Do You Know The Trick to Choosing a Cover Song?

I keep a running list of potential cover songs. If I hear it, connect to it, and feel the need to express it myself, it goes on the list.

But liking, and even connecting to, a song is not always enough. The key is that the song must be well-crafted. That may sound obvious, but it isn’t always clear what makes a song appealing. Sometimes the magic is in the production, or masterful musicianship, and it wont necessarily translate well.

The trick is the “campfire test”. If you can’t sit around a campfire and play a song without it losing it’s ‘magic’, then its not a song written well enough to cover. At the root of every classic song is a structure strong enough to hold up to the simplicity and intimacy required of a campfire song circle.

When its time to pick one (for an upcoming show) or a few (like for my album of covers), I sit down with my producer, play them on an acoustic guitar, and weed them out one by one. Songs are like people- you have to connect with them; have chemistry with them. It’s like dating. Some will work and some wont. You have to find a song you want to go home with!

When the chemistry is there while playing the bare bones of a song, something magical starts to happen. A path is revealed. The song presents itself as it is, as it never was, and as it might be. The song will tell us what direction it can go in. Following a song down a new path is both exhilarating and extremely satisfying.

Think of it as picking an outfit for a song. Bono chose one outfit for “With or Without You” but I think it also looks good in a dress.

A MONTH LONG ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

The day has come. My new EP, Some Greener Yard, will step foot into the world on Saturday, November 2nd. This album is very dear to my heart- I just couldn’t bear to set it free the traditional way. Which is why I have decided to devote every single Saturday during the month of November to it’s coming into adulthood.

Every Saturday night at 7pm, I will be at Arlene’s Grocery celebrating the release of Some Greener Yard. That’s 5 shows that you can, not only attend, but view LIVE ONLINE. For all of our fans that live outside the NYC area, each show will be streaming live all over North America. AND each show will offer completely unique experiences…

Saturday, November 2nd– The new album in it’s entirety will be performed. Along with, never-before-heard new songs, b-sides, and covers.

Saturday, November 9th– Throwback Throwdown will feature all of your old favorites from the It Resembles Fiction days. Including that old rendition of Jolene.

Saturday, November 16th– New original songs and unconventional covers will be performed along with the new album. We will, also, accept any shout outs you have for your favorites.

Saturday, November 23rd– Total Request Live will feature any cover song our fan’s hearts desire. Visit my Facebook Page and leave a comment of any song you would like to see us perform. It will be entered into the raffle that we will draw from to determine the set list.

Saturday, November 30th- The new album in it’s entirety will be delicately woven throughout performances of holiday classics. We gotta welcome the most wonderful time of the year, somehow.

ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

7pm

ARLENE’S GROCERY

95 Stanton St. 

(btw Orchard and Ludlow)

*watch the live feed HERE

INTERVIEW IN THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

It should come as no surprise that I have an enormous affection for the ocean and all of it’s inhabitants. One of the ways I show my support is by being an active member of the Wildlife Conservation Society. The WCS battles the endangerment of all wildlife, and are responsible for every zoo and aquarium in NYC and it’s surrounding boroughs. This includes the NYC Aquarium in Coney Island which was devastatingly destroyed by Hurricane Sandy last year. I don’t know if you read the press articles about the dedicated employees of the aquarium weathering the storm along side the animals all night long- but, I did. And it was deeply moving and inspiring.

The Aquarium in Coney Island is scheduled to, hopefully, re-open in the Spring on 2016. To help them reach that goal, the WCS threw an incredible (and sustainable) fundraiser at the Central Park Zoo called, Sip For The Sea. A collection of NYC’s best chefs were assigned a different bottle of wine from the Hess Collection in California. Each chef had to create a small dish that paired with the wine and the guests got to vote for which pairing the enjoyed most. All the dishes were created using sustainable foods and served with sustainable wooden plates and utensils.

So, there you have it. I got to spend an evening surrounded by animals, drinking wine, eating delicious food, and not feeling environmentally guilty about it. Does it get any better? Actually, it does.

To top it all off, I got interviewed by The Wall Street Journal AND large groups of women mistook my date for Bradley Cooper. All in all, it was a pretty fantastic night…

WALL STREET JOURNAL ARTICLE:

Sea Lions and Sustainability at Aquarium Fundraiser 

SEPARATE WAYS ON WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE RADIO

If you are new to this blog, I would like to take a moment to share with you what an amazing station Women Of Substance Radio is. WOS Radio plays the BEST female artists in all genres. They hand-pick all of their music starting with icons like Joni Mitchell, Amy Winehouse, Kelly Clarkson, and Feist while their review board selects only the best quality indie artists and songs that can stand up next to the forementioned superstars. They are wonderful people who have been very supportive of my music from day 1.

