Happy Friday y’all! We have another great spotlight for you today! As always, if you are or represent an upcoming artist, designer, producer, etc., and are interested in a feature on the blog, please visit our 
Features/Submissions page for more information. 

Today we have the multi-talented artist and musician Timothy J. Wilson! This star on the rise grew up in White Plains, NY, about 20 minutes from Manhattan. A pastor’s kid, Timothy started playing instruments as a child at church. “As a pastor’s child, you’re pretty much there all the time, [so] they’re putting you on instruments” the singer joked. In addition to the singing chops he inherited from his father and grandmother, Timothy began playing the drums, and then learned other instruments including the piano, guitar, and bass. His talent was being developed extensively as a kid for his journey as an artist. Even at a young age, Timothy knew that music would be his life’s path!


When he graduated high school, Timothy began performing at different open mic events and showcases around NYC, growing in his craft and letting his talent shine. In March 2011, he made the decision to move down to Atlanta after staying in Upstate New York for a while for his music career. “Atlanta has a great reputation for being a launching pad for so many artists,” he stated. Timothy acknowledged that the move has helped his career greatly, not only in terms of music, but also in TV and film! “You have some people moving from Los Angeles, coming to Atlanta, just because it’s so much production going on here,” he said. Not only has the singer performed at multiple cafes, colleges, and festivals, but he’s also been featured in BET’s Let’s Stay Together, branching out into some acting as well.

Inspired by top artists like Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson, Jodeci, and Fred Hammond, Timothy really puts his musical talents to work, and has created truly great work! After dropping two EPs previously (Kiss Me and Born to Love), the artist released his third project, LOVESONGWRITER, in May 2015. “I felt that in R&B, I wasn’t hearing [love] as much,” Timothy said, acknowledging how different artists and groups in the past constantly sang of love but that times have changed. “In my mind, I [wanted] to do an EP that [had] the theme of love in every song.” As a songwriter, musician, producer, and singer, he literally created and produced the project by himself! “It’s like an artist that paints or draws, you know? You give them the canvas, and they get in there with those paints,” Timothy said of his creative process. “Give them some time, and what they’re gonna come out with is something that’s solely from them. Whatever you see on it is something that came from their heart.” Though he states that all of the songs on the project are like his “babies,” Timothy has a special place in his heart for the funk-infused track “Away,” which is definitely one of my favorites too. Timothy is using the gifts God gave him, and came out with an awesome project with this EP!





In addition to his music, Timothy has landed a role as Verdine White, legendary bassist of Earth, Wind & Fire in the upcoming Warner Brothers film, The Nice Guys, which stars Russell Crowe and Ryan Gosling (set to be released on May 20, 2016). “The role was so up my alley, because he was already one of my influences,” Timothy said. “We have the same skin complexion, [and] pretty much the same build, so all they had to do was put an afro on me, [and] some chops on my face!” He also has been cast in another musical role for the upcoming sitcom, Brothers In Atlanta, starring Maya Rudolph, Jaden Smith, and Bashir Salahuddin. “I’m actually playing in [Maya’s] band in the show,” Timothy said. The cast and crew have shot the pilot, which has picked up by HBO, and are currently waiting on the go ahead to resume filming. So many exciting opportunities and doors being opened for this multi-talented artist! “That’s several things that God has opened up just being here in Atlanta,” Timothy admitted. “I tell you one thing, it’s like being a musician actually helps open up roles even in television and movies.” Acting is definitely something that Timothy sees himself doing even more of in the future, being the total package as an entertainer.

With ALL of this going on, Timothy is already writing and recording new music, and continuing work with his own label, Tim’elody Records. He even launched a 100-day business challenge (from July 5th to October 12th ) for other entrepreneurs, challenging them to post something about their businesses for 100 days straight somewhere on a social media platform. “Sometimes when people have businesses, [they] slack on the promotion,” Timothy said. The challenge is to help build consistency and growth in other businesses, which is very commendable. In terms of what sets him apart, Timothy believes part of his uniqueness lies in being a multi-instrumentalist in this industry. “I definitely use that in promotion, because, when you’re out here, you’ve got to use whatever to your advantage as far as marketing,” he stated. In the future, the artist would like to continue to take his career to the next level, including writing and producing for other artists, performing at different awards shows and snagging leading roles in movies. “Just being successful as a man, and as an African-American male, continuing to be an example, making great music by the help of God,” Timothy said. “The promotion comes from God, [but] we have to put in the work, though. That’s what I believe is going to happen as I continue to keep doing what I’m doing.”

