Eben Franckewitz Interview

I recently had the chance to speak with up-and-coming star Eben Franckewitz! I'm sure you'll enjoy the interview, as I had a lot of fun chatting with Eben. He's one of the coolest and most down to earth people I've met in this industry! Make sure you download his single TXT, which will be available March 5th, on iTunes. Also, be sure to follow Eben on Twitter @EbenOfficial. -Jay P-

Candice Glover Shines On Idol

Last night on American Idol, more contestants performed during the Sudden Death Round. This time, Candice Glover, took the stage and performed Aretha Franklin's Natural Woman. Candice is simply amazing, and every single time she steps on that stage she delivers! She's definitely one to watch in my book, and I would love to see her go all the away.
Another stand out performer last night was Zoanette Johnson. I'll admit that before last night's performance I didn't "get" her, but she really did her thing last night. Her voice is so unique and I can honestly say I'm interested in hearing more from her now. 
Who are your favorites? -Jay P-

Juliet Simms Interview

I recently had the chance to catch up with Juliet Simms! I first interviewed Juliet back at the 2010 Warped Tour,where she was performing with Automatic Loveletter. Since then, she has placed second on The Voice, and began a solo career. What's next for the talented singer? Find out what we talked about below!

Hi Juliet! Thanks for speaking with me today. First, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about yourself?

"Of course! Thanks for speaking with me:) Wellllll..what can I say? I've been singing since I can remember. Grew up in a very rock n' roll musical family which is where my classic rock sound comes from. I started performing by 4 yrs old and touring at 15. I play piano but mainly guitar and write almost everyday. Music is second nature for me and I really love nothing more. I'm a total foodie,I'll try almost anything, I have two tuxedo kitties,a wonderful Boyfriend, I don't have a favorite color cause my mind changes too much, I'm blunt,have a lot of fire and do not enjoy long walks on the beach ;)"

When did you first really fall in love with music and see it as a career path?

"Like I said above. I can't remember not singing or wanting to do this. It's been my dream my entire life."

Tell us a bout Automatic Loveletter. How did the band first form? How did you guys stand out in the crowd, what made your band unique?

"I formed the band as a teenager sitting on my bed with an acoustic guitar haha. The bands life span had a constant change in band members,so that's one way we were different haha. I think we stood out by our sound. Even tho we were clumped into the AP scene we still had a more universal style of writing, a bit more classic rock and soul. And as far as female lead singers went, I think I was a little more risqué, I liked to come up with trends first and push the boundaries a bit."

When you decided to audition for The Voice was that a tough decision? Did your band mates support you?

"I decided in the summer of 2011. I was on the Vans Warped tour. I was touring acoustically as Automatic Loveletter off the record "The Kids Will Take Their Monsters On" and they actually approached me to come try out. At first I was a sceptic. I NEVER considered doing a singing competition show because I was always under the mentality of doing it the real,organic and rough way. After watching the first season I started to change my mind and actually spoke with CEO of Warped Tour about it, Kevin Lyman. Kevin over the years has become a good friend and always gave me great advice so I trusted his guidance. With that said, he urged me to go for it. So I did :)"

You recently released your single "Wild Child," which is awesome by the way! What was it like working on that song? Did you know exactly what sound you were going for?

"Thank you!! It was really great! Ya know, it was different than anything I've ever done which excited me. The sound I was going for was a marriage between a few elements. I wanted to stay true to my rock roots,integrate pop but keep it edgy."

What can you tell us about your solo project? What can fans expect from your debut album? Do you have a general idea of when it will be released?

"Fans can expect heart,soul, honest lyrics, emotion and depth. What I see in music today is not the same as when I was growing up. The female rock stars that inspired me as a little girl are due the second generation versions of themselves. I would like to be one of them."

With all the success of your solo career thus far, where does Automatic Loveletter stand? Will you still be working together as a band?

"ALL is just on pause. I totally foresee a reunion record,tour etc. This is just the next level for me right now and I want to step up on it!"

We first met back at the 2010 Warped Tour in Camden, NJ, where I interviewed Automatic Loveletter. You guys were actually my second in person interview at that time, so first, I would like to thank you for that opportunity! Since you have been in the music industry for so long, what advice can you give to someone interested in entering the music business? 

"Awe thank YOU! I would say go in with guns blazn', know who you are,where you wanna be and don't let people tell you that you can't. It's a tough industry and only the tigers survive. I just got way too serious haha. Honestly the best advice I can give is practice,don't stop practicing ever,be the best, record,play shows,network and seize all opps that come your way. Or do what I did and sneak onto tours."

