Amelia Conway: Small town girl has big dreams

By: Kim Gallagher
Walking past a guitar and having envisions of performing on stage started out as a dream for one 14-year-old girl.

As most teen parents would assume, Amelia Conway’s parents thought that she was just going through a phase and did not take her seriously when she asked for a guitar.

“I saved $50 of my own money for a couple of months and bought that guitar,” Conway said. “It was one of those small First Act acoustic learning guitars.”

Determined to follow her dream of playing on a stage, Conway taught herself to play her newly purchased six-string. She had some musical knowledge from playing flute during her elementary school years and percussion in her middle and high school bands.

“I had been playing music for a while,” Conway said. “Because of that, I already knew a lot about notes and rhythm, which has really helped my strumming.”

Taking initiative, she went online and printed charts that demonstrated how to finger basic chords. Conway would spend hours practicing her finger placement and switched back and forth between the chords. Because her first guitar was “cheap,” she said that the strings were really far off the fret board which made it difficult for a young girl to play. It was also challenging and painful to develop the calluses on her hands because of those high strings. She battled to develop her hand muscles so she could properly finger bar chords such as B#m.

“In the end it helped me learn,” Conway said. “I’m [physically] much stronger now.”

After understanding the basics of playing the guitar, Conway put pen to paper and composed her own music. She drew musical inspiration from female acoustic artists such as Jennifer Knapp.

“In her music I can hear the emotion in what she says and how she plays the guitar,” Conway said. “That, to me, speaks volumes about how a real musician is. So I always keep this standard in the back of my mind when writing or performing. I want people to see and hear that what I’m playing is not just a song – it’s my life.”

Some of Conway’s songs deal with unfortunate life events. She tries finds the light in those situations and utilizes them to write powerful songs. Her lyrics do not reflect resentment or self pity. Conway’s focus leans more toward positivity and self progression.

“Some memories I have may not be pleasant [and] it’s not a good thing to not forgive,” Conway said. “You can’t heal without forgiveness. Live, learn, and go on.”

Writing and recording can be complicated for any new and emerging artist. Up until this point in her musical career, Conway believes that it has been her biggest obstacle.

Photo courtesy of: myspace.com/ameliaconway

“[It can be difficult] trying to figure out how to produce your own music and the legal issues behind it,” Conway said. “It’s really hard to get a good, quality sound from home studio equipment. And when it comes to making an album, it’s all about trying to figure out the specifics to copyrighting a song, image copyrighting for an album cover, and all the expenses behind that.”

Currently in her senior year of college and graduating with a degree in Paralegal Studies in May, taking her music on tour is far from her mind.

“I haven’t thought about touring because I’ve spent all my life in school,” Conway said. “However, with college graduation just around the corner, I have been thinking about moving to a bigger city and start playing some gigs at coffee shops and low-key joints to get a feel for touring.”

Although the 21-year-old wants to take her music to a higher level, she says that she is hesitant of signing with a label because she enjoys the freedom and control she has over her music.

“It’s really nice working on your own and making all the decisions, but having a record label help you reach a larger audience would be great,” Conway said. “I think the only doubt I’d have is that I don’t want to develop an attitude towards my music of it being something I have to do. I always want to say it’s something I get to do.”

For now, Conway is thoroughly enjoying singing and strumming on her guitar as a hobby instead of a profession. She is currently collaborating on a creative art project with a photographer.

“We have submitted our entry idea into a local art contest,” Conway said. “I take one of his photos and write a song about the meaning behind it. In return, he shoots a photo that represents one of my songs. It’s a really neat idea and if we are selected [his] photography and [my] music [from the project] will be displayed in the city’s art gallery.”

Other that writing and performing her own music, Conway enjoys hosting a radio show and working as a DJ at Morehead State radio. She informs listeners of the artists’ background of the songs she plays, lets them know about local show dates, takes song requests from callers and even interviews live musical guests. Conway first started as an assistant during her sophomore year of college and later learned how to run the broadcasting boards.

“I soon began working shifts on the air, announcing the weather, [reporting] public service announcements [and introducing] what show was coming up next,” Conway said. “Late 2009, the host of “American Crossroads” was getting ready to retire. The station manager approached me and asked if I would be interest in being one of the hosts for the show.