WOS Radio is famous for it’s popular ‘We’ve Got It Covered’ Series.  Starting on October 2nd, they will be airing Separate Ways as part of their Awesome 80’s segment. From October 2-13, you can hear my cover of Journey’s Separate Ways, along with amazing other 80’s covers. This is one of my favorite shows that WOS Radio puts together. So, please tune in and give them a listen…

October 2 – October 13 EVERY Wed, Sat & Sun from 3-7 PM ET (noon-4 PM PT)

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

*Also available on iTunes Radio under the Adult Contemporary Category

OPENING FOR PECULIAR GENTLEMEN ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

Remember that awesome bearded fellow that came up on stage and performed Waitin’ For Superman with me, last month? Well, his band, Peculiar Gentlemen, is throwing a party at Bowery Electric to celebrate the release of their new album: When I Fall. I will be opening the night with a 45 minute set. And, I can pretty much guarantee there will be a repeat performance of Waitin’ For Superman. But, in case you can’t wait, you can watch it here…

WAITIN’ FOR SUPERMAN

~THURSDAY, JULY 25th~

THE BOWERY ELECTRIC

327 Bowery (btw 2nd & 3rd St)

9pm

$10

BENEFIT SHOW RAISED OVER $4,000 FOR TRIPSTRONG

It is from the absolute most humble part of my soul that I say THANK YOU to every single person who attended, watched online, donated, sponsored, hosted, and performed at the Benefit for Childhood Leukemia last night. Together, we raised over $4,000 for 7 year old Trip Baker and his family to help fight his battle against this terrible disease.

Last week, our little Trip went from being low risk to high risk. It was a shock that came almost overnight. But, when I saw his precious little face lighting up during the Live Skype Session with every one in the audience last night, I knew that he will succeed in overcoming this new hurdle and beat this sickness for good. Trip got to watch the whole show from his home in Wyoming. To sum up his critique, would be “Whoa, AWESOME!”

By the end of the week, Trip will have all of your donations along with the show poster you all signed for him and the brand new iPad that was used for his Skype Session. I hope you all know what a difference you have made in the life of this little boy. The message of hope, love and support from strangers that are thousands of miles away was well received. For this, I cannot thank you enough.

Take some time to watch this stunning and heartfelt mini documentary of the evening- graciously created for us by the talented Emon Hassan…

TRIPSTRONG:

A LOOK INSIDE THE

BENEFIT FOR CHILDHOOD LEUKEMIA

The Special Edition Benefit Show T-Shirts will remain up for sale online while supplies last. The link on my Merch Page to Make A Donation for Trip will remain active until he is cured. 100% of the profits (both t-shirts and donations) go directly to Trip through the Jason’s Friends Foundation.

BENEFIT FOR CHILDHOOD LEUKEMIA

This past Christmas, my 7 year old nephew, Trip, was diagnosed with Leukemia. Trip and his family live in Wyoming and make weekly 8 hour roundtrips to the nearest Cancer Center in Salt Lake City for treatments. Trip is the sweetest and toughest little kid in the world and is fighting this physically and emotionally taxing disease with a huge heart and no complaints. Trip is an aspiring hockey player with a huge passion for Legos. Before falling ill, he began learning to ride bulls. Something that, I have heard, is quite common in Wyoming- but totally blows my mind. He has been putting up the most inspiring fight and we are all hopeful and eagerly anticipating his full recovery. Together with our good friends, Crush Of Empires and Arlene’s Grocery, we have put together an amazing Benefit Show through the Jason’s Friends Foundation to help Trip and his family in their battle. Jason’s Friends is a wonderful organization that assists families dealing with childhood cancers.

On Saturday, June 15th, we will be hosting an evening of music, raffles, and an intermission Skype session with Trip who will be watching from home via a live internet feed. We have incredible raffle prizes that have been donated from our overly supportive network, including:

-Dinner for 2 at the famous Rue 57

-2 $100 bottles of California Wine

-1 $50 bottle of Napa Wine

-Free haircut and styling from Le Salon d’Art in the east village

-4 x $25 coupons for services at Le Salon d’Art

-Free 90 minute session with Yale certified, Julie Flanders, for success coaching

-Free 90 minute consultation and acupuncture session with Jelena Nikolajevic at Mainstay Acupuncture

-$100 gift card to Amazon.com

–Alex and Ani Stand Up To Cancer Bracelet

…and over a dozen more.

Tickets to the show are $10 and 100% of every ticket, merchandise, and raffle sale will be donated to Trip and his family through the Jason’s Friends Foundation.

For the many of you that are outside the NYC area, we will be broadcasting the whole concert via a live internet feed that can be viewed ANYWHERE in North America by following the link below. Viewing the concert online is absolutely free- no subscriptions or anything. However, we do encourage a $10 donation that can be made by purchasing a “Live Streaming Ticket” from the link below.

