Exene Cervenka mellows out with "Somewhere Gone"

Hey everyone! I hope all is well. Do you remember Exene Cervenka, co-lead singer of the punk rock band X? Well she's back again only solo this time with her new album called "Somewhere Gone" (Bloodshot Records).

This record has a very mellow, folky sound to it. It puts me in a very comforting mood. "Somewhere Gone" is like an escape from a stressful reality. It takes you to a place that's almost like home, but only better at times. Yet, the songs are too similar and don't differentiate from each other.

The song "Let Go and Be Sweet" was peaceful. These words spoke a lot to me. People are always so caught up in their own world that they sometimes forget how to be kind to others. Sometimes, we got to just forget our problems and enter a world of cotton candy bliss and just be sweet. "Somewhere Gone" had a more somber sound. It seemed to be about a girl who is either looking for something or is lost. It's like she has no place to call home and is in a state of escaping peril.

This album had a different sound than what I expected from this former punk rocker. The essence of its sound rocked me to sleep and made me forget about my daily problems just for a little while. Cervenka's hardcore sound has softened up a bit over the years, yet I'm sure rockers out there can appreciate the consolatory and lyricism of her majestic music. "Somewhere Gone" is available on itunes. You should check out her Christmas album too.

Happy Holidays!!! Have fun out there.


-Tiffany

Oh Betty!

well well well another **BETTY* HoLidAy extravanganza..this time at the very chi chi 'HiGhLiNe BallRooM'...BETTY is so kool & chic & they really know how to do a holiday show right..& the certainly wear slick outfits..black leather, rubber, spandex, silver boots, straps, holey tights, SEXY SEXY SEXXXY...the sisters Amy & Elizabeth..& the drop dead knock out Alyson Palmer front the band...their songz are catchy & the harmonies are exquisite...doesn't hurt they have the theme song from 'the L Word'& the audience is theirs...eating out of their handz so to speak..they had a great song called 'cheater' & another called 'linda blair' & they are often playing around with gender bending & breaking the rules in all sorts of relationships...lust is a common thread thru out..It doesn't hurt that Gloria Steinham introduced them & I even had the pleasure of thanking her for paving the way for all of us & she responded "Sure, it was fun!"..I bet she could still be in PLAYBOY..she's gorgeous...'It's my Party" Leslie Gore also sang with the band & my fearless *GRGR* leader Gail & i sat at the "GORE" reserved table...we even ate some yummy vegan burgers & fries...highly recommended at the Highline... classy classy evening & my first candy cane of the season to boot...BETTY is worth seeing any time you can...they put on such a great show & have been doing it for a long time...their chemistry is so natural...& they being the pros they are were stupified by doing an encore of an unrehearsed tune & nailed it...BETTY is like a living cartoon & they definitly have you leaving happy... www.helloBETTY.com

Happy Holidaze!
Rew

Ang loves Chelsea Girls

Hello Hello!
I know it's been a while but I'm back to share with you a new found love for Chelsea Girls.
Thanks to the help of a little site called YouTube, I typed in "Welcome to the Jungle" and added girls, to see if there were any badass rocker chicks who could pull off GNR. And like magic, I discovered the Chelsea Girls-an amazing all female cover band hailing from the L.A. area.

Chelsea Girls features some incredibly talented rockers, including lead guitarist Allison Robertson of The Donnas. The other members also have impressive resumes as well.

Lead vocalist Tusedae is an operatic soprano, a world renown DJ, and a former Playboy model. Bassist Corey Parks is a member of Nashville Pussy and has designed clothes for Rock royalty such as Steven Tyler and Lenny Kravitz. Drummer Samantha Maloney has played with such bands as Hole and Motley Crue.

Truly a set of girls who can play just as dirty as the guys.

All one can say is :WOW! Check out some of their footage for yourselves.

For more info about the Chelsea Girls go to:myspace.com/chelseagirlsrock

-Ang xoxo

Blameshift...Stay Tuned for More!

Blameshift has bright future ahead of them and a glittering past behind them.
The native Long Island band released their first album in 2007 and then committed to non-stop touring.
Members Tim Barbaur ( guitar and vocals), Joey Meyer ( bass), James Miller (drums) and rocking lady Jenny Mann (vocals) spent two years non stop touring. Playing eight national tours and six dates on Vans Warped Tour.
They had a little break and then headed back on tour this past summer.
The band recently finished up the Girls vs Boy tour and are now, finally, back home in Long Island and working on their new album.
If their new album is anything like the tracks they have now, then it will rock out loud!
In my opinion, Blameshift kicks ass ! Front girls Jenny can pull her weight with the boys.
My two favorite tracks have to be; Saints & Sinners and War Withing,mix rocking chica Jenny with her awesome band-mate Tim and you have a masterpiece!

You can purchase their album at select Hot Topic and F.Y.E stores.
Want to know more about Blameshift and the band's rocking members? Look out for the Q&A I did with them and check out the Blameshift Myspace page @ www.myspace.com/blameshift to hear some of their hot tunes!
Be sure to look out for their new album!
Till next time!

Peace and Love,
Daniella

RockLove Jewelry

I think its inevitable that every woman likes a little jewelry in her life. It really makes the perfect outfit just pop. If you're looking to put a little edge in your wardrobe, you should check out Rocklove jewelry. They have some awesome styles from their Torch Song Collaboration, Victorian Glam, Pin Up Vixen and much more. I personally loved their Pearl Chain Collection. It puts a classy, yet rocker edge to chains to rock out on your neck and wrist. Being a little classy, yet edgy works out well. Check out some of these styles for yourself.