What's an interesting fact about you that many people may not know?

"Hmmmmm..I pretty much put everything out there. Things people don't know about me they don't know about for good reason ;) haha (cryyyyyyptic)"

That was the last question! Thank you again so much for taking the time to do the interview. Do you have any last thoughts or comments for your fans?

"Thank you for all your long years of support. I love you with my whole <3"

Be sure to follow Juliet on twitter @JulietSimmsALL! Click HERE to see my 2010 interview with Automatic Loveletter.

-Jay P-

Demi Lovato - Heart Attack

Demi Lovato's latest single, Heart Attack, has been released a week earlier than expected, and so far the response has been mainly positive! When I first heard the teaser, I thought that I wouldn't like it, but after hearing the whole song, I'm a fan!
I love the new sound that Demi is going for, and I think it will help her stay relevant. I'm looking forward to hearing the rest of her album. What do you think about Demi Lovato's new single, Heart Attack?  -Jay P- 

Dylan Covers "Wanted" by Hunter Hayes

First, can I sa that I have wanted Dylan to cover this song when I heard it for the first time! I knew this would fit his voice perfectly, and I believe it really shows!
Check out Dylan's most recent cover of Wanted by Hunter Hayes. Be sure to follow Dylan on twitter @DTBMuzic, and subscribe to him on YouTube. If you have a song suggestion, please leave a comment on this post, or directly on the video. -Jay P-

"Almost Home" - Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey may be busy with American Idol, but the songbird is never too busy to release some new music! 

The singer recently released a track titled Almost Home, that will be featured in the upcoming Disney film, Oz The Great and Powerful. It is evident that Mariah's vocal ability has changed as she grew older, but the singer proves that she can still belt with the best of them. What do you think of the new song? Are you glad that they chose Mariah to lend her voice to the film? Let me know in the comment section below! -Jay P- 

Miguel - "Candles In The Sun" Music Video

Miguel is seriously becoming one of my favorite artist's out there right now! His voice is amazing, and his music videos are so artistic.
Check out his recently released music video for Candles In The Sun. The song/video won't disappoint! Hopefully I'll be able to interview Miguel sometime in the near future. Let me know what you think of the music video in the comment section below! -Jay P- 

Dylan Bernard Covers "Home" by Phillip Phillips

Check out Dylan's latest cover of American Idol winner Phillip Phillip's hit single, Home! Be sure to comment/rate/subscribe and let us know if you have any suggestions. 
Follow Dylan on Twitter @DTBMuzic and check out his official website, www.dylanbernardmusic.com -Jay P-

Amanda Brown Interview

Hey everyone! Check out my interview with the very talented Amanda Brown! You may know Amanda from the last season of NBC's The Voice. Now, she's working on her solo career and her album! I just want to thank Amanda for taking the time to speak with me. Be sure to follow her on Twitter @Amanda__Brown.  -Jay P-

YE Dior - Make It (Official Video)

Check out my friend, YE Dior's, brand new music video for his song, Make It. I first saw the video last week and I was really impressed. Then, I found myself watching it at least once a day, now it's a couple times each day. The meaning behind the song is great. the lyrics are on point, and the video is extremely creative. Great job! Be sure to follow him on Twitter @YEDiorMusic -Jay P-

Round 2 Crew Interview

Check out my interview with Round 2 Crew! Be sure to follow them on Twitter @Round2Crew and check out their latest music video for Drippin; just click HERE.

 Hey guys! What's up? Thanks for speaking with me today. First, can you please introduce yourselves and tell us a little bit about yourselves?

 "Hi I am kevin Flynn and people call me KFly. (17 years old) 

I’m Justin Brown and people call me pape or pape the great (18 years odl)

And lastly I am Chase Martin (18 years old)

We all went to high school together but Kevin and Chase just graduated last semester. Justin wrestles and is projected to go to state this year! Between the three of us we write all of our own music and record in the studio we built."

How long have you all known each other? When did you guys first come together as a group?

 "Justin and chase first started out rapping and recording music together, and meanwhile, Kevin was a solo artist putting up videos on youtube. Since we all went to the same school we had a chance to meet up and start talking about music. After hanging out we realized that we all shared the same passion for music so why not form a group."

 How would you describe your sound? What sets it apart from everyone else in the music industry?

"We have had the opportunity to try out several different kinds of music. Because of this our style is so versatile that we are still learning what “our sound” is exactly. At this point we are excited for the new stuff we will be releasing and cannot wait for you to have a chance to hear for yourself."

