Kick Acts Online Blog
Blog, Music, News and More! 12 Years strong!KickActs interviews “Artifas”!
Posted onFebruary 12, 2016
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
The band has many different musical heroes. Everything ranging from Michael Jackson to Periphery, Incubus, Karnivool, Red, Justin Timberlake, Papa Roach…. There are many for us, and from all over the genre map.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
I think the best advice that I could give would be to never give up! This industry is tough and full of speed bumps in the road. Those who stick it out through the thick and the thin are the ones that make it in the end! Work hard and never give up! The most successful people in life are the ones who failed the most!
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What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
When we first started we went to go work with a well established rock singer(who I won’t name at the time). We were told by multiple people that he was going to screw us over and that we would end up regretting it! They were correct! That advice ended up costing us thousands of dollars and a lot of wasted time! I wish we would have listened to that one from the get go, but we were blinded by the shiny lights and promises that were never filled.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
There isn’t a “greatest gig” story that is just jumping off of the page! We have had so many great shows in 2015, that it would be hard to pick! Both the Saint Asonia and Theory of a Deadman tours were filled with those greatest gig nights! For me ( Scottie ) the worst gig would have to be back in 2012, I believe, when I broke my ankle on stage in front of a sold out home crowd…..IN THE FIRST SONG!!!! It was horrifying, but I didn’t stop the show! Once my adrenaline got going again, i was feeling good. That is until I got off the stage and went back to the merch table! Once i sat down and pulled of my boots, it looked like someone shoved a softball in my ankle! Needless to say the next few months of touring were a pain in the ass. Nothing like being on the stage in a bright red cast.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
I like to collect pipes haha!!!!! I also recently bought a drone, and that little thing is awesome! May be the start of a new hobby, may not! You will have to check back with me on that one. As far as the other guys, we have some pretty extreme gamers in the band. We also have a severe tendency to nerd out to Star Wars, Batman, The Walking Dead, and other kick ass super hero stuff!!!
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
The scene has it’s ups and downs. Recently we’ve seen a pretty decent change in the amount of people at shows! It all depends on where you are and who is involved though! Some places you would never expect have some of the best scenes and other places you feel would be amazing don’t seem to pull a crowd. I believe the scene will always be alive. People crave live music. There isn’t anything quite as passionate that you can experience.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I definitely don’t think they hurt the industry. Just because of those shows, people aren’t going to stop listening to other music. I think that it is a good avenue for some people who might not have the freedom or opportunity to get out there and grind like we do, but on the other hand, it makes it easier for people to just go do without figuring out who they are as an artist or without the drive to get out and do the work
themselves. It’s all just TV. I don’t really care too much about any of them, but more power to those who find that as their best avenue to pursue their dreams.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
It sucks, it’s here to stay, and there are other ways. It is the most basic form of stealing, but there doesn’t seem to be much that we can do about it. There does seem to be a massive shift to streaming music from
apps like Spotify and iTunes, which makes me a little happier to see, but the fact of the matter is that these companies aren’t paying the artists much either. I hope sometime in the near future there is a solution to
this. It’s only fair that the artists get paid for what they created.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Mikey is into Japanese Metal music. He’s big into groups like DollsBox. Anthony has actually played guitar in every other band he’s ever been with other than Artigas. Cody has a total soft spot for Almond Joy and Jared has still to this day never seen Star Wars
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Ginger…. let’s face it, she was the hot one
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Of Course. I used to have a pretty massive Vinyl collection with everything from Elvis, to The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, etc. And then my crazy ex girlfriend stole them all. I haven’t seen them since!
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
I’d put him in a cage til I ran out of food!
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
Hot! Bad Songs! Doesn’t like clothes!
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip syncing or real vocals?
Real vocals all day, every day! I have lip syncing
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
I’m hoping we are!
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Karnivool
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
i used to teach high school drumlines. Yeah…me…. a high school teacher!
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Rockstar. First of it’s a music movie based around metal. Secondly it’s a movie where a guy follows his dreams no matter what!
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
If there is one steady thing that I always like to preach, it’s for people to chase their dreams! This life was meant for you to do what you love, and to go after what you want to be. I know it’s easy sometimes to get sucked into working a job you hate to make ends meet, but if i’ve learned anything through all of this, it’s that no matter what, if you really want something and chase after it with everything you have, then there is no reason that you shouldn’t succeed. Take the risk, take a chance, have some faith in yourselves! Dream big!
KickActs interviews Carrie Lane!
