Nice Humans: Lenny Mastrandrea
This week’s Nice Humans features Nice Shoes Colorist, and karaoke singer extraordinaire, Lenny Mastrandrea. A few weeks ago, while at a live band karaoke party hosted by Extreme Music (add a link to their site), Lenny wowed me with his amazing performance and voice. Not to mention, it’s an entirely different ballgame when karaoke is with a LIVE BAND and not just the track playing in the background. I knew this wasn’t a hidden talent and there was definitely a history to Lenny’s act.
(Photo Courtesy of Extreme Music)
What is your role here at Nice Shoes?
The Singing Colorist/Presentation Master. I don’t do hair, despite my fine locks. I fine tune images captured on any kind of camera, be it film (man, I miss film), or any file-based camera. Taking footage from an all day shoot and adding a cohesive color balance takes time to learn. Then, there is a whole other level of art, where a colorist takes into account the message being conveyed and accentuates that message through color. An experienced colorist can create something beautiful that will stand out in an overwhelming sea of media.
What is your out-of-the-office hobby/talent?
It’s hard to narrow it down to one. Soccer, building things (I was a contractor in another life, there isn’t much I can’t build), and singing.
When did you begin practicing –or- for how long have you been singing? What made you start?
I never practiced before I started. I just sang in the car all of the time. In college, some of my buddies said, “Let’s start a band, you can sing.” To which I said, “Sure, let’s do it.” (I was not shy). Then they suggested joining the college chorus. “You can read music, the Doctor of Music will give you the first few notes and you just sing the rest.” When I finished the Doctor said, “What were you in High School, first or second tenor?“ I said first. His reply? “You are first tenor again.”
How does it make you feel?
It makes me feel like nothing else does. I pick songs based on emotion. When I used to be up on stage with any one of my three bands, I felt it. It’s the emotional connection to a song that brings forth the energy. Each song brings me back to a certain time in my life and that is the drive behind my voice.
How often do you sing karaoke or perform?
Sadly, only two to three times a year. But if you hear of any bands in need of a stand in singer, let me know.
What is your favorite songs to perform and why?
Cold as Ice by Foreigner- It comes on very strong and hushes any crowd. I love doing that.
Blaze of Glory by Bon Jovi- Because Wanted Dead or Alive is way too overused. And an old friend told me I sing it better than Bon Jovi.
Porch By Pearl Jam- Sad thing about this one is that I have only found it on one karaoke list ever. THAT is the best Pearl Jam song ever.
Black Hole Sun- Because its Chris Cornell
What songs do you wish you could master?
Many of you may not know who this is, but anything by Queensryche. Geoff Tate’s voice is incredible.
The Last in Line - Ronnie James Dio- Best Metal singer, IMO
Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye- Never even attempted, but would love to
Have you ever suffered from any injuries while performing?
No. Not even when I used to jump off tower speakers in college. I had a cordless Mic, (which was uncommon back then) so I was very active on stage. I did have some sore throats after weekends when I sang 3 sets 2 nights in a row.
(Photo of Lenny back in the day, rocking out with his band - note the hair)
What inspires your craft?
As you can see, I’m a bit of a performer at heart. I like to wow and impress. I think singing and performing have provided me with a confidence that aids me in of a suite full of clients every day.
One last point you might like, my bands were
Shattered Glass
Red Goose Shoes
Blue Ruin
Funny that two of them had colors in the name. My next band will have to be Green.
Next time you’re looking for a karaoke partner, or a lead singer for your metal band, I would recommend Lenny, hands down. I think I’m going to make sure I get the opportunity to sing a duet with him at some point or another. Us Nice Shoesers do enjoy our karaoke, so don’t be surprised if you see a group of us out next time you’re at the local karaoke bar!