WATCH the BENEFIT for CHILDHOOD LEUKEMIA – LIVE

PURCHASE “LIVE STREAMING TICKET”

(optional)

We hope that you can join us, in person or online, for this important event. Our hearts go out to all families and friends that are dealing with these heartbreaking diseases. By showing our support and trying to help one family, we hope to raise awareness and spread the healing energy of music.

SATURDAY, JUNE 15TH

ARLENE’S GROCERY

8-10pm

95 Stanton St.

(btw Orchard and Ludlow)

LESLIE DINICOLA 8pm

CRUSH OF EMPIRES 9pm

**Stay tuned in between sets for a Live Skype Session with Trip and the audience** 

5 STAR REVIEW ON MUSICAL DISCOVERIES

This, the great month of my birth, has proved to be a very special month, indeed. For I am the Featured Artist all month on Musical Discoveries– a phenomenal web magazine that posts thoughtful reviews, engaging interviews, stunning imagery and biographical details about contemporary, progressive and crossover music featuring female vocalists.

Russell Elliot, the Editor-in-Chief of Musical Discoveries, conducted an in depth interview and wrote wonderful reviews of each of my albums. Including a review of my soon to be released album, Some Greener Yard. I am floored to announce that each one of my albums, as well as Some Greener Yard, received a 5 Star Review!

I had a great time meeting Russell and have truly enjoyed the many articles I have read featured on Musical Discoveries. I highly recommend checking them out. And you can start with mine 🙂

FEATURED ARTIST ON MUSICAL DISCOVERIES

FULL REVIEW + INTERVIEW

OPENING FOR OCTOBER PROJECT

I am beyond excited to announce that our first show of the new year will be opening for the incomparable October Project at their exclusive Live At The Loft event! Last fall, the members of October Project asked me to create a cover of their hit Take Me As I Am. I happily jumped into the studio with Multi-Grammy Winning Producer, Ron Allaire, and had an amazing time recording my own spin on the spectacular song.

On February 23rd, I will be performing Take Me As I Am for the members of October Project and their fans LIVE for the very first time. Of course, I’m going to perform a few of my own songs, as well.

These exclusive Live At The Loft events are a wonderful evenings set in a beautiful Soho Loft and surrounded by stunning artwork. There is wine and hors d’oeuvres along with gift bags for all guests. The night will open with a little magic, followed by myself, then Julie Flanders will read from her newly released book of poetry: Joyride. Afterwards, October Project will perform and the night will conclude with an a cappella performance from October Project’s album: The Book Of Rounds. I hope you can join us!

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23rd

PRIVATE SOHO LOFT

8PM

$75

CLICK HERE TO BUY TICKETS

*Tickets are available for advance purchase ONLY. Directions to the loft will be emailed directly after purchase*

HAPPY HOLIDAYS + MUSIC VIDEO

Well, it’s that time of year again! I’ve had another amazing twelve months and there is so much that I am thankful for. Last year, around this time, I released a cover album called Draw Back Your Bow, which featured my version of U2’s hit With Or Without You. For the last 11 months, it has climbed the radio charts worldwide and peaked on the CMJ charts all over the country. To celebrate, I got together with the enormously talented Chia Messina and we made a beautiful music video for it that I would love to share with you.

WITH OR WITHOUT YOU
MUSIC VIDEO

This holiday season feels particularly special after the unexpected tragedies that have rocked our little corner of the country here in the northeast. Now, more than ever, I feel it’s important to hug your loved ones a little tighter and let them know how much they mean to you. I wish you all a wonderful holiday and an abundance of peace and love in the coming year!

All my best to each and every one of you!

TWO SONGS FEATURED IN NEW WEB SERIES: PRODIGALS

Two songs off of my upcoming album, Some Greener Yard, are being featured in the brand new Web Series, Prodigals. I am very excited about this show and about being a part of it.Prodigals is an intimate story about family dynamics. Garrett, Melissa and Billy are siblings who have gone their separate ways. Garrett is an actor trying to make it in New York City with his boyfriend. Melissa is a successful lawyer and born-again Christian. Billy is a blue-collar, small town construction worker. And the only thing they share is DNA.

My new song, Shaky Wire, is featured in the promo video for the Prodigals‘ Seed and Spark Page. While, Weight, will be featured in an upcoming episode. Please check out the Prodigals– Seed and Spark Page to learn more about the show. And, definitely, be sure to watch when it airs. I’ll keep you updated here.

SHOW CANCELLED DUE TO HURRICANE SANDY

It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that the show tonight at Rockwood Music Hall- Stage 2 has been cancelled. Sadly, the wonderful people down at Rockwood Music Hall are still without power thanks to our girl, Sandy. I apologize for the inconvenience and thank you all, from the bottom of my heart, for hanging in there with us through all of this chaos. The show will be rescheduled for a later date and tickets will be refunded. To receive your refund, contact MusicToday customer service at tix@musictoday.com or call 1-800-594-TIXX (8499). If you would like to keep your ticket, it can be used to attend one of Jaymay’s other performances at Rockwood on 11/9 or 11/16. I will not be performing with her on those nights- but she is fantastic, if you don’t already know.

