Lana Del Rey, the internet sensation touted as one of iTunes Artists to Watch in 2012 made a disastrous spectacle from her first appearance on Saturday Night Live last night.  Almost immediately, legions of people have colored the internet blasting Lana’s performance, including celebrities like Juliette Lewis.  Lana’s performance was stiff as a nervous school girl with erratic pitch problems, vacant eyes, and awkward attempts at dance moves.  Granted, a fresh case of nerves could be the culprit for upstaging the host, Daniel Radcliffe on last night’s performances but check out what happened here.

Could it have been calculated?  Profiled by RadioPotato last August, Lana Del Rey has experienced an organically meteoric rise thanks to her early release of her retro-tinged video for “Video Games.”  The young 25-year old from New York  has been lambasted and praised by critics for her “enhanced” image, her name change (she was born Lizzy Grant), and for her mysteriously disappearing music and videos as her image has been revamped and her music re-released.  An interesting cover story detailed the mystery surrounding Lana’s rise in Billboard Magazine.

Del Rey might be absolutely brilliant, though.  By nature, the polarizing reactions are going to make people more compelled to watch her even closer in the future. It’s not easy to go on SNL so early in her career and kill it with so little experience before her album is even released.  My bet is that Lana’s next move will galvanize the haters and make her into the femme fatale sensation that she is poised to be.  She’s got talent.  Her music is haunting and you can’t take your eyes off of her.  Thirteen hours after broadcasting on SNL, Lana Del Rey’s EP is #2 on the iTunes album charts behind Adele’s 21.  Just watch.  Lana Del Rey has since deleted her SNL video posts from her Facebook page and posted a teaser video for her upcoming interview.  Smart marketing.  Smarketing!  Her career will only gain momentum.  Just watch.

Lana Del Rey Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

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HAPPY NEW YEAR! Today is January 1, 2012. Everyone gets to wipe their slate clean and create whatever it is they want for their lives. One of my resolutions is to spend more time using my musical um, talents. Since I have no musical talents, I figured I’d share other people’s to improve your life. I know, I’m a giver. Please check out the music , VOTE for your favorite in the poll embedded below, and SHARE with your friends. VOILA! Your New Year has started off perfectly. May all your hopes come true this year and a big THANK YOU to everyone who so passionately followed RadioPotato and contributed in the previous years.

Click HERE for Spotify Playlist or listen below:

1. “I FOUND YOU” – ALABAMA SHAKES  Motown soul meets Jack White.  Gaining attention from the release of their eponymous EP from NPR, the New York Times, and even Bob Lefsetz spewing his critiques, Athens, AL’s Alabama Shakes is an unlikely band that has just what ears have been begging for.  Amy Winehouse and the Dap-Kings have flung the doors open for rockabilly, jazz, and retro music to resurge as the hottest style.  Lead singer Brittany Howard sounds like a thunderbolt of Motown’s ancestors’ soul with a southern twist.  Bring on the revival!  I am awake!  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download 

2. “MURDEROUS JOY” – CARTER TANTON Evoking expansive Western skies and a long drive, “Murderous Joy” has the warm fuzzy indie-folk vibe that showcases Carter Tanton’s blissfully longing voice.  The rolling guitars and wistful lyrics are transfixing as you step inside a dream.  After label drama disbanded his former group, Tulsa in 2009, Carter recorded this solo effort, Freeclouds entirely in his New York apartment.  “I need just a little time, to sing you a line / You won’t soon forget / About a wild-eyed boy and murderous joy”.  Website | Info|  Facebook | Twitter | Download

3. “BEAR” – GRACE WOODROOFE If you could mix Joss Stone with Grace Potter with a fresh young take, you’ve got “Bear.”  After sending in a demo tape four years ago to an Australian talent show, the attention of Grace Woodroofe’s appearance garnered the ear of her brother’s friend, the late actor Heath Ledger.  Heath connected her to Ben Harper and he was taken by her bewitching bluesy style and Grace moved to Los Angeles as a tender teenager.  Now 20 years old (whut!), she has a deeply intense delivery with a rawness of exposed hide.  This sultry siren is about to rip North America wide open with her seductive style.  There’s no video yet for “Bear” but please check out her latest video, “I’ve Handled Myself Wrong.” Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

4. “THORNS” – CHARLIE SIMPSON I swear, Charlie’s songs have drugs in ‘em.  With a slightly melancholy tambor to his voice, London’s Charlie Simpson’s  hypnotic hooks are irresistible to the human ear.  With a successful background in harmonic metal (Fightstar) and punk-pop (Busted), he has taken a decidedly different turn with his acclaimed acoustic folk-rock solo effort. Playing every single instrument (apart from the drums) on his album Young Pilgrim, it sounds somber with a shot of summer.  It’s a stunner. Thanks to JrzyGyrl.com for the intro.  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download – UK

