In this interview spotlight, I chat with Mikey Hamptons about the his project (Okay, I’m Ready To Rock Now), challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I am from New York City … and write Rock/Alternative music.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
I have been a rock music fan all my life … from The Beatles to Foo Fighters I love it all and what keeps me motivated is life itself.
I incorporate my life …what I think, feel and believe into my lyrics and music.
For me life is never-ending and I feel that music itself is “infinite” and cannot be limited.
Albums like The Who’s Rock Opera Tommy and The Beatles Sgt Pepper … signaled to me “masterpiece” and that is what I strive to do with my music.
That is what keeps me going on this path.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
Mikey Hamptons & The Meows are a new name for an older project I had called, Predestined. The music isn’t different as much as it is fresher and driving … more time put in on mixing and edits on this record. I especially enjoy track one, Dreamwave, and the time we put into it.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
The one main challenge I face like most indie musicians is getting heard and being exposed to the millions of music listeners out there. At the same time, man I LOVE the digital age and technology that is out there.
The opportunities are unlimited …even for bands with small budgets. It’s just a matter of persistence, and building a “digital presence”.
The technology has helped me record my music faster, better (than analog) and less expensive than “back in the day” of analog tape.
What was the last song you listened to?
The last song I listened to was, “Free As A Bird” by The Beatles.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer CDs and mp3’s … I like having the CD as a “mother” and making mp3’s to spin in my head wherever I go.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I LOVE CD Baby … For like $50 they will distribute your CD to Spotify, iTunes, Deezer, Amazon, You Tube etc … at no additional charge and this stays forever !!! It’s awesome!
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
The BEST place to “connect” with me online is my Facebook and Twitter pages … Just look up Mikey Hamptons.
Anything else before we sign off?
Thank you for taking the time to listen to me … out CD can be streamed here anytime: https://mikeyhamptonsthemeows.hearnow.com/
