Andrew Craneman – The Rock And Roll Almanac

Andrew Craneman is a musician and devoted student of rock and roll history, and you can see this passion poured into this wonderfully insightful book.

Fastidiously researched, The Rock And Roll Almanac is a comprehensive guide to musical history for the music completist in your life. It serves both as a reference and a joyous celebration of the musical moments and artists that have defined musical culture over the past 70 years.

“The ultimate coffee table book for people obsessed with music and the stories it creates.”

Each entry in the book provides a record of a significant moment that happened on that day in history, whether a groundbreaking album release, an iconic single or a pivotal moment in the career of an artist.

The best albums and singles released on each day are celebrated and profiled, providing a deliciously serendipitous way to discover new artists and become re-acquainted with those you may have forgotten.

On this day (23rd May) in rock history

• In 1977, a new law in San Francisco banned amplified rock and roll in public places
• In 1995, The Rembrandts released their now iconic single “I’ll Be There For You,” made famous by Friends.
• It’s Philip Selway’s birthday (drummer from Radiohead)
• In 2000, The Smashing Pumpkins announced their impending breakup with Billy Corgan declaring that they’re tired of “fighting the good fight against the Britneys of the world.”

Get your copy of The Rock And Roll Almanac by Andrew Craneman now on Amazon.

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• The Top 5 Punk Rock Guitarists
• The Musician’s Census 2024:It’s Becoming Harder To Be An Independent Artist
• Next Wave. Five Essential New Indie Rock Bands
• Five New Female Fronted Rock Bands You Need To Hear

The post My Favourite New Book: The Rock And Roll Almanac appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

The Long and Winding Road

Rock and roll took a long, winding road to emerge and ultimately thrive in the Czech Republic.  The first hints of Western music, defined as what someone in the Czech Republic would consider popular, rock and roll-spirited US/UK songs with “beat” rhythms and English vocals, were first transmitted into Bohemia on July 4, 1943, via a faint, barely audible signal from Armed Forces Radio, an American station broadcasting from London to the Allied forces during World War II.

Later, Radio Luxembourg, transmitting for American GI’s serving in Germany, was an illicit but alluring signal for those living in Western Bohemia who sought out non-propaganda music and news.  These broadcasts were often the first exposure to not only Western music but also the English language for many Czechs.  Thereafter, Radio Free Europe, an American-funded, Munich-based signal that was intended to send information banned by communist governments, was more easily accessed in Bohemia (Radio Free Europe has been headquartered in Prague since 1995).

The Battle for Czech Radio

The infamous Battle for Czech Radio occurred during German wartime occupation when Czech resistance forces took over the airwaves and encouraged citizens to take action during the Prague Uprising at the end of World War II.  Czech Radio was nationalized in 1948 on behalf of the state’s communist party, and executives actively engaged in jamming Radio Free Europe to prevent non-propaganda information from coming into Bohemia in the 1950s.  In the 1960s, in characteristically technologically-innovative Czech fashion, Czech Radio began broadcasting an early FM-dial signal via the 60-MHz bandwidth.  Its organizational model of commissioning permanent foreign correspondents was groundbreaking.

No Western music existed on the airwaves in Bohemia during its origination and rise in the mid-to-late 1950s, but by 1960, radio stations across Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium were playing American rock and roll.  At the same time, the BBC rose to prominence as a leading Western political voice that was some of the only non-propaganda information available to those in East Germany and behind the iron curtain.  However, the BBC was usually too distant for Czechs to hear clearly.  Common Western music acts during that era included Little Richard, Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Buddy Holly, as well as the Saturday Skiffle Club starting in ‘57.

Pete Seeger and the Birth of Bluegrass

The allure of forbidden Western music in Bohemia began to grow, and the pent-up curiosity translated to real consumer demand for American acts.  In 1964, American folk singer Pete Seeger played shows across the country but was only allowed to tour because a Czech friend he met in the US was able to convince the authorities that his populism-centred lyrics and everyman vibe was a protest against the American system of government and thus was not ideologically subversive.  His 5-stringed banjo was unfamiliar to Czechs, and he recorded a live double album of folksy bluegrass in Prague, inspiring generations of Czech musicians.  His tour was so successful and impactful that it is often credited with single-handedly launching a bluegrass craze that still exists today.

