Kevin Izeah: Breaking out of his shell

Talent comes in many shapes and sizes, but it is harder for some than for others to gain a level of comfort with the amount of talent that is held within.  For nineteen-year-old Kevin Izeah of Pasadena, California, this realization of talent was not an easy one.   “I think it's funny how with music, one definitely has to be vulnerable and open.  I'm really comfortable & can tell a story to an audience while I'm singing. But in reality, I'm a really shy person,” he admits, claiming that being shy is something that negatively impacted him as an artist in the past.  However, his consistent infatuation with the music industry and entertainment in general has been what has kept him grounded and charging forward.

At the moment, Kevin uses Instagram’s 15-second video option to share his voice with the masses by doing occasional covers.  After having a plethora of positive feedback, he is now looking into working on original songs and eventually moving to YouTube as a platform to share more with his followers.  “Present day social media in general is really cool! It allows so much opportunity; especially for artists who want to share stuff and introduce themselves.  I definitely want people to be able to hear & see more of me. I plan on uploading future original songs as well as covers of my favorite songs,” he says.   

Inspired by artists like Beyoncé and Michael Jackson, Kevin has always sought ways to get involved in the world of music and entertainment, one day hoping to be one of the key players in the industry.  “I found online agencies that actually cast people to be a part of the audience at award shows. I've gotten the opportunity to attend award shows like the Grammys, The VMA's, and The People's Choice Awards. It's surreal being an audience member at these shows & being able to meet & take pictures with many artists that I look up to,” he shares.

Another passion of Kevin’s is dancing saying, “I know as an artist I want to include dancing in my performances. Dancing and choreography just makes everything so much better and lively!”  Being aware of the need to be multi-faceted and do a little bit of everything has been one of Kevin’s strongpoints.  After breaking out of his initially shy shell, he has used social media as a vehicle for making his dreams come true and he surely has a bright future ahead!

Connect with Kevin Izeah on Instagram:  @vocal_kev

A video posted by KEVIN IZEAH (@vocal_kev) on Oct 10, 2014 at 6:33pm PDT

Q&A with Lynx on "Dosis de Mí"

In the past year, bachata artist Lynx has made his mark on everyone he meets.  From his smooth lyrics, and ability to tell a story that resonates with his audience, to his cool and infectious demeanor in interviews and when interacting with fans, the bachatero has captured the hearts of many.  Today, Lynx releases his debut album "Dosis de Mí" which gives people an even closer look into the rising star's infinite potential to be a game changer in the genre.  The album has 8 original songs crafted by Lynx himself (with the exception of "Como Antes" which was composed by his friend and colleague Nataniel).  In the album, he experiments with other genres including pop rock, merengue and even bolero.  

Lynx has proven that he is not afraid to take bachata to places it has never been.  His debut single, "Máscara", mixed elements of opera with bachata.  Lynx's most recent single off of the album, "Somos Uno" was a personal tribute to people with special needs, calling or love and equality; Lynx dedicated this song to his youngest brother Leonardo who is both autistic and blind.  Finally, in the single "Pena de Muerte" tells the story of a man on death row who is battling inner demons as he pleads for God's salvation.  

The album is sure to impress all who hear it, and after working on every minor detail for days on end, Lynx is more than excited to be able to share this little piece of himself with all who have been waiting, and all who have yet to discover his talent.  

What is it about this album that truly makes it a "Dosis de Mí"?

LYNX:  “Since the age of 13, I have grown as a songwriter and I wanted to introduce my distinctive style to the world. I believe that the art of lyricism has been lost and I want to help bring it back and make the lyrics on a song actually matter. This album touches on my personal life ("Somos Uno") and I was able to use personal memories to help me express myself better in some of my love songs. I express myself differently than others and I wanted to showcase it through "Dosis de Mí". I want my fans to know that this album contains 100% genuine raw emotions that took every bit of me to create.”

Talk to me about the album cover.  Where did you get this idea from and why is it fitting for "Dosis de Mí"?

LYNX:  “I am a proud New Yorker, it is the city that molded me into the person that you see today. The album cover shows me overlooking the New York City skyline, admiring the view as it reminds me that this city will always be a part of me.”

