Q. At what age did you realize you wanted to become a music artist and why?
Pretty early on. I’ve grown up with music because my dad played the guitar. For a while he was even in a band. I started singing when I was around 4, and things have just fallen into place since then. I’ve always known I was going to end up going into music, I just never would have thought I’d be writing my own. Playing in a symphony orchestra or singing in an opera was a much more realistic goal a few years ago.
Q. Most music artists have that special someone or thing that influenced their decision to do music. Did anyone or something in your life play a major role in influencing you to go into the music business?
Oh, definitely! Like I said, my dad played the guitar. Some of my earliest memories include him singing me to sleep or telling me stories of when he was in his own band and how he used to play at all these really awesome venues.
Q. In terms of the music, which major artist(s) influenced your style and why?
Uh oh. Haha, this is such a hard question! Without a doubt, the Beatles, but I also believe that everything that’s ever gone into my ears has influenced me in some subconscious way. I also really like Joanna Newsom and Bob Dylan. The Beatles are revolutionary rock icons. How can you not be influenced by them?
Q. With so many independent artists trying to make it, what makes you stand out from the competition?
I won’t tolerate being anyone other than myself. I think a lot of new music is more about fitting into certain genres than just being yourself and writing what you feel.
Q. Music industry professionals are quick to say that being an artist means to gracefully fit a marketable niche in the industry. If you were offered an opportunity that asked you to be something you are not, would you do it to get your foot in the door?
Refer to question above.
Q. Making music is one thing, selling it is another. What types of strategies do you use in promoting your artistic work and getting it heard by the proper professionals?
I don’t need my music to be heard by the “proper professionals”. If I get signed, then I get signed. I’m perfectly content right now playing local coffeehouses and getting coverage by local newspapers.
Q. In regards to wheeling and dealing, how important do you feel business knowledge is to making it in an industry filled with much heartache?
I think if you’re only in it to become famous, then playing the music business game is essential. For any other artist writing from the heart, I think you do need to know a little bit of the business aspect. You don’t want to sign a contract giving up all your rights to your work, although that might just be common sense.
Q. Let's fast forward to 5 years from now. What advice would you offer to struggling independent artists?
Play what you want. Don’t let anyone tell you differently.
Q. Most successful artists are involved in charitable organizations that stand for a cause that hits close to home. In that regard, once you reach success, what charitable cause(s) would you like to be involved in and why?
I’m already involved in charitable causes. You don’t have to be rich to donate time. For the past few years I’ve been involved with the Relay for Life cancer walks and I’m also an avid supporter of PETA. My dad died of leukemia and I think that scientists can use all the help and support they can get to cure cancer.
Well, we thank you for taking the time to interview with us and certainly wish you the best in your music career endeavors. There you have it ladies and gentlemen, an inside look into the mind of an independent artist struggling to bring their hard work to fruition in an industry where perseverance and thick skin means survival. No one said it would be easy.
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