Artist Information
Biography
Label: Rat Pak Records
www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/3kisses.cfm
www.myspace.com/ratpaknewengland
Best known for her stint on ABC's Wife Swap and her 'Joan Jett style approach' to song writing, front woman Tish Meeks and the group deliver yet another straight shot of their “Texas Party Punk meets Pop” brand of high energy music. Coming off the successful 2009 “American Breakdown” tour, the band went through major transitions, including relocation to San Antonio, TX. Tish & long time drummer Andrew Wood started writing new material for the next album, which was recorded over 3 different sessions by producer, Eric LaBrosse (Cherry Pit Studios) and incorporates performances by various former members of the band and other musicians. This combination of events helped fuse together a thought provoking, well written, emotionally charged dose of rock music. “Lethal Love Addiction” (Batteries not included) offers a full helping of rocking anthems, attitude, and a middle finger on behalf of all of those who have been screwed by life, love and heartbreak.
3 KISSES jumps from one high energy style to another with traces of just about every cool female-fronted rock band of the last 20 years. The band has been compared to an array of artists including the Breeders, Joan Jett, the Buzzcocks, Letters to Cleo, Wendy O. Williams, Blondie, the Ramones and everything in between. 3 KISSES’ live performance has been called ‘freakin’ explosive’ and lead singer/guitarist Tish Meeks has been referred to as ‘a ball of fire on stage.’ Martin Folkman, Publisher of the Musician’s Atlas writes, “3 KISSES is fronted by the kinetic Tish Meeks who no guitar, mic stand or stage can contain. [This band] packs more energy into a 3-minute song than all the WMD's combined!” Tish launched 3 KISSES in Austin, TX, in January 2004. Since then they have performed over 400 live shows for over 350,000 people. Lead guitarist, Maestro Aurora, bassist, Jeff Vandeventer, and drummer, Andrew Wood complete the recipe for 3 KISSES’ punkish ‘cuddle-angst’ with a positive, party vibe.
3 KISSES has been featured on the FOX 7 Morning Show in Austin, TX, WOAI-NBC in San Antonio, TX, KTRK-ABC in Houston, TX, FOX Morning Show in Houston, KLBJ 93.7FM in Austin, KPFT 90.1 in Houston, Indie-Music.com, Female Musician Magazine, One Way Magazine, Origivation Magazine, The Macon Telegraph, The Brenham Banner Press, The College Station Eagle, EDGE Magazine, The Atlantic Monthly and The Austin American Statesman.
The band premiered their first music video Yellow in September 2004, released their debut CD Wings in November 2004, and released their sophomore album, It All Comes Down To Me in June 2006, which they followed up with an East Coast Tour. Their 3rd album, Nut Job was released in May 2007. Following an East Coast Tour in September 2008, 3 KISSES signed with Rat Pak Records and released their 4th album, American Breakdown in February 2009 and 5th album, Lethal Love Addiction (Batteries not included) in July 2010. Notable performances include multiple showcases during SXSW in Austin, Millennium Music Conference in Harrisburg, PA, Independent Music Conference in Philadelphia, PA, Dewey Beach Music Conference in Dewey Beach, DE and Austin’s Heart of Texas Rockfest.
In addition to their regular tour schedule, 3 KISSES supports breast cancer research and treatment programs by performing at Susan G. Komen Races across Texas. Tish’s original story, Legacy, about the loss of her mother to breast cancer, appeared in Jack Canfield & Mark Victor Hansen’s Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul in December 2004.
3 KISSES is sponsored and/or endorsed by Paul Reed Smith Guitars, Daisy Rock Guitars, Dunlop, Miller Lite, Jägermeister, Coffin Case, Dirtbag Clothing, Old Dog Products, Shine Drums, Silver Fox Percussion, PorchBoard, GoGirls Music, Music Gorilla, and Rockin’ Moms. Tish’s e-book “How to Get Band Sponsorships and Endorsements” is available at www.bandsponsorshipsandendorsements.com.
For up-to-the-minute information, visit www.ratpakrecords.com/3kisses.cfm
What people are saying about 3 Kisses:
“3 Kisses is fronted by the kinetic Tish Meeks who no guitar, mic stand or stage can contain. [The band] wasted no time winning the crowd over to their infectious songs and spontaneous performance.” - Martin Folkman, Publisher of the MUSICIAN'S ATLAS
“3 Kisses completely own the audience with their punkish 'cuddle-angst'. Their songs are based on fun and intelligent mock anger--pierced tongue in cheek anthems to annoyance that everyone in the audience can relate to and smile about." - Dan Workman, SUGARHILL STUDIOS
"An exhilarating mix of pop tunes that keep you wanting more. Front woman Tish Meeks has a way of grabbing your attention and not letting it go." - Madalyn Sklar, founder of GOGIRLSMUSIC.com
“One of the best compliments that I can give is that I have thousands of CDs stacked high but 3 Kisses stands alone in style.” Eddie Russell, DJ
"3 Kisses is refreshing. Their sound is different, their lyrics are thoughtful and their music is addicting...a band to keep your eye on....they are going places." - Alexia Helfand, MUSIC GORILLA
"It's not often that you can pop something in and like every track, but 3 Kisses has got it!" Duss Rodgers, CATSASK MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT
PRESS/MEDIA/ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Featured Artist on James St. James Indie Limelight Radio Show on Indie Artist Radio – October 18, 2004
Tish Meeks appointed co-moderator of the All Alternative Club at SongU.com – November 2004
Tish Meeks interviewed by Jon Rucker of Rockland World Radio, Rockland, NY – January 9, 2005
Interview by FemaleMusician.com – January 2005
MUSIC CONNECTION MAGAZINE – Indie Artist Radio’s Best of 2004 – December 6, 2004
Come Along included on MusicGorilla.com SXSW Compilation CD – March 2005
On The Rag Records selects Yellow for their compilation CD, Put Some Pussy in Your Punk!!!(OR ELSE...) Vol. 2
Interviewed by Fokker Radio - June 17, 2005
Seek Your Own Way included on MMC9 Compilation CD – June 2005
Tish Meeks - Featured Artist on Rockinmoms.com - August 2005.
YELLOW video selected by Ultrashort Media, Inc. for mobile licensing MobileVoltage distribution on 3g mobile networks including Sprint and O2.
Wings included on IMC 05 Compilation CD – September 2005
Immie Award Winner - Independent Music Conference - August 2005.
Wings featured on Rockin' Moms compilation CD.
Fox 7 Morning Show - Austin, TX: Live performance October 28, 2005.
"Yellow" video featured on Netshow's Media Factory Show - February 2006
KLBJ 93.7 FM - Austin, TX: Featured Artist on Local Licks, March 7, 2006.
WOAI (NBC) - San Antonio, TX: Featured in Susan G. Komen segment on April 1, 2006.
San Antonio Woman Magazine: full page feature April 2006.
Fox 7 Morning Show - Austin, TX: Live performance June 12, 2006.
Origivation Magazine, Philadelphia: Interview with Tish Meeks, June 2006.
Macon Telegraph, Macon, GA - June 2006.
Live 365's Bumpskey Radio - Live performance video, interview and airplay - June 2006.
KOOP 91.7 FM - Austin: Interview and Live Performance - July 2006.
Featured on the Nancy Lombardo show – Manhattan Neighborhood Network, NY - September 25, 2006.
KLBJ 93.7 FM - Austin, TX: Featured Artist on Local Licks, October 24, 2006.
Ballbuster Hard Music - January 2007
ABC's Wife Swap - February 2007
ABC Channel 13 Houston - Hometown Live
KLDE-FM 107.5 Houston, TX - Interview, February 2007
KNDE-FM 95.1 College Station, TX - Interview, February 2007
KWHI-AM 1280 Brenham, TX - Interview, February 2007
Alternative Scream Houston, TX Cable show; aired on Timer Warner 17, TV MAX 95, CEBRIDGE 98 - February 2007
KLBJ-FM 93.7 Austin, TX – Local Licks, March 2007
Fox Morning Show - Houston, TX - April 2008
**Multiple Radio Interviews via Rat Pak Records. See Gig Calendar for details.
LIVE PERFORMANCES:
Over 300 shows for over 300,000!
