Jeff Liberman’s latest single, ‘The Windy City’, sees the artist use his talents to spread a serious message and encourage conversation about the dark reality of crime-ridden city. Capturing through haunting lyrics and rock guitar riffs, played by Liberman himself, he captures the terror experienced by those who live and work in these danger zones, and with his strong and determined vocals he reaches out to the listener, insisting that changes must be made, to bring an end to the horror and violence. We recently spoke with Jeff and asked him about his musical journey.
What inspired you to start making music, and how has your journey evolved over the years?
I was about 13 when I heard the band Cream with Eric Clapton. I was blown away by their sound and Clapton’s playing style. At that moment, I was to be forever obsessed! My dream was to create music with that “Cream” vibe. I purchased a guitar with money that I had earned from shoveling snow in the neighborhood. I immediately began my music journey as I listened to such artists as Iron Butterfly, and Jimi Hendrix.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to jam and learn from some great guitarists around the South Side of Chicago. They kept me inspired and challenged. I played with various bands and soon realized that I had a passion for recording and creating. I borrowed some money and purchased a TEAC 3340s four-track reel to reel, and tape recorder, this spawned my fascination with recording my music.
I spent years developing my guitar skills and my ability to properly record my music. Around the year 2000, I purchased a Pro Tools recording system for my computer. This opened an entirely new world of recording possibilities to me. I began tracking songs at recording studios and working on them through my home system. I was hooked! I would work on my songs until all hours and into the morning. Perhaps an addiction, but the results became my motivation to continue writing.
I love to create new songs and work with the great musicians in my band; Syniar, Lantz and Aquino. I also currently work with a great engineer/producer, Millas, who greatly elevates the music that I create.
What are some key experiences or milestones in your career that have had a significant impact on your music?
At around the age of 18, I met some really fine jazz musicians and immersed myself in music by such artists as Larry Coryell, John McLaughlin and Chick Corea. This new form of musical expression dramatically influenced my guitar playing.
What was the inspiration behind this song, and what message are you hoping to convey?
I have long been a believer that Human Beings have the potential to be a civilized animal. But, we Humans seem to often prove otherwise. From road rage, to criminal behavior, to War, it seems that being civilized may not be our thing! I wrote the song “The Windy City” to raise awareness of the fact that America’s Urban centers are bastians for robbery, rape, mayhem and murder. More Americans are adversly impacted by crime than almost any other country, yet, we seem to often want to tell other peoples how to live! I wanted to initiate discussion amongst us Human Beings, regarding a possible desire to become civilized!
Can you talk about the songwriting process for ‘The Windy City’? How did the idea for the song come about?
All of my songs are written after I come up with a guitar riff. I record what I believe to be a cool riff, then I make up the lyrics extemporaneously. I seldom write down lyrics. They just flow, a type of stream of consciousness. I truly believe in peace and tranquility, so my default thought process moves in the direction of establishing a peaceful world. Hence the early lyric: “there’s too much violence in every major city”.
What personal or artistic connections do you have to ‘The Windy City’, and how does it relate to your own experiences?
I have lived in and around Chicago for most of my life. I had owned some apartment buildings in Chicago. At one point, I had to work with a gang leader in order to resolve an issue with one of the properties. We worked things out, as it became a simple matter of economics. I have played at numerous venues in Chicago and I have had many musician friends that have invited me to do “walk-on” appearences. ie. Buddy Guy’s, Theresa’s Loung, The Cotton club, and others.
What do you hope listeners will take away from ‘The Windy City’, and how does it fit into your overall body of work?
I would like people to think about and discuss with others, the reality of crime. We need to come up with real solutions! We need to get mature and be willing to discuss crime and its root causes. I believe that crime is not an issue of race, but rather an issue of culture and beliefs. I am not much of a religious person, but I am quite spiritual. I believe that having a greater power in one’s life, can have a dramatic impact on how one views and respects others! How we behave, is a matter of choice. I do like to incorporate my societal beliefs in my music.
What was it like working with HIP Video Productions to create a lyric video for ‘The Windy City’?
HIP Video Productions is a very professional and positive group of people! They truly understand the gravity of this “Crime” issue that we all face. I believe that Hannah at HIP has conveyed the realities very well through the video. The entire team is great!
What type of theme were you trying to follow visually to enhance the song?
The theme is that Violence and Criminal behaviour is pervasive in America’s urban centres. I abhor violence and pray every day that we Human Beings can choose to evolve and become civilized animals! Perhaps one day!
You can watch the music video for ‘The Windy City’ below, and find out more about Jeff Liberman online on Facebook.