Posted onJune 27, 2014Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
What people don’t know about me is that I am a complete goofball. I have been getting messages from people I haven’t seen in years saying how impressed they are by all the things they see me doing and it makes me smile. Not just because they see that all of my hard work is paying off, but because they don’t know that behind the scenes I am still a total weirdo.
You can find me at www.CarrieLaneMusic.com
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
My musical heroes are The Beatles. They are a group that is always timeless in my mind and that is hard for me to find in artists. I love all types and genres of music, but there are very few songs or groups that I can listen to no matter where I am, what I’m doing, or what I’m feeling. I can always listen to The Beatles and I can always find something to relate to in their music.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
Anyone who starts out in the music business needs to be passionate because there is no doubt that it is going to get hard and the business is going to test how badly they want it, repeatedly and consistently. You need that drive and that will to stay strong when everything is not going as planned. You need to be hardworking and patient. If you do this and don’t try to cut corners, your time will come.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
My issue is that I take in all the advice that people give me. My mind is like a sponge and I soak in every bit of information people give me. So my issue is not ignoring advice that people give me, rather listening to people that I shouldn’t be!
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
Once, there was someone who opened for me who was dressed in a full skeleton suit and played the same song over and over for his entire set. I don’t know if that is my greatest gig story or my worst gig horror story… you choose.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
Wow! Okay that question definitely made me blush. Oddly enough I like to color. Is that okay? I’m like a little kid when it comes to hobbies. I like to just sit with a coloring book and crayons. I find it very soothing whenever I’m stressed. Judge me.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
I think there has never been a greater time for music in my opinion. Although, people can still argue that only a specific type of music is on the radio… there are so many types of sub genres that are emerging that never could have come about years ago. The possibilities more music are multiplying and artists should be taking advantage of all of the opportunities out there.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X Factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I think that they are a unique part of the music industry that has never been able to really thrive in previous generations. I think with the way technology has evolved, shows like this are inevitable. They are interactive and make America believe that they are in control of picking the next big artist. However, little do they know these people are being hand picked to fit specific demographics that television networks are trying to promote.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
What is anyone’s opinion of this? Don’t do it. Buy music, support artists. Period.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Aha! Yes, I get some revenge on my boys. Well let’s see I have three members of my band Dan Traglia, Dan Rufolo, and Vin Landolfi. Dan Traglia is my drummer and he’s the band leader, what you wouldn’t know about him is that every time he sits down for a meal he eats for a small village. Seriously, the guy eats his body weight in food every time he sits down it’s the most un-human thing I’ve ever seen. Dan Rufolo plays piano and is good at everything… I’m not even joking, he’s good at everything… it’s insane. That’s why I have to pick on him a bit because it’s just not fair. I decided that because there are two Dan’s in my band that I would call him Buttercup. So that it what he is called. And Vin most people think is the quiet one, but once you get to know him he’s hysterical. Sometimes (most of the time) he and Dan Traglia talk to each other in this weird other voice, it’s like their own language… it’s very strange. Bottom line, they’re all amazing and I love them because they’re super talented guys and insanely talented musicians, what more could I ask for?
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s Island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Ok… you are seriously dating yourself with this question! I am too young to have ever seen Gilligan’s Island! Although, I do know one character and that’s Ginger so I pick her because she’s hot.
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Yes I know what a vinyl is! I have never purchased one. However, when my grandfather passed away he left me with his collection of vinyl records because he knew how much I love music. I still have all of them to this day.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
What’s with you and islands? I am not a violent person, nor a hater. I don’t think I would be anything but nice to the Beebz. He’s only human too…
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
I think Miley Cyrus is an absolute genius. People can sit here and criticize her and scoff at everything she’s doing, but everything about what she is doing is calculated for success. As we’re sitting here judging, Miley is laughing all the way to the bank.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip-synching or real vocals?
It depends on the type of concert. If you are going to hear some acoustic music or some rock and roll you want a live performance. If you want a large production with dancing and all that jazz, you’re going to lose quality of the voice. Sometimes backing vocals enhance the performance and that does not mean that the artist can’t sings, it means that is their choice to make that specific performance the best they can. Everyone uses backing tracks at one point or another; it is not something to be ashamed or criticized.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
Me… Duh. Next Question!
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
One time I wrote #nofilter and I totally used a filter…
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is… Why?
I think this goes back to The Beatles man, can’t live without them.
Favorite movie of all time and why?
My favorite movie of all time is Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. It is a classic and I laugh just as hard every time I see it, there are not very many things in life that can manage to hold that timeless charm.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s where you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
I just want to take my “Shout it Out Loud” time to encourage everyone to Pay it Forward. I think this movement is incredibly important. It does not have to be through money necessarily, just through the goodness of our hearts. If we continue to help others and breed positivity around us, positive things will come to us as well. That’s just the way of the universe. I am a strong person. And the best way to utilize your strength is to lift people up, not to put them down.
