On his newest single “I Will Love You,” Nashville singer-songwriter Cal Ecker delivers a heart-on-sleeve declaration of longing beneath a sea of plucked strings, hushed backing vocals, and arena-ready guitars.

“I Will Love You” By Cal Ecker by user5957344

“It’s about making someone believe in you, which is completely universal.” Ecker said. “In my case, I had the hardest time trying to convince this girl I had been dating for a while to stay with me through all of the shows and touring.”

Now, Ecker is set to break into the pop stratosphere with “I Will Love You,” a song he’s been kicking around for years that calls to mind artists like The Fray, Lifehouse, and Brandon Flowers. Get to know Cal and find out more about his upcoming record via Facebook and Twitter, and at and at CalEcker.com.

I had the chance to speak with Cal and ask him a few questions about things such as his start in the music industry, what he likes to do in his free time, and his plans for promoting his music. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

In music in general, I come from musical family. I grew up going to church and used to sing in church as a kid. I first started getting into music when I was going to church camp and was wanting to learn worship songs and play them on the guitar. In general, that would have to be it. As far as doing it as a living, I never dreamed I would try to make a career out of it until college. I was a basketball player in college and that was all I cared about, but then I graduated and didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I started writing songs and got a band together and we started playing bars and making money. That’s when I figured out I could do this as a living.

How did you get started in the music industry?

I guess it would be when I formed my own band and knocked on some local bars doors and auditioned for them. I gave them a demo tape and they gave me a gig, and it went down the road from there. On a more serious level, it just happened probably within the last three years. I’m from Minneapolis Minnesota and most people here do it as a hobby, and it isn’t taken seriously as in other parts of the country. So I moved to Nashville three years ago just to try to find musicians to align myself with and to get people to take me more seriously. That’s when I dove in full force trying to make a career out of it. I was fortunate enough to meet my business partner who is also a big investor in my project. That’s been going on for about a year and have been able to work with the best people int he business.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

I think I’m a natural performer. It started with athletics. I’ve always been kind of on some sort of stage. I love being in front of big numbers of people. I think the best thing to me as far as being a musician and a songwriter. I love to play my shows and see someone sing along with me on a song that I wrote and created. That gives me the biggest surreal feeling, even if it’s two people in the crowd. If you can reach just one person with something that you wrote or created in a positive way its all worthwhile. In my business my work is entertainment for other people. Its a fun thing to be able to do.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Yeah, I haven’t had too much trouble with it. I think I continue to get better each time I play. I have a lot of experience with the shows that I’ve played in my life. I’m very comfortable at this point in my life. There was a time where it was a little hard and the nerves got to me. I think I was always more nervous about the guys in my band and worrying about them and if we would pull it off as a band than I was myself. These days, I get to play with the top level musicians, so I don’t really worry about it too much. Vocally is the best part of what I do. I’m never worried about what I do vocally unless my voice is out. Sometimes I get nervous about my voice not being there because with an instrument, there is no excuse to perform badly if you rehearse and practice, so you should be solid. But vocally you want to be able to perform on the highest level but sometimes your voice just doesn’t let you.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I love to play basketball. That’s my favorite thing to do in the world, even more so than music. I have a dog, so I love to hang out with my dog. I have a great family that I’m really close to. I have a few friends that I like to hang out with.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

I love Michael Jackson, and that would have been amazing to work with him. To be honest, I appreciate all different kinds of music and I love listening to music, but I’ve never been obsessed with a band or really been inspired by another songwriter. I don’t want to sound selfish or cocky, but I’ve never wanted to sound like anybody, so I’ve always done my own thing. I’m very closed-off to the world. Maybe its a bad thing or maybe it’s a good thing too. I don’t watch TV, I don’t read the newspaper. I don’t really know what’s going on in the world, even in my own industry. Sometimes I feel like I’m in a box, in my own little dream world.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I would say its like a pop/rock, southern rock maybe? Some of the songs are piano driven ballads, some are teeny-boppers bubble-gum songs. A lot of my songs sounds different from each other. I don’t have typical sounds, per-say. I definitely want to have my own sound that I can identify with people.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I think my vocals are pretty distinctive. I don’t think I sound like too many other people. I think its a variety of the songs that I have. I have a song that’s a hip/hop type song, then there is an 80s ballad sounding song. Then there’s a hard rock song with almost a country twist. I play guitar, piano, and harmonica so that adds to the sound.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

I want to be able to make a good living songwriting and playing my own original music and being certified by people all over the country and the world. And I want to be a light in the world, to make a positive difference in the world. I want to be a good role model and bring a positive influence to somebody that when they say my name, they think of many good things and they smile.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

Right now, we’re in the middle of pitching our music to TV and film, and we’re doing a radio campaign. Our new single being released digitally on August 30th is called “I Will Love You” and we just did a music video and that will be done within the next month here. I try to be as active as possible on social networking like Facebook, Twitter, and my website. In the upcoming months we’ll start touring regularly, so by September that should be rolling.

