Drenched In This Youth

2011-10-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

We've Got A Song

(Our first review)

R6 headlined Rocktober At The Rick's last weekend in Greenfield, Indiana. The show's promoter Roy Barns booked the kids, bumping his own band from the headline slot. Here is a review Roy wrote about the show. Thank you Roy!

ROCKTOBER AT THE RICKS REVIEW

By Roy Barns

R6 was our headline act at the Rocktober at the Ricks show. My peers all questioned my decision to make a “kid” band the headline act, after R6’s performance there were no doubts remaining on why these “kids” were the headliners. R6 is an aamazingly talented group of young siblings that have obviously put a lot of hard work and dedication into their art.

RyleeAnn kept the energy level up with her dancing.

Rahanna's second live performance.
She is 7 years o

Rahanna made a guest appearance on rhythm guitar for a cover of Survivor “Eye of the Tiger”.

Remington, a true “All American Boy Next Door”, was the driving force keeping them rockin’ steady all night by pounding out the beats on the drums.

Roanna stepped up her game for this show by putting a spin on the bass guitar that was very entertaining. Roxy is a natural for the stage, her charisma draws you in, then her amazing voice blows you away and if that wasn't enough, she is a killer keyboardist.

Rozey is a little bit shy and somewhat reserved, she lets her guitar do her talking, there truly are not enough words to describe Rozey’s talent, this young lady is incredible on lead guitar, I would put her up against anyone out there on guitar today. R6 was extremely enjoyable with their renditions of popular classic rock covers, but when they performed their originals R6 proved they are destined for stardom!!!

Visit the link below to see Rayanna's performance of the hit song, 'The Eye Of The Tiger' written by another prolific songwriter we hope to speak to soon, Jim Peterik from the band Survivor.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NOc7bun6dIA

Where The Song Takes You

2011-08-08T09:16:00.001-07:00

Photo's courtesy of Roanna Hunt who is also the bass player in R6

The young band from Morristown Indiana called R6 continuing to write their first original song. Over the past year the song's evolution and construction has been tedious. 'The Original' (that's what we are calling it) has evolved from a bubble gum pop tune, into a powerhouse rock ballad that has yet to reach the climax of completion. What better way to help writers block than to sit down with a songwriter whose hit song has spanned a life of over two decades and continues to grow in popularity 25 years after it's inception.

Recently R6 had the experience of a lifetime after they were invited by one of the most prolific songwriters of the 80"s era Kelly Keagy. Kelly invited them to join him as his guest during their visit with Journey to Indiana this summer. Kelly is one of the two lead singer in Night Ranger. More info on the band and their current tour here http://www.nightranger.com/

Kelly Keagy is responsible for writing the hit ballad Sister Christian which sold over two million copies. The song killed the radio air waves in the 80's and made it's way to the big screen in the early 90's with a quick appearances in many movies. Sister Christian has yet to vacate the airwaves, and since has been featured in the hit Broadway show Rock Of Ages, The song will be featured in the full-length feature film based on the same show that will be released in 2012.

"Who knew that little song would go on for so long?" asked Kelly during a visit to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Indiana. Once Kelly heard about R6's attempts at writing music for the first time, he was happy to jump in by inviting the band to come see a live show.

Kelly isn't the type of rock star that leaves the donated tickets at will call for pick up, no...he is a gracious and humble rock icon. Once we arrived at the venue Kelly never left those kids side.

He introduced them to all of the crew, who treated the band as their own family. He and his tour manager gave the kids a step by step tour of the stage and equipment. The crew went as far as letting the kids warm up Night Ranger's instruments during sound check. Remington looked like a deer in the headlights sitting up on Kelly's rig hitting the snare out into the empty 20,000 seats that would soon be filled with 20.000 bodies an hour later. Roxy was invited to play a few piano notes by Night Ranger's newest member Eric Levy and when she did, there wasn't movement from anybody standing on that stage as she played. Her little number stopped all of the professionals in their tracks as they listened to her pound gently on the keys. Eric mentioned how he was impressed by her technique. A She was then invited to play a Journey song on Journey's grand piano.
Roanna the bass player, played her little finger exercise that her bass teacher taught her, ( Rosey, was able to play the intro to Crazy Train on a guitar that actually played Crazy Train

on tour with Ozzy.

This whole encounter was even more enlightening for the band when Kelly Keagy sat with the kids on the empty stage discussing songwriting techniques and strategies. He asked questions about the original song they've been working on and the writing woes that go along with it. He commiserated with about writer's block, and offered a tremendous amount of inspiring advise and insight to carry R6 through these times. He offered genuine instruction and supportive suggestions to add to the writing process. It was all filmed and will be featured in the documentary These Three Chords.

