MuzikMan's Reviews And News: Songwriter

Showing posts with label Songwriter. Show all posts

2/23/2016

Hong Kong Based Artist Jennifer Saran Releases New Single and Video “Rise Up Time”

Produced By the Legendary Narada Michael Walden, released Worldwide on February 22nd, 2016 on Tarpan Records

San Francisco - Jennifer Saran is a North American alt-pop/adult contemporary artist, songwriter and vocalist based in Hong Kong. The first single from her upcoming album Walk With Me is “Rise Up Time,” available digitally worldwide with its release on February 5th, 2016. Her new album was created with the legendary producer Narada Michael Walden, and is being released through his label Tarpan Records.

In tandem with the single’s release there is an original animated music video for Rise Up Time, which will be seen on both online and broadcast outlets. This video features original animation created by Jojo Ramos (Warner Brothers Animator) in Los Angeles, CA. The video's concept was conceived by Jennifer Saran and brought to life in this wonderful depiction geared toward both children and adults alike. The single is currently played on dozens of radio stations and is being added to more every week.
Jennifer Saran’s upcoming album is a contemporary mix of brand new originals penned by herself and Narada, many of which revolve around the central themes of love and family and positive messages. Musically the album spans ballads to up-tempo grooves, while also including some swing and gospel influences.

Narada enlisted some amazing musicians and performers for his band on Walk With Me including: Frank Martin (Sting, Angela Bofil, John Handy Band, Tuck & Patti, Jose’ Neto, Airto & Flora, & Trudie’s Rainforest Band) on Keyboards, Angeline Saris (Ernest Ranglin, Zepparella) on Bass and Vocals, Matthew Charles Heulitt (Zigaboo Modaliste) and Jose’ Neto on Guitars. Additional Backing Vocals on this album include vocalists Nate Soul Sanger and Cornell Carter. All of the strings were arranged and conducted by Minna Choi of Magik*Magik Orchestra.

Jennifer Saran, aka Jennifer Hill, was born in Washington DC to a Canadian mother and American father. It was at the local Episcopal Church while at school in Villars, Switzerland, where she first realized how much she loved to sing, performing Handel's Messiah a cappella. Jennifer went on to attend high school in Alexandria, Egypt, where she performed in school plays and learned to speak Arabic. She then attended The American University in Cairo, earning a Bachelors Degree in Political Science. Throughout her years growing up in Egypt she and her friends always followed the local Egyptian live bands that performed American and British pop music, dreaming one day of being a singer.

She went through a long dry spell away from music – raising children, working in various corporate roles, singing in the shower or car, rarely having any time to go out dancing. She was moved to Philippines for an international corporate role for 2 years, followed by Singapore for another 2 years, and then to Hong Kong where she has lived for the past 24 years.

Her new full-length album Walk With Me was recorded and produced entirely at Tarpan Studios in San Rafael, California, by legendary producer Narada Michael Walden and will be released in late April of 2016. Narada has produced music royalty like Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin. With Narada’s music and Jennifer’s lyrics and vocals, they have created a tremendous debut album that is sure to captivate a worldwide audience.

For Music Samples or to order Rise Up Time visit: https://tarpanrecords.bandcamp.com/track/rise-up-time
To purchase the single on iTunes please visit: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rise-up-time-single/id1080453262

To view the video for Rise Up Time, please check out Jennifer’s YouTube Channel:

Check out Jennifer’s website for more information: http://www.jennifersaran.com

For more information on Tarpan Records or any of its releases check out: www.tarpanrecords.com

Press inquiries and Interview Requests contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR glassonyonpr@gmail.com 828-350-8158

Live Performance Bookings and Management contact Dave Ferguson at The Record Label info@therecordlabel.co.uk +44 203 727 7286

Hong Kong Based Artist Jennifer Saran Releases New Single and Video “Rise Up Time”

2/19/2016

Celebrate The Life Of Former WARRANT Singer JANI LANE With This Collection Of Superb Solo Performances!

Los Angeles, CA - In 2011, the rock world lost an incredibly gifted singer and songwriter, a man whose voice reverberated around the world on such blockbuster hits as “Cherry Pie,” “Down Boys,” “Sometimes She Cries,” “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” and the unforgettable ballad “Heaven.” Jani Lane joined Warrant in 1985, and together the band lit up the L.A. club circuit, becoming an international sensation with multi-platinum albums and an adoring fanbase. Always a music lover at heart, after Lane left Warrant in 2004, he continued to write and record, often paying homage to some of his musical heroes by participating in tribute projects to Cheap Trick, Judas Priest and others. Now a new CD compilation collects some of these superb solo performances in one convenient package and for the first time ever on vinyl! Catch A Falling Star, which includes Lane’s takes on UFO’s “Doctor, Doctor,” Def Leppard’s “Photograph,” and Bon Jovi’s epic “Lay Your Hands On Me, will be released February 26 on Deadline Music.