The success of Seeger’s tour prompted more thereafter.  American jazz legend Louis Armstrong successfully toured the region, and later the Beach Boys did as well.  As these Western acts found success, the English language and all its allure became sought after by young Czechs, who wanted to know the meaning of the lyrics; of course, the print on the bootleg albums was also in English.  As such, consumer demand for Western acts aligned with the Czechs’ willingness to learn English.  During this era, Czech-language lyrics would often be added to the instrumentation on the catchy tunes, and eventually Czech artists just performed covers of the real versions, with audiences quickly understanding the English lyrics performed by the Czech bands.

The Prague Spring

During the Prague Spring of 1968, amidst citizen protests for political liberalization, underground Beatles and other Western music gained a foothold into the Czech Republic’s music scene, ultimately spawning consumer demand for records that were illegally smuggled in.  The USSR responded by further suppressing media during the uprising via the Warsaw Pact invasion, when they more fully took over Czech radio and other smaller stations in attempts to exert tighter control over government and everyday life.  Although the USSR crushed the Prague Spring, Czech youth witnessed an inspired movement to loosen the strict state-run control of freedom with the goal of opening up media including the ability to buy Western music through underground means during the ‘70s, prompting a roadmap of rebellion that would eventually manifest itself.

Black Market Music and Lennonova Zed

The desire to access Western music has always been buoyed by Czech youth, who galvanized efforts to form black markets as a means of obtaining it.  The Forest of Krč, a park near Prague’s city centre, was a meeting spot for bazaars, where vendors illicitly sold Western music records.  In addition, St. Wenceslas Square was a common area where records were sold after being imported to the Port of Hamburg in Western Germany and smuggled into the country by road.

There is no more appropriate structure in all of central and eastern Europe to symbolize the impact of Western music than “Lennonova Zed”, the John Lennon Wall, only a few hundred meters away from the 14^th-century Charles Bridge.  After he died in 1980, local youths began painting the wall with Lennon-inspired artistry and Beatles lyrics.  It soon became a major irritant to the communist regime, particularly due to the spirit of revolution Lennon espoused during his life.

The Czechs who were honouring Lennon (and not Russia’s “Lenin”, to the annoyance of the regime) soon became a symbol of freedom and advocated for revolution, free speech and expression, and self-rule while at the same time seeking interpretation and knowledge through the same English language as Lennon’s.  Unclassified KGB documents indicate that the vigils for Lennon and the reverence shown towards him were interpreted as underground protests against the ruling establishment of Eastern Europe.  During this time, the Russian language was compulsory as a second language and any use of English was still seen as suspect to the regime and often repressed.  As such, the obligatory study of Russian naturally made the English language that much more appealing to those who were attracted to the revolutionary spirit of Western music.

The Sinatra of The East

In lieu of full access to Western music, many popular Czech musicians were permitted by the state to ply their trade in the ‘60s through the ‘80s, including Karel Gott, labelled “The Sinatra of the East”, one of the most popular Czech musicians, as well as pop artist Helena Vondráčková.  These artists were considered “safe” and not subversive.  As the ‘80s progressed, the inability to legally buy Western music continued to frustrate young Czechs during a time in which technological advances such as the transition from records to cassette tapes were facilitated by Western record labels, which the Czechs youths would have loved considering their techy nature.  Popular literature has pointed to consumer demand for cassette tapes of Western music as facilitating the fall of the Iron Curtain, as cassettes were much easier and cheaper to smuggle than the larger, more fragile vinyl records.

It’s Groovy!

However, while much literature has pointed to Western music’s role and influence in subverting the political order and advancing the collapse of the USSR, the English language did not become a preferred second language in Russia and many of the USSR’s former satellite countries.  Nevertheless, common English phrases and slang like “groovy” that were affiliated with the same Western music sought in the Czech Republic did permeate society as young Czechs associated Western music and English vernacular with being cool.  It is nearly impossible to quantify the direct correlation of cassette tapes of Western music and more specifically Beatles lyrics to the usage of the English language in the Czech Republic, but they are intrinsically intertwined in history.