As usual NIght Ranger rocked the house with a stupendous display of showmanship and intense power house rock and roll. Check out their new album and single, Growing Up In California. You can purchase the new album by clicking on the Night Ranger button on the right.

With Kelly's advice, and a look into the world on the other side of the stage, this inspiring experience has brought a whole new meaning to R6's progression as songwriters. Their little original song may not be completed yet, with Kelly's guidance and instructions, what comes out of those kid's studio will be absolute perfection!

Night Ranger defiantly has a new younger fan base. They have just recorder 11 new songs that are available here. Check it out and don't miss them when they come to your town!

http://www.amazon.com/Somewhere-California-Night-Ranger/dp/B004VFYOMU

These Three Chords

2011-06-11T11:06:00.001-07:00

Movie Teaser

2010-10-25T11:47:00.000-07:00

Without giving to much of the documentary film away, I'll briefly share with you that there is currently controversy amongst the band regarding playing the song Day Tripper live.

I'll be sure to save all of the drama for the film but for now watch 10 year old Remington rip it on the skins during their last live performance this past weekend in Kentucky!

His drum teacher is certain that Remy has come full circle as far as his technique.

What do you think?

Not Just Another Band Of Siblings From Indiana

2010-10-23T08:44:00.000-07:00

R6 a band of siblings from Indiana. Sound familiar? This family is no Jackson 5. After meeting

the 6 kids in the family last February I asked the band, Roanna, Roxanna, Roseanna and Remington, "Is making music what YOU want to do? Is it in YOUR heart?"

The grins on their faces and exuberant nods of their heads without a doubt answered my questions. The music is absolutely in their hearts and making music is absolutely what they

want and were destined to do.

When one hears of this extraordinary family of talented musicians from Indiana managed by their father the first question asked is: "IS he pushing them? Sounds like another Jackson 5.

What's the father like, another Joe Jackson?"

Well to answer the question their parents are R6's biggest

fans! They encourage every ounce of talent that pours from each one of their fingertips. To answer honestly, No they don't push them. Putting them on a strict rehearsal schedule and offering them the best

training available is just a little part that the parents play. The kids were destined to make music. Thankfully they have a Father who supports them in EVERY WAY!

I traveled with the band last week to Kentucky where they played a gig for their extended family in Amish country of Liberty Kentucky. Following the trailer on the 5 hour drive as the time of my life. Filming every second for the documentary, I had a birds eye look at the dynamics of this fabulous family. The kids obedient and calm at all times. The mother, nurturing each and every one of them, and there are a lot of them.

Including the newest member ReeseAnn Renee Monica whose 4 weeks old and was given my middle name! YES I'm HONORED!!

Their father a HUGE influence. Ecchh hemm... I reiterate..... a huge POSITIVE influence in their lives. Graham and Tabby are the epitome of the supportive parents. The kids adore them and look

up and respect every word that comes from their parents mouths. The amount of patience they both have when speaking to their brood is something to admire. Each word spoken calmly,

each direction directed soothingly. Encouragemnt given at all times. There is no question that R6 are children and behave as children do. Thankfully their parents allow them to be children on top of playing some damn good rock and roll!

There is no comparison to that OTHER family band from Indiana, none what so ever. With all of these gigs on the agenda R6 is still writing their own music. They are up to 5 original songs right now.

The lyrics haven't come as easily as the staff and notes but I have no worries that once they begin to flow they are going to pour!

Found This Little Gem On My Phone

2010-10-05T09:50:00.000-07:00

Sister who sound so sweet together in harmony. Can't wait to hear Ro jump in there!

Come on Ro jump in!!!

Stand by for live footage from the benefit of this whole song.

Everyone Could Always Use A Little Crazy Train

2010-09-29T19:16:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest song R6 has added to the line up!

They will be playing at Eaton Apple Orchard in Spiceland Indiana Ocotober 9!

There are more gems like Crazy Train on the set list!!

GO CHECK THEM OUT!!!

View From Stage Left

2010-09-19T13:17:00.001-07:00

While prepping the benefit concert I wasn't sure if the kids would utilize the enormous stage that lay before the 300 seats that we hoped to fill. They spend so much time in the small rehearsal space, (which also allows them to perform as instinctively with one another as they do), I wasn't sure if they'd be able to walk away from their gear. I searched for a sponsor to supply the girls with wireless equipment. (Was shocked that Carvin wouldn't even give a nod.) But oh well, they didn't need it. These kids used every inch of the stage that they could and BLEW ME AWAY!!!!!!