Austin, TX – Hard Rock Café, Ruta Maya, Momo’s, The Vibe, Redrum, Headhunters, Chuggin Monkey, Dizzy Rooster, Dirty Dog Bar, Nuno’s on 6th, The Backroom, Velvet Spade, Room 710, Troubadour Saloon, Hotshots, Capitol Drafthouse, Graffiti’s, Trophy’s, Flipnotics
Pflugerville, TX - Hanovers
Houston, TX – Hard Rock Café, Rowdy’s, Forgetta ‘Bout It Too, Rhythm Room, Helios, Clarks, Wired, 19th Hole, Bocados, Sidecar Pub, Engine Room, Fitzgerald's, Last Concert Cafe, Crazy Frogs, Henry Hudson's Pub
Tomball, TX - Gary's Spot
Baytown, TX - Foozies
San Antonio, TX – White Rabbit, Sam’s Burger Joint, Jiggers, Patsy’s Ice House, Sam Ash Music Store, Nightrocker Live
San Marcos, TX – Jo on the Go
Pasadena, TX - Memos Sports Bar
Brenham, TX – Otto’s Ice House, Texas Tavern, Fusion, Legends
Carlos, TX – Yankee’s Tavern
Dallas, TX – Club Dada, All Good Café, What Bar
Ft. Worth, TX – The Asylum
Sacramento, CA – Airk’s Java Cafe
Detroit, MI - Waterworks
Salem, MO – Garagestock
Eldon, MO - Buzzer McGee's
Chicago, IL – Hotti Biscotti, Sam Ash Music Store
Cincinnati, OH – Rhino’s, Sam Ash Music Store
Indianapolis, IN – The Beer Seller, Sam Ash Music Store
Philadelphia, PA – Abilene, Emerald City, Club 218, Sam Ash Music Store, Independent Music Conference
Harrisburg, PA – JT Croc ‘n Berry’s, Millennium Music Conference 9 & 10
New York, NY - Otto's Shrunken Head, Sam Ash Music Store
Columbia, SC – Michelle’s Place
Warner Robbins, GA – Drip Drop Café
Columbus, GA - SoHo
Lakeland, FL – Lillian’s: Rock Solid Pressure Industry Showcase; Doc's
New Port Richey, FL - Bourbon Street: Rock Solid Pressure Industry Showcase
Tampa, FL - Crowbar
Orlando, FL - Central Station Bar
Baton Rouge, LA - Triple A
Lake Charles, LA - Luna Bar & Grill
FESTIVALS:
Hill Country Dayz - May 2005; Lago Vista, TX
Garage Stock 2005 – July 22, 2005; Salem, MO
Lago Vista 4th of July Festival - July 4, 2005; Lago Vista, TX
Pecan Street Festival, Austin American-Statesman Stage - September 25, 2005
Pecan Street Festival, Dirty Dog Bar - September 25, 2005
Hill Country Dayz - September 23, 2006; Lago Vista, TX
Hawgs of Texas Biker Rally - April 26, 2007; Lake Somerville, TX
Hawgs of Texas Biker Rally - April 23, 2008; Lake Somerville, TX
TLM Music Festival - November 1, 2008; Lake Somerville, TX
SHOWCASES:
Austin Indie Alliance at SXSW, Austin, TX – March 19, 2004
Austin Indie Alliance Acoustic Showcase, Austin, TX – May 15, 2004
Austin Indie Alliance Showcase, Austin, TX – June 19, 2004
Austin Music Network, Austin, TX – September 24, 2004 – 3 Kisses guest hosted, debuted Yellow video, and performed acoustically
1st Annual Austin Indie Alliance/Houston Band Coalition Showcase, Houston, TX - January 21, 2005
Hotshots at SXSW, Austin, TX – March 16, 2005
Austin Indie Alliance at SXSW, Austin, TX – March 17, 2005
GoGirlsMusic.com Elite, Austin, TX – April 16, 2005
TexasRadio1.com Cinco de Mayo Showcase, Austin, TX – May 5, 2005
Millennium Music Conference, Harrisburg, PA. June 24, 2005
Independent Music Conference 2005, Emerald City, Philadelphia, PA. September 1, 2005.
Independent Music Conference 2005, Texas Independent Musicians Stage, Club 218 Philadelphia, PA. September 4, 2005.
Writers Who Rock! Austin, TX - September 2005
Dewey Beach Music Conference - GoGirls Music/Human Factor Showcase - September 2005
Songsalive! Austin, TX - October 2005
GoGirls Music Fest, Dallas & Austin, TX - October 2005
Chicks on the Road - October 2005
Texas Independent Musicians Showcase - January 14, 2006
Texas Independent Musicians at SXSW - March 15, 2006
Austin Indie Alliance at SXSW - March 15, 2006
Heart of Texas Quadruple Bypass/Texas Rockfest - March 16, 2006
Invasion of the GoGirls at SXSW - March 16, 2006
Dirty Dog Bar at SXSW - March 17, 2006
Austin Indie Alliance/Houston Band Coalition Showcase - June 2006
Millennium Music Conference, Harrisburg, PA - June 24, 2006
Rock Solid Pressure Music Industry Showcase - Lakeland, FL - October 7, 2006
GoGirls Music Fest - Austin - October 26, 2006
Texas Rockfest, Austin - March 14, 2007
Music Gorilla Major Label Showcase, Austin - March 15, 2007
Official SXSW Rockin' Moms Party, Austin - March 16, 2007
Invasion of the GoGirls 2007, Austin - March 17, 2007
Invasion of the GoGirls 2008 - Austin - March 2008
Texas Rockfest 2008 - Austin - March 2008
Austin Indie Alliance/Texas Independent Musicians Showcase - Austin - March 2008
Rockin' Moms @ SXSW Trade Show - March 2008
Rock Solid Pressure Music Industry Showcase - New Port Richey, FL - September 13, 2008
Dewey Beach Music Fest - September 2008
GoGirls Music Fest - November 2008
Texas Rockfest - March 2009
Red Gorilla Music Fest - March 2009
Music Gorilla Showcase - March 2009
Invasion of the GoGirls @ SXSW - March 2009
Dewey Beach Music Fest - GoGirls Showcase - October 2009
Texas Rockfest - March 2010
Red Gorilla Music Fest - March 2010
Music Gorilla Showcase - March 2010
Invasion of the GoGirls @ SXSW - March 2010
Dewey Beach Music Fest - GoGirls Showcase - October 2010
SPONSORSHIP & ENDORSEMENTS:
Paul Reed Smith Guitars
Daisy Rock Guitars
Dirtbag Clothing
Coffin Case
GoGirls Music
Texas Independent Musicians
Rockin' Moms
Music Gorilla
Dunlop
Jägermeister
Miller Lite
Old Dog Products
Shine Drums
PorchBoard Bass
Silver Fox Percussion
BENEFITS/CHARITY:
Austin Music Network; Acoustic Revolutions Sessions, Austin, TX - March 24, 2004
Brushy Creek Elementary, Round Rock, TX – April 18, 2004
Cancer Benefit and Fundraiser, Brenham, TX – May 8, 2004
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Austin, TX – November 7, 2004 (19,000 participants)
Leukemia/Lymphoma Society; Motive Bison Stampede, Austin, TX – November 21, 2004 (2,000 participants)
Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul; includes story by Tish Meeks about the loss of her mother to breast cancer – January 2005
Methodist Weekday School, Brenham, TX – March 5, 2005
True Blue Animal Rescue Benefit, Carlos, TX - June 18, 2005
Susan G. Komen Central Texas Race for the Cure, Waco, TX – April 2, 2005 (9,000 participants)
American Cancer Society; Relay for Life, Brenham, TX – April 29, 2005
American Cancer Society; Relay for Life, LaGrange, TX - September 10, 2005
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Dallas, TX - October 15, 2005 (~35,000 participants)
GoGirls Music Fest to benefit the Lynne Cohen Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Dallas, TX - October 15, 2005
GoGirls Music Fest to benefit the Lynne Cohen Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Austin, TX - October 28, 2005
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Austin, TX - November 6, 2005 (~20,000 participants)
American Cancer Society; Relay for Life, Grimes County, TX – March 31, 2006
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, San Antonio, TX - April 1, 2006 (~27,000 participants)
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Waco, TX - April 8, 2006 (~15,000 participants)
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Ft. Worth, TX - April 15, 2006 (~18,500 participants)
American Cancer Society; Relay for Life, Bellville, TX – April 21, 2006
American Cancer Society; Relay for Life, Brenham, TX – April 28, 2006
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Houston, TX - September 30, 2006 (~27,000 participants)
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Austin, TX - November 5, 2006 (~25,000 participants)
Alliance for Lupus Research Walk, Houston, TX - November 11, 2006
Rockin’ for Rise, Rise School Benefit @ Hard Rock Café, Houston, TX - March 2, 2007
Susan G. Komen for the Cure 10th Anniversary Celebration - "Paint the Riverwalk Pink" - San Antonio, TX, March 5, 2007
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Waco, TX - March 31, 2007
True Blue Animal Rescue Benefit, Brenham, TX - May 5, 2007
Benefit for GoGirls Music founder, Madalyn Sklar; Last Concert Cafe, Houston, TX - June 30, 2007
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, San Antonio, TX - April 2008
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Houston, TX - October 2008
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, San Antonio - April 2009
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, Waco - April 2009
Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, San Antonio - May 2010
INFLUENCES:
3 KISSES is influenced by a wide range of artists including The Runaways, Blondie, Tom Petty, Brian Wilson, The Ramones, Blink 182, Bowling for Soup, Joan Jett, The B52s and many more.
For Additional Information Please Contact:
Tish Meeks
Stolen Kisses Music
14080 Nacogdoches Rd. #571
San Antonio, TX 78247
Phone: 512-963-5715
Email: tish@3kisses.com, 3kisses@3kisses.com
Instrumentation
Maestro Aurora - Backing Vocals, Lead Guitar
Jeff Vandeventer - Bass
Andrew Wood - Drums, Backing Vocals
Tish Meeks - Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Discography
Full-length CD: WINGS – released November 2004
Track Listing
01. Yellow
02. Wings
03. Wastin’ Time
04. Come Along
05. Seek Your Own Way
06. The Last Time
07. Too Late
08. Wandering
09. Complete
10. Undone
11. Don’t Pretend
Full-length CD: IT ALL COMES DOWN TO ME – released June 9, 2006
Track Listing:
1. Out of Control
2. I'll Be There
3. Linda's Song
4. It All Comes Down To Me
5. I Don't Know
6. Misery Loves Company
7. Love's Games
8. Girl's Night
9. Once in Awhile
10. Fly Away
11. Turn Around
12. Ordinary
13. Summer Love Song
**Bonus Tracks
14. Yellow 2006
15. Come Along 2006
Full-length CD: NUT JOB – released May 2007
Track Listing:
1. Let's Dance
2. Pass Me By
3. Wake Up
4. Nut Job
5. It's Not About You
6. Truth
7. Girls' Night
8. Undone
9. Casting Stones
10. Change It All
11. Out of Control
12. Wings
13. Ordinary
14. Yellow
** Bonus Tracks
15. Swapping Wives
16. Swapping Wives (acoustic)
Full-length CD: AMERICAN BREAKDOWN - Released February 2009
1. American Breakdown
2. Ordinary
3. It's Not About You
4. Wrong Head
5. Bricks
6. I Hate Myself for Loving You
7. Nut Job
8. PMS
9. Summer Love Song
10. Without You
11. Denial
12. Out of Control
13. Shake it Up
14. Hope is Contagious
Full-length CD: LETHAL LOVE ADDICTION (BATTERIES NOT INCLUDED) Street release July 13, 2010
1. All That Matters is Love
2. Lethal Love Addiction
3. Fly Away
4. Done With You
5. Lost It All
6. Feel The Hammer
7. Yellow
8. Psycho Stalker
9. Never Satisfied
10. Girls Night
11. Immaterial
12. Wings
13. Miss Out
14. The Last Time
15. After You
16. Work of Art
DVD – YELLOW, Produced and Directed by Mercenary Mediums - Austin, TX
Compilation CDs:
"Yellow" - Austin Indie Alliance SXSW 2004
"Wings" - Austin Indie Alliance SXSW 2005
"Come Along" - MusicGorilla.com SXSW 2005
"Yellow" - Put Some Pussy In Your Punk Vol. 2 (On the Rag Records)
"Yellow" - One Way Magazine, Issue 13 (with artists such as Pat Metheny, Aqualung, Michael Buble and The Ditty Bops)
"Wings" - Rockin Moms Compilation CD 1 (2005)
"Come Along" Austin Indie Alliance Volume 3
"Girl's Night" - Netshows Program 8 (2006)
"Girl's Night" - So Many Bands SXSW 2006
"Love's Games" - Austin Indie Alliance SXSW 2006
"Girls Night" - Oasis Alternative Sampler for Radio Programmers
"Turn Around" - Texas Independent Musicians Compilation 1 2007
"Denial" - GoGirls Music Fest '08
"American Breakdown" - Rat Pak Records Unleashed 4
"American Breakdown" - Mohawk Bomb Records No Lip Vol. 2
"Let's Dance" - Rat Pak Records 09V1
"Worker Bee" - Rat Pak Records Unleashed 5
"All That Matters is Love" - GoGirls Music Fest 2010
Official Website
http://www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/3kisses.cfm
Links
Photo Gallery
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Tish Meeks
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Tish Meeks
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Andy Wood
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Invasion of the GoGirls 2009
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Texas Tavern
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Gary's Spot
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Press
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3 Kisses - Interview with Tish Meeks
[+ Show ]
1. How long have you been a professional musician? I’ve been fronting 3 Kisses for about 5 ½ yea...1. How long have you been a professional musician? I’ve been fronting 3 Kisses for
about 5 ½ years.
