ACCOMPLISHMENTS, Research by Christian Helwig
1983
The band are awarded Best Album (“Rio”) and Best Group, and Simon is awarded Best Male Vocalist, at the British Rock & Pop Awards.
“Seven and the Ragged Tiger” goes Gold and Platinum in one week in the UK.
Became only the third act in history, after The Beatles and Elvis Presley to enter at #1 on the UK Singles Chart with “Is There Something I Should Know” (4th single in history).
1984
The ‘Sing Blue Silver Tour’ tour becomes the first act to utilize live video cameras and screens in their show. They break every existing merchandise record during this tour.
Won the Grammy for ‘Best Music Video/Short Form’ for “Girls on Film / Hungry Like the Wolf”.
Won the Grammy for ‘Best Music Video/Long Form’ for “Duran Duran – The Video Album”.
1985
Became the only artist with “A View to a Kill” to have a #1 single for a James Bond theme song on the Billboard Hot 100.
Won a Brit Award for ‘Best British Video’ for “Wild Boys”
1993
The band is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
A world-first Enhanced-CD produced by AMXstudios [Alasdair Scott and Malcolm Garrett] premiered at the EMI Records world conference in Brighton, 1993. “Universe” featured a revolutionary audio mixer, allowing users to remix “Ordinary World” on their CD-ROM enabled computers.
1994
Received the ‘Best Song Musically & Lyrically’ Ivor Novella Award for “Ordinary World”.
Became the longest winning ‘MTV Friday Night Video Fights’ winner having to be retired, still holding that title with ‘The Reflex”.
1997
Became the first artist to commercially sell a single over the Internet in 1997 with “Electric Barbarella”.
2000
“Someone Else Not Me” was the first music video to use Flash technology.
During the “Pop Trash” US tour, the band plays a week’s residency at the House of Blues in Los Angeles, smashing all attendance records.
The UK Pop Trash tour features the world’s first use of “augmented reality” technology in a live concert. Duran Duran works with a computer graphics producer to create advanced 2D and 3D visual effects, which allows animated characters to appear live on stage with the band.
2001
During their ‘Close Up Tour’ of the USA, Their five-night stint at Chicago’s House of Blues break all records for their fastest sell out shows ever.
During a ‘Close Up Tour’ show in Anaheim, California, the first fully immersed video and audio recording of a rock concert is conducted. The live rock experience is captured using a unique 360-degree panoramic video and 10.2 channel audio recording system. This pioneering recording is coordinated by producer Jarrell Pair with audio/video researchers working with Dr. Tom Holman, famous for creating Lucasfilm’s THX audio standard.
2003
For the first time in history Ticketmaster’s servers crashed for 30 minutes due to the demand of the band’s August 27 Webster Hall show.
Received the ‘MTV Lifetime Achievement Award’
Received the ‘Q Lifetime Achievement Award’.
2004
Won the Brit Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music’
2005
Received the Ivor Novella Award for ‘Outstanding Contribution to Music’.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
Interview with In City
Français
Smoky Club…Clove Cigarette…Black Eye Liner…Dancing in the Dark…Erotic Love are all the things that come to mind and awake the senses when listening to Your Velvet Heaven by INCITY...
The project from Minsk which started in the end of spring 2009 behind the name IN CITY is vocalist, musician and songwriter Alex Thorn. The debut EP “Rock in the City” named as rock music with pop/synth/electro elements, orchestral arrangements, male and female voices. Musically this EP includes elegant, powerful and magnetic melodies. From extreme guitar drive to classical instruments, drum'n'bass beats, male and female voices, electronic samples and many more that is In City
Alex has sat down with Ladyaslan aka as Rio from the Duran Duran to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame campaign from MySpace and Facebook to talk of music and why DD should be inducted~
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Tell us about In City....who's who and what style is your music?
INCITY (synth/rock band from Belarus) was formed by me (Alex) in the past year and on this moment we have one mini-album with simple name "Rock in the City” Here I wanted to express and unite a different kinds of music as a songwriter and vocalist. The concept includes an extreme guitar drive, various electronic samples, orchestral instruments, two vocal's lines(male and female) and even a drum'n'bass elements on "Waves of Electro" song is without any borders and the lyrical part of this album tells about love, desires, insanity (in good sense:)), night feelings, travelling and emotional potential in each person. All this time I co-operated with session musicians but recently Andrew on guitar and Vladimir on bass join me. So... now we can play live and making our first video clip.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
INCITY: Of course! And also in the world catalog of GREAT synth New Wave bands (if such could be) of top 10 or 15 most popular synth/pop bands in the world they have great music, arrangements, promo campaigns as far back as 80’s and certainly original voices and visual perception.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Has Duran Duran ( songs or videos....) influenced the way you think as a writer/musician?
INCITY: It's not a secret that many Synth music groups have stopped their activity after 5 or 10 years of their existence. But Duran Duran are long life phenomenon’s and additionally they have to last for the fans they have great albums. We hope to be relevant and last in the heart of our fans like Duran Duran.
The band mates of DD are well over 40 years old now and they are making such original and energetic music still like the (2007) album deserving a double respecting. They worked with Timbaland on some mixes and I co-operated with Kate (Waves of Electro and Tonight on Highway signer). And of course their romantic atmosphere on more early albums always impressed me. Yes they have influenced us as a band.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
INCITY: For me (like a many people around the world) DD are the mirror and symbol of 80’s. They are reflections of this epoch exactly. Since 1981 they sold out a millions of tour dates and albums with great music and hereby became the fashion moguls of true mode. In the future they will only confirm that true artists will never fade away.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What is one of your favorite songs or videos or both by Duran Duran?
INCITY: It's hard to pick just one song or video as the best. The band is very talented and long lifed. They have a several periods of music…I like all songs from the last two albums.
Of course hits from 90’s like Ordinary World and Come Undone. I have listened to their tracks since the beginning(1981).
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Would you like to see an entire Glee episode dedicated to Duran Duran like they did for Madonna?
INCITY: I have not seen this serial ( TV show ). I heard about that but I can't say anything. Probably I must correct this omission. I'll begin with "The power of Madonna":) so if it worked with Madonna it could work for Duran Duran.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Where can we purchase a copy of your EP and when can we expect a full CD?
INCITY: In the following weeks…may be later…a FREE Mp3 download of our new single "Own Reality" from the official website www.incityrock.com. We don't have a contract with any record labels ( yet ) and our EP is not out for sale just yet We will keep our fans in the loop with new info on our EP. Providing a valid e-mail address INCITY can send an mp3 tracks via e-mail if one would like. The full length INCITY album is in production and will be done approximately at the end of 2010.
Thanks for interview and your interest!
Alex (INCITY band)
Like what you read?? Join them on MySpace:
www.myspace.com/incityrock
Smoky Club…Clove Cigarette…Black Eye Liner…Dancing in the Dark…Erotic Love are all the things that come to mind and awake the senses when listening to Your Velvet Heaven by INCITY...
The project from Minsk which started in the end of spring 2009 behind the name IN CITY is vocalist, musician and songwriter Alex Thorn. The debut EP “Rock in the City” named as rock music with pop/synth/electro elements, orchestral arrangements, male and female voices. Musically this EP includes elegant, powerful and magnetic melodies. From extreme guitar drive to classical instruments, drum'n'bass beats, male and female voices, electronic samples and many more that is In City
Alex has sat down with Ladyaslan aka as Rio from the Duran Duran to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame campaign from MySpace and Facebook to talk of music and why DD should be inducted~
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Tell us about In City....who's who and what style is your music?
INCITY (synth/rock band from Belarus) was formed by me (Alex) in the past year and on this moment we have one mini-album with simple name "Rock in the City” Here I wanted to express and unite a different kinds of music as a songwriter and vocalist. The concept includes an extreme guitar drive, various electronic samples, orchestral instruments, two vocal's lines(male and female) and even a drum'n'bass elements on "Waves of Electro" song is without any borders and the lyrical part of this album tells about love, desires, insanity (in good sense:)), night feelings, travelling and emotional potential in each person. All this time I co-operated with session musicians but recently Andrew on guitar and Vladimir on bass join me. So... now we can play live and making our first video clip.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
INCITY: Of course! And also in the world catalog of GREAT synth New Wave bands (if such could be) of top 10 or 15 most popular synth/pop bands in the world they have great music, arrangements, promo campaigns as far back as 80’s and certainly original voices and visual perception.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Has Duran Duran ( songs or videos....) influenced the way you think as a writer/musician?
INCITY: It's not a secret that many Synth music groups have stopped their activity after 5 or 10 years of their existence. But Duran Duran are long life phenomenon’s and additionally they have to last for the fans they have great albums. We hope to be relevant and last in the heart of our fans like Duran Duran.
The band mates of DD are well over 40 years old now and they are making such original and energetic music still like the (2007) album deserving a double respecting. They worked with Timbaland on some mixes and I co-operated with Kate (Waves of Electro and Tonight on Highway signer). And of course their romantic atmosphere on more early albums always impressed me. Yes they have influenced us as a band.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
INCITY: For me (like a many people around the world) DD are the mirror and symbol of 80’s. They are reflections of this epoch exactly. Since 1981 they sold out a millions of tour dates and albums with great music and hereby became the fashion moguls of true mode. In the future they will only confirm that true artists will never fade away.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What is one of your favorite songs or videos or both by Duran Duran?
INCITY: It's hard to pick just one song or video as the best. The band is very talented and long lifed. They have a several periods of music…I like all songs from the last two albums.
Of course hits from 90’s like Ordinary World and Come Undone. I have listened to their tracks since the beginning(1981).
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Would you like to see an entire Glee episode dedicated to Duran Duran like they did for Madonna?
