Saturday, October 24, 2009

Peaches Records Songs “Hey Hey Hill and “Oye Hillary” for Hillary Clinton Campaign



Being that I’m such a fan, I hope that President Barak Obama forgives me for this one. Last year, I recorded a song for the Hillary Clinton Campaign titled, “Hey Hey Hill.” I also recorded the song in Spanish under the title, “Oye Hillary.” The song was written and produced by Lynne Revo-Cohen. Annette Rodrigues of "Latinas for Hillary," co-wrote and produced the song as well as the Hillary Clinton campaign video.

The song was first used to turn out the Latino vote in the California primary. However, because of its success, it was also used in the Texas, Ohio, and Pennsylvania primaries as well as voting places, fundraisers, and Clinton speaking events.

Check out the “Hey Hey Hill and “Oye Hill” videos on YouTube:

SPANISH VERSION
ENGLISH VERSION

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Sax Man Jaared Jams With Peaches' Bands, The Source & Meritxell Project











If you like contemporary smooth jazz, you’ll love a very dear friend of mine, Jaared Arosemena. He’s best known in the sax world as Sax Man Jaared. However, I call him Jaared. Others call him the “Smooth Operator” for his smooth saxy sound.

Jaared is a fairly accomplished music artist. The dude can sing too! Doing over 200 shows per year, the man’s a work horse. He’s also one of the most in demand saxophonists in Greater Washington, DC. I’m honored to have Jaared play in my bands, The Source and The Meritxell Project. We've had wonderful times in many musical collaborations. I love you, Jaared!

Jaared has also written numerous jazz tracks. One of my favorites is
One of my favorites is “My First Love.” My all-time favorite Jaared CD is "Hang Time," which features the Peter White, Ken Navaro, Stan Cooper, Nate Smith, Roberto Valley, and Marcus Johnson.

Monday, October 19, 2009

When Summer Ends


Hi Fans,

Judith C. McAleer wrote a powerful, melodic song about empathy called "When Summer Ends." The song turned out to be one of the most beautiful songs that I ever recorded. It is a symbolic reminder of how sheltered our lives are and how considerate we should be of the less fortunate. It is the ideal anthem for the homeless, who live scurrying about for shelter in the endless cold of winter. Thinking of this song makes me feel so fortunate for all that I have today.

The song's piano and flamenco guitar fusion makes me reminisce about my life as a youth in my native Barcelona. Judith McAleer played piano and Arnell Byrd was a superb guitarist, who I wouldn't hesitate working with again. And of course, I provided the vocals (in both English and Spanish). The recording was produced in Art of Music studio, Alexandria, VA
.

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Peaches Visits J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles


If you love the arts, you will be spellbound by the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles. I was transformed by the museum’s historical exhibitions of western art from the middle ages to modern. This museum is the richest museum in the world since inheriting $1.2 billion in 1982. Looking at its opulent exhibits, it shows.

One of my highlights of the museum was the works of photographer Irving Penn, who created representations of skilled workers in their uniforms and carrying the tools of their occupations. I also had an unforgettable experience marveling at the J. Paul Getty Museum’s dazzling, exterior labyrinthine landscaping.

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Peaches Rides Harley to Puerto Nuevo, Mexico for Lobster Feast



Yesterday, I went on an adventurous lobster cruise. I rode with my friend on his Harley Davidson Road King Classic all the way from San Diego down to Puerto Nuevo, Mexico to eat lobster. I must be crazy or a real lobster lover.

When I arrived in Puerto Nuevo, I finally knew why it’s called the "Lobster Capital of Baja." I saw dozens of restaurants featuring, yummy, succulent pan-fried langostas. After choosing a lobster spot with a tremendous ocean view, it wasn’t long before I started filling my tummy. One wasn't enough. I ate THREE soft, tender, white meat lobsters with beans, rice, homemade flour tortillas, and an icy margarita. But my meal wasn't complete until I sweetened my pallete with flan and Mariachi entertainment romanced my afternoon.

