LoudKidz | May 2016 Artist of the Month Winners!

by CA Marshall

The first Indie Artist Band to make Starlight Music Chronicles History on our *NEW VOTING POLL* platform who came in like a silent tornado and took the competition by storm are our Official May 2016 Artist of the Month Winners LoudKidz . When we say 'storm' we are not talking about the destructive kind, rather, the kind that leaves a rainbow instead. It seems everywhere this band has been (recently completed their first Tour!) they are leaving a positive and refreshing imprint in their wake. All three Artists: Chez Davis, Jamie Skehan, and Benjamin James, although come from diverse backgrounds, have managed to take a piece of the puzzle from their experiences and combine it into a complete masterpiece with their image, branding, presentation, music, and songwriting. We are happy to welcome this enigmatic band onto the Starlight Music Chronicles Artist of the Month Alumni platform for the upcoming June 2016 Artist of the Year Competition among their peers. 

Here is our *Exclusive Interview* we had recently with the band where we talk everything Career, Tour, Fans, The Lad Bible and more: 

*Interview*

SMC – Hello LoudKidz! What an honor to have you as our May 2016 AOM Winners! Please introduce yourselves to our Followers with a brief intro and something ‘unique’ about each one of you....

LoudKidz - We are honored too! Thank you very much for the opportunity! :)

I am Jamie, I am the guitarist and producer of the band. I can shake my eyeballs! haha

My name is Chez Davis. I'm the lead singer & guitar player of LoudKidz & I have really small thumbs like no joke .. They're tiny:)

I'm Ben, the rapper in LoudKidz and I'm addicted to cereal.

SMC – You all hail from Manchester and originated from diverse Music Genre backgrounds – how did LoudKidz connect?

LoudKidz - Jamie got a job at the studio where chez worked, and it went from there.. Jamie was still in an indie band, and Chez was still in his pop punk band.. We wanted to start something new.. for fun to begin with... as Jamie was just getting into making dance music. After a few good tracks.. we started seeing that actually this could become something more than just for fun. Ben met Chez's dad at a video music festival, and after a few meetings at the studio.. Ben decided to do a feature on one of our tracks.. The chemistry was amazing, and it wasn't before long we asked him to join the band and Loudkidz were born!

SMC – Three words: The Lad Bible. We have watched ‘The Curry Rap’ video along with the millions of other viewers, did you think it would catch on the way it did? Were you surprised to see it on The Lad Bible?

LoudKidz - Haha! Not at all.. it was a bit of fun.. something we can post to our mates and say look how we ordered a curry! But it became so much more than that.. when The Lad Bible featured it, we just couldn't believe the reaction to it... People loved it!!  A few weeks later we had an email from 'RUDE TUBE" here in the UK, and they wanted us to be featured on their Chanel 4 prime time TV Show. It was great exposure for us... but also those guys we ordered from still give us free stuff. The "curry boys" is what they call us... Anything that gets us free curry! haha

SMC – You have recently finished touring internationally, on the Jahoo Jahaa Tour with some pretty incredible footage/Vlogs of your journey. Tell us a little bit about the team ‘behind the scenes’ who help make that all come together for the band?

LoudKidz -We had a fantastic close team behind us for that tour, and it may sound cliché but it really was family. Special shout out to Den! Without him this tour wouldn't have happened... Big shout out to Kev & Matt who were the video team who worked long hours and had to put up with us nonstop! And let's not forget Clive & Luke on Merchandise... big love!

SMC – We also see that you three personally took your own media onstage and had lead to some pretty incredible response from fans (growing numbers of followers) – do you find it is hard to always keep up with the Social Media and your growing numbers day to day?

LoudKidz - We've always known that social media is so important more than ever when building your fan base.. but it’s great that we can communicate with our fans day in, day out. Chez is probably the best at it! And sometimes has to remind us to re-tweet certain things etc haha!

SMC – If there were one thing each one of you would like to say to your fans about the next 6 months of your career and what LoudKidz has coming up, what would that be?

LoudKidz - Patience! :) We have some exciting stuff in the pipeline.. and before you know it we will be back on the road at a city near you :)

SMC – For a band so young in its inception, your following has grown insanely fast! What would you contribute that to?

LoudKidz - The momentum we built when we supported The Janoskians was unbelievable! I think fans just saw us as 3 good mates having a good laugh on stage performing tracks they loved. That's what I like to think.. that we are genuinely 3 good mates trying to live our dreams.

SMC – You recently released on Facebook your LIVE ‘What’s Your Name?’ video and we can clearly see that you have hit 222,000 views (as of today, April 28th, 2016)! That’s insane! We personally love the vibe you boys are giving off: the look, the sound, the continuity.....what has been the response from Industry peers?

LoudKidz - The reaction to the covers we have been putting on lately has been extraordinary.  We never expected such big numbers, and now to see our own track acoustically has been shared and viewed so many times.. it truly has taken us by surprise :)

SMC – We had a blast watching the ‘Twerk and Shake It’ video....would you say that there is a level of satire/comedy to each of your videos? That one in particular is pretty colorful! LOL

LoudKidz - Thank you! That's the aim.. The song is fun, and we wanted to show that in this video.

Although we do take our music seriously, we can have laughs too.. that video was great fun to film!

SMC – What can we expect from the band Career-wise in the next 12 months? What’s on the agenda for new music/videos/touring?

LoudKidz - It's all a bit hush-hush at the moment, but we have some big things in pipeline.. in terms of new music videos, new songs and a lot more concert dates announced.. watch this space :)

SMC – What is your preference: Recording or Live performance?

LoudKidz - I love the initial feeling of writing something new, however the buzz on stage with the fans singing back your vocals is another level too. It really is an amazing feeling!

SMC – If there was any Radio or Talk Show you would like to be on, which would that be and why?

LoudKidz - Johnny Vaughan 4-7 thang on radio X. I just think he's hilarious!

Radio 1

James Corden!

