June 6, 2024
Strength in Numbers: Sousapalooza
Since 2011, Make Music Chicago has pioneered the “Sousapalooza” – an invitation for hundreds of brass, wind, and percussion players to come together on June 21 for Make Music Day and sightread the music of The March King, John Philip Sousa.
Sousapalooza returns this year to 11 cities across the U.S., from Alabama to Alaska. Find one near you, download the music, and join the band!
June 6, 2024
Your Make Music Day Checklist
June is busting out all over. Music will soon be in the air.
It’s time to finalize your Make Music Day plans!
🔲 Register with your local Make Music chapter and confirm your plans
🔲 Or mark your calendar to join a participatory Mass Appeal, Sousapalooza, Flowerpot Music, Roomful of Pianos, or String Together event near you
🔲 Promote your event with our poster generator and social media tiles
🔲 Go out on June 21 and make the city your stage!
May 31, 2024
Champions: Emily Coupe, Songwriter, and Musical Storyteller
In this interview, we talk with Emily Coupe, a multitalented musician currently based in the bustling city of Los Angeles, known for her captivating melodies and her unique blend of pop and folk. Emily’s music reflects not only her skillful songwriting but also her deep passion for connecting with people through her songs. Join us as we delve into Emily’s musical journey, from her discovery of Make Music Day to her unwavering dedication to crafting meaningful music within the pop and folk genres.
How did you find out about Make Music Day? And how was the experience for you?
I believe someone contacted me on Instagram and asked me to perform at Topanga for a Make Music Day event. The experience was great, and a lot of fun. I definitely received a good response from the people who attended the event. It was a really enjoyable gig.
How did you start making music?
Well, I began making music when I was back in Australia. I started songwriting a lot, and then I worked on my first album. However, I’ve taken it off Spotify because I’m not sure if I’m entirely happy with how it turned out; I kind of didn’t know what I wanted my music to be when recording it. I’ve definitely been aiming for a more pop sound. But there are a couple of tracks from that album that I really like; those are “Missing You,” “Touch The Sun,” and “Revolution.”
Did you get into music as a child? Did you play musical instruments at an early age?
Yes, I began playing the violin when I was five years old. Initially, my focus was primarily on the violin until around the age of twelve. After that, I gradually picked up the guitar, and by the time I was fourteen, I was more invested in guitar, while also exploring keyboards, which I started around the age of seven or eight.
What artists inspired you to start in the music industry?
I think back when I was that age, my parents would show me music from old-school artists like John Denver and The Beatles, which they really liked.
And nowadays, are there artists that inspire your music?
Definitely. Taylor Swift, Alanis Morissette, Maren Morris, Ariana Grande. A band I’m really enjoying is Trousdale. Just all the pop people. Also country artists like Sheryl Crow.
I know your music is mostly pop. Are there other genres you’d like to explore in the future?
Yes! I would love to explore more. I guess my stuff bounces between pop-folk, which is really cool. Later this year, I’m planning on putting out a folk-type EP, which I’ve been working on. I’ve been a little scattered with my music because I got nodules, and because of that, I haven’t been able to sing as much these past few months. It’s been frustrating. Because of this, I’ve decided to hold off on putting out new music just because I really want to do a gig around the release of the EP.
When you’re not doing music, what do you do? I believe you also do acting, is that right?
Yes! I also act. I started acting back when I was in high school; I did an improv class, and from there, I got into acting classes from twelve or thirteen onwards. I was really lucky that my parents supported my passions, always. My passion for acting grew from an early age, and it’s grown over the years. Acting can be frustrating; most of it is auditions and rejections, but I’ve grown a thick skin towards rejection, so that’s a good thing. I’ve found that as I become more myself, I either really resonate with people and they really like me, or I’m creating more enemies. But as a musician, you can’t be a people-pleaser. It’s better to be strong and stand out for what you believe.
How would you describe what music means to you?
I’d say music means escapism, and also relatability. For example, with Ariana Grande’s latest single “We Can’t Be Friends,” the song and the video really resonated with me while going through a breakup, and I absolutely loved the whole concept of the song. I think music makes you feel deeper what you’re already feeling; it’s really cathartic. It connects you to others, making you feel part of something bigger.
