Back With Grit
In 2022 Marseille are back with even more grit, vigour and high energy indie goodness.
Released digitally on Friday 11th February. “She Knows a Place” is an upbeat punky banger which will leave listeners blown away with its attitude. Yet the track is still in keeping with the Madchester‘esque indie swagger, fans of the band will be familiar with.
Marseille’s frontman, Will Brown had this to say on the new single:
“I was sitting around bored and decided to write a ‘Beatlesy’ ballad about a girl who takes you away to get off your face, and then getting lucky afterwards. But as the song evolved it gathered energy, becoming more ‘in your face’. Drawing in elements of the Sex Pistols, The Beach Boys and Oasis’s Definitely Maybe”.
Background:
Marseille are a young rock n roll band from Derby, England. Will, Tom and Joe play music reminiscent of the 90's Madchester scene with their own individual influences.
In 2021 despite Covid-19 disrupting the music scene. Marseille kept busy, releasing their debut single, aptly entitled ‘Worlds Gone Mad’ and 2 further releases ‘Shout It Out Loud’ and ‘State of Mind’.
All of the tracks achieved plenty of airplay. In May the band received ‘BBC Introducing’ recognition as ’Shout It Out Loud’ was named their track of the week. Then to promote the bands new material, the band hit the road and accrued 33 live shows across the UK.
Ending the year on a high, performing to 400 people at Nottingham’s Rescue Rooms.
With an average age of just 18, this band is sure to go far……
Find Marseille on social media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarseilleBandOfficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marseilleband
Twitter: https://twitter.com/marseilleband
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0CKzwR7ixevIfFPRD9NnbM
Welcome to the Wild Side
I got a promotion message on Instagram. In many ways, it was different. It was gentle.
So, I listened to L-da Wild.
Besides working with music, she is a yoga-teacher, an entrepreneur, and into NFT's.
The first thing that struck me with L-da, was not her music. It was her cover image. A strong image of a woman muted by love.
Then, I listened. And kept listening.
The first song I heard was «Worthy», the title track of her latest album.
Her honesty and lyrics moved me.
Then I heard «In the Making», then «Graveyard».
Sweet harmonies. Lyrics with meaning and compassion for the human condition.
«Do not give up on who you are.
You won’t finish the fight without a few scars».
Lend an ear to L-da’s musical universe.
I suggest you start with one of the songs mentioned above, or perhaps «Hero», which spoke to me on so many levels. Spiritually, emotionally & cognitively.
(Håkon has spent his life as a servant leader. www.earthhouse.church - @mancient_com on Twitter, Mancient on streaming services).
Then, I listened. And kept listening.
The first song I heard was «Worthy», the title track of her latest album.
Her honesty and lyrics moved me.
Then I heard «In the Making», then «Graveyard».
Sweet harmonies. Lyrics with meaning and compassion for the human condition.
«Do not give up on who you are.
You won’t finish the fight without a few scars».
Lend an ear to L-da’s musical universe.
I suggest you start with one of the songs mentioned above, or perhaps «Hero», which spoke to me on so many levels. Spiritually, emotionally & cognitively.
(Håkon has spent his life as a servant leader. www.earthhouse.church - @mancient_com on Twitter, Mancient on streaming services).
Gotta Have Faith
It has been said; “With great power comes great responsibility”.
I have written a few reviews. And in every review I write, I want to show respect to the creator.
As an artist, I know the dedication and grit it takes simply to create. As a man of faith, I know the burning desire to share.
The Word66 is a Christian band out of Las Vegas. Their debut EP, “On the way to the promise land”, based on the book of Exodus, and got a lot of attention worldwide, both in Christian circles and among mainstream Rock-fans.
They covered “Spirit in the Sky”, a song I have enjoyed in many incarnations since the early 80’s. Fascinating in its ambiguity.
The band consists of Steve Scott, Brian Torres and Dave Murray.
Steve lost his faith for 14 years. Then, he returned. And he wants to share!
On their website, https://www.theword66.com, you'll find scripture. Such as “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.”
IMHO, among the most beautiful and hope-filled parts of the Bible.
But let’s get back to the music.
