BobbyD kicked off 2008 with the realization of a long-held dream: the release of his first CD, self-titled Robert Christopher Hymns - Then & Now.The thirteen track CD is a collection of timeless hymns soulfully re-orchestrated and magnificently sung by Robert Christopher, aka BobbyD.Complementing and intermingling with the mix of old and new spiritual music are three brand-new originals that are sure to become instant favorites! The entire track list creates for the listener a dynamic, heartwrenching, and inspirational musical voyage that will lift you up, put a smile on your face, and gratitude in your heart.
Hymns - Then & Now is available for purchase at CD Baby. You can purchase the CD online and have it delivered to you at home, or you can purchase a digital download of the album to keep on your computer.
We interviewed Bobby in relation to the release of his much-awaited first CD and discovered more about him and what inspired him to write and record this collection of spiritual music.
Read the interview below:
OP: Congratulations on the release of your first CD! Please tell us the reason for the CD Title: Robert Christopher: Hymns - Then & Now. How long did production take, and who else was involved?
BD: Thank you. My full name is Robert Dennis Christopher Donahue, so I felt the name Christopher had a better ring. Then & Now was agreed on because of the Older songs as well as some of the newer written songs. The entire production took four months.
OP: What was the motivation behind the decision to record your own CD?
BD: It was always a dream of mine to sing with a full Orchestra, this didn't seem to be practical. Don't get me wrong...the Dream is still alive - however, for now recording this CD seemed to be a great alternative. For now anyway.
OP: Three of the songs on the CD, "Lord Hallelujah," "My Savior" and the heart-wrenching ballad "Blessed Are The Children," are originals. Could you give us some info on when the songs were written, and what inspired you
BD: "Lord Hallelujah" Was co-written by Guy Segrove and Eddie Henderson motivated by Eddie's story of one day meeting this homeless man who would constantly repeat the phrase, "Lord Hallelujah. I thank you Jesus". Even in this homeless person's situation, he could still muster up gratitude for his existence. Bass accompanment is provided in this number by Guy's Pastor, Dan Brindley.
"My Savior" was co-written by my Niece, Grace Ann, her husband, Guy Segrove and myself during one of our sessions. I should point out Guy owns his own studio in Jackson, NJ. All the arrangements on this CD were his and all the instruments you hear aside of the drums were Guy's playing. Guy is a very talented musician. Guy plays the organ for his Church each Sunday as well as entertaining with his talented wife, Grace, at weddings and related functions.
"Blessed Are The Children" I wrote to draw attention to child abuse that takes place world wide. The lyrics are based on personal experience, my own upbringing, and I sing the song from (me) the child's point of view. In many ways it has affected my life and I can't do anything about that other than to make sure it didn't repeat itself in my Family. I can only hope the song brings to light an awareness in some families where this may take place, that they may give some sincere thoughts to what lifetime injury they're inflicting on the child and seek help to change their behavior.
OP: When did you realize that you were a singer? What kinds of music did you enjoy as a youngster?
BD: I guess I always realized I was a singer. People would comment on it every time I sang and it took me a long time to believe I was as good as people said I was. As a young guy I on occassion would sing on the corner with three other guys and when the harmony was there, I would get chills up my spine. Nothing can ever come close to it. So I know you guessed by now my era was the 50's and 60's.
OP: What other bands/artists have been an influence on your singing and music?
BD: Too many to name, however, I guess it started with artists such as Eddie Fischer, Al Martino... so as to cut to the chase..... a lot of Italian singers. Then came The Platters and many groups of the 50's. I was an avid follower of Neil Diamond, John Denver, The Who, Doobie Brothers and the list goes on and on. I also like a great deal of New Age Music such as Enya, Tim Janis, George Winston etc. I also enjoy FFH- "Where You Are" and Mercy Me- "Word Of God Speak."
OP: Tell us about your first performance in front of a live audience.
BD: My first performance on stage was when I was 14, my Father had me get up and sing "Silent Night" for a Christmas Party held at the Maplewood Country Club (were I first started to caddy.) Half way through the song, I forgot the words and felt very embarrassed and the audience sensed this and began to sing along with me ...to my relief.
OP: When did you first sing online? Where was that, and what was your reaction to online singing?
BD: My first experience singing online was KSolo, around two and a half years ago and moved on to BIX, SingSnap and OnlinePopstar. I immediately fell in love with these three mediums for their friendship and competitive spirit (contests).
OP: Tell us how you think the internet can change the path and scope of a singer's career.
BD: I learned a long time ago that the Vocal Chords are a muscle and if you don't exercise them, you lose the quality. Singing on the internet provides that exercise as well as picking up tips from other folks performing. There is also that once-in-a-lifetime possibility of being discovered and at my age that's not really a reality, but for others it sure is. There is so much talent out there and because of the Internet this talent is being tapped. If you need some help with your singing there are some sites that can provide great tips on Singing Techniques such as....... http://www.vocalist.org/
OP: Very cool! Don't forget about VoiceWorks at OP, too!
We know you love to sing. What are some of your other hobbies?
BD: My hobbies are oil painting, mediums such as pencils, pastel chalk, occasional song writing, piano, guitar and bass guitar, accordion, harmonica and spoons. At one time, computers were my hobbies and now they are a necessity. Outdoors, I like golf and metal detecting, on occasions. Finding old silver coins intrigue me; these I save. Others such as copper clad I donate to an Org. that trains puppies to be seein eye dogs. The Org. is known as Pennies For Puppies.
OP: Wow, you're musical, and certainly seem busy! Please tell us about your family, and how they feel about your new venture. Are there any other singers/musicians in the family?
BD: My family is glad I pursue my passion and kind of proud of what I do and my son, who is an excellent drummer, calls me Mr. Karaoke.
OP: Give us the dirt! What's your worst habit and/or flaw?
BD: Only my wife can tell you, I don't like to admit to any flaws and this could be my only flaw!
OP: What CD are you listening to right now in your home or car CD player?
BD: I'll always listen to tunes such as quoted above if I'm not on the internet listening.
OP: Can we expect another release from you in the future? Are you working toward that now?
BD: I have a few half done numbers and not contemplating a new CD at this time. But, who knows what may develop? If I sense a demand, I will pursue it with more vigor!
OP: Thanks so much for spending time with us tonight, Bobby!
BD: You're very welcome!