2. You are a Guitar Player and a Singer...I was curious which of those two roles comes easiest for you? I am a much better singer/front person than I am a guitarist. Fronting the band comes very naturally to me. I have to work at guitar.
3. Your band 3 Kisses is from Austin, Texas....What is the music scenelike there these days?
I pretty much answer this question the same way every time it’s asked. Your local scene is what you make it. Austin is very saturated with bands, but there are also plenty of venues and 6th Street has a lot of street traffic. That can be an advantage because there is a good chance someone will stumble across your band. The flip side is that people often bar hop rather than selecting a destination. There are ups and downs to every scene.
4. Who were the bands/musicians who had the greatest influence on you? There are tons,really. As far as songwriting, Tom Petty. The Beatles and Brian Wilson. Performance, Andrew WK, Neal McCoy, Bowling for Soup, Marilyn Manson. And then just musically, overall - NOFX, Social Distortion, Joan Jett, The White Stripes, Jet, Franz Ferdinand, The Ramones, Primus, Frank Zappa, Les Claypool, Led Zeppelin, Rage Against The Machine, Blink 182, Sum 41, Tool, Korn, Adema, The GoGos, Blondie, The Donnas, The Cars, Hole, The Sundays, Sister Hazel, The Cranberries, Fountains of Wayne, Avril Lavigne, The Eels, Alison Krauss, Lindsey Buckingham, Jackson Browne, The Police, Tears for Fears, Train, Sarah MacLachlan, Tonic, Marcy Playground, Collective Soul, Everclear, Third Eye Blind, Stone Temple Pilots, No Doubt, Lillix, Guns n Roses, The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Pat
Benetar, Letters to Cleo, the Smiths, Boston, Velvet Underground, Garbage, Rush?. And
that’s the short list.
5. What year was your band 3 Kisses formed and how did you meet the other members and come to form the band? I was married to Tony, my guitarist, so we started the band together. We’ve been through quite a few players (many of whom I’m still very good friends with) for numerous reasons. We are a pretty aggressive band, so some people have just gotten in over their head and experienced
burn-out. We met Brian Hymel, our current bassist, through the last drummer. Brian has
been in 3 Kisses the longest of anyone other than me and Tony. Andy Wood joined us in
February of 2009, but we have known him for years and he’s filled in for us in the past.
He used to play in a band we are friends with, so that’s how we met him.
6. How did you come to name the band 3 Kisses? I was struggling with finding a good name that wasn’t already taken. After going through literally hundreds of names, I got so frustrated I just gave up. My friend, Wendy, was visiting us and she and I stayed up half the night researching names. She was down because we were going to the Metallica Summer Sanitarium Show in Houston. On the way to Houston, I was staring out the window and the name just came to me. When my son was little, he would ask for 3 Kisses when we tucked him in bed at night. It was the perfect name!
7. What's it like being in a band with your Husband? It’s both awesome and challenging,
at times. I love that we get to write and perform music together, but touring can be difficult because of the kids. Logistics are the most difficult part. It is great to get to share a passion with your spouse.
8. Can you tell the readers of Chaotic Riffs Magazine how the band landed it's current record deal w/Rat Pack Records? We played the Rock Solid Pressure Industry Showcase in Florida in 2006 after striking up a friendship with J-Rock and Patty the Radio Girl. They started playing our tunes ALL the time and we just hit it off on a more personal level. We didn’t get offered a deal in 2006, but we were invited back in 2008. We did a lot of promotion for the show. We started building relationships with fans on MySpace and drew a great crowd. Joe O’Brien at Rat Pak walked through the crowd and asked people who they were there to see. With all the Florida bands there, he
was surprised at how many people answered “3 Kisses.” The fans were outstanding, then, we just had a killer performance. The planets aligned for us. Joe and I began talking on the phone about a week after we got home from tour and there was an offer on the table
less than a month later.
9. The band chose to cover Joan Jett's "I Hate Myself For Loving You"....Why did the band choose to cover this song? We are NOT a cover band. It’s something that definitely doesn’t come naturally. But occasionally we perform at biker rallies and other big events where we throw in a few covers just to keep it interesting. The Joan Jett tune just flowed and we got such a good response to it we decided to put it on the “American Breakdown” album.
10. What has been the reaction to 3 Kisses so far? We have our own unique kind of Texas Party Punk thing going on, so when we first started, some people loved us and some people just weren’t quite sure how to take us. We have always done extremely well in certain parts of the country - Florida, Pennsylvania, New York - pretty much anyplace in the Northeast. The fans there liked us immediately. But, now that we finally have a *great* album out, we’re definitely catching on a lot more. We do have many die hard fans, many of whom have become friends over the years. I love our fans!
11. What do you remember most about the band's very first recording session? Ha! That was an adventure. I engineered our first album “Wings” on a Roland VS1880 in our house with no engineering experience. Fortunately, I picked it up pretty quickly and we put out a decent album. “Wings” is a bubblegum poppy album, though - nothing like how we sound now, although, that album remains the favorite of a lot of fans. It was a challenge for me, though. I definitely don’t want to wear the engineer hat again, but I’m glad I did it once.
12. How long did it take for the band to record American Breakdown? It took us 6 days to record “American Breakdown” and an additional 8 tunes. We worked day and night. We actually recorded 3 tunes (American Breakdown, Denial and PMS) with a guy in Houston back in the fall, but retracked almost everything with our current producer, Eric LaBrosse, for the album. Sean (our previous drummer) and Brian tracked 22 songs on drums and bass in 9 ½ hours. It was grueling. Eric really cracked the whip on all of us to get the album done. Tony was working full time, coming home from work, tracking guitars until he dropped, then I’d stay up until 5 or 6am tracking vocals.
13. Tell me a little bit about the album title......How did you come up with that title? Tony and I wrote “American Breakdown” before Sean and Brian joined the band and worked it up soon after they joined. It gets a great response and has rapidly become a crowd favorite. I think the timing was perfect given the state of things in our country.
14. I was curious if the band has received any negative feedback in regards to the album title? No, everyone really relates to the tune. It’s not meant to be anti-American, but more of an observation as to how screwed up everything is right now and how so many Americans are struggling just to keep their heads above water.
15. I was curious if in regards to the album cover (a Pig in a Police Uniform) if you've had any unpleasant experiences with law enforcement? Not at all! In fact, one of our good friends (yeah, one of those who started out as a fan) is a federal agent. We stayed with him and his wife when we toured Florida last year. The album cover was HIS idea! We were goofing off, drinking beer,
hanging out, laughing, joking - the mood was not nearly as dark as you might imagine.
16. Is everyone in the band involved with the songwriting? Tony and I started out doing all the songwriting. Brian has really gotten involved in the songwriting process and Andy will be contributing to future songs, as well. I still write almost all of the lyrics, but we work as a team on the music.
17. Of all the songs on the current Cd....Is there one in particular that gave you the most trouble writing/recording? Writing comes pretty easily to us, so I can’t really say that we agonized over any of the tunes. Tony and I learned a long time ago that if the song is not coming naturally, to move on to something else. And Eric LaBrosse, well - I just can’t say enough good things about his engineering and production skills. He is great to work with. We were under such time constraints on the recording, we didn’t have time to think or stress over a song. We just cranked ‘em out.
18. What is the craziest thing that has ever happened at one of your concerts? Ahh, there have been so many. Lots of them involve Jager. I would say one of our wildest shows was the Hawgs of Texas biker rally. We had about a dozen topless girls on stage at one point, then not to be outdone, a bunch of the guys dropped their pants. The fans were passing bottles of liquor up to the stage, people were throwing Jell-o shots at the band, it was drunken chaos. We played for 4 hours straight with no breaks. The energy was amazing.
19. Have you ever had any strange encounters with a fan? We played in Cincinnati, OH, for the first time and I had a piercing that got infected. We had to find an emergency clinic so I could get it taken care of. I was checking in and a guy comes in with his grandmother. He sees us and starts going nuts (in a good way). His girlfriend was a big fan, too, and he called her and told her he was at the clinic with 3 Kisses. That was a surreal moment for me - having some fan in a town we’d never been to go ape shit over us at a doc in the box.