What would you say your goal in music is?
I’d say my main goal right now is to heal my nodules. Beyond that, when my voice returns to its normal state, I aim to connect with as many people as possible through my music and the messages embedded in my songs. I want my music to resonate deeply with listeners and make them feel understood, especially during challenging moments in their lives. Ultimately, I see songwriting as my most powerful tool for connecting with others. I aim to become the best storyteller I can be through my music.
May 31, 2024
Champions: Bear In The Forest, Inspirational Indie Folk Musician
In this interview, we talk with Bear In The Forest, a talented musician from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, known for his captivating indie folk melodies. Join us as we explore his musical journey, centered around his deep connection with music and its power to heal and inspire. Bear In The Forest shares insights into his background, experiences, and creative process, offering a glimpse into his world as a passionate artist. Notably, Bear In The Forest released his debut album some time ago, featuring original tracks like “Flow With Me,” often chosen as the opening number for his performances.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
I believe someone who was organizing the events for Make Music Madison reached out to me and told me all about the events that were happening. I liked the idea, so I signed up, created my profile, and then a handful of venues contacted me to play in some events.
How was the experience?
I’ve participated for two years. It’s been awesome. I kind of tour the city and play at three or four different spots around it during the day. It was really fun to get to play in various venues in one day, and I just love playing music, so it was always a good time.
How did you start playing music?
I feel like I’d always been inclined towards music. I was a dancing baby. And then, when I was young, even before I started playing instruments, I loved listening to artists like The Beatles and pretending to be them, emulating their performances. I dreamt of becoming a rock star. My parents made me start playing the violin when I was in third grade, which I didn’t love right away. Once I got to middle school, I started playing guitar, as I fell in love with folk and indie music and the sound of acoustic guitar. From the moment I started with the guitar, I remember I just wanted to write my own songs and become a songwriter. I kind of wanted to bring the same level of inspiration that I had gotten from folk music to other people. At school, I debuted as a performer and played at various talent shows, and that’s also where I came out with the artist name “Bear In The Forest”.
What artists inspired you to start making music?
In my early years, I was obsessed with bands like The Beatles and Led Zeppelin, sparking my desire to become a rock star. However, what got me into songwriting and playing guitar was some of the new-aged folk artists of the 2010s, such as Bon Iver, Mumford & Sons, Laura Marling, and Ben Howard, incredible acoustic guitar players. A lot of these British folk artists who took Americana music and made it their own caught my attention when I was in middle school. I heard “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons, and I thought it was just really incredible what Marcus Mumford does with the acoustic guitar; I didn’t know you could do that with it. I’d never heard the guitar used in such a percussive way, taking so much space. That’s how a lot of indie folk artists use the guitar; they use it as if the guitar was almost the entire band. The Tallest Man on Earth is another one of my big inspirations, and a lot of his work is just him and the guitar, but he creates full sounds with it. That’s what I’m built on now and what I base my music on.
In your presentations, do you usually play your original music, or also throw in some covers?
Mostly original music; I’ve always been that way. However, I’ve started incorporating more covers, especially when I need to build a long setlist for a performance. Covers are also great to draw people’s attention, and it’s cool to get people to hear your take on covers. Lately, I’ve been enjoying covering artists such as Hozier, The Beatles, Neil Young, Bon Iver, among others. While I strategically use covers, my focus remains on showcasing my original compositions because that’s where my passion lies. Also, I feel like I play better when it comes to my songs, considering that when playing I focus more on the sounds I create than some technicalities of music.
Are you currently doing music full-time?
I’m not a full-time musician, but I’m working towards that. That’s the ultimate goal. Currently, I work part-time, and I have enough time in my day to focus on my music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is very spiritual to me. It’s my way of tapping into something greater. It’s my way of communicating my joy, my pain, and my feelings. I definitely have a pretty rough background because of some life struggles I’ve faced, and music has always been a way to process those things and truly heal from them.
