Dana Kamide Band

By Katharine Miller

Most potential rock stars get into the music industry for the fleeting fame, the piles of money, and the endless stream of screaming groupies. Dana Kamide is not your average potential rock star.
Dana isn’t in the music business for the groupies or even the money - he does it for the universal need of self-expression. "I feel blessed to be able to express myself through music. I'm constantly trying to evolve and become a better human being, both spiritually and socially. You give more when you give of yourself than of your possessions." Through music, Kamide gives of himself completely.
Dana was born the youngest of six in Carthage, NY. He was introduced to music and performing at the age of seven, when his eldest brother, Sie taught him the boogie woogie on the piano. He mastered the tune with two fingers and made his debut on a classroom piano at Augustinian Academy in upstate New York. When he finished playing, his classmates erupted into applause. It was at that moment, Dana found his calling.
He began his professional career playing in clubs at age 13. With five years of performing experience and a desire to learn more about the business side of the industry, the 18 year-old moved to Boston to study at Berklee College of Music. He then went on to pursue the life of a rock star by going out on tour with several successful bands throuhgout North and South America, gaining more and more recognition everywhere he went. Now, after a few years of traveling and opportunities to sell out, the 27 year-old Kamide, while among his many fans in Orlando who cheer him on, plans to propel his efforts full-force to become a successful independent recording and touring artist both nationally and internationally . "It's easier to be a big fish in a small pond, which is why I came back to Orlando, but I will be planning to tour after the record is released to expose my music to broader audience. I think there is an amazing amount of talent in just about town, but for a while now, the industry has had their eyes on Orlando. It's a great place to start and I have so much support here."
Kamide, with his undeniable talent, has developed quite a fan base in the Southeast and even in other parts pf the world such as Mexico, Italy and Germany where many fans got to know him through his touring of Hard Rock Cafes. And like any attractive male performer, he has his fair share of groupies. Although he explains, "I don't like too much adoration. I'm a little uncomfortable with it... but it's hard to pass them up. He does enjoy the recognition, just on a smaller scale. "I want to be able to hang out with my friends in public without feeling awkward if a fan recognizes and approaches me."


Categorizing Kamide's music might prove a daunting task for record store employees and industry bigwigs. "I grew up digging a lot of different musical styles. I'm into a little of everything which is dangerous in this line of work because you have to be focused, especially when you're just starting out." His music ranges from R&B to modern and progressive rock, acoustic-soul to alternative-pop; he adds own personal flair to each style that creates an inviting sound to ears of all preferences. But make no mistake about it, Dana definitely has a sound all is own.
As Kamide works to complete his latest independent album, he uses his diversity and songwriting talents to write for other performers. You probably won't find his work on a cookie-cutter teen pop album as Dana's lyrics tend to delve a little deeper than puppy love and bad hair days. He writes with the hope of connecting with the listener. "I try to write meaningful lyrics and touch on the spiritual levels of life and death and change. We all share the same struggles and I try to capture that. As long as the audience gets something positive out of it, I feel like I've done my job."
Although he calls himself a songwriter, Kamide says he enjoys performing more than the creating aspect of music. "Creating today has become tedious with all the toys... technology gets in the way of inspiration and can break the mood of a song." He adds, "If I could sit down with just a guitar and a cheap tape recorder, I'd write a lot faster than I do."
He is often approached for tips on how to break into the music business. His advice for performers, "Number one, you've got to have a song. Write as many songs as you can. Try to get a publishing deal as a songwriter." But most importantly, "Realize your limitations and explore all aspects of the industry. The road to rock is long and arduous. If you can‘t be a rock star, maybe you‘ll find success writing jingles or as a booking agent."
Dana counts himself among the fortunate few who can exist primarily for music, but when he isn't working, he enjoys biking, playing tennis and working out. He is starting a new workout routine with a personal trainer and yoga practices to get in shape for his upcoming shows. Dana is - Industry Magazine

