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| GUDGUD |
Today, I was thinking back to when I began to write posts
for Weekly Music Commentary. It was an exciting time because fresh, new ideas
were flowing from my mind onto something tangible: an internet web site. Since
that thrilling start I have found and shared information about established superstar musical
artists, and have introduced many just beginning their careers. However,
there is a certain feeling that rises within me whenever I hear music from an artist that I believe may
later rise to great pinnacles. It is hard to explain, but I hear a voice inside that tells me I have seen and heard something like this before: similar to musical acts with humble beginnings that went on to reach a worldwide fan base and stardom. I’m not always correct, nor am I
consistently wrong. My correct prognostications fall somewhere comfortably a
shade better than 50%. A few months ago I heard that voice once again, and then
decided on a future post. This week I decided to feature the young female
singing group GUDGUD.
GUDGUD was originally launched as a six-month experiment by
Jacksonville-based music entrepreneurs Michael Butler and Richard Johnson, who
were looking to put together a teen group that could make music that was
nostalgic, fresh and edgy and delivered a positive message. The first
incarnation of the group garnered a healthy local buzz, but members did not
click. Regardless the method used in constructing a group, the lack of
chemistry can create problems that are impossible to overcome. When speaking of
chemistry in a musical group, the evidence of its existence will appear in the way the group performs
together. A few questions will help identify if the group possesses chemistry or not. Is each member of the group equally committed to the hard work of performing and recording music? Can they sing in harmony easily? In performance does each member
understand the overall goal of singing in a way to achieve the desired sound? Are
all members able to keep up with dance routines? Do they look good together in
photos and videos? Last but most important; do they like each other? Artists may be extremely talented by themselves, but in a particular group they
might not fit. GUDGUD has changed members several times like many groups before
them, seeking the necessary “chemistry” that all successful groups must
possess. They now appear poised to break onto the musical scene in a large way.
Much of the foundation has been laid for GUDGUD as they have
made waves in the progressive R&B music world since formation. They have
made the most of higher profile opportunities performing for packed houses at
venues throughout the state of Florida and the southeast US alongside a wide range of artists
including Fantasia, Chrisette Michele, Mali Music, Mindless Behavior, OMG Girlz
and Jacob Latimore. GUDGUD’s original songs have also been heard on mainstream
radio, as they continue to successfully build a strong regional following.
One thing I noticed about GUDGUD that really stood out, is their
poise in live performances. Remember, the group members are all in their teens.
Whereas adults readily commit to a particular job or way of life, a teenager
may not be ready to make such strong decisions. It means that it is difficult to
predict if the teenager will give the desired performance consistently. GUDGUD
is consistently very good. As I watched videos of recent performances, the
group incorporated back-up dancers and live musicians to help them showcase
their immense talent. GUDGUD seems to be able to "shift gears" – or step up
when an audience is present. This factor bodes well for the group in the future.
If they are able to present good live performances, many more will be drawn to
their albums of music.
The young women also are very intelligent and impressive
when interviewed. They are able to articulate well exactly what they would like
to accomplish within the music industry. GUDGUD has appeared on News 4 Jax and
twice on Jacksonville’s First Coast News and each time they are as inspiring
off stage as on. Members also share GUDGUD’s underlying message of positivity
with their peers by speaking to young people in schools and by supporting music
and arts education through the I Love Music Foundation. It is wonderful for the
young women to communicate the importance of music education. They are walking,
talking and performing testament as to the effect music and arts education can
have on our children today and in the future.
GUDGUD has previously released two EPs and is in the process
of recording a third. The EP titled 3.0 is the one I have been listening to for
a while now. It is produced well and is a great launching pad for GUDGUD’s
ascension to national and international acclaim. I encourage you to download
the EP as it is available on gudgudmusic.com/music. GUDGUD group members Jatarra,
Gracious and Auna are in the studio working with producer Rey Reel (Beyoncé,
Will.i.am, Britney Spears, Drake, and Mariah Carey). GUDGUD’s new EP will come
out Summer 2015, with a late Summer/early Fall supporting tour to follow.
Chelsea Entertainment Group recording artists GUDGUD has
accomplished much in a short period of time. However, I feel that this is just
the beginning.
GUDGUD is a proud supporter of music and arts education. All of the members are products of public school arts education. They do not know what they would do without music and the arts in our schools. Join GUDGUD and support the I Love Music Foundation. Click here for more info.