Lucia Molina
Editor-in-Chief
As if last year’s audition for American Idol wasn’t surreal enough, senior Stewart Taylor has encountered yet another opportunity of a lifetime that could potentially launch his music career. In recent months, Stewart has come into contact with multi-platinum songwriter and producer Heather Holley. Ms. Holley is widely recognized for her role in launching Christina Aguilera’s career, having aided in the production of the songs leading to her RCA signing. Many of Ms. Holley’s recordings have been licensed to hit TV series such as Grey’s Anatomy, One Tree Hill, and 90210. Not only does she hold a strong establishment and position in the music industry, but she has also performed as an artist in her early years. Ms. Holley is interested in meeting new and talented artists, so it’s no surprise that Stewart caught her attention after he contacted her.
In february, Stewart decided to contact this producer after hearing great things about her from one of his friends. “She helped my friend make a good demo so I was really interested in contacting her. I got her e-mail and I sent her link to songs and videos,” he said. “I got a good response and she asked me to meet her at her studios.”
Stewart describes this experience as surreal and beyond words—he couldn’t believe it. Comparing it to last year’s auditions on American Idol, the feedback was much more positive and encouraging. “After I didn’t get a very good response from Simon Cowel, it was really validating for someone like Heather to praise my voice and my songwriting. Unlike execs at Idol, she actually sees a great deal of potential in me. Sometimes all it takes is one person’s belief in your potential.”
Ms. Holley will be giving Stewart the opportunity to produce a demo with her team, but it’s going to cost a good sum. Only encouraging him to work harder, the money won’t stand between Stewart and his goals which is why he has launched his first Kickstarter project.
“Kickstarter is a platform for struggling artists who need help funding their projects, be them demos, music videos, etc. On the site, people pledge to donate and get prizes for donating. You have to reach your goal before the deadline or else you don’t get any of the donations,” Stewart said. “It’s tough but I always try to keep a positive attitude.”
Prizes for donating include personalized videos, dedicated songs, t-shirts, and a personal invitation to the studio in which the songs will be produced. These will only be awarded when the goal is met on or before the deadline.
Stewart’s deadline to reach his goal of $12,000 is Saturday July 16. Once he reaches his goal, he will be able to work with Heather Holley and make an EP of 3 songs to kick start his career as an artist. Reach out to Stewart and watch his video on his Kickstarter .
