Video Voyageur: 3Q’s with Connie Lansberg

Connie Lansberg has created a world where jazz meets storytelling, and energy healing finds its voice through music. She’s the creator of Transformational Entertainment™, a genre that’s as intriguing as it sounds. 

An accomplished jazz artist, songwriter, and author, Connie’s work is a harmonious blend of wellness and artistry, wrapped up in songs that resonate on multiple levels. And she is one of the most streamed Jazz artists in her home country – Australia.

With a career that spans multiple albums and even a novel, Connie has become a fixture in the Australian jazz scene. Known for her poetic lyrics and elegantly expressive melodies, Connie Lansberg has a knack for capturing the complexities of human emotion in 4-minute musical soliloquies. Today, we delve into the creative process and inspiration behind her latest video, exploring how it adds yet another layer to her already rich tapestry of work.

1. Tell us the story of “Deep End of Love”; why did you choose to visualize it specifically in this way?

“Deep End of Love” with all its gravitas in the music is a little tongue-in-cheek look at the games we play in the name of love and how refreshing it would be to just take the leap without our baggage, our wounds, and our pain. I have a live video of this song, but it seemed too safe. My music is not safe because it isn’t because it is always its own thing and not readily easy to place in a genre. So I searched and found a great lyric video creator and sent him as many images as I could because, at that time, I didn’t know he could draw and I wanted to suggest a certain darkness.

2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

The song asks the question, do you think it’s possible to give your heart to another fully without fear? So the heroine had to represent the question. I wanted to see her grapple with it and then triumph.

3. What was the process of making this video? (and anything else you want to tell us?) 

When I choose another creator to work with I always let them show me what they’ve got first, without too much direction after the initial brief. However, when I realised, most jazz-based songs don’t have lyric videos because of all the improv, and “Deep End of Love” has two improv sections, middle and end of the song, I knew I had to jump in a little more than normal. I pushed this guy to his limit! We crafted the two improv sections and I asked him to draw and then animate this woman and I was thrilled with the results. She has such a strong nobble face, not like the prettiness you see in Western world women. I do have a confession in that I did recut the video to get that impact at the end, but I think I got the very best out of this guy. He’s done a few more for me that are really good too. I love the freedom of lyric videos as well as the fact that for me, the lyrics are so important. Lyrics are my true gift and so many people pay no attention to them. For me, if you don’t listen to my lyrics, you’re missing the point.

Whether she’s penning a novel or crafting a jazz tune, Connie’s belief that we create our own reality shines through. Her songs are not just melodic expressions but also vehicles for energy healing and wellness. As we await her next project, one thing is certain: Connie will continue to challenge, inspire, and transform us, one note and one word at a time.

WATCH “Deep End of Love” here – 

Stay current with Connie on her Website and social media channels Facebook and Instagram.

Stream music on Spotify and YouTube.

George Collins’ “My Wish For You”: A Timeless Musical Wish for Every Parent.

George Collins takes listeners on a poignant and personal journey with his soul-stirring song, “My Wish For You.” Born out of a profound life moment, this heartfelt composition tells a narrative that transcends the boundaries of time and emotion.

The origin of the song dates back to a hot August day in 2012 when Collins, a late-blooming father at 50, was walking home from the hospital after witnessing the birth of his daughter. Overwhelmed by the emotions of that transformative experience, Collins received what he describes as a “download.” 

The chorus of “My Wish For You” arrived almost fully formed, compelling him to capture the moment in a notebook, tears streaming down his face.

A decade later, Collins revisits those heartfelt lines as he writes songs for the “Songs for Grown-ups” EP. Inspired by the scenario of a father cuddling his newborn daughter and expressing hopes for her life, the song takes shape as a timeless piece of musical storytelling.

The chorus, with its recurring “May you…” and the resonant hook, “That is my wish for you,” becomes the emotional anchor of the song. Drawing inspiration from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wisdom in “Letter to His Daughter,” Collins crafts a poetic list of wishes, distilling it down to the ten that find a home in the final lyrics:

I pulled out my notebook and jotted down the lines – I still have that paper to this day (but then again, I never throw away anything – much to my wife’s annoyance!). I was sitting on a stone wall around the corner from the hospital, tears streaming down my face as I scribbled as fast as I could – attracting numerous stares from passers-by, but I didn’t care.”

Collins’s meticulous attention to emotional impact, rhythm, and singability results in a composition that tugs at the heartstrings. The connection between the lyrics and personal moments, such as Collins cuddling his newborn daughter and singing Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely,” adds a layer of authenticity and relatability.

“My Wish For You” transcends a conventional song; it becomes a vessel for the universal hopes and dreams of a parent for their child. Collins’s journey from a finance career to becoming a full-time dad and embracing creative pursuits is mirrored in the song’s narrative, making it a tribute to the enduring power of life experiences and artistic inspiration.

