Suzzana Owiyo

Name: Suzanna Owiyo
Born: Unknown (Kasaye village, Nyakach, Kenya)

Profile: She is a Kenyan musician. A singer-songwriter, and Owiyo has been called as "the Tracy Chapman of Africa".

History: Owiyo was introduced to music at a tender age by her grandfather who was a prolific Nyatiti player.

In high school, she helped her school to win many trophies during the provincial and national music festivals. In 1998, after high school, Owiyo joined a Nairobi based singer Sally Oyugi as a backup vocalist, and 2 years later she parted ways with Sally to team up with a local band in Nairobi; "Bora Bora sound" and later on went back to sing in Kisumu. It was here that a young business entrepreneur with a keen ear for music spotted her talent and offered her, her first guitar. She then went back to Nairobi and undertook music lessons at the Kenya Conservatoire of Music.

It was while preparations were being made for the centennial celebrations of the city of Kisumu, that Owiyo was requested to compose a theme song for the opening ceremony. In front of a capacity crowd of 60,000 people 'Kisumu 100' was born and immediate success followed; a prolonged applause and a standing ovation.

Owiyo then decided to work on an album with Kenyan music producer Tedd Josiah. The album, which received great success on the radio, won her a nomination in the Kora Awards 2002 in the 'Most Promising Female Artist category'. The same album won her a Kisima Awards for the Most Promising Female Artist of 2003. Her new single 'Sandore' and the video clip with a powerful message on child labour was also a success.

In 2003, Owiyo represented her country at the Kenyan Festival in Paris, and in August the same year she represented East Africa at the Pan-African music Festival in Brazzaville where she sang alongside Youssou N’dour, Koffi Olomide and Rebecca Malope among other African greats.

In 2004, she performed at the Festival Mundial in Tilburg, Holland, and Owiyo beat a host of African artistes to clinch the single berth reserved for a female African artiste to perform at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert, where she performed with her band, and also performed the song 'Imagine' with artistes such as Cyndi Lauper, Andrea Bocelli, Chris Botti, Patti Labelle and Baba Maal.

In 2007, Owiyo was part of the Divas of The Nile supergroup, that featured four Kenyan female musicians. The others were Mercy Myra, Achieng Abura and Princess Jully. The group performed at the Festival Mundial. In 2008, she performed at the Nelson Mandela's 90th birthday concert in London and performed again at the WOMEX festival. She is among the Kenyan artistes who have been sponsored by the Alliance Française in Nairobi.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Acoustic guitar and other traditional African instruments

Signature song(s): Sandore - Suzzana Owiyo (2002)

Link(s):

http://www.suzannaowiyo.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvwUXbp7S5g

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIpvI8D_dco

Michael Franks

Name: Michael Franks
Born: 18th September, 1944 (La Jolla, California, USA)

Profile: He is an American smooth jazz singer and songwriter. Franks has recorded with a Who's Who of artists, such as Patti Austin, Brenda Russell, Art Garfunkel, and David Sanborn. His songs have been recorded by "The Manhattan Transfer", Patti Labelle, Carmen McRae, Diana Krall, Shirley Bassey and "The Carpenters".

History: Although no one in Franks family played music, his parents loved swing music and his early influences included Nat King Cole and Johnny Mercer. At age 14, he bought his first guitar (a Japanese Marco Polo for $29.95 with six private lessons included - the only music education that he received).

At University High in Irvine, Franks discovered the poetry of Theodore Roethke with his off-rhymes and hidden meter. In high school, he began singing folk-rock, accompanying himself on guitar. Studying English at UCLA he discovered Dave Brubeck, Patti Page, Stan Getz, João Gilberto, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Miles Davis, and he never studied music in college.

During this time he started writing songs, starting with the anti-war musical Anthems in E-flat starring Mark Hamill. He also composed music for the films 'Count Your Bullets', 'Cockfighter', and 'Zandy's Bride'. Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee recorded 3 of Franks' songs, including 'White Boy Lost in the Blues', on their album 'Sonny & Brownie'. Michael played guitar, banjo and mandolin on the album and joined them in touring.

In 1973, Franks recorded an eponymous album (later reissued as 'Previously Unavailable'), which included the minor hit 'Can't Seem to Shake this Rock 'n Roll'. In 1976, he released his second album 'The Art of Tea', beginning a long relationship with WB Music, the album featured Joe Sample, Larry Carlton and Wilton Felder (The Crusaders) and included the hit song 'Popsicle Toes'.

Franks' third album, 'Sleeping Gypsy', which includes the song 'The Lady Wants to Know', was partially recorded in Brazil. Around this time, percussionist Ray Armando first gave Franks what would become a signature instrument - a cabasa - to play on stage for songs he didn't play guitar on. His 1978 album, 'Burchfield Nines', which includes the song 'When the Cookie Jar is Empty', reflects Franks move to New York City and features more of an East Coast sound. Since then, he has recorded more than 15 albums.

His best known works include 'When I Give My Love To You', 'Popsicle Toes', 'Monkey See', 'Monkey Do', 'Tiger in the Rain', 'Rainy Night in Tokyo', and 'Tell Me All About It'. His biggest hit came in 1983 with 'When Sly Calls (Don't Touch That Phone)', from the album 'Passionfruit'. Radio hits include 'Your Secret's Safe With Me' from the 1985 album 'Skin Dive', and 'Island Life' from 1987's 'The Camera Never Lies'.

Influences: Peggy Lee, Nat King Cole, Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin and Johnny Mercer

Axology: Unknown

Signature song(s): Can't Seem to Shake this Rock 'n Roll - Michael Franks (Previously Unavailable, 1973)

Link(s):

http://www.michaelfranks.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPWA9N10tRQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDb6X7-Y6RY

Anastasia Bardina

Name: Anastasia Bardina
Born: Unknown

Profile: She is a Russian classical guitarist and graduated from the Russian Academy of Music. Bardina is the only virtuoso guitarist in Russia who plays both the 7-string Russian guitar and the 6-string Classical guitar. She also plays the 12-string GRAN Guitar (Guitar Russian Acoustically New) which is similar to a Classical guitar but has six light steel strings and six nylon strings with the steel strings lower in relation to the soundboard.

History: Her interest in music started when she was still young, and Bardina joined the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music (class of Professor A. Frauchi), just to pursue her dreams to be a classical musician.

After her graduation, Bardina is actively participating in numerous Russian and International Festivals. She always has enormous success with her solo concerts in countries such as Hungary, Poland, Austria, Cuba, Czech Republic, China, Mongolia, Latvia, Estonia, Belorussia and Ukraine.

Although she is not well-known in the West, Anastasia Bardina is one of the best classical guitar players in the world. In every of her concerts, she can be seen using his trademark 7-string classical guitar, though this instrument has been forgotten during several of decades. However, during the last several years, Russian and foreign musicians got highly interested with this instrument and therefore Bardina's concerts became especially valuable.

Bardina also perfectly plays six-string guitars and in her concerts she combines the masterpieces of world guitar art and the unique repertoire of Russian classics, which she tenderly saved and now shares with the audience. Today, Bardina is the constant member of jury on International and Russian competitions.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: 7-strings Russian guitar and the 12-strings GRAN guitar

Signature song(s): The Moth - Anastasia Bardina (GRAN-d Surprise, 1996)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wdlYEoIMMp8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N80lAebLVrA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwppSHGZuXY&feature=related

"Harmony is the best word to describe the creative look of Anastasia Bardina" - World of Guitar Magazine.