“Eagerly I accepted and have been hosting the show on Wednesday nights since August 2009,” Conway said. “I really love doing this show.”

In between college and “American Crossroads” Conway finds the time to produce her debut CD.

“I’m currently recording my first album which will include about eight songs,” Conway said. “I plan to have it completed by the beginning of spring.”

Fans and music lovers can look at her official website ameliaconway.tripod.com for album updates. Conway’s self-produced album can be pre-ordered there as well.

While awaiting the release of her album, Conway will continue to create music that her fans have responded positively to.

“Once I had someone tell me that listening to one of my songs was what they needed to hear,” Conway said. “Being able to write and play music that others can identify with is an amazing connection.”

Because Conway’s songs are very personal, she will continue to impress her fans with the honesty and passion she puts into her music.

Published: January 20, 2010
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/7279/Amelia_Conway:_Small_Town_Girl_Has_Big_Dreams

The Real You Tours Internationally

By: Kim Gallagher
Born in the “Emerald City” of Seattle, Washington, The Real You, is a passionate band driven by four individuals, in hopes of conquering the music world. At the young age of three, the band has completed eight tours, with two of them overseas.

“As an unsigned band it’s important for us to be on the road as much as possible,” lead singer Ryan Striker said in an exclusive interview with FanBolt. “We want to meet new people and get our music into as many ears as possible! We’ve done three full U.S. tours, three west coast tours, and two Japan tours.”

The pop rock band says that they love being on the road and experiencing all that the world has to offer.

“The best part of touring is meeting new people every night, and seeing parts of the world that most people never get a chance to see,” Striker said. “It’s fun just being in a van with your friends and having the freedom of the open road in front of you.”

Being an unsigned band has its downfalls, the members of The Real You have a full schedule playing shows, promoting their band and arranging their own tours. Booking their own tours have been a great learning experience for them, but they are excited for the day that they can eventually pass that job on to an agent who will handle all of their bookings.

“The bands you see on TV, hear on the radio, and watch on big tours, have big labels and lots of money behind them,” Striker said. “We don’t have that kind of financial support yet, so everything we do, we have to do on our own, with little or no money.”

Despite the complications they face, The Real You stays positive and hopeful; this is evident in their songs.

“I think in general we are all positive people,” Striker said. “I don’t see the point in being sad and depressed all the time, and if that’s all you hear in the music you listen to, it will affect you. I try and see the bright side in things, and show our fans that they can be happy too!”

Striker was really excited when I asked him about The Real You’s future. “We’re planning on a big year in 2010!” Striker said. “With management on board now, we are hoping to spend most of the year, on the road [and] playing to bigger crowds. We are also writing new tunes that we hope to record on our full-length album this year!”

Their new EP titled “Better Now Than Never” is available on iTunes or smartpunk.com.

Published: January, 11 2010
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/5792/The_Real_You_Tours_Internationally

Unsigned Band Makes An Impact

By: Kim Gallagher

I have been a fan of The Bay State for about five years and they have never disappointed me. The pop rock band was born from lead singer Tom Tash’s acoustic project with viola player, Evan James.

Like any fan, it is incredible to watch your favorite band develop from a small project into something great. They Bay State’s music has grown from just having an acoustic guitar and vocals, to a solid upbeat pop rock sound that infiltrates the music scene.

Once fans listen to their newest album, “The Haunted EP,” they will realize how versatile this band really is.

“We’ve always tried very hard to reinvent our sound in some way,” Tash said in an interview with FanBolt. “We’ve tried pop, electronica, punk, rock, hip hop, folk and acoustic music and plan to continue trying new stuff all the time. Music should be interesting and different all the time.”

Susanne Gerry is the bassist and other vocalist you will hear on their albums. Having been a vocalist for most of her life, she joined the band about a year and a half ago with no knowledge of playing the bass. Tash remembered that Gerry was quite nervous when she first started.

“We sat down one day and I taught her two or three of the easier songs to build her confidence,” Tash said. “She was immediately hooked and she would practice for hours everyday. If it was hard for her [to learn], she didn’t really show it.”

