"I'm Doin It" Single Release

                                                          

SKYLER REED RELEASES HER DEBUT LP MAY 15; PURCHASE HER NEW SINGLE “I’M DOIN IT” ONLINE NOW!

Los Angeles, CA - After months of preparation, this R&B/Soul Singer and Songwriter will release her debut LP to over a dozen of online stores! Not only is the LP dropping, but the music video for her single “I’m Doin It” will hit YouTube as well!  

This eleven track CD will feature two producers and one rapper. Spring will be in full swing come May 15^th, and Miss Reed believes this body of work is for the season! Self-written songs display joy, motivation, and perseverance. The title of the LP, “I Keep Dreamin…” symbolizes the evolution currently taking place in her career. She hopes to spread inspiration to all.

The single, “I’m Doin It,” is available for purchase now on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, etc. Skyler Reed will be performing live with her band at The Mint on May 20^th at 8pm! Make sure to pick up a physical copy of the, then newly released, LP, “I Keep Dreamin….”

Originally from Virginia, Skyler Reed relocated to Los Angeles to pursue her big dreams of sharing her music with the world. She has been songwriting since a pre-teen, and has contributed her verbal creativity in all of her songs. She is sensual, yet classy, and classically trained, yet full of soul. She views her voice as a gift, and feels it is her duty to utilize it in an empowering way.

Book her at iamskylerreed@gmail.com

www.skylerreed.com

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Indiegogo Campaign- The Skyler Reed Project

These past couple of months have been super busy! Not only have I completed my LP, but I have also shot my music video for my first single, "I'm Doin It." A lot of great things are happening for The Skyler Reed Project!! I'm super excited about everything that has yet to come! I've launched a campaign on Indiegogo.com, to help fund all of these great endeavors.

My LP consists of 11 tracks, where one of them is a bonus track of my first single. I recorded most of the LP at Es Audio Recording Studio, which was a lengthy process, because I was pretty particular with the sound I wanted to produce. When I went to record I liked to be super prepared, where I usually had a prerecorded track of the song. This way, I had the skeleton I could fill in. The melodies to these songs were formulated when I wrote the song. For six of the songs, I had beats created around my melody. For the others, I chose beats that complimented my melody and lyrics. I was my most creative in the studio when creating the harmonies and ad libs. I had the most fun doing this part, because I am big on having a full sound. I loved choir growing up, so you guys will hear a lot of choral like harmonies in the songs.

I've been writing songs for over ten years, and I pulled these specific pieces from my collection. I chose songs based on their relativity to my current life, and to their message that could be conveyed to the world. I wanted my words to mean something, and not just say anything. The whole theme of my LP is motivation and self-purpose, whether it be pursuing dreams, or just being positive in an unfullfilling relationship. Of course, I threw in a couple classic sounding R&B love songs, but there are also the complicated ones. Love has so many stages, and I tried hard to portray that with my selections. One of my favorites is "Stormy Weather," mainly because of how passionate the lyrics and melody are, but also because there's a glimmer of hope at the end of the song. I've always been an optimistic individual, and usually give people the benefit of the doubt (at first), so I display that in several songs.

My single, "I'm Doin It," is probably the funnest song I have on my LP (I think). It has a Hip-Hop feel to it, and I absolutely love Hip-Hop. :) It's upbeat, and it's positive! I chose it to be my first single, because I felt that it was a great introduction to who I am as an individual and an artist. The song embodies confidence and determination, which you must have if you want to succeed in anything. This is a version of my story, but I hope many can relate, because everyone has a dream or goal they'd like to accomplish someday in their life.

The music is just the foundation of this project. There a videos involved, merchandise involved, CD manufacturing involved, marketing involved, and so much more. I shot the music video for "I'm Doin It" a few weeks ago, and I am currently in the process of getting the video edited, which I am extremely excited about! I had a very talented and dedicated crew, who helped the process run smoothly. I was very fortunate to have been able to cast several actors as featured extras, and have others participate as extras. They definitely played a big role on getting the message across in the video. I had my photoshoot for the album a couple of weeks back, and am going to get the album art work done within the next few weeks. Once that is complete, I can send it off to have the CD's manufactured! I will be releasing May!

As you can see, this project has a lot of intricate parts to it,  so this campaign is absolutely necessary for me to fulfill all of the necessary obligations. We are currently over half way to our $2,000 goal, and we just need an extra push to make it to the finish line! Your contribution would be extremely appreciated! There are perks set up, so if you'd like something in return for your contribution you can select one! Contributors may receive a signed physical copy of the LP, a poster, stickers, digital downloads, social media shout outs, a producer credit, and more! I absolutely love music, and I know that my purpose is to share it with the world. Please help me fulfill my purpose, while being inspired to pursue yours!

Contribute here:
The Skyler Reed Project

Music Event: Hunnypot

Just a week ago I went to The Ment on Pico Blvd for a night of musical entertainment. An acquaintance of mine, Lydia Rene, was performing, so I wanted to go support her. Celeste Stoney was also performing that night, and I became a supporter of hers a couple of months back when I saw her perform at Sadie’s Kitchen and Lounge. I have had The Mint on my list of music venues to visit for a while now, and this was the perfect opportunity to check the place out.

