About Artist
Picture it, 2003, Lead High School POPS! Concert.
I asked Danur to play guitar for me on a song that I have quickly grown to adore, "You Were Meant for Me" by Jewel. It was a simple, one time deal, but it grew into more.
I began entering vocal competitions here and there a few years ago. If I remember right, the first one was in Huron. The weekend was a fun one with a long drive attached to both ends. I sang with a karaoke cd and missed an entrance, resulting in a pat on the back and a t-shirt that was too big as a souvenir. A kid who pretended to play the trombone along with singing (I don't think he pretended to sing) "76 Trombones" won the title of that competition and a recording contract. I was bummed.
You may think I sound bitter. I'm not at all, karaoke is just not my thing. That's where Danur's mad guitar skills come in.
After that, I moved on to the Sturgis Star Search and hauled Danur along with me. We won!! I wasn't expecting it at all... I'd never won a singing contest before! We were really excited to receive $50 and a chance to go to Mitchell in the following months for the State level competition. Well, the $50 was a bummer because the money was only good for spending at local Sturgis businesses. The Mitchell trip however, I was really looking forward to. I don't know if Danur was, and I don't know if he knew at that point in time I'd be hoping he'd trot along for the 5 hour jaunt, or however long it is from here to there. The weekend in Mitchell was a blast! You can't go wrong with the Siesta Motel (our trusty stay for the Heron adventure as well)... Ever. Especially with a parking lot that echoed for early morning warm-ups and Good Will just across the street! Danur and I performed on a windy day in front of the Corn Palace on the stage of a fold out trailer. Although it seemed very "rinky-dink," the sound system was great and so were the other performers. After hearing one girl sing, who seemed to have much more traveling experience and exposure than I, I thought for sure she had it in the bag. Once again, I was surprised that Danur and I took the title. This time, it was the State title with a REAL $500 and a recording deal in Aberdeen! I know what you're thinking, because it's what I always think about too...How come all of the opportunities are east of the river!? (East of the river means nothing to you if you're not from South Dakota. My apologies.) However long the drive, I am supported 100% by my parents, grandparents, Sarah, Danur and his family as well.(Along with the rest of my family members... these are just the people that travel everywhere with me.) It is insane how much love and support I have and can't thank all of you enough. Thank you to not only those I've mentioned, but all of you who are visiting this page, listening to our music, becoming our friends and spreading the word about us.
Time for recording.
The guy's name is Gordy Zens. He's been, I found out later, playing guitar since 1960 and been in the recording business since 1968. (Gordy, if you're reading this, I'm sorry if I just aged you, but your talent and hard work cannot go unnoticed). After e*mailing back and forth for about two months, it was time for the drive across the state once again. Unfortunately, we could not look forward to staying at the Siesta, but I sure did send my love its way. No, instead we stayed in a room so large, it's most likely where high schoolers coming from prom party afterward. This was at the White House Inn, next to the railroad tracks, where trains blow their horns as early (or late, however you see it) as 5:00 in the morning. Yes, it was a pleasant stay with a nice set of lime green ear plugs for each of us. We rose early and headed to downtown Aberdeen, which I must say, is adorable; not to mention a gold mine of music stores and recording studios! I was in heaven.... or at least so I thought. We walked into this large, guitar filled store (Danur's heaven), and asked for directions to Gordy's recording studio. We were directed to a back storage room full of drum sets, speakers, lots of cords and little walking room. It wasn't exactly what I pictured it to be. You know, I was expecting what you see on tv... oh the wonderful world of tv. The mic that comes out of the ceiling, the HUGE room I would solely stand in and belt my heart out while looking through a window at Gordy, who would be sitting behind an endless mixing board of buttons, sliders and pretty lights. REALITY CHECK! Yeah, our experience in this hole in the wall "recording studio," though it was, kicked ass. I was scared. Two separate rooms faced us as Gordy unpacked his 1970's hard top suitcase. The suitcase contained an $850 mixing board, $3.40 cent speakers (that's after the senior discount at the Salvation Army) and an experience that was priceless. (Gordy's desktop computer came out of nowhere and his keyboard out of an old trumpet case). Like I said, I was scared. Having worked with Danur for so long and being able to be right next to him, reacting to him and vice versa and then being secluded to two separate rooms connecting through headphones was a weird concept for me. Danur and I work very well together and were able to follow one each other by ear, but it was a challenge not being able to see each other (in my opinion... I don't how he felt). After many cups of hot tea, Danur's parents and my own leaving and coming back throughout the day, many overlays and "re-dos," much bouncing around, mom bringing me cozier clothes (slippers, hoodie, blanket I sleep with)... the day was very successful with only one more song to finish the next day. We spent that evening having Chinese food in the very well kept (but small) mall in Aberdeen next to the abandoned Wal-Mart and high class medical facility. Wal-Mart looked so sad... I made up for it though with some great "grown up snow boots" as I call them with money my grandpa gave me to "buy dinner for everyone." They're amazing, I tell you. We rose early once again to record an original song (Untitled as offered for listening here) that we finished writing both lyrics and music for that morning. It went off without a hitch in one try and we were off to have breakfast. Sammy's was the place with the same waitress as the day before and good hot chocolate.