INCITY: I have not seen this serial ( TV show ). I heard about that but I can't say anything. Probably I must correct this omission. I'll begin with "The power of Madonna":) so if it worked with Madonna it could work for Duran Duran.
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Where can we purchase a copy of your EP and when can we expect a full CD?
INCITY: In the following weeks…may be later…a FREE Mp3 download of our new single "Own Reality" from the official website www.incityrock.com. We don't have a contract with any record labels ( yet ) and our EP is not out for sale just yet We will keep our fans in the loop with new info on our EP. Providing a valid e-mail address INCITY can send an mp3 tracks via e-mail if one would like. The full length INCITY album is in production and will be done approximately at the end of 2010.
Thanks for interview and your interest!
Alex (INCITY band)
Like what you read?? Join them on MySpace:
www.myspace.com/incityrock
Interview with Ty, King of Trash
Français
Honest…Gutsy…Feisty…Opinionated…Loyal …and a sense of wicked humour describes the self proclaimed King of Trash~
A free spirit was born, Tyrone Lee Needham, in Nottingham on the 19th August 1976. His career has often taken him away from the town he grew up in. Ty, however, keeps in very close touch with his roots and still considers Nottingham to be his true home. “Duran Duran is one of the many influences along with Elvis and Dusty Springfield to name a few”.
There are many people that have had influenced Ty, but one of the most important is Mark Gamble, who Ty has known and worked with since 1999. A hugely successful artist and producer in his own right, Mark had found success with his own band Krush and also produced a string of hit singles including Don't Go by KWS. Together, Mark and Ty perfected their creative partnership and in 2005 Ty began working on his first completely self written solo album.
Here is DDTTRH's interview with him:
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
TY: Bloody right, in fact those boys deserves knighthoods, for their musical contributions ,and the revenue they have brought to the UK over the past 30 years, give ‘em their Hall of Fame honour ya buggers…or we will send in the dogs!! hahahaha (joke)
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: In what ways do you think Duran Duran paved the way for electro bands etc....over the years?
Ty: Anyone that makes pop electro, and then say they were not inspired by Duran Duran are lying...to make pop music you have to go back to the 80s; they paved the way cause they showed that you can be free with music, free with your attitude, and music was there to be both enjoyed and played and with that you can bring classic pop melodies in with guitars and synth!!!! YEA!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
Ty: Hmmm....Girls on Film video...(song fared well on the radio and the charts before the notoriously titillating video was filmed, but the controversy that ensued helped to keep the band in the public eye and the song on the charts for many weeks) basically they’re saying get stuffed where having fun we are making music we like and we are having fun and if it shocks people then great...Duran Duran brought a new kind of fan base (EVERYONE) I’ve not seen any fans more loyal than Duran Duran fan’s and also they are still working and touring and sounding even better after 30years!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: what was the genesis for the song Nostalgia (R.I.P.)
Ty: This song in its original sound had a very Pet Shop Boys sound, I was tired of seeing people not liking pop music because their friends didn’t find it to be cool, or because it wasn’t cool to listen to pop music. I was listening too kids saying....Pet Shop Boys, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran, Dusty Springfield, and Motown...this was all now considered cheesy..I was both hurt and shocked because this music paved the way for music that kids listen to now and I decided to re-write “Nostalgia”, while I was writing, I heard Michael Jackson was dead...I was heart-broken another pop music creature and talent was gone...so I re-wrote Nostalgia based on Michael Jackson, and as I call it the day the music died!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Are you involved in any charities?
Ty: yes I am. I’m involved with the Treehouse Appeal in Ipswich UK, the charity is about raising as much money as possible so they can build a hospice for children. They loved my song "Rainbow Never Dies" so I said all money from this track would go to their charity...I’ve done radio interviews etc…
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What does the term "New Romantic pop" mean to you?
Ty: It means freedom, it means melodic fab classic music, it means balls to ya all because I’m making the music I love, and music is what feelings sound like!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
Ty: Tough one…err… as a song it would be New Moon on Monday, as a video, it would have to be Rio....I wanna belt out a song on a posh boat toooo lol
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Had Duran Duran inspired any of your lyrics or melodies when you sit down to create?
Ty: I wouldn’t really say they inspired my lyrics, but I would definitely say they inspired some of my melodies...how can Duran Duran not inspire pop fan’s music?
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What are your plans for the future…anything you would like to share about your band?
Ty: At the moment I’m writing and recording my next album...I’m 6 songs in. This album has a more earthy edgy sound and I’m very excited, I’ve been writing with my friend Tom Emerson, we work well together and I love it, but also love my work on my own. I’m currently looking to work with other producers and also continue to work with my main producer Mark Gamble,
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: If you could remake a Duran Duran song which would it be and why?
Ty: New Moon on Monday...it’s special to me, and I think it’s their most fresh and melodic song yet! I’ve always loved their records and would love to cover New Moon on Monday!!! :-)
hope that is ok...thank you sooooooo much that was fun, if I can help in anyway let me know, thank you for the interview. Hope to speak very soon
xxx from Tyrone xx
To learn more about Ty aka King of Trash, click the links below~
http://www.reverbnation.com/kingoftrash
http://www.myspace.com/kingoftrash
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Honest…Gutsy…Feisty…Opinionated…Loyal …and a sense of wicked humour describes the self proclaimed King of Trash~
A free spirit was born, Tyrone Lee Needham, in Nottingham on the 19th August 1976. His career has often taken him away from the town he grew up in. Ty, however, keeps in very close touch with his roots and still considers Nottingham to be his true home. “Duran Duran is one of the many influences along with Elvis and Dusty Springfield to name a few”.
There are many people that have had influenced Ty, but one of the most important is Mark Gamble, who Ty has known and worked with since 1999. A hugely successful artist and producer in his own right, Mark had found success with his own band Krush and also produced a string of hit singles including Don't Go by KWS. Together, Mark and Ty perfected their creative partnership and in 2005 Ty began working on his first completely self written solo album.
Here is DDTTRH's interview with him:
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
TY: Bloody right, in fact those boys deserves knighthoods, for their musical contributions ,and the revenue they have brought to the UK over the past 30 years, give ‘em their Hall of Fame honour ya buggers…or we will send in the dogs!! hahahaha (joke)
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: In what ways do you think Duran Duran paved the way for electro bands etc....over the years?
Ty: Anyone that makes pop electro, and then say they were not inspired by Duran Duran are lying...to make pop music you have to go back to the 80s; they paved the way cause they showed that you can be free with music, free with your attitude, and music was there to be both enjoyed and played and with that you can bring classic pop melodies in with guitars and synth!!!! YEA!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
Ty: Hmmm....Girls on Film video...(song fared well on the radio and the charts before the notoriously titillating video was filmed, but the controversy that ensued helped to keep the band in the public eye and the song on the charts for many weeks) basically they’re saying get stuffed where having fun we are making music we like and we are having fun and if it shocks people then great...Duran Duran brought a new kind of fan base (EVERYONE) I’ve not seen any fans more loyal than Duran Duran fan’s and also they are still working and touring and sounding even better after 30years!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: what was the genesis for the song Nostalgia (R.I.P.)
Ty: This song in its original sound had a very Pet Shop Boys sound, I was tired of seeing people not liking pop music because their friends didn’t find it to be cool, or because it wasn’t cool to listen to pop music. I was listening too kids saying....Pet Shop Boys, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Duran Duran, Dusty Springfield, and Motown...this was all now considered cheesy..I was both hurt and shocked because this music paved the way for music that kids listen to now and I decided to re-write “Nostalgia”, while I was writing, I heard Michael Jackson was dead...I was heart-broken another pop music creature and talent was gone...so I re-wrote Nostalgia based on Michael Jackson, and as I call it the day the music died!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Are you involved in any charities?
Ty: yes I am. I’m involved with the Treehouse Appeal in Ipswich UK, the charity is about raising as much money as possible so they can build a hospice for children. They loved my song "Rainbow Never Dies" so I said all money from this track would go to their charity...I’ve done radio interviews etc…
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What does the term "New Romantic pop" mean to you?
Ty: It means freedom, it means melodic fab classic music, it means balls to ya all because I’m making the music I love, and music is what feelings sound like!
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
Ty: Tough one…err… as a song it would be New Moon on Monday, as a video, it would have to be Rio....I wanna belt out a song on a posh boat toooo lol
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: Had Duran Duran inspired any of your lyrics or melodies when you sit down to create?
Ty: I wouldn’t really say they inspired my lyrics, but I would definitely say they inspired some of my melodies...how can Duran Duran not inspire pop fan’s music?
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: What are your plans for the future…anything you would like to share about your band?
Ty: At the moment I’m writing and recording my next album...I’m 6 songs in. This album has a more earthy edgy sound and I’m very excited, I’ve been writing with my friend Tom Emerson, we work well together and I love it, but also love my work on my own. I’m currently looking to work with other producers and also continue to work with my main producer Mark Gamble,
Ladyaslan, DDTTRH: If you could remake a Duran Duran song which would it be and why?
Ty: New Moon on Monday...it’s special to me, and I think it’s their most fresh and melodic song yet! I’ve always loved their records and would love to cover New Moon on Monday!!! :-)
hope that is ok...thank you sooooooo much that was fun, if I can help in anyway let me know, thank you for the interview. Hope to speak very soon
xxx from Tyrone xx
To learn more about Ty aka King of Trash, click the links below~
http://www.reverbnation.com/kingoftrash
http://www.myspace.com/kingoftrash
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Chat with Raymond Bowe, Barrie Examiner
Thought y'all might enjoy this...here is a chat I recently had with Raymond Bowe (of the Barrie Examiner--where our first article was released), discussing the article and our oversight of 'official supporters'. What did I learn from this? 1) Not to worry so much about it...we should just try not to mention their names going forward, 2) a friend on Myspace or Facebook could actually be interpreted as support--another reason not to worry, and 3) Raymond is so cool, that he suggested we have a potential followup story with him sometime in the future. 'BIG THING' Thank you to Raymond and the Barrie!
