it's all about the kids!
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Issue 1: Volume 7TRANSCRIPT
The Music Initiative http://www.themusicinitiative.com
Editor-in-Chief: Becca Finley
Managing Editor: Kara Klein
Assistant Editor: Liz Earle
Staff Writers: Kyle Cannon, Justin Henderson,
Nancy laBarbiera, Jarret Ricci,
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Creative Director: Joel Travis
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Cover Photograph by Natalie McGarity
Contributing Photographers: Ashley Brook Perryman
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letter fromthe editor{
{It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood, A beautiful day for a neighbor, Would you be mine? Could you be mine? Please won’t you be (toss the shoe) my neighbor? For those of you who get this reference, I hope you giggled. For those of you who didn’t, go check out a PBS show known as Mister Rogers Neighborhood and then let’s dis-cuss The Wiggles. So, our issue this month focuses on all that surrounds music by kids and for kids. Don’t click away from the magazine just yet- it’s not what you think.
There was a time when most listeners, such as myself per-ceived music for children as simple, in terms of musicality; and silly often bordering on annoying in regards to lyrics. Well, my neighbors, for those of you who were as ignorant as I, please allow me to enlighten you.
Within the “kindie“ rock movement, artists combine excellent musicianship & witty lyrics with seasoned perfor-mances to create an age appropriate genre. Keller Williams, popularly known by his song “Freaker by the Speaker,” talks with me about his new children’s book & album, and his daughter’s influence. Sugar Free Allstars’ Chris Wiser delves into why the kiddos are an audience to be reckoned with and how similar they are, as an audience, to their adult counterparts. Bar show vs library show, you be the judge.
Not only are our adult friends knocking it out of the park for the young ones, but our young friends, have also found the sweet spot. From Denver’s Guitar Hero Jamie Mitchell to Charleston’s Rock Trio The Three Dudes, their level of musicality and drive continues to astound and delight me.
On a separate note, our college age friends are hitting the road with us for the SEC Tailgating Tour presented by Palmetto Cheese. Each week our staff, along with our 2011 Emerging Artist, T. Champagne will visit a different school each week and talk music, football and a little cheese. What can happen at the University of Georgia, University of South Carolina and Vanderbilt University? Only time and the fans will tell.
Bottom line…music is an all ages sport that everyone en-joys and can participate in. Get in the game, play fair and above all, love what you do.
-B
Friday night, August 19th, at One Eyed Jacks in the French Quarter was a fitting place for Dax Riggs to return to his local musical roots. At Jacks you’re just as likely to see a Burlesque revue as you are Queens of the Stone Age. Dax surely can appreciate this eclectic mix of artists, for in a small way it mirrors his own personal journey. His roots stem from an extremely diverse group of bands including the very popular Acid Bath, Agents of Oblivion and Deadboy & the Elephantmen. But Dax in his current incarnation as himself–I feel, is producing his best and most distilled work to date.
Being that he never signed with a major label by choice (good for him!) and a little bit of an enigma, I needed to see if a live show could trump what I was hearing on iTunes. Well friends, he brought it in spades. The excited crowd responded with fervor as he sang many favorites such as “Night is the Notion,” “Gravedirt on my Blue Suede Shoes,” his excellent cover of Elvis’ “Heartbreak Hotel” and of course “Let Me Be Your Cigarette.”
During the show, Dax coaxes the listener into his haunted, fragile world where angels stretch out white, bony fingers. Dark places are to be explored, and someone always seems to be nursing a broken heart or maybe an appendage. Commanding yet vulnerable, he uses his vocal control to let lyrics linger over the audience like smoke. With a style all his own, it would be wrong to compare him to anyone else, but the genius of Jack White comes to mind and many other artists are taking note as well. As his acolytes sang all the words to every song, it was clear that Dax Riggs would not be able to remain an enigma for much longer, and what works best for Dax? Being himself.
One Eyed Jacks, New Orleans, LA
-HT
Darth Vadar sure knew what he was doing when he hired Boba Fett to locate the Millennium Falcon to capture its captain Han Solo. Like the saying goes, it is the quiet ones you have to watch out for, and it’s the quiet ones you have to hire when you have put a bounty on someone’s head. Strapped with his someone’s head. Strapped with his dead-on accurate laser gun, eagle-like jet pack, and a desert-forest colored camouflage suit, it is no wonder why Darth Vader praised him, Han Solo feared him, and why Star Wars fans across the world have crowned Boba Fett as one of the greatest characters Fett as one of the greatest characters and bounty hunters in the saga!
This month, TMI pays tribute to the famous bounty hunter and Star Wars fans by giving away none other than a Boba Fett lamp and alarm clock! Just like his arsenal, the gadget is strapped to the brim. This contraption comes clad with a blue LED light that displays the time, alarm clock for those days you the time, alarm clock for those days you have to wake up for the convention, an easy to turn on lamp for your Tales of the Jedi comic and an 1/8 audio jack connecter that can play MP3 players with your favorite Max Rebo Band song pumping out the speaker. Put a bounty on this and you can be assured Boba on this and you can be assured Boba Fett would be hunting himself!
