Being that I'm going to school to become a music producer/engineer, I'm always adding the the "Wish List" of people to work with. Typically people add the headliners that make the big bucks. I like searching for the ones that will be that someday, they just need to get noticed first. It's not like I have much experience yet to be able to say, "HEY, come to my studio, let me make your album, distribute, advertise, blah blah blah..." but eventually, I will be there. It will just take some time and practice. Right now, I just search myspace for the possibilities or maybe more for inspiration. I look to find the artists that sound like they will mean something to the world around them. Here's the few that have stuck out this past year:
Erin McCarley is a prime example of one that I found this past year. I think her career skyrocketed by having her songs on hit TV shows like One Tree Hill and Grey's Anatomy. She has such a presence when she sings, and the songs are brilliantly written; instrumentation, arrangement, etc. I'm really excited where this new year takes her.
Sean McConnell. His songwriting abilities wow me. He's written for many, many artists, but the stuff he saved for himself will blow you away. He's that acoutsic folk rock artist that you can listen to when you're happy or sad. He has a variety of songs that adapt to whatever you are feeling and just ampilify that feeling. He's great, has an album coming out in January, and then he will conquer the world! :)
Tyler Hilton has a songwriting gift as well. He's like Sean McConnell in the ways of acoustic folk rock, but he's got more country/bluegrass behind his music. He's been around for awhile, playing characters on TV and in movies, and has had great success. But again, another artist to watch with his second album coming out this year. I can't wait!
Kevin Steinman is a local musician here in the twin cities, and he needs to be known nationwide. I'm telling you, voice of an angel. I remember the first time hearing him and standing there in disbelief that such a gorgeous sound could ever be produced from someone LIVE. Maybe through melodyne and all that pitch correcting stuff, but never live. He's mind blowing, and I'm really hoping this year takes off for him.
Shiraz Tilley from Austrailia is going to take Austrailia by storm. I'm convinced! Ha, but again, a voice of something heavenly, and her songwriting is just getting started. She'll be something wonderful soon. Again, can't wait.

Anyway, I'm keeping my ears open, and I can't wait to find my new obsession. Hope the new year treats everyone well.

-Mo