May 31, 2024
Champions: Gabi The Artist, Spreading Joy through Gospel Music
In this interview, we talk with Gabi The Artist, a Montclair local with Afro-Latina roots from Puerto Rico. She began her musical journey at nine, playing heartfelt tunes on her guitar. Hoping to make music full-time, Gabi aims to unite people with her melodies, spreading joy for a better world. With a strong mindset, she conveys her message through the powerful medium of gospel music.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
I’m a community girl. I’ve been playing locally in Montclair for a while. I remember one day in 2018, a friend of mine, Greg Pason, heavily involved in Make Music Day Montclair, saw me performing at a festival and really liked what he heard. He invited me to start performing for Make Music Day, and that’s how I learned about it.
How has your experience at Make Music Day been so far?
It’s been awesome. I just love how it brings the community together. Whenever I perform, I love to create a safe space and unity. We get to listen to music together, and it’s a beautiful exchange that I get to share at Make Music Day.
How did you start making music?
I was a very little girl when I started writing music. I was about nine years old when I wrote my first song. My mom was a singer in church, and my dad was a music appreciator; he was quite the performer. It’s like their love for music blended into mine. I come from an Afro-Latina background, so I was very open to many different kinds of music. I’ve always loved music growing up. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I picked up the guitar at fifteen, was self-taught, and just didn’t put it down after that.
What genres do you enjoy playing? I believe you’re more into gospel music, is that correct?
That’s correct. My father passed in 2018, and I was shut down creatively and in general. Originally, I was really heavy into pop and alternative pop; I still do it, but the way the Lord brought me back through music is just… music is so beautiful and powerful, and there is a beautiful connection that you can get through it. I had pushed everything away, but through 2019 and 2020, God was bringing me back in, and since then, I’ve literally been pouring out songs of prayers. All I can do is thank God that I’m still here.
In your concerts, do you mostly do originals? Do you also like to perform covers?
I do mostly originals, but I also like to fuse it with covers. I like to free flow, and I’m all about crowd engagement and bringing the crowd in like we’re performing together. We’re together; our energy is together, and our energy is one. It’s a beautiful reminder in that space that, even if we’re different on the outside, we’re still so similar on the inside. It’s important to remember that.
Are you doing music full-time at the moment?
My goal is to make it full-time definitely. Now, I also work with children. I’m a paraprofessional, and I help students with special needs. It’s been a blessing to work with the children; I’ve learned so much, and they inspire me every single day. I’ve grown so much as a person just by working with them, and also as an artist. Kids remind you to really let go and be yourself, and that’s what I always try to bring to the stage.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is my best friend. Music has been there when I haven’t been there for myself. I’ve been able to remember that I’m not alone when I can listen to a song and relate to someone else going through my struggles. Sometimes, as a human being, you get caught up feeling like “I’m the only one going through this,” but the reality is that we’re all going through it in different ways. Music reminds you you’re not alone; that’s why I love it.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to really bring everybody together. It may seem crazy to some people, but I do think it’s possible. I think peace on this Earth is possible through love, music, unity, kindness, people bringing who they are to the table, and leading with peace. I really think we could come together and make this world a better place.
May 30, 2024
Champions: Sandra Kluge, Exploring the Beat of Tap Percussion
In this interview, we talk with Sandra Kluge, a talented tap percussionist and composer from Brooklyn, New York. Sandra shares her experiences participating in Make Music Day events since 2019, her unique journey mastering tap music production through experimentation, and her deep connection to music as a means of self-expression and connection with others. She’s been on a long journey, and currently, she has two singles released, called Misty Rose and Clementine, which showcase her musical skill.
How has your experience been at the Make Music Day events?
I participated in Make Music Day events in 2022 and I believe in 2019 as well. It was great. It’s a really awesome way to play in spaces that don’t usually host live performances and live music. I got to play at a coworking space, at a community garden, and at a crepe place. It’s really awesome for businesses to open their doors to host live music.
How did you start making music?
I come from a family of musicians. I’ve been making music in some way, probably my entire life. My first instrument was the clarinet, and when I was ten, I started learning tap from my mom. I felt inspired to check it out and ended up being really connected to the art form. I’ve always felt connected to the music aspect of it, so slowly over time, I really just honed in on treating tap as a musical instrument. This led me to write my own music, perform it live, and handle recording and production. I kind of organically got into it. Now I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.
You have two great singles streaming on Spotify. How was your experience doing those?
