Because so many good films that feature young talented actors have been made. I think it’s important that we once again go back in time to tell you about another one that has never been featured here.
The Dark Tower” is a 2017 science fiction western film based on the novel series of the same name by Stephen King. The film follows the story of a young boy named Jake Chambers, played by the talented actor Tom Taylor. Jake accidently discovers a parallel universe known as Mid-World. In this world, he meets a gunslinger named Roland Deschain, played by Idris Elba, who is on a quest to reach the Dark Tower and save his world from destruction.
Tom Taylor
Taylor’s portrayal of Jake Chambers is both captivating and emotional. He brings a sense of innocence and vulnerability to the character, making the audience empathize with his struggles and fears. Taylor’s performance is particularly impressive considering his young age of just 16 at the time of filming. He holds his own against seasoned actors like Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey, proving that he has a promising future in the industry.
The relationship between Jake and Roland is at the heart of the film. Roland sees Jake as a surrogate son, while Jake looks up to Roland as a father figure. Their bond is tested as they face numerous obstacles and enemies on their journey to the Dark Tower. Taylor and Elba have great chemistry on screen, making their scenes together some of the most memorable in the film.
One of the strengths of “The Dark Tower” is its world-building. The film introduces viewers to a rich and complex universe filled with magic, technology, and otherworldly creatures. The visual effects are stunning, bringing Mid-World to life in vivid detail. The action sequences are also well-executed, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
However, the film does have its flaws. Some critics have pointed out that the plot feels rushed and disjointed, with certain elements of the story not fully explored. The pacing can be uneven at times, leaving viewers wanting more depth and development in certain areas.
Overall, “The Dark Tower” is an entertaining and visually impressive film that showcases the talents of young actor Tom Taylor. While it may not be a perfect adaptation of Stephen King’s beloved novels, it still manages to capture the essence of the source material and deliver an engaging story. Taylor’s performance as Jake Chambers is a standout, and he is definitely an actor to watch in some of his previous films and some that I’m sure he will have the lead role in in the future.
You can watch the film by streaming it on FuboTV, FXNow, or DIRECTV.
Rent or buy it on Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, YouTube, and AMC on Demand.
To read more Film Reviews by Rivenmaster, use the pull down above or CLICK HERE!
Due to the recent passing of the amazing actress Maggie Smith, I thought we might make a little trip back in time to visit the 1999 BBC version of David Copperfield staring the very young 10-year-old Daniel Radcliffe.
David Copperfield is a timeless classic novel written by Charles Dickens that has been adapted into various forms of media over the years. One notable adaptation is the BBC television film of David Copperfield, starring Daniel Radcliffe in the lead role. This adaptation brings to life the captivating story of a young boy’s journey to adulthood, filled with trials, tribulations, and triumphs.
Daniel Radcliffe, known for his iconic role as Harry Potter, delivers a remarkable performance as the titular character, David Copperfield. Radcliffe’s portrayal captures the essence of David’s character, from his humble beginnings to his growth into a resilient and compassionate individual. His nuanced performance brings depth and emotion to the character, allowing viewers to empathize with David’s struggles and celebrate his victories.
The BBC adaptation of David Copperfield stays true to the essence of Dickens’ novel, capturing the intricate plotlines and complex characters that have made the story a literary masterpiece. The production design and cinematography transport viewers to the Victorian era, immersing them in the world of David Copperfield and bringing the story to life in vivid detail.
One of the standout aspects of the BBC adaptation is its stellar ensemble cast, with seasoned actors bringing to life a diverse array of characters from the novel. Each character is portrayed with depth and authenticity, adding layers to the narrative and enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The adaptation skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, resilience, and redemption, resonating with audiences of all ages. Through David’s journey, viewers are reminded of the power of perseverance, the importance of friendship, and the enduring human spirit that triumphs over adversity.
The BBC adaptation of David Copperfield with Daniel Radcliffe is a compelling and faithful retelling of Charles Dickens’ beloved novel. With its stellar performances, meticulous attention to detail, and heartfelt storytelling, this adaptation is a must-watch for fans of classic literature and newcomers alike. Daniel Radcliffe’s portrayal of David Copperfield is a testament to his talent as an actor, bringing a beloved literary character to life with depth and authenticity.
You can watch this made for TV series on Hulu, Amazon Prime, or for free on Tubi.
Boy Swallows Universe is a gripping and captivating TV series that has captured the hearts of audiences around the world. Based on the critically acclaimed novel by Trent Dalton, the series follows the life of a young boy named Eli Bell, as he navigates the challenges of growing up in a tumultuous and dangerous environment. Set in 1980s Brisbane, Australia, the series expertly weaves together elements of crime, coming-of-age, and family drama to create a truly unforgettable viewing experience.
Felix Cameron
At the heart of the series is Eli Bell, played by“Felix Cameron”, a thirteen-year-old boy who finds himself thrust into a world of crime and chaos when his stepfather is arrested, and his mother succumbs to drug addiction. Left to fend for himself and his mute brother August, portrayed by “Lee Tiger Halley”,
Lee Tiber Halley
Eli must navigate the dangerous streets of Brisbane while trying to make sense of the world around him. As he gets drawn into the criminal underworld, Eli forms unlikely alliances and discovers the true meaning of family and loyalty.
The series explores a wide range of themes, including the impact of poverty and addiction on families, the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of love and friendship. Through the eyes of Eli Bell, viewers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as they witness the struggles and triumphs of a young boy trying to find his place in the world.
The characters in Boy Swallows Universe are richly developed and multi-dimensional, each with their own flaws and strengths. From the enigmatic crime boss Tytus Broz to the fiercely protective Kath, every character adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a truly immersive and engaging experience for the audience.
The cinematography and direction of the series are nothing short of breathtaking. The gritty and raw portrayal of 1980s Brisbane perfectly captures the essence of the time and place, immersing viewers in a world that is both beautiful and brutal. The use of color, lighting, and sound all contribute to the overall atmosphere of the series, creating a sense of unease and tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Main Characters:
Eli reading his brothers obscure spelled out message.
Felix Cameron is extraordinary in his lead role as Eli Bell. His portrayal as a gritty, street-smart boy of 13, mixed with childlike charm, draws you into the story. You can’t help but feel every emotion he exhibits while suffering the consequences of living in a family on the verge of destruction.
August spells out a message to Eli
All the actors in this film do an amazing job keeping you in suspense, wondering how everything will work out for Eli and his older brother August.
Boy Swallows Universe also tackles important social issues such as poverty, addiction, and the impact of crime on communities. Through its unflinching portrayal of these issues, the series shines a light on the struggles that many people face and the resilience that can be found in the face of adversity.
Author’s note to parents:
Overall, Boy Swallows Universe is a masterful TV series that has captivated audiences with its compelling storytelling, richly developed characters, and powerful themes. However, due to its graphic nature, violence, drugs, and strong language, my personal recommendation is only for older teens and adult viewing. That being said, I feel that this film is still a must-watch for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and emotionally gripping television.
Not a big surprise for the awards to recognize Felix, for his outstanding acting in this role!
Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a thrilling Disney series that follows the adventures of a young demigod named Percy Jackson adapted from the popular book series written by Rick Riordan. Released in 2023, this series takes viewers on an action-packed journey through the world of Greek mythology.
The story revolves around Percy, played by Walker Scobell, a troubled twelve-year-old boy who discovers that he is the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. As he attends Camp Half-Blood, a training ground for demigods, Percy learns about his true identity and the existence of a vast network of gods, monsters, and magical creatures.
In the first season, titled “The Lightning Thief,” Percy is accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt, the most powerful weapon in the world. Determined to clear his name and prevent a war between the gods, Percy embarks on a dangerous quest across the United States with his loyal friends Annabeth, daughter of Athena, and Grover, a satyr. Along the way, they encounter various mythological creatures and face perilous challenges.
As the series progresses, Percy’s adventures continue in subsequent seasons, exploring different quests and battles against powerful foes. They encounter Hades, the god of the Underworld, in “The Sea of Monsters,” and face off against the Titan Kronos in “The Titan’s Curse.” Each season delves deeper into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, introducing new gods, monsters, and epic battles.
Throughout the series, Percy grapples with his identity as a demigod and the responsibilities that come with it. He struggles with his relationship with his father, Poseidon, and contends with the expectations placed upon him by the gods. Alongside his friends, Percy learns to harness his own powers and find the strength within himself to overcome the challenges he faces.
The Cast:
The cast quickly comes together as a Trinity of outstanding young actors portraying their characters in such a convincing way that instantly turns fantasy into reality for the viewer.
Walker Scobell
You might immediately recognize Percy played by “Walker Scobell”. Walker has quickly made a name for himself especially in his two previous films. “The Adam Project” and “Secret Headquarters”. Walker is extremely talented making his character come alive with the use of his emotional expression which quickly convinces you that his character is real.
****************************************
Leah Jeffries
“Leah Jeffries” who plays Annabeth Chase also brings much talent to the table and demonstrates her prowess as a young actor in this series. Leah is also known from previous films such as Beast and Something from Tiffany’s. You can be sure that this young lady has a great acting career ahead of her.
****************************************
Aryan Simhadri
“Aryan Simhadri” plays Grover, best friend and guardian of Percy. Grover is part human and part goat making him not only the most unique of the three, but also a hero who manages to keep Percy from losing his cool while helping him understand his place as a demigod. Aryan is also no rookie to the film industry. While this may be one of his first major film appearances, IMDB lists him with a total of 25 actor credits to his name.
****************************************
Although the series has currently only begun having released its first 3 episodes, you can be sure it’s going to be a hit to all the fans of the book and to both young and old fantasy film fans.
Also, could this be Disney’s way of finishing what we have been missing because the 3rd film of the original series was never made? I guess we will all just have to wait! Hurry go get caught up on it now. Disney Plus awaits…. Log in to Disney Plus
Summary:
Percy Jackson and the Olympians is a captivating blend of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age themes. It explores the timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery while immersing viewers in a world of gods and monsters. With its compelling characters, thrilling plotlines, and stunning visuals, the series promises an exciting and unforgettable journey into the realm of Greek mythology.
The Water Man (2021) is a heartwarming and visually stunning film that captures the essence of childhood dreams and the power of imagination. Directed by David Oyelowo, this fantasy adventure takes viewers on an emotional journey filled with love, loss, and the unbreakable bond between a father and son.
The film follows the story of Gunner Boone, a young boy who embarks on a quest to find the mythical Water Man, a legendary figure said to possess the ability to cheat death. Gunner’s motivation stems from his mother’s illness, and he believes that finding the Water Man is the only way to save her.
Oyelowo’s direction is masterful, immersing the audience in a world where reality and fantasy seamlessly blend. The cinematography beautifully captures the enchanting landscapes and magical moments, making the film a visual treat. The use of colors and lighting adds depth and enhances the emotional impact of the story.
The performances in The Water Man are exceptional, particularly Lonnie Chavis Jr. as Gunner Boone. Chavis portrays the vulnerability and determination of his character with remarkable skill, capturing the essence of a young boy desperate to save his mother. An unlikely friendship develops in the story when Gunner meets Jo Riley, a young teen girl with a troubled background portrayed by Amiah Miller.David Oyelowoalso delivers a compelling performance as Gunner’s father, showcasing the complexities of a man torn between his own grief and his son’s unwavering hope.
The film’s narrative is rich with symbolism and explores themes of love, loss, and the power of storytelling. It beautifully depicts the struggles of a family grappling with illness and the lengths they will go to protect one another. The Water Man also highlights the importance of imagination and the role it plays in overcoming adversity.
What sets The Water Man apart is its ability to resonate with both children and adults. While it is a fantastical adventure, it also delves into profound themes that will tug at the heartstrings of viewers of all ages. It reminds us of the power of hope and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity.
Finally, The Water Man is a captivating and emotionally resonant film that explores the power of imagination and the enduring bond between a father and son. With its stunning visuals, exceptional performances, and heartfelt storytelling, this film is a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
“A Monster Calls,” directed by J.A. Bayona, is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores the power of storytelling and the complexities of grief. Based on the novel by Patrick Ness, the movie follows the journey of a young boy named Conor, who is struggling to cope with his mother’s terminal illness.
The film begins with Conor’s vivid and terrifying nightmares, which reflect his inner turmoil. He is haunted by a monstrous tree that comes to life and tells him stories. This tree, voiced by Liam Neeson, serves as a metaphor for Conor’s emotions and acts as his guide through the difficult process of accepting his mother’s impending death.
One of the most striking aspects of “A Monster Calls” is its stunning visual imagery. The use of dark and muted colors creates a somber and melancholic atmosphere that perfectly mirrors Conor’s emotional state. The animation sequences, which illustrate the stories told by the monster, are beautifully crafted and add a magical element to the film.
Lewis MacDougall
The performances in the movie are exceptional, particularly from the young actor Lewis MacDougall, who portrays Conor with remarkable maturity and depth. He effectively conveys the character’s anger, sadness, and vulnerability, allowing the audience to empathize with his pain. Felicity Jones, who plays Conor’s mother, delivers a heartfelt performance, capturing the essence of a loving parent facing her own mortality.
The film’s exploration of grief is both poignant and relatable. Conor’s struggle to come to terms with his mother’s illness is depicted with raw honesty. Through his interactions with the monster and the stories it tells, Conor learns valuable lessons about loss, forgiveness, and the complexity of human emotions.
Ultimately, “A Monster Calls” is a powerful and moving film that tackles the universal themes of grief and acceptance. It reminds us of the importance of storytelling as a means of understanding and processing our emotions. The movie’s ability to provoke deep introspection and evoke strong emotions makes it a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
Last but not least:
Trust me this movie will take you by surprise if you thought it was a kid’s film. The story unfolds slowly so just allow yourself to be drawn into the plot allowing the writer and director to bring you to the conclusion. Having watched so many films and written a number of reviews myself, I have I have a hard time not getting ahead of the story. While the ending may not entirely surprise you like “The Sixth Sense”, it’s similar in the way it drops hints along the way.
