On Oct. 16 the Philadelphia Chapter and the GRAMMY Foundation hosted a GRAMMY SoundChecks with Jason Mraz at the Tower Theater. On tour in support of his latest album We Sing, We Dance, We Steal Things, Mraz welcomed the opportunity to meet with local GRAMMY U members and high school students to answer questions relating to the music industry.
Students learned firsthand that things don't always go according to plan in the music business. Mraz explained how the sound system broke the night before and the crew had to scramble to find a replacement just as the students arrived. Joined by saxophonist and Texas Chapter President Carlos Sosa, Mraz then fielded questions addressing a variety of topics. Temple University student Carl Yost asked about the recording techniques Mraz utilized on his latest record. Mraz explained that many of the vocal and instrumental parts were recorded from different countries and e-mailed to the studio. Another student asked about Mraz' health regimen, and the artist explained his strict raw-food diet and the importance of getting plenty of sleep and finding time to exercise while on tour.
Following the discussion, Mraz surprised students by grabbing an acoustic guitar and playing a song exclusively for the group. He explained that he gets more nervous performing for small groups than large crowds. Students were thrilled to be part of this exclusive performance and learn more about the music industry from a professional recording artist.