Ethical diva? You'd best believa...

My new website is up!

2012-01-19T23:39:00.000-08:00

I've just finished rebuilding my website. I am pretty pleased with it. Do visit and let me know what you think: My Website - DanelleHarvey.comThanks!D x

Am I the least regular blogger on the planet? Possibly...

2011-10-22T00:46:00.000-07:00

Just under 23,000 views!! Not bad. This screen print was made today from the page of one of the main producers of this song, Alex Martello.

Click link to view: Better Day Video on YouTube
from my artist page on YouTube.
http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gif
It feels good that my song "Better Day" was selected for Ministry Of Sound's Clubber's Guide 2011. 'Tis nice that it has been a club and chart hit this year. It is awesome that others are inspired by the song and lyrics. Anyone who knows me, or has been a fan for a while, knows how things have been for me. Up and down! This is the first big hit for my label Tygahoney Music. It has only been going for a year. I run it myself and I really feel chuffed to have this achievement so soon after incorporation. Let's hope this song grows. Please support it and spread the link on my YouTube. I'm counting on you! You can buy it in many places. Here's one purchase link for the song and all it's mixes from Beatport:
BUY "BETTER DAY" HERE

I'm working hard. I hope I'm setting a good example for my lil' lovely Ja. I'm remaining positive. I put my heart and soul into it. I gave my all when I laid down that vocal. When I wrote the lyrics, I was sad about a few things. I am blessed to be able to let out whatever I'm going through, and put it into my work. I meant what I wrote and sang back in May last year.

It's funny the things that we forget about life. Deep down, I believe that we know the truth. I try to live and breathe my truth always. I encourage my daughter to do the same.

I'm re-learning that when you remain true to your self and your beliefs, things happen and flow that way.

As someone I know says often, "Energy flows where attention goes."

Word.

"There'll be a Better Day. Uh-huh."

Indie life with it's ups and downs... YEAH!

x

Better Day Single Update! Just the beginning..

2011-01-25T19:44:00.000-08:00

Oh wow! So was November 2010 really the last time I blogged here?!

It is now a new decade, 25 January 2011 and SO much has happened since that last blog. The Better Day single preview that had so many plays on YouTube was released 27th December last year and it jumped to the top 12 of the Top 100 downloads within one week! Also, it entered the Global Top 100 chart just over a week ago.

Upon checking the link of said preview just a second ago, the views now stand at: 9902. Not bad hey?!

I'm pleased just because this dance single really kicks off as the first Major Collab project for my label Tygahoney Music and for my newly published works too. I sung it and wrote it, I didn't just feature on it and I'm representing Singers/writers and label owners (especially Indie, especially female) who do it all. Someone actually wrote to me congratulating me on the great job I did singing on Alex's single! (Alex is one of the producers of the track) I wrote the lyrics, the melody, did the vocal arrangement, vocal production, recorded the vocals in my own studio etc... in other words it is my single as well as Alex's. I'm not majorly fussed personally but as song ownership and recognition is an issue that songwriters come up against a lot, I am raising this point to show solidarity to those who get overlooked as music creators. Producers produce, composers compose. We all play a part and need to understand and respect each other. Thankfully I am pleased to have a great relationship with Alex and Guby. Big up to my two fave Italian producers! Saluti!

It has been a long and eventful career for me and it is a shame that I am still being seen as only a 'pretty face' or a 'voice' by some. I know who I am and amongst other things, I am a producer and composer, event organiser, label owner and more, but hey, as long as my songs are credited and I keep speaking up about things that are important to us all in the industry, I have hope that things will change for the better. I want to big up all the hard working females in the music industry who know what I'm talking about right now!

I have fire in my belly, I have done for years and I still feel as though things are only just beginning (again). I am blessed to have such a cool group of professionals with integrity working alongside me, and a cool bunch of supporters looking out for me. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

Having entered the GLOBAL top 100 and jumping to Top 100 downloads in a matter of days is a BIG achievement for an Indie Label. It is no mean feat and I am proud.

I deserve to be. As I said, it has been a long road. You have no idea! Maybe one day I'll write a book about it all. You wouldn't believe half of my story if I told you... But that's for another time.

As I always state, it is just me here - me one, blessed with some great friends, fans and acquaintances. I am doing what I love, remaining ethical and true to my art and passion. There are SO many projects going on that I am involved in right now. I am excited just thinking about what is to come. I am mid recording my new as-yet-untitled acoustic album, collab'ing with some incredible musicians mainstream and not so mainstream and composing, partnering up and rehearsing loads, getting ready for touring. There are also projects that I am unable to speak about yet until I get the go-ahead! Oooh - BLIMEY! I'll keep you posted.

So, please bear with me as I try to document things as they come. This Indie-pendent Musician, Singer, Writer, Vocal Producer, Label Owner, Mother, Zen-Survivor, Hippie-Chic Chica is all fired up and 'roaring' to go... Just look at all those labels I have been tagged with! And they don't describe half of what I do...

"So how can I connect with you Danelle", I hear you ask?!
Sign up to my Mailing List for your complimentary MP3 download, exclusive offers and news if you haven't already. Follow me on Twitter @DanelleHarvey if you haven't done so already. I ALWAYS respond to tweets. I keep it real.'Like' my Page add me on MySpace if... yep, you guessed it and finally, do check out my Official Website if you... You get it right?! Don't forget to support INDIES!!! Tell a friend or two, share the links, share the links when you buy downloads or CDs. Things may seem effortless but it is hard work to do what I do on a ZERO budget. People say its impossible. I have proven otherwise. And that is all thanks to YOU!! I appreciate YOU!

View the Better Day Remixes in Tygahoney's YouTube channel: Tygahoney Music's YouTube It has recently been added so please help bump up the views! Comment too! Thanks

Speak soon!

Bless

D xxx

My upcoming dance single 'Better Day' 3000+ plays of the preview (Indie stylee)

2010-11-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

Hey blog readers (silent and otherwise) how are you? I'm away at the moment. I am having a rest. It is well earned, believe.

I thought I'd let you know about my upcoming dance single 'Better Day'. Last week the preview had been on You Tube for only four days and at the time had over 1700+ hits. Just a few days on it has now reached 3000+ plays. I initially spread the word on the 1700 plays on my Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/DanelleHarveyMusic and via my Tygahoney Twitter Page: http://twitter.com/tygahoneymusic and via my mailing list. I am so grateful to all who commented and spread the word on this tune.