20. What plans do you have to promote the new CD? The label is doing a lot of our promotions. We’re getting quite a bit of airplay, playing as many shows as possible and
just trying to meet new people and earn new fans. And of course, doing interviews like
this one certainly help, too. Thank you!
21. Anything left to say to your fans Tish? Most people know this, but for those who
don?t, we are very fan-oriented. We love to get e-mail and we always respond personally
to the people who support our music. We work hard at what we do and we are sincerely
grateful to each and every fan who lays down their hard earned cash to buy our music.
You guys rock!!!
Tish Meeks
3 Kisses, Lead Singer
c: 512-963-5715
MySpace: www.myspace.com/3kisses
Label: www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/3kisses.cfm
Distro: www.cmdistro.com/Item/3_Kisses_-_American_Breakdown/30879 -
"American Breakdown" REVIEWS
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Complete Reviews “American Breakdown” "American Breakdown" Review by Dave Knoch Category: ...Complete Reviews
“American Breakdown”
"American Breakdown" Review by Dave Knoch
Category: Music
LEXINGTON MUSIC EXAMINER
http://www.examiner.com/x-10109-Lexington-Music-Examiner~y2009m7d17-Album-review-3-Kisses--American-Breakdown
At first glance, 3 Kisses' fourth full-length release American Breakdown appears to be a slightly anarchistic social commentary set to a catchy punk rock musical score - much like Green Day's American Idiot. While that is partially true, particularly in the case of the title track's sardonic look at America's out of control consumerism, American Breakdown and 3 Kisses offer much more. The pop punk band from Austin, Texas, founded by the husband and wife duo of Tony and Tish Meeks, labels their infectious style of music as "Texas party punk" for the uplifting melodies and hopeful lyrics that counter the angsty themes that are the bread and butter of the punk genre. The description is accurate as American Breakdown bounds from humorous tracks like "Wrong Head" to straightforward punk tunes such as "Out of Control", all the while delivering crisp riffs and a viral groove.
Possessing a gritty, wry vocal style that falls somewhere between Wendy O. Williams and Liz Phair, Tish serves as the band's charismatic frontwoman. She also lays down some hot six-string rhythms in addition to singing, but husband Tony provides the majority of the guitar antics - though he does take over the lead vocal role on the twisted "Summer Love Song". The band is rounded out by drummer Andy Wood, who turns in a flawless performance throughout the album, and bass player Brian Hymel. Brian's omnipresent bass lines are key to 3 Kisses' guitar groove, particularly on the swirling bluesy rock of "Shake It Up". Together, the four members of 3 Kisses have created an album that rocks from start to finish, though a couple of tracks do stand apart from the rest. The band delivers a snarling rendiction of Joan Jett's "I Hate Myself For Loving You" while the bouncy "It's Not About You" is perhaps the most infectious track on American Breakdown. "Hope is Contagious" closes the album on a positive, Zippo-waving note.
As fun and off-the-wall as the music of 3 Kisses is, the band has a significant serious side. Tish, who lost her mother to breast cancer, penned a story about her loss that appeared in Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul. The band actively supports breast cancer research and treatment by appearing at numerous Susan G. Koman races across their home state. They rock hard and have fun, always keeping in mind the need to make a difference.
Fans of indie pop-punk are encouraged to give 3 Kisses a listen. Don't be surprised if you're left feeling a little hopeful.
Dave Knoch can be reached at knochd@gmail.com.
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Obliveon Magazine - American Breakdown Review
Category: Music
Obliveon - Metal & Gothic Magazine
This review can be viewed in German at the link above. I would like to thank our German friends JANCREE for providing the English translation:
"Cross your heart! When did you listen to a real kick- ass-rock-cd for the last time? The band 3 Kisses from Texas with their talented female songwriter and singer Tish Meeks give you the opportunity with their album "American Breakdown". The opening track starts off punky and the second track "Ordinary" doesn't change its style a lot. With their third track (out of 14) it's getting more into rock and also a little bit more quiet.
This is shown with the halfballads "Without You" (No. 10) and "Hope Is Contagious" (No. 14). But I like the girl and the boys most when they really rock snotty or show their Punk attitude - which happens besides the first two tracks on "Out Of Control" (No. 12) - not without reason they have covered Joan Jett's smash hit "I Hate Myself For Loving You". Apart from that, their mixture of Rock, Punk and a little bit Alternative/Pop sounds roughly like Green Day with more rock touch and female vox. The title track (subtitle "Poltical Showdown") gives the proof that Mrs. Meeks doesn't write lyrical nonsense as well as the - linguistically not always correct numbers - "Nut Job" or "Summer Love Song".
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MuzikReviews by Rukshan Thenuwara
Category: Music
3 Kisses brand of “Texas Party Punk” is infused in every track of the band’s fourth studio album released through Rat Pak Records. Coming off one of their most prominent showcases at SXSW and a stint on ABC’s “Wife Swap,” the band’s latest release is as confident and full of energy as any of their previous records.
Like any good punk rock album, the majority of American Breakdown’s lyrical content is prickly and biting. However, unlike most bands in the genre, an underlying current of optimism and hope is injected into each song, largely due to lead singer Tish Meek’s expressive growl. The album’s lead track, “American Breakdown,” takes a stab at the excessive consumerism which has landed the US in such an enormous economic and political mess. Armed with a cover of Joan Jett’s “I Hate Myself for Loving You” and tracks such as the retrospective “Bricks” and the anthemic “It’s Not About You,” the band laments upon relationship issues. The album also transitions into humorous territory with songs such as “Wrong Head” and “PMS” while maintaining the band’s searing punk rock edge.
As the end of American Breakdown draws near, “Out Of Control” and tempo changing “Shake It Up” serve as quintessential examples of the band’s “Texas Party Punk” flavor. Flowing with the energetic spirit of the album, the shining “Hope is Contagious” round out the record on an uplifting note
It would be easy to draw comparisons between American Breakdown and Green Day’s American Idiot. However, apart from the sound of the album with its rapid drumming and guitar laden tracks, there are few remaining similarities. Like American Idiot, the album is irreverent without sounding disenfranchised; but this band of Texan punk rockers just like to get the party started and leave listeners with a message. With this album they do just that.
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Rukshan Thenuwara-MuzikReviews.com Contributor
June 24, 2009
http://www.muzikreviews.com/reviews.php?ID=667
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"American Breakdown" Review - Martin Folkman, Music Resource Group
Category: Music
AMERICAN BREAKDOWN
Channeling the political awakening of Green Day, Joan Jett’s snarl and Liz Phair at her most melodious, 3 Kisses is back with an album that can only be classified as “mature,” if kick-ass punk can be considered respectable for a
band whose leader’s kids should be driving their mom bonkers with the music contained on “American Breakdown.”
Jumping light years ahead of the band’s previous album, “Nut Job,” 3 Kisses have landed with their feet firmly planted in the new millennium. And even though there’s a kinder, gentler boss in Washington, DC, Meeks
still finds much to rebel against: former lovers (Bricks), society (American Breakdown), sensory overload (Out Of Control) and even the ill effects of PMS on relationships (PMS).
Alternating between an arsenal of hard rock, reggae and pop/rock riffs, one can be grateful that ultimately 3 Kisses find solace and a cure-all in the administration’s catchword slogan (Hope Is Contagious). Though I have no doubt that optimism holds little sway for these artists, and that by the time their next album is released, they will have found plenty to criticize and rebel against. Party on!
- MF
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Martin Folkman
Music Resource Group
Publisher of The Musician¹s Atlas
Director of the Independent Music Awards
32 Ann Street
Clifton, NJ 07013
main: 973-767-1800
direct: 973-767-1812
fax: 973-767-1844
http://MusiciansAtlas.com
http://IndependentMusicAwards.com
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METAL MAIDENS
http://www.metalmaidens.com/Cdreviews1f.htm
3 KISSES-American Breakdown (Stolen Kisses Music)
This is not our first introduction to 3 KISSES and it won’t be our last either, I guess. This full-length album contains some good punk rock music with influences from bands like GREEN DAY, THE DONNAS and JOAN JETT. After title track “American Breakdown”, “Ordinary” and “It’s Not About You”, which all have that great punk rock vibe, the band adds some danceable reggae sounds in a song, called “Bricks”. It gets a very catchy feel, because of that. Then it’s time for the JOAN JETT & THE BLACKHEARTS cover “I Hate Myself For Loving You”. This will most definitely invite you to sing along, you can count on that! “Nut Job” is funny, because of the giggling, while “PMS” is another punk rock and roll tune, that will easily stick in your head. Think about THE DONNAS here with a touch of JOAN JETT. The Texas party punkers have grown a lot, since their previous albums; “Wings”, “It All Comes Down To Me” and “Nut Job”. “Summer Love Song” is just what it says it will be: a melodic punky love song. Same goes for “Without You” as a matter of fact. “Out Of Control” is the highlight off the album for me. It’s fast and furious and the band gives its best and most powerful performance on this one. “Shake It Up” is very uptempo and fast, too and “Hope Is Contagious” closes the CD. This last song is a possible single and ready for radio airplay. Maybe it’s the odd one out here, but it also is the one with the most hit potential for the 3 KISSES. The band consists of Tish Meeks on lead vocals, rhythm guitar and lead guitar, Tony Meeks on backing vocals, lead guitar and rhythm guitar, Brian Hymel on bass and backing vocals and Sean Strelecki on drums and backing vocals. Let these fourteen punk rock songs grab you by the balls and enjoy the power by these 3 KISSES. Go to their website: http://www.3kisses.com for more information. [8 points] (Toine van Poorten)
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BallBusterHardMusic.com - Online Metal Journal
Spotlight June 2009 - by Paul Autry
I try to keep up to date with a lot of the people who are featured in this column. It's kind of rough because I'm only one person and I know A LOT of musicians. Some of them make it easy for me by sending messages all the time...even if it's just to say hello. One of the bands who can always be found in my inbox is 3 Kisses. Forget trying to keep up with everyone I know...I have a hard enough time just keeping up with 3 Kisses. They promote themselves 24 hours a day and I think it's safe to say that they're the hardest working band that I currently know. Seriously, they have a drive and a passion for what they do that's simply mind blowing...and I honestly don't know how they do it. I drink about 45 cups of coffee a day (no lie) and I don't have as much energy as they do. I don't even come close.