5. “I’VE BEEN AROUND THE WORLD” – SEVEN HANDLE CIRCUS I can’t say enough about this rising band.  Releasing their new EP Whiskey Stills & Sleeping Pills on January 1st, 2012, this high energy Georgia bluegrass band has got THE spark.  Touting themselves as “bad-ass bluegrass,” their 6-piece band innovatively weaves their musical chops to create infectious harmonies but also put on a live show you’ll never forget.  Fortuitously discovered by Mumford & Sons last June, the band got to jam with Mumford and had the new gods of folk proudly endorse them to a sold out crowd at Atlanta’s legendary Fox Theatre. Video below has 3 songs – This song starts at 1:27.  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download | RadioPotato Interviews

Take Our Poll

Related posts:

1. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Songs of January 2011

Ben Sollee could be the holy grail of musicians. An accomplished cellist, vocalist, and storyteller, Ben’s folky style of music is peppered with soul, bluegrass, jazz, and the classics.  It’s borderline obnoxious that so much talent be bestowed on one person and to top it all off, he’s incredibly articulate, gracious, and kind.  I bet less-evolved musicians hate him.  Anyway, let’s get to the good stuff.

Ben Sollee: The Experience. Picture it. Grocery on Home, the private venue living room series hosts a four-night run of Ben Sollee and it’s the final night. The art-filled living room is packed with an eclectic mix of people waiting to experience the lore of the Ben Sollee/Grocery show. There’s a little magic sparking from the flames of the burning candles as Ben takes his spot right by the front door. Matt Arnett, the founder of the Grocery, gave a touching story to introduce Ben and from his first stroke of his cello, the room was utterly captivated. Not only is he masterful in his percussive and unusual style of playing the cello, his carefully crafted songwriting had the room hanging on his every word. I happened to bring 9 of my closest friends and they were all looking at each other like they had discovered the eighth wonder of the world.  The way Sollee artfully and nimbly bends the strings of his cello is as captivating as Jack White re-inventing how a guitar is played.  As the icing on the cake, Ben sets up each song with an inviting story that allows you to comfortably sit in his world for a few minutes.

Ben Sollee at the Grocery on Home - Atlanta

Luckily, I was able to interview him and I was really surprised to hear about how thoughtfully he answered the questions.  Inspired by art, famously riding a bike from his hometown in Kentucky to Bonnaroo with his cello and his supplies strapped to his cycle, you’ll get a kick out of how Ben reveals little known facts.  Oh, and btw, my chair was much higher than his so he looks shorter than me.  But he’s not.

BEN SOLLEE INTERVIEW WITH RADIOPOTATO:

Ben Sollee on NPR Music’s Tiny Desk:

Thanks to Matt Arnett for inviting me to interview Ben and Casey Driessen, filming it, and hosting us in his home for such an important addition to the Atlanta music scene.  Oh, and here’s my favorite song by Ben: “Electrified.”  The strings are ridiculous-

Hook yourself up with some Sollee right here:

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

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I feel like a drug addict.  Always chasing the first high.  When you go to as many concerts as I do, it’s really easy for the excitement of the shows to dim after awhile.  Encores are a vapid exercise in futility.  Traffic and parking is a total pain.  The Ticketmaster prices and inflated fees are almost overshadowing the draw of the band and leaving more people at home.  After seeing an artist, I keep going to see the same artists in hopes to be blown away again.  Truth be told, reality doesn’t usually allow multiple showings to capture the magic of the first one.

So I thought I’d save you the trouble of seeing crappy bands live (Jack Johnson and Death Cab for Cutie made me want to briefly consider homicide) and go straight to a state of nirvana.  If you’re going to go through the trouble of going to a show, here’s the RadioPotato 100% guarantee that these will rock your faces off.  Tour dates/websites are linked onto each musical artists’ names.

1.  RUSH (Early prog metal/ Progressive rock) – It’s no secret that power trio Rush is my favorite band and was my very first concert.  Plus, I’m campaigning to interview them, too.  After over 30 years of being together, it’s the only concert where people don’t bombard the bathrooms when Geddy, Alex, and Neil plays songs off their new albums.

2.  THE CIVIL WARS (Americana duo) -The way John Paul White and Joy Williams look at each other as they closely sing their tales of strained love and heartbreak, you’d SWEAR they were together. The magnetic experience seeing The Civil Wars live has translated globally to organically grow into a juggernaut of adoration,  respect, and a rabidly loyal following.  I had the honor of interviewing them right after they formed. Learn more here.

3.  GRACE POTTER & THE NOCTURNALS (American rock) -  Grace Potter live is like rock and roll porn.  Guys want to bang her and girls want to be her.  Her raw sexual energy can knock you right out if you weren’t so fixated on her short peek-a-boo dress, flailing hair, and how ridiculously talented she is.  High-energy performances from Grace backed by her 70′s rock inspired band leave you transfixed and confident you will never see anything like that again in your life.  Unless you see her again. I reviewed a show from GPN here.

