Thanks to all who attended the Make Music NY Show @ Corkscrew Wines BK!

The Benita Charles Trio @ Corkscrew Brooklyn Wines

The Power of Music: A special thanks to all who attended our show at Corkscrew Wines Brooklyn for the 13th annual Make Music New York festival.  It truly was a night to remember and one of our best shows to date.

One of the things that made this an exceptional show is the audience engagement we had.  We literally had the whole street singing along on our songs.  In addition to my original song, the Freedom Song.  The crowd also sang along to the cover song I do "Work To Do." They were attentive and hanging on to every word and note. The crowd stayed through the full performance and requested an encore! Additionally, they even gave me valuable feedback at the end to make my show even better.  It was so appreciated because it was given with love. 

One of the best compliments we got is the fact that even though we are a trio, we sounded like a full orchestra band and that we sounded very tight and in sync with each other.
The highlight of the night was when one of the audience members approached us to tell us their mother, who was wheel chaired bound and passing through reacted to our music.  She was told that she would die on Tuesday but she was determined to see her grandson's graduation and insisted on going.  Her nurse was pushing her wheel chair past us when they stopped and listened to our song, "Work To Do."  Her son told us that she reacted to the music and he was so excited about that! That touched my heart in such a way.  I can't explain the joy I felt in knowing that our music reached her to give a reaction.  That was the first time that had ever happened and it was truly a miracle. The power of music is incredible!!!

A special thanks to the owner of Corkscrew Wines Brooklyn, Karin  Holm Torres for requesting us and her staff for being so accommodating! They truly made us feel so welcomed.  She said she wants us back. I'm looking forward to more collaborations.

A special thanks to my band: Peter Archer (guitar) and Cheo (percussion) for their musicianship and professionalism.  It's always a pleasure and thank you for the music!

Thanks to all the new fans we made and our faithful fans.  You truly make this journey so worth it!

Last night's show was a message to me that I am on the right journey to changing the world through my music! I'm going to continue to "Let my Light Shine!"

Never Let Me Go (feat. Impaq) featured on Ramsay Unleashed Podcast in Scotland!

A special thanks to Fraser Ramsay for featuring my song, Never Let Me Go (featuring Impaq) on his the first show in 2019 of his podcast, Ramsay Unleashed: Going Beyond Borders in Scotland! The show featured special guest, Dr. William Flip Clay on being emotionally constipated. A special thanks to my producer, Impaq!

http://benitacharles.com

2018 Year in Review

2018 Year in Review

Last Day of the Year: Reflecting on this year...2018 was a great year! 

Thanks to all my fans for your support!!

Much love,

Benita Charles

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

http://benitacharles.com

The Last Singing Tips of 2018

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/never-ever-give-up/1353809887?i=1353810942

Singing Tips Live: The Best Advice I Ever Got!

Benita Charles in New York City

On the last episode on Singing Tips Live, NY-Vocalist, Benita Charles shared the best advice she ever got in her career.

The Best Advice Benita Charles ever got was "Create Your Own Music." 

The advice was given by an artist from the group, All About Chad. At the time, Benita was new to New York City and was studying jazz and learning songs. The gentleman told Benita that is was great that she was learning cover songs but she should write, record and release her own music.  At the time, Benita didn't understand the gravity of what that meant.  Fast forward to years later, Benita has recorded her full CD, Moments and Love and has released several single releases including her current release, Never Ever Give Up. Benita's music is available on iTunes, Amazing Music, CD Baby and Spotify.

PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Never Ever Give Up featured on the Women of Substance Music Podcast!

The Power of Music: My song, Never Ever Give Up is featured on the Women of Substance Music Podcast by Bree Noble (Show #880). I'm so honored to be among so many talented artists! A special thanks to Bree Noble for such an inspiring show! A very special thanks my producer, Themi!

PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Nov 16, 2018

To get live links to the music we play and resources we offer, visit www.WOSPodcast.com

This show includes the following songs:

Lola DeHanna - Welcome PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Margo Zelle - I Am the Sahara MUSIC ON YOUTUBE

Kyra Shaughnessy - Can You Hold Me PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Sheila Veerkamp - Hold Me PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Cleopatra Dame - Dream PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Janet Blair - Eternity Grows PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Rebecca Selah - While My Father Was Taking Me Home PURCHASE ON ITUNES

ENILSounds - It Really Doesn't Matter MUSIC ON SPOTIFY

Joe Joe - Hard Workin' Woman PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Benita Charles - Never, Ever Give Up PURCHASE ON ITUNES

Subscribe to the Women of Substance Music Podcast on iTunes

F

Top of the World: Benita Charles #4 on Reverbnation Soul/R&B Chart for NYC!