Alan Carr

Celebrity juice

SMC – We are fans of The Late Late Show with James Corden and LOVE the Carpool Karaoke episodes.. If you were to appear on the show, what crazy things would you do? We can totally see you all on that show!

LoudKidz - OH snap! Haha who knows... maybe we can go through a drive thru and order a takeaway in his car.. James Corden can spit a rap! haha

SMC – Ok, Celebrity moments: have any of you had a ‘star struck’ moment?

LoudKidz - I Saw Manchester United’s David De Gea the other week in Manchester.. and I was too scared to approach him.. best goal keeper in the world! - Jamie

I was sitting just in front of James Bay & Rooney at the Manchester United match the other week and I "fan girl'd" a little 😂

I saw Newton Faulkner not too long ago. He's a genius. I lost my composure.

SMC – Fans: what has been your craziest or weirdest fan reaction/action to date?

LoudKidz - Warsaw was crazy.. I remember after the gig we came in through the front when The Janoskians were just about to finish to get to our merch booth... however word quickly traveled that we were there and there was 100s of people running towards us!!  We were going to get crushed! haha luckily there was some security who managed to drag us to safety!

Yeah that was a pretty crazy experience haha

At one of the gigs on tour a few girls in the front row actually passed out! I was genuinely shocked, I used to see footage at MJ concerts and think it was crazy then! Let alone at our show! haha

SMC – What has been the sweetest Fan moment?

LoudKidz - We do a broadcast each Monday evening on YOUNOW and we sometimes call up fans... when we call you guys up, some of you are so happy and emotional that we "guest'd" you and sometimes we see our pictures and posters on their bedroom walls ...its kinda gone full circle I used to put posters of bands up on my wall just a few years ago  🙈

.. it really does make us feel amazing.. thank you all for being so amazing!

SMC – In terms of our upcoming Artist of the Year competition, how do you feel practically participating back to back in SMC competitions? We will have Artists competing against you who won way back in September...how do you feel you are at an advantage/disadvantage in winning?

LoudKidz - We are happy to just be made Artist of the Month! We are not looking past that, we just really appreciate the opportunity.. and good luck to everyone else in the competition.. there are some great bands in it!

SMC – Tell us your favorite venue performance to date and why?

Paris - (Olympia). It was just a beautiful venue great dressing rooms nice vibe ... GREAT fans :)

London - (Shepherd's Bush). It was so high up! Loved it there.

SMC – We hear you are planning to journey across the pond in the coming months...very exciting! Will this be your first time in North America?

LoudKidz -There are plans to head over to North America! We love the countries there and it’s so big and exciting, many opportunities.. watch this space :)

SMC – Ok, last question: If there was one piece of advice you could give to Indie Artists just starting out, what would that be?

LoudKidz - Make sure you enjoy what you do... if you're in this to just be famous, it can put a lot of pressure on you and also make it less fun.  Just remember why you got into music in the first place... you have to love what you do... and be patient.  There'll be lots of ups and downs in this industry, but if you remember why you got into it, it makes that much more special!

Abigail Belcher | March 2016 Artist of the Month Winner!

By CA Marshall

When I first discovered Abigail Belcher, it was via her family’s participation in the February Artist of the Month competition. Being that they were avid Kaylin Roberson supporters, the sharing and re-sharing of the Voting Poll Panel was consistent. So, I decided to take a look into their connection with the Roberson family and found that the Belcher family also had a very gifted songbird in their midst: Abigail. I spent the rest of the evening listening and researching Abigail’s YouTube Channel (click here) and found incredible content with clips of her performing in and out of the home. Shortly after, I contacted the family and suggested that they too, enter Abigail into our monthly competition. She won by a landslide!

Since her epic win in March, Abigail and I had the chance to sit down and have an interview for here spot on our Website (click here) and was delighted to learn that she is coming out with some new music shortly! Very exciting! Here’s how our interview went down:

SMC - Hello Abigail and congratulations on your win for the March 2016 Artist of the Month Competition! How do you feel about your win? (You completed the competition with 484 fan votes in total)

Abigail - I’m very excited! I can't wait to see what new opportunities arise from this!

SMC - Have you even entered into any other competitions which were fan voted?

Abigail - No ma'am, this was the first.

SMC - We have now implemented a Judge voting panel in addition to our fan voting poll monthly. This will also apply to the Artist of the Year award with all of our AOM Alumni winners such as yourself. So, 30% of the votes will be accounted for each Artist and 70% would be the final judge’s decision. We felt this would make things more balanced so that there are no longer accusations of having 'fake votes' from fans. How do you feel about this new voting process?

Abigail - I think it will better in some ways and more people will think that it's fair, although, I had nothing wrong with the fan based voting poll. I felt as if my fans could actually help me!

SMC - We see that you have entered on 'The Voice'! Wow, what an accomplishment! Can you tell us anything about that experience so far for you?

Abigail - The Voice was so much fun! Unfortunately, I didn't make it through, but it was still a great experience! I'm look forward to going back next year.

SMC - What is your ultimate goal when entering these kinds of competitions? Of course, everyone likes to walk away as the winner, but for most, it's much more than that. Can you tell us your thoughts on that?

Abigail - I like doing competitions and performing because I love the effect my music has on people! I also love good competition and meeting new people.

SMC - There was one voter who was insistent that Artists in these competitions have original music and no covers. We did see a significant amount of songs you have done covers of, but at the end of the day, what do you think is the most important in terms of talent? We also saw that a family member shared an original of yours to the page.

Abigail - Whatever sets you apart from others is key to having success in the music industry. It's not about being the same as everyone, it's being different.  My fans are very supportive! When someone saw the negative comments, my fans reacted.  I do have a couple originals.

SMC - We at SMC believe that even though many of our competitors have a lot of songs they have done covers for, regardless, we feel if they have the vocal ability it accounts for something as far as talent goes. What are your thoughts on what makes an Artist truly talented?