4.  RAY LaMONTAGNE (Folk singer/songwriter) – Even though Ray has been known to be a moody bitch onstage and totally socially awkward mess offstage, one thing is very clear….he can sing from the bellows of his very soul and before you know it, you’re crying.  Oh wait.  That’s me.  Reviews here (Red Rocks – 2010), here (walks off stage 2010) , and scandalous news here.

5. TONY LUCCA - (Singer/songwriter) Formerly of The Mickey Mouse Club (yep, back in the Britney/Justin days), Lucca is one of the world’s best kept secrets of live shows.  Lucca’s lyric-driven soulful music will knock anyone out including yo’ mama.   I’ve never seen anybody perform with that much passion with just a guitar and his voice.  Want to learn more? I got to interview him here.

6.  TONY BENNETT (Classic crooner) – In an era of fast-paced, overworked, and ADHD-riddled world, Tony is a tribute to the old-fashioned values of a simpler time. Not only that, but he’s managed to stay relevant after 60+ years of performing.  I’ve seen him twice and couldn’t stop smiling with pure enjoyment.  He only sings the classics. He frequently showcases his musicians and after (and during) every single song, he’s smiling and saluting the audience in gratitude.  There will never be another time in our lives where we will be able to see someone from Frank Sinatra’s era perform live.

7.  MUMFORD & SONS (Folk roots rock) – Subscribing to “the more, the merrier” theory, Mumford and Sons are famous for having all of their opening acts onstage with them for a grand finale of communion.  Banjos, accordions, upright bass, kickdrums – they’ve made old school modern again by packing a high-energy show with gripping performance of their literature-inspired music.  In fact, they’ve grown their wildly popular fan base 100% by word-of-mouth from their energizing live shows.  Reviews here (2010) and here (2011 – Front Row).

8.  RICKY MARTIN (Latin-flavored pop) – Yes, I’m totally serious!  It takes a lot of talent to wow an entire arena full of people who got free tickets and went for the hell of it (that would be me) but he did!  You can tell how genuinely thankful he was and he gave everything he had with PASSION! It was a high-energy show that was just fun, fun, fun!

9.  TEN OUT OF TENN (Concept tour) -  Trent Dabbs brainchild of a collective of ten unique and successfully published artists out of Tennessee (mostly Nashville) banding together to tour across the nation in one bus.  The “in-the-round” set-up allows each artist to collaboratively add to each other’s songs and introduce 10 new artists to each audience member.  The first time I saw them, I only knew one artist, Griffin House.  Every single song that was sung was better than the last and I was hooked.  Some of the line-up has included Joy Williams, Andrew Belle, Gabe Dixon, Trent Dabbs, ks Rhoads, Katie Herzig, Erin McCarley, Tyler James, and many more.

10.  LADY GAGA (Pop) – Black, white, gay, straight, fan, non-fan.  There’s NOTHING like a Gaga live show experience.  The level of performance and detail at every show was so meticulously planned out that you felt like your head was exploding from every angle.  Sensory overload!  But more than that, you realize that Gaga is truly genuine in her desire to connect with the disconnected.  She left everything in her entire being on the stage and left everyone feeling a little closer to the lady herself.  And like her or not, she’s an exceptionally talented woman and has so much more under that hood of hers that is waiting to be revved up.  Go see her!  It’s an experience that you couldn’t get anywhere else. Not even the best drag show.  Show me your paws!

Got some shows that blew you away that aren’t on this list?  Post them in the comments section!  And if you liked this post, connect with RadioPotato on Facebook here.

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Releasing holiday music is the smartest thing for a band or musical artist can do.  It gets played every single year and that type of content is especially in high-demand for the 24/7 channels that play 100% holiday music all season long.

Take note that so many holiday classics have been recorded over and over.  For example, “Winter Wonderland” has been recorded and published  by 163 different artists!  One thing I so appreciate is original holiday music.  Feel-good pop band Saints of Valory released original holiday song “Winter Lights” for the 2011 holiday season.  The Austin band’s first official video capture the anthemic spirit of the holidays by inviting a chorus of children to usher in the season.  Happy Holidays, everyone!

Saints of Valory Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

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2. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Songs for August 2011

The holiday season is upon us and while you are hanging your stockings and lighting your Menorah’s, you’ll need some fresh music to fill the brisk air. This is probably one of my favorite Top 5 lists as I’ve been discovering all of these mind-blowing gems tucked away just waiting to be unearthed. Be sure to VOTE for your favorite in the embedded poll below. Congrats to Three Blind Wolves for winning October’s Top Song with “Echo on the Night Train.”

