Written by:  Jill Sheets

Bera, Photo Credit: Ray Kay

Recently I had the honor of interviewing up and coming singer Bera.  Continue to read on and learn about this talented singer.

R:  Tell us a little bit about yourself.

B:  I am a musician.  I come from the planet Earth because I was born in Paris.  Both my parents are from the country of Georgia and now I live in the states.  I call myself –“Child of the World.”

R:  How did you get into the music industry?

B:  You could say that I was kind of born into music because I couldn’t walk or talk.  I would turn on the radio and play some different songs when I was 1 year old. At  4 is when I started playing the violin, piano and the drums.  I was always around musicians and people from the industry

R:  Tell us about your up and coming EP?

B:  It really is not an EP, for me it is more like a concept.  It is called “’Late Night Cruise Music” that is the whole concept.  It is much more than an EP.  It is just called an EP because there are just seven songs.  For me, it is much more than an EP, it is like my lifestyle because we decide to make seven songs in seven days—no matter what.  Every day we would come up with a title and we would build the song around it.  Like I would wake up and say “today I would like to make a song called ‘Black Diamonds.’”  We would go and make a song called “Black Diamonds.”

R:  What is your favorite song on the EP?

B: My favorite song from the EP…  They are all my favorite because that is like asking a father, which kid would you like the most or who do you love more your mother or your father?  (laughs).  Probably the song “Black Diamonds.”

R:  Do you have a current single that is out?

B: Yeah.  The single is “Favorite Things.”

Bera, Photo Credit: Ray Kay

R:  Where can people get you music?

B: http://beraofficial.com

R:  Tell us about your record label “Georgian Dream.”

B:  “Georgian Dream” is a label, but it is also like a lifestyle.  I wrote by first song in a dream and that name came also in my dream.  It is a label that we created with my friends and I have been dreaming about it since I was around 9 or 10 years old.  I had always wanted to make something like that, so today I am the only artist from the label who has came out because we are not big enough to handle a lot of artists at the same time.  I hope that we grow and we will be able to help some young talent.  I already know a lot of talented people that I want to help, but today I am not in the position to.

R:  What singers and bands do you listen to?

B: I listen to pretty much everything.  I listen to many different genres, but I am a big, big fan of Ray Charles.  I have been listening to Ray Charles forever.  I am a big fan of Michael Jackson.  I love Barry White.  I am very open.  I listen to a lot of rap music.  Very old school, I am a big fan of Tupac.  I love Notorious B.I.G.  There are many talented artists.  I like Beyonce and Usher also.  There are so many talented artist that I can not even remember.  I loved Chris Brown’s last album.  I listen to pretty much everything.

R:  Do you have a girlfriend?  What do you look for in a girlfriend?

B: (laughs).  No, I do not have a girlfriend.  Right now music is my girlfriend.

R:  Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

B:  They keep asking “is my hair real.”  They never believe that my hair is real, so they keep asking me that question every time (.laughs).  Also, there are some people that do not know that there is a country called Georgia and we sometimes have trouble with that.

Bera, Photo Credit: Ray Kay

R: Are you on any social networking sites?  If so, which ones and what are their addresses?  Do you have an official website?  If so, what is the address?

B:  Yes.  I am everywhere.  Facebook, Twitter, Myspace.  You can go to http://beraofficial.com and it is a bridge to everything. You can go to Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace.

R:  Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans?

B:  Yeah, I wanted to thank everybody because what is happening today is unbelievable to me. It is more than a dream coming true.  I never thought it would be happening.  I will be grateful forever and if everything ends tomorrow I will know that we did it and that I got so much love from everyone that I will be grateful my whole life.

R:  Bera, thank you for the interview.  Have a great day.

B:  Thank you.

Josh Wilson a well-known christian recording artist with credits such as “Before the Morning”, “I Refuse”, “Fall Apart”, and “Shine on Us” presented his concert Noel in an intimate setting in Houston, TX on 12-16-11. Josh Wilson truly gave us a treat by allowing us to be a part of the most unique Christmas experience, recording 20 instruments live on stage. Josh referred to the experience as “bringing the studio to the concert”.

Josh’s ability to connect with the audience was profound. He not only cultivated laughter but his music inspired. Josh’s gift for what he does was so prevalent on stage that I could see even the doubtful who attended were captured by his passion for not only the music but for Christ.

The presence of God streamed forth from the stage into the audience. Christ was never lost, the purpose and the passion for the message and love of God was at the center of the evening. Josh presented some old and new Christmas favorites as well as some songs from his new album. Josh presented a song entitled, “Jesus is Alive” which moved me to the very core. Scripture was a constant reminder throughout the evening as portions of it flashed across the screens behind the stage.
Josh’s Wife Becca shared a ministry that they are involved in called Father’s House International Ghana. The Father’s House is dedicated to helping the desperate and exploited children without much hope all around the world. To find out more about this ministry and how you can be a part of it visit this link http://www.fathershouseghana.com/our-mission.html.

Josh Wilson’s concert was an evening I will not soon forget. I thoroughly enjoyed the music, the atmosphere and the intimacy of the evening. Attending a Josh Wilson concert is getting to know him a little better. I encourage you to attend one of his concerts and be blessed. You will not only enjoy great music but you will be moved, inspired and informed. Please visit Josh Wilson’s website at http://www.joshwilsonmusic.com/tour for upcoming tour dates.

Written by:  Jill Sheets

Michael Addison, Photo Credit: Dennis Kwan

Recently I got to interview singer Michael Addison.  Continue to read on and learn more about him and his music.

