"The Beat!" has the very best artists speaking to us exclusively like; Eric Alán, Cristobal, Ryan Adames, Deirdre, Guy Scheiman, Richie Arci, Eddy Barrena, Darren Cinque, Jesse Johnson, Max Merseny, Breaux Gargano, Sean O’Reilly, Luca Savazzi, Alex Serra, and MORE!
Rick Astley - that is right one of my all time favorite singers whom I have loved since growing-up is hitting the stage in a big way in 2017! Rick Astley has been very busy with his new album release this year entitled; "50" which landed him on top of Billboard Charts after a 23 year hiatus. Rick has performed in 2016 already to sold-out audiences in Europe and in the United States/Canada.
2017, is going to keep Rick Astley continually busy with his full out tour in support of his well received and chart topping album; 50. Dates have already been confirmed in the UK along with the United States which I am very happy to announce. I have never had the pleasure to see this singer live but finally will be soon! Check-out below for some great live performances from Rick Astley along with his announced tour dates for 2017!
Leslie Odom Jr. - this Broadway star known for his role as Aaron Burr in his Tony & Grammy award winning performance in "Hamilton." We all had the pleasure to enjoy his first self-titled album released in 2014 which was pure jazz sophistication. This time Leslie releases his first holiday album entitled; "Simply Christmas"
"Simply Christmas" is full of lush and sentimental holiday classics such as; “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “The Christmas Song,” “First Noel”and many others. Each I have found to be stellar between the arrangement and of course Leslie's vocals are perfect. I dare say this is one of the best Christmas albums to be released this year and deserves to be in your collection.
Keith Harkin - the well known Irish singer has released his first solo Christmas album entitled; Nollaig (nollaig is Gaelic for Christmas). Keith decided to take a different road with his holiday album then the typical tunes, he has done many original songs and then decided upon different arrangements for the songs well know and love.
This album was released by Blue Elan records whom also earlier this year produced Keith's album; "On Mercy Street." Keith is going on the road in the USA to do intimate performances. I have to say Keith's Christmas album is superb and plays to the world we live in and enjoy, a perfect album for any fan or someone whom loves great music!
Marie Osmond - releases her first country album this year titled; "Music Is Medicine." The last time Marie released a country album was her "Steppin' Stones" in 1989. It has been twenty-six years since her last country album to her current and it is about time!
A lot in Marie's life has changed since her last album, dealing with depression, suicide of her son, divorce and re-marriage to her first husband. That is a lot for anyone person to deal with and Marie comes out of it stronger and her music being released and being #10 it's first week, now that is great! That tells me there are plenty of HUGE fans of Marie Osmond whom were also waiting for what seemed forever new material.
"Music Is Medicine" lent Marie to collaborate with very noteworthy singers such as Olivia Newton-John, Sisqo, John Rich and others. The album is not a compilation of re-imagined songs of either her old material or others, it is actually the opposite. "Music Is Medicine" allowed Marie to experiment with a new producer and have a fresh sound. I highly suggest to buy this album for you and a loved one whom will love it. Welcome back Marie Osmond to your hot country music career!
To top it all off, Marie during this holiday season is touring with her brother Donny Osmond to do a very outstanding holiday tour, that is a not miss!
Darlene Love - this is one singer that is a permanent fixture to the best Christmas music! When you are looking for inspirational songs to get your feet tapping and to sing out loud no matter where you are is Darlene Love! For a quick education on Darlene Love, this is one singer that has no simply appeared on the scene recently. It is rather the opposite where Darlene has been in the recording industry since the 1960s to current. She has at her beginning worked with someone whom provided a terrific medium for her music though took advantage of the situation. Utilizing Darlene's vocals for not her own material but for other girl groups with no acknowledgement which lent itself to missed opportunities financially and more. Darlene was kept from soaring and finally we have the singer at her best today!
Today, Darlene has won an Academy Award in 2014 for her major appearance in the critically acclaimed documentary; 20 Feet From Stardom. From there Darlene has received an award from the "Rock & Roll Hall of Fame" in 2011 and has toured constantly with new material and performed for years on David Letterman singing her huge Christmas hit; "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)."
Great news, that during this holiday season she is coming out to a city near you bringing her seasonal charm and tunes!