The Velvet Revolution

Upon the fall of the Iron Curtain and the coinciding Velvet Revolution in 1989, some Czech singers who were prohibited by the state for being agents of Western propaganda or were deemed to be subversive for varied reasons were exonerated and allowed to tour.  For example, Marta Kubišová’s “subversive” music made her a symbol of national resistance after her 1968 song, “Prayer for Martha” was deemed to represent political resistance during the Prague Spring, and her records were subsequently banned.

The government even went so far as to create propaganda against her to rationalize prohibiting her from performing from 1970-1989.  The Plastic People of the Universe was a Czech band considered to be at the forefront of the underground movement.  They formed about a month after the Prague Spring and were inspired by the Velvet Underground, a subversive, counter-culture American act of the late ‘60s.  They endured state harassment and arrests, but during the Velvet Revolution and the transition of power, the floodgates finally opened for the legal buying and selling of recordings by these artists as well as Western acts.

The first Czech Republic president under capitalism and democracy, Václav Havel, was a big fan of the Plastic People of the Universe as well as the Velvet Underground.  His favourite band was the Rolling Stones, and he even asked American artist Frank Zappa to be the first Czech Minister of Culture.

The Pandemic and The Arts

The pandemic was a strong reminder of how a global phenomenon from outside of the Czech Republic’s borders can negatively affect the free flow of the Czech economy.  While the pandemic hurt the creative arts communities globally, it especially hurt the Czech Republic’s economic sectors associated with performing arts.  One study conducted immediately after the pandemic began noted that the cultural sector and more specifically local musicians were the most negatively impacted by the lockdowns (Brno News, 2020).  Another confirmed that performing artists in the Czech Republic were strongly negatively impacted (Grosman et al., 2022) with another key study noting that the “most sector impacted is music, with 46% loss of regular income in the first two months of the pandemic” (Salvador et al., 2021, p. 8).  The disruptions in Czech supply chains brought on by the pandemic prompted many bottlenecks, but COVID’s effect was peanuts compared to Cold War-era political restrictions, when border crossings including rail were strictly controlled.  A typical modern student perceives massive global trade barriers as something from a surreal dystopia, which is why curriculum based on free trade is paramount.

Live Music

Live music in Prague is easily accessible because of the city’s public transportation system, and musicians are likely to add Prague to their world tours due to the ease of travel from neighbouring cities and regions with high populations.  Larger venues in Prague include the Dvořák Concert Hall, Forum Karlin, and the O2 Arena.  The O2 Arena in particular hosts a range of major Western music acts in 2024 including Rod Stewart, Travis Scott, the Smashing Pumpkins, and John Mayer and even hosted Black Sabbath’s last performance in the Czech Republic in 2016.  Although the music and clothing are indistinguishable from those at American concerts, the food available at these venues tends to be very Czech.  For example, klobása is a type of grilled sausage served with mustard and bread.

Rebellious genres of Western music such as heavy metal, punk rock, hip-hop, etc. continue to be popular.  Smaller venues often have no problem selling out for shows.  One such location, The Vagon, which commonly hosts Western music acts, is just a few minutes from St. Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) in the city centre via the 3, 9, or 32 trams to the Národní třída stop.  Across the street are other small, thriving live music venues including the jazz club Reduta and Rock Café.  The schedule of upcoming live acts is called the calendar in the US, but it is called the “program” in central Europe.

The Vagon hosts bands and artists who play Western music styles such as Czech punk band Znouzectnost, who emerged in the underground during the ‘80s.  Their sound is reminiscent of similar 3-piece Western music standard bearers such as Cream and the Police, and they seem to be heavily influenced by The Clash.

The Decline of The Russian Language

After the fall of the Iron Curtain, there was an expected backlash towards the Russian language, and it is not generally in use in academics or public discourse today.  Only 12% of 35-49-year-old Czechs can speak Russian at a basic level, down from 31% just six years ago, while 37% of 50-59 year-old Czechs and 39% of 60-69 year-old Czechs are able to speak Russian.  By contrast, 45% Czechs speak some English and that increases for those living in Prague.  Among 18-24 year-old Czechs, 89% speak English, while only about a third of 50-59-year-olds and 19% of 60-69-year-olds speak English (however, that is up from 14% within the 60-69 age category from eight years prior).  As these trends show, the Russian language is disappearing and the English language is becoming more and more common.