Go to our Facebook page and tell us your favorite Star Wars experience and this prize could be yours!
-DV
Quirky, quaint, quintessential Keller takes on "Kindie"
Keller Williams
What were you like as a kid?
I was very active, went to a lot of camps. And I was always into music at an early age and my parents definitely took advantage of that in the realm of childrens’ music theater and church plays. So I was very active, never really wanted to sit still for very long, like most kids are.
How did you get the idea to write this book?
Well, it wrote itself along with the song, you know, just making up a song. I’ve got no real answer to your question. It’s just because I said so, you know. And I sent the song to my friend who’s an amazing artist, Bill Harris, and wham-bam, I’m a childrens’ book author. So, it wasn’t like I sat down to write a childrens’ book, I just kind of made up a silly song, and that got adapted into the book.
Keller Williams Dirt or mud?
Dirt
A band-aid or super glue?
Super glue
Bike or skateboard?
Bike
What were you like as a kid?
I was very active, went to a lot of camps. And I was always into music at an early age and my parents definitely took advantage of that in the realm of childrens’ music theater and church plays. So I was very active, never really wanted to sit still for very long, like most kids are.
Does the illustrated little Keller character resemble you?
He got my hair pretty good. You know, as far as the present Keller, as opposed to little Keller. My hair wasn’t quite like that as little Keller.
Where can people find your book, the kids’ book?
I would start with my website “kellerwilliams.net.”
Is that where we can find the new kids album as well? Who are the kids singing on it?
My daughter, Ella, was four when we recorded it. A lot of those songs were, I think, they’re from even before she was born. So they were like little demos, riding around in the car and stuff. And so she knew a large chunk of the songs before it even went into recording. And so I brought her in, and without even putting headphones on her, just kind of played the songs through the speakers in the studio and put a microphone in front of her and she just sang along. And so she’s on a lot of them. She actually made up the “Horse Back Rider” song. And there are a couple other kids, part of a choir, in the song called “Good Advice.”
Does your family usually travel with you? Do they stay at home?
When the kids were babies, they definitely went with us. And now that they’re getting a little bit older, they’re getting more into the routine of school and what not, so I have adopted the “weekend warrior” mentality, in which I’m home during the week and gone on the weekends. And with this kids’ record, we’ve definitely done a handful of kids’ shows where we piggyback a Saturday night show and do a kids’ show matinee, and my wife and daughter usually come to every one of those. My wife kind of runs the show, as far as when the confetti blows, and when the balloons drop. And my daughter likes to hula-hoop on stage too, so she’s good at that. She’s now asking about wanting to sing along onstage. So we might do that in the near future.
Would you ever make another album together?
Well, my son is three now, and he’s starting to show his type of personality, and singing. So just to be fair to the kids, I have to do another kids’ record and have him sing on the next one. I have to capture the boy now, just to be fair. Can’t have them grow up and be uneven, you know?
What’s the most important childhood lesson that you learned?
Do unto others as they do unto you. That’s definitely stuck. The Daily Show or the Nightly News with Brian Williams?
The Daily Show Do you think Elvis is still alive?
Yes.
Would you prefer to jump or skip?
Skip When did you start playing the guitar?
I started pretending to play at age three, and learned my first chord at about twelve or thirteen. And my first gig for money was when I was sixteen.
investigating that realm. And it wasn’t until I opened for Victor Wooten who was doing it that I got some serious ideas on how it could be done. He showed me the proper tools he used. So he has a lot to attribute to that.
Four words that describe you?
Positive, cheeky, nonchalant and weird
Fave cartoon character?
Wile E. Coyote
You’re pals with String Cheese Incident. What do you like about playing with them?
They jump around from genre to genre, whether it be bluegrass to funk to jazz to salsa, and never really stayed in the same genre. I really appreciate that. I did hundreds of shows with them over the course of a couple of years. We became family, and are still very close to this day and vacation together.
What musician influenced your style of playing?
Michael Hedges. He’s no longer with us, but he definitely turned me around as far as my career goes. He showed me that a solo act with a guitar can demand the audience’s attention. He had a certain picking style that I latched onto that really focused around the baseline. His style definitely opened it up to make it sound like more than one person. That, and the way he was able to take a cover song and make it his own without really losing the integrity of the song to start with.
Do you have a particular guitar that you feel better with?
Yes, the “High Diva” is her name. And she is a HD-28 made by the Martin company. You know, every guitar is different. You could line up ten guitars, all the same model by the same company, and they’re ten totally different guitars. You know, you’d think it would be the same, but it’s not. So yeah, how they feel is really important.