Robby Johnson - this hot country singer whom hails from Canada is taking over the airwaves and everyone's attention. Robby has toured in Canada as one of the opening acts for Keith Urban and even has Vince Gill lending his vocals to his new album.
The album entitled; Don't Look Back is out now and has received great reception from radio and fans all over. Robby Johnson is a star on the rise whom took truly wanted his first full length album to be filled with hits rather than many fillers.
Robby's current smash single and music video is; Together. Together is a very emotionally charged song with it's lyrics and visual within the music video. It truly talks about no matter the heartbreaks a couple is going through they truly want to be together forever. That by being together both can get through the hardest times such as addictions and being in another country fighting in war but have support always. Robby is someone that here at The Beat! we will be following and know that you as the readers will feel and do the same.
It is our 3rd Annual; "Best of Holiday Music!" The Beat! goes over countless brand new released Christmas material to choose the Top 7 that are a "must have" for this time of year. I think for our 3rd annual we yet again did not disappoint with delivering a lovely array of musicians, enjoy!
Matt Dusk:Old School Yule! Garth Brooks & Trisha Yearwood: Christmas Together Loretta Lynn: White Christmas Blue Brett Eldridge: Glow Jordan Smith: 'Tis The Season Damian McGinty:This Christmas Time Kacey Musgraves: A Very Kacey Christmas
*All albums are available now at the artist's website along with Amazon, iTunes and more!!*
Sharon Jones - the fiery soul singer passed away at the age of 60 on Friday, November 18th. This dynamic performer past away with a very public battle of pancreatic cancer which was first diagnosed in 2013. Sharon had her gallbladder, the head of her pancreas and 18 inches of her small intestine removed due to the cancer which within nine months went into remission. Sadly, the cancer came back as stage four which she imparted to the media during her documentary red carpet premiere entitled; "Miss Sharon Jones!"
The documentary chronicles Sharon's life from her early career to recent health battles and still always rising to the top with her powerhouse vocals and emotionally charged songs. This lady of song introduced us to not only her wonderfully musical sty-lings but to her band, the Dap-Kings. Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings released six albums and always were at their best on stage live. No one ever left one of their concerts feeling cheated, it was always an invigorating musical journey that Sharon took everyone on. I personally adore how Sharon Jones made you feel into your own bones her stories of pain, tragedy and joy at the same core as herself. That in itself was a truly unique gift that not many musicians can ever deliver even once.
Please do yourself a favor and see the documentary and listen to her music which for all of us Sharon Jones will ALWAYS be "STILL HERE!"
From
his stage-stealing moments as a finalist in The X-Factor Australia, to
starring in the award-winning and critically-acclaimed theatrical
production of 'VIOLET'. Barry is now touring Australia in his second
consecutive musical, 'Hairspray: The Big Fat Arena Spectacular' - the
largest production of 'Hairspray' ever staged in the world.
An
accomplished singer and songwriter, Barry's single, 'Anywhere We
Go', is out digitally everywhere. The bold, moody track has an equally
fitting music video. This multifaceted talent is also an ambassador for 180 Nutrition, R U OK?, Cancer Council and Compassion Australia.
Needless
to say, I found Conrad while looking at others to take note of
globally, and he caught my attention right away. From his stage
presence, charisma and voice, to how his personality shines through,
it's easy to see that Barry Conrad possesses star quality in spades.
Barry,
first I want to say how greatly appreciated I am for you to take time
out of your busy schedule to do this exclusive interview with me for
'Let The Beat Hit You!'. It's also fantastic to note that you are
officially part of our 'Artist in Residence' for 2016.
Tell
me how life has been for you since being part of the whirlwind that was
The X Factor, being such a fan favorite and making it to the Top 12.
What was the experience like?
-
My pleasure, thanks for having me! X-Factor, wow. I always say it
was one of the best and hardest things to ever happen to me. Being
thrown into the deep end on live TV like that, it's really a sink or
swim type of situation. You're kind of forced to survive. I definitely
learned a lot, about the show element, and even more about myself.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time on the show, such as collaborating with a specific artist?
-
We had guests like Katy Perry, 1 Direction, Miguel and a bunch of
others, which was ace. I have a lot of amazing memories, but one of the
best would have to be when we got to go to New York for Home Visits.
NYC is my favorite city. And getting the good news that I'd made live
shows there was a moment for sure.
