"Write" down to the wire....

Rick Finch: Then and Now (not much has changed...)

Fri, 08 May 2009 11:17:00 GMT

I was going through some archival KCSB items and ran across a "KC and the Sunshine Band" concert program from 'I think' 1978 --- what a treat to read through the history and the bio's of all of the band members!

But Rick Finch's stood out particularly for me (naturally!), but not just because I work with him, manage his career or because we are great friends - but because of how he virtually is no different from the young man described in this 30 year old program. I think that's important for people to know.

Even Harry Wayne Casey ("KC") had great things to say about Rick in this program - a description of Rick which holds true to this day:

"When asked about his co-writer/co-producer, Rick Finch, KC is quick to attribute a large part of the KC and the Sunshine Band success to his partner: 'Rick is an electronics genius. To be his age and to know what he knows and to do what he's done is amazing and unique.'"

Yes, like for everyone, time gives us tunnel vision into our past, and Rick is no different --- he is wiser for the lessons learned, sad for the losses, nostalgic for the good times --- but what sets Rick apart from perhaps most others in this business who possess a track record as impressive as his - he is a man who is not content to sit back and assume the role of 'observer' or to rely on his past accomplishments to define him --- Rick sees infinite possibilities and an abundance of talent in an industry barely surviving, and is not deterred by the insurmountable obstacles in trying to bring this amazing artistry to the world's consciousness - and until he draws his last breath, will continue to dedicate himself solely to that mission.

Does he have the answers? I believe he does!!! (I KNOW he does!!!) So as you read through the concert program copy below, you may ask, "What hasn't changed about Rick Finch???"

Well.... he's still driven by that same passion for music which grabbed his heart and soul at age seven...

He's a focused engineer, producer and arranger with skills, intuition and an expertise beyond what most people coming up the ranks today could only hope to have in their own careers 30 years from now...

Rick's passion for mentoring others is as strong today as it was when he first started in the business.

Fast cars??? Oh yeah, including his current black BMW! (but let's not go there!!!)

Love and devotion to family??? Without question (and which has touchingly spilled over to my almost 90 year old mother, who refers to Rick as "her other son").

"Bird adopter?" Yes, I see that as something which will pick up speed in the not too distant future (which should work well with his new found love of CATS!)

Yes, I believe the 'what you see is what you get' core of the Rick Finch from 30 years ago hasn't changed a bit --- with perhaps the reference to him being 'soft-spoken' --- the Rick Finch "I" know is gregariously loud and funny beyond words --- I should have killer abs from all of the double-over laughing we've done!!!

At any rate........... sit back and enjoy a little slice of history -- and be thankful that there is a Rick Finch working in the music industry today; someone who will never compromise his professional integrity or the integrity of others - and who will continue to bring that quality to every production he's involved with.

********

Richard Finch would rather be engineering a record than talking about himself, but soft-spoken and smiling, he volunteers precious time to chat. Putting the story together, he scratches his head, searching for the proper order of events, trying to be truthful without giving away too many of the industry's secrets. Fine, dark brown hair frames the boyish features... but this is no paradox. Rick Finch is young... very young to have accomplished so much.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Richard is the second youngest of five children. The family relocated to Florida one year later and Hialeah has remained their home. His father passed away when Rick was five. Powered by his affection for music and the desire to make life a little more comfortable for his mother, Rick has far exceeded his original goals. The respect he has gained for his performing, writing, producing and engineering skills is justly deserved.

A passion for records and fast cars characterized Rick's personality at the tender age of seven. The Beatles were happening then and he played their music endlessly, as well as the soul artists of that time. When second oldest brother, Junie, recorded a song in one of those booths that put the tune on a white wax disc for 50 cents, Rick was hypnotized. He had to know how those records were made... what it took to put all of those sounds together. The search seemed futile... writing to RCA for information, looking up recording studios in the phone book... it was a dead end street. Somehow, someway, Rick Finch did find the answers.

With a feeling for the guitar, Finch picked up his first bass when he was eleven. By the age of twelve, he was playing Country & Western music at the Disabled Veterans Club with a neighborhood band. The bass came naturally... he found C&W music easy to perform. Still, it was soul music that he wanted to perfect on the bass. In school, he met a few boys - some white, some black, who thought Rick's bass playing was terrific and professional. They formed a band called 'Ball and Chain' and grew up together, appearing as an act for the next five years. They played Top 40 music in a Miami Beach club called The Castaways for about 2 1/2 years.A school friend, Lamont Synder, acquainted with recording artist Clarence Reid, introduced Rick, and soon he began spending his after school free time at the TK studio watching, learning, asking questions... absorbing all he could of this new "high energy" musical experience.

Apparently TK didn't consider Rick's curiosity a nuisance. Building his education on the console, they thought they were giving a kid a break. What they had done was open a major door for an electronic wizard. Rick at 16 years of age began engineering recording sessions.TK hired him as a part time engineer for studio maintenance. Three weeks later he met Harry Casey. The two music enthusiasts met while packing orders in the warehouse. Casey wasn't aware that Rick played bass in the beginning, but soon they were collaborating on song ideas, cutting demos with basic, good concepts. The first demos were cut on Rick's 4-track TEAC in an apartment.

Lyric writing is part and parcel of Rick's talents, but the musical production end bet suits his creativity. "I'm more into chord changes and the beat and the percussion, phrasing and the background voices too. KC's really good at the lyrics." Casey and Finch put equal effort into the arrangement of those background voices that enhance the quality of The Sunshine Band melodies. But there's too much to do to sit and dwell on material gains. They newly-built Sunshine Sound recording studio affords him the freedom to create at the moment of inspiration. Now Rick has all the time he needs to record the proper feeling. His instrument is a Fender Jazz bass for performing and he possesses a Telecaster and Mustang basses as well. He'd like to be adept on numerous instruments and would someday enjoy putting together a school for audio-engineering in the Hialeah area.

He also cares about his album-buying audience. "We try to make everything that goes on one of our albums a hit because today people are going out and spending top dollars for albums that only have one or two singles on them and that's ridiculous! To me, an album's life should be longer than that. There should be more singles on an album and that's what we're not afraid to do."

At home, Richard has a large collection of tropical birds... 51 to be exact! As the story goes, a turquoise parakeet accidentally landed on Rick's shoulder while he was gassing up at a station. He took it home and a week later, bought it a few companions. A parrot named 'Rainbow' conned Rick into purchasing him with a simple "hello." When Rick greets his feathered buddies each morning, Rainbow can be heard to chant without coercion, "I love you, baby.' Knowing Richard Finch, it's easy to see why.

http://www.rickfinch.com/

Let's Dance Again... (the video!)

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:11:00 GMT

Drop by YouTube and check it out there as well... give us some stars if you like it!

Press Release from Richard Finch Productions, Inc.

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:00:00 GMT

RICHARD FINCH, MULTI-GRAMMY AWARD WINNER, RE-ENTERS MUSIC INDUSTRY AFTER 25 YEAR HIATUS; RELEASES "FOR ALL REASONS" CHARITY CD

Multi-Grammy Award winning artist, producer, engineer, song arranger, composer and co-founder of the legendary 70's disco group, "KC and the Sunshine Band" returns to the music industry with his first release in 25 years, titled "For All Reasons." This 11-song compilation CD features new music/artists recorded by Finch, with a portion of the proceeds from every CD sale/download benefiting six organizations.

December 16, 2008 (Las Vegas, NV) - Ending a 25-year hiatus, legendary Producer/Arranger Richard Finch proves that he still has the magic touch for creating hit records. As one half of the multi-Grammy Award winning songwriting team from "KC and the Sunshine Band," which gave the world a nonstop stream of danceable hits in the 70's, including, "Boogie Shoes," "Get Down Tonight" and "Shake Shake Shake (Shake Your Booty)," Finch is making his professional comeback to the music industry and seizing the moment to bring fun and 'grooveablity' back to the masses while helping some very worthy causes in the process. "For All Reasons" ? an 11-song compilation CD features some of Finch's new artist discoveries, two of his own compositions (which he performs) and includes solo efforts from the members of The Memphis Rascals, Top 35 contestants from the 2007 summer installment of NBC Television's hit reality series, "America's Got Talent."

Touched by the devastation of Hurricane Ike and seeing the remnants of its effect in his own community of Newark, Ohio, Finch made a decision to incorporate charitable giving and fundraising projects into the framework of his new company, Richard Finch Productions, Inc., which will be headquartered in Las Vegas, NV. "For All Reasons" is the first release from the company's recording studio, "The Production Kitchen."

"Sadly, our country and the rest of the world is going through some hard times right now," Finch comments, "but we've been in this situation before. There's an entire generation that knows nothing about the economic frustrations OR the gas rationing we had in the 70's. I'd like to think that the music we created during that decade put a smile on people's faces and helped them through those difficult times. Hopefully, the amazing music we've created for the "For All Reasons" disk will have that same effect on people, while helping these wonderful organizations at the same time."

A portion of the proceeds from every "For All Reasons" CD and download will benefit one of six different organizations as decided by the buyer: American Red Cross (Licking County, OH), Ohio, Tony LaRussa's Animal Rescue Foundation (Walnut Creek, CA), Campaign for Care (Los Angeles, CA), Kid One Transport (Birmingham, AL), The Denver Foundation (Princeton, WV) and The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum (Cleveland, OH). Those who purchase the physical CD will designate their contribution to one of these six charities via a voting postcard included with their purchase. The money raised from the album download will be divided equally among the six organizations.

Dreama Denver, CEO of The Denver Foundation, which she co-founded with her late husband, actor Bob Denver ("Gilligan" from "Gilligan's Island") states, "I'm sure I speak for all of the organizations when I say it's an honor to be included in this unique fundraising effort. The music, culture and excitement that Rick played a huge part in creating 30 years ago remains timeless and I know we'd all like to see the same longevity and success for the 'For All Reasons' CD."

About Richard Finch:

Richard Finch, legendary co-founder/bassist/song arranger/composer/producer and engineer of the 1970's mega-group "KC & the Sunshine Band" is renowned for developing a unique fusion of R&B, Funky Soul and Country, meshed with a Latin/Caribbean groove, which catapulted the band to worldwide fame. Through his creative vision, consumer insight and engineering expertise, Finch has given the world a timeless catalog of hits and a musical legacy seldom matched by few. The music co-created, produced and arranged by Finch is a staple in Music Americana, reflected in sales of over 100 million recordings worldwide, nine Grammy nominations, three Grammy Awards, 14 BMI Songwriter/Arranger Awards, an American Music Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. KC & The Sunshine Band, as a result of Finch's catchy music compositions and precise hard-hitting production quality, is considered one of the most successful music groups of all time and is credited with changing the sound of 20^th Century pop music. Finch's bass lines and drum grooves are known worldwide as an industry standard and staple in the Hip Hop genre, sampled by numerous artists including 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, Ultra Nate and Beyonc�.

"For All Reasons" is available through CD Baby or by phone (1-503-595-3000)

For more information, go to the Richard Finch web site.

Sometimes it's good to have a mission statement!

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 20:18:00 GMT

Richard Finch... Some Things Never Change!

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 10:55:00 GMT

I was going through some archival KCSB items today and ran across a "KC and the Sunshine Band" concert program from 'I think' 1978 --- what a treat to read through the history and the bio's of all of the band members!

But Rick Finch's stood out particularly for me (naturally!), but not just because I work with him, manage his career or because we are great friends - but because of how he virtually is no different from the young man described in this 30 year old program. I think that's important for people to know.

Even Harry Wayne Casey ("KC") had great things to say about Rick in this program - a description of Rick which holds true to this day:

When asked about his co-writer/co-producer, Rick Finch, KC is quick to attribute a large part of the KC and the Sunshine Band success to his partner: "Rick is an electronics genius. To be his age and to know what he knows and to do what he's done is amazing and unique."