KickActs interviews Eric Seevers of “Social 66”
Posted onJune 20, 2014
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and were you can be found online.
My name is Eric Seevers, I play bass guitar for Social 66 we can be found @
itunes
soundcloud
etc..
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
For me personally I grew up listening to thrash metal, played guitar and rode skateboards so I liked the faster heavier stuff. I always looked up to Alex Skolnic, Dave Mustaine, Danny Spits, Randy Rhoades. The faster music made me want to go harder and faster and I loved the way those guys made their guitars sound like a chainsaw slicing into raw meat. Some did it with elegance and some attacked it head on.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!!! no seriously. its a tough, tough business and if you don’t have the drive and determination to take it as far as you can along with some tough skin you’ll find that this biz doesn’t care about you or your band you need to do it for the lvd of music and not of fame and fortune.
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
Nothing really comes to mind because I felt like I never had a mentor to help me through it was always trial and error. I burned a few bridges along the way and built some real good ones too. but in the end it was just me and my desire to share my music with people and after a few right and wrong turns, here I am.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
I have a long history before I joined Social 66 so I have a lot of war stories but since Ive joined Social 66 Id say it would be when we played Planet Rock in battle creek MI with Saliva. From the time we showed up at this gig things were falling apart. When we finally got on stage Jason was having major issues with his gear and the FOH guy was pushing us to get started. Almost near meltdown we stripped it down to bare bones and just ripped into it. I seen this near empty room fill up quickly and start moving toward the stage and before you knew it we had a couple hundred screaming people in fort of us picking up what we were putting down. So what started out bad turned into a great night for us.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
Me personally I have too many damn hobbies! I play basketball, golf, snowboard, ride motorcycles, collect comics, ugh..,. I need to get rid of some.
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
It would appear to be hit and miss nowadays? Some markets can’t get enough rock n roll and some are ghost towns. It helps when you have a local rock station backing up the shows and letting people know there are cool things going on and when to get out there and support the bands that come through. without it it makes it difficult to keep people informed without the right promotions.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
HURT! if people at home think that is what real life is about then they are gravely mistaken! people need to grab a guitar grab your buddies and jam. learn to get better and go through getting the door slammed in your face a few times. a panel of judges and “america” voting is not real life.
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
I understand both sides being a fan and an artist. If people would look at paying for music as a donation to the artist to be able to make more music and continue touring and coming to their hometown then I think it would go better. Im not buying music to make someone rich, I buying music to help an artist make more music.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
Hard working, nice guys. We all have normal lives outside of this rock nroll thing just like everyone else and sometimes people lose sight of that. its not like we are super heroes with a cape coming in to slam your ear with loud drums and guitars. We will hang out with you, talk to you, drink with you, do what all of you are there for, have a good time and listen to good music.
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
mary ann, hands down. she might look sweet and innocent but I bet she’s a wild cat!
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Yea I’m not as young as I look. I’ve owned a few in my life time but I still don’t buy that old BS that they sound better than CD’s. save that BS for someone else. I prefer a clear sound not some sandpaper scratchy ass vinyl record
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
No Id keep him around and beat him up everyday and make him do the lame stuff I don’t want to do.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
You go Girl! stack that paper as high as you can because its all gonna come crashing down someday. Good luck keeping your kids from finding out about your past because in this day and age people are gonna find out what you do and did.
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip synching or real vocals?
Real Vocals! duh!
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
Social 66 and unsliced bread
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is…
Sebastion Bach. Can’t get enough old skid row. It’s my guilty pleasure.
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
I listen to pop music and I love it! there I said it. I don’t care what people think. if its good its good.
Favorite movie of all time and why.
Wow… too many to choose so I’ll cop out and say the Star Wars movies.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
Id like to thank all the Fans for helping us get to where we are at and to the future we about to be in. If it wasn’t for all of you we wouldn’t be here and I love you all.
Richard Marx talks about Michael Bolton! lol
Posted onMarch 6, 2014You’ll never look at “When a Man Loves a Woman”guy in the same way again!! LMAO! The story starts around the 4 minute mark. Ever have a “Bolton” moment?
KickActs interviews “Shifting Tracks”!
Posted onFebruary 7, 2014Recently James Lowe from Kickacts Magazine sat down with one of the very exciting artists on the scene. The following is a written interview we conducted with the artist while they were working on their next CD and Tour. First off
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and your band and were you can be found at on the web.