3000+ plays is amazing! I am so loving being an Indie musician doing my thing my way.

Here's a bit from my recent newsletter describing a bit more about this song and why it means that much more to me:

Back in May this year, "...I was due to fly to Milan to record with the producers there, but there were time constraints. I was about to leave for Sweden to play at a festival, so I wrote and recorded it just before I left from my own studio (Its actually my first studio of my very own) so this feels even more amazing. I am so pleased. People seem to like it, which means a lot as it was deliberately written as a positive uplifting song. It was healing for me to write it as I personally needed to hear the words, 'There'll be a better day', at the time and thought it would be nice to spread the love and vibe, so I used it as the chorus hook line.

Please check it out on YouTube and help spread the word about my first release with the vocals directly written and recorded from my very own studio! Lets show that independent music can make a positive difference, I'm reaching out to positive music lovers like yourself. When you visit Youtube do share the link on your networks (Facebook, Myspace, etc): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJTntLYOyGc

Yay! Thank you.

I'll keep you posted on the release. Enjoy!"

-END OF NEWSLETTER-

So yep, I am a true Indie.

Life is good.

Please check the track out, support and spread the word.

If you are interested in joining my mailing list please visit: http://danelleharvey.fanbridge.com

There's a special gift for all who sign up plus many other perks from time to time too! No spamming, just genuine contact direct from me.

Thanks for the love, thanks for reading. I hope to connect with you soon.

Have a great week!

D x

Music: Sounds and Feelings

2010-10-12T14:03:00.000-07:00

I feel so great right now. I've been in 'de-clutter mode' at home and in the studio recently. I've been Feng shui'ing my immediate environment to match the internal cleansing process that I'm going through.

This evening, I've been sat on my wooden floor surrounded by CDs that I'd forgotten about or even knew that I had. So I am currently listening to old school David Bowie, memories of a cover version I did of 'Diamond Dogs' and 'Swet Thing' back when I was signed came flooding back. I remember the familial production company environment, JJ was knee high to a grasshopper and all was well...

I love the way music evokes things from within. It can smooth any pain away, hype you up, chill you out, make you smile, make you cry and totally empower you...

All this joy and reminiscing came about because I decided to organise my collection and place all of my CDs into on of those giant file case things. I am now looking at cassette tapes and vinyl and feeling so lucky to have been able to experience the musical eras when all these were prominent in my lifetime. I know it may sound repetitive, having people talking about the sound quality of music rapidly de-generating in the digital age, but I agree. I believe that there is something so vital about those authentic sounds from the vinyl era.

And I SO miss analogue studio recording! I know it was a headache and arm ache for engineers but even that process somehow felt more magical. Or maybe I'm just a reminiscing romantic?

Don't get me wrong, I have embraced the digital age, I love progress but I am refusing to let go of certain things. (I even found my Mini Disc player the other day!)

I like to keep a good balance and choose to celebrate the old with the new. I will deffo keep playing my vinyl for as long as possible. Aaah, vinyl. Where else would you get that subtle 'bump' sound, the occasional scratchiness and warm resonance and the human sounding, lack of quantised beat 'neatness' that you'll find on many releases nowadays? Now this is my experience and an example of the special qualities that jump out at me when I hear music. Of course your experience will be different, memories will certainly be there regardless of the format of music you are listening to and this is what prompted my post. Music and its familiar traits really make a huge difference to how we enjoy it. But we inevitably do.

Even when I'm listening to music on the 'puter, I still feel an amazing buzz. For me, the whole process of pulling out vinyl and playing it is a special routine that adds to the enjoyment of my whole music listening experience. Sorting my CDs out made me think a little and I just had to proclaim how lucky I feel to have been personally involved in these special ways and times of producing and playing recorded music. The reason why I celebrate music in its many guises and I listen to as many formats as possible is because I love music.

What does it for you? Is there a special process that you do to listen to music? How would you describe the way music affects you if you could in one or two words?

No matter what your preferred way of music enjoyment is, I hope you'll agree that nothing beats the uplifting and/or powerful vibes that music evokes from inside of you.

It is truly magical, its is unifying, such a healer, and so potent.

I'm heading back to my joyous CD collection treasure trove right now to see what other treats I can find. So I bid you "adieu", for the love of music.

"And I'm feeling good..."

PICTURE: DANELLE HARVEY ARTWORK FOR SINGLE 'HEAVEN'

I have an updated website!

2010-10-05T14:37:00.000-07:00

FINALLY! I have updated my website!

I did it all on my lonesome because to date I haven't been able to find a suitable web designer, developer, didgeridoo...

I am super proud ;-)

I have even linked to my webshop now(see 'Shop'link on website).

I've chosen Bandcamp to sell my music from because I think that the Bandcamp philosophy is rather simple (no faffing) appealing, rocking, and Indie to the max. And I love me some Indie power.

I'll be adding more music to the store site when I get a chance to. I think I'll trial new releases on there too because quite frankly, the other download sites don't give a good enough cut to the artist and the sound quality options are 'pants'on those sites too, if you don't mind me saying so.

If we have to sing for our suppers and keep it happening in this digital world then let it be of quality and pleasurable to your senses. Bandcamp provides as savvy solution. Loving it.

So music lovers, especially you Indie music lovers, please do check it out and let me know your thoughts. Ta!

And come back with your opinions by all means. Good, constructive feedback is always welcome.

And yes, I am a widget queen. I'll accept that accolade gladly. Big love to the widget! Celebrate with me...

My updated website: http://danelle.co.uk
My bandcamp profile: http://danelleharvey.bandcamp.com

Many thanks

'ALL' ways love

Danelle X

Some sisterly advice...

2010-10-01T15:39:00.000-07:00

Ladies, if you smell a rat and something else indiscernible, its probably because there’s a giant Roland Rat-esque (80’s furry rodent UK TV presenter) type creature waving a crater-sized vat of heavily caffeinated brown liquid right under your nostrils. In other words... You were not mistaken. So, WAKE UP AND SMELL THE BLOOMING COFFEE!!!