Don Alder (Spinal Chord)

Name: Don Alder
Born: 1956 (Williams Lake, British Columbia, Canada)

Profile: He is a Canadian acoustic fingerstyle guitarist with a passion that has quickly earned him a reputation as Vancouver's 'best kept little secret'. Alder is a world-class fingerstyle guitarist that has let to multiple endorsement deals with major manufacturers and a collaboration with Greenfield guitars to produce a signature acoustic guitar- the "Don Alder G4" model.

History: At the age of 14, young Alder was ill for few months which kept him out of school. His mother gave him his first guitar to help him stayed at home and rest, he learned the intro of 'Satisfaction' and then put the guitar to rest.

At some point, when Alder saw the movie 'Woodstock' he was totally blown away by Alvin Lee and the very cool instrumental piece played by Jimi Hendrix at the end of the movie. He then began playing electric guitar (a Simpson Sears electric deluxe) for some time until he met a guy that knew how to fingerpick, and taught him the basics. His first gig was at school with a loud band called "Arsus Myth".

In 1985, Alder put his music career on hold to assist his lifelong friend, Rick Hansen, with his quest to create awareness for the potential of people with disabilities and to generate funds for spinal cord research. The World Tour, inspired millions of people throughout the 34 countries visited and raised 26 million dollars. Today, Alder still works with Rick in a vital role at the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation, and says he got involved with the Foundation to 'help make a difference' in improving the quality of life of others and now continues to do so with his music.

In the early 90's, Alder was mostly playing guitar as a hobby and was heavily involved in Wheelchair Sports. The World Tour developed Alder's wheelchair tech skills which he continued to hone post Tour. This evolved to the point where he was chosen to represent Canada as the Equipment Manager/Wheelchair Tech for the Canadian Paralympic Team in Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney Australia, 2000. During that time he met Sam Sullivan and Dave Symington, both quadriplegics from accidents. Sam and Dave both musicians, founded the Vancouver Adapted Music Society. Alder became the guitarist for the society's, performance band "Spinal Chord". They released a CD title 'Why Be Normal' which received national airplay, and released the video 'Mary'.

Alder has won various awards in first place such as; International Fingerstyle Championships Winfield, Kansas (2007), Vancouver Folk Slam (2004), Vancouver Guitar Show "Shred Contest" (2004) and Best 30-second Guitar Solo Contest - Acidplanet.com (2005) and many more.

Today, Alder continues to play to Canadian, American, European, and Asian audiences, sharing stages with Grand Master Acousticians such as Peter Finger, Jacques Stotzem, Bob Evans, Andy Mckee, and Masa Sumide, John Parr, Ellen McElwaine, Cassius Khan. He has also performed at festivals as a headliner which included artists such as Don Ross, Pierre Bensusan, Del Vazeau, Ric Emmet, Dave Martone.

Influences: Jimi Hendrix, Alvin Lee, Brian May (Queen), Wishbone Ash, Bruce Cockburn, Frank Zappa, Uriah Heep and "Black Sabbath"

Axology: Greenfield Don Alder - G4 signature model, Custom Warmoth Strat, Music Man Albert Lee model, Godin guitar, Fender Stratocaster 1979 and Yamaha guitars

Signature song(s): A Little Charm - Don Alder (Don Alder - Cool Compilation)

Link(s):

http://www.donalder.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vocEYP0NsI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJi-W2p1iEQ

"Alder can make a single instrument sound like a 4 piece band. The Guy's like the acoustic Hendrix" - Picque News Magazine

Patti Smith (Blue Öyster Cult)

Name: Patricia Lee Smith
Born: 30th December, 1946 (Chicago, Illinois, USA)

Profile: She is an American singer-songwriter, poet and visual artist, who became a highly influential component of the New York City punk rock movement with her 1975 début album 'Horses', and was called the 'Godmother of Punk', she integrated the beat poetry performance style with three-chord rock. Smith's most widely known song is 'Because the Night', which was co-written with Bruce Springsteen and reached #13 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1978.

History: As a young girl, she got interested in music in an early stage, and in 1969 she went to Paris with her sister and started busking and doing performance art. When she returned to New York in the early 70's, she spent most of her time painting, writing, and performing.

Smith was briefly considered for the lead singer position in "Blue Öyster Cult". She contributed lyrics to several of the band's songs, including 'Debbie Denise', 'Fire of Unknown Origin' and 'Shooting Shark'. During these years, Smith also wrote rock journalism, some of which was published in Rolling Stone magazine and Creem magazine.

By 1974, Smith was performing rock music herself, initially with guitarist and rock archivist Lenny Kaye, and later with a full band comprising Kaye, Ivan Kral (bass), Jay Dee Daugherty (drums) and Richard Sohl (piano), and named the band as "Patti Smith Group" or "PSG". Financed by Sam Wagstaff, the band recorded a first single, 'Hey Joe/Piss Factory' in 1974.

In 1975, "PSG" was signed by Arista Records, and released their first album 'Horses'. The album fused punk rock and spoken poetry and begins with a cover of Van Morrison's 'Gloria'. As the popularity of punk rock grew, "PSG" toured the US and Europe. The rawer sound of the group's second album, 'Radio Ethiopia', reflected this, and several of its songs from the second album have stood the test of time, and Smith still performs them regularly in concert.

Through most of the 80's, Smith was in semi-retirement from music, but in 1988, she released the album 'Dream of Life', which included the song 'People Have the Power'. In 1994, Smith faced the unexpected death of her brother Todd and "PSG" original keyboard player Richard Sohl. After the impact of these deaths, her friend Michael Stipe (REM) urged her to go back out on the road, and she toured briefly with Bob Dylan in 1995.

In 1996, Smith worked with her long-time colleagues to record 'Gone Again', featuring 'About a Boy', a tribute to Kurt Cobain (Nirvana). Smith was a fan of Cobain, but was more angered than saddened by his death. That same year she collaborated with "Stipe" on 'E-Bow the Letter', and a song on "REM"s 'New Adventures in Hi-Fi', which she has also performed live with the band. After release of 'Gone Again', Smith had recorded two new albums: 'Peace and Noise' in 1997 and Gung Ho in 2000.

In 2005, Smith was named a 'Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres' by the French Ministry of Culture. In addition to her influence on rock music, the Minister also noted Smith's appreciation of Arthur Rimbaud. In 2007, she was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. She dedicated her award to the memory of her late husband, Fred, and gave a performance of "The Rolling Stones" staple 'Gimme Shelter'. As the closing number of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, Smith's 'People Have the Power' was used for the big celebrity jam that always ends the program.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender guitars

Signature song(s): Gloria - Patti Smith (Horses, 1975)

Link(s):

http://www.pattismith.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3coSfks4rQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cppyn-u3Djw&feature=related

José Feliciano

Name: José Montserrate Feliciano García
Born: 10th September, 1945 (Lares, Puerto Rico)

Profile: He is a blind Puerto Rican singer, virtuoso guitarist and composer, known for many international hits including the 1970 holiday single "Feliz Navidad".

History: Feliciano was born blind because of congenital glaucoma. He was first exposed to music at age 3. When he was 9, he played on the Teatro Puerto Rico. He started his musical life playing accordion until his grandfather gave him a guitar. He reportedly sat by himself in his room for up to 14 hours a day to listen to 50's rock albums, classical guitarists such as Andrés Segovia, and jazz players such as Wes Montgomery. He later had classical lessons with Harold Morris who earlier had been a student with Segovia.

