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Top Five Reasons Why Being a Female Vocalist and Musician for a Rock band ROCKS
In my previous article called “On Singing and Music”, I had the opportunity to provide a ‘declaration’ that, at present, I am officially doing my own music. You see, I am a registered nurse by profession and leaving the nursing field has been quite a disappointment to my parents and loved ones. It was hard justifying my music to them but I know they would understand eventually (cross-fingers). Singing has been a calling that I tried to ignore but was too strong to overcome and resist. After a period of intense contemplation of my own life and happiness, I decided to finally pursue it. Now, I am up to the challenge of traversing the magical realms of music and the risks of failure that goes along with it, if there is such thing as ‘failure’ in music in the first place.
My musical interests extend to wide range of genres. However, my preliminary training would have to be broadway and classical singing. When I was in my elementary years, I became a part of the school Glee Club wherein I was harnessed to sing musicales, Latin prayers, and Filipino folk songs. Then I have to stop when I reached high school and college in order to fulfil my parents' wishes. It was in 2005 that I grew a passion for rock music.
For almost six years, a lot has happened to me and my journey to rock music and performances. I’ve sang for a few number of bands and had to quit some because of various parental issues that I have to deal with. Becoming a ‘hard core’ rocker tested and renewed my patience, respect for others, and my courage. And I am thankful for all the previous shortcomings because they made me a better individual and musician. Now, I am very fortunate to have known such brilliant young men to be part of my current band, named AMIHAN.
A lot of people are clueless of why I constantly pursue my passion for rock music. Though it is common to see female rock vocalists nowadays, still, some find my endeavour pretty questionable. So in this hub, I would like to reiterate my top five reasons why I love becoming one.
I AM A BIG FAN OF FREEDOM AND DEVIATION. ROCK MUSIC GIVES ME BOTH.
I don’t intend to contest other music genres. I respect every person’s preference in terms of songs and music. However, I find a deep connection to rock music because it always gives me a sense of control and free will. Rock music gives me an avenue to defy the norms and exploit my hidden creativity. Writing my own songs never bound me in to any forms of limitation. Singing and making rock songs had provided me a special form of expression on things I know I wouldn’t have the courage to say in talking or direct speech.
ROCK MUSIC GIVES ME THE HIGH
Studies show that various types of music have the ability to influence a person’s mood and affect. I am very proud to say that rock music sends me good vibes every time. It gives me the hype, which I usually obtain from caffeine and chocolate consumption, to start any day joyful and right. And since I am careful not to consume too much coffee and sweets, my own music has been a perfect replacement!
I GET TO ROCK THE STAGE (AS IN LITERALLY)
Rock music gives me the license to jump, roll, or sit on stage or nearby amplifiers. I just like doing that. And I love how I am given the chance to evoke positive vibes to the audience whenever I start singing along with my band and doing some rocker stunts. People feel good and at ease with such actions. And it makes me feel great to have the ability to uplift their moods by doing them.
BECOMING A ROCK VOCALIST SOLVES MY WARDROBE PROBLEMS
Singing for a particular music genre entails the vocalist to dress accordingly. Like when you sing in a hotel lounge or jazz bar, looking good is inevitable and a necessity. There are times when I can’t keep up with wardrobe updates and make-up. So I guess emerging in the rock scene is somewhat beneficial for someone like me who has limited beautiful clothes to dress up with. When I sing to gigs, I can rely on my trusted closet for just a pair of shorts, pants, black shirts, and tank tops. I don’t have problems with foot wear either because I can easily fit in even by just wearing sandals, slippers, or chucks.
I GET TO MEET REALLY COOL PEOPLE
Becoming a rock vocalist gives me fat chances of meeting fellow rock musicians and even rock stars. Also, there are times when you get to meet awesome people who are very supportive of what you sing and do. Most of them are very much fun-to-be-with and approachable. Until now, these experiences humble me a lot. I feel blessed to be given rare opportunities such as these.
Aside from the abovementioned reasons, I must say that singing and performing with a rock band enables me to earn a living by doing something I really love. Not to mention, having the chance to instil positive thoughts to people given the power of musical influence. When I told all these to my parents, they somehow understood the rationale behind the sudden change in career path I had recently undertaken. They realized that maybe it’s about time that their only daughter should pursue her own happiness after having fulfilled theirs.
I must admit that doing rock music and setting up the band was pretty hard at first. But everything’s worth it.
Comments
Wow...T...this is great...loved it..and keep singing with good voice...winks.
