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Tag: LifeBeyondTheMusic
Baltimore Multi-Genre Musician, DannyDosha, has taken his artistry for a turn through diving into his currently painful inner world throughout his beautifully mastered new single, “Kelsey 2”. In dedication and admiration of Cello player, Kelsey Lu, DannyDosha lyrically travels through a seemingly light lyrical tale that takes listeners through an emotive spin through a troubled personal predicament that ends with an abrupt and unexpected end to the track which solidifies his intention of final and total release. Slow and serene instrumentals compliment the earnest effort to overcome as they sound as though they were mixed to train the listener to take the time to absorb their own personal hardships and in due time, heal.
Having began to get his feet wet in the world of music at the ripe age of 9-years-old, DannyDosha stands out from the pact through his ability to cross between genres fluidly and tackle any battle that he is facing within throughout the process. Through a wide range of musical influences within his intermediate family, DannyDosha was able to expand his horizons and challenge himself to create a niche and sound that speaks for his unique spirit. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Frank Ocean, Kid Cudi and MGMT, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for DannyDosha on Soundcloud or Spotify.
DannyDosha Social Links:
Facebook • Twitter • YouTube Channel
New York Rocker, Paul Maged, has been developing a reputation for showcasing exactly how he feels both visually and artistically through his music and sustains our awareness of his rebellious nature throughout his latest music video and single release, “The Resistance”.
Politically charged and abounding with the showcase of our current reality that has stemmed from our crooked President in the states, Paul has created a music video that is a newsreel of highlights that are abounding with the cold hard facts of the government’s current despicable and unethical intentions and actions. The lyrical trajectory of “The Resistance” carries blasts of hope and influences listeners to push against their known while challenging themselves to go beyond what is perceived as acceptable both artistically and mentally. Rather than succumbing to the common societal standard of leading a brainwashed life abounding with commonalities that tend to cause strife, Paul Maged is a force and independent thinker that is able to sleep at night knowing that he is true to his core.
The final piece of Paul’s musical trilogy stemming from his two latest EP’s, ‘Light Years Away’ and ‘The Glass River’, is set to drop in 2019. Having grown tremendously as an artist over the past year, Paul is refining his style and creating a trademark of rebellion that is enlightening, refreshing and needed. If you’re a fan of mixture of fellow musicians such as Rage Against The Machine, Billy Joel and Billy Idol then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Paul Maged on Spotify.
Paul Maged Social Links:
Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Website
Canadian Pop Artist, Solaya Love, illuminates a mind in bloom throughout her cross-genre latest album release, ‘Illustrious’. Taking charge of her career in the world of music and making her rounds performing at festivals in Alberta, Solaya is on the verge of becoming no stranger to the spotlight. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts of ‘Illustrious’.
Kicking off with the first track, “Let It Go”, Solaya begins with a sultry instrumental that swiftly leads into her lyrical intention of freeing herself from an interpersonal connection that is no longer serving her personal growth. The second track, “I Like Music”, brings the summer feels into our December hearts as Solaya lyrically pours forward her desire to create memories with the apple of her eye in a simple yet impactful way that proves that she is mentally ahead of her days. “Never Waken” is the third track that is full of Pop bliss as Solaya’s soulful vocals plea for her need to come back down to earth with her lover and get back home from life on the road to candidly share her stories and feelings with an individual that she has developed a soul connection with. The fourth track, “Feels So Good”, takes the album for a turn into a bouncy instrumental that levels out as Solaya lyrically sheds light about her immense dedication toward another over mature lines that are abounding with romantic feelings.
“Pushing The Air” is the fifth track that is an album highlight that carries instrumental beats and elements akin to tracks by seasoned divas such as Chaka Khan and Tina Turner as Solaya feels the intensity of a soulfully entwined connection in the air and attempts to pursue it without a care. The sixth track, “All Or Nothing”, begins with a cross-genre blend of instrumental Jazz and World as listeners become enveloped in Solaya’s lyrical ode to the remarkable uplifting feeling that stems from true love. “All I Wanted” is the seventh track that showcases Solaya’s musical diversity as the songs feeling mimics the new-school vibes of Dua Lipa as Solaya lyrically attempts to overcome her ego and let things be with another just as they are. The eighth track, “Zen Up”, lyrically dials down to the simplicity of life and the overall intent is to showcase that true power is within vulnerability rather than passive aggressiveness that only costs a soul in the long run. “Space In Between” is the ninth track that is an EDM banger that will uplift any room as Solaya lyrically travels through her intuition to find out and be honest with herself about what means the most to her. The tenth track, “Sexy Silk”, is abounding with female empowerment as Solaya acknowledges her sex appeal and stands tall as a woman who knows her worth. Closing out with “Never Waken – Live Dance Mix”, Solaya adds a dash of mystery and Spanish flair into an open space that is inviting to the vulnerable human being that is willing to let down their guard and let another in.
