Raul Midón Releases New Single “Pedal to The Metal” ahead of his upcoming album “Bad Ass and Blind”

 
Photo courtesy of Blair Allen

Photo courtesy of Blair Allen

Raul Midón unveiled his latest heel-clapping single last week, “Petal to The Medal,” as the multi-instrumentalist singer-guitarist will release his highly anticipated ninth studio album “Bad Ass and Blind” this Friday.

Midón’s latest tune is a true testament to the percussionist’s jazz-inspired soul that has placed him among some of the finest musicians in the genre. This get-on-your-feet jam is a philosophical expression that glides into Midón’s musical success, confidence and commitment that drives his passion for music and instrumentation.

Visually challenged at birth, Raul Midón’s artistry allowed him to shatter barriers throughout the industry, playing along side the likes of Jose Feliciano, George Benson, Shakira, Stevie Wonder and the late great Al Jarreau. His influences in the Latin, jazz and soul genres, exemplify Midón’s willingness to adopt, evolve and sustain his sound that has spanned over an illustrious thirty-year career.

Raul Midón’s mastery of the guitar, percussion and complex vocals stem from his extensive musical experience and influences. His elusive style on the strings enables Midón to create a jazz-infused flamenco that allows his audience to embrace his harmonic melodies and tender voice. Midón’s impressive vocal-horn technique creates a Miles Davis-esque sound that brings roaring 20’s bebop sound straight from his lips.

Along with his free two-hand play that makes him synonymous with a “one-man orchestra,” Raul Midón’s music elicits the freedom, enthusiasm and charisma that aptly provide strong instrumentation with complex rhythms and keen lyricism.

We truly recommend experiencing this brilliant artist and his music, as Midón’s impeccable work is a constant reminder as to why this genre remains a must-listen for years to come.  Make sure to pre-order his album today!

 

Guitar Center Clinic:

Raul Midón will be kicking off the New York leg of his “Bad Ass and Blind” tour with his Guitar Clinic at Guitar Center Time Square on Thursday, March 23rd at 6:00pm. Fans will be able to witness the singer-songwriter perform live, host a Q&A for fans, and offer a meet & greet. The show is opened to the public. Please arrive early, as space is limited.

 

Album Release Show:

Also, come out this Friday, March 24th, to watch Midón perform live at the Highline Ballroom for his album release show. Doors will open at 6:00pm and show starts at 8:00pm.  RSVP today!

 

Follow, stream and listen to Raul Midón on his social below!

Raul MidónFacebook | Twitter

Instagram | YouTube | SoundCloud | Apple Music | iTunes

 

 

 

Guitar prodigy, Marcus Machado, plays The Platinum Room at Guitar Center Union Square

 
Marcus Machado performs at Guitar Center Manhattan. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado performs at Guitar Center Manhattan. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Since meeting Marcus Machado last summer, the young guitar prodigy had already stamped his mark on the indie music scene by way of him winning Rolling Stone Magazine's "New Young Gun Contest" in 2014. His extraordinary talent, music influences and his relentless ambition for perfection has left a permanent impression that has reminded us of the days when funk, soul, blues and hip-hop flourished together.

Since the November 2015 release of his debut EP, "29," Marcus has taken the stage at some of New York's premier music venues including The Blue Note, SOBs and Subrosa. As a mastered curator of his sound, the prodigious guitarist has recorded and performed with industry greats such as Sandra St. Victor, Marcus Miller, V Jeffrey Smith, Pharoahe Monch and DJ Spinna - to name a few. When we attended Marcus's guitar clinic at Guitar Center Manhattan last week his performance, and on-stage persona, was indicative of how far he has come as an artist. His music has forged a path for the next generation of guitarists seeking to adopt their own sound; while also, inheriting those who had come before them. 

Marcus Machado plays The Platinum Room. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado plays The Platinum Room. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Along with contemporary greats, Daru Jones, Les Lemon and Paul Bloom Marcus Machado rocked the Platinum Room at Guitar Center performing original songs from his debut EP and renditions of iconic rock legends such as Prince, Eddie Hazel, Stevie Ray Vaughn, and of course, Jimi Hendrix .With features by V Jeffrey Smith and JS Williams, Marcus took charge with performances of Jimi Hendrix's "Power With Soul" and a masterful tribute to the one and only J Dilla.

Marcus's powerful rock-inspired anthem "Rockout" and soulful hip-hop jam "New Thangz" drew customers from across Guitar Center with sounds of jazz, funk, soul and rock piercing through the glass doors of the Platinum Room. Inspiring guitarists, fans and industry professionals looked on as Marcus and his 5 piece band lit up the room indicative of the vintage Gibson, Fender and Duisenberg guitars that hung above the stage. 

Marcus Machado and The Soulfolk Experience. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Marcus Machado and The Soulfolk Experience. Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

His feature on The Soulfolk Experience's "Chariot" illustrated a unique contrast and depth that Marcus applies to his music. The soft, bluesy and americana influences offered audiences with further appreciation for how versatile these incredible musicians that took the stage were and how important it was for many aspiring musicians to add to their craft. Marcus topped the evening with titanic finale to the late Phife Dawg with covers of A Tribe Called Quest and other early 90's hip-hop beats that defined not only an era, but an entire genre of music.

Marcus Machado is not only a prodigy, but a representation of a movement that is re-defining how we, as music lovers, view live performances and instrumentation. Marcus's sound is a resurrection of the time where the guitar ruled the stage of rock, funk and soul. As an emerging independent artist, Marcus is solidifying his place amongst his contemporaries and carrying the legacies of the iconic rock stars that came before. Truly the prodigy is ready for the next stage in his young promising career. 

Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

Photo courtesy of Sean Jamar.

 

Stream, download, and listen to Marcus Machado today on...

iTunes | Spotify | Google Play | Amazon

Also, be sure to follow him on...

Facebook | TwitterInstagram