Our trip was coming to an end with a frown on my face but excitement in my soul for the banquet we headed to next. I should have known better that this whole convention was about entertainment, entertainment equipment and becoming a "big dog." I peeked into the room Danur and I would be performing in that afternoon as winners of the State Youth Talent competition. The lights took my breath away. The stage was nothing compared to that of the "big dogs," but it was phenomenal. We sat down to eat the meal that cost $15 for those who joined us that afternoon (thank you Cleo for coming) to find out it was chicken salad with a croissant. Poor Danur and Sarah who hate mayonnaise. At least their meals were comped... Danur and I were the first to perform of others who had become popular with LFA Entertainment (the company we won the recording from). We did "You Were Meant for Me" and "4:13." I have quickly learned that South Dakota is a state that listens to country music as a whole and nothing else. Although that's not the genre we play, they seemed to like us well enough. I think they liked the magician with bad hair that followed us better, sadly.
This is the story of us and where we've come from. Hopefully there will be more to add as to where we're headed.
I want to add a "speechless" thank you to everyone involved in this group. Starting with Danur and Sarah. You know I appreciate you both as the air I breathe. All of the opportunities I've had and will have in the future could not be possible without the hardwork from both of you.
--Danur, your guitar skills are phenomenal, whether you're playing folk music for my pleasure or head-banging rock for your own pleasure. Your ability to play so many different genres and styles makes you the best of anyone. Head-banging rock or not, I could sit and listen to you for hours... even when you get side tracked from what we're really supposed to be doing. --Sarah, my goose, there are no words. Your way with words will forever fascinate me. I respect, honor you and your abilities. From a first chicken scratch to the final product, no word is ever a misstep. Even though as a group, we've only put together a few songs, 4:13 is amazing. Thank you for your love and your lyrics.
--Mom, Howie, Grandma & Grandpa, Aunts & Uncles, Vince Coyle, Lead High School, the community of Lead and SO many others--Thank you for driving, sponsoring, supporting me to get me on my feet and to where I am now, believing in me... I can't even think of all that each of you have done for me because the list is endless. Thank you Thank you Thank you and I love you!
Thank you to all of the fans, friends and family!
I asked Danur to play guitar for me on a song that I have quickly grown to adore, "You Were Meant for Me" by Jewel. It was a simple, one time deal, but it grew into more.
I began entering vocal competitions here and there a few years ago. If I remember right, the first one was in Huron. The weekend was a fun one with a long drive attached to both ends. I sang with a karaoke cd and missed an entrance, resulting in a pat on the back and a t-shirt that was too big as a souvenir. A kid who pretended to play the trombone along with singing (I don't think he pretended to sing) "76 Trombones" won the title of that competition and a recording contract. I was bummed.
You may think I sound bitter. I'm not at all, karaoke is just not my thing. That's where Danur's mad guitar skills come in.
After that, I moved on to the Sturgis Star Search and hauled Danur along with me. We won!! I wasn't expecting it at all... I'd never won a singing contest before! We were really excited to receive $50 and a chance to go to Mitchell in the following months for the State level competition. Well, the $50 was a bummer because the money was only good for spending at local Sturgis businesses. The Mitchell trip however, I was really looking forward to. I don't know if Danur was, and I don't know if he knew at that point in time I'd be hoping he'd trot along for the 5 hour jaunt, or however long it is from here to there. The weekend in Mitchell was a blast! You can't go wrong with the Siesta Motel (our trusty stay for the Heron adventure as well)... Ever. Especially with a parking lot that echoed for early morning warm-ups and Good Will just across the street! Danur and I performed on a windy day in front of the Corn Palace on the stage of a fold out trailer. Although it seemed very "rinky-dink," the sound system was great and so were the other performers. After hearing one girl sing, who seemed to have much more traveling experience and exposure than I, I thought for sure she had it in the bag. Once again, I was surprised that Danur and I took the title. This time, it was the State title with a REAL $500 and a recording deal in Aberdeen! I know what you're thinking, because it's what I always think about too...How come all of the opportunities are east of the river!? (East of the river means nothing to you if you're not from South Dakota. My apologies.) However long the drive, I am supported 100% by my parents, grandparents, Sarah, Danur and his family as well.(Along with the rest of my family members... these are just the people that travel everywhere with me.) It is insane how much love and support I have and can't thank all of you enough. Thank you to not only those I've mentioned, but all of you who are visiting this page, listening to our music, becoming our friends and spreading the word about us.
Time for recording.