Sometimes being a guitar-tech and filmmaker don't mix. I've been gradually editing the benefit and film footage, while moving my family across country at the same time. Stay tuned for more great info and videos on R6! Today the family had an addition to the R's! Number 8 was born this morning Happy Birthday baby R! I can't wait to see you center stage with your siblings rocking out one day!!

Meanwhile check out Roxy, Rosy, Ro and Remington rock their very first big theater stage performance! Producing this show was the time of my life. I plan to produce another benefit for the pantry every summer we return to Indiana.

Hollywood Farm Films is scheduling interviews from accomplished musicians who would like to contribute to this film. If you are a musician who has written your own music, please email me at sheshleegy@mac.com to set up a filmed interview, and be a part of the documentary that we hope to utilize as an educational tool for future songwriters.

Editing the film has officially began. R6 is being sponsored by The Greenfield Beverage Company, and have been playing out on a regular basis. Yesterday was the third show I've missed since our meeting back in February. I'll be flying back to Indiana in October to gather more footage of their continual progress. They had a gig yesterday, went home and had a baby! Now that's love for your craft!

xoxo

PS: Rosy was rocking some 2 inch heels and never teetered once while switching her floor peddles. Another indicator that these kids are WELL BEYOND THEIR YEARS

R6 Makes Front Page Headlines and 11 O'clock News!

2010-08-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

Our Feeding Friends Fresh benefit show produced by Hollywood Farm Films was amazing. We brought awareness to the cause and were able to donate an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetable to the local food pantry that were distributed and gone within two hours. We raised $300 dollars and rocked this little farm town. The event was featured on the 11'O'clock news that evening and we're also on the front page of the local newspaper.

We spent the entire spring prepping and preparing for the big event.

(Hence the tardy post update)

R6 rehearsed diligently the months and weeks that led up to the benefit. They were the headline act for some amazing talent. The 12 piece Pacers High Octane Drume Line opened the event outside the theater and accompanied the opening band in the Ohio Players Love Rollercoaster. IT WAS AWESOME!!!

In the clip above R6 is rehearsing for their 45 minute set days before the show. Notice how professional they are at such a young age.

During R6's rendition of John Fogerty's song Deja-Vu (last song featured in this 6 min video) Veterans from Vietnam, WW2 and a cadet in the military academy all saluted the American flag to honor the Fathers who are serving our country during Fathers day this year. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Clips from the actual show coming soon.

For now, get a load of these kids!

Save the Date June 19, 2010

2010-04-25T07:27:00.000-07:00

These past few months have flown by. R6 have been busy writing and preparing for their BIG SHOW!!

In order to have a big show one must be produced. Therefore a cause was sought and now is getting attention. Feeding Friends Fresh is a benefit concert created to bring awareness to the Food Pantry Of Hancock County. The pantry feeds 477 families. Yes 477 FAMILIES!! That number is astonishing. The amount of donations have lowered during the current economic crisis. Hollywood Farm Films created the benefit to bring awareness to that overwhelming number, also to encourage those who garden to donate the overflow fresh vegetables and fruits from their gardens to the food pantry. Donations of this type are rare especially during the winter months.

Feeding Friends Fresh is a benefit concert featuring R6 as the headliner. The show is unfolding organically with incredible talent booked. We plan to bring a drum- line out to rumble the streets of this little town, combined with acrobatics. Now what kind of show would it be with out acrobatics? Hollywood Farm Films is producing the event, as well as premiering a short film currently in production featuring the volunteers of the food pantry and the people who benefit from the pantries donations.

Feeding Friends Fresh was created to give R6 the opportunity to play in front of a large audience performing in front of a theater filled with people. Tickets are $10.00 and available now! All who attend will be featured in the documentary film we are still shooting.

Stay tuned as we continue to post more about this event as the date gets closer. Until then become a fan R6 on Facebook.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/R6/113890645308458ref=search&sid=1190755442.2473237522..1

From Los Angeles to Indianapolis! Technology rules!

2010-03-19T14:34:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles based music producer Pete Strobl. whose been working privately coaching Wolf Van Halen, took time out of his busy schedule this morning to mentor R6 on song writing via speaker phone. His instruction was invaluable. He spoke about the Pentatonic scale and the band's faces illuminated as if a light bulb had gone off in their little musical genius minds. While in Los Angeles, Pete shared with me a lesson manual he's written and created referring to the Pentatonic scale. The 35 page manuscript is thankfully being utilized as we speak.