And this is meant with sisterly love... You know that non-existent gut that you often moan about? Well maybe you should take its advice. If it’s hinting that something is up, then instead of ignoring it’s non-too subtle pangs of wisdom, maybe you should believe it. RUN LIKE THE WIND! BE good to YOU!

That’s all from your aunty D. With love. xxx

I was so inspired about this topic I had to sing about it. The above scenario inspired my song "What Could I Do?" from my current album.
Here's the vid (via YOU TUBE). I hope you like x:

DANELLE HARVEY - WHAT COULD I DO? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MRkCR8C9gdU

Your surroundings reflect YOU. It all starts there... or here?

2010-09-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

I believe that Heaven, Hell, all places in between and beyond are here on planet earth.It depends on which perspective you choose to view, live & experience your journey from. It also depends on your peripheral, introspective and heartfelt vision.

Sometimes its easier for us to focus on the worst possible aspects when we could be focusing on the positives. I feel that we all have a part to play as a global community and in our smaller societies, and it would be wise to be careful and not so quick to point fingers of blame and accusation.

Every so often, I venture out, away from my studio for a meeting or event in town. On the days I choose not to have my headphones on so that I can be in my own happy world, I may pick up a Metro or similar newspaper at the station or witness the general mood of folk of whichever part of London I'm in at any given time and it is stunning how 'drudged' many seem to be. I would just love to pick up a paper and read uplifting stories from cover to cover! It would be just lovely to hear some nice stories on the news. It would be heart warming to hear someone being congratulated for an achievement, however small instead of them being seen as a show-off or have them play it down due to not wanting to 'seem' big-headed.

And it would be SO nice to be able to smile at someone just because you are happy, have a gentleman offer to help a lady (or anyone for that matter) who may be struggling with a pushchair or heavy bags up or down the stairs in the middle of his 'manic' busy day. It would be nice to just 'be' without any judgement whatsoever. It would also be nice to be able to be proud to be a happy, positive person without it being jumped on as something abnormal!

Why do some of us make things so difficult for ourselves?

Things are as simple or as complex as we make them.

Wake up and smell the horizon. Then look beyond.

New collab, (Re) newed musical independence

2009-12-13T15:23:00.000-08:00

I've been working on a new collab called "Thunder" today, I did the first ever vocals in my brand new & first ever recording studio of my very own, I can't tell you how good it feels, new mic = lush vocal'ness! Yesss, I am SO chuffed! My own mixing desk, my own non-existent pop shield in my very own vocal booth haha! The Tygahoney's vocals are purring, roaring and raring to get it started! After so many years, it is finally time. In fact, it was just a matter of time and nothing happens before its time. I am one with my one true love - MUSIC - NO distractions! 'Tis bliss.

I feel ready, and was born ready...

So let's GO!!! xxx

Would YOU name YOUR price for my music? How much?

2009-12-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

I have just read a great article about artists letting their fans put a price on their music: http://bit.ly/6IchfE After Radiohead did this with their previous album and the furore that followed by independent artists and haters, I remember thinking, “Good for them” but at the time, I really didn’t see how the Radiohead approach could apply to me. Months later, I’m doing some online research, and I clicked the above link to find an interesting debate on this very topic. As an independent artist and Brit, it can be seen crass to discuss money, earnings and income openly, but this isn't the same, I am attempting to discuss directly with the consumer. Call it market research, as it is somewhat.

I am up for trying new things, above all I’m a musician who is also a business woman; an artist who has to make a living just like you. My enterprising mind and nature has me excited by this topic. Of course I love to make music, I would love to be able to just make it for music’s sake (which I do when I can), I am lucky to be able to do this for a living but, I do have to sell units in order to eat, so this article opens up a Narnian world for me and I’m pondering what to do and how to do it. Obviously my album Tortured Soul is out now, available on iTunes, Amazon, HMV, etc – In fact from ALL major sites including limited edition CD direct from my site, and I have my advertising, promotional opportunities and live shows from which I can let people know this, but there is just lil' me and I am a solo artist, my advertising budget and exposure levels aren't that high. As this isn’t a hobby, I have to step it up and find innovative ways to sell my music. I have to say it and be straight with you as i'm unsure if you know it but, yes, I funded this album and my label alone - its nice to be appreciated for my work. I am constantly touched and I love it when you write and let me know how my music has affected your life. As an artist, there is no bigger compliment. So as an Indie artist alone with no grand exposure machines behind me, no expensive PR budget, and only nouse, smarts and guerilla, DIY skills meshed with strong industry knowledge I am on a mission... To be blunt, I know that my stuff is really good. If that sounds big headed its not meant to be. I just believe in my work. I write songs, sing and am an expert in my field. I am consulted for my professional opinion and this is my craft. That's all it means. If I don't believe in my work, then why should you? Now, I know that I have achieved a great deal with no budget. (Yep, you heard, that album was produced on no budget! That is true genius and talent at work haha!) Anyway though, seriously, whatever you may think about music, I hope that you agree that an artist's work should be paid for if its of any value to you, and this is it, this is my living. The hustle and bustle of indie music and show biz. If you value something then why not show it.

You may or may not know that I am a pioneer of Fair Trade music and I brought the term into Western creative jobs infrastructure. Some of the ways in which Fair Trade music works is that I give back through proceeds to selected Fair Trade causes, an example through projects includes the donation of the proceeds of my album Home through a partner project with Traidcraft and Ethical Superstore directly to sugar cane producers in Malawi. This achieved the enabling of crop producers to obtain the most basic of things including, education, healthcare and good sanitation (water etc) for their families, another example of true independence through products and profits being generated and paid to the producer DIRECT. Other ways: I as an artist raise awareness of Fair Trade through talks and Fairtrade projects and events, examples of which include live music and fashion shows collated and sponsored through my label, Tygahoney Music with partner organisations including, Progreso, Clipper, Tropical Wholefoods, Ascension, Divine, POV, Tearfund and so on. I also ensure that all parties (musicians, engineers etc) who work in my projects get their fair dues. I’ve been doing the same re fair wages and payment on all live shows and recordings. For me it is about transparent operations and no slimy business. I got sick of the “grabby”, “corrupt” aspect of the music industry years ago and part of the reason I set up my own label was because I actually like having integrity, I like to live in a world where we are conscious of the consequence of our actions, I believe in Karma and want to give something back in all I do, and oh yes, receiving fair compensation for your hard work as opposed to minute percentages. Support your fave artists direct, its part of the revolution baby! So thats a little about what drives me, so you can get where I'm coming from as an Indie with a difference.

