Tuesday, December 27, 2016

Rest in Peace: Farewell to George Michael




Rest in Peace: I am so sorry to hear of the recent passing of George Michael. Such an incredible talent (singer/songwriter/performer)! I loved his voice and his music. Truly gone too soon! The music community has lost another great one this year. I pray for comfort for his family, friends and all his fans. 

George Michael, Pop Superstar, Is Dead at 53

December 25, 2016: George Michael, the creamy-voiced English songwriter who sold tens of millions of albums as a member of the duo Wham! and on his own, was found dead on Sunday at his home in Goring in Oxfordshire, England. He was 53. (article by Jon Parelles for the New York Times)

 http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/25/arts/music/george-michael-dead.html?_r=0

  

    

 



Monday, December 26, 2016

Christmas in New York: Merry Christmas!




Merry Christmas!! On this Christmas Day, I'd like to wish you and yours a very special day of love, happiness, laughter, freedom and joy to last for eternity! Today is a gift. Let the spirit of Christmas fill your heart with love!

Christmas in New York is so amazing! My all-time favorite thing was the spectacular light show at Saks Fifth Avenue on Christmas night. It was amazing to see it live.

Here are some sights and sounds of my adventure on Christmas Day 2016. Enjoy!

Saks Fifth Ave Light Display 2016



Sights & Sounds of Holiday 2016

Saks Fifth Ave Light Display 2016



Merry Christmas from New York City!


Merry Christmas 2016! from Benita Charles on Vimeo.

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Happy Holidays from Benita Charles Music!



Dear Friends:

Happy Holidays! Wishing you the magic of the season and a joyous and wonderful holiday!! I hope you and your family have a joyous, happy and fun-filled holiday weekend!

Thanks so much for your support of my musical endeavors through the years.  I appreciate all of your kind words, well wishes, attendance of my shows, purchasing my music, and your support of my online Singing Tip Show. I am so touched by your kindness!

If you're not following me on Facebook and Twitter, please connect with me as I post often and you can get notifications for my live broadcasts. Those are always fun and I enjoy the engagement with the fans.

I wish you well. I wish you joy and I wish you love this holiday season. Best wishes!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"


Artist website: http://benitacharles.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benitacharlesmusic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Benita_Charles

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benitacharles/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/BenitaCharles







Sunday, December 18, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #27

Benita Charles in New York City
 
 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #27

Songwriting 101 (Part 5): Protect Your Work (Copyright it!)

Here are the key reasons why you should copyright your work:

1) You will have legal protection against theft and unlawful use of your work if you copyright your work. Should you have to go to court, your copyright is your legal proof that you are the owner of your song.

2) As the copyright owner, you have full use of the song.  You can record it, perform it live and license it for a fee for other to use it. You will receive compensation for all the ways you use your song.

3)The poor man's copyright is to mail a copy of your song to yourself.  However, it won't hold up in court. Only, the legal copyright through the US Library of Congress will the court recognize as your proof of ownership. It's good to do when you're in a pinch. However, it's best to always register your songs through the US Library of Congress to fully protect your songs.

4)Register your songs through the US Library of Congress. To register your songs, visit: http://copyright.gov.  You will use the PA Form (for unpublished songs you write with music and lyrics). You will use for SR Form (for recorded songs with words and music). If you register online, it's cheaper than using the standard mailing process.  Check the website for appropriate fees for both.

Bonus tip: It's best to copyright your songs as you create them.  This way you will have your copyright in the same year you created it. Also, you avoid the risk of your work been stolen.

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com




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Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Benita Charles Music News: FB Year in Review 2016








Benita Charles Music News: FB Year in Review 2016








http://benitacharles.com

"Sharing love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

Sunday, December 11, 2016

PATR rocks the Hall at MP in Brooklyn on Dec 9th!


The Preachermann and The Revival Band had a private gig at the Hall at MP in Brooklyn on Friday, December 9th and took the audience to the next level!

