Guest Blog Post

Super duper excited to introduce the amazing Emma G from the band Static Era who has written the most fantastic blog post for us all this week. Keep reading for more on wardrobe malfunctions, pokemon and housecats!! Thanks so much Emma for taking the time to write this for us!! Be sure to check them out as they head out on tour this October!! <3

You can find Static Era online here or on Facebook here.

 

 

A few weeks ago, Linda asked me to write a blog, and – truth be told – I’ve been kind of putting it off. Not just because I’ve never written a blog before (well, not really), but also because I have absolutely NO idea what to write about! So I put out a call on my Facebook page, and asked what people wanted to know about me. I was posed with several questions, but before I get into those, let me tell you a bit about myself…

 

When I was seven years old, my mom asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I decided I wanted to do four things with my life: 1. Sing 2. Teach 3. Counsel (my mom is a counsellor) and 4. Be a mother. Seventeen years later, and it seems all I need to do now is have children, and my bucket list is pretty much done, though success is a funny – and often fickle – thing.

 

I often ask myself what it is that makes people content. Craving fame and fortune as a motive for doing music, while it would be nice, is actually not why I do it. The whole reason why I got into music in the first place is because, believe it or not, I love to sing! It’s one of the few things I can do in life that truly makes me feel heard – makes me feel important – and gives me an opportunity to be completely REAL. Which is also why I got into writing music – not to necessarily write a “hit song” filled with vapid lyrics about Friday nights or what it’s like to be one of the “beautiful people”, but to connect with people through music. One of the biggest compliments I’ve ever received was after this quiet solo gig in Wellington – at a place called The Garden Club. I’d just finished a two hour set, and as I walked off the stage, this woman came up to me with tears in her eyes and thanked me – saying she really felt she knew who I was, and how I had pretty much sang her life story. That was awesome. To connect with someone that strongly through lyrics and melody – priceless. So if I were to crave any “fame and glory”, it would be for that kind of feeling. That, and perhaps to encourage people to grow a brain, educate themselves, and help make the world a better place.

 

Anyway, I digress… My bucket list. As far as music goes – it’s an ongoing journey, such as life, I guess. I now sing in a hard rock band called “Static Era”, and we’re doing pretty well, I think! Radio and television play – which is also an interesting one. To have friends tell you that you’re on their telly screen, or to hear a radio announcer introduce your song… it’s kind of surreal. As a band, it’s hard to really pinpoint what “success” is – is it a number one hit? Is it touring the world and having no time off? Is it having airplay? Is it having your name splashed across the tabloids? I actually have no idea – but I guess it’s that whole “enjoy the journey, not the destination” thing really… which I like. Life is rad – it’s a rollercoaster, but I definitely enjoy it.

 

As for the rest of my bucket list, I also teach music and singing (both at Te Wananga o Aotearoa and Claire Baxter School of Dance), and work as a youth coordinator too! It’s awesome – being able to give back to the community, and (hopefully – if I’m doing my job right), helping to shape a positive future. Not many people know, but I was actually born with a condition called hydrocephalus (which literally means “water on the brain”), and have had 23 operations as a result. I think this actually made me want to do more with my life – because I was (if you want to get all spiritual on it) literally given a second chance… and third and fourth haha. So it means a lot to me to be able to put these second chances to good use! And actually HELP PEOPLE, cos feck knows I’ve received a shit load of help myself. I’m a big fan of the pay it forward concept, so if I can save the world one person at a time, that’s more than okay by me.

 

I’m really not sure what else to write in a blog. I was told to just write something inspiring, but I don’t really see myself as inspiring… so have no idea how I can be inspirational, without stealing some sort of cheesy Hallmark quote. Man, I’m cheesy enough on my Facebook and Twitter… hahaha! So, I shall revert to my good old question and answer technique…

 

Q. If you had to be an animal, what would you be and why?

A. Hands down, I would be a housecat. I currently have a REALLY bad case of wanting to do everything all at once. As my friends Anna and Vipal would say; “I want to do ALL the things”. I want to teach music, teach singing, save the children, go to the gym, have a band, go for walks, do solo gigs, do duo gigs, have a social life, read all the books…. I’m terrible at NOT doing stuff. Which cats are really good at. I’m not going to lie, I’m slightly jealous of my cat.