Now, I've been a 3 Kisses fan for a few years now and I really enjoy what they do. The only problem that I had with the band is the fact that what I saw on stage wasn't what I heard on record. I mean, they have some great, kick ass tunes. But, when it came to putting the power and energy of a live show on record, it's like...well...they never quite hit that mark. I haven't heard their first album. The second and third release, "It All Comes Down To Me" and "Nut Job," were really good, it's just that it seemed like something was missing. So, when it came to their new release, "American Breakdown," I was curious to see what they had to offer this time around...and they freakin' killed it. This album's fantastic. This is the 3 Kisses that I saw on stage. High energy, totally aggressive, power pop party punk. I might have to get another disc because I've been playing this one to death. It's just so damn good. No, it's not just good...it's GREAT!
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Music News - Houston, TX
by Hollywood Steve Rangel
"American Breakdown" - 3 Kisses (2009)
You'll find lots to like about "American Breakdown", the new offering from 3 Kisses. 3 Kisses is a refreshingly original band that has far more in common with early Joan Jett, The Pretenders and No Doubt than with any mindless Sex Pistols knock-off.
You'll find quality material ripe with great arrangements and lyrical sophistication, and driven by passionate performances. Even the crude language (Nut Job) is well within the context of the song and never feels gratuitous.
The musicianship is top-notch across the board. The drum work on "American Breakdown" and "It's Not About You", as well as the bass line on the No Doubt-inspired "Bricks", are particular stand-outs.
Tish Meeks possesses a unique and appealing voice, and she uses it to great effect. Her enunciation on often rapid-fire vocal lines is critical. "Wrong Head", "PMS", and "Denial" each feature smart, biting narratives that must be clearly heard to be appreciated. The fact that every word is audible, even on the most frantic songs, is a credit to both her ability and the producer's job.
There's plenty more here, including a powerful remake of the Jett classic "I Hate Myself For Loving You" and the guy anthem "Summer Love Song". But don't take my word for it, pick up a copy of 3 Kisses' "American Breakdown."
BUY "AMERICAN BREAKDOWN" HERE:
http://www.ratpakrecordsamerica.com/3kisses
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Album Name: American Breakdown
Artist: 3 Kisses
Year/Label: 2009 / Rat Pak Records
Review by Amy Lotsberg Producer of Collected Sounds
I reviewed some previous releases from Austin band, 3 Kisses. I even caught them on an episode of Wife Swap (pretty entertaining.) When I started listening to this release what stood out is that I didn’t remember them being quite this hard. But maybe it’s just been awhile since I listened to their older stuff.
Opener, Hope is Contagious, is kinda slower and is memorable. It’s got a good message too.
Then we get a little wilder.
Nutjob begins with a crazy, creepy clown laugh and goes on to admonish the subject of the song about how crazy he/she is. Peppered with some f-bombs (seriously would it be punk without?). It’s OK there’s a radio friendly mix too (however, my ears still heard the same word, maybe I don’t have it turned up enough.)
Some of these tracks are kinda jokey songs. Or at least clever and funny. PMS and Wrong Head mostly.
Wrong Head is cleverly funny. Albeit kinda raunchy (lyrics include: ‘he’s thinking with the wrong head’). I really like the melody of this one though.
Summer Love Song is…Um…weird? I think it’s about drowning someone. But it’s more melodic than some of their other tunes.
For the most part, their music is harder than what I am used to. But for me, it’s good party music. -
"Nut Job" REVIEWS
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Never content to rest on their laurels, Austin, Texas-based quartet 3 Kisses pushes the envelope wit...Never content to rest on their laurels, Austin, Texas-based quartet 3 Kisses pushes the envelope with its newest release, "Nut Job". Where the band's last album explored the band's pop influences, the songs on "Nut Job" combine pop, metal and punk into a musical fusion that is: One: infectious; Two: out of this world; and uniquely: Three Kisses! This band packs more energy into a 3-minute song than all the WMD's combined! Long live rock! – Martin Folkman, The Musicians Atlas
3 Kisses is a band that is constantly moving forward and they've really come into their own on "Nut Job." They've managed to capture their live performance sound a lot better this time around...and they still write songs that seem made for the stage, where audience participation would increase the overall vibe of the song. Tunes like "Let's Dance," "Nut Job" and "Wake Up" are perfect examples. When you hear these songs, you can almost picture yourself in the crowd shouting the chorus back at the band. One of my favorite tracks on the album...and another good example of a song that seems to be written for the stage...is "Girls Night," which has the catchy "I wanna get laid" chorus. This is the 3 Kisses signature song...Kiss has "Rock 'N' Roll All Nite" and 3 Kisses has "Girls Night." As an added bonus, there are two different versions of "Swapping Wives," which was inspired by their appearance on ABC’s “Wife Swap”. The first version is a straight forward rock song. The second version, which is the one I actually like the most, is an acoustic version, which is really cool because you get to hear a side of vocalist Tish Meeks that you don't normally hear. They're a hard working band and they're really worth checking out. So, be sure to pick up a copy of "Nut Job" and go crazy. – Paul Autry, BallBuster Hard Music/Spotlight
Okay hands down my favorite song on 3 Kisses' latest release "Nut Job" is the title track. It's a song that I can relate to with some of the people I have dealt with in the music business. This album is hot rockin' fun. 3 Kisses bills itself as a high-spirited Texas party punk band. It's spot on! – Madalyn Sklar, GoGirls Music
Ramones on 78 rpm! This reminds me so much of the early days of punk 30 years ago. Amazing energy, awesome singer with a young loud and snotty voice. Sounds like so many good bands: Richard Hell and the Voidoids, X Ray specs, Buzzcocks, Jayne County. I'm confident you'll stick to this sound and you should. It's A-1 certified 100% punk pop. - Tuppus - Groningen, Netherlands
Let’s Dance! Whoa, this chick has an awesome growl in her voice. Groovy raunchy guitar riffs and those backup vocals are freakin’ awesome! This is like a dirty back alley street version of the Donna's. This makes me think of drinking idiots all singing along to a good band. It's very catchy. Sometimes simple is the best way to go. The Rolling Stones might have sung this song at one point. Wow, I’m speechless really. The production is good, songwriting is good, and the lyrics totally fit the mood. I want to hear more! - Stressbomb - New London, Connecticut
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"It All Comes Down to Me" REVIEWS
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3 Kisses delivers a strong sophomore album with catchy tunes and a rockin' beat. Tish Meeks and comp...3 Kisses delivers a strong sophomore album with catchy tunes and a rockin' beat. Tish Meeks and company have unleashed frenzy, so hop along and join the ride! --Madalyn Sklar, GoGirlsMusic.com
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One of the best compliments that I can give is that I have thousands of CDs stacked high but It All Comes Down To Me stands alone in style. I also liked the in-your-face, heart-on-the-sleeve boldness and brass balls of the material and the way it’s honestly and 'having-a-great-time' delivered. Kudos de mucho! --Eddie Russell, DJ Country Eastern / Outlaw For Peace radio
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3 Kisses is like a really great college party band, only better and much, much zanier. So now you can relive that kegger party of old—with or without the keg—just pop the new 3 Kisses' CD in your player, and start jumpin' and jivin'. You'll be glad you did. For a short while you'll be able to live like there's no tomorrow. If you like having fun, then It All Comes Down To Me gets a 5. If you're a sourpuss, then you get a big boot in the butt. –Tim Null, This Befuddled Universe, San Jose, CA
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…fun pop-punk. It's certainly party music. It makes you want to jump around like a dork. Or maybe that's just how I jump around. The lyrics on this whole record are charming…is a fun summer record. -Amy Lotsberg, Producer of Collected Sounds
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A fun and frenetic rock record, It All Comes Down to Me is reminiscent of The Bangs, but without the desperate need to play faster than everybody else. Highlighted by Tish Meeks’s sweet voice, this record is an invigorating throw-back to the days when music was not a statement, not a way of life, but a means for having fun. 4 Stars - Origivation Magazine, Philadelphia, PA
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This is a fun, rock/pop/punk party album that's loaded with energy, excitement and, best of all, they're just good, solid songs. A must have recording for anyone who likes their music to entertain them. On a scale of one to ten, I'd give it a 20! - Paul Autry, Spotlight Magazine
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High energy, In your face and great lyrics! This CD shows a much tighter 3 Kisses with more great songs that are thoughtful, fun and honest. The band really comes together on this one and proves what they are made of. A great sophomore project! - Alexia Erlichman, MusicGorilla.com -
"Wings" REVIEWS
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3 Kisses is a highly stylized pop/rock outfit that writes highly catchy and offbeat songs, which are...3 Kisses is a highly stylized pop/rock outfit that writes highly catchy and offbeat songs, which are an excellent mesh of many different musical styles. Opener “Yellow” is a catchy ditty… swings between straight up pop and funky wah. The stylish vocals remind me of Gwen Stefani. Singer Tish Meeks has an infectious voice that rolls out her vocal hooks with ease and draws in the listener. The song is short enough and filled with enough interesting hooks to warrant multiple listens. “Wings," brings the mood down and lets Meeks’ vocals flow over some interesting, melodic guitar work. The song doesn’t lose any energy… excellent and strong rhythms provided by the bass and drums. “Wastin’ Time” (has) an excellent dual hook, with the guitar mirrored against what sounds like a xylophone. Along with sporadic saxophone bursts, it sets a great landscape for Tish to sing around. The song is insanely catchy and was stuck in my head in seconds. 3 Kisses has made an excellent offering of their music. It’s catchy, well written, did I mention catchy? - and excellently mixed. The only unfortunate part about this CD is that it’s over too quickly.” - Benjamin Daniels, Indie-music.com
