Rachel Platten

Artist Information

Biography

Rachel Platten, recently named the Deli Magazine's Artist of the Month, is about to embark on a 55 day spring '11 tour sponsored by Ecosystem Life to promote her upcoming record, Be Here (coming out spring 2011 on Rockridge/Dist by ADA Warner), and couldn't be happier. "I absolutely love the road" says the young New York City based musician who blends catchy piano hooks with a "light that seems to radiate"(NYC ARTISTS SCENE) from her unmistakably soulful, and uplifting voice.

Though her lyrics explore serious themes, they are able to pull off the trick that all great pop music embodies: They do heavy philosophical lifting with a lightness that boosts the spirit. This is elegantly crafted, deeply melodic, intelligent songwriting that resounds with echoes of the Beatles and Carole King, Alanis Morissette and Regina Spektor. Her music is infectious, raw, and powerful and she's already got everyone from the Boston Globe to the New York Post singing her praises. Selling out clubs along her rigorous tour schedule, Rachel infuses a unique love and passion into each and every one of her performances.

Growing up in Boston, Rachel never thought she was going to be an artist. Even though she was classically trained on the piano since the age of 5, the bliss of playing and singing didn't kick in until college while she was studying abroad in Trinidad. She was interning for a local record label when some of her co-workers encouraged her to start writing songs of her own. Taking their advice, she ended up becoming a background singer in a Soca band, with her first performance being in front of 100,000+ fans at Trinidad's annual Soca Monarch Finals. She was instantly hooked, and felt that she'd found her true calling in songwriting and performing.

Naming influences such as Toots & The Maytals (who she was asked to tour with in 2006), Elton John, Carole King, Billy Joel, Lauryn Hill, The Beach Boys, she attempts to do what she feels these artists do so beautifully - infuse often weighty, serious subject matter with light and melodic intelligence that lifts you up and is instantly catchy. She uses this as her guide in what she aspires to do with her music: bring light and love to the world, completely enrapture her concert goers in a moment, and to alleviate their worries if only for the night and to just spread the love that she so clearly exudes.


Some Recent Press:

“Singer-songwriter [Rachel Platten] craftly blends sweet delicateness with pluck.” NY Post

"From time to time, I am fortunate to see a live show that truly captivates me. Rachel Platten played to a packed house at Le Poisson Rouge, in New York’s Greenwich Village. A native of Boston, she first stunned New York audiences with some impromptu beat-boxing and singing alongside Toots, during a Toots and the Maytals concert at Irving Plaza...(she was an audience member, and yes, it was unplanned and cool, as I was there to bear witness)." TheIceCreamMan.com

"Rachel is no less than a force to be reckoned with when put on stage (barefoot or not) behind her keys. Her gorgeous smile is as big as her voice, and her joy and spirit seemed to fly out over the crowd at the Blender, leaving everyone asking, “Who is this girl?.... She is expansive on stage…there is no other way to put it. Her sound — the entire band’s sound — was enormous — not intimidated by the challenge of filling up a huge theatre but rather encouraged by it." - BUZZINE

"Songs saturated with happiness and hope and a voice that resonates deep into your core ensure this singer-songwriter is destined for an explosive career. In the current state of our country and the difficult times people are enduring, Rachel’s music provides the ultimate remedy to cure the darkest moments: an infectious smile, a giving heart, a radiant soul, and a whole lot of love." NYC ARTIST SCENE BLOG

“She is breathtaking & brilliant.” Boston Globe

"Rachel Platten crafts songs with beautiful, memorable melodies and intelligent, moving lyrics. Then she delivers them with her compelling and powerful voice. She is an accomplished guitarist and pianist with enough stage presence to make you forget that anyone else is in the room. [She] is one of those remarkable and all-too-rare artists who remind me why I love my work." Bob Leone, Songwriters Hall of Fame.

