A FROME musician has gone to New York to create his debut album with one of his favourite songwriters.
Mark Maddrell is currently in New York producing his debut album with Simone Felice, from The Felice Brothers and The Duke & The King.
The opportunity came about after Mark sent a copy of some of his songs to Simone with a request to work together. Within 24 hours Simone got in touch and plans were arranged to work together in January.
The cost of the trip to New York costs thousands and Mark has been busy fundraising to fund a trip of a lifetime. He has raised £10,000 so far for the three weeks he is stateside which includes living expenses, accommodation, backing vocalists and musicians and time in the studio.
Mark said, “It’s an unbelievable privilege for me to be able to say that Simone is going to produce and play on my album, along with other artists such as James Felice (The Felice Brothers) and Simi Stone (The Duke & The King).
“This is a pivotal point in my life. I am not focusing on what it may lead to, but it is a life-changing opportunity; and I am selling my most valuable possessions, including my guitars, to pay as much as I can towards it.
“Things have changed in the music business, and to get a record deal where you get paid upfront is pretty rare – you have to have a name like Bette Midler before record companies will look at you. So I have to pay for the services. I am getting it all at a good rate, as Simone is calling in some favours. He is certain we are going to make a world-class record.
“I have raised £10,000 and need £10,000 more to cover all the costs out here. Luckily I didn’t have to pay all costs upfront, or I wouldn’t be here. It is amazing how the smaller donations add up, and each contribution has really proved its worth. I am deeply humbled by everyone’s generosity and support, and intend to honour them and myself by making the best record I can.”
Mark has his own website that has some of his songs, additional information about his trip to New York and a daily blog on how it is going.
To view his website go to www.markmaddrell.com where details on how to make a donation can be found.