When the storm hit, it destroyed everything in it’s path leaving countless New Yorkers devastated. I know that I promised to donate 100% of the proceeds from this show to the American Red Cross: Hurricane Sandy Aid. Despite the show’s cancellation, I have just  completed making a sizable donation to the  American Red Cross: Hurricane Sandy Aid and encourage everyone who can to do the same.

I wish you all a safe and wonderful weekend. Let’s remember to appreciate and take care of eachother!

I PUT A SPELL ON YOU & CUPID ON WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE RADIO

If you are new to this blog, I would like to take a moment to share with you what an amazing station Women Of Substance Radio is. WOS Radio plays the BEST female artists in all genres. They hand-pick all of their music starting with icons like Joni Mitchell, Amy Winehouse, Kelly Clarkson, and Feist while their review board selects only the best quality indie artists and songs that can stand up next to the forementioned superstars. They are wonderful people who have been very supportive of my music from day 1.

WOS Radio is famous for it’s popular ‘We’ve Got It Covered’ Series – 50’s & 60’s Gold. Last month they aired a Tribute to the 80’s that included my covers of With Or Without You and Separate Ways. And this month, they have selected two of my covers again. Starting TOMORROW, I Put A Spell On You and Cupid will be airing for the next two weeks. So, please tune in and give them a listen…

October 31 – November 11 EVERY Wed, Sat & Sun from 3-7 PM ET (noon-4 PM PT)

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

*Also available on iTunes Radio under the Adult Contemporary Category

FEATURED ARTIST ON THE WRITE TEACHER

The Write Teacher is a site committed to bringing their followers the latest and greatest in books, television, film, theatre, music & education. It is a place to look at the world through an artistic lens, and to create the framework for positive and intelligent conversation for educators and those civilians outside of the classroom.

Recently, I had the honor of being interviewed by The Write Teacher and was selected to be their Artist Of The Month. You can check out the full story here:

INTERVIEW ON THE WRITE TEACHER

WITH OR WITHOUT YOU & SEPARATE WAYS ON WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE RADIO

Women Of Substance Radio plays the BEST female artists in all genres. They hand-pick all of their music starting with icons like Joni Mitchell, Amy Winehouse, Kelly Clarkson, and Feist while their review board selects only the best quality indie artists and songs that can stand up next to the forementioned superstars.

Every year around this time, WOS Radio airs it’s popular ‘We’ve Got It Covered’ Series- Tribute to the 80’s; and they have selected- not one- but, TWO of my covers from Draw Back Your Bow. Starting TOMORROW, With Or Without You and Separate Ways will be airing for the next two weeks. So, please tune in and give them a listen…

September 19 – September 30 EVERY Wed, Sat & Sun from 3-7 PM ET (noon-4 PM PT)

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN

*Also available on iTunes Radio under the Adult Contemporary Category

October Project: Covered

The renowned pop/rock band, October Project, has asked me to cover one of their incredible songs from their critically acclaimed self-titled album. Over the years, October Project has gained worldwide commercial success with their two albums, October Project and Falling Further In. In 2006, a Tribute Album called October Project: Covered was released featuring 16 independent artists covering what is considered October Project’s greatest hits. I was recently contacted by members of October Project and asked to create my own cover of the bands song Take Me As I Am to be released as a new Bonus Track on Covered.

I will update everyone on when the release will be with links to listening and/or purchasing as soon as I know. In the meantime, I have been in the studio with Grammy Winning Producer, Ron Allaire (Keith Richards, Madonna, David Bowie) at the famous Chung King Studios in NYC having a ball creating my own personal spin on this absolutely beautiful song. I can’t wait to share it with you!

Back in LA – Back in the Studio

It’s been a weird winter this year for NYC. Constantly bouncing between Arctic Freeze and Spring got the best of me. February is usually a month where I like to lock myself indoors and write music while watching the beautiful white snowflakes fall outside my window; blissfully ignorant of the brown and grey sludge that they instantly turn into once they meet the sloshy Manhattan streets below. But, this year just isn’t cutting it. So, I traded in my boots for some sandals- my Metrocard for a beach cruiser- my mittens for a fedora (NOT). My point is, I headed back out to LA. My mission, as promised, is to record a little sister for It Resembles Fiction and Draw Back Your Bow.

I’ve reunited with the epically genius, Julian Coryell (Aimee Mann, Leonard Cohen, Jewel), who produced Draw Back Your Bow; and our brilliant Engineer, Erich Gobel. It feels great to be back in the studio again AND back to working on original songs. Working with two such extraordinarily talented people that are so dedicated to this project has been a huge blessing. The music is sounding phenomenal and, as much fun as I am having, I can’t wait to get back to New York with the finished product and share it with all of you. Just in time for spring!

