Monday  5/13/13 - 9AM & 9PM (PST)  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM) www.KLEDLive.com 

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE & UNCLE EARL Presents “Digital Hollywood TV Summit Series LA Series #3

Featuring KCET Link TV’s “ART BOUND” and “CITY WALK” Premiere Party & Screening Discussion! 

Join Uncle Earl for an enjoyable, fact-filled conversion with Juan Devis, VP of Arts & Culture Programming at KCET Link and Thomas Rigler, CEO of Rigler Creative

Music Artists Include: High Bias, Mariah Carey ft. Miguel, Wulfe ft. Mic Diezle & Se1v1en, Garrett On Acoustic (GOA) & Amadeus!

KCETLink Steps Out with ‘City Walk’: A NewTransmedia Series

An original multi-media series explores the growingeffort to utilize public walkable spaces in major cities across the country tobecome less vehicle-dependent

 As the nation continues to grow accustomed to a society with little physical movement and exercise in the last century, the rise of health conditions such as obesity,diabetes, high blood pressure and depression have been looming side effects.  KCET Link has announced the premiere of City Walk, a new multi-media series that captures a rising nationwide effort to reverse this trend, spotlighting walkable neighborhoods in major cities, and inspiring viewers to explore urban areas by foot.

Launched on KCET Thursday, May 2 at 10 p.m. and on Link TV Thursday, May 9 at 8:30EST/5:30 PSD, this unique six-part series reveals the way walking is transforming cities across America, and in the process, re-connecting us with our bodies.

“We are excited to be able to offer an innovative multi-faceted series to our viewers and invite them to explore their public urban landscape with multiple engagement opportunities on the air,online and beyond,” said Juan Devis, Vice President, Arts and Culture Programming for KCET Link. “We are pleased to help shepherd urban exploration into the public consciousness through walking, and encourage a healthier lifestyle.”

“After working for two years on collecting these inspirational stories from across the country, we are proud to bring this national conversation about walking to the KCET Link audience,”added Thomas Rigler, Executive Producer, CityWalk. ”The show has been an incredible journey, and we are eager to have the viewers now join us.”

The first season of City Walk features 30-minute episodes exploring various aspects of pedestrian life in cities including: Los Angeles,Portland, Boston, Atlanta, Washington D.C. and New York. Each episode offers inspiring stories centered on the health and biology of walking, historical perspectives on how our society settled into a sedentary lifestyle and the positive impact walking can make in peoples’ lives.

As the show explores the “walkability”of communities within each metropolis, viewers will learn about American history by exploring culturally rich neighborhoods, stunning architecture,monuments and beautiful parks that have helped define the character of each city.

The multi-platform series will engage audiences beyond television and also permeate online, mobile, tablets, social networks and communal activism across urban landscapes.  The series features a vibrant online destination at kcet.org/citywalk where visitors can stream full episodes, find show segments, web extras, related news, and tap into additional resources on how walking can change your life.

The series premiered at Digital Hollywood on Tuesday, April 30 at 6 p.m. at the Ritz Carlton in Marina del Rey, Calif., with filmmakers and the series’ executive producers in attendance.

CityWalkis executive produced by Thomas Rigler of Rigler Creative and Juan Devis, Vice President of Arts and Culture Programming, KCET Link.

ABOUT KCETLink

KCET Link is the national independent public transmedia organization formed by the merger between KCET and Link Media.  A viewer-supported 501(c)(3) organization,its content is distributed nationally via satellite on DirecTV and DISH, in Southern and Central California via broadcast, as well as through various digital delivery systems. KCET and Link TV are services of KCET Link. For additional information about KCET Link productions, web-exclusive content, programming schedules and community events, please visitwww.kcet.org or www.linktv.org

ABOUT Rigler Creative

Rigler Creative is a full-service transmedia production company based in Pasadena,California, delivering award-winning film and video production along with integrated marketing and online solutions for brands, studios, agencies and networks. For more information, visit www.riglercreative.com

SPECIAL THANKS TO AYN ALLEN – KCETLink’s Manager, Corporate Communications 

UPCOMING  EVENTS

Lacy Darryl Phillips aka Uncle Earl Started EARL HITZ RECORDS Published in PACE NEWS 5/10/13

Staged Reading of URBAN ARTS THEATER WEST’s Original Piece “Visiting Day” -Tuesday, May 14th @A-MAN, Incorporated in Inglewood,CA.

