Savannah Coronet-Jacques

This week we have the pleasure of talking with a country gal from South Carolina! She gives her all each time she performs in Second Life and makes us smile with her strong vocals. Kick your shoes off, leave your hat at the door, and sit down a spell. Let's get to know Savannah Coronet better!

Tell about yourself, Savvy.  Who is the lady that we hear perform and entertain us?

Well ... What a deep subject!  Although I stay fairly busy in Second Life on stage performing, I do spend some time with my Second Life husband Jac Jacques and our family and friends.  Jac is so supportive of everything I do in both worlds and he is my love.  Also I have been breeding Amaretto horses since October 2010 and they are currently not too happy because I have been so busy in Real Life.  Real Life Savvy is a single mom of a beautiful 5 year old boy named Waylon.  With the help of “Nanny” aka BettyJean, I am now in school full time and pretty much perform a full schedule in Second Life. Thanks Mom, I love you!  I am working on a degree in General Technology with a Major in Cosmetology.  Going back to school has helped me regain focus on life.  Although, I will have a career in Cosmetology, singing will always be in my life in some way.  I also love to bowl and have been bowling since I was 14 years old.  I worked in the bowling business for 15 years.  Now, I just bowl in one league a week and my son has started his league as well.  He loves bowling like mommy.  My real first name is Felicia, if anyone had ever wondered.  I share my life with my friends in Second Life and what I feel in my heart while logged in is the same when I log out.

When did you start singing, Savvy? 

I started singing in middle school.  I got involved with school plays.  I was in the chorus line in the first play I was in Give my regards to broadway The second part I landed I will never forget.  I was a female Jesse James named Wild Prairie Rose in the musical Rogue of the Railway.  My feature performance of  “Rose with plenty of thorns” was a sassy number that caught the attention of a local Opry House… and here I am!

Take a look at this photo, starting with the handsome guy on the far left, who are these folks?

Well that handsome fella is my SL husband Jac Jacques.  Then we have on the top row ... me, Skeat Abonwood – she works the floor for me when she can and she knows her stuff!, Starlight Marville – Red Headed Sin Wagon Driver/Tag Slinger … watch out!, Dametria Arebello – Dame keeps the girls shakin and looking good on stage!, Miyushu Babii - #1Tag Slinger ,started out as my manager and now keeps the crowd rolling as a dancer, Adam Spark – Savvy’s Bartender/Tag Slinger ... Adam has a great motto “Love Everyone”, Ariradel Spark – Awesome DJ/Savvy Dancer and host as well as one of my SL sisters ... Ari keeps Adam in line, he can get rowdy with that Jack Daniels. On the bottom we have Jon Jacques – Jon is one of our SL sons and he’s trouble but we love him! The dog is JP one of our many pets. All the awesome folks are a part of “THE GANG” We are blessed to know such amazing people and I am blessed to have them as part of the Gang for such a long time. Jac and I love you all!!

Tell us about this "Hell on Heels" group, Savvy?

Oh let me tell ya!!! These are some of the sexiest, feisty girls in town! The “Hell on Heels” ladies are dancers for my shows in Second Life. An awesome group of ladies who truly enjoy what they do. All of them are some of my best friends and we all share respect for eachother. Love ya ladies!

I've I had the pleasure to hear your performances many times, and each time, I'm blown away!  Tell us what it's like for you to perform ...

It’s an amazing feeling to perform here in Second Life. To feel the emotions of people miles and miles away. I can have a bad day and after a show I feel awesome! I try my best to put everything I have into each show.

Now, you have some RL family in SL, Savvy?

My RL mother is in Second Life now. She comes to all the earlier shows ... 5pmSLT or earlier and she enjoys the people and music. When the show is over she logs out! Unlike most of us, she doesn’t get wrapped up in Second Life.

Do you do duets with other performers in SL, Savvy?

I have had the honor of live dual streaming or single streaming with a number of Second Life Performers. Wayne Davis, Harry Frychester, Hogan Baily, Tristyn Homewood, Johnny Paramour, Groovin Ghost, Quinty Munro and Dougie Moonites. To link your stream with someone across the country or world is an amazing thing!

Back in March of 2013, you performed as part of Relay for Life - Music Through the Years.  Tell us about the songs you chose for that performance ...

I was asked to do a Patsy Cline Tribute for this event. In the tribute I perform some of Patsy’s most popular singles as well as tell you some of her story. Patsy was a major influence to me and I have performed this tribute in Second Life 37 times!