My name is Bryant, I’m 29 and I’ve been playing guitar since I was 14. Shifting Tracks is a progressive alternative rock band from Mobile, Alabama and you can find out everything about us directly from our website at www.ShiftingTracks.com.
Who are your musical heroes, influences & why?
I was really influenced by Damien Rice. Everything he wrote was so poetic and the music was just amazing ranging from grooves to near free form climatic based compositions.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid?
Don’t get discouraged or irritated just remain focused on improving your skill.
Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share?
I haven’t had one of those awesome gig tales yet. I’ve played some great shows but nothing story worthy.
On the same token as the above question. How about a “worse gig” ever story.
I played a show during my first year of college with a buddy I knew from high school. Not only did the drummer not show up but the guy singing kept forgetting lyrics. The show eventually fell apart and we ended it. I was mortified then but I just can’t help but laugh now.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of boobs?
No not really. I mean I’m obsessed with keeping a journal of my life but I’m not really sure that counts as a hobby.
What do you think about the present music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
Well the entire music scene has been changing since the advent of the internet. I think it’s going in a positive direction and it’s definitely becoming an independent musician’s world now. You still need a team but don’t need a major corporate label anymore to make it.
Hypothetical situation. You’re stranded on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the girls… Is it Ginger, Mary Ann or Mrs. Howell and why?
Mary Ann definitely, she seems more down to earth.
KickActs interviews “Holly Elle”!
Posted onJanuary 31, 2014
All new set of questions too!!
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and where you can be found online.
Well alright then. I’m a Canadian pop artist currently based in Nashville TN. My favorite color is pink and my favorite food is pizza. My website is www.hearholly.com and from there you can find links to my Facebook page and Youtube channel and my Twitter is @hearholly. Follow me!
Who are your musical heroes and influences? Why?
Hmm let’s see. Well to start, my Father, because he’s a self-trained musician with an amazing ear. Thanks for that musician gene Dad! My brother, Freddy because he paved the way for me by first taking the leap of being an independent artist. The Beatles, because they are the best band of all time, end of discussion. Mariah Carey because of her outstanding vocal chops and unique vocal style, and her staying power.
Links: Website- http://hearholly.com/ Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Holly-Elle/177891678905141 Twitter- https://twitter.com/hearholly iTunes- http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/holly-elle/id417522549
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in the music business?
There’s obviously no instruction manual, no hard and fast rules, which is what makes it exciting and terrifying all at once. I’d say do it as long as you love it, you can’t be in it for any other reason. Develop a tough skin. Get ready for a roller coaster ride, or a walk through a maze where most corners you turn end in a big wall that says “NO”!
Out of all the advice I’ve ever got about the music business, the best I ever heard was this: it’s all bullshit. Not in a negative way, but in the way that no one has all the answers, nobody knows exactly what they’re doing. If we did, everyone would be churning out hits 100% of the time forever. Is there a certain amount of talent and experience that determines success in the industry? Yes. But it also requires a perfect storm, which includes those things mixed in with timing, luck, and a big dollop of who the fuck knows. I dunno man, just do you and if it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be. Follow your dreams kids!
What piece of advice did you ignore that you wish you hadn’t?
I don’t do regrets, and I take all advice with a grain of salt. I appreciate advice, and I take it into consideration. But then I follow my heart and determine what’s right for me, at the time, to the best of my knowledge, and that course can never be wrong.
Do you have a greatest gig story or worst gig horror story you’d like to share?
There was a recent summer here in Nashville where we had the hottest day on record, ever. Did I mention ever? And I had a 3-hour gig out on a patio in the middle of the afternoon, no shade, no fan, no breaks. There are few things I hate worse in life than being hot. #First world problems.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of peckers or boobs? Make sock puppets? Sit in the dark and eat Cheetos?
You’re giving me some really good ideas. And I’m also feeling like my hobbies are boring now comparatively. I like to play Texas Holdem poker. I actually like games in general, card games, board games. It drives my family crazy I think, it seems no one ever wants to play games as much as me 🙁
What do you think about the current music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
I’m not a get-on-my-soapbox music scene analyzer and criticizer. It’s the same as it’s always been and always will be; ever-changing, diverse, with some shit and some good shit. Each generation has their time with music, and then when that time is over you get to go “in MY day music was music, not this crap you hear today and blah blah blah” whatever.
Do you think reality shows like American Idol, X Factor and The Voice have helped or hurt the music industry as a whole?
