Is there anyone out there who can take another season of Randy Jackson shouting "dawg" repeatedly? I'm not sure I can. American Idol is back next month, and admittedly, I'll be watching but I'm not sure how long I can stomach it. Thankfully, the emergence of The Voice will make my decision leaving Jackson and the new judges easier. That show is far more entertaining thanks to the quality of contestants, and the genuine sincerity and banter among the judges. As a matter of fact, maybe I'll try out on the show since I dig it so much --- well only if they add deaf auditions to compliment their blind audition rounds. Anyway, let's get to the first A-Sides "contestant," which is hopefully why you clicked the link to this post.
The Jersey native made a name for herself during the current season of the Carson Daly-hosted show when she chose Cee Lo Green to be her coach after he turned his chair around following her cover of The Pretenders' "Brass in Pocket." When she lost a battle round, Christina Aguilera scooped her up and put her on Team Xtina. While she was eventually voted off, Chevonne was praised by all the coaches - especially Aguilera who praised her originality and energy. Chevonne, who sang backup for Lady Gaga on her Monster Ball from 2010-2011, is currently raising $10,000 on Kickstarter to fund her debut album and music video. The campaign ends soon but the goal is in sight.
All that said, let's get to Chevonne's performances. She recently filmed two original performances and a chat for A-Sides, and you can watch them, listen to them, and perhaps learn from them below.
"Falling Over You"
"Heels"
Interview
Like Chevonne, Jack Skuller knows what it feels like to be a contestant on a talent show and hails from the Garden State. The 16 year old appeared on the fifth season of Radio Disney's N.B.T. (Next BIG Thing), and is currently honing his pop rock skills on a few singles he's dropped like their hot. The retro cool stud performed a track at the Music Conservatory of Westchester for A-Sides, and talked about the song, his music style, and influences. Big things may be in store for what the New York Post referred to as "mini Jack White." Not too shabby. The world could use another cool guy named Jack.
Nicholson. Sparrow. Skellington.... the list goes on.... Jack Wagner? Well, perhaps in some soap circles. Anyway, watch, listen and love below.
About A-Sides with Jon Chattman:
Jon Chattman's music series features artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometimes humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, I'm hoping this is refreshing.