In addition to guest appearances by two of Lane’s bandmates, guitarist Erik Turner & bassist Jerry Dixon, Catch A Falling Star includes liner notes by former Warrant drummer Bobby Borg who shares his personal recollections of Lane. There is “no better tribute to Lane than a collection of covers,” Borg writes, “Those who saw Warrant perform live know that Lane loved to mix cover songs into the show…songs by The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Joe Walsh, Queen, and other artists throughout our live sets. (I loved that about the band.).” Speaking of Lane’s distinctive vocal style, Borg writes “Lane was able to convey the subject matter of a song emotionally—whether soft and heartfelt or loud and aggressive—while always maintaining a certain charm as if he were grinning warmly.” This collection is the perfect way to remember both the man and immense musical gifts, and is sure to leave a warm grin on the face of his fans everywhere.

Track List:
1. I Want You To Want Me feat. Ryan Roxie (Alice Cooper / Slash’s Snakepit)
2. Panama
3. Photograph
4. The Ocean
5. Doctor, Doctor
6. Electric Eye
7. Free For All feat. Jake E. Lee
8. No Surprise feat. Chris Holmes (W.A.S.P.)
9. Lay Your Hands On Me feat. Erik Turner & Jerry Dixon (Warrant)

Buy the CD: http://flyt.it/JaniLaneCD
Buy the LP: http://flyt.it/JaniLaneLP

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com

CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

11/19/2015

Shuggie Otis Releases New 7" Single, Announces First Leg Of 2016 European Tour!

Los Angeles, CA - R&B guitar legend Shuggie Otis is preparing a massive comeback that is sure to make the music world sit up and listen. 2016 will see the release of a brand new solo album from this much revered singer-songwriter-guitarist, his first since the 1974 all-time classic Inspiration/Information. That’s right, fans have waited more than 40 years for a new Shuggie album, and this month they can get a taste of what awaits them by picking up the Ice Cream Party 7”, which will be released on November 27 as part of the Black Friday Record Store Day promotion. This spectacular new jam finds Shuggie exploring his psychedelic side while turning in an explosive, guitar-heavy performance. The 7” will be available in a limited edition gold vinyl pressing.

Shuggie is also pleased to announce the first leg of his European tour, which will kick off in Paris on February 17. Nobody brings as much soul, style, and swagger to a live performance as Shug with his signature red Gibson SG, and fans who have followed this multi-talented performer’s tumultuous career know that a Shuggie Otis concert is not an event to be missed. Whether it be the fabulous grooves of “Inspiration Information” or the funkdafied rhythm of the stone-cold classic “Strawberry Letter 23,” Shuggie’s songs have a magical sway over audiences, both young and old, guaranteed to get them on their feet and dancing in the aisles!

The son of renowned bandleader and musician Johnny Otis, Shuggie Otis began his incredible career at the tender age of 15, playing as a session guitarist alongside Al Kooper before releasing his first solo album Here Comes Shuggie Otis in 1970. Already being hailed as a uniquely skillful guitarist, Shuggie proved his mettle as a songwriter the following year with the hit single “Strawberry Letter 23” from his second solo album. Now one of the most sampled songs in all of modern music, “Strawberry Letter 23” became an even bigger smash when The Brothers Johnson recorded their version in 1977 (produced by Quincy Jones). After the release of his third album Inspiration Information failed to meet outsized expectations, Shuggie seemed to retire permanently from music. But, thankfully, he reemerged in 2013 with a deluxe reissue of Inspiration Information as well as a live CD & DVD Live In Williamsburg. Now, Shuggie is about to embark on the comeback of a lifetime, and his adoring fans stand ready to re-embrace him!

Feb 17 Paris - New Morning
Feb 18 Dublin - Sugar Club
Feb 19 Manchester UK - Academy Club
Feb 20 Edinburgh - Liquid Room
Feb 21 London UK - Koko
Feb 25 Birmingham UK - O2 Institute
Feb 26 Brighton UK - Coalition
Feb 27 Bristol UK - Marble Factory

Visit http://www.shuggieotismusic.com for up to date tour information

Press inquiries:
Glass Onyon PR
Billy James
PH: 828-350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com

CLEOPATRA RECORDS, Inc.
11041 Santa Monica Blvd #703
Los Angeles CA 90025
www.CleopatraRecords.com

9/30/2015

Bay Area Songstress Drea. M Releases New Video, “Timebomb,” About Personal Freedom and Empowerment

San Francisco – Drea. M commands the heart to listen. Soulful grit, haunting vocals, and mesmerizing live performances make this Bay Area songstress a must-hear sonic treat. With gutsy, raw emotion at the core of her songs, Drea. M does not compromise on the other elements of songwriting. Her lyrics are sophisticated, provocative, and expressed in unique cadences and layers, creating an unusual sonic quality, both edgy and refined. From multi-instrumental acoustic arrangements on her first album, Surrender (released under the name “Drea Muldavin”), to the more recent incorporation of electronic, orchestral, big-sound beats (such as her “Timebomb” single), Drea. M's style is ever-expanding, teasing her music into new realms. No matter the direction her songs take, what continues to drive her music is a haunting, atmospheric, and intricately textured sound, and an unwavering honesty about what it means to be profoundly alive. Drea. M has recently filmed a new video in support of her latest single, “Timebomb.”

