Michelle Newman
New York City, New York, United States | SELF
Music
Press
This absorbing four track EP of songs, all co-written by Michelle, hints that she may have even more to offer in the future. The songs themselves are evenly split between the standard guitar led rock song, and those with more of a piano influence to the fore. And it is the piano backed tracks that are the ones that standout. Her voice just seems to suit the more subtle backing and the greater freedom that the piano gives her to fully express herself. Michelle's voice has just a touch of a rough edged quality that gives her performances greater poignancy (a bit like Rod Stewart in some ways, but with a better hair style!). And nowhere is this more evident than on the final track "One Last Time". A fine ballad, sung to just a piano backing, which has a touch of class about it. Howeve, the other piano influenced track, "Pay It Forward" is also a cut above the norm. This little collection of songs bodes well for Michelle's future.
- CD Baby
“Newman has a very troubling Joplin-ish, Joe Cocker desperation with vocals that jump right out and bite you, building and breaking like the never ending surf. . . it's very good." - Rock City News, Los Angeles
“Michelle Newman has a dynamic texture to her voice. Whether Michelle is singing a straight rock tune like “Pay it Forward”, or a down and dirty number like” Jack Daniels,” the emotion always rings true."
- KHZ Radio, Caolyn Fox
Discography
If- 2011
Michelle Newman- 2006
The Newman Project- 2004
Photos
Bio
Michelle Newman returns to the New York music scene bringing fresh, hook-laden songs that combine a rock/pop sound with elements of soul and blues. With influences ranging from Stevie Wonder to Janis Joplin, Michelle Newman composes raw, catchy melodies that correspond with their poetic lyrics. Born in Brooklyn, raised in Jersey, Michelle eventually settled in New York City. Impacted by classic rock legends from very early on, (her parents took her to her first Pink Floyd concert at age 5), music was a constant in her life. Michelle began playing the violin at 4, the piano by 7, the saxophone by 10, and the drums by 14. But it was when she traded in her sax for her first guitar that Michelles true passion materialized. She slowly began playing in small bars and clubs around Manhattan and was greeted with strong local acclaim. It was only when she moved to Los Angeles that she decided to take her music to the next level, constantly reworking her material and seeking a team of talented musicians to bring the songs to life. In 2004, she teamed up with co-writer/producer Tre Carn (Ice T), and together they built a solid catalog of songs. Soon after, they put together a band, The Newman Project, recorded a full length album, and played throughout the LA club scene. In 2006, however, Michelle decided to pull the plug on the band and re-record as a solo artist. She teamed up with producer Jason J-Money Kirk (Optimus), and together they recorded a self titled, 4 song EP. In March of 2008, Michelle returned to her beloved New York and hit the club scene immediately. She has recently completed a 5 song EP entitled "If", due out Spring 2011, co-produced with acclaimed producer/musician Mark Marshall.
Heres what some critics have said: Michelle Newman has a dynamic texture to her voice. Whether Michelle is singing a straight rock tune like Pay it Forward, or a down and dirty number like Jack Daniels, the emotion always rings true. -- Carolyn Fox, host of the syndicated music show "KHZ Radio with Carolyn Fox."
Newman has a very troubling Joplin-ish, Joe Cocker desperation with vocals that jump right out and bite you, building and breaking like the never ending surf. . . it's very good. Ruben Macblue, Editor, Rock City News.
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