It's so wonderful to perform and see just how music can reach and transform people.  The audience was so moved by our music that that were shouting "Preachermann....Preachermann...Preachermann" by the end of the evening.

A special thanks to Preachermann and The Revival Band for always bringing the great music to the fans. It is so fulfilling to share the share with you and bring took the audience to new heights last night as it was one of the most engaging crowds we've had in a while. PATR Band: Ed Holley (Preachermann), Jonah Rosenberg (piano),  Joe Paldino (guitar), Nick Paldiono (bass), Karl Watson (sax/violin), Manny Montanez (percussion) and Tom Pope (drums) - you rock

I am so honored to be a music maker. The power of music is so incredible. It truly changes the world! Thank you all for your continued support of my music endeavors.  Thank you from the bottom of  my heart. You are the best!




The Preachermann and The Revival Band

Ed "Preachermann" Holley, lead vocals
Benita Charles
, background vocals
Amnel Holguin
, background vocals
Jonah Rosenberg
, piano
Joe Paldino
, guitar
Nick Paldino
, bass
Karl Watson
, saxophone, violin
Manny Montanez
, percussion
Tom Pope
, drums 

https://www.facebook.com/Preachermannmusic/

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #26

Benita Charles in New York City
 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #26

Songwriting 101 (Part 4): How to Conquer Writer's Block

Here are the 3 key ways to conquer writer's block:

1) Step away from the song and do something else
-Sometimes it helps to put the song down and do something else.  When you come back to the song, you'll have a fresh perspective.
-Record the song first before you put it away. This way, when you come back to it, you'll hear what you worked on and it will give you new ideas for the song.

2) Keep writing until you can't write any more.
-When you return to the song again from your break, keep writing. Even if you don't like what you write, write it anyway.  You can always edit it later.  The most important thing is to write it out and get it out of your head.  This is called, free form writing.
-There's a wealth of information from your free form writing, perhaps another song.

3) Establish a writing schedule
-It's helpful if you have a set day and time for your writing. Set aside a certain block of time where you will focus and concentrate on your song. 
-Remove distractions and find a comfortable space of your choice where you can write your songs.

Finally, study your favorite hit songs. What works for the song? What's the most memorable? Why do you like it? Take what you like and kind your own style.  Good luck with your songwriting and your hit song!

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com


Benita Charles on Periscope



Benita Charles on FB Live





Sunday, December 4, 2016

A special thanks to all who attended Preachermann's Birthday Concert - Dec 3rd!



A night to remember: A special thanks to all who attended Preachermann's Birthday Concert Saturday night at the legendary Shrine in Harlem! The anticipation before the show was so high that by the time of the show started, the enthusiasm was through the roof! It was truly a sight to see and experience. There were so many new faces in the beginning but by the end of the show, we were all friends! That's the power of Preachermann Music!! Shalimar!!

Thanks to the Holy Forest for a great opening set. The energy was high and they really brought the spirit of Africa in the room.  Ed "Preachermann" Holley shined and his incredible vocals filled the room with so much love and joy it was contagious! The audience thoroughly enjoyed the set.

A special thanks to Preachermann and The Revival Band for always bringing the great music to the fans. It is so fulfilling to share the share with you and bring took the audience to new heights last night as it was one of the most engaging crowds we've had in a while. PATR Band: Ed Holley (Preachermann), Jonah Rosenberg (piano),  Joe Paldino (guitar), Nick Paldiono (bass), Karl Watson (sax/violin), Manny Montanez (percussion) and Tom Pope (drums) - you rock!

It was so wonderful to see Mr. and Mrs. Holley, our friends, Tom Watson and Charnae Betton our new friends: Bella, Jenny Rs, Val Desrosiers, Pauline Ross, Shazzi Thomas, Byron Garcia, Ed's baseball team players Eiaton and Hudson as well as a host of others in attendance.