Recently, I saw you at Club Enchanted Diner.  Do you perform there at Ms. Arlene Bronet's venue often?

I have the pleasure of performing at Ms. Arlene’s venue every other Sunday night at 7pmSLT. Sometimes we have a special guest star appear…. Which is Arlene transformed into Tina Turner! Really fun group of people at Club Enchanted Diner.

Tell us what it was like to win Avi Choice for Favorite Country Singer in 2011 AND 2012?

It was a huge honor and I felt so humbled by the love from the people who enjoy my shows. Taking the time to vote ... just meant a lot to me. I would like to see the Avi Choice Nominations advertised more. Every year it seems it is an issue that people are not nominated. Even to the point where some people who are nominated are criticized. Very sad thing to see in the Live Music community. I will do my part and make sure I share information on my Facebook when I see that the nomination process has started. People love to vote and support their favorite Second Life entertainers. Every time Blake Shelton asks me to vote … I AM THERE!

There's a video on your YouTube , "I'll Take Care of You", what can you tell us about this, Savvy?

Oh my! This video is my first attempt at making a video. I didn’t take much time on it… I wanted to do something to surprise Jac, who is my husband in Second Life. This song was our wedding “first dance” song and means so much to us. Love you Jac!

Here is a video of you performing a popular Reba song, "Fancy".  Who did this video, Savvy?

Robert69 Little did this video. He has done over 2,000 videos for different performers. It’s his passion to do videos for Second Life performers and he does this at no charge. The videos he has done for me have been great tools for me. If you are trying to book a show and they would like to hear you… tada… share these videos! Thanks Robert!!

Pia Klaar has a video of one of your performances from 2011.  What can you tell us about this compilation?

Wow! Pia is very talented! I was humbled when she approached me and said she had recorded a few songs from my live shows. She wanted to put this film together. I took a look at her other work and was so excited to see the end result. It’s an awesome compilation of some of my favorite tunes.

In the same video, at time index 4:05, you sing "Need You Now".  You do a great job with that song, does it get requested often?

Thank you! Need You Now is one of the most requested songs that I cover. It was a major hit for Lady Antebellum and won 4 Grammy’s in 2011. It is definitely one of those tunes I cover that I see the screen fill with “I love this tune” gestures.

Often, you have performances at Nashville Music Row.  That's right in my back door.  Can I hop in the car and drive there to hear you?

Oh we’ll pick you up in the Sin Wagon on our way, don’t you worry!

Where can we get a listing of your schedule, Savvy?

The web tab in my Second Life profile has a link to my google calendar or just go here

You have a song list, that we can get a copy of at one of your shows.  What goes into the selection of which songs you'll sing?

That song list needs to be updated (puts that on her to do list). The song has to feel good, have some meaning and be entertaining. You have to connect with the song.. you are not just singing the song you are living the song.Yes! It’s on my to-do list to get that updated!

What suggestions would you have for someone wanting to dip their toes in the world of live vocal performances?

Take all the help you can get!  Sing with all of your heart and soul, build a good team of people to help you and have some fun!! Also anyone needing some help can always send a message to me in Second Life or find Savannah Coronet on Facebook.

You know one of my favorites is "Sweet Home Alabama".  What are your favorite songs to perform?

Man bashin tunes…. Just kidding! I will name one…Purple Rain! I love them all and depending on the day,mood,moon cycle LOL my favorites change constantly… ok I confess I LOVE singing Lady Antebellum’s single Downtown. I can’t help but to smile and dance around when I sing that one!

Thank you very much for your time, Savvy and I look forward to seeing your next performance!

Barbie Horsley / Sassy Nitely

If I had to describe this week's interview subject, the first words that come to mind would be a giver, funny, soulful, and genuine.  If you've ever been to one of Barbie's (Sassy in SL) live performances, you'll agree.  If you've not been, grab a seat as we get to know her better and get to a show soon!  

Sassy Nitely
(by Maali Beck)

Tell us about Barbie Horsley and your inworld Avi, Sassy Nitely. Who is the fantastic lady that brings us such awesome performances?

Aww! :) I'm just a regular gal from humble beginnings that wants to bring light into this world. Music takes me to so many places and I just want to take others there with me. :)

How did you get started as a musician, Barbie?

