Local Artists Feature

Getting your name out there is one of the most important, and hardest, things an artist has to do. If you're self-promoting, it's even harder because there's so much. Website. Social media. Blog. Concert schedule. Fan response. Updates. It goes on and on.

Since I know what it's like to self promote, I'm always helping promote others in my own way, even when they'll never even know because they have so many loyal fans out there. But if I can bring even one new fan their way, then I have succeeded. I believe music should be shared. It should be appreciated. That's what this blog is all about. Sharing music.

Memphis Bridge, spanning the Mighty Mississippi River
#photooftheday

I was listening to my Spotify playlist today when a song came on that gave me the inspiration for this post. Lil Wyte said it best when he said, "I can't even count how many legends my city's made ..." It got me to thinking, just how many artists do I know that is from my area? For those of you who don't know, my area is about 30 miles north of the city of Blues, Memphis. Guess you might be able to see why I'm such a music lover, huh? I grew up going to concerts on Beale Street. So let's see who hails from here, shall we?

Beale Street, Memphis, TN

Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake (Image: GQ)

Who doesn't know this household name? This famous singer came from the same podunk area I'm located and it's not hard to find someone who remembers growing up with Justin, pre-Nsync (for you younger generations, this was a boy band he belonged to in the '90s to early 2000s).

He's certainly come a long way from appearing alongside Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera on The Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and is now one of the most known singers in the world. This just goes to show that you don't have to be from a big city to make it in showbiz.

Three 6 Mafia

Nothing brings back the nostalgia of my youth like Three 6 Mafia. Living in a small town meant we spent Friday and Saturday nights cruising the strip, bumping Two Way Freak or Baby Momma. Yeanknow? Some members of this group have broken out on their own and found success, while others might not be as well known. But you know what they say ... it's hard out here for a pimp. That's right. If you've seen Hustle and Flow, you've heard Three 6 Mafia.

Three 6 Mafia

• DJ Paul

DJ Paul is one of the founding members of Three 6 and one of the only two original members left. He's also the producer of all of their albums. He's tried his hand at a solo career and is one of the more well-known members.

• Juicy J

Juicy J is another founding member of Three 6 and is also still active. He is one of the members that went beyond the group and really found success. My kids love his remix with Katy Perry "Dark Horse". He's also collaborated with well-known artists like Kevin Gates, 2 Chainz, Wiz Khalifa, and Lil Wayne, just to name a few. Not bad for someone who started out in one of the most dangerous cities in the country.

• Lord Infamous

Lord Infamous is another one of the co-founders of Three 6 Mafia and was also born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He was the half brother of DJ Paul. Lord Infamous wasn't able to become as successful as some of the other group members and ended his partnership with Three 6 after getting arrested. Sadly, he passed away from a heart attack in 2013.

• Koopsta Knicca

Koopsta Knicca also isn't very well known. He was with Three 6 Mafia from 1991-2000, when he had to leave the band due to incarceration. He released multiple albums was never able to gain much of a fan base, outside of Memphians and loyal Three 6 fans. He passed away in 2015 after complications with a stroke that left him unresponsive and on life support.

• Crunky Black

Crunky Black joined Three 6 in 1993 and continued to collaborate until 2006. At that time, he dissolved his role in the group, citing a desire to branch out as a solo artist. There were some disputes between him and group members, Juicy J and DJ Paul, which also contributed to the breakup. Since being solo, he hasn't released anything since 2015.

• Gangsta Boo

Gangsta Boo was the only female to ever be an official member of Three 6. She's had a bit of moderate success on her own but she's collaborated with tons of folks. To me, she is the Queen of Hip Hop and helped pave the way for artists like Lil Kim and Nicki Minaj.

Lil Wyte:

Lil Wyte (Image: Lil Wyte)

If you listened to Three 6 back in the day, you've no doubt heard some collabs between them and this rapper. Nowadays, you'll most likely hear him with Jelly Roll. Lil Wyte is at the top of my favorite artists from my area and my kids love him too. He raps about what life is like around here. Some of his songs are about the hardships of life and growing up in Frayser, a very dangerous place, and some are about living it up country style. The song Come Ride was actually filmed right next door to my best friend's house. His line, "80 acres in Tipton County is where I be kicking ..." Yep. That's my area!