Modern Music Genres

Modern musical genres such as electronic music flourish in the Czech Republic, as well as more traditional styles such as jazz, classical, and the Czech version of folk, inspired by Pete Seeger, which commonly includes Bohemian bagpipes, violin/fiddle, and accordion.  Music festivals such as the Masters of Rock thrive, and Radio City 93.7 is a popular online radio station.  Czech Radio became an independently-run station in 1991, and it now runs numerous regional stations and digital streaming channels serving different musical genres.

Cultural and Creative Champions

Today, the Czech economy continues to be stronger than most on the continent.  Consumer freedoms have long been a barometer of the health of the region, and today, a larger share of the economy is driven by creative industries and makes more from the arts than in neighbouring countries.  With the Czech Music Community and the Ministry of Culture as institutional advocates, total public cultural expenditure per sector in music nearly doubled between 2015 and 2020.

The Czech Republic continues to be in the top third of European countries in “Cultural and Creative Sectors” value-added by country, one of the top four countries in Europe for self-employed cultural/creative employment, and the third-highest ranked on the continent for performing arts share as a percentage of the economy.  Certainly, the ability to buy and sell as well as perform in English is critical to the Czech Republic’s regional and international economic success.  Western music continues to be an integral engine of the region, where its seamless access today facilitates both economic development and intercultural interactions in a booming, English-centric economy.  What would have happened to the English language in the Czech Republic and throughout Bohemia if Western music never existed?

About author James Tanoos

James Tanoos, Ph.D., is a Clinical Associate Professor at Purdue University.  He has worked in various roles in higher education for more than 20 years, earning his Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, his Master’s degree from Indiana University, and his Doctorate from Purdue University.

He has published articles in more than forty-two international journals and has presented academic work at more than twenty-seven international academic conferences on a range of disciplines including international economics, supply chain management, educational pedagogy, operations management, and industrial technology, including the invited keynote presentation at five international conferences.

Lead Photo Credit. James Tanoos. Students from Purdue University visit The Lennon Wall.

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• Music Census. Understanding Independent Artists In 2024
• Musicians. Check Your Spotify Popularity Index For Free
• Social Media. How To Create Content People Want To Watch
• AI Music Blocker. Major Labl Artist Club Fights Back to Protect Artists

The post The Geopolitical Impact of Western Music on Capitalism and Language in The Czech Republic appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Casio Sessions 2024

Building on the success of last year, Casio is excited to raise the bar even higher, giving a new group of talented individuals the chance to showcase their musical abilities for the chance to win an incredible prize; a Casio PX-S7000 piano, worth £2,249 plus an exclusive mastering studio session for their winning song, with the song then pressed to a limited run of vinyl records – courtesy of competition partner and physical music manufacturer Breed Media.

Casio is inviting piano-playing, singer-songwriters from around the UK to enter online by submitting a video of themselves playing an original composition – covers will not be considered. Twelve entrants will then be handpicked to compete in a live final at the stylish Ninety One Living Room jazz bar in Brick Lane, London, on Wednesday 4th September 2024. 

Finalists will perform in front of a live audience and panel of judges on Casio’s award-winning PX-S7000 in the stunning Harmonious Mustard finish, the same type of piano the winner will take home. Performances will be judged on various criteria including stage presence and writing, singing and playing ability.

Last year judges were so blown away by the calibre of original performances that they decided to award the top prize to two finalists – with the multi-talented May Payne and Stefan Mahendra both taking home a PX-S7000 piano.

Performing to a packed-out Ninety One, May captivated the audience with her beautifully raw and deeply personal original piece, I Hate It When You Touch Me while Stefan’s soulful performance of his song Orbit showcased his technical ability with his deep and warm voice. Since winning the competition last year, both May and Stefan have gone on to release EPs and played shows around the UK. 