The name of the event every other Monday is Hunnypot, and it is coordinated by John Anderson. The night consists of various talent, from Rock to Soul. Once inside, there’s a bar to the right, and to the left there is a seating area with a two drink minimum. To the left of the stage there was a screen in the corner playing old black and white films, which I thought was very unique. The space was pretty nice size, and most people stood.

I witnessed Magnolia Memoir perform, and they were pretty good. They are a rock band, and the singer had a nice high tone. They had a cellist in their band, which I thought was super neat! Cellos are typically played in orchestras. The cellist was jamming, and he played in a really cool position with one leg up in the air. I enjoyed this bands sound, and the singing for the most part. 

 

After watching another rock band perform, who happened to be very talented, Lydia Rene graced the stage. Her band had a great blend, and her voice was soulful. She performed songs off of her upcoming EP, and a cover song of one of her favs. Truly owning her alto range, she sat at her keyboard and poured out each song with purpose. I appreciate her musicality and ability to play so comfortably on the keys, while simultaneously sharing her songs through voice. I especially liked her melismas. I look forward to seeing her perform again.

Off the Record with Chaka Khan

Last Monday I had the pleasure of seeing Chaka Khan being interviewed by Rita Ora at the Recording Academy. I have been a member of Grammy U for about two years now, and I am really enjoying the advantages of being affiliated with this great company. This past year I have attended their events quite often, and they have always been very informative, and an all around great experience.

I RSVP'd for this event, to see Chaka Khan, the second I received the email, because I wanted to make sure I would be confirmed! I have been a fan of this true diva for a while. I love watching her old concerts, because there's always something to learn. I always wondered what she would be like in person...how she would carry herself... 

When I walked in the Recording Academy, a building I have become fairly familiar with, the lobby was full of people. Grammy U cater's to students in college, so there are usually a good amount of members there from various universities in the Los Angeles area. Once it was time to check in everyone got in a line, and we proceeded down the hall to take our seats. Once seated everyone mixed and mingled and patiently awaited the star to walk in the room. 

Rita Ora was chosen to interview Miss Chaka Khan, which I thought would be very entertaining. I first discovered Rita Ora when I kept hearing "Black Widow" by Iggy on the radio. She was featured on that song, and her hook surly became one of my favorite things to belt out when I turned on the radio! I was also eager to see this rising artist, because I love her voice and tone!

The interview lasted for about an hour, and it was packed with interview questions, audience questions, and Google+ Hangout questions. Rita Ora was very laid back and even humorous! Her British accent really came out, and it was quite funny how she pronounced some names. She appeared very relaxed, and was enjoying herself.

Chaka Khan reminded me of a cool auntie. She was so down to earth, and definitely kept it 100. She answered various questions, from having a long lasting career in the industry to the numerous people she worked with. She spoke of her take on record labels, and explained how she is enjoying being a free agent. She shared some words of wisdom, "The moment you stop being nervous is when you need to stop doing what you're doing, because being nervous means you care ." She shared her secret for handling studio nervousness: she always has her words written down.

It was a great event, and I left feeling more knowledgable about the great songstress. She shared some wise information, and I feel fortunate to have had the honor to sit in for that interview. There's always something to learn from the great singers who have become so successful! 

My First Studio Experience

Last week I had a pretty awesome experience of recording my first songs for this upcoming project. Not only was it another step closer to embarking on this master music plan I have, but it was also my first time recording solo in a legit recording studio. The facility was beyond amazing! I truly knew it was the one months ago, when I was shopping around for the perfect creative environment. Es Audio Recording Studios was the first on my list to meet with. 

When I walked in, there was a nice lobby with comfy couches to the right, and a desk to the left. The walls were decked out with art, music plaques, and more. There was a door that led in to the hallway, and the vibe I felt when i walked through was unexplainable. As I passed an office, production room, booth, and control rooms, I started to get extremely excited! Once past the front rooms, there was another small lobby with a comfy couch, snacks, and water! I was pretty sold when they told me they had complementary chocolate bars. LOL. The restroom facility was homey and clean! They had two studios, Studio A and Studio B, and I am just one person, so of course I was looking to record in the smaller studio, Studio B. However, I got to peek in to the large Studio A space during one of their sessions. 

Once I walked in Studio B, I was in L.O.V.E. There were candles lit, the lights were dim, the room was clean, and the vibe was perfect! The fact that they had a very cozy insulated booth boosted my eagerness to work with them. I wasn't exactly sure what I was looking for, but I knew that the feeling I had meant I was in the right place. After discussing and listening to their previous work, I put them on a very high pedestal. No studio I visited after that amounted to much. So I made my choice!