Leebo:

Leebo Music (Image: Leebo Music)

Since I've mentioned Tipton County, let me introduce you to a new up and coming hick-hop artist Leebo. He's from the same stomping grounds as me and I've seen him perform a few times at local bars. He keeps the raps real about country living. If you've never experienced backwoods country, give this man a listen and learn how it's done.

Part 2: Coming Soon
These are just a few artists that emerged from the infamous land of Blues. Keep an eye because part two will be coming soon with even more artists.  Do you know a local band or artist that's trying to get their name out there? Comment in the links for your chance to win a free promotional piece featuring them.

Top 10 Covers

Musical covers:

Musical covers are a source of great debate. Some people love to see their favorite artists cover their favorite songs by other musicians. Others feel that a cover is a just a lazy attempt to generate fame by riding the coattails of someone who's already found success. I happen to fall into the first category. There are so many amazing songs out there and it's fascinating to watch an artist breathe new life into a classic by giving them a different twist. Whether it's by switching genres or genders, when a song is transformed into something new, it can be a work of art.

Now, this isn't to say that you can just record you singing a song exactly as the original and expect people to be blown away by it. This may work on websites like YouTube and Vine. Country artist Luke Combs has done a ton of these before breaking out into the music scene. And I love watching these. But the difference is he wasn't relying on those videos to get him famous. He had his own music.

A truly good cover is one in which the artist remakes the song into their own unique sound but still maintains the integrity of the original. They pay homage to the artist by bringing exposure of a classic to a new generation of fans. This can often generate a lot of interest in the first version, thus increasing that artist's popularity. This is great for artists who are no longer in the spotlight or no longer performing. The Beatles, for example, no longer perform, yet they are known worldwide. Their song Yesterday has been covered more than 2,200 times! Talk about flattery. Some artists even play a part in the cover, such as Kenny Wayne Shepard. Or they adopt the cover's version and use it instead of their own, such as Bob Dylan did with his song All Along the Watchtower, covered by Jimi Hendrix.

It would take far too long to list all the different covers out there so I have chosen my top 10 favorite covers performed by rock bands. The numbers do not reflect a rating. I'd never be able to decide on a best to least favorite order. It's music! I love all of it. Get ready to rock out to some of the most well-known songs of all time. Drum roll, please …

10. In the Air Tonight

In the Air Tonight is an iconic song that has been said to be Phil Collins' signature. There are many rumors about the inspiration behind the lyrics. The most widely circulated piece of fiction is that Collins wrote the song about a man who let another man drown, rather than save him. Look here for more interesting stories. However, Collins has recently explained on The Tonight Show that the song was actually written when he was going through a divorce. That's one way to channel the different emotions that come along with a failed marriage.

There are over a dozen versions of this song but my favorite version was done by the band Nonpoint. This group is considered to be alternative metal and they give this iconic song a complete makeover with that true rocker vibe. Yet that distinct drum solo from the original is still featured and even more exciting now! If you've ever seen the remake of Miami Vice, featuring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx, you've probably heard this version.

9. Blue on Black

If you were a rock fan in the 90s, I'm willing to bet you used to jam this on your Walkman. For the younger generations, that's sort of like an iPod, except we had to use cassette tapes and there was only a limited amount of space on each one. Meaning you'd have to switch tapes to listen to more songs or rewind the one you're already listening to, which generally took a minute or so. Oh, the horrors! This song is about a person knowing that no matter what you do, the person you love isn't coming back. I love the story behind the creation of this song.