Since
appearing on The X-Factor, your career has truly gone into overdrive,
from touring, a fantastic single, and now two successful theatrical
productions. It truly is a great time to be where you are. What was
one milestone that you now can look back and say, “Wow, that was the
defining moment” (thus far)?
-
You know what, they're all milestones and all special. It's important
to me to not get swept up in everything where I forget to be present.
To realize I'm actually living in the middle of a milestone right now.
I'm very thankful.
The single we touched on, 'Anywhere We Go', really catches you instantly. What inspired you to write it?
- Art imitates life, life imitates art.
That's what they say, right? I wanted to write a love song with a bit
of danger to it. A bit darker. That was direct lyrically and bold
vocally. I'm really happy with it.
You're also an accomplished songwriter, what is your process for writing?
-
It depends. Sometimes I'll block out time to sit down and write, even
if I have zero ideas. Other times I could be out and about, working
out or even doing laundry, and get hit with a ton of inspiration. My
phone's full of sung voice memos. A lot of which aren't necessarily
crash-hot (haha). But some eventuate into songs.
Do you have any projects in the making that we can look forward to in the music arena?
-
I'm possibly the worst multitasker around, but I am writing and
recording new music in between touring at the moment. Music is
definitely coming.
Another
huge area for you as of late are your show-stopping performances in
theatrical delights such as your roles in 'VIOLET' and now 'Hairspray'.
What drew you to these particular projects?
-
I was pretty hesitant at first about musical theater. I've always had
a bunch of friends who did it and they'd be away on these long
contracts. Call it fear of commitment, but that scared me. These two
shows were too special to pass up though. Even though in Violet I
played a soldier in his late twenties and in Hairspray I play a
teenager, both shows are actually set in the 60's and deal with real
human issues like racism and equality. And they both leave the audience
walking away with hope.
Walk us through how you prepare for getting into character. What is your method of becoming each character?
-
I do my research on where they're from, what they're about and all
that. But then I also try and find qualities in them that I have within
me. Because that helps me to flesh out and humanize a character. It's
about doing the prep, but then letting it go and just being present.
Let’s
go to opening night. Where are you mentally the day-of and prior to
something like that? All actors have his or her method and it's
fascinating to learn their process before the curtain raises.
-
Lots of good sleep, ideally 8 hours. Then I'll set my mind for the
day and steam my voice before warming up. Will usually work out, have a
relaxing brunch, then make my way to the theater. I like to not feel
rushed on show days. Plan out my days, but execute them at a relaxed
pace.
Is
there talk of either production being available for purchase and/or to
view on television? I would think that both performances would be
perfection to see for fans.
- I don't think so, but that would be rad!
Once,
you make your final bows in both productions after their performance,
what is one thing you mentally take a picture of (or even actually do
take one of) that will be the long lasting memory of that evening and
experience?
- It's simple, but just the realization that I'm actually living out my dreams. It's cool.
I
am getting tired just thinking of the whirlwind of a year you have
had! What are some other projects musically, theatrically, acting in
either TV and or film that are on your horizon?
- There are a couple things, but you'll have to wait and see :p.
Now,
I am a huge fan though live a bit far in the United States, are there
any plans in the near future to come up and do perhaps some touring? I among-st many other fans would love to have you up here very soon to
bring your talent in perhaps both a theatrical production and a nice
cabaret show. I can see you perhaps also performing in the hit
production 'Hamilton'.
Are
there any current productions that you would love to have the
opportunity to star in? I am sure there are a ton that have peaked your
interests from Broadway, London, and all over the globe.
-
It's interesting you mentioned Hamilton, because that's a show I'd
definitely love to be part of. Who knows what could happen?
Is there something that you have as of yet conquered in your career that you still have as a “must"?
- A superhero movie is on the bucket list, for sure!
Walk
us through a typical day in the life of Barry Conrad, what are some
things you do to stay tip top shape both physically, mentally, and
vocally for your work?
-
Everyday is different. I'm a big believer in living in preparation,
so I have a few things I try and do that are non-negotiables. Everyday I'll start with setting my mind so that I'm as focused, centered and intentional about my day as possible. Work on my craft: vocal, accent, dance training, writing. And then working out, usually calisthenics.
I am sure you have people you admire, whom are a couple and why?