I’m sure it’s both, who cares. I hate it when people get all high and mighty about music. Saying what’s good for the industry and what’s not, declaring who’s a sellout or who’s not worthy to be where they are. Judgey wudgey was a bear. Music is a come-one-come-all expression fest. If you don’t like it, don’t buy it, turn the channel, and let others get on with their lives. My personal opinion? I still watch American Idol. Although they are too mean in the way they produce the show and depict contestants during the audition process, and then too easy on them later during the judging process. They’ve got it backwards. As for The Voice, I wish they would make it so that the judges don’t see the contestants until the end of the season, maybe the final 3, now that would be a show!
What is your opinion of unauthorized music downloads?
I only download music that I’ve paid for, but I’m in the business so I’m close enough to know and feel the effects. It’s human nature, you may have one opinion, until it directly affects you, then suddenly that opinion changes. Is it wrong? Yes. But it’s too easily accessible and tempting for people. I have close friends that do it with music and movies too. You can debate about it until you’re blue in the face but the fact is, too late, what now?
It’s the job of artists and industry people to now figure out a new business model. Yes it creates hardship but it also creates opportunity.
Tell us something about you/each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear.
I really wish I had band members right now just so I could dish on them and tell you all their secrets. Like Billy’s an alcoholic (which fucks with our road schedule, he’s so unreliable) and everyone knows Brittany and I never got along but we pull it together just enough to record and then go our separate ways until the next tour. It would be so much more interesting…
Hypothetical situation. You’re on Gilligan’s Island and you get to hook up with only one of the survivors… Which one and why?
Dude, I love you but your references are way outdated. I’ve never seen that show. I know vaguely of the main character and the movie star lady, but if I chose I’d have to reveal my sexual orientation. We can’t have that.
If we were doing old shows we should have done Golden Girls. Oooh let’s do a “Fuck, Marry, Kill”! Okay hm, that’s a tough one. I guess I’d have to kill Blanche, because even though Sophia is close to the grave I’d miss her witty remarks. I’d fuck Rose for shock value and because she’s probably secretly a freak, and I’d marry Dorothy just for the challenge, and for the fact that she always knows the right thing to do. Okay now you go!
Do you know what a vinyl album is and have your ever purchased one? If so, what was it?
Oh my goodness what do you take me for? Yes and yes. I have a few let me check and see what I have here… Wings of Sound, that’s a good one. The Beatles, obvi. My Fair Lady, some classical stuff. Future goals: expand my collection by leaps and bounds, and release a vinyl album myself.
You’re marooned on an island with Justin Bieber. Do you choke him out the first night in his sleep or what?
Absolutely not! He’s my fellow Canadian and he’s adorable. I might slap him and say “what’s your problem? Pull it together. Don’t lose your shit now!” But seriously, when people say he isn’t talented I want to punch them in the face. Say what you want about the guy, you might not like his music, but don’t be fucking ridiculous. He can sing. He can dance. And he’s spanking most people’s asses in album sales.
But since we are on an island and we have time, I may teach him a new face to make for pictures. It’s always the same one, check it out, you’ll see.
What is your opinion of Miley Cyrus?
She or somebody in her camp is a marketing and PR genius. One day they sat in a room and said okay, what can we do to boost album sales and make everyone talk about you? Then they did it. Then you fell for it. The end. I don’t hate on Miley man. I got “We Can’t Stop” on my playlist just like I had “The Climb”. Whoever’s picking her songs is spot on. I do miss her long hair though can we convince her to grow it back out?
Which would you rather hear in concert? Lip-synching or real vocals?
REAL VOCALS. Are you kidding me? I can’t even.
Who, or what, is the next big thing?
If I knew that do you think I’d be here talking to you? I’d be all over that shit.
One artist you can’t get enough of and can’t live without is… Why?
Ugh don’t make me choose. I will say this, there is an interesting phenomenon with Rihanna. She seems like the only artist that can stay in our faces year after year without anyone getting sick of her. Has anyone else noticed this? Why is that? Think about it. I love Rihanna by the way.
Confession time. Share a secret about yourself.
Nah.
Favorite movie of all time and why?
I’m not good at narrowing down to just one thing. As you have seen I just go on and on and on. Let me say a couple: Dirty Dancing, because my Mom and I watch it every time we get together and it makes my Dad really mad. The Mummy, I don’t know why. Bring it On, delicious cheesiness. Okay how about this, favorite Disney cartoon: Hercules. Unless we’re talking old Disney movies in which case Sleeping Beauty. Okay I’m done now.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s where you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
Oh my gosh yay! Anything in the whole world? Let’s talk about me! Oh I know, I’ll practice for when I do Us Magazine’s “25 Things You Don’t Know About Me.” But don’t get mad or tell anyone when I reuse them later K? Here goes:
1. My Chihuahua Chickadee is the love of my life
2. Pizza is my favorite food (you may want to insert a “spoiler alert!” in the first question now)
3. I hate running. So much. I always have.
4. I love going to the movies. No really, I go and see like every movie that comes out
5. I have a phobia of birds
6. I had a near death experience when I almost drowned as a child
7. I’m extremely close with my family and they drive me insane!
8. I believe in aliens
9. My worst guilty pleasure reality TV indulgence is Love and Hip Hop
10. I’ve always been a night owl so I wasn’t allowed to nap like the other kids in
preschool
11. I started a club in elementary school called “The Cool Cats”
12. I’ve dyed my hair every possible color there is
13. My favorite southern expression is “Bless their little hearts”
14. I’ve been guilty of gossip in my day but I’m working on it (oops there’s that confession you were looking for)
15. My favorite comics are Dane Cook (screw the haters) and Eddie Izzard
16.I try to find humor in everything and usually do
17. I’m obsessed with makeup
18. My current celebrity crush is Tom Hiddleston. Yeah Loki, work it.
19. My favorite season is winter
20. I prefer to stay out of the ocean
21. I once played Dorothy in a school production of The Wizard of Oz
22. Coming up with 25 things is harder than you think
23. Maybe 10 or even 15 things would be more reasonable
24.I really enjoyed talking with you, it was so much fun!
25. Thanks!
KickActs interviews Maurice Carmon “Mlyrics”
Posted onJanuary 10, 2014Recently James Lowe from Kickacts Magazine sat down with one of the very exciting artists on the scene. The following is a written interview we conducted with the artist while they were working on their next CD and Tour. First off
I want to thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to talk to us here today, as i know our readers have been requesting us get you in here some how some way. You folks have been described by your fans as internet
sensations in this interview we will attempt to figure out how this artist became such a great performer and what they have going forward.
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and your band and were you can be found at on the web. I am a solo R&B/Soul act. Born and raised out of Washington D.C. let’s just say as a writer as well my music include stories of love to just real life situations. My music can be found at sites such as soundcloud, reverbnation, myspace, basically all the social sites as well I had an official release in Oct 2013.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mlyrics Myspace: https://myspace.com/mlyrics Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/mauricecarmonmlyrics SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/mlyrics
Who are your musical heroes, influences & why? Now, if I was to name everyone you guys would not have enough room to publish anyone else’s story (I am just joking). Some of my influences are Joe, Charlie Wilson, Sam Cook, and sum it up all of the real soul and R&B singers.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid? This is no secret but for those who do not know or may not understand why their music career may be at a standstill, every artist must have or make great connections which are just a part of what it takes to make it these days. Second you need a budget because as they say you get what you pay for and I am speaking in regards to their promotion, marketing, and branding. Third have some not good music but top notch music. It has to be top notch because everyone these days is an artist and many of them are actually coming up with some good music. Last, keep the mess at home. The industry is a business.
Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share? Not really, any and every time I perform, I love it.
On the same token as the above question. How about a “worse gig” ever story. Not really as I stated earlier I just love to perform so there is no “worse gig”, now someone else may think it was bad, lol but I just love to perform.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of boobs? No stamps collecting, or hats and unfortunately I have never been a good drawer so boob drawing is totally out (this was a funny one) but I am a writer. Writing is my love and ultimately first love. I have written all of my material as well I have written and worked with other artist from Snoop to Jon B and the ones in between were nothing short of amazing as well like Charlie Wilson, K-CI, Samantha Jade, MidWest City, Day 26 and many others.
What do you think about the present music scene or lack of? Care to address that? Oh boy, you’re trying to have some people upset at me huh? Just messing, well today I believe that the music scene is a little everywhere. It’s not where it was when the real and good talent determined the scene but it’s popularity that determines it now. I mean there are some artist that lucked up and had the right financial backing and connection so they got in then on the other hand there is some of the most amazing artist out there that the majority of people have and will never hear their music.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear… Like their hobbies or something like that…I am a solo act, but there is something that may surprise people which is I am actually a studying Jehovah’s Witness. Yes, there are others in the music industry beside George Benson and “The Symbol” Prince J
Hypothetical situation. You’re stranded on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the girls… Is it Ginger, Mary Ann or Mrs. Howell and why? Lol, man you guys are definitely keeping me on my toes, lol uh to be honest probably none. I say none, because sometimes and in some situations it is just best to be alone and this may be the situation. Plus I do not believe in simply hooking up there is just too much out there that I do not care to experience (if you know what I mean), lol
Our last one is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”! As a real music lover, I wish and cannot wait for the days where the downloading and free streaming is over. People have to realize that this is how musicians and artist make a living. It is just unfair that labels and artist spend so much of their personal time, money, and talents and not be compensated yet people want others to support and buy their material. I also hope that these new artist wake up and understand that this is not an industry to where talent will simply be enough. And that they should not expect anyone to invest money or time into them when they are not willing to do it into themselves. I know this has nothing to do with music but people just really need to start treating each other as they want to be treated. All the bullying, robberies, killings, etc…Is just destroying us as a people. It’s sad when hear someone got snatched into a car in broad daylight in front of a bank. Last, there are a number of people in the world that can personally have enough financially that they can individually get the U.S. out of this “debt” it’s in. What this simply means is that these certain individuals have enough money that they or their great, great, great grandkids will never be able to spend in their lifetime. I just pray that maybe one day they decide to actually help oppose to given large sums of funds to companies that are “suppose” to help but never do. It’s time for that to change because they can make a difference.