At 17, he quit school to play in clubs, having his first professional, contracted performance in Detroit. In 1963, after some live performances in pubs and clubs around the USA, where he played at the same time as Bob Dylan, he was signed at RCA Victor.

In 1964, he released his first single 'Everybody Do the Click'. Later, in 1965 and 1966, he also released his first albums 'The Voice and Guitar of Jose Feliciano' and 'A Bag Full of Soul', two folk-pop-soul albums that showcased his talent on radio across the USA, where he was described as a '10 finger wizard'. He also was invited to the Newport Jazz festival in 1964.

After two more successful albums, Feliciano, now a household name all over Latin America, moved to LA. He got together with Rick Jarrard and they recorded "The Doors" song 'Light My Fire' in a Latin style and when released as a single, it reached #3 on the US pop charts in 1968. It sold over a million copies, and was awarded a gold disc. He immediately became a sensation all across North America, selling millions of albums and followed up his success with another top 20 hit in the US with his version of 'Hi-Heel Sneakers', again recorded with a Latin feel. On the strength of this success he won 2 Grammy Awards for Best New Artist Of The Year and for Best Pop Song Of The Year in 1969.

In 1970, he wrote and released an album of Christmas music, 'Felíz Navidad', which may be deemed to be his most famous recording. The title song has been covered by many artists and is now a traditional part of the musical landscape in the US, Canada and Latin America around Christmas time. Each year during the Christmas season, 'Feliz Navidad' returns to US airwaves, one of the most-played and most-downloaded radio songs and downloaded songs of the season. 'Feliz Navidad' is also recognized by ASCAP as one of the 25 all-time most-played Christmas songs in the world.

Feliciano holds the distinction of being one of the few singers to have enjoyed success both in Spanish language music and in English language rock & roll. He won 5 consecutive awards for best pop guitarist from Guitar Player magazine and was voted in jazz, classic and rock fields. He received a star in the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1987, and continued as a very popular singer during the 80's. He also has a star in the Walk of Fame of his native Puerto Rico.

In 1987, he also had a great hit in Austria with the song 'The Sound of Vienna', at #1 for four weeks and recorded with the famous Vienna Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra also performed with him live on national television at Danube Park in Vienna before more than 60,000 people. During the 80's, record companies gave him space made only for the Latin market, and he recorded an impressive number of albums for that market, including the Motown albums 'Escenas de Amor' and 'Me Enamoré', as well as others from RCA, EMI, and Capitol which added four more Grammys for best Latin performer.

In 2006, Feliciano's new Spanish album, 'José Feliciano y amigos' was released by Universal Records, featuring Feliciano joined in duets with many other Latin American stars including Marc Anthony and Gloria Estefan, to name a few. In 2007, Feliciano released an album called 'Soundtrack of My Life', the first English-language album composed and written by him.

In 2010, Feliciano performed his rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' again at Comerica Park in Detroit. This was part of the remembrance of Detroit Tigers radio announcer the late Ernie Harwell. He played it similarly to how he did back in 1968; with his acoustic guitar and in his slow tempo-ed, latin jazz style.

Influences: Andrés Segovia and Wes Montgomery

Axology: Unknown

Signature song(s): Feliz Navidad - José Feliciano (1970)

Link(s):

http://www.josefeliciano.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MgIC6KOFySk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKIrqC2QUvg

Buck Owens

Name: Alvis Edgar Owens, Jr. (aka Corky Jones)
Born/Died: 12th August, 1929 (Sherman, Texas, USA) – 25th March, 2006

Profile: He was an American singer and guitarist (better known as Buck Owens), who had 21 number one hits on the Billboard country music charts with his band, "The Buckaroos". They pioneered what came to be called the Bakersfield sound - a reference to Bakersfield, California, the city Owens called home and from which he drew inspiration for what he preferred to call American music.

History: The name 'Buck' was a donkey on the Owens farm, in Texas, when Alvis, Jr., was 3 or 4 years old, he walked into the house and announced that his name was also Buck. That was fine with the family; and young Alvis was Buck from then on. While living in the farm, Buck who was in his teens started to have an interest in music, mainly; pedal steel guitar, and started to learn more about music.

In 1945, Owens co-hosted a radio show called Buck and Britt. Soon, Owens was frequently traveling to Hollywood for session recording jobs at Capitol Records, playing backup for Tennessee Ernie Ford, Sonny James, Wanda Jackson, Del Reeves, Tommy Sands, Tommy Collins, Faron Young and Gene Vincent.

Owens recorded a rockabilly record called 'Hot Dog' for the Pep label, using the pseudonym Corky Jones because he did not want the fact he recorded a rock n' roll tune to hurt his country music career, but sometime in the 50's, he joined the Dusty Rhodes band as a singer. His career took off in 1959, when his song 'Second Fiddle' hit #24 on the Billboard country chart, followed by 'Under Your Spell Again' at #4 and 'Above and Beyond' at #3.

In the early 60's, the countrypolitan sound was popular, with smooth, string-laden, pop-influenced styles used by Eddy Arnold, Jim Reeves, and Patsy Cline, among others. Owens went against the trend, utilizing honky tonk hillbilly feel, mixed idiosyncratically with the Mexican polkas he had heard on border radio stations while growing up. And in 1963, the single 'Act Naturally' became Owens and the Buckaroos' first #1 hit. "The Beatles" later recorded a cover of it in 1965, with Ringo Starr as lead singer (Starr later re-recorded the song as a duet with Owens in 1988).

In 1972, Owens and the Buckaroos finally had another #1 hit, 'Made in Japan', and he added pedal steel guitarist, Jerry Brightman. The band had been without pedal steel since late in 1969, and Owens returned to his grass roots sound of fiddle, steel, and electric guitars releasing a string of singles including 'Arms Full of Empty' and 'Ain't it Amazing Gracie'.

In late 70's, Owens established Buck Owens Enterprises and produced records by several artists. He recorded for Warner Bros. Records and left the TV series Hee Haw in 1986, after 24 seasons. Owens was named the Most Promising Country and Western Singer of 1960 by Billboard.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Fender guitars

Signature song(s): Act Naturally - Buck Owens and the Buckaroos

Link(s):

http://www.buckowens.com/index2.html (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOpgL4mqEis

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSY-IF6pI2g

Paco de Lucía (Paco de Lucía Sextet)

Name: Francisco Sánchez Gómez
Born: 21st December, 1947 (Algeciras, Cádiz, Spain)

Profile: He is a Spanish composer and guitarist. Recognized as a virtuoso flamenco guitarist all over the world, he is a leading proponent of the Modern Flamenco style, and is one of the very few flamenco guitarists who has also successfully crossed over into other genres of music. Paco enjoys, and has been a successful musician in, many styles such as classical, jazz and world music. He is the winner of the 2004 Prince of Asturias Awards in Arts and in 2010 he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Berklee College of Music in Boston.

History: Born in a musical family, his father was flamenco guitarist Antonio Sánchez, brother of flamenco singer Pepe de Lucía and flamenco guitarist Ramón de Algeciras. At age 11, Paco made his first public appearance on Radio Algeciras, and a year later was awarded a special prize in the Jerez flamenco competition.