~Kirk at DDTTRH
> On 21-May-10, at 10:08 AM, Kirk Harrington wrote:
>
>> Raymond:
>> I honestly tried to catch Jason before he interviewed with you about this matter. Please review the following blogs and let me know if we should talk? I'm not sure how big of a deal this is, which is why I may want your advice. In the research I've done about internet laws and public figures, I think we may be ok. hope this does not cause any trouble with your paper--definitely not our intention. We do now have an 'official' band support report which I've included below....
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/letter-of-apology-about-band-support_11.html
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/clarification-of-may-11-apology-in.html
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/official-band-support-report-updated.html
>>
>> Let me know on this, thanks,
>>
>> Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
>> My cell--if you'd like to call...216-704-8142
> From: Raymond Bowe
> To: Kirk Harrington
> Sent: Fri, May 21, 2010 2:19:03 PM
> Subject: Re: Do we need to talk?
>
> No one has contacted me about any issues, nor am I aware that anyone has contacted the paper, either.
>
> From our point of view, there is no issue. When you guys mentioned you had verified several celebs, we have to take your word for it. I would only say that you don't tell other media outlets the same thing, that's all, which you also mentioned in your phone message today.
>
> Not to split hairs, but the article says several celebrities have lent their support. Being listed among the fans/friends of the page would certainly be just that.
>
> Thanks for the heads up, though.
>
> RAYMOND BOWE
> Reporter
> rbowe@thebarrieexaminer.com
> The Barrie Examiner
> 571 Bayfield St. N.
> Barrie, Ont.
> L4M 4Z9
On 21-May-10, at 2:52 PM, Kirk Harrington wrote:
> Thanks Raymond. I feel better. And thats the thing! Because they are verified friends and fans...does that mean they officially support us? We think that in most cases, this is true if they had the the time to really tell us. In some cases though, it may be because we have fans with similar interests and they want to market their music or art. In any case, we are getting more 'official' words of support (to back up our listed friends) which we are including in a separate report.
>
> And right--we plan t only mention 'official' supporters in future press.
>
> Thanks! And thanks for giving us the honor of being our first press release!
>
> Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
Re: Do we need to talk?
...
From:
Raymond Bowe
...
View Contact
To: Kirk Harrington
That's just semantics on their part. If they didn't support the cause, why join the site? Seems unusual. If they're using it as a marketing tool, though, that's their problem. It is still them and they are still friends of the site.
How many people have signed the petition? Maybe we can do a brief followup when the next BIG milestone hits. Keep me posted.
RAYMOND BOWE
Reporter
rbowe@thebarrieexaminer.com
The Barrie Examiner
571 Bayfield St. N.
Barrie, Ont.
L4M 4Z9
~Kirk at DDTTRH
> On 21-May-10, at 10:08 AM, Kirk Harrington wrote:
>
>> Raymond:
>> I honestly tried to catch Jason before he interviewed with you about this matter. Please review the following blogs and let me know if we should talk? I'm not sure how big of a deal this is, which is why I may want your advice. In the research I've done about internet laws and public figures, I think we may be ok. hope this does not cause any trouble with your paper--definitely not our intention. We do now have an 'official' band support report which I've included below....
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/letter-of-apology-about-band-support_11.html
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/clarification-of-may-11-apology-in.html
>>
>> http://ddrockhall.blogspot.com/2010/05/official-band-support-report-updated.html
>>
>> Let me know on this, thanks,
>>
>> Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
>> My cell--if you'd like to call...216-704-8142
> From: Raymond Bowe
> To: Kirk Harrington
> Sent: Fri, May 21, 2010 2:19:03 PM
> Subject: Re: Do we need to talk?
>
> No one has contacted me about any issues, nor am I aware that anyone has contacted the paper, either.
>
> From our point of view, there is no issue. When you guys mentioned you had verified several celebs, we have to take your word for it. I would only say that you don't tell other media outlets the same thing, that's all, which you also mentioned in your phone message today.
>
> Not to split hairs, but the article says several celebrities have lent their support. Being listed among the fans/friends of the page would certainly be just that.
>
> Thanks for the heads up, though.
>
> RAYMOND BOWE
> Reporter
> rbowe@thebarrieexaminer.com
> The Barrie Examiner
> 571 Bayfield St. N.
> Barrie, Ont.
> L4M 4Z9
On 21-May-10, at 2:52 PM, Kirk Harrington wrote:
> Thanks Raymond. I feel better. And thats the thing! Because they are verified friends and fans...does that mean they officially support us? We think that in most cases, this is true if they had the the time to really tell us. In some cases though, it may be because we have fans with similar interests and they want to market their music or art. In any case, we are getting more 'official' words of support (to back up our listed friends) which we are including in a separate report.
>
> And right--we plan t only mention 'official' supporters in future press.
>
> Thanks! And thanks for giving us the honor of being our first press release!
>
> Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
Re: Do we need to talk?
...
From:
Raymond Bowe
...
View Contact
To: Kirk Harrington
That's just semantics on their part. If they didn't support the cause, why join the site? Seems unusual. If they're using it as a marketing tool, though, that's their problem. It is still them and they are still friends of the site.
How many people have signed the petition? Maybe we can do a brief followup when the next BIG milestone hits. Keep me posted.
RAYMOND BOWE
Reporter
rbowe@thebarrieexaminer.com
The Barrie Examiner
571 Bayfield St. N.
Barrie, Ont.
L4M 4Z9
Friday, May 21, 2010
Interview with RJ, Poet, 5/21/10
RJ is a long time friend and writer in the poet realm. RJ is a passionate and surreal writer. Influence comes to him from the four corners of the Earth and within. He is a prominent and proud African & Native American living life on his own terms. RJ has agreed to sit down with me and talk about the new campaign Duran Duran to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame…and this is what he had to say~
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[RJ]: Absolutely. I was in my 20's when they came out. As well, I witnessed the birth of MTV. They were a big hit and all of their songs and videos were being played so they were widely known. Also I think that 100 million or so in record sales speaks for itself.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Has Duran Duran ( songs or videos....) influenced the way you think as a writer?
[RJ]: I like many of their songs and videos. I like the sexuality, romanticism and eroticism were woven into their videos as that was something I had always looked forward to seeing whenever their video aired. There are times now where I can pattern my writing similar to that style. The subtle weaving of certain images into the readers minds.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 20 yrs?
[RJ]: Their videos were amongst those me and my friends looked forward to as we sat down to watch MTV. So in my mind they were in the group of those you could mention that helped propel the success of MTV. With the following they developed naturally those in both the movie and fashion industries wanted to be a part of the success they were achieving. Now days this is being emulated as some movie directors and of course many fashion designers willing partake in the production of music videos for artists. I would say Duran Duran is part of a select few these present day musicians should thank.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is the first word that comes to mind when one says Duran Duran?
[RJ]: Erotica. A couple of their videos just had some of the most gorgeous and very erotic looking women in them. The videos were visually quite enticing and stimulating to watch.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[RJ]: Rio. The song and the video helped reinforce in my mind that I wanted to travel there. It was sexy and fashionable and I really enjoyed the pace of the video. I lived my travel dream and had the experience of a life time that I am most grateful for. I might add if it's ok with you, that Girls on Film was a very close second.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What are you plans for the future…anything you would like to share about yourself?
[RJ]: Thanks for asking Ladyaslan. At present I'm completing my first book of poetry to be released, if all goes well by the fall. While doing this I am working on my second book of poetry and have a collection for short stories that more than likely result in a third. So I following my writing passion and hoping that people well enjoy my writing.
Please enjoy more of RJ on MySpace by clicking his link below~
www.myspace.com/smoothandjazzy
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[RJ]: Absolutely. I was in my 20's when they came out. As well, I witnessed the birth of MTV. They were a big hit and all of their songs and videos were being played so they were widely known. Also I think that 100 million or so in record sales speaks for itself.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Has Duran Duran ( songs or videos....) influenced the way you think as a writer?
[RJ]: I like many of their songs and videos. I like the sexuality, romanticism and eroticism were woven into their videos as that was something I had always looked forward to seeing whenever their video aired. There are times now where I can pattern my writing similar to that style. The subtle weaving of certain images into the readers minds.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 20 yrs?
[RJ]: Their videos were amongst those me and my friends looked forward to as we sat down to watch MTV. So in my mind they were in the group of those you could mention that helped propel the success of MTV. With the following they developed naturally those in both the movie and fashion industries wanted to be a part of the success they were achieving. Now days this is being emulated as some movie directors and of course many fashion designers willing partake in the production of music videos for artists. I would say Duran Duran is part of a select few these present day musicians should thank.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is the first word that comes to mind when one says Duran Duran?
[RJ]: Erotica. A couple of their videos just had some of the most gorgeous and very erotic looking women in them. The videos were visually quite enticing and stimulating to watch.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[RJ]: Rio. The song and the video helped reinforce in my mind that I wanted to travel there. It was sexy and fashionable and I really enjoyed the pace of the video. I lived my travel dream and had the experience of a life time that I am most grateful for. I might add if it's ok with you, that Girls on Film was a very close second.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What are you plans for the future…anything you would like to share about yourself?
[RJ]: Thanks for asking Ladyaslan. At present I'm completing my first book of poetry to be released, if all goes well by the fall. While doing this I am working on my second book of poetry and have a collection for short stories that more than likely result in a third. So I following my writing passion and hoping that people well enjoy my writing.
