Atlanta Soul Singer Heston releases new CD “Storyteller” April 22, 2008

Atlanta singer/songwriter Heston
arrives in New York City this year showcasing new material, from his latest CD “Storyteller” to be released in July.

Sista Factory is so proud of this amazing singer/songwriter who is a musical sensation. We were one of the first presenters to debut him in NYC at joe’s pub and have been following his career ever since. Not only is he the sweetest spirit you could meet but a rising star who presents a well composed body of work. Giving you a taste of OLD SOUL with his natural smoothness and beautiful lyrics.

His career in music began in Atlanta, GA, launched by a self-titled EP, he has defined his journey as a full-time musician, composer, songwriter and producer. “Creating timeless music has always been my ultimate goal,” says Heston with a poised yet humble demeanor. “I want to leave the world with music that can be played for a lifetime.” Please check out Heston!
Shout out to Richard Dunn and Fiona Bloom for a job well done!

www.myspace.com/hestonmusic or
http://www.thevirtualcd.com/heston for a sneak peak from “Storyteller”

Portuguese “Fado Singer” Mariza at Proctors April 1, 2008

Friday, October 5th, 2007, Mariza graced Proctors with her first stop on her American Tour!

Great having Mariza perform in the Capital Region. The international reigning diva of Fado music takes traditional Portuguese song and makes it her own. Prepare to cry until you cheer. My first introduction to Mariza was during my career with joe’s pub at The Public Theater under the Director of Programming, Bill Bragin. She was one of the artists for the weekend music celebration of “globalFEST” . I was so moved. If you have not heard this voice, check her out, she’ll give you goose bumps!

“Girl, You Can Sang!” April 1, 2008

Martha Redbone & Sandra St. Victor

Welcome To My Blog March 15, 2008

It’s All About The LOVE of Music & Supporting friends in this Factory.

Greetings,

Thank you, for staying in touch and sharing the latest infomation on the NYC music scene. Life is great here in upstate NY. I miss my family and friends in the city, As many of you know, I am enjoying the change living and working in the Albany area. Enjoying my new position, in the performing arts, as Marketing Manager at the Performing Arts Venue, Proctors, which is presenting great body of programming not only on the Mainstage but on all three performing stages.  Proctors is a historic, beautifully restored theatre located in the heart of downtown Schenectady.

I grew up as a child coming to Proctors to see classic films. I remember how much I cherish the theater then. Now I have the chance to be part of an amazing programming team “building bridges to the Arts, Culture and Community.”

This summer, I will be working with the Director of Programming on the Music Haven Concert Series in Schenectady, NY. The line-up as in the past, promises to be a great mix of genres from some amazing performers. Very exciting transition in my career. I am meeting lots of wonderful music lovers.

Most importantly, Richard and I are enjoying raising our daughter Samina. Motherhood is so much joy! She is such a blessing. Looking forward to having friends come to visit. We will also be hanging out in NYC for many of the summer concerts series and events. Spring is in the air, we look forward to a wonderful summer.

Hearing lots of great updates on our independent singer/songwriters who are working hard on new projects and gigs. Please continue to spread the love on these amazing artists!

Stephaine McKay, Kiki, Kelli Sae, Maya Azucena, Karen Bernod, Sandra St. Victor, Martha Redbone, Angela Johnson, Jenny Douglas, Monet, Sun Singleton, Marlon Saunders, Russell Taylor to name a few. These are some of the finest singer/songwriters in the music industry who I have been blessed to work with at joe’s pub at The Public Theater, SOB’s, BAM and a host of other venues.

Sista Factory will always support this great music. Shout out to the Sista Factory team, Toni Cheeseman of ASCAP who is holding it down and Anita Bryant of A-Marketing, who just returned from her first trip to the Winter Music Conference. She shares:

“….all I can say is “I will be back next year.” It was truly amazing to see and hear all this music/talent/DJs/artists from around the world. NYC really represented down in Miami with Manchildblack, DJ Spinna, Rich Medina, Ian Friday, DJ Marc Smooth, DJ Cosi and the list goes on. They had the best parties/events during that week. f you know me I was also checking out the DJs from overseas – I love my Drum n Bass and Electronica.

I recommend this festival to anyone in music – great networking. You don’t need a big budget to mix and mingle - just plan ahead. During all that partying and networking my downtime was the beach. Miami is a great city and I had the best time. Winter Music Festival 2009 – BE THERE!!

Shout outs: to Tom Paul in Brooklyn, for his dedication and for keeping us informed about the NYC independent artists music scene. Brother, quit your day job, you need to get paid for you bring to us ALL! Please check him out at http://tompaulindiemusic.blogspot.com.

Joe’s Pub at The Public Theater for a their amazing mix of programming, Go Shanta! keep my 7 & 7 chilled, Mother will be back! Love ya’ll…..

Last, but most importantly, please keep your thoughts and prayers on singing sister, Mary Wormworth.

She is loved by so many artists.

During my career at joe’s pub at The Public Theater (2001-2006) as General Management Associate and Music Curator of Sista Factory showcases, I was always excited to see so many great artists/friends performing on stage. As you can imagine, I have met a great roster of singer/songwriters over the years.

Singer, Mary Wormworth came through many times working with some of our favorite singer/songwriters as a supporting vocalist . (I love that term better than back-up singer) She has an amazing background in the music business working with some of the best jazz and R&B artists all over the world. Her smile, spirit and kind words always generates such warmth in a room.  I thank her for all her love and support with my work. Her talent is something that reaches deep and stirs your soul. Hang in there sis and get well.

Here’s to the music, joy of friendship and passion for the independent singer/songwriter.

Upcoming Proctors Event! Corey Glover brings his talent to the role of “Judas” in

Jesus Christ Superstar at Proctors, April 8-10. Yea!

Love and Light,

Sara Hill / Sista Factory