Really great. Recording my own music in which tap is the only percussive instrument is the most fulfilling creative thing that I’ve ever done in my life so far. With recorded music, I’m inspired by its accessibility. Because if you want to see a regular tap performance, you either have to go on YouTube and search for a video, or make time to go to a live performance. Recorded music can be easily streamed or purchased, so it’s so much more accessible for people’s day-to-day lives. Just as everyone has a personal soundtrack that resonates with their moods and experiences, I aspire to contribute to people’s lives in a similar way. I believe the soundtracks of my own life have been influential and helpful in navigating various situations. Being able to provide that for others is incredibly gratifying.
How was the experience of actually recording the tap? I imagine it’s different from the recording of ordinary percussion instruments.
It’s actually really interesting. I’ve been learning a lot during this whole process. There is no default way to produce, record, and mix tap, so it’s about learning by doing. It involves a lot of experimentation. When you record a drum set, you can mic each drum separately and hone in on the different frequency strums. But with tap, it’s like you basically have all the frequencies on one drum. That’s the main challenge, I’d say. How do I bring out all the little nuances that I want to hear? Sometimes, it’s frustrating because I want things to sound a certain way, and I find myself running up against some challenges. But the journey is great. I’m learning a lot. Just the act of recording and really listening back to what I do has been so helpful.
Do you think you get to actually capture what you want to hear in your taps in the recording?
Yes, I think so. There’s always room for improvement. As I grow and refine my setup and my gear to record it, it’s coming closer to what I hear. It’s already definitely on track for me.
What artists inspire you in your music creation?
Lots of different ones. I grew up within the jazz framework, all the greats. There are great jazz piano players; I love Oscar Peterson. All these masters of the craft, jazz vocalists. That’s kind of the foundation of what inspired me and influenced me; it’s the sensibility of all these artists. These days, on top of that, I’m very inspired by any artist who bridges the gap between making music that is both meditative and really hones in on very clear patterns and develops them over a long time, while still being groovy and having that balance. So, some of the specific artists that I’m influenced by right now are Sam Gandel from LA, and Sam Wilkes from LA because they’re doing exactly that, among a bunch of others.
What genres do you enjoy playing? Is it only jazz music?
What I play is kind of hard to put into a genre. When trying to explain my music to people, I’d put it into words as jazz-based, alternative R&B, or something like that. I’d ultimately say alternative jazz.
Do you mainly play your original songs in your presentations?
Yes, I pretty much exclusively play my originals. I have such a specific vision for how the tap fits into the music; it makes more sense to play my own music for that.
Are you a full-time musician?
Yes. Well, my day job is teaching tap. Other than that, I’ll be performing, working on projects, creating, and making music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music to me means a space that allows me to feel whatever I’m feeling in the moment, and to connect with that feeling in a way that makes me feel connected to something bigger. Whether I’m listening to music or if I’m playing music, I know I’m not the only person feeling this way. Music is the perfect level of abstraction where we don’t have to explain what it does to us; we feel it. Even if I play just one chord, this one chord might evoke a really specific feeling. For me, that’s the power of music.
Finally, what would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to forge ahead on the path of tap percussion, continuing to record music, and release more songs, and full albums. I’d love to collaborate with specific individuals to further develop tap percussion as an instrument. I want to just share and connect, and feel increasingly clear about my artistic voice and how I can connect with people in that way, whether through collaborative performances or engaging with audience members.
May 28, 2024
Champions: Kapono Wong, Hawai’i’s Ukulele Sensation
In this interview, we talk with Kapono Wong, a talented musician renowned for his exceptional ukulele skills and profound love for music. From an early age, inspired by the legendary Jake Shimabukuro, to his participation in Make Music Day events, Kapono shares his musical journey, inspirations, and dreams. Join us as we explore Kapono’s world of music and discover the joy he brings through his ukulele melodies.
When was the first time you played in a Make Music Day event?
I think the first time I attended a Make Music Day event was three years ago. I believe a friend of mine posted something about Make Music Hawai’i and how to sign up. So, I took the chance and got the opportunity to play at Windward Mall.
How was your experience that first time at Make Music Day?
I can’t recall the songs I played, but I do remember playing the ukulele at the back of my head for the very first time. I just went for it, I had a lot of fun. It was a great experience, I’d say.