1.  “BLACKOUT” – PICKWICK  Talk about being stopped dead in your tracks.  Motown, gospel, and a wailing voice from the bellows of your soul make up the unlikely Seattle outfit Pickwick.  Gaining steam thanks to some inventively creative videos and rabid fans, this is just another reason for me to pick up and go to the Pacific NW pronto.  In the meantime, lead singer Galen Disston’s voice has the force of a freight train dripping with honey.  Sing it, brotha! I bet he could belt some mean Darryl Hall covers, too.  Send me a video of it! In the meantime, enjoy this video recorded a capella in the Reading Room at The University of Washington. Official Website | Facebook | Twitter

2.  “OMAHA” – AUNT MARTHA Stumbling onto a live performance at the “private” Atlanta living-room venue “Grocery on Home,” 5-piece band of men from New England caused a seismic shift in the music world.  Deciding to unplug for the intimate collection of 40 people, the fiddle-picking combined with the kick-drum kicking and lead singer Tim Noyes’ polished infectious voice dropped every jaw.  Click here for a short video clip from that night.  Their newest EP Bloodshot is so hauntingly contagious and moving, the echoes rattle through your body long after the lyrically-rich EP’s last note. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.  Official Website | Facebook |  Twitter | Download

3.  “THE DAY” – MARSHALL RUFFIN  A curious 24-year old white boy that sings the blues with a cracked heart as big as B.B. King.  Hailing from Columbus, GA, Marshall Ruffin will bring an entire audience to his knees with his rootsy soulful wailings.  Not to mention, this boy can shred.  I can hear lots of Allman influence in his guitar-playing and come to find out, he teaches guitar.  Ruffin’s talent cuppeth is overflowing and I can’t wait to introduce him to you.  Official Website | Facebook 

 4.  “O BLACK RIVER” – HANNAH MILLER  I’m a sucker for gospel-infused modern music and I was so moved by this song.  This Nashville songstress interlaces a delicate and elegant twist to an otherwise gospel foot-stomper.  Miller’s genuine delivery of her lonesome surrender beckons the listener to experience the hopeful whisper of the river with her.  Oh and in case you didn’t notice, she bears a striking resemblance to Katie Holmes.  Dawson’s Creek never sounded this good.  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

5.  “GHOSTS THAT WE KNEW” – MUMFORD & SONS  Seems almost unfair to have a Mumford song on this list but damn it, they’ve done it again.  The world is anxiously awaiting their sophomore follow-up to their shatteringly popular debut album, Sigh No More.  The multi-talented folk-roots-rock quartet from England have made a name for themselves as genuine talents that put on a hell of a live show.  Not to mention that their music has struck a nerve in a way that has virtually the entire world on board (except for Jason Crowley, who must have a screw loose). Test-driving a few new songs in their live appearances, they can do no wrong.  The delicate and haunting desperation in  “Ghosts That We Knew” rages into their signature build which means there’s W-A-Y more gas in their tank than we knew.  Official Website | Facebook | YouTube | Download

Take Our Poll

Related posts:

1. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Fall Songs for October 2011
2. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Songs: November 2010
3. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Songs for February 2011

Every bride wants their wedding to be “different.”  Since you invite hundreds of friends/family/acquaintances/strangers to witness your undying love for your to-be spouse, you want EVERYONE’s endorphins to be pumping and feel like they are in love, too.  Reality proves that tradition usually triumphs over the desire to be different.  As I’m in the throws of being Bridezilla planning a wedding, I too am fearful that our wedding will be a lovely but forgetful affair for the guests by having the same ol’ same ol’ tired traditions.  Then, this happened:

WOW!  I was crying, laughing, and immediately sharing it with all of my friends.  Matt Odom, a professional photographer and cinematographer, had come up with the concept to shoot and edit weddings like he would a music video.  As soon as he posted his first willing couple, Lauren and JP’s uniquely groundbreaking video, it went viral and all of a sudden, wedding cinematography website RockandRollHearts.com filled a gaping hole in the wedding industry.   In fact, he was even featured on The Nate Berkus show and has extended his talents to doing wedding remixes of previously shot footage from other couples’ weddings.

I’m embarrassed to say that the magic of all of his non-traditional wedding videos have kept me up nights just excited.  High-energy, tight shots, touchingly joyful moments captured and expertly edited to enchanting music has become a cut above anything I’ve ever seen.  The bride, the groom, the wedding attendants, the guests - everyone is smiling, dancing, and having fun!  You feel like you are experiencing it first-hand and get completely drawn in to every couple’s individual story. For more info on Matt Odom and RockandRollHearts.com, please click HERE.

I’ve spent weeks going through so many wedding videos and most couples still opt for the traditional, boring-ass slow 30 minute video that makes their friends puke and puts their relatives to sleep (unless their 10 seconds of bad dancing are in it). Snoozeville.