Abigail - I do lots of covers, and I don't think you have to have original music to make you an artist. You're love for music, and your originality with the covers you do make you an artist.

SMC - Ok, moving away from the 'covers' theme, how many original songs have you written?

Abigail - I only have a couple originals, but I have started on many others.

SMC - Do you have plans to release some new music in the next 6-12 months?

Abigail - I do!

SMC - Are you already working on something new?

Abigail - I am working on several, and I hope to have them completed soon.

SMC - I read in your bio that you are multi talented on other instruments. Can you tell us all which instruments you can play and which one(s) is your favorite?

Abigail - I play piano, ukulele, bass, and most recently the violin, but guitar will always be my favorite. It' the first one I learned to play.

SMC - I have seen you do a couple duets on your YouTube channel. Is that another Recording artist friend of yours?

Abigail - She is! Her name is Régan, and she is one of my best friends. I love performing with her!

SMC - We would like to know more about your involvement with 'The One Voice Project'. Can you tell us what it is about?

Abigail - The One Voice Project is a group of young musicians that raise awareness of the bullying that happens so often. Once a year we take a tour to middle and high schools and perform for them, bringing bullying to their attention. We hope to make a difference in the lives of the students.

SMC - What are the kinds of venues or platforms you have sang on with 'The One Voice Project'?

Abigail - We perform mainly for teenagers, but we have had other opportunities to sing at malls and restaurants.

SMC - What dies anti-bullying mean to you as an Artist trying to get a message out? What kind of feedback have you received from youth who are listening to you when you perform?

Abigail - Last year on our tour so many people opened up, shared their stories and told us our music helped them, and to me, that means the world! The involvement we received from the teenagers and the support was outstanding!

SMC - What is your personal experience with bullying? The website for The One Voice Project states that the Artists share their stories....

Abigail - Most people think bullying is physical, but it can also be emotional. I have experienced a lot of shunning. Mostly because of my music. 

SMC - How many siblings do you have? Are you the oldest? Do any of your siblings have the same gift of music that you have?

Abigail - I am the oldest of four. I have a younger brother and two younger sisters. My sister, Savannah, plays the piano very well, and my other sister Olivia has an amazing voice. My brother, Steven, on the other hand, has no interest in music.

SMC - Your spot as March's Artist of the Month will also appear in our spring magazine coming out in April 2016. Are there any new projects that we might want to add to that article when we launch it? Generally what we do is post these interviews into the magazine but we also like to update our readers on anything that's new for the Artists as well. So, anything new coming up?

Abigail - I, along with other One Voice members, attended a tour at the end of March to Nashville, TN!

SMC - We read that you are friends with Kaylin Roberson who was our February 2016 AOM winner. How will you feel competing against her for the Artist of the Year title?

Abigail - I love Kaylin and her family. I'm looking forward to competing with her!

SMC - How many venues have you performed in to date?

Abigail - Too many to count! I love performing, but I've never kept track. I sing at church every week.  I have performed all over the State of West Virginia and surrounding states.

SMC - Have there been any Artists in the Industry that you have sung live with?

Abigail - I perform mostly with Régan any chance I get, but I have also performed with another friend of mine, Jordan Keesecker

SMC - Which venue that you performed in was your favorite?

Abigail - My favorite places were during our One Voice tour last year. I loved every single school I performed at and can't wait to do it again.

SMC - What has been your biggest challenge to date in building your singing career?

Abigail - My biggest challenge was learning to ignore the ones who don't like my music. It was tough, but I've learned to not let the haters bring me down...but to let them put me on the map!

SMC - Have you ever written your own music?

Abigail - I have written a couple songs.

SMC - How supportive is the music scene where you are from?

Abigail - I have a big family that is very supportive. I'm thankful for my music school, they are also very supportive!

SMC - How old are you at present? And where are you originally from?

Abigail - I am 15 years old, and I have lived in West Virginia my whole life.

SMC - What genre do you want to gear more towards when you begin mass producing your music?

Abigail - That's a tough question! I love and sing a little bit of every genre. At this point in my life, I'm not really sure.

SMC - Which Artists would be your dream to do a duet with?

Abigail - I love Adele, and I would love to just meet her! I could never imagine getting to sing with her!

SMC - Okay, Final question: (we always like to ask this one) If you had any advice for someone new wanting to get into the music industry, what advice would that be?

Abigail - You got to have a love for this kind of thing. There have been so many times I've wanted to give up, but I always seem to go back to how much I love it. Lately, I've been struggling physically with it.  I've been sick with laryngitis and bronchitis. I've somehow managed to get through it...simply because I love it and know it will always be there when I need it.  Music truly is good for the soul and I thank God for the talent he has given me.

SMC - Thank you so much Abigail! We look forward to seeing you compete in our TEEN Artist of the Year competition! 

For more info on Abigail Belcher, click the link with her photo on the right side menu option.

KAYLIN | February 2016 Artist of the Month Winner!

by CA Marshall

Editor | Starlight Music Chronicles

In yet another exciting addition as *something NEW* to our Artist of the Month (AOM) Competitions with Starlight Music Chronicles, our SECOND winner for February 2016 is 17 year old Kaylin Roberson who hails from North Carolina and takes it to a ‘New Level’: Her original content is refreshing and the kind of ‘Pull at the Heartstrings’ emotional  sound which is truly captivating. But I don’t need to sit here ‘selling’ you on this lovely young songstress, her music speaks for itself. Make sure you check out her page for the month of February 2016 on our website to connect or simply click onto her social media links below to discover more about her.

*Note: In addition, Kaylin will also be in attendance at our first ever Starlight Music Concert in Edmonton, Alberta in June 2016!

At nine years old, Kaylin survived a vicious dog attack that left her repairing more than just surface wounds, she entered into an emotional healing journey and has sought solace through her music and original scores. Songs like ‘Sad But True’ and ‘Life Must Go On’ are a testament to this. Read on for our exclusive interview with Kaylin here:

SMC - Hello Kaylin! We would first off like to congratulate you on this epic win for the Starlight Music Chronicles (SMC) February 2016 Artist of the Month (AOM) ! Can you tell us a little bit about your thoughts on this win?