Please enjoy more of RJ on MySpace by clicking his link below~
www.myspace.com/smoothandjazzy
Interview with Pride Vanity, 5/21/10
Pride and the Vanities is an innovative band with sounds that only a Mother Ship can understand and only a universe can love. They are an Electro Rock band that has this sexy sci-fi vibe and a space wave feel. I have recently sat down with Pride and the Vanities about the new campaign “Duran Duran to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame” and see just how Pride and the Vanities feel about the sexy and infamous Duran Duran paving the way for electro bands around the world~
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Do you think Duran Duran deserve to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[Pride]: I’m surprised their not already in the Rock n Roll Hall of fame. They are pioneers of the 80's new wave and pop revolution. They were the 2nd British Invasion with a unique new sound for 'New Wave' and Pop that captured the world... Their sound is like no other with top billboard songs, Grammy's and American Music Awards. They sold more than 100 million records, so absolutely they deserve to be in the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]] In what ways did Duran Duran paved the way for electro bands etc....over the years?
[Pride]: Nick Rhodes with his catchy, melodic- mystical, pop key sounds revolutionized electro, making it cool and excepted in the pop/mainstream world. As a group they took chances with new sounds and changed the pop rock sound and took it to a new level. That brave attempt made it ok for other artists to do the same.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
[PRIDE]: They contributed positive and strong musical sounds with an inspiration to love, bond as people and to always create.
Fashionably they are icons of style and new rad looks from the 80's till now...Never did they lose their image or style...its innate with Duran Duran...They were and still are the 'it boys' of new wave and style !
[Anitra, DDTTRH] Would you like to see an entire Glee episode dedicated to Duran Duran like they did for Madonna?
[Pride]: I don’t watch 'Glee'...but if Duran Duran had a cameo I would! Who wouldn't...lol! So... yes I would love to see Duran Duran honored like that.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[Pride]: Oooooooooh...that’s hard...I love all their stuff...
OK... 'Save a Prayer' and 'Something I should Know'
Uhhhhhhhh...luv those!
[Anitra, DDTTRH] Had Duran Duran inspired any of the band members and if so what area of your music did they inspire?
[Pride]: I think Duran Duran has inspired many of my musicians...
Especially me...They helped me find my own sound by hearing them create something new that no one has ever heard before and just going for it... excepting what & who they are musically. They love what they do and it radiates through their music. They inspire me to keep loving my own innovative sounds and to take risks with what I feel n love through art.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What are your plans for the future…anything you would like to share about your band?
[Pride]: I plan on releasing my album with my band, Pride & the Vanities July 4th, “To Much Pride" - The Rocket Star`...It will be on I-tunes and local records stores in Vegas and possibly Hot Topic. Heading to London to record this summer and a possible tour...I'll be in Duran Duran's neck of the woods...;)
Pride & the Vanities..We are Space-Wave..A new electro sound that's an exhilarating space ride...Welcome aboard!
Please enjoy more of Pride and the Vanities at the link below~
www.myspace.com/pridevanityllc
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Interview with Chicanery
SPECIAL RE-POST FOR ARTIST APPRECIATION WEEK, Original posting was 5/21/10
Guitarist Warren Cuccurullo, who was a member of Duran Duran for 15 years, and Neil Carlill, founding member of Delicatessen (Rough Trade/Big Life) debuts their first pop project since collaborating on TV Mania in the late nineties with Nick Rhodes of Duran Duran.
CHICANERY is fusing rich sound-scapes shaped by Warren's legendary tune craft – densely woven around Neil's ‘tone poet’ vocals and lyrics – Chicanery is both a revival and a dream of a modern day band…here is DDTTRH's interview with Neil~
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What was it like to work with Warren Cuccurullo and Nick Rhodes in regards to TV Mania?
[Neil]: It was a little nerve wracking at first, Warren's house (and his studio) was called Privacy in those days and all the DD music at the time started life there, it had blacked out windows and Bars for security so I Was a little intimidated. Once I was inside and I met Warren and Nick they were very re-assuring and wonderfully nice. I listened through to some of the tracks to get a feel for the project, I was very excited because the plan was to have Iggy Pop and Debbie Harry play my parents in the overall scheme.. I still have a cassette tape of tracks we went over, Big Stress, Money Greed and Power being 2 of them. I would record vocals without the full lyrics so I was just concentrating on the melodies at first. Mark Tinley was the engineer and it all took place in the one room with Nick and Warren on the couch and me standing with headphones, then I'd skip outside into the back garden for a cigarette. I did bring a little alcohol for myself to give me that little extra confidence! We had a few sessions like this, worked on several tracks, I got a call once to come over at very short notice to work on a track called Abducted, this session involved improvising from scratch over the instrumental, which was a lot of fun. We talked a lot about music, influences, it was very relaxed.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What does the name Chicanery mean / represent? Is this what TV Mania morphed into?
[Neil]: I think Chicanery represents a very human like quality that exists in each person and in more destructive ways in groups, and societies. The art of deception, the treachery of manipulation and trickery. It exists all around us, what we see hides the devious ways people manipulate situations for benefit. It's a very alluring and devastatingly ruinous way to run the world or a life. Our Chicanery is in the complexity and multiple layers the music winds through, the way a hook can draw you into the subterfuge of a lyric. Chicanery also represents all the vagaries of life Warren and I have experienced since we started this. TV Mania introduced me to Warren and Chicanery was the result of 12 long years fighting to do what we love.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What does Warren Cuccurullo bring to the music? What do you bring to the music? What does the music bring to you both?
[Neil]: Warren brings first and foremost his originality to Chicanery, his knowledge of music, his virtuosity and his songwriting skills are all wrapped up in his musical self, which is spiritual and dedicated. He crafts and improvises in equal measure which allows me to tap into what he is doing and it's this combination which produces our sound. Songs would usually begin instrumentally and I would work on words and melodies for them, there are a few songs (like Midnight Owls) where I started the music off and Warren would just magically add his own touches to elevate them completely. It's a beautiful thing to watch and hear. The music for us now represents the journey we have been on, those rare moments over the 12 years that connected us even when we were thousands of miles apart.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What challenged you both in making this album?
[Neil]: It was written and recorded in different places over long periods of time so that making the album is the history of our connects and disconnects and how we always managed to come back to it, with many personal upheavals in the intervals. We both started the album in England and finished it in the USA, we both left bands we were in, changed our lifestyles, got older, and tried to cope with the Music Industry as it completely transformed. It's amazing to me that it's here now out on dPulse Recordings and now having a life on its own. Go fly away music!!!
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What do they mean when one refers to you as a “tone poet”?
[Neil]: I think the way I write lyrics is very much like Warren playing his guitar, it's a connection to the sub-conscious a side-stepping of the rational brain to let what's in you spiritually manifest itself in your creative medium. I mess with words as they come flying out of my brain uninvited. I think it's more like prose-poetry sometimes, hypertext, concentrated meaning in a seemingly abstract construction. It can be a little puzzling but there is a narrative but not in the literal sense we are used to... You have to absorb and translate...
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: How have you evolved as an artist since the completion of this incredible album?
[Neil]: I think time will always sink its teeth into your tastes, I am listening to music now I would have shunned as a youngster. Its funny how music goes in cycles, the new wave bands of today all have their original version from twenty, thirty years ago, you learn to pick out the originals. I love to make music and to fool around with words, it's much less a business thing now (we must chart ! We must have the right image!), it's all about creative expression and working with Warren will always move and develop that spirit.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: Do you feel Duran Duran deserve to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[Neil]: One could argue that there was no band that defined that particular era than DD. Certainly they are important for perfectly capturing video, fashion and dance/rock into something new and sustainable for a very long time....They've sold 100 million albums and have weathered the storm. I think all of those elements combined make them one of the most relevant bands of their generation on several counts. So, worthy, they continue to record new material and tour that material (not just the hits), and that is a credit.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music and fashion industry over the past 30 yrs?
[Neil]: They have a unique body of work, enormous commercial success and an enduring place in the hearts of music lovers all over the world. In the early days they set trends in fashion and branding, and later their sound matured and gained a complexity that made sure they grew into their new stature as veterans of the pop game. My wife (Gwen) also claims she would not have been wearing Tiger striped tights and jazz shoes back in the 80's if it wasn't for Duran Duran..
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What is one of your favorite songs or videos or both by Duran Duran?
[Neil]: I would have to say Come Undone for favorite song. Video, probably Planet Earth as it has an innocence that large amounts of money can not compete with.
[Anitra, DDTTRH]: What can the fans of Chicanery look forward to in the coming months…years? Any concert dates to be announced?
[Neil]: Yes playing live is next, we are working on getting a tour together and we have 4 songs in progress for the next album. So more of the same we hope with fewer interruptions!
The album is now available on Amazon.com and at
http://www.dpulse-america.info/
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Clarification of May 11 Apology, in regards to Barrie Article
Fans... sorry to bring this up again, however I had a fan ask me something about sending out a newspaper article. Just so everyone is clear...the bands and celebrities listed in the Barrie Examiner article are not yet "official" supporters of our effort. Yes, they may have "friended" us on Myspace or allowed us to post on their official sites (as in the case of Drew Barrymore), however it does not mean that they have signed our petition or officially come to us to give us their official "Yes, we think Duran Duran should go in the Rock Hall" statement.
Now we do acknowledge this error (since Anitra pointed out to me the difference between a "friend" on Myspace, and an "official" support.) In researching it from a legal standpoint, we do believe we had the right to say they were (and are) our supporters. Internet media laws seem to be fairly vague on the subject and since the people we mentioned are public figures and nothing we said will damage their reputations, we believe we have nothing to be afraid of in terms of repercussion. We also tried to catch the article before it went out.