Drew Hooke is the band’s foundation as the drummer and programmer. Tash says that the best part of being a band is playing shows for their fans.

“It’s when we have the most fun,” Tash said. “There’s less business stuff to worry about.”

The band must also worry about the obstacles they have to overcome. The Bay State is an unsigned band and they must work twice as hard on a small budget. But their tenacity has paid off. They had the opportunity to play on the 2009 Warped Tour and they have been named one of PureVolume’s Top 20 Unsigned Bands of 2009.

“To stand out you [must] have, merchandise, CD’s, websites, equipment, a tour van, a publicist and a million dollars to cover all of the expenses,” Tash said. “It can be really tough to do all of those things as an unsigned band. We’ve always found ways to scrap together what we needed, but with more success comes more needs. We’ve all had to keep outside jobs when we’re not on the road. But, it’s totally worth it. This is what we live for.”

Another barrier they have had to break through is booking their own shows and tours, which can be very hard without the support of a record company.

“Business people want to know what they’re getting,” Tash said, “and without something like a label pushing you, it can be hard to convince them that you’re worth the risk. We’ve got a strong base though. Venues can’t deny it when they see our great fans pouring into shows.”

Even though they struggle, The Bay State always has a positive attitude and it reflects in their music.

“I like to take negative subjects and find positive ways of looking at them,” Tash said. “To counter act the [negative] lyrical content, I try to write upbeat happy music. It’s not always easy, but I don’t want to be a bummer to listen to.”

According to Tash, The Bay State will be “hitting the road hard in 2010.”

“We’re already putting together three tours in the first three months of the year,” Tash said, “and plan to cover the entire country by 2011. We’re also working on some new songs and plan to release them over the course of the New Year.”

Fans can buy their music from iTunes, Amazon and most online music stores. Physical CD’s can also be purchased at one of their shows.

Be sure to be on the look-out for The Bay State. They’re the best thing to come out of Maine since lobsters.

Published: January 5, 2010
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/5767/Unsigned_Band_Makes_An_Impact

The Bay State – “The Haunted EP” Review

By: Kim Gallagher
Description:

he Bay State is a 4 piece Pop Rock band from the state of Maine. It formed in 2004 as lead vocal/guitarist Tom Tash’s acoustic project. Quickly deciding that the band needed a full band sound, he reached out to high school best friend and former band mate, drummer Drew Hooke. During the summer of ‘05 Tom and Drew began to fill in the additional spots in the band with members that would come and go; but from the mix came violist, Evan James. For the next two years the band worked hard to constantly tour, knowing that they had a lot of work to do to get the word out. In 2006, long time friend and supporter Susanne Gerry began working with the band as merch person. Then, in 2008, the band found themselves without a bassist, Within weeks, Susanne stepped up, completely learned the instrument, and took her place as the 4th member of The Bay State. Since its formation, the band has been the featured Unsigned Band on The Gunz Show on Idobi radio to over 100,000 listeners, They were also the featured Buzz band on The Daily Chorus, They recorded 2008’s “Let’s Turn This City On” EP with esteemed producer Paul Leavitt (All Tim Low, Senses Fail, Mercy Mercedes), The Bay State have shared the stage with amazing bands like Brighten, Danger Radio, Farewell, Sparks The Rescue, Red Car Wire, Holiday Parade, We Shot The Moon, The Cab, Mercy Mercedes, Zox, As Cities Burn, Tamarama (MTV), I Am The Pilot, along with many others! Recently, The Bay State was granted a sponsorship by the well-established clothing company, Glamour Kills, with the song “Hey Hey Glamour Kills”. They were also added to four dates at the Take Heart tent at the 2009 Warped Tour. Using this momentum, as well as their constantly growing list of show dates, the band hopes to take their place in the music scene. They’re currently working on a new EP for the fall, and believe in supplying their fans with new material as often as possible! Keep an eye on The Bay State, They’ve been working harder than ever and are ready to explode!

The Bay State – The Haunted EP Review

Their newest five-song album, “The Haunted EP” is a great addition to anyone’s musical library. The Bay State has composed five solid songs that can be enjoyed by everyone, despite their favorite musical genre.

