Now as soon as i herd Leigh on Myspace i instantly fell inlove with her music!
It was an honour for me to interview Leigh and i hope you love her music just as much as i do!
Your single 'Little Yellow' was recently released on 5th April. It's incredibly catchy and from what I've seen has had nothing but good reviews! Are you pleased with how it turned out?
I'm really pleased with it. Writing it was so much fun and playing it live we always had such a good reaction to it. The boys have done an excellent job in recording it (they took care of it all themselves, in house) and people seem to like it so there's not much more I could've asked for!
Your EP is titled 'Best Served With Tea and Biscuits', how did you come up with this as the title?
I Love Tea and biscuits, everything is better when served with them.
Is sitting down with some biscuits and a brew how you like to relax when you have time to yourself?
yes.
What's your favorite part about going on tour?
Our van: Big Bertha. There's nothing quite like getting in a bus with your friends and your gear and setting off to somewhere you've never been to play to people you don't know. Half Anxious and Half excited, you get a buzz from knowing you can never know what to expect.
Who are your biggest influences?
It would be such an easy answer to just say "everyone, i like all music". But I suppose the first songs I learnt when I started playing guitar were Dolly Parton, Devendra Banhart, The Pipettes and The Rolling Stones... But I have drawn influence from so many places. In terms of songwriting most of my influence comes from people going about their everyday lives... in which sense, anyone can be an influence.
What inspires you in your songwriting?
The mundane and ordinary, the new and exciting, love, hate and emotions and generally just life. Throw in some cartoons and milkshakes and we're there.
How would you describe your style?
bouncy indie-pop, to dance and sing along to. Little catchy pop songs - because anyone that says they don't like pop music is lying. Everyone needs something to just sit back and enjoy. Sunshine music :)
How long have you been interested in music?
My whole life. I'm from a family of big music lovers who have taken me to festivals since day dot. I owe them a lot :)
Out of all the songs you have recorded so far, is there one you are especially proud of?
I love Little Yellow because it was a real homegrown, DIY effort from myself and the 3 boys in the band - who turn out to be pretty swanky producers if I do say so myself.
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
I don't know! I would say Dolly, but I don't think it would work, i'm a bit too Portsmouth and she's a bit too Texas for a track to make sense... I think i'd have to say, maybe, Ben Folds? That would be amazing. Or The Postal Service, if they'd have me!
If you had any advise for someone who wanted to be a musician what would it be?
My best tip would be to start playng open-mic nights at local pubs etc. If it hadn't been for my local one I wouldn't even be playing now. They showed me so much support and introduced me to so many wonderful and helpful people.
What are your goals for the future?
Realistic or other? To have Mick Jagger on speed dial and do lunch with Katy Perry. Anywhere inbetween what we're doing now and that will suffice! I'm having a great time so i'm happy to keep on keeping on. If in the mean time I could trick my kitten into liking me as well, i'd be chuffed to bits :)
Favorite Quote?
"You Don't Make Friends With Salad" - Homer Simpson
CHECK OUT LEIGH ON MYSPACE:
http://www.myspace.com/leighstokesmusic
And Check out her site!
http://www.leighmarystokes.co.uk/
Her single 'Little Yellow' is out on itunes NOW so go and get it!
Tuesday 18 May 2010
INTERVIEW! - Cassie Correlle
We got to interview the amazing Cassie Correlle!
Here's what she had to say :D
How did you get into performing?
I began playing guitar and writing songs in 8th grade, then played a few performances in high school but didn't get enough courage to play bigger shows until college! The girls on my dorm floor my freshman year at WSU encouraged me to play my first open mic, and it became an addiction to have people hear my music! I haven't stopped playing shows since then.
What inspires you in your songwriting?
Boys that break my heart! Or, girls that make me angry. And occasionally, when a nice boy comes along, I write a happy song.
Who are your biggest influences?
My ex boyfriend, my friends and their exciting lives, and random people I meet! Also new songs I hear inspire me to venture out into new aspects of writing, and try something new.
What is your favorite thing about being a musician?
I love being on stage with my guitar and sharing my view of the world with other people. I love having people relate to my songs, and tell me, "wow, that song was made to fit my life perfectly". When I was younger, I was always searching for songs and lyrics that displayed how I felt, and then one day I thought, "instead of looking for a song that fits my life, why not make one?"
How would you describe your style?
Definitely sassy! I have a lot of attitude and i like writing songs that say exactly how it is. I make it very obvious if you've angered me in any way. When I started writing songs, country is just what came out. Some things are just meant to be.