 

Q. What’s your favourite Pokemon?

A. Pikachu. Because he’s the only one I know.

 

Q. Which singers inspire you?

A. My first REAL inspiration was Gwen Stefani actually!! And she totally still is. She’s RAD!!! Her song “Just A Girl” – my first taste of feminism, I guess… haha. I even tried to write a song like her “Just a Girl” about how stupid it is that women are supposed to be feminine, and what that means. I think I was 8. And I think I still remember most of the lyrics… Haha. I was also really into the Spice Girls (decided I was going to be just like Scary Spice and – what do you know? I’m loud, black with curly hair, and a pierced tongue… you could say I’m scary! These days, my idols also include Pink (she’s just amazing), Beyonce (one of the most successful musicians – and she actually has a message to her music, which I love. The worst (for me) is the idea of being an influential chick who spouts on about men all the time. Especially about bending over backwards for them – seriously woman. You’re gonna hurt yourself. Learn to walk straight and beside a man, not behind him!!!) Also LOVE Lzzy Hale (Halestorm) and Cristina Scabbia (Lacuna Coil).

Q. What was your first professional gig?

A. Would have been in 2000 I think at Hamilton’s “Carols by Candlelight”. I had written and released a song called “Look Around” on a Waikato and Bay of Plenty compilation album. It was an RnB / hip hop track about how we need to wake up and see what we’re doing to the world – and MAKE A CHANGE!!! – and featured Marcus from the Native Sons. I remember I wore a pink boob tube and a long black skirt with splits up the side and big stomping boots. Haha. Such an awesome gig.
Q. When was the time you did your best ever?

A. I actually have no idea! I like to think that each gig I do, I get better and better. I think one of my most enjoyable gigs was at the Auckland Council’s
“Music in Parks” gig last year (2012) with I Am Giant and Rival State. I made the mistake of having a V before the show (thanks to The Rock roadies! Hahaha) and was literally bouncing on stage. Such an awesome day!

 

Q. The one thing that went wrong while live but you kept going

A. Losing my voice!!! I had been sick for a few weeks, and my voice was really dodgy. Halfway through a gig, I started losing my voice, and was FREAKING out!! But with the right diaphragmatic technique, pineapple juice (which is AMAZING for the voice, by the way), and a shot of jager…. I managed to last the night!

 

Q. What do you want to teach others?

A. To be themselves – and be proud of it. Embrace your awesomeness and embrace your suckiness! That’s who you are and it’s AWESOME!!! I also want to encourage people to challenge themselves – step outside their comfort zone and experience the new, the weird, and the scary. I always find that’s where the cool shit happens. Oh! And to think!! Don’t regurgitate information – read between the lies – I mean, lines – and do your research, think for yourself – be your own person!

 

Q. Ever had wardrobe malfunctions?

A. Just once!! Thank God. And it was only a bit of boob. Which is ok – cos boobs are cool. But it was mega embarrassing at the time!

 

Q. Where do you draw your strength from?

A. These days? Music. If I’m having a shit day, there’s nothing better than cranking up some of my favourite tunes and losing myself in positivity, in inspiration and in other peoples strength. Also, never underestimate the awesomeness of people. Just the other week, I was having a self-doubting day, and one of my students out of the blue opened up to me and thanked me for being his strength. That helped me a lot. The appreciation, and the reminder that I’m strong. I’m also a very spiritual person, and have always had a firm belief that I’m here for a reason – so remembering that gives me a great sense of strength. And definitely my mom, my best friend and my boyfriend. They are, without a doubt, my rocks J

 

Q. If you feel fear how do you deal with it?

A. Stare evil in the eyes and kick its balls. That’s a Krav Maga quote – and I LOVE it!!! There’s no other way to live. If I’m scared, I take a deep breath, have faith that the universe will guide me, and jump.

 

Q. Who has been a significant role model you have looked up to in your life?

A. I find role models a strange concept. I have heaps, but for different reasons. I guess the main one would be my mother - an incredibly strong, resilient, intelligent and talented woman. Musically? Pink / Gwen Stefani / Cristina Scabbia / Lzzy Hale. Outlook on life-wise? Helen Clark. That woman is bad ass.