KAYLIN - First off I would like to give a warm thank you to everyone who supported me and my music throughout this journey. Words can’t begin to explain how happy it makes me, to see that there is a community of people that came together to support all of the artists. It’s a true honor to have won.

SMC - We know that the voting throughout the competition kept you in the lead spot for 95% of the duration of the competition. How do you feel about your supporters in comparison to your competition supporters MALAYA?

KAYLIN - I think Malaya is equally an amazing artist, who has an equally strong support system. In the beginning I may have had the leading number of votes, but she pulled through at the end. It was great to see both of us getting constant love from our fans.

SMC - So tell us in your words about your musical timeline and how you came to know that you were meant to be a musician?

KAYLIN - It’s quite simple. I’ve always been drawn to music. I listen to music when I get up in the morning to get ready, I listen to music when I’m sleeping on long car rides, I listen to music while I’m doing schoolwork. Music is healing to me and always has, and will continue to be apart of my life. The more I perform and share my passion for music, the more I fall in love with it.

SMC - What are all of the instruments that you can play?

KAYLIN - I’ve been playing piano since I was 5, and am now fiddling with the guitar, and the Cajon.

SMC - Do you have any siblings?

KAYLIN - I have a 19-year-old sister who goes to App State University. We get along much better now that we’re older, and she has always been a huge supporter of my music.

SMC - How old are you at present and how do you feel about your accomplishments at this time?

KAYLIN - I am currently seventeen, which in my eyes is the perfect time to really get momentum in this business. I think I’ve accomplished a ton, and have a great platform to start growing upon. Not many 17 year olds can say they have accomplished as much as I have, and it’ll only get better from here.

SMC - Can you tell us about one of the most satisfying moments in your music career to date?

KAYLIN - There have been many satisfying moments in my career so far but my most satisfying was when I got the privilege to sing at an orphanage in San Antonio. I was in the area on an Anti-bullying tour, and with some free time on our hands we decided to take the tour to an orphanage. The room was filled with a lot of hopeless kids, and it was so satisfying to see that I was able to inspire them to do what they love no matter what their conditions my be. I specifically touched one girl, who walked up to me in tears after the performance and told me how much it meant to her that I came. Being the grand prizewinner of a competition will never satisfy me as much as that moment.

SMC - Where would you like to go with your career - meaning: What is important for you to personally accomplish as a musician?

KAYLIN - I’d like to take my career to its highest peak. I just hope to continue making my own music that people can relate to and hopefully that will lead me to more glorious opportunities.

SMC - After the AOM competition was over, how did you react when you saw it posted that the decision was made to host TWO AOM winners for February?

KAYLIN - Seeing that there were two winners this year, put the biggest grin on my face. I’m so against competition, and am a true believer that there can be more than one winner out there.

SMC - In the history of our AOM competition there has never been any two artists/bands that were actually only as little as five votes apart when the clock struck midnight. Were you or your family awake to see what was happening all the way to the end?

KAYLIN - I’m sure my parents would love to tell you how stressful it was to stay up and watch the numbers bounce back and forth. I on the other hand went to bed.

SMC - Can you tell us a little bit about your association to the Live 4 Tay foundation?

KAYLIN - The Live 4 Tay foundation means a lot to my family, because my dad’s friend started it as a result of her daughter, Taylor Filorimo’s death from cancer. I  love to see them fight against cancer. They’ve found an amazing way to positively turn things around.

SMC - We know that you personally have overcome some challenges of your own surviving a dog attack and we are sure you get asked a lot about how you have evolved from this to where you are today? Who are the Key people who helped you get through that time?

KAYLIN - I give lots of credit to my mom, my dad, my sister, and my two best friends for helping me get through healing. There was much more damage done emotionally, than there was physically, and they were there every step of the way, and continue to be.

SMC - We often hear how music has saved many people whether they are a fan or an Artist. How has music helped you?

KAYLIN - Music heals me every time I listen to it, and I’ve begun to realize that writing music is equally, if not more healing. Whether it was the dog attack, heartbreak, a stressful day, or even a happy one music is my outlet.

SMC - Who among your music peer group do you admire?

KAYLIN -  I admire those in my musical peer group that are attempting to do the same that I am. My friends Brooke, Rory, Dave, and Kacey Tyndall, inspire me more than the celebrities. It’s fun to watch my peers grow as we all help each other out. Nothing works better than teamwork.

SMC - If you could do a collaboration with your dream Artist, who would that be?

KAYLIN - I would collaborate with Sam Hunt if I had one artist to choose from. He got his name heard by doing the same thing that I’ve been doing, writing. His music is so unique compared to other country songs, but remains tasteful.

SMC - What does the next six months look like for career plans?

KAYLIN - The next six months of my career are going to be super exciting. There’s going to be a lot of new originals coming out, and I can’t wait to tour around to different places and share them.

SMC - We LOVED your Justin Bieber cover of 'Love Yourself' that was uploaded to your YouTube channel on the 11th of January. We see that you already have over 3000 views! How do you feel about the response from this? In all honesty, you sang it way better than Bieber....

KAYLIN - Thank you so much! It’s great to watch my views go up and to see all of the amazing responses. It motivates me to put out more videos like that.

SMC- What have been some of the challenges you have faced in the industry and how did you overcome them?

KAYLIN - The music industry is a complicated and dangerous thing to be involved in. I’ve been scammed for money many times, and I’ve learned that not everyone you meet is going to be on your side. It’s important to know who is truly interested in investing in your career.

SMC - What has been your most flattering 'fan' moment to date?

KAYLIN - My most flattering fan moment was when I heard that a group of elementary school kids made a Kaylin club at their school and invited me to sing at their fifth grade graduation.