What is your favorite song on the album and why?

LYNX:  “My favorite song on the album is "Pena de Muerte" and it introduces the audience to an element that I created called "dark bachata". "Pena de Muerte" is my favorite song on the album because of its unique and refreshing storyline. I wanted to show fans of the genre a whole new world, putting myself in the shoes of a very broken character who has accepted death but still seeks salvation for his soul. In-Character story-lines and dark bachatas are part of my repertoire as a songwriter and I am proud to introduce them through "Pena de Muerte". Aside from the common love topics, I wanted to share a part of me that needed to be introduced in this genre and that was the fearless attitude I have as an artist/songwriter.”

If you could add another artist's touch to one of the songs on the album, what song would it be? Who would the artist be? and why?

LYNX:  “Adding Mario Domm to the song "Renacer" would have been an amazing experience and would have been a heck of a song to listen to. Mario has a very powerful way of making you feel what he is singing about, putting him in this song with me would create a feeling like no other. I get excited just talking about it haha”

What has been the biggest learning experience for you in the process of putting this album together?

LYNX:  “The biggest learning experience for me was learning how to pay more attention to the details within my art. Some of us can admire the Mona Lisa painting but never notice the little details that helped make the painting an historic image. I've lost count on the amount of nights that I've spent going over the rough drafts, several mixes, vocals, lyrics and the recordings of each instrument. I can be a bit of a perfectionist when it comes to creating my art but I totally understand that there will never be a perfect artist. You can go to a local shop and find an identical but fake Mona Lisa painting but the truth is, my goal is for my art to be real Mona Lisa painting that you will find at the Louvre museum. In other words, quality is very important to me.”

Be sure to buy your copy of "Dosis de Mí" available TODAY on iTunes, Amazon, and GooglePlay!!!

Connect with Lynx:

Facebook: Official_Lynx

Twitter: @OfficialLynx

Instagram:  @Official_Lynx

YouTube: LynxOfficialPage

Luis Figueroa: An Artistic Journey

Photo: @SheLikesMyPics

What began, as a secret hobby that he practiced in the basement of his home has now become a way of life for R&B artist, Luis Figueroa.  Influenced, in his early years, by Latino artists such as Luis Miguel and Jerry Rivera, Luis picked up on the seductive and intriguing nature with which these artists captured the hearts of many and felt that he too was capable of something great.  “The one thing that’s been consistent in my thought process and in my life in general has been music.  I think I have just always known and have been blessed enough to have gone in the right path,” he shares.

Luis’s musical experiences come form all angles of life.  As a child, he participated in Star Search, and then later on was an American Idol contestant.  While these experiences shaped Luis in different ways, one of the most defining moments in molding him as an artist came from his experiences at Berklee College of Music.   “Berklee shaped me where I never ever stopped being a student.  It taught me to really pay attention and listen,” he says. 

The school also introduced him to a plethora of new artists, especially within the R&B world.  As a child, Luis’s mother only allowed him to listen to Spanish music so that she could monitor what he was listening to.  “I was 17-18 coming into Berklee and finally being exposed to these singers which to me now are like my standard of a great singer,” he says, adding that while it was against the rules of the home, he would still sneak around and listen to people like Craig David, along with his older sister’s Blackstreet and SWV albums. 

Currently, Luis is in one of the most exciting phases of his career.  His social media growth has expanded tremendously over time, giving him a loyal and consistent following.  He is also signed to Nasri ofTheMessengers, which he describes as his biggest learning experience thus far.  “They get to oversee your product, so at the end of the day, you don’t want to ever show them anything that is terrible or mediocre that will mess up their vision of you.  I’m always trying to stay fresh and keep them excited,” he shares.

Luis aims to spread a message of overall positivity through his story and his music.  “I just want to inspire the youth,” he says, adding that while he came from a rough part of Philadelphia, there is always a way out.  “It starts with a dream and then after that it’s all about determination and the vision and reaching that goal.”  Luis will be releasing his EP in early 2015, and promises that it will be a surprising, feel good EP that will include songs in both English and Spanish.

