[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
As an artist, it is so important to not just be a singer, or guitarist, or drummer, but to be a musician. Studio artist Ron Bates is a true musician to the core. Since the first time Ron walked into the studio about a year ago, he has hit the ground running and continues to grow in every aspect of his craft. Ron has always been a lover of music, but just recently decided to jump into the scene himself.
“When I was young (7-10 years old) my brother Fred was a drummer in a local rock and roll band. They rehearsed at our house, so I naturally listened to a lot of music,” Ron said. “Fast forward to my college years and I was listening to a lot of that acoustic pop stuff coming out of that era. I was moved by those sounds and decided one day I should try to learn how to play guitar. But I was always way too self conscious to try to sing in front of anyone. Another 20 years of just casually playing guitar but never playing complete songs or singing for anyone, a friend of mine had started to post some YouTube videos of covers he was recording at his house. I thought if he could do it, so could I. So I started to record myself as well.”
Ron believes the studio taught him not just the technical aspects of singing, but also helped him become more well-rounded as an artist.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with the whole crew at the studio,” Ron said. “Whitney is a great coach who puts in genuine dedication to every session. She has really helped me become a better and more confident performer. I’ve also taken part in songwriting workshops and other unique offerings like the recent socially distanced online open mic. How cool was that!? I think that all of the “extra curricular” offerings that the studio offers are really great. How do I book a gig? How do I try out for a talent search? How do I create a press kit? You got questions? Patrice has answers!”
Ron credits the studio with helping to build his confidence not only as a performer, but in all aspects of life.
“I haven’t been singing/performing live in front of other people for very long. The confidence to do so is a big challenge. While improving my vocals is certainly a primary focus, the end result for me has been a real boost in my self confidence levels. That confidence is allowing me to take on bigger challenges. Whether that’s a bigger song I never thought I’d try to tackle, or even other things in life outside of music.”
As an artist, we often think of our favorite career moments being the times we felt great success. But for Ron, his favorite moment so far has been that of learning and a quick reaction time.
“Ironically, my favorite moment was screwing up,” Ron said. “Having to stop in the middle of a song to find my place, essentially start over. in front of a crowd. It was quite embarrassing and humbling. But I regrouped and I did finish. Shake it off, don’t worry about what some people may think, and move forward. It’s 100% OK to screw up!!! My 7 year old daughter was there to watch me that night and I’m glad she got to see that.”
Ron has his eyes set on finishing up some of his original music (that we will hopefully get to hear soon!), performing them live and also possibly performing at some local venues!
We can wait to see Ron continue to grow as a vocalist, performer, and individual artist because his passion, drive, and talent are unmatched. Ron’s inpsiration comes from artists such as Sam Smith, Florence and the Machine, and Chris Stapleton. He also draws inspiration from his older brother.
“I am also inspired in life as well as music, by my older brother Fred, who passed away to Leukemia when I was in high school,” Ron said. “He was a drummer in a local 80’s rock and roll band. He’d still be playing those drums if he were still with us, and that alone makes me want to always try and be better.”
Be sure to check out and subscribe to Ron’s YouTube channel to keep up with all of his new videos!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]