R:  Tell us a little bit about yourself.

M:  I’m a die-hard musician that lives life to the fullest, every moment, one second to the next.  I love traveling all over the world and staying active, whether it’s climbing Lion’s Head in South Africa or gazing at the sunset atop the Eiffel Tower.  Other times I love spending days in the studio recording new music.

Another fact people don’t know about me is that I’ve been swimming my whole life and was a Division 1 swimmer in college.  Later I won 2 USMS National Championships and currently train at UCLA.

R:  At what age did you start singing and writing music?

M:  I started writing at a very early age.  Middle school through college, I wrote endless poems and essays.  After I moved to LA I made a lot of those writings into songs.  I worked with some great music coaches to find my vocal sound and started singing my original works shortly after.

R:  Tell us about how you got discovered.

M:  When I first got started, I was playing at smaller bars and recording my shows.  I made DVDs and was passing them out to venues I wanted to perform at.  One of the DVDs ended up in the hands of a promoter who also had a radio show.  She invited me onto her show as a guest.  After I played a couple of my songs, she told me her boyfriend was a producer and I should get in touch with him to record my songs.
R:  Tell us about your album “Always You.”

M:  This is a great CD from start to finish with a wide range of moving sounds.  It’s a compilation of new songs I wrote for this album and past songs that I wanted to record and share with my fans.  Some of the song lyrics are very close to my heart, telling eventful stories that took place in my life.

R:  Tell us a little bit about it your single “Always You.”

M:  “Always You” is a song that I was very passionate about from the start.  I really wanted it to be catchy and fun.  The lyrics are about that awesome feeling when you fall in love at first sight, and you just know you’re always meant to be with that person.

R:  Where can people get your music?

M:  The best place is on iTunes.  Just type in “Michael Addison” in the search, my name and album “Always You” pop up.  My website AddisonM.com also has a link.

R:  I also read that you were an actor.  Is that true?  If so, do you have plans to continue acting or are you just going to concentrate on your music career?

M:  Yes, I’ve been acting since High School.  I would love to continue acting, but right now I’m blessed to be working on a lot of music projects and haven’t had the time to focus on acting.  But that is something I hope to never let out of my life.

R:  What do you look for in a girlfriend?

M:  One word: FUN!  There is nothing hotter than a girl that can make me laugh.

R:  What is the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

M: “Let the music come to you.”
-Larry Marciano (my producer)

R:  What advice would you give someone who wants to become a singer?

M:  Today a lot of people getting started in the music world are perfecting their own cover of a popular song and posting it on YouTube.  This is a great way to get notoriety and a fan base.  From there you can set up a website with videos of your performances.  Also, be sure to keep up on your live performance skills.  Find venues that have open mic nights or have local acts perform.  The most important thing to remember is never give up on yourself and your dreams!  You are the only person who can stop you from achieving anything.

Michael Addison, Photo Credit: Dennis Kwan

R:  Do you have any charities that are close to your heart?  If so, which ones and tell us about them.

M:  My last show I worked with Harmony Project.  They are a non-profit that focus on the music development of underprivileged children.  Many schools do not have the resources to supply their students with music training and instruments.  Harmony Project provides an inspiring outlet for these gifted children.

R:  Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

M: Do you bleach your teeth? (BTW, I never have)

R:  What are you future goals?

M: I’m filming a new music video for my song “Come Back to Me” and working to get it on the MTV networks in the US and Europe.  I’m also recording a new album early next year that will sound incredible, and take my music to a whole other level.  Down the line my goals include top 40 hits, Grammy’s, and my own label.

R:  Are you on any social networking sites?  If so, which ones and what are their address?  Do you have an official website?  If so, what is the address?

M: Yes, my facebook page is: facebook.com/addisonmjf and I’m on twitter @addisonmusic and my official website is AddisonM.com

I also have a You Tube channel: youtube.com/michaeladdisonvideos where you can see my new music video for “Always You”.

R:  Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans?

M:  It is an absolute honor and privilege to have the fans that I do.  I worked very hard starting from nothing to find each and everyone one of you and hope to keep inspiring you everyday.  Thank you so much for all the love and support and I promise to always give you my best!

R:  Michael, thank you for the interview.  Have a great day.

Written by:  Jill Sheets

Picture credit: Haim Bargig

Recently I had the honor of interviewing singer/songwriter Jackie Scott.  Continue to read on and learn more about Jackie and about her music.

R:  Tell us a little bit about yourself?

J: I’m a cat loving, glitter wearing, booty-shaking pop singer/songwriter based in New York City.

R:  How did you get into the music business and how old were you?

J: My first real recording session was when I was sixteen. It was in my hometown, Cinnaminson, N.J., with songwriter/producer Andy DiTaranto. I was on the same swim team as his daughter and told him I wanted to sing. After listening to me, he gave me a chance. I was in the studio for several months for hours and hours after school. It was a great experience. He really believed in me and encouraged my songwriting. When the demo was done we went to Philadelphia and New York and tried to shop it.

R:  Tell us a little bit about your journey to getting signed by a record company?

J: The demo I made in high school was fun, but never went anywhere. We didn’t record my original songs and I always regretted it. So about a year and a half ago I decided it was time to do it my way. At the time Lady Gaga was getting really popular for her songwriting and I thought, “I can do that too!”

I started by researching a ton of producers online. Honestly, I didn’t know how I would pay for it or where to start so I did a lot of Google searches, browsed MySpace and looked on Craigslist. When I found producers who seemed good, I emailed them and tried to set up meetings. When I met my producer, Lior Magal, I knew he was the right guy.