Connect with Luis:

Facebook:  Luis Figueroa

Twitter:  @iamluisfigueroa

Instagram: @iiamluisfigueroa

YouTube: Luis Figueroa

Jayh: A Different Definition

Singer, songwriter, actress and activist—Jayh is the perfect example of what it means to be selflessly talented.  Jayh’s early years consisted of plays, talent shows and church groups all revolving around the world of performance, art and music.  “I can't really say that there was a specific thing that got me started in this world,” she shares, remembering a time where she would sit outside waiting for the school bus hours before it arrived, just so that she could sit alone and sing.

While singing is a talent that Jayh has always embraced, she struggled in the past to grip her natural ability to act.  However, after effortlessly landing a few lead roles in plays and getting compliments from all over, Jayh decided that maybe this was just another one of her God given talents.  “Acting has taught me to trust myself,’ she says, “It has taught me to always be confident in myself and in my performances.”

Jayh’s role models from a career standpoint are strong women who reflect hard work and dedication; Beyoncé and Oprah.  While she says she has always looked up to Beyoncé for her voice, stage presence and overall self-motivation, she has a newfound admiration for Oprah.  “She gives and gives and gives and encourages people. She extends her hand and gives other people opportunities to be greater. It's exactly what I want to do with my platform and gift. Less about me, and more about the people!” says Jayh.

Today, Jayh has done just that.  After endless soul searching and trying to find how she fits into an industry that capitalizes on trends, Jayh realized that she was simply better off just being herself.  She has now created a movement called “A Different Definition”, something that she is very proud of and has worked to realize for quite some time.  “A Different Definition focuses on the beauty, confidence, happiness, and relationships of women through music, media, and discussion,” Jayh describes.  Her goal is to get women to redefine the way they see themselves in the different aspects of their lives.  “I did the official launch in May of this year with the first tier A Different Definition of Beauty. This tier focuses on helping women embrace their beauty by accepting their insecurities. The next two tiers focus on love and life!” 

Soon, we will be able to see a new website and some original music from Jayh especially surrounding her new movement “A Different Definition”.  For now, she leaves us with these encouraging words, “Who you are matters a lot more than who you think you are!  Stand in your truth and embrace every part of you!”   

Connect with Jayh:  

www.ADifferentDefinition.com

YouTube: JAYHSINGS & A Different Definition

Twitter: @jayhsings

Instagram:  @beadifferentdefinition

Nile: Vibrant and Soulful

Vibrant and soulful in every sense of his being, singer/songwriter Nile is apt to making all who hear his voice feel every word that is uttered from his mouth.  The silky smooth vocals Nile pairs with his unique and intriguing lyrics are what earned him a position on “The Voice” Season 2 in the Middle East.  Nile is a Neo Soul and R&B artist, based in United Arab Emirates.

Nile’s passion for songwriting is what drew him in to the world of music, he shares that, “Pursuing the pleasure of creating something new every time, such as writing lyrics, making new beats, and coming up with memorable melodies that stick with people for so long and become part of their lives,” are elements of his music career that drive and inspire him every day.  

Nile grew up listening to a blend of R&B, hip-hop and rap, all of which have influenced his musical style and delivery.  He notes that listening to the Isley Brothers, Jackson Five, and even Smokey Brown, were just some of the voices and talents that have stuck with him through his career, and happen to be his favorites within the genre of R&B.  “The 80’s and the 90’s era was a great musical influence to me in terms of production because that was the new generation of electronic and midi music,” says Nile. 

After being on the Voice Season 2 of the Midde East, Nile was exposed to a total of over 150 million viewers which lead to more experience in the field, but more importantly it provided a greater opportunity to improve and grow.  Through the show’s efforts, he was able to gain a whole new fan base throughout the Middle East and even in Africa.

Nile’s music will continue to expand, and he is working harder than ever to make sure his music is heard.  He leaves this message: “Music is truly a universal language and it does really connect and unite the world…I hope my story inspires other people to keep doing what they love to do and to peruse their dreams.” 