Casio PX-S7000

The winner will also take home one of Casio’s multiple award-winning PX-S7000, the flagship model from Casio’s premium Privia series. With a high specification, including a newly developed hybrid wooden hammer keyboard and a beautiful contemporary look, it’s a popular choice among pianists and jazz musicians alike. The ability to directly plug in a microphone and use the on-board vocal effects makes this the ideal performance instrument. This stylish instrument has graced the stage at Ninety-One Living Room as the house piano for the past year, enchanting the audience through performances by esteemed artists like David Mrakpor.

Enter the Casio Sessions now

Visit the Casio website and apply here

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• Musicians Win Cash & Keys With Casio Sessions
• The Daydream Club Bring The Optimism On Free + Easy
• A J Pickering From The Daydream Club Debuts Stunning Solo Work una
• The Piano. Musical Evolution

Words Mark Knight

The post Win With The Casio Sessions & Breed Music appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

We are delighted to announce BBC Radio’s Honor Morrison has joined the Right Chord Music team to help discover more incredible new music.

Introducing Honor Morrison

Honor Morrison – Good Vibes Only

Glastonbury and Reading Festival

BBC Radio

Honor Morrison Joins Right Chord Music

The post BBC Radio’s Honor Morrison Joins Right Chord Music appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Electronic drum kits are a game-changer, especially if you’re just starting out. Forget about needing a huge space or making too much noise. These kits are compact, quiet (when you need them to be), and super versatile. It’s like having a whole drum set in your living room, without the hassle. 

In this article, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to get started. So, if you’ve got a passion for grooves and a bit of curiosity, you’re all set. Let’s make some noise, the neighbour-friendly kind, of course!

How to start playing drums with an electronic drum kit

1. Choosing Your Electronic Drum Kit

Choosing the right electronic drum kit is a crucial first step. It’s essential to think about your specific needs. Are you looking for something that fits in a tight space, or do you have room for something larger? 

The variety of sounds and features available can be overwhelming, so it’s important to prioritize what’s most important for you. Then, dive into some research. Look at different brands and models, but keep your budget in mind. Remember, though, that investing a bit more can often get you a kit that lasts longer and sounds better. If you can, try out different kits. 

Feeling the response of the pads and pedals and finding what’s comfortable for you is key to your enjoyment and progress.

 2. Setting Up Your Kit

Once you’ve got your kit, finding the right place in your home to set it up is your next task. You need enough room to sit comfortably and move around a bit. 

When assembling the kit, follow the instructions carefully and take the time to adjust the height and angles of the pads and cymbals. This customization will make playing more comfortable and enjoyable, fitting the kit to your personal style and physique.

3. Getting Started with Basic Beats

Getting to know your drum kit intimately is where the fun begins. Spend some time understanding what each part of your kit does. Start your drumming journey with simple rhythms. Focus on keeping a steady beat and tempo. 

There are plenty of online tutorials and drumming apps available that can guide you through these initial steps. This foundational practice is vital for developing your skills.

4. Practice Techniques

Consistent practice is the key to improvement. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes a day to start. One critical aspect to focus on is your timing. 

Playing along with a metronome or backing tracks can help develop a strong sense of rhythm and timing. This discipline will pay off as you advance in your drumming.

5. Amplifying Your Sound

When it comes to practising quietly, headphones are your best friend. They allow you to hear the full range and nuance of your electronic drum kit without disturbing others. 

But when you’re ready to share your music, connecting your kit to speakers is the way to go. Make sure the speakers are compatible with your drum kit for the best sound quality. This setup is perfect for performances or just jamming with friends.

6. Exploring and Experimenting

One of the great things about electronic drum kits is the variety of sounds you can explore. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different drum types and effects. 

Many kits also allow you to record your playing. Listening back to your sessions is incredibly valuable for identifying areas for improvement and tracking your progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you learn to play drums on an electronic drum kit?

A: Absolutely! Electronic drum kits are an excellent tool for learning to play the drums. They offer a realistic experience that closely mimics playing an acoustic drum set. 

The major advantage is the ability to practice at lower volumes, thanks to headphone compatibility, making them ideal for home use. They also often come with built-in learning tools and metronomes, which can be incredibly helpful for beginners.

Q: Are electronic drum kits good for beginners?

A: Yes, electronic drum kits are particularly well-suited for beginners. They’re less intimidating than acoustic sets and offer a range of features that aid learning. 

