L*A*W and Rob Lewis on #MIOSM

I plan on writing about various music in our schools advocacy groups as this month progresses, but today, I want to talk about a few musicians I have engaged on Twitter.

By the way, if you're not already using Twitter, why not? No matter what your field of interest is, you will find others who share the same interest. Looking for an expert in your field for advice? There's a tweeter for that? Want to find out what your favorite musician or actor is doing? He or his PR person is probably on Twitter. And, for my purposes, advocates for the inclusion of music in education programs, researchers in music cognition, and foundations who regularly donate to schools to start music programs are on Twitter. I love engaging with all of them, and especially this month! I have found so many people who support the inclusion of music in education programs including educational programs for teachers, conferences for teachers and researchers, credentialing programs, parents, and many others all excited for March as Music In Our Schools Month.

Today, I tweeted some of the musicians I regularly engage on Twitter. Yes, I'm their fan, but they've also taught me a lot about the behind the scenes work required to put on a successful show. I've learned the different types of instruments used, recording devices, how melodies are created, and what exactly a music director does. So, here are a couple of responses I received along with a little background of the musician.

L*A*W, also known as Lawrence Worrell, got started in the music industry early having uncles and a grandfather who was active in the music industry. Combining his genetics with his skills, he came to be known as the most talented kid in the music biz.

He has worked with Amy Winehouse and George Clinton. His music was nominated for a Grammy seven different times, and he won an indie music award twice.

He released his first solo album, Tha Planet 12 Syndrome, in 2010. Since that time, he has released several mix tapes including The Planet 12 Live Sessions, Volume 1. You can find his other mixtapes on datpiff. His next show is on March 29th at the No Bar in Brooklyn. This is a free show, so I hope those in the area can check it out and see the talent that I've always seen in this performer.

Understanding this artist's background might explain his answer when I asked him why he'd advocate for music in education.

Next up is Rob Lewis, music director for bands and artists as Toni Braxton, Christina Aguilera, Boyz II Men, The Pussycat Dolls, Leona Lewis, Brian McKnight, New Kids on the Block, and Babyface to name a few. He actually wears multiple hats. When he's not involved in musical direction, you can find him producing records, composing films, creating business, and donating money to worthy charities. He currently writes the majority of the music on Vh1's Big Morning Buzz Live.

I think the best way to describe Rob Lewis is one part education and three parts skill. He did get an early education in music, attending De La Salle Institute and Berklee College of Music, but his education was cut short just prior to Brian McKnight employing him as a keyboardist and later as a music director. His career has only ascended since then.

In 2012, Rob Lewis released The Masterpiece, on which he wrote, arranged, sang, and provided all the instrumentation. By the way, Rob spent 5 years perfecting this album!

Again his background greatly influences his ideas on the inclusion of music in education, perhaps even more so because he had the opportunity to explore music while in school.

Readers, what are your thoughts? Are you surprised at what these two artists have shared? Are there other artists you'd like to share their thoughts? Keep following this blog for more information on Music in Our Schools Month #MIOSM!