Street Talk 2-27

Question: Did you watch the Grammys? What’d you think? Are you keeping up with the current music scene? Is there any artist you’d like to recommend to our readers?

Millo Aldea, Miami, graphic designer, 23

“I didn’t watch, but I’m definitely following what’s happening. I think the Grammys are like boxing – it’s all fixed. Look at who wins. I definitely follow Shakira – even though she’s changed from what she was in the Spanish world. The pop scene is not as good as it was. I’m not into the commercial aspect. I like deep lyrics. If you’re into the Spanish scene, Alejandro Sars is definitely happening.”

Fernando Feijoo, South Miami, web page designer, NA

“No. I have a peculiar way of following what’s happening. I approach the music on its own merits. I don’t care who’s sleeping with whom. I follow all kinds of music, although I try not to buy it. I’d rather get it from someone. Sometimes it’s classical – Mozart, Beethoven – sometimes it’s modern contemporary composers. I don’t care if it’s new or old. I recommend you listen to everything and make your own decision.” 

Shane Dodd, Miami Beach, guitarist, 30

“No, I didn’t watch. Sure I’m keeping up. There’s a return to old-style music with good song structure, good melodies and good vocals. There’s also a lot of recognition for more established artists like Bruce Springsteen. The tide is turning to more adult-oriented music. I’d recommend artists like Jeff Buckley and Radiohead.”

John Ginty, Bernardsville, NJ, musician, 31

“I just won a Grammy last night! I’m the piano player for the Blind Boys of Alabama and we won for Best Contemporary Gospel. I wasn’t there, but we actually won. I watched and loved the program. I thought it was very tastefully done and more focused on singer/songwriters like Simon & Garfunkel and James Taylor. I’d recommend Citizen Cope. He’s a singer/songwriter with hip hop influences – sort of like James Taylor with drum samples.”

Nicole Ginty, Bernardsville, NJ, window dresser, 30

“I watched and thought it was great show. I would say music is definitely heading in a nice direction. It seems 80’s pop is fading out and being replaced by singer/songwriters and hip hop, which I like. I enjoy Eminem as much as James Taylor. I’d recommend Robert Randolph & the Family Band. He’s a pedal steel player who’s played in churches all his life and now he’s breaking on the club scene. Check out RobertRandolph.net.”

(photos & interviews by Tony Guzman)