The kids have been writing while I've been away. While reviewing the footage, I've been eavesdropping on their songwriting sessions. They're filming themselves on a separate camera documenting their song writing process during rehearsals. Papa Rock and Roll, the children's father, is doing a fine job at his new found title as cinematographer. The music they're creating is brilliant...and I can't get one of the riff's out of my head. So watch out America, entire world! These kids are on a rock and roll. With the help of Pete's lessons and manuscript the original songwriting will begin to literally pour from their instruments that are themselves.

http://www.petestrobl.com/

Visit Pete's site and read his latest post titled: Songwriting, Art Or Craft? After the camera's stopped rolling, I asked the kids what they learned from the conversation. They all agreed,

"That was exactly what we needed to hear."

Thanks Pete must I say again? INVALUABLE INSTRUCTIONS, and you should publish that lesson book..it's a winner!

While we were waiting for Pete to call the kids and I enjoyed this little jam session between Stephen Perkins and Duff Mckagen.

OFFICIALLY IN PRODUCTION AND ROLLING!!!

2010-03-11T09:34:00.000-08:00

Currently in production, Drenched In The Youth is a documentary that follows four young musicians/siblings who live in rural Indiana and their first collaboration as songwriters.

A month ago I was introduced to these four young phenomenal children who call themselves "R6". After being floored by their talent, I was asked to help the children write their first batch of original songs. As a lover of music I have focused a majority of my life writing about it, but sadly I'm not a musician. I was panicked at the thought of my uneducated music opinions corrupting these perfectly trained little rockers. Therefore I've made it my mission to seek the guidance and support of professional and accomplished musicians whom take music education very seriously.

My inquires have caused quite the buzz and so far, the response the band has received has been overwhelming. This week after setting up a couple of meetings, I traveled to LA to begin filming.

First stop, Pete Stroble. http://www.petestrobl.com/about/ Pete Stroble an accomplished musician, produer and prominant educator in the music industry. Pete sat down in front of my camera for an hour, directing his songwriting insight towards the camera lens, to be utilized by my rock and roll kids in Indiana. The information and lessons were invaluable. Information I can take back to the childrens and will allow them to begin this fantastic creative process. Thank you Pete, R6 is blessed to have your words to guide them.

Next stop: The Silverlake Conservatory of Music to speak with the Dean, Keith Barry. Created not long after the Los Angeles school system cut art funding, The Silverlake Conservatory of Music seeks to keep art programs available in Los Angeles County. Considering these cuts a travesty, Keith and his founding partner Flea (of the Red Hot Chili Peppers) couldn't just sit by and allow this to happen. Imagine the number of artistic kids who live in the most artistically creative town in America, without a creative outlet offered at school. The Conservatory was opened to provide music lessons to children who otherwise would not be able receive it. Keith was gracious enough to sit in front of the camera for 2 hours, talking about music theory and music instruction. Keith is very passionate about his craft and educating kids while sharing his love for music with them. The mission of The Silverlake Conservatory of Music, a non profit organization, is to facilitate basic music education. Their primary goal is to focus on the youth of the community, and invite and encourage all to participate. They stand by their word in facilitating music education to all kids as Keith has offered to mentor my kids in Indiana, all the way from LA.

The film, Drenched In The Youth is seeking professional and accomplished musicians to contribute their personal testimony of their first collaborative songwriting experience with the hope of encouraging these talented children. All musicians are encouraged to participate. Upon its completion, my goal as the director and producer of the film is to use Drenched In The Youth as a learning tool for other young musicians who are also inspired to write and create their own music.

Here is a clip I found on You Tube discussing the great work The Silverlake Conservatory is providing to the community.

Love Trilogy and Summertime Rolls

2010-03-01T04:16:00.000-08:00

Filming has officially begun! Yesterday I spent the day with my Rock and Roll Kids, filming a rehearsal as well as introductions to more fantastic music. We spoke about song structure and the use of the scale within a song. Perfect example, Jane's Addition's Summertime Rolls. I presented the kids with the lyrics to this iconic song. We each read a paragraph aloud passing the lyric sheets to one another. I asked them to imagine how the scale might be utilized in the song through the lyrics. Then we passed it around and practiced reading it using our own version of the scale while reading. Next, I played the song for them. Yes I captured their first reactions on film. They listened wide eyed and intently, listening to every instrument as is it

presented it's self. Their faces were so still and serious I couldn't tell if they were enjoying it or not. My Roxy read the lyrics as she was listening. "What are they thinking? Do they hate it? Maybe Perry's voice is a little too alternative for them." All of these questions were racing through my head until the song came to an end. Then I started to drill them with questions, perhaps asking one too many all at once. (I am learning as I go.)