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Cool music! Abba meets Olivia Newton John and mixes it up with Joan Jett! This reminds me of 60's radio baby! I love it! Tish your vocals kick! I'd love to get a chance to see these cats on stage. They talk about getting on stage to have fun and believe me I can hear the fun in all of their songs! It's not often that you can pop something in, and like every track but 3 Kisses has got it! Can you feel my excitement just writing about them? The music is upbeat and happy and has the ability to lift your spirits immediately. The lyrics are intelligent and catchy with a pop feel that you just can't ignore. Check this out and add it to your collection immediately. Trust me on this one. From song to song I was bopping and truly impressed. 3 Kisses, your band has got to be the coolest! – Duss Rodgers, Catsask.com
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3 Kisses is the multi-talented Tish Meeks on vocals, guitar, keys and sax along with her husband Tony Meeks on backing vocals and guitar. The dynamic, snappy rhythm is constant throughout Wings. 3 Kisses incorporates various styles into their spirited music ranging from alternative power pop to rock with shades of dance, folk and melodic. Their well-crafted lyrics look at both the good and bad experiences of life. 3 Kisses sound is unique with the use of unusual guitar chords and arrangements with punchy beats and funky keyboard effects. Tish's vocals can range from dreamy to powerful. 'Yellow' is the opening song with its catchy, colorful rhythm supported in part by animated keys. The guitars and vocal inflection are up-tempo with an edge. 'Wings' – the title track soars on a steady, snappy beat enhanced by whimsical keys. Tish's vocals reach for the sky as the guitars flow on the groove of the song. 'Seek Your Own Way' is a dazzling, vocal track strengthened by atmospheric instrumentation. 3 Kisses brings passion to their music and Wings is a delight from start to finish! - Laura Turner Lynch, Kweevak.com
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"Wings" is a great little pop number that actually reminded me of the Smiths (something about that jangle-y guitar). There is quite a lot going on here…not only the vocals, but some crazy mean guitar lines along with synthesizer, bass and drums. Looking for fun pop with a bit of a Brit sound, try out 3 Kisses. - Amy Lotsberg, Producer of Collected Sounds
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This band has mastered a tricky concept -- making the sound simple and the effect big enough to fill a room. 3 Kisses is a four-piece band with a big party vibe. Even when the lyrics are sad or philosophical, the music makes you feel good. They set the hook with the very first track, "Yellow," which is catchy, groovy, and so very cool. It's 60s-flavored modern rock with a lead vocal full of attitude, courtesy of Tish Meeks. As the CD progresses, the sound becomes more jangly, then kinda funky and fun, and even a bit art-rocky in places. Through it all, the band is tight. Such minimalist music could easily have sounded sloppy, but every pause in the beat stops on a dime, and every melody flows. They also have a knack for lyrics you don't normally hear from a pop band. Take "Seek Your Own Way." The psychedelic effect pulls you in, with echoed effects adding a sweetness to the vibe. You can easily just float along on this. Or, you can focus on the lyrics and learn a thing or two. This band may have just saved me a few hundred dollars in analyst fees. I wasn't at all surprised to learn that Meeks has an essay published in Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul. Overall, this music is fun. That's the word that kept popping up in my notes. Jangly, poppy, sometimes giddy fun. This is what you play at a party. – Jennifer Layton, Indie-music.com
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"Yellow" opens with a brief blast of electric guitar, but it's Tish Meeks sassy vocals that provide a focal point. Melodic keyboards and solid rhythm guitars propel the radio-friendly track "Wings." The Bangles reference is most easily heard in the flower-pop song "Wastin' Time." Bouncy guitars and Partridge Family keyboards elevate this track to ear-candy status. "Undone" brings back echoes of the band Lush, as the song combines a delicate layering of vocals and instruments…give the band credit for finding a style and sticking with it. - Doug Cornell, HitSession.com
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3 Kisses plays bright, up-tempo alternative pop. 3 Kisses' brand of pop is hummable and sympathetic and not too sweet. Tish Meeks has a good voice for this kind of music and she and the band play well. The lovely "Wastin' Time" is my favorite song here but they're all good. - Anna Maria Stjärnell, Ectoguide.org
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…heavenly piece of pop from an incredible band! - IndependentArtistsCompany.com -
3 Kisses @ Millennium Music Conference 2006
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I caught 3 KISSES’ performance at the MMC and they were freakin' explosive. When they hit the stage....I caught 3 KISSES’ performance at the MMC and they were freakin' explosive. When they hit the stage...they rocked and they rocked hard...and I didn't have a drop of alcohol in me that night. So, I know what I'm talkin' about. Okay, sure, some of the tunes on their disc, "It All Comes Down To Me," may come off sounding like pop tunes. But, I still say they rock.
Now, I tend to view music a bit differently than other people and I may be way off base here. But, after watching their performance, well, vocalist/guitarist Tish Meeks, who's about as tall as I am, was a ball of fire on stage. She reminded me of a combination of The Runaways, Joan Jett solo and the late Wendy O. Williams. I don't know if anyone else would agree with me on that. However, that was my first impression and I'm stickin' to it. I'm gonna do a review on their album and I'm really gonna focus on it before I even attempt to write anything because I wanna do this band justice.
Drummer Josh Tallerine was great. He was a monster behind the kit. He beat the drums like they were rotten step children. Rhythm guitarist Tony Meeks is one talented dude. Not only does he play guitar. He was also playin' the bass with his feet...it was some pedal thing. All I know is that they had a full sound and I'm sure part of that was due to his talent.
Anyway, this is another band I'll be writing about again and, hopefully, they'll return to Pennsylvania in February for MMC11. Speaking of which...they've performed at the MMC before. Once, twice...not really sure. I picked up a promo disc last year and it kind of got buried under a pile of other stuff. I found it before I went to the MMC this year and, once I heard it, I knew this was a band that I wanted to see and I did. I also felt like giving myself a swift kick in the ass for not discovering them sooner. Better late than never though...right? Also, check out ‘Girls’ Night’...great freakin' tune. Yes, that's 3 KISSES. God, I love that song. They performed it live and that one stuck in my head for the rest of the night. Okay, sure, it's a song about sex and I always have my mind in the gutter...at least I'm honest about it. But, it's still a great song and I'm sure you'll agree with me! -
Tish Meeks - Rockin' for the Cure
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For three years, Tish Meeks has been singing vocals and playing guitar with her band, 3 Kisses, and ...For three years, Tish Meeks has been singing vocals and playing guitar with her band, 3 Kisses, and for three years, they've been rockin' the Susan G. Komen San Antonio Race for the cure. The band's upbeat, high-energy sound is the perfect soundtrack to an event that brings hope and inspiration to so many women fighting breast cancer. Tish, the consummate front-woman, uses a wireless microphone to get out on the Race course and encourage survivors, high-five runners and cheer walkers.
This year, some 30,000 participants will be on-hand to rock out with 3 Kisses and walk/run for the cause at the 9th Annual Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure at the Alamodome. Tish's relentless enthusiasm and amazing vocal talent offer the positive reinforcement that propels participants to the finish line. However, behind the pop facade, Tish's participation in the event is very personal. The band has performed at various Races in Texas in honor of band mate and husband Tony Meeks' mother, LaVerne Nickerson; his stepmother, Judy Meeks; his grandmother, Geneva Folks; and Tish's cousin Ruby Middleton; and in memory of Tish's mother, Beverly Trimmer.
"We participate in the Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure because breast cancer has affected our family so deeply, as it has many others," says Tish. "3 Kisses chooses to use the talents God has blessed us with to give something back to our community and support an organization that is committed to winning the fight against this disease."
Tish's mother was first diagnosed with breast cancer when Tish was only 11 years old. Mrs. Trimmer was just 42 years old when she died, leaving an 18-year-old girl and her 13-year-old brother heartbroken and motherless. Tish chronicled her experience in a story called "Legacy" for Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul. Released in December 2004, it is on e of the books in the bestselling Chicken Soup series published by Health Communications, Inc. In its pages, she lays bare her emotional battles and her spiritual triumphs, and speaks of the legacy of love and inspiration her mother left behind.
A schoolteacher, Beverly Trimmer was well loved in the small farming community in which Tish and her family lived. Tish writes, "She (my mother) was passionate about life, about raising me and my brother, about teaching, about making a difference. Her warm and caring nature drew others to her. And she did make a difference in the lives of more people than she will ever know."
The seven-year battle with breast cancer was hard on the entire family, but despite excruciating treatments of radiation therapy and painful chemotherapy treatments, Beverly managed to face every day with a smile and a kind word. Tish continues, "My mother, the loving, sacrificing caregiver, was now relying on us to take care of her. My father quit his job in order to stay at home and take care of my mother full time, my grandmothers were at our house daily, helping to bathe and dress my mother, and I and my brother also did what we could to help. Our family pulled together to take care of my mother, who had told my father that she wished to die in her home. On February 13, 1989, the cancer granted her wish."
Beverly's death was an incredible burden for Tish, a freshman in college, to bear. Knowing how important education was to her mother, thought, Tish earned a B.S. degree in biology in just three and a half years and graduated with honors. She made a decision early on not to be victimized by her mother's death, and instead used it as an opportunity to celebrate her mother's life. She learned that she could honor her mother by telling her story and helping others who need help or are in pain. "I find that reaching out to others is a great source of healing for me," Tish writes, "Whether it is helping someone financially, providing emotional support for someone else who has experienced loss, contributing to cancer research, or whatever the opportunity may be, it helps me to put my own loss into perspective.
In the end, it was a mother's love that brought Tish into the world, and for that reason, Beverly will never be forgotten. "I choose to honor my mother's memory by being the person she raised me to be - the person she invested her life in. I am now a wife and a mother, and I am also her legacy. I strive to be the best person I can be, a daughter she would be proud of."