‘Cupid’ on Women Of Substance Radio all month

The wonderful people at Women Of Substance Radio have selected  my cover of ‘Cupid‘ to be a part of their annual Valentine’s Day Show all month long. Now, I know what you’re thinking. But, this is not your typical sappy hour of cheesy love songs. Every year, Women Of Substance Radio gets over 200 submissions from incredible female artists all over the country. They pick and choose the 65 perfect songs with unique storylines to craft this awesome special. So, poor a glass of wine and enjoy every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday for the month of February from 3-7pm EST. And if all you’re really interested in is hearing ‘Cupid‘, then tune in just shy of an hour through the program. It’s #18 🙂 Enjoy!

VALENTINE’S DAY SHOW ON WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE RADIO

HAPPY NEW YEAR VIDEO

It’s been an incredible year. Thanks all of our wonderful fans, our music has reached the ears of hundreds of thousands of people all over the world.We hit the radio waves with a vengeance all throughout the US, Canada, and Germany (go figure). We played sold out shows and opened for renowned artists. We journeyed out to LA to record with a music legend and released a beautiful new album of our favorite cover songs: Draw Back Your Bow.

This is when I like to take a look back at the past 12 months, reflect on all the things that brought me to this point and give my thanks and appreciation. And since the people that got me here are YOU, I decided to give my thanks in the form of a fun little video created by our video guru, Emon Hassan (The Reel Scene), recapping the year. I hope you enjoy…

CUPID MONTAGE 2011

I wish you and your loved ones peace and joy in the coming year!

Holiday Party + Album Release

It’s that time of year when we start rushing out to find that perfect gift, standing in lines to get that perfect turkey, and staying up all night writing those perfect holiday cards to all those people we never get to see. But, in reality, all you really want to do is toss back a gallon of egg nog at some unbearably hip Holiday Party, dance til your feet bleed, and get so blitzed you don’t care that you’re wearing those stupid light up antlers. And with that in mind, I bring you…

THE LESLIE DINICOLA HOLIDAY SHOW AND ALBUM RELEASE
Friday, December 16th
ARLENE’S GROCERY
11pm

That’s right, I am back from LA with a shiny new album and another one on it’s way. Recording at West Triad Studios with Julian Coryell (Aimee Mann, Leonard Cohen, Jewel) was an amazing experience. We created a 5 track album of covers called Draw Back Your Bow and promptly handed it over to be expertly mastered by Joe Gastwirt (Jimi Hendrix, The Grateful Dead, Joni Mitchell and many many more). We are going to be celebrating it’s release on December 16th and we have all our favorite special guests making appearences. Such as…

Cupcakes and Cookies provided by Spork Or Foon?
Opening performances provided by Laura and the Riot and Crush Of Empires

New Album in LA

The time has come to record a new album. The only questions are: What kind of album? And with whom? After careful consideration, I have decided that before I flush out a new original EP, it would be really fun to record an album of cover songs. I have a rare opportunity to work with an incredible producer out in L.A. named Julian Coryell. This man has worked with some of the greatest musicians alive: Aimee Mann, Leonard Cohen, and Jewel to name a few. He is an absolute genius and I am very excited to work with him on such a fun project. Oh yeah… Did I mention that I’m also ridiculously nervous?

And so, I am off tonight heading for the left coast. I really can’t wait to see what happens. I love you with all my heart, NYC. But, after a hurricane, confirmed terrorist sightings, and riots building downtown… I think it’s time for a little break. I need to see the ocean and touch base with the thing I love more than anything else in the world: making music.

I’ll be gone for 2 1/2 weeks. And when I return, I’m inviting you all to a Happy Hour Gathering at PIANO’S on October 6th, 7pm. The good people at PIANO’S will be offering us 1/2 price food and drinks and I’ll share with you whatever it is I’m about to create out in L.A. It’s a mystery… so stay tuned!

‘Lay Me Down’ is #3 on AR’s Top 75

‘Lay Me Down‘ has jumped 28 spots on Acoustic Roundtable’s Top 75 Chart this past week. We premiered at #31 and then took a massive leap to NUMBER 3! Songs move up and down the chart based on how many times it gets played all the way through. So, get on over to Acoustic Roundtable and listen to ‘Lay Me Down‘ as many times as your heart desires. Let’s see if we can break into that #1 spot.

Guest Spot on Blazin Ry’s Hot Topic Panel

This afternoon I’ll be a guest on BlazinRy Radio’s Hot Topic Panel. Tune in to hear my inquisitive thoughts on Alex Trebek’s Burglary Chase, the Debt Ceiling, and (most importantly) the Return of Teen Nick. Follow the link below at 2pm EST and then join me later on tonight at Rockwood Music Hall for intimate acoustic set.

