Bio

Artist Statement "Redefining Children's Music" About 4 years ago I started a musical project, one that would redefine our idea of what children's music is and what it can be. At the present time traditional children's music ends at about the age of five. The genre seems to limit itself with no desire to explore beyond that scope. This raises an important question, "When is a child no longer a child?" After the age of five, children are catupulted into a teen market before they even have a chance to mature into it. Where is the middle ground? Yes, there are groups who are laying claim to this lost age group the "tweens", but the music provided still tends to cater to the traditional ideologies that make up children's music rather than creating new ones. Now I have never been or will ever be into censorship or anything that violates our unalienable right of "freedom of expression." as I adhere to the teachings of Frank Zappa, however, I do feel an alternative could be afforded to parents and children that can help bridge the gap between the two genres and be a vital part of the music industry. ================================================= Change is inevitable in the children's market as X-genners are entering the realm of parenthood. These young X-parents will be looking for something new, something that sets itself apart from the norm. What I have developed is a musical program that is adult in sound, but with lyrics for the older child. What do adults look for in a song? And if they can relate to a particular song, how much more does that song mean to them? Children are no different, by applying the method of which popular music is constructed and keeping the content within the context of childhood, I believe we can create a unique market one of tremendous potential. It is my contention that children love to think, to be stimulated mentally and emotionally, have many wonderful ideas, and have a derived need for these ideas to be heard. Through the use of stories and songs we stimulate thoughts and feelings, pose questions, and in turn receive answers that, in their innocence, are incredibly significant. ================================================= Enter the "Monster Rockers" 5 animated characters who will be the vehicle to deliver the music. Why cartoons? If you want to keep consistent with the appearance of the band, cartoons were the only logical choice. Kids grow up, adults grow old, the laws of nature prevent people from doing certain things for an extended period of time. (unless you're a Rolling Stone) With the Monsters, the band can be everchanging. If someone gets tired of being a cartoon, or finds a better gig, that's cool, we can replace them because the cartoon need not ever change, anyone can be behind them. ================================================= On the CD; "Monster's Theme" introduces the five characters in the band. The story and song "Boys and Girls" stresses that girls are on an equal level with boys. "There's No I In TEAM" introduces the concept of working together towards a common goal ao that all may share in the outcome. Making the right choice based on good judgment is the message of "Peer Pressure". Kaleidoscope" handles the issue of racism from a child's perspective, as it was a 10 year old girl who wrote this song and makes it the most powerful piece on the compilation. Are any of these issues relevant in our society? Each song works in conjuction with a story, there is also a literacy componant to the project. Oh Yeah, Kids love the "Monster Theme Remix" ================================================= On a more personal note, we need some help. I am only a construction worker and my truck has 165,000 miles on it for God's Sake! ================================================= Bio Michael Durkay, construction worker. I was a one time Art Student with dreams of becomming a comic book artist, I played music and thought of maybe persuing a musical career. But, as fate would have it, I became a father and all dreams were put on hold, no regrets though. Parenthood is awesome and I suggest everyone should try it. It changes your perspective on life, I still have the same dreams only different. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Career Highlights/Vital Stats I worked on the Browns Football Stadium, I guess that's a career highlight for a construction worker. I am also a very busy single father of 3 beautiful kids, they are my real highlights. Musical Highlights; just playing in the schools and getting the kids involved in the performances was a blast. And after the shows, when the kids would keep talking to us while we were breaking down, they would share their life experiences with us. It made us feel like we really connected and this is all worth while. All the Music and stories are available on our website, we give it away for free (in audio format), just because we want to. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Influences/Similar To I have a very eclectic taste in music, I like it all. You couldn't really compare us to any one artist/s. But as a major influence on myself, I would have to say "Frank Zappa". But truly, and this is not a cop out, I do listen to everything. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Contact Information Michael Durkay 16186 Hummel Road Cleveland, OH 44142 United States