I've had a passion for music ever since I was four years old. That's when I started to sing. My Mom knew I wanted to be on a stage, so she put me in dance. LOL That was a HUGE mistake...I didn't want any part of that. Haha! :)  wanted to sing! As the years went by; I was reading music, singing in honor choirs and playing in the school band (percussion) by the time I was 12. I ended up pursuing a degree in vocal music education, but I still wanted more. I picked up a guitar in 2008 and I felt complete. THAT was the missing piece.

Listen to Barbie as she performs an original  - Behind...

Who are some of your role models or inspirations for your career as a musician?

Oh boy, this is one of those questions where you'll look back later and think "Ohhh crap, I forgot this person". Haha :) First, my step-dad. An amazing man who taught me how to read music and really helped unlock my full potential as a percussionist. I honestly feel that if he wasn't a part of my life, I wouldn't be answering these questions right now. Mrs. Swor - my honor choir teacher from high school. She believed in me and taught me how to control this big voice. As far famous role models or inspirations, definitely high on that list is Janis Joplin, Stevie Nicks, Taylor Dayne, Jewel, Sarah McLachlan, Melissa Etheridge...do you see a pattern? Haha Powerful females with big voices and a very strong presence.

My July

You have a band in real life, My July?

Yuppers! :) My brother, myself and a friend of ours started My July in 2009. Many ask us "That is an odd name for a band, what's the story"? Dave (my brother) and I grew up in a musical family where almost everyone either sang or played an instrument. So every July my parents would throw a massive 4th of July party and that's when we'd all get together as a family and just jam out. We had a little Partridge Family thing going on. Haha So once Dave and I decided to start a band, "My July" was the perfect name.

That was a great show in SL at Bahama's Swingers Club last night! Do you perform there often?

Thanks, MJ! :) I play there the first Tuesday of every month.  Ami Panthar (owner) is just an absolute doll.  I adore her work ethic.  She's my kinda people! Hehe

Maali Beck

You have a manager, Maali Beck. How long have you two know each other?

MAALI POP! Absolutely ADORE this woman. I met Maali for the first time at the Chicago Jam in 2010. Just a very beautiful person inside and out. A few months after the Chicago Jam, I found myself having to find another manager. Maali offered her services and the rest is history. Not only a wonderful manager, but a jewel of a friend.

Speaking of Ms. Maali, we have a surprise mini-interview with her!

How long have you and Barbie known each other?

I met Barbie at the Chicago Jam. Shortly after that (in the Fall, I believe), she was looking for a new manager. We talked and decided we'd be a good team.  I feel very privileged to work with such accomplished & professional artists & Sassy is certainly a beautiful combination of gifted artist and ultimate professional.  She takes her craft seriously, while having a good time w/ her friends and fans.

Can you tell us about your experience as a manager?
I started managing SL artists early in 2008.  Music is such a huge part of my life (but I can't sing to save my life or play an instrument...I do however play iTunes very well! ?? ).  I've managed a good number of artists over the years.  The artists I represent now are those whose friendships I treasure, and admire & respect as artists.  I won't manage someone that I wouldn't want to listen to every day, so I am selective in who I manage.  I've been truly blessed to work with incredibly talented SL artists.

Do you have any funny stories that you can share with us about working with Barbie?
Funny stories.....hmm.....as you know from her shows, Barbie loves to have a good time.  I think that each of the artists I manage have significantly 'better' shows when the crowds are into the show. Size of the crowd doesn't necessarily determine this.  As for many of us, Barbie feeds off engaged audiences who are involved in the chat and she throws it right back at them.  She *loves* themed shows and getting dressed up for them.  One or two of those fell flat.......in fact one themed show (I think the theme was Senior Citizens) people attended, but most left pretty soon after she began.  She and I had 'embraced" the theme, but others seemed to not appreciate it at all!  LOL

What do you enjoy most about working with Barbie?
There are many things I love about working w/ Barbie: as I mentioned earlier, she is a consummate professional (i.e., always prepared, shows up early, has her act together, etc.), incredibly talented, I love listening to her....not only her music, but her interactions w/ the audiences.  She's very personable and a truly lovely, genuine individual.  I'm truly honored to call her a dear friend.  

If someone wants to book Barbie for a show, how would we do that?
When someone wants to book Barbie, they contact me.  I do all the negotiations, draw up contracts, etc.  I love working w/ the venue owners and getting to know the different audiences.
I check out the venues before the event and determine how many people the venue will hold comfortable, etc.

Thank you very much for your time, Maali!  As always, it been a pleasure to talk with you!

And now back to Barbie's interview ... 

