Jazzy Harmonica Wiz Randy Singer Interview by Bobby Ramirez
Tell us about how you became interest in music?
I have never not been a music maniac......when I was eight years old, I knew I would be a musician.
Who where some of your first musical influences?
too many to mention......i have been influenced by miles davis, the allman brothers, charlie parker, grateful dead, beatles, Benson, Michael Jackson, Lambert, Hendricks and ross, joni mitchel, jaco, james taylor, coltrane, ELP, YES, all the english sixties bands, american bands from benny goodman to elvis, to the stones, spyro gyra, even madonna, and today's groups like jason mraz, john mayer, Rhianna, Kings of Leon, etc. Plus the world of music as I have studied Brazilian, middle eastern, you name it. I also love classical music. No matter how far flung my tastes fly, I always come back to jazz, though.
How did you become attracted to Jazz?
My first "jazz" record was BLOOD SWEAT AND TEARS" Then KIND OF BLUE. My brother turned me on.
Just before you're going on stage for a performance, what is going through your mind?
Getting into the state of mind where the music is already created. I meet the musicians in another place, far away. So when we play, it sounds together and fresh. I listen for things like the tinkling of a glass, the squeak of the drum pedal, the highest overtones become real to me. The lowest note becomes the foundation for the harmonic convergence.
What is it about your music that you want your audience to understand after a performance?
That they too can find something they can become passionate about that is safe, fun, free and can change the world for the better.
What is your opinion on the current state of Jazz in South Florida?
Not very good at this moment. Original quality music of all genres are hurting. Kids gravitate to what is free and easy so things like sports, tv, computers, sex and even crime is more popular than making music. Music needs to be on TV as often as sports shows would be a great way to start. If a big concert in your home town is sold out, they should stream it for free so everyone will get excited to go to the next one. I am thankful for the van dyke and graspa group to allow me to program quality music in an all ages environment, with NO COVER!!
What is your best advice to young inspiring musicians that want to pursue a career as a performing artist?
Read my free book on my website. I wrote it to give back to the world that has been so kind to me. My MUSICIANS HANDBOOK will give you the tools and inspiration to make music your living and your life.
Mr. Randy Singer keeps a busy schedule of performing in all kinds of events through the area, He is also the Music Director for the famed venue Van Dyke Cafe: a restaurant with an upstairs venue that features live music seven days a week. More information at www.randysinger.com