The volume control, for example, is a big plus, allowing practice at any time without disturbing others. Additionally, the variety of sounds and settings available can make practising more engaging and fun for a beginner, keeping the learning process interesting and varied.

Q: Can you use regular drumsticks on electronic drums?

A: Definitely. You can use regular drumsticks on electronic drums without any issues. In fact, it’s recommended to use the same sticks that you would use on an acoustic drum set to maintain a consistent feel. 

However, some drummers opt for sticks with nylon tips for a slightly different response and to potentially reduce wear on the drum pads. But overall, your regular wooden drumsticks will work just fine.

Conclusion 

Embarking on the journey of learning to play the drums can be an exhilarating experience, and choosing an electronic drum kit as your starting point is a wise and practical decision. These kits offer a blend of versatility, convenience, and technological innovation, making them a fantastic choice for beginners.

As you start practising, remember that consistency and patience are your best allies. Even a few minutes a day can lead to noticeable improvements.

Electronic drum kits are not just beginner-friendly; they are instruments that can grow with you as you advance in your skills. Their ability to accommodate silent practice, coupled with the fun of experimenting with different sounds and settings, makes them a continuously rewarding musical investment.

So, whether you’re practising late into the night with headphones on or rocking out with speakers, the world of electronic drumming is full of possibilities.

About the author Diego Cardini

Crazy about drums, the founder of thedrumninja.com has carried a passion for drumming since the age of 12. Having played in numerous bands, He navigated through various musical styles including Rock, Progressive, Pop, and Jazz-Rock. Diego started the platform to share his knowledge and create a comprehensive resource for drummers of all levels.

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• Soundcore Liberty 3 Pro  The Best Wireless Earbuds In 2024
• Indie Artists Save On Rehearsal Space With Sanctuary Studios
• Music Marketing vs Music Promotion Avoid These Three Mistakes
• Independent Artist? Here Are 6 Ways To Effectively Promote Music In 2024

The post Learn How To Start Playing Drums With An Electronic Drum Kit appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

The post Right Chord Music Privacy Policy appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Discover our 10 female alternatives to Taylor Swift

1. Clare Siobhan

Clare Siobhan is a genre-bending East Coast artist with a voice beyond her years. As an independent artist, she self-produces and releases her music. Her deeply personal and introspective lyrics cover love and loss, hope and fear.  Her debut EP Seek The Sun is a wonderful collective of folk-pop songs that enthrall from start to finish.

Follow on Instagram 

2. Izzy Potter

As a previous Right Chord Music ‘First Signs of Love Love‘ featured artist we had to include Izzy Potter on this list. This Nashville-based singer-songwriter writes Americana-infused folk about life, love and friendship. Have you heard juniper yet?!

Follow on Instagram 

3. Darcy Fox

We first featured Darcy Fox on the RCM Blog back in June for her single Stone In My Shoe. This Melbourne-based singer-songwriter has since released her debut album Cameron Street an ode to queer love, friendship and finding your place. Each of the nine songs was written in her immortalised inner suburbs share-house.

“In a society that makes us wish our skin could be thicker, Darcy Fox’s ‘Stone In My Shoe’ proves that there is strength in vulnerability.”

Follow on Instagram 

4. MÆHEM

MÆHEM is the project of London-based artist Miriam. Already involved in the fashion scene, she’s stepping into music, having released her debut single earlier this year. MEAN2U is a proper ear-worm.

Follow on Instagram 

5. Maïa Davies

Maïa Davies is a bilingual producer, songwriter and artist from Montreal, Canada. Having written for others she is now writing for herself. Check out her singles on Spotify including the powerful and poignant Stockholm which tackles the subject of abusive relationships, it flawed us!

Follow on Instagram 

6. Maia

Emerging UK artist Maia first came to our attention with her single ‘Do’ a poignant and emotionally charged track that showcased her immense talent as a songwriter and vocalist. She has since released three more singles and we expect to see her star continue to rise in 2024.