Harlee Recommends The Radiates

The Radiates. A hip band whose name is almost as striking as their completely distinct sound. Lead singer and guitarist Aidan has a soft but raw voice that is almost mesmerizing. Bassist Max keeps his laid back attitude while plucking swiftly on his bass and drummer Jack has no problem maintaining the differently beated songs. Though they all work together to keep the smooth and relaxing feeling of the music there different sound is mainly do to the striking vocals of their other vocalist and keyboarder Scout. I'm addition to her impeccable style and always perfect hair, Scout belts out the strongest notes I have ever heard. She has no problem helping the band stand out against other teen bands and we all know it. Check out myspace.com/radiates or their facebook page to see when their next shows are and hear their distinctive and alluring music. Don't miss out on your chance to see these guys perform because I guarantee you won't regret it.

Harlee Ludwig, GRGR Teen Correspondent

The best laid plans...Living Colour @ CMJ

My Friday night CMJ plan so carefully laid out, was completely shattered when I got a text message from my buddy Kelsey, (front man of Pillow Theory...): "Living Colour acoustic show, Angels and Kings, 10 o'clock:) "I'm so there", I texted back. All prior plans were promptly thrown to the curve (Sorry School of Seven Bells).

A little background on my relationship with Living Colour: "Cult of Personality" was one of those songs where I clearly remember where I was the first time I heard it. I was a musical theatre/teen pop geek that hadn't really discovered anything beyond what was fed to me by TV, radio or school. And although just a child, I had sensed that mainstream entertainment went through massive shifts usually based on political/economic climates or a need for a movement to clearly rebel against the one that came before it. So here I was a young pup with a Jordan Knight poster, memorizing my lines for my school production of Bye, Bye Birdie, faithfully listening to my top 40 station B96 in Chicago.

Cult of Personality comes on out of nowhere and kicks my ass. "When a leader speaks, a leader dies" were not lyrics that were typical of mainstream radio. This song actually scared me, shook me, and gave me a glimpse into the forefront of the next wave of music. It was obvious with that one song that the cultural tides were changing. It wasn't until my adulthood, however, that I would become familiar with the bands full catalog until I caught Medicine Stick (fronted by former Living Colour bass player Muzz Skillings).

Medicine Stick had tapped into a similar "stirred up" type of feeling when I caught his band. Once I found out Muzz had been in Living Colour it compelled me to dive deeper into Living Colour's catalog. I grew to love all phases of the band both with Muzz and (current bassist) Doug Wimbish. And Medicine Stick inspired me to start my own band, edibleRed, which has lasted over a decade.

I arrive an hour early, pleasantly surprised that 1) there was plenty of room (as the show was booked last minute) 2) there was a very interesting band playing before hand, Bern and the Brights an acoustic 5 piece with strings. 3) WRXP who has completely revolutionized commercial radio in New York city was running the night.

Bern and the Brights had an earthy,down home,genre-bending yet folksy feel. Ethereal, introspective and full of quick surprises... a reggae groove here, a ska beat there.... If No Doubt and Jack Johnson were college buddies sharing a bong hit at student housing and jamming...
that would be them....

As Living Colour set up, the only resemblence to an acoustic show was the brushes and scaled down kit donned by Will Calhoun. Corey Glover was fiddliing with the jukebox, Vernon Reid was somewhat under the radar back in the corner and Doug Wimbish was just hanging out and being awesome as usual.

"They said if we play too loud, they're gonna call the cops...obviously they don't know us too well!" exclaimed Big Man Glover (as written on his T-shirt). That would be the first of many zingy one liners... Sonically my favorite thing was the vocal blend between Corey, Vernon and Doug. Vernon's guitars were way down in the mix, yet the "bar band sound" contributed an air of charm. They played the hits, but seemed to be slightly tuned into each other on the newer stuff, namely "Behind the Sun".

Jokingly, Vernon teased the crowd with the "Cult of Personality" riff which inspired screams of "DO IT!!" Glover’s eye rolling and beating the microphone on his head in exasperation greatly contradicted the sheer thrill of the 50 or so people in attendance. It's hard to know what goes through the mind of a frontman of a band that has superb catalog, yet it commonly identified with one song. I briefly felt slighted as a fan. I wished Corey could just roll with it a little more. He then made a joke about being on Youtube saying "Who’s that cover band playing that Living Colour shit". I feel like Glover missed the memo that platinum artists who play in small bars are awesome.

They seriously redeemed things during "Asshole" which was perfect for the bar band version of Living Colour and really brought it home during "Out of my mind" which was unfortunately the last song of the evening. "Don't tell anyone we did this", exclaimed Corey. NO Corey, I am telling EVERYONE... And now I know you were using reverse pychology on me because I saw the "Angels and Kings" links on all of the Living Colour twitter pages. Nicely done, Big Man Glover.

Collette McLafferty, Guest Blogger

Antics and Buzz on Fierce Femmes at CMJ!

Yep folks... it is that time of year again! This year, CMJ kind of snuck up on me like Christmas sometimes does...Glad to see that the festival is becoming more diverse and is no longer just a skinny white boys rock club (although I do love my skinny white boys...holla!). So many rock chicks...so little time. So after catching some cool panels (All Hail Andrew WK!), getting some free haircuts,massages, beer and swag and meeting the Marco, the official visual artist of CMJ this year, it was time to get my rock diva on...

First, Remi Lane at The Delancey... I kind of like to call her "mini-me" because she is a fellow dangerous redhead who can rock a red sparkly red dress and hang from ceiling pipes like nobody's business. Lane has been working with Linda Perry, but is humble enough to talk about trying to get friends to come out and support in the New York Clubs... keep it real girl. She kind of reminds me of Beth Orton meets The Strokes meets U2, Meets Garbage... just commercial enough to get into the hearts and minds of the mainstream, yet just indie enough to keep her cred while doing it....she's got hooks galore coupled with intelligent lyrics.

Next was Mieka Paulie at The Gallery Bar who was playing at indie queen Rachael Sage's MPRESS Records soiree. That night, Mieka's lineup was a "cross between a solo project and a band" as we was rocking the acoustic guitar in a 3 piece. Mieka and I are both on the "Next Paradigm" compilation where she covers "Angels from Montgomery". Stunning husky vocals that leave me scratching my head for comparison. Meika has been working it for a minute... I see her name everywhere...a true inspiration for indie artists living the dream...

