Marva Wright 1938-2010

On March 23 Marva Wright died at 6:00 am.   I first saw Marva at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.  I was familiar with her name, in New Orleans she is known as the Blues Queen, but had not really listened to any of her music.  Within minutes of her introduction I was a fan.  Ms. Wright knew how to sing and she really knew how to sing the blues.  It might seem a contradiction but Marva brought a wonderous joy to her singing of the blues.  From the audience I could feel how much fun she was having on the stage.  You couldn't watch her sing and not be moved.

Marva Wright came to music late in life.  She was almost 40 before she turned her love of music into a career.  Starting out as a way to help make ends meet for her family she soon found herself touring the world with her voice.  Like many blues singers Marva's first songs were delivered in the church.   She was content to lend her voice to the choir until she went looking for a second job and found herself singing in the clubs on Bourbon Street.

Late last year Marva suffered two strokes.  Unfortunately she never recovered and Tuesday last week her body finally gave up its fight.  Marva was 62 years old.  It may be a cliche, but though she may be dead Marva will live on in her music.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature David Olney from his album The Wheel with his song "Chained and Bound to the Wheel."

Video Wednesday:

John Boutte and Paul Sanchez.

SIMPLY SIX: Strait Laces

Strait Laces are a group from Northern Ireland.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they
knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on
the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance
on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

A: As individuals, we have all been involved and exposed to music from a young age. Being influenced by music our parents listened to and from the endless stream of music videos on the TV. I think its every young guitarists dream to be a huge rockstar and experience all that goes along with that. We've all been in and out of bands since we were in our early teens, but I think the biggest inspiration to start Strait Laces was getting a taste of the Belfast music scene. Watching our friends perform to an adoring crowd. It seemed alot more achievable than playing a sold out stadium tour, so we thought we'd have a go.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some
of your favorites?

A: All three of us have a fairly varied taste in music. Some of the bands that I think have influenced our sound our: Biffy Clyro, Weezer, Reuben,Manchester Orchestra, Brand New. The list is really far too long.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on
record or live?

A: We've have had some great times as a band so far. We've been lucky enough to travel across to the mainland and play gigs in Liverpool, Manchester and London, all of which have given us a library full of great memories. I think I can safely say that the biggest and most exciting thing to happen us so far is getting the chance to play at SXSW. Getting to travel to Texas and play at an event such as SXSW is a huge opertunity for any young band. We are determined to work hard and make the most of the entire experience, but most of all we want to enjoy ourselves and have fun.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen
to?   How much can music influence current events?

A: When we started out as a band we didn't give much thought to the content of our lyrics. Our early songs were mostly written about getting drunk and looking for girls. As we've matured as a band we have realised that we have a great platform to sing about things that really matter to us. We have recently written and recored a song called "kids like john need a hero". This song was inspired by a trip to WW1 memorials in Belgium andFrance, and tells of the struggle of young soldiers durung the war. I hope that people will be inspired or moved by the track, but I don't think it will change the world lol.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology
affected your career as a musician?

A: Having only been involved in the music industry recently its hard for me to tell how technology has had an affect. I think the biggest way technology helps us as a band is with the communication side of things. The internet and email have made it much easier for bands to communicate, with each other, with industry types and with venues and promoters.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what
type of shoes would you be?

A: If I were a pair of shoes, I think I'd be a pair of clogs, cause I'm hard as fuck!

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature a singer that unfortunately died recently.  Alex Chilton had a top ten hit when he was still a teenager with The Box Tops and "The Letter."  He later helped form the group Big Star and after the breakup of that group has a solo career.  Here he is with his song "Holocaust."

A Seat On The Couch

Tomorrow night at 10:00 Eastern Time I'll be a guest on the Blog Talk Radio Show MUSIC ON THE COUCH.

This week: 
THE FIRST
MUSIC ON THE COUCH
ROUNDTABLE

A panel discussion with four music aficionados covering where the music industry has come from, where it is now and where it is heading. Join me, along with good friends Starrlight, who will bring her wealth of knowledge regarding the newest alternative bands; JohnH who has his finger on the pulse of the Indy bands abounding today and Sean Coleman, whose knowledge of Classic Rock is as complete as they come, as we all sit on The Couch and talk it through.Your participation is also encouraged by calling the show at  1.347.633.9400.

