For centuries music has been one of the main features of entertainment. By time people have started to come up with different ways and methods of creating sounds, with it came the invention of various instruments, each having their own high and low tones. Also depending on the musicians that played them who each have their own rhythm and symphony.
But what if we never had them? What if we never had any guitars or drums or any means of music? And all we had was the one instrument that was naturally given to us… our voice.
Let me tell you a little bit about “A Capella”… It is one of the most fun and challenging way of music! It is when you mix different sounds and beats with the use of your voice and mouth ONLY! Now one of the first amazing “A Capella” artists I’ve discovered through YouTube is Mr. Peter Hollens. And I must say he has such an incredible voice and can sing in various languages. To know more about him, check out our interview below:
Every person has that one dream of becoming something special, what was yours?
I’ve always wanted to make a living making music. I’ve been following that dream for almost ten years now. Creating and producing music, and the past few years creating my own music for a living.
What or who inspired you to become an “A Capella” singer?
I’ve loved a cappella music since the first time I heard it when I was 12 years old. I heard a cassette tape: This one – check here – I fell in love with it right away and decided when I got to college I would join and a cappella.
Ok, “Throw Back Thursday” time. Back in the days you formed your group “On the rocks” with your college mates, how did you guys meet? Did you hold an audition or were you all close friends who happened to share the same talent?
I founded the group with one of my best friends because my college didn’t have an a cappella group! In fact it was the only group within 10 hours from our University!
What were your most memorable and funniest moments?
Probably performing. Here’s an alumni show that was filmed. I also just adored rehearsals, creating music, spending time singing. The human voice is so powerful, and singing a cappella I believe is the best way to enjoy it!
On October 2010, you guys were called back for NBC’s “The Sing- Off”. What was it like performing with them again?
It was an absolute blast to perform on the show. Such a phenomenal experience and one that encouraged me to finally create some of my own music.
I find “A Capella” as that unique kind of art that is trending nowadays but also very tricky. So which do find more challenging, performing solo or in a group?
Performing live is much easier as a group, but recording a song is much easier as a solo artist because I can record anytime I want and produce the music anyway my heart desires! 🙂
Your wife Evynne is also an “a Capella” singer, right? How did you two meet? And what’s it like performing with her?
We met singing at the University of Oregon! The group that she help start later became the movie “Pitch Perfect” and Evynne’s name is the first words in the book! LOOK here.
Earlier this year, you two welcomed a baby boy *Congratulations!* How does it feel being a first- time dad?
It’s the most amazing experience I could have ever asked for. I am so thankful to have the opportunity to be a father.
You’ve collaborated with so many artists, but most frequently with Lindsey Stirling and Taylor Davis. What’s it like working with them?
I absolutely adore working with them. I believe collaborating with other artists is one of the best parts of being a musician. Both Lindsey and Taylor are such talented, phenomenal people and I hope I can work with them many more times in the future!
You covered A.R. Rahman’s “Jai Ho” with Alaa Wardi. How did you guys meet? Or how was the video made?
I’ve been a fan of Mr. Wardi’s for a LOOONG time. I love his music, and think the world of him, so I had been bugging him forever to do a song and we finally agreed on ‘Jai Ho’ – We both shot our videos remotely, and I finished the audio, and he finished the video portion! It was such an honor to work with him!
Did you find it challenging learning a new language? And what was it like singing in a foreign language?
I absolutely adore the challenge of singing in another language, and I love being able to showcase other languages to my audience. It was very challenging!
If you could perform with any of the greatest names in the music industry or any YouTuber artist, who would it be?
That is very hard, I have so many! Ok here goes: Josh Groban, Jason Mraz, Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli, David Foster, Katherine McPhee, Ed Sheeran, Sara Bareilles, 2 Cellos, Bobby McFerrin, Pink Martini, Ben Folds, John Mayer, Colbie Caillat, Sting, U2, The Piano Guys, Lindsey Stirling again and of course Pentatonix. I could list hundreds more.
There’s a musical movie called “Pitch Perfect” and its sequel “Pitch Perfect 2” in which it focuses on the “A Capella” music genre. If they were to call you in for an audition, would you go for it? Or would you rather record a soundtrack for any other kind of movie you like?
I would have adored to been in either movie, they are both done filming now though! I would adore to be a part of the soundtrack as well!
Any plans on releasing an album with your own original songs? Actually yes!
My album came out today for pre-order and one of my originals is on it! “Ashland’s Song”
If you could tour anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would adore to tour all over the world singing for people who love my music. I really need to figure out a way to perform my music live. I’ve thought long and hard about it and I really want to make it work.
A word to the fans:
I am so absolutely thankful for people who listen to and support my music. It means the absolute world to me. Sharing my music is the best gift you could ever give me. Please stop by and listen to my music anytime you want day or night!
Interviewed by: Farah Wahid
Edited by: NJ Bakr