Just to show you my Love is in many ways a classic rock-song. Danny Miranda, whom rock aficionados may recognise as the bass player of Queen and Blue Oyster Cult, chimes in with some nice bass licks.
I have written a few songs myself. One challenge I have found, which I also find in my work as a monk and priest, is “preaching without preaching”. I can’t abide people who try to save me. “You just gotta …” - fill in the blanks with the commandments of the religion you adhere to.
This is where the lyrics of this song shines. It speaks of “giving thanks”, about “showing love”, about “open up my heart to you”. The personal experience of faith, as opposed to the often judgemental expression of organised religion.
One of the finest contemporary worship singers I know is Lauren Daigle. And though the genre and expression is very different, I got the same vibe from these lyrics.
Packaged in a classic rock song.
Connect with The Word66 on their website, and on Twitter: @theword66.
And, for the curious... No. The D of Word should not be mirrored. There are no beastly numbers in their band name. But there are 66 books in the Bible.
Article by mAncient. Haakon is on Twitter: @mancient_com. He has a book: https://simplebooklet.com/theglassonionmakingofabuddha
Feeling Nostalgic?
Satosii is a Twitter friend from Tokyo, who creates wistful electronica landscapes.
Nostalgia is a mellow and kind composition that shows the power of music to construct images …
For me … The long summerdays of childhood. My first real keyboard, a Korg M1, on which I typed in patches from Keyboard Magazine. Small moments … the bird that, as I write these words, flitters around in a bush outside my window.
The LoFi vibe, enhanced by guitars and pianos, the minor keys that are punctuated by bursts of well-placed dissonance, sometimes going into Asian scales that at first may sound strange to a Western ear ...
Quote from satosii’s Spotify bio: “Every sky repeats life and death, light and dark”
Lend your ear to satosii. Twitter: @satosii_music
(Håkon likes music. @mancient_com on Twitter).
Above Image: "Sunset over Lilla Le (by mAncient)"
Long Night
I quite enjoy singing. It has been an integral part of my life for 33 years, which was when I took my first professional lesson.
Towards the end of my first album, Livet er, I changed direction. Started creating electronica: Earth House, my own genre.
But singing has stayed with me, especially once I discovered Smule and StarMaker, two karaoke apps.
Here, I discovered music cultures that were foreign, yet familiar. Unknown scales. Unfamiliar intervals. Singing Mitwa in Hindi, a language I don’t know … fascinating.
And that is an appropriate term for John Ashraf’s new song, Long Night, which will be released January 22’nd.
He is an Egyptian producer, who enjoys exploring genres. His first release, a Future Bass-track called Let’s Go Now, gained recognition on several Spotify playlists and one editorial playlist on Anghami.
The vocalist, Marina Lother, graduated from Assiut University with a music degree.
What caught my attention with this song is the combination of various cultures. It is Disco House, with a strong Oriental flavour. The instrumentation of bass, rises, and elements should make any lovers of the genre listen more than once, and brings images to my mind of people swaying by the pyramids, the winds cooling their bodies while the music lights up their hearts.
Marina’s voice is wistful and very well placed in the mix.
Connect with John here: https://ffm.bio/vamxnwl for a chance to hear his song on release day!
Article by mAncient
SURVIVE!
This week I was given the opportunity to be introduced to a talented singer and songwriter called Mason Rose Gray (Twitter: @masonrosegray1) and listened to the release named ‘SURVIVE’.
The sound of a bright acoustic guitar delicately placed on top of a bed of rain and gentle distant thunder. The soft and emotional vocals rest stunningly in the mix, the verses tell a story and sets the tone beautifully for the rest of the song.
I really enjoyed listening to ‘SURVIVE’ as it gave me a sense of comfort and security... We all experience troubled times now and again, and this song was like a subtle fresh breeze blowing across an otherwise perfectly still and serene lake.
I wanted to spotlight ‘SURVIVE’ so placed it onto my ‘The Best of Indie & Unsigned Talent’ playlist HERE
I decided to reach out and see if Mason would mind answering a few questions and of course, she did not hesitate to contact me and explained she would be honoured to!
So, Mason... Would you mind telling me about where you are from?