Then, off to the Artists Lounge for some more free beer, vodka and pomegranate soda..hmmmm. I saw a super cool boy fronted band with a hot chick guitarist/vocalist. This band was one of my highlights of CMJ. They clearly had the room (folded arms and all, everyone was loving it on the inside) and I felt compelled to make my way up to the front and DANCE... we need to bring that back people!

"Do you know who this band is?" I asked about 5 people before learning it was "The Nervous Wreckords" (NOT Nervous Records, the house music label...) featuring Brian Karscig/Anthony Saffery w/Mark Maigaard, Ray Suen, Mark Stoermer, Steve Smith. Andy Ridley, Shaun Cornell and Lindsay Matheson. Beyond their dance infectious grooves, hypnotic bass lines, killer harmonies, hooks and good looks, I think my FAVORITE thing about this band is their song titles. "I Don't Feel Tardy".... if you don't immediately know the reference, shame on you! I freaked out an when I learned that they were from San Diego, since my favorite radio station X1FM is there. I immediately accosted lead singer Anthony Saffery... all in the name of hopefully seeing them featured on "The Open Door" sessions one day and learned that Anthony is formerly of "Louis X1V", which has been covered by X1FM. Anthony is very nice to his accosters btw. Lindsey also made it a point to come say hi, as she saw us dancing in the front and giving her the unspoken "oh hell yeah hot rock chick work it girl" vibes.... we both agreed that New York and San Diego need to return to the days of dancing... big cities sometimes has a the-church-town-in-Footloose-before-Kevin Bacon-takes-over kind of vibe. Anyway, look for this band to blow up, like yesterday. They have 12 shows under their belt, most of them being on tour with The Killers.

Then last but not least, we walked over to Santos Party House, we were to exhausted to actually catch any bands, but I wanted GRGR founder Gail Silverman to experience the awesomeness of Santos Party House,even if only for a second... I ran into the folks from Panzie, who are starting to get a lot of love in the press. Tonight is a
new night, so I think we may return to there tonight...

Peace out folks!
Collette McLafferty, Guest Correspondent

Hangin Out @ CMJ - music and messages from Andrew W.K.

Its that time of year again, the leaves are falling and NYC is hosting the annual CMJ Music Marathon. I didn't even think I would be attending this year, as GRGR did not have a showcase, but the universe via a wonderful and generous spirit dropped the opportunity in my lap and who am I say no when such a thing happens! A shout out and thanks to my friend Davida! So what's my experience so far, like most music conferences you go to lots of panels, get some good tidbits of information, make some new connections, get some free goodies and then there are those occasional surprises. Sometimes you have an unexpected experience that doesn't even have anything to do with the core purpose of being where you are at! So rather then reporting on the regular tips & tidbits I'd love to tell you about my surprise experience of attending a presentation with Andrew W.K. Now keep on mind I had no idea who this person was (OK maybe I live under a rock?), but he was a featured speaker and my friend and co-correspondent the lovely Collette McLafferty (GRGR alum, lead singer of Edible Red and MTV video super star) was encouraging me to check him out. Now Andrew was described to me as a quirky artist musician who sang songs mostly about partying (even managed a whole album of it), a kooky guest star on reality TV shows among other such things...what a surprise to get an hour and 15 minute interaction with a charming, funny character who had an uplifting, inspiring and spiritual message. So although its not directly related to music, it is about life and my spiritual Kundalini yoga teacher persona wants to share it. So here is some of the wisdom from Andrew:
Do what you love and do it with all your intensity!(in response to a guy talking about how he really loves to party)
Take responsibility for all that happens to you - don't blame it on outside forces.
Even nothing is something. - (an explanation about Andrews tattoo that was meant to mean nothing)
Its good to be outside your comfort zone, when in a place of doubt just have the experience, you can learn the most going through those things that you don't understand.
He has made a point of making himself the project instead of having to pick only one thing to focus on and do! (Amen!)
Maintain a belief that the world is good & perfect even when it doesn't make sense in its imperfections.
Following ones own will is the only way to be successful.
Keep being vulnerable and crushing your ego!
Do the most riskiest most crazy things the ones that are the least reasonable or safe.
Look at your life like a movie you are the main character and creating the the script the more outlandish the better. (makes for a more interesting movie!)
Don't think of anything as failing think everything that happens as meant to be.
We are not here to doubt others just be on your own path.

And finally how wierd was this he and I had the same vocal coach Melissa Cross - the universe is so cool!

OK after all that wisdom, CMJ is after all a Music Festival and finally we did go see some bands last night! Our pick of the day was an awesome duo Buke & Gass from right here in Brooklyn -- this girl and guy had it going on -- sounding like a full band with two guitars, a whole bunch of pedals, bells on there feet and kick drum with a tamborine! Genre was difficult to pinpoint kind of an eclectic ambient pscyhedelic rock, with cool odd time signatures alternatively melodic and dissonant. Check them out! http://www.myspace.com/bukeandgass

Till tomorrow, when Miss Collette reports on musical highlights and other nonsense from tonight!
Gail Silverman
GRGR Founder/CEO

GRGR Alum Edible Red Hits It Big on MTV.com!

Outkast’s famous single “Hey Ya” was released in 2003 and made its way to the top of the charts shortly after. The popularity of the song is still around and lyrics like “Shake it like a Polaroid picture” are still sung over and over by the fans of today’s generation. Well what we know of “Hey Ya” has been forever changed. One of GRGR’s own alumni, edibleRed has made their way onto MTV’s Buzzworthy Blog with their remake of the “Hey Ya”. The Band re-vamped the 1964 Ed Sullivan Show inspired video and broke it down to show the sadness that the original video was missing. edibleRed did an amazing job in capturing the real essence of what the writers, Big Boi and Andre 3000,were talking about.