Yes, like for everyone, time gives us tunnel vision into our past, and Rick is no different --- he is wiser for the lessons learned, sad for the losses, nostalgic for the good times --- but what sets Rick apart from perhaps most others in this business who possess a track record as impressive as his - he is a man who is not content to sit back and assume the role of 'observer' or to rely on his past accomplishments to define him --- Rick sees infinite possibilities and an abundance of talent in an industry barely surviving, and is not deterred by the insurmountable obstacles in trying to bring this amazing artistry to the world's consciousness - and until he draws his last breath, will continue to dedicate himself solely to that mission.

Does he have the answers? I believe he does!!! (I KNOW he does!!!)

So as you read through the copy below, you may ask, "What hasn't changed???"

Well.... he's still driven by that same passion for music which grabbed his heart and soul at age seven...

He's a focused engineer with skills, intuition and an expertise beyond what most people coming up the ranks today could only hope to have in their own careers 30 years from now...

Rick's interest in mentoring others still exists, but has expanded to areas which include not just engineering, but performance, musicianship and genuine quality of character (all of the parents of our younger performers and songwriters have been quick to point out to us the amazing improvements in their children on ALL fronts after working with Rick)...

Fast cars??? Oh yeah! (but let's not go there!!!)

Love and devotion to family??? Without question (and which has touchingly spilled over to my own 88 year old mother, who refers to Rick as "her other son").

"Bird adopter?" Yes, I see that as something which will pick up speed in the not too distant future (which should work well with his new found love of CATS!)

Yes, I believe the 'what you see is what you get' core of the Rick Finch from 30 years ago hasn't changed a bit (with perhaps the reference to him being 'soft-spoken' --- the Rick Finch "I" know is gregariously loud and funny beyond words --- I should have killer abs from all of the double-over laughing we've done!!!).

At any rate........... sit back and enjoy a little slice of history -- and be thankful that there is a Rick Finch working in the music industry today; someone who will never compromise his professional integrity or the integrity of others --- and stay tuned......... the 'next big thing' we've been working on is about ready to take flight!

**************
Richard Finch would rather be engineering a record than talking about himself, but soft-spoken and smiling, he volunteers precious time to chat. Putting the story together, he scratches his head, searching for the proper order of events, trying to be truthful without giving away too many of the industry's secrets. Fine, dark brown hair frames the boyish features... but this is no paradox. Rick Finch is young... very young to have accomplished so much.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Richard is the second youngest of five children. The family relocated to Florida one year later and Hialeah has remained their home. His father passed away when Rick was five. Powered by his affection for music and the desire to make life a little more comfortable for his mother, Rick has far exceeded his original goals. The respect he has gained for his performing, writing, producing and engineering skills is justly deserved.

A passion for records and fast cars characterized Rick's personality at the tender age of seven. The Beatles were happening then and he played their music endlessly, as well as the soul artists of that time. When second oldest brother, Junie, recorded a song in one of those booths that put the tune on a white wax disc for 50 cents, Rick was hypnotized. He had to know how those records were made... what it took to put all of those sounds together. The search seemed futile... writing to RCA for information, looking up recording studios in the phone book... it was a dead end street. Somehow, someway, Rick Finch did find the answers.

With a feeling for the guitar, Finch picked up his first bass when he was eleven. By the age of twelve, he was playing Country & Western music at the Disabled Veterans Club with a neighborhood band. The bass came naturally... he found C&W music easy to perform. Still, it was soul music that he wanted to perfect on the bass. In school, he met a few boys - some white, some black, who thought Rick's bass playing was terrific and professional. They formed a band called 'Ball and Chain' and grew up together, appearing as an act for the next five years. They played Top 40 music in a Miami Beach club called The Castaways for about 2 1/2 years.

A school friend, Lamont Synder, acquainted with recording artist Clarence Reid, introduced Rick, and soon he began spending his after school free time at the TK studio watching, learning, asking questions... absorbing all he could of this new "high energy" musical experience.

Apparently TK didn't consider Rick's curiosity a nuisance. Building his education on the console, they thought they were giving a kid a break. What they had done was open a major door for an electronic wizard. Rick at 16 years of age began engineering recording sessions.

TK hired him as a part time engineer for studio maintenance. Three weeks later he met Harry Casey. The two music enthusiasts met while packing orders in the warehouse. Casey wasn't aware that Rick played bass in the beginning, but soon they were collaborating on song ideas, cutting demos with basic, good concepts. The first demos were cut on Rick's 4-track TEAC in an apartment.

Lyric writing is part and parcel of Rick's talents, but the musical production end best suits his creativity.

"I'm more into chord changes and the beat and the percussion, phrasing and the background voices too. KC's really good at the lyrics." Casey and Finch put equal effort into the arrangement of those background voices that enhance the quality of The Sunshine Band melodies.

But there's too much to do to sit and dwell on material gains. They newly-built Sunshine Sound recording studio affords him the freedom to create at the moment of inspiration. Now Rick has all the time he needs to record the proper feeling. His instrument is a Fender Jazz bass for performing and he possesses a Telecaster and Mustang basses as well. He'd like to be adept on numerous instruments and would someday enjoy putting together a school for audio-engineering in the Hialeah area.

He also cares about his album-buying audience.

"We try to make everything that goes on one of our albums a hit because today people are going out and spending top dollars for albums that only have one or two singles on them and that's ridiculous! To me, an album's life should be longer than that. There should be more singles on an album and that's what we're not afraid to do."

At home, Richard has a large collection of tropical birds... 51 to be exact! As the story goes, a turquoise parakeet accidentally landed on Rick's shoulder while he was gassing up at a station. He took it home and a week later, bought it a few companions. A parrot named 'Rainbow' conned Rick into purchasing him with a simple "hello." When Rick greets his feathered buddies each morning, Rainbow can be heard to chant without coercion, "I love you, baby.'

Knowing Richard Finch, it's easy to see why.

www.rickfinch.com

A message from Producer/Arranger, Rick Finch

Sun, 08 Jun 2008 02:49:00 GMT

Hi everyone!

Just wanted to tell you about an awesome 40-minute interview I recently did with MadPod.

CLICK HERE FOR THE INTERVIEW

I had an amazing chat with Shadoe Steel and it will give you an insight into some of the fun times I had during the KCSB days, as well as a sneak peek into what's happening now with my new artists and projects.

When you're done listening, do check out some of the other great interviews Shadoe Steel has done (btw, he's done over 2,000!!!), including chats with Peter Criss from KISS, Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, Neil Young, Carly Simon, Barbra Streisand, Bonnie Tyler, Thomas Dolby, Art Garfunkel and many, many others!

It's an honor to share Internet "podcast" space with all of them.

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Rick Finch
http://www.rickfinch.com/

www.reverbnation.com/richardfinch

***********************************************

... and MY two cents:

This is just one of several amazing interviews recently done with Rick.

Hopefully you got the chance to hear Rick's interview with legendary Rolling Stone Magazine's former editor and now KFRC-FM's link to great interviews, the amazing Ben Fong-Torres --- but if not, click here and catch it "On Demand."

Also............. Global Music Star, the premiere music publication in Australia did an in-depth one-on-one with Rick for their March 2008 issue (still available for viewing in their archives). The issue was so successful that Rick's interview will be republished in the winter edition of Writer's Edge Magazine --- Rick also has the cover!

Last, but certainly not least.............. do stop by Rick's MySpace and his Reverb Nation sites to check out some of his new artists, including Nevada, The Miles, Robert Dooley, Scott Williams and The Memphis Rascals/Try-Love. Their music is amazing and once again fully demonstrates the production genius that IS Richard Finch.

The production company (and productions!) are ramping up big time with some interesting projects on the horizon (too "top secret" to talk about just yet, but I think everyone will be blown away once the press release comes out!). More interviews are also in the works and an awesome web site will be making its debut soon - so stay tuned!!!

"Leave the gun... Take the cannoli!"

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 21:14:00 GMT

It's amazing how some people walk the earth, believing that they are self-empowered to make the rules and ruin people's lives accordingly. Nowhere is this more evident than in the State of _________ --- awwww, have some fun, people --- fill in the blank! I'm sure you've encountered this sort of thing in your own lives --- and the state that I mention might not be the geographical reality of your angst and woe.

So let's keep this generalized, just so you can also participate in the same righteous indignation I've experienced with this state since last winter.

... and it's not even so much the state --- I'm sure it's a lovely place to be and that many lovely people live in it (with the exception of the parasites this is directed towards). Actually, I know a total of nine perfectly fabulous individuals currently residing in this state --- no, make that 10! 10 absolutely wonderful people who I wouldn't trade for the world are currently living in the State of ____________. (my condolences to them!)

So................ to all of you who have ever dealt with or encountered unscrupulous, devoid of conscience bottom feeders, enjoy the following media, and always remember that:

1. The best form of revenge is success!

2. Don't get mad, get even!

... and

2. What goes around DOES come around! (and sometimes you live long enough to see it happen!)

(p.s. --- the following videos are not an endorsement for public whacking or 'sleeping with the fishes' --- I tend to roll with #1.)

Ahhhhh yes...... As Tom Hanks said in "You've Got Mail," "The Godfather" is the 'I Ching of business.'

In other words people - stay tuned for what is going to be some very publicly documented FUN!!! Let the games begin!!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers!!!!!!!!

Grammy Award Winner, Richard Finch / Little Vineyards Owner, Rich Little Join Forces to Release, "BAND BLEND THE CD"

Sat, 08 Dec 2007 01:04:00 GMT

...70's dance music icon and premiere wine producing vineyard enter into new business alliance.

San Jose, CA (PRWEB) December 9, 2007 -- Richard Finch, noted Producer / Arranger and co-founder of 70's mega-super group "KC and the Sunshine Band" and Rich Little, musician and owner of Little Vineyards Winery in Sonoma, CA have come together to launch "Band Blend ? The CD" in conjunction with Little Vineyard's award winning "Band Blend Track 2" Gold Medal winning wine. The CD/wine combo will go on sale Monday, December 10, 2007.

This incredible 10-track CD, featuring an eclectic mix of Jazz, Blues, Funk, Reggae and Soul is performed by some of today's hottest new artists from Canada, Finland, the U.S. and also includes new, original music from both Little and Finch.

States Little, "Who knew that during a casual afternoon meeting, Rick and I would identify an untapped market and come up with an amazing idea to combine our 'Band Blend Track 2' wine with Rick's 'Band Blend' compilation CD." Finch goes on to state, "The concept that Rich and I have developed is unique and fresh, just like Little Vineyard's 'Band Blend' wine and the amazing music and artist's I've produced for this project. The pairing of the two truly is a beautiful fusion of the total sensory experience."

Finch is no stranger to success in the music industry, having produced and performed numerous Number One hits with KC and the Sunshine Band, resulting in seven Grammy nominations and five wins, plus four American Music Award nods and two wins and a commemorative star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame presented in 2002, recognizing the cultural impact of this 1970's super band.

Little Vineyards, a 17 acre family estate is owned and operated by Rich and Joan Little. Located in Glen Ellen, CA, this Sonoma Valley appellation is ideal for producing quality fruit and outstanding red wines. Zinfandel, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are the primary varietals planted on this vineyard as well as a small block of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petite Sirah and Merlot. Two award winning wines have been produced from their estate grown fruit: a 2002 Zinfandel and 2002 Resonance, and a Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon blend.

With an increasing number of today's listening public frustrated by the single artist CD, "Band Blend ? the CD" offers listeners an exciting alternative to an otherwise pass� format. Advance sales have been strong, and plans are currently underway to produce a second compilation "Band Blend" CD in August 2008.

