Summer! What an exceptional time for music!

 
Birds chirping, the sounds of wildlife rustling in the woods, radios blasting from vehicles rushing by, bands rehearsing for their next gigs and we can’t forget the live music coming from the concerts in the parks.
So many sounds of life we can hear with the season of summer.  Oh sure, we can hear most of them all year long, but being able to be outdoors for longer periods of time without freezing, enables us to enjoy the “music of life” all the more.
 
For my musician friends and myself, we get to live with the music all year long every day because it is a part of our lives.  It lives within us with everything we do.  I know I am always singing, or humming a song, or listening to the “music of life”-every where-all the time. 
 
Could you imagine this world in silence?  I think about this every now and then and I know I would feel empty inside.  Bet many others would feel the same way.  Think about it-pure quiet.  For me, it would mean- sadness.
 
I thank God for His “music of life” and that I can be a part of it. 
 
With a smile and a song in my heart I wish you happiness.  Until next time……….
 
Love,
Songbird

Introducing Guitarist Dave N.

Hello Friends-
 
I have to tell you about a terrific guitarist-sound engineer-and singer that I have been working with.  His name is Dave N. and what a guy he is.  Dave is a pleasure to partner with not only because is he talented but he also has a wonderful personality and he is such a gentleman.  While I am out in the audience, Dave is strumming the strings with the backing tracks and smiling away.  We both love what we do and it shows because the audience loves it too.  We play a variety of music and play the songs accordingly to where ever we are booked.  Most places like the variety but if we are playing while folks are dining, we usually keep the music romantic.  It is my job to know our audience and make them happy.  Dave is a great help in this area as well.  We have so much fun making our audience a part of what we are doing.  That is what it is all about.  Entertainers are there for their audience more than the audience is there for them.  Too many times that fact is forgotten.
 
With the backing tracs, Dave is able to adjust the music and instrumentation to whatever we need to make the song have a fuller sound to blend along with his guitar. It is amazing how full the sound really is.  He uses acoustic and switches to the electric guitar when it best fits the song.
 
We have both been professional for a long time and we just keep loving the music more and more.  If music has truly become a part of you, it is there forever. May God bless you.  So until next time I send you…
 
Love and a song in my heart
january

The Music Industry Today

I was asked what my thoughts are regarding the music of today.  Actually, I have been asked that question several times within the discussion of songs I like to sing.  I am in love with music and I like all types with the exception of RAP.  To me, RAP  is a category all by itself.  And I don’t know how I would classify it.  There are some rappers who sing between the lines and that is pretty good.  Although I understand the kids of today going with the flow-it is a shame that GANGSTA RAP has to be a part of it.  It just doesn’t make sense to me that violence and horrible language has to be thrown in the lyrics.  What is the point of it other than it being offensive and not the best thing that the younger generation should be subject too.  RAP would be alright without the trash thrown in.  Remember, this is just my opinion and I honestly believe I would feel the same way if I were a teenager.
 
The music world has changed to a point but one thing is for sure.  The STANDARD songs will always be around.  And the OLDIES BUT GOODIES  of the 60′s.  If you notice, a lot of the songs recorded today are re-makes of the past.  There are just some songs that will live forever.  The songs of the 80′s Disco beat are todays Funk beat.  Same beat-different name is all.  And I am a huge fan of the disco-funk rhythm.  Yea, get down baby!
 
For me to perform…I favor the ballads most of all.  I have been referred to as THE OTHER KAREN CARPENTER all my singing career.  People are always telling me I sound just like her which I really don’t understand but appreciate the compliment just the same.  What a marvelous talent Karen was.  A great loss to the music industry with her passing.
I am actually a Professional Vocalist rather than a singer because there is a large difference between the two. 
Anyone can sing whether well or badly.  But a vocalist puts life into the song.  She (he) gives heart and soul to the lyrics and feels ever word.  Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion, Michael Feinstein are examples of vocalists.  Vocalists make you believe the songs are about you and your life.  Each and every individual if they pay attention, will feel the song if it is sung from the heart.
Country music is a perfect example of lyrics telling you what life is all about.
 
I sometimes work with a marvelous pianist, Steve Farley.  Steve and I write songs together, Steve handles the musical end while I write the lyrics.  We have written, so far, three beautiful ballads.  Our songs tell the story of what really happens during a lifetime, just as country music does.  If you want to listen to them, just click on to Steve’s website:
www.pianoandorchestra.com  and you will understand what I am talking about.  

 
The music industry will change with the times to a point, but it will never die.  Music will live on and on.  And thank God for our wonderful musicians who help bring the vocals to life.  Yes, dear friends, music will live on forever.  Keep it close to your heart and treasure this beautiful gift.  For love and music really do make the world go round.
 
Until next time-WIth Love and a song in my heart- January

Introducing January

January was born with the talent of voice.   She began singing at the age of three.  “Even then people told me that I had a beautiful voice”, says January.  At age 9, January made her way onto CKLW’s radio station to sing. 

After this, January’s knew what she wanted to do in life.  She taught herself how to play the guitar, and also percussion.  The first band that January belonged to was called Jade.  This band played together successfully for 14 years.  After Jade, January was a part of a jazz group called “Three Seasons”.   After successfully booking shows, and having a wonderful time doing so, January moved on to join a folk type band called Aspen where she did lead vocals for another three years. 

Although January has participated in numerous bands, and appeared at many events and shows, she has always been a free-lance artist.  “It allows me to have the freedom to do what I love when ever I can”, says January. 

Not only has January sung with bands, and at different events, she has also broadcasted on several different radio stations as well.  January has worked very hard to become the well rounded vocal professional that she is today.  She has done voice over work, narrated for audio books, and had plenty of time in the studio producing albums with varous musicians. 

January has recently worked and recorded with professional composer and pianist Steve Farley of Piano and Orchestra Music.  They have done many shows together leaving their audiences wanting more.  January has worked on writing and producing several beautiful songs with the accompaniment of Steve Farley on the concert grand piano.   Steve and January have done numerous shows for their hometown community.  “We have never done a show that didn’t get a standing ovation”, says January,   “I really enjoy reaching out to my community and sharing what I have to offer”.   

Keep an eye out for Professional Vocalist January.  There will be regular updates of her activity, and upcoming shows.