Says Drea. M, “The 'Timebomb' video is about finding personal freedom and empowerment by breaking free of the ways we hold ourselves back. It’s about surfing emotional edges in spite of that pit in the stomach, and then jumping... I wrote the song at a time when I felt a sense of 'now or never,' a sense of great urgency, and I immediately conceptualized the shibari rope work because I wanted to exemplify being held, bound, and suspended in time, right at that moment when we want nothing more than to be free of all that has held us back for so long. In that sense, both the song and the video are about that wild, igniting energy that contains itself just short of explosion, and how we can find empowerment and clarity -- even moments of ecstasy -- in that restraint.”

“Drea. M's voice captures your ear with a familiar, soft lushness. You immediately trust its honesty. In the video for her song, 'Timebomb,' we see her bite her teeth into the constricting rope that binds her, an image that perfectly complements the sensuality of the song. Drea.M's voice carries secrets - the ones you typically only hear whispered - and she shares them with full-throated abandon without ever losing her mysterious edge.” - Zaron Burnett III, Sex & Culture writer for Playboy.com

Watch Drea. M's “Timebomb” video here:

After a very successful Indiegogo campaign, Drea. M shot the video in the course of two full nights at American Steel Studios in Oakland. The crew included LP Satsuki Murashige and Producer Dimitri Moore. Because she had a relatively short timeframe within which to shoot the video, the energy was intense and focused, and much like the concept behind the video, aspects of the performance were physically and psychologically challenging, pushing Drea. M to the edge of her comfort zone. She explains, “One example of this was when I chose to be tied up and suspended in order to sing in an upside-down, full-harness shibari rope suspension. While this shot enters the video for just a short period, a lot of time, communication, and safety awareness went into the preparation for this shot. The intensity of the moment -- when I began to sing while suspended upside-down, knowing I had very little time to capture the lines while in such a restrictive harness -- lent itself to the energy of the performance. It was a total rush for me...frightening, exciting, and liberating all at once.”

Drea. M will be releasing her new EP December 1st, and having the CD release at Awaken Café in Oakland, CA on Dec 3rd, 2015. Says Drea. M, “It is a true honor to be co-producing the album with David Earl -- an incredible composer, producer, and collaborator who understands where I am taking my sound and cherishes musical exploration. I am very excited about this new body of work! After the CD release in December, the plan is to do a Pacific Northwest tour, play some other cities across the country, and then do a European tour.”

In closing Drea. M says, “What I wish to convey to my fans through my music is what I try to keep in mind every day, as a mantra of sorts: never give up on yourself, especially when you are just about to, and always push your boundaries, especially when you most feel like hiding in the safety zone. My own journey with music and performance has been a long and winding trajectory, and the path is never paved ahead of time. Songwriting and performing one's innermost thoughts, fears, and desires is all about edge-surfing -- finding those emotional cliffs and staying there, and I believe we should live our lives on those edges as much as we can. Why? Because empathy is the most powerful tool we have, and what keeps us from engaging our empathy to the fullest is our fear of feeling intensely. Music that taps into the universality of emotion allows people to feel deeply, and to then move through the world with more awareness, compassion, and capacity for connection with others. That’s what music is ultimately about...connection.”

To purchase Drea. M's “Timebomb” single:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/timebomb-single/id1008320813
http://drea-music.com/store/

For more information:
Official website: www.drea-music.com.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drea.muldavin.
Twitter: @Drea_Mu5ic
Instagram: Drea.Music.

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Bay Area Songstress Drea. M Releases New Video, “Timebomb,” About Personal Freedom and Empowerment

9/10/2015

Music Legend Michael Stanley To Release New Studio Album "And Then..."

Cleveland, OH - Line Level Music is proud to announce the release of “And Then…”, the new album from critically acclaimed singer/songwriter Michael Stanley.

Produced by Michael Stanley and mixed by legendary producer/engineer Bill Szymczyk (Eagles, B.B.King, Joe Walsh, The James Gang, The Who and Santana), “And Then…” contains twelve new Stanley compositions and a cover of Storyville”s “Good day For The Blues”.

Backed by members of his road band The Resonators, “And Then…” is another outstanding example of Stanley's eclectic musical leanings. “I guess it springs from growing up in the same time frame as rock n' roll and being knocked out by all the different styles that led to that musical melting pot,” said Stanley. “Because of that I rarely sit down to write a certain 'type' of song…whatever happens happens…and although that can be a marketing man's nightmare, it keeps me interested and, hopefully, growing as a writer.”