Little Vineyards is offering the "Band Blend" CD alone (MSRP: $15), or in a one or two bottle "Limited Edition" gift set (MSRP: $30 and $45 respectively) via the Little Vineyards web site. Shipment is available worldwide (domestic shipping restrictions may apply to your state ? please inquire).

For more information or to place an order, contact Little Vineyards Family Winery at 707-996-2750.

For more information on Richard Finch, visit Finch's MySpace music promotion web site.

Rick Finch... the man who put the "Sunshine" into Disco!!

Sat, 24 Nov 2007 02:53:00 GMT

Once in a blue moon, an amazingly gifted artist will cross my path, and funny enough, the moon has recently been a beautiful shade of Azure. So it was no surprise when the talented, soulful Rick Finch (multi-Grammy Award winner, American Music Award Winner, brilliant bass player/producer/arranger, 'Hollywood Walk of Fame' star recipient and one half of the team which founded "KC and the Sunshine Band") and I strangely stumbled upon one another.. (that, in itself is its own story............. stay tuned for a future installment!).

When people think of the Disco years, there is no way to escape the impact this band made on that era - they WERE that era, and I'm sure that most people automatically think of the front man as being the 'star power' of this act.

But let the record show, the 'great and powerful Oz' behind the KC and the Sunshine Band 'curtain of success' wasn't their lead singer, but rather, the unassuming dark-haired bass player in the back row. Rick Finch was keenly in tune with music trends back in the day, even at the tender age of 16 --- and this was recognized by Henry Stone, founder of TK Records in Hialeah, Florida who allowed Finch to tinker in the recording studio after hours. With this creative freedom, Finch went on to craft "The Miami Sound," launching the Disco era and jettisoning the then recently formed KC and the Sunshine Band into super stardom.

With 2007 commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the release of the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack on which Finch's track "Boogie Shoes" was featured, it seemed a great time to catch up with him for an interview, talk about those years as well as hear about all the new music he's creating today.

LR: Tell me Rick......... what's it like, looking back 30 years and seeing that even today, people are still digging your music?

RF: It's an awesome feeling! In some ways surreal. Here it is, 30 years later and the music that KC (Harry Wayne Casey) and I created together still stands the test of time. You'll hear it in movie soundtracks, television commercials - "The Ellen Show" just today used "Shake Shake Shake" in one of their skits - Rap artists are sampling it for their work. Who would have thought that 30 years later, the shelf life still hasn't worn off!

LR: Anyone who's really done their homework on you knows that you're pretty much a quadruple threat --- musician, song arranger, producer AND engineer, but yet, you're not a household name.

RF: I really prefer the role of the behind the scenes guy to being the center of attention. It was always a better fit for me to be in the background, because it gave me the ability to gather precious information pertinent to the success of the band and any of the other artists I was producing at that moment.

LR: The whole 'living in a bubble' existence was probably interesting. Given that, did you have much freedom just to be "you?"

RF: You know, I did have freedom to have a life... even in the crazy world we were dealing with at the time. I had the ability to work on the things for the band that really interested me like the show and staging our performances, networking with the radio station guys and the local promoters when we were on tour and even at the local Miami stations where we were based. But my favorite part of the process was to do artist development and work on the music arrangements, fine-tune the recording process, perfecting new sounds and techniques and of course, producing projects for other artists and working on new music.

Many people thought that when the Disco years ended that great, fun music also stopped. To be honest - the music did stop for me for a good number of years and for various reasons, which of course will all come out in complete detail as you and I write my autobiography*, but with emotional and spiritual clarity and stability comes a rebirth of spirit - and in so many ways, the music industry is reborn for me now. I know I have a lot to give to so many new artists coming up the ranks. I was given a unique gift and it's important to pass on the knowledge and nurture up-and-coming talent.

(*"Behind The Sunshine... the unvarnished story of KC and the Sunshine Band" is the working title for this explosive accounting of Finch's years with the band, and the years following his severed professional collaboration with Harry Wayne Casey)

LR: You and I recently spoke about other people in the industry you've enjoyed working with. Any names or projects that the readers might recognize?

RF: Not many people know that I was the first to discover the talents of Johnny Depp back in 1979-80 when he was a young musician starting out in a local Florida band called, ''The Kids.'' I saw something unique in him, as well as in bassist/front-man Bruce Witkin, who is also a unique, gifted talent. I guess you could say the rest is history.

I also assisted producer Scotty Storch with the production of, ''Me, Myself & I'' - Beyonce's Number One Hip-Hop single.

LR: So where is the best, new music coming from today for you?

RF: Well... I've met quite a few new local artists where I live and I have produced a few CD's for them. The Internet has also proven to be quite a treasure trove of amazing talent. I'm also fielding proposals on a daily basis from artists contacting me on my MySpace account. So many people are in disbelief that I am so down to earth, humble and approachable ? and of course, many don't believe it's really ME, just because there are so many people on MySpace, and the Internet for that matter, who pretend to be someone famous. So at times, I do have to field questions and comments from skeptics. LOL!

I also just put the finishing touches on a compilation CD of amazing new music, which will be coming out in the beginning of December and sold through a unique portal. It's called "Band Blend... The CD" and is being sold in conjunction with the award winning "Band Blend" wine being produced by Little Vineyards out of Sonoma, CA. I'm extremely proud of this project and the people I partnered with to make it happen. We all hope the public's response will be tremendous! Plus, the plan is to make this an annual CD to introduce songs from new artists along with a popular Little Vineyards vintage - so most likely these CD's will become collector's items.

Basically, this is a new and interesting label and music distribution concept. I'm thrilled and proud to be the person along with winery owner and musician, Rich Little pioneering this vision, but I've always prided myself as being a person who thinks outside of the lines and boundaries! "Forward thinking" and non-conformity are the only things that will save today's music industry and make it a viable profession for new artists, in my opinion.

LR: As mentioned, you play the bass guitar and drums. What was the draw to these two instruments?

RF: Making the speakers move!

LR: Too funny!!! Do you play any other instruments that people might not know about?

RF: Yes... percussion (various types), rhythm guitar... and, I can plow my way through a keyboard when I need to. LOL!

LR: And you're pretty much self taught, correct?

RF: Yep, I've been playing by ear my whole life. Sometimes I regret not schooling myself to actually read music. I've penned music for many years via recording devices, but I wish I'd taken the time to pick up on the reading/writing of it all.

LR: You've inspired many musicians - what music inspired you when you were first embarking on your career?

RF: Motown. The Atlantic years. Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, James Brown. All the Stax Record Company releases. The Beatles and all the old country greats like Merle Haggard, Patsy Cline, Webb Pierce and Hank Williams, just to name a few...

LR: So let's chat about "Boogie Shoes" - KC and the Sunshine Band already had a string of hits by 1977 but it was THIS song that wound up on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack. How did that come about?

RF: Well... Robert Stigwood (from the RSO Record label) asked us to come up with a track that would be fitting for a film he was working on, so we wanted to give up something new and fresh and different that was also short and to the point, so ''Boogie Shoes'' was the obvious choice to us at that time.

LR: So what stands out for you as being some of your more significant accomplishments?

RF: Well... having a helicopter view over everything really helps.. and.. keeping that ''down to earth'' perspective and still being able to relate to the needs of others in and out of the business, I feel, has been a major blessing. Also, the fact that the money never changed me... I remained spiritually founded and guided, even during the rough years.

LR: I know how rarely you give out interviews, Rick, so I want to say thank you for being so gracious with your time and your responses. I believe everyone reading this now has a better sense about you, the origins of the band - and I'm sure everyone will be looking forward to your autobiography, as well as to all of the great music you're creating and new artists you're discovering. So............. as we close out this first of what I am sure will be many more interviews to come, any parting words?

RF: Yes... Keep It Real... AND... look after the needs of others... ALWAYS!

"Mutts and Moms" Step in DEEP Doo Doo!!!

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 20:33:00 GMT

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, the latest media hoopla is over the residential future of a precious Brussels Griffon terrier mix named "Iggy" that was recently adopted by comedian and talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres. Unbeknown to DeGeneres, the small print of the adoption contract stated that if she was unable to keep the pet, it was to be returned to the "Mutts and Moms" organization, located in Pasadena, CA.

Like many of us, when it comes to the fine print, we don't always read every single word, every dotted "i" or every crossed "t." That's a fun task we typically leave to our legal representatives. Ellen was no different and has heartbreakingly admitted her error in not following the rules. When Mutts and Moms contacted her to see how Iggy was doing, she didn't lie - she openly stated that she had found a wonderful home for the little guy.

Then, as they say, is when the 'fur started to fly!!!' Who knew that it was now necessary to be accompanied by an attorney to read over the contract when adopting a pet???

Ms. DeGeneres's heart has always been in the right place where animals are concerned. Her benevolent acts on behalf of our four legged friends is well documented. To her credit, rather than subject her feline residents to further cohabitation problems with her newly adopted canine, she acted in all of the animals' best interest. She sought out a new, loving home for little Iggy and found that home via her hairdresser and her two daughters (ages 11 and 12). Both girls immediately bonded with little Iggy, and he with them.

Marina Batkis, the owner of Mutts and Moms, stated to ABC News:

"If Ellen wants to start her own rescue group then she can decide where the dogs go. "Who is she to say who is a good home and whose not? And who is she to say where I should place my animals and how I should do this? I don't tell her how to run her show."

To further complicate matters, another reason that Ms. Batkis will not return Iggy to Ms. DeGeneres' hairdresser and daughters is due to Mutts and Mom's policy of not putting pets up for adoption to families with children under the age of 14.

In this entire scenario that has unfolded before our eyes, I find this piece of information to be the most disturbing.

What Ms. Batkis is practicing is age discrimination. Ms. Batkis automatically deemed this an unsuitable home based on the ages of these young girls. Not once did she take into consideration their feelings nor the feelings of Iggy, who had bonded with the children. To add insult to injury, she sent a police officer to remove the pet from their home. Had Ms. Batkis or her organization been in possession of a sensitivity chip, they would have fully understood the damage and trauma they were causing these two young girls and their mother. But in this case, more consideration was given to an 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of paper over the pleas and tears of these heartbroken children.

The RIGHT thing to do would have been to see that there are always exceptions to rules. Ms. Batkis could have done a home evaluation on the spot - she could have observed these girls with Iggy to see how much they love him - and she could have brought along new adoption papers. Had Ms. Batkis done this, the media storm that she's now complaining about never would have happened.

As of this writing, the Mutts and Mom's web site has been taken down (it's been reported that the organization and Ms. Batkis have been the recipients of death threats and other hostile acts or retaliation). This is in no way the mature or appropriate way in which to handle this situation and I would hope that people would choose to conduct themselves in a more thoughtful manner. The world is not going to collapse over this - but the hearts of two young girls certainly have, and that is the issue to which I would like to speak now.

I would like to make an appeal to Ms. Batkis to review the age policy Mutts and Moms has put into place. Thousands of loving, nurturing homes with younger children are being deemed unsuitable based on a number you have selected. Who is to say that a child of 14 is more responsible than a child of 11 or 12? Unless you have a Ph.D in Childhood Development and have extensive studies to back up your claim that a child under the age of 14 does not possess the maturity to own a pet, you are doing a great disservice to both the child and the animal. Some of my best memories as a child include the pets that I had over the years. They taught me more about unconditional love, responsibility, patience and commitment than any adult ever did. How does it feel, knowing that your age requirement is perhaps depriving a child of that same experience?

The BEST that any pet adoption agency can do is to evaluate potential families on a case by case basis. If Mutts and Moms has successfully put pets into good homes in the past, then they should have no trouble evaluating each family and situation individually, free from a restrictive chronological number. It's common sense: putting a giant, aggressive dog in the home of a three year old is probably not the thing to do - but an 11 and 12 year old owning a puppy just slightly larger than the size of a teacup?