I do take responsibility for this mistake, and have sent letters of apology to the bands and artists listed in the article as a sign of good will. We encourage fans to write their local papers and radio stations, but please only use the names listed on our official band support report (which is regularly updated).
Thank you,
Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
Edited by Josie Beaudoin
Now we do acknowledge this error (since Anitra pointed out to me the difference between a "friend" on Myspace, and an "official" support.) In researching it from a legal standpoint, we do believe we had the right to say they were (and are) our supporters. Internet media laws seem to be fairly vague on the subject and since the people we mentioned are public figures and nothing we said will damage their reputations, we believe we have nothing to be afraid of in terms of repercussion. We also tried to catch the article before it went out.
I do take responsibility for this mistake, and have sent letters of apology to the bands and artists listed in the article as a sign of good will. We encourage fans to write their local papers and radio stations, but please only use the names listed on our official band support report (which is regularly updated).
Thank you,
Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
Edited by Josie Beaudoin
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
M. Douglas Silverstein
Fans -- I think you will be happy to know that DDTTRH has reached out to M. Douglas Silverstein, director and producer of Something You Should Know: The Duran Duran Fan Documentary and he has offered his support! We will be working with 'M' on using excerpts from his documentary to improve our media messages. Here's the recent email he sent us:
From: M.Douglas Silverstein
To: Kirk Harrington
Sent: Tue, May 18, 2010 9:46:05 PM
Subject: Re: Video excerpts
Dear Kirk,
Congrats to you and the whole gang at DDTTRH for your fantastic effort! Something You Should Know: The Duran Duran Fan Documentary is all about incredible self motivated and inspired people like you who are willing to do whatever it takes to be both together as friends and fans but also to be part of something special...Bravo and Kudos! Also, the extraordinary Durandy is one of the main stars in the film, he is a wonderful person and an amazing archivist! I fully support your mission!-Best of luck!
"M"
More about 'M':
"M" (M. Douglas Silverstein) has directed and produced projects such as stadium concerts, Documentaries, Commercials and live web events with 600 artists including Madonna, Green Day, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Jay Z, Rihanna, Paul McCartney, Willie Nelson, The Jonas Brothers, Lenny Kravitz, etc... for television, film, DVD, web, and mobile.
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
NB: Edited by Josie Beaudoin
From: M.Douglas Silverstein
To: Kirk Harrington
Sent: Tue, May 18, 2010 9:46:05 PM
Subject: Re: Video excerpts
Dear Kirk,
Congrats to you and the whole gang at DDTTRH for your fantastic effort! Something You Should Know: The Duran Duran Fan Documentary is all about incredible self motivated and inspired people like you who are willing to do whatever it takes to be both together as friends and fans but also to be part of something special...Bravo and Kudos! Also, the extraordinary Durandy is one of the main stars in the film, he is a wonderful person and an amazing archivist! I fully support your mission!-Best of luck!
"M"
More about 'M':
"M" (M. Douglas Silverstein) has directed and produced projects such as stadium concerts, Documentaries, Commercials and live web events with 600 artists including Madonna, Green Day, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Beyonce, Jay Z, Rihanna, Paul McCartney, Willie Nelson, The Jonas Brothers, Lenny Kravitz, etc... for television, film, DVD, web, and mobile.
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
NB: Edited by Josie Beaudoin
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
DDTTRH Guiding Principles, Edited 6/1/10
The idea of getting Duran Duran into the Rock Hall of Fame we recognize as not a new one. In looking back, for example, we recognize the efforts of sites like DuranDuranfans.com who posted a petition in 2006 specific to Rock Hall votes for that year (http://www.petitiononline.com/duran06/petition-sign.html). We've also learned of notinhalloffame.com, that focuses on many bands (including Duran Duran) it believes worthy of Hall of Fame induction. We also know (from response to our petition so far), that fans have wanted this for a long time and believe Duran Duran is long overdue for this honor.
Understanding this, we are grateful to those who have come before us or who currently spread a similar message...we recognize their efforts, and hope they and their fans will support us as well; we do believe that our effort is unique and most importantly, uniquely poised to deliver results for the long-term. Here's why:
1. There is no other effort 'specifically' dedicated to Duran Duran and their induction to the Rock Hall of Fame (and none that we have found that has started in Cleveland, Ohio--home of the Rock Hall).
2. Our petition is not bound by year and we are committed to keeping it open for fans and decision makers for as long as it takes.
3. We believe that since our effort has this kind of focus, it will have more power than one as an appendage to a fan page, as an unfocused effort, or as a good idea floating around. Plus, our commitment and everything we do is centered in this one goal...to do all we can to convince the Rock Hall of Fame (and its voting committees) to induct Duran Duran.
4. This means that everything we do we believe will have direct impact on accomplishing our goal. Bands influenced by Duran Duran research, research into Duran Duran and the media, research into Duran Duran community service efforts, promotions to our official petition (not just of fans, but also big names in the music industry--even those who are voters in the Rock Hall committee), multimedia /press efforts, and interviews with artists and bands are examples of things we are doing 'unique' to our effort, that we believe will make the difference in our journey ahead.
5. We are not bound by country. Because we know that fans of Duran Duran exist in many parts of the world, and we believe there are many that want to speak up about the band, we are working to ensure our message reaches those who speak French, Italian, Spanish, and other languages in countries where Duran Duran fans reside. Efforts are currently underway (for example) to translate our messages into French, Spanish, and Italian as a start. Other languages will follow as our fan base and DDTTRH exposure to the market grows.
6. Finally, this effort is about Love. Love for the fans, love for Duran Duran, love for the music industry and love for the loyal supporters of the Duran Duran for the last 30 years. I would even go as far to say even love for our critics and detractors--for even our critics and detractors can help us in finding opportunity to flavor our message in such a way that is palatable to those we are trying to convince about the worthiness of our cause.
As always, if anyone has any comments/suggestions, or wants to help our cause in a more direct way, please email me at ddrockhall@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH (Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort)
Edited by Josie Beaudoin
Understanding this, we are grateful to those who have come before us or who currently spread a similar message...we recognize their efforts, and hope they and their fans will support us as well; we do believe that our effort is unique and most importantly, uniquely poised to deliver results for the long-term. Here's why:
1. There is no other effort 'specifically' dedicated to Duran Duran and their induction to the Rock Hall of Fame (and none that we have found that has started in Cleveland, Ohio--home of the Rock Hall).
2. Our petition is not bound by year and we are committed to keeping it open for fans and decision makers for as long as it takes.
3. We believe that since our effort has this kind of focus, it will have more power than one as an appendage to a fan page, as an unfocused effort, or as a good idea floating around. Plus, our commitment and everything we do is centered in this one goal...to do all we can to convince the Rock Hall of Fame (and its voting committees) to induct Duran Duran.
4. This means that everything we do we believe will have direct impact on accomplishing our goal. Bands influenced by Duran Duran research, research into Duran Duran and the media, research into Duran Duran community service efforts, promotions to our official petition (not just of fans, but also big names in the music industry--even those who are voters in the Rock Hall committee), multimedia /press efforts, and interviews with artists and bands are examples of things we are doing 'unique' to our effort, that we believe will make the difference in our journey ahead.
5. We are not bound by country. Because we know that fans of Duran Duran exist in many parts of the world, and we believe there are many that want to speak up about the band, we are working to ensure our message reaches those who speak French, Italian, Spanish, and other languages in countries where Duran Duran fans reside. Efforts are currently underway (for example) to translate our messages into French, Spanish, and Italian as a start. Other languages will follow as our fan base and DDTTRH exposure to the market grows.
6. Finally, this effort is about Love. Love for the fans, love for Duran Duran, love for the music industry and love for the loyal supporters of the Duran Duran for the last 30 years. I would even go as far to say even love for our critics and detractors--for even our critics and detractors can help us in finding opportunity to flavor our message in such a way that is palatable to those we are trying to convince about the worthiness of our cause.
As always, if anyone has any comments/suggestions, or wants to help our cause in a more direct way, please email me at ddrockhall@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Kirk Harrington, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH (Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort)
Edited by Josie Beaudoin
New Policy about Posts, updated 5/18/10
We have received some complaints and noticed that some people have hidden our posts on their profiles. This is a sign that we are posting too many comments on Facebook and MYspace. Because of this, we have decided to focus only on posts unique to our effort. Therefore, we will no longer include general news and press about Duran Duran, which fans may receive at duranduran.com, duranasty, duranduranfans.com or other Duran Duran fan/news sites.
Our posts going forward will only contain the following:
1. Any press released about our site
2. Any interviews we've had with artists
3. Any DDTTRH effort-specific announcements or updates
And thats it!
Further, as much as we can, we will try to follow a weekly pattern of posts, as follows:
Tuesdays: Official DDTTRH announcements/updates
Fridays: Band Interviews
Other days: Limited updates (i.e. press or research) or no posts.
In this way, I think we will become more unique, have less posting problems, and show greater respect to all the other Duran Duran fans sites in operation.
If anyone has any questions/comments about this policy, please feel feel to email me at ddrockhall@yahoo.com. Thanks! Kirk Harrington, LEO, DDTTRH
NB: EJB
Our posts going forward will only contain the following:
1. Any press released about our site
2. Any interviews we've had with artists
3. Any DDTTRH effort-specific announcements or updates
And thats it!
Further, as much as we can, we will try to follow a weekly pattern of posts, as follows:
Tuesdays: Official DDTTRH announcements/updates
Fridays: Band Interviews
Other days: Limited updates (i.e. press or research) or no posts.
