What is your name? Ellen Smile
Bands Name? The Buddz
Where are you from? We hail from Bristol, TN. A small town that many dont know, is the unofficial birthplace of country music. The Carter Family recorded their first music here and the inspiration can still be found on our streets.
How long have you been making music? for 8 years i have been doing exactly what i love most.
How many songs /albums have you released to date? We have spent a lot of time in studios all over the U.S. and so far have released 2 E.P.s wit over 15 songs.
Can you tell us about your upcoming release and the background and inspirations behind it? “Bring Me Down” is our latest single. I love this song. We had Gabe Garcia from Black Tide in the studios and featuring on the track. We just got back from shooting the video in Miami for this song and excited for the unveil…coming soon!
How have you ended up in the music industry? I have always been into music. But it wasn’t until I witnessed the band getting conned by people in the industry. I knew they had what it took to make it, but they were constantly playing free shows and the only person benefiting was the so called managers. That’s when i knew I had to take over.
What did you think of the music industry in 2015? Money isn’t made the same way anymore. No fan runs out to the local record store to buy the latest album. Selling merchandise, selling out venues that’s how you hope to turn your coin.
Who do you think the most influential artist is in 2015? If you want to discuss icon relativity you cant answer that question without crediting Prince. I hear music his influence in artists all over the top 40 and his career peak was over 20 years ago.
Who have you collaborated with so far in your career? I have had the honor of working with mega producer, and Ugly Kid Joe guitarist DAVE FORTMAN. He is currently producing our new album. Also featuring on it is Gabe Garcia from Black Tide and many more.
Dead or alive, who would be your dream collaboration? Paul Stanley from KISS no contest. He has been our hero for as long as i can remember and i know he would hear his influence in our music.
What was your first album you bought? Alice Cooper’s greatest hits. I’ve always been a rocker even when it wasn’t considered cool.
What’s your favorite song at the moment? My favorite song is Home is on my Mind a BUDDZ original. Soon to be yours too!
Who is the most influential artist now, and 10 years ago? Dave Grohl is an artist that i have followed for a lot of years. When it comes to Rock n Roll currently hes king. He and i share many of the same heroes and it comes through in his work. Ten years ago the ladies of pop dominated the top 40. Its good to see that Rock is being revived.
If you had to sell your music collection tomorrow, what album would you leave in your draw? KISS Rock n ROLL OVER
How do you think you differ from other managers? While other managers see themselves as a boss i see myself as a member.
What is your favorite saying? If its too loud your too old – Gene Simmons
What other hobbies or interests do you have? I’m a belly dancer its a beautiful art that keeps my Syrian heritage alive
Why don’t you have any tattoos or piercings? I have my belly button pierced and who knows i may get a tattoo just haven’t found one i can commit to
Tell us more about your upcoming project or this new project? Currently our focus is finishing this anticipated album and releasing the video
What’s in the pipeline for the future? Booking and promoting a kick ass tour we hope to see you there
Thank you for your time and may you carry on making dope, fresh music.
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