From the mid-70's to the mid-80's, The Michael Stanley Band rocked arenas all over the midwest, setting still-unmatched concert attendance records at northeastern Ohio's Blossom Music Center and The Coliseum in Cleveland.

With album sales reaching the hundreds of thousands, the band enjoyed a strong and undeniably loyal following in other areas of the country as well, and toured with some greats, including Bruce Springsteen, The Eagles, Foreigner and The Doobie Brothers...

In his early days of recording his talent attracted the likes of producer Bill Szymczyk and guest musicians Joe Walsh, Todd Rundgren, and David Sanborn from the beginning. He formed the Michael Stanley Band (aka MSB) in 1975 and pursued a more straightforward rock direction.

To this day, Michael's first two albums are mainstays of any fan of 70's country rock. Songs like "Rosewood Bitters," "Moving Right Along," "Yours for a Song" and the ultimate Michael Stanley tune, "Let's Get The Show on The Road" have survived well. Most favorably compared to Dan Fogelberg's early albums, Michael was and still is extremely capable of writing songs that raise the little hairs on the back of your neck. Just from his uncanny ability to write perfect songs ever since he began would be enough reason to listen to his music but Michael has been able to do what few other artists have in that he hasn't changed his magic method. His new songs are just as vibrant as his classics. The sign of a true artist.

So welcome to Michael Stanley's new album “And Then…”, the next step on a musical journey that has spanned over four decades and shows no sign of slowing down!

To purchase Michael Stanley's “And Then...” CD: http://www.itsaboutmusic.com/michaelstanley.html

For more information: http://www.michaelstanley.com/

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com

8/20/2015

Singer / Songwriter Pete Kronowitt Releases Live Video For New Single Politically Charged "Change Is Gonna Come"

San Francisco, CA - San Francisco-based singer / songwriter Pete Kronowitt has released a video performance for his new politically charged song, "Change is Gonna Come," recorded live from the Cafe du Soleil in Lower Haight. The hopeful anthem was inspired both by the legends of American folk, as well as today's struggle for justice and equity. Pete co-wrote the song with Atlanta-based Chuck McDowell at a recent songwriting retreat in Crisfield, Maryland.

"Change is Gonna Come" is the most recent release from Kronowitt, an upbeat blend of The Lumineers and Bruce Springsteen channeling Woody Guthrie. With lyrics inspired by the most recent interview of social rights heroine Malala Yousafzai on Jon Stewart's The Daily Show, the song celebrates stories of strength, courage and action.

"Fifteen years in, this 21st century has been contentious and divisive: two wars, bitter elections leading to unproductive partisanship, and increasing economic disparity. The media and politicians believe dividing us is in their interest, "said Kronowitt, introducing the song on YouTube. "But I remain hopeful, because every now and then some person is faced with a decision, regardless of personal risk, takes the path which has a profound impact. That's what this song is about."

About Pete Kronowitt:
Pete's first album, "Phases of the Heart" recorded in 1993 has a universal appeal covering themes from family and heartbreak, to societal struggles; his music is an emotive fusion of acoustic pop and indie folk. Pete’s first album was recorded and produced by John Alagia, of Dave Matthews Band, Jon Mayer, and Ben Folds Five fame. Pete’s second album, “Threads,” was produced by Pete Snell, who toured extensively with Lyle Lovett. Pete's albums, including his more recent releases, "elements" and "Threads" are available on iTunes and streaming from Spotify and other major music services.

What Critics Are Saying About Pete Kronowitt:

"There is a tremendous comparison available here in Kronowitt's case, in Which Kronowitt sets eirself to be the inheritor of the mantle Elvis Costello." - JMcQ, neufutur.com

"Sounds sincere and you can feel the drive for merit and love in his voice." - Erika Ellis, thecelebritycafe.com

Pete has toured extensively throughout the United States and Asia, on his own and with collaborator and long-time friend, bassist John Coppola.

Information or bookings, contact Pete at PeteKronowitt@gmail.com or +1 (310) 871-2923.

You Tube

www.petekronowittmusic.com
Facebook facebook.com/PeteKronowittMusic
Twitter twitter@troub #ChangeSong

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, glassonyonpr@gmail.com or +1 (828) 350-8158

Singer / Songwriter Pete Kronowitt Releases Live Video For New Single Politically Charged "Change Is Gonna Come"

www.petekronowittmusic.com
Facebook facebook.com/PeteKronowittMusic
Twitter twitter@troub #ChangeSong

Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, glassonyonpr@gmail.com or +1 (828) 350-8158

7/13/2015

Lauded Bay Area Songstress Bekah Barnett to Release Her Sophomore Album “RISE” Recorded at Fantasy Studios

Berkeley, CA - Bekah Barnett is an operatically trained singer-songwriter who has been captivating audiences for years with her emotionally engaging songs, poetic lyrics, soaring melodies, and catchy piano riffs. A refreshing blend of Jazz, Folk, Pop, and Spiritual music, Bekah Barnett’s piano-driven tunes and soulful voice have been compared to Tori Amos, Regina Spektor, Fiona Apple, Natalie Merchant, Adele, and Joni Mitchell. Her sophomore full-length album RISE, available both physically and digitally worldwide with its release on August 21st, 2015, was recorded at Fantasy Studios in Berkeley, California with local producer and master pianist Julie Wolf (Ani DiFranco, Carly Simon, The Indigo Girls, Dar Williams).