Come to the table, Ms. Batkis - admit your error in judgment as Ms. DeGeneres has - and DO THE RIGHT THING. Amend your age policy and return Iggy to his family.

The world is watching................................................

Did the music die that day???

Sat, 08 Sep 2007 03:36:00 GMT

Today would have been Buddy Holly's 71st birthday. Born on September 7, 1936 in Lubbock, Texas, sadly his life came to a tragic end in a plane crash on February 3, 1959. An all too short life with so much music left to be created.

Buddy was way before my 'music appreciation years,' but if you know anything at all about his legacy, you know that in his brief moment here on earth he made an indelible impression on the evolution of rock music and on the artists yet to come. His life was chronicled in "The Buddy Holly Story" with Gary Busey in the title role. The Francis Ford Coppola film, "Peggy Sue Got Married" featured Holly's music. Artists like Brian Setzer of the"Stray Cats" brought back his rockabilly sound, added a contemporary twist to it and even covered some of his tunes:

I wonder what 71 year old Buddy would have thought about today's music, talent platforms like "American Idol" and performers like Taylor Hicks who are bucking the system, making their own rules and not compromising their musical integrity - very much in the same way that he, as one of our pioneering rock & roll forefathers did.

So to that end, yes, when we lost Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson ("The Big Bopper"), it was the day "that" particular music died. But out of death comes life, which is why I posed the question: did the music die that day? In my mind, no - it didn't. Those three paved the way for some amazing musical 'births' - some of which you will see chronicled in the following video of Don McLean's "American Pie." This is the long version of the song - and for those of you who have always wondered what the song meant, this video will answer all of your questions:

Feel free to share your thoughts in the "COMMENTS" section!!!

It was 30 years ago.....................................

Wed, 15 Aug 2007 23:35:00 GMT

30 years ago, the world lost perhaps the greatest entertainer of the 20th Century. For all that Elvis was in public - a larger than life personality with an abundance of talent and passion the likes of which we may never see again - he was first a boy from Tupelo, Mississippi with humble beginnings... a son... a friend... and eventually a husband and father. The same fame and fortune that freed him from the trappings of poverty also imprisoned him in a world where his only true freedom was on stage and through song.

As we remember Elvis this week and celebrate his all-too-short life's work, let's also keep in mind the high personal price he had to pay.

... and as we continue to celebrate the work of musicians and artists like Taylor Hicks, hopefully we never forget that they are first and foremost human beings who should not have to live in glass houses and sacrifice their personal freedoms for their art.

Brian Less: "Concerto in LiMBO Major"

Tue, 07 Aug 2007 23:08:00 GMT

When it comes to authentic Rock, Funk, Blues & Soul, they don't come any better than Birmingham, Alabama's "Little Memphis Blues Orchestra...." and when it comes to HOT keyboard action, band member Brian Less is most certainly the 'King of the Ivory's."

2006 was a year which started out with more questions than answers for LiMBO. As their former band leader, Taylor Hicks, skyrocketed toward his own piece of the American Dream as a contestant (and ultimate winner) on "American Idol," the members of The Taylor Hicks Band pondered their future... a new name... and how best to carve out a new identity without the presence of their now former front man.

I recently had a chance to play catch-up with Brian to talk about this past 'year in the life of LiMBO' as well as chatting about the August 7th nationwide release of "The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra - Live at the Workplay Theatre" 2-CD set.

LR: So for those who don't know the back story of how the "After Idol" concert tour came to be, how about a short recap.

BL: I guess you could say it was a HUGE stop sign when The Taylor Hicks Band stopped playing when Taylor went to "Idol," auditioned and made it as far as he did --- and we were, of course as the saying goes, in "limbo" once it became obvious that he wasn't going to be voted off anytime soon. We certainly couldn't continue performing as "The Taylor Hicks Band" so my wife Staci (pictured above with Brian) came up with the name "The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra." So one day as the band sat around trying to figure out what our next move should be, I want to say that it was Mitch (Mitch Jones - bass player for LiMBO) who first said, "Hey - why don't we join the Idol tour and do some shows and kind of 'shadow tour' the American Idol tour?" Everyone agreed that it was a GREAT idea. So with the help of Dean (Dean Sanders, founder and CEO of FunkyTime Productions LLC) and yourself and a couple other people, an incredible "After Idol" tour was planned which turned out to be a HUGE success!

What made it fun was first of all, we got to travel all over the country and we got to see the fans and the "Soul Patrol." Then, with Taylor, Elliott and the other guys sitting in with us whenever they could - that really made for a fun 'after tour' event and gave everyone something to look forward to after the Idol concert. I think that was a wonderful thing. It's kind of like music history - we'll all look back in 20 years and say, "WOW - look what we did!"

LR: Well having booked two of the California concerts dates on your tour last summer with less than a month to pull everything together, I can personally attest to how much work goes into the process!

So knowing that you were going to be recording both the CD and DVD at Workplay, how far in advance did you have to plan this specific event with both the venue and cinematographer (Tyler McGhee, Owner of Piqtu Multimedia) and did this create any special problems aside from the normal ones that come with trying to get the sound, visual shots and levels just right?

BL: Well, we had very little time to put this together, and Dean is the one who coordinated it. Workplay is a unique venue. When you set up a live performance there, you have the ability to run every channel of audio and video into an actual studio. Say you have 50 channels and those 50 channels shoot to the studio core on ProTools. Being able to do this gives cinematographers and sound engineers the ability to go into each track and edit the actual sound from the show as if it were being recorded in a sound studio. So if a couple of mistakes were made or if the crowd noise was too loud, they could fix it in post and bring those levels down so you could hear the band.

To perform AND record in an environment like Workplay was a huge advantage with a project such as LiMBO's. The normal problems that come from trying to get sound and levels right in any other environment would have been a challenge. Producing the CD and DVD was much easier doing it in an environment like Workplay - so that really made the process less stressful. Overall, I think we were lucky because everything did run smoothly and I think that everyone who had a part in pulling it all together did a wonderful job. It could not have gone better!!!

LR: This is not the first time you had played at Workplay, correct?

BL: Correct.

LR: What was it like trying to get gigs there "pre-Idol?"

BL: Well the Taylor Hicks Band had worked hard to get gigs at Workplay and we were turned down many times, but finally, we got an opportunity to play there. After that first time, the crowd would grow every time we played.

LR: What was the size of the early crowds?

BL: I would say that it was 30 to 50 percent packed the first time we played, and as we continued to play there, there were more and more people. And of course, once Taylor went to Idol and came back to do that Workplay show last August, the one major difference was that this time, it was ABOVE capacity - and that was a huge thrill! Anytime you play in front of a capacity crowd, the energy is just tremendous and it plays a HUGE role when you're performing because you feed off of that energy. You kind of feel like a rock star for a night, I guess.

LR: What is the capacity at Workplay?

BL: The room that we played I believe held 500 to 700 people - and I think there was more than that there that night!

LR: So there's actually several different areas within Workplay where simultaneous events can be held?

BL: That's right - they have a sound stage where a lot of bands come in and do their tour rehearsals. If you saw the video from rehearsals.com when Taylor was preparing for his tour, it's the same type of setup. Workplay is also used for parties and other types of events. The area that we played in that night is for larger, live events.

LR: So whose idea was it to record a live CD and DVD and how did that all come about?

BL: That idea was actually Dean's. Dean said, "Hey, this could be a significant moment in time, so we should probably record this concert." He brought in a friend of his, Tyler McGhee who had just started up Piqtu Multimedia (a video production company located in Phoenix, AZ) and he and his people came in and did a wonderful job.

Dean took it upon himself to produce the Workplay DVD and CD and basically funded the entire project. It definitely wasn't cheap, but I'm glad that we did it because I think it's an incredible finished product!

LR: And with that, here's the link to the final product - the "Live at the Workplay" double CD as it's showing up in the Amazon.com music catalog. This may very well be the first time you're seeing this link live and ready for sales. How does it feel, clicking over there and seeing your music for sale on a web site known around the world?

BL: It's really exciting! You know, we've seen it for sale on our own web site, but it's a wonderful feeling going to a worldwide web site that so many people visit - and you see right there, LiMBO and the cover of the album, so it's really cool!!! It's surreal!!!

LR: Plus, to have come this distance in a relatively short period of time by the music industry's standards anyway. To think that in January you're kind of trying to redirect and refocus, and then there you are in August, recording the Workplay CD and DVD - and here it is one year later, a national release for the world to see and enjoy.

BL: ... and on that, I've had people ask me, "Isn't it a bit late to be releasing this CD and distributing it?" and I thought to myself, you know... it's not. It's one moment in music history which shows what can happen on the back end of the whole American Idol phenomenon when the lead person leaves a band and what is possible for the remaining band members after that. It shows that the band stuck together and that everyone was committed to working together during a time that probably would have spelled the end for most other bands. I think that 10 years down the road someone might want to pick up the CD and DVD and say, "Hey, what was this all about?" If you look at CD's and DVD's like "The Last Waltz" with The Band --- and I'm not comparing us to "The Band," but what I am saying is that people are still buying that music after all these years because people want to know what it was all about.

Hopefully, everyone from LiMBO will continue to go farther in their careers and this will be a CD and DVD that people will want to check out down the line if they ever want to know what our early years were like. And of course we all hope that people will want to continue following LiMBO and our careers and our music for many, many years to come. Also, with Taylor's book just coming out and him talking about how our careers developed, that might also spark some interest for someone wanting to know more about this moment in time.

LR: Taylor Hicks and Elliott Yamin both appeared as 'special guests' at the Workplay concert and are featured on the CD --- what type of feedback have you gotten from them on the final product? (assuming both of them have listened to it!)

BL: Absolutely, they have both listened to it and all of the feedback has been great. Taylor and Elliott and also Bucky and Ace - all of them have been very helpful and supportive of this project and of LiMBO. The support, input and advice that Taylor and Elliott have given to us over the past year which includes giving us their permission to use their names on the project - everything they have done for us has been positive.

LR: So LiMBO is just beginning to get a taste of fame and all that comes with it, though the band has had a little time to adjust to it --- unlike Taylor, who was pretty much drop kicked into the media and tabloid spotlight from the moment he auditioned for Idol. This is a little off topic, but I too would be drop kicked by the Soul Patrol if I didn't at least ask one Taylor-related question. Being that you're one of his closest friends these days and being in a position to see some of this insanity that's invaded Taylor's new life, from your perspective, how is 'life under the microscope' affecting him?

BL: Taylor has always stuck to his roots. When this whole Idol thing kicked off, people would ask, "Is Taylor going to change? Is he going to forget where he came from?" and you know, he's stayed the same - he's stayed true to everything that he said and everything he was about before he won American Idol. That is HUGE, because it really shows what his character is.

I've learned a ton from Taylor --- being kind of like an outsider looking in and also being an insider, seeing how to handle success and fame, and you know, it would be very easy to let it all overcome you and lose yourself. But Taylor's a perfect example of someone who just totally has kept his head and remains grounded.

LR: Looking back to that night last summer at Workplay, what stands out for you as being one of the more memorable moments during the concert? What performance, song or moment just gave you that "WOW" feeling?

BL: The most memorable "WOW" feeling that I had was after the show. Everyone was backstage visiting with friends, and there was a huge grand piano sitting by itself with no one around. I finally had time to sit down with Staci and we had a couple of minutes just to breathe to ourselves. So we walked over to the piano and I started playing. Five minutes later, everyone was around the piano, and it's on the DVD - you'll see that I started playing and everyone started singing, holding hands and hugging and taking pictures. That moment was just one of the best feelings in the world, because at the time I really didn't know it was being filmed. It was just amazing - and yes, we were all tired - it had been a long day and a long night, but in that moment, it just showed perfectly that it really is just all about the music! That was a wonderful feeling - it really was - to just have everyone there. It showed that even after all of that, you just couldn't get enough. I'm so glad that they did film it and that we were able to share that incredible moment with everyone. That would be the one moment that stands out for me.