In 1961, he toured with the flamenco troupe of dancer José Greco, Three years later, he met Madrid guitarist Ricardo Modrego with whom he recorded 3 albums: 'Dos guitarras flamencas', 'Dos guitarras flamencas en stereo', and 'Doce canciones de Federico García Lorca para guitarra'. Between 1968 and 1977, he enjoyed a fruitful collaboration with fellow New Flamenco singer Camarón de la Isla. The two recorded 10 albums together. His 1976 album, 'Almoraima' was a success and featured notable tracks such as 'Almoraima' and 'Río Ancho', the latter track of which has been covered by other guitarists such as Al Di Meola.

In 1979, Paco, John McLaughlin, and Larry Coryell formed "The Guitar Trio" and together made a brief tour of Europe and released a video recorded at London's Royal Albert Hall entitled Meeting of Spirits. Coryell was later replaced by Al Di Meola, and since 1981, the trio has recorded 3 albums. Paco's own band, the Paco de Lucía Sextet (which includes his brothers Ramón and Pepe) released the first of its three albums that same year. He has released several albums encompassing both traditional and modern flamenco styles.

In 1995, he recorded with Bryan Adams the hit song and video 'Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman' on the soundtrack for the movie Don Juan DeMarco. Through his wide discography he has advanced the technical and musical boundaries of his instrument. The University of Cadiz recognized Paco's musical and cultural contributions by conferring on him the title of Doctor Honoris Causa in 2007.

Influences: Antonio Sánchez (father)

Axology: Almeria classical guitars

Signature song(s): Almoraima - Paco de Lucía (Almoraima, 1976)

Link(s):

http://www.pacodelucia.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cadbYIzhqQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TmxfHbd-M0

Shah (Exists/Slam)

Name: Shah Nizam Abdul Halim
Born: Unknown (Kg. Bakar Batu, Johor Bahru, Malaysia)

Profile: He is a Malaysian multi-talented musician, composer, producer, singer and an actor. He is notably known for his works as a guitarist in most of Malaysian top and legendary bands such as "Exists", "Search" and he was the founder of "Slam".

History: He started to play guitar in his early teens, and while still in high-school, Shah joined the 'all-teens band', "Exists" in 1990. This band was the starting point for his career as a professional guitarist. The band was a successful hits in Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, with the single 'Oh! Ibu'.

After "Exists" second album, Shah left the band and met up with guitarist Ajak, bassist Lili and drummer Man, together they planned to form a new band, with the help of legendary composer Saari Amri. Zamani (vocalist) was the last to joined them, and by 1993, "Slam" was officially formed.

In the mid 90's, Shah and "Slam" released hits songs such as 'Tak Mungkin Berpaling', 'Mentari Muncul Lagi' and 'Gerimis Mengundang'. After Zamani left the band in the late 90's, Shah was already one of the high in-demand sessionist, he even produced "Slam" last album, 'Selamanya...' with 80% of the songs was composed and written by him.

In 1999, Shah joined Malaysian favorite rock band, "Search", after replacing the band's long time guitarist Kid (Search). With the band, Shah as the lead guitarist only collaborated in one album, 'Selepas Banjir'. He left the band in 2000, and tried to reunite back with "Slam" as a singer and guitarist.

Currently, Shah still works in the music industry as a session guitarist and producer. He even produced the Indie band "Sunday" back in 2003 and have worked with various artist for live performances and albums.

Influences: Joe Satriani

Axology: Fender Stratocaster

Signature song(s): Mentari Muncul Lagi (Unplugged) - Slam (Konsert Unplugged, 1997) and Kejoraku Bersatu - Search (Selepas Banjir, 1999)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxrhdq5Hgko

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CF-bTC7obVo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jvq2bveSyc

Roy Clark (Million Dollar Band)

Name: Roy Linwood Clark
Born: 15th April, 1933 (Meherrin, Virginia, USA)

Profile: He is an American country music musician and performer. He is best known for hosting Hee Haw, a nationally televised country variety show, from 1969 to 1992. He is an entertainer most of all, with an amiable personality and a telegenic presence. He is highly regarded as both a guitarist and banjo player, and is also skilled in classical guitar as well as playing several other instruments.

History: At the age of 14, Young Clark began playing banjo, guitar, and mandolin. He won two National Banjo Championships by the age of 15. He was simultaneously pursuing a sporting career, first as a baseball player, and then as a boxer, before switching over to music full time. At the age of 17, he had his first appearance on the Grand Ole Opry. By the time he was 15 he had already won the world banjo/guitar flatpick championship twice.

By 1955, he was a regular on Jimmy Dean's Washington, DC television program, where Clark played on Dean's band, the "Texas Wildcats". In 1960, Clark went out to Las Vegas where he worked as guitarist in a band led by former West Coast Western Swing bandleader-comedian Hank Penny. During the 60's, he was also prominent in the backing band for Wanda Jackson during the latter part of her rockabilly period.

When Dean was tapped to host The Tonight Show in the early 60's, he asked Clark to appear, introducing him to a national audience for the first time. Subsequently, Clark appeared on The Beverly Hillbillies as a recurring character. Once, on an episode of the Sunday evening Jackie Gleason Show dedicated to country music, Clark played a blistering rendition of 'Down Home'. Later, he even appeared on an episode of The Odd Couple where he played 'Malagueña'.

In 1963, Clark signed to Capitol Records and had three top 10 hits. He switched to Dot Records and again scored hits. He later recorded for ABC Records, which had acquired Dot, and MCA Records, which absorbed the ABC label. In 1969, Clark and Buck Owens were the hosts of Hee Haw. The show was dropped by CBS Television in 1971 but continued to run in syndication for 20 more years. During its tenure, Clark was a member of the "Million Dollar Band".

In 1983, Clark opened the Roy Clark Celebrity Theatre in Branson, Missouri, becoming the first country music star to have his own venue there, and beginning a trend which led to Branson becoming a center of live music performance, as it is today. Many of the celebrities who have played in Branson first entertained at the Roy Clark Celebrity Theatre. Clark frequently played in Branson during the 80's and 90's. He has since sold the venue and gone back to a fairly light touring schedule, which usually includes a performance with Ramona Jones and the Jones Family Band at their annual tribute to Clark's old Hee Haw co-star Grandpa Jones in Mountain View, Arkansas.

In addition to his musical skill, Clark has often displayed his talents as a comedian and actor. During his years on Hee Haw, Clark entertained with numerous comedy sketches, including a recurring feature where he played the clerk of the 'Empty Arms Hotel'. Clark released several albums of his comedic performances, to varying critical acclaim and commercial success.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Mosrite guitars, Gretsch guitars and Heritage guitars - Roy Clark model

Signature song(s): Yesterday, When I Was Young - Roy Clark

Link(s):

http://www.royclark.org/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6x-DCbaC3k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqnU83wPmfc

Tanya Donelly (Throwing Muses/Belly)

Name: Tanya Donelly
Born: 14th July, 1966 (Newport, Rhode Island, USA)

Profile: She is an American Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and guitarist based in New England who co-founded "Throwing Muses". She is best known as lead vocalist and songwriter for "Belly"'.

History: At age 8, she met with Kristin Hersh in school and their quickly becoming close friends. Eventually, Donelly's father later married Hersh's mother.

Around the age of 14, Hersh's and Donelly's fathers both gave them their own guitars and they initially started playing along with "The Beatles" songs. Soon after, the two started to play along with songs written by Hersh's musical father and then began to write original songs of their own. At age 15, Donelly and Hersh founded "Throwing Muses".