By Katharine Miller

Most potential rock stars get into the music industry for the fleeting fame, the piles of money, and the endless stream of screaming groupies. Dana Kamide is not your average potential rock star.
Dana isn’t in the music business for the groupies or even the money - he does it for the universal need of self-expression. "I feel blessed to be able to express myself through music. I'm constantly trying to evolve and become a better human being, both spiritually and socially. You give more when you give of yourself than of your possessions." Through music, Kamide gives of himself completely.
Dana was born the youngest of six in Carthage, NY. He was introduced to music and performing at the age of seven, when his eldest brother, Sie taught him the boogie woogie on the piano. He mastered the tune with two fingers and made his debut on a classroom piano at Augustinian Academy in upstate New York. When he finished playing, his classmates erupted into applause. It was at that moment, Dana found his calling.
He began his professional career playing in clubs at age 13. With five years of performing experience and a desire to learn more about the business side of the industry, the 18 year-old moved to Boston to study at Berklee College of Music. He then went on to pursue the life of a rock star by going out on tour with several successful bands throuhgout North and South America, gaining more and more recognition everywhere he went. Now, after a few years of traveling and opportunities to sell out, the 27 year-old Kamide, while among his many fans in Orlando who cheer him on, plans to propel his efforts full-force to become a successful independent recording and touring artist both nationally and internationally . "It's easier to be a big fish in a small pond, which is why I came back to Orlando, but I will be planning to tour after the record is released to expose my music to broader audience. I think there is an amazing amount of talent in just about town, but for a while now, the industry has had their eyes on Orlando. It's a great place to start and I have so much support here."
Kamide, with his undeniable talent, has developed quite a fan base in the Southeast and even in other parts pf the world such as Mexico, Italy and Germany where many fans got to know him through his touring of Hard Rock Cafes. And like any attractive male performer, he has his fair share of groupies. Although he explains, "I don't like too much adoration. I'm a little uncomfortable with it... but it's hard to pass them up. He does enjoy the recognition, just on a smaller scale. "I want to be able to hang out with my friends in public without feeling awkward if a fan recognizes and approaches me."


Categorizing Kamide's music might prove a daunting task for record store employees and industry bigwigs. "I grew up digging a lot of different musical styles. I'm into a little of everything which is dangerous in this line of work because you have to be focused, especially when you're just starting out." His music ranges from R&B to modern and progressive rock, acoustic-soul to alternative-pop; he adds own personal flair to each style that creates an inviting sound to ears of all preferences. But make no mistake about it, Dana definitely has a sound all is own.
As Kamide works to complete his latest independent album, he uses his diversity and songwriting talents to write for other performers. You probably won't find his work on a cookie-cutter teen pop album as Dana's lyrics tend to delve a little deeper than puppy love and bad hair days. He writes with the hope of connecting with the listener. "I try to write meaningful lyrics and touch on the spiritual levels of life and death and change. We all share the same struggles and I try to capture that. As long as the audience gets something positive out of it, I feel like I've done my job."
Although he calls himself a songwriter, Kamide says he enjoys performing more than the creating aspect of music. "Creating today has become tedious with all the toys... technology gets in the way of inspiration and can break the mood of a song." He adds, "If I could sit down with just a guitar and a cheap tape recorder, I'd write a lot faster than I do."
He is often approached for tips on how to break into the music business. His advice for performers, "Number one, you've got to have a song. Write as many songs as you can. Try to get a publishing deal as a songwriter." But most importantly, "Realize your limitations and explore all aspects of the industry. The road to rock is long and arduous. If you can‘t be a rock star, maybe you‘ll find success writing jingles or as a booking agent."
Dana counts himself among the fortunate few who can exist primarily for music, but when he isn't working, he enjoys biking, playing tennis and working out. He is starting a new workout routine with a personal trainer and yoga practices to get in shape for his upcoming shows. Dana is - Industry Magazine