What is it about the guitar that you love so much?
I guess it’s that you’re able to travel with it, that you’re able to keep yourself entertained by yourself, as well as collaborate with other musicians on other instruments. I love the acoustic tone, the steel and the timber coming together. It’s just something I’ve always loved and had around.
When did you get into looping?
That was just hours and hours of playing solo with just a guitar and a vocal mic, and wanting to go further. Different avenues to go down without being able to afford humans, and without wanting to push a button on a sequencer and have like the whole band just appear sonically. I wanted to create my own samples and go from there. I started really
And I’m happy to say that in October I’m going to become one of The Travelin’ McCourys for a few shows. Del McCoury who is in his 70s, I guess, takes his sons out, and they’re called Del McCoury and the Family Band. They’ll play a good 75 minute set. And then the second set, Del will rest and take his shoes off and they bring in another guitarist, and call themselves The Travelin’ McCourys. I’m very excited about it. We’re going to be doing this thing called “Deloween” over the Halloween weekend. We’ll do three shows in which I will open solo acoustic with no technology or looping or anything, and then that third set I’ll be part of The Travelin’ McCourys.
What four songs from your entire catalogue do people request the most?
Whether it be through the internet or people shouting them out at shows or writing them on napkins, as well as what’s downloaded the most, those would be “Freaker By The Speaker,” “Kidney In A Cooler,” “Best Feeling In The World,” and as far as recently, the kids really seem to like “Momma Tooted.”
Math, Science or English?
English
Cows or pigs?
Cows
Funniest comedian?
Kat Williams Reading glasses, cool or not cool?
Cool!
More projects? Keller and the Keels? K- Doublicious? With Keller and the Keels, I guess I wanted to collaborate in an acoustic thing, and I’ve always loved bluegrass music. I always wanted to be a mandolin player, but yet never really learned how to play a mandolin. So, I got a little mini guitar and pretended it was a mandolin. Bring in the husband and wife team of Larry Keel (a genuine bluegrass picking underground icon) and Jenny Keel (fantastic upright bass player). I think the two of them really bring kind of that authenticity to Keller and the Keels, as far as the bluegrass world is concerned. We decided early on that we wouldn’t play together that much, and do full on tours. It would just be little spot pick-ups here and there, just so it remains fun for us, and that stays true to today.
With K-Doublicious, I’m on bass, and my friend Jay Starling on keys, Mark D on drums. And that’s kind of a reggae funk project.
-BF
Cool indeed! Look into Keller’s website, kellerwilliams.net. A toy chest for all ages!
A band made up of two 12 year old twins and their younger 10 year old brother playing in a middle school
cafeteria doesn’t exactly scream rock n’ roll. As I walked into the building to check out this trio, expectations
at a minimum, I found myself surrounded by perky tween cheerleaders looking to catch the attention of
whomever they could. What was I getting myself into? I decided to take a seat to the left of the stage and
began prepping myself for whatever The 3 Dudes had in store for this “rowdy” crowd and some apprehensive
parents. The boys, decked out in attire ranging from a skull-dorned black fedora hat to sunglasses and spiky
hair, hopped up on stage, took their respective positions, and welcomed everyone to their show as if they
were a reincarnation of The Ramones. They sure dressed and acted the part, but could they perform? That
question was answered several songs into their set, and I could rest assured knowing that rock n’ roll still
lives.
After opening the show with their own original kid-infused rock, The 3 Dudes, consisting of Roger (drums),
Jack (guitar), and Sam (bass), turned the energy up to 11 when Sam announced to the crowd in his best rock
star voice, “We’re about to take you on a trip to Detroit!” At this point, the ears of every dad in the room
perked up a bit as they were transported down memory lane when the dudes own rendition of Kiss’ “Detroit
Rock City” rang throughout the lunchroom and adjoining hallways of the school. Following this evocative,
attitude driven performance, the boys performed other classics such as Van Halen’s “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout
Love,” AC/DC’s “T.N.T.” and Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze.” Was this for real? Was I really watching three
kids play some of rock’s biggest hits with such skill, swagger and spirit that it caused my face to feel like it had
a permanent grin glued to it? Yes.
I retract my former statement about this situation not seeming very rock n’ roll. In fact, rock n’ roll was
exactly what it was. After seeing The 3 Dudes shred some of their own material like “Just Right” and “Bam
Bam,” and having the chance to meet these intelligent, courteous and fun-filled boys, I’m excited for what
the future holds for them. If seeing is believing, then consider me a believer.