Ten questions with “Dynasty Electric”!
Posted onDecember 27, 2013
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and your band and where you can be found at on the web.
Jenny: Hello everyone J I love life- music, art, nature, beautiful people. Seth & I run an artist friendly community-centric label called NewSonic. I sing and play theremin in our band Dynasty Electric. http://www.dynastyelectric.net/
Seth: We’re an electronic duo from New York City. Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, iTunes and SoundCloud.
Who are your musical heroes, influences & why?
Seth: The Beatles have been a major influence on both of us, both musically and spiritually. When we first started the project we were listening to artists like Bjork, Gang of Four, Radiohead, Talking Heads, and Gorillaz.
Jenny: I’ve always been so inspired by Bjork. She is a pure channel for cosmic creativity- always ahead of the curve and always genuine.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid?
Jenny: Believe in yourself. Develop your own unique gifts. Don’t compare yourself to others.
Seth: First of all, do it for the love. Secondly, don’t give up. Quitting won’t get you anywhere, just stick to it if you want to succeed.
Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share?
Jenny: Opening up for Girltalk at Summerfest, Milwaukee was an incredible experience. The energy was electrifying.
Seth: Recently we were performing at the Zeiterion Theater in New Bedford, Massachusetts at the Connecting For Change Conference. The crowd rushed on to the stage and started dancing like crazy during our set. I think we had about 50 people up on the stage, it was wild!
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of boobs?
Jenny: I love photography and creating visual projections. I’ve also recently become a video editor. I’m thrilled about how “Supersonic” came out.
Seth: We practice yoga and mantra meditation. We have a growing collection of Tibetan singing bowls.
What do you think about the present music scene or lack of?
Seth: We have been focused on building our own label and musical community in New York City called NewSonic. We believe it’s important for musicians to come together and to expand opportunities rather than competing against each other for scarce resources.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear… (Like their hobbies or something like that)
Jenny: I crochet hats and magic capes.
Seth: I love creative cooking. I want to start my own vegetarian restaurant chain.
Hypothetical situation. You’re stranded on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the girls. Is it Ginger, Mary Ann or Mrs. Howell and why?
Jenny: Ginger- Love the red hair and the leopard prints.
Our last question is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s where you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”
Our new album “Euphoria” is out now. It was crowd-funded and co-produced with producers from the UK, France, Italy, Jamaica, Canada, India, Japan, and NYC. Check out the video for the new lead single “Supersonic”
Thank you!
Ten Questions with “The Brothers Rigney”
Posted onDecember 6, 2013Recently James Lowe from Kickacts Magazine sat down with one of the very exciting artists on the scene. The following is a written interview we conducted with the artist while they were working on their next CD and Tour. First off
Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and your band and were you can be found at on the web.
The Brothers Rigney is a rock duo based out of Austin, TX. The founding members, Paul and Bryan, are brothers and form the core of this eclectic, melodic rock project. Come visit us at www.thebrothersrigney.com or www.facebook/thebrothersrigney to read the full story, see pictures and listen to our music.
Who are your musical heroes, influences & why?
Our musical heros include anybody who has ever picked up an instrument and made a living. Guitar influences such as Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page and Bass influences ranging from Jaco Pastorius to Flea. All of these people studied and mastered their craft and were able to share it with the rest of us.
Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid?
Hang in there. It’s a marathon, not a race. Don’t get greedy and chase money. Do it because you love it or don’t do it at all.
Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share?
We were doing a gig early on and the drummer who was sitting had a monster case of stage jitters. We started the set and noticed that we were going way too fast. We tried to signal him to slow down but he just kept going faster. Between songs we tried talking to him but it only got worse. By the time the set was over, we had played an hour’s worth of music in 40 minutes. We called it our Alvin and the Chipmunks night.