We just clicked. And it didn’t hurt that he’s a fan of Britney Spears! (She’s been a favorite of mine since I was a teenager.)  So the first time we sat down, I sang him a bunch of songs I just had in my head. One of them was “Superstars” and that’s how we started.

Trying to get signed by a record company is tough business though. I’m just working on building my fan base, booking shows and trying to put myself out there. I also try to network with other musicians. Hopefully my music will fall into the right hands sooner or later and things will really take off. Already I’ve made a lot of progress. Independent artists can make a lot of things happen without record companies these days though, so I’m not too worried about it. Where there’s a will there’s a way. Heart really counts.

R:  For those who have not yet heard your music, how would you describe it to them?

J: My music is very current sounding. It’s radio-friendly electro-pop ─ not so different from Britney Spears, Ke$ha, Lady Gaga or even Pink. Some songs are pretty vampy and push some limits. I just try to keep it honest and I happen to be pretty bold person. Also, from an instrumental standpoint, I want it to be fun and stimulating. My music is pop but I draw a lot of inspiration from electronic stuff like dubstep and moombahton. You’ll hear more of that influence on my upcoming tracks.

R:  I read that you are currently working on an album.  Is that true and if so, when is the estimated release date?

J: I want to release an album, but it’s taking so long! Right now I’m undecided. I might just release some of the new tracks as singles. We’ll see. If that’s the case, I could have a new song out by next week! Decisions. Decisions.

R:  Tell us about your singles “Superstars”, “Love Sick” and “Train Wreck.”

J:  What is there to tell? To me, songs are like paintings. There’s no point in describing them. It’s all there.

R:  You are also a writer.  What is your wiring process?  Do you start with the words?  How did you come up with the ideas for “Superstars”, “Love Sick” and “Train Wreck.?

J: Usually words and melody just come to me together. A lot of times I think of them when I’m driving or in the shower. Sometimes I record ideas on my phone. Then I take these ideas to the studio and Lior adds some guitar or synth to start. We’ll record rough vocals and overtime, we add layers of instruments and perfect the vocals. Some of my new stuff we did the other way around though. Lior wrote the tracks first, then I came up with the rest. It’s good to do it both ways. It challenges me as a writer.

My friends were my inspiration for “Superstars.” I don’t even know how I came up with “Love Sick.” I was on the New Jersey Turnpike. I’m sure it’s a collection of experiences and fantasies. “Train Wreck” was the result of a daydream I had after I met a perverted guy.

R:  What is your favorite song to perform on stage and why?

J: That’s a tough question! My favorite song to perform is probably “Train Wreck.” I have also been singing two new songs (meant for my upcoming record) at some shows in New York. They are edgier and people’s reactions are priceless. Cover songs can be a fun too. They give me a chance to do something either unexpected or very heartfelt. For my first show I sang Lil Jon and the Eastside Boys “Get Low” and Lady Gaga’s “Edge of Glory.” The audience was really into both!

R:  Where can people get your music?

J:  iTunes, Amazon, eMusic, Rhapsody. It’s also on www.facebook.com/JackieScottMusic.

R:  Who has been your biggest influence and why?

J: In some ways, I have to say my dad. He was always singing when I grew up. Because of him, just belting my lungs out around the house seemed very natural to me. My mom also sang me lullabies, encouraged me to be really creative and taught me discipline and tenacity.

R:  It is not easy growing up.  What advice would you give teenage girls?

J: That is really hard. Some of those years were tough for me. I think girls should be true to themselves, honest with others and they should know that life will get easier! When you’re a teenager you’re going through all this weird stuff like getting your period for the first time, growing boobs (even if they are tiny!), sweating too much, zits, figuring out stuff like shaving and make up, falling in love, dealing with gossip, dealing with friendships. It’s overwhelming. First of all, go easy on yourself and joke about that stuff if you can. Number two, go easy on others. Be compassionate. Be open-minded. Try to give other people the benefit of the doubt because it’s a confusing time for a lot of people.

R:  Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

J: A friend asked me if they could borrow my cat.

R:  Are you on any social networking sites?  Do you have an official websites?

J: www.facebook.com/JackieScottMusic
www.twitter.com/Jackie_Scott
www.jackiescottmusic.com

R:  What is the nicest thing a fan has said or done for you?

J: I get really excited when people come to my shows, “like” me on Facebook, comment on YouTube or rate/comment on iTunes. I know those sound like small things, but they are a big deal to me! Every single comment means a lot!

R:  Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans?

J: Thanks for getting to know me and my music. I really appreciate when people take the time to discover new pop and support up-and-coming artists.

R:  Jackie, thank you for the interview.  Have a great day.

J: Thank you!

Written by:  Jill Sheets

The PreZcotts Sisters, Picture Credit: Jeff Hays

Recently, I had the honor of interviewing the very talented PreZcotts Sisters.   Continue to read on and learn more about the sisters and about their song “Stay True.”

Relate:  Tell us a little bit about yourselves?

A: My name is AnaLeyna, I’m 17 years old and I am the oldest of my family. I love to write songs and play the piano. Music is really a passion of mine.

C: I’m ChaLyn, I love basketball and love to sing!! I’m 15 years old and have 6 siblings…

R: My name is RaNelle, I have 5 sisters and 1 baby brother. I’m 13 years old.

M: My name is MaRiah, I’m 12 and have 6 siblings and I love to sing with my sisters…

Relate: What is it like singing with your sisters? How long do you practice singing each day?  How do you handle disagreements?