While not a new film, having been released in 2016, it is available on Netflix. You can also stream A Monster Calls by renting or purchasing on Google Play, Amazon, and Vudu.
I just finished marathoning Season 2 of Sweet Tooth on Netflix. If you have been missing out on this one, you’re in for a treat. Do start with Season One, as it’s totally worth every minute of viewing time.
The Story
Sweet Tooth is a popular Netflix series that has captured the attention of viewers worldwide. The show is based on a comic book series of the same name by Jeff Lemire. The series is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a virus has wiped out most of humanity, and hybrid children are born with animal features.
The story revolves around Gus, played by Christian Convery from Vancouver, Canada. Christian portrays a young boy who is part deer and part human. He lives in a secluded forest with his father, who has sheltered him from the outside world. When his father dies, Gus sets out to find his mother, who he believes is still alive. Along the way, he meets a tough loner named Jepperd, (Nonso Anozie) who becomes his protector and guide.
The show is a thrilling adventure that takes viewers on a journey through a world that is both beautiful and dangerous. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the relationships between them are heartwarming. The show also tackles important themes such as family, survival, and the impact of technology on society.
Sweet Tooth is an excellent example of how a post-apocalyptic story can be both entertaining and thought-provoking. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good adventure and wants to see how humanity can survive and thrive even in the most challenging circumstances.
Sweet Tooth (Christian Convery)
Convery’s performance as Gus is remarkable, as he manages to convey the innocence and vulnerability of a child while also portraying the strength and resilience needed to survive in a post-apocalyptic world. The show’s creators have done an excellent job in casting Convery, as he is a perfect fit for the role.
Throughout the series, Convery’s performance is consistently impressive, and he manages to hold his own alongside the more experienced actors in the cast. His ability to convey emotion and deliver lines with conviction is a testament to his talent and dedication to his craft.
Although Christian is just 13 years old, he has played alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood. He most recently was seen on the big screen as ‘Henry’ in the comedy-horror-thriller Cocaine Bear alongside Keri Russell and O’Shea Jackson Jr.
Some of his past credits as listed on IMDB include Highland Films’ drama Tiger Rising (2022); Disney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2021); Paramount Pictures’ Playing With Fire (2019); Amazon’s critically acclaimed film Beautiful Boy (2018) opposite Timothee Chalamet and Steve Carell; Netflix’s Pup Academy (2019-2022); Disney’s Descendants 3 (2019); Marvel’s Venom (2018); Syfy’s Van Helsing; CW’s Supernatural (2016) and more.
Synopsis
Overall, Sweet Tooth is an excellent series that is made all the more enjoyable by Convery’s performance. He is a rising star in the acting world, and his portrayal of Gus is sure to be remembered for years to come. Everything about the series is captivating, the characters, the music score, the directing, the scenery, the special character makeup and effects, all make this the one to watch. I can’t wait for Season 3 as I’m sure we will see Sweet Tooth finally be reunited with his mother.
If you haven’t watched Sweet Tooth yet, I highly recommend it, as it is an excellent example of the talent and skill that can be found in the world of acting. Parents should be advised that the series is rated TV-14 for some mild language and violence.
In 2011, I published a movie review for the film called “Lifted” starring at that time, a very young Uriah Shelton. That review was so well received, I republished it in 2019 on Rivenmaster Promotions. This goes to show just how impressive an actor Uriah Shelton really is, now being featured on all three branches of this promotional network.
Uriah the Actor:
Uriah Shelton is more than just a talented young American actor. He is an actor that just keeps giving and continues to be increasingly popular. Some of his latest appearances were “Looking for Alaska” a Miniseries and “Sky Watch” both in 2019, “Freaky” 2020, a short film released in 2021 called “Kiss Marry Kill”, and his most recent work as Danny in “Unhuman” this past year.
My personal favorite continues to be his 2010 performance in “Lifted“. Uriah portrayed Henry Matthews; a young pre-teen boy separated from his father who was serving overseas in the military. However, it wasn’t just his ability to portray Henry that was so captivating, but he also showcased his outstanding vocal skills delivering an emotional and a heart-touching performance.
If you are part of the younger generation and have not yet seen this film, you can view some of the clips by visiting the review on the Org Site.
Another Favorite:
Today however, I want to call your attention to an even earlier film in his career called “Alabama Moon” where he co-starred with young actor Jimmy Bennet.
Alabama Moon is a film that follows the story of an 11-year-old boy named Moon Blake, who has grown up in the wilderness with his father before his untimely passing. Living off the land, Moon has a deep connection with nature and a strong sense of independence, but when he is forced to move to the city, Moon struggles to adjust.
Jimmy Bennet plays the role of Moon Blake, imbuing his character with a raw and authentic energy that connects with the audience. Bennet’s portrayal of an independent and self-reliant child is both captivating and heart-warming, perfectly capturing the essence of Moon’s character.
Uriah Shelton plays the role of Kit, a street-smart and adventurous teenage boy who befriends Moon. Shelton delivers a powerful performance, creating an unlikely but heartfelt bond between himself and Moon.
At its core, Alabama Moon is a film about finding your place in the world. It explores themes of identity and resilience, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. The film is a touching and inspiring reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of friendship.
In conclusion, Alabama Moon is a beautifully crafted film that tells a heart-warming and inspiring story. The stunning performances of the lead actors, Jimmy Bennet and Uriah Shelton, bring the film’s characters to life, immersing us in Moon’s world and showing us the importance of staying true to oneself. With its powerful message and exceptional storytelling, Alabama Moon is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
Overall, Uriah Shelton has rightfully earned his place in the entertainment industry with his exceptional acting abilities. He is an actor who has demonstrated his talent for portraying real-life characters, with depth and nuance. “Lifted” and “Alabama Moon” are just two examples of his exceptional performances, and audiences can look forward to seeing what he does next.
You can watch Alabama Moon now on Tubi , Prime, and YouTube for free, but I highly recommend you purchase it as it’s a film you will watch time and time again.
Few young actors that I have followed over the years can match the acting prowess of Thomas Brodie- Sangster. Since I first saw him in Nanny McPhee, I have filled my library with the films he has been featured and stared in.
While Thomas’s list of achievements has long developed into an amazing career of film listings such as , Tristan & Isolade, The Last Leagion, The Alchemistic Suitcase, Pinocchio, Nowhere Boy, Game of Thrones, The Maze Runner Series, not to mention numerous voice overs for Childrens Cartoon features like Phineas and Ferb, in this writing I would like to remind you of an earlier film entitled Entrusted, which I still feel was his greatest role ever.
While Entrusted may have been released nearly 20 years ago now, it still remains a story of great courage, intrigue, suspense, action, and is considered by many as an extraordinary thriller drama.
Thomas stars as 11-year-old Thomas von Gall a brilliant chess master and son of Maria von Gall who runs an underground railroad for Jews in France during Nazi occupation.
The plot of this film revolves around the story of Thomas, a young man whose father vanished mysteriously when he was just a child. After years of living with unanswered questions and nagging doubts, Thomas finally decides to take matters into his own hand and embarks on a journey to unravel what happened to his father.
