Riley L.

At 18, I headed off to study music business in college with the intention of becoming a recording artist. That didn't happen, but it did give me greater insight into the music industry. As a filmmaker and amateur singer-songwriter, I use a lot of recording equipment in a variety of settings and scenarios. I play guitar very badly, ukulele worse, and am an admirer (occasional purchaser) of unusual instruments. A million years ago, I was a runner-up in a songwriting contest. Favorite artists: The Corrs, Kasey Chambers, Mavis Staples, David Ford, Beth Hart, Amanda Marshall, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Kathy Mattea, Linda Eder

Music Shops in Birmingham, AL (Instruments & Gear)

birmingham music shop

Searching for a music shop in Birmingham, Alabama? You’ve got quite a few options. From pianos and guitars to rare instruments, these B’ham music stores have you covered whether you’re a vintage collector or looking for something new and functional. So, presto, let’s dive right into Birmingham’s locals and see what they’ve got in stock. …

Music Shops in Birmingham, AL (Instruments & Gear) Read More »

Signature Songs: “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong

louis armstrong

Some songs are so iconic, they eclipse everything else in an artist’s catalog. For famed Jazz trumpeter Louis Armstrong that song is “What a Wonderful World.” Though, that may not have been the case if one record executive had the final say in the matter. But, in the end, Larry Newton of ABC Records couldn’t …

Signature Songs: “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong Read More »

5 Songs Like What a Wonderful World

what a wonderful world feature

…And I think to myself What a wonderful world… “What a Wonderful World” has a lovely sentiment. Simple, straightforward, bordering the line with schmaltzy, but never quite dropping off its ledge. For me, personally, the song holds some sad underpinnings, as explained in our hope songs article. Though, melancholy certainly isn’t the song’s intention (though, …

5 Songs Like What a Wonderful World Read More »