Aside from the delicious lobster feast, it was such an eerie feeling seeing this Lobster Village so desolate. The sight was somewhat depressing with hardly any tourists in sight. Signs of the U.S. economy resound even in foreign lands.

My trip back to San Diego was breathless. We smartly took the toll roads riding for many smooth miles along the breezy oceanfront. It was a perfect day!

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Peaches Performs at Taboo Tuesdays Jazzy Jam Session Hosted by Troy Rawlings at Olivia Restaurant in Burbank


Two Tuesdays ago, my friend Grant Nicholas (far left), who is a music producer who worked on the Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis camp, invited me to see a jam session called Taboo Tuesdays. It was at a quaint little spot called Olivia Restaurant in Olive Avenue in Burbank, California. Grant happens to be the jam session’s Music Director and Troy “Ghost Host” Rawlings (far right) was the formidable host.

The ambience of the place was ideal. Troy is a terrific host with laughable comedic punch lines, and the food and drinks were great. Being that it was the grand opening night, I was pleasantly surprised to see a full house chuck full of talent.

Few people knew who I was until Troy introduced me as “Peaches.” Then, he asked me to perform. I must have sang a song or two. Being around so many warm and talented singers, for the first time since leaving the East Coast, I felt right at home. I’m finally starting to feel this L.A. vibe!


Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Peaches & Herb Goes On New York City Interview Blitz


Hi Peaches and Herb Fans:

We are actively promoting our new CD, “Colors of Love” and want the world to know that "America's Sweethearts of Soul" are back! Plus, there's so much for fans to learn about me, the new "Peaches."

We would appreciate your support. On October 22nd Peaches and Herb will be interviewing with the following New York City stations:

Better TV - TV Interview: Time: 12:00 PM (will air 1 week later)

Fox News Entertainment - TV Interview: Time: 1PM-1:15PM

Joey Reynolds Show - RADIO Interview: Time: 1AM

We are also scheduled for interviews (with tentative dates) with Sirius XM RADIO, NYC Profiles (TV) and ABC RADIO on the Mark Simone Show.

I’m really excited about the Mark Simone radio interview. His radio show is heard on the most listened to talk radio station in America, WABC Radio. His weekend broadcast is number in it’s time slot reaching half a million listeners and boasts regular guests like Jerry Seinfeld, Rudy Giuliani, Regis Philbin, Mike Wallace, Mel Brooks, Dennis Miller, Larry King, and Jay Leno.

BTW, I'd also like to thank Soultracks.com for letting Peaches and Herb reach out with our music to the Soul Tracks family.

Love,

Meritxell ("Peaches")

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

SoulMusic.com Rocked on Peaches & Herb 2009 Interview on “Colors of Love” CD


I have a lot of respect for SoulMusic.com. They are a leading online news source that has always provided comprehensive, unbiased news showcasing the works of music artists. Their Peaches & Herb 2009 Interview, which highlighted the recent release of our new CD, “Colors of Love,” was warm and “on point!”

I’d like to quote some of the things that their music critic said about me, Meritxell Negre as "The New Peaches":

“As the first non-black “Peaches,” her vibrantly soulful vocal delivery is proof that, in keeping with the album’s title, the Colors of Love are boundless. She’s just as at home delivering a serious, no-nonsense approach on “What You Gonna Do” as she is cooing seductively on “Spend the Night.” Her effortless alto and soprano range is simultaneously lush and powerful, and is the perfect match for Herb’s classic, zesty tenor flair. She fits right in the slot, almost as if she were replacing Linda Greene right after the last Peaches & Herb album (1983’s Remember), instead of 25 years later.”

I’m eternally grateful for the above commentary.

Here’s entire Peaches and Herb Interview.

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

The Favorite Jingle I Sang For A Cover Girl Commercial Featuring Queen Latifah


I’ve been hired to sing many jingles for TV commercials of large U.S. corporations and known brands like Sears and Pringles. My all-time favorite jingle was the one I sang for the Cover Girl commercial with Queen Latifah as Spokeswoman. The commercial ran for about 1 1/2 years and the money wasn’t bad.