SMC - Rumor has it you are going to be attending the Starlight Music Concert in June for Morgan's Mission (www.morgansmission.ca) what are your thoughts on MM?

KAYLIN - Morgan’s mission is such an inspiring organization that helps me again realize how much I love what I do. I’m all about preventing bullying in schools to prevent suicide, it’s my job it’s what I do. When I read the story about Morgan it was a wake up call, that horrible stuff like what happened to her, happens to kids every day.

SMC - In relation to the last question, can you tell us what it means to support organizations that deal with something as serious as Teen Suicide Awareness?

KAYLIN - I personally have friends that have been suicidal and know that it’s hard, even as an outsider, to feel so hopeless and alone. The way my personality is, I’ve never let people put me down. I always stood up for people as a kid, even if they weren’t my friends. No one should be bullied so I’m honored to be part of such organizations.

SMC - Final question and we always like to ask this of all of our Artists because each answer is so diverse: if you could give advice to anyone starting a career in the music industry, what would that be?

KAYLIN - Dear future superstars, stay true to who you are and follow your heart, not your mind, and constantly remind yourself of your purpose as an artist.

SMC - Thank you Kaylin!

___________________

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AOM Feature on SMC Website

MALAYA | February 2016 Artist of the Month Winners!

Interview by CA Marshall

Well we certainly feel that after reading this interview for our February 2016 Artist of the Month (AOM) Winner's Malaya that this is truly an ethical band who deserves not only a win but a definite place in our AOM Alumni. The fact that they worked as hard as they did to earn the votes from loyal friends and fans in the 11th hour of this competition speaks volumes of their determination, teamwork and positivity in spreading good cheer and good vibes to their top rival Kaylin Roberson (who held top place for most of the competition). In fact, only 5 votes apart in winning, it was so nice to see Malaya recognizing the dual accomplishment and then chose to share the win. Hats off to such a classy move!

Here is our intimate interview with the band about this win, their future goals, and thoughts on being our February 2016 AOM winners:

SMC - Hello Malaya! We would first off like to congratulate you on this epic win for the Starlight Music Chronicles (SMC) February 2016 Artist of the Month (AOM)! Can you tell us a little bit about your thoughts on this win?

MALAYA - Thank you, oh my  gosh Thank You Starlight Music Chronicles!!  Well it was an extremely close win, so for that we are truly thankful to everyone who supported us and kept going even after voting closed, lol. We are completely stoked for the opportunities to come following the win.  We are very glad we are able to share the spotlight with Kaylin considering she too broke the voting record within the contest! It'll be cool getting to meet such an inspiring person, going thru everything she has and coming out stronger. We hope to inspire people along our journey as well.

SMC - We know that the voting throughout the competition and number were very tight between Malaya and Kaylin for the duration of this competition. How do you feel about your supporters in comparison to your competitions supporters for Kaylin Roberson?

Malaya - I think we answered above, lol all of that Love was and will be all-around!

SMC - So tell us in your words about your musical timeline, how the band came together and who plays which instruments?

MALAYA  - Adam Irizarry (guitar) and Robin Lynn (vocals) just came out of working with another group when we found Daniel Reitmeyer (drums) on Craigslist. We immediately began writing and preparing to record, which we did just a few months later.  Along the lines we met Daniel O'Neil who auditioned and filled the 2nd guitar position during recording. We shortly after met Clayton Prather (bass) who was in the drum line at USF.  Before long, Malaya, recorded its first album, The Pieces That Make Us. Getting a local artist and fan to paint the album cover.  After a couple years Daniel O'Neil parted ways from the band leaving it a quartet. Not long after Clayton would be graduating college and off to graduate school, so we began the search of another bass player. A friend informed me he knew someone who played guitar, and wanted to audition. Daniel MarcAntonio came to audition, and during this he mentioned that he had more experience playing bass then guitar. A couple weeks he sealed the deal and Malaya was officially ready to hit the road!  We then began touring in THE GREEN LANTERN thru small portions in the East Coast, then next to the Mid East.  During last spring we recorded our most recent EP, called "Pop Fiction", and set off on our most recent tour up the East Coast, and back down thru the Middle Eastern US. 

SMC - What is the family support systems like for the band?

MALAYA - All of our family members have been really supportive, always offering a place to stay, free food and showers, and of course LAUNDRY!  Which is big when you pack the way Robin does! They have been extremely helpful keeping us comfortable on the road.

SMC - How do you feel about your accomplishments at this time?

MALAYA - We are really proud of ourselves for sticking with it, and not giving up when things get bumpy. We all work full-time jobs by day and follow our dreams to be Rock Stars by night! I, Robin, had a pretty tough couple of years battling reflux, and I couldn't have done it without the support of the band.  I feel that most people would have given up on me by now but they stuck by me and I couldn't be more thankful! So any progress we make feels extremely rewarding to share it.

SMC - Can you tell us about one of the most satisfying moments in your music careers to date?

MALAYA - We have had the opportunity to open for some pretty big artists, and we've gotten to play a few big venues. But really meeting Jeff our Manager at Frisc² Productions, has been a blessing, he has made such a difference in the band so far like giving us hope and helping get onto this competition in the first place.  Now we get to travel internationally, which is something we are all SOO STOKED TO DO!

SMC - Where would you like to go with your career - meaning: What is important for you to personally accomplish as a band?

MALAYA - We would love to support ourselves comfortably playing music, as well as inspiring other people at the same time. It would feel like a solid win being able to do that and help our families out.

SMC - We love the camaraderie for the dual win for this month's competition. Can you tell us your thoughts about your decision to share first place?

MALAYA -  It started with Jeff, our Manager, and us celebrating at 2 am!!  We looked at the computer and it really hit, when we realized by just how close of a win we had!  SMC announced that both artists broke the record of most votes during the contest. So we discussed how much that blows accomplishing then "losing" by such a small amount. We all agreed we should see if it was possible to share the spot.  We felt she deserved it just as much as we did!