The singing in “Liars” by Susanne Gerry rivals Haley Williams from alternative rock band, Paramore. “Haunted” sung by Tom Tash, closely compares to the vocalists in the Plain White T’s and All Time Low. Even though these two songs are about negative topics, the band purposely tries to remain positive. “I wrote both of them at very different times, but they both represent very lonely times,” Tash said in an exclusive interview with FanBolt. “So, to counter act the lyrical content, I tried to write upbeat happy music. It’s not always easy, but I don’t want to be a bummer to listen to.”

Fans will enjoy the Bay State’s songs because they are the complete opposite of depressing. Their song, “Hey Hey Glamour Kills” is an upbeat dance song that reminds me of something I have heard of in European clubs, but without the annoying repetitive bass line. During this song they prove their band’s versatility by giving electro music band 3OH!3 a run for their money.

Even though the EP only has five songs, it showcases the wide-range of musical talent that this band has.

“We’ve always tried very hard to reinvent our sound, in some way, on every recording,” Tash. “Music should be interesting and different all the time.”

“The Haunted EP” is available though most major online digital music stores such as iTunes and Amazon and is a great value for $4.95.

“We have physical CD’s available at our shows,” Tash said. “[CD's are also available] at select local New England stores as well as through our online District Lines store starting in a few weeks.”

The Bay State is busy planning on writing and releasing more song and touring throughout the next few years.

“We’ll be hitting the road hard in 2010,” Tash said. “We’re already putting together three tours in the first three months of the year and plan to cover the entire country by 2011.”

Rating: A

Published: December 29, 2009
http://www.fanbolt.com/musicreview.php?id=351

Amelia Review: A Tribute To Amelia Earhart

By: Kim Gallagher
Before she was the first aviatrix, she started her life similar to everyone else; she was just a child with a dream. A dream to, someday, leave her hometown in Kansas and explore the wonders of the world. A dream to soar the skies, defy the impossible and live life to the fullest. This was the dream of Amelia Earhart.
The movie “Amelia” depicts the life of Earhart (Hilary Swank) who was the first woman pilot to capture the world’s attention in the 1920’s and 30’s. According her official website (www.ameliaearhart.com) and as mentioned in the movie, her resume of achievements includes being the first woman to fly across the Atlantic Ocean which took her 20 hours and 40 minutes (June 17-18, 1928); becoming vice president of public relations for the new airline, New York, Philadelphia and Washington Airways (September 1930); becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean which took her 14 hours and 56 minutes (May 20-21, 1932); she was elected president of a new women’s aviation club she helped to establish, the Ninety Nines (Fall 1932; and she began her flight around the world June 1, 1937, which was not completed and her plane was lost at sea.

Her incomplete list of accomplishments mentioned above is, what I believe to be, a small portion of Earhart’s aviation career. Not only did she break several aeronautical barriers, she was an inspiration to women as well as those affected by the Great Depression. Despite her international fame and all the “hooey,” she managed to remain humble and showed much concern for those working families who were struggling at the time.

Throughout the movie, actual footage of the real Earhart’s triumphs can be seen with smooth transitions into the current picture featuring Swank. The scenery, outfits and even the planes that were used during the film complimented the footage taped in the 1920’s. It was very refreshing to watch a film without violence, coarse language and sex scenes. While Earhart had intimate relationships with her publicist (and future husband) George Putnam (Richard Gere) and Gene Vidal (Ewen McGregor), the movie, surprisingly, did not focus solely on them, as I would expect any Hollywood film to. To me, the concentration of the film was more of a tribute to the independent and courageous life Earhart lead.

Earhart has been an inspiration to many people over the years. With this film, she can continue to motivate and encourage men and women to follow those childhood dreams, defy the impossible and live life to the fullest.

Rating: A

Published: November 19, 2009
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/5577/Amelia_Review:_A_Tribute_To_Amelia_Earhart

‘The Wizarding World of Harry Potter’ Theme Park

By: Kim Gallagher
Tired of being living in a world full of “Muggles,” (non-magical people)? Universal Orlando Resort has the remedy.