[Keep Clicking Thumbnails for a Larger Image]

Images Via: Pop Genearation

On his newest single “I Will Love You,” Nashville singer-songwriter Cal Ecker delivers a heart-on-sleeve declaration of longing beneath a sea of plucked strings, hushed backing vocals, and arena-ready guitars.

“I Will Love You” By Cal Ecker by user5957344

“It’s about making someone believe in you, which is completely universal.” Ecker said. “In my case, I had the hardest time trying to convince this girl I had been dating for a while to stay with me through all of the shows and touring.”

Now, Ecker is set to break into the pop stratosphere with “I Will Love You,” a song he’s been kicking around for years that calls to mind artists like The Fray, Lifehouse, and Brandon Flowers. Get to know Cal and find out more about his upcoming record via Facebook and Twitter, and at and at CalEcker.com.

I had the chance to speak with Cal and ask him a few questions about things such as his start in the music industry, what he likes to do in his free time, and his plans for promoting his music. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

In music in general, I come from musical family. I grew up going to church and used to sing in church as a kid. I first started getting into music when I was going to church camp and was wanting to learn worship songs and play them on the guitar. In general, that would have to be it. As far as doing it as a living, I never dreamed I would try to make a career out of it until college. I was a basketball player in college and that was all I cared about, but then I graduated and didn’t know what I wanted to do, so I started writing songs and got a band together and we started playing bars and making money. That’s when I figured out I could do this as a living.

How did you get started in the music industry?

I guess it would be when I formed my own band and knocked on some local bars doors and auditioned for them. I gave them a demo tape and they gave me a gig, and it went down the road from there. On a more serious level, it just happened probably within the last three years. I’m from Minneapolis Minnesota and most people here do it as a hobby, and it isn’t taken seriously as in other parts of the country. So I moved to Nashville three years ago just to try to find musicians to align myself with and to get people to take me more seriously. That’s when I dove in full force trying to make a career out of it. I was fortunate enough to meet my business partner who is also a big investor in my project. That’s been going on for about a year and have been able to work with the best people int he business.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

I think I’m a natural performer. It started with athletics. I’ve always been kind of on some sort of stage. I love being in front of big numbers of people. I think the best thing to me as far as being a musician and a songwriter. I love to play my shows and see someone sing along with me on a song that I wrote and created. That gives me the biggest surreal feeling, even if it’s two people in the crowd. If you can reach just one person with something that you wrote or created in a positive way its all worthwhile. In my business my work is entertainment for other people. Its a fun thing to be able to do.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Yeah, I haven’t had too much trouble with it. I think I continue to get better each time I play. I have a lot of experience with the shows that I’ve played in my life. I’m very comfortable at this point in my life. There was a time where it was a little hard and the nerves got to me. I think I was always more nervous about the guys in my band and worrying about them and if we would pull it off as a band than I was myself. These days, I get to play with the top level musicians, so I don’t really worry about it too much. Vocally is the best part of what I do. I’m never worried about what I do vocally unless my voice is out. Sometimes I get nervous about my voice not being there because with an instrument, there is no excuse to perform badly if you rehearse and practice, so you should be solid. But vocally you want to be able to perform on the highest level but sometimes your voice just doesn’t let you.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I love to play basketball. That’s my favorite thing to do in the world, even more so than music. I have a dog, so I love to hang out with my dog. I have a great family that I’m really close to. I have a few friends that I like to hang out with.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

