after almost one year of procrastination, I finally managed to upload new videos on YouTube. it’s not much; just a straight performance capture on my iPhone but hey, it’s something new working with Line 6 M9 instead of good ol’ DL4 has been a bit of adjustment, but I’m slowly adapting and it’s stating to feel good. still don’t like the foot switches as much as DL4, but I can make ‘em work. watch for my tap-dancing skillz lol

they’re both covers, obviously – one is a funk classic by Sly & The Family Stone and was a request. the other is a silly mash-up of Bill Withers and the only Japanese classic that made its mark on the Billboard chart. and is dedicated to those affected by the recent disaster. ever since it happened, I’ve been bringing back the songs that I grew up listening to into my set. and this, being the most recognizable to the US audience, has become the staple rapidly and even though the lyrical content might not be the most uplifting, I cannot help but sing this one. the sad but hauntingly beautiful imagery of the original lyrics never escapes the mind of every Japanese native that has heard this song, which over and over has proven itself to be a timeless classic. the same goes for the Withers song and that is exactly why I thought of mashing them together. and it adds a little sense of hope to what is otherwise a bit too sentimental for the time when Touhoku has to rise up for its rebuild.

hope you enjoy. “If You Want Me To Stay” is up on Vimeo page as well.

on April 7th, MidTones presents the 1st official Movie Night featuring a B-Side Entertainment film “Still Bill” with Bill Withers. “STILL BILL is an intimate portrait of soul legend Bill Withers, best known for his classics “Ain’t No Sunshine,” “Lean On Me,” “Lovely Day,” “Grandma’s Hands,” and “Just the Two of Us.” With his soulful delivery and warm, heartfelt sincerity, Withers has written the songs that have – and always will – resonate deeply within the fabric of our times.”

this is a FREE event and open to public. after the screening, the jam session will commence immediately paying tribute to Withers’ music. please RSVP (not required) your spot at the movie website, email, or simply reply to this post here for seating might be limited.

Also check out MidTones page on Yelp!