In this way, I think we will become more unique, have less posting problems, and show greater respect to all the other Duran Duran fans sites in operation.
If anyone has any questions/comments about this policy, please feel feel to email me at ddrockhall@yahoo.com. Thanks! Kirk Harrington, LEO, DDTTRH
NB: EJB
Monday, May 17, 2010
WE GOT DURANDY!!!
Français
I am pleased to announce that thanks to the efforts of Donna Searle and myself, we were able to get the message to Durandy (Andrew Golub) about our effort. We recently saw his signature on our petition as well. Thanks Durandy for your support!
Here is an email I asked him to write for our page!
From: Andy Golub
To: Kirk Harrington
Sent: Fri, May 14, 2010 10:47:11 PM
Subject: Letter to you
Dear Kirk,
I had to write and express my support for your terrific efforts, trying to get Duran into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's a daunting task, and I can only hope that a huge list of names may weigh upon the conscience of those charged with considering HOF inductions. Few artists have worked harder, shattered more expectations, and influenced musical evolution than Duran Duran. Fashion, video, photography, film and music... this band has touched on every realm, making their mark and constructing a reputation that has earned respect across decades.
I'm sure the fan community, and the band, appreciate your awesome efforts and I'm happy to do whatever I can to support the cause. Kudos to you for what you've already accomplished, and I wish you all the luck in the world. May Duran Duran soon be ushered into the Hall of Fame on the merits of their storied career, taking their rightful place alongside fellow pioneers, icons and legends.
Way to go, Kirk. Thank you for your commitment and vision.
Sincerely,
Durandy
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
I am pleased to announce that thanks to the efforts of Donna Searle and myself, we were able to get the message to Durandy (Andrew Golub) about our effort. We recently saw his signature on our petition as well. Thanks Durandy for your support!
Here is an email I asked him to write for our page!
From: Andy Golub
To: Kirk Harrington
Sent: Fri, May 14, 2010 10:47:11 PM
Subject: Letter to you
Dear Kirk,
I had to write and express my support for your terrific efforts, trying to get Duran into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It's a daunting task, and I can only hope that a huge list of names may weigh upon the conscience of those charged with considering HOF inductions. Few artists have worked harder, shattered more expectations, and influenced musical evolution than Duran Duran. Fashion, video, photography, film and music... this band has touched on every realm, making their mark and constructing a reputation that has earned respect across decades.
I'm sure the fan community, and the band, appreciate your awesome efforts and I'm happy to do whatever I can to support the cause. Kudos to you for what you've already accomplished, and I wish you all the luck in the world. May Duran Duran soon be ushered into the Hall of Fame on the merits of their storied career, taking their rightful place alongside fellow pioneers, icons and legends.
Way to go, Kirk. Thank you for your commitment and vision.
Sincerely,
Durandy
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Our Official Petition--PLEASE SIGN!
I'd like to officially announce the Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort's Online Petition...please sign it and tell everyone you know about it. The idea for this petition was given to us by the creator of the Mickey Rourke Star (Hollwood walk of Fame) Committee. Please check out their petition as well! Our first goal--100,000 signatures...after that 250,000, and onward and upward!
Tell your friends and family!
Click on this link to be taken there:
The Official Petition hosted by Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
Tell your friends and family!
Click on this link to be taken there:
The Official Petition hosted by Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
Interview with LeClair, singer, composer, multi-intrumentalist, producer
Français
Here's a bit about Stephane, taken from his Myspace profile (http://www.myspace.com/stephaneleclair):
"Being a music lover with eclectic tastes, Le Clair experimented in many different musical styles,from funk to experimental progressive Jazz, and beyond. He also did some dj work, and remixed songs for pop music icons DURAN DURAN which frontman Simon Lebon and guitarist Warren Cuccurullo (also from Frank Zappa/Missing Persons) both really loved and talked about using as a b-side material on their next single to be released from their experimental Medazzaland album (unfortunately no other single was ever released from that album since the band parted from EMI records shortly after that). Conversations with Simon and Warren gave Le Clair the boost he needed to focus even more on his own songwriting,resulting in the recording of many very personal acoustic/alternative tracks about life,love,women,sex,war, & peace. Le Clair is a vegetarian,and tries to support as much as possible the following causes: Amnesty International,The One Campaign,Peta (+ other animal rights groups),and other ones against hate, racism,human trafficking,homophobia,& child labor."
Stephane's interview:
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: Do you think Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[LeClair]: Of course they do,they are one of the most successful bands in music history. I mean ,they owned most of the eighties, setting the standard of that decade for many other acts, and of course were pioneers of the new, then, video era. But to me,the main reason why Duran made it so big is because they had such great songs.
Like I commented on your facebook page,you can’t erase history,and like it or not,get it or don’t...these guys are part of music history,and they certainly belong into the Hall Of Fame. They even influenced Madonna who was inducted into The Hall a few years ago.
Sure they had a very strong image...but so did Prince,Michael Jackson,Madonna,Bowie,Elvis,and The Beatles.
[DDTTRH]: What contribution do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music industry over the past 32 years (since their formation in 1978)?
[LeClair]: A huge contribution which is still palpable today,and a pretty diverse one musically speaking. They've managed to record 12 totally different albums,reinventing their sound and creating something new every single time,which is not an easy task. I mean,in the mid eighties,Duran was the biggest band in the world, and instead of repeating the same safe recipe that made them rich & famous,these music lovers went for exploring new musical territories,and taking risks (and I take my hat off to them for having the balls to do that and succeeding so well in doing it).
Many kids today like the band's earlier stuff and don't give a sh** about the videos,the image,or whatever. They just like Duran’s music because these are great pop songs that have aged very well...and by the way (& coming from a musician’s point of view),playing some of Duran’s material is harder than many people would think (I even saw Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl admitting that on youtube lately). Some of their songs have complex structures and unusual chord progressions,and feature ambitious bass lines,virtuoso guitar playing (the Cuccurullo years),unorthodox creative synth work,and pretty high perched vocals.
They influenced a lot of other artists in the eighties,and still do today. I mean,without Duran, bands like The Killers,Franz Ferdinand,The Bravery,Keane,White Lies,just to name a few of them,would certainly sound very different.
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[LeClair]: Now that is a very hard one to answer,and honestly I can't just name one of them (that would be like asking me for only one great Beatles or Bowie song,when we both know they got plenty of great songs)...so I'll give you,let's say...2 favourite videos (I don’t care that much about videos anyway),and 5 fave songs. That is the shortest number I can give you from such a diverse and rich catalogue.
Songs: 1. Ordinary World (they should be inducted in the Hall Of Fame just for writing this one,it is one of the best ballads ever written).
2.The Chauffeur : Because this one doesn't sound like any other songs ever made,which is rare. I adore the infectious ocarina melody in The Chauffeur, and 30 years later,the song has kept every single cell of its uniqueness and appeal. Like most of their songs,The Chauffeur has brilliantly stood the test of time.
3. Come Undone : There is something comforting in the beautiful melody of this one. Perfect bittersweetness and melancholy. And from a songwriter/producer point of view ,Come Undone might be the only song featuring that overused drum loop of the 90’s that still sounds fresh today. One of their best melodies ever.
4. Skin Trade (album version,not the single edit) : To me,this is one of Duran’s musical peak. A Prince/Stones influenced black track that I absolutelly love. The structure of the song,the chords,and of course that amazing trumpet solo during the bridge...I mean,this really is music man! Produced by funk master Nile Rodgers and taken from one of my favourite D2 albums. Another quite unique song from The Fab 3 (then).
5.Lady Xanax : Duran has many musical faces,and the one I love the most, obviously considering my choices, is that rich, darker,intellectual one. Lady Xanax is a good example how rich and how far musically Duran can go. This could almost be a Pink Floyd or Radiohead song. Nothing commercial or pop in this one. A less known gem taken from the alternative/glam Pop Trash album.
Bonus Track (lol)Save A Prayer (album version,again not the single edit) : Masters of melody since the beginning. I love the intro,the bass line,the whole ambiance of it really...a true eighties classic, and always a special moment during a Duran live show.
Favorite videos: 1.Girls On Film (uncensored) : I just happen to love ice...a lot.2.Perfect Day : I like the colors and textures of this one,it is visually stunning. I love the flower throwing thing contrasting with the words “destroy” and “hate”. (not to mention that they did an amazing job covering Lou Reed).
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: Has Duran Duran inspired you as a singer/songwriter? Tell us how!
[LeClair]: Their pop sensibility,and well crafted melodies certainly influenced me, like many other artists that I love who succeeded in creating something new & unique: Prince,Peter Gabriel,Radiohead,David Sylvian,David Bowie,The Velvet Underground,The Police,The Beatles,The Stones,Massive Attack,Daniel Lanois,U2,Björk,etcetera.[DDTTRH]: What are your plans for the future…anything you would like to share?[LeClair]: Well...one of my older songs “New York In Smoke” was released a couple of months ago on itunes and other online music stores. I’m planning on putting many other tracks out there,and hopefully end up with a few albums of original material...I sure have plenty of diverse material that needs mixing and mastering since I’ve been doing this for many years. Music is my life! I’ll also keep supporting Amnesty International,Peta & other animal rights group,The One Campaign,and such. Trying to make this world a better place is important to me. As a citizen of this planet,I feel it is my responsibility to try to do something against injustice of any kind. ..oh,and getting that band from Birmingham into the rock n roll hall of fame ,of course. ;.)
Thanks Kirk,answering your questions was a real treat.