Here’s Cover Girl Video. It's posted on MySpace Video!

I hope you like it.

Love,

Meritxell (“Peaches”)

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Monday, October 12, 2009

Meritxell ("Peaches") Contributes Her Song "Bello Futuro" to Sustainable Environments CD


Sustainable Environments is a unique foundation that helps countries in becoming self-sufficient. I especially like that they focus on supporting children from 3rd world countries.

Gary Grainger, the world-renowned bassist and co-writer of my CD, "The Meritxell Project/El Proyecto Meritxell" and I were honored to make a musical contribution to the non-profit organization's worthy cause. We allowed them to include “Bello Futuro” which is one of the songs of my CD, to the Sustainable Environments CD.

Check out the “Bello Futuro” Video featuring Meritxell Negre and Gary Grainger. The video was produced five years ago.

I look forward to showing you future videos of my musical performances.


Love,

Meritxell ("Peaches")

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Peaches Relocates from the East Coast to West Coast


Hi y’all

As unbelievable as it sounds, after so many years of residing in the D.C. area, I relocated to the "City of Angels." Yes, Los Angeles is now where I call home.

Through the years, I have played with many great East Coast musicians. But I must say that L.A. also seems to have its own wealth of musical talent. I look forward to future musical collaborations with a number of these fine, local artists.

Being a beach girl at heart, the West Coast suits me just right! For me, there’s no better enjoyment than having fun under the sun, either at the beach, or by the pool. Talking about pool parties, boy California knows how to party! Here I am posing for the camera after I chased down a So Cal carne asada plate with a cold Corona.

When not touring with Peaches and Herb or the Meritxell Project, I’ve also been taking whatever chance I can get to experience Southern California. So far, I visited Sea World, Balboa Park, Venice Beach, Temecula wineries, Universal City Walk, and Universal Studios. Soon I will be visiting J. Paul Getty Museum, Disneyland, the San Diego Zoo, Legoland, the Napa and Sonoma wineries, and other Southern California attractions.

Until my next Blog.

Love,

Meritxell ("Peaches")

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Sunday, October 11, 2009

Peaches Surfs and Turfs Turks and Caicos Beaches


After doing the Peaches and Herb concert in Turks and Caicos Islands, I decided to remain in Providenciales a few more days. My mission was incomplete. It was an absolute MUST for Peaches to tan in the sun over the island’s glorious spread of white, sandy beaches. Yes, sir! Check out the tan on those legs!!!

I also couldn’t resist snorkeling. I have one word to say about swimming with the amazing marine life in crystalline turquoise waters – breathtaking! TCI definitely gets my props for having the best Caribbean beaches. Check out the Youtube video I filmed and judge for yourself: Peaches, Turks and Caicos Youtube Video


Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Peaches Is a Hit in Peaches and Herb Turks and Caicos Concert!



In August 29, Peaches and Herb performed in the beautiful Turks and Caicos Islands at the Tropicana Show and Supper Club. We rocked the crowd and many fans got up jamming to old tunes like “Shake Your Groove Thing.” I was particularly flattered when my solo performance drew a standing ovation.

We also received tremendous hospitality from Marvin Henfield, the owner of the Tropicana Show and Supper Club. I later learned Marvin is no stranger to show business. He was the lead vocalist of the 70’s band the Blue Notes and once promoted High Voltage, now the award-winning, platinum recording group Bahamen - famous for the track “Who let the dogs out?” Marvin and the people in TCI were incredible!