"...be sure to remember [Rachel Platten]'s name because she stole the show and was the highlight of the night. Her voice is just as big as her personality. Her musicality and versatility as a performer make her one to watch. She was on fire..." STARPOLISH

"...a modern-day Jackson 5 vibe that's uplifting, upbeat, fun, and happy....channeling influences like The Beatles and Motown, Rachel exudes energy, light, and soul in every performance. Due to its multifarious appeal, her music fashions a scene of it's own; one that charms the intimate acoustic environment and captures eclectic audiences at larger venues like the Highline Ballroom. Independently selling over 5,000 copies of her first record made four years ago, Rachel is currently focused on the follow up album, as well as giving back to the community who have so graciously shown support." NYCARTISTSSCENE

Instrumentation

Craig Meyer - Drums & Percussion

Discography

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

•Deli Magazine's November 2010 Artist of the Month
•Headlining 55 day winter/spring tour 2011
•Summer/Fall Tours with Nick Howard / Julian Velard / Ziggy Marley / Caleb Hawley
•Music spots on Dixie Paper Plates, Downy, Jeep and Barbie commercials / MTV Shows The City, Made
•Rachel will perform at the Live at the Apple Store Series in 2011 in conjunction with PING promotion
•Rachel's song "1,000 Ships" to be used in Promo Video Ecosystem Launch of new Notebook
•Rachel's song "Nothing Ever Happens to be used in Rachel Roy's fall fashion campaign
•Selected by Songwriter Hall of Fame as a Featured writer in the New Writers Showcase alongside Lady Gaga
•Performed at NMF, NXNE, CMJ, Summerfest Festivals
•Rachel's song ‘Seven Weeks’ was featured in the major motion picture The Good Guy (2009),
starring Alexis Bledel of Gilmore Girls
•Rachel has performed the National Anthem twice at Fenway Park and Gillette Stadium

Official Website

http://rachelplatten.com

Links

• Facebook
• Last.fm
• Twitter
• MySpace
• Facebook

Audio

• 1,000 Ships
  Listen  
• Don't Care What Time it is
  Listen  
• Nothing Ever Happens
  Listen  
• 53 steps
  Listen  
• Overwhelmed (Josh Version)
  Listen  
• Take These Things Away
  Listen  
• You Don't Have to Go
  Listen  
• All I Seem To Do
  Listen  
• Little Light
  Listen  

Lyrics

• Take These Things Away
• Nothing Ever Happens

Video

You Don't Have to Go

Photo Gallery

Press

• Music Unites Invites Rachel P To Join Women's Empowerment [+ Show ]
  

  Music Unites welcomes Rachel Platten to be the newest member of their women's empowerment initiative...Music Unites welcomes Rachel Platten to be the newest member of their women's empowerment initiative with the presentation of an award at her Highline Ballroom opening for Carbon Leaf on April 15.
  
  The Music Unites Woman's Empowerment movement was created to promote awareness about the importance of leadership and self-esteem in young woman around the world through emerging and established artists.
  
  "We look for women who are great role-models in society and see the importance in giving back to the community," says Michelle Edgar, founder and executive director of Music Unites.
  "Rachel is a vivacious go-getter whose independent music career has surpassed that of many major artists. She regularly inspires women with her upbeat songs and positive outlook on life and we're excited to have her on board."
  
  Although one might think of Rachel as an emerging artist, she's already established in the New York scene since she's garnered a loyal following at venues like Highline Ballroom, Le Poisson Rouge and Mercury Lounge.
  
  There are some artists you meet and their personality is so utterly incongruous to their music you question and wonder how the tracks playing on your iPod ever came from them. Others are the exact opposite and are walking versions of their songs. New York-based singer and songwriter Platten, who plays happy, quirky pop music that manages to be light but smart and grounded, is the latter type.
  
  She finds inspiration in the Beatles, Queen, Stevie Wonder and what she considers "confessional singer-songwriter stuff." "I've worked hard to fuse these two elements in my writing - and I believe that pop music can be intelligent, and well written, but also upbeat and full of joy and love," she says.
  
  She recently traveled to London, Germany, and Sweden to work with songwriters who have written for the likes Craig David and Duffy. She writes differently for different songs, but the melody usually comes first, followed by lyrics. "Lyrics are very important to me. I like speaking to women and saying what I mean. I like to be supportive and a role model. I don't like sappy ballads though. I like structure, cool, hip songs and fun hooky music."
  