Repeat Performance of “SUGAR, DADDY & SIDEKICK”  - Thursday, May 16th @ Casa du Grand View with Wally Holmes & Ava DuPree after a stellar debut at The  Las Vegas Hotel’s 1st annual Blues, Jazz & Gospel Festival in March.

Uncle Earl & The Cast Of “Ebony Cabaret” will be joining The Hollywood Fringe Festival – June 9, 13 & 19 2013 @ 3 Of Clubs in Hollywood!

For Tickets, Dates & Info: www.EbonyCabaret.com

Air Date: 

Monday 5/13/13 – 9am & 9pm (PST)  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM)  www.KLEDLive.com

Broadcast # 176

Direct Links to the broadcast also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes, Podomatic and Website!

Amadeus

Saturday  5/11/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM) www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE & UNCLE EARL Presents “Digital Hollywood Summit Series LA Series #2

Woop…..Here It Is!!!!!!!!!!

Yet And Still Another Installation From The Incredible Week Long Symposium Of Business, Technology, Entertainment & Networking!

Interviews & Panels Include: Damon Wayans, Steve Masur, Cleveland O’Neal, Martin Perlmutter, Naomi Grange, Sarah Miller, Wally Sabria, Tim Alexander, Nancy Stone & Others

Music Artists Include: John Legend & Rick Ross, Josh Rouse, 5 M.I.C.-Z, The Bleeding Game, 

Pit Bull & J Lo!

UPCOMING  EVENTS

Lacy Darryl Phillips aka Uncle Earl Launched EARL HITZ RECORDS Published in PACE NEWS 5/10/13

Performance with URBAN ARTS THEATER WEST “Visiting Day” -Tuesday, May 14th @A-MAN,Incorporated in Inglewood,CA.

Repeat Performance of “SUGAR, DADDY & SIDEKICK”  - Thursday, May 16th @ Casa de Grandview with Wally Holmes & Ava DuPree after a stellar debut at The  Las Vegas Hotel’s 1st annual Blues, Jazz & Gospel Festival in March.

Uncle Earl & The Cast Of “Ebony Cabaret” will be joining The Hollywood Fringe Festival – June 9, 13 & 19 2013 @ 3 Of Clubs in Hollywood!

For Tickets, Dates & Info: www.EbonyCabaret.com

Air Date: 

Saturday 5/11/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM)  www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

Broadcast # 175

Direct Links to the broadcast also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes, Podomatic and Website!

Air Date: Thursday 5/9/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE Presents “Digital Hollywood Content Summit LA” Spring Series #1

Hello Underground Dwellers……Uncle Earl Is bringing you a glimpse into the world of new business, technology and entertainment professionals who are revolutionizing the World! It was a 4 Day symposium of knowledge, wisdom and understanding!

Musical Artists: Excellent, Predikadores Y Kyoto Beats ft. LA Santa Trinidad, Leagues, Spirit Family Reunion, Fol Chen, The Virginmarys, Sheldon Botler & Ozomatli!

Interviews Include: Marty Shindler (The Shindler Perspective), Joy Macko (Apache Tah Creative), Jan Iverson (G.I.A), Medl Mobile, Glenn H. Clarke (CieAura), Tess Cacciatore (GWEN),The Mystery Man Dean & Sheldon Botler!

Here is a special note from Victor Harwood, President of Hollywood

To: Speakers, Attendees, Sponsors, Press and Friends

Last week at the Ritz was an incredible experience and I want to thank everyone for giving it the energy, the life force – the simply wonderful experience that was had by all. Digital Hollywood is an unique event - one part conference, one part networking event, one part social experience and many parts that you cant quite put your finger on – but it adds up to something special.