Laing Middle School, Charleston, SC
“Big Stadiums, Big Sounds”
The Music Initiative
Tailgating Tour9-10 UGA v. USCAthens, Georgia
9-24 USC v. VANDY Columbia, South Carolina
10-1 UGA v. MISS STATEAthens, Georgia
10-8 USC v. UKColumbia, South Carolina
10-15 FLA v. AUBAuburn, Alabama
10-22 BAMA v. TENNTuscaloosa, Alabama
10-29 AUB v. TENNAuburn, Alabama
11-5 BAMA v. LSUTuscaloosa, Alabama
11-12 USC v. FLAColumbia, South Carolina
11-19 UGA v. UKAthens, Georgia
11-25 LSU v. ARKBaton Rouge, Louisiana
12-3 SEC ChampionshipAtlanta, Georgia
1-9-2012 NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP!!
-TJW
If you’re looking for a movie soundtrack that will entertain both children and adults alike, your best choice is the quirky little soundtrack from a film titled, The Naked Brothers Band: The Movie.
The Naked Brothers Band, the mockumentary that’s also a rockumentary, tells the story of The Silver Boulders, which consists of five band members who soon face the hardships of being young and famous. When pressures of juggling crazed groupies, soda addiction and naïve band managers become too much, the band decides to split.
The film is the mastermind of Thirtysomethings’ Polly Draper and The Arsenio Hall Show’s Band Leader Michael Wolff. And talk about some cameos…this thing is packed: Julianne Moore, Uma Thurman, Cyndi Lauper, Tony Shaloub and many more. Those of you who are fans of the band’s music from the popular Nickelodeon television series of the same name will not be disappointed. With its catchy, upbeat music, The Naked Brothers Band keeps the children engaged, and the adults will chuckle at the script, soundtrack and concept of the film.
Nat and Alex’s musical talents shine through the film’s songs as the brothers provide the music’s beats and lyrics. The two brothers, aged nine and six, showed signs of their musical talents well before the film’s production. Nat composed his first song, “Firefighters” at the age of six, and Alex first started playing saxophone at the age of two.
Within seconds of listening to the soundtrack, the Beatle’s influence on the young band’s sound is apparent, not to mention the attire. The song “Motormouth,” which serves as the film’s musical theme and in the introduction lead singer, Nat, chimes in creating vocal patterns that serve as another instrument, a technique made popular by the Beatles.
Once you think you’ve got the band figured out, they surprise you. Sure the Beatles influenced the band’s music, but the song “Got No Mojo” displays the band’s versatility. In “Got No Mojo” the band adds a layer of hard rock. The boys shed the band’s innocence as Nat’s voice grovels with a hushed whisper.
If you or your child loves a catchy tune, this film is for you. There’s nothing formulaic or mass produced about the soundtrack. All of the songs come straight from the band’s heart. Forget Menudo and New Kids on the Block, if you’re looking for a good laugh and great music, The Naked Brothers Band is where it’s at.
What's your favorite part of SEC football?My favorite part of SEC football is that is without question the best conference in the country year in and year out. Check the rings.
Do you or your school have any exciting football traditions?Absolutely. Whenever the team comes up with a win, fans flock to the Chapel on North Campus, where they can ring the Chapel Bell behind it. If it's a big win over Auburn or Tech, that thing could ring for hours
How would you describe the music scene in Athens?Incredible. We have a lot of different bands that span over tons of genres as well as a bunch of great venues to check them out at. Not tomention resources like Flagpole Magazine and 90.5FM to discover those bands.
Any local bands that you think are especially up and coming?Some personal favorites of mine are The Futurebirds, Reptar, and Lera Lynn. The Futurebirds jam, Reptar puts on a great show, and Lera Lynn has such a great and unique voice..
FIRST GAME
September 10, 4:30 pm Athens, Georgia
What's your favorite thing about theUniversity of Georgia?My favorite thing about UGA is the fact it's located in Athens, Georgia. Athens isn't your typical college town, where the only merit is the fact that a university or college is located there. Athens is a vibrant town full of culture and diversity in its people, music, you name it. It's a great place to get an education and simply a great place to live for a couple of years.
DJ Mac LittleWUOG 90.5 FMAthens, GA
the
SECOND GAME
September 24, 7:00 pm Columbia, South Carolina
What’s your favorite thing about the University of South Carolina?The atmosphere, the people, being at the university that I've wanted to attend my whole life
What’s your favorite part of SEC football? There are no easy games. You are pumped up for every week because it's going to be a battle no matter who is on the schedule.
Does your school have any football traditions?The playing of "2001" before every game, the release of Cocky, the players coming out of the tunnel through the smoke right as the music reaches its climax. I'll take that over rubbing a rock and jogging down a hill any day of the year. (P.S. Rock rubbing and hill jogging is what Clemson does before their games...they've dubbed it "The Most Exciting 25 Seconds in College Football.)
How would you describe the music scene in Columbia? The music scene in Columbia is very eclectic and there truly is something for anyone to listen to, no matter what genre you prefer.
Any local bands you think are up and coming? Full Color Footage
DJ Rixon LaneWUOG 90.5 FMAthens, GA
What's your favorite part of SEC football?My favorite part of SEC football is that is without question the best conference in the country year in and year out. Check the rings.