GRGR is very proud of edibleRed’s success with “Hey Ya” and would like to congratulate them on all their hard work. It really paid off and they deserved it especially the awesomely talented and hard working lead singer Collette McLafferty! Make sure to check out the video at http://buzzworthy.mtv.com/tag/outkast/.

Peace and Love,

Daniella

Props to Jasmine Solano

I hope all is well with you guys. School is going for me, but now I'm ready for some GRGR action.

Girls Rock Girls Rule is known for giving mucho props to women in rock & roll. These women deserve full respect for their contribution to music. Yet, today we're going to step out of this awesome genre for just a second and give kudos to hip hip DJ Jasmine Solano.

Just like many of our rockers, this chick keeps it real. Her song "That's Not it" is pleasure to the ears. Solano vibes about the pleasure that she's not getting from a guy and about the wack game that he's trying to pull on her. The beat is real slow, but is perfect to just chill to when strolling around the city with friends.

"Coco Puff" has a slow beat to it too but has a more energizing feel. Her seductive voice flows well with the steady beat. Her lyrics demand for attention. "It's electric punanny to you." Her sound is more relaxed than loud, but the listener would know what she wants. The passion doesn't echo through the ears; it can be felt.

Solano is opening for the Clipse on Oct. 22 with Myspace Music in NYC. This upcoming artist does well with getting her message out as many of our rockers do. She has truly made a name for herself in the hip hop game and is kicking ass for women in music. Keep doing your thing Solano. Until next time rockers =). Peace.

-Tiffany

Paramore-Brand New Eyes

Hello Hello!

Miss me? I'll tell you what I missed, a new album from Paramore. Luckily the Hailey Williams and the boys just currently released their newest album, Brand New Eyes.

"Ignorance" is the recent single off the album and it's already making some noise. Despite rumors of the group breaking up, Paramore continues to put in their hard work and raw talent towards their third album.

With strong instrumentals and vocals, each track showcases that the punk pop band isn't any where close of peaking. Williams' spunky voice and strong lyrics shines through all the songs, including the last track power ballad, "All I Wanted".

My personal favorite tracks include "Brick By Boring Brick", "Turn It Off" and "Playing God".
"Misguided Ghosts" is an acoustic melodic track featuring the softer side of the band. There are no other words to describe it better than beautifully simple and delicate.

To hear other tracks off of Brand New Eyes go to Paramore.net. Be sure to grab their CD in stores!

-Ang xo

Spread The Rumor: Native Staten Island Band

Hilary, Sabrina, KT, Val and Pete of Spread The Rumor are giving the “Forgotten Borough” a reason to be remembered. The girls (and boy) are taking Staten Island by storm. They are young but they know how to rock.
Thankfully I was able to have a chat with them.

How did “Spread The Rumor” start?

Val: STR started my freshman year in high school. Hilary and I were walking across the street and she almost got hit by a school bus. That got us talking about band names and eventually led to the fact that I played bass and Hilary played keyboard. We decided to start a band.

KT: Hilary and Val found me at our friend's house, then Val found Pete on the bus, and we kidnapped Sabrina. We have been a full band for a year in October.

Well that is a pretty interesting start. So once all members were acquired how did you come up with the name “Spread The Rumor”?

Sabrina: Before we were called “Spread the Rumor”, we were the “Flashlight Refugees”. We all thought we needed to upgrade our name. One of Valerie's favorite bands, Socratic's, CD was called "Spread the Rumors" We thought it was pretty cool.

What is the deal with an album? Is there a Spread The Rumor album on the horizon?

KT: Yes, we're working on our first demo now, and we're writing new songs all the time so we will have a sufficient amount of material when the time for an album comes.

Can’t wait to hear it! Who would you say are your biggest influences?

Val: Blink 182, Ben Folds Five, Green Day, and Motion City Soundtrack.

Sabrina: My biggest influence is Green Day. They're the ones who inspired me to be motivated in learning guitar.

KT: The Beatles, Evanescence

Wow! You have some great motivating you through this. All the artists that you girls listed are amazing performers. What is your favorite part of performing?

Sabrina: When I'm performing in front of people, I just get this feeling, it just feels like I'm doing the right thing in my life; like I'm headed in the right direction for my future. It just feels right. It's an indescribable feeling.

Val: I love positive crowd reaction and making the performance as enjoyable for everyone there as I can. It's a lot of fun.

KT: The whole experience of playing on a stage for a whole bunch of people you may or may not know.

This has been a great little Q&A. Any last words? Anything you want the readers to know?

Sabrina: Hmm. Not really sure. But one thing I do know is that if you ever have doubts in anything you want to pursue, keep thinking positive. I know corny lol.

Val: Ha ha. Never be in a band, it eats all of your time and money. Ha ha ha ha.

Take a trip to Staten Island and check them out!!!

Peace and Love,
Daniella

Kittie's Intense Prowl

Hey GRGR rockers,

I've been gone, but only to pursue my studies upstate at school. I could never forget about the girls at GRGR. While up here, I heard about this metal band called Kittie who'll be playing at the Northern Lights arena in Clifton Park, NY on Oct. 29. I was very pleased to hear that the North Country does embrace women in rock. I just had to check their sound out for myself.

They just had an album come out called "In the Blade" which was released on Sept. 15. Their song "My Plague" evoked a feeling of war. Hell could be felt rumbling under me as I felt the strong bass of the guitar. Their screams were heard like a battle cry as the music battled against their inner demons. It was like they were battling against a plague within themselves. Their song "Cut Throat" was very hardcore. My head was having a seizure with the amount of times I rocked my head to this tune. Rage and desperation could be felt through the intensity of their drums. Their music had me ready and energized for a fight. Too bad I have nothing to fight but a pile of homework waiting for me. Homework, you're going down.