Or you can participate in the live interactive chat room which opens 20 minutes before show time. Follow this link HERE and click on the Chat Now icon.

Remember, unless you take the two minutes to register, you will not be able to participate in the chat room or send questions or comments to the Roundtable, but you will still hear the show.

So tune in on Monday evening or, you can always listen anytime after the show ends from the player HERE or the one on The Big Leather Couchand you can subscribe and download to your iTunes, from my iTunes page HERE. 

SONG OF THE DAY

Today our song "Forever" is from a man better known as a sideman, an actor and a radio announcer than a performer in his own right.  As Miami Steve he was sideman to Bruce Springsteen, as Steven Van Zandt he was Silvo from the Sporanos and as Little Steven he is the head of the Garage Band channel on satellite radio.  But as Little Steven he has also put out some really great music.  This song is from his first solo album Men Without Women. 

Video Wednesday:

This week's video is a native of Louisiana and a favorite of this site.  She's a regular at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.  Amanda Shaw and the title song from her most recent album "Pretty Runs Out."

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature Eileen Rose "Last New Year's Eve" from her album Come the Storm.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature Michael Whalen and "Original Sin" from his album The Road of Ghosts.

SIMPLY SIX: Melina Gerges

Melina Gerges is a singer/songwriter from Texas.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they
knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on
the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance
on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?


My Mother had me singing in church at a very young age, maybe 4 or 5 years old.  However, my true defining moment happened when I was in the 3^rd grade.  My choir teacher, Mrs. Lynch- Kirk (wife of choral composer, Theron Kirk), entered me in the State Solo and Ensemble competition… I sang Caro mio ben, which I learned from a Pavarotti tape!  I won first place in that competition and was the youngest to ever win a first place.  But listening to Pavarotti’s voice was what did it for me… that is when I knew where I needed to be!

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some

of your favorites?

When I am not creating or practicing my music, I love to listen to Eva Cassidy, Allison Krauss, Coldplay, 30 STM, Adele or my Pandora mixes.  It all relaxes me… their voices … their message

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on

record or live?

My greatest moment, as an artist, has been songwriting.  It feels so surreal to sing my own thoughts and my own words.  It all hit home in the studio, last summer, when after the first take of my song “With You Gone” my husband walked into the studio with tears in his eyes.  Even though it is not my most popular song, it felt so wonderful to see it move my toughest critic!

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen

to?   How much can music influence current events?

I absolutely feel that music CHANGES the world!  My aunt used to say things to me like… “Melina, maybe singing isn’t for you!  Look at the messy lives of the famous, you don’t fit into that.  It’s not what God wants… what is being a singer anyway!”  At that very moment her 8 year old came singing into the living room at the top of his lungs… his brothers and sisters running behind him.  They were all singing a popular radio tune... wailing and dancing!  I looked at her and said, “Can you imagine your home without music?”  She never said that again!   4b.Music sends a message, move hearts to change, unites a world divided.  Music maybe one of the very few things that warring nations could agree on!  Regardless of the message, the artists, the genre, it has a remarkable way of healing, uniting and driving change.   Music can change current world events because there is something about the human voice in song that can alter a heart.  If the venue is right… it can move multitudes.  Heck, King David moved God’s heart through song!

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology

affected your career as a musician?

Technology has affected music in that it spreads so much faster.  People can pick and choose and radio and money does not always dictate what people listen to.  For me, it has enabled me to run my music independent of a label or suits telling me what I should do.  It is riskier, but much more grass roots and personal.  I feel honored when a podcast or an internet radio station features me.  I love it when strangers tell me how they heard me online… I feel closer to my fans.  I love it!

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what

type of shoes would you be?

If I were a pair of shoes I would be my platform, orange Michael Kors Sandals.  The reasons: 1) platform for the sassiness and femininity: 2) Sandals for the freedom and summery feel!  I love the heat of the summer… I hate the boxed in feeling of closed toe winter shoes! 3) Orange because it’s a “Shout it out… laugh and live out loud color”

SONG OF THE DAY

"My '83" is from the album Last of the Free Men by Divorcee.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature a song from a group that put out one album and than its members went back to their other groups and solo gigs.  The Back Porch Rockers' By The Water and today's song is "Mississippi Kid."  The group consisted of Camile Baudoin and Reggie Scanlan of the Radiators with legendary Dave "Snake" Ray and Tony "Little Sun" Glover.