Obviously, I’m a fan of Matt Odom’s work.  Unfortunately, he’s booked on our wedding date.  Which means I have been desperately looking for someone who has a similar vision and an exceptional eye for capturing the couple’s personality.   In the meantime, here are some fun wedding music videos I’ve found that you’ll love:

Oh and if you liked this post and are also psycho about wedding stories, maybe you’ll like our engagement story.

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Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its series finale on 11/9/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and gets to introduce tomorrow’s biggest acts to you today.  This week, we had power trio StoneRider do an acoustic set (that was still pretty rockin’) and Kaitlin Jones.  Thanks to TwinBear Management for making this all happen.  Stay tuned as the Spring 2012 season will come bigger and even more fun!

STONERIDER

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

“off the grid solar powered Rock N Roll – enough to shift the techtonic plates when you need your earth moved”

*Please note that there are 3 short interview videos once you hit play…including some unreleased music!

KAITLIN JONES

Facebook | Listen

“Sounds like the devil beatin’ his wife with a fryin’ pan”

*Please note that there are 2 short interview videos once you hit play

MUSIC SAMPLE FROM KAITLIN JONES AND THE COUNTY FAIR:

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2. MEET: Waller, The Serenaders, and Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)
3. MEET: Smokey’s Farmland Band and Little Country Giants (Americana in the Park)

Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its biggest and most rocking show of the series held on 11/2/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here! This week, we had an all-star line-up that had the packed house stomping their feet.  We had America’s Got Talent contestants THE FIDDLEHEADS, “bad-ass bluegrass” band SEVEN HANDLE CIRCUS, and eclectic duo SMALL PONDS (featuring Whiskeytown’s Caitlin Cary).  Get your tickets for the FINALE next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

SEVEN HANDLE CIRCUS: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

Mumford and Sons’ Atlanta discovery – “Bad-Ass Bluegrass”

 (editor’s note: check out their bios on their website. pretty funny!)

*Please note that there are 3 short interview videos once you hit play…including some new music live!

SEVEN HANDLE CIRCUS MUSIC SAMPLE:

THE FIDDLEHEADS: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Watch

“the bluegrassification of popular hits”

 (featured on America’s Got Talent)

*Please note that there are 2 short interview videos once you hit play

THE FIDDLEHEADS MUSIC SAMPLE:

SMALL PONDS (featuring Whiskeytown’s Caitlin Cary): Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Buy Music

“folk/country/pop/rock/awesome”

*Please note that there are 3 short interview videos once you hit play

SMALL PONDS MUSIC SAMPLE:

 Like what you discovered? Why don’t you click on over to RadioPotato’s Facebook page and feed your new music addiction. This is the one place where your addiction is not only welcome, but it’s encouraged.

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2. MEET the Dappled Grays and Maynard Terrace (Americana in the Park)
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Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its ninth show of the series held on 10/26/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here! This week, we got to see one of my favorite acts, the talented “back-porch rockers” JAMESTOWN REVIVAL and eclectic rockers DAVE DANIELS & THE PTA. Get your tickets for next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

JAMESTOWN REVIVAL: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download | RadioPotato’s Top 5 (SXSW Edition)

“Back-Porch Rock” with infectious harmonies

*Please note that there are 2 short interview videos once you hit play

Music:

DAVE DANIELS & THE PTA: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

Eclectic rockers

*Please note that there are 2 short interview videos once you hit play

Music:

Related posts:

1. MEET the Dappled Grays and Maynard Terrace (Americana in the Park)
2. MEET: StoneRider and Kaitlin Jones (Americana in the Park)
3. MEET: Waller, The Serenaders, and Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)

Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its eighth show of the series held on 10/19/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here! This week, we got to see the talented bluegrass artists, Waller, the retrobilly outfit of The Serenaders, and 2nd appearance from bluesman Marshall Ruffin. Get your tickets for next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

WALLER:  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Listen

“Down-home country good time with an attitude”

*Please note that there are 2 short videos once you hit play

THE SERENADERS: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

Modern Retrobilly

 *Please note that there are 4 short videos once you hit play

MARSHALL RUFFIN: Official Website | Facebook | FREE Download

Roots, Rock, and BLUES!

*Please note that there are 4 short videos once you hit play

 Come on out to next Wednesday’s Americana in the Park and discover the best music you’ve never heard!

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2. MEET the Dappled Grays and Maynard Terrace (Americana in the Park)
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Concert Photography by David Oppenheimer - Performance Impressions

The David Mayfield Parade storms on the stage with a clumsy somersault by the lead singer and namesake, David Mayfield followed by a theatrical bow.  The crowd erupts with a laughter at the unexpected amusement of antics normally not associated with live folk performances.  Once the band starts performing, I look around and realize that everyone’s jaw has dropped to the floor.

