Week 113: I love feedback!!

Happy New Year All! 

I'm in the UK for Christmas & New year visiting family and friends... awful weather!!

                                      

 In September 2011, I moved to Barcelona to pursue my songwriting more seriously. I'd love your feedback on these demo songs. I've put a selection of 90-second previews together on soundcloud because I think it's enough to get the feel of a song. And... If you're still listening up to the end of the clip then I must have done my job! ;) 

Enter any comments below the song you're playing and please feel free to send me your top 5 songs by email to: redeyezack@gmail.com 

This is really gonna help me decide which songs to record & perform first.

Previews on Artist website

or here:

All the best for a creative and inspiring 2013! 

PLJ (Peace, Love & Joy) 

Zack

Week 112: Watch RedEyeZack's new live video of 'I CAN'T SLEEP TONIGHT'

Cafe del Sol in Gracia, Bcn

Hi Guys!

It's a blistering sunny day 20 degrees C here in Barcelona. I'd like to wish you all a happy Xmas and a wonderful new year!! I'm flying to the UK tomorrow for 2 weeks to catch up with family & friends.

I will be back in Barcelona building my artistic base and moving into a local community full of artists. Thanks for following my music mission project. I will have exciting news for next year as I'm looking to put a band together to play at festivals in the summer.

Here's a video my friend Ajit Dutta took last summer in the backstreets of Brighton. An intimate version of 'I CAN'T SLEEP TONIGHT'.

Enjoy & I look forward to getting on the road and playing for you in 2013.

PLJ (Peace, love & Joy)

Zack aka 'RedEyeZack'

Week 111: Watch RedEyeZack's new video for 'HOLD ME'

Hi Guys!

I hope you're well and looking forward to 2013. I've finally got a video that can give you an idea of where the music is going. I'd love your feedback on this track, if you really love it, please share it!!

A classical composer once said that he didn't like the track, because it was too short, there was no time signature and the arrangement was too simple. On asking his wife, she passionately disagreed with her husband and said she loved the song dearly. When I asked her why, she said "because it's short, there was no time and that it was beautifully simple..."

Decide for yourself and send me your comments below.

If I should fly before your time…my love

Don’t even try an’ follow me… oh no

For there’s a world, beyond this life

Behind the sky

Beneath the sea

Within the breeze

Hold me...

Hold me...

This video was made at home. A DIY done simply. I'm looking to collaborate with VideoGraphers & Film Makers. Drop me a line if you know anyone or you'd like to create experimental video for original music.

'Hold Me' is taken from a collection of poems and available now.

Bindi (decoration) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

• The red bindi has multiple meanings which are all valid at the same time. This is also a spiritual symbol.
• By one simple interpretation it is a cosmetic mark used to enhance beauty.
• From Vedic times, the bindi was created as a means to worship one's intellect. Therefore, it was used by both men and women. The worship of intellect was in order to use it to ensure our thoughts, speech, actions, habits and ultimately our character becomes pure. A strong intellect can help one to make noble decisions in life, be able to stand up to challenges in life with courage, and recognize and welcome good thoughts in life. The belief was that on this a strong individual, a strong family and strong society can be formed.
• In meditation, this very spot between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses his/her sight, so that it helps concentration. Most images of Buddha or Hindu divinities in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows (other spot being the tip of the nose – naasikagra).
• Swami Muktanand writes 'auspicious Kumkum or sandal wood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (center of spiritual energy within human body) here called Ajna (Aadnyaa) chakra meaning 'Command center'. Here you receive the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self realization. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'. (From Finite to Infinite, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, NY, 1989, pp. 88–89)
• The encyclopedic dictionary of Yoga informs that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This center is connected with the sacred syllable 'Om' and presiding it is 'ParaaShiva'. After activation of this center, the aspirant overcomes 'Ahamkar' (ego or sense of individuality), the last hurdle on the path of spirituality. 

Week 110: Following BCN Funky Band

Hi Music Lovers!

Last Sunday I was at a funky party in RAVAL. Yes Sunday afternoon!

Arranged by Patricia Irigoin on behalf of Flamenco, other Live Music and Parties. It was held in a Bar & Gallery venue called 33I45.

Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 4 08001 Barcelona‎ (See Map Below)

It's a multi-space where you can find live music, delicious crepes, concerts, art, rich cocktails and relax in vintage sofas while reading. Go to metro San Antoni and walk from there!

Les Artistes is fronted by the amazing soulful voice of Khaoula Bouchkhi. Checkout her Facebook profile: http://www.facebook.com/khaoula.bouchkhi. Her drummer was from London. I will be following their performances in the next few months.

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Week 109: Breakfast Song & Some Stats

Hi Music Lovers!

Here's a recap of things that passed in November.

3000+ video views on my YouTube Channel!