‘Illustrious’ is an album full of feel good hits from start to finish. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Dua Lipa, Ellie Goulding and Billie Eilish, then keep an eye out for the ride ahead for Solaya Love on Soundcloud.
Solaya Love Social Links:
Facebook • Website • YouTube Channel
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Interview: Whitney Tai
Cosmic Lovechild, Whitney Tai, has an uncanny way of lyrical storytelling in a metaphorically rich way that is captivating to the open soul. Having created a road of her own with her band of brothers that enhance her electric live shows, Whitney and the guys create a space full of Dream Pop wonder. I caught up with Whitney Tai Bassist, Christian Rivera, to discuss his creative collision with Whitney, finding peace in driving while on the road, music being the core of his life and much more.
Tell us about your experience of meeting Whitney and how you two connected to in turn desire to play music together.
It’s actually quite funny: I went and saw a show in Hollywood with a mutual friend. Afterwards, we went to the Burgundy Room for some drinks, and he invited her to meet us, and made the introduction. After talking for awhile, she told me about a dilemma she was facing: she had a show booked in San Francisco, and needed a bass player to fill in. Without even considering the fact that (a) I wasn’t a bass player, and (b) I didn’t even own a bass guitar, I blurted out “I’ll do it!” She sent me some material to learn, and I got myself a bass, and figured it all out. The rest is history. I guess the lesson here is that sometimes unique opportunities come along that you have to say yes to, even if you haven’t got it all figured out just yet. You just never know when or even if a similar opportunity might present itself.
Detailed question, how has your life changed ever since working in the music industry?
I’ve pretty much done music for my entire life. Even when I was in the military, I’d always make time for it. I can’t really say it’s changed my life, because it’s something I’ve always known. I will say that because of this journey, I’ve seen some of the most amazing places and met some of the most amazing people. I couldn’t imagine spending my life any other way.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
It’s actually an ongoing thing. It’s the constant challenge of trying to improve myself as a musician and as a person in general. There’s always some new concept to learn, one more rep, another person to help, and so on. On some days, I don’t feel adequate, so that can be a bit of a struggle at times. I just try to start each day with a positive mindset and focus on improving the things that I do have control over.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
To me, it’s just a fact of life. I think it’s something that can be a very helpful tool if used properly, but on the other hand i do feel that some people take it a little too far, like it can be an addiction. I see some folks who seem to base their entire existence on how many “likes” and followers they can get. Me, I’d rather use it to promote my music and keep in touch with my friends and fans around the world, and just go live my life.
No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.
Wow, I never really thought about that. Music really encompasses every aspect of my life. I live and breathe it, so I really don’t put my energy into much else; wanna see my guitar collection?
Photo Credit: Liz Peterson Photography
As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?
Honestly, on van tours for instance, I love to drive, especially at night. There’s just something about that endless ribbon of asphalt laid out before me that allows me to really contemplate life’s big questions. Keeping in touch with loved ones back home is another way to stay sane. When I’m not driving, I love to read and handle business. In fact, I’m completing this interview on the I-40, just east of Memphis!
Photo Credit: AngieMonsterr
Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour/show plans that you can fill us in about?
We’re taking a little break from that now while Whitney puts the finishing touches on her new album.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Be on the lookout for a new album from Whitney Tai in late Winter/Early Spring 2019! We’re also releasing a holiday album this year, so be on the lookout for that too!
Whitney Tai Social Links:
Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website
Folk/Roots Duo, Eric Anders and Mark O’Bitz, have collided and brought their musical synergy to life throughout their latest single, “Matterbloomlight”. Beginning with a soft stroke of instrumental wonder, “Matterbloomlight” is abounding with the unique feel of the natural world creeping into the digital world as Eric and Mark lyrically reach for the light within themselves beyond their current jaded sense of self.
Having met Mark O’Bitz at one of his solo shows back in Pasadena in 2002, Eric begin to find intrigue in music beyond his known and had never dabbled into creating music of his own prior to his meeting with Mark. Over time, the two’s creative visions came together fluidly and that very fact sticks out like a sore thumb throughout “Matterbloomlight”. Having released their highly-praised full length, ‘Of All These Things’, back in June, Mark and Eric are keeping the train rolling with a soft and ethereal single release that suits their harmonious musical alliance.