SMC - In the history of our AOM competition there have never been any two artists/bands that were actually only as little as five votes apart when the clock struck midnight. Were you or your family awake to see what was happening all the way to the end?

MALAYA - We all had work the next morning, and to say the least we are all pretty competitive. So the week prior to our win, we were talking about how we can get more votes. So we posted to our facebook pages, and sent out personal messages to friends and family! As we were getting down to the wire Robin told Jeff "Oh, we're gonna do this!!"(all for one). So we gave it our best effort and the day before and the day of, we sat on our computers and started personally messaging people all over facebook. Needless to say we went bug-eyed messaging people 'til we won!

SMC - Does the band have any associations with charities and if so, what is the level of involvement?

MALAYA - We work at schools for kids with special needs, so we're associated with the events that the school has held, playing at it and such.

SMC - We often hear how music has saved many people whether they are a fan or an Artist. How has music helped the band grow as a collective?

MALAYA - At the beginning we started out as your typical musician, "I wanna write music for me". As time passed, playing for our fans and new followers, we realized how much we wanted to play for people, and to give them music that they want to listen to.  We wanted to entertain, relate, and be role models for friends and fans! To inspire not only the people dreaming and but to show them it’s never too late to follow your heart.

SMC - Who among your music peer group do you admire?

MALAYA - We feel that Malaya is not just a band.  We come with the whole package (family, friends, fans for being there for us always and truly getting our backs), they are who we deeply admire! 

SMC - If you could do a collaboration with your dream Artist(s), who would that be?

MALAYA - Wow, that's tough haha.  Hmm, there's Yellowcard, Stevie Wonder, A day to Rememeber, Led Zepplin, Paramore, Randy Rhoads, PVRIS, Michael Jackson, Zakk Wylde (just off the top of our heads).

SMC - What does the next six months look like for career plans?

MALAYA - Hopefully onward and upward, that's the plan anyhow! We see ourselves doing a couple more tours, music fests, a music video, and well getting to see California, and Canada for the first time ever!!

SMC- What have been some of the challenges you have faced in the industry and how did you overcome them?

MALAYA - Unfortunately, as a band starting off, you don't get to play at the best venues.  You don't always get a hard working Manager, or a decent Booking Agent. So having to do all of that yourself is pretty exhausting.  We booked 3 solid, 3 week tours ourselves, then paid $150 in tolls at one time (CRAZY)!  But you start to learn as time goes on, what's good and what's not. People are always trying to get you to "pay-to-play", but that's a NO, so we studied more ways to gain better shows. Then we worked really hard to keep going and going.

SMC - What has been your most flattering 'fan' moment to date?

MALAYA - At a few of our more recent shows, we've had people coming up, taking our picture, asking for autographs, and really just being excited to meet us. As well as walking around Citrus Park Mall, and people being like, "Hey, are you in a band?"  Then we're like yea, 'Malaya'.  And they go "OMG, we've been to your show, you guys are awesome!"  I later went home and cried myself to sleep with joy! Kinda kidding, lol but seriously it's really humbling to have people like what you’re doing!

SMC - Are there any venues the band loves to perform at?

MALAYA -  The State Theater in St Pete is a pretty awesome venue, it’s a big venue for smaller acts to really gain experience and a chance to prove themselves. Plus, the people that help run it, J and Patty are totally sweet!

SMC - Where has the band performed to date?

MALAYA - Well that's a list!  Cities played: Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Panama City, Gainesville, S and N Carolina, Virginia, Washington, Philly, NY, Cincinnati, Nashville, Memphis, Michigan, Chicago, Little Rock, all over Texas, New Orleans and more.

SMC - Any interesting stories about live performances?

MALAYA - Well we like creating memes out of the funny pictures from our shows.  At the "Warped Tour" someone took a horrible photo of us looking like we were on the brink of death. It was hot as can be, we were in this dome like thing with no fans or anything.  All the equipment was like spewing fire, and we were in the middle of recording so we were staying up late all week, and tired.  On top of all that, we drank 5 hour energy drinks like "cracking us out" for a hot minute and as we're lugging our stuff for a mile.  But it was still SO MUCH FUN! lol

SMC - Rumor has it you are going to be attending the Starlight Music Concert in June for Morgan's Mission (www.morgansmission,ca) what are your thoughts on MM?

MALAYA - It hits close to home, being bullied as a child, and luckily having people to lean on and help me thru it. The old saying words don't hurt definitely implied to the literal sense, because unfortunately they do. But growing up into adulthood, and working with young adults with special needs gives us a chance to help others get thru the hard times and teaches them to stand up for themselves and for others. We want to be influential and hopefully we're being role models for others not to Bully as well.

SMC - In correlation to the last question, can you tell us what it means to support organizations that deal with something as serious as Teen Suicide Awareness?

MALAYA - Your teens are a hard time in your life, especially during these times.  Your hormones and anxiety seems at an all time high. Your mind and body is ever-changing, and you're still trying to figure out who you are and who you want to be. So to have the chance to show them that there are loving and caring people there for them to help along the way is very rewarding.  Life is really important, you only get one, so don't waste it!

SMC - Final question and we always like to ask this of all of our Artists because each answer is so diverse: if you could give advice to anyone starting a career in the music industry, what would that be?

MALAYA - Well first thing I'd say, if you’re in it, you're in it for the long haul! It’s going to be an uphill battle, don't dream and forget to live though. Practice A LOT, because there is no such thing as perfect. Stay modest and stay true to yourself, friends, and family.  Watch what you sign!!! Get a lawyer before signing a contract, there are too many problems that can happen along the way. Also, even if you're playing some rinky dink venue, have them sign an electronic contract regarding payments. And last but not least, "If you think you can, you will, if you think you can’t, you won’t".