Throughout the 80's, Donelly worked as lead guitarist and secondary vocalist/songwriter, complementing the work of band leader Hersh. In 1986, the band did recording albums for the British 4AD label. Although the band's work generally employed complex rhythms and offbeat chord structures, Donelly has said she eventually accepted that her compositions were simpler and had 'more traditional songwriting sensibilities' than Hersh's, by the last two years she worked in the band. Some of her tunes from this period include 'Green', 'Dragonhead' and 'Angel'.

In 1990, Donelly had additionally begun working in a side project called "The Breeders" with Kim Deal (Pixies). Working with this band increased Donelly's versatility as a guitarist. In 1991, after the released of "Throwing Muses" album 'The Real Ramona', Donelly officially left the band and founded "Belly", as guitarist, vocalist and songwriter.

In 1993, "Belly" released the 'Star' LP, the album soon peaked at #2 on the UK music charts and featured, 'Feed the Tree', which quickly rated at #1. In 1995, the band released, 'King'. Though critically well-received, this album did not match the commercial success of 'Star'. The band officially broke up in 1996.

After "Belly" was disbanded, Donelly put together a group of musicians to tour internationally with, just prior to her first solo release, the 'Sliding & Diving' EP. Included on the tour were bassist Dean Fisher (husband) and drummer Stacy Jones (Letters to Cleo).

In 2004, Donelly released 'Whiskey Tango Ghosts', an acoustic album laced with Rich Gilbert's pedal steel guitar touches. The album's lyrics explored, in part, marital relationships and family life. Donelly has said the album's minor-key tone was influenced by 'a horrible war, a horrible administration, a bleak, mean winter'.

Influences: Marc Ribot, Leonard Cohen, Lucinda Williams, Joan Wasser, Robyn Hitchcock, Nina Simone, Kristin Hersh, "Dambuilders", "Pixies", "Count Zero" and "The Beatles"

Axology: Campbell American guitar - Tanya Donelly signature model and Fender Telecaster Thinline

Signature song(s): Feed the Tree - Belly (Star LP, 1993)


Link(s):

http://www.tanyadonelly.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EkoG75W9NY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpwqcR-lHuY&feature=PlayList&p=57C21F566D771728&playnext_from=PL&playnext=1&index=3

Eva Fampas

Name: Eva Fampas
Born: 4th June, 1964 (Athens, Greece)

Profile: She is a Greek guitarist and a music teacher. She was described as 'a great musical personality' by Morning Talk Newspaper. Fampas is also regarded as one of the world's most gifted artists, with performances noted for coupling deep musicality, passion and an exceptional virtuosity.

History: Fampas was born into a musical family and started playing the guitar very young under the instruction of her father Dimitri Fampas, the very famous Greek composer, guitarist and professor. Her first participation in concert was at the age of 12, with the D. Fampas' famous guitar school.

Fampas was a brilliant graduate of the National Conservatory of Athens, she studied with outstanding professors such as; Dimitris Dragatakis (composer), Theodore Antoniou (composer-maestro), Leo Brouwer (guitarist-composer), master-classes given by: Ruggero Chiesa, Robert Vidal, John Duarte and Pepe Romero.

In 1981, Fampas won at first place on the 16th International Guitar competition (Guitar Academy of Milan), followed by a medal by Athens Municipality in 1984, for her participation in the celebrations-Athens 150 years capital of Greece - organized by the Greek Writers' Association and the Cultural Center of Athens Municipality.

Fampas has performed hundreds of recitals and concerts in more than 25 countries in Europe, Asia, America Latina and Africa with great success, she maintains a very active concert schedule and she is in great demand as a recitalist, soloist, chamber musician and pedagogue. Newspapers, magazines, National and International TV and radio stations around the world have honored her accomplishments with portraits, interviews and extensive articles.

In 2004, Fampas premiered the FOR EVA guitar concerto by Yiu-Kwong Chung and the Baiao Lunar, two new works dedicated to her, with Athens State Orchestra conducted by Costis Papazoglou at the MELINA Athens' cultural center. In 2008, she premiered the orchestrated by Andersen Viana, GREEK SUITE with the Athens Municipality Symphony Orchestra conducted by Michalis Economou at the Byzantine Museum of Athens. This concert was repeated at the Technopolis cultural centre of Athens due to the great success of the premiere and to audience's demand.

Her virtuoso repertoire, very melodic and exciting, with traditional, ethnic and contemporary influences, includes a substantial amount of works by Greek composers as well as music from the Baroque era to the present century. Her passionate and powerful interpretations of Greek music frequently receive ovations from both the press and the audiences.

In addition to her other activities she is frequently invited to be member of the jury in guitar competitions as well as in competitions for compositions for guitar, to give lectures and master-classes in Academic Conferences, Musical Institutions and Guitar festivals around the world. Presently she reworks and supervises the publication of Dimitris Fampas' guitar music books. She is also the author/composer of the educational book - melodic lessons, the most joyful guitar method for children and of various award winning short pieces for children.

Eva Fampas is the Founder and President of the Guitar Friends' Association DIMITRI FAMPAS, a non profit cultural society, which is dedicated to serving her father personality and music, to celebrate guitar excellence and to encourage and promote young talented guitarists and the Greek music.

Influences: Dimitri Fampas (father)

Axology: Unknown

Signature song(s): Ravines  - Eva Fampas (Eva Fampas plays Fampas, 2005)

Link(s):

http://www.evafampas.gr/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fW0WLUm_vjE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwQqua5rn8g&feature=related

Otis Rush

Name: Otis Rush
Born: 29th April, 1935 (Philadelphia, Mississippi, USA)

Profile: He is a blues musician, singer and guitarist. His distinctive guitar style features a slow burning sound and long bent notes. With similar qualities to Magic Sam and Buddy Guy, his sound became known as West Side Chicago blues and became an influence on many musicians including Michael Bloomfield, Eric Clapton and SRV.

History: Rush is a self-taught musician who began playing the guitar at the age of 8. Moving to Chicago in 1948, he was introduced to the more urban sounds of the blues and made the decision to become a performer after he saw Muddy Waters for the first time. At the age of 13-14, Rush made a name for himself playing in clubs on both the South Side and West Side blues scenes. Soon Rush fronted his own band under the name of "Little Otis".

From 1956-1958, he recorded for the Cobra Records and released eight singles, some featuring Ike Turner on guitar. His first single 'I Can't Quit You Baby' reached #6 on Billboard's chart. During his tenure with Cobra, he recorded some of his well known songs such as 'Double Trouble' and 'All Your Love (I Miss Loving)'.

In 1960, Rush landed a recording contract with Chess. He recorded eight tracks for the label, four of which were released on 2 singles that year. Six tracks including the 2 singles later came out on 'Door To Door' album in 1969, a compilation with Albert King. Around the 60's, Rush began playing in other cities in the US and also to Europe, most notably the American Folk Blues Festival.

In 1971, Rush recorded the album 'Right Place, Wrong Time' for Capitol Records, and the album was released 5 years later. The album generally has since gained a reputation as one of the best works by Rush. In 1985, he made a tour in the US and releasing the live album, 'Tops', recorded at the San Francisco Blues Festival. In 1998, Rush released 'Any Place I'm Goin', and earned his first Grammy Award for Best Traditional Blues Album in 1999.

