Happy New Year fellow Music Makers!
Behold your January Stage Presence eNewsletter designed to offer up some fun and support to our global community of StompLight musicians. Here we share ideas, learn from one another and find inspiration. This month we are proud to feature Arizona based Tyler Frazier as our StompLight Artist of the Month and recipient of a coveted "StAy LiT" StompLight Flask. We have also included a feature packed article on the upcoming 2025 NAMM Show by Sam Willings of Music Tech, a couple new StompLight Fantasy LP album covers, some Words of Wisdom Part 2 from the StompLight Bunker Boys.
Tyler Frazier - StompLight Artist of the Month. Visit his Spotify!
Tyler embodies a pure songwriter vibe. A playful lyricist who combines a sparkling fusion of punk and country sensibility into his songs. Like the legendary Richard Thompson and George Harrison Tyler's principal tool is his trusty 12-string guitar. Tyler is currently in production on an EP entitled, ‘Home’ Inspired by his move from Iowa to Arizona. Tyler is also a loving father of two young boys balancing family, his growing musical career, and his day gig. We are honored to know Tyler and thankful for his contribution to the arts!
We asked Tyler a few questions about his musical world. Enjoy!
Describe your home recording set-up
I’ve been using Audigo for home recordings/video…cool small company, highly recommend checking out!
What are your favorite songs to perform?
My original ‘Home’ aka ‘Desert Song’ really captures the feeling of excitement and anxiety for a new beginning! Favorite cover to perform, ‘Won’t back Down’ Tom Petty is the man (in my opinion)
What is something you have learned along the way as a working musician that has helped you succeed?
Being persistent and adopting change into your craft. Trying to stay open minded!
If you could see any artist perform, living or dead, who would it be?
Elvis Presley, unfortunately Elvis passed away before I was born but has a huge influence on my stage performance and swagger, lol
Favorite piece of gear?
My Emerald 12-String guitar! Love the looks, sound and playability. Highly recommend!
What attribute do you look for in musicians you collaborate with?
Approachability, willingness to learn/teach and someone fun to hang out with.
What are your passions outside of music?
My Family, staying active, being a general good Role Model for the next generation of musicians
How has StompLight impacted your creative experience?
StompLight comes with me to every gig! I try to have quality over quantity, less is more! I’ve used my StompLight for other applications outside of music! Decorating for the holidays, home repair lighting, you name it!
If you would like to be featured as a StompLight Artist of the Month and a StompLight StAy LiT! Flask recipient, send us an email with a picture of you holding your StompLight, a description what you are doing musically and a link to your musical universe. info@stomplight.com
Words of Wisdom For Working Musicians - Part 2
Many a musician dreams of making a career playing live music. In the next several editions of the Stage Presence newsletter StompLight President and working musician/talent buyer Michael John Ahern offers some wisdom learned from his 47 years of writing, band leading, promoting, buying talent and performing around the world. If you would like some support or have specific questions Michael provides complimentary musical career counseling to our valued StompLight customers. hello@mjamusic.com
See previous Part 1 Words of Wisdom HERE
Stay True To Your Art
While it's important to adapt to the market, never lose sight of your unique voice and creative vision. Authenticity resonates with audiences.
Embrace Failure
Not every gig or musical project will go as planned, but each experience teaches something valuable. Set aside the emotion and look at the essence of your experience as an experiment. Note what you could have done differently. Know that you are not alone in these experiences. There is a active Facebook Group called Cover Band Central that offers daily postings from gigging musicians, many often lamenting about their experiences and offering suggestions and support.
Take Care of Yourself
Gigging involves late hours, travel, physical exertion and plenty of focus and energy. Prioritize mental and physical health to ensure longevity. Rest, eat well and make time to step away from the hustle. I am a big fan of Nuun Sports electrolyte tablets for gig days.
The 2025 NAMM Show expands to five days of events with three days of exhibits. January 21 - 25 at the Anaheim Convention Center in California. Read more - What to Expect
