Steven Norman Long
San Francisco, California, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2014 | INDIE
Music
Press
I was in a hurry running to catch a train at San Francisco's Montgomery Station when I had to stop in my tracks and appreciate the soulful voice reverberating through the tunnel. A fashionably distinguished gentleman was strumming an acoustic and singing Orleans' "Dance With Me" - I knew right then that I'd be waiting for the next train.
Over time, I'd have the joy of hearing Steven's voice belt out timeless classics, as well as the masterful lyrics of his original tunes - I even got to "busk" with him on several occasions. It didn't take long to recognize his raw talent, artistic creativity, firm ethic, and friendly character.
Being a "wannabe" singer, myself, one morning after busking, I asked him for some tips on taking care of my voice. After a couple bits of advice, he said "You know…I want my voice to sound 'lived in'." I realized right then how much that phrase represented Steve in every way. His life, lyrics, and paintings all tell quite a story - and his guitar is the perfect soundtrack - and his music truly is "lived in."
Justin Hogue
Flyway Records - Flyway Records
Discography
Panhandler - Single (2013)
Silver & Gold - Single (2013)
Believe - EP (2007)
1. Believe
2. Meloncholy
3. Song For Brother Guy
4. Shadows Fall
5. Believe (Acapella Version)
Photos
Bio
Born [1958] and raised in Trenton, New Jersey, Steven Norman Long, the youngest of three siblings, first recognized his interest in music at Parker Elementary School. As a boy selling sodas and shining shoes in his dads barbershop, Stevens ears were drawn to the catchy tunes coming from the radio. He thus began to gravitate toward the singers in his church and glean soulful influence and technique from their music.
At the age of 19, while stationed in Central America for the US Military, he bought his first guitar and learned to read music through a correspondence course. Upon his return, Steven took the next step in pursuing his dream and majored in Music and Art at the University of the District of Columbia, where he furthered his musical knowledge and developed his unique style of painting. As time passed, along with an assortment of random jobs from sweeping floors to shoveling toxic waste, it was clear to Steven that it was time to hit the road. Literally. He began to take major cities - like Baltimore and Washington D. C. - by storm and was soon recognized as a premiere busker a street performer extraordinaire causing locals and tourists to stop in their tracks and listen to the rich voice and thought-provoking lyrics of Steven Norman Long.
Carrying with him the life-long support of his family and friends, and behind-the-scenes strength from close friend, Angela Rostkowski and brother, Alfred Long III, Steven decided to take his music and art to San Francisco. While quickly establishing himself as one of the most elite in a city with more than its share of buskers, Long caught the ear of his current manager, Carla Rannie. Realizing their shared passion for music and painting, they partnered in the establishment of WeBeRhythm Productions, LLC. In July of 2013, WBR released its first two singles by Long, Panhandler and Silver & Gold, recorded at San Franciscos Different Fur Studios.
His father and family being his main source of influence, Longs artistic influences include Donny Hathaway, Johnnie Taylor, Marvin Gaye, Pablo Picasso, and Stevie Wonder. His favorite performer is Gregory Porter, his ultimate duet would be with Michael McDonald, and asked to choose a living icon to spend a day with, he said Joni Mitchell for her singing, paintings, and lyrics the three main ingredients in Stevens artistic makeup. Along with his beautiful paintings and magnetic personality, Stevens music demands an audience everywhere he goes.
Steven is a fashion aficionado and a strong advocate of the full legalization of marijuana. He currently resides in San Francisco, CA, and has two children, a son and daughter, both in their 30s. Steven performs regularly at Off the Grid (a weekly multi-city food, music, and craft extravaganza), Macys Union Square, the Make Out Room, 50 Mason Social Club, EZ Five, as well as many local and private events.
Take a look at some of Steven's performances:
http://www.youtube.com/user/WeBeRhythmProduction
Links