Though he has not recorded a new studio album since 1998, he continued to tour and perform. In 2002, he was featured on the Bo Diddley tribute album 'Hey Bo Diddley - A Tribute!', performing the song 'I'm A Man'.

Influences: Muddy Waters, Jimmie Rogers, T-Bone Walker and BB King

Axology: Fender Stratocaster, Gibson ES-335, Gibson ES-355 and a Japanese-made Flying V

Signature song(s): Double Trouble - Otis Rush (singles, 1958) and Three Times A Fool - Otis Rush (Right Place, Wrong Time, 1976)

Link(s):

http://www.otisrush.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uy2tEP3I3DM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsXK2zL2-yM

Filomena Moretti

Name: Filomena Moretti
Born: 1973 (Sassari, Italy)

Profile: She is an Italian classical guitarist, graduated from the Sassari Conservatoire and was awarded the first prize.

History: Moretti was given her first guitar when she was 5. It was love at first sight and the passion grew with the years. Early learning and practice with the masters, something she never stopped doing – to this day she follows Julian Bream’s guidance.

In the early 80's, she continued her studies with Ruggero Chiesa, and won several international competitions; Premier Prix at the Competition Cagliari (1991), Second Prix at the International Competition of Sassari (1992), Second Prix at the Competition Fernando Sor de Rome (1993) and Premier Prix at the Competition de l’A.R.A.M (1996).

In 1993, she obtained a grant to pursue her studies with Oscar Ghihlia at the Chiagana Academy in Sienne, and took part in several master-classes with A. Diaz, D. Russel, J. Bream, J. Tomas and M. Barrueco. After her studies, Moretti performed with leading orchestras. Her extensive repertoire includes the most important guitar and orchestras concertos.

In 1999, she toured Italy with the renowned Lucero Tena, and was also invited by the Verdi Conservatoire in Milan. In June 1999, she performed the Giuliani Concerto with the "Societa dei Concerti" at the Verdi Conservatoire in Milan. In France, she has appeared at the TransClassiques at La Cigale in Paris, at the Flâneries Musicales in Reims, at the Festivals de Radio France in Montpellier, at the Young Soloist Festival in Antibes. Her concerts have been broadcasted on Muzzik and Mezzo TV channels. She has also been invited by FRANCE 2 channel.

Moretti has recorded two CD's for Phoenix and Stradivarius labels. The released of the Integral for solo guitar by Joaquin Rodrigo under the Stradivarius label, Moretti caused her to be on the front page of the Italian magazine Classica. In 1998, she received the 'Golden Guitar' for her recording of Fernando Sor under the Stradivarius label. For Transart UK label, she recorded two volumes of J.S. Bach's lute works transcribed for guitar

With her warm and deep sounds, the richness and variety of her musical palette and her skilful transpositions, Moretti already demonstrated at the Théâtre des Abbesses how she could wrench us from ourselves; she created a unique fusion between interpreter and audience. Beside transpositions of pieces by Scarlatti and Bach, she will play scores by Italian composer Regondi, by Mertz the Austrian, Mangoré the Paraguayan and Fernand Sor the Spaniard.

Influences: JS Bach

Axology: Unknown

Signature song(s): Asturias - Filomena Moretti (Extrait De Suite Espanola)

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AB-CuSj9IhM&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6rOPAoTgaQ&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P1wRK5ILVTE&feature=related

Joe Pass (The Trio)

Name: Joseph Anthony Jacobi Passalacqua
Born/Died: 13th January, 1929 (New Brunswick, New Jersey) - 23rd May, 1994

Profile: He was an Italian-American born jazz guitarist. His extensive use of walking basslines, melodic counterpoint during improvisation, use of a chord-melody style of play and outstanding knowledge of chord progressions opened up new possibilities for jazz guitar and had a profound influence on future guitarists.

History: Born into a non-musical family, Pass started to play the guitar after being inspired by actor Gene Autry's portrayal of a guitar playing cowboy. He received his first guitar, a Harmony model (bought for $17), on his 9th birthday. Pass' father recognized early that his son had 'a little something happening' and pushed him constantly to pick up tunes by ear, play pieces not written specifically for the instrument, practice scales and not to 'leave any spaces' - that is, to fill in the sonic space between the notes of the melody.

As early as 14, Pass started getting gigs and was playing with bands fronted by Tony Pastor and Charlie Barnet, honing his guitar skills and learning the music business. He began traveling with small jazz groups and eventually moved from Pennsylvania to New York City. In 1962 he recorded 'The Sounds of Synanon'.

In the 60's, Pass recorded a series of albums for the Pacific Jazz label, including the early classics 'Catch Me', '12-String Guitar', 'For Django', and 'Simplicity'. In 1965, Pass toured with George Shearing. Mostly, however, during the 60's he did TV and recording session work in LA, including The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, The Merv Griffin Show, The Steve Allen Show, and others.

In the early 70's, Pass and guitarist Herb Ellis were performing together regularly at Donte's jazz club in LA. This collaboration led to Pass and Ellis recording the very first album on the new Concord Jazz label, entitled simply 'Jazz/Concord (#CJS-1)', and collaborated on a series of music books, and his 'Joe Pass Guitar Style' is considered a leading improvisation textbook for students of jazz.

In 1974, Pass released his landmark solo album 'Virtuoso' and the album 'The Trio' featuring Pass, Oscar Peterson, and Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen. At the Grammy Awards of 1975, "The Trio" won the Grammy Award for Best Jazz Performance by a Group. In the late 70's and early 80's, Pass and Ella Fitzgerald recorded four albums together; Take Love Easy (1973), Fitzgerald and Pass... Again (1976), Speak Love (1983), and Easy Living (1986).

In addition to his ensemble performances, the jazz community regards Joe Pass as an influential solo guitarist. His solo style was marked by an advanced linear technique, sophisticated harmonic sense, counterpoint between improvised lead lines, bass figures and chords, spontaneous modulations, and transitions from fast tempos to rubato passages. Pass would regularly add what he called 'color tones' to his compositions, to give what he believed was a more sophisticated and 'funkier' sound.

Influences: Django Reinhardt, Charlie Parker(saxophonist) and Gene Autry (actor)

Axology: Gibson ES-175 guitar, semi-acoustic Epiphone guitars, Ibanez guitars and a custom guitar by luthier Jimmy D'Aquisto,

Signature song(s): Cherokee - Joe Pass and How High the Moon - Joe Pass

Link(s):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFqiDcvRW2Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NyjQv52Nzno&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWa6aChSf1w&feature=related

Carter Lancaster

Name: Carter Lancaster
Born: mid 1950's (Ontario, Canada)

Profile: A versatile guitarist, performer and composer, he is one of those rare musicians whose expertise and virtuosity transcend issues of style. His unique musical vision has led him to master Jazz, Bluegrass and modern acoustic guitar styles, in a manner that allows each style to complement the others without sacrificing any of their respective nuances. A performer with over 30 years experience, and can be seen working as a solo artist, with jazz and folk duos, trios, or quartets, and occasionally with orchestras.

History: Lancaster was raised in a family who loved music, his father was a jazz pianist - and taught him the importance of understanding scales, chord theory, and harmony. Young Lancaster learned to read music at an early age. He started playing acoustic guitar at the age of 11 on a 'Saturn' acoustic guitar (at the time it cost him $12) which he still owns. He took private lessons for 5 years and gradually switched over to an Aria semi acoustic guitar.