How did you start making music?
I started playing the ukulele at the age of five. My parents actually made their kids take ukulele classes after our elementary school lessons. At that age, I wasn’t really into the ukulele. But, when I got into middle school, the ukulele was offered as an elective course. I took it, and that’s when I started to really enjoy playing it and get into it. That’s also when I first discovered Jake Shimabukuro and got inspired to play his most challenging songs.
When did you start taking it more seriously?
Definitely around high school junior-senior time, that’s when I started to play more and play in front of people. Before, I used to have terrible stage fright and couldn’t even play for my family’s birthday parties. Starting to feel more at ease and following Jake’s advice really helped me come out of my shell and perform more often.
What artists inspired you to start making music?
Definitely, Jake Shimabukuro was the first one. There is also Taimane Gardner and Brittni Paiva, two amazing ukulele artists. The majority of ukulele musicians really helped me get to where I am today. As of right now, I’m currently attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, and definitely, my professors and the super-talented musicians there really help me expand more. I’m honored to be part of them and have this opportunity.
What genres do you mainly enjoy playing?
I enjoy playing all kinds of genres, but if I were to pick, I’d say between pop and rock. I enjoy listening to Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, Carlos Santana, The Beatles, and Queen. I just love listening to all their music, arranging their songs, and then putting them in my own style to make them kind of my own.
In your live shows, do you play more covers or original music?
It’s mainly covers. I’m still working on creating and putting out my originals; it’s something I’m trying to put more focus on to get my music out there.
How has your time in Boston been, besides college? Have you been performing frequently?
I’ve been exploring Boston and getting to know the areas and my surroundings. Since it’s a bit challenging to land gigs here, I’ve taken to busking. At first, it was really nerve-wracking for me, since it’s a new city, a whole new environment. But I’m starting to get more comfortable with it.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is the universal language. You may not be able to speak other people’s languages, but you can connect to people through music. That’s the universal language of humans.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal is to inspire other people to have fun with music, whether it’s on the ukulele or any other instrument, just have fun with it. Music is my getaway. When I feel stressed or down, playing the ukulele and making music instantly changes my mindset and lifts my mood.
May 22, 2024
Champions: Nick Marziani, Embracing Jazz and Musical Exploration
In this interview, we talk with Nick Marziani, a versatile jazz musician from the bustling streets of Manhattan, NYC, known for his soulful saxophone melodies that resonate through the city’s vibrant jazz scene. Explore Nick’s musical odyssey, from his introduction to Make Music Day to his unwavering dedication to jazz and musical exploration. Join us as we delve into Nick’s influences, experiences, and his enduring passion for musical expression.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
Funny enough, there is this incredible pianist and vocalist I work with, Ethan Ostro, who works for Make Music Day. He’s the best. He told me what they do and invited my band to be part of it. We play sort of on the verge of smooth jazz and dance music, rough jazz, sort of a bunch of different things. He also told me that it’s a great way to build community and spread live concerts throughout the city. So, we decided to be part of it.
How was your experience at the Make Music Day events?
It was an incredible experience. I participated in Make Music Day last year, and I believe I played at the 70th Street Pier, where I had previously performed without realizing it. The team was super nice; whether they were artists themselves or not, they understood what we needed as artists and what we were trying to present to the audience. Additionally, speaking about the performing experience itself, it was awesome because so many people were there—people of all different ages, from little kids to older individuals. I believe, for many of them, it was their first time watching a live performance of jazz music, like smooth jazz. So it was cool to bring that to them.
How did you start making music?
Well, my parents forced me to take piano lessons as a kid, and I had no interest in doing that. So, I asked my mom if I could switch to playing the saxophone to avoid the piano, and she agreed. I was around ten years old at the time. Initially, I wanted to play the trumpet instead of the saxophone. However, one day, my mom played a Kenny G CD for me in the car, and I realized I wanted to play what he was playing—it sounded way cooler.
Do you only play the saxophone? Or do you also play other instruments?
I love playing other instruments as well. In fact, I still perform gigs on the clarinet and flute, both of which I learned during my school years. Currently, my primary instrument is the saxophone, but I still enjoy playing the clarinet and flute. I also occasionally play the keyboards.