  At the moment, Rachel is taking cues from other female artists, naming Marina and the Diamonds, Lilly Allen, Kate Bush, Alexa Wilding and Call me Kat as musicians she is currently listening to. "I get really excited about other female acts. I feel inspired when I see another women succeeding in music because it makes me realize that if they can do it, I can do it."
  
  When she tours, it is mostly solo but in town, she has a six piece band including a trombone, cellist and more keyboards than you can count on stage. She likes playing live and says, "I just want to bring love. I want everyone to feel like they just got a giant boost of adrenaline and oxygen and Prozac after a show, and just feel good."
  
  Following New York, Platten will go on an East Coast run in May and the Chicago Midwest area in June with Nick Howard. It will only be a matter of time before this young artist fulfills her dream stage at the Glastonbury Festival.
  
  By Mara Siegler

• New Music by An Up-and-coming Star [+ Show ]
  

  "Platten writes lively, piano-based songs with thought-provoking lyrics, pleasant melodies and cat...
  "Platten writes lively, piano-based songs with thought-provoking lyrics, pleasant melodies and catchy hooks....[and she] has steadily guided her musical career to a point where take-off is imminent. "
  Denny Dyroff - The Daily Local (Philadelphia)

• MPFREE - NYPOST
  

  "Rachel Platten craftly blends sweet delicateness with pluck..."

• Star Watch [+ Show ]
  

  "Star watch here. First thing she’s very cute and has a great energy about her which translates to h..."Star watch here. First thing she’s very cute and has a great energy about her which translates to her music. Her voice is very nice and has just the right Alternative/Soulful sound to have a good following. Think a toned down Joss Stone that’s been eating rainbows all day. Very good lyrics in her songs as well. “You don’t have to go” is the best one since it shows spunk/good lyrics/sexiness/and genuine personality."

• Deli Magazine's November Artist of the Month 2010 [+ Show ]
  

  "The Deli’s November Artist of the Month, Rachel Platten, may have won listeners over with her cat...
  "The Deli’s November Artist of the Month, Rachel Platten, may have won listeners over with her catchy hooks and addictive smile, but the sweetheart songstress is one of the hardest working artists to grace the New York songwriters scene. Whether booking tours, singing gospel, promoting clothing and journal lines, or performing at venues all over the country, Rachel is quickly climbing the ranks to rock star status. "
  The Deli Magazine

• Profile: Rachel P, Chick with Piano [+ Show ]
  

  "Rachel Platten held the first slot of the first Gotcha Music Series in NYC back in May. She’s als...
  "Rachel Platten held the first slot of the first Gotcha Music Series in NYC back in May. She’s also got the first place position on our recent podcast of select artists from the Gotcha Music Series. That’s a lot of firsts… but we’re certain that there are bigger milestones ahead for this talented songstress. By the way, her smile is also this big when she plays."
  Chicks With Guitars
  

• Rachel P - Hit of the Day
  

  http://www.crazedhits.com/index.php?s=Rachel+P

• Rachel P at Le Poisson Rouge with Ian Axel [+ Show ]
  

  From time to time, I am fortunate to see a live show that truly captivates me. Rachel Platten played...From time to time, I am fortunate to see a live show that truly captivates me. Rachel Platten played to a packed house at Le Poisson Rouge, in New York’s Greenwich Village. A native of Boston, she’s been a regular in the New York scene since she first stunned audiences with some impromptu beat-boxing and singing alongside Toots, during a Toots and the Maytals concert (she was an audience member, and yes, it was unplanned and cool, as I was there to bear witness). If I had to describe Rachel in one word, I would use “energetic.” What made this evening incredibly special was the intimacy of the venue, and the pairing of Rachel Platten with opening act Ian Axel; two artists who love to play music and entertain crowds.
  
  As the headliner, Rachel took to the stage in her bubbly fashion and started off on a baby grand piano, later moving to her Yamaha electric. That night, she played both solo and with her backing band, who complimented her music so well. Although the piano is Rachel’s main instrument, she also plays the guitar, and sometimes I can’t decide which I like better.
  