The idea for the title and main idea of the song Blue on Black was decided during a jam session when songwriter Tia Sillers, who is also famous for the country song I Hope You Dance recorded by Lee Ann Womack, realized that Kenny Wayne Shepard was wearing a blue and black shirt and it dawned that if you combined the two colors, nothing changes. The color stays black. Once that idea took root, Sillers, Shepard and band member Mark Selby incorporated it into each line, such as cold on ice or match on a fire.

 I have not seen many covers of this song but the one that I have seen is definitely worth mentioning in this list. Although Blue on Black was already considered in the rock genre, heavy metal band Five Finger Death Punch lent their unique sound to really give it an edge. The video that went along with the release of their cover has some pretty interesting costars in addition to the band. Not only do you hear vocals from Kenny Wayne Shepard, but there's also Brantley Gilbert and Brian May, the guitarist and songwriter for the legendary band Queen. Yes, ladies. This video has lots of yummy eye candy! Don't be shy. Take a peek.

Another reason for my high approval of this cover is that the video is dedicated to first responders and all proceeds that originate are donated to the Gary Sinise Foundation. This foundation, created by actor Gary Sinise, Lieutenant Dan from Forrest Gump, was set up to provide multiple programs and services for all of our nation's heroes, from soldiers to first responders and everything in between. Who doesn't love a bad boy with a cause?

8. Sound of Silence

 This is probably the most dramatic cover on this list. From folk genre to heavy metal … huh? Yeah, you read that right. Simon and Garfunkle originally released this song in 1964 but it bombed horribly. The duo ended up splitting up until 1966 when producer Tom Wilson changed the sound, shooting the song to number one. After that, the couple found great success and multiple hits. I love learning facts about songs I enjoy and this is no exception. There's a theory that the lyrics were written as a response to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. However, Simon has disputed that claim and states instead that the lyrics are about people not communicating.

This song has been covered by twenty different artists but my all-time favorite version was done by heavy metal band Disturbed. Lead singer David Draiman is known for his screaming vocals, however, he reached outside his usual register and seduced the listener with a slow, deep rasp that sends chills down your spine. This band has a distinct sound with shrilling guitars and heavy drums, yet in this cover, they have toned down their distinctive sound to let the lyrics really take the spotlight. Take the time to hear a softer sound to such a hard band.

7. Thunder Rolls

Country music is one of those weird genres. Some people love it and refuse to deviate to other genres. While others think that country music is just a bunch of drunk rednecks singing about cheating lovers, dead dogs, and drinking beer. Regardless of your opinion, you have most likely heard of globally known artist Garth Brooks. Furthermore, you probably know the song Thunder Rolls. This seems to be a generally loved song from many people, including those who hate country music. Perhaps it's due to the hard guitar riffs that compliment the intense lyrics to create a piece that is tense with emotion. Or perhaps it's the controversy around a song being written about a physically abusive cheating husband and a wife who can no longer take it.

Regardless of what bridges the gap, it's no surprise that someone decided to turn this song into a true rock ballad. Two years ago, heavy metal rock band All That Remains added the electric guitars, upbeat tempo on the drums, and a low gravelly voice with a slight echo that seamlessly blends into a hard sexy growl. Female vocalist Diamente Azzura upped the lyrics up by adding her powerful pipes as backup. The tinny piano at the end is a perfect compliment to how this song goes from soft and soulful to hard and angry.

6. Turn the Page 

Bob Seger is a classic rock icon. He still sells out shows to this day. He's coming close to where I live this fall and I wanted to see him in concert. Until I saw tickets were over a $100 apiece. As a mom of four, I think I'll have to stick to just listening to him on Spotify for the time being. But how cool would it have been seeing him live when he sings Old Time Rock n Roll? The anthem for many of us about the music today. Seger summed it up perfectly when he said “That kinda music ain't got the same soul. I need that old-time a rock n roll.” Given Seger's penchant for writing songs that you can relate to, it's no wonder he found the inspiration for Turn the Page while on tour.