“I was born in Arizona but grew up in Florida. I moved to California for 7 1/2 years but moved back to be with family due to COVID. I’m currently residing in an adorable small town called St. Petersburg, with an incredible art scene. One of my hobbies is to find murals around the city and create dances to various music. You can check them out on my Instagram (@masonrosegray)”
When did you first start writing and performing music?
“I started writing lyrics when I was younger and would sing when no one was home. It wasn't until I went through a breakup and major self-transformation in my 20's, that I revisited writing and music. Since then, lyrics have been pouring out of me. I write a song a day with my guitar, most of the time just freestyling to keep the creativity alive. Lyrics and melodies pop into my head while driving, thank god for voice memos.”
What is the story or message behind your music?
“I started creating music with the sole intention of shining light into the dark and exposing the truth, my sound blends indie, folk and blues with honest and raw lyrics, unlocking a whole new world; the good, the bad, the ugly. A unique and infectious sound, encouraging self-love and ultimately providing the key to happiness.”
What hopes, goals or dreams do you wish to achieve from the release of your music?
“I'm currently working on an album called OMNIPRESENCE. My dream is to tour and be on the big stage! Although, I know it's a process. I'm enjoying every moment of it and soaking it all in.”
Lastly, are you able to tell me who or what influences and inspires you as a musician the most?
“Wow, that’s a tough one. There are so many amazing and talented artists. I find inspiration through several of them. Billie Eilish is a musical genius, the way she navigates words with her voice is an out of body experience. I find it magical and mesmerizing. Maggie Rogers vocals, lyrics and production style is outrageous and I absolutely look up to her as a mentor. I also love David Bowies eccentric style and jovial personality, it’s intoxicating. His music makes me feel out of this world.”
It was great catching up with Mason and being able to hear her story. A talented singer and songwriter from Florida and you can check out the rest of her music HERE
Or you can keep up with what she is doing on social media below:
IG: @masonrosegray
Twitter: @masonrosegray1
Facebook: MasonRoseGray
TikTok: @masonrosegray
Article by Anthony Hurney. Find him HERE
Generosity
I remember the first time I heard Mei-lan Maurits singing. A tender woman, accompanied by her crystal bowls, diamonds in her voice...
She has close to half a mill followers on Facebook, yet still takes time to answer all requests personally.
When I reached out to her, telling her I would love to sing with her one day, and asking for permission to use her music, her reply was "you can use all my music as long as you credit me.".
Now, that is a generosity that is rare in the world of music. And spirituality.
If you haven't met Mei-lan, start here: https://youtu.be/Qe_M2tsOs1k
From her website:
"On my spiritual path, I have learned that in order to truly serve and to fulfill what I came here to do, I had to learn to love, honor, and respect myself. I needed to learn to hold myself in reverence and remember that I am sacred and worthy of love. I also realized during this time that everything, including each of our thoughts, carries a vibration that releases out into the universe and is felt through all humanity and the Earth. This is what began my path of healing and empowerment." (https://mei-lanmaurits.com)
Wise words. If you forget that you are an integral part of this beautiful creation, that you are worthy of respect, love and care - how can you give it to others?
Take some time off from your worries. Be blessed by the healing voice of Mei-lan.
He's Not a Hermit
Yeah, that Peter Noone. Seriously. Herman’s Hermits had so many hits you just have to go and look for yourself because I’m tired of typing. They existed alongside the other greats like The Beatles, The Kinks, The Who and, well you get the picture. Fully part of the British invasion. The one that didn’t involve tanks and bombers. For years in the sixties, the Hermits were constantly in the top billboard charts. And blow me but I only got to interview the voice of Herman’s Hermits!
If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
I think Louis Armstrong because he was the real thing and always enjoyed PLAYING music.
If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
“I Wish I Could Shimmy Like My Sister Kate”. One good version is Frances Faye. Fun and bright and I never made a dance song, and this was one that made my mum and dad dance.
Note: All together now… shimmy. Dude, what’s a shimmy?
Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
I am just a human from humans. Just minding my own little world one day at a time.
Note: Have you ever considered politics Peter? Evasion tactics like that would go a long way.
What was the happiest day of your life and why?
I ‘m hoping its tomorrow and a surprise.