Anyhoo, back to the reason of this blog. Here are the million dollar questions:

A) What do YOU think about naming your price on my music?
and
B) How much would you be willing to pay directly to me, an independent artist with my own record label for:

1. A signed 12 track album or download
2. A signed 5 track EP or download
3. Individual Tracks (Download)
4. A signed picture of me A5

Selling my downloads and merch directly to you is a preferable solution for me as you show your appreciation directly, know where your money is going and there would be no middleman sucking up the majority as has been the case with labels in the past. Another great thing about the independent and Fairtrade principals is that this way, things would truly continue on the grass roots tip that makes my heart sing. Its all about people power and YOU voting with your purchases. It feels fab everytime I make a sale as all my hard work is being rewarded personally, and I would be happy to sell directly to you, it would be and is always a pleasure. I use secure shopping carts from PAYPAL on my site by the way so your purchase method will be safe if this works for you. If you let me know if this is a goer for you and if so, what you’ll pay (silently) then I will then set up a relevant cart for you or directly get in touch. Once all sorted, I will send you the download/CD your choice. (Please note P&P will be added on relevant to the amount of CD's and you'll know amounts beforehand)

So I’ll leave it up to you. Direct message me please info@danelle.co.uk and let me know how much you would pay for any of the above. If you want to know more about me, there is quite a lot (be warned) but just ask, and I’ll get back to you. I always converse, respond to and stay in touch with fan/friends. Its courtesy and I enjoy it, truly. FYI, my most recent Press Kit (PDF Format) with an overview and biog is available from my official website: danelleharvey.co.uk

I would love to hear from you, do get in touch. I am looking forward to it all.

Thanks for reading, speak soon.

All love

Danelle xxx

Lunar vibes in full effect...

2009-12-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

My heart is in California, US. Cali called mon couer years ago, and when I finally visited in the flesh a couple of months back, it said, "Welcome home" and then took hold of it with some force. And to date, it hasn't let go. My body is sat here in London, UK. The lunar orb is currently in full effect and stirring my emotions to a heightened level. It is great to be an artist and to be at which I can channel my emotions into a productive outlet.

When I feel, I feel strongly. When I cry, I cry with my all. When I laugh, I cry and laugh from my belly. I am an au natrel, naturally high on life chica with no additives or enhancers. I have no excuse for my effervescent mentality except for the fact that I live. I live because I feel honoured to be here and know how different things could have been. I've been given a shot at an enlightened life and I will not take that for granted. When I live life, I live hard and to the fullest. When I sing, I swear its like astral projection takes place or something. I have no idea what happens but whatever does feels good; somehow with each show I have performed at and each country I have visited this year, all my feelings have been enhanced to the point where I feel as though everything is surreal. I am floating and ecstatic and joy filled. On a constant basis.

Tonight, it feels great to breathe in the cold, London air and stare at the lunar orb up above. I'll attempt to put my feelings into my music right now. I have been writing non-stop all my life but these days its another level; I am inspired by everything - infinite creation of composition maybe? Its good ish too, promise... Duty calls. Tunes to get down, strum out and sang... 'Tis like giving birth to joy.

All love, Bless

D xxx

A list of duties carried out from a day in the life of "paradoxical" me

2009-12-02T12:26:00.000-08:00

I have just put together a list of paradoxical words that define the apparently paradox Me (Danelle) or at least a paradoxical snapshot of duties that I carried out today. (Typical duties too) I have done this list due to a conversation, which occurs on average 2 or 3 times on a daily basis between most new people I meet and myself. If I had a pound for every time someone has said to me "You don't look like..." (whatever aspect it is about me that they just found out about), I would have purchased that island that I dream of owning, of a looong long time ago... Now I have never been one for boxes and pigeon-holing; ever since I can remember I have defied convention, be it through community, school, church, family, relationships, society and peer pressure, never deliberately, just by being myself. Yes ok, at times there have been episodes at which I went against the grain, but those instances were just to wind people up, just for fun you understand, genius minds need stimulus dagnammit! I have always thought it a shame that some choose to feel as though they "lack" or are duty bound to "be" or "act" a certain way due to whom they perceive they "should" or "shouldn't" be.

I believe that I can do it all. I can be who I want to be, despite what YOU or SOCIETY believes. I always have done to be honest, and why shouldn't I? Why shouldn't anyone for that matter? My dreams are relentless, so is my spirit, and limited beliefs just don't cut it with me, in fact they come nowhere near the vicinity of me. Making assumptions due to limited thinking is not how I roll. Its great, I have bucked convention in many ways, not a statistic, haven't become what was assumed due to "nature vs. nurture" and such, etc etc... I am always on the alert, ready for the unexpected, and it isn't that I crave to be understood, don't get me wrong, it is just sometimes a total pain when people assume things of me. Normally I laugh it off, so what right? But I feel bad for them and their lack of judgement. And being the sensitive artistic, philosophical type, I got to wondering why some people are sometimes so... obvious. (Hypocritical of me? I know!) That was deliberate, just testing... Basically, quite often, and on a daily basis, upon encountering someone new, things can seem very much like groundhog day, especially at parties and events. So, just for variety's sake, can I make a suggestion? Try not assuming anything of anyone, and just take things at face value. I can't be the only anomaly in this world. Give yourself a chance to get to know a person by talking to them, give them a minute to just be, you might be surprised and end up learning something new - but if not, its cool, at least maybe you'll learn that there are no rules and such thing as "normal". In other words, you do you and let me do me...

So, I just constructed this list very quickly both for fun and for quick analysis of activities I carried out today. It was a personal experiment to see what my duties looked like "on paper" It will probably be of more value to me than to you dear blog reader, and if so, send me a link to your blog & I'll reciprocate & read yours if you feel numb or "Huh?" by the end... deal?! Great stuff!