“Matterbloomlight” is the perfect track to provide comfort in both a period of transformation and change. Eric Anders has been one to express himself in a excruciatingly bold and honest manner, and that’s what keeps us traveling back into his works of art. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Old Crow Machine Show, Bon Iver and Of Monsters and Men, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Eric Anders and Mark O’Bitz on Bandcamp.
Eric Anders and Mark O’Bitz Social Links:
Facebook • Website • Soundcloud
Austin-Based Rockers, The Stone MG’s, leave it all out on the line throughout their dynamic new single, “I Need You”. Ensuring to make it known that there is a lack of satisfaction felt within Lead Vocalist, Rodney James, The Stone MG’s are close to throwing in the towel on a deeply entwined interpersonal connection or addiction that is now beginning to cause mental friction. Metaphorically rich and full of cool undertones that match the mood of unease, The Stone MG’s lyrically pick at a scab that they know in the back of their head is bound to form into a scar.
Smokey, rich and seasoned vocals of Rodney James add an invigorating touch to the track that flows seamlessly with songwriting that is abysmally deep and unafraid to dive beyond the surface. As the track flows, the pace gets picked up as the rose-covered glasses that once served to cover-up reality begin to be removed. Growing up in a family whose central core was centered around the love of music, the passion seeped into the veins of Rodney who is a natural when it comes to being an artist.
The Stone MG’s are a bundle of Rock ‘N’ Roll soul and we recommend to add “I Need You” to your weekend playlist. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire and Arctic Monkeys, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for The Stone MG’s on Soundcloud.
The Stone MG’s Social Links:
Facebook • Twitter • Bandcamp • Instagram
Rock/Pop Duo and couple, The Velvoids, are no stranger to the glitz and glamour yet make it known that they find it more fulfilling to create away from it all throughout their new music video, “Absolutely Nothing”.
Wandering along what looks to be a calming trip, the two take it to the road to experience the manner in which a variety of others lead their everyday lives while stimulating the concept of being so absolutely in love with someone that no matter where you both are physically located, you’re home with each other. Keeping it Indie at heart with a very real-time view of the activities and escapades that they encountered while filming the music video for “Absolutely Nothing”, Dora and Vice brought a lyrically simple track to life through dialing down to the one key aspect of life that is the most rewarding of all; love.
Ever since the the formation of The Velvoids between Dora and Vice back in 2006, consistency has been a key component that has led them toward success and the ability to tour globally and in particularly throughout Europe. There’s a forthcoming album in 2019 which is sure to be an exciting journey as well. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Mumford & Sons and The Flaming Lips, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for The Velvoids on Spotify.
The Velvoids Social Links:
Facebook • Instagram • Bandcamp
Coming together with the intent of creative release and uniting all walks of life through music is the name of the game for Funk and Soul Group, Rose Ann Dimalanta Trio. Having recently released their latest album, ‘It’s Time’, there’s a lot to celebrate for the multi-talented trio. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.
Kicking off with the first track, “Forever Day By Day”, an eclectic array of instrumentals that represent the synergy amongst the three leads a listener into a place of total immersion in the lyrical trajectory that is present, mindful and meaningful. The second track, “10 Miles to Empty”, slows it down into a sensual burst of longing as Lead Vocalist, Rose Ann Dimalanta, eases the mind with her serene vocal style that is abounding with wisdom and strength. “Dinner For One” is the third track that is a lyrical slice of awareness when it comes to each human beings ability to create the version of themselves that will serve toward a life of wellness. The fourth track, “Seven Days”, begins with the feeling of an Alicia Keys track back in her ‘The Diary of Alicia Keys’ days as lightly drawn out instrumentals serve to emerge a bright, open and easy inner space within listeners.
“Happily’s Never After” is the fifth track and album highlight that instrumentally grooves and aligns with the lyrical journey into the moment which leads to the most mollifying glimpses of happiness and pleasure. The sixth track, “Measure of A Man”, gracefully enters a locked inner chamber and challenges the release of rapid thoughts that hinder the maturation of a dear interpersonal connection. The eighth track, “Latin Soul”, is a vibrant burst of instrumental mystery and edge that creeps and crawls into the hearts of multicultural human beings swinging on the dance floor. “Miles” is the tenth track that is an intimate array of feelings that sprout as the song gently carries listeners into a place of mental clarity while Rose Ann lyrically examines her journey of Motherhood and more. The eleventh track, “No Goodbyein”, leaves one floating as the trio lead all into a place of assurance when it comes to the blooming of a deep soul connection. “Mad Run” is the twelfth track that mimics the ethereal energy of Sade in her ‘Stronger Than Pride’ days as Rose Ann lyrically travels through the rush that she has encountered through collision with one of her life’s most beautiful partners. Closing out with “That’s All”, Rose Ann solidifies her belief that the love that she shares with another is a key component of what makes her feel fulfilled in this massive world.