By the time Lancaster was 13, he purchased a Gibson ES 335 which was his main guitar for years. He then formed his first band called "Velvet Fog", which covered mostly Jimi Hendrix songs. In his early 20's, he started playing more acoustic guitar and purchased a Martin M-36 acoustic guitar that he used for Bluegrass. It was at this period of time he started writing his own music.

Though Lancaster started by playing the guitar, he began studying the harp guitar (a rare vintage instrument with 6 treble and 5 or 6 contra-basses), after he heard a Stephan Bennett album. He was intrigued with the sounds from this amazing instrument and bought 2 Dyer Symphony Harp guitars that are about a hundred years old.

Lancaster was noticed in the music community after he performed one of his original compositions 'Widow Walk' at the Harp Guitar Gathering in Williamsburg, Virginia. But, he is probably known best for his fluid jazz electric chord-melody style and his standard and open tuning acoustic compositions, his ability to incorporate a variety of harmonic and 2-handed tapping techniques, while maintaining a strong melody line and percussive rhythm are sure to grab any listener’s attention.

In 2009, Lancaster released his second solo album called 'Case Closed'. The album is a compilation of original pieces performed solo on 6 string acoustic and Harp guitar. Currently, he is writing more music which he hopes to begin recording soon for his next album.

Influences: Joe Pass, Lenny Breau, Bruce Cockburn and Stephen Bennett

Axology: 2 Dyer Symphony Harp Guitars, Holloway Harp Guitar, Marc Beneteau Concert standard, Breedlove Performance Focus, Fender Stratocaster, Gibson ES-335, Martin M-36 guitar and Saturn acoustic guitar

Signature song(s): Blue - Carter Lancaster (Case Closed, 2009) and Widow Walk - Carter Lancaster (Case Closed, 2009)

Link(s):

http://www.carterlancaster.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3zdCuSSMwc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nkl5BiUg6rE

"When I listened to Carter’s CD, I became more and more annoyed as I realized that he had written some tunes that I should have. He must be stopped". - Stephen Bennett

Kaori Muraji

Name: Muraji Kaori (村治 佳織)
Born: 14th April, 1978 (Tokyo, Japan)

Profile: She is a Japanese classical guitarist, and the first Japanese artist to have signed an exclusive international contract with Decca Music Group. She is considered as one of the most prominent classical guitarists of today, and her challenges and activities are always regarded with keen interest by the entire classical music community.

History: Kaori received her first lessons on the guitar from her father Noboru Muraji at the age of 3. From 10, she continued her studies with the renowned guitarist Shinichi Fukuda. From quite early on, her presence was dominant in competitions, winning the 1989 Junior Guitar Competition, and the 1991 the Student Guitar Competition for all categories.

In 1992, Kaori won both the Leo Brower International Guitar Competition (Tokyo) and the Tokyo International Guitar Competition. In 1993, she gave her debut recital at Tsuda Hall in Tokyo, which was soon followed by the release of her debut CD 'Espressivo'. Her orchestra debut came in 1994 with the Japan Philharmonic Orchestra, and in 1995 she joined Orchestra Sinfonica Nazionale della RAI as soloist in Turin. This concert, which was broadcasted on TV throughout Europe, marked her European debut.

Kaori continued on with her musical education, and in 1997 she went to study under Albert Ponce at Ecole Normale de Musique in Paris. In 1999, she had the extraordinary opportunity to perform for the legendary Joaquin Rodrigo's compositions, 'Tiento antigno' and 'En los trigales'. With her graduation from Ecole Normale that year, she returned to Japan to vigorously pursue her solo career. She performed with the major orchestras of Japan, including the NHK Symphony Orchestra, and gained a wide national following.

In the meantime, Kaori’s musical world continued to expand: her first chamber music collaboration came in 2000 when she joined the Vogler Quartet on their Japan tour, and her long time wish to perform in other Asian countries was realized as she gave her first Korean recital at the Seoul Arts Center.

Kaori’s international relationships continued to flourish. In 2006/07 season, Kaori participated in La Folle Journee de Nantes, had some recitals in west coast of USA. In 2008/09 season, Kaori toured in Japan and Korea with Bachochester des Gewandhauses zu Leipzig and Orchestre de Chambre National de Toulouse. In April 2009, she invited the Spanish orchestra, Orquesta Sinfónica de Galicia as a soloist of their subscription concert.

Influences: Shinichi Fukuda

Axology: Unknown

Signature song(s): The Summer Knows (Theme from "The Summer of 42') - Kaori Muraji (Lumieres, 2006) and Jongo - Kaori Muraji (Portrait, 2010)

Link(s):

http://www.musicachiara.com/dulcinea/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zq3rSwX4QHM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cF-0fqRDhXY

Mick Mars (Mötley Crüe)

Name: Robert Alan Deal
Born: 4th May, 1951 (Terre Haute, Indiana, USA)

Profile: He is the lead guitarist and songwriter for American hard rock band "Mötley Crüe". In his career with "Mötley Crüe", Mars has created the aura of being a somewhat mysterious figure, letting the other members of the band speak for him in public and in print, despite being the eldest and most articulate member of the band. In what public interviews he has conducted, Mars often comes off as a very reserved and somewhat quiet individual.

History: After his family relocated from Indiana to California, Deal dropped out of high school and began playing guitar in a series of unsuccessful blues based rock bands throughout the 70's. After nearly a decade of frustration with the California music scene, Deal reinvented himself, changing his stage name to Mick Mars and dyeing his hair jet black, hoping for a fresh start.

In 1981, he put in a want ad in the LA newspaper 'The Recycler', describing himself as 'a loud, rude, and aggressive guitar player'. Bassist Nikki Sixx and drummer Tommy Lee contacted him and after hearing him play decided he would be their guitarist. Upon Lee's prodding, they persuaded a former high school friend of Lee's and local rock & roll singer Vince Neil to join. It was Mars' suggestion that the band be called "Mötley Crüe", a name that had stuck in his head from his days as a member of a band called "White Horse".

Unlike many of the hard rock/heavy metal guitarists of his era, Mars' guitar style is steeped in the blues tradition. He employs frequent use of a metal slide in his soloing and takes on both the rhythm and lead guitar duties of the band. In the studio and live, Mars frequently tunes his guitar down a whole step to get a stronger and crunchier rhythm sound. The altered tuning also increases string slack to enable his characteristic hammer-on trills, pitch bending, and pinch harmonics during soloing. Mars also introduced the pedal steel guitar to many of "Mötley Crüe's" later recordings and live sets, and also taken a critical role in songwriting for the band, coming up with many of "Mötley Crüe's" best known riffs.

Recently, he contributed his songwriting skills to John LeCompt (Evanescence), "Machina" and to the Swedish band "CRASHDÏET". Mars also played lead guitar for "Hinder's" 2008 album 'Take It to the Limit' and "Papa Roach's" 2009 album 'Metamorphosis'. Currently, Mars is on tour with the three other original members of "Mötley Crüe", supporting their newest album, 'Saints of Los Angeles', which has revived a strong public interest in the band more than 25 years after its formation.