On the same token as the above question. How about a “worse gig” ever story.
The worst gig ever was an outdoor gig we did one October in Texas. Fall is generally mild in Texas and a great time of year to be outside. It figures that a cold front would blow in and drop the temp 20 degrees during the gig. Our hands nearly froze to the frets.
Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of boobs?
We are great fans of boobs, but aren’t sure we can consider that a hobby. Does playing a different instrument count?
What do you think about the present music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
It’s growing like wildfire. There’s far more opportunity than just a few years ago. Thanks to social media and the proliferation of quality tools to create and record, anybody with skill can now get involved in music.
Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear… Like their hobbies or something like that…
Paul is a certified mechanical watchmaker. It’s pretty uncommon and he’s great at fixing our stuff.
Bryan really loves his cat. He spoils her and calls her his Princess.
Hypothetical situation. You’re stranded on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the girls… Is it Ginger, Mary Ann or Mrs. Howell and why?
Paul says he into Mary Ann because a good farm raised gal will take care of you on a cold night.
Bryan says that all three are too tall, but in a pinch he’d go with Ginger because she’d laugh at his jokes.
Our last question called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
Just buy the album. The more you buy, the more we play, write and play some more. With a little luck, we’ll be able to do our writing in the islands. So please, buy the album.
Ten questions with ZotheJerk of The Jerk Nation
Posted onNovember 25, 2013
Recently James Lowe from Kickacts Magazine sat down with one of the very exciting artists on the scene. The following is a written interview we conducted with the artist while they were working on their next CD and Tour. First off
I want to thank you for taking the time out of your busey schedule to talk to us here today, as i know our readers have been requesting us get you in here some how some way. You folks have been described by your fans as internet
sensations in this interview we will attempt to figure out how this artist became such a great performer and what they have going forward.
1. Welcome to Kick Acts. Tell us a little about yourself and your band and were you can be found at on the web.
I am ZotheJerk of The Jerk Nation. Im a rap artist specializing in Hip Hop and Soul. My sound is a thrilling thought provoking roller coaster ride of sheer delight.
2. Who are your musical heroes, influences & why?
Im influenced by the Beatles, Michael Jackson, Eminem, Jay Z, Hasous Clay, Boldy James, Pink floyd, and lots of others
3. Do you have any advice for someone just getting started in playing music? Any pitfalls they should avoid?
My greatest advice would be find yourself musically and never veer from who you are. Allow yourself to grow even reinvent yourself but never allow someone to tell you who to be musically
4. Do you have a greatest gig story you’d like to share?
My favorite memory was of a show i performed at in Lawrence, Kansas. There was two kids there like 8 to 10 years old, and they actually introduced us the show! It was a moment i will never forget.
5. On the same token as the above question. How about a “worse gig” ever story.
First show ever we were booed off the stage by crowd of at least 1000 people. lol that was the true beginning of my career
6. Do you have any other hobbies other than playing music? Collect stamps? Collect hats from off the side of the road? Draw pictures of boobs?
i do love pictures of boobs lol, my hobby is philosophy and people. i love to connect with different people and experience different cultures
7. What do you think about the present music scene or lack of? Care to address that?
I think there is a music scene in Kansas City but i think its spread out in movements. The artists are generating interest and getting the gigs. Their fan base is growing some are securing major deals and blowing up the independent scene. I think confidence in this cycle has got to be stronger. there are so many brilliant artists that the artists have to self govern where they want the scene to go, thats how i see it at least
8. Tell us something about each of your band members that we wouldn’t expect to hear… Like their hobbies or something like that…
EdofTheJN is is passionate about Honey Mustard from Mcdonalds, Reag has his own language called Reaganese, Hashous Clay is emotionally attached to subway, and i am addicted to Jacstack BBQ lol
9. Hypothetical situation. You’re stranded on Gilligan’s island and you get to hook up with only one of the girls… Is it Ginger, Mary Ann or Mrs. Howell and why?
lets see Mrs Howell has that bread, Ginger was to hot to be loyal and Mary Ann looks freaky, I’d start at Ginger and work down to Mrs. Howell so upon rescue id have a rich cougar on my team lol
10. # 10 is called “Shout It Out Loud”. It’s were you get to talk about whatever you want to talk about. So go ahead and “SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”!
Thanks for taking the time to chat with me! Let me give a BIIIIG What Up Doe to Bo, Reag, Hash, Ed, CJ, Pookie Snuggle, Alex, Marlon, Peters, B MO and all my real immediate crew, Look out for the “LIVE” album coming this Fall! CHeck us out on TheJerkNation.com its our culture… Its Where We Live!!