We build Digital Hollywood with organizations, with partners and with individual people! And thanks goes to All! The Variety Summit last Monday was superb. The BAFTA Evening Summit was standing room only! The new addition to our agenda, The Hispanic Summit was fabulous. The MEMES at Anderson School, UCLA and last but not least – The EPPS conference on Wednesday was a great addition! And the returning events, The Comedy Summit, the Womens Summit, The Finance and Crowdfunding Summit and the new Track – Big Hollywood! were all major hits!

Im pleased to give a shout-out to our Sponsors who make it all possible: KCET, Adobe, Deloitte Digital, Netbase, MailOnline, TMS, Toon Goggles, Verizon Digital Services, Alphabird, AT Kearney, BrandEngage and the Mobile Excellence Awards. Thank you ALL!

Thanks to the Guilds and Organizations: SAG-AFTRA, PGA, TV Academy, Writers Guild, Women-in-Film and Special Thanks to Rigler Creative for tremendous organizing and curating contributions.

And now its on to planning Fall Digital Hollywood again at the Ritz in Marina del Rey, October 21-24, 2013!

All the tracks and co-locations will return - but we will be adding more! There will be Screening at Digital Hollywood! Digital Hollywood is becoming a festival of ideas and business. The Big-Tent at Digital Hollywood is growing and we welcome new tracks and new co-locations

I always welcome your ideas and input.

Thanks again.

Victor Harwood, President, Digital Hollywood

Coming Digital Hollywood Events Calendar
Digital Hollywood Fall, October 21-24, 2013, , Ritz Carlton, Marina del Rey
2014 CES - Digital Hollywood at CES, The SmartPhone & Tablet Conference at CES, The Cable Conference at CES, January 6-8, 2014, Las Vegas Convention and World Trade Center (LVCC)
Media Summit, New York, March 4-5, 2014, McGraw-Hill Building, 49th St. & 6th Ave.
Digital Hollywood Spring, May 5th – 8th, 2014, Ritz Carlton, Marina del Rey

http://www.digitalhollywood.com/LASpring13Agenda.html

Musical Artists: Excellent, Predikadores Y Kyoto Beats ft. LA Santa Trinidad, Leagues, Spirit Family Reunion, Fol Chen, The Virgin Mary’s, Sheldon botler & Ozomatli!

Interviews Include: Marty Shindler (The Shindler Perspective), Joy Macko (Apache Tah Creative), Jan Iverson (G.I.A), Medl Mobile, Glenn H. Clarke (CieAura), Tess Cacciatore (GWEN), Dean Sheau

Air Date: Thursday 5/9/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST) 

Broadcast # 174

Direct Links also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes. Podomatic and Website!

Monday 5/6/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1)  www.KLEDLive.com  9AM (PST) & 9PM (PST)

The Underground Experience Presents “Tantalizing & Intoxicating Grooves!”

Hey Hey Hey Everyone…..I am Feelin’ Good & Flyin’ High So I Want The Same For You All!

The Musical Journey is Pure & True…….Just Let Yourself Go…..Feel The Wave…..Catch The Vibe :O)

Musical Artists Include: Lorenzo “Universal Disciple” Hamlin, Isaac James, Chronic Edge, Chuck Taylor, Matt Hertz, Funkee Boy ft. Najee, Eric Boisseau, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike vs. Bass Jackers, Kid De Luca, Kristina Lipari, Beyonce & Andre 3000,  Sonya E. Henderson, Bridget Kelly ft. Kendrick Lamar!

Broadcast # 173

Monday (5/6/13) 9am (PST) &  9pm (PST) at www.KLEDLive.com

Direct Links also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes. Podomatic and Website!

Saturday  5/4/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM) www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE & UNCLE EARL Presents “Music & Thoughts To Mo

A Non-Stop  Eclectic Music Mix…..Less Chat…..And A Whole Lot Of Inspiration Featuring Artists Courtesy Of Music Xray, Sound Cloud, Musik & Film and MP3waxx!

