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



Singing Tips by Benita Charles - Tip #21

Benita Charles at Brookfield Place in NYC

 Singing Tips by Benita Charles Music - Tip #21: Write Your Own Songs (Your original music)

When I first moved to New York in 1996, I met a man named Chad Pilieri from an indie rock band called "All About Chad." He said something to me that I will always remember. He told me that I should write and record my own songs. Then, he gave me his CD, "Down In Front," released in 1995. At the time, I didn't know much about that aspect of the music business so I didn't do anything with his advice until years later.  Eventually, I released my own CD (Moments In Love: Volume 1) on my label Star Entertainment New York. Looking back I realize that his advice was invaluable! I still have his CD to this day.  Sadly, I learned his group disbanded.


All About Chad, the band (indie rock/alternative)

Indie pop quartet All About Chad featured guitarist Asif Chaudhri, singer Ben Reiser, bassist Chad Pilieri, and drummer Jason Schreiber. After the release of the "Chad's Very First Record" single on Jeezus Peezus Records in 1991, the Brooklyn band set out to record their debut full-length. This That & the Other Thing was released in 1989, and was followed by 1991's The Scouting Party. 1992 saw the unveiling of the quirky Jelly Slide EP. They continued in 1993 with the "Chad's Got an Earring" single on It's Only Pop Music Records. Big Pop Records released the band's swan song, Down in Front, in 1995. Recorded and produced by the band, the disc showcased the band's endearing brand of indie pop music. The group called it quits soon after, but not before an impressive appearance on March Records' stellar Pop American Style compilation in 1996 with the catchy "Japanese Couple in Reverse." ~ Stephen Cramer, Rovi



Moments In Love: Volume 1 by Benita Charles

 3 reasons you should write and record your own music:

1) Your original music is your contribution to the world.
  • It comprises of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences - your gift.
  • It is your message.

2) You have a responsibility as artist. People look up to artists as role models.
  • Your words can inspire, heal and tough the world
  •  Your words can also destroy, demean and degrade if you don't have the right intentions

3) You can sell your own music to your loyal fans at your shows and beyond
  • You can now sell your music directly to your fans with out a record label (middle man)
  •  You can build your fan base with your music
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




Brookfield Place (Winter Garden) Tour - New York