New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Joshua Bley is a singer, songwriter and pianist, currently spinning his web of lush ballads and powerful anthems from the green hills of Portland, Oregon. His debut album, Sacred Secret, is a warm and honest introduction to the sometimes-secret world that inspires his voice.
Raised a Jehovah�s Witness, Bley fought internally and externally throughout his childhood to make peace with the world around him. This upbringing inspired much of his songwriting as he learned to be his own God, saving his psyche with messages of hope and redemption. His lyrics are an exploration of how to remove the trauma of his past, acting as both a confessional and source of tranquility. Bley�s vulnerability seeps through the cords as he croons with the same emotional depth that he draws out of his listeners. �I want my music to reach people that need a little medicine to get through their day or night. I�d like to be a good friend behind the speakers, like an invincible friend.�
Tori Amos, a long time inspiration, was the first to recognize Bley�s gifts and encourage his music. Rickie Lee Jones, who supported Bley, also became a source of encouragement throughout the recording process.
Sacred Secret was co-produced by Canadian musician/producers
Daniel Ledwell and Jim Bryson, bridging the landscape between the American and Canadian music scene. Bley's voice and piano playing are the center of a diverse array of guest backup vocals and instrumentation from the hands and voices of master musicians and friends.
John Philip Shenale, who has worked closely with Tori Amos, Jane's Addiction, The
Beach Boys and other notable artists, layers many of Bley�s tracks with complex and vibrant piano, brass, strings and woodwinds to create the sonic foundation for Bley's songwriting. Guest vocals from Jenn Grant, Jim Bryson and Casey Strattonalso add dimension to Bley�s work.
Joshua Bley takes the listener on the journey from chaos and fear to the embrace of the wonder and beauty of life and the depth of the human heart with the release of Sacred Secret on April 29.