A special thanks to the Shrine and Loren for providing us with great sound for the evening. It was most appreciated!

It was an incredible night: the room was packed and spirits were high by the end of the night. It was truly a night to remember. Shalimar!





Benita Charles announced The Preachermann Birthday Concert at the Shrine NYC

Facebook Live



Periscope




Sunday, November 27, 2016

PATR: A Special Birthday Celebration - Dec 3rd!


A Special Birthday Celebration: Join The Preachermann and The Revival Band for a special birthday concert for Ed "Preachermann" Holley at the legendary Shrine in Harlem on Saturday, December 3rd at 9 pm until midnight!  (no cover)

Ed "Preachermann" Holley will bring the fire with 2 great performances next Saturday, beginning at 9 pm with the African band, Holy Forest and with The Preachermann & The Revival Band at 10 pm!

Come join us for a night of sonic libations.
Let's us elevate you... Entertain you and feed your mind and spirit as we celebrate Preachermann's birthday on this special occasion.

Preachermann and the Revival will cleanse your soul!


About Preachermann:


What sets Preachermann apart from his peers is that his sultry brand of neo-soul is not only fresh, it is fearless; not merely sensuous, but conscious. And unlike so many modern soul artists whose work is weighed down with clichés, he has an uncanny knack for clever wordplay that bridges the serious side of life with the levity that makes it livable. The title track to his 2006 LP, Negroes Stay Crunchy in Milk, is but one shining example of Preacher’s capacity to skillfully and seamlessly blend prophetic lore with ironic metaphor to make timeless music that crosses broad boundaries without selling itself out.

The Preachermann and The Revival Band is a ten member New York based band that blends rock, gospel and funk to create an original and engaging sound that Preachermann has dubbed ATOMIC SOUL.
 
About Holy Forest:

Holy Forest is the brainchild of musician and filmmaker Jon Fine. Wearing a number of hats on this record as producer, instrumentalist and songwriter, he enlisted friends and collaborators on this epic genre-blending project. The seeds of the recording sessions, spanning 3 years, were planted on a trip to the Makasutu Forest, a lush, green wilderness of mangrove swamps that line the River Gambia. While there, Fine connected with legendary griot Tata Din Din Jobarteh and the project was born.

With an intimate knowledge of music across genres and styles, Fine reached out to a number of critically acclaimed musicians including members of Antibalas, singer-songwriter Morley, Grammy nominated kora master, Youssoupha Sidibe and rising Gambian star ST. Digging even deeper, he brought in BK afro punks No Surrender, Bay area singer Sparlha Swa, and the criminally underrated Harlem soul man,  Ed “Preachermann” Holley to craft a collection of songs about love and distance. Recorded in The Gambia, NYC, Woodstock and San Francisco, Holy Forest is 21st century cross-continental roots music.

You have to see it to believe it! Shalimar!!

Come ready to dance, sing and celebrate Preachermann's birthday for a night to remember!


========================================================
Performance Details:

Saturday, December 3, 2016 - 9:00 pm - 12:00 am
Preachermann and The Revival
Shrine Bar and Restaurant

2271 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd (134th Street)
New York, NY 10030
(212) 690-7807
http://shrinenyc.com
No cover
https://www.facebook.com/events/203667840041429/

9 pm - Holy Forest (feat. Preachermann)

10 pm - The Preachermann & The Revival Band


Ed "Preachermann" Holley, lead vocals
Benita Charles
, background vocals
Amnel Holguin
, background vocals
Jonah Rosenberg
, piano
Joe Paldino
, guitar
Nick Paldino
, bass
Karl Watson
, saxophone, violin
Manny Montanez
, percussion
Tom Pope
, drums

 






Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Happy Thanksgiving!


Dear Friends:

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!! I wish you a safe and wonderful holiday! May you enjoy a day of love, laughter and happiness!!

