http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/billieraymartin/>
Hey there,
Yes, I've recorded a soul album, pure soul and some good old rhythm and blues. New songs mostly, with two of my favourite songs covered too.
I had the dream of making an album that's influenced by Hi Records (Al Green, Ann Peebles and many other classic artists are on that label), but also felt like adding some rhythm and blues. So this is a "dream come true" side project, you could say.
Over 10 years ago myself and Jon Tiven, whom I'd met in New York, booked a studio called 900 Broadway Studios in NYC, where ? a bit of trivia? Keith Richards had recorded his first solo album. This could only be a good omen. We recorded a bunch of songs we'd written, and a couple of my favourite cover versions.
I'm so happy with the results and just a little proud.
Usually I don't listen to my own music? ever? after it is finished. With this album I actually found myself sitting, listening again and again with even the odd tear coming. I have been receiving incredibly promising feedback from industry professionals that I consulted about it and that encouraged me to speak to the guys at Pledge Music.
The album was produced by Jon Tiven, who's credits include albums produced for Wilson Pickett, Bobby Womack and Willie Nelson as well as numerous awards and Grammy nominations, with myself adding production, making changes, re-recording stuff and bossing recording engineer Steve Honest around to get the exact sound I wanted - a goal from which I wouldn't budge, no matter what.
We recruited the help of world famous drummer Simon Kirke, had Sally Tiven on Bass and a bunch of other outstanding musician perfected the picture.
Now I'd love to release this album, along with singles and remixes.
Have Vinyl and a CD manufactured, rehearse with the musicians I've already found to take this on the road to a town near you.
And I'd like to ask for your involvement and help.
Yes, there will be remixes, I'm excited to say, as I have my eyes on a few wonderful producers. But this needs to work first!
Any money that's over my set goal will be used to record a house music album, which I've been planning for a long time. Too long?.most of you will say, and I agree. And that album will involve going back to my house music roots for sure.
So, I hope I could interest you in lending your support for this album I'm very proud of, and hopefully I'll see you on tour soon. Let's do this together!
Below you can see what I offer. Just click on the item you want to pledge for and if you want you can add an extra dime to make this all possible. If we reach 100%, the album gets manufactured. If you don't have the money, no problem just help me and let the world know what I'm doing by sharing this campaign.
I hope that the special goodies and offers tickle your fancy. I'll definitely keep updating you along the way, with special photos and videos from behind the scenes of video making and other things I dream up.
Thank you so much for your support and let's make this happen!
Love
Billie Ray Martin