A: It’s fun, we all trust each other and we are completely comfortable together. It makes practicing fun! To keep our voices in shape we try to practice together an hour every day but we are always singing individually to keep our vocals warm.

C: It’s comfortable, familiar…I really enjoy it!

R: It’s really fun. We sing together almost everyday!

M: We have lots of fun and we laugh a lot. I practice everyday…

Picture credit: Jeff Hays, AnaLeyna, Age 17

Relate:  I read that you write your own music.  What is your song writing process?  Do you come up with the words first?

A: My song writing comes naturally… It’s unpredictable how the song will come. Sometimes the music is playing in my head and then the words just flow onto the paper. If there is an emotion behind it, I can write a song in an hour. I thank God for this gift.

C: I didn’t write any of the songs on our new CD “GOSSIP” but, I like to write poems.

R: MaRiah and I wrote “Stay True” on our new CD. The song talks about bullying in school. We are very proud of that song!

M: I co-wrote “Stay True” with RaNelle & AnaLeyna…I hope to write more songs.

Relate:  Tell us about your debut album “Gossip.”

A: Gossip is going to make you smile, laugh, fall in love and it will even make you cry. There is a story behind each song and a message for everyone to go with it. Our album features all types of styles and lyrics. Anyone can listen to this album and enjoy the music it plays. That’s what we wanted and it’s so amazing to see it all come together.

C: Well, it costs $10… (laughs). Its super cool and the songs can be easily loved by everyone. There are happy songs, encouraging songs, and inspirational ones also.

R: We have anything you would wanna listen to on this CD!! I love it!

M: It has an awesome variety of songs…people will really love it!

Relate:  Tell us about your single “Gossip.”  How did you come up with the idea for this song?

A: We wanted to have another upbeat song on the CD that was fun and appropriate for kids all over the world to sing. Gossip is something anyone and everyone can relate to. I enjoyed being a part of writing process; I share the credit with my good friend and co-producer, Aaron Accetta.

C: That was AnaLeyna!

R: AnaLeyna & Aaron Accetta wrote that song in one afternoon!!

M: Rich Correll who created Hannah Montana directed the music video for “GOSSIP”

Picture credit: Jeff Hays, ChaLyn, Age 15

Relate:  Do you have any plan in the near future of going on tour?

A: We are planning to go wherever our fans take us! If children all over America want to use our music to encourage and support them then we just tell them to let us know! We are on our way! We want to be there for our fans, if a tour gets us there then let’s do it!

C: That would be a dream comes true for me!!!

R: It would be awesome, but I know I would miss my mom, my little sisters and brother.

M: Yes, that would be sooo cool! I’d miss my family though.

Relate:  If you could tour with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

A: I would tour with Taylor Swift because all of her songs speak to me. I can relate to them and I know boys and girls all over the world can too. I’d love to be a part of that. Hey Taylor, give us a call! (laughs)

C: Justin Bieber because he’s pretty awesome…

R: My family because they are so special.

M: My mom!

Relate:  What singers and bands do you listen to?  What is your favorite song by each one?

A: My favorite artist of all time is Alicia Keys because I love her style. One of my favorite songs is from her album “The Element of Freedom” and it’s call ‘Wait til you see my Smile’. The hook gets stuck in my head for days. I listen to a lot of other music though. My favorite band is The Katinas. They are a brother group just as we are a sister group. We’ve met with them a couple of times and every time they had encouraging words and beautiful voices. I love them.

C: I like Mariah Carey’s old songs like “Someday” “Always Be My Baby” and “Make It Happen”

R: I listen to Mariah Carey and Leona Lewis.

M: I listen to Christian bands a lot. I like “Move” by Mercy Me…

Photo Credit: Jeff Hay, RaNelle, Age 14

Relate:  What has been your most “Star Struck” moment?  Who was it?  Tell us about what happened.

A: My most Star Struck moment of all time is when I heard The Katinas sing in the Creation Lab Studios acapella.

C: I dreamt I met Justin Bieber the same night that  I watched his movie for the first time…

R: When the Katinas sang just for us.

M: I met the dude from “Shake it Up”…Deuce.

Relate:  What are five things people may not know about you?

A: Hmmm 5 things people might not know about me…
1. I love Oreos… But I rarely eat them.
2. I love driving at night. Lots of green lights and no traffic!
3. I am the oldest but the shortest…
4. Nail art has been my latest obsession.
5.  My favorite car is the latest Cherokee Jeep.

C: Love Basketball, math, I have 3 more siblings other than The PreZcotts…I really love peanut butter and I speak Spanish outta no where when I’m at home.

R: I’m a freshman in high school, I love singing, basketball and soccer…I have a baby brother…

M: I love volleyball and basketball, my 2 little sisters are named Yvana amd Taleya and my brother’s name is Bryton. AND I have the best mom in the world!!

Relate:  What is the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

A: The best advice I ever got was from my Dad. He always taught me values through his actions. He always told me “you gotta forgive em” and to never hold a grudge because it can eat you up inside. He always gave the best advice!

C: “Stand up for what you believe in, even if you stand alone” – my mom.

R: My mom always told me to stand up for yourself…

M: To stand up for what is right, no matter what…my mom tells me that…

Photo Credit: Jeff Hays, MaRiah, Age 12

Relate:  What advice would you teenage girls in general?

A: My advice to all the teenage girls out there: Beauty truly does come from the inside. How you treat others is what creates your image. Sure the latest trends and fashions are always fun. But we can’t change the world with what we wear… But we can change the world with what we do.