  In addition to energetic, I would also say that Rachel is charismatic, and has a joie de vivre that captivates any audience. It really is amazing when you see an artist who truly loves to perform. I was lucky enough to sit down with Rachel after the show, and she described how she felt “her gift to the world is to give energy back to the audience.” You get this sense when she plays her classic songs such as “Honeybees” and a “Million Little Reasons” with a big smile on her face. She gets her inspiration from the likes of The Beatles, Jeff Buckley, and Motown, but adds a real unique and diverse style to the well-crafted songs she writes. Her lyrics are witty, quirky, and fun, and just to drive the point home, she was selected by the Songwriter Hall of Fame as a featured writer.
  
  Rachel also spends a lot of time on the road touring numerous towns. She’s played over 600 shows across the world, alongside some of the biggest names out there: Rusted Root, Sheryl Crow, and the Strokes. I, for one, am excited for her upcoming performance during the CMJ Music Marathon. Hearing her play will definitely put a smile on your face and brighten up your day. She’s cute, she’s incredibly talented, and if you’re lucky, she might even beat-box for you. I don’t know if it was fate that brought these two musicians on stage for one night, but the energy kept me wanting more even after the last songs was played. Go see both Ian Axel and Rachel Platten play intimate venues before they’re so big that you can’t get tickets.

• Rachel P. Headlines Highline Ballroom [+ Show ]
  

  Remember that bare-footed goddess that wooed audiences at the Blender Theatre back in November? She...Remember that bare-footed goddess that wooed audiences at the Blender Theatre back in November? She’s back with a ready-to-release EP, a passport full of musical travels overseas, and a show this Thursday at the Highline Ballroom in NYC.
  
  Rachel was on the brink of major breakthroughs for her music when I spoke to her in November. Now, five months later, she is gearing up to play a full-band, new music show alongside Carbon Leaf and Mikel Paris of O.A.R
  
  Rachel’s ever-growing resume already includes shared stage and tour time with a variety of artists including The Strokes, Lady Gaga, Marc Ford and Rachel Yamagata…just to name a few. Rachel is freshly back in the U.S after a European tour, and oh-so-ready to return to the Highline for her second performance at the distinguished NYC venue.
  
  Don’t miss this performer at such an incredible performance space. Rachel Platten might just be the “next big thing” with her piano-driven, soul-pop sound. Catch her live while you still can.
  
  Highline Ballroom is located at 431 West 16th Street.
  
  Thursday April 15th — doors open at 7:00 p.m.

• Rachel P: Sunshine On A Cloudy Day [+ Show ]
  

  Light positively emanates out of Rachel Platten, dazzling those fortunate enough to share a moment w...Light positively emanates out of Rachel Platten, dazzling those fortunate enough to share a moment with this powerful force of kindness, talent, and true beauty. Blessed with the understanding of the Universe's give-and-take policy, the stunning songstress balances a thriving music career with personal charity, nurturing a life path filled with nothing but love.
  
  
  Growing up in Boston, Rachel's musical journey began with piano lessons, choirs, and school plays, tinkering with writing songs in high school but ultimately choosing a career in politics. Everything changed one semester abroad in Trinidad, when Platten took stage singing back-up for a Soca band at a massive music festival. Performing her first gig in front of thousands of people, the then 19-year-old knew at that moment she found her calling. "It felt like lightening struck me," says Rachel, her smile widening. "This is EXACTLY what I'm supposed to be doing and it was amazing, just the most incredible thing."
  
  
  "Music infuses everything in the culture there, which is a big change from where I grew up and everything was academically dominated," Rachel explains. Submersed in Trinidad’s artistically focused lifestyle, Platten quit her internship with the diplomat’s office, toured with the Soca band, and concentrated on writing, practicing, and playing for almost a year.
  
  
  The Trinidad experience carved the path for the inevitable move to New York City, a transition that encountered a few bumps in the road, in traditional artist fashion. A self-proclaimed expert at being fired, only within this past year has Rachel made music a full-time career. "Even though I moved here with the intent to pursue music I got a little sidetracked and just tried to support myself. I've had seven different jobs and I've been fired from seven different jobs. I am amazing at getting fired," Platten affirms, bursting into laughter. "I was always trying to get gigs, searching for band members, practicing, and I would just not be in [the job] at all. I am the worst employee ever."
  
