Exposed Vocals: So tell us your story. Where did you grow up? What made you decide to become an artist?

AR: I am from New Jersey and still reside in North Jersey. My beginnings started at church. My parents were involved in the Music Ministry at church and I was always there at their rehearsals. The influence of music was around from the date of my birth. Going forward, I continue to mold and perfect my craft as I played at church, then after going on tour and recordings. As any musician would, I was playing with different Latin Inspirational Artists and freelancing wherever I was needed. But in 2006 I wanted to add to my music career and become a musician-artist oppose to only being a typical musician.

Exposed Vocals: What do you think about online music sharing? Do you ever give your music away for free? Why?

AR: I think as an independent musician, you need to take in all opportunities to get your music into people’s devices. Unless you’re a major and made Artist and you are entitled to not give it for free.

Exposed Vocals: Since everyone was a start-up once, can you give any smaller or local bands or artists looking to get gigs and airplay some tips?

AR: Always be humble and no matter how far you’ve come, always remember there are more miles to run and new people to meet. Treat opportunities as if it’s your first.

Exposed Vocals: Do you ever make mistakes during performances? How do you handle that?

AR: Yes! I handle it by moving forward. There’s no telling the band or show to stop and start again, unless you’re in a recording studio.

Exposed Vocals: Do you tour? Anything interesting happen on tour that you think our readers would enjoy hearing about?

AR: Firstly, roommates that snore. That sucks! I remember years ago I went on a tour and my bandmates were making mother jokes. The guys making the jokes were like my brothers. So, this guy that I met for the first time wanted to join in and talk about my mom. So I hit back with a mom joke and the guy wanted to fight! Afterwards we forgave and moved on.

Exposed Vocals: Where do you usually gather songwriting inspiration? What is your usual songwriting process?

AR: I mostly get Artist’s to send me their melodies with lyrics, and I compose music to it. I started with a reference piano and add on ideas afterward. Sometimes it’s vice versa. I put together simple chord changes for Artists to compose lyrics to. All projects are different. Keeping it simple is the best way to describe how I begin the process. Then building momentum.

Exposed Vocals: Do you have a band website? What online platforms do you use to share your music?

AR: My official site is:

http://www.AnthonyRodriguezOnline.com

http://Facebook.com/AnthonyRodiguezOnline

http://Twitter.com/iamAntRodriguez

http://Instagram.com/realAnthonyRodriguez

http://YouTube.com/AnthonyRodriguezTV

http://Vimeo.com/AnthonyRodriguezTV

Exposed Vocals: What are some really embarrassing songs that we might find on your mp3 player?

AR: HAHA!! I wouldn’t release anything I would be embarrassed of. Maybe try researching some old stuff from when I was a teenager. The only problem is, I wasn’t on the internet back then.

Exposed Vocals: If you were given half a million dollars and a year off, what would you do? How would you spend it?

AR: I would take care of all my personal issues and invest. And use the funds to grow my foundation, The Anthony Rodriguez Foundation.

Exposed Vocals: Any planned studio upgrades? What are you working with now?

AR: Just recently I signed with a new management called, McCaffery Media Group. I will be releasing a new single and afterwards the full album. For right now, I am still pushing he record, Shackles (Latin Tribute to Mary Mary) which you can find in any online music store. Check it out!! #ShacklesSalsa

Exposed Vocals: How do you find ways to promote your music? What works best for you?

AR: There isn’t a clear answer to that. Promoting music is so delicate. Sometimes you have to combine something that’s not music but relevant to your music. It’s weird. But in order to
promote music, you have to do unconventional things. Check out my Facebook page. What I can say is, not trying to sell too hard. Developing relationships with the followers is KEY. Look at it like a relationship.

Exposed Vocals: If you could perform anywhere and with any artists (Dead or Alive) where and who would it be with? Why?

AR: Well I am a strong Latin player. So Marc Anthony, would be ideal. I was mentored by Juan Gonzalez the producer to Marc’s “Libre” album and current pianist. I don’t see that positioning opening up anytime soon. Haha!

Exposed Vocals: So, what’s next? Any new upcoming projects that you want to talk about?

AR: New album that will be Caribbean Jazz coming 2016 and pushing #ShackleSalsa which is registered for two music competitions that can possibly lead to awards. Wish me luck.

Exposed Vocals: If you weren’t making music, what would you be doing?

AR: I have no idea.

Exposed Vocals: Do you remember buying your first album? Who was it? What was going through your head?

AR: Wow! Raised in church I wasn’t allowed to listen to secular music. I remember my friend lend me a DR. Dre CD and I didn’t know who that was. When I played it, all I heard was curses. I was shocked!!

Exposed Vocals: How do you juggle the rest of your responsibilities while trying to stay ahead in your music life?

AR: Being a Dad, Husband, Music Entrepreneur, Musician, Author and Speaker; is a rollercoaster ride. Sometimes I just have to let go of my phone and work in general and watch a movie or just have conversations. The same way I love my family is the same way I love my work. At times I’m good at balancing, but honestly, there are times I need to be reminded.

Exposed Vocals: What should fans look forward to in 2016?

AR: A lot! I am super active on Facebook, constantly posting videos, music and content that invites my fans to interact and engage. New music and more! I have no idea of the title to my new album, haha!