For every singer who is signed to a major record contract, there are probably dozens more working in the trenches everyday trying to be heard. These days the internet, through sites such as myspace and music blogs such as OFTV, plays a significant role in getting independent music heard. This marriage of music and the internet has been a boon for the artists and the music lover. A world of new music is out there if you just take a look.
One artist capitalizing on this trend is Billy Redfield, a singer/songwriter from Baltimore, MD. Redfield released Made You Smile, a five-song CD in 2005, followed up by his first full-length studio CD, Two Steps Closer in 2006. He has sold nearly 15,000 copies of his music independently, including hard copy and digital sales. He has won a number of awards for his music, including honorable mention in the prestigious International Songwriting Competition for his track “Die for You.”
Redfield’s voice is unique, soothing and passionate at the same time. His lyrics are thoughtful and the melodies are catchy.
Two Steps Closer is filled with acoustic ballads, such as the heralded Die for You and Miss Melissa and a smattering of pop-friendly tunes, like Lost and Naked. On his myspace he writes, “I write from a personal point of view; it’s what I know best.”
Redfield encourages his fans, known as the Redheads, to spread the word about his music. He uses his myspace to connect with fans, and encourages them to stay in touch with him through his myspace, AIM, and email. He says on his site, “Most artists and bands have no connection with their fan base. I think this is ridiculous because it’s the fans that make the band. Without fans your music will get you nowhere. So please introduce yourself to me and I will get back to you.”
Recently, OFTV’s Uhadmeatwoohoo presented Redfield with a few questions:
What would you consider to be the biggest influence on your musical style?
I believe that would be Dave Matthews.
Where is your favorite venue that you’ve performed and why?
So far my favorite venue is The Recher Theatre (Towson, MD) because it’s the biggest one I’ve played at.
What is the first album/record/cd you ever purchased?
Not sure but I remember being into rap when I was younger. It might have been a Snoop Dogg record.
Who are your musical role models?
Dave Matthews, Bruce Springsteen, and Jimmy Buffet.
Who is your favorite musician that you’ve performed with?
I haven’t really performed with many yet. So to answer your question I don’t have one.
What do you think about iTunes and changes the internet has brought to purchasing music?
I think it’s great. It allows independent artists the ability to sell their music and it is very convenient for the customer.
What are your plans for the upcoming year?
Keep building, building, and building a bigger fan base. Try to get to the point where I am selling out venues. Keep trying to get to the next level. Always trying to further my career and get better at my craft.
What are some unique gifts that fans have given you?
Well one fan sent me a framed picture of an Atlas statue in NYC. I thought that was very interesting.
Tell us a little about the Redheads.
The thing about my music is that it relates to everyone. They come in all shapes and sizes.
Which song that you’ve written are you most proud of and why?
I think Die For You is definitely one of my best songs. I think it encompasses the idea of giving up ones life for love.
What is the best internet marketing idea that you’ve ever used?
I subscribed to a mailing list provider that helps me keep in touch with all my fans.
What is your favorite holiday and why?
I like Christmas the most. I like getting new stuff and the real reason behind it.
Redfield recently took the leap into forming a band, The Billy Redfield Band, and is now performing with drummer Damon Marrow and bassist Stu Lemley. He is currently working on a new CD, and told Uhadmeatwoohoo, “I have written many new songs which I think blows away my old material. I think you will think so too.”
Redfield’s website is currently under reconstruction, but directs you to his myspace. Or you can visit his facebook page. Visit, take a listen, and leave him some feedback. Who knows, you might even hear from him.