Chris Brown didn’t have it easy in the beginning after myspace shut his page down when rapper Chris Brown became famous. Instead, Chris now goes by the name of Tofer Brown and it seems to be working as he sings with passion and the songwriting is excellent. Tofer wrote a recent song with Bleu (Aware Records) who has written for the Jonas Brothers, Jon Mclaughlin, and Green River Ordinance. Editor of Spin, Doug Brod says this:
“Now this is impressive! You’ve got that delicate, vulnerable thoroughly engaging voice (nice falsetto!), memorable songs, busy but not fussy production. Sure, some would say this is middle of the road (and we already have enough Keanes and Frays in this world), but I say this is the sound of classic pop. Take a bow!”
Currently meeting with labels and publishers.
For better or for worse, Microsoft’s Songsmith has become today’s internet story.
Songsmith allows anyone to record their own pop songs, thus, you sing into the microphone and the computer creates music for you.
Microsoft released a promotional video for Songsmith which became viral, but more importantly, a laughing stock. In fact, there are several Songsmith reinterpretations that have been posted on YouTube, and many of the videos have been viewed more than a hundred thousand times.
Of course I took the time and clicked on some videos and this is a must watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d77eycBpuBY
The bottome line?
“Proof that computers shouldn’t be allowed to make music,” wrote one. Another said: “After you hear a few, your brain implodes into a sludge, and they start to sound bad-good. Or good-bad.”
The Queen Killing Kings may restore your faith in indie music . Sure this New Haven act could win over the hearts of NYC East Village hipsters, but unlike other fashion-conscious indie bands, The Queen Killing Kings will achieve their status through their music more so than their clothes. The band just signed to Wind-Up Records.
1. Kelly Clarkson ‘My Life Would Suck Without You’ (279,605)
2. The All American Rejects ‘Give You Hell’ (173,504)
3. Lady Gaga ‘Just Dance’ (149,996)
4. The Fray ‘You Found Me’ (145,337)
5. Kanye West ‘Heartless’ (143,783)
6. The Pussycat Dolls ‘I Hate This Part’ (143,783)
7. Beyonce ‘Single Ladies’ (119,891)
8. Taylor Swift ‘Love Story’ (112,020)
9. Britney Spears ‘Circus’ (107,132)
10. Jason Mraz ‘I’m Yours’ (90,231)
11. The Veronicas ‘Untouched’ (81,788)
12. Pink ‘Sober’ (73,667)
Mainstream pop/dance/club is dominating every genre as far as digital single sales. Country star Taylor Swift dominates the Top Album chart with 62,575 albums sold followed by Beyonce and Nickelback. In my opinion, these hot digital tracks are OK, far from great. If you want to sell 150,000 singles a week then you need to write something just a little better than what’s out there. We certainly want to hear what you come up with – email tips@kingsofar.com
This Chicago rock act American Taxi who are known for their intense live show belongs on your radar list. The band cites The Clash and The Replacements as influences and were named “The Top 8 Bands To Watch†by the Daily Herald. American Taxi will be performing at the Double Door January 27th for a variety of labels.
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