Raised in a touring family band as a child, David Mayfield was taught by his parents that entertaining a crowd was a “service.”  Inspired by Simon & Garfunkel and Randy Newman, David moved to Nashville and had been performing as a hired gun for several bluegrass and country artists as well as contributing to his critically-acclaimed singer-songwriter sister, Jessica Lea Mayfield’s albums and tours.  Achieving huge accolades in 2009 for being nominated for a Grammy for producing southern gospel album for Barry Scott and joined Cadillac Sky that same year (now on indefinite hiatus).

As the  ”side” musician consistently upstaged the front men with his onstage antics and undeniable talent, David Mayfield was forcefully being nudged into the spotlight at the Avett Brothers’ insistence.  Behold, the Zach Galifianakis of folk music and The David Mayfield Parade was born!   A warm soulful voice reminiscent of James Taylor is surrounded by an exceptionally talented band playing charmingly vintage instruments.  Known for writing heartfelt lyrics of heartbreak, love and hope while prancing his substantial body around the stage and delivering deadpan jokes throughout the entire set, I found a great live review that captures the experience perfectly from Creative Loafing.

Currently touring on the USA’s version of the wildly popular Communion Tour (Mumford & Sons’s Ben Lovett‘s collaborative concept) along with Matthew and the Atlas and Lauren Shera , I was able to catch up with David and ask him some borderline obnoxious and pressing questions.  What I found out is that he’s a seriously hard worker that’s not as serious onstage.  And some fun stories about touring with Mumford and Sons and driving the ladies crazy with his 1991 Volvo.

The Communion Tour is in Atlanta 11/5/11 at Smith’s Olde Bar.

DOWNLOAD THE FULL INTERVIEW -> iTUNES

Stream it under PODCASTS (8:30)

And check out short clips below:

LIVIN’ IN A VAN…DOWN BY THE RIVER (:36):

TOURING WITH MUMFORD (:36):

COMMUNION TOUR (:58):

5 LITTLE KNOWN FACTS (:51):

Folk music’s got an attitude these days.  With the troubadours of Mumford & Sons, the Avett Brothers, and David Mayfield Parade paving the way for “newgrass” music, men everywhere are growing their beards thick and glorious, fiddling vintage instruments with the fervor of  the Pony Express, and everyone wants to folk off with them.

Catch The David Mayfield Parade on the Communion Tour HERE.

David Mayfield Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

Related posts:

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2. Matthew Mayfield Interview – Part 2 (All Access, baby!)
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Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its seventh show of the series held on 10/12/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here! This week, we got to see the  talented bluegrass artists, Smokey’s Farmland Band and the vintage southern roots husband-and-wife team Little Country Giants. Get your tickets for next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

SMOKEY’S FARMLAND BAND  Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download

 Newgrass Americana Jammers rocking Atlanta

*Please note that there are 3 short videos once you hit play – Interview videos a little wobbly but they were hilarious

LITTLE COUNTRY GIANTS -  Facebook | Twitter | ReverbNation

Vintage southern roots music from a husband-and-wife team

*Please note that there are 3 short videos once you hit play

Related posts:

1. MEET: StoneRider and Kaitlin Jones (Americana in the Park)
2. MEET the Dappled Grays and Maynard Terrace (Americana in the Park)
3. MEET: Waller, The Serenaders, and Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)

New seasons always call for fresh beginnings. And with that, you definitely need some fresh new music as Fall, Football, Beer, and yummy Buffalo Wings go hand-in-hand. I’ve been so busy traveling and getting engaged and stuff, I totally skipped September. Oops. Sowwwy. Anyway, if you don’t have this music on your iPod after this, y’all are crazy! Be sure to VOTE for your favorite in the embedded poll below. Congrats to Saints of Valory for winning August’s Top Song with “Cover Girl.”

“DOWN THERE” – BRONZE RADIO RETURN – My favorite funny blogger, Ashley Hesseltine came through once again with another solid music suggestion. New England-based indie roots quintet, Bronze Radio Return has been featured by Paste Magazine and have toured with Grace Potter and the Nocturnals and John Mayer, just to name a few. Imagine if you sampled a stew of soul, harmonies, grit, rock and roll, and roots, you’d come up with this festival-vibed fist pumper (not the Snookie kind). BRR just released their new album “Shake! Shake! Shake!“ Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download | Spotify

“ORONO PARK” – THE WILDERNESS OF MANITOBA Seems like the perfect Autumn song as the leaves start to change. Singing over landscapes both sonic and actual, the Canadian-based male/female voices combine in a journey filled with a delicately plucked banjo and rich harmonies. Aptly labeled by MySpoonful.com as “the modern-day Walden Pond for music-lovers,” this chamber-folk band is sure to take you on a naturalists’ journey to the most majestic and therapeutic of rolling hills. Official Website | Facebook | Download | Spotify