At what point did you realize you wanted to do music for a living?
I think once I picked up the saxophone and started getting into jazz music and smooth jazz, I began with Kenny G, Gerald Albright, and Spyro Gyra. I listened to them on the radio, and that was really inspiring to me. I wanted to learn to play music like that on my instrument. After about a year of playing the saxophone, I realized I had found my instrument.
Apart from jazz, what other genres do you enjoy playing?
I’m a sucker for any old-school soul and R&B. I also like dance music, IDM, house, and all that kind of stuff. I’m super into playing that music with DJs; it’s a totally different experience, and it’s fun to see people dance to your playing. I also play a lot of funk and some Afrobeat stuff—kind of a mix of everything. Besides jazz, I think R&B, funk, and dance are the big three for me.
And what are some artists that inspire your playing nowadays?
Honestly, many of the same artists who inspired me when I first started playing the saxophone continue to inspire me today, such as David Sanborn, Grover Washington, and Eric Marienthal, among others. Other artists have had a profound impact on my playing as I got older, such as Michael Brecker and guitar players like Allan Holdsworth and Pat Metheny. I still listen to the saxophone players that I grew up with nowadays; they serve as my gold standard in terms of the vision I have for myself.
When did you begin pursuing music full-time?
It was probably when I got into high school that I knew I wanted to be a full-time musician. After school, I made the decision to pursue music full-time. So, from there, I charted my path through music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is everything to me. Most importantly, it’s therapeutic and healing. During any rough patch I’ve faced in my life, I feel like I’ve been able to deal with it more constructively because of music.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to produce the best records and concerts possible and to play to the best of my ability. I aim to do the best work I can, creating music that I’m genuinely proud of and that people can enjoy. Providing enjoyable music experiences is important to me, as long as I get to express my story through my music.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out in music?
Do what you like. Figure out the songs, instruments, and music styles you enjoy, and find people who share your musical interests. Many people pursue music because they feel pressured to do so, but it’s important to engage in music for your own enjoyment if you want it to become a lifelong passion. Find what you want to do and what you enjoy, and get as deep into that as possible.
May 10, 2024
Champions: Michelle Lambert, California’s Musical Powerhouse
In this interview, we talk with Michelle Lambert, a talented multi-instrumentalist from San Francisco, California. We’ll explore Michelle’s musical journey, from her start to where she is today. Michelle shares her experiences and thoughts on music, giving us a peek into her life as a full-time musician. She’s known for mixing pop and country music in her performances, bringing joy to audiences wherever she goes.
Can you tell us a bit about your experience at Make Music Day?
Last year, I participated in Make Music Day San Francisco, here in California. I was excited about being part of this global movement. I found out through social media that this event took place not only in the USA but around the world. It was a cool experience, and I really enjoyed it.
How did you start making music?
I started chasing my dreams as an artist about ten years ago. To take it back to the very beginning, I began classical violin in a very small town where I grew up. I followed my siblings and began playing classical violin using the Suzuki method with a sixteenth-size violin. Then, I had a really good teacher to keep me focused and inspired by. I began playing at around two years old. In this small town, there was not much to do, so if you got into something, it was really easy to stay focused. So, I got into violin, and shortly after, I did classical piano and singing, just kind of learning about music fundamentals. Then, as a kid, I fell in love with more popular music. Once I started to find my favorite artists, then I would start to try to write songs. By the time I was a teenager, all I wanted to do was be a professional artist, and singer-songwriter, travel, make music, and connect with the world in that way. I went to a music school in Boston, Berklee College of Music, where I earned my four-year degree. After graduating, I went to Nashville to make a living. The first year was very intimidating, but after that, I got a bunch of tours going on, I did a lot of work, and I was working most days as a musician while writing songs in the background. I was touring with all kinds of hip-hop bands, and country bands, I was doing the singer-songwriter nights, and playing the honky-tonks, I got to play in the Grand Ole Opry and the women’s NCAA Final Four with like 18000 people, which was very exciting and very fun. After about three and a half years in Nashville, I realized that although I was making a living as a musician, I wasn’t pursuing my dream of playing my own music and having my own show. So I stopped everything, moved to LA, recorded an album, performed up and down the West Coast, a little bit in the western states, then went to Colorado, made one of the music videos, got some time there, just touring a bit and doing a little bit more of songwriting. Then I moved to the East Coast and toured in the South Florida area for a while. I released a song called ‘My California,’ which went viral on the West Coast, particularly in California. I looked at that as an opportunity to take advantage of. So, I moved back to the Bay Area, which has been my home base for the last five or six years. I’ve been touring in this area. I’ll be doing more out-of-state touring, especially this year. That’s the journey in a nutshell. It’s a rollercoaster ride, and you’ve got to be ready for the ups and downs, but it’s fun. I feel very lucky to be able to chase a dream that keeps me alive.