SIMPLY SIX: Chad Hollister

Chad Hollister is a singer/songwriter from Vermont.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they
knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on
the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance
on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

I was 15 years old and living at Ghost ranch in Carrizozo, New Mexico for the summer w/ my parents where my Dad was working. There was a talent show and I sang Neil Young's "Sugar Mountain" and the felt the power of song and knew I wanted to do it a lot more .

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some
of your favorites?

really diggin' Brett Dennen, Spoon, Habib Koite,and  Jason Mraz of late.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on
record or live?

opening for Bob Dylan and Paul Simon and getting the chance to chat for a bit w/ Paul Simon.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen
to?   How much can music influence current events?

Music can change the world without a doubt. If you are able to affect one person, it can spread in amazing proportions. I know I am doing that now.
Music can also affect current events by attaching a true memory to the event through a song. It is much like taste and memory. A certain taste can take you back to that exact place you were. A song can do the same thing.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology
affected your career as a musician?

Technology has thrown the big record labels off. It has also allowed a lot of musicians to make discs that never thought it was possible. The web has done amazing things for independent musicians . It has allowed us to teach ourselves how to succeed and to communicate with our fans in a way that used to be very expensive--the mail. It is a lot of work but it is possible these days to make a living playing music without giving someone else most of your money.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what
type of shoes would you be?

green Lakai suede lowtops designed by Amir Dia!!

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we listen to Scott Miller's "Highland County Boy" from his album Thus Always to Tyrants.  Those only knowing him from being the show band for Jeff Foxworthy's TV show might be surprised.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we present Cherry Holmes with "You Don't Know What Love Is" from their album Black and White.

Video Wednesday:

To go with our Simply Six interview today we're going to present a video from Shayna Zaid & The Catch doing a Michael Jackson song "Beat It."

SIMPLY SIX: Shayna Zaid & The Catch

Shayna Zaid & The Catch  are a musical group.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvison the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

Shayna: Television was very scarce for my sisters and I growing up in Malaysia, so we relied on activities and creativity to keep ourselves busy. I was 6 years old when I had one of my first epiphanies - the year I tore my lip/mouth open from a mini freak accident during playtime. I was in the hospital when my mother gave me my first CD to keep me entertained. I remember very vividly because I'd also received a my-little-pony coloring book which ended up covered in a purple Vitagen surge later on that day. In any case, the CD - Whitney Houston. She became my hero after I heard TheGreatest Love of All (I was a total cheeseball). Nevertheless, it became my bed-ridden jam, so I learned it word for word until the stitches healed and I could open up my mouth again. I think having my voice being taken away (with my mouth sewn shut) for a couple weeks had a profound impact on me - the deprivation made me realize how fulfilling it really felt to express my feelings through song. That's when I truly realized this was my biggest passion.

Yan: I never had one defining moment, I've wanted to be a professional musician ever since I can remember because of a series of childhood memories. I was born and raised in Cuba, where television and information in general was extensively controlled by the government, so I didn't have massive exposure to many styles of music. Nevertheless, my family is full of avid music enthusiasts and some professional musicians too. My parents raised me with all the classical music standards, which largely shaped my musical background and, of course, my training. My uncles were huge fans of the Beatles, Supertramp, Queen, Chicago, and they managed to somehow acquire many of their records, which were not sold or even legal to own in Cuba. We used to sing along to all the songs in the family trips and reunions, which I always looked forward to. My uncle Rene, who lives inToronto now, was a producer for a Cuban radio station, and through him, I was introduced to the rich Cuban music heritage, meeting many of the Cuban music stars that have become international sensations since then. Music always brought a level of joy and unity in my family unlike anything else, and because of that, I always knew that I wanted to be a musician, so that I can give that same joy and pleasure to my audience and loved ones forever.

