April 2011
Kady Malloy and Andrea Young
|
Former Java Journal cover girl Andrea Young has had many twists and turns in her musical journey. The last time she was featured, she was part of an all-girl trio that seemed right on the edge of success. In January of last year, however, she gave up on it—and her salary—with no plan.
“I knew something was wrong,” she said. “I woke up every day feeling like something was missing. We were doing so many exciting things, but I found myself edgy or disappointed all the time.”
So when the group was put on hold, Andrea abandoned ship.
“The only thing I knew is, that at the end of the day, it didn’t matter if we were opening up for some big country star or filming for TV or whatever, we weren’t a real group—we were put together by an investor and each of us was given a role. I just wanted to be myself and make my own music—without drama.”
After her departure, she spent all of her time on the phone with her usual advisers, including her producer and loyal friend, D. Scott Miller. “D. told me he didn’t care what I wanted to do, that he would always do everything he could to help me with my career. With him behind me, I felt brave enough to dream again, and was ready to make some decisions.”
The first thing she decided was that, even though she was absolutely capable of having a solo career, she wanted to collaborate and be in a group. The second decision was even easier. “I literally thought, if I could work with any singer right now, who would it be?” Within five minutes she was on the phone with Kady Malloy, a former American Idol (Season 7) contestant. The funny thing was, they had actually met while passing through some of the different configurations of her old trio. As a matter of fact, they had been told that they could play together, even if it wasn‘t in the trio.
“Well, obviously, that turned into another broken promise,” she said. “But we are so glad it happened that way. We are not owned by anyone—we’ve got a lot less money, but we are free!”
The girls have spent the last 10 months finding out who they are musically, as a duo. Since they had maintained a friendship due to their chance meeting in 2008, everything they have done so far has come naturally.
Andrea’s songwriting skills have also played a large role. Stephanie Bentley (Faith Hill’s Breathe), Cliff Downs, Amanda Williams (Garth Brooks’ Beer Run) and Kris Bergsnes have all co-written songs with her that are now part of the girls’ show. D. Scott Miller came on to produce the duo, and introduced the girls to one of his artists, American Idol runner-up, Bo Bice.
“Bo has become a role model for us. He’s amazingly talented, but down to earth—a straight shooter. They have both been very generous with their time.”
Kady and Andrea have been enjoying every part of the development of their group. The two have been playing across the country and getting plenty of seasoning—and notice. The Houston Chronicle referred to them as “…one of top five acts to look out for in 2011.” They’ve been featured on Fox News and will appear on Great Day Houston this month.
They are gearing up to release two tracks to iTunes, and just recently filmed a promo video. In March, they are filming their first music video in Texas, with photographer/videographer LeeRoy Holmes. Andrea’s advice for aspiring musicians? “Keep going, no matter what. Obstacles are only obstacles if that’s the way you see them. Try to remember the people you work with along the way at their best. Keep the happy memories. You will never be disappointed with your choices if you do.”
You can keep up with them through their website: kadyandandrea.com.
|