American Idol, the theme music, the hype, the names and the stars it produces – the water cooler is always abuzz with some sort of a debate over it. Monroe is no exception to the impact of this nationally huge show and is thrilled that Chrystal Bowersox will be performing at the college.
In stark contrast to this super-stylized television program is the man who will share the ticket with Bowersox. Kevin R. Daniels has a hometown attitude meshed with the chops of a national superstar. His music defies easy classification but can be best described as a delicious blend of alternative folk/country and more traditional singer songwriter sensibilities. His influences are as varied as Willie Nelson and Damien Rice. His fan base is likely to be just as varied and will appeal to those that like Josh Kelley, as well as those who enjoy Joshua Radin.
Daniels will be familiar to many who keep an eye on the local music scene. He often plays local venues and performs in the Loranger Square Lunch Box Series. His son Evin is a former member of Monroe High Favorite Two Flights Up and his daughter is a Christian singer/songwriter. He also enjoys playing music with his pal Chris Morelli. Despite the Monroe ties, he has rubbed shoulders with some huge names in music like Chuck Berry, Cyndi Lauper and Kiss.
Yes, music is part of his fiber. His family is made up of several musicians. When his father attends Daniels’s live performances, he said he invites him up to sing. Daniels has been making music with his relatives for so long that as a child, he would play with GI Joes between sets, when they performed together. He also has a flair for many other creative endeavors such as sculpting, illustrating and even doing hair. He has a deep appreciation for all of the arts.
He described his writing style as being fluid. He doesn’t have a set formula. Daniels writes down anything he thinks of or hears that catches his fancy. Often his songs begin as revolving around an idea or a few lines.
He is inspired by all sorts of things but when he needs to write, he said. “It’s like I need to get it out, get it off my skin.” Many artists and writers would agree with that statement, but he has a precise and insightful way of describing himself and his music. His goal in writing is to create what he calls, “a thought grenade that explodes after I split.” He wants to give people ideas to turn over in their minds until they are able to interpret them in their own way.
What can audiences expect at his performances? He creates a profound sound with his guitar and earnest, sweet vocals that when combined are incredibly compelling. It has not been decided yet whether he will be performing solo or with fellow musicians. Either way, he said he likes to enjoy himself on stage by performing fun covers amongst his own songs.
The gig though, was arranged by Tom Ryder, who coordinates many performances at the college and, as Daniel’s puts it, is a supporter of his music. He has played the venue several times, and he said it is one of his favorite places to perform.
When it comes to advice for aspiring artists and all young folks really, he encourages making use of their age because they have time to develop their talents and accomplish anything they choose. He also discourages them from rushing into big responsibilities like marriage and children because they have plenty of time to do that later. He is adamant about the level of commitment and determination it takes to succeed. “To hold on to their dreams,” and when it comes to their efforts to “punch it to the floor,” meaning take it all the way and be totally committed.
Daniels’s music can be heard on Myspace and his self titled album, Kevin R. Daniels, is out now.