Universal Orlando has teamed up with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to creat a theme park for those fans wishing to get in touch with their “magical side.” This park might just be the closest “Muggles” can get to the “Wizarding World” inspired by J.K. Rowling through her beloved “Harry Potter” series of books.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter / © Universal Studios

According to Universal Orlando, fans can expect the park to open in spring 2010.

“Inspired by J.K. Rowling’s compelling stories and characters…The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal’s Islands of Adventure will provide visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience complete with multiple attractions, shops and a signature eating establishment,” UniversalOrlando.com reported in a statement released Sept. 15, 2009. “This completely immersive environment will transcend generations and bring the wonder and magic of the amazingly detailed Harry Potter books and films to life.”

Universal Orlando says that they are doing their best to “construct the most authentic Harry Potter experience possible,” which will be a paradise for those fans that have submerged themselves in Rowling’s award-winning novels.

The theme park will feature familiar buildings such as: Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade train station, Zonko’s joke shop, the Three Broomsticks and the Hog’s Head pub, The Owlery, Dervish and Bages (to load up on magical utensils), and Ollivanders wand shop.

Guests can also engage in several attractions including Dragon Challenge, a dual high-speed roller coaster that will take its riders through scenes from the Triwizard Tournament. Learn to ride on the back of a magical beast with Flight of the Hippogriff, a more family-orientated roller coaster which soars over the Hogwarts Castle. Within Hogwarts, will be Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, which, according to Universal Orlando, “is a thrilling new state-of-the-art attraction that uses entirely new technology to bring the magic, characters and stories of Harry Potter to life in ways never before experienced.” Also, do not forget to enter Filch’s Emporium of Confiscated Goods which is full of Harry Potter merchandise, including Omnioculars and Golden Snitches.

Be sure to check out the source link below for more anticipated updates, information and pictures of the theme park.
——–
Copyrights:
© Universal Studios, All Rights Reserved

HARRY POTTER, characters, names and related indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Harry Potter Publishing Rights © JKR.

Published:  October 12, 2009
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/5317/’The_Wizarding_World_Of_Harry_Potter’_T

Saturday Night Shakedown debuts their first EP

By: Kim Gallagher

“Better Than Hollywood” by Saturday Night Shakedown              Release Date: March 4, 2009

It’s rare to find a CD that I want to listen to consistently. But I don’t have that issue with Saturday Night Shakedown’s debut EP. Ever since I bought it and put it on my iPod, it’s been on repeat and I’ve found myself absolutely in love with the band and their CD.

Their CD is available though iTunes or can be picked up at one of their shows; which I highly advise seeing them live if you get the chance. I’ve been to a lot of concerts, professional musicians and those no where near perfect, but being at an SNS show is truly a unique experience. These four boys have more energy than the crowd itself. And believe me; their crowds are not small, and their highly active fans had more than enough energy.

Josh Mondro on the mic

The boys of SNS are true entertainers. When in the spotlight, all eyes on them and they make themselves known. When performing, Josh Mondro owns the stage. His vocals will make anyone’s heart melt as soon as he hits the mic and starts to sing along with Mike Reed whose shredding guitar riffs make your jaw drop and think “I can’t believe that he just did that!”

Mike Reed on guitar

Along side the two front boys is John Estupigan on bass guitar. This dynamic kid will always catch your eye while he’s on stage. John can be seen jumping off amplifiers, spinning around while strumming on his guitar or playing back to back with another band member with a smug grin on his face. And as usual, holding the beat down is their drummer, Justen Snow. Even though he is behind all the action, Justen definitely shines through, mostly because his arms and legs never cease to stop moving as he keeps the band rhythmically together.

The same energy from their shows can definitely be felt when listening to “Better Than Hollywood.” Edging away from the typical pop rock sound, SNS has the perfect blend of harder beats mixed in with captivating vocals and lyrics. Their passion for their music can be felt while listening to their first LP. It makes you want to pick up your air guitar and rock out in your living room with them. The boys have compiled five catchy tunes that are bound to get stuck in your head all day, but in a good way.