With a gripping and intense screenplay, Entrusted takes the audience on an emotional ride filled with suspense, surprises, and unexpected twists. Thomas Sangster’s acting is nothing short of mesmerizing, and he manages to convey the pain and confusion of his character while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
What makes this film stand out is its ability to skillfully blend elements of action, drama, and mystery without losing its focus on the emotional depth of the story. The cinematography and direction are equally exceptional, and the film’s soundtrack adds to the overall atmosphere of the film.
In conclusion, Entrusted is a highly engaging and thought-provoking film that will leave the audience thoroughly entertained and deeply moved. Thomas Sangster’s electrifying performance and the film’s captivating storyline make for an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.
While you can still find this captivating film for sale on Amazon and other online stores you can also stream it free on YouTube. However, I for one would not be without it in my own collection because as I said, I still think this was Thomas Brodie-Sangster’s greatest performance to date!
Rivenmaster has always taken pride in finding some of the best talent in the world and England born, 13-year-old Cormac Thompson is no exception. After making contact through my good friend Matthew Todd, I was delighted to finally be able to reach his parents to tell them of an amazing opportunity for Cormac to attend Prodigy Camp with Director Rick Stevenson in Washington State. It’s been a few months now since his experience in the states, and now I’m proud to introduce him here to the world with his complete story written largely by his mother Alison and father Anthony Thompson. Big thanks to Cormac’s family for allowing Rivenmaster to be a part of Cormac’s journey!
Cormac’s Story:
Cormac Thompson
Winning a school talent competition when he was 9 years old must seem like a long time ago now for the young British talent, Cormac Thompson but it was back in 2018 that he had his first taste of success. Singing and accompanying himself on the portable keyboard that his mum and dad got him for his birthday on e-bay! Keane’s “Somewhere only we Know” could be heard belting out from the Scout Hall.
Cormac’s first main break came though when he joined the children’s choir of Manchester’s, world famous, Halle Orchestra. Successfully auditioning to be their Christmas soloist, Cormac sang ‘Howard Blake’s’ iconic song ‘Walking in the Air’ to a full screening of the globally acclaimed film ‘The Snowman’. Accompanied by The Halle’s symphony orchestra, the concert was held at ‘The Bridgewater Hall, to a sell-out house of nearly 2,500. While only 9 yrs. old at the time, it was still a very memorable performance, even if a bit knee – shaky.
After this, Cormac started to take his singing a little bit more seriously but then along came 2020 and the pandemic, it looked like that was the end of that! …. Or was it?? Unable to visit his much – loved Nannie in Northern Ireland, he decided to record songs for her and put them up on YouTube (they are still there). What a surprise, for the then 11yr old, when his mum got an email from global record label Decca. Within weeks Cormac was auditioning again, this time at world famous London studio ‘Metropolis’ where the highlight for him was not just the experience itself but getting to play ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ on Freddie Mercury’s very own Fazioli piano, housed in studio A.
On Site at Decca Music Video Shoot
The audition went well, Cormac was signed, and he spent the rest of the summer holidays keeping it a secret, learning songs and recording his debut album! Once the news was out, there was a flurry of media interest and Cormac’s unique story hit the headlines. TV and radio interviews, to promote the album, followed. Many on Zoom but not all and on the 4th, December 2020, finally people got to hear what all the fuss was about.
Peaking at #11 in the UK Classical charts and getting to #3 on Australia’s Classical Crossover charts; it was a great privilege for Cormac to be label mates with the likes of Andrea Bocelli, and Gregory Porter. Cormac’s album ‘Hear my Voice’ also won the coveted award for “Album of the Week” on Global Media’s station ‘Classic FM’ and it was really exciting for him to hear his songs played on national radio.
Outside TV Studio in London
A performance on national TV and another Christmas concert, with the Ulster Orchestra in Belfast this time, brought the excitement of the album to a close. Cormac’s favorite bit by far, when he was in Northern Ireland, was finally getting to see his Nannie again.
Fast forward to May 2021 and undeterred when the record deal came to an end, with the support of his family, pianist / producer Dominic Ferris and his singing teacher, Daphne Sumbler, a now 12 yr. old Cormac, carried on recording. Some of his biggest hits to date, have been as an independent artist, racking up well over 7.5 million views and streams across all digital platforms.
Cormac’s unique way of taking well – known songs, like ‘Empty Chairs at Empty Tables’ from Les Misérables and ‘Bright Eyes’ from the 1978 film ‘Watership Down’ and re-imagining them to more current events, clearly demonstrates just what can be achieved with a little bit of thought and determination.
Prodigy Camp 2022
A finalist in the BBC’s Young Chorister of The Year competition (2021), he almost made it to the semi-final of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ too! 2022 continued to be a year of firsts when Cormac was offered a place at ‘Prodigy Camp’ in the USA. London to Leavenworth, Washington State beckoned. And it was here, surrounded by beautiful mountains and on the banks of ‘Icicle Creek’ that the next stage of the journey begins. A camp for talented teens, for the first time ever, Cormac was surrounded by people who loved to create things, just as much as he did. Whether it was writing songs or directing films, or campfire chats, it didn’t really matter, it was the atmosphere, the nurturing of the camp staff and the friendships that Cormac made, that will stay with him forever. In his own words ‘this has changed me’ what an accolade for an experience that only lasted 7 days and he just can’t wait to go back next year.
Cormac performing at Prodigy Camp Director Rick Stevenson looking on
The rest of 2022 went well, there was even time to squeeze in a bit of mountain biking, in between starting the new school and recording the 9 new tracks, for release in 2023. The song writing experiment that started at Prodigy Camp is well underway and the kit needed for it is on the Christmas list, e-Bay again maybe? It’s as good a place to start as any!
Cormac is beyond grateful to everyone who has supported him in his journey so far but there does need to be a special shout – out to his parents, Alison and Anthony, his singing teacher Daphne, pianist and producer Dominic Ferris and producer Jon Cohen and tenor Matthew Todd, not to mention the wonderful team at Prodigy Camp too, whose collective belief in him has made all of this possible.
Here is Cormac’s Latest Music Video “Bright Eyes”
A very special mention must also go to all the wonderful people who stream Cormac’s music, watch his videos on YouTube and follow and support him on social media too. None of this would have a great deal of point if no-one wanted to listen and it means the world to him that they do.
Like with any teenage boy who sings, a changing voice isn’t always an easy voice to manage. As a passionate advocate for young boy singers, Cormac hopes that what he has been able to achieve will inspire others. Very much at the beginning of his own journey on that, the next few years should be very interesting indeed for the young musician from England.
Today’s Rave reaches back into the last decade regarding the remake of Karate Kid.
It goes without saying that you can’t take a classic film and recreate it without losing some of its original flavor. However, I don’t think the Writers or Director intended to recreate the original, but rather give it a whole new look with younger actors and a dramatic flair that the original lacked.
Jaden Smith
However, this rave is not necessarily about the entire film but focused on the young protagonist “Dre Parker” depicted in this film played by a remarkable young actor named Jaden Smith.
I really think that many critics and especially social media has been rough on Jaden. Jaden is not his father Will. Clearly this family has been through a lot, and if all behind the scenes were told we may be more understanding regarding everything that has transpired of late.
