News & Views

A Great Big World

Ok then…. I will!

When I was a young fella, the song everyone was singing was “It’s a small world after all…” But that was then (and yes, I know I’m showing my age!) and evidently this is no longer the case. The truth in fact is that it’s A Great Big World.

AGBW. Heard of them?

Of course you have! If not, then you’ve almost certainly heard their international hit “Say Something”, particularly after recording it as a duet collaboration with Christina Aguilera and performing it live on The Voice (USA) in November 2013. It also featured on “So You Think You Can Dance” finale and went on to climb the top 5 on Billboard Hot 100.

Contributed by Mark van der Sluis

BIO

The story of A Great Big World began in the crowded practice rooms at NYU. Ian Axel and Chad Vaccarino were both studying music business while fostering dreams of writing and performing on Broadway and beyond. Ian quickly saw potential in partnering with Chad, and started lobbying him to work together on new songs.

At first, Ian was the artist, and Chad shared writing duties and became his manager. Chad even paid for Ian’s first vocal lesson. Performing together around New York, Ian eventually stepped into the spotlight and released an independent solo album, with all songs co-written by Chad. An overwhelming viral buzz ensued, causing Ian and Chad to hit the road in support of the album, and the project continued to gain steam. Their music became a favorite among music supervisors, earning licenses on One Tree Hill, MTV, The Amazing Race, ESPN, Good Morning America and more, as well as a performance on the Rachael Ray Show.

They completed their first national tours and opened shows for Ingrid Michaelson, Five For Fighting, and Glee star Matthew Morrison. Their live performances showcased their deep friendship, and featured a warm, engaging interplay and theatrical touches reminiscent of artists like Simon and Garfunkel, Elton John, and most currently, FUN.

“IT FEELS LIKE I’M PLAYING AN ACTUAL LIVING THING.

IT FEELS LIKE IT’S BREATHING WITH THE SONG AND WITH ME.” – IAN AXEL. AGBW

GEAR

RD-800, V-Piano Grand, FA-06

For over 25 years, Roland’s highly respected RD-series stage pianos have been the instruments of choice for the world’s leading performing artists. Rocketing the RD legacy into its next generation, the new RD-800 offers a sleek, updated look and many improvements in sound, feel, and versatility. Join artists: A Great Big World, Brian Culbertson, Myron McKinley and Small Pools as they try out the RD-800 and tell us about the RD legacy in their own words.

On March 27th 2014, the American duo visited Down Under and performed their chart topping “Say Something” on Sunrise Breakfast Show, this time featuring the revolutionary Roland V-Piano Grand and FA-06 Workstation! WATCH IT HERE!

Australian Musician Review: FA-06 Workstation