This song gives us an inside look at what it's like living life on the road in a turbulent time when men were ridiculed for having long hair. Appearances have always been a topic of controversy and this is no exception. It was a snide comment from a stranger that became the inspiration for the lyric “Is that a man or a woman?” In typical rocker fashion, Seger and the boys of the Silver Bullet Band thumbed their nose at conventions and ended up proving all the naysayers wrong in the process. Way to go guys!

Almost thirty years later, infamous rock band, Metallica caused a resurrection of this classic. Seconds into the song, the sliding guitar causes chills to erupt along your skin. Who doesn't love that sound? Metallica is one of those bands that has a very distinct musical sound and this cover is no exception. Drummer Lars Ulrich immediately ensures you know exactly which version you're listening to. And once lead singer James Hetfield joins in, the audience is taken on an emotional roller coaster. You can feel the despair, the humility, the fear. It's almost like a whole new song. While Seger was using this song to demonstrate his struggle as a rock star on tour, Metallica twists the song to portray a single mother stuck in a life of prostitution. It's always interesting when an artist thinks outside the box.

5. Rolling in the Deep

This is one of only two females on this list and also one of the more newer artists. Adele has only been on the music scene a relatively short time compared to some of the other artists listed, but no one can doubt her sheer talent. With powerful vocals and a bluesy rich voice capable of hitting jaw-dropping notes, Adele is definitely a force to be reckoned with. The audience can feel the emotion in every word. Her hit song Rolling in the Deep is a testament to this talent. This is the perfect breakup song and was written after a breakup with songwriter Paul Epworth.

Putting your own twist on a song can be interesting, but when an artist can cross genres and genders, it's even more amazing. Chester Bennington, the lead singer of Linkin Park decided to give this a try. And I'm happy to say I found it to be very successful. Linkin Park is known for angry, quick vocals and loud instruments. However, to achieve the perfect cover, Chester slowed his vocals down and allowed us to see a deeper side to this hard rocker. Accompanied by just a piano, Chester hit notes that you never would have expected him to be able to achieve. This cover is guaranteed to have impressed even Adele herself. It made it to number one in the United Kingdom but tragically, Chester Bennington died in 2018 before it could be released in the United States.

4. Got Money 

When you see this entry, you might find yourself scratching your head. How could a rap song be a good cover? Well, it is Lil Wayne so is it really that hard to imagine anything of his becoming a rock song? After all, he does have a whole album dedicated to a rock sound, although he is famous for his hardcore raps, often based on life as a gang member down in New Orleans. Wayne faced a lot of criticism for his decision to try his hand at a more rock sound but I personally commend him. As I've mentioned, I love crossing genres as well as things that are out of the ordinary. There's only so many Auto-Tune songs you can listen to before you start to get bored.

 Lil Wayne is one of those artists that has collaborated with a bunch of different people. Some that are a bit odder than you would expect, such as Jonathan Davis, lead singer of the band Korn. Davis and his band appeared in Lil Wayne's rock ballad Prom Queen, in which Wayne demonstrated his skater tastes and musical abilities by playing drums and guitar. Given this piece of data, it is not surprising that Got Money, originally sang by Lil Wayne and T-Pain was covered by Jonathan Davis later on. Got Money is your typical rap song, basically boasting about being rich and spending money on girlfriends and strippers.

However, if you decide to check out the video, you'll see a different spin on things. Lil Wayne is one of those artists who is proud of where he comes from and he is very vocal about his hometown of New Orleans. But who wouldn't be? It's an amazing city, full of culture and history. When Katrina hit in 2005, destruction was everywhere and it seemed like little was done to help rebuild. In the video, Lil Wayne and his gang rob a bank. He gets arrested but Birdman, a well-known rapper, and mentor to Lil Wayne gets away with the money and gives it to the citizens of New Orleans, who have been forgotten fourteen years after Katrina. I always enjoy when artists shed light on serious subjects.