This Michigan based band has been together for about a year, but you wouldn’t know that just by hearing them. I would say that they are a good mixture of The Starting Line, Fall Out Boy, and anything else that completely tickles your fancy. After you pick up their EP, be sure to check SNS’s Myspace page (http://www.myspace.com/saturdaynightshakedown) for their current “It’s About That Time Tour” and see when they will be in an area near you!

Rating: A

Published: June 23, 2009 on FanBolt.com
http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/4655/saturday_night_shakedown

Photos by: Kim Gallagher

TMDP’s Debut Self-Titled Album

By: Kim Gallagher

When talking about music genres, most people neglect to mention “house music” in their conversations. This could be because they do not like it or simply are unaware of its existence. But what exactly is house music? In short, house can best be described as “club music” or dance music that’s mixed together by music enthusiast and DJ’s.

House is not a massive musical genre in North America, as it is in other parts of the world, especially Europe. The music scene is flooded with numerous rock, hip hop, punk rock and pop artists. Those genres tend to be more familiar and are often used in conversation. Living in the United States, I had not heard of house music until I visited a friend in Germany. From the first sound wave that entered my ears, I became hooked on house and listen to it frequently.

picture provided by: TMDP

TMDP is a house music duo that anyone could get hooked to. They’ve established their presence on the electronic music scene of their hometown of Toronto. 

“TMDP’s cuts are bursting with melodies, scraping guitars and funky, rubbery bass lines,” Toronto magazine Eye Weekly said. “They deserve plenty of credit for skillfully using classic electro sounds in 2009 – and for not trying to bash your skull in with them.”

Jeffery Addison and Gavin Rough make up the backbone of TMDP. They have been acknowledged as “one of the top ten up and coming producers of Toronto,” in NowToronto.com. They said that they are mostly focused on melodies and are “always looking for new ways to showcase [their melodies] without limiting ourselves to a particular tempo or instrumentation.”

Their new self-tiled CD, released February 24, 2009 is an album that will not disappoint house music aficionados or those who are new to the genre. Once this CD is put into your music player, pump up the bass and be prepared because you will get the urge to dance. If you’re not into dancing, you’ll find your feet tapping and your head bobbing along with the electro-rhythms. TMDP’s album has a variety of songs, including fast and upbeat songs to slower, mellow songs. This will surely be a CD that will be played in many clubs and one that you will find to be hard to take out of your music player. Especially when you are in the mood to dance!

Published: February 25, 2009 on FanBolt.com

http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/4066/TMDP_s_Debut_Self-Titled_Album 

Chase Coy – A star in the making

By: Kim Gallagher

Picture provided by: Chase Coy

I found Chase Coy’s Myspace page while I was in search of some new music one day. When I started the music player, I was overwhelmed with heartwarming lyrics on top of the smooth sounds of an acoustic guitar. As I listened to his soothing voice, I read his biography saying that he is a senior in high school and records everything in his basement. I thought to myself, “so he claims that he’s ‘just a kid from the Midwest who makes music’ but he has over 10 million plays on his page.” Quite impressive for “just a kid.”

“Basically, two years ago, my best friend [Jeanette] helped me start a Myspace and ran it for the longest time,” Coy said. “She sent out friend requests and messages and just put in a massive amount of time and effort into promoting, and around the time my second CD was finished, it really started to take off beyond what we had ever hoped for.”

Coy currently has three albums and one single. He must never sleep because he just finished a new CD that he plans to release in two months.

When it comes to his music, Coy has it all under control. Not only does he write his own lyrics and music, he produces it all in his basement.

“It’s a really rewarding [process] and it can also be a very frustrating one,” Coy said.

Despite the frustrations that may arise, Coy’s determination has helped him come up with a solution.

“It gets tough working on every aspect of a song because at a certain point when you’ve heard it a thousand times and all you want to do is just finish it already,” Coy said. 

“But what you really need to do is take a break and come back to it later. When it comes together and you have the final product, it is very satisfying.”

All the instruments heard on his tracks are all played solely by Coy. He records the instruments individually and blends them together to complete a song.

“I play every single instrument you hear on any song,” Coy said. “I play guitar, bass, piano, banjo, a little bit of drums, a bunch of percussion instruments, and harmonica.”