The guy's name is Gordy Zens. He's been, I found out later, playing guitar since 1960 and been in the recording business since 1968. (Gordy, if you're reading this, I'm sorry if I just aged you, but your talent and hard work cannot go unnoticed). After e*mailing back and forth for about two months, it was time for the drive across the state once again. Unfortunately, we could not look forward to staying at the Siesta, but I sure did send my love its way. No, instead we stayed in a room so large, it's most likely where high schoolers coming from prom party afterward. This was at the White House Inn, next to the railroad tracks, where trains blow their horns as early (or late, however you see it) as 5:00 in the morning. Yes, it was a pleasant stay with a nice set of lime green ear plugs for each of us. We rose early and headed to downtown Aberdeen, which I must say, is adorable; not to mention a gold mine of music stores and recording studios! I was in heaven.... or at least so I thought. We walked into this large, guitar filled store (Danur's heaven), and asked for directions to Gordy's recording studio. We were directed to a back storage room full of drum sets, speakers, lots of cords and little walking room. It wasn't exactly what I pictured it to be. You know, I was expecting what you see on tv... oh the wonderful world of tv. The mic that comes out of the ceiling, the HUGE room I would solely stand in and belt my heart out while looking through a window at Gordy, who would be sitting behind an endless mixing board of buttons, sliders and pretty lights. REALITY CHECK! Yeah, our experience in this hole in the wall "recording studio," though it was, kicked ass. I was scared. Two separate rooms faced us as Gordy unpacked his 1970's hard top suitcase. The suitcase contained an $850 mixing board, $3.40 cent speakers (that's after the senior discount at the Salvation Army) and an experience that was priceless. (Gordy's desktop computer came out of nowhere and his keyboard out of an old trumpet case). Like I said, I was scared. Having worked with Danur for so long and being able to be right next to him, reacting to him and vice versa and then being secluded to two separate rooms connecting through headphones was a weird concept for me. Danur and I work very well together and were able to follow one each other by ear, but it was a challenge not being able to see each other (in my opinion... I don't how he felt). After many cups of hot tea, Danur's parents and my own leaving and coming back throughout the day, many overlays and "re-dos," much bouncing around, mom bringing me cozier clothes (slippers, hoodie, blanket I sleep with)... the day was very successful with only one more song to finish the next day. We spent that evening having Chinese food in the very well kept (but small) mall in Aberdeen next to the abandoned Wal-Mart and high class medical facility. Wal-Mart looked so sad... I made up for it though with some great "grown up snow boots" as I call them with money my grandpa gave me to "buy dinner for everyone." They're amazing, I tell you. We rose early once again to record an original song (Untitled as offered for listening here) that we finished writing both lyrics and music for that morning. It went off without a hitch in one try and we were off to have breakfast. Sammy's was the place with the same waitress as the day before and good hot chocolate.
Our trip was coming to an end with a frown on my face but excitement in my soul for the banquet we headed to next. I should have known better that this whole convention was about entertainment, entertainment equipment and becoming a "big dog." I peeked into the room Danur and I would be performing in that afternoon as winners of the State Youth Talent competition. The lights took my breath away. The stage was nothing compared to that of the "big dogs," but it was phenomenal. We sat down to eat the meal that cost $15 for those who joined us that afternoon (thank you Cleo for coming) to find out it was chicken salad with a croissant. Poor Danur and Sarah who hate mayonnaise. At least their meals were comped... Danur and I were the first to perform of others who had become popular with LFA Entertainment (the company we won the recording from). We did "You Were Meant for Me" and "4:13." I have quickly learned that South Dakota is a state that listens to country music as a whole and nothing else. Although that's not the genre we play, they seemed to like us well enough. I think they liked the magician with bad hair that followed us better, sadly.
This is the story of us and where we've come from. Hopefully there will be more to add as to where we're headed.
I want to add a "speechless" thank you to everyone involved in this group. Starting with Danur and Sarah. You know I appreciate you both as the air I breathe. All of the opportunities I've had and will have in the future could not be possible without the hardwork from both of you.
--Danur, your guitar skills are phenomenal, whether you're playing folk music for my pleasure or head-banging rock for your own pleasure. Your ability to play so many different genres and styles makes you the best of anyone. Head-banging rock or not, I could sit and listen to you for hours... even when you get side tracked from what we're really supposed to be doing. --Sarah, my goose, there are no words. Your way with words will forever fascinate me. I respect, honor you and your abilities. From a first chicken scratch to the final product, no word is ever a misstep. Even though as a group, we've only put together a few songs, 4:13 is amazing. Thank you for your love and your lyrics.
--Mom, Howie, Grandma & Grandpa, Aunts & Uncles, Vince Coyle, Lead High School, the community of Lead and SO many others--Thank you for driving, sponsoring, supporting me to get me on my feet and to where I am now, believing in me... I can't even think of all that each of you have done for me because the list is endless. Thank you Thank you Thank you and I love you!
Thank you to all of the fans, friends and family!
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