Bekah was raised in Santa Cruz, CA, with the nearby ocean a constant companion and source of inspiration. She moved to Oakland to attend Mills College, and it wasn’t long before she was lured into the Music Department, where she studied classical and operatic voice. In the years since Bekah has been making her presence known. Her song What I Know of the Light is featured in the documentary Corpus Christi: Playing with Redemption by 108 productions. She was honored to sing her disarmingly sweet original love song, Butter Your Toast, at Oakland City Hall to commemorate the first gay marriages in Oakland following the repeal of Prop 8. Her well-received debut album, Find Shelter Here, was released in 2012.

After years of playing and singing regularly in the Bay Area, Bekah auditioned for America’s Got Talent in February of 2014 at the persistent requests of her 92-year-old grandmother. The long audition process consisted of waiting around for over seven hours to play for 90 seconds, and although the experience was ultimately disappointing, she did get a good song out of it. Fame & Fortune is a gem of a track from RISE that stands out with its driving industrial loop and triumphant and honest lyrics. It is a commentary on the reality TV fame machine, and the carelessly regarded dreams of the countless individuals involved.

Bekah Barnett recorded RISE with producer Julie Wolf. A resident producer at Fantasy Studios, Julie was able to tap musicians for the album who have played with some of Bekah’s idols such as Ani DiFranco, Natalie Merchant, The Indigo Girls, and Anais Mitchell. Todd Sickafoose contributed his melodic and captivating bass lines to the project. Allison Miller, three-time Jazz Ambassador of the US State Department, created the original drum arrangements and loops. Hans Teuber composed and played horn arrangements for several of the songs, Michael Papenburg visited the studio for a day to lend his considerable talents layering acoustic and electric guitar on several tracks, and Lyris Hung arranged and played violin on many of the tunes. RISE was engineered and mixed by the adept Adam Muñoz (Snarky Puppy, Herbie Hancock, Dave Matthews, and Bill Frisell).

Recording at Fantasy Studios with these accomplished musicians was beyond Bekah’s wildest dreams, and it was an incredible experience that encouraged her to grow and develop in major ways. It all started with a grant from the Irene B. Wolt Lifetime Trust that a coworker encouraged Bekah to apply for. When she was awarded some seed money, she began to consider the idea of working with a professional producer. It was thanks to the encouragement and connections of her songwriting mentor Rachel Efron that Bekah was introduced to Julie Wolf. Bekah was familiar with Julie from the years she spent touring with Ani DiFranco, whose music was a huge inspiration. “I remember the first time I met with Julie at Fantasy Studios,” says Bekah. “I was so excited and nervous, but she was amazing. Her presence is so warm and she was so enthusiastic about my music, she put me at ease right away. After that I was over the moon.”

Bekah and Julie spent months in pre-production, fine-tuning each song and recording high quality demos to share with the musicians. The album that resulted from all of this amazing collaboration has greatly exceeded expectations and the results show with this finely crafted collection of wonderful songs. Listening to the first completed mix moved Bekah to tears. She says, “Everything sounded so amazing and it was just so overwhelming to hear it all finished, polished, and balanced. We had done all this work for so many months and it was clear that it had paid off. It was beautiful.”

Bekah has always had a deep connection with music. She writes songs like journal entries, natural byproducts of her life that help her to express her emotions in a way that she finds incredible and deeply healing. “I honestly don’t know where I would be without music in my life. I’m addicted,” she says. “Music is such a unique art form because it can connect people of all different backgrounds from all different walks of life and make it so that they are united in the same moment, in the same room, listening to the same song. It can reframe ideas that are often controversial so that a message that might be difficult to convey in a conversation is effectively communicated through a song.”

RISE will be released on August 21st, 2015. Visit Bekah’s Bandcamp page to pre-order the album at http://urbanminstrel.bandcamp.com/

For more information on shows, new music samples, or to join the mailing list visit Bekah’s website www.urbanminstrel.com.

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

For Press and Radio Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For more information on booking Bekah for live performances please e-mail urbanminstrel.bekah@gmail.com

5/26/2015

Legendary Narada Michael Walden Produces Third Release by Lauded Bay Area Songstress Jordan Hurwitz Titled “Here I’ll Stand” on Tarpan Records

Redwood City, CA - Jordan Hurwitz, an American singer/songwriter born and raised in Redwood City, California, is announcing the release of her new EP, Here I’ll Stand, digitally and physically worldwide on June 23rd, 2015. This brand new release features six original songs written by Jordan and produced and arranged by the legendary Narada Michael Walden on his label, Tarpan Records.