I love Michael Jackson, and that would have been amazing to work with him. To be honest, I appreciate all different kinds of music and I love listening to music, but I’ve never been obsessed with a band or really been inspired by another songwriter. I don’t want to sound selfish or cocky, but I’ve never wanted to sound like anybody, so I’ve always done my own thing. I’m very closed-off to the world. Maybe its a bad thing or maybe it’s a good thing too. I don’t watch TV, I don’t read the newspaper. I don’t really know what’s going on in the world, even in my own industry. Sometimes I feel like I’m in a box, in my own little dream world.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I would say its like a pop/rock, southern rock maybe? Some of the songs are piano driven ballads, some are teeny-boppers bubble-gum songs. A lot of my songs sounds different from each other. I don’t have typical sounds, per-say. I definitely want to have my own sound that I can identify with people.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I think my vocals are pretty distinctive. I don’t think I sound like too many other people. I think its a variety of the songs that I have. I have a song that’s a hip/hop type song, then there is an 80s ballad sounding song. Then there’s a hard rock song with almost a country twist. I play guitar, piano, and harmonica so that adds to the sound.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

I want to be able to make a good living songwriting and playing my own original music and being certified by people all over the country and the world. And I want to be a light in the world, to make a positive difference in the world. I want to be a good role model and bring a positive influence to somebody that when they say my name, they think of many good things and they smile.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

Right now, we’re in the middle of pitching our music to TV and film, and we’re doing a radio campaign. Our new single being released digitally on August 30th is called “I Will Love You” and we just did a music video and that will be done within the next month here. I try to be as active as possible on social networking like Facebook, Twitter, and my website. In the upcoming months we’ll start touring regularly, so by September that should be rolling.

[Keep Clicking Thumbnails for a Larger Image]

Images Via: Pop Genearation

A little bit country and a little bit rock n’ roll, sisters Nik & Sam are ready to hit the big time with their debut single “BooHoo.” Their story has been years in the making – the girls got their start at age 10 playing traditional country and bluegrass music, with Nik on guitar and Sam on banjo. Within a year they were wowing audiences in their home state of Arkansas, and soon began touring the rodeo circuit. Now, at the age of 19, Nik & Sam already have an impressive resume. Recently the girls have opened for artists like Randy Travis, Little Big Town, Jason Aldean, Kellie Pickler and SHeDAISY, and have written songs with Grammy-award-winning writers like Liz Rose (Taylor Swift) and Hillary Lindsey (Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill).

Nik & Sam agree that their sound can’t be defined by one specific genre. Listing everyone from the Dixie Chicks to Sheryl Crow to the Foo Fighters as influences, their sound is a perfect mixture of country, rock, pop, and classic Americana. Says Sam, “I draw from my musical inspirations to help create my own style, and use that to inspire others!”

The girls are currently playing shows across the US as they work on their debut album – for more info on their music and where you can see their dynamic live show, visit NikandSam.com and find them on Facebook and Twitter. Those in the Southern California area can see them open for Thompson Square July 28th at the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills and July 29th at the Galaxy in Anaheim.

Recently, I had the chance to ask Nik & Sam about things such as their inspirations, who they’d love to work with, and their upcoming plans. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

As far back as we can remember we’ve always had an interest in music especially with having it around the house all the time we were growing up but the first time we realized we wanted to do this was when we were 11 and just played our first gig, like a spark went off inside of us and we never wanted to stop.

How did you get started in the music industry?

You know when we were 12 we worked with this producer and he helped us get our foot into some showcases and then we kinda broke into the industry with a development deal.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

The things that drives and inspires us to do what we do is the fact that every time we play anywhere just to get a glimpse of the look on peoples faces and how it makes their day just reconfirms why we do this! especially when people come up to us and tell us how much we’ve inspired them to pick up an instrument or that we’ve motivated them to do something is a priceless feeling. we try to strive to be good role models.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Being able to sing and perform is something that comes naturally to us because it’s something we have a passion for but as far as easy that’s something different. We work really hard at what we do and we have a saying: ”If it were easy everyone would do it”.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Nik: Things I love to do involve going to the movies, watching live concerts, experimenting with Art&Fashion, baking (which can be bad since i have sweet tooth) and anything that has to do with being creative. And we both enjoy outdoor activities like riding horses.

Sam: Favorite things to do or obsessed with? I am a shopaholic and a movie fanatic! I make it a habit to fit in exercising everyday. For down time I love cooking and I like to expand my knowledge by watching other live artists.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

We would have to say Keith Urban because he continually puts out great music and puts a lot of energy into his songs and his live shows. On the other end of the spectrum in our wildest dreams we would love to work with the Foo Fighters!

How would you describe the sound of your music?