C: Well it’s easy to get caught up in what everyone is doing (clothing, language, etc.)
Don’t let peer pressure get to you!

R: To “Stay True” to yourself…

M: I don’t know…I’m still 12.

Relate:  Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

A: I think this IS the strangest question I’ve ever been asked! I’ve been asked funny questions in the past though. The cutest one was “uh are you guys…famous?” after an elementary school show we did recently. I smiled and said “you are what makes us famous” : (laughs)

C: My mom once asked me if I’ve ever tasted nail polish remover? Which is most defiantly strange.

R: I think you just topped it off…

M: You like math? It’s kinda not my favorite.

Relate:  Are you on any social networking sisters if so, which ones and what are their addresses?  Do you have an official website? Do you have a youtube channel?  If so, what is the address?

A: Yes, yes, YES! We have the PreZcotts page on Facebook and we go on every night to see what fans we can talk to! We also have a YouTube channel, a website and a twitter. Here are the links below:
www.prezcotts.com
www.facebook.com/thepreZcotts
www.youtube.com/thepreZcotts
www.twitter.com/preZcotts

C: See above^

R: Just Google The PreZcotts…you’ll find us!!

M: AnaLeyna’s got this one!

Relate:  Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans

A: I absolutely love hearing from you guys! Sometimes fans will comment on our Facebook page and tell me what their going through at home or at school and I write a song for them. I love talking to everyone! So don’t be shy! Go to our Facebook and ask questions or leave a comment!

C: Cherish your family and the memories you have…AND I LOVE YOU ALL

R: You are everything to us…We Love You!

M: To not ever give up. Always Stay True to yourselves…

Relate: PreZcott Sisters, thank you for the interview. It was an honor You have a great day.

Brittany Curran and Ray Romano

Relate has always been a Brittany Curran fan. She is a talented actress that does many honorable things for the community. (You can read our article about her running in the Falmouth Road Race to raise money for the Boston Children’s Hospital.) But, here we want to congratulate her for winning a very prestigious award for her work on the set of Men Of A Certain Age. Brittany has just won a Peabody award and we are so proud!

For those of you who are wondering, “what’s the Peabody award?”…

“Among prizes for electronic media – radio awards, television awards, interactive and new media awards – THE GEORGE FOSTER PEABODY AWARDS are considered the most prestigious. Founded in 1940, the Peabody is the also the oldest electronic media award in the world, recognizing excellence, distinguished achievement, and meritorious public service. The first radio awards were presented in 1941, for work completed in 1940. The first television awards were presented in 1948, the first cable television awards in 1981, and the first web site awards in 2003. Honoring content from large broadcast networks to tiny on-line outlets, from popular entertainment programs to independently produced documentaries, and all types in between, the Peabody Awards seek out “excellence on its own terms.” The awards are administered by the University of Georgia’s Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication.

It’s a big deal! Congrats Brittany-you Rock!

Ray Romano & Brittany Curran

Brittany Curran Peabody Award

Written by: Jill Sheets

Y I YELL!

Recently I had the honor of interviewing a talented music group Y i Yell. Continue to
read on about this up and coming band, their music and about how they met.

R: Tell us about yourselves? How you got started in the music industry?

M: I am 19 years old and started off playing guitar on my own. Music has been
something that has been apart of my life for a very long time. I really enjoy every aspect
of it, from writing to singing to playing live. However, my real start in the industry
happened when I met Gaby. We just hit it off immediately and began writing, day and
night. All of a sudden Demitri started laying down drums to our tracks and that was it, Y
I YELL! has been moving forward ever since.

D: Well, I just turned 14! Michael and I are brothers. Our dad has been in the industry for
years and it has influenced us to be apart of it as well so it was time to pass it down to us.
I started playing drums around age 9 and the rest is history.

G: I started singing when I was very young. I remember watching music videos on
MTV and just knowing that I needed to do this. Knowing people were out there doing
something they were very passionate about as well as sharing their work with the world
made really made me gravitate towards music as a profession. Then when I met Michael
and Demitri, things really started to move in a great direction!

R: How did you all meet and how did you come up with the name Y I Yell?

M: D and I are brothers and I met Gaby when I was 11 or 12. A couple years went by
and Gaby and I reconnected and decided to form a group. The name came from the last
letter of each of our names, a “backwards acronym”. Gab-Y Demitr-i Michae-L. Then
we thought it would be cool to have a meaning behind what we are all about. And what
does every person have in common? We all yell. The question is what makes you yell?
So essentially our music incorporates the things that make us yell. That’s why I yell.

D: Michael and Gaby were friends for a while, Michael new Gaby sang so one day he
asked her to come and write to see where it would go. It was instantly meant to be. That
summer they decided to form a band and I forced my in and we created Y I YELL

G: It’s crazy to think I met Michael when we were 11!! We lived in the same town, had
mutual friends, but didn’t go to the same school. I guess it was fate when we became
neighbors and I started serenading him through my window… kidding!! But he invited

me over because he knew I sang and loved music like he did. We just clicked and we
began working everyday after school on music. About a month into it, Michael told me
his brother played…who was 11. Demitri walked in and just threw it down… delivered
major!! Then we knew we were destined to be a band. We all just got along so well and
loved music so much.

R: You have been working on your EP. Can you tell us anything about it and when
it is suppose to be realized? Tell us about your first single from your EP “Always the
Weekend.”

M: The EP has been a huge growing experience for the band. We have really developed
our sound. Male/female vocals with killer drums and guitars. “Always the Weekend” is
our song about escape, a great first release for us and we hope to introduce our fans to
more of our sound as we continue.