I asked my Roa, the 11 year old bassist first, "What did you think? How did it make you feel?" She answered, "Summery?" (Perhaps I'll structure my questions a little bit better next time.)

Next Roxy, I asked her the same. The look on her face explained it all, She loved it! They all loved it! Naturally, they were listening to Summertime Rolls by Jane's Addition for BLEEP

sake. Rosy's eyes were glistening and glazed over with a falling in love haze as she asked, "How did he make those sounds with his guitar?" If only I could have hid my tears of joy perhaps these kids would still think I'm cool. (Next time I'll wear my sunglasses.

. As I've mentioned in the past I only wear them indoors when I'm star struck.) I was happy to tell her just how he used his effects pedals to make that brilliant noise which perhaps just changed this young 16 year old guitar playing techniques for the rest of her life. The same effects pedals that she has sitting beneath her music stand. The first words out of Roxy's mouth after listening were, "See, not all music is bad out there." Oh no sweetie, you're right, not all music out there is bad, and I'm about to introduce to you more and more of the great stuff!

Another piece of music I presented to them was Red Hot Chili Pepper's Love Trilogy. For the solid purpose of introducing the one and only Flea to the band. Roa seems so board with the simplistic bass-lines she is effortlessly playing on songs like Barracuda and, I Want To Be Free by Queen. She's mastered some great classic rock ballades that she's been playing pretty much with her eyes closed and bass upside down. (NOT KIDDING) SO I pushed play on my MacBook and let it rip! AGAIN WITH THE EYES!!! THEY LOVED IT!!! Of course I wasn't able to leave a

copy as I am afraid of some of the lyrics may be too racy. My intentions are not to corrupt them before touring. So my task for the week is try to get a hold of this music without the lyrics.

Last week when I visited I handed out fancy hard covered spiraled journals. I asked them to start writing, something they've never done. Being a high school journal keeper myself I

understand the importance of privacy needed in order to lower the flood gates to a soul and really write from the heart. I announced, "I HAVE LOCKS FOR YOUR JOURNALS!!" Their faces looked relieved. I pulled a big bag of rubber bands out of my purse. "Here you go, wrap those babies up with your very own special design!" My own version of a punk rock lock! They loved it!!

So another day another alternative song to introduce, and more film to prep. I am living the dream to be able to influence these kids with a whole generation of music. But I need help!!!! I need all of the musician help I can get!! See the header of this blog, Born a Musician With Out A Lick Of Musical Talent!! If you are a musician and reading, please leave word for the kids

They are excited to write their own songs. I've never written a song before but absolutely up for the challenge, with your help and the influence of this music I know they will write masterpieces!!

Introducing Alternative Music To The Young

2010-02-26T16:41:00.000-08:00

I will be utilizing this site to document the venture I am about to embark. Last week, exactly 20 minutes after posting my happy birthday salutations to Mr. Cobain, I was blessed with a gift.

I was introduced to 4 siblings under the age of 16 who've been playing classic rock and roll most of their young lives. They live in a small rural town east of Indianapolis and have diligently been fine tuning their craft starting from a very young age. Supporting their children's extraordinary talents, their father has built a rehearsal space for them in their farm house where they each have 2 hours of rehearsal a day, as well as weekly lessons with individual professional music instructors. I've been completely obsessed with them ever since our chance meeting. They blew me away while pumping out tunes like, Barracuda by Heart and music by Journey, Queen, Guns and Roses, and U2. Their talents are instinctually on cue with one another.

The children have not yet been introduced to an incredibly powerful era and genre of music. Alternative, and punk rock! I WAS HONORED TO INTRODUCE IT TO THEM!! They along with their father have asked me to help collaborate with them while they write their first batch of original songs EVER! I'm floored and fascinated with the opportunity and challenge.

We've decided to document our creative writing process on film while making a documentary which will tell the tale of how we will ultimately do so. My plan is to start inspiring the kids to a generation and era of music that they have never heard before allowing their creative song-writing juices to begin to flow.

Last week we were all in awe of each other trying to focus on the objective of our meeting, This week the filming begins and we start the writing! I will share each step of our journey through this site. All musicians are welcome and begged to leave any words of song-writing advise to offer these fantastic kids.

Happy Birthday Kurt Cobain 2/ 20/ 67

2010-02-19T14:04:00.000-08:00

A day before his birthday I can't help thinking about the last time I saw him alive.

My Latest Obsession

2010-01-31T07:10:00.000-08:00

Finally An Outlet

2010-01-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

I created this link to spew all of my music tangents as needed. Here is where I will share my opinion on the music that makes my world go around!! Please join me! For now enjoy my current music obsession.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you

The Flaming Lips