Hopefully, the north country will have more rockin femmes in the near future. Bands like Kittie needs to be heard more often. This awesome music needs to claw its way to all parts of New York. Maybe even the United States. Maybe even the world. Until next time. Peace out.

-Tiffany

Lessons I Learned at Willie Mae Rock Camp

Hey it's Harlee the teen correspondant again sharing some more of my experience at Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls! In addition to lots of music time WMRC also offers the campers lots of great workshops that run the gamut from songwriting to non musical topics to build self esteem and confidence. One such workshop that I participated in was "Self Care Skill Share". It was about boosting self confidence and some cool tools to do so. First we were told to write down in the third person what we thought a stranger would think and see when they look at us. Next the girls wrote "their story" -- which could be anything from when they were born to the previous days breakfast-- but this time in second person from an objective point of view referring to themselves as "you" because as we learned that day, it's easier to talk about yourself in second person. After we all compared the two lists, finding what was most different and most similar they were told about something called a Crisis List. A Crisis List is where on one side there is numerous feelings and things that put you in a bad place and on the other side is filled with good things to improve your mood. They were told that there are no ends to the lists and more can be added every day and to use the lists when feeling down about self appearance, friendships, or anything. This particular workshop shows how the camp is not only about music but about empowerment and strength as well. More on my WMRC experience in the October issue of the GRGR RockHotsheet! If you haven't already sign up this month and be entered to win a Daisy Rock Guitar!

Renown Rocker Chicks to Grace the Stage at VH1's Divas

Hey Rockers and Rockettes!
It's been a while. I'm back at school finishing up my SENIOR year. It's been hectic, but I wouldn't turn my back from GRGR even if you paid me.

It seems some of our favorite rockers chicks will be honored at VH1's Divas Live. The star studded night will include appearences from Cyndi Lauper, Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow and Kelly Clarkson. While this is Lauper's third time to Divas, the rest of the ladies are first timers. This year's performance will aired live on September 17 and will be the first one since the Divas 2004 show.

Are there any rock queens you'd like to see in the future? Share your predicitions.

-Ang xoxo

Blame the Patient

I recently discovered, Blame the Patient a popular new band in New York City. Almost everything about this fresh new band is unmistakably their own including their three choices for T-shirts that have a Casino Gnome drawn by the talented lead singer Sofie Kapur herself. The band consists of brother and sister bassist and singer Anders and Sofie Kapur from New Jersey, drummer Annie Stabenau and guitarists Hunter Lombard and Andrew Leopold from all over the city. Their retro sound is catchier every time you listen to their songs and Sofie’s raw but clear voice is unmistakably distinctive. Not only do they play their own songs like “Subway Song” and “The Wind” but they do an awesome cover of the Pixies cult classic “Where is My Mind.” Recently opening for ACAMP, Blame the Patient is easily on their way to being one of the few good “rock” bands out there. Check out Blame the Patient now at myspace.com/blamethepatient or even become a fan on their Facebook page!

Harlee, GRGR Teen Correspondent

Rockin' Out, Rockin' Out, Rockin' Out!

After spending a few days at Willie Mae Rock Camp, a camp for girls that teaches them not only how to be a rock star but also how to be an empowered female, I was amazed by how excited the girls were to perform in their new bands even though many of them had just began playing their instrument earlier that week. It would have taken me months to play as well as they had in a mere week’s time. With hours of instrument practice a day, as well as workshops and band practice, it was inspiring how intensely they worked and practiced to prepare for their performance. There is no limit at Willie Mae to what the girls can create and express at camp! They can choose from a variety of traditional instruments like bass, drums, guitar, vocals, or keyboard as well as the more non-traditional such as; violin, turn tables, and even cowbells, spoons and kazoos! For more about my time at Willie Mae keep check back on the GRGR blog and keep an eye out for a feature story in an upcoming GRGR newsletter! And check out the video here:http://bit.ly/LXlB5

Harlee Ludwig, Teen Correspondant

I'll Be Rockin When I'm 70!

Years ago I wrote a song called "Revolutionary" an ode to my frustrations about the music industry...the ageism, the need that lady rockers be held to an unrealistic standard of beauty etc. The song concludes that none of that matters to me cause I will keep rockin' no matter what! The last line of my song is "I'll be rockin' when I'm 70, I'll be rockin' as long as I can breathe!". Well can we talk about a mega inspiring moment I had last week when I was volunteering at Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls. WMRC in and of itself is such an amazing experience - just seeing a group of 100 girls form bands and write and perform a song in front of 100s of people in just a week, while learning about self expression, comraderie and communication would have been enough! Rockin with the volunteer band would have been enough! But there was another cherry on the sundae; each day WMRC has well known lady rockers performing for the girls at lunch time. Amy Ray was there from the Indigo Girls but the ultimate highlight was lady blues rocker Beverly Watkins performance, and the icing on the cake when she announced to the crowd that she was 70 years old Oh yeah!! She was accompanied by Lafrae slammin' on drums (she toured with me in 2007 so I know first hand how good she is) and Felice Rosser on bass - all I can say is WOW - Girls Rock & Girls Rule! Check out the video on our YouTube site http://bit.ly/19ziyz
For more scoop on the lil rockin ladies of WMRC and what its all about - check back on the blog for post from our GRGR Teen Correspondant, Harlee and a feature story in the Oct. newsletter!
Rock On, G. GRGR Founder/CEO

Lissy Trullie: A sign of Discovery

Music is like a gateway to the soul. It opens doors for many to uncover the truths about someone. So in a search for more discovery, I fell upon Lissy Trullie. This new artist was recently signed to Downtown records and has an album coming out in early 2010. Her single "Boy, boy" was very pleasing to my ears. "Ohhhhh, ohhhhh ohhhhhh ohhh ohh," sang her gal pals throughout her video. The melody was like a musical lullaby to my inner-child. Her lyrics and voice had a depth to it that showed attitude and a want for the truth behind a certain boy who was all wrapped up in her world. Or not. The tune was definitely a sign to what's in her heart. Or at least to what's on her mic as she kissed it during her video . Check out this amazing video and keep rocking on. Peace. =)