Top of the World: Today, I am in the Top 10 at No. 4 on the Reverbnation Soul/R&B Chart for New York City! 

A special thanks to all of my fans for your continued support of my music! I feel so blessed to have you in my life. You are the best!!! 

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/never-ever-give-up-single/1353809887

Rest in Peace: Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin - The Queen of Soul

Rest in Peace: I am heartbroken to hear the news that we lost the beautiful Aretha Franklin recently.

I can tell you the impact she's had on my life as a singer is tremendous. I can remember in college when I was a voice major singing Aretha's songs in the practice room when I should have been singing opera. Driving my fellow musicians crazy but making my soul happy.

She paved the way for so many singers throughout the years. She was a true diva in every sense of the word!  Aretha's music will live on and inspire generations to come.

This is a devastating loss but I'm so glad she's at peace now. Her beautiful voice lives on to give us comfort. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones and fans.

Aretha Franklin tribute concert at Chene Park - The People's Concert for the Queen: 
https://www.facebook.com/wxyzdetroit/videos/321474625273027/

Benita Charles' tribute to Aretha:

Benita Charles rocks the Sidewalk Cafe in NYC!

The Benita Charles Trio in NYC

Benita Charles rocks The Sidewalk Cafe with "Never Ever Give Up!

Congratulations on Suki Rae on her successful release party at The Sidewalk Cafe and her new CD, Can't Stop Now!

Here are a few highlights from Suki Rae's CD Release Party:

The Benita Charles Trio set:

Singing Tips Live with Benita Charles: The Recap Show ("The Show") Part 1

Benita Charles in New York City

 

Singing Tips - Recap of "The Show" Part of Singing Tips 

(Part 1) 

I. Your Talent (the foundation)

1. Start learning songs
2. Warm up your voice
3. Prince Tribute (the ultimate artist)
4. Establish a rehearsal schedule
5. Build your repertoire
6. Take care of your voice
7. Share your gift to the world
8. Write your own songs
9. Find a certified voice teacher
10. Learn a musical instrument

II. Your Live Performance (experience)

11. Sing in front of an audience

12. Project your voice when you sing

13. How to handle technical difficulties and interruptions

14. Singing with live musicians vs. performances tracks 

15. Engage your audience

16. How to stay motivated when the going get tough

17. Equipment every singer should own

18. Performing with a live band

19. Always use a set list

20. Choose your song wisely (song choice)

III. Your Original Music (self-expression)

21. Write your own songs (original music)

22. Choose your song topic

23. Song structure

24. Music and lyrics

25. Elements of a hit song

26. How to conquer writer's block

27. Protect your songs (Copyright it)

28. 3 Key reasons why you should collaborate

29. Working with a producer

30. The recording process and completing your music

IV. Your Image (your calling card)

31. Image is everything

32. Self Image/Self Care

33. Your appearance

34. Effective communications

35. Your communication: your message

36. Your behavior (your reputation)

37. Your behavior (time management)

38. Your behavior (self discipline)

39. Your behavior (self confidence)

40. Your behavior (self esteem)

*Experts of "The Show" Part:

Your Live Performance

• Minister Angela Williams
• Founder of A Girl and her Pearls
• Show aired September 10, 2016 (Singing Tip #19 - Set List) 

Your Original Music

• Azania Noah
• International recording artist/singer-songwriter/performer/teacher
• Show aired October 15, 2016 (Singing Tip #22 - Song Topic) 
• For more information, visit azania.com.

Your Image

• Roxie Seigle
• NY Stylist/Hair Designer
• Show aired March 4, 2017 (Finding Your Style)
• Contact Information: RSStylist@gmail.com

• Nadine Dillon
• DNadz Jewelry owner (Business sponsor)
•  Show aired March 4, 2017 (Finding Your Style)
•  For more information, visit dnadzjewelry.com

•  Jennifer Byers
• make-up artist/dancer (Bobby Brown Cosmetics rep)
•  Makeover at Blue Mercury Cosmetics - Tribeca NYC 
•  Show aired April 3, 2017 (Singing Tip #36 - Your reputation) 
•  For more information, visit http://bluemercury.com/

• Ed "Preachermann" Holley
• singer/songwriter/recording artist/performer (band: Preachermann and The Revival)
• Show aired March 15, 2017 (Singing Tip #37 - Time Management)
• For more information, visit http://www.facebook.com/Preachermannmusic/

• Carolyn Jones
• holistic health practitioner/author
• Show aired June 4, 2017 (Self Care for Artists)
• book: https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Bed-Walk-Self-Care/dp/0997450193

• Paul and Martha La Pierre
• location scouts (Astoria, Queens / Socrates Sculpture Park)
• Show aired July 16, 2017 (Recap Show - Your Image, Part 2) 

 *Further details of the experts will be presented in Part 2 of "The Show" Recap show next week.

