Solo artist Singleton keeps career options open

Malcolm Singleton has experienced the conflict that can develop in a band, including the clashing of egos and breakups that seem to occur at the most inopportune times.

For that reason, he prefers to pursue his musical career as a solo artist. That way, he has control over the music and nobody to depend on but himself.

"I got totally frustrated with trying to put a band together," Singleton said.

Standing near a drum kit and an array of guitars that includes a refurbished 1930s or '40s era Gibson that belonged to his grandfather, the

25-year-old singer/songwriter talked about his career and the excitement of being asked to perform at the Songwriters Hall of Fame in New York City tonight.

"I'm excited about it," Singleton said. "New York is just a cool place to go, especially if you're getting to play music."

Singleton, who is on a bill with seven other up-and-coming songwriters, said he will be performing two original songs.

The event will be another opportunity for him to perform in New York and to get more exposure.

"Just the fact that ASCAP asked him to represent them at this is a big deal," said Singleton's producer Eddie Martin.

Singleton said he's expecting members of the other artists rights organizations, such as BMI and ASCAP, to be at the show, but there's no telling who else might be watching, including well-known artists or music industry professionals.

Martin, who is producing Singleton's upcoming album along with Daniel Beard, said Singleton has gotten good response to his music in New York, which is known for knowledgeable and critical fans.

"Everywhere he plays, they want him back," Martin said.

Singleton also has played well-received shows at clubs in Martha's Vineyard.

He said he wants to be known as an artist who creates and performs catchy pop songs, the kind that get stuck in your head.

He started out playing drums when he was about 11 years old, then began picking on his dad's guitar when he was 13.

"My first influence on guitar was Dave Matthews because he's such a percussive, rhythmic player," Singleton said. "It's really right up my alley."

Singleton said he prefers being a rhythm guitarist and writing songs to playing lead guitar and playing solos.

He first began writing songs at 17 and prefers creating a melody and progression on his guitar before adding lyrics.

He admits being a big fan of The Beatles, especially from a songwriting perspective.

Singleton began working Beatles' songs into his repertoire not because they were being requested by fans, but because he liked them.

Soon he had enough original songs and covers to perform a three- or four-hour set.

Some of the time he would play acoustic gigs with his friend Gaylon Partain, the remaining member of one of Singleton's bands.

They pair still perform live from time to time as Partain's work schedule permits.

In between shows, Singleton is trying to complete work on his full-length follow up to his 2005 ep "Counting on You."

The album was supposed to be finished by December, but will likely be released in early 2008.

Singleton said the new album will feature songs with a full band and just himself playing guitar, plus a bonus track.

Most likely, Singleton, Martin and Beard, will release the album themselves, but Singleton is always keeping his options open for a deal with either a major or independent label.

Singleton happily reports that his parents, Mack and Diane, are 100 percent behind his career.

His dad and "mom-ager" help book shows and distribute posters for upcoming gigs.

Russ Corey can be reached at russ.corey@timesdaily.com or 740-5738.