Here I’ll Stand is Jordan’s third release, and her first with Narada. “Working with Narada is an incomparable and invaluable experience,” she says. “His talent and artistry take my music to a whole new dimension and continue to be nothing less than amazing.”

When asked about working with Jordan, Narada says: “If you love Billy Joel, his chord changes and his melodies, if you love Broadway, if you love Lady Gaga and her dramatic sense of theatrics in music, Jordan brings a lot of that to her music. She is a wonderful keyboard player and singer, who is humble and has a lot of heart and care, and she is very powerful…”

Jordan released her first album of original songs, Infinity, at age 16, and hasn't stopped writing or performing since. Her songs are an outlet that speaks to the challenges people face in their everyday lives, providing an opportunity to empower everyone to rise above.

Jordan uses her lyrics as a way to work through the trials and tribulations of growing up. “A finished song always brings resolution to my internal conflicts,” she notes. “The problems themselves sometimes never change, but my actions and perspectives do. Every song I’ve ever written carries the motif of being broken and finding the strength to rise above. Often, before I create the song I don’t have this strength, but the empowering lyrics play on repeat in my head until they become reality.”

“I would be nothing without my lyrics. My songwriting is who I am.”

Infinity, which debuted in 2013, was followed with her EP, The New Me, produced by Marcus Barone in 2014. Jordan’s musical expertise began with piano lessons at age six, and has evolved to include drums, voice training, and guitar, all of which she now uses to accompany her songwriting. “Empowering myself with song was life-changing in itself, but that doesn’t even compare to the feeling deriving from other people relating to my songs. It gives me comfort to know that the issues I face are faced by other people, and it gives me a sense of pride realizing that with my music, I can help them feel better about themselves as well.”

She appreciates and is influenced by artists from many genres of music, including Billy Joel, Sara Bareilles, Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith, and Kelly Clarkson.

Jordan will be attending University of Miami’s Frost School of Music beginning in the Fall of 2015. “I am so excited to go to Frost. It’s my dream school: the perfect place to continue my music education and work towards my long-term goals of being a professional singer/songwriter.”

Her Here I’ll Stand EP will be available in stores and online June 23rd, 2015. Jordan plans to showcase her talents in assorted venues across the US over the next few months to support the new release.

For more information on EP release parties, new music samples, or to join the mailing list visit Jordan’s website http://www.jordansmusic.com. To pre-order the EP visit https://jordanhurwitz.bandcamp.com/

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

For Press and Radio Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For more information on booking Jordan for live performances please e-mail jormusic@yahoo.com

4/09/2015

Highly-Acclaimed Songwriter Ken Will Morton To Release 7th Solo CD, All's Fair In Love & War, On June 5, 2015

Morton Plays All Instruments/Vocals On 20 New Songs!

Athens, GA - The prolific Athens, Georgia based songwriter, Ken Will Morton, will release his 7th full-length release All’s Fair In Love & War on Rara Avis Records on June 5, 2015.

All’s Fair In Love & War is the follow up to his highly acclaimed 2012 release, Slow Burn. The new recording compiles 19 new songs (plus a hidden track) written in the wake of the dissolution of a long term relationship and with Morton finding himself living alone in a mobile home. Soon after, he’d written more than enough material for a double album (hence, initial title was A Double From A Single Wide). Morton converted his home to facilitate writing and recording music at anytime day or night, with wires and cables, guitars, amps and lyric sheets everywhere. Determined to hold on to the essence of this new work, and with the help and encouragement of engineer J.P Pruett, the entire album was made in the comfort of his home. Morton played all instruments—guitars, bass, harmonica, $20 garage sale keyboard, child’s xylophone—and vocals himself, over a bed of prerecorded drum track loops from the internet, adapting each song to fit a corresponding drum track. No Pro Tools were used on this record so every take had to work all the way through. From the country rocker “Blindsided,” the power pop of “Straight From Your Lips” and the whimsical “Down The Drain” to the anthemic “Reach Forward,” this is Morton’s most diverse and confident recording to date. Heralded as a clever lyricist, Morton even takes a subject such as the Great Hartford Circus Fire of 1944 and turns it into a gem of a song and a history lesson with “Little Miss 1565.” All’s Fair In Love & War will surely resonate with fans of intelligent songwriting.

Morton consistently receives stellar press and airplay on Americana radio. His music has been praised by Relix, American Songwriter, Vintage Guitar Magazine, Performer Magazine, Georgia Music Magazine, Elmore Magazine, Maverick Magazine (UK) and more!

Morton’s music placement in film/TV includes: “Oh Lord” on “The Deadliest Catch” (Discovery Channel), “Devil In Me” on “True Blood” (HBO) and “On My Feet Again” in the indie film “Flight Of The Cardinal.”

