Starting a Conversation about Good Music

Since I was young, I’ve had an affinity for rock music (also blues, folk and jazz at times), and I enjoy going to small venues to find new and upcoming artists. I find it fascinating to watch people grow into their music and develop their style as they gain experience.

There is definitely an underground “vibe” around the NYC area music scene. I don’t subscribe to XM radio or receive music magazines, and sometimes I’m not even sure how I find out about a club or an artist. By going to see shows in and around NYC, you hear things. You start talking to people who like bands that you like… the information is passed around by word of mouth. And YouTube is the place where you can find a treasure-trove of new music. YouTube is the best way to check out bands and artists. It connects you to a catalog of the artist’s work and their live performances. And then when you like the music, it’s easy to Google where and when they will be in your area next.

Recently, I went to see a band play at a club in NYC and there turned out to be 6 bands playing that night. I had to wait until midnight to see them, but I heard some great music in-between.

I saw a really good opening act, Willis Earl Beals, who had such a strong stage presence, like Wilson Pickett or James Brown. I’ve heard him described since as “all vulnerability and rough edges.” He has an eclectic style called “low-fi” meaning it is associated with low fidelity or sound authenticity. He had the audience totally mesmerized. I am definitely going to see him again, when he plays locally.

My partner at Keller Williams , Peggy Shea, has convinced me to write articles that will showcase my passion about new musicians and movies that I see playing around our area. I appreciate her listening to my ramblings. If you are interested in the music/movie scene around NYC/White Plains, let’s start a conversation. Email me at gary@leogrande.com with your pick of new music and movies.