I an so grateful to you for your continued support of my music and creative endeavors!! I appreciate your support. You are awesome!!


Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com






Saturday, November 19, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Show postponed until further notice



Dear Friends:

The Singing Tips by Benita Charles Show is postponed until further notice. I had an accident on Friday. I'm ok but I won't be on social media as much. Thank you for all of your support and I look forward to getting back to it. I have some fun things planned.

Thanks again for all the love you always show me! You are awesome!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com



Thursday, November 17, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #25

Benita Charles in New York City

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #25

Songwriting (101): Elements of a Hit Song (Part 3)

Here are the key elements of a hit song:
1) Song Title
- A catchy song time or a simple song title
examples:
Hello by Adele and Hello by Lionel Richie (simple title)
Take This Job and Shove It (intriguing)
Cats In A Cradle (Artistic)

2) Lyrics (words)
- The right lyrics can touch your heart and bring back memories.
- The right topic can strike a chord with your audience.
- The way the words are arranged can make a huge difference. A good rhyming scheme can make a huge difference.

3) Music (melody and harmony)
- The right music can touch your emotions.
- A beautiful melody can be momerable.
- A musical riff can be memorable.
- Examples: Sweet Caroline (memorable musical riff) and Uptown Funk (horn arrangement).

4) Song Arrangement
- The right arrangement can take a song in a fresh direction.
- The late, great Luther Vandross was a master at taking a cover song and making it his own with his unique song arrangements.
- Poker Face by Lady Gaga was revamped broadway style via the hit TV show, Glee.

5) Timing/Luck (magic)
-The right time a song comes out is just as important as the song itself.
-Sometimes if it's too radical for the times, people may not get it and the song won't do very well. Years later, the same type of songs will do very well. This is something out of your control.  If you're lucky enough to have a hit song, consider yourself blessed (even if it's a one hit wonder).

Here's a formula to keep in mind when writing your hit song from the book, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Songwriting by Joel Hirschhorn.

H - Hook

I - Idea

T - Title


Finally, study your favorite hit songs. What works for the song? What's the most memorable? Why do you like it? Take what you like and kind your own style.  Good luck with your songwriting and your hit song!

Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com



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Saturday, November 12, 2016

Preachermann & The Revival returns to Friends & Lovers in Brooklyn!


MOJO and FLN present a night of great music and entertainment!

Three bands, one goal, a good time.

Round 2 in Brooklyn - Shalimar!

PREACHERMAN AND THE REVIVAL-7:15
WOOLY MAMMALS-8:15
REDDDAZ-9:15

$8 pre sale/ $10 day of show

A message from Preachermann: "Back in the BK! Heal your wounds, and smile again. Let the soothing sounds of Atomic Soul lift your spirit. Three bands , one goal, a good time! Shalimar!"

***Join us for an evening of fun, great friends and awesome entertainment! Shalimar!!



Performance Details:


Saturday, November 19, 2016 - 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Preachermann & The Revival

Friends and Lovers
641 Classon Ave, Brooklyn, New York 11238
Cost:     $8 (adv)/$10 @ door
Phone:     Phone number (917) 979-3060
Website: http://www.fnlbk.com/events/2016/11/19/npghniv9hwd33wjhle4zfc890bzkwb











Friday, November 11, 2016

Happy Veteran's Day!


Happy Veteran's Day! 

A special thanks to all who served and continue to serve our country!! Thank you for your service. We honor you today! 





 

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Rock The Vote: I voted!

Today is Tuesday, November 8th, Presidential Election Day. This is a historic election because if Hilary Clinton wins, she will be the first female president in the history of America!

I hope everyone exercised their right to vote!






Saturday, November 5, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #24


 Benita Charles in New York City

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #24

Songwriting 101 (Part 2): Music & Lyrics

Today, we discussed music and lyrics - the heart of the song. I shared my songwriting process. 