You’ve been doing this full-time ever since you finished school. At what point in life did you say “I want to do this as a living”?
When I was a teenager, I think it all started when I played in a local band. I got involved because I played the fiddle, and it seemed interesting. We performed at various local shows, which, as a kid, I found very fun. Then I remember getting paid for the first time, and I realized you could make money doing this. It made me think that pursuing a music career could be a fun path to explore. I think that was the first time where I was just thinking about how to make this dream into reality and put it together and build that.
What genres do you enjoy playing?
I’d say the biggest genre I love is pop, but it’s a very big umbrella. I love artists from Ed Sheeran, to Shakira; I have a lot of favorites right now, such as Miley Cyrus, and Taylor Swift. There’s a lot of inspiring music out there, with many artists embracing their authentic selves, which is exciting to see. So, primarily, I’d say it’s pop. I also love some country artists, such as Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert. I always have the Devil Went Down In Georgia, Charlie Daniel’s song, in my set as well. I love Maroon 5, and some California music. I’d describe my style as an alt-pop country fusion.
In your presentations and concerts, do you usually play your own songs? Or do you also put on some covers?
I do a lot of originals. Typically at an artist show, I’ll do probably 80-90% originals. If it’s like a fair festival, I’m going to throw in some of my influences. It’s fun to make your own rendition of the songs and bring your version of them to life. So, I’d say it depends on the show, but there’s always a lot of originals in there, which is very important.
When you started, was it hard to get people to actually listen to your original music?
I was so shy in the beginning that I wouldn’t even mention it was my own music; I’d just include it. It’s funny because I think original music has always been my calling. I felt like I ran away from it for a long time, but it kept pulling me back until I realized I couldn’t ignore it. Then, I noticed that people responded to my music because I have a deeper emotional connection to those songs since they come from within me. I finally realized that this approach works, and I started sharing a little story about the songs, which helped connect with the audience in another way. It took me a while to become confident enough to share those pieces of information about my music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
I think the coolest thing about music is that it can change your feelings dramatically. It can make you feel better, it can make you feel sad, but in a way where you can work through those emotions. It’s incredible to consider the influence of both my own songs and those of others in creating such meaningful experiences and sharing them with others.
Finally, last question: What would you say your goal in music is?
I like to leave the future open; the sky is the limit. But I always believe that what unfolds before me is something I’m prepared for. I want to continue expanding on the path I’m on. As I mentioned, I view music as a calling, and I prefer not to make rigid five or ten-year plans. What if what I truly need comes along unexpectedly? It seems that every time I do make a plan, the opposite occurs, which often turns out to be exactly what I need. I’ll keep being genuine and putting out true music, true feelings, and being authentic. I believe that’s the best I can offer at all times.
May 7, 2024
Baby You in Wisconsin – Join the Choir!
We are thrilled to announce the world premiere of Baby You, a public art event where a massive 112-foot long hot air balloon in the shape of a sleeping newborn will be inflated and rise over Milwaukee on Make Music Day, accompanied by a new a cappella choral work by composer Michael Schachter, conducted by Lee Stovall.
As the sun sets in Milwaukee WI on Friday, June 21, hundreds of singers will gather in Veterans Park, on the shore of Lake Michigan, to perform the new composition, while behind them the balloon is inflated, takes shape, and begins its tethered ascent. The combined aural and visual experience invokes the shared humanity of all people. Everyone was a baby once: adorable, vulnerable and full of potential.
YOU are invited to sing in this one-of-a-kind chorus experience. No auditions are required and it is free to participate.