D: We have been working hard, writing and recording, we are looking at the New Year
for our release. I would have to agree with Gaby and Michael in that it was a great first
song for us to play and record. Can’t wait to share the rest of our music with our fans!

G: Hopefully by the New Year!! “Always the Weekend” was such a fun song to write
and an even more fun video to film. Who wouldn’t want it to be always the weekend?

R: What is your favorite song from the EP?

M: Really hard for me to pick just one, they are all so great.

D: “A Little Lovin’”

G: “Don’t Give Up” is really special to me and all of us as a band. Lyrically any band any
artist or anyone can relate to it. Just a beautiful song to sing.

R: Where can people get your music?

M: You can go to our web site, www.yiyell.com and download “Always the Weekend”
for free. Or go on to youtube and subscribe to our channel. www.youtube.com/yiyell1

R: Do you have any up and coming plans to tour?

D: Yes, once we are done in the studio we plan on going out! Very excited about this.

R: Who is your celebrity crush?

M: Allesandra Ambrosio

D: Rosie Hunnington, Or just anyone of the Victoria Secret Models.

G: Ryan Keith Follese

R: What is the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

M & D: Continue to believe in yourself. –We tell each other that…

G: My parents always told me to shoot for the moon, because you might hit a star. Never
give up. If you love something enough and have the drive to do anything to get there
coupled with hard work…you’ll get it. Give it time.

R: What advice would you give someone who wanted to become a singer?

M: Just like anything in life, music is a process. It never happens over night… It’s
constant pursuit of writing that song, that performance…

D: If you love it continue to pursue it!

G: To really find yourself as a singer. I believe its the most challenging part of becoming
an artist…try to identify who you are which truly makes you stand out.

R; Do you have any charities that are close to your heart if so, which ones and tell us
about them?

G: Yes. We feel really blessed to be the School Advocates for “Stomp out Bullying”. I
myself was bullied terribly when I was younger and feel so passionate about stopping
such hatred. It amazes me how mean kids and teens are to one another. Everyone is in the
same position and if anyone should be building you up in life its your peers. We are so
proud to be apart of raising awareness.

R: What are five things people may not know about you?

M: I’m Greek, I was in a band called A.D.D. when I was 14. I made a guitar and named
her Layla, I love feta and working on my car.

D: I’m always creating, Love technology, I always have to have music playing when I do
homework, Always moving around and enjoy life

G: I am fluent in Sign Language, cup cake lover, twitaholic, guitar player, and addicted
to shoes.

R: What has been the strangest question you have ever been asked and what was the
answer?

M: Gaby asks me a lot of strange questions… I usually answer her question with another
question…

D: Someone once asked me if I liked to eat Mac n Cheese and then walked away… My
response would have been yes, of course…

G: I don’t think I’ve had a strange one just yet but I’ve been asked a bunch if Michael is
my boyfriend and how I get my hair to look the way it does. (laughs) I think they’re fun
and complementary

R: What singers and bands do you listen to and what is your favorite song by each one?

M: Kings of Leon- Taper Jean Girl, Adele- Rumor Has It, Foster The People- Warrant,
Rolling Stones- Wild Horses

D: Broken Bells: High Road, Jack Johnson: Mediocre Bad Guys and Go on

G: No Doubt – Don’t Speak Paramore – Brand New Eyes album Older musicians/Bands
- Queen/Beatles/Rolling Stones

R: Are you on any social networking sites? If so, which ones and what are their
addresses? Do you have an official website? If so, what is the address?

M: Twitter: Michael_yiyell

D: Twitter: Demitri_YIYELL

G: yes !! Follow us on Twitter – @YiYELL ! Like our Facebook page
- www.facebook.com/yiyellmusic – www.yiyell.com , Youtube – www.youtube.com/
yiyell1, Tumblr- http://yiyell.tumblr.com/

R: Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans?

Band: We’re very thankful for all of the support and looking forward to getting our new
music to them

R: Michael, Demitri and Gaby thank you for the interview. Have a great day.

Check out their amazing song and video for “Always the Weekend.”

Written by Ellen Marie Hawkins

Stars Go Dim

(photo courtesy of www.starsgodim.com)

I’m often sent press releases that contain an artist’s or a band’s most shining
achievements. It was no different with Stars Go Dim. Toured with other impressive
bands? Check. Bands like Paramore and Switchfoot, Chris Daughtry and Billy Joel. To
name a few. Collaborated with other great songwriters? Yep. How ‘bout Evan Bogart
who wrote “Halo” with Ryan Tedder? Or Grammy winning Richard Marx? Just to get
us started. And contests they’ve won? This band has done that, too; a songwriting award
from CMT. There will be more to come, I’m sure.

But none of that tells me who an artist really IS. I usually rely on the music to tell me,
but on those occasions when I’m offered the opportunity, I have the responsibility to ask
the questions that will tell me even more. And the thing is, I always go in with certain
expectations only to have them annihilated every single time. Artists always exceed what
my apparently small imagination holds.

That said, Chris was no exception. I’m a little frustrated that his personality can’t even
begin to be translated words typed onto a screen. So, here’s my challenge to you as a
reader: start doing a little research of your own on this band. Listen to them, read about
them, and go to a show. And if you have the chance to meet any of them, go for it.
When Chris told me it’s all about the fans, I believe him. If you take advantage of the
opportunity, I think both you and the band will be glad that you did.

R: What’s the story behind the name Stars Go Dim?