-Tiffany

Pat Benatar, Blondie and The Donnas Rock Coney Island

The Cyclone wasn't the only thing rattling the boardwalk at Coney Island last night.
Asser Park was packed for the Pat Benatar, Blondie and The Donnas free performance. The GRGR team and I were present for the big show and had ourselves a wonderful time. The Donnas opened up the show playing some of their well known hits, "Wasted" and "Take It Off". Drummer Tory Castellano was absent due to shoulder problems and filling in her spot was good friend, Amy of The Demonics. The ladies only played three songs. I would've really loved to hear them play a longer set but nonetheless they were even more AH-mazing live(as if you couldn't tell from all my updates on my FB status).

Pat Benatar took the stage next. Now doning a longer hair do, Pat is still great at her age. She shared stories from the past, including how she was the second video ever to be played on MTV. Benatar played songs from different eras including "Hit Me With Your Best Shot", "Love Is A Battlefield" and "We Are One". She closed her set with a universal favorite, "Heartbreaker".

Blondie was the last act of the night. Marissa and I left in the middle of her act but were able to catch her play six of her songs. But even as we were leaving, I was able to hear her play "Call Me" all the way from the subway platform.

It was an unforgettable night and probably a milestone that will always be important to my career. I watched the show in complete awe and just took it all in. The energy from the acts and the crowd themselves was an experience in itself. It's no wonder why so many girls and women are dedicated to pursuing music in hopes that they too will have the sensation of being able to play live infront of thousands.

Last night was another reason I love what I do and I am even more passionate about helping more women get on stage to play music for a living.

-Ang xoxo
Pictures to come soon!

SELF Magazine Photoshops Kelly Clarkson

The cover of most women magazines always have some gorgeous actress or model gracing their pages. I'm not saying it's wrong, but sometimes I'd like to see more real women on the pages of our magazines. They are supposed to represent women, right? Or are they just supposed to represent what women should look like?

Anyway, SELF magazine recently had rocker Kelly Clarkson represent on their cover. Yet, there is a difference on how she looks on the cover compared to how she really looks.

The Editor-in-Chief Lucy Danziger stood up for her decision in Photoshopping the singer. She said this to ET: "SELF magazine inspires and informs our 6 million readers each month to reach their all around best," Lucy adds. "Kelly Clarkson exudes confidence, and is a great role model for women of all sizes and stages of their life. She works out and is strong and healthy, and our picture shows her confidence and beauty. She literally glows from within. That is the feeling we'd all want to have. We love this cover and we love Kelly Clarkson."

Clarkson has actually admitted to not caring about Photoshop in her blog. Yet, my question is was it still right to Photoshop her? Especially when this woman exudes so much pride in her image. What do you think?

-Tiffany

Lucinda Williams celebrates the big 3-0

Grammy Award-winner, Lucinda Williams really knows how to celebrate a milestone. In honor of the 30th anniversary as a recording artist, Williams is performing around the U.S. and Canada and sharing her gift for everyone to enjoy.

Williams, who has fused country, folk and rock music into a genre of her own, has released nine albums and has won three Grammys over the 30 years. The 17 city tour that kicks off on September 18 includes a three night stand at The Fillmore at Irving Plaza from October 3-5.

It is said that Williams will be performing a full set of songs from different eras of her career.

For more info on the Lucinda Williams tour, check out her official site.

-Ang

Ladies shake the stage at Lollapalooza

Lollapalooza spiced up the summer this weekend at Grant Park in Chicago. There were a lot of hot bands that definitely left the crowd begging for more. Yet, of course this wouldn't be a real show without a couple of girl bands to heat up the stage. Check out some of the female rockers that hit the stage:

Bat For Lashes

The Yeah Yeah Yeahs

Santigold

Crystal Castles

If you missed out, don't feel bad. The summer isn't over yet. So check out our rockin' femmes at a summer concert near you. =)

-Tiffany

Three Days Till Pat Benatar!

On August 13, Pat Benatar, Blondie AND The Donnas make a pit stop in NYC as part of their "Call Me Invincible Tour." Me and GRGR Founder Gail Silverman are popping by (and we may do more than just that -- stay tuned!). Until then, check out this dope video:

xoxox
Marisa

A Wedding Fit for a Rock Queen

Perhaps I'm on some sort of a writing dry spell because I have no clue about this subject in particular, but I feel that this will have some kind of pull with a lot of you ladies out there. A friend of a friend of mine just had a wedding not to long ago. Personally, I wouldn't really care about a ceremony but what was so cool about this one was that it was a total rockstar themed wedding. I'm not one for lace and lillies but I also wouldn't wanna be married by an Elvis impersonator.My friend attended her rocker wedding at a small music venue/theater where the couple got married on stage and made all the guests wear temporary tattoos of their initials.
Surprisingly this is a trend that is being pulled off by many modern rock brides.

So for the rocker chick who has found a rocking prince charming and ready to walk down the aisle in a none traditional fashion (including some of our GRGR ladies ;]), this one goes out to you.

Now for those planning the ultimate rocker soiree, I'd check these sites out:
RockNRollBride.com and OffbeatBride.com. These two sites provide pictures and stories of brides who threw unforgettable ceremonies that prove to stand out among the rest. They have great ideas from giving out personalized guitar pics as wedding goodies to groomsmen wearing matching converse sneakers.

To add some more inspiration, take a look at some famous rocker weddings during the past years such as Gwen Stefani, Pink, and Carmen Electra.