Well we draw our influences from The Dixie Chicks, The Wreckers and sound like a female version of Keith Urban. We want to have a signature sound that defines us so when people listen to our music they’ll know it’s Nik&Sam.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

Since we started out playing bluegrass we will always have those roots in our music but what makes it different is the fact that we also write our own music which leans more towards the pop and sometimes rock genre yet we keep the banjo in there. We want to have our signature sound that people will recognize.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

Nik: Short term goal is to get to Nashville as soon as possible and get things started.

Sam: Long term goals would be to put out great music, tour the world and ultimately winning a Grammy. Of course, have longevity in everything we do.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

Well first off, we’d love to be in Nashville and involved with the songwriting community along with the music scene. We just love it there! When we come out with an album we hope to go on tour to get a chance to spread the word and see all of our wonderful fans and friends! Of course we’ll be promoting through our website www.nikandsam.com and @NikandSamMusic. And we also have a wonderful new management company, Croshal Entertainment Group, who have been helping to promote us big time!

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Images Via: PopGeneration

Producer/Mixer *Neal H. Pogue* (Outkast, TLC and Travis Barker) says: “Travis (T. Mills) has a great sense of old school melody that will win every time. He’s very soulful. He’s creating his own lane and will prove to be one of the most important artists of his time.”

You may have seen him rock the stage at Bamboozle, on the VANS Warped Tour, or even at the annual Roots Picnic. Now check out T. Mills free album ‘Leaving Home‘ – available now HERE!

Leaving Home by T. Mills

The project is the outcome of 140 songs recorded in Los Angeles pared down to a solid 10 cuts. Synth-splotched beats cozy up to his journal-mined rhymes, evidenced on the smooth “Hollywood” and revved up “Vans On,” a song that rocks even harder during his stellar live show.

I had the chance to speak with T. Mills about his interest in music, what he does in his free time, and what his short term and long term goals are. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I first realized my interest in music probably when I was five years old. I told mom that I wanted to be on radio. I was in the back of the car and told her I’d be on the radio one day. What sparked my interest is actually my grandfather because he bought me an acoustic guitar when I was four years old and I just picked it up and never put it down.

How did you get started in the music industry?

One of my friends did video shoot for Atlantic Records and I got to be an extra in it. She came up to me asked if I had any skills. I had just started project and had about 5 songs to my name that were recorded on garage band. So I took her to the car to listen to it and she gave me her card to come into Atlantic Records on that Monday for a meeting. I came in there with no management, no lawyers, nothing. I was just in the right place at the right time.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

I think myself. I drive and inspire myself. I love touring, playing shows, being in studio, and I love my fans. They are amazing. I feel like you have to be self inspired because you’re the one that’s going to be doing the work. No one is going to do it for you. At least that’s my own personal philosophy.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

It all depends on the crowd. I feed off energy – if its a dead crowd, like I had a lot of in the beginning, I have to channel it a little more. Now it’s fun and the energy is there and I just vibe off of it. I definitely do have to work at my singing and taking care of my voice. After the show if I have another one the next night, I’m on vocal rest and have to be in bed early. So it’s a little bit of both.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I’m a tattoo enthusiast, so it takes up a lot of free time. I like riding bikes, and anything that involves in art, whether it’s painting, museums, or art exhibits. But music takes up a lot of my time.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

Right now, I’d have to say Theophilus London. His new record is amazing.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I always have a hard time with this question. I would say my music is a vibe of different genres. I come from a rock background but always listen to hip hop and r&b. I pull inspirations from all genres and just mold it. Something new, something different.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I feel that I’m different because I’m not trying to do the same thing. I don’t try to copy artists I like. I just go in and do whatever comes to mind and feel like my taste in music is so wide and I can pull inspirations from anything. I don’t like to limit myself and I won’t shut down an idea until I try it. If it works, it works. If not, then I move on to another idea. I don’t pigeonhole myself into one genre. I like to experiment and I’m not afraid to try new things, which is really crucial in music.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

Short-term goal, I would love to play Coachella 2012. That’s a dream of mine. Long-term goal is to have a career and make a living off my heart. I’d like to travel the world, meet new people, see my fans, and just keep doing music.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

We have an east coast mini tour at the end of August, and I’ll be on tour until November. I’m going to Europe in November as well for a tour. I’m big on Social Networking, so I’m on there for hours a day talking to fans, discovering new music, and staying relevant.