1250+ Blog visits

7000+ Myspace visits

So now I'm starting to work on more video production for 2013. better sound, better quality. And definitely looking to push some creative heights to the next level.

Please SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel to get updates of new videos.

A. I updated my music Biography.

If you would like to describe my music in one sentence, how would you describe it? send your description to redeyezack@gmail.com

B. Latest Video taken last weekend. 21st Century man updated version from my breakfast table!

C. Here is my 1st Vlog (VideoBlog) as I explain my music development in Barcelona in an informal and intimate way.

D. I also added 4 demo previews of songs which have video that I shot with my iPhone:

Watch this Playlist:

1. The Little Prince (Instrumental)

2. Satisfy My Soul

3. Secret Garden

4. I Can't Sleep Tonight

E. I joined a group called 'The Clandestine Arts Centre', we had a theatrical Halloween Party (The best I've ever been to) & I'm meeting other artists and performers to collaborate with. See Blog with pictures here.

Join me for art, music, cinema & upcoming English theatre group starting soon at Clandestine Centre.

It was a busy month and I think December will be more interesting! ;) Have a great Xmas & Happy New Year!!

PLJ (Peace Love & Joy)

Zack

Week 108:RedEyeZack - Sastisfy My Soul (Demo Preview)

Top of Las Arenas, Barcelona

Another wonderful sunny week in Barcelona and Christmas lights have gone up! Here's a little romantic tune with a homemade video.

It was filmed inside Las Arenas which used to be a Bullring. Now it's an impressive shopping centre! On the top there are restaurants and a 360 degree platform you can walk around. That's where this picture of me was taken on a chilly evening.

Week 107: Biography

''Zack Qureshi a.k.a. (also known as) ‘RedEyeZack’ is an Alternative singer-songwriter based in London, England. He started by writing poetry, his lyrics are both deep and philosophically inspired by his travels to India. His voice radiates a warmth of emotion from the lyrics. He explains something about the origin and inspiration for the songs and in turn, creates an intimate presence and connection with his audience. His favourite Beatle is George Harrison and his other musical influences can be clearly heard. His approach to life is to live the modern and study the ancient, this idea, he says creates an inner peace that allows an open mind to technology or change, yet retain a mystic essence rooted in ancient wisdom that is always a treasure, robots with a soul is one way you could look at it, he chuckles.

Coming from a diverse background of cultures, Zack is always open to collaborate with local musicians and incorporate some cultural/ethnic instruments into his songs. He admits that his guitar playing developed later from his love of sitar and that his themes have a lot to do with love, but that they are not restricted to romantic love, but love as a universal and cosmic force to be reckoned with. 

He's currently single and divides his time between Brighton and Barcelona. Being fiercely independent is second nature and he's definitely a free spirit who embodies his mantra which is PLJ (Peace, Love & Joy).

While Zack writes most of his songs on acoustic guitar, he has a flair for theatrical performance and creates; instrumental arrangements. While living in Istanbul he performed an electric guitar fusion project with Indian Bollywood dancer Ayse Ucar, is now collaborating with Bellydancers for special shows and festivals. 

After moving to Barcelona and pursuing an acting career with his main role and performance as Jalil, an Indian flower-seller falling for Gabi, a Catalan writer of erotic novels in the movie TOMANDOTE. He has returned to his first love... music, to develop an unfinished passion for mixing poetry, philosophy and guitar playing with an Indian ambience. 

Currently, he is living in London and preparing to release his debut EP - Live @ Cartmel Studios.

Week 106:The Clandestine Arts Community

I've been re-writing songs these last few weeks, now it was time to connect with a local community of artists, musicians, vampires etc...

I had been to a couple of Meetups by chance invitation. I came across a new group, The Clandestine Arts Community founded in September by Julius Cuesta. So I joined the group & RSVPed for the Halloween night which promised; an evening of spookiness, dramatic professional theatrical performances, ritual sacrifice, a practical dress code of black, drinks and canapés with a host of fun loving people to share it with. Hmm I thought.

I was planning to go with a friend, I've seen eyes wide shut and it scared the willies out of me! My friend Juan had made other plans, I was thinking to chicken out and cancel, but the opportunity to wear makeup again was just too strong.

I arrived at the huge castle gate entrance somewhere off Rambla Catalunya, to find some guests waiting to enter. Esther, Susanna & a friend introduced themselves. There was a note attached to the huge Iron ring which said "knock 3 times" so we knocked in succession and a spooky young thespian came to greet us.

We were advised to wait and count loudly to 30 before ascending the stairwell. We stood in a queue as vampire-like ladies came to greet us. They instructed us to wait in line.

One by one we entered the hallway and sat while the silent vampires applied ghostly makeup to us. I'm not sure what they painted on my throat, but it was covered up by a small black scarf that was offered to each of the guests. Would I be "the one!" Destined for sacrifice?!!