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Olivia Penalva | January 2016 Artist of the Month Winner!

by CA Marshall

Happy New Year! We can\t think of a better way to begin the Starlight Music Chronicles year other than showcasing our January 2016 Artist of the Month (AOM) Winner, Olivia Penalva. This young lady hails from Vernon, British Columbia with strong French (father) and German (mother) roots. In fact, at the time of this interview, she was in Lyon, France celebrating New Years Eve with her Father’s Family there.

Since discovering Olivia via the Reverbnation Contest hosted by Bongo Boy TV (www.bongotboytv.com) and sponsored by Starlight Music Chronicles, it has been a steady uphill climb for this young Recording Artist. She won a spot on the Television show in October 2015 and then participated in our December 2015 AOM competition. After her defeat for the December competition, Olivia applied again for the January 2016 AOM and won. We have to say that it is a testament to this young lady’s already positive and sunny outlook for her to have gotten right back up on that success train and give it another go. To see her win was even more thrilling as we have had Artists compete more than once and not make the cut as AOM. Suffice to say, Olivia is more than a winner, she is a leader in many respects, paving the path for other Artists in her demonstration of sheer determination and belief in herself.

Here’s the scoop:

SMC - Wow Olivia! You are truly a remarkable story and everyone is talking about your win for this month's Artist of the Month(AOM) spot. We are happy to host you as our First Ever AOM of the Year! How do you feel about this win as compared to other contests that you have participated in?

Olivia - Thank you so much Candice. I am super happy to have won Artist of the Month for January 2016.!!!  I was already excited to participate last month and was up against some great talent, so I was definitely not disappointed to have come in 4th. I have been fortunate to have been part of several music competitions over the last few years and of course it is always great to win, but I have learnt early on to enjoy the process and that not coming first does not mean I did not gain something from the competition. Last month, contributor Randy Wayne Belt, interviewed me for Starlight Music Chronicles magazine and he was so supportive and complimentary about my music, that new fans started to discover me and communicate with me. So I really think part of why I won this time was thanks to your support of me and these new amazing fans. It sure feels great to win and for so many reasons. It is nice to see my fan base growing and have my music liked and appreciated by new people, and it is also super cool to be part of Starlight Music Chronicles blog and website that comes from winning this competition.  

SMC - Olivia, can you tell us a little bit about your musical timeline to give our readers a fresh perspective on what made you the Artist you are today?

Olivia - Well I always loved singing and dancing but it wasn't until I started singing lessons at age 11 that I realized how much I loved music. I loved it so much I took lessons a couple times a week and then entered a local music talent competition. After placing in the top 12, I started to get little gigs around my community, and fell in love with performing as well. I did not want to just be good at singing other people's music, and so decided I should try to write my own. It was pretty hard at first, but by age 12 I released my first two singles, and by age 13 I released my first album called Rainfall. It felt amazing, one of the songs on that album even won top 15 in the Teen category of the International Song Writing Competition. I decided to host a CD release concert here in Vernon to introduce my album and myself to my community, and was blown away when it sold out! I was hooked. By then I was so lucky to have caught the attention of Sony/ATV writer Andrew Allen and his wife Julia Allen, who became my managers. They are amazing and thanks to their guidance over the last 2 years, I have been fortunate to work with and song write with so many amazing musicians like Brian West (Maroon 5, Nelly Furtado) who produced my last single, Ferris Wheel in LA, and Josh Cumbee (Madonna, Janet Jackson) with whom I co wrote a song called Forgettable which was released by Canadian DJ duo DJ Project 46 on their album Beautiful. I am very grateful for each and every opportunity that is put in front of me and I know how fortunate I am able to be where I am doing what I do.

SMC - When I congratulated you on the 28th of December, you mentioned you are in Paris! What's happening there?

Olivia - Right now I am actually in a beautiful city called Lyon in France. My dad is from here and all of his family still lives here so I love coming back here and visiting with everyone and eating all the amazing food and looking at all the old buildings and pretty things. Just before we arrived in France, we made a week long pit stop in Edinburgh, Scotland to spend Christmas with my cousins who live there. So needless to say it has been a truly wonderful holiday!!

SMC - How old are you?

Olivia - I am now 15 and soon to be 16 in April, which I am pretty excited about because I can get my learners license and start driving!! Not sure if my parents are excited about that though!!

SMC - Do you have any wishes for your future you'd like to personally achieve before your next Birthday?

Olivia - Yes!! I always have goals I am setting for myself whether it is with music or school. This winter I have lots of cool music stuff happening.... So stay tuned because there just may be the most awesome single coming out before my birthday.

SMC - How about your Music Career in the next 6 months? What’s happening in that time?

Olivia - I have a bunch of cool music stuff happening this winter which includes producing and releasing some new singles. I am very excited about that. I will be working and song writing with my amazingly talented friend Robin Ghosh who co-wrote on Ferris Wheel and my Christmas singles, Christmas for Two. I also have some cool gigs coming up including a francophone festival and working in a super cool studio on the island with a Grammy winning producer.  I also have some cool video and photo shoots coming up.

SMC - How about the next Year?

Olivia - Well I am pretty sure I know what I am up to in the next 6 months, as for after that, I guess I can say that I will continue working and go where the music and opportunities take me. I love making music and performing music, so whether it be making new covers for my YouTube page, or singing at private events, concerts, or festivals, I am sure you can find me somewhere!!

SMC - What is your long - term goals for you personally and in your career say, 5 and 10 years from now?

Olivia - I could answer and say music, music, music, as that is the future I see for myself. I would love to make a living writing songs and performing. If I could do that I would be set. I am excited to see where my music takes me.

SMC - Speaking of travel, what places have you traveled to and which are your most favorite and why?

Olivia - I love travel, but I also love coming home to Vernon. I have been super lucky to have a dad from France and a mom whose family comes from Germany, so I grew up spending a lot of time in Europe. My parents love to travel, so they dragged my sister and brother and I all over.  We all love going to Hawaii as well as it feels great to put your feet in the sand and smell that sweet Hawaiian air. Hard to say where I love it the most as each destination offers sow thing different. I guess I love the food and culture of Europe and the hot beautiful weather of Hawaii. Music has brought me to new places in Canada which has been really cool as well as a lot of people don't purposefully travel in Canada. Everyone seems to want to elsewhere. But last year I was invited to perform in Ottawa and had so much fun, and then went to Toronto and around BC on a radio tour and loved that too.