Tell us a little bit about your new music video "Drippin." What was it like recording the video?

"Kevin really enjoyed having peoples hands all over him. Haha just kidding, but really. He loved it. Justin had a chance to try singing underwater, but it didn’t work out the way we expected. We still had an awesome time shooting this video and we loved the way it turned out."

What can we expect from Round2Crew in 2013?

 "Lots of new videos and new styles that we know everyone will love. We are also excited for our Music Video for our latest single Never Looking Back."

What's an interesting fact about you that many people may not know?

"We write, record, and produce all of our own music."

@ShazzJuliano asks, "Who would you love to have a collaboration with and why?"

 "Mike Ponser! But we are looking forward to our fans hearing some collaborations that we have in the mix."

@JBmommafan says, "If ya'll was not rapping/singing what would be your choice of career?"

 Chase- "Music producer"

Justin- "Song Writer"

Kevin- "Graphic Design"

@luvmexluvmenot wants to know who are your biggest influences?

"Justin Bieber, Mike Ponser, Austin Mahone and mac miller. Also as cheesy as it sounds we would be no where without our parents. They have supported us so much and given us the opportunity to go after our dreams."

@MirandaGallegos asks, "If you had one wish, what would you wish for?"

Justin- "signed to a major record deal"

Kevin- "x ray vision"

Chase- "to be a famous music producer"

That was the last question! Again, I want to thank you guys for taking the time to do the interview. Do you have any last thoughts or comments for your fans?

"We just want share with them how much we love them, and thank them for all of the support that they have given us. We are so blessed to have such awesome fans! Thanks to all our CrewMembers! We would be no where without you!"

-Jay P-

Rihanna Releases "Stay" Music Video

Rihanna never ceases to amaze me, and recently she's been even more amazing than usual! Last night at the Grammy's she looked stunning and classy, and proved that she could deliver a powerful ballad. Her voice was amazing, and her performance was so emotional.
Today, Rihanna has released the music video for Stay featuring Mikky Ekko. The music video is so simple, yet so intense, and really sets the mood for the song. Rihanna has done an incredible job with this video. Stay is definitely one of my favorite songs by the RiRi. What do you think? -Jay P-
*update* The video will be available on Jay Swag tomorrow morning, but for now check it out on www.eonline.com

Grammy's 2013 Fashion Hits !

The 55th annual Grammys, AKA the biggest night in Music happened and the stir was all about the dress code that CBS sent out before the event. I would just describe it to you, but it's pretty funny if you just read it:

CBS Program Practices advises that all talent appearing on camera please adhere to Network policy concerning wardrobe.
Please be sure that buttocks and female breasts are adequately covered. Thong type costumes are problematic. Please avoid exposing bare fleshy under curves of the buttocks and buttock crack. Bare sides or under curvature of the breasts is also problematic. Please avoid sheer see-through clothing that could  possibly expose female breast nipples. Please be sure the genital region is adequately covered so that there is no visible "puffy" bare skin exposure. Please avoid commercial identification of actual brand name products on T-shirts. Foreign language on wardrobe will need to be cleared. OBSCENITY OR PARTIALLY SEEN OBSCENITY ON WARDROBE IS UNACCEPTABLE FOR BROADCAST. This as well, pertains to audience members that appear on camera. Finally, The Network requests that any organised cause visibly spelled out on talent's wardrobe be avoided. This would include lapel pins or any other form of accessory.

So basically everyone had to revert back to looking appropriate and I must say... I liked it. Lots of classic looks, but of course, I am only going to feature my top 5.

Justin Timberlake in Tom Ford. I love the whole classic look and new sound! Best performance of the night as well! I also like this new slicked hair, it wasn't popular on the twitterverse but I can dig it.

Kelly Roland might be breaking the Dress Code with the sheer panels but she looks AMAZING.

Katy Perry also broke the rules! But she looks great, every show I had something negative to say about what she was wearing but this time all I can say is that she looks FAB.

Adam from Maroon 5 looks great in all black. I know all white was also a trend but this look just looks so tailored, I'm obsessed.