Do you or your school have any exciting football traditions?Absolutely. Whenever the team comes up with a win, fans flock to the Chapel on North Campus, where they can ring the Chapel Bell behind it. If it's a big win over Auburn or Tech, that thing could ring for hours
How would you describe the music scene in Athens?Incredible. We have a lot of different bands that span over tons of genres as well as a bunch of great venues to check them out at. Not tomention resources like Flagpole Magazine and 90.5FM to discover those bands.
Any local bands that you think are especially up and coming?Some personal favorites of mine are The Futurebirds, Reptar, and Lera Lynn. The Futurebirds jam, Reptar puts on a great show, and Lera Lynn has such a great and unique voice..
FIRST GAME
September 10, 4:30 pm Athens, Georgia
What's your favorite thing about theUniversity of Georgia?My favorite thing about UGA is the fact it's located in Athens, Georgia. Athens isn't your typical college town, where the only merit is the fact that a university or college is located there. Athens is a vibrant town full of culture and diversity in its people, music, you name it. It's a great place to get an education and simply a great place to live for a couple of years.
DJ Mac LittleWUOG 90.5 FMAthens, GA
the
SECOND GAME
September 24, 7:00 pm Columbia, South Carolina
What’s your favorite thing about the University of South Carolina?The atmosphere, the people, being at the university that I've wanted to attend my whole life
What’s your favorite part of SEC football? There are no easy games. You are pumped up for every week because it's going to be a battle no matter who is on the schedule.
Does your school have any football traditions?The playing of "2001" before every game, the release of Cocky, the players coming out of the tunnel through the smoke right as the music reaches its climax. I'll take that over rubbing a rock and jogging down a hill any day of the year. (P.S. Rock rubbing and hill jogging is what Clemson does before their games...they've dubbed it "The Most Exciting 25 Seconds in College Football.)
How would you describe the music scene in Columbia? The music scene in Columbia is very eclectic and there truly is something for anyone to listen to, no matter what genre you prefer.
Any local bands you think are up and coming? Full Color Footage
DJ Rixon LaneWUOG 90.5 FMAthens, GA
The first time I saw Jamie play was about two years ago. He came into my bar with a short mohawk and ordered a Sprite, then a coffee and then another Sprite, tipping me on all the non-alcoholic drinks. I knew he was going to be sitting in with the band, so he had a bar tab waiting for him. He returned to the bar for yet another Sprite, and that’s when I found out he was only 19.
That night Jamie played a baritone ukulele. I know–at first we all thought “is this a joke?” But he was sitting in with a couple of local heroes and playing this little guitar that none of us had ever seen before. He instantly commanded respect. To make a long story short, he impressed everyone and kept coming back to play.
Now 21, the wise kid from Wisco shows up all over Denver. This summer, Jamie played one of those shows that has to be a highlight for him, as I know it was something that we all talked about. The band was made up of Melvin Seals (JGB) on the keys, Ray White (Zappa) on guitar and vox, Jamie Mitchell on guitar and vox, Garret Sayers (Motet) on bass, and Darren Hahn on drums. Our boy held his own on stage. Jamie epitomizes that “one of those quiet guys” image until it’s his turn and then in an appropriate way goes off.
Jamie ranges from indie to classic rock, solo singer songwriter, to jam. He is fun to listen to in all forms. He plays a lot of his own music and has an interesting ear himself deciding in deciding which few covers to play. He owns a wide variety of guitars and actually brings them all out to play. With an old soul, this kid is just straight up cool.
Quixote’s True Blue, Denver, CO
Since the dawn of mankind there has been music, specifically music for children. However, in an effort to save you all from projecting mental images of Neanderthals banging on a rack of T-Rex ribs like some kind of prehistoric xylophone, we will highlight children’s music from the twentieth century through present day.
In the early days of recorded music, not much is offered in the way of music aimed specifically toward children. This being said, all of the major music labels in the 30s and 40s release some form of children’s music. While not yet a big player, Disney would have some success in these early years with music from its animated films. Music from films like Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and Pinocchio would play a large part in years to come for Walt Disney’s growing interest in the music that accompanies his popular animated films.
Vinyl RootsSchool of Kid’s Rock
The 50s produce the first big children’s music artists in Woody Guthrie, Ella Jenkins and Pete Seeger. Guthrie and Seeger are already successful musicians when they record their albums in the children’s music genre. Guthrie’s album was playfully recorded for his son, Arlo, and is subsequently released publicly and gains wide popularity. Seeger eventually becomes known as the grandfather of children’s music for his lifetime dedication to the genre. The 50s also produce The Chipmunks, who find themselves at the top of the charts with “The Chipmunk Song.”