You can check out more from this talented singer on his official website as well as SoundCloud and YouTube. You can also connect with him on Facebook, Twitter,and Instagram! 

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On Thursday, December 18, I was blessed with an opportunity to attend and cover Anthony Hamilton's "Home for The Holidays" tour stop in Washington, D.C. The tour features soul singers Leela James and Mali Music, and it was an amazing show!  All three of these great acts were the perfect combo for this tour. The vibe with everybody was positive and chill, and I had so much fun, singing and dancing to wonderful soul music all night!

Read more on my experience, and check out some photos and video below!








Triscina Grey of WHUR 96.3 was the host of the evening, introducing each act. Mali Music came on first as the opener. I had heard some of his music before, but he made me a fan last night. His music, which included hits like "Walking Shoes" and "Ready Aim" was so moving and inspirational. I really vibed with him, and ended up purchasing some of his music after the concert to listen to.

Leela James is one of the biggest balls of energy I have ever seen perform! Seriously, her talent is impeccable, but what really draws you in is her passion for music as she sang songs like "Music" and "So Good." She had the audience glued to her the entire time as she performed and really engaged everyone. She even jumped off the stage and into the aisles to see and touch the people (if you see her silhouette of her and her hair, that's how close she was to me...the light was blinding!). Leela left it all on the stage, and I was seriously impressed.

When I tell you Anthony and his background singers, the Hamiltones, SANGGGGG!!! I almost fell out (*laughs*)! Anthony sang songs from his Home For The Holidays album (an amazing project for the holidays...definitely go listen and buy it!), as well as his classic hits like "Cool" and my favorite "Can't Let Go," as well as his latest "Best of Me." He and his entire band had so much energy and great musical chemistry together...probably the best I've seen between a main act and his background singers ever. Everyone loved their dance steps and soulful voices, especially the ladies! Yes, I swooned. They even did a gospel medley of some old school songs that you would hear in the church!

Overall, the concert was amazing!Anthony puts so much effort into his show, and I loved every aspect of it!  I would definitely go see him again in concert. Perfect for a romantic date night! (*winks*)

Check out my pictures and some great video from the concert below!

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Here's a spotlight for you all this morning! (As always, if you are or represent a musician, producer, designer, etc., and would like to be featured on the blog, please feel free to email me!)

Today on The Spotlight, we have pop-rock artist Eric Zayne! Raised in the city of Montreal, Eric got his start with music around 13 years old, playing in various bands around his hometown. His first big gig was a five year tour across Asia, where he played keyboard, guitar, and sang with a funk band. Huge deal! It was these years that taught him about songwriting, performing, and connecting with audiences, all qualities that a true artist should have.

Inspired by artists like Prince, the Beatles and Maroon 5, Eric journeyed on to the Los Angeles music scene in February 2013. That summer, he toured throughout California, promoting his singles "Spin The World," & "Maneater," while simultaneously recording and producing his first EP, "Between Us." Listen to the project below!



Up next for the musician is his mixtape, "AutobiograMe," which will be released on March 10, 2014! The project features collaborations with Matisyahu, Amber Riley from Glee (you KNOW I have to hear that!), Rozzi Crane, and King Blaise."I’m so excited and proud about this mixtape. I feel like I’m getting closer to the truth of me as an artist and it really shows in my songwriting," Eric said of the project. "The subjects are very personal and the lyrics are more honest than I've ever been. That has a lot of value to me."

Eric recently won the John Lennon Songwriting contest, as well as performed at the Sundance Film Festival Music showcase as well as a party for the Grammys! He's continuing to tour and create videos, which has him on a very busy schedule, but an exciting one nonetheless. "Lately all the seeds I have been planting are starting to sprout. It's magical!" the artist admitted. "To follow your instinct takes courage because the time it takes for that dream to manifest can create doubts. But it’s manifesting now and it's amazing to watch."