Johnathon Davis said in an interview that he decided to do a cover of Got Money after it was recommended that he could lend his unique style to it and create a whole new sound. Well, they were right! Being a fan of Lil Wayne's already, Davis thought it sounded like a good idea and got the whole band involved. The song automatically starts off different, with hard guitars, violins, and drums. Once Davis adds in his thrashing voice, it's clear this isn't Lil Wayne's version. However, Davis did pay homage to Wayne's style by using Auto-Tune and not changing the lyrics when it says “DJ show me love, he say my name when the music stop. Young Money, Lil Wayne then the music drop.”

3. Simple Man 

Lynyrd Skynyrd is known as being one of the greatest southern rock bands in existence. Their trademark song, Sweet Home Alabama, has been featured on dozens of movies. And it's one of those songs that you hear being played by bands in bars all across this country. As was typical of the time, this song spoke of controversy. Simple Man is a song of pure emotion about a mother giving advice to her son. Skynyrd gave the song a slow bluesy rhythm and a quicker tempo during the instrumentals. It's a much different sound from their usual southern rock anthems.

Rock band Shinedown, known for the smooth, rich voice and high register of lead singer Brent Smith, did true justice of their cover of this familiar classic. Deciding to go with just an acoustic guitar, Smith let the vocals shine through as he keeps it simple and sweet. Much like the lyrics suggest. There was no power housing with this version. And Smith picked the perfect places to take the notes to a higher range. the listener on a moving journey, much as the original.

 2. Zombie 

The Cranberries came out with Zombie in 1994. Lead singer Dolores O'Riordan's rich voice combined with the softer punk sounds of the guitar and drums in a beautiful melody. O'Riordan's sound set her apart from other female artists as she goes from soft and subtle to a raw powerhouse. A perfect accompaniment for the moving lyrics of this song, which she based on the IRA bombings in Ireland. Not only did she provide an emotional deliverance but she gave a shout out to her motherland in the process. Talk about a good role model.

When O'Riordan heard that rock band Bad Wolves wanted to do a cover of Zombie, she was eager to be a part of it. Sadly, she was found dead before she got the chance to get into the studio. However, Bad Wolves released their version anyway and donated all proceeds to O'Riordan's children. Such a heart-melting story! Lead singer Tommy Vext said that they wanted their cover to be in her memory. The use of electric guitars and hard drums gave this remake a harder sound than the original and Vext's deep gravel voice was a perfect match to the powerful lyrics.

 1. Kiss from a Rose 

When you think of R & B artist Seal, you probably imagine soft, soothing melodies that melt your body like warm butter. Which means it's no surprise that the producers in Hollywood chose Kiss from a Rose to go on the soundtrack for Batman Forever. For you younger generations, you might have heard it on National Lampoon's Vacation, which if you have not watched yet, is pretty hilarious. As you may have already noticed, I like including knowledge about the singer or the inspiration behind the song when possible, but unfortunately, I'm unable to with this one. While most songs have some type of inspiration behind them, this is one of those that do not. There is no backstory. There is no explanation for what it means. It is all up to the listener to interpret. This song is so pure, so peaceful, that it does not matter if there's a set meaning or not. Just enjoy!

I always say that my phone and I have such an intense bond that it often reads my mind. Well, that's how this cover made the list. While thinking about how to find a popular song that was successfully remastered but that was not widely talked about, my YouTube shuffled to Kiss from a Rose by Wake Me. I was instantly lured in by the opening riffs of the guitar. Within seconds, Seal has gone metal! Lead singer Michael Kellogg nails Seal's high pitches and adds his own touch with a sexy screaming thrash. The tempo gets faster, causing you to bob your head in unison. One particular guitar section strongly reminded me of Barracuda by Heart Not a bad group to sound like at all.

And so much more... 

I hope you found these covers to be as enjoyable as I did. And don't just stop with me. There are tons of great covers I didn't even mention. Such as All Along the Watchtower, originally done by Bob Dylan but covered by artists such as Jimi Hendrix and the Dave Matthews Bands, both of which are amazing versions. There are tons of great articles out there listing the best of the best and in my experience, there's always different songs on them so read more than one. And don't forget, I'm always interested in hearing new covers so feel free to add to my list in the comments.