I really think it’s unfair to judge Jaden’s work by his family association. Jaden is a person of his own making and while you may not agree with all of his young teen life choices. We need to stop and reexamine this one scene in the film to see just how amazing he was, especially at this age playing this character. Jaden was able to capture the moment showing the emotion that was essential to convey the sad story of what had happened to “Mr. Han” played by Jackie Chan.
In my personal opinion Karate Kid 2010stands alone as a great family film intended for this new generation that has never seen or heard of Ralph Macchio.
So, give Jaden a chance and WATCH IT AGAIN with a different approach and maybe you will feel more like the 67% that thought it to be a good film and worthy of some praise.
In a world which seems to be characterized by so much darkness and hopelessness, Fellowship Film are more determined than ever to spread the word about a film that exudes laughter and joy, and the promise that broken lives can be made whole.
In the new Scottish family film ‘Jessie and the Elf Boy’, a teenager becomes a successful hair stylist with the help of a magical forest elf. The film is inspired by the old legend of Ghillie Dhu, building on it in a fun and imaginative way. Teenager Jessie is disorientated by the sudden arrival of Ghillie Dhu, a peculiar boy dressed in leaves and moss who has a talent for creating wacky hairstyles. (Oh, and he’s invisible to everyone except Jessie.) But she soon realizes that he can help her make a splash in the hairstyling scene, as well as finally reconnect with her distant mother.
Ghillie’s invisibility leads to a stream of comic episodes as other people unwittingly encounter him. As Jessie’s career takes off, it seems like all her dreams are coming true, but it becomes increasingly difficult to keep her elf companion a secret.
The film stars Julia Brown, an accomplished Scottish actress known for BBC shows such as ‘World on Fire’, ‘Shetland’ and ‘M.I. High’. Alongside her, in the role of Ghillie Dhu, is 11-year-old Huck Whittle, a newcomer to the screen and certainly one to watch.
Julia Brown
Regular readers of ‘Rivenmaster’ will no doubt want to hear more about the young male lead. Huck Whittle is a young Scottish actor and singer. Huck has been a member of the Highland Youth Theatre since 2015 and St Giles Theatre Group since 2019 and has performed on stage in a variety of roles. In the summer of 2021, Huck combined his love of singing, dancing and acting to take on the lead role of Shane Gray in the Beyond Broadway Experiences’ production of Disney’s Camp Rock the Musical.
“Ghillie loves outdoors and nature and I do too. I’m a Boy Scout and I do lots of outdoor skills, I love to climb trees as well. In the film [Ghillie] is caring for the environment and other people. I like to care for the environment and other people, you know, when they’re feeling down, cheer them up with a joke. And he’s really good at making friends and creating friendships.”
There is a remarkable story of how Fellowship Film came to cast Huck. Among other bizarre coincidences there are these:
They had been casting on various platforms for the role of Ghillie Dhu but one platform they had not put any casting calls on contacted them directly asking if they could post the job to their platform. It was through this platform that Huck applied! Furthermore, they had been specifically looking for a boy with a younger sister, if at all possible, to play the young girl that Ghillie rescues. Because actors from different households were still supposed to be socially distancing, (filming during Covid was a nightmare!). Huck had a younger sister called Hanalei who is also a great actor and was the perfect age. To see them, you would also never guess they were brother and sister, so it all worked out ideally!
Gail Watson and Huck Whittle
Jessie’s mother is played by veteran Scottish actress Gail Watson, whose screen work includes ‘Katie Morag’, ‘River City’ and ‘Annika’. The film features a host of other brilliant Scottish actors and includes hilarious performances from Belle Jones and Eloise King Anderson.
‘Jessie and the Elf Boy’ is the latest feature film from emerging Scottish production company Fellowship Film. Their debut feature film,‘The Gaelic King’, was a fantasy action/adventure set in 800AD Scotland, telling the story of warrior-king Alpín mac Eachdach as he fights to regain his kingdom. The film was so innovative in its approach that it received a commendation from the Scottish Parliament as a triumph of resourceful filmmaking.
Fellowship Film is based in Glasgow and run by five brothers from two Scottish families:Philip Todd, Matthew Todd, Nathan Todd, John Walkinshawand Tom Walkinshaw. They believe in the power of positive and authentic communities in the making of bold and inspiring films.
Philip Todd, the writer, director and producer of ‘Jessie and the Elf Boy‘, describes it as “an uplifting Scottish movie for the whole family”. He says, “We filmed in the height of the pandemic, which was certainly a challenge, but we were motivated by the belief that in difficult times people need a story like this all the more – a story with laughter, friendship, magic and a big heart.”
This is a film that the whole family can enjoy together; it is all-ages-approved by Dove.org. Children will have fun watching Ghillie as he gets up to mischief and causes chaos in the chic hair salon, and parents will find Jessie’s quest to heal her relationship with her mother resonant and moving. Those who like a good drama will be satisfied by the film’s ending, which is both surprising and emotionally impactful, and of course the story will also appeal to those with an interest in Scottish legends.
‘Jessie and the Elf Boy’ will be available on April 1, 2022,in the US, Canada andthe UK on all major digital platforms, including Amazon, iTunes and Google Play.
Rivenmaster Promotions turns 13 this year! To help us celebrate this occasion, we thought we would bring back a veteran artist who not only was one of the very first to appear on the original website, but also who has continued to be one of the most successful independent artists to grace this platform.
Sam’s Medals
New Zealand’s R&B artist Sam V “Sam Verlinden” was only 12 years old the first time he was showcased and still holds the record of having the most updated articles published.
Even at the tender age of 12 he had already been awarded a number of prestigious awards from various contests and performances.
Sam V at 12 years of age.
Sam continued to progress in his musical skills while still enjoying being a young teen enjoying sports, and other youthful activities that encompasses any youngster’s life. He never lost hold of his dreams and vision for a musical career even while furthering his education in college.
It is for that reason, I asked Sam to write to today’s young artists who are pursuing the same dreams that Sam had at their age and share what he learned in the process of pursuing those dreams.
Sam V’s Letter to Young Artists:
Sam V
Talofa lava Rivenmaster fam!
For those who aren’t familiar with my work, my name is Sam V and I’m a 24-year-old R&B artist/songwriter/director hailing from Auckland, New Zealand. Currently I manage my own music career, as well as a collective called Y$O (check us out lol).
I’ve had the privilege of being connected with “Rivenmaster/ Rod Johnson ” since I was a wee young buck. Rod took a willing interest in my work and development, and for that I am extremely grateful.
While still relatively young I thought I’d take a moment to share some of my learnings so far in the music industry.
1: Don’t wait for opportunities, make them. The most successful people I know are go-getters and highly ambitious, none of them wait for doors to be opened or platforms to be leveraged. They create their own.
For young artists apply this mindset with shows – don’t wait for a promoter to hit you up, make it happen yourself. Book a venue, learn how to promote, make mistakes. Do the same thing with releases, drop a song, promote it, send it to your mates, do it wrong, learn for next time.
2: Throw darts at the board. Sometimes the hardest thing for young artists to do is start. The anxiety around your first release, first live performance in a while, first online upload. Once you overcome your own fears and doubts, start trying things out.