Connect with Nile:

Facebook:Nile Music

Twitter:  @NileOfficial1

Instagram:  @NileOfficial1

Soundcloud:  Nile Music

YouTube:Nile Official

Hayley Solano: Resilient, Fearless and Selfless

Being shy is a quality that many people are faced with, especially while growing up.  For 22 year old singer, songwriter Hayley Solano however, the challenge of being shy was channeled into something that she loves.  By sharing her music with the world despite her timid nature, Hayley proves that she is resilient, fearless and selfless.

As a child, Hayley was always singing, and sought to channel her thoughts into journal writings so it was only natural for her to take the passion for song and the impulse to write and marry them to form the perfect mix. “There came a point when I realized that if I shared my feelings with others, I could potentially inspire and help listeners feel more understood,” she shares.  Since then, she has been able to step out of her shell and embrace audiences by sharing her story. Hayley encourages other artists like herself who may be shy to step out of their shell and imagine what it would be like if their favorite artist would have kept that gift to themselves, saying, “I think it's really important to consider the significant role artists play in so many lives.  I truly believe there is always a heart out there waiting to be touched by your story.”

Furthermore, Hayley is fascinated and inspired by change.  She says that while change is something that we all face in our lives, it often leaves us feeling as though we are alone-may it be a breakup, changing schools, or moving to a new town.  Her music aims to comfort people in these times of change, where they may be feeling lonely.  “Many of the topics I cover have to do with those dramatic occurrences that make us feel lonely because by sharing them, I hope to make others realize there are so many others who feel the same way they do.”

Hayley’s music provides a unique experience, “I think my music is unique in that it's characterized as very stripped down, raw, and genuine. It's just my guitar and I telling stories about my favorite memories, people I've known, and beautiful experiences I've had. I think the honesty of it all is what really resonates with people.”  In the coming months, Hayley will be releasing a new video for her single “It Was Good”—something she is extremely excited to share with everyone.

  

Connect with Hayley Solano:

Website http://www.hayleysolano.com

Blog http://www.blog.hayleysolano.com

Facebook HayleySolanoMusic

YouTube Hayley Solano

Twitter @hayleysolano

Instagram @hayleysolano

Emily Muli: Altruistic, Talented and Studious

At the tender age of 19, Emily Muli is taking on music in an altruistic and studious way.  The young singer/songwriter has been up on stage singing and reciting church hymns since the age of three, and she plans to continue this miniature legacy that she has created.  Emily resides in New Zealand, and is studying Commerce and Music, all the while trying to spread a positive and uplifting message through her music.

A passion for putting pen to paper is what made Emily truly confirm that music was the path down which she wanted to travel.  “Growing up I was always busy with dance and school, but music and songwriting was always the one thing I would turn to when I had time,” says Emily.  Today, she combines that love with her studies which she says is something she is grateful for “I am lucky that my music classes require me to write songs - this has been so rewarding and I am finding myself writing songs I wouldn't have written if I just studied commerce.”

Another passion of Emily’s is the standing up for social injustices, not just within her country, but around the world! She currently holds the position of “World Vision New Zealand 2015 World Faith Ambassador”, a program that allows young leaders to travel to other parts of the world and stand up for social injustices.  “Being grounded in my faith also helped me to realize that giving and helping is a lot more rewarding than keeping everything I have to myself, ESPECIALLY love. With music, I love to write about things that I experience or things that stir deep within the soul, so I know that my music will definitely portray my passions and also what I want to change,” she shares.

Emily identifies herself as a neo-soul artist, but admits that this is not the only place she sees herself—this title comes from soul, reggae and R&B influences that surrounded her while growing up, “I think they’re all infused in my music.”  In the near future, Emily will be releasing more music and says that while school may keep her busy, there is nothing that can keep her away from doing what she loves. 

Connect with Emily:

SoundCloud: Emily Muli

YouTube: EmilyCbswy

FaceBook: Emily Muli Official

Twitter: @emilymuli

Instagram: @emilymuli

LIVE SHOW IN NYC: Frankie Favasuli and the Big Tree Band

WHO:  Frankie Favasuli and the Big Tree Band

WHAT: If you're looking for something fun to do this Friday night in NYC you might want to head over to The Bitter End (Friday, October 17th) at 7pm.  Frankie Favasuli and the Big Tree Band are kicking off a full night of music, and they are planning to deliver a set of heavy hitters for the crowd. The guys will also be performing a brand new song which Frankie wrote over the summer so head over, and have some fun!!