 Best wishes as you take your talent to the next level.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/benita-charles/id200276662

Singing Tips Live: The Recap Show (Your Image) - Part 1

Benita Charles at Central Park, NYC
 Jewelry by Nadine Dillon of D-Nadz Jewelry

dnadzjewelry.com

Singing Tips Live by Benita Charles

The Recap Show (Your Image) - Part 1

"Image is Everything!"  That is the theme of the "Your Image" Section of the Singing Tips with Benita Charles Show.  Nowadays, your image can be more important than your music in some cases. That's why it has to be impeccable.  

Your image consists of your appearance, your communications and your behavior. Once you sharpen those areas of your image, you will be unstoppable.

In this show, we reviewed the 10 tips in the "Your Image" Section (Tips 31 - 40).

"Your Image" Section
 

Tip #31 Image is everything

Tip #32 Self Image/Self Care
Tip #33 Your Appearance 

Tip #34 Effective Communications (verbal, non-verbal and written)
Tip #35  Your Communication: Your Message

Tip #36 Your Behavior (Your Reputation)
Tip #37 Your Behavior (Time Management)

Tip #38 Your Behavior (Self Discipline)

Tip #39 Your Behavior ( Self Confidence)

Tip #40 Your Behavior (Self Esteem/Self Worth)

 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

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/benita-charles/id200276662

Singing Tips Live with Benita Charles: Take Care of Your Voice

 Benita Charles with super producer, Themi in New York City

Since we recently had a expert holistic health practitioner, Carolyn Jones on Singing Tips talking about self care for artists, I thought it was important for me to share my struggles with vocal care. In order to remind the audience of the importance for singers and speakers to practice proper vocal care.

On this episode, we discussed the importance of taking care of your voice from my experience of abusing my voice.  I've paid the price of severe hoarseness my vocal fatigue.

I'm working on new music in the studio, I've been hired to work with other songwriters on their music in the studio and I've had quite a few live performances.  All these things are very demanding for my voice.  I haven't been practicing good vocal care and I'm paying the price for my actions. I finally had to take a step back and look at the things I was doing.  I had to change my ways or suffer severe vocal damage.

 Here 4 ways to Take Care of Your Voice:

1) Watch overusing your voice.

-- Speak at a normal vocal. Sing within your range and work with a vocal teacher to expand your range.
-- Avoid excessive talking, whispering, constant shouting are all things that are bad for your voice if at all possible.

2) Remember to warm up your voice before you sing.

-- Just as you should warm up your muscles before you exercise, the same applies to your voice for singing and public speaking.
-- Even if it's a low hum for a few minutes.

3) Properly hydrate your voice.

-- Drink lots of water before, during and after you sing. I noticed this especially in the studio where the room could be dry.
-- Proper hydration made a huge difference to my recordings.

4) Rest your voice between shows as much as possible.

-- Sometimes it's good to take a complete vocal where for a day or two, where you don't use your voice at all. If you must communicate, you will write down everything you need to say when communicating with others.
-- This will allow your voice to repair from overuse.

I hope these tips were helpful. Please heed my warning and "take care of your voice!"

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

 https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/benita-charles/id200276662

Make Music New York was amazing this year!

Benita Charles in Harlem, NYC

This year's Make Music New York concerts on June 21st were simply amazing!


I had a wonderful time at McKinley's Children's Garden in Jamaica Queens. Although the students were not there this year because they were practicing for their graduation, the audience that attended was very engaged and interested in my music. I sang to tracks of my original music and I ended with the cover, we are family. It was so much fun!

At Sister's Cuisine in Harlem, NYC later in the evening, the show was so interesting because we had people who attended the show and people who were passing through who all enjoyed and engaged with us. It was a great show with the Benita Charles Trio (Benita Charles, vocals, Peter Archer, guitar and Cheo, percussion).

Music has the power to heal, unite and touch lives. I am so grateful to be a music maker!

For more information about Make Music New York, visit: http://www.makemusicny.org/

McKinley's Children's Garden, Jamaica Queens

Sister's Cuisine, Harlem, New York City

https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/benita-charles/id200276662