1) What's the most important part of the song - music or lyrics? Both! Lyrics can bring back memories and music touches your emotions. Together, it's magic!

2) My songwriting process: When I'm inspired to write, sometimes I get the music & melody first then I write the lyrics.  There are also times when I get both. Most of the times, I get the chorus (hook) first and then I build the song around the hook.

Today, I shared a story that has inspired my present song I'm working on now, titled "No - No More!".  I had an experience where someone was very rude and intrusive with me but the worst part was I allowed it and didn't check that person.  Afterwards, I was so angry but mostly with myself because I was caught off guard and did not handle it properly. I have since forgiven myself but I'm writing a great song out of the experience!

3) Keep your lyrical idea in the same direction and make sure the music supports it.

The week's book references:

"Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Songwriting But Didn't Know Who To Ask" by Cliffie Stone

"Everything You'd Better Know About the Record Industry" By Kashif 


Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com

Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/

Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com


 Live on Periscope:





Live on Facebook:









Sunday, October 30, 2016

A Special Thanks to all who supported the Shrine Show on October 29th!



A night to remember: A special thanks to all who attended Saturday night's show at the legendary Shrine in Harlem! It was such an awesome show and the amount of love we received during and after the show was heartwarming! It was so amazing to see the audience go from a lukewarm reception to chanting Shalimar and Preachermann's name by the end of the show. It was incredible!!

Thanks to the Preachermann & The Revival Band for always bringing the great music to the fans. It is so fulfilling to share the share with you and bring so much joy to people. PATR Band: Ed Holley, Amnel Holguin, Joe Paldino, Nick Paldiono, Karl Watson, Manny  Montanez and Tom Pope - you rock!

It was so wonderful to see our friends, Dave Dawson, Janet Rucker, Jay and our new friends: Jackson Shuri and Hilary Duffy and a host of others in attendance.

A special thanks to the Shrine for providing us with great sound for the evening. It was most appreciated!

It was an incredible night: the room was packed and spirits were high by the end of the night. It was truly a night to remember. Shalimar!









Friday, October 28, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #23

 Benita Charles in New York City


Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #23

Songwriting: Song Structure
Today, we discussed song structure. I prefer the popular 32-bar structure: A B C A

A= Verse 1 (8 bars)
B= Verse 2 (8 bars)
C= Bride    (8 bars)
A= Chorus vamps to end (*hook) - 8 bars

*The hook is usually the chorus of a song, it's repetitive throughout the song and it's catchy (memorable & favorable)

Other structures:

A B A (no bridge) - only 2 verses and 2 choruses

A B (1 verse) 1 verse & chorus (hook)

Some people talk first then start the song

Another version is to start with the chorus (hook) first and go into the verses

*The sky's the limit as to how you can construct your song.

Tips on song structure:

  • Study your favorite songs to see how they are constructed
  • Research with songwriting books
  • Find a form that works for the message of your song

 Book recommendation for beginner songwriters: Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Songwriting But Didn't Know Who To Ask by Cliffe Stone
 


Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com



Live on Periscope:




Live on Facebook:





Benita Charles at Columbus Circle, NYC



Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Benita Charles & Azania Noah at the Tsion Cafe in Harlem


Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Today, is a special show because I had a special guest, international recording artist/performer/singing teacher, Azania Noah.  Azania was kind enough to share her songwriting process and the inspiration behind her original music on her CD, Rising!

About Azania Noah:

Originally from Sierra Leone, West Africa, this award-winning, multi-cultural artist was born and raised in the U.S. & in Switzerland. Azania Noah’s captivating voice, powerful energy and lovely charisma make her a phenomenal performer and a joy to see on stage. She has performed over 800 concerts around Europe, the U.S., Africa and in Asia. She is just as comfortable in major music festivals, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, as she is singing for Presidents and politicians such as the U.K.’s Tony Blair. In Paris, she won first prize in the French T.V. competition “Graines de Star” which was the first French show similar to ‘American Idol’. She also recently featured on the famous TV show “The Voice” in France (TF1 TV) seen by over 8 million viewers internationally. As an avid songwriter as well, Azania’s lyrics are often enriched with uplifting and positive messages and her debut album, Rising, released in 2013, was inspired by the groovy old school soul and funk era, interlaced with jazz and pop. She is currently composing songs for a new album. For more information, visit: http://azanianonah.com.