On the day of my session I rested, and prepared. I had most beats ready, so I put them on my USB, packed my lap top and water, and drank my throat tea. Once I got there I set up in the booth. I took off dangling jewelry, set the mood by dimming the lights a little, and pulled up my pre-recorded songs on Garage Band, so I could reference certain harmonies and ad libs I have already discovered I wanted to use. I like being prepared, because I am not one to waste time. Fortunately, my creativity wasn't limited to the pre-recording, because I am very open to changes, and adding whatever is need to make the song complete. I had so much fun coming up with ad libs and harmonies to these songs I have been rehearsing for months! My session lasted a little over four hours, and I felt fatigued after recording two full songs. It was definitely hard work, but super enjoyable! I even sat through the mixing process, and I was surprised at how involved I was with effects and sounds. I am looking forward to my next session! 

Bananas Music Event

These past few weeks I have been discovering a lot of different music spots in LA! Last night was the most interesting by far! I love experiencing new music and art, and living in this wonderful city gives me tons of opportunities to do so!

Every third Tuesday of the month there is a music event called Bananas at the Kaos Network on the corner of Leimert Park. I have passed this venue often, but never paid much attention to it. Parking was easy and free, which is always a plus in the busy streets of LA. I'm so glad I got to experience the great atmosphere and positive vibes last night. Kyle "Verbs" Guy hosted the event, and each month they have a variety of underground artist sharing their art on the stage! Last night, nearly a dozen artists graced the stage: Vinny Virgo, Coresh, Shango Zeropoint, Go Semi, Chasity Londyn, Osbe, Weareskywalkers, God MC, Telsa, Hazmat, Conchance, Sevidemic. 

This opened my eyes to a new style of music. It was very new to me, and very fun to watch! The artists were rappers, but like rockers. They were very energetic,  jumping around, and getting the crowd in to the hype! Some artists had bands, and some had DJ's. It was a great variety of music, and unique sounds.

Besides the music portion, there were so many other activities going on! Outside of the venue there were a lot of people hanging out, and socializing. The energy was pretty awesome! With the chill, yet unique attire, relaxing vibes, great conversations, and the aroma of food and smoke, it was the perfect dynamic. There were food stands serving tasty and cheap meals, along with water for beverage. Wo'se Kofi ran the Patties Gourmet Vegan Food Stand, which got a lot of positive feedback last night. Apparently, partakers couldn't believe how flavorful Vegan food could be.

Overall, this music event was an eye opener to really cool people and artistic performers. The energy was calm, yet fun, depending on being inside or outside. People were very sociable, and I enjoyed meeting people from literally around the globe. I definitely plan on attending this event in the future, for another great night!

Critique- Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B

Like most, I grew up with the musical influence of Aaliyah. Her self-titled album is still one of my favorites today. Her music captivated me at a young age, because it was sweet and hard at the same time. It has that bumping hip-hop-filled beat, with her soft, beautiful tone breezing over it. Like the rest of the world, I was devistated when she passed. I remember seeing it come on TV, and being in shock. I didn't realize, at the time, how young she actually was, and now I'm older than she was when she passed. It's unfortunate that someone so young and full of life had to be taken from this world too soon. It is also unfortunate to lose such a humble and generous individual who possessed a beautiful gift. She wasn't just a singer, but an actress, dancer, and a woman with high dreams for herself. I envy that in her. I am motivated by her legacy.

Last night my timelines on all social media were filled with comments about the Aaliyah: The Princess of R&B movie, produced by Wendy Williams, and aired on Lifetime. WOW! There were SO many opinions... and most of them were negative. Well, here's mine. I don't really put much energy in to hating on things, but I will say a few critiques, both positive and negative. First of all, Alexandra Sharpp is a decent actor. I'm not a big actor critic, but I think she did fine. 

The singing, on the other hand is a different story. She is not Aaliyah, therefore, she isn't going to sound like Aaliyah. She sounded very musical theater to me, but she has a nice voice...it just was not fit to portray the great singer. But then again, that's what you get when you can't use the artists original music. They had to recreate it, and I guess that's the best they could do. Just be mindful, that Alexandra is not Aaliyah, so she's not going to be able to deliver the way Aaliyah did. 

I think there were flaws in the realness of the movie and how it portrayed Aaliyah's life. The actors did not resemble the actual stars, Timberland, Missy Elliot, R-Kelly, Damon Dash, etc. I can understand that this is just a movie, but... it wasn't that believable, especially for the actors portraying these great music celebrities. Body language is everything, and I definitely didn't buy it. 

Along with wishing there were less performance scenes, I also was hoping to see more in depth scenes of the creative process Aaliyah went through with different producers and artists she encountered throughout her career. I was hoping to learn something new...but that didn't really happen. Also, I did not like how the movie just ended.... it was just....over. Maybe, that was symbolic to the sudden death of Aaliyah. I don't know, but I was left thinking, "Wait?...that's it?!?" 

In conclusion, it was an ok movie. I had higher expectations, but then again, it's Lifetime. Even though I love watching Lifetime movies, I think taking on this kind of movie just wasn't a good move for the network. The critics are on fire! Everyone is throwing flames at the network and Wendy Williams. Welp, they tried. I do think Alexandra Sharpp is an exceptional actress though, and she should sing in musicals or on Disney. 


I wonder how Whitney Houston's movie will turn out....