LR: We kind of touched on this earlier but to revisit --- in January 2006 LiMBO was not quite yet "LiMBO" in the formal sense - yet by August, just eight short months later, there you all were at Workplay recording a double CD and filming a DVD. How surreal was that?

BL: It was awesome. It kind of went by fast, so I'm glad that we did the CD and DVD because we can go back and listen to it and look at it and enjoy it again. This represents us saying that it was a fun night, but that there's a whole lot more to come! It marked the beginning, and also showed all of the potential for tomorrow.

LR: How has all the notoriety and craziness impacted your families?

BL: I think I can speak for everyone in the band when I say that it's been a lot of fun and very exciting. Everyone's families have been involved. They've all come out to shows and all have been very supportive.

It's important to note that everyone in the band has been raised by parents who have supported us throughout our lives with music. For instance, no one ever told me, "Hey, don't do that - you need to go and get a 9-5 job." Everybody insofar as family is concerned has been great.

I think it's fun, looking at it from my little brother's point of view --- for him to be able to call me and say, "What are you doing?" and I'm saying, "Hey, I'm playing in San Francisco!" When you're traveling the country, I think it's something that the family can be proud of - and that makes US proud to be able to make them proud! It's one of those, "See - look Mom - I told you I was gonna do this!" moments!

LR: ... and it's great that you have the support of your families. I can think of lots of people who tell their families, "Hey, I'm going into the music business" and who are not met with a great deal of support.

BL: My father is a musician and that is who I got my talent from. It's fun to see his face at shows and events. It's neat to see him get so excited! You know, when I first met Staci and she introduced me to her parents, she told them, "Yeah, he's a musician," and they're like "Uh..... okay....." and perhaps thinking to themselves, "What is she getting into?" But the thing is, they were always supportive which really helped - because when you get married, you gain a set of parents, and I think it's a necessity to have their support. Otherwise you have to kind of fight to prove yourself to them. I'm lucky in that I never had to do that - so I know that also played a huge part in the past 10 years of my life. So definitely, insofar as families and parents - I think LiMBO's success has affected them all in a positive way.

LR: LiMBO is well known for its amazing and unique interpretation of some of the world's best known cover songs, as is shown on this CD - but LiMBO's originals can most certainly hold their own when put next to them. In the future, will LiMBO start to move away from the cover tunes and eventually just play their own original music?

BL: The way that we've worked in the past, we've always focused on writing original music and to execute it along with the covers. That will continue to happen for now, but I think the ultimate goal is to perform all of our own music and I think we're close to it. One of the reasons we include cover tunes is because we think it's fun for the audience to hear them. If someone is new to the band, being able to hear songs that they can relate to will help them to get a sense of what we're capable of -- and some people like to sing the words, which is harder to do with new music until they become more familiar with it. But yes, eventually we will perform mostly originals. It's just a process and it takes time. Some of the shows we do like private parties or wedding receptions, they do want cover songs in the shows that we perform for them. But yes, it's a goal to eventually have a show just including all originals.

LR: But to that end, you're not a copy band... you're not a tribute band... you're putting your own flavor and spin on these well-known songs, so you're ultimately making them your own songs anyway.

BL: That's true! And it also shows people what our influences are too which is a very, very important part of who we are, since we grew up listening and learning from these artists that have played in the past or are still playing today. I think that when you play covers it kind of fills people in on what we listen to, who we are as musicians and what we love to play, giving a base and foundation for the songs we've written. Not to say that we're copying the songs, but to show the influence, musical structure and style that everyone in the band is capable of playing.

LR: Let's talk about LiMBO's future plans. Will the band as everyone knows it --- yourself, Jeff Lopez, Zippy Dieterich, Mitch Jones and Sam Gunderson --- will it remain intact or will there be member changes in the future? And will Erin Mitchell continue with the band in a lead vocalist capacity?

BL: LiMBO is still an entity, and of course while I was on tour with Taylor, the band's activity was pretty much dormant. But then the guys started playing with Erin. When we were playing before, Erin always got on stage and sang with us, and in the future, she is always welcome to get on stage and be a guest singer.

We will not be adding or changing members. The point that we were making by forming LiMBO was to keep together the band that Taylor spent 10 years putting together. LiMBO will remain LiMBO and Erin has her own band (the Erin Mitchell band), so they will remain two separate entities. You may see Erin come on and do a couple of songs with us, which we love because she has a wonderful voice, but it's not going to be a situation where she is a member of The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra because she wasn't a member of The Taylor Hicks Band.

LR: Fans have mentioned how much they enjoy the performance relationship that LiMBO has with Elliott Yamin. Will you be performing with Elliott again any time in the near future?

BL: Actually, I keep in touch with Elliott - we talk every few weeks. He's doing a show in Birmingham and I think he requested that LiMBO open up for him which is very cool! I know that he's had a band that travels with him - kind of like Taylor's band that travels with him. There's a possibility that maybe one or two of the guys from LiMBO could maybe in the future perhaps go on tour with Elliott, but as of right now, I think we're just looking at perhaps opening up for him on occasion or him sitting in with us - that's probably a more realistic possibility in the future right now.

LR: Well that could be cool. So along the same lines, I'm always asked whether LiMBO might be the opening act for Taylor's 2008 tour. Any chance that might happen? Are 'your people' talking to 'his people?'

BL: I don't know, but right now I would say, I doubt it. If we did that, we would want Taylor to come out and perform with us every night, and that would be hard for him to do because he would have just performed with his own band.

Actually, I think it's good to keep things separate. Maybe we'll do something similar like the Idol tour and perhaps play a few shows in the towns that he's in and he can come by afterwards for a show if he wants to. But I think that as of right now, I don't see LiMBO being an opening act.......... but of course, that could change! I have no idea what Taylor's thinking is and I don't think he's even had time to think about it - but I think right now at this time, I think it's safe to say that he would want us to continue growing on our own, doing shows as LiMBO without people saying, "Well, is Taylor going to be there?' I think that's what he wants us to do.

LR: So............ is LiMBO planning a 2008 tour?

BL: As of right now, we are starting to book gigs - we just booked a Sept. 22nd gig in Birmingham. We've got some private events that we're doing. Touring is something that's up to the band and you know, we're just now getting back into it so we haven't had a chance to talk about it, but I'd say it's a definite possibility.

LR: Aside from wanting everyone to get out there and buy the CD, any parting thoughts?

BL: You know, this has been an outrageous, wonderful ride so far and I hope that everyone enjoys listening to what we've done in the past and I hope that everyone's excited about what's coming in the future. We're working hard to write new music and Taylor's working hard to put out new music - everyone's going to have albums coming out: I'm working on a solo project, Zippy's working on a solo project, so there's a lot of things on the table that are in motion and I think there's a lot of wonderful music to come!

So, if you're reading this interview and you don't have the CD yet, pick it up - check it out. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised and I think it'll leave you hungry for more. I personally think it's very hard to resist this type of music. It's just incredible, good-feeling soul music that will leave you smiling!!!

*****

Brian... you can't see our faces, but we're ALL smiling right now!

My thanks to Brian for his time --- and to all of you, thanks for stopping by... and without fail, do get out there and pick up your copy of "Live at the Workplay Theatre" (if you haven't already done so).

Also, be sure to stop by the "COMMENTS" section here and let Brian know how much you enjoyed hearing from him!

COMING SOON: Part Two: "Brian Less... Unplugged!!!"

Taylor - Don't Sue Me!!!

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 04:23:00 GMT

First of all, you've probably noticed that the name of my blog has changed to "Write Place... Write Time..." (... or perhaps not - I doubt I've made an indelible impression on everyone with my musings).

Anyway, last week, I was given a very 'curt' warning that I had 48 hours to change the name of my blog or face legal action from a business owner in Milwaukee who had taken out a federal trademark on the now 'defunct from my blog' phrase.

(Milwaukee??? The mecca of Internet blogger bullies??? Who knew???)

When this all came down, it got me to thinking. For example, I doubt that the Kimberly-Clark Corporation would stalk the Internet looking for people who may have named their blogs, "The Kleenex Connection" - especially if it wasn't a competing business or someone looking to make a buck. You would think that they'd probably appreciate the free advertising.

Ahhhh free advertising - certainly nothing to 'sneeze' at! (and yes, I hear your collective groans!)

Anyway, I did an Internet search: there are 265 MILLION web sites which use my former blog title, either in headlines, blog content or business names. I also found several well-known U.S. universities which have used this phrase longer than the individual who trademarked it has.

... which raises an interesting question: If one of these entities could prove consistent usage of the phrase prior to the individual who trademarked it, could they then sue this individual and take possession of the trademarked phrase???

So.... the question of the week is: How does one decide imminent domain over three commonly used words???

The most fascinating and entertaining aspect of all of this hinged mostly on one word: "THE." By removing the word "THE," the problem with the "sue-er" was solved. Funny, huh? So that's what I did. (I just don't have the time to devote to a long, drawn out, very stupid lawsuit - though I'm sure the media would have latched onto it as something quite amusing)

BUT WAIT!!! THERE'S MORE!!! I threw in a couple of extra words as a bonus. (however, I now await the threat of a lawsuit from the individual who has trademarked the words, "Write Time").

So Taylor... in the description of my blog, I've used "You've come to the right place, baby" from your song, "The Right Place." Please know that it's meant to pay homage to you and I am more than happy to give credit to the song's writer's, Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Same with the use of the photo (I would give credit to the photographer, but I don't know who shot this pic --- anyone with that info, drop me a note).

I'd also like to give credit to:

Dell Computer for my fabulous computer and flat panel monitor!
Microsoft for the quality wireless keyboard and mouse that give me endless hours of keyboarding and scrolling pleasure.
Bose for the awesome computer speakers which blast my Little Buddy Radio on a daily basis.
Thomas' English Muffins for their brand new, delectable whole wheat muffin creation.

There! I think I've covered all the bases!

Now is there a silver lining amidst this comical turn of events? Actually, YES. Now I have something in common with Prince (as people will now refer to my site as, 'the blog formerly known as...........').

COMING SOON: My one-on-one interview with Little Memphis Blues Orchestra / Taylor Hicks Band keyboardist, the amazing Brian Less - along with an exciting announcement!!!

Taylor gave to us... so let's give back!!!

Sat, 21 Jul 2007 11:14:00 GMT

I typically don't spearhead these sorts of things because usually they have an ugly backlash - but I think in this case, it might actually be an idea well received (or at least I hope so!).

Over 300 of us who are "logistically challenged" had a wonderful experience tonight watching Taylor Hicks on the Internet (courtesy of the MyFoxAL web site) where he made a special appearance at the Kid One "Heart Full of Soul" book event in Birmingham, AL.

I don't know how everyone else feels, but to me, it was so much more than just a book reading --- it was an intimate glimpse into the life and musical spirit of someone who has opened (and re-opened!) millions of hearts to a world of soulful music - music which is experiencing a resurgence thanks solely to Taylor's tireless dedication and harmonious soul-infused "performance ministry."

During the event, the camera occasionally panned into the audience - and while this was a joyful event, I was saddened at the sight of so many empty seats - while here on the Internet, over 300 of us were having this amazing experience for free.

It didn't set well with me - it DOESN'T set well with me.

So the first thing tomorrow morning, I will be sending a check to Kid One in the amount of $37.50 (which was the price of general admission to this event).