Rose Ann Dimalanta Trio has created an Adult Contemporary work of soul that leads the mind toward the release of control. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Sade, Seal and then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Rose Ann Dimalanta Trio on Soundcloud.
Rose Ann Dimalanta Trio Social Links:
Facebook • YouTube • Twitter
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Interview: Shinobi Ninja
New York Rock Hood Group, Shinobi Ninja, live out their intent of shaping a vibrant state of consciousness that includes and welcomes all throughout their music and artistry. Having ‘Bless Up’ under their belts as an album that speaks for itself, Shinobi Ninja are finding the wealth that comes from embodying their truest selves. I caught up with Vocalist, Duke Sims (D.A), to discuss how growing up in Brooklyn shaped the man that he is today, progress over perfection, becoming more confident in his talents, being a kid in the studio and more.
Congrats on the success of your fourth studio album, ‘Bless Up’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.
‘Bless Up’ was a collection of the songs we were working on right before our studio that we had been creating and working out of for the past 6 years closed. The goal was to complete these songs before the studio closed, so the album had a vibe of closure and also a positive outlook for what is to come for us in the future. The lesson for me on this album is that you may think that this song or that song is gonna be the one but in actuality it’s not that song you think, it’s the song you don’t think too much of that is going to be the song that people find and connect with the most. I had experienced that before with our previous album, but this album cemented that for me; to be open to whatever is gonna happen.
You guys carry the New York swagger so well, so naturally. Tell us about your life in the Big Apple and how living in New York has impacted your life.
I’m born and raised in Brooklyn and have been running around NYC my whole life. It’s all I’ve ever known. When you hear the phrase, “If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck then it’s a duck”, that’s me. Brooklyn formed me. It put me arm and arm with every nationality, age, race, sex, etc. that you could have. I grew up playing in the streets; street basketball, baseball, music, cutting school, getting in trouble, music, good times and bad times. The concrete jungle is the school I graduated from. I’ve seen all kinds of crazy things and I learned from all of it. It’s teachings are with me always.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
Life is a challenge. It just keeps coming. I’m still learning. Fear is something I’ve overcome over time. That’s the biggest challenge. Fear of any kind and choosing not letting it stop you in whatever it is your doing and want to accomplish. Progress over perfection was a key lesson for me. Perfection is perception and it doesn’t exist. Progress is real. You can see it. So I go for progress over perfection. Trying to be perfect used to lock me in. Now I don’t care about that. I keep putting in the work and moving forward. That’s a good feeling. When things reach completion and then you move to the next thing. Keep growing.
How has your experience in the music industry impacted your life? How was the man that is Dave changed every since you began with Shinobi Ninja?
Before Shinobi Ninja, I was still thinking about who I wanted to be and how I could become that person. Shinobi Ninja allowed me an avenue to succeed and to fail. With success, I became stronger and more confident in my talents and what I can offer the world through my art and music and my love for the people and the universe. Failure taught me about changing things that I was not doing well or things that were holding me back. It taught me to let go and to not hold on to expectations. The music industry is made of people. I love people. Shinobi Ninja gave me an avenue to be a Superhero. Now I can fly.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
I think it is awesome. I think there’s quick fix meals out there that is the content we see everyday. There’s levels of substance. You can see something that entertains you for a couple minutes but doesn’t really change you and then you can see or hear things that make you really think. I love the digital age we live in because all the info is out there. Information is power. This is a great time for thinkers and artists. A lot of fuel for the fire.
No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.
I take pride in service. When I can be of service to people that is a great thing. However, I can be a positive contribution to the people is what it’s all about for me. Whether it’s a song, or a video, or a piece of art or a text message or a positive word to someone. A life is here and then gone, so for me it’s about being a positive influence and force while I’m here in this journey at this time.
As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?
I don’t watch the news. I don’t watch politics. No murder killing type shows. If the Golden Girls is on then it stays on. I love to have anything that I’m going to hear or see be uplifting for my spirit and mind. Documentary’s are great information. Sitcoms have the laugh track. Laughing is good. Music is good. Hearing new music that will inspire my creativity to new realms. Being around good people. Smoking weed. Eating well.
Photo Credit: Pixel Journalism