This week's show was filed at the Tsion Cafe in Harlem.

A special thanks to Tsion Cafe in Harlem for allowing me to film this week's Singing Tips by Benita Charles Show! I appreciate the hospitality of the owner and staff!


The Tsion Cafe is a spiritual place to nourish the body & soul. Cuisine at the restaurant is Ethiopian, Mediterranean and American.

The Tsion Café is more than a restaurant; it's a cultural hub in Sugar Hill Harlem. They feature international musical artists as well as film screenings, book signings and a weekly poetry night.  Visual artists' exhibits are rotated every 8 weeks.

The Tsion Cafe is truly a gem in the Harlem community!

https://tsioncafe.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tsion-Cafe-Bakery/782185001805336


 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #22

Songwriting: Choose your song topic

Here are things you can write about:

  • Your experience
  • A topic that moves or inspires you
  • A response to another person's song
  • Current events
  • Something you see on television or the movies
  • A lesson from others' experiences
  • Whatever you'd like!
Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

Much love,

Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com
Blog: http://singingtipsbybcm.blogspot.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bcmsings/
Email: singingtips.bcm@gmail.com



Live on Periscope:





Live on Facebook:


Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Preachermann and The Revival return to The Shrine on October 29th


On Saturday, October 29th, Preachermann and The Revival return to the legendary Shrine in Harlem for a soulful set of atomic soul!

Come join us for a night of sonic libations.

Let's us elevate you... Entertain you and feed your mind and spirit. The show will set your soul free.

Preachermann and the Revival will cleanse your soul! Get up in the water and get wet!!

What sets him apart from his peers is that his sultry brand of neo-soul is not only fresh, it is fearless; not merely sensuous, but conscious. And unlike so many modern soul artists whose work is weighed down with clichés, he has an uncanny knack for clever wordplay that bridges the serious side of life with the levity that makes it livable. The title track to his 2006 LP, Negroes Stay Crunchy in Milk, is but one shining example of Preacher’s capacity to skillfully and seamlessly blend prophetic lore with ironic metaphor to make timeless music that crosses broad boundaries without selling itself out.

You won't want to miss this event.

Come ready to dance, sing and release!!

Performance Details:

Saturday, October 29, 2016 - 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Preachermann & The Revival
The Shrine Bar & Restaurant
2271 Adam Clayton Powell Blvd (134th Street)
New York, NY 10030
(no cover)
(212) 690-7807
 http://shrinenyc.com

The Preachermann and The Revival Band:

Ed Preachermann Holley, lead vocals

Benita Charles, background vocals

Amnel Holguin, background vocals

Jonah Rosenberg, piano

Joe Paldino, guitar

Nick Paldino, bass

Karl Watson, saxophone, violin

Manny Montanez, percussion

Tom Pope, drums




























Sunday, October 23, 2016

A Special Thanks to all who attended the PATR Show at Friends & Lovers - Oct 22nd!



About last night: A special thanks to all who attended the Preachermann and The Revival show at Friends and Lovers in Brooklyn (October 22nd)!  The room was packed, the energy was high and the audience was with us all the way!! The feedback after the show was phenomenal. They loved us! It was an epic night!!

One night - Three great bands:


The show at Friends and Lovers last night featured Funkrust Brass Band, Preachermann and the Revival and Johnny Freelance Experience (headliner).  It was one night of awesome entertainment of music that did not disappoint!