Music Artists Include: Darnell “OG Cuicide” Price, Jessica Murphy, Shane Kenny, Chris Brown, L’illon, Paul Smith, Barabra DeLarbre, Anthony “Tranzducer” Alongi, Michelle Kaye, Snoop Lion ft. T.I., Bryce Wastney, Jake Aldridge, Damian Marley!

UNCLE EARL & LEO “DJ N-JOY” STELLA  teamed up last year to bring you dance party mixes and now we will be bringing you ultimate dance tracks.

Our 1st release “R U Ready” debuts on May 25th and a killer video soon to be released!

Uncle Earl & The Cast Of “Ebony Cabaret” will be joining The Hollywood Fringe Festival in June 2013 @ 3 Of Clubs in Hollywood!

 For Tickets, Dates & Info: www.EbonyCabaret.com

Air Date: 

Saturday 5/4/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM)  www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

Broadcast # 172

Direct Links to the broadcast also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes, Podomatic and Website!

Air Date: Thursday 4/18/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE Presents “Uncle Earl’s Red Carpet Special” 

Featuring PUNCH TV, Dr. Gloria Montgomery (Care 4 Kids) & The Legendary Marshall Thompson!

Musical Artists: Klymaxx & The Legendary Marshall Thompson

PUNCH TV Network

Our Vision and Goals for the network.

Punch TV is symbolic of the melting pot, the blending, the mixture of flavors that is synonymous with life in the United States. Utilizing the theme, “Are you thirsty yet?” Punch TV Network, the brainchild of entrepreneur Joseph Collins, President, was conceived as an entertainment entity that blends the many flavors of Americans into a set of multicultural, multi-ethnic dramas, comedies, talk shows, reality shows, newscasts, and other genres of television entertainment. Rather than complaining each season regarding a perceived failure of mainstream television producers to offer diverse programming, Punch TV was born as an entertainment island that displays the racial/ethnic, age, gender, socioeconomic, religious, and other forms of diversity of America.

JOSEPH COLLINS

We are positioning our company to be the dominate player in the urban television market place!

Growing up in South Central, Los Angeles, California took its toll on Joseph Collins Jr. Gang violence and drug ridden streets were a daily battle for the Collins family as they ventured out into their work and school lives. At the age of ten, Joseph’s mother decided to uproot her family and move them to the safer neighborhoods of Pomona, California where Joseph essentially grew up. Money was tight, forcing the family to rely on food stamps and other government assistance just to get by. Although there were many struggles growing up, Joseph emerced himself in learning and creativity.

A native Angeleno from South Central, Joseph Collins looks back on his childhood with fondness and accredits his parents as the most influential people in his life. Joseph knew at an early age that he was born for television. The Three Stooges, Speed Racer and The Addams Family were among the many shows that lit the spark inside this future Television CEO, knowing that one day he would be developing and producing top notch shows like the ones he grew up watching. Gary High School in Pomona, California was the developmental grounds for Joseph’s future as the founder of Punch Television Network. Here he was heavily influenced by his high school teacher, Barbara Barkermeyer, who opened doors for him to gain his first Hollywood audition.  Persistence paid off when, after months of calling, Joseph landed an internship with WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  His flare and contagious personality helped him grow from an intern to working as the youngest news anchor to report the business news, drawing people in to hear his take on the daily events.

Many people have influenced and shaped Joseph’s role in the television world, from J.W. Witt former CEO of WVTV in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the story of William Paley, founder of CBS, to Michael Eisner, former CEO of Disney John Malone and Ted Turner the cable industries trailblazer. These men have inspired Joseph and helped keep him focus on achieving his dream of owning and operating a television network, which has since become a reality.

The CEO and founder of Punch TV Network, Joseph Collins has been recognized as the “Entrepreneur of the Year” presented by the California Legislative Assembly.  He has also been notably recognized by United States Senator Dianne Feinstein, congratulating him on his excellence in Entrepreneurship, superior leadership, dedication and perseverance.