Follow on Instagram 

7. Wila Frank

Wila Frank, a 24-year-old Nashville-based songwriter, grew up in a bohemian rural community near the Oregon coast, surrounded by a passion for classical and folk music. At the young age of four, she began her musical journey by learning the violin and soon added piano, mandolin, cello, and guitar to her repertoire. Despite being deeply rooted in the world of folk music and the violin, Frank’s creative endeavours in songwriting led her to explore new emotions and musical styles. Her Ghosts & Guitars EP caught our attention and she has now released her debut full-length album Black Cloud. With 8 releases in 2023 alone, Wila Frank is a prolific producer of brilliant music.

Follow on Instagram 

8. Harri Pick

Born in Somerset and now based in London Harri Pick has built a loyal and dedicated fan base with her confessional, honest lyrics and DIY attitude typified by ‘Broke’ that talks about the realities of London life. We’ve featured Harri Pick on the RCM twice this year and we expect to be hearing more from her in 2024.

Follow on Instagram 

9. t.e.d

t.e.d is the moniker of South African-born Tanya Sholto-Douglas. She first wowed us with her single ‘Let Me Be’. t.e.d has been a singer her entire life but officially started her music career at eighteen. Now twenty-five, she is studying popular music at the University of Gloucestershire. She’s a skilled pianist, guitarist and vocalist.

Follow on Instagram 

10 Esme Bridie

Esme Bridie’s debut EP explores womanhood, detailing the highs and lows of the female experience. The Liverpool-based artist is all about speaking her mind. Esme’s vocals are entrancing and captivating. 

Follow on Instagram 

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• Music Marketing vs Music Promotion Avoid These Three Mistakes
• Love Radiohead? Here Are 6 Other Bands & Artists You Need To Hear
• Five New Female Fronted Rock Bands You Need To Hear
• First Signs of Love No 222 wht.rbbt.obj

Words Mark Knight

The post 10 Taylor Swift Alternatives For Your Next Playlist appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

What the Phonk?

Did you know Google searches for Phonk, this hybrid new genre have increased by +9600% in the last 12 months, and Phonk content has been viewed a staggering 11m times in the last 7 days on TikTok (31bn times overall).

Phonk is capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide. With its distinctive blend of hip-hop, electronic, and lo-fi elements, Phonk is redefining the boundaries of modern music production and resonating with a growing community of dedicated followers. Let’s delve into the origins, characteristics, and notable artists of this captivating musical phenomenon.

Origin story

Originating in the southern regions of the United States, particularly in Memphis, Tennessee, during the 1990s, Phonk emerged as a subgenre of hip-hop that incorporated chopped and screwed techniques, low-fidelity sampling, and haunting, atmospheric beats. Drawing inspiration from the sounds of the underground rap scene, DJ Screw, Three 6 Mafia, and Memphis rap culture, Phonk embodies a unique fusion of vintage nostalgia and contemporary urban energy.

Characterized by its raw, gritty aesthetic, Phonk often features slowed-down, chopped-up samples from classic R&B, soul, and funk tracks, layered over aggressive drum patterns and ominous synth melodies. The deliberate distortion and manipulation of these samples contribute to the genre’s signature dark and hypnotic vibe, immersing listeners in an immersive sonic experience that is both nostalgic and futuristic.

What sets Phonk apart is its ability to seamlessly blend the traditional sounds of hip-hop with elements of electronic music, creating a captivating sonic landscape that appeals to a diverse audience. This fusion of genres has paved the way for a new wave of experimental artists to push the boundaries of conventional music production, sparking a wave of creativity and innovation within the Phonk community.

Phonk artists

Several independent artists have made significant contributions to the evolution and popularization of Phonk, showcasing their unique approach to the genre and carving out their distinctive soundscapes. Among these trailblazers is DJ Smokey, whose influential work has been pivotal in shaping the core elements of Phonk, infusing it with his signature hazy and atmospheric style. Another noteworthy artist is Soudiere, renowned for his skillful manipulation of samples and intricate drum arrangements, which have garnered him a dedicated following within the Phonk scene.

Furthermore, the experimental compositions of artists like SpaceGhostPurrp and Bones have played a crucial role in bridging the gap between Phonk and the broader hip-hop and electronic music communities, fostering a cross-pollination of creative ideas and inspirations.

