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April 26, 2012
DETOUR
Lyricist a finalist in Hip-Hop
First Coachella, now Stagecoach
Joshua Brown once again participated in the global John Lennon Songwriting Contest
BRITTNEY DRAKE
The three-day event will host more than 30 country musical talents For the Daily Titan
ROXY TELLES Daily Titan
Every year, amateur and professional songwriters around the world submit their original songs to compete in the John Lennon Songwriting Contest. This year, Cal State Fullerton student Joshua Brown, 24, an advertising major, is a finalist competing with one other artist in the HipHop category. His song, “Runnin’ My Race,” was a Grand Prize winner for this category in 2011. If Brown beats out his competition, he becomes eligible for the Song of the Year award and a $20,000 prize. “For me, personally, (winning) kind of just lets me know — it was kind of a reminder — that I’m on the right path,” said Brown. The international contest began in 1997 and is committed to providing opportunity to songwriters of all levels. The winner from each of the 12 categories wins awards and prizes, and also competes for the title of Song of the Year. Tiana Lewis, tour coordinator and assistant director for the John Lennon Educational Tour Bus, said the John Lennon Songwriting Contest is unique compared to other singing competitions. “What sets us apart from other contests is that we don’t judge songs on the quality of production; we are really able to focus on the lyrics and composition of a song,” said Lewis. “There are many aspiring songwriters out there with hesitance toward shopping their demos because they can’t sing or don’t have the production resources to ‘sell’ themselves. In keeping John’s legacy alive, promoting the importance of songwriting and creativity are paramount for connecting with all artists.” Brown, also known as Cahlaj on stage, is influenced by the music of rappers Jay-Z, Tupac Shakur, Nas, Eminem and The Notorious B.I.G. The inspiration of his writing comes from real life, real emotion and real energy. “I think I want my music to be like a bridge for understanding — for people to have a
Courtesy of Joshua Brown Joshua Brown was the Grand Prize winner in 2011 for his song, “Runnin’ My Race.” He began his music career in high school and local talent shows which led him to work with Tupac Shakur’s first manager.
more reflective view of themselves — a better understanding of another outlook in society that may not be talked about or looked upon,” Brown said. Brown started his musical career about six years ago while he was in high school. He became involved in several local talent shows and worked on some projects for Black History Month, which eventually led him to work with Tupac Shakur’s first manager, Leila Steinberg. He has performed at various events around Orange County and Los Angeles, most recently at Fusion, CSUF’s poetry event presented by the Afro-Ethnic Student Association. The event took place in March and is held every semester. CSUF student Jacqueline Snell attended the event and watched Brown perform live. “The event itself was really inspiring. All of the artists were amazing, but he (Brown) — I definitely think that he stood out,” said Snell. “He’s just a really great performer, so I’m glad he’s being recognized for the work that he’s done ... He’s really talented and I definitely think he deserves to win.” Under the selection system of the contest,
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We don’t judge songs on the quality of production; we are really able to focus on the lyrics ... Tiana Lewis Tour Coordinator
the winner is chosen by online voters as well as a panel of professional judges that include professional singers/songwriters, performers and industry veterans. To hear CAHLAJ’s song, as well as the other songs from the finalists, go to JLSC.com. “I think people should listen to both of the songs and see which one speaks to you,” Brown said. “Not taking away from the other artists, but if you listen to both tracks and my record touches you, then you should vote.” The voting is open until Friday, and the winners of both sessions will compete to become the Lennon Award winner in each category. Brown will begin working on his second project in May. For more information about his work, visit ThePoetMC.com.
The Empire Polo Club in Indio, Calif. prepares for music, laughter, fun, some of the biggest names in country music, and of course a ton of screaming fans as they set up for the sixth annual Stagecoach country music festival. Country music fans come from all over the United States to take part in this experience that has become the second largest country music festival in the nation. Stagecoach is a three-day event that will take place Friday to Sunday with a set schedule of performers each day. People are expected to start arriving at the event as early as Thursday and stay as late as Monday. More than 60,000 people will be attending and staying for the weekend. From past experience, there won’t be a hotel within 15 miles that isn’t sold out. Those who don’t stay at a hotel can stay at a designated area connected to the venue and camp. Attendees will be staying in RVs, trailers, cars and tents. Stagecoach has something for everyone. There will be more than 30 performers with a wide range of artists including Alabama, Luke Bryan, Brad Paisley, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Martina McBride, The Band Perry, Eli Young Band, Sheryl Crow and Kenny Rogers. Whether you’re 7 or 70, you are likely to enjoy the event. “This will be my first year at Stagecoach, and I can’t wait,” said Ashley Chaffin. “Everyone I’ve talked to has guaranteed me that it will be the time of my life and something I will never forget.” Whether it’s your first time or sixth time, proper preparation will
Each year I add more things to pack and bring with me. Since the day I left last year, I’ve been waiting to come back. Alyx Dominguez Third-time attendee
make your experience that much more enjoyable. “I become more prepared each year, and each year (I) add more things to pack and bring with me,” said Alyx Dominguez, a third-time attendee. “Since the day I left last year, I’ve been waiting to come back.” As fans prepare to camp, clothes seem to be the item taking up the least amount of room. Heavy clothing won’t be necessary considering the temperatures are predicted to soar into the high 90s. Along with the music, there will also be a ferris wheel, karaoke, pinball tournaments and many food and shopping booths. Although beer reigns as the number one drink, with the high energy and temperature, everyone will want plenty of water on hand. Fans lather up with sunscreen, throw on cowboy boots, a cowboy hat, shorts and get ready to soak up the sun. This is an event that many say you must attend at least once in your life. Stagecoach will benefit local charities such as the Indio Youth Task Force, Indio Senior Center and Silverlake Conservatory of Music. You’ll feel as though you are with 60,000 of your closest friends who are so incredibly taken by the music and activities, and you won’t see a single person without a smile on his or her face. Every night is going to be a memory that lasts a lifetime. Like Blake Shelton sings, “I don’t want this night to end.”