Your inworld group, The BackSasser's ... what would a newcomer expect to see in your group?

Fun, silliness and comradery.  We all like to just have a good time and don't take ourselves too seriously.  Some musicians would call the individuals in their group "fans", but that's not how I roll.  I don't look at the BackSasser's as fans. You'll never hear the word "fan" come out of my mouth during shows. They are my family. And a darn amazing one too!  I LOVE Y'ALL! ♥

Do you perform with other artists inworld, Barbie?

I do! I've had the privilege and honor to work with several amazing SL musicians on the grid and in RL! :) Inworld I have dual streamed with Max Kleene, Gina Stella, Gabryel Nyoki, Anek Fuchs, Phillip Moura, and AM Forte. :)

Listen to Barbie perform Lady Antebellum - Need You Now...

Tell us about Chicks & Coffee ... ?

Chicks & Coffee was started by my good friend, Clairede Dirval. Chicks & Coffee is at Club Voyant on the second Saturday of every month. It features several of SL's powerhouse female musicians. I am just honored she asked me to be a part of it. Currently, the Chicks are Clairede, Camme Carver, TerryLynn Melody, Moon Spark, Sonya Jevette, and myself. :)

You've been involved in raising funds for Feed a Smile, what would you like to say about that experience?

Feed a Smile is one of the most humbling experiences I've had as a musician. Brique Zeiner is just an incredible woman who is the Chairwoman at Live & Learn in Kenya International NGO. This program caters to desolately poor children by giving them warm meals and an education.

You've also been involved in Relay for Life, haven't you?

I am! :) Still Braveheart is the leading lady behind the particular RFL team I'm a part of. This year, we raised 4 Million Linden in aiding cancer research. Amazing!

You've recently had a debut at Kiki Szetey's Solelua Beach, tell us about that?

Kiki is just a lovely person with a very warm presence about her. I was thrilled about being able to play Solelua Beach. The show was a hoot and so many friends came out to support the venue and myself. I can't wait to be back! :)

Coming up in October, you'll have been in SL for 6 years. What can you share about your experience?

Wow, 6 years already? Where has the time gone!? LOL Not only am I proud to be a resident in SL, I have met some of the most interesting people from around the world. As a musician, it's hard enough being able to reach out to the masses. In SL, I can. I've also made several life-long friends in RL due to SL.

So tell us about the guys in your life, Barbie ...

Well, there are two who completely stole my heart. One calls me "Mom", the other calls me his "Fiance'". Hehe :) Christopher is my son, my reason...my entire world. I couldn't be more proud of the amazing young man he's become. Bob is my fiance'. And a little fun trivia for ya: We met in SL in 2008. He and I became instant friends. Bless his heart, he chased me for a year and I finally gave in. Haha :) After another year went past, he moved from Chicago to be with me in Nashville. He's been here for 3 years and he FINALLY put a ring on it July 5th! :) 'bout time! Haha

                     Listen to Barbie as she performs Meiko - Leave the Lights On...

I noticed that you use Google Docs for your song list. How do you like it?

LOVE it! It's so easy to keep lists organized. I'm pretty OCD about that sorta thing, so Google Docs keeps those OCD monsters from making an appearance. Hehe :)

What suggestions would you have for someone wanting to venture into the SL music venue?

When starting out in SL, shoot for the tip only venues. Kickin' Club (LilMissPriss Lane, owner) has a great crowd and is a wonderful place to get your feet wet and get a base following. Regarding starting a venue in SL, definitely use disposable income to do so. The money you maybe will get 10% back from tips. So it really is a labor of love!

Now, I've heard you use a term, "hamster balls" ... any story behind that?

Haha MJ ... you know me.  I'm just a goofy person!  That came out of nowhere honestly.  I kinda surprised myself with that one ... you probably even heard me snort afterwards!  Haha :)

How do we contact you for bookings, Barbie?

Contact my amazing manager and friend, Maali Beck inworld or by notecard.  She'll hook you up, man! :)

on Marketplace

Is Sas-It-Up still an active store and group?

It is an active store in the Marketplace, but I rarely use the group unless I have a sale.  Since I closed the inworld store it allowed me to really pursue my venue {Serene Acoustic Lounge}.

Barbie Horsley

Anything else you'd like to tell the audience, Barbie?

Thank you for supporting live music in SL and for reading MJ's blog!  He's the man! :)

Thank you very much for taking the time to talk with me today! I've enjoyed getting to spend a few moments with you and get to know you better.