Hope this helps out some brides to be. With a rockstar theme to die for, I'm sure it will be fun for you, the groom and everyone else attending. Let's just hope I find my rockstar so that I may do the same! Wishing you nothing but love and happiness!

-Ang xoxo

Reni Lane's Music Brings out a New World

Reni Lane is surely making her place in New York. I just had an interview today with this rocker and I must say it was quite an experience. After she was a few minutes late due to her dead phone, (I can so relate. My phone has been acting up lately too.) we headed into a beautiful conversation where we discussed how her lyrics influenced her fans, how PJ Harvey inspired her, and her concerts that she had right in her college dorm room. Her thoughts on women in rock and the musical connection with her fans put me in a dreamworld; a world where I could feel one with the music as if it's a guide telling me that every thing's going to be OK. And my dreamworld didn't end there. This vivacious singer has a pop, yet alternative edge to her music that really connects with the listener. Her single “Place for us” put me on the road for adventure. The beat easily stuck in my head and lit up my night as it had me thinking of sunlight. A ray of hope was set in my mind. Surely, Reni's music has a place in my heart. Check out this single on itunes on August 11 and the Q&A with this awesome femme in the future.

-Tiffany

Video Killed the Radio Star: VMA 2009 Female Rocker Nominees

Along with writing song lyrics and melodies, today's musicians find another expressive outlet through music videos. The nominations for the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards were announced today and some of today's bright and shining rocker chicks have earned their chance to bring home a moon man. Here are some of the nominees.

For Best Female Video:
Pink- "So What"
Kelly Clarkson- "My Life Would Suck Without You"
Katy Perry- "Hot'n'Cold"

For Best Rock Video:
Paramore- "Decode"

For Best Breakthrough Video:
Bat For Lashes- "Daniel"
Yeah Yeah Yeahs- "Heads Will Roll"

The VMAs will premier live Sept. 13 at 9pm ET.To vote for these ladies and some other talented acts as well as their videos, go to MTV.com

-Ang xoxo

My Rocker Musical Influences

Growing up in this crazy city, I've always been surrounded by music. It's such a wonderful part of me that I could never do without. But the type of music that rocked my world for most of my life wasn't rock. The rough head-bangin tunes of rap and hip-hop were a major influence in most of my young life. Then there was also the soulful sounds of R & B and the hip-jerking vibes of soca and reggae that strongly influenced my musical yearning ears.

All this music had my heart spinning in an urge for a taste of what each had to give. But then there was this one genre that I felt I needed to pay more attention to. Rock made major points with me during my teen years. It took me to another world from what I was used to and I liked it. It was something that I could truly connect with during my grim days and even gave me some confidence. Yet, I felt alone in this connection. Most of my peers were into the musical influences of my younger years. It had me wondering “Don't people listen to rock in Brooklyn?” It was always the latest Jay-Z song bumping through car speakers rather than the latest Evanescence song. My rocker ears felt alone at home.

Yet, after going off to college and gaining a little experience in the frigid north country was when I got to go through rock music with others. I got to explore the musical depths of the rock genre by seeing it come alive. Yes! Now I can live in a world of many musical tunes and not feel alone anymore. Where were you fellow rockers? Y'all left me hangin' for a while. But now I'm happy to dwell in this musical bliss in my home of Brooklyn and at school upstate too. Although, one thing I'd like to hear more in rock is more female sounds in today's mainstream music. It's there, but it's not loud enough. In some genres, women voices are heard and they are screaming their heads off. Rocker femmes keep doing your thing. The rock world would definitely be better with your musical tunes added in a bit more. Heh, a lot more.

-Tiffany

Escape with The Pierces

I personally feel like the summer is supposed to be about an escape. Honestly, what is the point of getting a release from your job or school if you can't have a real adventure.

My desires for an escapade were answered when I checked out The Pierces. I loved their psychedelic tunes that took me to another world. Their song “Secret” reminded me of something out of an Italian mafia. The melody took me to a romantic fantasy land despite the lyrics that spoke of death and secrecy. I'm going to make sure I don't tell a secret on those girls. I like my life.

Then their song “Boring” had a beautiful melody that made my life look like something out of a book on lint. Paris, France, a sexy boy, and finding the love of your life all sound awesome to me, but these girls seem to find them boring. But maybe the message is to appreciate what you already have instead of dwelling on what sounds cool. I don't know about them, but all that still sounds amazing to me.

“Go to Heaven” definitely put my feelings in happy mode. Their soothing voices took me to cloud 9 as their sweet melodies floated throughout the song. The 60s was calling my name as their peaceful tunes reminiscent of that time harmonized in my ears.

The Pierces took me on a journey today. Their lovely melodies were able to take me on a dreamy summer vacation that I'm sure to never forget.

-Tiffany

Cherie Martorana-A Rock Chick to Admire

Today, I wrapped up my interview with Cherie Martorana, a true blue rocker chick that has taken the city by storm. The New York local is truly a jack of all musical trades. Ms. M. is the lead female singer of 80s cover band Rubix Cube, a back up singer for Moby's rock blues band-The Little Death NYC and is best known as Cherieoke/Bible Babe at Monday night live rock'n'roll karaoke at Arlene's Grocery. It was a joy to speak to such a talent and hear all about the things she's accomplished in her music career. Keep a look out for the interview in the near future. For the mean time, be sure to check Cherie out at any of her upcoming gigs.

-Ang xoxo

A 20-year-olds' Dilemma

Being 20 is so cool. I'm finally out of my teenage years and sometimes I actually get treated like an adult. I've gained a lot of privileges and responsibilities over the past few months. Yet, there's still so much I can't do. I am so close yet so far from the ultimate 21-year-olds' dream of being able to drink. That also means being able to go into bars where these beverages are. I'm not much of a drinker, but one thing I've noticed about bars is that it's where all the action is. There's always some form of entertainment going on. Sometimes, there are even live shows of an awesome band. It just sucks that just because of my age, I can't enjoy the pleasure of rockin' tunes from a couple of my favorite groups. I can't even be introduced to the experience of a new band because of that one number. Being 20 is great, but I'm caught in middle of being an adult and not being to do everything I want. I'm just feeling the underage blues.

