Earl Okin

Brief Biog.

Back in the 60s, I recorded at Abbey Road, had songs recorded by Cilla Black, Georgie Fame and Helen Shapiro, but then I was signed to the Beatles' publisher. Later, I was the only opening act that Paul McCartney & Wings ever used on tour. (1979). Guest on 'Parkinson' in the early 80s. From the 80s until now, I've given concerts around the world of Jazz, Bossa Nova and my own songs. I've also been a headline musical act on the comedy circuit. I've performed on TV in many countries, especially in Australia and Brazil. SONY released a CD of mine some years back 'Musical Genius & Sex Symbol'. Since then I've recorded two CDs 'Songs From A Garden Shed' and 'Songs From Another Shed'. Last but not least, I've written a 17-song musical 'A Harlem Story' (sequel to 'Porgy & Bess') and a symphony, both awaiting performance. An 80-minute documentary about me called 'Who Is Earl Okin' has now been completed. I'm currently actively seeking bookings for the USA and Brazil.

Profile

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Genres

Influences

Equipment

Languages

What is music to you? What does it give you?

Music is m,y drug. Never understood why musicians need other drugs. When I'm happy, I celebrate with music; when I'm sad., it's my consolation...and it keeps my mind ever-active. The ultimate toy, too.

What is your music dream?

To have my musical performed, my symphony performed and to be recognized for my Jazz singing performances and as a top-class songwriter.

If you could change the world - what would you start with?

Ban guns worldwide.

Which is the most memorable song from your childhood?

P{ersian Love Song sung by the inimitable Feodor Chaliapin.

Who are your favorite musical artists or bands?

Where do start? Chaliapin, Caruso...the music of Tchaikowsky and Puccini? Or Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Mel Tormé...or is it Antonio Carlos Jobim...so many...

What inspires you to make music?

Music itself. The relationship between harmony and melody...a never-ending fascination.

What is the message you want to send with your music?

Melody over a fascinating chord sequence is always what it's about...from Purcell to Stevie Wonder.

How do you feel when you perform in front of an audience?

I feel alive and as if an aura starts forming around me. A magical world.

How do you see the musicians’ reality nowadays? What could be improved?

When we get gate-keepers out of the way and decision makers with 'ears' once again as it used to be back in the 60s. Not just accountants running everything. And let's consider JUST the quality of music, not the age of the performer!

What do you think of Drooble?

Too soon to have an opinion. We shall see! ;-)

What frustrates you most as a musician?

Ageism...and the fact that the best performers and writers are not the ones who succeed.

Do you support your local scene as a fan? How?

Not really my 'local' scene, but I'm always interested in hearing fine performers.

What qualities should a musician nowadays have in order to get their music heard by a larger audience?

Luck...just luck...and that includes finding a really effective (and honest) manager. It always was so. Nothing has changed

Share some awesome artists that we’ve never heard of.

You probably have never heard of Feodor Chaliapin, Celestina Boninsegna, Amelita Galli-Curci. Some of you may not know of Benny Carter and Ben Webster. As for NEW artistes...James Tormé and, from Italy, Celeste!