Christopher: Neither of my parents are musicians but music was always a big party of my growing up. My mom would listen to doo wop, r&b, and pop music (mostly the Beatles) all day long everyday since I was old enough to remember so I think that planted the seed in me to become a musician. I do remember when the movie The Doors came out I was in my freshman year of high school and my mother took me to see it, by the end of the film I was hooked with the idea of becoming a rockstar…:)


2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

Shayna: Lots of favorites, some I'm still discovering - new, oldies, throwbacks, remixes etc. Currently in my player: Mixtapes from my best friend (where I discover a lot of new music), Aretha Franklin, Billy Holiday, Charlie Christian (and the likes of his peers- including Al Casey & Django Reinhardt), M. Ward (his voice makes me melt), Madeleine Peyroux and Miles Davis. I also enjoy listening to music by fellow artist friends - there's a plethora of new independent music out there and the best part is stumbling upon the good stuff. For the most part, I am attracted to great songs (and ones that make me want to dance, haha).

Yan: I consistently listen to the classical music repertoire, at least a full work (symphony, sonata, song cycle, etc...) every day. I listen to the classical music radio station in my car almost exclusively, it's a perfect way to cope with the road rage which you inevitably get from driving in New York City. Aside from classical, I love Muse, White Stripes (which Chris, our drummer got me into), The Raconteurs, Radiohead, Jamiroquai, everything Chick Corea ever made, Jean-Luc Ponty, etc... I also have an unnatural obsession for electronic and dance music, which gets me in a lot of trouble (I grew up in Spain, I can't help it), so I love Daft Punk, Aphex Twin, BT, Plaid, Chemical Brothers, Infected Mushroom, Deadmau5... Oh, and everybody that knows me knows that my favorite band is Pink Floyd...I know, not very unique, but oh so very true.

Christopher: I play music so much that I don't really get a lot of spare time to just listen to music for my own personal entertainment so when I do have some time I usually stick to just what I know I love. The doors, the Beatles, the Mars Volta. I feel that if I have time to listen I don't want to waste it so I go right to what I know I like..


3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

Shayna: Playing in Times Square on New Years Eve - the energy was incredible.

Yan: I'd have to agree with Shayna on that one, that was the best night of my life.

Christopher: I would have to say playing the 2010 New Years party at Times Square. That was pretty amazing.


4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

Shayna: Personally, I'd like to think it goes both ways; listening for pure pleasure and/or exploring the introspective side of powerful messages. In some cases, creating more empathy/understanding with the world and our relationship to it. Songs can be very powerful vehicles of emotional expression when it engages with our psyche (at least for me) - perhaps have an effect on our actions as well, which inadvertently changes the world around us. As far as influencing current events, music has the power to deliver messages to people of all ages, especially to our youth. It can also bring people together in the aftermath of an event, through concerts/fundraisers that can help benefit those in need. Music has the ability to bridge our hearts, our minds and our actions, unlike anything else.

I'd also like to add that I am a strong advocate for personal dance parties at home with loved ones - dance is the best form of therapy (in my opinion) and it goes hand in hand with music. What better way to enjoy it with the people we love.

Yan: Of course music can change the world, and the proof is all around us. David Hasselhoff single-handedly took down the Berlin Wall with his powerful performance. I mean, that's music history at its finest.....................

Isn't it?

Christopher: I think music has the ability to inspire people and give them motivation to do things, I'm not sure if can change the world though. people have to make that choice on their own.


5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Shayna: Technology is creating more and more transparency in today's world. Options are expanding, opportunities are becoming more accessible, tools are increasingly available, and because of that, creativity is pushing new thresholds - people are becoming increasingly self-sufficient these days. The landscape of the music industry is evidently changing - it will always exist, just "how" it will continue to exist is what we are all trying to figure out. I find myself learning new things everyday so I guess it's a matter of how we embrace/apply this DIY information. Having open platforms to connect with fans gives a lot of great room to include them in the process of creating/sharing, and in my opinion, it's a very valuable exchange between people - ideas, human connection and experience. Of course, there is always two sides to the coin.

Yan: Technology has done wonders to bridge the gap and level the playing field between major and independent artists. It has allowed us to be a self-sufficient band and see a good amount of success on our own. It has also allowed me to pursue my other passion project, to be the biggest Cuban rapper of all time. My name is Young Yizzy, my first single drops March 21st, you dig?

Christopher: Yes, and I think it has all for the better. Even recording has become more inexpensive. Music is one click away now, and I think as in your last question, "Can music change the world?"  - if music is something that people consider something that can make people speak up and inspire people to do good, isn't that best thing then to have it as available as possible?