To hear Stephane’s music (and a message Simon Le Bon left on his machine when he did remixes for the band in the past), join his brand new page on facebook :
http://www.facebook.com/pages/LeClair/18951943148
Or visit his Myspace page:
www.myspace.com/stephaneleclair
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Here's a bit about Stephane, taken from his Myspace profile (http://www.myspace.com/stephaneleclair):
"Being a music lover with eclectic tastes, Le Clair experimented in many different musical styles,from funk to experimental progressive Jazz, and beyond. He also did some dj work, and remixed songs for pop music icons DURAN DURAN which frontman Simon Lebon and guitarist Warren Cuccurullo (also from Frank Zappa/Missing Persons) both really loved and talked about using as a b-side material on their next single to be released from their experimental Medazzaland album (unfortunately no other single was ever released from that album since the band parted from EMI records shortly after that). Conversations with Simon and Warren gave Le Clair the boost he needed to focus even more on his own songwriting,resulting in the recording of many very personal acoustic/alternative tracks about life,love,women,sex,war, & peace. Le Clair is a vegetarian,and tries to support as much as possible the following causes: Amnesty International,The One Campaign,Peta (+ other animal rights groups),and other ones against hate, racism,human trafficking,homophobia,& child labor."
Stephane's interview:
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: Do you think Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[LeClair]: Of course they do,they are one of the most successful bands in music history. I mean ,they owned most of the eighties, setting the standard of that decade for many other acts, and of course were pioneers of the new, then, video era. But to me,the main reason why Duran made it so big is because they had such great songs.
Like I commented on your facebook page,you can’t erase history,and like it or not,get it or don’t...these guys are part of music history,and they certainly belong into the Hall Of Fame. They even influenced Madonna who was inducted into The Hall a few years ago.
Sure they had a very strong image...but so did Prince,Michael Jackson,Madonna,Bowie,Elvis,and The Beatles.
[DDTTRH]: What contribution do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music industry over the past 32 years (since their formation in 1978)?
[LeClair]: A huge contribution which is still palpable today,and a pretty diverse one musically speaking. They've managed to record 12 totally different albums,reinventing their sound and creating something new every single time,which is not an easy task. I mean,in the mid eighties,Duran was the biggest band in the world, and instead of repeating the same safe recipe that made them rich & famous,these music lovers went for exploring new musical territories,and taking risks (and I take my hat off to them for having the balls to do that and succeeding so well in doing it).
Many kids today like the band's earlier stuff and don't give a sh** about the videos,the image,or whatever. They just like Duran’s music because these are great pop songs that have aged very well...and by the way (& coming from a musician’s point of view),playing some of Duran’s material is harder than many people would think (I even saw Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl admitting that on youtube lately). Some of their songs have complex structures and unusual chord progressions,and feature ambitious bass lines,virtuoso guitar playing (the Cuccurullo years),unorthodox creative synth work,and pretty high perched vocals.
They influenced a lot of other artists in the eighties,and still do today. I mean,without Duran, bands like The Killers,Franz Ferdinand,The Bravery,Keane,White Lies,just to name a few of them,would certainly sound very different.
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[LeClair]: Now that is a very hard one to answer,and honestly I can't just name one of them (that would be like asking me for only one great Beatles or Bowie song,when we both know they got plenty of great songs)...so I'll give you,let's say...2 favourite videos (I don’t care that much about videos anyway),and 5 fave songs. That is the shortest number I can give you from such a diverse and rich catalogue.
Songs: 1. Ordinary World (they should be inducted in the Hall Of Fame just for writing this one,it is one of the best ballads ever written).
2.The Chauffeur : Because this one doesn't sound like any other songs ever made,which is rare. I adore the infectious ocarina melody in The Chauffeur, and 30 years later,the song has kept every single cell of its uniqueness and appeal. Like most of their songs,The Chauffeur has brilliantly stood the test of time.
3. Come Undone : There is something comforting in the beautiful melody of this one. Perfect bittersweetness and melancholy. And from a songwriter/producer point of view ,Come Undone might be the only song featuring that overused drum loop of the 90’s that still sounds fresh today. One of their best melodies ever.
4. Skin Trade (album version,not the single edit) : To me,this is one of Duran’s musical peak. A Prince/Stones influenced black track that I absolutelly love. The structure of the song,the chords,and of course that amazing trumpet solo during the bridge...I mean,this really is music man! Produced by funk master Nile Rodgers and taken from one of my favourite D2 albums. Another quite unique song from The Fab 3 (then).
5.Lady Xanax : Duran has many musical faces,and the one I love the most, obviously considering my choices, is that rich, darker,intellectual one. Lady Xanax is a good example how rich and how far musically Duran can go. This could almost be a Pink Floyd or Radiohead song. Nothing commercial or pop in this one. A less known gem taken from the alternative/glam Pop Trash album.
Bonus Track (lol)Save A Prayer (album version,again not the single edit) : Masters of melody since the beginning. I love the intro,the bass line,the whole ambiance of it really...a true eighties classic, and always a special moment during a Duran live show.
Favorite videos: 1.Girls On Film (uncensored) : I just happen to love ice...a lot.2.Perfect Day : I like the colors and textures of this one,it is visually stunning. I love the flower throwing thing contrasting with the words “destroy” and “hate”. (not to mention that they did an amazing job covering Lou Reed).
[Kirk, DDTTRH]: Has Duran Duran inspired you as a singer/songwriter? Tell us how!
[LeClair]: Their pop sensibility,and well crafted melodies certainly influenced me, like many other artists that I love who succeeded in creating something new & unique: Prince,Peter Gabriel,Radiohead,David Sylvian,David Bowie,The Velvet Underground,The Police,The Beatles,The Stones,Massive Attack,Daniel Lanois,U2,Björk,etcetera.[DDTTRH]: What are your plans for the future…anything you would like to share?[LeClair]: Well...one of my older songs “New York In Smoke” was released a couple of months ago on itunes and other online music stores. I’m planning on putting many other tracks out there,and hopefully end up with a few albums of original material...I sure have plenty of diverse material that needs mixing and mastering since I’ve been doing this for many years. Music is my life! I’ll also keep supporting Amnesty International,Peta & other animal rights group,The One Campaign,and such. Trying to make this world a better place is important to me. As a citizen of this planet,I feel it is my responsibility to try to do something against injustice of any kind. ..oh,and getting that band from Birmingham into the rock n roll hall of fame ,of course. ;.)
Thanks Kirk,answering your questions was a real treat.
To hear Stephane’s music (and a message Simon Le Bon left on his machine when he did remixes for the band in the past), join his brand new page on facebook :
http://www.facebook.com/pages/LeClair/18951943148
Or visit his Myspace page:
www.myspace.com/stephaneleclair
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall and to sign our petition, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Interview with Nathan Stack, Autohypnosis
Here's a little about Nathan and Autohypnosis, taken from his site: http://www.autohypnosis.net/bio.htm
"Autohypnosis is the music of Nathan Stack. He lives in Los Angeles.
The Autohypnosis sound is a mixture of '80s synthpop (Duran Duran, Depeche Mode), '90s trip-hop (Portishead, Sneaker Pimps), '70s atmospheric rock (Pink Floyd, David Bowie) and electronic-oriented music of the new millennium (Radiohead, Frou Frou, The Postal Service). Nathan, while living in Greensboro, N.C., began writing and recording demos of the music that would become Autohypnosis in 2003, and in February 2004, he launched the Autohypnosis website and put the first few demos online."
[DDTTRH]: Thank you for your interest in our effort! We love it when bands come forward and say they have been influenced by Duran Duran and speak up about them!
Here are our interview questions to you:
Do you think Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[Nathan]: Absolutely. The post-punk/new romantic era was an important period in pop music history, and Duran Duran was one of the most significant bands to emerge during that time. They deserve a place in the Hall alongside contemporaries U2 and The Police, who have already been inducted, as well as Depeche Mode.
[DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music industry over the past 30 yrs?
[Nathan]: Obviously the band's contributions in terms of music videos and fashion are quite significant, and there's plenty of press and many awards documenting that.
But at the end of the day, I think it comes down to the music. The band created -- and continues to create -- great songs and albums. Their sound defined the early '80s, but they've never been content to live in the past. So while many of their contemporaries from that time have focused on touring behind their greatest hits in recent years, Duran Duran has forged ahead, writing new music that's simultaneously modern and classic.
I also think it's important to note that Duran Duran is and has always been a genuine functioning band. They write and perform their own music, and even though they've worked with some of the greatest producers in pop history, the drive behind the music has always come from within the band. They're not afraid to take risks, and the artistic payoff of those risks is evidenced in their albums.
[DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[Nathan]: My favorite song -- by Duran Duran or anyone -- is "Midnight Sun." It's the most hauntingly beautiful song I've ever heard.
My favorite video is a bit harder to choose. I love "The Reflex" because that song and video are what got me into Duran Duran, but I'm also a big fan of the "Out of My Mind" video (I love everything from the "Medazzaland" period).
[DDTTRH]: I know you mentioned this, but how specifically has Duran Duran inspired you and your band, i.e. what area of your music did they inspire?
[Nathan]: I write and record music under the band name Autohypnosis (see autohypnosis.net), and Duran Duran, in addition to being my favorite band, is by far my biggest musical influence.
Specifically, it's their mixture of electronic and rock music -- combining the synthetic and the organic -- that inspires me and has been a constant influence on my music for as long as I've been making it. And Simon's voice and lyrics have had an incalculable impact on me as both a listener and a musician.
[DDTTRH]: What are you plans for the future ... anything you would like to share?
[Nathan]: I'm finishing up a new Autohypnosis album, which I plan to release later this year. That's the biggest personal project on my plate right now.
And, of course, I will enjoy continuing to run Duran Duran's official MySpace and Facebook pages, and I can't wait for their next album to be released.
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
"Autohypnosis is the music of Nathan Stack. He lives in Los Angeles.