Then I passed through the corridor to be greeted by a lovely Elvira-like goddess of a vamp, she checked my name against the list, accepted my donation and slipped 2 casino chips into my hand. It was a James bond moment... with chic, glamour, meow, but no casino. She offered a glass of white wine and ushered me into the living room...

There were already some 20-30 guests all dressed in black, mingling & chatting. I mingled, I chatted in character (I thought I'd just entered a spoof movie set) wondering if I was " the one". Then Julius in a somewhat general of an army-looking uniform, assured us that it would be a female that would be sacrificed. I wiped the sweat from my brow, and with increased confidence, started to compliment the decor and design of the Masonic interior & ceiling.

Julius went on to tell his guest that they would be witnessing the ressurection of a Russian nobleman.

You know what they say: When one coffin closes, (on the other side of the world) another one opens!

That's when I met Ivan. We chatted, took photos & discussed bringing our electric guitars to the next session.

I met my new brother Amir (who incidentally has the same surname as me), Susana, Rafael from Germany and 2 Erasmus vampires that were feeling a bit peckish; Magdelena from Poland & Katherine.

I met Lesley Cannell, a blues singer from the UK. Susana introduced me to her sister, I knew they were sisters because they had the same red horns on their heads. Also to friends that ran a Monday night Meetup intercambio Spanish/English exchange group at The Philharmonic Pub c/Mallorca.

All in all, it was a fantastic night, wonderfully hosted, enchanting and entertaining. I tip my hat to Julius the organiser. I'm looking forward to the next event. See you there!

PLJ

(Peace, Love & Joy)

Zack aka RedEyeZack

Week 104: Previews

Hi Guys! Soundcloud is awesome... I've created a group of song previews. Have a listen. Let me know which is your favorite. I'm working on some 90 second videos for the previews, so I can upload them to YouTube. I'll be in Brighton/London over Christmas.
Keep in touch!

PLJ (Peace Love & Joy)

Zack a.k.a. RedEyeZack

Previews

Week 103: Spaceman Playlist

I'm kind of locked away working on my music, singing and songwriting, trying to make the songs better. Listening to space oddity & rocket man, to see how 21st century man could compare.

I love these songs... they take you somewhere else!

Week 102: Soundcloud & YouTube

I've finally got round to reading about music promotion. It looks like soundcloud is a place where people discover 'new' music. I use it as a sort of private library for ideas and collaborations.

I'm going to open it up to you, so you can hear some of the original Jam sessions, recordings, duets & rehearsals of your favorite songs. I also upload new songs I'm playing with that are recorded directly from my iPhone.

Secondly, the importance of YouTube has been brought to my attention. I love video! In fact I bought a video camera last year, but have never used it! What a shame:( But that's gonna change and I will be posting more video on my site:

Please subscribe to my YouTube channel. You may see some surprising stuff;)

Here's a video of a cover of One by U2. Recorded in Barcelona earlier this year

Here's a video made by my good friend & tech wizard Mario Zuccarello. He'd just got these big lights and was dying to play with them and I was part of the experiment... It felt like being in a sauna (with my clothes on!..)

Here's what we managed to do. Remember this is all DIY and we mixed in some video from the film TOMANDOTE.

I'm back in Barcelona and planning to work & collaborate on more artistic projects, which have been by far, my most satisfying & interesting experiences.

PLJ (Peace, Love & Joy)

Zack a.k.a. RedEyeZack

Week 101: VideoBlog 1

I've created my first videoBlog from home on the iPhone.

It contains an informal explanation of music related activities & getting to grips with video content.

It was my first time recording myself. Will try to improve it next time, by swithching off the TV! and maybe closing the windows for the street traffic, but then again, I quite like some atmosphere, so I might just have the background sound at a low level.

Natural light during daytime may also be better. Look out for VideoBlog 2! It should be better:)

PLJ

Zack aka RedEyeZack

P.S. I'm also told that video should be landscape for those watching on mobile devices;)

Week 100!: I've been a Busy Bee

Well its week 100 since I started learning about social media and set up my myspace and other profiles. Here's where it all started: 

It's been an interesting experience learning about html, widgets, virtual systems and host of other technologies.

This summer I spent between Barcelona & Brighton. I was in Brighton for 7 weeks teaching English and generally catching up with old friends as well as checking out the music scene. I've been working with Phillip Milburn, a vocal coach in Brighton and had some great revelations about voice and arrangements. Also Ajit Dutta has been filming some live songs on the seafront. I can't wait to see the edited final videos. I will post them as soon as I can.

I was excited about taking pictures again and hit the streets with my camera... don't try this at home kids... trying to get the perfect pic in the middle of the road... seemed like a good idea at the time!