SMC - What song of your own is your favorite and why?

Olivia - I really really love the song Forgettable that I co wrote last year in LA, which was released in July by  DJ Project 46. It is a very emotional and uplifting song that I think is really relevant to people and especially teens who feel a little lost and alone. Everyone matters and I think this song makes people feel that. I am also crazy about one of my new ones that are coming out this winter. It has such an uplifting message as well. It just makes you feel important.

SMC - This AOM competition is now in its 6th month and we will be competing for Artist of the Year with all of the winners from Last August 2015 until July 2016. You are placed halfway through the competition at this point. What are your thoughts on, say, an Artist from the beginning of these competitions to the winner in July 2016 as far as advantage for winning the Artist of the Year title?

Olivia - Hard to say but I think it is awesome that we all get to be in a competition together! At this point it probably won't matter who comes out on top.

SMC - There has been a string of successes that have followed you as of late. Can you tell us a little about those achievements and what they mean to you?

Olivia - I have been so very lucky. I am so aware of all of that. I have songs that have been recognized by song writing competitions, songs that have been added to albums being released by well established musicians, worked with amazing musicians, been nominated for several competitions such as radio emerging artist for my song Ferris Wheel, YouTube artists of the month by an Australian magazine, top 10 female in she's the one Competition at the Ottawa Blues Fest, top 20 song on the Canadian Radio charts for Christmas For Two, Ferris Wheel being chosen do by Bongo Boy TV to air on NBC TV in the US... So many amazing things!!! I am especially proud of my team of supporters which include my managers Andrew and Julia Allen, my Publicist Sera Roadnight of MT Press, my radio tracker Oscar Furtado, my parents...

SMC - As you know we have affiliations with Morgan`s Mission (www.morgansmission.ca) and we see that you have also joined the Page on Facebook for Morgan`s Mission. What are your thoughts on combining the Music Industry with a sensitive subject like Morgan`s Mission and what it stands for (Here is the Page`s Mission Statement from the Dunbar Family: Morgan's Mission was created after we lost our daughter to the effects of cyber bullying. We are bringing awareness to bullying, mental health and suicide.`)

Olivia - I think Music is a great way to bring attention and awareness to these issues. Music brings people together, makes people feel better, and can uplift you when you feel down.  It is already hard enough to be a teen, let alone struggle with cyber bullying, mental health issues, and suicide. So if music can have a place in helping people, then definitely I am all for it and being a part of that process.

SMC - We are also hosting a Starlight Music Concert in June of 2016 where many Artists from all over the globe will be participating. We hope to help raise money to brighten and strengthen the talent that many youth and teens suffering with depression, PTSD, mental illness, and suicidal thoughts by channeling through the Arts as a means to cope. What are your thoughts on this?

Olivia - I think this is wonderful. Art is such a great way for us to express ourselves and our emotions, and I think it is awesome that SMC is hosting a concert to support that. If I can be there and help out, I will definitely make that happen.

SMC - What organizations, if any, do you support and why?

Olivia - When I wrote Fight For You I was thinking about some struggles that people must be going through in their lives. I was only 13 but remember seeing homeless people in my city during a really cold spell and was really affected by that. I checked around my community to see who was helping provide food and shelter and approached the Salvation Army of BC. So 100% of the proceeds of the sale of Fight For You on iTunes go to the Salvation Army of BC. I have being doing this for two years now and will continue to help as much as I can.

SMC - What do you believe to be the biggest accomplishment a Recording Artist can make in their Career. Meaning: what is most important to you? (other than the obvious: getting signed by a label)

Olivia - Getting signed by a label is definitely an achievement for any artists for sure. And of course that would be pretty awesome, but if I can make a living making and performing music, then I think I will be pretty happy.

SMC - Which leads to our next question: Do you prefer to remain an Indie Artist or would you prefer to be signed to a label? We have heard positives and negatives from Artists on both sides of the spectrum...

Olivia - I am pretty happy with the progress I have made so far without the help of a label. I have an amazingly supportive family, super awesome managers, an amazing publicist and radio promoter, and have so many talented and wonderful people who believe in me. So for now I can say that being an indie artist has been great for me. I am sure it would be great to have a label back your career, but that could be pretty stressful too as then it would feel like I had to live up to goals that I did not set for myself and not sure how I would feel about losing some control over my own career.  I am being patient and enjoying each stage of this industry and at 15 am pretty content right now with the balance between music, school, family and friends. Fun to see what the future holds!

SMC - What is a most recent `Greatest Moment` from one of your fans?

Olivia - I love getting messages from my fans!!! It is always so nice to get positive and supportive comments from them. I have some really great fans. I guess some cool moments recently came from people who heard Christmas For Two on the radio and looked me up or shazamed me then messaged me on YouTube to tell me they loved it and became a fan!! It feels so good to have your music get out there and affect people in a way that makes them want more of it.

SMC - Are you originally from British Columbia, Canada?

Olivia - Yes I was born in Vancouver BC and moved to Vernon BC when I was 9. I love living here. It is so beautiful, especially in the summer. 

SMC - Last Question: We always like to ask this one - What advice would you give one of your peers or a youth entering the Music Industry and hoping for a fruitful career?

Olivia - Well from my very short lived experiences so far, the best I can say is shoot for the moon but have a couple back up plans. Be prepared to work hard and don't quit when things don't go your way. You can't please everyone and you may not always get what you want, but often you get other cool things instead. If you love it, do it!

SMC- Thank you Olivia and Congratulations again!

Olivia - Thank you so much Candice and SMC for these opportunities, for this competition, and for all your support! 

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