I hope those of you who are in a position to do the same might consider following suit. After all, had we all lived in B'ham, we most certainly would have paid the price of admission to attend this wonderful event.

... and if you are able to send a check, perhaps make a notation of, "Thanks for the Internet broadcast!" in the memo area. Let Kid One AND Taylor AND all of the children that Kid One helps know how much you appreciated the opportunity of being that 'virtual fly on the wall.'

For those of you sending a check, here's their snail mail address:

Kid One
PO BOX 360943
Birmingham, AL 35236-0943

--- or, if you'd prefer to donate online, click HERE!

BTW - if you missed the broadcast, be sure to go to Taylor Made Online --- Gypsee captured the feed and details on where to view the broadcast can be found on her site --- as always Gypsee, you are the "Visual Media Queen" and you have the eternal thanks of your fellow Soul Patrollers!

(photo courtesy of lucky event attendee, alagirl77)

Also... if you have something you'd like to say about this amazing evening with Taylor or Kid One, be sure to share your thoughts with everyone in the "Comments" section on the blog.

How will you be celebrating the "Summer of Love???"

Sun, 15 Jul 2007 01:53:00 GMT

Hard to believe it's been 40 years!!! 1967 was an amazing year for music in the San Francisco Bay Area, and though I was just a little girl at the time, I still remember the weekend my folks and I drove up to Haight-Ashbury on a sunny Sunday afternoon to check out the 'action' (that is, after we had a very 'conventional' soda as we sat all dressed up at the top of the Mark Hopkins hotel --- "Top of the Mark" as it was known).

Talk about two different worlds juxtaposed against one another and just a short distance apart. We don't often remember our early years, but I certainly remember THAT day!

Anyway, I thought it might be fun to celebrate some of that great music, so over the course of the next few weeks, I'll be bringing you some standout YouTube's featuring music from that amazing, musical, magical "Summer of Love."

This first song actually preceded the "Summer of Love" by a year, but it's noted for having set the tone for the following summer to come! Check out the Monterey Pop Festival performance of this mellow tune by Simon & Garfunkel!

Peace!!!

"KOPS" Latest Fundraiser is Totally 'Arresting!'

Thu, 07 Jun 2007 01:13:00 GMT

When you think of Taylor Hicks, you automatically associate him with awesome music. But what may not be well known outside of the 'Soul Patrol' is that Taylor has not only inspired his fan base to become active in changing the climate of today's music scene - but to also become actively involved with some of his favorite charitable causes.

One such group making a difference is "Kid One Patrol of Soul." KOPS was formed as a branch of the Soul Patrol which assists "Kid One Transport" in its fund raising efforts (Kid One is a non-profit organization which provides free transportation to medical facilities for children and expectant mothers).

I had a chance to catch up with Karen Rice, one of the founding members of KOPS. The most current fund raising effort in the works is the KOPS Kid's Cookbook. This isn't just any cookbook, but a special collectible edition which will include some of Taylor's favorite recipes as well as some of his own personal stories.

Hi Karen! Can you provide the readers here with a little background on the cookbook project? For example, who came up with the idea?
"We were all members at a another Taylor fan site where a recipe thread had been started. The idea to create a cookbook and give the proceeds to Taylor's charities just seemed like the thing to do. After that cookbook was delivered, we bonded together and became KOPS (Kid One Patrol of Soul) We had had so much success with the original cookbook, we wanted to have another in a possible series. The children's cookbook was just the obvious next step."

Where are all of the recipes coming from?
"KOPS put a call out to all of the Soul Patrol to contribute recipes. Our KOPS Members are from Taylor Fan sites that span across the Internet. We had everyone post at their home sites to help us with the cookbook, and as always , the Soul Patrol came through. We also asked the Kid One folks for recipes, as well as friends and family of Taylor's. We're getting firefighters recipes too since they were the group that started Kid One in the first place. It's very exciting."

How many recipes in total do you expect to have by publication date?
"We'll have about 250 recipes when the book is published. We'll also have some great pictures of the Soul Patrol's own children, "cookin' it up" as well as some great shots of Taylor."

How did YOU get involved with KOPS?

"Personally, I started working on the original cookbook in 2006. When we bonded and started working on more and more projects, I saw we needed a site to work out of that could be dedicated "souly" to KOPS business. It's was just too difficult to try to conduct business from a Taylor fan site, so we created www.KidOnePatrolofSoul.com in November of 2006. We're still all members of Taylor sites - this is just our work place."

How many members do you currently have on board?

"We currently have 60 members on the message board and as with any site, there are very active members - and then there are members that like to keep track of what we're doing, but keep a low profile. There are about 15 to 20 VERY active members that really help us to keep moving and motivated."

Has it been easier to raise funds for Kid One since Taylor won American Idol?

"The fact that Taylor mentioned Kid One on that TV spot has done wonders for Kid One Transport. One of the jobs of KOPS is to keep Kid One front and center for those that may have missed it or possibly have forgotten about his remarks. I think the more Taylor does for Kid One, the more people will realize that he is very dedicated to helping them. The event in July, "Taylor Up Close and Personal," will certainly give more exposure to Kid One. If you live in Birmingham (or can get to Birmingham!), that's an event no one will want to miss!" (see details below)

Kid One remains one of Taylor's chosen charities to this day --- is he 'hands on' in any way aside from the donation of items to raise funds?
"Taylor has been SO generous with autographing items when it comes to Kid One and KOPS. When talking to his band and crew members, we would be courteous and ask if they had ever heard of KOPS. Every crew member that we have spoken with knew about us. We're pretty proud that the word has gotten around and that it was a positive response!"

Any talk of giving Taylor a board of directors seat? (it would certainly make for great press, just between you and me!)

"If Taylor wants to be on our board, I'll make sure he has the best seat at the table and plenty of doughnuts (KOPS, get it?)"

Did Taylor's involvement with Kid One/KOPS come as a result of Suzanne or was he involved prior to that?

"It was through Suzanne that Taylor learned about the work Kid One did for the children of Alabama. We were told that Taylor was inspired by the service Kid One provided and supported the organization right off the bat. Even though Suzanne is no longer an employee of Kid One, Taylor continues to be supportive of the organization and wants the Soul Patrol to do the same!"

Can you share a couple of the "titles" of the recipes that Taylor is supplying that might not have already been made public elsewhere?

"Well, one starts with Frosted and another starts with Fried. Does that sound southern? That's all I can tell you without spilling the beans! The stories that come with them are so adorable. Tiny Taylor tot cooking in the kitchen!"

Does KOPS have any plans to branch out into other communities across the United States?

"KOPS is already in many states! We're in New Hampshire, New York, Maryland, Georgia, Texas, Virginia, Tennessee, Kansas, California, Oregon, Wisconsin, Illinois, Oklahoma, Florida, Alabama... and the list goes on! We cover the country! We even have Canadian support!

Our goal as well as Kid One's is to get the Kid One Transport program everywhere! There are children in every community that need to visit their doctors. Many times, the only thing that is preventing them for receiving that care is a reliable car! Many of the children that Kid One serves are from rural communities where the doctor or hospital that they need to visit are several miles away. Kid One picks up children in 43 of the 67 counties of Alabama right now. They have 83,000 clients. This is amazing considering they have only been operating for 10 years.

Not only do they transport children, but expectant mothers are provided transportation as well so that the new life that they carry which is about to enter into this world is off to a good start too.

What is the cost of the service?
"This service is free to the clients. Kid One relies on the generosity of businesses, civic groups, public donations and the SOUL PATROL to keep on the road."

Is Taylor the only celeb involved with KOPS?

"We have several celebrities that have donated recipes to the cookbook. In addition, we also have an actress that donated photos to us to auction to help us raise money. Even the band members from The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra stepped up to the plate with some great recipes! Plus, we're expecting some recipes from the Governor of Alabama and the Mayor of Birmingham to include in this very special cookbook."

What is one of the more touching 'success stories' coming out of the work that KOPS does?

"Wow, that's a tough one. When Suzanne was still with Kid One, we did our Beanie Baby Express project where we sent 1,080 Beanie Babies to Kid One to pass out to the children during the month of December. At this same time, Suzanne was to pick up a little 5 year old girl named Bethany. She was being taken to the hospital to have both of her kidneys removed. The doctors had tried and tried to save them but it had come to the point that they needed to come out. The plan was that she would be placed on dialysis for about a year to gain her strength back and then look for a donor. Suzanne created a basket of goodies for Bethany and her brother and included some of the Beanie Babies. She shared pictures of Bethany while she was holding the Babies. Bethany had the most unforgettable smile on her face in those photos. She was thrilled with the gifts and her new little fuzzy friends.

Sadly, we lost Bethany earlier this year. That was a difficult time for us, but we knew that we brought a little joy to her life that had been filled with pain for so long. Bethany is our inspiration and a reminder to all of us that what we are doing is needed and necessary in order to help Kid One keep the gas tanks full. We know we can't save the world, but we can help make it a happy and healthier place."

Any interesting Taylor stories pertaining to KOPS?

"HA HA!!! He'll kill us for this one!

Four KOPS members, LeAnn, Alice, Andrea and myself all went to the Taylor concert in Kansas City. Alice and I had gone on Thursday night and the rest came in to join us for the Friday performance. On Thursday, we gave one of the crew members, Kris, a LARGE bag of items for Taylor to sign, he gladly took it for us and the plan was to get it back on Friday after the concert. Friday, we were walking around the casino when Alice and LeAnn spotted a beautiful music box in the shape of a guitar in the gift shop. It had wonderful paintings of Elvis on them and it played "Love Me Tender". They snatched it up and carefully wrapped it in some other shirts and items that we had forgotten to give them the night before. We found Bill and he took the bag of goodies back for us and said we should find him after the show. Taylor was amazing, of course and after the show Tim brought us out the big bag of booty! We started looking through it and everything was signed, BUT the music box wasn't in the bag. The shirts that had protected it were there, just not the music box.

We found Bill and asked him about the music box. He stopped dead in his tracks and looked at us for a second and said, 'I'll be right back.' When he returned, he told us how he had seen it in Taylor's wardrobe case. Taylor must have really, really liked it because he kept it! Bill offered to give it back to us but we told him 'No no, tell Taylor to keep it,' but that he should know we were going to auction it off and figured it would bring in a bunch of money so he could just write us out a check. I'm sure the check is in the mail."

What other fund raising efforts and special projects has KOPS spearheaded?

"We gathered the Beanie Babies for the kids for December 2006. We not only raise money, we raise spirits and awareness of Kid One Transport.

We raised $2,300 for Kid One in the Mercedes Marathon/Kid One 5K event. We'll start collecting for that in September for the 2008 event. This event gave us a chance to meet the staff of Kid One. Wow, they are a remarkable gang. I've never met such a giving, gracious bunch of people in my life. This is not just their job, it's their mission!

KOPS sent 186 gift bags of bath gels/lotions/washes and other goodies to the Mom's in the month of May. This was inspired by the Beanie Baby Express project and we were so happy to brighten up the moms' day!

And, as you know, right now we're selling the cookbook until June 15th. It's $20 which includes shipping and handling. It's going to be a great keepsake!"

Not too shabby for only being in operation for seven months!!! KOPS is always looking for new members to join in and share their ideas, talents and any creative, new ways to raise funds for Kid One, so be sure to check them out. It goes without saying, this is a labor of love for those involved - and they're having a blast while doing it.

As Karen said in closing:

"I've met people through KOPS that are so generous and passionate about Kid One that it's a joy to be involved as we continue our ongoing efforts to keep Kid One 'Transporting Children and Expectant Mothers to Better Health.'"

AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT FROM KID ONE:

Kid One has asked us to help get the news out about the Book Reading event that Taylor is appearing at to benefit Kid One:

July 20th - 6:30 p.m.
Boutwell Auditorium
1930 8th Avenue North
Birmingham, AL 35203

VIP tickets: $100
(includes book autographed by Taylor on a souvenir bookplate commemorating the event plus reserved, up-close limited seating - tickets available exclusively through Kid One)
General Admission: $37.50 (can be purchased through ticketmaster)

(pictured above from left to right: LeAnn Wilson, Karen Rice's hand, Suzanne Thrash, who ran the Mercedes Marathon last February, Alice Culbreth and Donna Hill)

A blast... from the recent past!

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 10:12:00 GMT

As the time draws closer to conducting my next interview with J/Arista recording artist, Taylor Hicks (this go-around, we'll be chatting about his upcoming book release, "Heart Full of Soul"), I thought it might be fun to "rebroadcast" our chat from last summer.

A lot has happened since then: Taylor's CD dropped in December, followed by a whirlwind of television appearances. "Just To Feel That Way" was released as the first single - and then shortly after that, his nationwide tour began, which is currently in full swing. On April 1st, Taylor Hicks Headquarters (his 'members only' web site) also ramped up, with new sign-up's and fan activity increasing everyday.

I'd say life is going great in "Taylorland!"

But back to the interview... What you're about to read is the complete interview that I did with Taylor (what actually wound up in print in "The Wave" was an abbreviated version, which made me none too happy, but that's what happens when your work is at the mercy of an editor).

The journey TO the interview was also interesting and eye opening, and perhaps one day (with Taylor's permission) I will tell you about it.

But now... without further delay, take a 'mini-step' back in time. A lot has changed for Taylor, but the most important element (the music!) remains................

TAYLOR HICKS: The Music... The Movement... And the "Muses..." (08/12/06)

"So you're drivin' away these miles... So far away from your Southern home... Takin' your charms and dreams to the Golden State... Make your way... Seal your fate..."

When Birmingham, Alabama's native son and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks wrote "West Texas Sky" for his 2005 independently released CD, "Under The Radar," he probably had no idea that these lyrics would be describing his own future.

And what a "future" he's had the past couple of months. Since winning America's most watched reality show competition, Hicks has gone on to become a Billboard #1 artist, a Ford Motor Company spokesperson, People Magazine's 'hottest bachelor,' and a soon-to-be best selling author, having just signed a deal with Random House's Crown imprint for the Spring 2007 release of his life 'to date' entitled, "Heart Full of Soul."

But what many people don't realize is that when Taylor came to the September 2005 Las Vegas auditions for Idol, he already had 10 years of performing under his belt... 10 years of crafting songs with his unique branding of blues and soul... 10 years of trying to break through the entertainment industry's pre-conceived notion of what today's music scene should be comprised of.

As Hicks and the other American Idols are now more than halfway through their sold out, whirlwind tour across the U.S., I had a chance to catch up with him prior to the upcoming August 30th Idol tour stop here in San Jose.

Talking with Taylor is like putting on a comfortable pair of slippers - no airs, no attitude - definitely NO ego - kind of like making a new friend that feels like they've always been in your life in some form or fashion - and that pretty much describes how his music touches people, and is perhaps a significant element to why he has such a loyal and growing fan base.

So... after exchanging pleasantries over our respective phone lines, we jumped into our chat about music, his life... and 'the muses...'

Loni:

Whenever I listen to "West Texas Sky" from your CD, "Under the Radar," I picture you sitting in the front of the Idol tour bus with the driver as you ride cross-country, quietly staring out the window onto the lines of the road as they blur from pieces to solids. Do you kind of view your life that way up to this point --- in 'pieces' - when you struggled over the years to have your voice heard --- and now 'solids' - with a promising future pretty much intact?

Taylor:

WOW! Yeah, you know it's funny - I was actually driving somewhere across Texas when I wrote that song, and you're very right, although at that point in time I really had no idea where my life was going. When you apply that thought to now, being on the tour bus, it is very similar - I am traveling cross country, but what's so cool about this particular deal is that I'm not driving myself and I'm not having to pay for gas!

Loni:

And given today's gas prices, that's probably a very good thing! It's interesting - many musicians know from Day One that music will be the path they will follow - yet you didn't really decide to get serious about music until your college years. What was the catalyst for you in choosing that road?

Taylor:

You know, I guess what happened was is that I started playing harmonica to air conditioners and planes, you know, and once that started happening, when I was a kid, I started repeating the harmonica sounds on the Supertramp album, "Breakfast in America." And then when I got older, I started to play in clubs, but it didn't really click and I didn't really want it to click until I wrote my first song on the guitar that I taught myself how to play. Once I started getting a positive reaction from some of the music that I was writing when I was around 17 and 18 years old, then I realized that nobody taught me how to do this and I knew then that it was a gift. So I knew kind of deep down inside that this was what I was supposed to be doing. And I haven't looked back ever since.

Loni:

So as a hard-working musician who loves to creatively fuse your influences, tell me, which comes first for you - the words or the music? Explain a bit about your songwriting process.

Taylor:

You know, it's different each time. The music will come to you at one point in time or the words will come to you in the next point in time. So it's like, it all depends on what hits you first: a lyric that you really like or something that you've done on the guitar that you think is really cool. So it's different each time.

Loni:

No set pattern?

Taylor:

No... it kind of tends to happen when the muse visits me, or hits me - that's kind of what my idea of what a 'muse' is. I wish she was better looking though!

(mutual laughter)

Loni:

Hey, just conjure one up!

Taylor:

Yeah, that's true!

Loni:

Where have you written most of your songs --- Indoors? Outdoors? On the road?

Taylor:

Well you know, I've been inside a few times - I've been outside a few times. I don't know, it's just interesting, you know? Usually indoors.

Loni:

So do you have quite a few songs "in the vault" waiting to be recorded?

Taylor:

Well, I'm starting to break out songs from way back when and I'm starting to collaborate with some people, and I'm very excited about moving forward in the writing process. Just being able to have these opportunities - this opportunity to be able to experience everything that I need to put a great album together. It's such a blessing. I'm so blessed in that regard. I really get to expand on some ideas that I've always had, but not necessarily had the means to do them.

Loni:

It's nice having those "means" now, huh?

Taylor:

It is - VERY! I'm thrilled to be able...... you know, here's my deal. I just want to be able to play good, live music. That's all I've ever wanted to do, and in some form or fashion, I'll always be doing it.

Loni:

Well, that makes me happy because I'm really looking forward to hearing you live in the future!

Taylor:

Well cool! You know, I've been working on my craft for a long time and the general public probably hasn't seen that side of me, you know?

Loni:

Well that's one of the things I'm trying to communicate via this article. For you, it wasn't just a matter of showing up on Idol. You've been a working musician for ten plus years now, fine tuning your craft and performance and as mentioned in my intro, trying to break through this pre-conceived notion that the industry has about what America wants coming out of the music industry today.

Taylor:

Well GREAT! That's exactly what my mentality is and I'm very happy. That is what I want people to know and I am happy that you are able to put that idea out there!

Loni:

Consider me your "official messenger" in that regard!

Taylor:

Hey, man... GOOD! Let's keep getting the message out there!

Loni:

We will definitely do it! Now I realize that legalities might prevail when I ask this question --- the music from your 2001 "Nashville Music Sessions." Will the public ever be graced with an authorized release of these three songs, and if so, when do you think that might happen? "The Fall" is brilliant --- and, I might add, has 'Number One' written all over it!

Taylor:

Oh wow!!! You know, yes, I'm not going to go into any detail about that particular recording session, although I will say that I invested my time AND money in that session as well. I'm just very happy to know that I wrote that song. It's there... it's still there and I'm going to be able to expand on it in what I think that song should be... and soon. I'm glad the song is there, you know? I'm hoping to release it soon, but at the same time, I'm also just glad that the song is there, because everything is about the song. This whole situation is nothing but about the song.

Loni:

It's all about the music, man!

Taylor:

Yeah, and you know, this album I'm doing --- I thought I had a snobbish approach about somebody sending me music, and you know, that barrier has been completely broken by some of the great songwriters who have sent me music in the last couple of weeks.

Loni:

Well I know you've been hanging with John Mayer and other talented artists who have been down this road with their own careers, and I'm sure they've probably shared their knowledge and experiences with you. It all has to be beneficial and they probably have some interesting insights.

Taylor:

Yes, they do. You know, I'm so very thrilled to just be able to even talk to them and work with them, and they do have some great insight - and there's some great music on the way!

Loni:

(When the tough get going, the muses visit me... the blues come out to play and jazz leaves her number...)

Some of the best music comes out of adversity. Now that the good times are here for you and appear to be staying for the long haul, what will you need to do to conjure up your muses in the future?

Taylor:

You know, I think I just need to tap in, man. I think they're out there. I think you just have to put.... maybe I just need to raise my antenna a little higher!

Loni:

Is that because of all of the Idol hoopla that is going on right now? Is it just a little harder to find those quiet moments where you can tune into that aspect of yourself?

Taylor:

Yeah! You know, right now quiet moments are like Powerball numbers in this gig. It's pretty tough to have those, but I find time on days off to just relax and pick up the old guitar. I've got some ideas workin'.

Loni:

I've heard you're traveling with a really interesting, smaller six string guitar on the bus. A backpack version, if you will.

Taylor:

Yeah, we have one on the bus, but it's Bucky's so we all kind of take turns playing it.

Loni:

You cite your musical influences as Ray Charles, Van Morrison, Michael Macdonald, Al Stewart and Bob Seger, just to name a few --- and anyone familiar with your style can clearly hear this reflected in your delivery. Have you given any thought to doing a "Duets" style album at some point with these artists? Sadly, Ray's would need to be a 'technically engineered' performance - I can only imagine how you would have loved to perform with him live!

Taylor:

You know, it's interesting that you mention that. Of course, of course I'll be interested in doing that, but for the time being I've really got to create a really GOOD first record.

Loni:

I hear that you aren't releasing your album in November as was first announced, correct?

Taylor:

Practically? No. If you look at it, it's just going to be really tough. I'm hoping and pushing for Christmas. I'm pushing as hard as I can to get it out as quickly as possible, but also, to uphold the quality and integrity of my artistry because that's the most important thing.

Loni:

That's so important. Especially given how the "fast food" approach to getting an album out never seems to do the work OR the artist justice.

Taylor:

I'm into 'quality' over 'quantity.' That might not be what the record label wants to hear, but that's what they're going to have to hear.

Loni:

It's totally refreshing to hear an artist who takes that mantra to heart, as I know you do.

You know, it's obvious to anyone who's ever watched you perform that you are thoroughly consumed and moved by music - actually becoming one with the music, perhaps to the point where you might not even realize that you've become this conduit - a lightening rod for the energy of the beat, flowing from you in the form of dance move which perplex some and thrill others, but which ultimately signify the pure joy and passion that you experience when performing. Now that's 'my' evaluation and observation. What's yours when you watch tape of yourself?

Taylor:

Probably the same thing. I'm just havin' fun, you know? I mean, especially the last year. Finally, in this last year, finally to be able to get to the place you've always wanted to go in your dreams. You know, it's a dream come true for me and I think it makes performing each night just that much more fun!

Loni:

As mentioned in the intro to our little 'fireside chat' we've got going on now, you have a book coming out next Spring called, "Heart Full of Soul." Obviously, it's going to be a collection of your personal 'musings' and life's observations, your journey as an artist and as a person and what inspires you. What else can you tell me about the project that I might not already know? What kind of surprises are in store?

Taylor:

Of COURSE they'll be surprises - ALWAYS - and if I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise!

Loni:

Well can you at least tell me, will you be doing a book signing tour once it's published?