Funkrust, opened with an extravaganza of big band, choreographed brass numbers with a sexy lead mistress, Monica Hunken who held it all together with her vocals (through a megaphone) and sexy dance moves all decorated in lights. The all brass band was decorated in mardi gras outfits with lights. I felt like I was on the streets in New Orleans. It was unbelievable!  The music was all original and composed by band founder and musician, Phil Andrews. What an opening!


Preachermann and The Revival followed suit by delivering another incredible show of dynamic vocals and music from Preachermann and his band, The Revival. The band took the audience through a musical journey of soul cleansing and rejuvenation all while entertaining with Preachermann's hilarious antics. By the end of the show, the audience was climbing the walls with excitement. We love our fans. It gives us such great pleasure to see the transformation of our fans from the beginning of our show to the end of the show, especially with the new followers. They don't know what to expect with the show but by the end, they are true believers in the movement! It's such a joy to watch!

 Once the Johnny Freelance Experience, the headliner, hit the stage, the audience was ready to continue continue the evening with great entertainment. The Johnny Freelance Experience delivered with an electric set of high energy, strong vocals of lead singer Afrika Bibang, and the awesome musicianship of Nicholas Dominic Talvola on trumpet. It was nothing short of incredible. The sound reminded me of the dance music I love so much and it was hard to stand still.  The music was so great you had to move your feet! It was an incredible night of music and entertainment!!

Special thanks:

To Preachermann (Ed Holley): A very special thanks for allowing me to sing with you and express myself through my music and creativity!  I learn so much from you. You are one of the most incredible singers I know and I am honored to share the stage with you! It's only a matter of time before the whole world knows of your greatness. Once that happens, the sky's the limit!!

To the Revival Band (Jonah Rosenberg, Joseph Paldino, Paul Paldino, Manny Montanez and David Hoffman): Thank you for the wonderful music you supplied us last night.  The awesome music and energy that you provided us last night allowed us to take the show to another level!  Thank you to each and everyone of you for your music, talent and your energy you bring to the band!!

Thanks to the DJ Mojo for producing the show and bringing all these great bands and musicians together.  It was a highly successful show and judging from the audience feedback it was well received!

Thanks to the venue, Friends & Lovers in Brooklyn.  It's a wonderful place, good vibe and great staff! I'm looking forward to returning again.

Music has the power to change the world! It's wonderful to listen to recorded music but there's nothing like the live performance experience. The energy of the room, the music, being with music lovers and making connections with new people cannot not be experience at home. I feel so honored to be a part of it!

A special thanks to all our fans for your continued love and support of Preachermann and the Revival! Shalimar and stay crunchy!!




Monday, October 10, 2016

Women of Worth (WOW) honors Benita Charles!

Top of the World: I'm so honored to have been highlighted by Women of Worth (WOW) TV  and community for my talents on October 5th! I am so grateful!! I'm so happy to be part of such a warm and loving community of beautiful women. A special thanks to Janine Cummings and Jecks Lea! For more information about Benita Charles, visit: http://benitacharles.com.



About Women of Worth

“Inspiring a generation of many women to step into the full calling of their purpose and empowering individuals worldwide to activate their greatness”

MISSION
As I actively work towards “Inspiring a generation of many people to step into the full calling of their purpose and empowering individuals worldwide to activate their greatness” I am committed to train and equip people (particularly women) to effectively think about and plan their future. To help individuals understand their true worth and value, change their belief systems to release any thing which holds them back.

VISION FOR 2016
10K Members in Women of Worth online community
Successful individuals trained in monetizing their Social Media platforms
WoW as an international movement with Wow Leaders worldwide running empowerment workshops
Create a community of 1st class Women Broadcasters worldwide
Start a foundation for young women
Training for becoming entrepreneurs, motivational speakers, authors & brand strategists

WoW CONFERENCE in June/July 2017

CORE VALUES

- Leadership

Educate on steps to becoming a leader (confidence building)

- Development

Character building, confidence boosting, steps to releasing self-doubt and fear, creating presence

- Respect

We are family!