You’ll notice what works/what doesn’t (examples – release strategies, skits, TikTok, pop-up shows, collabs etc etc) just try things out lol.
3. Self Beliefis everything. Humility is great. You know what’s better? Self-belief. Speak your stuff and back it up. Manifest things into reality. It works lol. Most of the artists from my country I’ve wanted to work with, I’ve worked/spoken into existence.
There’s something real driving about keeping yourself accountable to things you’ve said.
4. Honour those who’ve helped you. Remember those who were there through the hard learnings & honor those people where you can. More of a sentimental nod than advice but ya know.
Anyway, if you have any questions regarding music things just flick me a bell on my IG and I’ll get back to you ASAP. Just tryna be the best or something.
When you think of great Musicals that have been brought to Broadway over the years you think of professionalism and the very best of acting, singing, dancing, and of course all of the stage hands, sound crews, technicians etc. To bring such a play to a High School you would almost think impossible. But I have news for you!
I Just came from Forest Hills High School Summerstock production of “Newsies” I have to say it was totally amazing. You will not see a finer production of this Off Broadway. The youngsters aged from incoming 9th graders to Seniors were extraordinary. The vocal harmonies were not only perfect but presented as professional as you will find it!
I have seen professional musical productions and these kids shine amazingly considering they have only had 12 days of working rehearsals. Director, Dave Howard must be awarded high praise for his work with these young actors. He absolutely brought out the best in each and every one of them.
If you have seen the Disney Film for this musical then you know the type of dancing and choreography required. I told my wife that I would be surprised to see tap dancing and all the other dance moves that is demanded for this production. I have to tell you that Holly Wallace, Mary Camp Jasmine Gerard and Tara Truskowski not only pulled every move off, but really made this a top-notch show with their talented direction. Of course, there are many more that also need to be praised for their work on this show.
I truly can’t say enough about the stage crew, lighting, and sound department. With Covid still presenting issues and having to go without a live orchestra the sound track was seamlessly interwoven into the live drama being played out on stage. Every scene was enhanced with a detailed and professional looking set with backdrops and form fitted movable sets being moved into place by a tremendously rehearsed crew. Not one glitch did I find or a sour note from the entire cast. The leads, Jack Kelly played by (Grant VanderKlipp), Crutchie, (Ben McKim), Katherine Plumber, (Emily Williams), Joseph Pulitzer, (Deni Tepic), Medda Larkin, (Gwin Mack), Spot Conlon, (Jacob Couch), Davey, (Jack Bieniewicz), and Little Brother Les, (Brandon Baum), brought this musical production to life with their extraordinary vocals and acting.
This is a must-see production! If you live anywhere near Grand Rapids Michigan I encourage you in the highest regard to see this musical. You will not be disappointed
A few years ago I was privileged to travel to Scotland to work alongside of an exceptional video team of professionals who are already making waves in the entertainment industry with a great feature film under their belt, called Gaelic Kingby Fellowship Film. Of course being able to visit and stay with my long time friend, writer/director and professional vocalist Matthew Todd, made my trip even more enjoyable.
Since then Mathew has stayed busy working and being an amazing example for youth, while inspiring them in the arts through a company called Out of The Box who recently produced a short film entitled “Full Armor”. In the meantime Fellowship Film comprised of Matthew his two brothers Phil and Nathan, and cousins John and Tom, will also be releasing a new full length feature film very soon called Jessie and the Elf Boy , now in post production. Which I’m sure you will hear about right here or over on the main site.
However, today we are featuring Matthews last music video project which features an amazing young actor/model named Jonah Paull.
I wanted to publish this some time ago but things worked out where it had to wait until now so my hope is that you will not only read and enjoy this publication but spread the word by sharing and leaving a comment at the end of this post. The following was written and summited to this site by Producer/Director Matthew Todd.
The Award Winning Music Video
The Song Behind the Music Video
One night, I had a dream. It was so vivid, so powerful that I would have to say that, in some sense, the experience changed me permanently. In the dream, I lived a year in the life of a young child fleeing from war and searching for true home. A haunting song – a song that belonged to that child – was fully formed in my mind when I woke.
I mechanically scribbled down the lyrics and recorded the melody so I would not forget. Then I left it. I was not sure what to make of it; what to do with it. Singing it felt strange because they were not my words and it was not my journey. I was captivated by the story, but it was not my story to tell. So I let it lie for four years…
The Music Video is Born
In a way, it was the gruelling lockdowns of 2020 that spurred me to bring ‘Home’ to the screen. After months of isolation I had a strong desire to tell a meaningful story, and the song kept replaying in my mind.
Covid restrictions meant that a music video with a single actor was the most realistic option (and having been very short of paid employment since March I could not afford any additional crew or equipment). However, this forced me to be creative in how I communicated the story.
We witness the seasons of a quest to find home through the eyes of a refugee child. As he journeys onwards he experiences the winter of despair, but always holds on to the hope that he will find true home at the end of the road. The story unfolds season by season, the changes in the landscape the boy sees around him reflecting the changes in his own longing heart.
Jonah Paull – the young actor
I have been blessed for some time now to be able to call Jonah’s mother a personal friend. Jonah had been almost cast in several of my projects in the past and we had kept in touch, finding we had much in common in our world view as well as our enthusiasm for powerful and wholesome storytelling. It would be fair to say we were both excited about the possibility of Jonah filling the role.
It was a joy and a privilege to be able to work with Jonah at last. With him being an award winning actor, I was not too surprised by his skills and professionalism. However, what amazes me to this day is the way he is able to inhabit characters so different to his own personality.
Jonah is one of the most truly happy 11-year-olds you will ever meet. Yet, somehow, when it was time to perform you could see his whole being transform before your eyes. You suddenly felt you were in the room with a different person. I know, I am merely describing the art of acting in general! However, this was something more. It was closer to a spiritual experience. With everything happening in the world with global pandemics and civil unrest, filming ‘Home’ was an especially precious time.
I have never told anyone this. It might help put in context some of the feelings I am describing:
When I had travelled down to Windsor the night before the shoot (an 8 or 9 hour drive) Jonah’s mother gave me a bag of food. It was a simple gesture due to the fact that Covid restrictions meant we could not eat together. I took it back to my Travel Lodge and as I took the various items out of the bag one by one I started weeping uncontrollably. Initially I was so shocked I hardly knew what was happening. It felt like something cold and hard was melting inside me.
My best guess is this: after so many months of isolation and being controlled by threats from the government (not a criticism – just a fact), locked into the challenges of caring for my family and feeling I was failing in every aspect, I had forgotten what an act of random kindness felt like. When compassion catches you off guard, you never forget it.
It’s what ‘Home’ is really about. We might not yet have what it takes to feel empathy for our neighbours and family members who are driving us insane. But we don’t need to start there. If we can kindle the flame of compassion by considering a war-torn refugee searching for ‘Home’, that flame starts to melt the cold and calloused areas of our hearts. Before long, our love starts to grow and we see others as fellow wanders in desperate need of our understanding rather than enemies to be hated.
