Shy Blakeman is an old soul who portrays his own bold, free spirited brand of music on Long Distance Man, his acclaimed third studio album. Blakeman successfully melds together all the rural sounds from below the Mason-Dixon line in order to create an unexpected style that is so unique, that it's hard to define it by one genre. But don't be mistaken, it all feels within the realm of what music is and used to be. This ambitious sound developed organically from a musical heritage in Wyoming, California and East Texas, added to years spent in Nashville, New York and LA collaborating with an eclectic group of some of music's biggest stars and modern legend musicians.

The determination to communicate his music jolted forward after a botched robbery attempt outside a Dallas music venue almost took his life. Blakeman narrowly escaped after a gunshot wound to the face. “After the incident I told myself: You only have one life. I’m following my dream. Music is not a choice, it’s a calling. When you hear it, there’s nothing you can do. You’re compelled to pursue it like you’re compelled to breathe.” And by releasing his definitive album Long Distance Man, he has done just that.

“What makes music great is that it’s organic, it’s real, it just is what it is.”

Twitter: @ShyBlakeman

Drawing on a strong sense of dignity from his Latin American roots in San German, Puerto Rico, Gabriel Carrero experiences life through a multi-cultural lens that inspires him to live each day with passion and a social consciousness that encourages him to show an authentic respect for those that surround him.

At the age of 5, Gabriel’s intrinsic curiosity for the musical arts was heightened after hearing the romantic sounds that emanated from the classical guitar. Carrero’s father, who noticed his son’s enthusiasm for the instrument, soon enrolled him in the lessons that would resonate internally to adulthood and help ground him in his own artistic heritage.

As Gabe’s talent and taste for music matured he began to explore the aggressive nature of the electric guitar, plunging himself into Boston’s seedy rock underground. A life time away from the hypnotic melodies and strictness of his classical training, the dim, smoke filled backrooms where Carrero frequently performed, gave birth to the legendary band Aerosmith and introduced Carrero to a powerful form of introspective expression. A form that he continues to perfect to this day. With an enduring love for his culture and a solid understanding of his own identity, Gabriel Carrero strives to help the world discover the beauty with in itself through genuine personal connection and as an Aveda hair stylist.

Twitter: @PuertoRockin

Eternally optimistic, Louis Wright was born and raised in the inner city 4th ward of New Orleans, LA. The eldest son of two determined school teachers, Wright was taught the importance of a solid education at an early age. A lesson he took to heart. His passion for knowledge has led him on a life-long journey of discovery that continues today.

At the age of 10, Louis picked up his first musical instrument, the trumpet. He quickly expanded to the euphonium, trombone, tuba and later bass guitar. His philosophy of self-improvement helped him break down many socio-economic barriers and live as an example to many in his peer group. Louis Wright was one of the few Black students to grace the halls of the prestigious Holy Cross High School and went onto to receive a full scholarship as a brass major at Louisiana State University where he studied classical music. LSU was also where "The Reverend" was introduced to his first love, Jazz.

Inspired by Miles Davis, Wright immersed himself in the energetic and youthful world of improvisation. Receiving guidance from greats like John Patitucci and losing himself in the vibrant jazz scene on and around the world famous Bourbon Street. Louis has avidly searched to push the boundaries of music and his own abilities. Even today, Wright constantly seeks the next opportunity to challenge his and others’ perceived limitations. It’s this unrelenting vision that has earned him an impeccable professional reputation as a bassist, and several degrees in English, History and Communications.

Twitter: @ReverendLDub

Faithful to his beliefs and his craft, Dallas, TX own Brandon Price seeks to help people of every color & creed escape the apprehensions of life through music. A product of talent mixed with instruction and a dash of idealism, Price embraces a new paradigm by demonstrating that music transcends all cliche conventions and stereotypes.

Scholastic to his core, Brandon’s odyssey began at the age of 4. Attracted to the heavy beats and rhythms laid down by the young musicians in his neighborhood, Brandon quickly surmised that his life’s pursuit was perfecting the art of percussion. First influenced by such R&B artists as Erykah Badu, the eager young learner was soon charmed by the notes that reverberated deep within, hinting of something more and amplifying his determination to master the fundamentals of an often creatively under estimated instrument. Through out his continued studies, Brandon transformed himself into a student well versed in the styles of jazz, country, gospel, R&B, rock, pop, latin and garnered numerous awards for his performances as a soloist. Ultimately culminating in his acceptance to the music programs at the University of North Texas and The Berklee School of Music.

Brandon Price’s wisdom and devotion to his art and how he applies it to life, shines through his often humble demeanor. Illuminating the hearts of those that witness his dynamic pursuance of the doctrines that music itself teaches us all. The doctrines of generosity and acceptance. The doctrines Price himself demonstrates through his continued education, involvement in a multitude of diverse musical projects and the values he shares through the proficiency of his instrument.

Twitter: @BPriceMusic