Just when I thought it couldn't get any better RiRi brought back the long hair and a simple but sexy dress, she looks great! Best dressed nominee for sure.
-Malibu Mara-

We Miss You Whitney

One year ago today, the world lost one of the most amazing voices to ever sing a note. It's hard to believe that it's already been a year since Whitney Houston's passing.  I'll just leave you guys with one of Whitney's last hits, and most powerful songs,  I Look To You. We miss you Whitney. Rest in peace. -Jay P-

Dylan Bernard and Natalie Bermudez Cover "We Both Know"

I'm so excited to share this cover with you guys! Dylan recently collaborated with our good friend Natalie Bermudez for a cover of We Both Know by Colbie Caillat and Gavin DeGraw.
This may be my new favorite cover that Dylan's put up on YouTube. Natalie did an amazing job, and I want to thank her for taking the time to come down and do the duet. Be sure to follow her on Twitter @NatalieKristal. Enjoy! -Jay P-

Austin Mahone - Say You're Just A Friend

Teen popstar Austin Mahone has recently released the official music video to his latest single, Say You're Just A Friend. The track featured Flo Rida, and is inspired by Biz Markie's song Just A Friend.
The song/video combo is average, and although I'm not a fan of the sound, I guess it accomplishes everything it sets out to do. If you like catchy music, I'm sure you'll be a fan of this song. Feel free to leave your comments below. I'd love to know what you think! Are you a Mahomie? -Jay P- 

Emeli Sande Performs "Next to Me"

I'm currently obsessing over UK's latest sensation, Emeli Sande! She recently performed her hit Next to Me on the Ellen DeGeneres show, and I was so mad at myself for not paying attento to her before this performance.
I love her voice! Her tone is so smooth and I really like the song as well. She definitely has the whole package and I'm looking forward to tracking her career here in the US. She's one to watch! I'll be trying to get an interview with her as soon as possible. What do you think of Emeli Sande and her single Next to Me? -Jay P- 

Stephanie Nogueras Interview

(Photo credit: The Stephanie Source)

Hey everyone! I recently got the chance to catch up with my cousin Stephanie Nogueras! I've been supporting her on the website for years now, and as most of you know, she is currently playing "Natalie Pierce" on ABC Family's hit series Switched At Birth! Check out our interview below.

Hello! First, can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about yourself?

"My name is Stephanie Nogueras and  23 years old. I am an American model & actress of Puerto Rican descent."

When did you first decide you wanted to enter the entertainment/fashion industry? What made you want to get into modeling, and later acting?

 "I was in college in Rochester, New York during about 2nd years, I have decided exploring what is like to be a model and I loved it. I started from there and have been modeling since. On May 2012, On the same last day of college, I moved to Los Angeles from South Jersey. Next day, I was doing an extra means background performer for Switched At Birth. That was the first time for me and started considering to be an actress till 6 months later. I got an audition and decided taking a leap of faith and believing in myself. I made it and the rest is history."

When you began modeling, what did you find was the hardest thing to get used to?

"Well honestly, there was nothing major challenge for me to get used, just very common for the deaf and hearing people to become a team by gesturing and communicating. Everything went smooth. :)"

Out of all of your photo shoots, which one is your favorite? Why?

"Well I have to say few pictures by photographer and hair stylist Laurentius Purnama because of wild creative & strong poise through my eyes and body language in images. I absolutely loved it!"

Tell us a little bit about your move from New Jersey to LA. Were you nervous at all? How did your friends and family react?

"I always have been dreaming of living in a big city and be a successful Deaf woman as a good role model since I was a little girl. Los Angeles is one of my dreams. My parents were not comforted with an idea or not really approved of it. I understand they were concerned about the distance, money and safety. They are overprotective parents. However, they did not realize how much I have become  passionate over years. My friends are always believing in me and encouraging me to go for it. Finally, my parents decided letting me. I was spreading my wings of pride and joy. There was no fear or anything. I was beyond excited and stoked. It was just an amazing moments when I walked out of Los Angeles International airport's door. I just cannot describe how much I am strongly passionate about my dreams. It's like a soul fire in your heart as you desire to get what you want. Now, my family and friends are happy and very proud of seeing me living my dream. I am blessed everyday. Often, I walk down in a big city of Los Angeles and a big smile on my face. A lucky girl in the world. Many thanks to my wonderful parents, family and friends!! Love you guys!"

(Photo credit: The Stephanie Source)

Congratulations on your new role as "Natalie Pierce" on ABC Family's Switched At Birth. That's amazing! Take us back to your first audition day. What was it like auditioning for such a huge show? How did you feel when you found out the great news?

