Musician Interview with Side FX band about why giving back to veterans is important
Music is wonderful isn’t it? The only thing that makes it better is when it is used for the greater good. Music is even better if it can be used to back a great cause…or to give wings to lift spirits out of the confines of their own self-imposed prisons…it can be used to unite…and it can be used to give back. Side FX is a band that enjoys giving back and puts their own money into providing what they can for veterans. The great thing is, that rather than end up with less, the band ends up with so much more than they put in. And do you know what they do with their newfound blessings? They give some more. Isn’t that inspiring? So why don’t you read the interview below and then go on and start your own cycle of giving.
How did you come up with the name SideFX?
Side FX was a play on words. I actually cannot take the credit. My co-writer, Chris Nikpora, came up with the name. We thought, ‘wonder what music would sound like if you mixed different genre’s together with a rock vibe’ (e.g. jazz, middle eastern riffs, classical, hiphop)—a kind of ‘side effect’ to traditional rock and roll. From there, Chris turned the words Side Effect into Side FX.
The song “Let’s Paint This Town” has some interesting lyrics; can you expand on what inspired you to write this song?
Oh, yes it does. I was curious about this whole ‘cougar’ appeal. I am certainly approached by a lot of young men these days—more so than any other time that I can recall. I interviewed 7 women for this song. So really, it is a compilation of their stories. All 7 had some definite opinions on dating younger men and most of them had direct experience. What became clear was they all liked the idea of dating a younger guy, but not one of them wanted a serious relationship with one. I found that to be fascinating and decided to tell their collective story. People, I think are confusing cougars with man eaters. They really are two different individuals. My song is about a woman who knows what she wants and is in control. And, she is not a man eater, she just chooses to date younger men.
You recently finished the “It’s Your Turn” tour, how did that go?
Well, the tour continues throughout the year, but we are dividing it into different legs. The first, in February, was across the Midwest. The second leg, I just finished in Florida and the Carolinas. Both were interesting, fascinating and a ton of fun. I was curious to see how well my music would be received outside of DC. I was pleasantly surprised to see a very wide demographic acceptance. I think the Floridians were the most positive, but I had incredible feedback on all touring stops.
You’ve done a lot of work with veteran organizations. Can you tell us why this area is important to you and what is it that you’ve done?
I have always felt that we, as a society, do not express our thanks enough. Today, thousands of men and women are coming home missing an arm or leg. These folks would have otherwise died if this were a war that was being fought 30 years ago. We have, through technology, been able to save their lives on a physical level, but I am not sure on an emotional level, we are doing as much as we can.
For me, music is very therapeutic. I cannot begin to understand what they have been through, but by sharing my music, I can share my appreciation for their dedication. This tour, we have happily provided free concerts at the hospitals in Georgia, North Carolina, Missouri, South Carolina, Florida and Washington, DC (which comes out of my pocket) and negotiated with each venue to allow the Vet’s into our concerts for free.
The band loves performing for the Vets….it just feels good. I wish I could afford to do it for all of the medical centers—perhaps when I sell more albums?
What’s your favorite song to play live?
Hard question, but I would say “Amazing Dreams.” This song performs so well live – it’s surprising. It actually delivers chills.
If a CD got stuck in your CD player on tour, what CD would you want it to be?
Besides my own? Well, right now, I am stuck on Howie Day’s new album.
Do you have any upcoming shows that you’re excited about?
We are putting together our first live internet show on May 20th. I wanted the ability to reach people across the globe. The mechanics are becoming really challenging, but if all goes as planned, this should be a terrific show.
If you could travel to any Magic Land, where would you go and why?
At the heart of it all, I am a beach girl. My best romantic experiences took place near or at the beach. To me, that alone has a bit of Magic into it. Drop me on the white sands of Crete or the pink beach in Bermuda and you’ll have one happy, happy singer!
To find out more about Side FX and find out how you can give back, visit their website or find them on Facebook.
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