So enfin, in case you're interested, here is my list of defining duties that made up moi this Wednesday 2 December 2009, do let me know if any resonate with you:

Housework/Harmonising,
Washing up/Warm ups,
Cleaning/Creating,
Cooking/Chord Structuring,
Educating/Entertaining,
Managing/Mastering,
Raising/Riffing,
Organising/Organising,
Baking/Booking,
Informing/Invoicing,
Teaching/Tutoring,
Reprimanding/Rehearsing,
Learning/Living,
Loving/Litigating,
Picking up/Procuring,
Practising/Pitching,
Mothering/Mentoring,
Nurturing/Networking,
Socialising/Socialising,
Purchasing/Purchasing,
Coaching/Corresponding,
Negotiating/Negotiating,
Praising/Promoting
Prioritising/Project Building
Caring/Campaigning
Talking/Trying,
Preparing/Procrastinating
Procrastinating/Preparing
Promising/Persevering
Understanding/Uplifting
Acknowledging/Accepting

I aim to make a song that includes all of these words. Soon.

How Random? I know!

ALL love. The D'ster...

Jazzreloaded: Jazz Publication of The Year 2009

2009-05-26T10:31:00.001-07:00

I am honoured to be working with this publication as Dep Editor and contributor. Mr T, who runs Jazzreloaded and myself were invited to the House of Commons last Wednesday as we were nominees for the award. I am uber chuffed to say that we won!

Check this link out. You'll find out more about Jazzreloaded from Mr T himself and you will also find there is actually waaaay more to me than you thought (and then some hehe...)!

Thanks for checking in.

All love

Danelle

Jazzreloaded: Jazz Publication of The Year 2009

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Press Launch for Fairplay for Creators

2009-04-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

Nooo Pete, nooo!

Ooh, I cringe at Pete Waterman. Pete hun, I loved 'Roadblock' - tune! and I loved SAW but mate, sometimes, the things you say?!!!

I’m talking about Pete W’s comment yesterday referring to the recent
Panorama documentary on BBC1 on exploited workers, saying that he feels like
one of them, having been exploited by YouTube.

Dude, are you for REAL?

I was going to just keep my trap shut (for a change) about my views on this
situation but now having seen some reports and comments on various sites about
this event which I was invited to and attended as a guest Songwriter, I had to
say my bit. Let me say first off that I support the Fairplay for Creators campaign wholeheartedly - but what Pete said was shocking and potentially damaging. There is no comparison with our situation to those workers' plights! I think I understand, what he was getting at, I don’t think he meant bad by it, he was being passionate and I guess the words came out and at that point, he couldn’t take them back, something he is known for. So let’s move on.

There I was yesterday avvo invited as a guest songwriter to the press and
photo launch of the event for this campaign which was set up due to the current
Google/YouTube VS Prs for Music’s disagreement over royalty payments for
Songwriters and Composers. I was there
representing the songwriter/composers who do ONLY this as a living as there
never seems to be anyone like me but me at these things and someone has to
speak up.

The role call included: Billy Bragg (I love him), Alicia’s Attic, Alison
Clarkson (I love her) - Pete Waterman (who really cracks me up with his
comments), Tony Hadley, Feargal Sharkey, Go West and Danelle Harvey of course (I love them all)!

Fairplay for Creators Photo Call

Despite the misconception that creative work in music is just a hobby, it is
not - though it is assumed as such by
many, FOR MILLIONS OF PEOPLE, SONGWRITING AND COMPOSING IS ACTUALLY A CAREER!
Bread and butter ‘k? So from my perspective, something has to be done for us
simple folk ;-) and for those who aim to make songwriting and composing their
careers in the future.

.. ....

A couple of things were apparent yesterday, from comments by Mr Waterman,
who only made £11 in royalties from plays of Rick Astley’s song on YT even
after 154, 000,000 video plays – (love you Rick btw!) Yes, I said it!

Anyway, my point is that if Monsieur Watermen made £11 on that mammoth
number of plays then clearly something is way wrong with the royalty rates in
the first place.

And no, I don’t look at it as oh, this is about wealthy songwriters, that is
just NO way to look at it at all. I’m thinking about all songwriters who have
to make a living from this, wealthy or otherwise. There is big business in independent music, the sector I’m representing (sorry for the repeats). Now, we have seen from companies like CDBABY that there is a large amount of income for independent artists of which I am one, on sales alone they have paid out $100,000,000 to independent artists on record sales. Imagine how much in royalties could be generated if we got our ish together, had a UK model and stopped whingeing that income doesn’t apply to us but solely the moguls and Major publishers? Doh, c’mon! Get your (show) business brains in gear people!

I hope you see what I’m getting at, I don’t see this situation as an ‘us and
them’ one, I see many markets that are there to be exploited, YT are doing it
(exploiting) they saw an opportunity and acted on it, and I feel in time that
they will be accommodating to all participants in their enterprise, I am
actually confident that a compromise in the form of a blanket license (or
similar thing) will be achieved, but it has to start somewhere, ground up
peeps, grass roots yes? Without the revolution being instigated by us guys in
the form of ‘Fairplay for Creators’, without change via dialogue and constant
improvements, this could have ended up as a no win situation for songwriters
and composers on EVERY level. I see that there are ways for the ‘widdle’ guy to get in on this and start to make a proper living as a musician/composer/songwriter but the ‘widdle’ guy, cannot continue to allow these things to continue by thinking that it’s out of their hands. That is not the answer. As you know I believe in activism; peaceful, intelligent, articulate protesting on issues that need to be addressed . This
campaign is important to me as it is another example of my Fair Trade ethic in
practise that I’ve been on about for years and what I based my company model
on, as the First ever Fair Trade and Ethical music company, Tygahoney Music
promotes fairness, a fair exchange at every level for all work gone into every
product that comes out of it.

For too long, many have assumed that all who are in the music industry are
doing super well financially, which often gives many the justification to
bootleg, pirate and file share. Many of my musician friends actually have families to feed, rent or mortgages to pay and are living from their royalty cheques. Seriously. It is not all glamour, many consumers see working in the music industry as a dream lifestyle with not much effort made on the part of those in the limelight, but everyone has to work, no matter how successful they are.
Let me tell you, at my end as an independent artist, my sole income is
made through gigs, songwriting, personal appearances and music sales. I have a daughter to support and a roof to put over my head and bills to pay just like everybody else. I work hard, non-stop, my business is my own - there is no other way. Now I give talks which breaks down how the industry works, I am invited as a guest at workshops focused on Ethics in Business, Music Business, Setting up Independent labels, marketing, (ethical) guerrilla marketing etc… and I speak and hear often from those who bootleg and fileshare, don’t get me wrong, I understand the underground hustle, the need to make your cash and sell your CD, if you’re unpublished and just starting out trying to do better for you, go for it, if people want to buy your music, why shouldn’t they? There are worse things you could be doing to pay your rent
right? But when you get to the level where you rely on royalties for your
income, what then? The other issue is that “Oh, they can afford it” attitude, I
hear as a response about illegally downloading tracks and such.