My only complaint about TCI is having read an article from the Turks and Caicos Sun about our concert. But it featured a picture of Herb with the old Peaches. As if people don’t know about “The New peaches.” Just in case you don’t know who is Meritxell Negre, here’s some TRIVIA:

I’m an Aquarius who hails from Barcelona, Spain. I’m an alto-soprano singer who is tri-lingual in English, Spanish, and Catalan. I’m the first non-African American and only the second out of six “Peaches” to co-record a Peaches and Herb album. The last Peaches and Herb recording was 26 years ago! I love animals. I’m also a community activist and I’m very opinionated about life and politics.

You can learn more about me by continuing to visit The New Peaches Blog.

Love,

Meritxell ("Peaches")

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Peaches Owes Apology to ASPCA and Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals


I love animals to the core, particularly, dogs, and would do anything for them. About six months ago, it was disheartening for me to part my way from my dog, Yoda. He is a Yorkshire Terrier. In this blog post, I contained a picture of my lovely bundle of joy. The downside of being a musical performer is the constant traveling. Now, collaborating as “Peaches” with Peaches and Herb and also gigging with my band, the Meritxell Project, my schedule’s even more chaotic. But as we all know, pets need lots of TLC. As heartbreaking as it was, I had to find my best friend, Yoda a new home.

During my Peaches and Herb concert in Turks and Caicos Islands on August 29, while driving around the heavenly beaches of Providenciales, I came across an affectionate stray dog that reminded me of Yoda. Oddly, later that evening as I dined at a quaint, TCI beachfront bar and grill, I was introduced to members of the ASPCA and the Turks and Caicos Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (TCSPCA).

Being aware that I am a big animal lover, the TCSPCA President graciously invited me to tour their facility the next morning. Upon arrival, I proceeded to videotape my visit, which I had planned to publicize on my website and in Youtube. Unfortunately, my video camera caught a virus and all the footage was ruined. So instead, to make up for the loss, I decided to blog about my unique experience…


I learned a lot while touring the TCSPCA facility, such as the history of potcakes. The term, “potcake,” which is given to the dogs of the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas, originated from the locals, who fed caked remains of cooking pots to stray dogs. In the island, the potcake population is growing, which is why organizations like TCSPCA are crucially needed for the rescue and welfare of these homeless animals.


While in the facility, I got to see some of the essential medical care that some of these homeless animals need. The animals were well provided for and I felt an incredible aura of contentment.
The TCSPCA volunteers are relentless in their mission. They go into TCI communities to spay and neuter dogs. They provide fostering and adoption services. They also assist the TCI government with animal control.


I’m so happy that that animal care group in Turks and Caicos is doing such a wonderful job taking care of business! I’m also grateful that I was able to tour their animal shelter. And I look forward to revisit the warm and gracious people of TCI to do another Peaches and Herb performance.

Love,


Meritxell ("Peaches")

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace

Saturday, October 10, 2009

The New Peaches Performs to Support Victims of Domestic Violence




Hello fans. As a music artist, I love to entertain. But equally as important, I want to make you aware of the cancerous, domestic violence. Lately, there has been a 73% rise in domestic violence due to the rampant unemployment.

To help curb this problem, in August 2009, I joined my good friend, Dr. Andrea Pennington in launching the I LOVE YOU, ME! Women's Empowerment Conference in D.C. In the 3-day conference, Dr. Pennington, who has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, Fox News, and the Today Show and whose mission is to encourage people to manifest their fullest potential as they realize their total essence of loving themselves as a whole, supported 15 homeless women who were affected by domestic violence to go through a total health and wellness make over.

The women were donated clothes and were given a total beauty and fashion makeover, plus Dr. Pennington gave psychological counseling. Debt Free League also donated a $5,000 certificate toward enrollment in their debt settlement service. And I, The New Peaches, was the musical guest performer.

I collaborated with Dr. Pennington in writing the I LOVE YOU, ME! anthem and was so thrilled to sing to these women this powerful and inspirational song. I hope I was able to help boost their self-esteem. I also encourage other music artists to help out in such worthy causes.

Love,

Meritxell (The New Peaches)

Peaches and Herb
"Peaches" Bio - Imagen Records
Meritxell Music
The Meritxell Project - Myspace