As Phonk continues to gain momentum and recognition within the music industry, it has solidified its position as a prominent and influential genre that is here to stay. Its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of contemporary music production has made it a favorite among both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With its captivating blend of hypnotic rhythms, haunting melodies, and unapologetic energy, Phonk is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the ever-expanding universe of modern music.

In conclusion, Phonk represents an exciting convergence of musical influences, fusing the timeless sounds of the past with the innovative techniques of the present. Its roots in the underground rap scene, combined with its experimental approach to production, have paved the way for a diverse range of artists to leave their mark on the genre.

Embrace the dark, atmospheric allure of Phonk, and allow yourself to be transported into a world where nostalgia meets innovation, and the possibilities are limitless.

Discover more on Right Chord Music

• Music Marketing vs Music Promotion Avoid These Three Mistakes
• KRANKK Join Forces With PORCELAIN For The Sublime Free
• Free Music Marketing Training For Independent Artists
• Independent Artist? Discover 3 Secrets of Social Media Success

Words Mark Knight

The post What Da Phonk! Introducing The Hot New Music Genre appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

About Casio Sessions

Casio Music UK, one of the world’s most renowned producers of electronic keyboards and digital pianos, has announced a brand new competition – in partnership with Loop Music – aimed at piano-playing artists called ‘Casio Sessions.’

Win Cash & Casio

The competition will take place on Thursday 21st September 2023 at Casio’s G-SHOCK store in Carnaby Street, London, with one lucky musician chosen to win one of Casio’s multiple award-winning PX-S7000 digital pianos worth £2,249 and £500 cash.

Singer-songwriters who play piano across the UK are invited by Casio and Loop Music to enter online by submitting a video audition of themselves playing an original composition – covers will not be considered.

Twelve musicians will be selected to take part in the live final of the competition that will take place in London. Finalists will perform on Casio’s flagship model from its Privia Series – the PX-S7000.

The Casio PX-S7000

The multiple award-winning PX-S7000 sets a new standard in digital pianos. It includes a newly developed hybrid wooden hammer keyboard and a contemporary look. The ability to directly plug in a microphone and make use of the onboard vocal effects makes this the ideal performance instrument for up-and-coming singer-songwriters.

Meet The Judges

The finalists will be judged by Neil Evans and Dan Henry of Casio Music UK and Mohamed A Sawyer and Emmanuel Tchombe of Loop Music. Musicians will be scored on various criteria including stage performance and presence. The lucky winner will take home a PX-S7000 as well as £500 cash. All twelve live finalists will receive content captured from the Casio Sessions event, including professional photography and videography of their performances.

Neil Evans, Head of Casio Music UK, said…

“We’re excited to kick off Casio Sessions – a competition dedicated to aspiring piano-playing songwriters across the country. Alongside Loop Music and its community of musicians and creatives, we hope to shine a spotlight on up-and-coming UK-based talent. Casio has always been proud to support music making and its benefits across all genres and ages. We can’t wait to discover new talent and see how the competition unfolds.”

Entries Open

Entries are open now until midnight 30th of August, with twelve finalists selected on 4th of September. To enter submit a video audition and complete a simple form via the Casio website. All ages and musical styles are welcome. The full terms and conditions, including full scoring criteria, can be found here.

Discover more on RCM

• The A-Z Music Glossary For Independent Musicians In 2023
• Former Holloways Frontman Launches Fledgling Tunes To Support Indie Artists
• Lounges TV & Pirate Studios Offer Free Content Creation To Young Musicians
• Free Music Marketing Training For Independent Artists

The post Musicians Win Cash & Keys With Casio Sessions appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.

Boys Get Sad Too

“Sometimes it feels like you’re alone. Boys Get Sad Too is here to show you that you’re not.”

Discover more from Boys Get Sad Too

• Website
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Facebook

Discover more on RCM

• Pook Hustle Shows His Vulnerabilities On Mental Health
• LT Explores The Mental Health Rollercoaster On New Single
• Free Music Marketing Training For Independent Artists
• Independent Artist? Learn The Secrets of Social Media Success

Words Mark Knight

The post ‘Boys Get Sad Too’ Fashion Inspiring Conversation appeared first on Right Chord Music Blog.