Note: Amen to that.
If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
Hiya G-d. Why did you chose me for all the good luck?
Note: Now if we could all say that!
Extracted from the new book, Minds Behind the Music. Featuring over 80 music legends. More HERE
Too Noisy?
Noisecide are an upcoming Industrial-Metal band from Asunción, the capital city of Paraguay.
I had the pleasure of being introduced to frontman Danicide and the bands hit single ‘Get Together’ last year on social media, since then the band have had many successful releases.
Noisecide skilfully blend elements of Rock, Metal, Industrial, Dubstep and Cyberpunk into one truly unique and powerful sound.
With hits like ‘Failing Upwards’, ‘My Desires’ and ‘Killer Instinct’... Noisecide are quickly taking the underground metal scene by storm.
I recently got in touch with Dani and the band to see how they were doing and to ask them a few questions about Noisecide.
I am interested to find out how Noisecide was formed, are you able to tell me the history of the band?
“The band consolidated in 2018, originally it was a one-man project created by Danicide in 2012, after that he started to create demos, and then he started to make auditions to consolidate the band.”
Do you have any achievements or goals you hope for the release of your new single ‘High Tech Slash Low Life’?
“We hope to reach people with our new single and hope they like it as much as we do, it was just released and is getting some attention actually, placed in a few playlists already, so, we hope the best for every single we release.”
I am curious to know, who are some of your biggest influences or inspirations?
“NIN, Zeromancer, Extra Terra, Frustration Experiences and Technology to name but a few...”
Finally, climate change and environmental issues are appearing in the news a lot recently, what are your thoughts or opinions about this?
“We are not too much aware of these environmental issues, but we try to keep up to date with this, there is too much info on the internet about climate change and we think we should listen to both parts, some people say there is not such a change, and some people say yes, so, we have to inform ourselves more to have a better conclusion or a better panorama in our opinion.”
Noisecide are an awesome band with a distinct and recognisable sound, and perhaps one day in the future I would love to do a collaboration with them! Their new single ‘High Tech Slash Low Life’ is an absolutely incredible record, I liked it so much that it found its way onto my ‘The Best of Indie & Unsigned Talent’ Spotify playlist HERE.
You can check out Noisecide and all of the band's other releases on Spotify HERE.
If you would like more information about the band and what they are getting up to, you can visit the official website HERE.
Article by Anthony Hurley. Find him HERE
Got Any Broken Pottery?
Kintsugi 金継ぎ - The Japanese art of mending broken pottery by filling the damaged areas with lacquer.
This is the story and inspiration behind Matt Jaffe (Twitter: @MattJaffeMusic) and the new album ‘Kintsugi’.
In January 2019 Matt unfortunately suffered a seizure onstage, landing on and wrecking his acoustic guitar that he had owned for 12 years. After approaching several luthiers to try and have the guitar repaired, Matt had almost given up hope. That was until Schoenberg Guitars (SF) took on the job and provided Matt with a superb result, filling in the space between the shards of wood with a caramel-coloured epoxy.
As several of Matt’s friends noted the similarity between the repaired guitar and Kintsugi, and also after the surgical reconstruction of his skull following a 2015 craniotomy, Matt decided that he had the perfect name for his album.
Just as a Phoenix will rise from the ashes once more, Kintsugi is a story of destruction and rebirth which Matt has found through his new music.
Matt is a talented singer and songwriter from San Francisco and I had the pleasure of listening to Kintsugi today. Featuring tracks such as ‘Cut Me Down the Middle’ and my personal favourite ‘Voodoo Doll’, the album portrays his story perfectly.
Being a fan of artists such as Bowie, Neil Young and E.L.O, I found the listening experience of ‘Kintsugi’ an absolute pleasure and have added it to my own personal playlist!
However Matt is truly unique and tells a story that everybody needs to hear, which is so beautifully and perfectly reflected in his music.
I highly recommend checking out the album on Spotify HERE
If you want to keep up with what Matt is doing, you can follow him on Twitter HERE
Review by Anthony Hurney (Twitter HERE)
Band of Gold
Singer and actress, Freda Payne is a legend. She is the older sister of Scherrie Payne, a singer in a little group called the Supremes and has been entertaining us from the 1960’s. In the 1970’s her hit “Band of Gold” was huge and since then she’s starred in movies, on stage, had a talk show and much more.
