I would love to thank 4fame.com for making me their FEATURED artist! Here is my latest interview with them! :)
www.4fame.com
Featured Artist Interview
Submitted by blacklion
Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like to introduce you to the beautiful songstress with an equally beautiful voice, the multi-talented Laura Cheadle. I first heard of Laura through her song “In the AM,” which I think from the lyrics to the singing and the instrumentation is one of the best songs I have heard in a very long time. Laura is a true musical talent in every way, not only can she sing but she also writes her songs and if you take the time to listen to her lyrics you will hear a woman that is very adept at expressing herself through song. Her music will move you with elements of Soul, Funk, and Jazz. She definitely has an original sound that has no comparison. Sky is the limit for this beautiful talent out of Philadelphia, PA. Ladies and Gentlemen once again it is my great pleasure to introduce Laura Cheadle.
1. How long have you been creating your own music?
I have been creating my own music since the age of 8. I remember writing harmonies and songs on my little four track recorder that I begged Santa Claus for.
2. What made you get into creating music?
My father has influenced me since birth. He is an incredible musician. I have watched him write, perform and record songs in so many styles over the years. He has the true gift of being an educated and accomplished musician. I am so lucky to have him performing in my band with me and being my biggest inspiration.
3. I read that you play a variety of instruments like the acoustic guitar and piano; do you feel it is important for singers and song writers to have the ability to play an instrument?
Personally, I feel it is important. It allows me to not only sing through my voice but through my music. I really can show multiple emotions through the music and voice together. It is such an amazing outlet for me.
4. Your music is very soulful and passionate. Do your songs reflect the real life experiences of Laura Cheadle?
They sure do. I write from the heart.
5. Your new CD is titled “Live On.” Is there any meaning behind that title?
“Live On” is a song on the album that was one of the first new songs I wrote for this album. The album really is about being your true self and living a positive life no matter what life throws you.
6. Who did you work with on the new album?
I worked with my father who played on, produced and recorded the entire album. My brothers Jimmy Lee Cheadle and Nick Cheadle played guitar and piano on “Live On”. Paul Galonksy (who plays in my band) played the drums and percussion on the album. I had a special guest named Steve Guyger (a very accomplished harmonica player) play the harmonica on “Live On” My best friend (and incredible lyricist), Nora Targonski also wrote some lyrics on the album.
7. I am listening to your track ‘In the AM,’ which has a very smooth and sensual sound. Where does the inspiration for a song like that come from?
I was on the beach in North Carolina when I wrote this song. This is about being very much in love. Love, for me, hits me the most when I wake up with the person I love in the morning. I was inspired and just wrote it in one sitting. The recording of this is extremely smooth and easy on the ears. The recording is literally just me on acoustic guitar, drums and bass. I sang this in one take in the studio as well. This is my favorite song on the album and I am so proud how this came out.
8. How would you describe a Laura Cheadle show to a person who has never had the opportunity to see you perform live?
Oh, wow. Expect to see me full of intense passion and dancing. I dance to all my upbeat songs and sing my heart out to the crowd. On the softer songs, I become the music. Expect to get funky and fall into the music with me. My shows are a really great time!
9. Your music seems to be a family affair. Your father and brother have both contributed to your album. How is it working with family?
It’s so great working with my family. It is so tight that we don’t have to worry or wonder what we’re going to play next. It just comes so naturally. Some people say, “How can you sing those sensual songs with your father right there?” My dad understands that music is a sensual experience. It’s not weird. He listens to the music I write and is so proud of me. He really enjoys what I create and loves creating it with me.
10. Do you have any plans of doing a tour to promote the album?
I sure do! Please stay tuned for a national tour. In the meantime, check out my East Coast dates on my web sites.
11. Who are some of your musical influences?
James S. Cheadle, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, John Mayer, Tower of Power!
12. Your music sounds very mature. Do you ever feel pressure to ‘dumb it down’ and attempt a more pop sound in order to get a more commercial audience?
I never ever want to ‘dumb it down’ because it would be as if I were lying to myself. I always go with what feels right.
13. Your music also has a lot of funk, which is genre that does not really get to much commercial recognition any more. Can we expect Laura Cheadle to bring the funk back to prominence? And what do you think about the funk music that is being made today?
You can definitely expect me to bring funk back in a singer-songwriter format! I call myself a ‘Funky Singer-Songwriter” because I have so many deep lyrics but I have that funk in me. I don’t listen to much funk today. I think I’m still hooked on Tower of Power! I’m at their concert every year.
14. Where can people go to purchase your album?
15. What do you like to do, when you are not creating music?
I love to run and stay active, check out live music and do anything that has to do with the arts!
16. In the next 2 years where do you see yourself?
I see myself performing and being just as determined as ever!
17. Any last words for the people?
Stay funky!
-Interview and Laura Cheadle Feature Courtesy of www.4fame.com-