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Images Via: ThinkTank

Not since the invention of the Original Sin has Israel produced such a hot export. Born and raised in Israel, Meital (pronounced “Mey-tall”) is no stranger to the spotlight. She is already an award-winning actress in theater, film, and television, and the author of a number of successful plays and the book “Love and Other Bad Habits.” US audiences may know her from her role as Yael Hoffman on Showtime’s ‘Weeds’ and the critically acclaimed indie film ‘Monogamy,’ co-starring Rashida Jones.

Now Meital is turning up the volume on her music career with the release of single “Yummy Boyz,” a sexy, sassy electro-pop romp that takes no prisoners. Check out the outrageous new video to get a feel for Meital’s unique mix of humor and heat. “Yummy Boyz” is available now on iTunes, while her full-length debut album I’m In Hate With Love is due out later this year. For more Meital, find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Recently I had the chance to ask Meital some questions on things such as her interest in music, who she’d love to work with, and the goals she has lined out for herself. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I always loved music and had a great passion for music but my acting career just happened to take off young so I never really had time to focus on music until recently.

?How did you get started in the music industry?

I met producer Che Pope and we bonded and it was just the right juice to get creative and create together. Rayna Zemel joined us and we all hit it off. Also, Che worked with some of my favorite artists such as Lauryn Hill and Dr. Dre, so for me it was a sign that I was in the right place at the right time.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

Is it love? Is it obsession? Is it destiny? Of course I love acting and singing and being in this world of entertainment, but I feel like a lot of people love art. When you take the role of being an artist it’s more of a question of destiny than of free will.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Yes, I’ve been performing my whole life so it’s as natural as taking a shower or brushing my hair or eating food. It just naturally integrates with how I live my life.

?Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

In addition to music and acting, I’m also a writer and I have a book of poems I wrote called Love and Other Bad Habits. When I’m not working, I try to have fun because if you’re not having fun then you aren’t really living.

??If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

Beethoven, but is it too late? But seriously, there are so many talented producers out there from Danger Mouse to Nigel Godrich and so many more so how can I choose just one?

How would you describe the sound of your music?

It’s a little bit funny and a little bit serious. It’s about the stage we are at in society and the capitalistic approach to love. Everyone wants love, but everyone is too busy with themselves and the value of love is a big question mark.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

And what genre is that again? I wanted to create an album that you can listen to when you are just hanging out with your lover and then when a few friends join you can get up and dance. I’m not looking to be different necessarily. I am looking to make music that comes from my heart and connects with other people’s hearts. I want my music to get people thinking about celebration, thinking about what is important in life and to get the vibe going.
??
What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

In the short-term I’d like to go outside and get a tan but I have a lot of work to do and in the long term I want to take a vacation for 7 days, but I don’t think it’s going to happen soon. And along with that I want to shake the earth a little and further down the line I want the planet in my palms.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music and your album due out later this year?

I’d love to tell you, but I want to surprise you more than anything. Get ready for some crazy videos and let’s rock it.

[Keep Clicking Thumbnails for a Larger Image]

Images Via: Pop Generation

Not since the invention of the Original Sin has Israel produced such a hot export. Born and raised in Israel, Meital (pronounced “Mey-tall”) is no stranger to the spotlight. She is already an award-winning actress in theater, film, and television, and the author of a number of successful plays and the book “Love and Other Bad Habits.” US audiences may know her from her role as Yael Hoffman on Showtime’s ‘Weeds’ and the critically acclaimed indie film ‘Monogamy,’ co-starring Rashida Jones.

Now Meital is turning up the volume on her music career with the release of single “Yummy Boyz,” a sexy, sassy electro-pop romp that takes no prisoners. Check out the outrageous new video to get a feel for Meital’s unique mix of humor and heat. “Yummy Boyz” is available now on iTunes, while her full-length debut album I’m In Hate With Love is due out later this year. For more Meital, find her on Facebook and Twitter.

Recently I had the chance to ask Meital some questions on things such as her interest in music, who she’d love to work with, and the goals she has lined out for herself. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I always loved music and had a great passion for music but my acting career just happened to take off young so I never really had time to focus on music until recently.

?How did you get started in the music industry?

I met producer Che Pope and we bonded and it was just the right juice to get creative and create together. Rayna Zemel joined us and we all hit it off. Also, Che worked with some of my favorite artists such as Lauryn Hill and Dr. Dre, so for me it was a sign that I was in the right place at the right time.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

Is it love? Is it obsession? Is it destiny? Of course I love acting and singing and being in this world of entertainment, but I feel like a lot of people love art. When you take the role of being an artist it’s more of a question of destiny than of free will.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Yes, I’ve been performing my whole life so it’s as natural as taking a shower or brushing my hair or eating food. It just naturally integrates with how I live my life.

?Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

In addition to music and acting, I’m also a writer and I have a book of poems I wrote called Love and Other Bad Habits. When I’m not working, I try to have fun because if you’re not having fun then you aren’t really living.

??If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

Beethoven, but is it too late? But seriously, there are so many talented producers out there from Danger Mouse to Nigel Godrich and so many more so how can I choose just one?

How would you describe the sound of your music?

It’s a little bit funny and a little bit serious. It’s about the stage we are at in society and the capitalistic approach to love. Everyone wants love, but everyone is too busy with themselves and the value of love is a big question mark.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

And what genre is that again? I wanted to create an album that you can listen to when you are just hanging out with your lover and then when a few friends join you can get up and dance. I’m not looking to be different necessarily. I am looking to make music that comes from my heart and connects with other people’s hearts. I want my music to get people thinking about celebration, thinking about what is important in life and to get the vibe going.
??
What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

In the short-term I’d like to go outside and get a tan but I have a lot of work to do and in the long term I want to take a vacation for 7 days, but I don’t think it’s going to happen soon. And along with that I want to shake the earth a little and further down the line I want the planet in my palms.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music and your album due out later this year?

I’d love to tell you, but I want to surprise you more than anything. Get ready for some crazy videos and let’s rock it.

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Images Via: Pop Generation

Acclaimed musician, producer and misfit singer-songwriter Jim Bianco reached out to his loyal fan base to fund his third full-length album, Loudmouth, available now. The self-release follows Sing (2008) and Handsome Devil (2004). Fresh off dates on the Cayamo Cruise with John Prine, Patti Griffin, Buddy Miller and Richard Thompson and performances at SXSW, Bianco will kick off a national record release tour in Los Angeles at the weekly party “School Night” hosted by KCRW’s Chris Douridas and proclaimed by Paste Magazine as “best party in America.”

Bianco, well-known for his live performance, has toured with artists such as Imogen Heap, Butch Walker, Concrete Blonde and Loudon Wainwright III. He’s performed on the “Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson,” NPR’s “Mountain Stage” and has been known as the miscreant of the legendary Hotel Café tour since it’s inception. Bianco’s music has most recently been featured on HBO’s “True Blood.” Bianco currently appears in “Sing, The Hotel Café Tour”, a documentary titled after Bianco’s last record, where he can be seen sporting a mohawk, badmouthing his friends and making out with Butch Walker. “Sing, The Hotel Café Tour” airs this month on the Documentary Channel and will be screened in April at the Nashville Film Festival.

In addition to music, Bianco has also been exploring other artistic mediums. He is in the process of publishing a book of short stories and tales from the road, which he plans to sell at tour dates. “I just thought people would want to hear about my adventures on the road – sleeping in airports, shaving in rearview mirrors and screwing in ATM booths.” He has also recently taken to writing, acting, directing and editing his own silent films. Lorenzo DeStefano, the head of the Ventura Film Society, says, “Jim’s new silent films embrace and expand on a lost era of filmmaking. They illuminate the human spirit in a way that is honest, charming and at times quite profound.” The Huffington Post recently premiered Bianco’s new single ‘Sinners’ and declared that “[it] just might become your new favorite party anthem.”

Recently, I had the chance to ask Jim about things such as his start in the music industry, how he’s different from other artists in his genre, and his goals. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I used music to help me define myself. It was a way to separate who I was from who my friend were, and who my father wanted me to be. I discovered an identity within myself through music, and for that I’ll always be grateful. Also, I realized that there was an intangible connection between playing music and getting girls.

How did you get started in the music industry?

I don’t consider myself to be part of the music “industry”. When I think of the word “Industry”, I think of old, dirty buildings and smoke and angry co-workers and small paychecks and… wait, that’s my LIFE!

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

Anxiety, ego, money and sex. Also, I love connecting with a live audience. It fuels me. When I play a show and the audience it with me, listening at every turn, laughing, screaming, and singing along, there truly is no greater moment for me. It’s what keeps me out on the road all year, spending hundreds of hours on planes and in cars- just to catch that moment of connection.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

I do now, but that wasn’t always the case. I started singing pretty late in my life, and I did so by renting a small closet in Los Angeles and practicing every day. Just going for it. Trial and error. Mostly error. Since then I’ve learned a lot and have become far more confident. But the thing about singing is: there’s always room to get better.

