Arts
Born in Richmond, VA Jarrard Anthony was best known as a 3yr old Chuck Berry impersonator. Demonstrating an early aptitude for writing songs to video game melodies, Anthony caressed his 1st keyboard on Christmas at age 10. By HS, he’d made a commitment to share his gifts and seriously study his craft, learning from influences as varied as Maurice White of Earth Wind and Fire, Sting, Jodeci, and the bright-voiced Corey Day from Dr. Buzzard’s Original Savannah Band. While in school, Anthony joined an R&B group, Personal Preference, learning the art of compromise and collaboration that would later inform his writing for artists like Howard Hewitt, Franklin Roberts, Bobby Lyle, Tonia Woods and being sought after for studio work with Levi Little of Blackstreet, Tim Dillinger, CJ Lewis, and producer Joshua Thompson. Refinement in dance, voice, and performance came through 10,000 gladwell hrs of group rehearsals, lessons, talent show and local radio showcases, before eventually wowing the Apollo audience in NY, ultimately taking the Amateur night win. At 19 Anthony decided to step out on his own, releasing a single “So D-vine”. His indie EP debut, The Dream, soon followed as did a #2 spot on the UK charts. Anthony’s early recording success overseas opened the doors for relationships with famed producers Nate Smith, Bob Baldwin, Nolan Doran, and Joe McMinn, who worked for 2 yrs with Anthony on Don’t Sleep Just Dream. An international “Don’t Sleep Just Dream” tour followed, taking Anthony around the globe subsequently turning down financially dubious major label deals, earning the moniker, Mr. Independent. Over the next 5 yrs, Mr. Independent would launch a label, JAP Music Ent Group, and a major distribution deal with Bungalo/Universal. With the NIA/Purpose Music Group distributed Ready to Live, Jarrard lyrically/musically demonstrates a marked evolution from a carnal, young R&B lothario to growing man. For more info: http://www.indiereviewcd.com https://twitter.com/IndieRevue https://www.instagram.com/indie.review https://www.facebook.com/indie.review --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/indie-review/support