-
Too many to really mention here. I really admire anyone who makes the
most of what they have. That are excellent and successful at what they
do, but stay humble and treat people well. Good character is pretty
attractive to me.
I
know that you're also very passionate about the brands and organizations you're an ambassador for. Tell us what in particular
about them resonated with you? It is great to see that you are such a
compassionate person both in your personal and professional life.
-
I don't think I deserve a medal or anything for being an ambassador
for a brand or organization. I just think, if you have any kind of
platform, it's a shame to not use it for something greater than
yourself. If you're able to give voice to something you believe in,
that impacts society in a positive way, I'm all for that.
How would you describe Barry Conrad music?
- Creative, honest, soulful, universal.
Is
there anyone you would love to collaborate with musically? I can think
of some great singers that would be vocally perfection with you and I
am sure you do.
- Man, that list would go forever! Both old-school cats and current artists. I love so many artists from different genres.
Music and acting are both powerful tools. What do they mean to you as an artist?
- They're such incredible creative and emotional outlets. There's really nothing like it.
What was your first gig?
- Outside of school, a museum actually!
Are there any cover tracks that you would love to sing and why?
-
I'm such a music junkie and love covering songs. My latest cover is a
collaboration with a talented friend of mine, Marley Sola, on the song
'Dancing On My Own' (People can find it at barryconradofficial.com).
When people listen to and/or watch Barry Conrad, what do you want them to remember about you as a singer/actor?
- That I moved them.
Is there a dream venue that you would truly love to perform at and why?
- Madison Square Garden comes to mind. It's so iconic and a lot of my favorite artists have performed there.
Finally, what is one word that would be best to describe you?
MRF – the Boston based musician has been hailed
as one of the premier jazz artists of his generation. What is unique and makes
MRF shine is not fitting the typical mold rather he attacks it with attracting
a new class of listeners. I stumbled upon MRF’s (Mike Flanagan) music recently
and found that it spoke to me especially a track entitled; “Trying.” The
accompanied music video is heartfelt and the words inspiring and it is a
beautifully written and recorded song that speaks to all people/couple’s no
matter who they are. It is no surprise that he has garnered several OUTmusic
Awards along with having chart topping hits on both Billboard’s Heat Seekers
& iTunes Jazz Chart US.
MRF’s
previously released two albums; Elevator Music (2010) & Mob Music (2013)
with both getting critical acclaim and assuring his name as a mainstay as a
quintessential artist. The 3rd album which available now is
entitled; Yasko Sensei which is another home run and is reaffirmation that MRF
is here to stay and opposed to others releases material to be proud of rather
than churning it out as a factory with many fillers. A Performing/Recording
Artist, Saxophonist, Pianist, Songwriter/Producer, Composer/Arranger, Music
Director and Educator is one person to listen to and know!
MRF, let me first start this interview off by
saying how much of an incredible musician you are and an inspiration for many.
You release music that I can tell speaks from your heart and is very topical
which is conveyed to the listener. Thanks, once again for joining “The Beat!”
to become one of our “Artists In Residence” and taking time out of your busy
schedule to meet with me for this interview.
·All three albums you have released being; Elevator Music, Mob Music, and your brand new;
Yasko Sensei are all well received from both the fans and within the industry,
what is your thoughts as to the success of each?
I have to say, I wouldn’t have
gotten anywhere without my ‘village’. I am fortunate to have really incredible
and loving people in my life and they have rallied hard for my music. Elevator
Music was very much a first album but I learned a lot. Mob Music, to this day,
is my pride and joy. Yasko Sensei was the only way to truly attempsht to show
gratitude to the woman who showed me everything about music and artistry.
Throughout all three albums, I haveshown a lot of vulnerability, maybe even too much sometimes ;)
·Speaking of your albums let’s talk about your
brand new album; Yasko Sensei, tell us about the story behind the name and why
the choice of material on it?
Yasko changed my life with her artistry. She
is the reason I became an artist/musician from the time I was 15 and first
heard her, I have aimed to connect with music as well as the listener, at the
level she always did. She passed away in September 2015 after a long fight with
cancer. This album had to happen and we needed to make music together one last
time before she could no longer play. We recorded 3 tracks, and fortunately she
is on all 3 of my albums.
·You place a lot of effort when it comes to a
release of an album such as the material, the message being delivered,
recording sessions and more, in this day and age that artists have the need for
exposure 24/7 such as releasing a single a day all year, what drives you to
beat that mindset?