WHEN: Friday, October 17th at 7pm

WHERE: The Bitter End NYC
147 Bleeker Street
New York, NY 10012

AGE: 18+
COVER: $10

Wondering what you're in for?  Here's a look at a past performance!

PRESS RELEASE: New Marc Anthony Video 10/16

The National Program Al Rojo Vivo Will Premiere
Exclusively on October 16, Followed by Titulares y Más,
Un Nuevo Día, Acceso Total and Suelta La Sopa

NEW YORK (October 14, 2014) – MARC ANTHONY announced today the official premiere of the video for his new single “Flor Pálida” (Pale Flower).  The video, which will debut on Telemundo October 16th and on Mund2 and the digital video platform, Vevo.com, on October 17th, was filmed in various locations of La Romana, Dominican Republic, including the barrio of Higüey, the Cañaverales de Central Romana, and Altos de Chavón in Casa de Campo.  The video includes the special participation of Venezuelan model Shannon de Lima.  

“Flor Pálida,” the video, was directed by Alejandro Pérez for the production companies First Row Entertainment and Cinergy Productions. It was filmed in a period of two days this past August with the combined participation of 80 people, between production and dancers.

Model Shannon de Lima shares the lead role with MARC ANTHONY, in a story set in the countryside among natural elements, with a reverence to a friendship with the campesinos (country people), who are witnesses to the love story born from a brief encounter. The video culminates in a simple, beautiful ceremony in one of the historic churches of La Romana.

Composed by the late Polo Montañez, “Flor Pálida” is the third single from the album Marc Anthony 3.0,  which has won awards including: 10 Premios Billboard de la Música Latina, 3 Billboard Music Awards, 1 American Music Award, and 5 Premio Lo Nuestro, among others.  

MARC ANTHONY is currently performing in the United States and Latin America on his Cambio de Piel tour.  

Sigue MARC ANTHONY en / Follow MARC ANTHONY on:

www.marcanthonyonline.com

www.twitter.com/marcanthony

www.facebook.com/officialmarcanthony

Meg Scully: Broadway and Bright Lights

It started as an interest, that turned into a dream, mixed in with a dose of confidence—today, singer and actress, Meagan Scully, is going full steam ahead toward her dream of becoming one of the greats to hit the Broadway stage.  "It wasn't until I was fourteen that I really became enamored with Broadway and ever since then I've pictured myself doing nothing else,” says Meagan.  She dreams to one day be able to transmit an infectious sense of happiness through her work and be able to inspire all who see her through performance.

While Broadway is the ultimate goal, Meagan has gotten her experience and confidence from a very particular place—singing the national anthem at local sporting events.  “Looking back on the eight years of singing the national anthem I can see how much I have grown and how much my voice has matured,” she shares; however, her heart remains on Broadway and with good reason.  Meagan shared that a 2011 performance as Joanna in the play Rent truly allowed her to see what it is like to move a crowd through her passion of performance.    

Meagan remains humble, sharing that her parents are and always have been her biggest motivation in pursuing her dreams.  She hopes to one day look down to the front row of the mezzanine and see her parents staring back, proudly telling those sitting beside them that Meagan is their daughter.  She also mentioned Broadway actress Sierra Boggess as a true inspiration, as well as her vocal coach, John Corrie, who she can never forget, saying, “I have no idea where I would be without his teaching and guidance and when the time comes I will make sure he is sitting right next to my parents. Only he will be saying: She was my vocal student."

Upon graduating college, this coming May, Meagan plans to audition for Disney in hopes gaining new opportunities and more exposure.  She will also be doing more to improve her vocals, and share her voice with others, especially over the Internet.  “I am a very motivated person who does not take no for an answer…someday I will be performing on a Broadway stage. Just wait and see.”   

Connect with Meg Scully:

Meg Scully (Portfolio)

Official Website

Twitter:‪  @Meg_Scully18

‪Instagram:  @MegScully18