Morton is an extremely engaging performer and has toured most parts of the U.S., opening for Todd Snider, Billy Joe Shaver, Tommy Stinson, Sugarland, & more. He has toured Ireland, performed at South-by-Southwest, the Americana Music Festival and more. He will tour regionally in support of the new release. The CD release show will be at Little King's Shuffle Club in Athens on Saturday, June 6th.

Here's a sampling of what the critics say about Ken Will Morton.

“It’s remarkable that an artist like Ken Will Morton can continue to offer one superb album after another and still fail to connect an apparently indifferent public. Remarkable and a shame. With his down-home delivery, everyman attitude and gritty, gut-wrenching tunes that tread the precipice between remorse and resolve, Morton makes music every bit as essential as Springsteen, Earle, Townes, Mellencamp and any number of other so-called heartland heroes.” - American Songwriter Magazine

“…recent records like King of Coming Around and Slow Burn may churn with hard-driving roots rock but they’re also chock full of the clever narratives and infectious hooks.” - Utne Reader

“So the question now remains when Morton’s day will come. As American Songwriter points out, Morton’s consistent quality output isn’t matched by public adoration. TV shows have picked up his tunes, but he’s not selling out venues. Slow Burn stands out among local Americana releases in recent years. The rest of the country should get with it.” - Athens Banner Herald

“Americana artist Morton remains original and interesting.” - Vintage Guitar Magazine

“In describing the music the sound Ken Will Morton's maintained over the course of his short but prolific career, the words 'austere' and 'authentic' generally tend to come to mind. Not that Morton withholds his emotions - far from it in fact - but in conveying his simple truths and homegrown observations he gets directly to the point and opts not to flounder once he gets there. Much like John Prine or Kris Kristofferson, he doesn't concern himself with unnecessary embellishment or hyperbole, and for that reason, he can sometimes seem dry and despairing. Nevertheless, his weary narratives reflect the tumult of our times and ring that much more authentically as a result.” - Blurt.com

For more information: www.kenwillmorton.com

International PR:
Glass Onyon PR
glassonyonpr@gmail.com

Press inquiries:
Michelle Roche Media Relations
360 University Circle, Athens, GA 30605
706-353-3244 cel 706-206-5552
michelle@michelleroche.com
http://www.michelleroche.com

4/05/2015

Pop Singer/Songwriter MatthewK Readies Self-Titled Debut Album for Worldwide Release on May 5th 2015 through Rough and Tumble Entertainment

Princeton, NJ - MatthewK’s self-titled 12 song debut album captures his world-class global pop appeal and will be released physically and digitally on May 5th, 2015, and was recorded and mixed internationally in the USA, UK, and Australia. The album, a mix of Pop and Rock and even an International flavor, was recorded and produced by James M. DiLella at Rough and Tumble Studios and will be released on the Rough and Tumble Entertainment Label in Philadelphia, PA.

Chris Potter at Metropolis Studios in London did mixing for a handful of the songs on the album. Chris is best known for his work with The Verve’s seminal album Urban Hymns (The 17th best selling album in UK history), featuring the classic single Bittersweet Symphony. Chris has also worked extensively with Richard Ashcroft, The Rolling Stones (Steel Wheels, Flashpoint and No Security), U2, Paul McCartney, Blur, The Clash, Yusaf Islam (Cat Stevens), and Keane among others. Grammy Award winning mastering engineer Ian Cooper mastered tracks on the album. Ian has mastered projects by Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins, Elton John, Kate Bush, David Bowie, Paul McCartney, and Tina Turner among others.

Many other remaining tracks on the album were mixed by producer/mixer Nick Didia at Studio 301 in Sydney and Byron Bay, Australia. Since the early 1990s, Nick has been one of the most successful engineers to date, amassing over 40 million in sales with a variety of artists including Bruce Springsteen and Rage Against the Machine. Some of the other artists Nick has worked with include Train, Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots and Incubus.

The track I Love These Days is set to cement MatthewK in the global public consciousness, supported by songs like Aurora, Home (originally a Michael Buble’ song and an international hit), and Only Hope which was sung by Mandy Moore for the film A Walk to Remember, as well as 9 other tracks encompassing a strong, original, commercially sublime debut offering.

Just listen. It all begins there. A voice timeless and powerful, performances engaging and compelling, Matthew is an authentic talent who began singing at just 7 years old and has been performing since the age of nine in the hallways of the American Boychoir School in Princeton, New Jersey.

While at the school Matt came to the attention of instructor James H. Litton, at the time the foremost trainer of young voices in the world. In 2014, the movie Boychoir was released which tells a fictional story based on The American Boychoir School and stars Dustin Hoffman as a character who is loosely based on James Litton himself: that of a mentor who is pushing his student (the film’s protagonist) to be more disciplined and responsible for his craft. Similar to the film, Matthew was a student whose relationship with James was combative at times, often due to Matthew’s rebellious attitude, but James continued to push him to excel. Under Litton’s tutelage, he was soon promoted to soloist, working closely with the finest in the industry and performed at Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall, Kennedy Center, The Academy of Music and Carnegie Hall. Matthew graduated from the school as Best Choirboy, and at the ceremony James indicated to the graduating class that he had built the sound of the choir on the young man’s voice.