Joseph’s ultimate goal has come to fruition by bringing life-changing, inspirational television to viewers throughout the world. During his 30 years in television production and programming, Joseph has accumulated a long list of accomplishments. Along with the production of over 600 TV commercials to his credit, Mr. Collins has received recognitions for his vision. Specifically, Mr. Collins was presented with the 1996 Entrepreneur of the Year Award by Senator Diane Feinstein, Senator Fred Aguilar, and Senator Barbara Boxer. Additionally, he has received accolades from City Council members. His rich entrepreneurial spirit and accomplishments has led to the creation of Punch TV.

http://go.punchtv.net

Special Thanks To Michelle Holden

DR. GLORIA MONTGOMERY (CARE 4 KIDS – ALL STAR CELEBRITY EVENT)

As the Hi-Lites they released a number of singles on local labels then in 1964 they changed their name to Marshall & the Chi-Lites; the ‘C’ being added to reflect the name of their hometown, Chicago.  By the end of 1964 Clarence Johnson had left the group and they truncated their name to simply the Chi-Lites.  During the ensuing four years Eugene Record slowly emerged as the group’s lead singer, songwriter and producer.

In 1969, after signing with Brunswick the previous year, “Give It Away” became their first USA national hit single attaining number ten in the R&B charts.  The follow-up release “Let Me Be The Man My Daddy Was” was moderately successful but another major hit was elusive until “Are You My Woman ?” climbed into the R&B top ten in early 1971.  A succession of top ten hits followed commencing with their next release “(For God’s Sake)Give More Power To The People” which was the first release to crossover into the pop charts.  The ballads “Have You Seen Her” and “Oh Girl” followed, both reaching number one in the R&B charts with “Oh Girl” also achieving the number one slot in the pop charts in the spring of 1972.

Air Date: Thursday 4/18/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST) 

 Broadcast # 169

Direct Links also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes. Podomatic and Website!

Saturday 4/13/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM) www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE & UNCLE EARL Presents “DJ N-Joy’s Mastermix Dance Party!

We teamed up last year to bring you dance party mixes and now we will be bringing you ultimate dance tracks.

Our 1st release “R U Ready” debuts on May 25th and I just wrapped production on a killer video soon to be released.

DJ N-Joy is also working on a documentary “Clubbing & Music Culture” to be released in the Fall 2013!

LEO “DJ N-JOY” STELLA

 DJ N-JOY from ITALY legend is one of the top creative DJ’s, Producers, Remixers & Composers around the world. He started as DJ in 1983, inspired by the real old skool disco, funky r&b soul jazz grooves of the 70′s & 80′s.inspired By Top Producers & Songwriters In the 90′s he became one of the first DJ’s to present live his famous special MASTER MIX RADIO SHOW on swiss national radio. One of the most creative around the mix, his special scratch sampled effects, put in the mix with four turntables.

As the Resident DJ at such popular swiss clubs like: Peter Pan, the club(OXA), MAD, La Scala,Nachtwerk,etc. A lot of stars like INCOGNITO, IMAGINATION, JOCELYNE BROWN, INNOCENT, TONY SCOTT etc. came as guests to play with him in the best time of the nightlife of Zurich. The leader of the famous 2 DJ’s AT WORK joined by european House Music DJ N-JOY has recorded as the TWO OLD SKOOL BOYZ, TOO STRONG; DJ N-JOY & DJ FRANKIE FRANK Project, 2 DJ’s AT WORK and many more….He remixes songs for world famous music stars.
DJ N-JOY went the first time in a disco in 1978 with his older sisters. There he got the inspiration of the disco music. In 1981 he received a part as an actor, together with his two sisters, in the movie “Zürich Abseits” of the well-known swiss director, ANDREAS HONEGGER.

At the beginning of the 90′s, he began as producer of music. He produced from underground to very successful tracks for DJ’s. In 2000 he produced and remixed the famous italian group SQUALLOR. He is also the author of the world-famous “Pump it Up” performed by DANZEL.