What I had the privilege of experiencing as I watched Jonah act was someone not only empathizing with the refugee, but embodying him. I used to wonder if I would one day meet the person whose song I am singing and they would help me understand why I was given the privilege of living the seasons of their journey. I felt that I met him the day we shot ‘Home’. He was there with us in the room, in the music and in Jonah’s acting. I can’t say how or why such things happen, but they don’t leave you unchanged.
I am indebted to Jonah and his family for encouraging and inspiring me in countless ways. This is as much their video as it is mine.
To date the music video has been awarded an Official Selection for the following festivals:
Prague International Monthly Film Festival (Finalist)
Rome Music Video Awards (awaiting final result)
International Music Video Awards (awaiting final result)
In addition, it was awarded Best Music Video in the FAB Chart (by public vote) and Jonah received the award for best actor.
The Legacy
Any money I made from selling the recording of ‘Home’ I donated to Derrick who runs an orphanage in Uganda. They had a vision to build their own building so they did not run the risk of eviction and starvation every month.
I am delighted to say that due to this and a family members extremely generous support, the land has been purchased and work has started on building the orphanage!
The most powerful stories don’t stay on the page or on the screen. They come to life and real lives are changed.
If you want to be part of this story, check out the video I put together for him and get in touch:
If you have been following this network of sites then you already know what an amazing singer/performer Owen McVeigh from Ireland is. I’m sure you are also aware of his last Album which was an extraordinary hit and added to his already amazing five album releases. Owen, now 18 years old has accomplished what many in the entertainment industry struggle to do even at a much older age. Owen’s last album called ” How Beautiful Heaven Must Be ” now makes 6 studio albums for this extraordinary Irish Superstar. In addition, Owen has now accumulated over 60 Million social media views in the just the past 5 years.
A little History Recap:
Owen who comes from Coleraine, only started singing 6 years ago when he was just 12 years old. With no professional training, his main influence was his dad Dessie, who is also an excellent country singer in his own right and his 2 sisters Shauna 21 and Shannon 15 are both very supportive and share the love of country and gospel music. While his Mother Michelle may not sing, Owen shared the following:
“Mum has always had music playing in the house for as long as I can remember. Especially all the great old American Country legends like Ray Price, Gene Watson etc. I’m very lucky that I have such supportive, loving and encouraging parents and my 2 sisters are also fantastic.My dad sings and plays guitar too and we often sit at home singing together. I guess that’s when mum and dad noticed how much I loved music and that I had a talent to sing”.
It was a chance appearance in Coleraine at an outside broadcast of the BBC Radio Ulster Hugo Duncan show in 2015, that instantly showcased the young singer’s natural talent performing “God’s Plan” written by Derek Ryan. Of course, like many of you I was first introduced to Owen from his Mother’s posting a video of him sitting in their home singing a song called “My Mother”. I knew instantly that this boy was going to become an international sensation. This video post led to his discovery by Irish Country Star Jimmy Buckley who shared Owen’s video and offered Owen an invitation to sing his song with him at his live show!
Since then, Owen has appeared on many tv shows including a Tv documentary ‘Keeping Er Country’ which followed the young star as he performed at shows, meeting fans, recording in the studio and even at home with him and the family. Owen also has appeared on the TV3 Toy Show, The Ray Darcy Show, The Nolan Show, and Starting on Wednesday, February 24th, Owen will be embarking on a new TV segment “Owen Mac’s Country & Gospel” on the very popular TV show “Steve’s Country Showdown” Broadcast every Wednesday at 8pm on Spotlight TV 365 & Freesat 516.
In August 2018 the young Irish star travelled to Canada to perform at 2 sell out solo shows. Then in 2019 Owen made his debut performance in the USA and plans were in place for an extensive tour of USA and Canada in 2020 but due to COVID-19 restrictions sadly was unable to go ahead and plans are currently in the pipeline to reschedule the tours.
Also in 2019 Owen toured with Michael English and his band as his special guest. This again gave Owen valuable experience performing in front of large crowds.
Owen’s latest 12 track Gospel Album “How Beautiful Heaven Must Be” Was launched late 2020 and is available on hisWebsite along with all of Owen’s previous album releases
Owen has to date won numerous awards including “The Big Tom Inspiration Award” at The Hot Country Awards and “Best Male Newcomer Award” at The Northern Ireland Country Music Awards
Owens latest single release“Wake Up Dancing”written By Angie Russell, John Colgin & Garry is now available on iTunes and I’ve been told he will soon have a video release of this song. Be watching for that to appear here very soon!
A few months ago, a long-time friend of mine posted a video of the French Familyon his Facebook page! Since that day, I cannot get enough of this family’s music! It was not hard to recognize the professionalism in their performance and surprized that I had not picked up on their music much earlier!
It didn’t take me long to start sharing their Facebook Lives and music videos and could not wait to learn more about their musical history and of course featuring them on this website. That being said; it is with great honor that today I’m proud to introduce their son, 14-year-old Sonny French.
Sonny showed an interest in music at a very young age and made his first appearance on stage when he was just three years old at a country music festival in Tamworth Australia. He was always singing along with all of the songs his parents were singing and Sonny would often sing the guitar riff lines as well.
Watch little country star Sonny singing ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’!
Sonny soon caught onto harmonising, and began singing with his parents Camille and Stuie at all of their gigs around Australia and just loved being a part of it all.
Here is a video of Sonny performing with his parents when he was four years old:
Sonny’s Debut CD
When he was six years old, he began learning to play the ukulele and at seven Sonny recorded and released his debut album titled “Seven”, a collection of his favorite songs and his first original song called “Home”.
When Sonny was eight years old his parents Camille and Stuie got 25 ukuleles donated to Sonny’s primary school Music Department. They soon realized there was no one to actually teach the children how to play so they volunteered. Their influence, along with Sonny’s ukulele skills inspired a lot of Sonny’s school friends to join the ukulele club. Sonny’s parents continued teaching the group for three years with Sonny playing a big part in it, both singing and playing.
Not long after Sonny‘s 11th birthday he had planned on buying a Nintendo switch gaming machine with money he had saved up. Dad, Stuie made a deal with him that he was to now learn how to play the guitar. For every hour he played guitar, in return he would be rewarded one hour on the Nintendo switch. The Switch was purchased, and Sonny held up his end of the bargain practicing daily on the guitar.
He also kept a post-it-note on top of the machine which kept a tally of all of the hours he was “owed” in gaming time. It was only a few weeks later that the Nintendo switch was hardly getting played, as Sonny discovered his greater love was playing guitar.
Sonny on stage with his older brother Chet
Sonny also has a love of athletics, in particular track and field. He loves to sprint, long jump, triple jump and high jump and always did well in school competitions. When he was 10, he made it to the Australian School Nationals representing Néw South Wales and came in ninth in the long jump.
At age 11 Sonny was invited to be a guest on Australia’s version of “Little Big Shots”
When Sonny was 13, He became part of the Gibson guitar family in Australia, a brand of guitar he is passionate about. In June 2019 the French Family moved from Sydney Australia to Nashville to pursue their love of country music and experience living life in a new country.