Coy has performed about six times at coffee shops and loves performing before a crowd.

“It’s cool having a bunch of people all packed in and singing along,” Coy said. “It’s just a really intimate setting and it’s cool to be able to interact with the fans in a very personal way.”

When Coy’s fans hear his music, aspires to help get them through tough times and wants them to hear the “hope” in it and to be optimistic about the future.

Coy’s support group is composed of his parents, sister and his friend Jeanette, and of course, his fans. He continually receives positive feedback from fans on his Myspace page. He looks forward to getting those responses because it encourages him to keep going with his music.

“I regret that I can’t reply to everyone’s comments anymore,” Coy said. “But I can still read them and appreciate every single one!”

Next year, Coy plans on attending Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee and will study Audio Engineering Technology. There’s no need for his fans to worry because he will still work on his music and hope to form a full band.

“I would really love to try full band kind of like William Fitzsimmons did on his CD,” Coy said. “He didn’t change what he was doing to fit the band; he used the band to accentuate his acoustic.”

Coy said that a few record companies have contacted him, but would not comment any further. Whichever label he decides to sign with, I’m sure that this modest kid from the Midwest will do very well in furthering his musical career. 

Published: February 24, 2009 on FanBolt.com
 http://www.fanbolt.com/headline/4060/Chase_Coy_-_A_Star_In_The_Making

Now That’s What I Call Motown

By: Kim Gallagher

Description:
2009 collection, a special installment from the hugely successful Now… series of compilation albums, released to coincide with the 50th Anniversary of one of the greatest record labels in music history. Now That’s What I Call Motown presents 25 of the most beloved and timeless classic R&B tracks from some of the greatest music artists of all-time, all on one CD. Includes cuts from The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Four Tops, The Miracles, Mary Wells, Rick James, The Commodores and many others. 

Photo provided by: Now Music

Various Artists – Now That’s What I Call Motown Review:

When I heard that Universal Motown Records was going to release a Now That’s What I Call Motown CD, my first thoughts were, “Oh great, here comes another Now Music CD.” But my thoughts turned a complete 180 degrees when the album was playing overhead at the Borders Books and Music store, outside of “Motown,” where I currently work. Since I work in the cafe within the store, I really do not have a say in what CD’s get played; usually the managers decide. But I was very thankful when this particular CD was put into the stereo player. 

I heard the first song of the disc, Barrett Strong’s “Money (That’s What I Want),” I, (as well as a few of my other co-workers) started dancing, and what seemed to be another dreaded work day, was no more. Our spirits were lifted. Maybe it was the fact that we live and play in the city where most of the songs on the album were produced, and knowing that had put a smile on our faces.

Detroit, Michigan. It’s known by many names: “Motown,” “Motor City,” and even “Hockey Town,” but I call it home. Detroit, unfortunately, has gotten a bad reputation from the media recently, with the text scandal involving former mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and the downfall of the auto industry. For the most part, I’m proud to consider myself a “Detroiter” because there are many great things about the city. Listening to this record makes me forget about all the negative events, and it lets me focus on “The D’s” stronger points. Now That’s What I Call Motown marks the 50th anniversary of Barry Gordy Jr.’s foundation of “Motown Records.” It’s an occasion that will always have its place in history.

As my work day went on, the funky beats of the Temptations, the Jackson 5 and Stevie Wonder pumped through the stereo. Now That’s What I Call Motown has songs for everyone to dance and sing along to. Even though we were not born in those eras, my co-workers and I (most of us are in our 20’s), loved listening to Diana Ross and the Commodores.

My favorite track is Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On.” The soulful jazzy song was lost in the back of my mind until I listened to it again. The lyrics really make me think about the events of world today and evaluate where I stand. When Marvin Gaye flows through my ears, I think of what I can personally do to try and help make the world a better place, not only for myself, but for others as well. 

The sun had set and it was time for the store to close. The 25-song compilation was still playing and the staff was humming to the tunes that reminded us of our hometowns. 

I would highly advise picking up this album, especially if you are in need of a musical boost during your day.

Rating: A

Published: February 4, 2009 at FanBolt.com
http://www.fanbolt.com/musicreview.php?id=274