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Thank you for reading my friend. It was hard to pursue this endeavor at the beginning... But I have to say that this one makes me really happy. :D
Wow, such fresh and honest insights Maria; you’re also a good writer, you can articulate your thoughts fluently. I totally agree, rock gives “high” and basically all kinds of music. When I was a teenager, I loved rock music (to listen and sing occasionally). Later my propensity for music expands in almost all genres. I still love rock music, though. How I wish I could witness your rock music and your band one of these days. Keep on marching with your freedom with music. :)
--Danny
I love your Hub! I was a singer in a rock and roll band for over 20 years. Now, we only get together once a year at a reunion concert. But I totally agree with your words on this page. Rock on!
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Wow! You're a man of wonderful talents! Thank you very much for reading this hub. I feel honored knowing that a feedback came from a great writer and musician. :D Keep rocking!
"However, I find a deep connection to rock music because it always gives me a sense of control and free will. Rock music gives me an avenue to defy the norms and exploit my hidden creativity."
Now, that's a summary of what Rock music is about. After reading this, I'm really craving to see AMIHAN perform live. Have you guys been able to create a single, or an album? can we hear a sample? :D
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Thank you Danny! I would definitely invite you to Amihan's gigs one of these days. :D
Thank you very much for the feedback. It's always nice to write about something you are very interested in. Thank you for reading!
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Thank you very much for reading Kuya Rafael! We are currently working on more songs. However, we are able to record three of our five original compositions. You may check them out here https://www.facebook.com/AngAmihan?sk=app_17809112... and maybe like our band page if you get to connect with our music. :D
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Thank you accofranco, my friend. And more power to you as well! :D
You go girl! How cool! I am going to check it out. I love Rock and Metal. You are a woman of many talents!
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Thank you tammyswallow for dropping by... Nah... I just had the courage to do what others think as "defying the norms'. Hahaha! Keep rocking beautiful! :D
I've said to people before and I'll gladly say it again, you can only be you. Moving towards doing what will make you happy is the goal each person should strive to obtain. It good to see someone taking the initiative to obtain what they want instead of settling for what they think they have to settle for. Congrats! :) Great Hub! Voted up! :)
Hey..Keep singing girl !!!!
why don't you upload ur own singing video..it would be really great..
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Thank you very much Cagsil! Yeah... Finally, I'm taking over my life right now; doing stuff without thinking of anyone's approval. You are right when you said "Moving towards doing what will make you happy is the goal each person should strive to obtain." And I am doing my best to do just that! :D
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Thank you for reading labnol. I guess I would be really doing a lot of singing from now on. :D If you have the time, you may check out our facebook band page https://www.facebook.com/AngAmihan?sk=app_17809112...
However, I am afraid that you won't be able to understand our songs since most of them were written in Filipino (Tagalog) language. But anyway, you can always connect with the melody or the music as a whole. And if you want to know the meaning of each song, I could always provide you with a summary. Lol.
Cool, singing isn't easy (as I well know) and judging by the pictures you make it look easy!
Hey T...i am here again looking at the pictures one after the other, they rock too...and you absolutely look good on the mic...lolz...wished i could watch you perform live someday...you know what? I wished i could sing professionally like you're doing right now, honestly i do...and i know i can, but haven't gotten the chance to explore my passion for it....i keep coming back to check on the hub, nice one. voted up!
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Thank you for taking the time to read Rickridehorses! You are right, singing is not easy as what other people think. It entails A LOT of hard work and SACRIFICE. I've had my own share of shortcomings which I have triumphantly surpassed. Hopefully, I could collate all the ideas and insights I need and work on another hub about it. :D
Hi accofranco! Thanks for dropping by once again! :D You could always sing whenever and wherever you want. It just takes practice and of course, INTEREST. Give yourself the ample time to explore upon this endeavor. Music is always there, you know. It's something that won't ever leave you. And by the time you are ready to pursue singing for real, give me a buzz. I'd be very glad to listen! By the way, if you want to hear our songs, you can always log on to our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AngAmihan?sk=app_17809112... However, most of our songs are not written in English but I still hope you can connect with the vocal melody. :D
Great stuff - keep on rocking! Why not upload your videos to you tube and put them right in your hub. - Just a thought!
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Thank you for dropping by Neil! We have our music all over the web even in youtube. However, I am afraid you won't be able to understand the lyrics since they are written in Filipino language. If you have the time, you can still check out our songs at our Facebook band page: https://www.facebook.com/AngAmihan?sk=app_17809112...
These hub gives me a courage and motivate myself.
Thanks for letting me know this article. Keep it up:) Godbless
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Thank you mark. Just keep believing in your singing! Thanks for taking the time to read. \m/
Hi Tina, I applaud you for going after your dream. It looks like you are having fun. Confucius said that if you find something you like to do, you'll never work a day in your life.