The decade of the 60s features music-themed television shows like The Archie Show and The Monkees, created to capture the pre-teen and teenage markets. Another trend is folk artists such as Peter, Paul & Mary and Tom Paxton releasing successful folk albums for children. The rest of the 60s are fairly quiet with regard to children’s music until November 10, 1969, when a brand new children’s television show called Sesame Street airs on public broadcasting stations. This “little” public television show ultimately becomes the most influential catalyst in the children’s music explosion of the 1970s and beyond.
-JHMusic and television programming for children dominate the 70s. In addition to Sesame Street, shows such as Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood and Schoolhouse Rock lead the charge in children’s educational programming. All of these programs incorporate creative songs and music (many still well known today) to teach children a myriad of lessons ranging from math to social situations. While Fred Rogers, who wrote almost all of his own songs, and Schoolhouse Rock would eventually run their course, Sesame Street snowballs itself into an American institution with an estimated 77 million American viewers.
Of course, other producers salivate over the success of Sesame Street and its peers. And in 1987 a monster is created…literally. Enter Barney, the big purple dinosaur that we all claim to hate (yet know the words to most of his songs by heart). Barney follows in the footsteps of the annoyingly voiced yet lovable Elmo. The addition of The Wiggles completes the trifecta of pure capitalism in the 80s and 90s. Simple educational programming for children gives way to the merchandising machine and households are bombarded with CDs, toys, movies and anything
else that advertisers can get their hands on. The release of soundtracks from Disney films such as The Little Mermaid, Aladdin and The Lion King are hugely successful.
This millennium is seeing children’s television programming such as Yo Gabba Gabba! and Jack’s Big Music Show partner with popular artists to create shows that are quite entertaining to kids and parents alike. In addition, mainstream artists such as Jewel, They Might Be Giants and Jack Johnson have all recently released children’s music albums with more acts certain to follow suit. Independent artists like Laurie Berkner are also finding success in leading the “Kindie Rock” movement. In fact, Berkner and her band is going stronger than ever today with a 2010 album release, and one can’t watch most children’s channels without seeing her.
As a parent, I am grateful to have so many educational choices with which to entertain my children. On the other hand, I find it humorously ironic that modern children’s music and television can be traced back to a green guy who lives in a garbage can.
b
How did y’all decide to start writing music for kids?
Well the funny thing is, we didn’t start writing music for kids. It’s like some of the songs that were already on our albums, kids started liking like “He’s Okay (The Spider Song).” On several occasions, people would be like, “Man, my kid loves that song.” And we just started off coming up with these funny ideas like here’s a song about banana
pudding, or here’s a song about taking a bath. And so we did this outdoor family event in Oklahoma City, and we tried playing some
of these songs live. A woman from the library system asked if we’d be interested in doing a tour of the libraries. So, we needed to have something to sell. Mainly just so people could buy that music and take it home with them.
What is the biggest difference between your adult albums and kids albums?
It’s just like basically all we’ve done is changed the subject matter of the songs. The music is the same as the stuff that we were already doing, and we just crank up the energy even more to keep kids in awe. Because you just have to, I mean there’s no sitting and dead time in between songs, it’s got to go fast. Because once you lose kids, they’re just gone.
Are you guys missing playing your adult shows?
We miss playing some of the songs, more so than actually doing the shows. We’re getting spoiled, because when we do the family shows, they’re always during the day and rarely longer than an hour. And, you know, we’re both getting older, and late nights when you’re
entering your 40s is not as easy as late nights when you’re 25 at parties with everyone. It’s kind of been a good,
age appropriate transition.
SUGAR FReEOne of Time Magazine’s top “Kindie” Artists of the Year, Chris Wiser of the Sugar
Free Allstars with a fax and Hammond B3 in tow spills the funk on kids
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What are the similarities/differences between a kid audience and an adult audience?
More things are similar than different. Playing a kids’ show for 40 minutes to an hour is equivalent to playing like a late night set when everybody is in the right mindset to party and dance and have a good time. It’s like a big rock show, except they’re just a lot shorter, you know? Dr. Rock and I have started an ongoing list of some of the same behavior that we’ve seen at club shows and at kids’ shows. Some kids are too young to walk really well, so they kind of stumble around like somebody would stumble around if they had too much to drink. There’s been people throwing up, clothes taken off, people getting bounced from the shows. Who would have ever thought that playing for grown-ups or college people who have had too much to drink would have prepared us playing for kids!
What’s the funniest kid comment you’ve ever heard at a show?
“You guys rock awesome.” Because we have a song called “Rock Awesome,” and kids are always saying that we rock awesome.
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The “Kindie” Movement is pretty big right now, right?
Yes, we’ve been telling people about this whole movement in kids’ music, independent music for kids. A lot of bands are doing the same kinds of things they would do for grown-ups, except with either all ages or kid friendly subject matter in the lyrics. And there’s a lot of really good music. I mean music that I would listen to without kids.
