ION INDIE MAGAZINE November 2015, Volume 18 | Page 67

CARRIE SUSAN BRZEZINSKI is an independent musician performing all throughout Philadelphia and
the greater Tri-State region. Not only is she an extremely talented musician, but she also operates her
own Dance School, PULSE DANCE CENTER, and is a former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader! So I
figured--who better to ask about such a subject matter?
Scotty J: How important would you say is health and fitness when it comes to being the lead
singer in a band?
Carrie B: I believe it is very important. Other lead singers may or may not agree. I was always taught
that your appearance as a performer is part of what makes you marketable. However, that is always up
for debate. Everyone's appearance is unique and has their own attractive qualities. More importantly,
your health and fitness allow you to keep up with the physical demands of your job. Often times, we
travel long distances. We are up early in the morning and also going to bed very early in the morning.
While on stage, you need your muscle strength to push out the notes you are singing, while also moving
all around the stage. I dance, jump up and down, try to get the crowd involved by dancing with them-you name it. We all sweat up there and it definitely feels like a workout. At the end of the gig, we're
exhausted.
Scotty J: Since you are not only a musician, but someone who operates their own Dance School,
do you find the regular physical activity helpful with your on-stage performances?
Carrie B: Absolutely! Growing up as a dancer, we were always taught “maintenance”. Even if we took
four dance classes a day, we were encouraged to take up another cardiovascular, strength training or
stretching activity (swimming, yoga, Pilates, etc.) to supplement our regular workouts.
Scotty J: Is there anything specific that you do in order to prepare yourself for all of the LIVE
performances you're regularly engaged in? In other words, there were certainly specific
regimens or routines you had going back to your days as a Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader, so
do you have anything specific you practice as a lead singer/vocalist?
Carrie B: Sleep is a big one. I don't get enough on the weekends. Sunday through Thursday however,
I make sure I am in bed as early as possible to maximize my strength and rehabilitate my body after a
weekend of shows. On show days, I always eat a substantial lunch. I can't eat much more than a snack
right before a show, so I power up earlier on. I also like to spend a few minutes alone warming up.
Scotty J: Is there anything dietary-speaking that you try to avoid or consume, as it may have a certain
impact on your shows? For example, do you like or dislike any particular energy drinks or foods? I avoid
coffee and dairy before a show because I feel it affects my throat. I am well known to drink at least a
half of a Five Hour Energy right before I go on. I'm not one of those lucky people that gets to sleep in
and I'm usually up early every morning, so I need the help. One big hurdle for anyone who works in
the night club scene is alcohol. It is definitely of the utmost importance to not consume too much of it
for obvious reasons (so you can still do your job!). Lastly, most nights I always have green tea with
lemon on the way to the gig to loosen up the vocal chords--and it helps you wake up, too.

https://www.facebook.com/carriebrzezinskiwalsh
http://www.pulsedancecenter.biz/
https://www.facebook.com/Velvet-Tones-651671214856857/
http://www.velvettonesband.com