3 Kisses, based out of Austin, has donated its time and talents not only to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, but also to benefit other nonprofits like the Leukemia/Lymphoma Society, American Cancer Society, and Lynne Cohen Ovarian Cancer Foundation. 3 Kisses also supports breast cancer by donating a portion of all its CD sales to the Susan G. Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure and the American Cancer Society.
April 1st, Tish and 3 Kisses will be on hand for the 9th Annual Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure at the Alamodome. "It is my hope that in our near future, a cure will be found, and we will be able to stop the suffering due to the loss of our grandmothers, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts granddaughters and friends."
**Portions of "Legacy" by Letitia "Tish" Trimmer Meeks are reprinted with permission from Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul, (c) 2004 Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen, Health Communications, Inc., Deerfield Beach, FL. -
Meeks Wants to Make Mark With Her Music
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Since childhood, Letitia "Tish" Trimmer Meeks has had a love for music. But while many kids have ...Since childhood, Letitia "Tish" Trimmer Meeks has had a love for music.
But while many kids have played piano, clarinet or violin in their formative years, few have made the leap that Meeks has made: forming an alternative band with aspirations of success.
Meeks and husband Tony, who recently moved to Brenham from outside Sacramento, Calif., formed a band named 3 Kisses in 2003. The band has been performing in gigs since early 2004.
Meeks said she and her husband have written their own songs since first playing guitar together when they lived in California.
"When we would sit down to play guitar together, we could never agree on what to play," Meeks said. "We had different tastes in music, so we would write our own music."
Meeks sings and plays guitar for the band, while Tony plays the guitar and the synthesizer while also serving as backup vocalist.
Jennie Rutherford, a 25-year-old British woman, mans the drums for 3 Kisses.
Meeks, who grew up in Amarillo, described her music as a sort of "alternative-pop" hybrid. The band has drawn comparison to several different bands from different genres of music.
The singer said she writes many of the lyrics, which are largely based on things she has experienced.
"We have a very unique sound that we've been told is appealing to a lot of people," said Meeks. "I write a lot of the lyrics about things that happen to me in life. A lot of them have a dark tone, but the music is upbeat and poppy.
"There's a contradiction of themes going, but that's what our fans like about us."
What 3 Kisses sounds like varies depending on the fan, Meeks said.
"We kind of have the '80s girl band thing going, like the Go Go's and Blondie," Meeks said. "But I've been compared to Gwen Stefani, and (our band) has been compared to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Cranberries and the Cars."
Meeks considers the band to be based out of Austin, where it does much of its performing and marketing, but the band is scheduled to perform in Brenham, where it has landed a monthly show at Otto's Ice House.
Meeks said she has a good fan base in Austin, but that the band is looking to expand beyond Austin.
"It's not unique to be a band from Austin, Texas and play in Austin," Meeks said. "Austin is saturated with bands."
Before her campaign to start her own successful band, Meeks worked in code enforcement for the city of Folsom, Calif.
Her duties were a far cry from that of a rock star.
"Our job was to keep the city looking good," Meeks said. "We made sure people didn't have junky cars in their driveways, made sure their pets were under control and (enforced) noise compliance (laws).
"We enforced building codes, and basically kept the town safe and clean."
Working to self-start a band is a tougher job than your average 9 to 5, however.
Meeks said she works most of the day handling the band's business decisions while taking care of her 3-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son.
"It's extremely difficult," said Meeks of her career change. "Most musicians are not really willing to do this much work. I'm a stay-at-home mom and I spend 14 to 16 hours a day on (promoting the band).
"You have to treat the band as a business. Most musicians don't know anything about business, so they are unable to help themselves. That gives us an edge. You have to be able to make this a full-time job."
Meeks said her kids don't mind having musicians for parents. The singer said her son actually exhibiting some musical talent even at age 5.
"They love it," Meeks said. "My son is already exhibiting an extraordinary amount of talent. He's already writing his own songs and playing drums.
"He writes about things that are not on a 5-year-old level at all. We don't push it on him, because we don't want to ruin it for him."
Meeks is serious about getting her band's name out there. 3 Kisses recently filmed a music video in Austin, and the group is gearing up to play at two well-known music festivals this year: North by Northgate in College Station and South by Southwest in Austin.
The video is currently being shown on the Austin Music Network.
The band also has a charitable mindset, as it devotes a portion of its proceeds to cancer research. The group plans to start its own breast cancer foundation this year, Meeks said.
3 Kisses has played at events such as the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and at the Motive Bison Stampede to benefit the Leukemia Lymphoma Society.
The band is very charity-minded and cancer-conscious largely due to Meeks' history. In 1989, the singer's mother died after a battle with breast cancer.
Meeks has shared her experience with others in Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul, and said growing up during her mother's illness has definitely affected both her life and her music.
"I feel I must use the talents that God has blessed me with to help others," Meeks said. "I love to play charity benefits. We've played for at least 20,000 race participants, and we've been asked to play again this year.
"Losing my mom, if you can survive that, you can survive anything. I don't think we ever get to the point in our lives where we're ready to see our parents go. It's definitely shaped who I am."
Meeks said she hopes her band continues to develop its fan base. The singer said she hopes to attract listeners and fans from all over the world.
"In 10 years, I hope we have developed a very large underground following," Meeks said. "We would love to do our music full-time and take our kids on the road with us with a tutor. Rather than have them learn history from a book, it would be much more fun for them to actually go to Washington, D.C. than read about it.
"I hope we can do an album a year, and I hope that we'll be attracting fans on a large scale."
For more information about 3 Kisses, visit its Web site at www.3kisses.com.
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Chicks That Rock - Our Sweet Sixteen
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#12 - Tish Meeks from 3 Kisses 3 Kisses have been very good to us in helping to promote the magaz...#12 - Tish Meeks from 3 Kisses
3 Kisses have been very good to us in helping to promote the magazine down in Texas. We stumbled upon this band via MySpace and finally met at last years Dewey Beach Music Conference.
Q: How's the music scene in Austin?
A: The scene in Austin is unlike anyplace else in the country. There are thousands of bands, which makes the competition fierce, but there are also a ton of live music venues. If you work hard, Austin is full of opportunity. When 3 Kisses was only two months old, we were already playing venues like the Hard Rock Cafe.
Q: Tell me about TIM and how it affects your scene?
A: TIM is one of several Austin-based organizations of bands. What makes TIM different is that we have members from all over the country. Director, Robert Stuckey, hosts showcases monthly and brings in bands from all over. He recently hosted two showcases during SXSW and we had bands from San Francisco, Philadelphia and everywhere in between. TIM brings in up-and-coming artists from other parts of the country that might otherwise have a somewhat difficult time breaking into the Austin market and also provides opportunities for Austin bands to network with bands across the U.S. One of the TIM bands we work with often is Showin' Tell from Philadelphia.
Q: The band plans to attend the Millennium Music Conference and the Dewey Beach music Conference, but how do they compare to a major, and local, event like SXSW?
A: The three events are very different. Millennium Music Conference and Dewey Beach Music Conference are much smaller and more intimate than SXSW, which from an artist's perspective makes for more opportunity in many ways. It is much easier to meet and network with the industry and develop actual relationships with key industry people. We've played during SXSW the past three years, performing in five showcase events the past March. SXSW provides more opportunity in that the number of major and indie label A&R and other industry peeps is substantially higher than at the smaller events. The best thing to do is attend as many of these events as possible. I ran into Indian from Gig Records and Beatle Bob from St. Louis at SXSW, both of whom I'd met previously at Dewey Beach Music Fest. It's nice to be able to call out names of people like them on the street and have them come over and talk to me. I have Austin bands breathing down my neck wanting to know who those guys are and how I know them. With very few exceptions, every conference is worth going to because you are probably going to meet someone who will be able to affect your career at some point.
Q: I noticed the band has booked several in-store performances at various Sam Ash Music stores. How did you land face time at such a valuable resource?
A: 3 Kisses is a Powered by Sam Ash band and I must say the are the most outstanding company to work with. It is a real pleasure to represent them. The staff at our local Sam Ash in San Antonio will bend over backwards to take care of us and I know if I'm in a bind I can count on them to get us out of it. I was amazed to find the same level of service, dedication and respect for sponsored bands at Sam Ash locations across the country. We promote the hell out of those guys and they give us all the support we need. I've even e-mailed Paul Ash, the CEO and he responded to me personally within a couple of days. It's a fantastic relationship. I can't say enough good things about this company. -
FemaleMusician Indie-views: 3 Kisses
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HOW ARE YOU PROMOTING YOUR LATEST CD RELEASE? We launched a CMJ Radio campaign through TinderboX...HOW ARE YOU PROMOTING YOUR LATEST CD RELEASE?
We launched a CMJ Radio campaign through TinderboX Music about two weeks after we released our first CD, Wings. We made the Top 20 ADDS and we're in rotation at many college stations across the US. 3 Kisses is also receiving airplay through the underground Global DJ Network by DJs such as Eddie Russell in Columbus, TX, Lord Litter in Berlin, Germany and Joe Vincent at Jolly Roger Radio in Ireland.
We've done interviews with various internet DJs such as James St. James of Indie Artist Radio, Jon Rucker of Rockland World Radio and The Next Big Thing. My primary marketing tool has been the Indie Bible. My goal is to send out 50 press kits a week to radio stations, festivals, club owners/booking agents, reviewers, etc.
We're also entertaining an offer to sign with Indie label, Waking Dream Records out of North Canton, OH. They offer international distribution in chains such as Best Buy and FYE. We've also got a contract with a booking agent on the East Coast and we're beginning to play nationally - our first confirmed gig is at
the House of Rock in Denver in March.
WHAT IS YOUR CREATIVE SONGWRITING PROCESS?