Chris: Made it up. The band started as a side project and didn’t have a name. We were
just writing music together and didn’t know what would come of it, but when it started
taking off, we did a little brain storming. Our bass player actually came up with it, but he
tells the story better than I can, so when people ask me, I just say we made it up.

R: Tell us about your recent trip to Haiti:

Chris: We teamed up with Convoy of Hope, an organization that focuses on disaster
relief like in Joplin MO, Japan, and Haiti, and has helped feed children in 109 countries.
After the tornadoes, we partnered with them and titled the new album Between Here
and Now – focuses on hope in the face of adversity. In Haiti, there’s over 16,000 kids
in schools and orphanages that need food, but to get it, they have to be in school. They
often take food home to families, so there’s incentive to keep kids in school. 300,000
people died in the earthquake and 1 million are displaced, living under tarps. The
earthquake put Haiti on the map, but they were hurting before. But now there’s a big
push to educate Haitians. Going there gives me a new outlook on life.

R: Writing, recording, or performing: which is your favorite and why?

C: All of them. They’re so different; there’s a different process for all of it. But you can
have an idea alone in your bedroom or in your car, an idea that is so personal. Take it to
the studio where it’s such a process. After twenty hours of no sleep or food, you’ve put
together this little thought that was like a baby that’s developed, and when you take it on
the road, it’s like, “Look at my kids, I hope you don’t think they’re ugly.” The craziness
on the road, meeting new fans, breaking down…it’s a package deal.

R: Favorite song of Stars Go Dim and what inspired it?
C: From the last record, I like “Crazy,” a song I wrote with Joey that’s a great love song
that I’ve done at weddings. “Get Over It” won awards but is a great in your face break
up song. From the new record, “Between Here and Now”-a song of hope. “Like I Mean
It,” the first single, is about not wasting life. There’s poppy, summery songs, a little r&b,
some rock. There’s not a song I don’t like.

R: Favorite song by someone else that you wish you’d written?
C: Any genre? “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey that college kids everywhere scream
to. Led Zepplelin…There is one song that I doubt your readers will know-“Gavin’s
Song” by Marc Broussard. Look this one up. It’s one of my favorite songs.

R: First memory of music?

C: I was born in music. My parents were traveling gospel singers, and I was on the
stage at two or three singing with my brother at church. Also, I remember family at the
holidays around the piano or guitar singing.

R: What do you guys hope to achieve with your upcoming album that you hadn’t
accomplished with your other albums?

C: Getting good music out to people and connecting with them. And to make any
difference that we can. Continue to meet new people – revolves around the listeners. We
want to take it to a deeper level than just another fan on facebook-it’s really about making
connections. That’s why we’re partnering with Convoy of Hope. Whatever platform
we have, we want to make an impact in a good way, whether it’s going to hospitals
and doing arts and crafts with cancer patients or holding an orphan in Haiti because he
doesn’t have anyone to love on him.

R: Describe a pivotal moment that helped shape your career into what it has become.

C: Everyday, it’s important to give everything I have. I’ve learned that I’m not the best
at everything, but it’s important to do by best at my ability. It’s been one of the biggest
lessons for me.

R: Person in the Bible that’s most inspirational to you (besides Jesus).

C: Paul. He was cocky, but he backed himself up. He said, “If you can’t be like Jesus,

be like me.” He persecuted others but had moment of enlightenment and jumped on
board and ultimately died for it. I’d also say David, but he was such a whiner.

For more information, be sure to visit www.starsgodim.com. And be sure to check back
here for a review of their latest release, Between Here and Now, scheduled to drop on
October 4th.

Written by: Jill Sheets

Taylor Spreitler

Picture credit: Flygirl photos

Recently I interviewed talented actress Taylor Spreitler. Taylor plays Lennox Scanlon
on the hit show Melissa and Joey. Continue to read on and learn more about Taylor, her
show and find out what advice she would give to teenage girls.

R: Tell us a little bit about how you got into the acting business?

T: I started out doing beauty/talent contests in Mississippi which led to summers in New
York modeling, auditioning for Broadway plays and TV commercials. Los Angeles has
more opportunities for TV/film so that’s how I ended up here!

R: Tell us about your show Melissa and Joey and about your character Lennox Scanlon.

T: On the show Melissa Joan Hart plays my aunt who had to take in my younger brother
Ryder (Nick Robinson) and I after a family scandal. She hires a manny (Joey Lawrence)
to take care of us. My character Lennox is in High School, editor of the school’s Grant
Rant and a very outspoken activist for animal and gay rights.

R: How did you find out about the role of Lennox and what was the audition process
like?

T: My manager sent me on the first audition for the casting directors. I got a callback then
auditioned for the producers. The final audition was for the network and I got the call a
few hours later that I had booked it!

R: What is it like working with Melissa Joan Hart and Joseph Lawrence?

T: There is never a dull moment! They are two of the funniest people on the planet and I
have learned so much from them.

R: If you could make a guest appearance on any show, what show would that be and
why?

T: 30 Rock, Alec Baldwin and Tina Fey are comic genius!

R: I read that you also sing. Do you have any plans on recording an album?

T: My sister Samantha is a song writer and we are working on a few things together so
maybe in the future!

R: Who are some of your favorite singers and bands? What is your favorite song by
each one?

T: Blink 182- Feeling This
Led Zeppelin- Stairway to Heaven
Favorite song of all time- Tiny Dancer by Elton John

R: What are five thing people may not know about you?