In 1996 he created his own Record Label DC RECORDS PRODUCTION. In 1998 he started together with his partner DJ FRANKIE FRANK the 2 DJ’s AT WORK for the Italian Superstar JOE T VANNELLI.

Actually DJ N-JOY started his new project with the famous SNAP singer PENNY FORD. The Original SNAP Singer (THE POWER) And also today they were nominated as the most famous group of the 90′s. The new smash hit “When we rise” is coming!

Brand new project of 2009 DJ N-JOY is Mixing the brand new Remix Album of the Italo disco legends KANO feat.Jimmy Ross & Vin-Zee!!

Together with the legendary Master Mixer John Morales M&M, DJ N-JOY is mixing the Salsoul disco group Classics SKYY – heres to you… more info is coming soon.. and many more project is coming !!!

Thanks ARNOLD GARCIA & The SHINE ON HOLLYWOOD Staff For The Inclusion of EBONY CABARET & UNCLE EARL in this month’s issue “TOP MEN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS” (APRIL) 

http://shineonhollywoodmagazine.com/shineapril2013/web/flipviewerxpress.html

Ebony Cabaret will be joining The Hollywood Fringe Festival in June 2013 @ 3 Of Clubs in Hollywood!

Air Date:  

Saturday 4/13/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1 FM)  www.KLEDLive.com 9AM & 9PM (PST)

Broadcast # 168B

 Direct Links to the broadcast also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes, Podomatic and Website!

“R U Ready” Party Earl

“R U Ready” Reverend Earl

Air Date: Thursday 4/11/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST)

THE UNDERGROUND EXPERIENCE Presents “SONG & DANCE & INSPIRATION”

It’s Springtime…..The Weather Is Nice…..Let’s Love & Groove With A Lil Inspiration!

Featuring An Excerpt From “Stress Is A Choice” by David Zerfoss &  A Quote From Marianne Williamson 

Musical Artists: 5ive Star, Fol Chen, Ben Reel, Bogdan Zamfir, Kari Voss, Sam & Nate, LL Cool J featuring Brad Paisley, Ian Bel, Melissa Harding, Dualive, Supamodel Joe Lee, Big Billy Man, Alessandrini Tiziano featuring Miha, Tito Torres featuring Ella!

Air Date: Thursday 4/11/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1FM)  www.KLEDLive.com  @ 9AM & 9PM (PST) 

Broadcast # 168A

Direct Links also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes. Podomatic and Website!

David Zerfoss

Monday 4/8/13  on KLED Live FM (91.1)  www.KLEDLive.com   9AM (PST) & 9PM (PST)

The Underground Experience Presents A Special Re-Broadcast In Memory Of MR. ROBERT LINDEN!

Associate Director, Television Music at CBS Studios/Productions, Songwriter/Singer/Keyboardist at Zen Boogie, Manager, TV Music at CBS Paramount Network Television, Executive Assistant to VP, Legal/Business Affairs, University of Southern California, International Music School

Last April 2012, I had the pleasure of interviewing Robert in-studio. We had so much Fun like we knew each other for years. You will witness his soul and spirit unplugged.

Musical Artists Include: Al Jolson, Robert Linden, Zen Boogie, Arnold Garcia 

Robert Linden, associate director of music at CBS Television Studios, died April 3 of leukemia. He was 57.

A memorial service was held  at 10 a.m. April 7 at Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary in Los Angeles.

Donations to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society would be appreciated.

“Renaissance” Robert has had a many-faceted career with successful forays into Songwriting, Performance, Theatrical Producing, P.R., Teaching, Vocal Coaching, Music Administration and Music Supervision.  Here’s a look-back into his musical side…

“A FAMILY AFFAIR”
(Robert talks about his “musical” childhood)

My earliest memories of music were“ listening over and over to my older brother Jeff’s old 45’s of Frank Sinatra, Patti Page, Sammy Davis Jr, The Rays, and so many others.  After school, I often stayed with my aunt Frances and uncle Phil, whose Al Jolson LP’s I played endlessly (my aunt Frances was like a second mother to me growing up while my mom worked at the family’s restaurant business.)