But bless her, she still had time for little old me.
If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
I would like to of been Hazel Scott, she was an African-American pianist affluent in all genres of music. She played in night clubs as well as concert halls in the United States as well as Europe. She was married to congressman Adam Clayton Powell. My reason for wanting to be her is that she was a true Renaissance woman.. She accomplished many things and was an excellent concert pianist in the classical feel. She stood up for herself and was afraid of nothing.
If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
“Here’s to Life”. The lyrics are simply philosophical and sobering, recognizing one’s mortality and the desire to continue to live and accomplish more things in life.
Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
I am neither a Mulder or a Scully. Yes, I most definitely feel that aliens have visited planet earth and that there are probably humanoids walking around among us. They probably think we are idiots and are stupid.
Note: Then you’re a Mulder and the FBI have a file on you.
What was the happiest day of your life and why?
When I had my son. Because it was life-changing and it changed me for the better. Even my body chemistry had changed.
Note: Same for me, only it was my bank account that changed.
If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why? I'd ask why are we here?
If God stood before me I would ask him why does he allow so many horrible things to happen to mankind and why did he allow this pandemic to come upon us.
This is an extract from the Book, Minds Behind the Music. More HERE
The Remnants
The musicians in The Remnants, Mark and Alex, grew up together in the same Berkshire town. Two of the original members of punk band, The Nasca Lines, bonded over their shared passions for sound, rhythm and beats.
Each member brings a unique musical aesthetic to the band and over the years they've grown comfortable jumping genres and mashing up influences.
Born of One-Nighters
Starting out in Mark's front room they soon got signed by Heavy traffic music and released an EP, You Make Me Smile, as well as a debut album, All That Remains. Now available on all digital platforms. They logged dozens of gigs with the occasional festival appearance, in towns around Berkshire UK. Their time playing live has made them musically tight.
Looking to the Future
They have more gigs lined up across Berkshire, they're in talks with a label and are hoping to release a second album in 2022. They're also going to appear on the next Born Free Foundation fundraising album from Minds Behind the Music Records.
Please check out their live recordings at
www.theremnantsmusicuk.bandcamp.com
Or listen to their single, Lockdown here
The Duke of the Kingdom of Atlantis Speaks
Like The Stars
So, just like in the book (Minds Behind the Music) where we asked over 80 music stars the same ten questions, we've decided to ask those same questions of indie music stars too. Why? Because it's fun, that's why.
We start with a colourful character. A man who I personally have a lot of time for. My friend and brother in spirit, mAncient.
Bio
Haakon Rian Mancient Ueland is a Norwegian-born living Buddha. He makes music, works with healing and coaching, and though he dislikes the term “influencer”, he can be a stubborn biatch that knows how to use his network when the cause is important.
He lives with his dog, Trollheads Nessi, in Ed, a small town in Sweden.
He recently became State Minister of Arts, Culture and Science & Duke in the Kingdom of Atlantis; a sovereign decentralised kingdom (www.kingdom-of-atlantis.com), and is an ambassador of GGA (www.globalgoodwillambassadors.org)
His church is online on www.earthhouse.church, and he is a proud participant in the first MBtM’s charity albums (video at the top).
He is a child welfare worker, which is a specialised type of social worker, and a celibate monk.
His socials are here: https://linktr.ee/mancient where you also find a link to his book, “The Glass Onion - Making of a Buddha”. And his music!
If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
Wow… tough question! I would want to be an amalgam. I want to have Bobby McFerrin’s and Lady Gaga’s voices - with a dash of Freddie Mercury, the stage presence and “total artist ability” of Bowie and Madonna, and Beethoven & Theodorakis compositional abilities. Oh … and the deep bass notes of Martti Talvela … now, there is warm growl! I want to move like Jagger & Beyonce, to write lyrics like Kari Jobe, Bono & Lauren Daigle, and be able to be fully in the moment like the two kings; Elvis and MJ.
The Questions
If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
The first song I remember hearing. “My Sweet Lord”. It touched me like a … feather to my soul. I believe I was two or three?
Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
Initially? Mulder. I want to believe. Then Scully sets in … with her clear head and scientific mindset.
But yes … I believe that aliens have visited us, and that they walk among us today. They go under different names. Some come in animal form. Each one have a purpose, and collectively it is to lift Humanity.
What was the happiest day of your life and why?
May 9’th 1994. February 2’nd, 1999. August 29’th, 2003.
The birthdates of my three children.
If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
“When you sang the universe into existence, what key was it in?”
As an expressive artist in the music industry, how does the state of the planet make you feel?
Honestly? It brings me down, if i don't shield myself sufficiently. And that is in spite of all the wonderful sentient beings doing so much to help us.
Let me quote a man of wisdom:
“We’re talking about a species that permits 1.7 billion of its members to go their entire lives without a drop of clean water; that seems not to be bothered by the fact that 1.6 billion still do not have electricity; that looks the other way as 2.6 billion exist without indoor toilets; that allows over 650 of its children to die of starvation every hour. There has been armed conflict somewhere on this planet for 92% of recorded history. One member of our species commits suicide every 40 seconds. In 2017, just under 465,000 of us were murdered. Add the numbers in these statistics and you get a pretty good idea of how well our species is doing as a civilization. And if you think our ideas about God have little to do with all of this, think again. 80% of civil law in most of the countries of Europe and the West is based on Canon Law. In other words, the teachings of a religion.” (Neale Donald Walsch. The God Solution: The Power of Pure Love (p. 5). Phoenix Books. Kindle Edition).
Do you think as a person of some influence that there is a duty on us to help influence humanity for the better?
Yes.
What one cause would you say you feel most associated with and why? Whether it’s equality, poverty, politics, the environment or other?
I guess I could chose “all the above and more”. But my prime cause is simple: to make tomorrow’s world better for our children in all ways. And with "children" I don't only mean the human species ... we are the shepherds of Mother Gaia.
If you were stood before the leaders of the world, what would you say to them?
“Dear friends. I want to take you back to the moment you decided that you wanted to devote your life to politics.
When I look at your faces, I know that you came to the position you are, in not from a place of greed. Not from a hunger for power or to hurt the planet.
You came from love.
Now, please consider … what is the single thing you can do tomorrow that will truly help out planet?
Happy 22. Now, go out and do it.”
And finally my last question is in fact one written by Freddie Mercury in the song “Is This the World We Created”:
If there's a God in the sky, looking down
What can he think of what we've done
To the world that He created?
You Can Do Better!
So, just like in the book (Minds Behind the Music) where we asked over 80 music stars the same ten questions, we've decided to ask those same questions of indie music stars too. Why? Because it's fun, that's why.
We start with a colourful character. A man who I personally have a lot of time for. My friend and brother in spirit, mAncient.
Bio
Haakon Rian Mancient Ueland is a Norwegian-born living Buddha. He makes music, works with healing and coaching, and though he dislikes the term “influencer”, he can be a stubborn biatch that knows how to use his network when the cause is important.
He lives with his dog, Trollheads Nessi, in Ed, a small town in Sweden.
 |
"The
Sigil of Archangel Gabriel, the Hammer of Tor, and a wedding band" |
His church is online on www.earthhouse.church, and he is a proud participant in the first MBtM’s charity albums (video at the top).
He is a child welfare worker, which is a specialised type of social worker, and a celibate monk.
His socials are here: https://linktr.ee/mancient where you also find a link to his book, “The Glass Onion - Making of a Buddha”. And his music!
If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
Wow… tough question! I would want to be an amalgam. I want to have Bobby McFerrin’s and Lady Gaga’s voices - with a dash of Freddie Mercury, the stage presence and “total artist ability” of Bowie and Madonna, and Beethoven & Theodorakis compositional abilities. Oh … and the deep bass notes of Martti Talvela … now, there is warm growl! I want to move like Jagger & Beyonce, to write lyrics like Kari Jobe, Bono & Lauren Daigle, and be able to be fully in the moment like the two kings; Elvis and MJ.
The Questions
If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
The first song I remember hearing. “My Sweet Lord”. It touched me like a … feather to my soul. I believe I was two or three?
Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
Initially? Mulder. I want to believe. Then Scully sets in … with her clear head and scientific mindset.
But yes … I believe that aliens have visited us, and that they walk among us today. They go under different names. Some come in animal form. Each one have a purpose, and collectively it is to lift Humanity.
What was the happiest day of your life and why?
May 9’th 1994. February 2’nd, 1999. August 29’th, 2003.
The birthdates of my three children.
If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
“When you sang the universe into existence, what key was it in?”
As an expressive artist in the music industry, how does the state of the planet make you feel?
Honestly? It brings me down, if i don't shield myself sufficiently. And that is in spite of all the wonderful sentient beings doing so much to help us.
Let me quote a man of wisdom:
“We’re talking about a species that permits 1.7 billion of its members to go their entire lives without a drop of clean water; that seems not to be bothered by the fact that 1.6 billion still do not have electricity; that looks the other way as 2.6 billion exist without indoor toilets; that allows over 650 of its children to die of starvation every hour. There has been armed conflict somewhere on this planet for 92% of recorded history. One member of our species commits suicide every 40 seconds. In 2017, just under 465,000 of us were murdered. Add the numbers in these statistics and you get a pretty good idea of how well our species is doing as a civilization. And if you think our ideas about God have little to do with all of this, think again. 80% of civil law in most of the countries of Europe and the West is based on Canon Law. In other words, the teachings of a religion.” (Neale Donald Walsch. The God Solution: The Power of Pure Love (p. 5). Phoenix Books. Kindle Edition).
Do you think as a person of some influence that there is a duty on us to help influence humanity for the better?
Yes.
What one cause would you say you feel most associated with and why? Whether it’s equality, poverty, politics, the environment or other?
I guess I could chose “all the above and more”. But my prime cause is simple: to make tomorrow’s world better for our children in all ways. And with "children" I don't only mean the human species ... we are the shepherds of Mother Gaia.
If you were stood before the leaders of the world, what would you say to them?
When I look at your faces, I know that you came to the position you are, in not from a place of greed. Not from a hunger for power or to hurt the planet.
You came from love.
Now, please consider … what is the single thing you can do tomorrow that will truly help out planet?
Happy 22. Now, go out and do it.”
And finally my last question is in fact one written by Freddie Mercury in the song “Is This the World We Created”:
If there's a God in the sky, looking down
What can he think of what we've done
To the world that He created?
You Can Do Better!
He's a Super Tramp!
Saxophonist, keyboardist, singer and much more John Anthony Helliwell is a member of that truly super group, Supertramp. Not to name drop or anything, but he also played with Pink Floyd on their album, A Momentary Lapse of Reason, and to be honest, just go do a web search, because he’s into just about everything with everybody. How on earth he managed to find time to answer my questions I don’t know, but I’m grateful he did, or the book would have been too thin.
If you could be any other musician past or present, which one would it be and why?
Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, because of his musicianship, soul, artistry, and sheer ebullience.
Note: Cannonball Adderley was an acclaimed saxophonist in the 50’s and 60’s.
If you had to name one song from any genre that really speaks to you, which one would it be and why?
“You’ve Got A Friend” sung by Donny Hathaway, from his album “Live.” A great song, great sentiments sung about, the best voice, a wonderful audience who sing like angels, a crack band — just one track from the very best live album ever!
Note: A crack band is not one of those 60’s psychedelic bands getting high on too much powder.
Are you a Mulder or Scully? Do you believe aliens have visited planet earth and if so what do you think they think about mankind?
I lean towards Scully and if aliens ever visited Earth, I don’t think that they would have been too impressed with us.
What was the happiest day of your life and why?
Yesterday — I have lived nearly 40 million minutes, and my heart has beaten about 2.5 billion times, and I am grateful for having survived that long.
Note: How on Earth did you manage to keep count?
If “God” (whatever your idea is on that) were stood before you now, what one question would you ask him/her and why?
“Why do you allow such pain, death, and disaster to be perpetrated by evil people on the world’s populace?” I cannot countenance such bringers of war and catastrophes.
Extract from the book: Minds Behind the Music. More HERE
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