Jason Shand

Ask newcomer Jason Shand what his musical influences are and he'll answer with a single word, "broad." The singer/songwriter's smooth vocals and sophisticated songwriting make him an heir apparent to the adult contemporary throne formerly occupied by the likes of Seal and Annie Lennox. Yet, Jason is also quick to point out what makes him different, "I've heard my music be compared to those artists. They are definitely influences and the comparisons are very flattering. My music is probably best described as soulful pop, but I'm also influenced by everything from ABBA to ACDC. So how do you classify that?"

Jason's voice is as distinct as his musical taste is eclectic. Emotional, passionate and powerful, Jason's voice first got attention when he fronted Boston alternative rock band Hybrid Minds. After signing to British record label Freestyle Recordings (a BMG subsidiary) and spending six years developing his craft, Jason left the band, and Boston, to return to his hometown New York City and pursue a solo career. "Being the lead singer of Hybrid Minds was such a valuable experience. In retrospect, I was raw when I started. I got lucky. I was surrounded by great musicians and songwriters. I learned discipline and I also learned about the construction of a good song, the craft of songwriting," Jason explains.

His apprenticeship now over, Jason plans to continue to learn and grow as an artist. He can be found most evenings either polishing his songs in a recording studio or perfecting his live show by playing clubs in and around New York City. Jason is already reaping some rewards: his song "Pill" was featured in the Neil Turitz independent film Two Ninas and "Second Skin" was also featured in an independent film released nationally in India.

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