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Eating and traveling take up a big part of my life. I’m hungry to see the world and hungry for whatever the locals are serving. Thankfully, with music, I get to move around a lot, (I’m answering these questions from Australia!) – on a perfect day, I travel far away, grab some local dish for dinner and play a killer show that night. It doesn’t happen all the time, but when it does, I revel in it. It’s a perfect storm!

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

That’s a tough one. Let’s see – If I had my druthers, I would love to record with John Bonham on drums. Led Zeppelin was one of my favorite bands growing up, and John Bonham was my favorite member. He is the definition of bad-ass.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I wouldn’t. It’s a very dangerous thing to do. If I say ‘rock’, that doesn’t sound right. If i say ‘folk’, that doesn’t sound right. If I say ‘blues’ that doesn’t sound right. Or ‘pop’, or ‘indie’, or ‘alternative’. It’s a mix of a lot of styles coming together and making a strange, unique blend of something new. I prefer to just let people listen. GO! http://www.jimbianco.com

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I’m extraordinarily better looking and more talented and exponentially more humble.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

Goals schmoals. I used to have them, and then I realized that a plan is only an outline for the way things aren’t gonna go. I’ve had some great things happen so far, and none of them have been planned. I think the thing to do is keep an open mind, keep playing shows, keep writing songs and keep my fingers crossed. It’s worked so far.

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16-year-old pop singer BERA is ready to take the U.S. by storm with the premiere of the video for his debut single, “Favorite Things.” Produced by Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga), the single is a mid-tempo love song that gives fans a glimpse into the soul of BERA. “I really love ‘Favorite Things’ because it shows who I am,” says BERA. “In three minutes it shows my universe. Everything I say in my songs comes from something real.”

While he may be young, BERA has already launched his own record label called Georgian Dream and worked with the likes of Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga) and Rodney Jerkins (Britney Spears, Michael Jackson) on his debut album, due out later this year.

Check out more info on BERA on his official site http://www.beraofficial.com

I had the chance to ask Bera about things such as what inspires him, who he’d love to work with, and his upcoming plans. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I’ve been in the music since I was born. I started with violin at the age of 4, then piano and drums. But I started creating later, after I began listening to Jazz/Soul/Hip-Hop/R&B. That’s when I really fell in love with music.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

Everything that drives and inspires me to do something in my life is LOVE! Love for my family, love for my friends, love for my fans, love for music.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

This is my life! That’s the only thing that I can do! It’s like asking a cook if he or she feels comfortable being in the kitchen.

What are the challenges that come with being a younger singer/performer?

For me being young is an advantage, at least you have more time to do that you’re doing. Imagine, at the age of 30, I’ll have a 15 year career and I’ll still be young with full of energy. I think the only challenge that I have to struggle with because of my age is that people may consider younger singers/performers as so called “bubble gum music makers.” That’s why you have to prove them that you are a real musician!

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I’m a simple guy. When I have some free time, I always prefer to spend it in a family situation, for example: even just talking with my family, friends, joking or whatever.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

I would love to have Jay-Z and Beyonce together on the same record.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I would divide my music into two parts: a more fun, club, up-tempo side; and the laid-back, loverboy, romantic side, which can make you dream.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I was born like this. I didn’t dye my hair to look different. So, very honestly, I really like it.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

It’s hard to talk about my long-term goals right now, cause my first album will determine a lot of things. If you ask me this question again by the end of this year, I might be able to give you a better answer.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

More songs, more videos, more work, more fun. I’ll be doing some promo tours.

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Images Via: Total Assault

16-year-old pop singer BERA is ready to take the U.S. by storm with the premiere of the video for his debut single, “Favorite Things.” Produced by Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga), the single is a mid-tempo love song that gives fans a glimpse into the soul of BERA. “I really love ‘Favorite Things’ because it shows who I am,” says BERA. “In three minutes it shows my universe. Everything I say in my songs comes from something real.”

While he may be young, BERA has already launched his own record label called Georgian Dream and worked with the likes of Rob Fusari (Lady Gaga) and Rodney Jerkins (Britney Spears, Michael Jackson) on his debut album, due out later this year.