“TROUBLED TRACKS” – COWBOY AND INDIAN  When The Civil Wars endorsed this 6-piece folky roots rock upstart band out of Austin, TX, they’re FB page blew up with fans.  Myself included.  Drawing from the turn-of-the-century folk music, the sparsely plucked acoustic guitar evokes a simpler time when things weren’t so complicated. But the track cuts deep with frontman Jesse Plemon’s lonesome voice and sorrow-laden lyrics backed by an infectious chorus. Take a swig of whiskey, kick back on your rocking chair, and drown in Cowboy and Indian. Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Spotify

“ECHO ON THE NIGHT TRAIN” – THREE BLIND WOLVES Self-proclaimed as “loud, hairy, and unpredictable,” this blues vs. country vs. rock quartet from Glasgow are crashing the US shores in November. Wild energy looms underneath in this melodic rocker where it seems as if the band could combust at any moment, then pumps the brakes on the tempo, and then climbs back up again. “Echo on the Night Train” masterfully stirs into an all-out frenzy without losing control. It’s so damn catchy! Facebook | MySpace | Twitter | Download | Spotify

“BIG PERSONALITY” – HOGNI  Before I wrote off Jersey Shore completely (come owwwwn, Snooks and Deena.  Stop being such dumb whores), I caught this song from Danish beat-driven alternative indie artist Hogni Lisberg.  I dig the gritty bad-ass beat and Captain Obvious lyrics.  We all know a “Big Personality” so the simplicity sounds like a cooler version of  Kid Rock’s “Cowboy” with a sarcastic message to a peacocking fool. Killer beats throughout the entire new album Hare! Hare! Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Download | Spotify

Related posts:

1. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Fall Songs for November, 2011
2. Top 5 Songs for July 2011: Summer ROCKS
3. RadioPotato’s Top 5 Songs for August 2011

Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its seventh show of the series held on 10/5/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best music you’ve never heard. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here! This week, we got to see the white hot talented bluegrass artists, The Dappled Grays and Maynard Terrace. Get your tickets for next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

THE DAPPLED GRAYS: Official Website | Facebook | Download

Award-winning bluegrass band out of Atlanta. 

 *Please note that there are 4 short videos once you hit play

MAYNARD TERRACE:  Download | Facebook

*Please note that there are 4 short videos once you hit play

Related posts:

1. MEET: Waller, The Serenaders, and Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)
2. MEET: StoneRider and Kaitlin Jones (Americana in the Park)
3. MEET: Smokey’s Farmland Band and Little Country Giants (Americana in the Park)

Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its fifth show of the series held on 9/28/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best of up and coming emerging artists. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream! Unfortunately, I was traveling for business so resident Rockstar, Brittany Burdett interviews our musicians right here! Get your tickets FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

By the way, you ever see a big act before they got so big? This is the perfect spot to chill out mid-week, take advantage of drink specials and see these amazing artists before all your friends find out.

OCHA LA ROCHA: Facebook | MySpace | Twitter -Cosmic American

 *Please note that there are 4 short videos once you hit play

Related posts:

1. Marc Scibilia / Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)
2. The Sundogs / Hannah Thomas (Americana in the Park) – 9/21/11
3. MEET: StoneRider and Kaitlin Jones (Americana in the Park)

Atlant’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its fourth show of the series held on 9/21/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best artists on the rise. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream or view them here!  This week, we got to see southern rockers The Sundogs and country rocker Hannah Thomas turn up the volume.  Get your tickets for next Wednesday FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

THE SUNDOGS - Official Website | Facebook | MySpace

3 part interview strung together in short clips followed by music:

The Sundogs Live

The Sundogs | Myspace Video

HANNAH THOMAS – Official Website | Facebook

3 part interview strung together in short clips followed by music:

Related posts:

1. DISCOVER: Ocha La Rocha rocks Americana in the Park – 9/28/11
2. Marc Scibilia / Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)
3. MEET: StoneRider and Kaitlin Jones (Americana in the Park)

I’m getting married!  Going from the quintessential single gal about town to a betrothed woman has had more twists and turns than a roller coaster at Six Flags.  As I knock on the door of 37 years, I feel like I’m in the exact right spot but conversely, feel the ticking of that internal time bomb that so many women feel – did I wait too long?

I met Chris on December 4, 2008.  Match.com Date.  His first one ever.  Me? Notevenclose.  On our first date at Graveyard Tavern, Chris did a shot before I got there and I told him he hit the jackpot.  I know, I’m a total catch.  After two weeks of interesting conversation and him being super sweet, I dumped him.  I wasn’t used to that nonsense.  Plus, he took me to Black Bear Tavern….where alcoholics go to die.   And so concluded our short romantic stint.  Or did it?