T: I carry hot sauce in my purse.
I like snakes.
I have an obsession with Sharpies.
I once won a hula-hoop contest.
I have a fear of driving.

R: Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

T: What do you call a male ladybug?

R: What has been the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

T: My Melissa and Joey family gave me a surprise graduation on set and Melissa read me
a quote from Dr. Seuss
that has stuck in my head!
You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.
You’re on your own.
And you know what you know.

YOU are the girl who’ll decide where to go.

R: It is not easy being teenage girl theses days, what advice would you give them?

T: Everyone’s situation is so different it’s hard to give a sweeping piece of advice, just
pay close attention to your emotional as well as physical health. If you have a problem
talk to someone, if they don’t listen talk to someone else and keep trying until someone
does listen!

R: Do you have any charities that are close to you heart? If so, tell us a little bit about
them.

T: Los Angeles Mission which provides meals and different services to the homeless.
ASPCA which promotes pet adoption and rescues animals from abusive conditions.

R: What are some of your future goals?

T: To continue to be a working actress, maybe some behind the camera stuff. Directing is
definitely something that intrigues me!

R: Are you on any social networking sites? If so, which ones and what are their
addresses? Do you have an official website?

T: Twitter- @TaylorSpreitler
Facebook- facebook.com/officialtaylorspreitler
Official website- taylorspreitler.com

R: Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your fans?

T: Thanks for being with me on this wild, fun and crazy ride!

R: Taylor, thank you for the interview. Have a great day.

Written by: Jill Sheets

K. Flay

Picture Credit: Emily Ibarra

Recently I had the honor of interviewing the mutl-talented musician K. Flay. Continue to
read on and learn more about K-Flay and her music.

R: Tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got into the music industry?

K: I got into making music at college. I came to California from the Midwest and there
was this crazy, eclectic arts scene, which was totally different from anything I had known
growing up. A kid in my dorm made electronic music and he and I started messing
around with beats. There was something really compelling about creating nothing
from something, all within the confines of a laptop. I figured out that I could rap really
quickly and was kinda like ‘I can smash all these words together??’ and was pretty much
hooked. After that, I bought a keyboard and started acting like a nut. And by that I mean
a pistachio.

R: How did you come up with the name K. Flay?

K: It was my alias in prison. Just kidding. It was my nickname. My alias in prison was
Kris Kringle.

R: For those who have not heard you music yet would you mind describing it to them?

K: I don’t mind at all! It’s a blend of hip hop and indie rock – I try to incorporate
electronic and organic elements into the music, as well as both singing and rapping. My
goal is to create music that allows me to express myself in as many ways as possible.

R: Tell us about you new series of 3EPs titled I Stopped Caring in ’96.

K: I Stopped Caring in ’96 is a project that evolved from two things: (1) a desire to
sample some of my favorite music and (2) spending waaay too much time by myself,
whether on tour, in my home studio, or on the city bus, wondering if the dude next to me
was a murderer. The series is meant to be a bit of a meditation on self-awareness as well
as an exercise in not taking myself or anyone else too seriously. I think the worst thing
you can do is not see the humor and absurdity inherent in our lives. Randomly existing
on this planet is kind of funny, you know?

R: What is your favorite song from each EP and why?

K: I think my favorite tracks are ‘Nothing At All’, ‘Doctor Don’t Know’, & ‘Elle
Fanning’. All three are pretty sardonic, which is how I am in real life. You’ve got to
temper the sadness and the gravity with a healthy dose of jokes.

R: Where can people get your music?

K: They can get a lot of my music for free on my website, www.kflay.com, and the rest
of it on either iTunes or Amazon.

R: If you could tour with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

K: I would love to tour with Metric. They’re one of my favorite bands of all time and
Emily Haines is a badass.

R: What are your future goals?

K: I’ll be putting out new music this fall and touring as much as possible. I’m super
excited for my full-length album to come out, probably around the top of next year.
Other than that, my goal is to make quality music and do everything I can to earn fans
and make the live show as dope as it can be.

R: What is the best advice you have ever gotten and by who?

K: My dad – who unfortunately didn’t take his own advice – always repeated the
adage ‘don’t curse the dark; light a candle,’ which is a pretty adaptive way to look at the
situations in our lives that cause tension, dissent, or unhappiness. It’s easy to complain
and be a hater, but that just makes you an asshole. It’s hard to change your circumstances
for the better, but that makes you awesome.

R: What advice would you give teenage girls?

K: Most things that seem like they matter don’t actually matter at all. So don’t sweat it.
Do you. At the end of the day, that’s what people respect.

R: What are five things people may not know about you?

K: I know what the word ‘smolt’ means, I like to paint my nails alien green, I
think ‘She’s The Man’ is one of the top 10 movies of this century, my apartment is filled
with globes, and I can juggle very competently.

R: Other than this one, what is the strangest question you have ever been asked?

K: Boxer or briefs?

R: Are you on any social networking sites? If so, which ones and what are their
addresses? Do you have an official website?

K: My Facebook page is http://www.facebook.com/kflaymusic, my Twitter is http://
www.twitter.com/kflay, and my official website is http://www.kflay.com.

R: What is it like communicating with your fans? What is the nicest thing a fan has done
or said to you?

K: It’s awesome getting to know my fans! Someone once baked me a cake. That was
pretty nice.

R: Is there anything else you would like to add or say to your listens?

K: Just that I appreciate everyone who has checked out the music and/or a live show.
What makes music meaningful is that it’s a shared experience, so I thank everyone who’s
been a part of sharing their lives with me.

R: K. Flay, thank you for the interview. Have a great day.