"Thanks!! Oh boy, it was so intense and unforgettable experience on that day. Honestly, I was pretty nervous all week before the audition. I was completely focused studying the script till I memorized them all. On that day, from the moment I woke up and my mind already raced like a crazy OCD to make sure everything is going well from time to time. So, I entered the waiting room and same time my palms were sweating. I was so nervous but I managed to stay calm well. It was not easy but I did. The intense part, I looked at other experienced actresses in the same waiting room. By the way, I had absolutely none experience in acting. I had a glimpse of hope I might make it. The casting director called my name and I quickly inhaled and exhaled. I closed my eyes as thought of my family. From the moment the door opened, I immediately smiled and showed my best as possible. Suddenly, I felt natural to perform my lines which surprised me that I did not forget a single line. After my audition, I was nervous and cannot wait to hear the result. It drove me crazy! About two days later, my manager texted me to meet up. Right away, we met up with the interpreter and talked business stuff at the restaurant. Suddenly, the manager's cellphone rang. We all looked at each other for few seconds. She picked it up and screamed in front of entire people! "You made it" "A Co Star!" It just blew my mind. I was surprised and speechless. I was crying and having goosebumps on my skin. It was an amazing news."

What can fans of the show expect from this season on Switched At Birth? How will "Natalie" affect the show?

"I am sure you guys already knew Natalie was really mean to Bay in the beginning. Now she is nice to Bay so far. Natalie affect the show a lot of dramas!" 

What has been your favorite experience so far from being on the show? 

"My favorite experience is put a mask "character" on me to act completely a different person. Also, I always enjoy to hang out and chat with the cast and crew on set! They are fun to work with! :)"

What's an interesting fact about you that many people may not know?

"Well, I grew up on a small farm in South Jersey and yes there are still chicken, ducks, rabbits and peacocks walk around in backyard. We have goats too, I am not sure if I forget anything else. Haha. I am a huge animal lover!"

That was the last question! I want to thank you so much for speaking with me today. Do you have any last thoughts or comments to your fans?

"Fans, thank you so much for supporting and cheering! You guys mean a lot to me! Be sure to watch every Monday night on ABC Family Switched at Birth 8pm. My Twitter @modelstella and Facebook page Model Stella. Thank you again! Love you guys! Mwahs! <3"

Stephanie Nogueras is represented by Deafinit Models & Talent  (www.deafinitmodels.com)

-Jay P-

Whitney Houston Will Be Immortalized in Wax

On Monday, it will be one year since the world lost the legendary Whitney Houston. In celebration of the singer, Madame Tussaud's has unveiled not one, not two, not three, but four wax figures of Whitney! They are pictured above.

The first figure on the left is of Whitney at her performance of the National Anthem during the Super Bowl in 1991. That will be placed in Washington D.C. The second figure, Whitney from her I Wanna Dance With Somebody era, will be featured in Las Vegas.  The figure depicting Whitney from the Bodyguard will be sent to Hollywood, and the statue of Whitney in the sparkling gold dress(from a photo shoot) will be on display in New York City.

The official unveiling will take place on Thursday. Maybe I'll stop by Madame Tussaud's when I'm in NYC in March and check out the tribute to the late Whitney Houston! 

-Jay P-

Bruno Mars - "When I Was Your Man" Music Video

Bruno Mars just released the official music video to his single When I Was Your Man! Check it out above.
I love the simplicity of the video, and of course his voice is incredible. Bruno Mars is probably the most talented male vocalist in the industry right now, and this song definitely shows that.
Comment below and let me know what you think of Bruno's latest music video. -Jay P- 

YouTube Artist of the Month - Dylan Bernard (Interview)

I recently sat down and spoke with one of YouTube's fastest growing and newest stars, Dylan Bernard. He just also happens to be my best friend and the first artist signed to my management company. This month Dylan will be the YouTube Artist of the Month here on Jay Swag! 
I hope you guys enjoy the interview! I know we both had a fun time putting it together. Be sure to check out Dylan's website, www.dylanbernardmusic.com, and follow him on Twitter @DTBMuzic. -JayP- 

TC Covers "Love And War" (Tamar Braxton)

Some of you may not know who TC is, (@SongWriterTC on Twitter), but chances are you've probably heard one of the many songs that he has either written or produced. 
He is definitely one of the most talented songwriters/producers out there right now. It's possible that you've even seen him on The Braxton Family Values or Tamar and Vince, but what you might not know is that he is an extremely talented vocalist as well!
Check out his cover of Tamar Braxton's Love And War. This is one of my favorite songs right now and I was so impressed with his cover that I had to share it. Hopefully an interview will be coming soon! -Jay P-