- Work together

Support each other

- Collaborate

We can succeed!

- Good Attitude

Positive Mindset

- Go getters

Be purpose driven

Join Women of Worth http://bit.ly/JoinWOWToday






Sunday, October 9, 2016

Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - The Recap Show (Your Live Performance)

Benita Charles Music in NYC

The Recap Show (Your Performance)

This show is a review of the tips 11 - 20 where we discussed ways to enhance your live performances. You've built your talent.  Now, it's time to take it to another level by performing in front of an audience.



Benita Charles with special guest, Minister Angela Williams in NYC

In this series, I also had my first special guest speaker, Minister Angela Williams.  She appeared on September 10th on the Tip 19 Show (Always have a set list). Her speech, "Prepacked For The Journey," was a divine and motivating message that inspired the audience! I am so grateful for her time and the incredible value she added to my show!!

About Minister Angela Williams:

Minister Angela Williams is from Deerfield Beach, FL. By day is a Senior Director Customer Service Operations for a publishing company. In life, she ministers women and children.  She is the president of  the Women's Auxiliary for Florida East Coast Baptist Association. It's the largest association in Florida and the fourth largest in the nation. She is also the founder and director of A Girl and Her Pearls, a girl's ministry.
     
10 Singing Tips that enhances your Live Performance:

11) Sing in front of an audience
  • Performing in front of an audience will take your talent to the next level.
  • Performing in front of an audience will help you get paid gigs. 
  • 7 ways to gain live performance experience: family functions, church, open mics, talent shows, artist showcases, self-produced shows and live streaming.        
12) Project your voice when you sing 
  • Project your voice when you sing so that your audience can hear your message.
  • Projecting your voice shows your audience you have confidence when you sing. 
  • Proper Posture: Stand up straight and breathe properly and sing from your diaphragm. This will help you sing properly and project your voice when you sing
 13) How To Handle Technical Difficulties and Interruptions
  • Remain calm.
  • Act Professional.
  • Think of creative ways to handle the situation.

14) Singing with Live Musicians vs. Singing with Tracks

      Singing with Live Musicians

  •  Allows for greater flexibility with song arrangements.
  •  Helps you create your own performance style.
  •  Helps you become a leader as a live performer.
       Singing with Tracks

  • Cost effective on smaller gigs.
  • Practice with the tracks so that the performance will go smoothly.
  • Ensure the track is in good working condition before the show.

15) Engage Your Audience
  •  Be confident in your performance
  •  Keep your back story to yourself
  •  Always put your heart and soul in every performance
16) How to stay motivated when the going gets tough
  •  Remember your "why."
  •  Take a break
  •  Get creative with your approach in how you pursue your dream

17) Equipment every singer should own
  • Professional Microphone with cord (or cordless mic)
  • Portable PA System
  • Percussion instruments
18) Performing with a Live Band
  • Prepare your songs on your own before you rehearse with the band
  • Find your musicians for your show and rehearse as much as possible
  • Perform at your best at the show
19) Always use a Set List
  • A set list allows everyone to know which songs are presented and in the order of the show
  • A set list helps with the flow of the show
  • A set list should be flexible enough to change depending on the flow of the show  

20) Song Choice: Using your original music and Covers
  • Choose songs you enjoy singing
  • Choose song that are currently popular
  • Always perform your original songs at your shows  

This concludes the tips we will discuss regarding your Live Performance section in the "Show" part of "Show-Business." The next series of tips will focus your original music and recording.


Best wishes to you as you take your voice to the next level!

-- Benita Charles Music

"Spreading love through music for your inspiration and entertainment!"

http://benitacharles.com


The Recap Show (Your Live Performance Tips) - Part 1



The Recap Show (Acknowledgment of Minister Angela Williams, first special guest) - Part 2




September 10th - Episode 19 with Minister Angela Williams