Eric holds on to his dreams and excitement for his career, working to have a positive impact. "Once I worked with a radio team that was trying to get my song on the air. I wanted to share something unique and special," Eric recalled. "They told me that this industry was a "job" and that I shouldn't have hopes to be 'different.' That was terrible advice. What's the point in living if it's not to affect change in a positive way? At least that's how I wanna live my life!" he said. The artist credited his oldest brother Idan as one who gave him the greatest advice, not only for his career, but for life in general. "He said, 'Eric…You’re blessed. Be blessed with a smile, not with worry.” the musician said. Very great advice that we can all live by!

Be sure to follow Eric on Facebook and Twitter, and check out more about him and his music on his record label website, SoundCloud and YouTube!

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Another spotlight for you all today! As always, if you would like your work to be featured on The 
Spotlight, please email me!

Today on Spotlight, we have New Zealand singer-songwriter Glenn Aitken! Glenn picked up playing piano at an early age, and then went on to teach himself guitar and saxophone as well. He played in bands four nights a week while studying at university, and when he graduated, he left to play with a band in Shanghai, China!

Inspired by the Beatles, Pink Floyd, and John Mayer among others, Glenn also admitted that his home of New Zealand also has had a strong impact on his career. “New Zealand has a thriving music industry full of amazing talent,” the singer said. “I grew up playing songs from such great songwriters [such] as Neil Finn and Dave Dobbyn.” Pop rock band Crowded House, formed by both New Zealand and Australian members, is one of his favorite bands to this day.

Read more on Glenn below!

Glenn himself was noticed after spending time in the Maldives by none other than Sir Paul McCartney himself, and was offered a publishing deal around 2003. “It was a lightning bolt from the blue sky meeting Paul, getting to know him and forging a friendship,” Glenn said of the chance. The songwriter admitted that it was the Beatles’ own song “Blackbird,” that made him want to learn guitar for himself! Glenn got the opportunity to play the song to him, as well as play other Beatles classic WITH him, something that Glenn will always cherish. Paul also played bass on Glenn’s own song “Ordinary People!” “To have his interest in my original music was surreal,” Glenn recalled. “The day he did the recording session on "Ordinary People" was probably one of the most stressful days on record for him personally, and, although having cancelled a week of his schedule, he kept his studio date with me and came in and did about five passes on the track.” Talk about commitment! Glenn went on to praise Sir Paul on his character and work ethic. “He is such a genuine person, and truly someone who has changed the world with his music,” he said. “[He has] an amazing ear for music, and the magic he brought to the track will be there for eternity for people to discover.”

Glenn released his sophomore album Platform in July 2013, which was inspired by various events in his life, his band, and his wife. “People were always coming up after gigs and saying how they loved [debut album] Extraordinary Lives, but also enjoyed how the band really gave an edge and a live vibe to those tracks,” he said. “And so the idea for Platform was to do pretty much a live album, just like the old days.” Recorded at State of The Ark Studios in Richmond, London, Platform featured Glenn’s band (Simon Small on electric guitar, Alessandro Paolillo on keys, Lee Aaron on drums and Sam Coath on bass) as well as Lloyd Jukes as lead engineer and Stuart Eps on engineering as well. “It was an incredibly intense week in which we recorded 15 songs in 6 days, sometimes doing 15 takes to get the right one,” the singer admitted. “The end result was an album with a great vibe, and a lot of great passion from all concerned.”You can preview and buy Platform on iTunes now!

When asked to choose a favorite track on the album, Glenn found it hard, but came up with an answer. “If I was leaving on a rocket and could only take one, definitely 'Hold On’,” he stated. “It is one of the better ballads I have written and that recording day was just a very special one. We did 4 takes of it and then went to hear it back … it was just perfect as it was.” Whenever he listens to it, he admits that there’s not one thing that he would change on the track.