In 2019 Sonny was invited to be a part of the Gibson generation group (G3) which is Gibson‘s two-year mentoring program for the new generation of guitar players. Sonny is endorsed by Gibson brands and showcased across Gibson‘s channels.
Sonny performs with his mother Camille and father Stuie, Brother Chet and sister Manaia as part of the French Family Band. Sonny hopes to one-day perform at the Grand Ole Opry. He loves living in Nashville and has had some wonderful opportunities playing alongside of some of his heroes. Here is Sonny and his dad Stuie performing the “Townhall Shuffle with Tommy Emmanuel.
Aside from learning from his parents, Sonny is taught guitar by Nashville studio legend Gregg Galbraith and has singing lessons with Michael Rogers (multi-instrumentalist/singer).
Keep up with Sonny and his family through their Facebook Page. Be sure to also see them in concert either live broadcast or in person if you live or can travel to Nashville. It will be well worth your time.
French Family Band Nashville USA
Right now, this amazing family is making their living out of their living room studio due to all the Covid-19 restrictions! Please support their talents by making a contribution to their tip jar by visiting thisPayPal.MeLink!
Here at Rivenmaster we are always searching for amazing talent throughout the world and it seems that there is an unending supply of young undiscovered talent. These young people who are showcased here all need the same thing. The right timing and exposure to the right audience. That’s exactly what we endeavor to accomplish through these publications!
We would like to introduce to you four extraordinary young siblings heralding from the Philippines. The first song I heard that totally took me by surprise was an old hymn that I use to sing in church entitled, “What A Day That Will Be”. While all the children in the family including Mom sings, this number was sung as a duet by the two oldest siblings. Ranniedel and Mark Joseph or better known by his nickname “MJ”.
Since this video was released the children have done many Facebook Lives and of course have dozens of other performances on their Facebook Page and YouTube Channel.
So don’t miss out on their Full Feature Article which is now being featured on Rivenmaster Promotions!
UPDATE 02/12-2021
MJ just released his brand new original song giving honor to our essential workers who are laboring for our welfare during this terrible pandemic! Please watch, share, like, and leave a message for MJ here! Thank you!
MJ Centeno sings his new original song called ” Salamat” or Thank you in English…
Two of their main social sites are listed below but you will want to read the entire Special Feature Article to find all their social links which are many!
Emmy Award winning Fourteen-year-old JT Church has more than proven himself to be one of, if not the best young dancers of his generation. His performances have been seen on Major Network Television Programs like, “So You Think You Can Dance The Next Generation” , “Lip Sync Battle Shorties”, and “Dancing With The Stars”. His most recent Junior Pro winning appearance was on Dancing With The Stars Juniors.
After more than ten years of introducing young talent on this network I have to say that JT Church really made an impact on me in the way that I looked at professional dancing.
Watching JT is pure magic! When he dances you can see the intensity on his face and his moves are smooth as butter. I watched in amazement as he performed everything from Ballroom to Hip-hop, to Contemporary.
He recently announced that he has launched his acting career and will be making his first film appearance this coming holiday season! So go read all about him now! How he got started, how he developed his talent, his past and recent accomplishments, and of course his new debut film role.
While 1,200 other young actors tried out for the lead role of Artemis Fowl, it was Ferdia Shaw who captured the honor. Heralding from Ireland, born in Dublin, Ferdia Shaw is both animated and charismatic playing Artemis.
New young artists and actors like Ferdia Shaw are rare! I say that because other than having a role in a short film called the Kikenny Famine Experience he has no other films to his credit. Watching him portray his character was not only enchanting, but captivating, especially knowing of his little experience in working in front of the camera. You would surely believe that he had appeared in dozens of films.
Ferdia’s acting skills may also be attributed to his membership in the Young Irish Film Makers, where he learned about film making and even made his own shorts. He has also performed in some local theatre productions with Barnstorm Theatre Company. Then again, perhaps it’s because acting is in his blood as his Grandfather is none other than the famous Robert Shaw, who is known for his roles in Jaws, The Sting and From Russia with Love.
If you have not yet had the privilege of seeing this film you can see it on Disney Plus. I promise that you and your entire family will enjoy this story of a land of Fairies, Trolls, Goblins, and of course our hero Artemis Fowl.
Theo Constantin was first introduced on this promotional network back in 2015 and was featured both on Rivenmaster Place and Torchlight Talent! Since that time he has only improved his vocal skills and added to his list of talents which includes song writing, piano, drums, and acting.
Theo not only has proven himself to be a talented and dedicated young artist but also possesses a positive personality that inspires those he comes in contact with! He is respectful, gracious, and has earned and deserves every fan’s admiration.
The pandemic quarantine has really put a hold on the progress of those who are in the entertainment industry, and young artists like Theo are also struggling during this time. For that reason, I asked Theo what he is doing to keep busy and focused.
“Here, in Romania we have been staying at home for almost 2 months. It’s hard, of course, but it has also created some advantages. All of us have more time to do things that we enjoy and have now been provided extra time to reinvent ourselves.
For example, without shows, I’ve been afforded more time to spend in my home-studio. I’ve tried to forget about this hard period listening to a lot of new music and relistening to the music I enjoy the most.
I believe that this crisis should change all of us, we now think more often about ourselves and the others around us, realizing that in one second, we could lose everything and the everyone we love. All these things made me think that it would be good if I could do something for my generation, to make them happy and to make them think positive. This led to me trying a combination between to music-style: trap and pop. Soon I will make my first song combining those styles and I hope it will reach you all during this hard period.
Until then, I invite you to listen to my brand-new song called Y&M.”
You can be sure that we will continue to follow, support, and report regarding Theo’s progress now and after this health crisis is over. This young man is truly an artist who is on the fast track of doing great things in the music industry!
For Canadian singer, songwriter, and performer Tyler Lorette, 2020 started off with a bang. Tyler’s recent single“Broken”is close to 400K streams on Spotify, with an expanding global fan base.
In February he performed atPlaylist Live in Orlando,had a variety of media interviews and was booked with a full line up of concerts scheduled in various cities from April to October. After arriving home from Playlist in early March, like the rest of the world Tyler has been in Quarantine in the fight against Covid19. Of course, due to that, all live events had to be put on hold.
Locked Up but not Locked Down
Tyler has been doing online schooling as well as putting out daily covers and original music live on TikTok twice a week to stay connected with his fans. He has also been writing and producing tons of new music in his home studio.
Tyler just dropped his latest single “Turn on Me” on May 15, 2020 Listen to it now!
More Tracks from Tyler Lorette!
Connect with Tyler on his socials he’d love to hear from you.
I had the priviledge of traveling to Ireland and meeting Owen Mac in person along with Matthew Todd from Scotland while staying with Matthew and his family on a visit a little over a year ago. Without a doubt, I was not only happy to meet him, his Mother and two sisters, but found them to be one of the warmest and most hospitable young artist’s family I have ever had the opportunity to meet.
This year Owen has reached new heights in his career with a huge international audience and fan base stretching around the world. It only makes sense that he becomes the first RAVE on this site. You can be assured it won’t be his last.
Now for your listening pleasure here is his timely new single offering called “Be Kind”! Be sure to share it and purchase his music by visiting his Facebook Page!