I like your "Reality" and the "Saglit Unplugged" really shows off your voice. Nice. =:)
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Thank you very much for reading Winsome! :D
I must admit it was not easy pursuing this singing and rock music thing. Musicians are taken for granted here in the Philippines and it's almost impossible to flourish as one. Even though you have the talent or skills, people won't recognize you UNLESS you have a handful of 'contacts' in the industry. In turn, those 'musicians' who are acquainted to such 'big names' or 'contacts' in the music scene get to penetrate it regardless whether they're talented or not. For the Amihan band. everyday is a struggle. However, since we love what we're doing, we manage to just laugh it off especially when life gives you a bul...
Thank you for taking the time to listen to our songs. Reality and Saglit are some of my personal favorites because they are very sentimental. Saglit's lyrics was written by my boyfriend. We sort of collaborated on that song so I must say that song is the closest one to my heart. :D
Love your hubs Ms! ROCK on!!!
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Thank you very much Sam. :D Rock! \m/
Voted up Awesome and interesting also socially SHARING on Facebook.
My nephew has a band and I played in a few myself so I know that you have to do it and good luck.
I would like to hear some of your music. How about posting a video on this hub?
I checked out your bands Facebook page but found nothing there?
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Thank you very much molometer! Our facebook page is pesky at times. Hahaha! Our songs are written in another language (tagalog) but you can check them out here: https://www.facebook.com/AngAmihan?sk=app_17809112...
For our live performance, here's an unplugged version of one of our most requested tagalog songs. Am sorry for the crappy video recording:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bodcdtBw2Y
This video is taken during our usual jam sessions at our drummers house. :D
I also love broadway so I would also like to share this humble rendition I made just last month: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_G_yg-9HRs&fea...
Thank you very much for taking the time reading and browsing our facebook page... Please feel free to come back anytime. :D
Thanks for all the links I will be sure to check them out.
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You're welcome Sir. :D
Up and awesome!! I admire anyone who has the guts to follow their dream, as even if it doesn't work out, you never have those 'what if' regrets :-). I wish you success!
SOCIALLY SHARED ... to inspire some others to take that leap.
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Thank you very much Brett. It's hard pursuing something you're not so sure about. But it makes you happy because you know that's where you heart is. :D Have a great day!
Nothing can be as fulfilling as going out and doing what you know you were meant to do! People who do this have a high sense of achievement. Excellent Hub, Tina as always! Voting up and pinning on my Pinterest! :)
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You are right Cassy. No matter how things in my music career will turn out, I would consider everything as my most valued achievements. When I decided to pursue my passion for music and singing, I know I'd be faced with a number of challenges. And I was pretty sure I have to overcome several struggles and sacrifices. I still do, until now. But you know what, I am still smiling every time. I feel happy and contented.
Thank you very much for reading this hub my dear friend. Take care!
Well, I can relate this Hub to myself !! Seems like you've known me for ages... :) It was wonderful.. Voted UP!
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Thank you for dropping by Alisha. :) And am glad you liked and related with this hub. :D
....well I am proud of you (and also of your band mates because as you know music is a collaborative effort) for pursuing your dreams while working in a job and having such a tremendous spirit and positive attitude towards life and living - you go girl - as they say - and of course, you rock too! (I'm not going to ask of your favorites in music or your influencs; maybe you can save that for my group if you considering joining)
...have a great day and keep thinking good thoughts.
lake erie time 8:34pm ontario canada
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Wow, thank you very much for your support epigramman! It feels so good whenever friends from other parts of the world get to appreciate the stuff we love doing. :D
I'd definitely share some music in our page. It's a great way to relive previous genres and make way for new ones. Also, that page is perfect for learning more about other country's music, arts, and culture. I can't wait! Am very excited. :)
Hope you had a great day as well. :D
You are a wonderful woman of many talents- amazing insights into your work with the band. It is clear you have passion, spirit and determination. Well done you! I would love to hear your music.
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Thank you very much for taking the time to read Docmo. I am very blessed to have all these capabilities that all I wanted to do is to share them with the most number of people as possible. I believe music is a gift that everyone should give and share with each other.
I would like to share with you this video I did. It's all about my "attempt" to provide my own rendition of one of the most popular and loved Ms. Saigon musicale classics, entitled "Sun and Moon". Hope you like it.
http://www.thesingernurse.blogspot.com/2012/01/vid...
Take care!
This hub is awesome. You look like you are having so much fun in your photos. I think that would be so exciting to be in a band!
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Thank you very much for dropping by emilybee! It's a lot of fun doing the things you love the most. Singing and making music with a band are just some of the things I definitely can't live without. Thank you very much for taking the time to read. Have a great day! :)
hey thesingernurse,
Great hub and voted up. I also have some videos posted on my Hubpages profile as my band performs regularly, but you look like you are having fun up there.
I had a female singer for a while and she did not working out after a few months, so I took over the vocals.
I hope one day to get a female singer again, but feel free to check out the live performances on my hubpages profile.
Would you be interested in doing some backing vocals for us if I gave you some MP3s?
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