But hey, no we can’t afford it, I’m indie, this is it. No royalty no bread, no butter. I won’t make profits if you don’t want to pay for my work and it’s the same for everyone else. If you don’t like my work, cool don’t buy it, its ok but don’t nick it,
I’d rather you emailed me and asked me for the track and then I might send it
to you. Or I might not… Anyway.

It is unhealthy and improper to take from someone and think "it's ok" and that “they can afford it.” If it happened to you I don’t think that you’d like it.

Respect everyone’s rights and their belongings, it a basic law of decency. If it happened to you I don’t think that you’d like it.

Respect everyone’s rights and their belongings, it a basic law of decency.

On any level of success, we are talking about Songwriters and Composers who
make the smallest percentage on a track and they are effectively screwed to
start with on a paid download or royalty.

They rely on repeat sales and royalties to live. So you hurt them more
buy not paying at all. Again, everybody needs to pay rent, living costs, mortgages or whatever else no matter where they are on the human food chain. So if
you want to listen to music for free without paying for it, you may want to
imagine how you’d feel if someone wanted you to get up and go to work your butt
off and not pay you. Guys, EVERYTHING is paid for nowadays, even water from our taps, I don’t think it’s right but that’s how it is, this is a civilised society, you may moan about paying for water, but you still pay don’t you? Yet sadly many don’t respect the music creator and want to contribute to the joy that is given by music. Now all I’m saying is that the end consumer is getting music for free on YT but somebody somewhere has to pay for it, and I think the buck should stop with those profiting from using others work and not giving them a share, if you are doing so, you are out of order. Simple.

I’ll leave you with some words from Pete W hisself, “If people want to make money out of songwriters, pay us!” This is one comment that he and I will agree on.

Cheers for reading.
Peace.

Danelle xxx

Danelle Harvey is a Musician, Activist, Songwriter and Teacher.

Click the links below to Danelle's sites:

MYSPACE: HTTP://WWW.MYSPACE.COM/DANELLEHARVEY

OFFICIAL WEBSITE: HTTP://WWW.DANELLEHARVEY.CO.UK

TYGAHONEY: HTTP://WWW.TYGAHONEYMUSIC.CO.UK

SHELTER SHOWBIZ NEWS

HYBRIDLAB ARTIST REVIEW AND BIOG

FACEBOOK: DANELLE HARVEY

Picture credit: Picture of Danelle Harvey by Alexander Blair

Sat Nam!

STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS by Danelle Harvey

2009-02-27T05:53:00.000-08:00

So I just had a coffee on my balcony, slowly waking up while inhaling the gorgeous air on this beautiful sunny day in London. I was thanking the universe for the blessing of life and for enabling me with the tools to experience such an incredible day. I was thanking myself for stopping long enough to smell the flowers and for being in a position to do so.

As I looked around at the greenery, to the plants and the stunning trees in the gardens close by and in the near distance, I noticed that there were at least 5 different types of trees growing near each other, all thriving, all existing side by side yet retaining their individuality. The other thing I noticed was that how naturally their branches spread skyward, upwards and outwards like hands and arms stretching and reaching towards the sky, as that is their nature. There was enough sky for the trees to reach toward, no need for competition; they had their rights’ to be there and were just being. I imagined the roots underneath the surface and tried to decide whether they were intermingling with each other in the ground or simply just finding own their way remaining solid from their base and rising upwards.

Then I started to consider evolution. I studied it last year and it is a subject, which has been on the news a great deal recently due to Darwin’s Theory of Evolution and the Vatican’s findings in line with this. I considered the ‘will of mankind and other species, and felt so great that I am the result of an ancestor of mine's ‘will’ and that their instigated motion enabled future generations to obtain freedom, another ancestor who actually gave freedom and emancipation, and another who travelled overseas for better life and opportunity; because of that initial thought, ‘will’ and consequent actions that led from this, I come to be standing here on the balcony, drinking coffee breathing in air, appreciating life and its prospects.

But I am not standing still, I am spreading my wings, stretching and reaching my branches to the skies and stars. I have aspirations and dreams, a will and a determination to be the best that I can be and to exceed those expectations and aspirations. I feel that if we aren’t aspiring like the trees to improve and to grow our lives and ourselves, then it all seems pointless. I feel that it is my duty to have aspirations and work towards them and that it would be a disservice to all to waste my life not doing so if I haven’t yet reached where I wish to be. I feel that is my right to want and have the best for me.

I feel that the hurdles I have encountered in my life which I have overcome and which I will continue to overcome should any arise are akin to the hurdles met by the human race while evolving and making things better for our existence in this universe. My experience and journey is part of that very theory as it is for each of us. If I don’t overcome then I will not continue just like those species that haven’t evolved over centuries.

There is enough for everyone ‘out there’, I have always believed and acknowledged that. I recently had a heated discussion on gossip mags, tabloids and certain ‘celebrities’ in the news and declared that other people’s misery doesn’t give me a buzz. I refuse to buy and support things that don’t uplift and celebrate good, positive, nice things. My point was that I have a choice as we all do to control what I do and don’t want for myself and this can really impact the future. I am taking control and it would be great if we all did. But I am not here to try to control anyone’s path in life, I just know that I can control mine.

I was told that I was being unrealistic and we can’t control anything. I think that is nonsense.

Buying and reading gossip mags ‘just because they are there’, feasting, gloating and regurgitating, unpleasant occurrences in people’s lives, then moaning about why you don’t have XYZ and ‘Mr and Ms Bloggs’ do shows me clearly why things are currently the way they are. These actions demonstrate to me control of one aspect of life, by asking for it, buy buying it and reading it and breathing it, therefore, one’s life and one’s view of life is affected accordingly. If you are not happy with your life. CHANGE IT! Look at what you are doing and be accountable to you for the outcome. ‘Woman’ or ‘Man up’* (delete which is applicable) people!

