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Coming from a large extended family with deep roots in Hawai'i, I was surrounded by lu'au music, kachi-kachi dancing, Japanese bon dances, handsome local guys singing and playing their guitars and my aunties strumming their ukes and singing old songs.
I reveled in walking alone in Nature or playing piano and singing in empty, stain-glassed churches – just wailing in the dark, coloured light!
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I came to New York City and entered into a journey of playing at a Washington Heights gospel church, living in a building filled with musicians, studying music and healing, singing at the drop of a hat and writing songs as I wandered all over Manhattan.
I can be found performing my songs in Manhattan clubs, outdoor festivals and coffee houses. Besides teaching privately and performing, I also sing my songs at poetry and healing events. It's been a journey!
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"There are only a few things that can touch you like a good song. Carolyn Ota writes good songs." - Jochen Vogel, Germany
"Carolyn is one of the best singer/ songwriters I've come across in a very long time and puts her heart in every song. She's amazing." - Russ Richter, Vermont
"Ever notice how a warm, gentle rain can calm the heart, still the soul and wash everything clean? So it is with the music of Carolyn Ota." - Asian Talent Online
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So what's up with you?
Well, Steve, last year was an incredible time of singing my songs around NYC and meeting new people - so much change. I'd been quiet and underground for so long, that it was almost unreal to finally be ready to speak. It really does take strength to sing these songs. I'm currently singing these originals around NYC and creating handmade album art and videos. I've written a new song (Mandala) which is quite massive for me and am looking forward to my upcoming summer gigs.
Any new music/CDs on the way?
Yes! I have been selling my TEA EP which has "Common Tool", "Let It Go" and "Tea" on it with lyrics included, pics and my ink drawing of tea bowls from Hawai'i on the cover. I love that format! I want to create more EP's just like that with more bundles of 3 songs each. Love It! But I must tell you that I want to go further eventually and make the songs into a multi-media statement.
What else is on the horizon?
Oh, I have my visions. I am aiming for a museum-like, multi-media experience using film, drawings, photos, lyrics and my voice! I’m currently keeping my eyes open for musicians to do this with.
What is the most important thing you've learned this year?
THE MOST IMPORTANT THING? Perhaps one of the big things I’ve come to really know better, is that “it’s” not "out there" - it’s right here. You can read or speak of a truth a million times but to live it, even for just a bit - that’s something, isn’t it?
Any special announcements or messages to your fanbase?
I wish you much happiness and enjoyment on your journey.
Closing thoughts? Fortune cookie wisdom?
“You are a Wise Man. Thank you for coming up with ATO!”
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