  
  Finding the ultimate composite of musicians to get the ball rolling and form her band took some trial-and-error, but eventually Rachel Platten and the Sista Girls- Martin Rivas, Craig Meyer, Brian Killeen, Ryan Vaughn and Eddie Venegas- was assembled, now dominating stages throughout NYC. "I just feel like I have the most incredible [group]- not only in their playing but they are just the kindest people... it's all love," Platten sighs.
  
  
  It's taken some time for Rachel to hone what she's doing with sound, a self-described modern-day Jackson 5 vibe that's uplifting, upbeat, fun, and happy. Channeling influences like The Beatles and Motown, Platten exudes energy, light, and soul in every performance. Due to its multifarious appeal, her music fashions a scene of it's own; one that charms the intimate acoustic environment of Rockwood Music Hall and captures eclectic audiences at larger venues like the Highline Ballroom. Independently selling over 5,000 copies of her first record made four years ago, Rachel is currently focused on the follow up album, as well as giving back to the community who have so graciously shown support.
  
  
  About three years ago, Platten linked up with Musicians on Call, a charity that bring musicians into hospitals for live, private performances with patients. The experience has been one of the personal highlights of her career, keeping the ”give to get back” mantra flowing consistently. "When you start trying to be a musician in New York it's very hard and very scary. You don't know what you're doing, you have no guide for it- it's very self-absorbed. It's a lot of ego, you're constantly trying to promote yourself," she admits humbly. "I needed something to do with what I loved that wasn't for me."
  
  
  Searching online for local charities, Rachel came across www.musiciansoncall.com, reached out immediately, and once again felt, "This is exactly what I'm supposed to be doing.” Now participating on a regular basis, "I'll schedule it after something good happens for me career-wise," Platten claims, pointing to the sky with a laugh, "I got you back!"
  
  
  “The whole point is you’re uplifting people one-by-one; just trying to make someone feel better and take a little bit of stress off them for the moment,” the singer says of the experience. “Moments when you know you’ve touched someone deeply… that’s powerful.”
  
  
  Rachel’s generous heart also beats for the NYC artist community, finding it important to encourage and pass along lessons learned to fellow colleagues. Wanting to give back to the scene that has bestowed good fortune on her career, Platten understands the struggle, hardships, and frustrations that artists encounter and is willing to help in any way possible.
  
  
  “When you get to know yourself and what it is you have to give, that it’s unique and special, it’s really easy to support others, see their shows, and be excited for their success,” Rachel reveals. “I found that people have been incredibly generous, kind, and open and it makes me want to give that too. I have some really exciting stuff going on and I’m of the mindset ‘Cool! Let me pass this on and pay it forward. Let me give this back because it helped [me] more than anything.”
  
  
  Currently in the studio Rachel is turning to newer influences like The Pixies, Elliot Smith and Nick Drake, paired with the creative energy of Bob Dylan (who once lived in Platten’s building) to produce an album that reaches audiences spiritually and emotionally. “I don’t let myself get away with anything,” Platten states confidently, “I’m very hard on myself until the lyrics are all real.”
  
  
  Songs saturated with happiness and hope and a voice that resonates deep into your core ensure this singer-songwriter is destined for an explosive career. In the current state of our country and the difficult times people are enduring, Rachel’s music provides the ultimate remedy to cure the darkest moments: an infectious smile, a giving heart, a radiant soul, and a whole lot of love.
  
  
  For more information on Rachel Platten’s music and tour dates please visit www.rachelplatten.com, www.myspace.com/rachelplattenband, or become a fan of Rachel Platten at www.facebook.com.
  
  
  

• Amped Sounds Review [+ Show ]
  

  "There aren’t enough adjectives to describe Rachel Platten’s musical abilities. Seriously. She’s a...
  "There aren’t enough adjectives to describe Rachel Platten’s musical abilities. Seriously. She’s an incredibly talented songwriter with a voice to match it. Her heartfelt lyrics are both relative and relevant and encapsulate that good feeling that’s felt when you are truly allowed to just be yourself."
  Amped Sounds

• Divas Follow Their Dreams! And now you can Rock! January 25th, 2007 [+ Show ]
  

  ivas Follow Their Dreams! And now you can Rock! Local New Yorker and Singing Diva, Rachel Platten...ivas Follow Their Dreams! And now you can Rock!
  
