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 Frequently
Asked Questions ...
Q: What is the name of the
song on the intro page of your website?
A: The name of
that song is
"Take
Your Time" from my
new CD,
"New Beginnings."
Q: When will the new CD be
released?
A: The CD was released on March 28, 2006.
Q: What type of horns do I
play?
A: I play
Cannonball
Musical
Instruments/Big Bell Series
Q: What type of mouthpiece
do I use?
A: I play
Beechler
mouthpieces
on all of my horns, with the exception of a metal
Dukoff
mouthpiece for my soprano
saxophone.
Q: What type of reeds do
I use?
A: I use
LaVoz
"medium hard" reeds on all of my horns.
Q: How did I get started as
a recording artist in the music business?
A: It was not the
overnight success story that one might think. I was on a constant
campaign to get my sound and style in as many places possible. I played
with several artists over the years and gained much knowledge from each
experience. I played in many jam sessions and I went on the road
extensively over an 8-year period. Finally, after writing and performing
my entire demo tape, I presented my works to Atlantic Records in 1987. I
met with
Sylvia Rhone
there who saw my
vision and signed me on the spot. From that point, I released 7 records
during my tenure at Atlantic.
Q: How does one get started
in the business?
A: I believe that
one should initially be very honest in determining whether or not music
is their calling. If you can't sing or play, chances are you won't make
it in this business. (I'm speaking of TRUE artistry here.) I also
believe that one should strive for uniqueness in their sound.
After that point, document
your talent on tape. Find the best musicians possible to help you to
attain your musical vision.
Once the tape is done,
complete a professional bio containing your accomplishments, your
aspirations, and your ultimate dream or vision.
Finally, find the best
representation you can (manager and/or attorney) to assist in
representing your music and concepts when meeting with various record
companies. This person must have much experience in dealing with record
company executives, and an abundance of contacts. They must have a
unique talent in selling your product to the point of exciting the
record company. It also helps if he or she is truly respected in the
musical community.
Q: Where does one start to
look for these types of contacts?
A: As a rule, most
of the decisions for developing artists are made in either Los Angeles
or New York. Of course there are always exceptions to this rule, but
eventually either of these two cities will eventually be in the loop in
some capacity. In conclusion, you must "go where the action is."
Q: How is life on the road?
A: Life on the road
is what you make it. Over time, you develop a system for what makes you
comfortable on the road. For me, traveling is the biggest effort. When
I'm on stage, because of my passion for the music, I can play forever.
But the flights, the long bus tours, and the odd hours spent on the road
are the most challenging.
Q: How accessible are you to
your fans?
A: When I look over
my history as an artist, I deem myself accessible to my audience. In all
of my concerts, I love when the audience is part of my show. It is the
greatest compliment to know that my fans are really "feeling" the show
as well as "watching" the show. I love signing autographs and meeting
people all over the world. I realize that these are the people that
support what I do in many areas, and I take that seriously. However, I
treasure my time with my family, and I always strive for that balance.
Q: What's next for Gerald
Albright?
A: I'm always
striving to deliver the best music I can for my audience and I will
continue to do that. My goal is to spread my writing and production
talents to other aspiring artists. I'd love to explore different genres
of music and collaborate with as many talented individuals as possible.
Also, my goal is to tour the entire world with my music -- after all,
music is the universal language.
Q: What keeps me going in
such a volatile business?
A: I put my trust in
the Creator to guide me through my life. The gift of music that he
blessed me with is no accident. I believe that I'm a channel that He
uses to move the masses in a particular fashion, and I use my talent
humbly through Him and for Him. I also depend heavily on the love and
support of my family who have always been there for me. And finally,
positive feedback from my
fans
reflecting how my music has helped or changed their lives in some way
lets me know that I'm in the right place.
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