Tuesday, December 31, 2013

THANK YOU, SEE YOU IN 2014

In January of 2013 I began these bi-weekly posts on upcoming artists because I was on a mission—a mission to create my own work experience and to get myself out there career wise.  Now, a year later I can say it’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made. In 2013 I’ve crossed bridges I thought I'd never be allowed to cross and suddenly, doors that I never imagined would open began to welcome me in.  However, these bridges weren’t crossed and these doors were not opened without the help of others—I owe thanks to many people who have helped this year be a successful one for me. 

I thank God for the blessing of supportive parents (the best I could ask for) who have lead by example to show me the value of hard work, humility, self-discipline, and persistence.  I’m grateful for family and friends (especially the Fantastic 5) who support my work and listen to my crazy ideas; you are all very special to me. 

To each and every one of the artists that I have been able to interview this year—THANK YOU! Thank you for your time, for trusting me with your careers and for being the backbone of what I have done with this site.  You have all done SO much over this past year and I love seeing you all evolve as artists.  I believe in the future you all have as budding stars—don’t ever quit! 

Stefano Langone, your humility will never cease to amaze me thank you for letting me interview you via phone while you were stuck at the airport, I hope I helped pass the time a little more quickly.  Blanca Lasalle, David LaPointe, Yvette Media, Troy Womack, Wendy, Vladimir, and Mr.Popps—all of the managers, publicists and marketing professionals that allowed me to interview their artists, thank you.  Being able to ask questions to people like Victor Manuelle and Marc Anthony (legends I grew up listening to) were indescribable moments of pride, nervousness, and elation all in one instance.  Also, to the artists and friends who have put me in contact with other artists to interview, thank you for having my back. 

Elena Zoubareva, the opera singer and Public Relations professional who gave me my very first internship and equipped me with the basic tools and knowledge I needed to get on my feet.  Your patience and knowledge is admired, I learned things with you that I will carry with me for the rest of my career. 

Lynx—my first (and as of now, only) client who has trusted me to steer his career in the right direction and handle his publicity.  Thank you for your trust, and cooperation, it’s been a pleasure working with you and over the past few months I have already seen a tremendous amount of growth.  Let’s keep up the hard work, you WILL be seen as a star!

Ingrid I have thanked you a million and one times but no words can truly express my gratitude, it’s because of you that I spent the Fall semester at NBC NY.  I experienced things and met people that are forever etched in my memory.  Some of the most valuable bits of information I have learned about the world of media came from that newsroom.

Finally, to you because wherever you are and whoever you are I appreciate you taking the time to read this and anything else on this site.  I’m not where I want to be nor am I the most successful person on this planet, but I am moving in a positive direction and will continue to work hard. 

Set goals, realign your priorities, be proactive, and most importantly: believe in yourself.  You can do anything with just a bit of effort and some positive thinking.  So, if there is something you want, go out there and get it.

2014 on A Vocal Accord will be filled with some new material, a new layout, and most importantly new artists!

Wishing you a Happy New Year!!


Melonie :) 

Monday, December 30, 2013

*ARTIST UPDATE* TJ FOX


I introduced you all to TJ Fox back in July, the singer songwriter from Queens who had a sweet story and an even sweeter sound.  Since his interview with A Vocal Accord, TJ has been keeping busy in the studio writing and releasing new material in preparation for his fans to hear as well as playing various gigs.  His two latest songs are: "Leave it All Behind" and "The Last Good Memory"

Check out what TJ had to say:

Best of 2013: "A lot of great things happened in 2013.  I have been insanely busy basically gigging 4-5 nights a week anywhere from Manhattan to the Hamptons, in bars or parties, whoever needs music!  One of the highlights I would say was being able to participate in the CBGB Festival.  I played two separate gigs affiliated with CBGB and I felt like that is a great addition to my resume.  Also, new music will be coming more often as I have a steady schedule with the producer I work with so stay tuned!"


Coming in 2014: "I will be working on multiple projects in 2014.  Projects such as my own original music, and hopefully featuring in other artists music to produce a nice collaboration.  Other than that, just continuing the gigging scene and getting myself out there!"

*ARTIST UPDATE* KEWIN COSMOS




In May, I introduced you all to the sweet and talented Kewin Cosmos.  His soulful voice and pure passion in his musical delivery, along with his terrific support system all stood out.  Since we've met Kewin he released two music videos: one for a cover of John Legend's "All Of Me" and another for his original work, "Encuentro y Olvido" which is also the title of his debut EP.  

Here's what Kewin had to say:

Best of 2013: "The highlight was being able to grow a fan base so fast and being recognized for the talent and diligence my team and I put in! All i can say is 2014 better be READY!" 

Coming in 2014: "Well the GOAL for 2014 is to complete and release my first album and expand my music to the world.  Just to keep growing with my Team."

*ARTIST UPDATE* J'SUN

Back in June, we met former contestant of NBC's "The Voice", J'Sun, on his journey through his music career after the show.  Since then, J'Sun has launched a successful Kickstarter campaign in order to fund his upcoming EP and has been working diligently to make sure this production is something that all of his Limerz (as he calls his fans) will enjoy.  

Check out this update on J'Sun:


Best of 2013:  "My highlight was being on The Voice Season 4 and meeting really great people in the process. Getting to work with Shakira and have off camera conversations about myself and my music. It's been a great year and I know 2014 will be even greater."

Coming in 2014: "I will be releasing the first single from my debut EP "MAZE" in early 2014 and also working on the entire EP to hopefully be released mid 2014. There is a lot in store for my new project which I am currently working on now and I can't wait to share with everyone." 

*ARTIST UPDATE* ALYSSA DEL-VALLE

Back in February of this year we all met the young and high spirited Alyssa Del-Valle.  Her journey was marked by her love for Disney music and a struggle that almost claimed her ability to sing.  While Alyssa struggled with her hearing at one point in her life, she fully recovered and shared her gratitude for being able to enjoy music once again.  

Here is an update on Alyssa to wrap up 2013:

Best of 2013:  
"My highlight of 2013 was singing at Disney. It was the first time I performed at Downtown Disney, and I was able to work with the Disney Cast members to create a great show!" 


Coming in 2014:  
"Projects I will be working on in 2014 is that I will be having a Cabaret show, I will be performing at "Quad Jam" which is a Manhattanville event, and I will be singing at Disney World again!"