  Local New Yorker and Singing Diva, Rachel Platten, has pursued her passion for many years, and her success proves that Divas can do anything they set their minds to! So why don't you come rock out with Rachel at her next New York City performance!?
  
  The buzz about this woman is real: Rachel has performed with The Strokes, Rusted Root, The Maytals and Gavin Degraw. Celebrities like Topher Grace, Ivanka Trump, DJ Logic and even Chelsea Clinton are regulars at her shows.
  
  This is the perfect event for Divas who love music, a few cocktails, and great company on a Thursday night! Um, who DOESN'T love that?
  
  So remember, Rachel Platten and Band perform live at Arlene's Grocery on Thursday 2/8/07 at 8:30pm. Arlene's Grocery is located at 95 Stanton Street-1 block below Houston St between Orchard and Ludlow Streets Subway directions: F or V Train to 2nd Avenue.
  
  So we'll see you on Thursday, right? Really, do you have anything better to do? And you never know, your very own Prince Charming could be standing next to you in the crowd!
  
  And if you're coming to the event, enter to win a Hobo Bag from Maxx New York! RSVP now and be automatcically entered to win!
  
  Rachel Platten was recently hailed as one of Faders "Top Ten Artists to see in 2007." She is known for her classical piano playing, soulful pop vocals, and her unique beat boxing skills! What a diva!
  
  Rachel will release "Play it Loud" in Spring 2007 and will continue touring festivals and concert venues across the country. Come catch her now while she in our very own LES!
  
  Check out www.rachelplatten.com or
  www.myspace.com/rachelplatten and for her full show schedule
  
  
  � BACK TO EVENTS & PROMOTIONS | ARCHIVE | BACK TO TOP
  

• Bob Leone of National Songwriter Hall of Fame [+ Show ]
  

  "Rachel Platten is a music industry executive's dream. She crafts songs with beautiful, memorable m..."Rachel Platten is a music industry executive's dream. She crafts songs with beautiful, memorable melodies and intelligent, moving lyrics. Then she delivers them with her compelling and powerful voice. She is an accomplished guitarist and pianist with enough stage presence to make you forget that anyone else is in the room. Rachel Platten is one of those remarkable and all-too-rare artists who remind me why I love my work." --- Bob Leone, Songwriters Hall of Fame
  
  

• Adding a touch of Diva, and rocking straight to the point [+ Show ]
  

  Adding a Touch of Diva Spicing up the groove formula, and rockin' -- straight to the point by T...Adding a Touch of Diva
  Spicing up the groove formula, and rockin' -- straight to the point
  
  by Thomas Pizzola - May 15, 2003
  
  THOMAS PIZZOLA PHOTO
  
  Rachel Platten raised the roof with her powerful pipes.
  
  Local Motion
  Whitney Houston might seem an unlikely inspiration for a groove-rock front woman, but Rachel Platten, vocalist for the Rachel Platten Band, doesn't think so. Platten cites the troubled singer as a major influence on her vocal delivery, right alongside a more standard choice like blues favorite Susan Tedeschi. And the Houston influence was in evidence during the band's set last Friday at Sully's Pub as Platten pushed her voice to the limit, mimicking the high-pitched trills of one her idols.
  It's a unique approach, one that would seem out of place in a band that mixes all the standard groove rock influences -- a little funk, some blues, and a heaping dose of blue-eyed soul -- and then plays them with verve and fluidity.
  
  Platten is the true star of this show. She has an extraordinary vocal range and really puts all of herself into the performance. By listening to her, you can tell she's someone who lives and breathes music. Plus, she's trying to bring a little touch of R&B diva theatrics to a genre that's dominated by a bunch of singers who sound and look like the illegitimate daughters of Janis Joplin.
  

Setlist

60 minute sets

Basic Requirements

PDF Rider

HOSPITALITY/TECH/INPUT/RIDER Specs

Calendar