What is your favorite song to perform?
My favorite song to perform is any song that the audience requests. Because you just make them so happy and that's such great feedback when you're on stage and everyone is singing along.
Who would be your dream band/artist to open up for?
Miranda Lambert!!! She is my favorite. Or Miley Cyrus - I saw her in concert, and she is so much fun on stage and has so much energy.
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Again, Miranda Lambert. She has a lot of attitude in her songs, and I feel like we could write the best sassy boy-hating song ever.
What is your favorite store to shop at?
I love vintage stores and thrift stores to be honest. It's like finding treasure because no one else has the things you buy! It's always one of a kind and I love that. You never know where that item of clothing or shoe has been before you and that's kind of exciting - like you're taking them on a new adventure!
What are your goals for the future?
To keep playing music and reach as many people as humanely possible.
Favorite Quote?
I have a few! The higher the hair, the closer to God. and the tattoo I have on my wrist, Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven"
Anything else you would like to say?
Random fact: I go through a can of hairspray every 2 weeks :)
CHECK OUT CASSIE ON MYSPACE:
http://www.myspace.com/cassiecorrellemusic
Here's what she had to say :D
How did you get into performing?
I began playing guitar and writing songs in 8th grade, then played a few performances in high school but didn't get enough courage to play bigger shows until college! The girls on my dorm floor my freshman year at WSU encouraged me to play my first open mic, and it became an addiction to have people hear my music! I haven't stopped playing shows since then.
What inspires you in your songwriting?
Boys that break my heart! Or, girls that make me angry. And occasionally, when a nice boy comes along, I write a happy song.
Who are your biggest influences?
My ex boyfriend, my friends and their exciting lives, and random people I meet! Also new songs I hear inspire me to venture out into new aspects of writing, and try something new.
What is your favorite thing about being a musician?
I love being on stage with my guitar and sharing my view of the world with other people. I love having people relate to my songs, and tell me, "wow, that song was made to fit my life perfectly". When I was younger, I was always searching for songs and lyrics that displayed how I felt, and then one day I thought, "instead of looking for a song that fits my life, why not make one?"
How would you describe your style?
Definitely sassy! I have a lot of attitude and i like writing songs that say exactly how it is. I make it very obvious if you've angered me in any way. When I started writing songs, country is just what came out. Some things are just meant to be.
What is your favorite song to perform?
My favorite song to perform is any song that the audience requests. Because you just make them so happy and that's such great feedback when you're on stage and everyone is singing along.
Who would be your dream band/artist to open up for?
Miranda Lambert!!! She is my favorite. Or Miley Cyrus - I saw her in concert, and she is so much fun on stage and has so much energy.
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Again, Miranda Lambert. She has a lot of attitude in her songs, and I feel like we could write the best sassy boy-hating song ever.
What is your favorite store to shop at?
I love vintage stores and thrift stores to be honest. It's like finding treasure because no one else has the things you buy! It's always one of a kind and I love that. You never know where that item of clothing or shoe has been before you and that's kind of exciting - like you're taking them on a new adventure!
What are your goals for the future?
To keep playing music and reach as many people as humanely possible.
Favorite Quote?
I have a few! The higher the hair, the closer to God. and the tattoo I have on my wrist, Ecclesiastes 3:1 - "to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven"
Anything else you would like to say?
Random fact: I go through a can of hairspray every 2 weeks :)
CHECK OUT CASSIE ON MYSPACE:
http://www.myspace.com/cassiecorrellemusic
Thursday 6 May 2010
INTERVIEW! - Emily Grace
So as well as touring with Demi Lovato you are also a member of the Ballas Hough Band!
Did you ever think that you would accomplish such big things when you were growing up?
I always wanted to perform growing up, but I never expected to be in LA doing what I am, and having achieved so much. It's been a crazy couple of years, sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe I'm really here!
At what age did you start singing?
I didn't start singing until I was about 13, although I'd always been a music geek. I played piano from the age of 3, and flute and violin from 8. Music was always around me and a huge part of my life so I guess singing was just a natural next step.
What is your favorite part about being on tour?
There's so many things I love about tour! If I had to pick one I'd say performing for the fans and meeting them. Really being able to talk to them and connect.
What is your favorite song of Demi’s to Perform?
It's always changing, I love Solo, but Get Back was so fun because we were all just running around like crazies rocking out!
What is your favorite BHB song to Perform?