Videos? Does this happen in the kindie world?
Oh yeah, there’s a kids’ blog called “Zooglobble,” and every year he does this “KidVid Tournament” and sets it up like a Big 12 kind of thing, and there’s 16 videos he picks. He puts them all into brackets, like a video will go up against another video and whichever video gets the most votes goes onto the next bracket. Our video for “Cars & Trucks” made it to the finals, up against Keller Williams’ video “Hula Hoop To Da Loop.” I mean he beat us, obviously. But we were up against him in the finals. And it’s funny because he even, or whoever does his Facebook, posted about it: “Thanks everybody for voting for us, but be sure to check out Sugar Free Allstars. They’re funky, and we like the funk.” Very cool!
How did you get the word out that y’all were now playing kids music?
I sent this reviewer from the New York Library System a copy of the cd and he just did this great review. So, I just started sending it out to some people and to XM radio. It started getting played on XM radio, and one of the songs ended up being a number one hit on their Top 13 charts. And it was like the path was chosen for us, really. We were playing shows in clubs, and kids’ shows too. More and more people would come out so we thought we should take it more seriously.
Corn chips or potato chips?
Corn chips
Sharks or lions?
Sharks
Graffiti or no graffiti?
Graffiti, because it’s colorful. I like colorful.
Dewey decimal system, cool or not cool?
Oh cool, I mean you’ve got to find what you’re looking for. It has to have a system.
Favorite playground games as a kid?
We just threw rocks at each other and played kiss-chase.
Rubix cube…did you actually work the puzzle or did you peel the stickers?
I was honest. I never peeled the stickers, but I could only get one side. That was it, just one side. And I got really good at getting one side, but there’s what, like five more sides, so that’s not that impressive.
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Sesame Street or Electric Company?
Oh, that’s a tough one. Electric Company, the music is cooler because it’s a lot more like a seventies, funky kind of vibe. But Sesame Street has some good grown-up related humor. So, that’s kind of apples and oranges. I like them both but for different reasons. Is that a cop out?
That’s a little bit of a cop out.
Okay, Electric Company then.
Favorite 70s cartoon?
I liked the Grape Ape. And ohh, Captain Caveman. I liked Captain Caveman.
Man, I forgot about Captain Caveman!
Yeah, I’ll say Captain Caveman. If I remember right, that’s all he ever said, was “Captain Caaaaaaaveman!”
Does Sam like that show as well? Or is he into something else?
Well Sam’s only 10 months old, but in my office I’ve got a ton of records on vinyl, and we’ll sit in there and listen to music, and he’ll start banging on one of my keyboards. My mom said that’s exactly what I did as a kid. It’s so weird. This Stevie Wonder record was on, I started playing the saxophone and as soon as the record started, he stood up and started banging on the keyboard. This is tripping me out. We were totally jamming right now.
Watch out Dr. Rock, you may be replaced by Slammin’ Sam. For the kiddos, pick up Funky Fresh and Sugar Free, and maybe a copy of Dos Machos for the adults.
It’s my fave!
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When asked to write a review focusing on a younger generation of musicians, Schmillion immediately came to mind. I have heard the hype and this was finally my excuse to see what they are all about. Luckily, the balmy summer night in Austin that Schmillion played the Club DeVille (famous for its limestone cliff backdrop and great acoustics) was not a school night, or this show would have been past their curfew.
When most of the band members are not of legal drinking (or driving) age, a newcomer is not quite sure what to expect. When the initially all-girls rock band formed after attending Austin’s School of Rock together, the five band members were between the ages of 13-15 years old. Now that they have matured into their late teens, they have found quite a following in Austin, and received accolades from SXSW who called them a “young, emerging band.” Following this and many other awards, they shared the stage with Arcade Fire at their last three Texas appearances.
Lead singer Natalie Shea’s natural stage presence impressed me immediately, as she belted out her first song. While I enjoyed their magnetic energy and the music, these young artists need to carve out their own unique, personal style rather than sounding “like” some other bands before they can truly claim to be in the highest tier of Austin musicians. The talent is there with guitarist’s Zoe Graham and Frankie Blue, as well as Cecil Blackwood Cross looking and sounding like a seasoned veteran of the stage. The newest addition to the group, drummer Graham Bailey, held his own as the only male member. These five, young talented musicians have what it takes to grow together and individually. Let’s see where their road leads them.