 

Q. What are your setbacks and breakthroughs?

A. My setbacks are kind of the same as my breakthroughs. I like that whole “take the road less travelled” approach. Being of darker complexion, I’ve always been pigeonholed into being a jazz, blues or RnB singer, and, granted, while I started off that way, I found homage in rock music. This does mean, however, that people find it weird, but I like that. I like to bite back at stereotypes. Kind of a “fuck you, I’ma do what I like, cos I can – and you’re wrong” thing… it works for me. Haha. Another interesting judgement was getting told I’ll never make it because I’m not blonde and size 2. Again; watch me.

 

Q. What are you most proud of?

A. My life. I’m here. I’m breathing. I’ve got great friends and an amazing family. I have (several) worthwhile and well-respected jobs that are helping the community. And I’m happy! The only possible thing at the moment that could be missing is a Dodge Charger, or Charger… but even that would get dirty after a couple of weeks.

 

So that’s it from me! I hope you enjoyed this scintillating piece of literature! If you want to know more, or have any more questions, hit me up on www.facebook.com/staticera or ask the lovely Linda to get in touch!

 

Peace!

Hey Guys,

Super stoked to have my good friend Mallory from Mallory Xavier doing a guest blog post for you all today. In it she explains a bit more about what goes into creating her awesome designs and has some great thoughts on compromise and advice for anyone wanting to achieve their goals. You can see all her fantastic designs here and like her on Facebook here.

Take it away Mallory..

 

 

I am Mallory and I am the designer of Mallory Xavier – New Zealand Made Toddler Couture. I am currently in the process of sewing the pieces for my Spring/Summer 2013 collection ‘honeysuckle,’ which will be released early September. This week I am on a strict deadline to get everything complete for Saturday’s photo shoot with Linda. So between jobs on my ‘to do’ list I am going to do a little writing on my design process, and how it has changed between my first collection and this one.

My collections have always started with a fabric. The first Spring/Summer collections fabric was shell pink rayon that was not actually used in the final collection. This collection the fabric that sparked the design process is pink and white gingham that has been used to make the girls skirts and headbands. That initial fabric sets the tone. From there I draw and edit and look at images online, in books and in the world. The first Mallory Xavier collection was called ‘Berry.’ The name was decided due to the tones of the fabrics used. This years Spring/Summer collection is called ‘Honeysuckle’ and is based on the colour and shapes of the honeysuckle flowers. After designing I will begin sewing and after a few weeks will have a collection ready to have photographed.

The design process I used for this collection was quite different to that of my last. I have included a full boys range in this collection which was scary for me. I found that boys wear took a lot longer to design, because they needed to be special – something that couldn’t be purchased in any old store. I began thinking that there was not a lot of scope for boys wear but I have changed my mind. I just don’t think that boys are given many options and so boyswear is an exciting new venture for me.

A challenge that I have met is that my designs tend to naturally be architectural, and this time I wanted to embrace a softness that I’d never used before. It is hard for me to step out of my comfort zone with design, but I think it is extremely important. Gail Sheehy said “Growth demands a temporary surrender of security.” I think that’s true. A temporary surrender of security and a hell-of-a-lot-of work! Back when I was studying at Wintec I was extremely hesitant to accept critique, and to adapt designs for anyone else. While studying I could do that – I was making one off pieces for specific briefs, and being marked and judged on my personal interpretation of that brief. Now I am designing and sewing for a living, all critiques are important. When designing for others, the important thing that sticks out is ‘saleability.’ My first line was a demonstration of my taste. I didn’t design for saleability – I was still being stubborn. And though the garments did sell, the ones that sold quickly were not the ones I expected to. This year saleability has been in my mind throughout my entire design process. It is why I made my boys shirts white and not pink (like I was initially intending on doing), and why the garments this year are softer in design and much more easy and comfortable to wear.

Starting any business is a challenge. The last two years have been an emotional roller coaster. Because my new collection has not been seen yet I am both terrified and excited. I think that a willingness to adapt, learn and ask for help are the things that have kept me going. My design process will continue to adapt and refresh and I think that it is a good thing. I believe that so long as I am being challenged in the creation of my work, then my work can remain fresh.