Vital Stats
Age: 38
Instruments/duties: Singer, songwriter, co-producer of my debut album, "Awakenings"
Day job: Twenty-two months ago I was laid off from a corporate job in Orlando that I had held for close to a decade.
Unable to find new employment, I started asking myself questions about life and purpose. The answers started appearing and many times the answer was music. I made it a goal to accomplish something that has always been in my heart -- to record a music album of original material and see where it takes me.
Hometown: DeLeon Springs
Current residence: DeBary
Type of music you perform: Contemporary, folk/pop
Repertoire sampler: All original songs -- "Awakenings," "Bridge to All That Is," "Master of Invention," "Waiting For You," "Linger," "Sunrise," "Picture of a Dream," "If You Take Me Away."
CD: "Awakenings," $12.99 CD, $10.99 digital download; available online at lindasylvestermusic.com, CDBaby, StretchTheSkies (distributor for FYE stores), IndieRhythm, Reverbnation, Amazon and iTunes
Web site: lindasylvestermusic.com
Taking Notes
Who or what inspired you to take up music?
Music has always been a part of my life and a source of inspiration. It is such an amazing vehicle -- it allows you to pour out the contents of your heart and mind and connect with others rhythmically, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. You can explore places unreachable by any other means.
Is there one song on your album, "Awakenings," that you consider your "theme song." -- or one that is more autobiographical than the others?
The whole album is autobiographical. I would say that the title song, "Awakenings," best describes my journey. The lyrics summarize my current place in life. The message of this song is to just let go, live in the moment and be all that you are.
What was the most unusual or memorable gig you've ever played?
In the mid '90s I belonged to a music group based in Orlando. The group itself was an unusual mix of people. One time while performing on stage I stepped back a little too far, tripped over a cord and fell into the drums .¤.¤. most memorable.
What musician/celebrity/historical person would you most like to have dinner with?
Three people come to mind: Albert Einstein, Lao Tzu and Leonardo da Vinci -- the dinner conversation would be amazing.
What was the last book you read?
"Songwriters Market" (33rd Edition, 2010)
What CD/tape/music is in your car/home stereo/iPod right now?
My iPod has a mix of music from my album, Matchbox Twenty, Stereophonics, Blue October, Oasis, One Republic, Better Than Ezra, Staind, Sara Bareilles and Michael Buble . . . I know, it is a weird mix, but I love it all.
What is your favorite movie?
"Out of Africa," "Joyeux Noel," "The Legend of 1900"
What was the best concert you ever attended?
There have been many concerts that I thought were amazing. Garth Brooks, Van Halen (with Sammy Hagar) and Celine Dion all come to mind as very memorable and dynamic concerts.
"If I didn't play music, I would . . . ":
Feel like something is missing.
"I'd sell my soul for . . .":
I can't think of anything worth selling my soul for.