HOT TOPIC PANEL ON BLAZINRY RADIO

OPENING FOR THE RENOWNED OCTOBER PROJECT

When I was in middle school, there was this hauntingly beautiful music video (back when MTV played music videos) that I always enjoyed watching and listening to. The song was called “Bury My Lovely” and the band was called October Project. Fast forward a few years and that incredible band is still performing, currently recording a new album, and in need of an opener for their exclusive Live at the Loft performance on July 22nd. Enter…MOI!!!

That’s right! I will be opening the night for the renowned October Project at a beautiful SoHo Loft/Art Gallery in front of an, already, sold out audience. These are incredible people and extraordinary musicians. And I am honored to be a part of such a wonderful evening. We’ll be perfoming an acoustic set before October Project comes out. And after their set, they have invited me to join them and sing one of their hits, ‘Wall Of Silence‘.

I am sorry that the evening is already sold out and, unfortuately, I won’t be able to share it with you. But, I CAN share with you a recording of me singing one of October Project‘s biggest hits, ‘Return To Me‘ with Emil Adler (one fo the band’s songwriters and keyboard player). I hope you enjoy…

RETURN TO ME

SPRINGTIME AT ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL

It’s been a long and frigid winter, my friends. In an attempt to survive the never ending snow storms that seem to bring this great city of ours to it’s knees, I locked myself indoors with an espresso maker and a pencil. The result was A LOT of new songs… and a small stomach ulcer. Now that Spring is hestantly waddling up our doorstep, I think it’s time to crack open the windows and start rejoining the world.

And so, I’ve decided to host a few free intimate acoustic afternoons at Rockwood Music Hall where we can all gather, have a couple bloody mary’s, and I can try out these new tunes to see how you like them. Some afternoons will be catered with cocktail inspired cupcakes by our good friend Teanna DiMicco at Spork Or Foon?. And, if you haven’t been lucky enough to experience the deliciousness she creates, I have only 4 words for you: Irish Car Bomb Cupcakes.

The first of these lovely afternoons will take place on:

Saturday, April 30th
ROCKWOOD MUSIC HALL
4pm
196 Allen St. (btw E. Houston & Stanton)
FREE

I hope the sun is bright and your faces are shining!

Interview on Acoustic Roundtable

Tonight catch another Live Interview with me on Acoustic Roundtable from 8-10pm EST. They are airing a special episode dedicated to the wonderful people at Cyber PR. I’ll be joining fellow Cyber PR artist Deborah Crooks and Cyber PR’s Director of New Media, Jason Loomis. Open a bottle of wine, this will be a fun night! Just follow the link below…

INTERVIEW ON ACOUSTIC ROUNDTABLE

As usual, don’t worry about missing the show. The interview will be archived and you can still listen after you walk the dog and finish making dinner.

Interview on Roman Midnight Music

Tonight, catch a Live One Hour Interview with me on Roman Midnight Music at 11pm EST. Aaron Joy hosts this entertaining and always interesting weekly show that interviews mainstream and independent artists. As a respected Music Critic, Author and Biographer of Megadeath’s Al Pitrelli- Aaron has been sited as the Chris Matthews of Music News and I have to say… that is definitely the best description I can possible think of. Tune in for what is sure to be an unofrgettable hour…

INTERVIEW ON ROMAN MIDNIGHT MUSIC

If you are unable to catch the show live- do not fear. The link will still take you to the archived recording.

Featured Artist on Such Cool Stuff

Today’s Featured Artist on Such Cool Stuff is none other than Yours Truly! Check out this awesome site that celebrates Indie Artists and read all about my REAL inspiration for writing music… and my secret obsession with Milli Vanilli. Just follow the link below.

 FEATURED ARTIST ON SUCH COOL STUFF

LIVE @ MERCURY LOUNGE

Last Spring I was asked to record back up vocals on an album for a very talented artist, Evan Russell Saffer (former frontman of Fixer). The album is now complete and Evan will be hosting a HUGE Record Release Party for it at Mercury Lounge on February 25th. And guess who’s gonna be opening for him… YOURS TRULY!!!

I couldn’t be happier about supporting Evan and playing, what is personally, one of my favorite venues in NYC.Tickets are going fast. So, I honestly do recommend purchasing them in advance through TicketMaster, as this show will likely sell out. Just follow the link below. Hope everyone can make it out!

BUY TICKETS

MERCURY LOUNGE
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 25th
217 E. Houston (btw Essex & Ludlow)
LESLIE DINICOLA 10:30pm
EVAN RUSSEL SAFFER 11:30pm

THE YEAR IN REVIEW + VIDEO

It’s that time of year when we get a little nostalgic and start looking back at the past 12 months and wondering, “Where did the time go?” I remember ringing in 2010 and making a mental list of all the things I wanted to accomplish. Many of the things on that list actually did come true. And, fortunately for us, some things did not. i.e. Competing in the 4th of July No Hands Allowed Pie Eating Contest. That would have just been an ugly sight to see. But, much to my delight, things happened this year that I could have never planned for.