I'm honored, MJ.  Really.  Thank you for you! :)

• Website
• My July
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Twin Ghost

www.twinghost.com

This week's posting is about an artist known as Twin Ghost.   Twin Ghost brings to us a very soulful ambiance that feels natural and soothing.  Take a walk with Twin Ghost and let's get to know him and his musical journey!





Thank you, Twin Ghost, for taking the time out of your schedule to talk with us for a few moments.  As I shared with your inworld manager, Staci (Staciface Schwarz), I welcome the opportunity to highlight the fine work of your musical career.

Tell us about your influences.  Who helped guide you in your musical career to make you the artist that you are today?
I love all kinds of music.   Big soul music fan.  Stevie wonder is a huge influence for me, but so many others as well.  Who helped guide me ... I'd have to say ... me!  Where I come from there are no guides ... it's a working class town.  It's the kind of neighborhood where you had to search and find your own identity.  Music was my escape, my "own" thing.  It belonged to me and no one could take it.  In essence, it's all I ever had.

Music has really helped you see yourself and allow others to see you?
Every single day.

You did a cover of a John Fogerty tune, from when he was with Creedence Clearwater Revival, Who'll Stop the Rain.  Tell us a little about what inspired that cover ... ?
Well, it's a great song and really fun and emotional to sing.  The lyrics are a great snapshot in time, the way people were feeling about the politics at that time, simple and yet still vague enough to be applied to anytime.

What can you share with us about your first album, Twin Ghost - The Album?

Twin Ghost - The Album

I don't know.. it was then.  A pretty homegrown record.  I did most of the raw tracks live in SL (SecondLife) and then layered (multi-tracked) on top.

Let's talk about one of your originals for a moment.  Spirit Dancer, what was the inspiration for this awesome song?

Thank you.  Sometimes I like to leave certain things to the listener.  I'll say this about it:  it came of a real experience that was very traumatic for a lot of people who had to witness it.  The song is asking a few questions.. of course "why", but it's also struggling to understand how a person could go to these extremes.  What is it that drives them so intensely that they are willing to give up there lives and in some cases take others with them?

I understand that you have a new album being released soon, Spirit Dancer.  What can you tell us about this new work of yours?
I'm really excited and proud of it!  It's been a 6 month project, and I had a great group of musicians on it.  A lot of SL cats too ... Voodoo Shilton, Pilgrim Swashbukler aka Pete Mroz, Buckley Moonwall aka Gordon Vincent, Colton Cadell aka Joe Tosolt, and many others.

When will your new album be released, Twin Ghost?
The official release party is in Second Life at the Boom Pony venue (owned and operated by the lovely Kiran Sporg and Andi Karsin) on Saturday, the 13th of July at 7PM PST (SL time).  Boom Pony can be found inworld here.

Release Party!

Cool Facebook picture, by the way.  Captain Picard is one of my favorites.  I could watch STNG over and over!
Haha!  Me too!

Is there a story behind the name "Twin Ghost"?

Yes.

Howlin' Wolf
Son House
Blind Willie
Prince
Sting
Bo Diddy
Slim Harpo
Guitar Watson
Muddy Waters
Twin Ghost!

:)

How often do you have live performances in real life?
All the time.  I play solo gigs at least once or twice a week now.  I play with the full band a couple times a month.

TwinGhost Ronas

How often do you perform inworld (in Second Life)?
Three or four times a week.



Do you perform duets inworld, as well?
I do.  I dual stream with a couple cats in SL all the time, also triple stream with them as well.  Funky Freddy Republic, Voodoo Shilton, and Colton Cadell.  Always a blast! 



Where can we purchase your music?
The easiest way is from my website, www.twinghost.com.  Click on Music, then follow the links. 

A lot of artists today are using social media to help promote themselves, do you have a presence on Facebook or another place?

Yes, I am on Facebook, Twitter, Reverberation, and Youtube.

What nuggets or words of wisdom could you offer to someone with the dream of being a musician?
Well ... be true to yourself and pure at heart and you will never fail at your own personal art.
There are no mistakes only missed opportunities.  Don't be afraid.  And finally, don't litter.

What is the best way to reach you for bookings and/or private house performances?
In SL, contact Staciface Schwarz or Jamie Parkin.  In RL, I can be contacted at twinghost@comcast.net.

Thank you again, Twin Ghost!  Now it's time for some tea.
"Tea.  Earl Grey.  Hot."