As the lyrics unfold, listeners are invited into a world where wishes are crafted with care, where the profound and the mundane converge, and where a father’s love becomes an everlasting melody. “My Wish For You” is more than a song; it’s a heartfelt wish encapsulated in music, resonating with anyone who has felt the depth of a parent’s love and the boundless hope for a child’s future. 

George Collins has crafted not just a piece of music but a timeless expression of love and aspiration that lingers in the soul.

Listen to “My Wish for You” on Spotify.

Keep up to date with George Collins Band on his website, and social media channels Facebook and Instagram.

NYC’s Eri Blossom Shares Latest Hip Hop Blend in “Breakthrough”

Eri Blossom’s latest offering, “Breakthrough,” is a captivating fusion of cultural influences, R&B and hip hop sensibilities, and poignant lyricism that culminate in a track of remarkable depth and resonance.

Inspired by the Academy Awards incident involving Will Smith, Eri Blossom navigates the complex waters of cultural expectations and gender roles, specifically within the backdrop of Japanese society. The track’s introductory notes unveil a soundscape that seamlessly melds traditional R&B grooves, contemporary hip-hop elements, and traditional Japanese instrumentation. The result is a sonic tapestry that defies boundaries, reflecting Eri’s duality as an artist shaped by both her Japanese heritage and American upbringing. As the song unfolds, her bilingual delivery further enriches the narrative, allowing listeners to traverse between languages as she eloquently articulates her message.

Eri Blossom’s ability to encapsulate profound emotions in her music is undeniable. “Breakthrough” delves into the struggle against deeply rooted traditions, particularly those that undermine the agency and potential of women. With heartfelt honesty, Eri unveils the stark contrasts between outdated societal norms and the modern aspirations of women, a theme that resonates far beyond cultural confines.

Her background steeped in both Japanese and American culture is a driving force behind the track’s authenticity. Drawing on influences ranging from R&B legends like Chaka Khan to contemporary hip-hop icons, Eri effortlessly weaves together an intricate musical fabric that transcends genres. Her journey from Japan to New York City and subsequent exploration of jazz and other genres add layers of complexity to her artistry, evident in the multifaceted layers of “Breakthrough.”

“Breakthrough” not only marks a personal triumph for Eri Blossom but also stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural barriers. By blending languages, genres, and perspectives, she creates a musical experience that speaks to the universal struggle for empowerment and self-expression. As the world continues to evolve, artists like Eri Blossom play a vital role in reshaping narratives and fostering a global dialogue. Through “Breakthrough,” she not only delivers a mesmerizing track but also ignites a conversation that reaches far beyond the notes and rhythms.

Connect with Eri Blossom via:
Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Spotify

Graham and the Band Upstairs’ Americana Blues Song “Standstill Blues” will Resonate with Commuters

Graham and The Band Upstairs is an Atlanta based Americana band led by Graham Waldrop. The band creates music in the tradition of Bob Dylan and Neil Young, combining introspective lyrics with diverse melodies that meshes the folk, blues, and rock genres to create a fully realized sonic identity for each song.

Graham and the Band Upstairs’ “Standstill Blues” is a captivating and relatable blues track that encapsulates the frustrations of everyday life, particularly the infamous Atlanta traffic. Written from Graham’s personal experience of enduring lengthy commutes, the song explores the theme of stagnation and frustration but expands it into a collection of short stories that evoke a range of emotions.

Initially conceived with a different musical structure, Graham realized that the traditional blues framework would best suit the lyrics and the intended message of the song. This decision allowed the band to tap into their innate understanding of the genre, bringing a genuine and authentic feel to the music.

The interplay between band members is notable, with Josef and Zach providing a solid rhythmic foundation on bass and drums, respectively. Jeff’s skillful lead guitar licks inject the track with energy and vitality, while Veronica’s vocals shine whenever she takes the spotlight.

“Standstill Blues” resonates with listeners on multiple levels, as it captures the universal frustration and monotony that can often accompany our daily routines. Graham and the Band Upstairs have skillfully translated this feeling into a bluesy masterpiece, utilizing their musical prowess to express emotions that many can relate to. The track’s infectious groove and memorable storytelling make it a standout piece in the band’s repertoire.

With their ability to convey the realities of everyday life through the lens of the blues, Graham and the Band Upstairs continue to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the music scene.

Connect with Graham and the Band Upstairs via:
Website / Instagram / YouTube / Spotify

The Dorons Share Their New Alternative Rock Album, ‘The Doronic Verses’

The 4 piece Providence, Rhode Island-based alternative rock band The Dorons, have just released their debut contemporary rock album, The Doronic Verses.

The Rosenfield family makes up The Dorons, features mom Janice on drums, dad Norman on lead guitar, older brother Aryeh on bass, and younger brother Yosef on lead vocals and guitar. The band came together back in 2017 when Aryeh, then a music major in college, had a senior recital and decided to recruit his family to play with him for the occasion. Mom and dad had retired as performing musicians, previously vets of the ’80s and ’90s Boston alt-rock scene. 