By Donna T. Schuman
Experience has taught Dana Kamide how to make his mark in the world. He is a successful musician, singer and songwriter and not blinded by the allure of fame. Kamide describes his music as edgy with an R&B flare and pop rock attitude. He has a unique style that is a refreshing change from the trendy pop songs of today. His voice is pure and the songs exercise his wide vocal range without being too flashy, and this talent has garnered the eye of record producers on the West Coast. "I have been contacted a lot lately by several A&R, production and management companies with offers of representation and promises of presenting my songs to producers for other artists as well," he said.At the young age of 13, Kamide began his journey into the music business. "I started playing in clubs in New York," said Kamide. "When I was 14, I had my own band." Though he wanted to make it by age 19, Kamide is thankful he did not. "I needed to experience the things I did and I am still growing and learning what is most beneficial for me in this business." He added, "I probably would have ended up on 'Where Are They Now?'" Now at 28, Kamide has entertained thousands throughout the world. He also writes, records and produces his own music under his label Envision Music Group, Inc, which is based out of Winter Park where he also has his own professional recording studio.Taking the road less traveled is the best way to describe Kamide's musical career. He has made many great friends in the industry and had many opportunities that were open doors to possible fame and fortune, but decided to make his way on his own terms. "I made an album with my band, Wild Heart," he recalled. "I had a local manager who wanted to get me to sound like other bands. He gave me CDs of bands like 7 Mary 3 and Dave Mathews and said, "this is what record companies are looking for." I tried fitting in to those genres, and that was my first mistake. The music was not bad for a first effort. However, today I am disappointed by it because it's not the real me; it's me trying to sound like other people." Kamide strongly feels that timing is everything in the music business. The recent success of numerous Orlando-based artists, such as boy band hits O-Town and NSync, proves that Central Florida has caught the eye of the music industry. Like L.A. in the 1980s and Seattle in the 1990s, Orlando is the new music city, well-known but small-time compared to LA and New York. "There are great artists in every city, but it depends on where the industry is looking at the time," said Kamide. "I knew that in Orlando I could get to the level as an artist that I needed to be at with the great support I have always maintained here. You can become a big fish in a small pond." So far his patience has paid off. Kamide is pleased with all the positive feedback his music is receiving. "Orlando's response to my music is just getting out of the starting gate, but so far it has been overwhelming," said Kamide. "I have always had fans of me as a performer, but they weren't sure of how good a songwriter I was. If I didn't show them I could write they would never take me seriously. Now they definately do."When he's not writing and recording, Kamide can be found at numerous venues around Central Florida. For the rest of August, Dana Kamide will be performing at Blackfin in Winter Park. Special guest Steve Stephens will be joining him August 22 and 23. Stephens has worked with Janet Jackson and members of Tower of Power and Earth, Wind & Fire. In October he'll play host for a CD release party at House of Blues. Currently Kamide is working on a new self-titled album, to be released in the Spring. - Central Florida Future

By Donna T. Schuman
Experience has taught Dana Kamide how to make his mark in the world. He is a successful musician, singer and songwriter and not blinded by the allure of fame. Kamide describes his music as edgy with an R&B flare and pop rock attitude. He has a unique style that is a refreshing change from the trendy pop songs of today. His voice is pure and the songs exercise his wide vocal range without being too flashy, and this talent has garnered the eye of record producers on the West Coast. "I have been contacted a lot lately by several A&R, production and management companies with offers of representation and promises of presenting my songs to producers for other artists as well," he said.At the young age of 13, Kamide began his journey into the music business. "I started playing in clubs in New York," said Kamide. "When I was 14, I had my own band." Though he wanted to make it by age 19, Kamide is thankful he did not. "I needed to experience the things I did and I am still growing and learning what is most beneficial for me in this business." He added, "I probably would have ended up on 'Where Are They Now?'" Now at 28, Kamide has entertained thousands throughout the world. He also writes, records and produces his own music under his label Envision Music Group, Inc, which is based out of Winter Park where he also has his own professional recording studio.Taking the road less traveled is the best way to describe Kamide's musical career. He has made many great friends in the industry and had many opportunities that were open doors to possible fame and fortune, but decided to make his way on his own terms. "I made an album with my band, Wild Heart," he recalled. "I had a local manager who wanted to get me to sound like other bands. He gave me CDs of bands like 7 Mary 3 and Dave Mathews and said, "this is what record companies are looking for." I tried fitting in to those genres, and that was my first mistake. The music was not bad for a first effort. However, today I am disappointed by it because it's not the real me; it's me trying to sound like other people." Kamide strongly feels that timing is everything in the music business. The recent success of numerous Orlando-based artists, such as boy band hits O-Town and NSync, proves that Central Florida has caught the eye of the music industry. Like L.A. in the 1980s and Seattle in the 1990s, Orlando is the new music city, well-known but small-time compared to LA and New York. "There are great artists in every city, but it depends on where the industry is looking at the time," said Kamide. "I knew that in Orlando I could get to the level as an artist that I needed to be at with the great support I have always maintained here. You can become a big fish in a small pond." So far his patience has paid off. Kamide is pleased with all the positive feedback his music is receiving. "Orlando's response to my music is just getting out of the starting gate, but so far it has been overwhelming," said Kamide. "I have always had fans of me as a performer, but they weren't sure of how good a songwriter I was. If I didn't show them I could write they would never take me seriously. Now they definately do."When he's not writing and recording, Kamide can be found at numerous venues around Central Florida. For the rest of August, Dana Kamide will be performing at Blackfin in Winter Park. Special guest Steve Stephens will be joining him August 22 and 23. Stephens has worked with Janet Jackson and members of Tower of Power and Earth, Wind & Fire. In October he'll play host for a CD release party at House of Blues. Currently Kamide is working on a new self-titled album, to be released in the Spring. - Central Florida Future