Taylor:

Probably so - yeah. I'm sure they'll want me to do a book signing tour and I'm really excited about that aspect too, because any way that will allow me to talk about the music, you know, I'm up for. Any way that I can be able to let people know that, hey - this has been a 'ten year - decade overnight success story' - and some of the ideas I've had in trying to get here can be applied to not just the music business but to ANY business or ANY thing or ANY life experience.

You know, I'm into helping and I think this will be a good way for people to really find out some interesting things about me that let's say, that some of the 'major news channels' forgot to ask, you know? I think this will be a great insight into the mentality and musicality of where I'm going.

Loni:

Well, as you have probably figured out, everyone has an agenda. Some people want to talk about Idol - others want to talk about the 'Bachelor' thing, and I want to talk about the music. So when you mention these 'news channels' not asking the right questions, exactly what question would you want to ask yourself if YOU were interviewing YOU?

Taylor:

My question would be: explain a little bit more about what you have been doing in some of the years other than... you know? I think the years between like 21 and 25 might be interesting, as opposed to like the 'as a kid, growing up' and now - what's happening in my life now in this past year' aspects. There's a lot of things that are in-between there that haven't really been discussed. So I would ask myself, "What were those years like? What did you learn about the music business?" You know what I mean?

Loni:

Yes, I see where you're coming from. There's a HUGE part of your life lived during those years, and that you didn't just start to exist during the past 6, 12 months. Okay - so now we've identified the questions - so how about an answer to the questions. What have you learned about the music business?

Taylor:

I've learned A LOT!!! You know, putting the band together (The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra, formerly known as the Taylor Hicks band) --- you know, how did you just go from being a guitar player, a singer, a vocalist, to putting a band together that sold some tickets each night? Now that would be a good question too!

Loni:

Well, I'm sure you had a sound in your head when you were putting the band together, hand picking each of them. You knew exactly what you were looking for when you were pulling the guys together.

Taylor:

It took me 10 years to do that.

Loni:

No kidding? Well, you know they've developed quite a following in their own right and you've certainly rallied the troops by your 'call to arms' to get LiMBO heard AND signed.

Taylor:

Right!

Loni:

Well, I know you have to run, but thank you again Taylor for taking the time for this interview. It's been a great conversation and even "I" learned a few new things about you. But before we sign off, one last question. Please finish the following sentence for me with an accurate description of yourself - something you really want the public to take to heart.

Taylor Hicks is: ________________________"

Taylor:

Taylor Hicks is a genuine working musician. What you see is what you get. Luckily this whole experience of supposedly 'quote/en quote' "being plucked from society to go on to musical fame and musical fortune" and all that, you know --- having that happen and having the 10 years of experience hasn't changed me as a person one bit. I'm just very ecstatic from a working musician's aspect that I get to sell more tickets. I've just got to keep working on my craft each day, you know?

(photo courtesy of ME!!!)

Taylor Made Online Sets Standard For Excellence.

Wed, 28 Mar 2007 21:10:00 GMT

Long before ANY of the other fan sites ("official" or otherwise), there was Taylor Made Online. Gypsee (TMO's founder and curator) knew the instant she saw Taylor Hicks perform that THIS was going to be a performer destined to change the face of today's music. She didn't waste a moment in securing her domain and establishing TMO's presence as one of the premiere Taylor Hicks fan sites on the Internet.

Her focus from Day One was to create the most comprehensive and extensive database for Taylor Hicks fans to access any and all visual materials pertaining to the entertainer, as well as to provide a 'fan friendly' home for discussions about Taylor, American Idol and The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra (Taylor's band prior to Idol).

Since his Idol win, Gypsee has interviewed Taylor for TMO and remains in contact with him, as well as with members from The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra. Taylor Made Online is also one of the few fan sites mentioned as part of the Taylor Hicks "Community" on his official web site.

Taylor Made Online has the distinction of being one of the most respected, reliable and sought-out sources for late-breaking Taylor Hicks news and visuals, with Gypsee continuing to be a driving force within the "Soul Patrol."

Recently, I caught up with Gypsee for a brief chat about Taylor, Taylor Made Online and her future plans for the web site:

So Gypsee... according to my research, you launched Taylor Made Online (or at least took out the domain) on February 4, 2006. This was WAY at the beginning of the American Idol competition and WAY before Taylor had even made it to the Top 10. What exactly was the motivation for you to take on such a daunting task of starting a fan web site?

I actually launched TMO on January 11th, but didn't buy the domain until February. The board was launched with the first note that Taylor Hicks ever sang on Idol. As to why? Well, I have been assisting in the running of a few fans sites for Bo Bice since his audition on Season 4. I never thought another Idol could move me, but then in strolled a gray haired, somewhat awkward but lovable guy with a harmonica. I had heard Taylor's independent release, "Under The Radar" prior to his audition and when I learned he was an Idol contestant, I just wanted to help him. I thought to myself, "What a tremendous raw talent!"

Do you remember who your first poster was and what they said?

I don't remember the name of the first poster, but I do remember her excitement at finding a site devoted completely to Taylor.

Exactly how did you get the word out about Taylor Made Online?

I started by putting the word out on 'Idol Forums,' then other members from that area started spreading the news about my site and the rest is history.

How many members do you currently have and how many are active?

We have 3713 members with more joining each day. I'll say that about 1/3rd are active insofar as posting regularly in the forum threads, but almost all read there or visit several times a week. It's nice to be a little smaller site in a way, because you get to know your members faster.

Did you ever think that your site AND the Taylor phenomenon would grow to the point that it has? Did you even imagine still being invested in this artist and in your site over a year later?

I am still in awe of the success of my site and how fast it grew, and am very grateful to the members and my terrific staff for keeping it alive and well. I did imagine being invested in Taylor for a long time to come... he is such an unbelievable entertainer!

What was one of the more interesting, ongoing discussions that has taken place on TMO?

We have a lot of discussion about many things... but the reaction to his recently released "Taylor Hicks" CD was one of the biggest. I have to say, the majority of the discussion was totally favorable. Also, there was a lot of discussion regarding his solo tour that just launched in February. Things like what songs would he perform? Who would be touring with him? Would LiMBO be the opening act? And of course, the largest discussions on the TMO boards and in my chat room had to do with the ever-present "Idol" voting vigil week after week, as our Soul Man worked his way toward winning the Idol crown.

Do you have any plans in the works to grow TMO to even greater heights?

I have added a media server and a special 'tour experience' blog space. We have a live chat room, as I mentioned, which definitely could be used more, and we also support Taylor's former band, LiMBO - so that will add to our growth once they begin to tour.

Not many people know this, but you're also a huge supporter of American Idol Season 4 runner up, Bo Bice. Are you still fairly active in his fan base as well, or is Taylor's career your primary focus now?

I am still active in the two or three fan sites I help run and remain active in his fan base, although not as much since TMO has become more active. I have had the pleasure of meeting Bo several times and know his family and church, and they are a wonderful group of folks. I will always keep Bo close to my heart, but Taylor definitely has a space there as well.

In addition to Taylor's official web site where TMO is listed as being part of his "Community," I see that you're also listed in Taylor's bio on the #1 entertainment database, IMDb. How does all of this validation for TMO and the recognition for all of your hard work feel?

Well, you know, my site isn't about me. It's about Taylor and LiMBO and finding new and exciting ways to help promote and support them. It's good to be recognized for the hard work that I do, and I'm sure all of the other fan site admin's and their staff share that sentiment. That's what it's all about for me - to help this wonderfully talented man any way I can. That's all the thanks I need.

This is a great picture of you and Taylor - what did you chat about when you met him?

LOL!!! Well, I'm sure I chatted his ear off about the most inane things! Fortunately (or maybe unfortunately!) his celebrity did not tongue-tie me. Mostly, I told him how much everyone enjoys watching him perform and how proud we are that he achieved his dream (Oh... and I did nag him about getting his TMO birthday present from Brian Less... but hey! A little nagging never hurts - my mom taught me that!). I think the most fun was interviewing him by phone when he called for that purpose. We chatted like two casual friends, but he was careful and thorough in his answers and, as expected, he was totally charming!

How many pictures and videos of Taylor do you think you have on TMO?

How many hours, days and weeks do I have to count them? I couldn't even begin to guess! I have listed every moment and step of the way from audition to finale in pictures and videos, and from that point on, the AI tour, the media blitz - and now, his solo tour. It's mind boggling to even think how much media I have archived, but I hope fans are enjoying it all. The fans are so wonderful about sharing and bringing media to our site. Everyone contributes and that's way cool!

What's the best compliment you've been paid so far?

Gosh, that's a hard one to answer - but I think when I go to the concerts and meet people, and once they recognize me, the hugs and sisterhood (and brotherhood too!) that is exchanged is the best compliment of all. Also, the fact that Taylor himself listed TMO on his official site, recognizing our hard work and making it known in this way, and in interviews, that TMO is a site that he supports and visits. That blows my mind!

Finally... In your opinion, what types of things should Taylor's fans do to most effectively support him?

BUY CONCERT TICKETS!!! Go see him live and tell others about the amazing show he puts on. Write recaps of the shows they've attended - that generates more excitement and helps to convince people to go and see him live. For Taylor, by his own words, it's about *LIVE* music. He is a LIVE entertainer, so supporting live music, to me, would be the biggest help of all.

Today's News is Tomorrow's Birdcage Liner!

Sun, 04 Mar 2007 02:10:00 GMT

Uh oh!!! There's lamenting and hand-wringing among Taylor's "Soul Patrol" over the recent dissing from Idol's 'judge America loves to hate,' Simon Cowell (and justifiably so!!!). Quote:

"They (Paula Abdul and Randy Jackson) loved him. I couldn't stand him. I didn't get it. At the end of the day you have to find a bona fide recording artist. Just because you win the show doesn't mean you will sell a lot of records. Chris (Daughtry) is the one who sold the albums, not Taylor."

For those not familiar, here's your class in "Simon Cowell 101..."

Interestingly enough... Simon has an amazing track record (in the U.K.!). Starting out in a meager position in the 1970's with BMG U.K., he has gone on to become a highly respected music producer AND executive (in the U.K.!). With the promising 2001 debut of "U.K. Pop Idol," Cowell, with Simon Fuller decided to bring"Idol" to the U.S. Up until that point, Cowell's successes were limited to European discoveries such as the boy band "Westlife," the pop duo "Robson and Jerome" (no longer together, Robson Green and Jerome Flynn pursue independent projects) and the more recently assembled Cowell boy band discovery, Il Divo. Once again, "... in the U.K.!"

A quick listen and a glance of their pics is all it takes to understand the look and sound that appeals to Cowell: generic --- robotic --- cookie cutter --- sterile --- and devoid of excitement or charisma.

Cowell openly admits to not understanding the appeal of Taylor - I'm sure likewise, Taylor has trouble understanding England's stuffy Brit.

But where the two truly differ is that Taylor has not bitten the hand that fed him and has continued to take the high road under a firestorm of negativity, continued his support of American Idol and has avoided conversations which seek to provoke negative comments about the Idol property (unlike Cowell, who continues to bite the hand that delivered Idol its highest ratings and largest number of votes to date!).

Will Simon change? Probably not. Will Taylor change? Heavens NO! Will Cowell's comments impact Taylor's long term success? Absolutely not. This self proclaimed "working musician" has achieved success way beyond his wildest dreams and his star will continue to rise after most other Idol contestants have been long forgotten. Slow and steady wins the race!!!

Yes, the Soul Patrol is angry and frustrated over Simon's comments, but as the saying goes: "Today's News is Tomorrow's Birdcage Liner." I doubt Taylor has lost any sleep over anything Simon has ever said or done and the SP shouldn't either (just keep in mind Simon's U.S. contestant track record --- ZERO!).

Cheers...