The music of the Dorons evokes contemporary folk-rock, singer-songwriter, and alt-rock styles with searing lead guitar playing, impassioned vocals, sage and sensitive lyrics, earworm hooks, and a stirring acoustic-rock foundation. Their songs also contain nuanced rhythm section interplay. The band’s evocative name is fascinatingly layered. It references the Doors and the bittersweet minor scale, the Dorian mode, plus it hilariously rhymes with “morons.” Additionally, the word “dor” in Hebrew means “generation,” which speaks to the multigenerational nature of the band.

The Doronic Verses is a tight 11-song album of carefully crafted contemporary rock, shaded with singer-songwriter intimacy, country flourishes, and blues-rock urgency. The acoustic-rocker song “This New Poison” is a freshly penned original written by Yosef and Janice, and it boasts a Greta Van Fleet-esque swagger, replete with smoldering bluesy lead guitar. The catchy pop rock tune “Not the Usual Fare” features acoustic guitar layered with chiming electric guitar, along with overlapping “call-and-response” backing vocals. “I wrote that song years ago about my brother, who was autistic, during a time when society and the medical profession didn’t understand the condition. He was a beautiful soul and loved music, and he ended up being institutionalized,” Janice says.

Connect with The Dorons via:

Website / Instagram / Facebook / Twitter / YouTube / Spotify

An Empty Room – An Episodic / Livestream & Podcast Series Continues with Shawn Mullins Watch Party on November 20, 2022

(Atlanta, GA) November 16, 2022 – An Empty Room, the original series that explores the connective tissue between 6 uniquely influential artists from the Atlanta music scene, continues with one of Atlanta’s most beloved musicians, Shawn Mullins. He is best known for the 1998 single “Lullaby,” which hit number one on the Billboard Adult Top 40 Chart, sold over a million copies and got him a Grammy nomination. 

Shawn’s Volume livestream is warm, intimate, and well produced. It feels more like he’s singing for you rather than at you. He sings hits like “California,” ”Light You Up,” “The Ghost of Johnny Cash,” and more. It’s just Shawn and his guitar, providing a vulnerable and open performance. 

He shares fond memories and stories of growing up in Atlanta, when he used to go to Wax ‘N’ Facts Record Store which ignited the fire for his future as a career musician. He recalls his first performance at the Little Five Points Pub (now known as the Corner Tavern) when he was called on stage and too afraid to do one of his originals, so he sang  “American Pie,” but the crowd demanded he sing a song he wrote. This was when he realized that people want to hear what he has to offer.

Mullins cultivated an interest in music beginning in his high school days, in part because his grandfather was in a big band group and his mother was musically inclined. He honed his craft in marching band in his college days as a solo acoustic musician. Kiss and Elton John were his superheroes growing up, Kiss being the hottest band in the land for a kid who loved horror movies meant a lot to him. He wanted to sing like Elton, even found inspiration in his fun and animated album covers. 

It’s been a quarter century since he exploded onto the folk rock music scene and he has sustained an impressive long-term career, played coast to coast with every artist in his genre imaginable and been a steady headliner for 14 years on the Cayamo Cruises a floating party of music fanatics that in a few weeks will set sail with Jeff Tweedy, Andrew Bird, Patty Griffin, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Shovels and Rope.

Shawn and members of his band will be on hand during his watch party to interact with fans as a warm up for his Variety Playhouse gig on November 26th.

Shawn Mullins Online Watch Party Details

Sunday November 20, 2022

9 PM EST 

Reserve Free Tickets here

Listen to the An Empty Room Podcast here.

Find Shawn Online here.

About An Empty Room 

Created and produced in the height of 2020 when touring artists had to pivot, the Empty Room series features quality documentary-style storytelling interspersed with musical performances where the up close viewer perspective serves as the sole audience member.

The Atlanta-based Kearns family created and produced the entire series when the music industry as it was once known had shuttered. The family captured intimate performances and never-before heard stories from musicians with deep Atlanta roots during a time when neither producers nor touring musicians had a clear trajectory for creation. “When the artists asked ‘What do you want me to play?’ I told them: Whatever you would play if you were sitting by yourself in your living room,” says Martin “Marty” Kearns.

About Volume

Volume.com is a 24/7 free live stream platform that allows engagement between artists and their fans to help artists build and monetize their craft, from ticket sales, subscriptions, merch purchases, or by using Volume’s unique online tip system. 

Volume differentiates itself by connecting all viewers and performers with first-class sound and visual quality. Their multi-layered audio effects, plugins, and soundcheck create a unique and seamless experience for both performers and audience members. They celebrate all artistic expression, be that in music, podcasts, comedy, or even sports, and provide a fun, welcoming, and vibrant community for all.