The Autohypnosis sound is a mixture of '80s synthpop (Duran Duran, Depeche Mode), '90s trip-hop (Portishead, Sneaker Pimps), '70s atmospheric rock (Pink Floyd, David Bowie) and electronic-oriented music of the new millennium (Radiohead, Frou Frou, The Postal Service). Nathan, while living in Greensboro, N.C., began writing and recording demos of the music that would become Autohypnosis in 2003, and in February 2004, he launched the Autohypnosis website and put the first few demos online."
[DDTTRH]: Thank you for your interest in our effort! We love it when bands come forward and say they have been influenced by Duran Duran and speak up about them!
Here are our interview questions to you:
Do you think Duran Duran deserves to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
[Nathan]: Absolutely. The post-punk/new romantic era was an important period in pop music history, and Duran Duran was one of the most significant bands to emerge during that time. They deserve a place in the Hall alongside contemporaries U2 and The Police, who have already been inducted, as well as Depeche Mode.
[DDTTRH]: What contributions do you feel Duran Duran has offered the music industry over the past 30 yrs?
[Nathan]: Obviously the band's contributions in terms of music videos and fashion are quite significant, and there's plenty of press and many awards documenting that.
But at the end of the day, I think it comes down to the music. The band created -- and continues to create -- great songs and albums. Their sound defined the early '80s, but they've never been content to live in the past. So while many of their contemporaries from that time have focused on touring behind their greatest hits in recent years, Duran Duran has forged ahead, writing new music that's simultaneously modern and classic.
I also think it's important to note that Duran Duran is and has always been a genuine functioning band. They write and perform their own music, and even though they've worked with some of the greatest producers in pop history, the drive behind the music has always come from within the band. They're not afraid to take risks, and the artistic payoff of those risks is evidenced in their albums.
[DDTTRH]: What is your favorite Duran Duran video and song?
[Nathan]: My favorite song -- by Duran Duran or anyone -- is "Midnight Sun." It's the most hauntingly beautiful song I've ever heard.
My favorite video is a bit harder to choose. I love "The Reflex" because that song and video are what got me into Duran Duran, but I'm also a big fan of the "Out of My Mind" video (I love everything from the "Medazzaland" period).
[DDTTRH]: I know you mentioned this, but how specifically has Duran Duran inspired you and your band, i.e. what area of your music did they inspire?
[Nathan]: I write and record music under the band name Autohypnosis (see autohypnosis.net), and Duran Duran, in addition to being my favorite band, is by far my biggest musical influence.
Specifically, it's their mixture of electronic and rock music -- combining the synthetic and the organic -- that inspires me and has been a constant influence on my music for as long as I've been making it. And Simon's voice and lyrics have had an incalculable impact on me as both a listener and a musician.
[DDTTRH]: What are you plans for the future ... anything you would like to share?
[Nathan]: I'm finishing up a new Autohypnosis album, which I plan to release later this year. That's the biggest personal project on my plate right now.
And, of course, I will enjoy continuing to run Duran Duran's official MySpace and Facebook pages, and I can't wait for their next album to be released.
To learn more about Duran Duran to the Rock Hall, please visit our hub site at http://ddttrh.info/.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Where else you can visit us...
Fans--Please also visit us on the following sites (Click on picture for enlarged view):
Thanks! Kirk, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
Thanks! Kirk, Lead Effort Organizer, DDTTRH
A Letter of Apology about Band Support
I want to formally apologize to fans about wording on our site(s) that may have led you to believe that major bands 'officially' supported our cause. While it is true that bands can 'friend' us on Myspace (and need to approve us), they may be doing so to attract people with similar interests to their sites in an attempt to get the word out about themselves or purchase their music (vs. truly supporting our effort). Further, sites from major names are most likely owned by a caretaker and not the actual band themselves (thanks to Anitra, our Myspace guru, for the reality check!).
In the future, we will make sure to let you know the difference between a band that is a 'friend' on Myspace and who 'officially' supports us. This will be important to us as well because we are learning that official support (particularly from those who are inductees to the Rock Hall) is what really will carry this effort where we want it to go.
This said, it is promising that we are befriending many bands, including those who were influenced by Duran Duran or influenced them directly. And, since we do believe that there are many that would support us if given the chance to speak, we are working hard to make that happen.
Finally, we are excited to announce that on Wednesday May 12, we will be releasing the first 'Official Band Support' Report to you. We hope to release one every month as we continue working hard to interview and collect the official 'yes we support you' messages from bands.
Thank you,
Kirk
Lead Effort Organizer
Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
On Myspace, Facebook, Youtube, and Blogger
In the future, we will make sure to let you know the difference between a band that is a 'friend' on Myspace and who 'officially' supports us. This will be important to us as well because we are learning that official support (particularly from those who are inductees to the Rock Hall) is what really will carry this effort where we want it to go.
This said, it is promising that we are befriending many bands, including those who were influenced by Duran Duran or influenced them directly. And, since we do believe that there are many that would support us if given the chance to speak, we are working hard to make that happen.
Finally, we are excited to announce that on Wednesday May 12, we will be releasing the first 'Official Band Support' Report to you. We hope to release one every month as we continue working hard to interview and collect the official 'yes we support you' messages from bands.
Thank you,
Kirk
Lead Effort Organizer
Duran Duran to the Rock Hall - Official Effort
On Myspace, Facebook, Youtube, and Blogger
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Answer from Terry Stuart, Rock Hall President
We got an answer from Terry Stewart, the Rock Hall President! Received by email 5/6/2010 from his assistant (we assume), Sharon Uhl:
Thanks for your comments. We receive literally thousands of emails every year like yours about hundreds of different artists. Consequently, part of this communication is a standard response as to how the induction process works. First of all, the only reason that Duran Duran have not been inducted is that they did not get enough votes to date to make the final ballot. OR, upon making the ballot, they did not get enough votes. There are no conspiracies and no one has veto power.
Thanks for your comments. We receive literally thousands of emails every year like yours about hundreds of different artists. Consequently, part of this communication is a standard response as to how the induction process works. First of all, the only reason that Duran Duran have not been inducted is that they did not get enough votes to date to make the final ballot. OR, upon making the ballot, they did not get enough votes. There are no conspiracies and no one has veto power.
Please remember the following: Everyone personalizes everything about rock and roll when they are brought into the circle of discussion. This is another way of saying that many fans believe that their opinion is uniquely compelling and definitive. Without metrics (see below), the definition of "rock and roll," who is or was important, and who should be inducted is incredibly subjective.
As a result, our Nominating and Voting Committees are replete with Inductees (in fact, they are the largest bloc of voters). Someone has to decide, so we built our Voting Committee around the most qualified group possible: the living Inductees, which number around 400 at this time. Thus, folks like Bruce, Metallica, Clapton, Ozzy, Prince and the others are the difference makers. You may disagree, but being an Inductee makes a pretty good case for being the ones who choose.
With that overview, here’s how the process works. Nomination and induction into the Hall of Fame is not about popularity, records sales, which label the group is on, or anything other than the process below. Unlike baseball, football, basketball or hockey, statistics are not relevant. To be eligible for induction as an artist (as a performer, composer, or musician) into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the artist must have released a record, in the generally accepted sense of that phrase, at least 25 years prior to the year of induction; and have demonstrated unquestionable musical excellence. We shall consider factors such as an artist’s musical influence on other artists, length and depth of career and the body of work, innovation and superiority in style and technique, but musical excellence shall be the essential qualification for induction.
Like it or not, the evaluation of these factors is highly subjective and can only be answered by the votes of our nominators and voters. In addition, even if an artist meets the influence/impact/innovation test, it doesn’t mean that they get inducted automatically. They still need to get the support of both Committees.
The entire nomination and induction process is coordinated by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation in New York City. Artists can be inducted in four categories: Performer, Early Influence, Non-Performer and Side-Men. The latter three are evaluated and decided by separate committees for each category.
Unlike the other three categories, the selection of Performers is a two-step process.
It begins with a Nominating Committee consisting of a diverse panel of living inductees, journalists, historians, noted musicians, industry heads, etc. In turn, those nominated are sent to a Voting Committee of about 600 people (all living inductees, journalists, historians, music industry management, musicians, etc.) around the world who vote. That said, candidates are reviewed and discussed relative to their impact, innovation and influence on this music that we broadly define as rock and roll. Gold records, number one hits, and million sellers are not appropriate standards for evaluation. Those receiving the highest number of votes and more than 50% of the votes cast are inducted into the Hall. Usually, this means five to seven new performing members each year.
Having said all this, I believe that all worthy candidates will be inducted, just not always when they or their fans deem timely. This phenomenon is not unique to us. The sports halls of fame have had many great stars that do not get inducted in their early years of eligibility or for many years to come.
Peace & Soul,
Rock & Roll!
Terry Stewart
President
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum
Rock & Roll: (noun) African American slang dating back to the early 20th Century. In the early 1950s, the term came to be used to describe a new form of music, steeped in the blues, rhythm & blues, country and gospel. Today, it refers to a wide variety of popular music -- frequently music with an edge and attitude, music with a good beat and --- often --- loud guitars.© 2005 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum.
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Saturday, May 8, 2010
Even LIFE agrees that Duran Duran has been snubbed!
Thanks to Gretchen Morgan for sharing this article...from LIFE, naming Duran Duran as one of 10 huge snubs for Rock Hall of Fame induction.
Click here to see the article
Click here to see the article
Our first newspaper article!!!
We had our first newspaper article about the effort published in the Barrie Examiner of Ontario Canada. 'Big Thing' Kudos to Jason Henry (one of our admins) for approaching the Barrie and doing this article!!!
Click here to be taken to the article!
Click here to be taken to the article!
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