6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Shayna: Boots, sturdy black leather riding boots (with no zippers). I like to walk, move, get dirty and always be ready for any occasion (also in case I get kidnapped by a ninja). 

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature Patterson Hood of the Drive-by Truckers from his solo album Murdering Oscar (And Other Love Songs.)  The song is "Back of a Bible."

SONG OF THE DAY

Today's song is Old 97s from their live album Alive & Wired and their song "King of All of the World."

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature Mary Lee of the aptly named group Mary Lee's Corvette.  This is "Redemption Day" from her album 700 Miles.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature a singer that unfortunately is no longer with us.  Ted Hawkins began his career as a street musician and was discovered by a record producer and went on to tour the world.  Here is he on his last album The Next Hundred Years with "Long As I Can See The Light."

Video Wednesday:

This week our video is a New Orlean's favorite rock band The Vettes.

SONG OF THE DAY

Today's song is "I Can't Sleep" from The Everybodyfields' album halfway there: electricity and the South.

SONG OF THE DAY

Jorma Kaukonen's "Mighty Hard Pleasure" from his album Stars In My Crown is our song of the day.

BUY THIS ALBUM!

This is going to be hopefully a regular column, appearing every Monday, that will talk about an album that we feel is worth your hard earned coins.  There's a lot of music out there and probably not enough money in your wallet to buy all that you want, so our aim in this column is to try and steer you to what we feel is worth the money.  It's not always going to be new stuff, our criteria will be that the album is available from at least Itunes or Amazon.  Nothing we hate more than to hear about some great music and than not be able to find it anywhere.  Of course we'd like to point you towards a lot of new stuff, so if we have it we'll do the pointing.  Any artists that want to send us your album for a chance to be featured see the sidebar with info on how to contact us.  

Our choice to lead off our new column is the anthology album Bound To Go.  The album is by Andrew Calhoun and friends.  The description of the album from its home page is:

Bound to Go includes authentic spirituals, shout songs from the Sea Islands, prison ballads and rare secular folk songs. “Run to Jesus” is the song that first gave Frederick Douglass the notion of escaping from slavery. With an essay and historical/folklore notes on the songs. Recorded with trumpet, fretless gourd and 5-string banjo, guitars, fiddle, cello, harmonica, piano, percussion and many wonderful singers! 72 minutes running time. Cover painting by Gullah artist Jonathan Green. In memory of Joy Calhoun, who worked for justice in the Civil Rights movement, 10% of income from sales goes to support programs for children, half to College of Charleston's African-American history camps, half to Williams Preparatory Academy Arts programs, 2710 S. Dearborn in Chicago.(www.jonathangreenstudios.com)

This is an amazing album.  If you're looking for a pop hit this is not the place to be looking at.  These songs are part of history.  The singing on the cuts bring you to the feel of when they were first sung.  There's not a lot I can say about this album but it is definitely worth you buying.

SIMPLY SIX: Maree McRae

Maree McRae is a singer/songwriter from Denver.

1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you? I started writng the lyrics to radio songs when I was around 6. I had a book with all the tunes I loved written down, all the words. Guess I knew I would be a songwriter if I looked writng lyrics down at such an early age.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites? I am SO busy I don’t have much leisure time right now to listen, mostly in the car running to this show or that. Love Shawn Colvin, Michelle Branch, Patty Griffin.


3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live? Definitely playing for a Race for the Cure show. Because my new album title track, “Urgency” was written after the diagnosis of my son’s immune disease, I feel such a strong connection with my music and survivors.

4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events? Because music is so personal to each listener and can strike them in ways that are profound, or soften them, or bring awareness through emotion…it’s more than just something to listen to. When each person is moved and changed, it changes things in a broader way in the world, one by one.

5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician? Technology continues to be astounding. I think it has affected music recording studios with the number of high tech home studios now. I loop some of my rythmn when I play solo, so that has made it easier for me as a solo to have a groove through great technology, which adds variety to my live show.

6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be? That MUST be a Barbara Walters question! I don’t know! Sneakers for comfortability I guess…

I continue to work towards sharing my music with chronic illness patients and awareness to immune deficiency illnesses…

SONG OF THE DAY

Today we feature Chris Kirby and his song "Heavy Rain" from his album Vampire Hotel.