One University of Memphis student plays the only instrument in her band, but does a good deal of performing behind-the-scenes as well.
The local musician is U of M music business major Jennifer McCord, who moved here one year ago from Pennsylvania to pursue her degree.
“I’m really new to the Memphis music scene, so a lot of people don’t know about me just yet,” she said.
McCord is working on changing that at her shows by introducing local audiences to her own style of music.
“My music is pop, basically,” McCord said. “But it’s not your run-of-the-mill pop tart stuff. It goes deeper than that.”
Although pop can include many things, McCord’s music falls more along the lines of Norah Jones’ style rather than that of Britney Spears.
“It’s just the piano and me,” she said. “I try to keep all my songs interesting lyrically. They’re basically about love and relationships.”
McCord has been playing music for so long, that when asked how long she’s been a performer, her response was, “I don’t remember not doing it.”
McCord is not only interested in music, but the business side of the industry as well.
Friday night’s show is being put on by JEMM (Just Everything Memphis Music), a booking and promotions company formed by McCord and Evanthia Mataragas, a double major in recording technology and music business at The U of M.
JEMM was started to help create a place for local acoustic musicians.
“We just noticed Memphis didn’t really have a place for acoustic shows,” Mataragas said. “We started out to create a songwriters’ haven in Memphis. Since then it has branched out into other things.”
Some of their upcoming projects include putting together a soundtrack for a local independent film and organizing and promoting a tour for the Little Rock-based Christian band, You Before Me.
“We are very open to all genres of music,” Mataragas said. “We are willing to work with anyone we believe in.”
Tonya Butler, professor of music business at The U of M and an entertainment attorney, has noticed the two students’ work as well.
“They are two of the most dynamic, motivated music business students I have ever seen. They have a very keen sense of business,” Butler said. “They take everything they do very seriously.”
McCord’s performance on Friday will be followed by a performance from a former member of the “Mickey Mouse Club.”
Before this article incites hysteria from any screaming young fans, the Mouseketeer in question isn’t Justin, Britney, or Christina.
His name is Tony Lucca, and since he ditched his mouse ears he’s made a name for himself as a singer/songwriter.
Although he has yet to be signed by a major label, his steady touring schedule has helped him gain recognition.
Any local bands or musicians that are interested in contacting JEMM can do so by calling (901) 324-2737, sending an e-mail to jemm_net@yahoo.com or visiting their Web site at http://www.myspace.com/jemmentertainment.
The show Friday night will be at SiP* coffeehouse on Madison next to the Blue Monkey restaurant.
The doors open at 8 p.m. and the cover charge is $5. JEMM will also donate 10 percent of the cover charges to aid in Katrina relief funds.