Influences: Unknown

Axology: Gibson Les Paul customs guitars, BC Rich Warlock guitar, Hamer Blitz guitar, Gibson Flying V, Guild Flying Star, Kramer guitars, Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters and Marshall amplifiers

Signature song(s): Too Young To Fall in Love - Mötley Crüe (Shout at the Devil, 1983)

Link(s):

http://www.mickmars.tv/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfU502fvO2Y

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNMuzKc_0Mg

Mark Tremonti (Creed/ Alter Bridge)

Name: Mark Thomas Tremonti
Born: 18th April, 1974 (Detroit, Michigan, USA)

Profile: He is an American Grammy award-winning musician and songwriter best known as the lead guitarist and backing vocalist for the American rock bands "Creed" and "Alter Bridge".

History: At the age of 11, Tremonti started exposing to heavy music, like "KISS" and "Metallica", with the help of his brother Daniel and Michael. He (Mark) was greatly inspired by this music and it was around 1985 that he bought his first guitar, a TARA (Gibson LP knock off) for $25 from a man who wanted him to play in his band. Mark, enthralled by the deal, immediately signed up for lessons but quit after 2 weeks and began to teach himself, by buying a few tab books and trying to learn his favorite songs, practicing them until he got them right.

In the early 90's, Tremonti moved to Orlando, and met for the first time with future singer Scott Stapp. It was also here that Tremonti had his first rock band called "Wit's End", playing "Motley Crue" covers and other metal songs. After doing his studies at Clemson University for a year, he went back to Florida to reunited with Scott Stapp. At this point, his guitar skills had reached a new level, and the both of them agreed to formed a band together, and auditioned for a bassist and drummer, resulting in Brian Marshall and Scott Phillips's selection.

As the band sat down to think of a good band name, a funny article which Tremonti carried in his wallet, headlined "Naked Toddler" came to mind which led to the bands original name. But after a while, they realized they needed a change and Stapp and Marshall suggested "Creed". For Stapp, it was rememberance of his roots (Stapp's ancestors were Creek Indians) and Marshall's old band was "Maddox Creed". Tremonti and Phillips agreed and "Creed" was born.

After they had written a few songs, they put together all the money they had and recorded an album, called 'My Own Prison' which took only $6000 to make, and only 6000 copies were made, and their began to tour around America. Eventually, a Radio Jockey heard about "Creed" and decided to check them out, he heard 'My Own Prison' and the song was played, and became a success. In 1997, the band re-recorded the album 'My Own Prison', with a few small changes to the lyrics and guitars with Wind Up records.

The album was a huge hit and they have had 8 #1 singles and 3 multi-platinum albums in the US alone. In 2004, "Creed" officially announced their break-up after 3 highly successful albums. Tremonti, Phillips and Marshall formed a new band with Myles Kennedy (The Mayfield Four), called "Alter Bridge" while Stapp opted for a solo career. "Alter Bridge" name comes from a long-standing bridge near Tremonti’s childhood home in Detroit, which was often regarded as a boundary to the children in surrounding neighborhoods; beyond it was uncharted territory.

Tremonti also worked on producing for bands such as "Submersed" and with Troy Stetina, and has guest appeared on albums by Michael Angelo Batio and Fozzy. Tremonti's main project though had been creating a new band. From playing a cheap guitar, Mark now has his own PRS signature series guitar and Mark Tremonti Morley power wah pedal. With "Creed's" success Tremonti has achieved best guitarist of the year for 3 years and his success continues as he works on new projects, working with other bands and writing new music.

Influences: Stevie Ray Vaughan, Zakk Wylde (BLS), Joe Bonamassa, Neal Schon, Audley Freed, Dave Mustaine (Megadeth), Slash (G'nR), Metallica, Slayer, Celtic Frost and Testament

Axology: PRS Tremonti signature series model guitar, Taylor 614CE acoustic guitars, Morley wah-wah, T-Rex Michael Angelo Batio Overdrive pedals and Fender Twin Reverb amplifiers

Signature song(s): With Arms Wide Open - Creed (Human Clay, 1999) and My Sacrifice - Creed (Weathered, 2001)

Link(s):

http://www.marktremonti.net/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=siId0ykNui0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_tfOf7Wqaw

John Mayer

Name: John Clayton Mayer
Born: 16th October, 1977 (Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA)

Profile: He is an American musician and songwriter. His career pursuits have extended to stand-up comedy, design and writing; he has written pieces for magazines, most notably for Esquire. He is also involved in philanthropic activities through his 'Back to You' fund.

History: His love in music started when he was young, he started playing clarinet for a while in middle school, with minor success. After watching Michael J. Fox's guitar performance as Marty McFly in the movie Back to the Future, Mayer became fascinated with the instrument, and when he turned 13, his father rented one for him.

Soon after, a neighbor gave him a Stevie Ray Vaughan cassette, which began Mayer’s intense love of the blues. Mayer started taking lessons from a local guitar-shop owner, and soon became consumed with playing the instrument. After two years of practice, he started playing at blues bars and other venues in the area, while he was still in high school. In addition to performing solo, he was a member of a band called "Villanova Junction" (named for a Jimi Hendrix song). After graduation, he worked for 15 months at a gas station until he saved enough money to buy a 1996 Stevie Ray Vaughan signature Stratocaster.

In 1997, at age 19, he attended Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he refined his skills and gained a following. After two semesters, he left school and moved to Atlanta with a friend Clay Cook . In Atlanta they formed a two-man band called "LoFi Masters" and began performing in local coffee houses and club venues such as Eddie's Attic. According to Cook, they began to experience musical differences due to Mayer’s desire to move more towards pop music. As a result the two parted ways, and Mayer embarked on a solo career.

With the help of local producer and engineer Glenn Matullo, Mayer recorded the independent EP 'Inside Wants Out'. The EP includes eight songs with Mayer on lead vocals and guitars. Mayer’s reputation began to build, and in 2000, his appearance at South by Southwest brought him to the attention of Aware Records.

In 2001, Aware released Mayer’s internet-only album entitled, 'Room for Squares'. During that time, Aware inked a deal with Columbia Records that gave Columbia first pick in signing Aware artists, and so in September of the same year, Columbia remixed and re-released 'Room for Squares'. By the end of 2002, the album had spawned several radio hits, and Mayer won a Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for 'Your Body Is a Wonderland'.

In 2004, Mayer began to collaborate extensively, often working with artists outside of his own genre. He appeared on Kanye West's song 'Bittersweet Poetry', and Mayer received praise from rap heavyweights Jay-Z and Nelly. It was around this time that Mayer began hinting a change in his musical interests. In 2005, he began a string of collaborations with various blues artists, including Buddy Guy, BB King, Eric Clapton, as well as jazz artist John Scofield. He also went on tour with legendary jazz pianist Herbie Hancock.

In mid 2005, Mayer formed the "John Mayer Trio" with bassist Pino Palladino and drummer Steve Jordan, both of whom he had met through previous studio sessions. The trio played a combination of blues and rock music. In October, the Trio opened for "The Rolling Stones" during a sold-out club tour of their own, and that November, released a live album called 'Try!'.

In 2009, Mayer's 4th studio album, 'Battle Studies', was released and debuted at #1 on the US Billboard 200 album chart. The album consists of 11 tracks. Despite the album's commercial success, critics were mixed with their praise; while some reviews were glowing, calling it his 'most adventurous', others called the album 'safe'.

Influences: Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Robert Cray and Freddie King

Axology: Fender Stratocaster

Signature song(s): Your Body Is a Wonderland - John Mayer (Room for Squares, 2001)

Link(s):

http://www.johnmayer.com/ (Official website)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etBZBbx_qjM