I have never been
able to mass-produce. It’s never felt right for me. Music is my outlet, so I’m
very cautious when I go to create. I try to keep audiences engaged with live
performances and keeping a presence on social media, but I make sure when I am
putting out a project I convey how important it is to me.
·MRF you inspire and are a role model for many,
personally why do you think this happens and do you agree or disagree with our
culture placing “role model” status to all people such as singers, actors,
athletes?
I absolutely have
artists that I consider my heroes, so as long as the person wants to use their
voice to inspire and spread awareness, I am all for it. When I have received
messages from people expressing that my work spoke to them, it makes every
challenge and struggle along the way to get that art made and released, that
much more worth-it.
·You have released such powerful and moving
singles such as; “Trying” “This Love” “Tender” “I Just Wanted” along with
covers such as; “What If God Was One Of Us” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” why
do you think these songs seem to hit listeners so much? You seem to release
singles that are exactly what the listener’s need at the time (such as what is
going on socially in the world etc), is this something that you look at or is
by pure coincidence?
I was staying true
to me throughout all of that music. The songs from Mob Music were very much
where I was at the time and I wanted to be honest about that. I think maybe
that authenticity is what allows people to relate to it.
Though, in the case of “What If God Was One Of
Us” and “I Can’t Make You Love Me”, those came about because we had
spontaneously performed those live and after experiencing those songs through
our filter, I knew we had to get them recorded.
·Being an openly gay artist, do you find that has
been a more difficult journey for your career and with how the industry dealt
with you?
Having to even consider how
pronouns will be received when writing about the person you love, is troubling.
That was something that always struck me. Back when I was writing Elevator
Music, it was very difficult not knowing how writing about love found/lost with
another man would even be received in the studio.
After that, from Mob Music on, I worked with
incredible people that were in the art with me 100%, no matter what decisions I
made. But things are very different now in many ways, and that’s a beautiful
thing
·What would you say to artists that are either
out or on the verge to about being within the music industry?
Now, I think
anyone can find a fan-base no matter what, you just have to put the work in. I
think the music industry is tough to break into and turn out a sustainable
career, no matter what. It’s a constant grind and often times you don’t know if
and when your milestones are going to happen.
·Do you find there are many stereotypes that
executives and labels try to still give to artists like yourself? How have you
rallied against it if it were not being true to yourself?
The minute you start to gain some traction,
people start knocking on your door, but often times with the intention of
putting their hand in the pot (which, if you’ve just put out an album, isn’t
filled with anything anyway. Haha) So, that gets interesting.
It is so essential to keep both your vocals in
the best condition along with yourself mentally/physically, how do you address
all of these areas?
I love meal plans
and geeking out on nutrition, especially to co-inside with training etc. For
me, omitting alcohol was a huge key to feeling at my best physically and energy
wise.
·Speaking of keeping yourself in the best
condition, what is a must when touring to have before hitting the stage?
I just need to
eat, especially if traveling/touring.
·What is one thing that you must have in your
house? You must have one item perhaps in the kitchen that you cannot do
without.
Clorox wipes. I
want to be the Clorox version of Mr. Clean when I grow up. I use them to clean
everything.
·Do you have any projects in the making that we
can look forward to in the music album arena?
My ace Rallye and
I are in the works of putting a new project out. Outside of that I have been
playing on other artists’ projects for now.
·I am getting tired just thinking of the
whirlwind of a year you are having! What are some other projects on your
horizon?
I am taking a
little break. I just got engaged and am moving to NY in June, so there’s a lot
happening, but there are still lots of upcoming performances and sideman
projects.
·Is there something that you have as of yet
conquered in your career that you still have as a “must?”
I am looking
forward to touring with more artists.
·Walk us through a typical day in the life of MRF,
what are some things you do to stay tip top shape both physically and mentally
for your work?
I cook breakfast
every morning (same thing every day, for the most part).
·I am sure you have people you admire, whom are a
couple and why?
Dixie Chicks,
Kendrick Lamar, Beyonce, artists that all showed America itself when it was
necessary to do so, despite whatever backlash.
·Is there anyone you would love to collaborate
with musically? I can think of some great singers that would be vocally
perfection with you and I am sure you do.