Longing For and Fall. Fall is fun and fierce, and I loved the synth parts. Longing For is a beautiful ballad and I loved singing it, and the piano part was beautiful.
If you could be on any TV show which would it have to be?
Glee!!!! I love that show!
Who inspires your fashion? and what is your favorite store to shop at?
Hmm.. I just kind of wear what I want! Sometimes I wake up and want to so something crazy and different so i'll pick out something super rocker or really British, and sometimes I just throw and jeans and T! One of my favorite stores is Forever21, and definitely TopShop in the UK and New York.
Whats your favorite outfit in your wardrobe right now?
Hmmm... A big crazy black skirt and a neon shirt. Sometimes I like being a bit out there!!
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My mum and dad!! They're so sweet together, they're so in love after 33 years.
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Marilyn Monroe, that would be amazing!!!
If you had any advise for someone who wanted to be a musician what would it be?
Practise. All the time. Dream big, work hard. But keep your priorities in order, music as a career and quickly take over your life. As important as it is to you, and as much effort and time that you need to put into it, never forget tour family and friends. I always make sure my three Fs come first. Faith, Family, Friends. My career is a huge part of my life, but I wouldn't be me without those things.
What are your goals for the future?
I'd love a solo record deal, to record another album and get that out there. I want to use my music to inspire and ignite self confidence in young people.
Favorite Quote?
I don't mind living in a man's world as long as I can be a woman in it - Marilyn Monroe
Make sure to follow Emily on twitter! :D
http://twitter.com/emilygraceUK
And add her on myspace!
http://www.myspace.com/amazingmissgracemusic
Did you ever think that you would accomplish such big things when you were growing up?
I always wanted to perform growing up, but I never expected to be in LA doing what I am, and having achieved so much. It's been a crazy couple of years, sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe I'm really here!
At what age did you start singing?
I didn't start singing until I was about 13, although I'd always been a music geek. I played piano from the age of 3, and flute and violin from 8. Music was always around me and a huge part of my life so I guess singing was just a natural next step.
What is your favorite part about being on tour?
There's so many things I love about tour! If I had to pick one I'd say performing for the fans and meeting them. Really being able to talk to them and connect.
What is your favorite song of Demi’s to Perform?
It's always changing, I love Solo, but Get Back was so fun because we were all just running around like crazies rocking out!
What is your favorite BHB song to Perform?
Longing For and Fall. Fall is fun and fierce, and I loved the synth parts. Longing For is a beautiful ballad and I loved singing it, and the piano part was beautiful.
If you could be on any TV show which would it have to be?
Glee!!!! I love that show!
Who inspires your fashion? and what is your favorite store to shop at?
Hmm.. I just kind of wear what I want! Sometimes I wake up and want to so something crazy and different so i'll pick out something super rocker or really British, and sometimes I just throw and jeans and T! One of my favorite stores is Forever21, and definitely TopShop in the UK and New York.
Whats your favorite outfit in your wardrobe right now?
Hmmm... A big crazy black skirt and a neon shirt. Sometimes I like being a bit out there!!
Who is your biggest inspiration?
My mum and dad!! They're so sweet together, they're so in love after 33 years.
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Marilyn Monroe, that would be amazing!!!
If you had any advise for someone who wanted to be a musician what would it be?
Practise. All the time. Dream big, work hard. But keep your priorities in order, music as a career and quickly take over your life. As important as it is to you, and as much effort and time that you need to put into it, never forget tour family and friends. I always make sure my three Fs come first. Faith, Family, Friends. My career is a huge part of my life, but I wouldn't be me without those things.
What are your goals for the future?
I'd love a solo record deal, to record another album and get that out there. I want to use my music to inspire and ignite self confidence in young people.
Favorite Quote?
I don't mind living in a man's world as long as I can be a woman in it - Marilyn Monroe
Make sure to follow Emily on twitter! :D
http://twitter.com/emilygraceUK
And add her on myspace!
http://www.myspace.com/amazingmissgracemusic
Monday 3 May 2010
FREEBIES! - 50 Days Of Disney Music
From Monday 3rd May, Walt Disney Records are giving away a free track download every day for fifty days! Songs in the giveaway will include classics from: Disney animated movies (Aladdin, Beauty And The Beast and Toy Story) and hit Disney Channel series and movies (Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and Wizards Of Waverly Place)!
How do you get your free downloads? Simple - just follow Disney Music on Facebook or Twitter
The full tracklisting is top secret so remember to check back each day, to make sure you don't miss out!