Instead of getting at those who are succeeding and achieving their dreams and wanting it for yourself why not just ‘check your self’. We can focus on being the best that we can be, mind our own business, celebrate other’s success and also celebrate our blessings and acknowledge that each personal experience is a stepping stone, and through our own hard work, belief and determination, we can be the best that we can be ‘FOR OUR SELVES.’ The more we do this as individuals, the more progress we make with continuing to shine and being good, amazing, loving and kind first individually, then collectively we can really make amazing impact on the world.

I was recently asked on an interview what advice I'd give to aspiring musicians and as well as what I advised which included improving your musical skills, business knowledge and determination I would like to add that list to life requirements as well as career and in addition: self-improvement, self-love and self-respect; follow your dreams, continue to move towards your goals and the rest will follow.

Anyway I don’t know where that came from but I felt I had to share. Comment by all means if you wish, let me know your thoughts!

Thanks for reading. I’m filled with hope today and sending love to all, have a blessed and beautiful weekend.

Shine on!

D xxx

'TRAPPED' PREMIERE, WHAT A NIGHT!

2008-02-01T10:47:00.000-08:00

Wow what an amazing night I had last night! I was invited to the film premiere of 'Trapped' a film by the homeless charity 'Shelter' The film starred Patsy Palmer and I was delighted to see that one of her co stars James was an old student of mine! I always knew that he was destined for big things, he was one of my fave lil' students. It was great to see him again. Watch out for him people, he will go so far.

Now I don't normally 'do' premieres and stuff as I am truly over that 'wannabeseen' phase in my career but this was a premiere with a difference. This was Shelter's event and I have time for what they do. The 'boyf' and I were relieved as there was no evidence of 'wankiness' whatsoever, which was so cool, everyone was so down to earth. The DJ set was 'on point' and the TUNES they played? - WOOH!The venue was amazing, an old Eastender music hall. As I am a true 'Eastender' (what, posh, me?!) it was even more meaningful to me. This event had a message about a cause that is close to my heart. I am an emotional person 'tis true and I had to hold back the tears while watching this hard-hitting realistic film. It detailed the plight of a homeless family. The great thing about the film is that this family were non-stereotypical in the sense that she (the mum) wasn't a single mum (no insult to single mums people as I am one), they weren't 'scroungers' and not one of the parents were abusive, seedy or anything like that. This was an intelligent film that strayed away from the norms. They were just hit by a stroke of unfortunate experiences that worsened. Your average 2.4 kid type family who lived on a council estate who loved each other and all that- functional except for their living arrangements. That short film hit hard. The thing is that homelessness can affect anyone council estate or not. HUGEST of kudos to the Director Rowland Jobson, Shelter, Actors and Crew. Amazing. I think I was even welling up in my interview after - think I made a right t** of myself!

A true point was made by the CEO of Shelter Adam Sampson, who stated that this crisis is more real than ever due to the expected recession in the US and the impending loss of homes by many. Homelessness affects TENS OF THOUSAND's of children in the UK alone. I was one of those children once. I feel blessed to be here now having turned things around. I swore that my child would never have to suffer like I did. And she hasn't, she has a roof over her head and though I wouldn't call us rich in the monetary sense, we are rich in the things that matter. More importantly in addition to having fresh food, central heating, clothing, shoes and great education (old habits die hard, I see central heating as a luxury HOW old school am I?!) She has abundant love, amazing values, a great work ethic, a positive mentality and a stable home life. Every child at the very least should have this. This film helped me realise how far we have come.
For Shelter's write up of the event click
HERE

To watch the film and take part in Shelter's interactive version click
HERE

I am going to spread the word about Shelter and the plight of homelessness, they certainly have my backing, I'll do what I can as it is imporatant for me to help if possible and give back. It is a shame that I wasn't aware of them when I was going through my situation but I'm trying my best to spread awareness now and everything happens for a reason right?

Exciting times of change, collectively WE can make HUGE differences!

I have confirmed dates of upcoming shows and my impending tour. I have a Fair Trade Acoustic Tour which kicks off during Fair Trade Fortnight 2008 and an intimate acoustic show Friday 29th February in London's Portobello Road in Oxfam's very own coffee store, Progreso- keeping it real with my Fair Trade awareness. Its great to be participating and celebrating in yet another year of Fair Trade Fortnight to make a difference, I've been supporting since the beginning and its beautiful to see the progress made. Come down and show some support and love, I am aiming to have a couple of my label signings performing there too, and will keep you posted on that. All you fab Londoners who ask about when I'll be performing here will be happy to know that I'll be doing more shows in my beautiful hometown London and the UK this year. I'll be playing somewhere near you soon. Feel free to sign the mailing list for updates, I'm better with emailing fans than Myspacing them which is why my blogs are infrequent.

I have some big news to announce soon regarding sponsorship, the complete promotional tour list and deals that I have just inked. Stay tuned.

If you'd like the chance to get free random giveaways and such from me, do click the link HERE to join my fanclub for…NADA.

To hear four new tracks (the proper fully mixed tracks not the demos on my Myspace page) from my upcoming NEW album and a review for nada, click HERE

To pre-order email TYGAHONEY

As always I will do my best to stay in touch with you and I will be checking in as much as is humanly possible in order to read and respond to your messages.

See you soon on the road.

Thanks for ALL your support, it is always overwhelming knowing that you care about our planet.

Stay positive and beautiful, have a blessed weekend

Danelle xxx

MY MYSPACE PAGE

Trimness regimes and Adulthood...

2008-01-12T04:35:00.000-08:00

My best mate Dani is hilarious! She is a professional dancer (that may explain her radical actions!) who has been bothered about her weight lately. Now it has just occurred to me when I was her age I put on an inexplicable amount of weight too. I was on a break from the music industry at the time and had just got into filming, in my mind I had 'let myself go' but I was just chilling out. It was a reaction against all those years of strict music industry fitness and tip-top condition boot camps so I was happy with having the booty to end all booties for a lil' while. Eventually, I got over that phase - the break was over, the 30's were looming and I decided to get fit and trim again. Dani has just done the same. It’s like history repeating!