I remember my dad buying one of those chord organ back in the 1960′s when I was a child (this was  before synthesizers, remember)  and would play and sing songs like “Lady of Spain” and “Mona Lisa”.  Of course there was my middle brother Donald who could make me laugh endlessly by taking records and scratching and skipping across them (pretty ahead of his time, considering today that would probably qualify him as a hip-hop D.J.)  At 8 Donald was studying piano –but what must have been exasperating for him was to see his 3-year-old little brother (me) jump up on the piano bench and play his lessons without ever having studied.  Within a year, Donald gave up the piano, I took over and the rest is sibling rivalry.  Donald was also as responsible as anyone for unwittingly turning me on to 60’s rock like Buffalo Springfield, Cream and Janis Joplin (I had already discovered the Beatles through my teenage cousin Judy and her friends and became hooked right from “Meet The Beatles”. )

I’ve been singing as long as I can remember (singing in school choirs from my elementary years through college) and although my mom claimed to be “tone-deaf” she allowed her 5-year-old son to try to teach her to sing and tell one note from another.   All-in-all, I had a very unusually musical “non-musical upbringing”.

———————————

Those school choirs and choruses let to songwriting and bands in his teens.  Although he studied theatre and classical music at USC, gaining a degree in Music Education, he immediately upon graduation fell into a life of songwriting and performing with some theatre producing thrown in betwixt and between. (He actually earned a living running two theatres in L.A. over a 6-year stretch in the late 80′s through the early 90′s, during which time he produced over 20 shows.)  The death of his mother in 1995 brought most everything in his life to a crashing halt and when he finally re-emerged a year later, it was again music which proved to be his salvation.  His unique and raw boogie blues piano style had already begun to draw attention and his songwriting began to become more refined. His musical influences began to come together to create a unique style which has been compared to everyone from Gershwin to Carole King and Elton John, and with a flavor that hints of styles from Classic Rock and Swing to Cabaret and even Musical Comedy.

“In truth, I’m probably all of that and none of that” Robert claims.  “All those people and styles are definitely a part of who I am, but what it’s added up to in my music and style gets very hard to really pin down and describe- except to say that I like to have fun with my music and hope I tell stories that resonate for others.  One of my dearest friends is the talented writer (now travel journalist) Judie Fein who was instrumental in my coming to embrace the importance of brevity and proper use of language in my songs.  I’ve always lived for the proverbial ‘catchy tune’, which I know is sort of ‘tin pan alley-ish’, but is really true for me.  It’s just as valid in Rock, Pop or Country music today as it was back in the 1930′s as popular music began to really evolve.  I rarely try to be ‘cutting edge’ or write with a particular market or group in mind, which is probably why I see some of my songs being sung in different styles like Pop, R&B and Country simultaneously which quite a hoot and very flattering!”

“It’s also hard for me to nail down my influences since they’re so eclectic and varied.  Different music, different composers affected me at different times and certainly affected my music as well.  For example, I can recall being completely absorbed in the music and lyrics of songwriters and song-stylists like Carole King, James Taylor, Elton John, Dr. John, Cat Stevens, Jim Croce and Dan Fogelberg and composers like Mozart, Offenbach, Debussy, Ravel and Beethoven… but I can’t often tell you exactly where you’ll find their traces in my music… but they’re there!”

Robert has been called a “throwback to an earlier period of music” – with musical sensibilities that sometimes recall popular music from the 30′s and 40′s, the more swingy 50′s and bluesy 60′s and pop 70′s and 80′s, but with his own raw and unique boogie-blues flair and a far more contemporary lyrical flavor that is fired by his sardonic and sometimes edgy sense of the world around him… yet he can also set a romantic tone which seems to emanate from that same deep sensibility that is uniquely his.

“I’m just another story teller ” says he.

Broadcast # 168

Monday (4/8/13) 9am (PST) &  9pm (PST) at www.KLEDLive.com

Direct Links also on website: www.UltimateUnderground.com

Podcast will be available on iTunes. Podomatic and Website!