Thanks to my incredible fans and support teams, our music reached over 100,000 ears across the country and abroad. We travelled to the south, performed in stadiums, arenas, rooftops in Times Square, and in some of Manhattan’s most exclusive and intimate clubs.

In celebration of such an exciting year, our video guru Emon Hassan of The Reel Scene has put together a beautiful montage video for us set to our upcoming single, ‘Can’t Change It Now‘. I hope you enjoy…

VIDEO: CAN’T CHANGE IT NOW

Happy New Year to everyone! I wish all of your families and loved ones peace and love in the coming year.

INTERVIEW ON NESHIBA ESpiritE RADIO

Tune in tomorrow night to hear a 2 hour long Interview with me on Neshiba of ESpiritE Radio. It’s a wonderful show where guest artists get to share their inspirations while listening through their full albums. I know, I know- sounds like a snoozefest. But, I promise I’ll keep it interesting 😉 Tune in from 6-8pm EST tomorrow December 8th. Just follow the link below:

INTERVIEW ON NESHIBA ESPIRITE RADIO

If you miss the show, don’t worry. It will be archived and the link will still take you to it at your listening pleasure!

INTERVIEW + ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE ON THE REEL SCENE

A few weeks ago, I met up with Emon Hassan of Guitarkadia.com and filmed an interview session for his site: The Reel Scene. Emon is a brilliant filmmaker and photographer. It was a joy inviting him into our rehearsal space and eccentric little world for an evening. After the interview he filmed us performing a rare acoustic version of ‘Now That You’re Mine.’ He took everything he captured and created a BEAUTIFUL Portrait Video that I would LOVE all of you to check out:

LESLIE DINICOLA: A PORTRAIT

P.S.Donnie Wahlberg makes a special little cameo for those with a sharp eye!

NATIONAL ANTHEM AT RED BULL ARENA

Another day another Anthem- it seems word spreads fast. The morning after my performance at Madison Square Garden, I received a call from the New York Red Bulls asking me to sing for them at their game on October 9th. Now, I have to be completely honest here- after the gentlemen on the line told me who he was, I immediately had to put him on hold and ask the nearest person next to me who the New York Red Bulls were. I’m sorry! I’m a good Ole American Football and Baseball kinda girl. I had no idea that New York had a Professional Soccer Team. Nor did I know anything about soccer. Enter: Ivan- my dear sweet Bulgarian friend who, for the next 5 days taught me everything I need to know about this belovedly historic European past time.

For anyone who is as unfamiliar with the Red Bulls as I was, you must know that Red Bull Arena is absolutely stunning. And everyone that works there really pushes Red Bull Cocktails. Seriously, they have 30 different combinations for your drinking pleasure. Needless to say, I won’t be going to sleep for another 48 hours. And, between you and me, the Red Bull’s tied Real Salt Lake 0-0; But, they were the home team, so I think that counts as win.

 Check out the video…

NATIONAL ANTHEM @ RED BULL ARENA

NATIONAL ANTHEM AT MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

It appears that my Anthem days did not end at Citi Field! I received an email from the New York Rangers a few weeks ago asking me to perform the Nation Anthem at their game on Sepetember 29th. Being the true blue Hockey lover that I am (I spent a lot of time in Canada growing up), I couldn’t find it in my heart to turn them down. So, last night I headed over to the legendary Madison Square Garden. I would be lying if I didn’t say that I was completely awe-struck, humbled, honored, and terrified all at the same time. But, the performance was a success, I managed not to fall flat on my @$$ on the ice, and the Rangers beat the Red Wings 5-1. For the record, I want to point out that, so far, every team that has invited me to sing the Anthem for them has been treated to a victory. I’m just saying…

 Here is the video from last night…

NATIONAL ANTHEM @ MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

And if you missed out on the videos of the past two NationaL Anthem performances, you can check them out here:

NATIONAL ANTHEM @ CITI FIELD
NATIONAL ANTHEM @ TURNER FIELD (Atlanta, GA)

‘BACK TO ME’ FEATURED ON BALCONY TV

Last month, I was invited to perform an acoustic version of ‘Back To Me‘ on an episode of BalconyTV.com. BalconyTV is a leading daily online viral music show that features bands, musicians and other variety acts on balconies around the world. Founded in Dublin, and operating in a handful of cities worldwide, it won the Best Music Website at the Irish Digital Media Awards 2007, and was nominated for the Best Viral Content at the prestigious International Webby Awards 2008.

And so, on a sweltering summer’s day, Greg and I packed up the guitar and a couple extra sticks of deodorent and headed up to a rooftop in Times Square. Skyelab Music Group had set up a phenomenal scene with fantastic artists. Skyelab has been producing BalconyTV in NYC brilliantly all summer and we were honored when they asked us to take part!