So babygirl phoned me up and said that she had got her fiancé to wrap her in cling film from head to toe. She then put on loads of layers of warm clothes and jumped up and down on her mini trampoline for an hour. She had a cold shower after and feels amazing and she said that it has already made a huge difference. So she proposes to do the same thing everyday for a month in her return to trimness!

Do you have any bizarre fitness regimes? Are you aware of any? I would love to hear them. I am in awe of Dani for lasting an hour. I suppose what she has devised is like a compact sauna. I miss my saunas- aaah bliss. I wonder if we can market this thing?! hehe...

Now I am a jogging freak, it is an obsession for me, I won't claim to be an exceptional jogger but I'm not bad either. I have an ambition to run the London and New York Marathons by the time I am 40. The mother of a student of mine has been running the marathon since she was 40. She looks 20, what a babe! She is one of my inspirations. She has two children. One is the same age as JJ and the other is a little younger and she (mum) kicks ass.

I aim to be half as good as her. I haven't got long to start training though. I thought I'd give myself a couple of years of regular long distance running first to break in to it. This means that I have a limited number of years to get onto this. At the rate I'm going, I may have to push the goal to 50 years old!

There goes the doorbell...

Wow, I just had a Tory canvasser buzz the intercom to ask whom I'll be voting for. Now I have been voting for a while but I've never had the opportunity to get canvassed before, I've always been lucky enough to be out of the house when they stop by. I see this as a monumental moment. Does this mean that I'm officially officially an adult now...?

Yikes!

Messenger savvy? Not me...doh!

2008-01-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

It's 2008. TWO THOUSAND AND 'GREAT', 2nd week in and already its going too fast.
I seem to be perpetually stuck in front of the laptop these days, regardless of whether it is on or off. The other day I was on messenger having multiple business conversations simultaneously - one in Italian, one in French, one in semi-German and one in New Yorkian (!)- it was only when I'd explained to an online friend (at the time in Norway) what I was doing and was told that what I was doing was pretty impressive that I stopped and realised why I had such a headache.

My problem is that I'm not as quick as I used to be. I used to be a whizz at Computers and other geeky things. The deftness needed to effectively work MSN in a kick-ass way is lost to me. I watch JJ when shes on line and I swear she has around 100 convo's at once without breaking a sweat and while texting at the same time!

Is this my age talking? When did I become the slow one?!

At this rate I'll have to get her to train me for extra pocket money. It'll be cost and time effective, less online time and she'll have earned her keep! Yeah, Yeah I'm aware of employment law - just kidding!

Ooh, is that the time? Time to call New Yoik...

Have a great day!

D

Danelle Harvey manages to baffle the experts! (Sarcastic title btw)

2007-08-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Haha!

So I just got back from my local (well known) video rental store. I had even managed to baffle the normally ‘expert’ staff while I was there! YAY!

I find it funny that for a second there I thought I’d walked in and asked for something completely different. I'd asked the guy at the till for Breakdance (the complete set) and for some strange reason, he looked at his colleague, they gave some secret team expression between themselves and then they both turned and looked at me blankly as if I’d asked them in Martian!

One asked if it was a new release, and another said “huh”? I responded "No, it is an old film, could it be in your older film section?"

A painful 20 seconds of their blank expressions followed after which point they looked at me and went,

“No”

Worst of all, was when the customers throughout the store seemed to stop and stare at me as if I was an absolute LOON. I was on the phone to my best mate while asking the assistants and she burst into laughter as she had witnessed the whole thing! SHE hadn’t heard of the film either. Quite frankly, with her being one of the best hip-hop dancers I know who absolutely LOVES films like 'You’ve been served' and 'Step Up', I’m surprised that she doesn’t know her street dance film history. Shame on you girl (xxx)

-Or is it the fact that I’m stuck in an ‘80’s time warp?

Don’t answer that.

Just mark my words though, 'Breakdance' will be back with a vengeance one day - Ozone, Turbo and Kelly rule! JJ and others into street dance need to see the film if they haven’t before. I am determined to have a Breakdance fest as soon as I get my hands on the films, I'll probably end up with video tapes at this rate- and yep, I still have my VCR in its rightful place right next to my DVD player! Guys, go check it out if you haven’t already, lets start a revival.

I think that I’ll have a roller skate mini session around the flat just to make myself feel better while I get over the shock that people- my friends included, think that I'm the oddball for asking for a cool old school fantastic movie -

Have a fun weekend!

MUCH love, windmills and poppin’

Danelle xXx

Festival Postponed

2007-08-02T17:30:00.001-07:00

The festival that I was due to play at next week has been postponed. I've printed their correspondence below- gutted! EVERYTHING for a reason though, right?!

Danelle x

----------------------------------

Please find below a statement issued by the Directors of Rainbow Spirit Enlightenment Fayre.

Festival postponed until 2008

It is with deepest regret that Rainbow Spirit Enlightenment Fayre will not take place during 2007 at Chepstow Racecourse. The festival has been postponed for 12 months and will now take place on the second week of August 2008, details will be posted on the website by the end of August 2007.

Serious health and safety issues have been highlighted at a site health and safety inspection conducted on the 29th July 2007. The timescale for amending these issues is insufficient as the site build was due to commence 30th July 2007, therefore due to the serious risks present at the venue, the decision has been taken at a Directors meeting to postpone the event until 2008. The Directors wish to express deep disappointment with the decision taken to inform festival goers of the postponement of the event.

The management team request all ticket purchasers seek a refund from their respective ticket outlets forthwith. Furthermore ticket purchasers that used Ticketweb services are recommended to contact the team regarding the event in 2008 as a special offer awaits in the form of a significant reduction in purchase prices for tickets next year and free passes to the event. All purchasers must forward proof of purchase to the event team at info@rainbowspiritenlightenmentfayre.org.uk to take advantage of the special offers available in 2008.

The management request all artistes, agents and infrastructure personnel contact at the earliest opportunity to rearrange performances for August 2008 as we wish to retain as many of the present line-up and festival build for 2008.

Nominated charities shall continue to be supported throughout the year at various events that the management team promote, we look forward to their involvement at the festival in 2008. £2.0m of donations have been lost in 2007,the management team will endeavour to work towards donating a similar amount in 2008.

We thank everyone for their support in 2007 and seek your continued assistance in 2008.

Finest regards,

Arthur E Turner-Thomas
Promoter
Rainbow Spirit Enlightenment Fayre