Hi Everyone!
I caught up with an old friend today who’s been making music (professionally) for 20 years. That’s impressive in any market! Asif Illyas’ talents have made his long career possible. The multi-talented music-maker has been on stages all over the world, played with greats, and composed award winning music for movies and advertising.
His latest album is called “Synesthesia”, and believe me, it’s wonderful. What makes it even more impressive is the fact that Asif wrote, produced and performed all the songs. And when I say performed, I mean he actually played all of the instruments on the album. You’ve got to know what you’re doing to accomplish that!
“Synesthesia” is a labour of love for Asif, not only did he conceive and create the album from scratch, but $1 from every sale will go to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Turns out, his six-year-old daughter has the condition and he wanted to give back. Now that’s a great dad! Further to that, the song “Just Keep Moving” is a tribute to all those living with Type 1 Diabetes. So he’s basically written them an amazing anthem. I’ve included it below.
On another note, Asif was also the primary music maker for the critically acclaimed (and Maritime-made) film - “Blackbird”. It’s about a kid who is wrongfully accused of planning a Columbine type attack at his school and the fallout that ensues. The film just won the Grand prize at Cannes Ecrans Junior (yes, that Cannes). Asif says it was an honour to be part of the production.
Speaking of movies, Asif composed the music you hear before every feature presentation at Empire Theatrea (across Canada). I’ll think of him before every flick! A sample is also included below.
He’s got far too much on the go to list in this post. To learn more about Asif, his music, or his upcoming shows, click here.
The Viral File
Here’s some of what’s trending today…
Click here for the video I featured on Section Six tonight.
Cat vs Box… Box wins…
This looks dangerous…
How to fly…
Thanks for stopping by!
Maria