Check out more info on BERA on his official site http://www.beraofficial.com

I had the chance to ask Bera about things such as what inspires him, who he’d love to work with, and his upcoming plans. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I’ve been in the music since I was born. I started with violin at the age of 4, then piano and drums. But I started creating later, after I began listening to Jazz/Soul/Hip-Hop/R&B. That’s when I really fell in love with music.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

Everything that drives and inspires me to do something in my life is LOVE! Love for my family, love for my friends, love for my fans, love for music.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

This is my life! That’s the only thing that I can do! It’s like asking a cook if he or she feels comfortable being in the kitchen.

What are the challenges that come with being a younger singer/performer?

For me being young is an advantage, at least you have more time to do that you’re doing. Imagine, at the age of 30, I’ll have a 15 year career and I’ll still be young with full of energy. I think the only challenge that I have to struggle with because of my age is that people may consider younger singers/performers as so called “bubble gum music makers.” That’s why you have to prove them that you are a real musician!

Besides music, what are some of your favorite things to do?

I’m a simple guy. When I have some free time, I always prefer to spend it in a family situation, for example: even just talking with my family, friends, joking or whatever.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

I would love to have Jay-Z and Beyonce together on the same record.

How would you describe the sound of your music?

I would divide my music into two parts: a more fun, club, up-tempo side; and the laid-back, loverboy, romantic side, which can make you dream.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I was born like this. I didn’t dye my hair to look different. So, very honestly, I really like it.

What are some of your short-term and long-term goals you have lined out for yourself?

It’s hard to talk about my long-term goals right now, cause my first album will determine a lot of things. If you ask me this question again by the end of this year, I might be able to give you a better answer.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

More songs, more videos, more work, more fun. I’ll be doing some promo tours.

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Images Via: Total Assault

Wallpaper is Oakland’s Eric Frederic, gifted producer, multi-instrumentalist songwriter, viral media hustler and disco ball-busting crowd destroyer. Whether crafting his own electro-steeped future beats or cleverly skewering pop culture he effortlessly fuses a long personal history of music-making with bold showmanship and a love for trunk-rattling thump.

Wallpaper recently released his new video for the single “#STUPiDFACEDD,” available on iTunes now. He will also be playing live at The Ace of Spades in Sacramento, CA on April 29th and The Catalyst in Santa Cruz, CA on April 30th.

For more information on Wallpaper check out his Facebook and Twitter.

Recently I had the chance to ask Wallpaper some questions about his interest in music, who he’d love to work with, and what some of his favorite things to do besides music are. You can read about that below.

When did you first realize you had an interest in music and what sparked that interest?

I took piano lessons when I was a little dude but by no means was I interested in that sh*t. I was real excited though when I got a Police Greatest Hits tape when I was 6, and then handed down a Eric B. & Rakim record in 4th grade by my best friend. Then came punk rock. Then came girls. Then trying to impress them. Now, here I am.

What drives and inspires you to do what you love?

I don’t really know. I’m not sure I understand it. I just have to keep doing this. It’s a freaky compulsion. I’m obsessed with having a legacy and making myself and others feel good.

Do you find it easy to sing and perform? Does it come naturally for you?

Performing yes, singing, no. I was not born with even a half decent singing voice. The only real talent I have is being honest with myself, knowing when someone’s shit is better than mine. Understanding time and circumstance and all that. And I have the work ethic to enhance my material, performance, singing etc until I can recognize that it is the best.

Besides music and getting #STUPiDFACEDD, what are some of your favorite things to do?

Mexican food. Community College Woman’s Basketball Coach. Picking fights at house parties. Seeing a second movie without paying. Changing lanes with no turn signal.

If you had the chance to work or record with anyone, who would you choose?

Snoop Dogg. Obama. The bro who scored Law & Order SVU. Chaka Khan.

What are some of your favorite places that you have traveled/toured?

Vancouver. Interlaken, Switzerland. Kyoto, Japan. Philly. Key Largo, FL.

How do you feel that you’re different from other artists in your genre?

I’m the only artist in my genre.

What are some of your short term and long term goals that you have lined out for yourself?

Short term: do the dishes sitting in my sink. Long term: teach my great grandkids how to C-walk.

What are your upcoming plans for promoting your music?

Ask my publicist. I used to plan and promote and sh*t. Now I just spend my time getting into a zone where I feel creative and alive. Whether I’m at an apartment party or in the studio, it’s about letting ideas materialize, capturing them on record, and putting that sh*t on the internet.

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Images Via: Total Assault