I'm back in Barcelona and writing and re-writing songs. 

There are a lot of disciplines involved, a lot of it spent online. So many tools to use, that it was hard to know where to start. If I had to say how much time I spend a week on developing my music. It would probably be about 10-15 hours a week which is equivalent to a part-time job.

There is a window this winter of 6-8 weeks. I'm planning to work on things full-time wherever it's cheapest (Probably India) for me to live and focus on the music. 

(PLJ) Peace, Love & Joy

Zack

METRONOME ONLINE FREE - Highly accessible version of metronome

This is a cool tool. Always practice with a metronome! That way, when you get to a studio, you'll be able to play with the click!

METRONOME ONLINE FREE - Highly accessible version of metronome

Remember, music is 'Real' Magic... PLJ

RedEyeZack

Week 76: My first self-released single

Week 73: RedEyeZack - One (U2 acoustic cover version)

Week 72: My Music Mission - 100 Weeks to develop a music career

Well, the first place I started was by opening a Myspace page about 3 years ago. 'People in the industry' had told us it was the place where they looked to find artists and bands. There were great limitations and the irritation of being bombarded with banners and advertising of artists that were of no interest to me at all. There was nothing much more I could do with Myspace except upload my songs with the hope that someone would 'discover' them.

I was living in Istanbul and planning to create my fusion of Pop-Rock music with Oriental & Indian elements. It was also my first interview regarding the music project.

Around the same time I read some articles that proposed that every band would need an extra member who would be a tech person, fulfilling the role of social media and database manager. Duties would include; posting the bands blog, tweeting, keeping up the mailing list, organising newsletters & generally managing the bands web presence.

I found an interesting site: http://www.artistshousemusic.org for musicians and entrepreneurs. An inspiring professor at Berklee College of Music - George Howard, gave some compelling insights as a musician, label and artist manager. In this site, I started looking for different tools and came across www.reverbnation.com during my research. I set about building my own Reverbnation profile for RedEyeZack and at the same time I opened a LinkedIn account, a Twitter  account and created a Facebook group. I allocated about 50 dollar a month for subscriptions and went about building my mailing list. I started with 500 and slowly but surely (Organically) grew the list to 2500 and invested in a new set of tool. Now I'm looking at a new set of tools to manage 2500-5000 fans.

I released ‘The Purpose Of Existence’, my first single on iTunes and made it available at Amazon and Lastfm , Spotify and many more. It was an experiment to try to understand how digital distribution works. I didn't have resources to promote the single, but that wasn't the objective anyway. Next was to have my own  application for iPhone and Android. Only 99 dollars a year allowed me to glimpse into the future of mobile devices as a medium to experience and purchase music.

So now I'm looking at Japan and Asia in general. I'm making myself mobile too! QR codes (Quick response codes) could become standard with links to music, campaigns and links to where song are available for purchase.

Since I'm technically a solo artist (I write all music and lyrics and started performing them solo), I'm focused on  developing the songwriting. I was compelled to learn about social media by playing with the 'tools' myself. A bit of  Html, experimenting with a Wordpress blog and making simple websites without knowledge of programming.

I learned about CSV files, importing and exporting lists and started to intuitively build a web presence at  www.redeyezack.com

The platform allows you to really get creative by embedding html from other sites like YouTube & Twitter. Widgets are incredible tools that can be tracked and placed all over the web. I teach English during the summers In Brighton, UK, so I decided to put a show together. I built a Facebook group for the event. We invited all the students to the event. We created a backing group made up of the students themselves. Before the GIG at the Latest Music Bar, I arranged an interview with a local radio station - Radio Reverb and surprised the host by turning up with the whole entourage of 10 performers We took video, performed live and used the footage to create content. Last month I started a new Facebook Page for RedeyeZack

Now we are starting to put competitions and rating widgets in place to get feedback on what songs the general public prefer. On the artist website, there is an option to rate 90 second clips of 10 demo songs.

I'd love you to go and 'Rate These Songs': http://www.redeyezack.com/21st

These stats are pretty surprising and helped me to decide which songs to focus on to record in the studio. 

I ran the rating campaign as a 10 day countdown to Christmas, sending a song out in a newsletter to those who had opted in to rate the songs. I decided to set myself a target of 100 weeks to see how far I could develop my music. I marked the progress with a periodical Blog. The last entry was week 59: http://www.redeyezack.com/blog

Now I'm in week 72 and starting to get some momentum as well as motivation. The 100 weeks will be up by the end of the summer. I'm looking at festivals to get my music exposed to a wider audience and putting a band together just for this purpose. At that time I should be in a position to know whether the songs have touched people and if I have a sustainable career as an independent artist and music creator.

Join us on this journey into the Void!

PLJ (Peace, Love & Joy)

Zack Qureshi AKA RedEyeZack