I
use
LaVoz
"medium hard" reeds on all of my horns.
How
accessible are you to your fans?
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.
What's
next for Gerald Albright?
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.
What
keeps me going in such a volatile business?
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.
How did I
get started as a recording artist in the music business?
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.
How does
one get started in the business?
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.
Where
does one start to look for these types of contacts?
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."
How is
life on the road?
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.