-Tiffany

The Female's Survival Guide to the Music Industry

If I've said it before, I'll say it again: The music industry is still a boys club. While women have made more leeway into this business, it can still be a struggle. I consider myself lucky to have had few but strong female influences in my life. There was my who aunt managed big name rock bands in the Philippines and her then girlfriend, a well known rock radio personality. I'm a former intern of Ariel Publicity, an independent music cyber PR firm, and worked closely with publicist and social media queen Ariel Hyatt. Which now brings me to Girls Rock Girls Rule, a team of fierce females who are dedicated to making the music world more rocker chick friendly. From my early teens to my early 20s, I share with you the advice I received and the wisdom I learned to help me make it as a female in the music industry.

1. The best parts of your body? Your head, your mouth, and your backbone.
These are the three most powerful things that a female should use to be respected in this industry. Sometimes women aren't taken seriously cause they're "too feminine", "too delicate" or "too sexy". For any woman who wants to lead in the business, you got to think smart, speak your mind and stand tall. You don't want to be walked over and the last thing you want to do be chosen off the casting couch. Remember, a pretty face is nothing without a smart mind inside it.

2. Open your horizons. You never know when opportunity will come knocking.
I never knew exactly what I wanted to do in the music industry, I just knew I wanted a place in it. I went to college to mainly focus on Journalism. Little did I know that I'd end up doing plenty of things that opened up opportunities in the music industry. Along with writing about music and entertainment, I produced rock shows, helped manage bands, did publicity, booked shows, hosted shows and did radio promo. Phew! I did a lot and currently I know that my many talents can take me down many paths of the business. Also, don't let misconceptions hold you back. I was told once that men make better managers and booking agents because they were more dominant and aggressive. I worked at a booking agency where the staff was predominantly male and I was just as tough as them.

3. Be careful mixing your business and personal life.
This is one of the toughest things I learned and believe me I learned the hard way. I've had musicians try to buddy up to me because I had connections and I've had "friends" try to have fun on my expense because I hung out with rockstars. You will come across people like this someday. And whatever you do, don't fall for musicians or anyone who tries to romance you purposely to get ahead in their career. Surround yourself with people who have your best interest and that are completely genuine, whether it's your business partners or your clique. Don't ever let anyone take advantage of the fruit of YOUR labors.

4. Be prepared for the worst.
I remember I worked for a band that I loved dearly. One day, that band broke up. When I received the news, I felt like I broke up with five guys all in one day. Things like this happen. Bands break up. Bands may break up with you and hire someone else. Another person might be offered a job you really had your heart set on. Don't be so down about it. If there's one thing I have mastered by working in this business, it's resiliency. Get back up and put your heart into something else. Your career is over when YOU say it's over.

5.Be true to yourself.
The music business is quite glamorous. Parties. Beautiful and fascinating people. Sex,drugs and rock'n'roll. Having a social life in this atmosphere is fun and exciting. The best advice I can give is don't get caught up in it. If you really have a passion for this business and really want to succeed, you know that that stuff isn't important. It takes hard work and effort. If all you wanna do is party and have fun, go call up Paris Hilton and have her show you how to be come a celebutante.

I hope that this has been helpful for those aspiring rocktistas out there and that this paves the road for more females to be successful in the music business. What are some of the best advice and lessons you've learned and would like to share? COMMENT!

-Ang xoxo

The Raveonettes fly high with their unique sounds

I am definitely up for music with an eclectic mixture of sounds. Who doesn't love a musical blend to liven up their day? One group I came across with this blend was The Raveonettes. The duo has a real hardcore edge to their music. “Aly Walk With Me” had an awesome guitar tune that had a real melancholy feel to it. The guitar gets more intense as it entraps me in a blanket of rough sound. The ringing bell throughout the song also put a unique sense to their music as it also made my tummy rumble. Then their song “Bubblegum” took me to another level. The beginning immediately put me in the 50s with its slow, body-swaying tune. Yet, the song stayed consistent with their sound since they couldn't leave out the intense guitar. This band for sure had a good sense for something different. Yet, they weren't afraid to bring back the raw guitar as it kept me at peace in a cocoon of a musical sound.

-Tiffany

Lyrics, Melodies and Tunes-Oh My!

It's come down to my deadline and I've finished a couple days early. The wait ends, I HAVE A SONG!

BUT, you're not going to see it just yet because you will be able to hear it. With the help of the GRGR fam, we've come together for a little impromptu song writing workshop to fine tune my song as well as playing around with a melody for it. In the near future(and I mean very near) we will be video blogging the finished project on the GRGR YouTube site.

I'm really excited and I can't believe how far I've come. To think that what was just something to get my emotions out on some guy turned into this project that I've taken a lot of pride in. It's been quite the journey with this song from expanding my creative horizons to personal growth.

Until next time,
-Ang xoxo

Blondie, Pat Benatar and The Donnas on the road TOGETHER

The only thing I can really say is "OH MY GOD!" Two of the first pioneer female rock artists performing on stage with one of today's most leading all female rock bands. Honestly, what else would you expect to come out of my mouth? The ladies kick off the Call Me Invincible tour today in Saratoga,CA and will be touring around the nation ending on August 23 in Houston, TX. If that isn't enough excitement for all you female rock lovers, the rock queens are playing a FREE SHOW at Coney Island on August 13 NY Asser Levy Park. I am beyond excited and with such a struggling economy, who would honestly be stupid enough to pass up a free show? I've grown to love Blondie and Pat Benatar over the years and I've been a huge admirer of The Donnas since the early start of their career and have been a loyal fan ever since. But I guess it's safe to say that I will be busy on August 13.


-Ang xoxo