During his high school years Matthew laid the foundation of his dream of becoming a recording artist. Tired of formal musical education, he set out on his own path to discover his true artistic and musical talents.

Rejecting a traditional career path, he dedicated his life to creating and performing as a singer/songwriter/band leader, crashing and burning in numerous attempts as leader of garage band hopefuls. Undaunted and resolute, his love for pop music and passion for the craft of songwriting has long fueled his every waking moment.

In listening to him sing, one can clearly hear him in a club, theatre, hall, arena, and football stadium as if it has all already happened. His ability to deliver in Spanish and Italian truly underscores the caliber of artist he is. You can close your eyes and ‘hear’ him performing duets with giants of the industry and belonging right there in that moment. His live performances are electrifying and he has no shortage of female fans. For Matthew, the journey has always been about live performance and the music, and he hopes it will always remain so.

MatthewK and Rough and Tumble Entertainment retained the prestigious boutique NYC entertainment law firm of Serling, Rooks, Ferrara, McKoy and Worob LLP for exclusive representation for the world. Present and past clientele includes Lady Gaga, John Mayer, Zac Brown Band, Maroon 5, Pantera and countless others.

MatthewK releases physically and digitally worldwide on May 5th, 2015. He will be performing a few select shows in the North East to support the album’s release.

For more information on CD release parties, new music samples, or to join the mailing list check out his website http://matthewk.com/

For Physical Distribution Inquiries please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail sales@independentdistro.com

For Digital Distribution Inquiries contact Jerome Forney at IDCDigital at 415-292-7007 or via e-mail jerome@independentdistro.com

For Press and Radio Inquiries contact Billy James at Glass Onyon PR at 828-350-8158 glassonyonpr@gmail.com

For Information on Booking MatthewK contact James DiLella at Rough and Tumble Entertainment james@roughandtumblestudios.com

12/01/2014

Singer-Songwriter Spencer Day Signs Multi-Year Deal With Modern Works Music Publishing

San Francisco, CA - Acclaimed singer/songwriter Spencer Day, fresh off his international tour in support of his recent release of “Daybreak”, his fifth album and his first independent effort in seven years, has signed a multi-year contract with Modern Works Music Publishing. The aim of this partnership is to bring more of Spencer’s evocative music to films, television, Broadway and commercials.

Spencer Day (www.spencerday.com) is widely regarded for his original songs which blend compelling melodies, smart lyrics and lush arrangements. Music critics have compared Spencer’s music to that of Gershwin, Porter, Carole King and Paul Simon. Audiences around the world have enthusiastically supported Spencer for over a dozen years at venues as diverse as Birdland in New York, the Hollywood Bowl, Jazz Alley in Seattle, the Pacific Rim Jazz Festival in Manila, the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, Feinstein’s in San Francisco, Tanglewood, on the Craig Ferguson Show and at music venues and festivals across the U.S. and worldwide. Spencer has a widely diverse and enthusiastic fan base in the U.S., Asia, Latin America and Europe.

Modern Works Music Publishing (modernworksmusicpublishing.com), and its principals Robert Donnelly and Dan Coleman, are highly regarded in the music industry for their deep commitment to their artists and their creative efforts. Modern Works collaborates with a worldwide network of subpublishers, record labels, film and television companies, advertising agents, video game makers and digital music stores to bring their clients’ music to ever-widening audiences. Their roster of artists includes Grammy Award winners, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees, Songwriter Hall of Fame inductees and other highly regarded composers and performers.

Holiday Single Released

Spencer Day has just released his 2014 Holiday Single, “Christmas With You” featuring Spencer with the Joel Evans Big Band. This holiday treat features Spencer with his distinctive honey baritone voice and the spirited sounds of this big band standout. On radio now and available for download from iTunes and on Spencer’s website (www.spencerday.com).

Worldwide Holiday StageIt Concert Announced

Spencer Day will host and perform in a live worldwide concert December 13th at 6:00 PM (eastern), 3:00 PM (pacific) at www.stageit.com/spencerday. Spencer will play the songs, tell the stories and answer fans’ questions on this special holiday event.
SPENCER DAY WORLDWIDE LIVE WEBCAST CONCERT

Press Contact:
Billy James
Glass Onyon PR
828/350-8158
glassonyonpr@gmail.com

1/04/2008

Laura Pursell Releases AC Masterpiece And Critical Acclaim Follows

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Laura Pursell Releases AC Masterpiece And Critical Acclaim Follows

Thousand Oaks, CA-January 4, 2008- Somewhere In This Room is a work of art put into motion with the angelic voice of Laura Pursell...READ MORE...