Club DeVille, Austin, TX
soundbiteWhat Song Reminds You of Your Childhood?
ss
“I Wanna Rock With You” - Michael JacksonMiguel Robinson - Los Angeles, CA
"Slacker” - Umphrey's McGeeBrad O'kelly, Columbia SC"Money” - Pink Floyd
David Cranford, Charleston SC
“The Wall” - Pink FloydErin Jones - Charlotte, NC
"Lean On Me" - Bill WithersCara Ladd, Madison WI
"Smells Like Teen Spirit" - NirvanaScott Pearson
"Puff the Magic Dragon” - Peter Paul & MaryMicah Callan, Boulder Co
"I Saw The Sign” - Ace of BaseAllison Ball, NYC
"$10000000” - Barenaked LadiesNed DuPont, Darien Connecticut
"I've Got Friends In Low Places” - Garth BrooksJenna Jones, Brooklyn NY
"I Want It That Way” - Backstreet Boys
Becky Boggs, Philadelphia, PA"Two Princes” - Spin Doctors
Michael Block, DC
“Let Her Cry" - Hootie and the BlowfishTravis Bland, Columbia, SC
"Piano in the Dark" - Brenda RussellJavon Curvan, Atlanta GA
“Feelin’ Groovy" - Simon and GarfunkelLisa Henderson, Dallas, TX
soundbiteWhat Song Reminds You of Your Childhood?
ss
“I Wanna Rock With You” - Michael JacksonMiguel Robinson - Los Angeles, CA
"Slacker” - Umphrey's McGeeBrad O'kelly, Columbia SC"Money” - Pink Floyd
David Cranford, Charleston SC
“The Wall” - Pink FloydErin Jones - Charlotte, NC
"Lean On Me" - Bill WithersCara Ladd, Madison WI
"Smells Like Teen Spirit" - NirvanaScott Pearson
"Puff the Magic Dragon” - Peter Paul & MaryMicah Callan, Boulder Co
"I Saw The Sign” - Ace of BaseAllison Ball, NYC
"$10000000” - Barenaked LadiesNed DuPont, Darien Connecticut
"I've Got Friends In Low Places” - Garth BrooksJenna Jones, Brooklyn NY
"I Want It That Way” - Backstreet Boys
Becky Boggs, Philadelphia, PA"Two Princes” - Spin Doctors
Michael Block, DC
“Let Her Cry" - Hootie and the BlowfishTravis Bland, Columbia, SC
"Piano in the Dark" - Brenda RussellJavon Curvan, Atlanta GA
“Feelin’ Groovy" - Simon and GarfunkelLisa Henderson, Dallas, TX
ThomasChampagne
Adopting the ZZ Top mentality of still playing a full show even if only one person buys a ticket, T. Champagne never takes for granted the opportunity to play and perform music for anyone who’s willing to listen. Whether it be at wine bars and breweries or on the slopes of a Colorado ski resort, the mixture of New Orleans funk, island style grooves, and Texas song writing gives audiences plenty of reasons to listen.
Liz’s Mix: Songs to Grow By
1. “My Neighbor is Happy Again” - Keller Williams2. “Barking at the Moon” - Jenny Lewis3. “Yellow Submarine” - The Beatles4. “ I am a Dog!!!” - Roy Handy and the Moonshot5. “Our World” - My Morning Jacket6. “Big Rock Candy Mountain” - Harry McClintock7. “Itsy Bitsy Spider” - Little Richard8. “Froggie Went a Courtin’ “ - Heidi Swedberg & the Sukey Jump Band9. “Sing like a Sparrow” - Dean Jones & The Felice Brothers10. “Puff the Magic Dragon” - Peter, Paul and Mary11. “After My Bath” - Wayne Potash12. “Vampire” - Antsy Pants13. “Flying Purple People Eater” - Shep Wooley
1. “Pumped Up Kicks” - Foster the People2. “Miles of Skyline” - Uncle Mountain3. “I Can Talk” - Two Door Cinema Club4. “Turning Tables” - Adele5. “Waiting Outside the Lines” - Greyson Chance6. “Don’t Care About Anything” - Alex Winston7. “Great Expectations” - Diggie Simmons8. “Kissin U” - Miranda Cosgrove9. “Never Will Be Mine” - Rye Rye10. “Generator 1st Floor” - Freelance Whales11. “Be Brave” - The Strange Boys12. “Stitches” - The Morning Benders13. “Scheiße” - Lady Gaga
TJ’s Mix: The 25 and Younger Club
A-Side
The Spin-Off
B-Side
1. “We Will All Evolve” - Our Last Night 2. “In My Room” - Jewel
3. “Take It or Leave It” - Sublime with Rome 4. “Wrestler” - Does It Offend You, Yeah?
5. “Party” - Beyonce 6. “Kitten With a Whip” - Kitten
7. “End of the Night” - Smith Westerns 8. “Never Will Be Mine (feat. Robyn)” - Rye Rye
9. “Moose” - Toubab Krewe 10. “Kentucky Mandolin” - YMSB
11. “Wiggly Way” - Medeski Martin & Wood 12. “Bela Fleck” - Sinister Minister
13. “Virus” - Chemical Peel 14. “All Is Love” - Where the Wild Things Are soundtrack 15. “Gold Jacket Green Jacket” - I Wrested A Bear Once