Check it out:
BACK TO ME on BALCONY TV

NATIONAL ANTHEM TOUR 2010

I’ll be heading down to the southland on June 30th to kick-off my NATIONAL ANTHEM TOUR 2010! As many of you know, I am a true blue baseball fan (yes, we are a dying breed). And so, it is a dream come true to have been asked to sing the National Anthem at TWO Major League Baseball Games this summer…

Atlanta Brave’s vs. Washington National’s June 30th @ 7:10pm
and
New York Met’s vs. Atlanta Brave’s July 10th @ 4:10pm EST

We’ll be taking advantage of the southern exposure by having an After Party/Show at one of Atlanta’s Classic Venues:

Red Light Cafe

June 30th (Late Show After the Game)

$7

553 Amsterdam Ave Atlanta, GA

Then, we will be heading back to NYC to bookend it with the second Anthem performance at the beautiful Citi Field. A FREE celebratory NYC show will be held after the game at:

The Living Room

10:30pm

Saturday, July 10th

154 Ludlow St (btw Stanton & Rivington)

NY, NY 10002

To celebrate the end of a truly wonderful adventure, it will be fan appreciation night at the After Game Show in NYC! Free gifts for anyone who shows a ticket stub from the game at the Merch Table!

**discount tickets to both games can be found by clicking HERE

SOLD OUT SHOW AT ARLENE’S GROCERY

March 4th, 2010 was a great night to share with friends, family, fellow musicians, and (most importantly) all of our fans! The CD Release Show for It Resembles Fiction was a HUGE success.

Joe Thompson lit up the stage with heart-stopping ballads. Then Peculiar Gentlemen stepped in to get everyone out on the dance floor in style. By the time we took the stage, Arlene’s Grocery was SOLD OUT and people were being turned away at the door! I even bumped into a few people (who will remain nameless) who snuck in backstage to catch the show. I’ve never had more fun performing on stage in my life!

After we played, 13th Floor wrapped up the evening with a rare acoustic set that blew everyone’s minds (including my own). It was a night that will not be forgotten. I hope everyone who made it out- and made it in- had as much fun as we did.
Thanks to all of you who helped make the CD Release Show such a fantastic evening!

ALBUM RELEASE PARTY

After months of work, the arrival of my debut EP, It Resembles Fiction, has finally arrived! Join me and my  favorite NYC bands as we celebrate:

Thursday, March 4th

Arlene’s Grocery 95 Stanton St.

(btw Orchard & Ludlow)

8pm

$10

*Special Surprises

*Raffles for Free CDs, T-Shirts, Totes, and more

*Music + Booze = Fun

8:00 Joe Thompson

9:00 Peculiar Gentlemen

LESLIE DINICOLA 10pm

11:00 13th Floor (exclusive acoustic set)

If you are out of town (or a shut-in) and are unable to attend, DO NOT FEAR! You can watch the entire evening being Broadcast LIVE Online by clicking here: LIVE STREAM

FEATURED SPOT IN MUSIC VIDEO FOR ‘TAPE MACHINE’

I spent a weekend in Upstate NY with my very dear friends, Peculiar Gentlemen, filming the long awaited Music Video for their hit song, ‘Tape Machine‘! Another day was spent in Red Hook, Brooklyn at Jalopy, filming the final scenes. Writer/Director Dan DeGloria and Director of Photography Rich Cohen did the work of a crew of 30. Setting up lights, sets, and scenes flawlessly. The cherry on top was a Tape Machine built and designed by Gerard Sambets. It was amazing!

What’s it about, you ask? Well, Peculiar Gentlemen’s frontmen, Sweet Willy and EBeats, are door-to-door salesmen in the 1950’s. And what are they selling? Tape Machines. They work hard but can’t seem to catch a break, no one wants to buy their amazing invention. Deep in their despair, they run into a few girls: the sonorous PG3’s (featuring Leslie DiNicola) at an ice cream shop, and their luck begins to change…

TAPE MACHINE MUSIC VIDEO

‘Can’t Change It Now’ hits the Big Screen

Wolf In The Grave Productions, in association with Scatter Brothers Productions, have chosen to use my song, ‘Can’t Change It Now‘ in their new upcoming film entitled, ‘Pocket Full Of Gold‘! I’m very excited to be a part of the film, which is an absolutely beautiful work of art and stars Andrew Springer from One Tree Hill. ‘Pocket Full Of Gold‘ has already secured itself as Official Selection to the 2009 Breckenridge Festival of Film, Indie Gathering Film Festival, and Central Florida Film Festival while sweeping up awards like the Bronze Medal in the Suspense/Thriller Category at the Indie Gathering Film Festival and Certificate of Cinematic Excellence from the 51st Annual Rochester Film Festival. Check it out:

POCKET FULL OF GOLD