With
Jesse still in newborn land, I am left to my own (de)vices again this round, which only means that I’m all over the place musically. This week we spotlight a rapper from Oak-town who adds that bounce to my step, a folky singer/songwriter to pluck at my heartstrings and an electro-punk (and everything in between) band from
Los Angeles, that’s got me rockin’ garb that you only see in Silverlake. Keep me in line and on the pulse at
[email protected].
Stubby: This Oakland MC’s story reads like a fairytale, and the recent accolades with which he’s been showered are proof that dreams do come true. Staying true to his East Bay roots, Stubby continues to grow as an artist and has had the privilege of working closely with 2Short, E40, Scarface, Mac 10 and more. Currently signed to Omni Distribution (www.streetbuzzz.com), his single “Smash” is #1 on the Billboard R&B and Hip-Hop Hot Singles Sales charts. It’s been picked up by Syndicated Urban Radio Express and has been added @ WHPR in Detroit. The video, which is now in post-production, was directed by Taj, who has worked with the likes of Ne-Yo, Rhianna and Nas. In his own words, “Making it is not an option. I will not rest until the world hears my story through my music.” Get the story and the music at www.myspace.com/stubbyworld.
Chelsea Genzano: This quintessential folk-inspired DIY singer/songwriter from the East Coast is currently working on her debut studio EP. Pounding away on keys at age 4 and teaching herself to play guitar at 11 naturally led her to play for crowds in bars and coffeehouses by the time she was 13. Chelsea has come a long way since then, performing at some of the most noted clubs on both coasts, and this winter finds her writing new material and gearing up for a string of live shows in the near future. Says on of her peers: "Chelsea's demeanor on stage is riveting and soothing. She is the best kind of strong. Her command of her instruments is inspiring.” And when you stumble across deeply moving ballads like Roses or anthemic tracks like “Love Song to New York City,” you just can’t help but crave more. Her eloquent blend of reggae, hip-hop, soul and jazz brings a new flavor to the world of acoustic music, and this rising star is sure to leave you moved. Find out for yourself at www.myspace.com/chelseagenzano.
Glacier Hiking: The first band signed to the growing music side of Lionsgate has just released its debut EP, The Color by Number. Early ink in the L.A. Times’ Buzz Bands column has helped lay the foundation of fans who are packing venues across Los Angeles. Not only that, but Ryan Tedder’s touch is laced into opening track “Save Some,” which has only garnered more well-deserved love. Fusing the sensibilities of Ross Golan and Tommy Walter (Abandoned Pools/Eels), their sound has been various characterized as electro-crash, synth-rock meets glam and emo-punk. These guys have got their bases covered on the genre front, and with the addition of Joey Clement on bass and Daniel James on drums, their sound is already big enough to fill arenas. They’re taking their show on the road throughout SoCal, and their most recent date at the Troubadour was attended by a healthy mix of fans and industry folk. For music and a show list, jump over to www.myspace.com/glacierhiking.