Chris was smart, funny, into music, and an incredible conversationalist.  We had something else in common, too.  We L-O-V-E-D to explore the city and sight see.  So he said that even though we weren’t dating anymore, he’d love to hang out sometimes and check out the unique parts of the city.  Meanwhile, Chris was googling “how to get out of the friend zone.”  Yes, I’m serious.  And just so you know, all the advice said to be a jerk.

After two months and a fortuitous jovial “old hag” comment that resulted in me hysterically crying and an uncharacteristically moving hand-written letter response from Chris, I finally came to my senses.  Sometimes us women are so used to ranking lower than we should on the priority scale by others that we subconsciously re-create that pattern over and over.  I wasn’t used to how he treated me and cautiously tiptoed into his arms.

Fast forward 2 1/2 years, things just get better and better between us.  There are four major reasons why I love and admire Chris – and why I’m ecstatic and honored to take his last name.

1. He is strong with my head and gentle with my heart
2. Chris hates being the center of attention – so he isn’t the kind of guy that stands out in a crowd.  But when you talk to him one-on-one, you’re left feeling so much better about yourself.  He’s so genuinely interesting and interested
3. I’m a crazy and driven woman.  Chris has not only been encouraging and supportive (in fact, he suggested I start this blog), but he tells me he’s proud of me every single day
4. If you follow me on Facebook, you’ll know he cooks for me every night.  This is not an activity I share the same (or any) passion for but he comes home with the biggest smile on his face when he can take care of me.  He deserves a medal.  For realz.

So the engagement.  Yes, I knew it was coming thanks to my fiance and my amazing sister-in-law (who was in cahoots with Chris) who are not exactly famous for concealing important information.   Our very first vacation was in Asheville, NC in 2009 and we just love everything about the little mountain town.  Street musicians everywhere, drum circles, the hippie culture, the haunted history, aaaaand the Biltmore Estate, the Vanderbilt’s breathtaking summer home nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Chris and I have a really great time traveling and exploring cities.  I’m assuming that after Chris bought the ring, he excitedly said we should go on vacation in September. Back to Asheville, it was!  So on Saturday, September 10, 2011, we were at the Biltmore.  I could feel Chris’ hand getting clammy during some points of the day and I wondered when he would pop the question.  We went on two tours of the Biltmore, went through the gardens, stopped in a field of sunflowers, went to the Biltmore winery.  Nothing.  But after a couple of cocktails at the wine tasting, Chris said let’s go back to the Biltmore and see if we can take some pictures at sunset.  And we did.  There were no cars and nobody around.  And then, he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him.  This is what happened:

YES!!!!  So as we embark on our journey towards marriage, we are so excited!  For me, I’ve been dizzy with happiness and good news.  What I would LOVE more than anything, is to have a happy, successful, healthy marriage.  And I’d love your advice.  Successful relationships, failed relationships, and hopeful single people – if you feel so inclined, I would be so honored if you would share your advice in the comments section below.

Oh, and since this is a music blog, I thought this song was appropriate.

Related posts:

1. Joshua James: RadioPotato.com Interview
2. Can RadioPotato.com Interview the band RUSH? I say YES!

Atlant’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park had its third show of the series held on 9/14/11. Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best of up and coming emerging artists. RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream! Unfortunately, I was traveling for business so I watched it from 35,000 feet in the air courtesy of the stream.  Resident Rockstar, Brittany Burdett interviews our musicians right here! Get your tickets FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks. Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

MARC SCIBILIA: Facebook | Twitter | Wiki | RadioPotato Interview from 2010

MARSHALL RUFFIN: Official Website | Facebook | Download  -> Heather Luttrell made a surprise appearance and sang with Marshall!

If you were at the show and have video, please contact me and I’ll post ‘em!

Related posts:

1. MEET: Waller, The Serenaders, and Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)
2. DISCOVER: Ocha La Rocha rocks Americana in the Park – 9/28/11
3. The Sundogs / Hannah Thomas (Americana in the Park) – 9/21/11

Atlanta’s newest live music series, Americana in the Park is underway with the second show of the series held on 9/7/11.  Held at the Park Tavern overlooking Piedmont Park, this series highlights the best of up and coming emerging artists.  RadioPotato.com is the official host of the series and therefore, gets to interview everyone and stream it live on Ustream! Get your tickets FREE at Xorbia using PROMO code: potatorocks.  Thanks to Twin Bear Management for making this all happen!

In case you missed it, here are the interview clips and a sampling of Parker Smith and the Bandwith and Tim O’Donovan. Seriously, some ridiculous talent was up on that stage tonight!

PARKER SMITH AND THE BANDWITH

TIM O’DONOVAN BAND

Related posts:

1. DISCOVER: Ocha La Rocha rocks Americana in the Park – 9/28/11
2. The Sundogs / Hannah Thomas (Americana in the Park) – 9/21/11
3. Marc Scibilia / Marshall Ruffin (Americana in the Park)