I carry a journal with me everywhere I go. I jot down lyric ideas whenever the mood strikes me. I have notebooks full of lyrics. When Tony gets an idea for a cool riff or comes up with an interesting chord progression, I usually hear something right away and go straight to a particular lyric. We used to sit down and "effort" writing. We learned quickly that it doesn't work very well - not only is it frustrating but we do not write our best material when we are trying too hard. We've learned to write when idea hits us and if we're unable to write at the moment, we will record the idea on a portable cassette player, our cell phone or I've even been known to call and leave melody and lyric ideas on our answering machine if we're away from home. Jennie is very involved in the arranging process. She comes to the song with a fresh ear and is able to come up with some very creative ideas for arrangement.
WHAT MAINLY INSPIRES YOUR SONGS?
Life. I find things all around me to write about. My friends, family, neighbors, ex-boyfriends, people I don't even know - there is inspiration everywhere. Most of our songs are written on a level that the average person can relate to - we write about things everyone goes through. I am inspired when I am greatly affected by an event in my life. Our song Undone is about a guy I went to school with who committed suicide. I'm working on a song about a friend who was killed in a car accident. I wrote a funny song about a lifelong friend who was on the Oprah Winfrey show recently.
HAVE YOU EVER TAKEN MUSIC LESSONS?
I took piano lessons for about 7 years and have taken a random guitar lesson here and there. I've mostly taught myself guitar. Tony has taken guitar lessons off and on throughout his life. He's been playing since he was very young so he's got a the most experience of any of us. Jennie had never picked up a set of drum sticks in her life before coming on board with 3 Kisses. She is a natural. She played her first show with us on 6th Street in Austin only 2 weeks after playing drums for the first time. She has earned a place among her peers and other drummers are amazed by
her ability. We recently recorded a track at Stinson Studios in Austin and our producer said that her timing is impeccable.
WHAT CATEGORY DO YOU CONSIDER YOUR MUSIC?
We call ourselves alternative-pop. We aren't exactly standard pop fare - we've been compared to everyone from The Red Hot Chili Peppers to Blondie to Letters to Cleo and about a hundred others in between. We've been told repeatedly - even by industry people that there is something unique about us and the people that really take the time to listen to
our music "get it".
HOW CAN PEOPLE PURCHASE YOUR MUSIC?
Our CD, DVD and t-shirts are all available for purchase on our website at www.3kisses.com. The CD is also available at www.cdbaby.com/cd/3kisses and www.musicgorilla.com.
WHO ARE THE CORE MEMBERS THAT SURROUND YOUR SOUND?
Tony & I do the songwriting and we developed the 3 Kisses style. When we began dating, we could never agree on what to play when we sat down to play guitar together. We have very different tastes in music. So, we decided to try our hand at writing our own stuff. We didn't try to copy anyone else or write in a specific genre or style - we just wrote what came naturally to us and it soon took on a life of its own.
WHAT MUSIC IS IN YOUR CD JUKEBOX?
Tony and I own about 4000 CDs ˆ everyone from Enya and Harry Connick Jr. to Pantera and Marilyn Manson. We are big fans of Andrew WK and I have found myself listening to Fountains of Wayne a lot lately, but I also listen to Sister Hazel and Tom Petty on a regular basis. Jennie is currently listening to the Corrs, the Donnas, and Lillix. Tony has
Ray Charles, Karla Bonoff, Journey and Jackson Browne in his CD changer.
WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST DIFFICULT ABOUT BEING AN INDEPENDENT ARTIST?
Getting yourself heard is the hardest thing. There is so much good independent music out there. It is a lot of work making yourself stand out. I thrive on the marketing almost as much as the music, itself, and I'm fortunate to be in a position where I can make marketing 3 Kisses my full time job. It is frustrating that there is no way Indies can compete in the Clear Channel or Cumulus market of traditional radio - especially with so much less than stellar music receiving airplay.
IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING WITHIN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
The fact that the industry keeps cranking out "me too" bands is annoying beyond belief. People get sick of hearing the same old stuff over and over. When Creed came out, every guy on the planet decided he should sing like Scott Stapp. If I wanted to hear Scott Stapp, I'd listen to Creed. Give me something new. Give me something DIFFERENT. It is sad that the music industry misses out on some of the most outstanding music ever created. You have to sell 10,000
CDs on your own just to get noticed, which I don't mind - I like doing the work. I believe in my music. The more things happen for 3 Kisses, the harder I work. I just hope someone notices.
ANY OTHER BAND PLUGS:
3 Kisses already has an unofficial showcase at SXSW in Austin this year. We're playing on Thursday, March 17 at 7pm at the Dizzy Rooster. We're up for several official showcases, as well, but haven't received notification yet. Our website is updated regularly, so if anyone is attending SXSW and is interested in seeing us play, I urge them to check our website - www.3kisses.com.
Also, I think it is important for people to know that we are only a one-year-old band. Our first year out, 3 Kisses played 47 shows in Texas regionally, I engineered our CD on a Roland VS1880 in our home with NO engineering experience, we are receiving worldwide airplay, we've played events such as the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Austin for 20,000 race participants (and we've already been invited back for the 2005 Race in Austin and also been invited to play other Susan G. Komen Races in Central Texas), we've played other benefits to large crowds and have been asked to play several others already in 2005 and we've hosted a segment of Texas Music on the Austin Music Network. I am also a contributing author in Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul, the most recent installment of the New York Times Best-selling series by Jack Canfield and Mark Victor Hansen. We're just getting started - that's nothing compared to what we're going to do in 2005
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3 Kisses - Still Flying High
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It's an honest enough question: What preconceptions might people have of this band with two young bl...It's an honest enough question: What preconceptions might people have of this band with two young blond women in the power positions (lead guitar and drums)? "I think they're expecting us to be a little more 'girly' than we actually are," laughs lead singer and guitarist Letitia "Tish" Meeks. "Lots of times people, when they come to see us, they're like, 'Wow, you guys are really edgy, and intense!' We're very friendly people and on stage we interact with each other a lot, and I especially use a lot of facial expressions in songs, like songs that are kind of funny or whatever, so we definitely win fans a lot of our fans from our live performances."
The foursome of Tish, her husband, Tony Meeks (guitar), Jennie Rutherford (percussion), and bassist Ed Hale have been playing together in their home-base of Austin, Texas, since 2003. "Actually, Tony and I started writing in '98," explains Tish. "We got married in '99, my son was born in 2000, and my daughter was born in 2001, so we were quite busy there for a while. But during that time, before we even officially started 3 Kisses, all we did was write, so we have a large repertoire of songs already together from that." She adds, "We probably have enough songs for five or six albums! And we are still writing new stuff all the time. Being in a band with my husband, though - it is awesome! It is incredible! I mean, being part of a couple and being able to do what you love to do and share it with one another - it really makes our marriage a lot stronger, and we get to share our passion in life together. So it's been a great experience for both of us."
Recently, they released their first self-produced album, called Wings. The album is a pleasant combination of dreamy pop music with catchy guitar hooks and lyrics, with songs about destiny and hope and overcoming great obstacles successfully. The title track, "Wings," begins on a melancholy note-literally, because the music itself is the melancholy part - but the lyrics themselves are a mantra of redemption. "Take my breath away/shoot me high into the sky/Wash all my fears away/you make me want to fly-you give me wings," sings Tish, and it sounds so honest and true that you can't help but be happy for the narrator in the song.
Tish's favorite song of the day - because I made her pick out a favorite, despite her protestations that it was impossible - is the eighth track, "Wandering," a happy little song featuring some cool modified guitar riffs that also happens to be the very first song that Tish and her husband wrote together. "We just picked eleven songs that we thought really flowed well together and gave a good representation of what we're about overall for our first album," says Tish of Wings. "All of the songs have been chosen for our second album now, too, and we're about to begin recording on it. We're going to take our time on it, though, and probably release it at the end of this year or at the first of 2006."
As well as being an at-home mother of two small children and a full-time musician, Tish decided for this album to take on the role of producer/engineer as well. "I did all the engineering at home, with no experience at all," says Tish, sounding a little too sheepish and modest considering what an impressive first effort this album truly is. "And having said that, our first CD is doing really well, so that's encouraging in a sense. I think I failed in the recording to put a lot of the energy our live show has. But the good thing is, it seems like those who aren't 100% won over by our record are back on our side when they see us live!"
With their positive message of hope and own personal philosophies, it's no wonder that 3 Kisses has been invited to perform at so many family-themed functions and benefits, including the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure and the Motive Bison Stampede to benefit the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. They're also perfectly at home on some of the harder alternative rock stages as well, such as this year's South by Southwest showcase in Austin.
"I lost my mother to breast cancer in 1989 and we have really taken that on as our cause," says Tish of all of their benefit work. "A while ago, I wrote a story about how losing my mother to breast cancer changed my life, and I have chosen to be empowered by the loss instead of being victimized by it. The story that I wrote was published in the most recent installment of the Chicken Soup books, the "Chicken Soup for the Recovering Soul." My story 'Legacy' appears in that. We donate a portion of our CD sales to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the American Cancer Society, the National Breast Cancer Foundation. We play a lot of benefits. [We] really try to bring a lot of awareness to getting regular cancer screens and being aware of detecting the problem early on, and getting the proper treatment and education. We really want to do music to make a difference, to do something beyond ourselves.
"But basically, we kind of write songs," she finishes. "Sometimes we write silly stuff, but almost everything we write is inspired by something or someone in our lives. We write a lot of songs that are inspired by our own experiences. We try to write songs that people in general can relate to, no matter what level they're on in their lives."
Setlist
Denial
PMS
Out of Control
Wastin' Time
Wings
Come Along
Beauty Queen
Don't Pretend
Deeds of Fools
Complete
Undone
Love's Games
Turn Around
Summer Love Song
The Last Time
Misery Loves Company
Prolonging the Melodrama
Fly Away
Yellow
Girl's Night
Deliverance
Empty Words
Paint The Sky
Ordinary
Change it All
It's Not About You
Let's Dance
Room to Improve
Too Late
Wandering
Seek Your Own Way
Which Way to Run
Pass Me By
Wake Up
Casting Stones
Swapping Wives
Nutjob
Wrong Head
Calendar
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