Twitter: http://twitter.com/disneymusic
Sunday 2 May 2010
INTERVIEW! - Brian Mackey
According to his Myspace Brain 'in his own words, a manic romantic, says, .."He's in love with the idea of love." Every long winding search of dead ends, broken relationships and struggles could make it ..easy for someone to just give up. But Brian shows "all of us".'
I got to interview the amazing Brian Mackey! And here is what he had to say!
You have 2 EP's on itunes (‘Brian Mackey EP 2009’ and ‘Feng Shui for Slobs’) Is there one song from both of them which you are most proud of?
Brian Mackey RED EP 2009: I am the most proud of Patty Brown.
Feng Shui for Slobs: I'm the most proud of Painted Red
When did you know that singing was something you wanted to do?
Ever since age 5 when I couldn't stop singing everywhere, in class, in the bathtub, in my sleep...
What inspires you in your songwriting?
Love, or the lack there of, a pretty face, another song, really anything can set it off at anytime.
Who are your biggest influences?
I noticed a lot of people always say the Beatles are one of their influences. I would agree with that notion, but also a lot of classical music without words. There are just so many great bands and artists, that it's really hard to narrow in on specifics, but I really like Freddy Johnston.
What is your favorite thing about being a musician?
The freedom it gives me to say how I feel, the feeling it gives me to create, to perform for an audience, it's a religious experience.
How would you describe your style?
Good question.. I always thought it was better if someone else told me what I sounded like, rather than who I thought I was supposed to be, but I think it would be alt rock indie, if that makes any sense :)
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Hmm.. well, if I were to sing with somebody dead, it would be a solo performance... but if they were alive, Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Jim Morrisson, Janis Joplin,
Alive... Jewel, Sara Bareilles, Colbie Callait
Out of all the things you have accomplished, which are you most proud of?
Well, true story... the other day I bought a raft and rowed up the Hudson River, big boats were all around me, one honked their horn and almost scared me into the water. I made it back in one piece to do this interview, so I'm pretty proud of that :)
What are your goals for the future?
To write a song that I'm completely happy with, if that's possible...
Favorite Quote?
Never give up, because quitters have nothing to give...
Anything else you would like to say?
I would like to thank you for taking the time out for compiling this interview, Hannah ;)
Make sure to check Brian's music out on MySpace!
http://www.myspace.com/brimackey
And also follow him on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/brianmackeynyc
I got to interview the amazing Brian Mackey! And here is what he had to say!
You have 2 EP's on itunes (‘Brian Mackey EP 2009’ and ‘Feng Shui for Slobs’) Is there one song from both of them which you are most proud of?
Brian Mackey RED EP 2009: I am the most proud of Patty Brown.
Feng Shui for Slobs: I'm the most proud of Painted Red
When did you know that singing was something you wanted to do?
Ever since age 5 when I couldn't stop singing everywhere, in class, in the bathtub, in my sleep...
What inspires you in your songwriting?
Love, or the lack there of, a pretty face, another song, really anything can set it off at anytime.
Who are your biggest influences?
I noticed a lot of people always say the Beatles are one of their influences. I would agree with that notion, but also a lot of classical music without words. There are just so many great bands and artists, that it's really hard to narrow in on specifics, but I really like Freddy Johnston.
What is your favorite thing about being a musician?
The freedom it gives me to say how I feel, the feeling it gives me to create, to perform for an audience, it's a religious experience.
How would you describe your style?
Good question.. I always thought it was better if someone else told me what I sounded like, rather than who I thought I was supposed to be, but I think it would be alt rock indie, if that makes any sense :)
If you could duet with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Hmm.. well, if I were to sing with somebody dead, it would be a solo performance... but if they were alive, Elvis Presley, John Lennon, Michael Jackson, Jim Morrisson, Janis Joplin,
Alive... Jewel, Sara Bareilles, Colbie Callait
Out of all the things you have accomplished, which are you most proud of?
Well, true story... the other day I bought a raft and rowed up the Hudson River, big boats were all around me, one honked their horn and almost scared me into the water. I made it back in one piece to do this interview, so I'm pretty proud of that :)
What are your goals for the future?
To write a song that I'm completely happy with, if that's possible...
Favorite Quote?
Never give up, because quitters have nothing to give...
Anything else you would like to say?
I would like to thank you for taking the time out for compiling this interview, Hannah ;)
Make sure to check Brian's music out on MySpace!
http://www.myspace.com/brimackey
And also follow him on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/brianmackeynyc
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