school. But guitar, bass and drums are all self-taught and what I know on piano is mostly self-taught as well. 5. Who are your biggest influences? Musically I am a huge Freddie King and Buddy Guy fan. Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Memphis Minnie are artists I look up to very much so. My favorite would have to be Billie Holiday. The first time I heard some of her recordings I think I was about 8 or so and was hooked ever since. Now my influences in my character as a person are my godmother Tina and my mom Evelyn hands down. 6. What style of music do you consider yours? I think it's easier to categorize my music depending on the album. Naturally, I have a ton of blues and roots inspiration in my writing. However, I don't think it's always accurate to say all of my music solely fits in the Blues and Roots genre. But the foundation of most of my original music is in blues and roots. 7. What was your first gig? How old were you? Well, if you categorize first gig as the first time I got paid to perform, I don't know the exact night, but it was shortly I had met, The Real Deal, who was managed and put together by one of the strongest influences in my life, Steve Rainey. I believe I was 13 and was hired to be a pianist for another vocalist on a gig with him somewhere in southern Wisconsin. 8. What advice do you have for someone starting out in the music business? In anything, be humble. However, don't be afraid to be confident and know your worth. You have to remember that you can't expected anyone else to work as hard or harder for you than yourself and in that it's very important to be determined and have drive to push yourself. Know what you want, because if you don't then you leave someone else to "tell you what you want" 9. Do you write your own songs? I do, all of my original music is all written solely by myself. I've had a few proposals to do some collaborations, however I'm not in a creative head space to go in that direction at this time. That is not to say it wouldn't be an enriching experience. I just am not ready to fully collaborate right now. 10. What would people be surprised to hear that you have in your personal song collection? I listen to a lot of EDM, House and even 90s pop music. It can be kind of an obsession. Don’t get me wrong, I'm a huge fan of soul R&B and of course blues roots, etc. 11. What would you be doing if playing music was not an option? You know I always say that I don't have another option, so I don't think much about that too often. However, I love to cook. My last job before music full time was a cook for a very successful catering company and I took to it like a fish to water. So, if I wasn't lay music, god forbid, I think I would probably have my own restaurant or something. 12. Besides your own songs, what is your favorite song to perform? Anything upbeat and funky. I am a sucker for a swing shuffle both playing and listening. Also ''It hurt so bad'' by Susan Tedeschi has been one of my favorites for a few months now. 13. If you were strictly a songwriter, who would you like to see sing your songs? That's a good one and I honestly am not sure. Again, my song feels, and styles can range so it's hard to pick just one artist.  CD review Kingdom Brothers Signs of the Times This is a review of the latest CD from a local band Kingdom Brothers. I have know these guys for a few years now, this is their 3rd album. This album is call “Signs of the Times”, personally I think it’s their best one yet. There is a mixture of original & cover songs, for me I think the originals are the highlights of this album. Kingdom Brothers is consider a Blues band, for me I think they are more than that, I feel they have a style all their own. This band was formed in 2005 by Bass player Bob Walther. Bob's dream was to do something different in the St. Louis music scene, and I believe that he accomplished it. So let’s talk about what makes this band so awesome. First off you have Chris Shepherd on lead vocals & guitar, Chris’s vocals are so powerful and full of emotions on each song. Chris has such a way to bring you into the song so that you can actually feel what the song is about. it doesn't matter if Chris is doing low down Blues number or a soft ballad he always delivers. On lead guitar you have Ron Roskowske, Ron is simply a master at the guitar. The first time I saw Ron perform it was so amazing, I would have to say that Ron is one of, if not the Top Guitarist in St. Louis. Ron's guitar playing is not only a pleasure to hear on the CD, but if you have ever seen him perform live than you have witness a work of art. On keyboards we have Stan Gill, Stan is amazing on the keyboards. He gets quite a few solo spots on this album and also has a song on here that he wrote “Heartbeat Away” it’s kind of got that New Orleans feel to it. I could see people down in the French Quarter dancing to this song. Stan can tickle the ivories as well if not better then some of the best. Now we can forget the rhythm section which is Bob Walther on Bass & Rusty Parker on Drums (Joe Warmbrodt on “I’d Rather Go Blind”). This rhythm section really gives this album the deep feeling that this album has, rather it be the Bluesy sound or a bit of a Jazz feel. Bob & Rusty really lay it down. They start this album off with an upbeat tune “Make it Right”. This song really highlights both Ron & Stan almost in a battle with a cool Jazz feel. Then we go into a cover by Albert King “Oh, Pretty Woman” which the whole band nails. Next, we have the Title song “Signs of the Times” which is a song that we can really use right about now. Chris’s vocals on this song are so powerful. I am going to pick a few of my favorite songs. “Walkin’ In Love” written by Chris Shepherd. This song has a real good Bluesy/Rock feel to it, the lyrics are well written. The phrase Walkin’ in Love is such great way of saying that I love being with you. Another favorite is “St. Louie Bond” this also written by Chris Shepherd. This has a great shuffle to it, plus it’s about St. Louis, MO. Which you can go wrong with that. Then they really make it a feel-good song by having friends in the background singing the chorus. Great touch. Like I said in the beginning of this review, I think this is their best CD to date. If you ever get a chance to go see this Band I highly recommend it. You hear some great music. To find out more about this band go to their website @ https://kingdombrothersband.com/home |
AuthorHello, My name is Michael. I am into music, have been for over 42yrs. Big fan of all kinds of music, right now it has been the Blues for the last 10yrs. I do not play any instruments, But I very interested in the recording aspect of the industry. Have messed around with it a little and always learning new things about it. i have met many wonderful people because of Music.. Hope you enjoy my Blogs... In the last two years I have been producing House Concerts. Archives
February 2022
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