Currently, Glenn is working on material for his third album, which is set to be recorded this year. “I have recorded two tracks already with John Ravenhall, who produced Extraordinary Lives in such a magic way,” he admitted. “We are doing two stripped out numbers, one on grand piano with strings and the other acoustic guitar and strings. They are very exciting tracks!” In terms of the future, Glenn has dreams of being “on the bigger stage,” performing on tour, with a great label on board. He also would love to tour New Zealand and Australasia as well. “Until then I keep on writing, performing to whoever will listen, and loving every minute of my extraordinary life!” A positive outlook!

You can visit Glenn's official website, as well as connect with him on Facebook and Twitter!

8:31:00 AM

Have more spotlights coming your way in the coming weeks and I’m definitely excited about it! Hopefully you all are finding these upcoming folks in the music/fashion/entertainment realm very interesting and check out their work! As always, if you or anyone you represent would like to be featured on The Spotlight, please email me and I’ll hook it up!

Today, the spotlight is on British electro-folk singer Samuel Gough! Born to an artistic family in London (his father was a writer, and his mother and grandfather were actors), music was introduced in his childhood relatively early, mostly classical. At seven years old, he began singing in a “very strict, terrifying school choir,” but at 14 he branched out and put a band together with friends called STUBBLE, as his boarding school. He was in boarding school at the time, but got permission to hit the local country pubs on Saturday night to play covers of old Cream, B.B. King and Allman Brothers songs. He ended up starting another band at 16 with his sister and cousins once based in Spain, on the island of Mallorca, playing the local summer fiestas!

Read more about Samuel below!

Yet what Samuel calls the “lighting bolt” moment of knowing he wanted to pursue music was at the age of 17, as he was on a train to London to start training in opera. While reading an old Allman Brothers article in Rolling Stone, and the imagery of Duane Allman pulling out his motorcycle from the tour bus and taking off on the open road inspired Samuel. “Something just lit me up,” he said. Inspired by artists like Simon and Garfunkel, Queen, Mozart, as well as Ry Cooder, Paco de Lucia, and, of course, the Allman Brothers, Samuel has a pretty eclectic taste in music. The London music scene also sparked his creativity. “My sister ran a little kind of “speakeasy” in town, The Asylum, filled every night with all the local musicians who’d come down and let off steam after a show,” he said. Close by, were blues and country music clubs, all of which had great musicians that just played from the heart. Samuel was even inspired from visiting different flamenco bars. “I guess this gave me a sense of no limits in my music,” he said of the various styles he heard, “not following any one style, and sticking it in a box.”

Samuel recently released his LP Day Broken on September 30, 2013. The singer worked with producers Sleep Deez and Aidan Clarke, which he calls a “humbling experience.” “[They are] two guys who give so effortlessly--passion, creativity, understanding, and, above all, no bulls**t,” he said. When asked what his favorite tracks are from the EP, Samuel chose lead single “Morning Light,” and the title track “Day Broken, “both for how easily they were written. Both [were] created at day break.” Samuel added, “Words and music flew out as if they'd always been there. They lift me up, these tracks.”

Currently, the singer is in Paris, working on an electro-folk project for French TV with French jazz composer and maestro horn player Gnowee. He’s also writing new songs and arranging old tracks for a re-release of Day Broken. This artist is truly fearless, and doesn’t want to put any limits on his music and creativity! “Coming from a classical background, being deeply influenced by Flamenco and also albums like A Meeting By The River [by Ry Cooder and Vishwa Mohan Bhatt], I feel things cinematically, and every visual has a different soundtrack to it,” he said. “As the long as the music is TRUE, there is nothing that cannot be done.” In the future, Samuel would love to branch away from the norm for his career. He wants to play around the world, but in unexpected expected places. “Ancient ruins, Greek temples, out in the desert,” the creative artists is thinking, “using local sounds and players to color my brand of cinematic country-folk, in so giving the music new life at every turn.”

You can check out more about Samuel on his official website. He is truly a talented artist with a unique voice, beautiful lyrics, and amazing sound! Definitely an artist that you want to check out for those who love electro and folk, and even those who want to branch away from their typical genres!

Image via Samuel Gough

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