“To me, Rockstar Experience was the kickstart I needed to rekindle my enthusiasm for music, particularly guitar. It was an amazing opportunity to play in a band with a great group of guys. We shared an experience that I don't think any of us will ever forget, or regret. The passion's back, I'm playing every night again - and although I might never land another gig in the city - I can now safely say I've been a Rockstar, if only for one night.”
*Latest Update* Well, Cam thought he may never land another gig, but recently his band 'Stimulus Package' (also featuring Luke Cincotta and Malcolm Boag, other Rockstar participants) performed their first gig at Bondy's Barn in Melbourne. Here's what Cam had to say about it...
"Hey guys, thanks for the message. It's no dramas that you
couldn't come to the gig, and of
course I'll let you know next time we're playing!! The owner liked us a
lot so it might be sooner than we thought :) but yeh, I'm sure you guys
are probably just as excited about it as us, must be a pretty cool
position to be in to be able to follow up on your very own Rockstar
Training :p I owe you guys a lot because I hadn't picked up my guitar
for a little while before Rockstar and was looking like just letting it
get dusty in the corner, but that whole Experience made me realise that
good fun gigs are really quite achievable and that's what really got me
and Luke going :) so kudos to you guys and everyone involved in
Rockstar and I hope to see you soon xoxo"
From everyone at Rockstar Experience, congratulations to the boys from Stimulus Package on doing their first gig - we know there will be heaps more to come!
Cameron and Payload perform "Gel" by Collective Soul
Catherine Schrank – Co-Lead Vocalist for ‘Pet Food Only’
"I used to sing a lot with my sisters when I was growing up, but I never had the guts to actually sing in front of other people. When I was given Rockstar Experience as a birthday gift, I had no idea how I was going to do it - I was terrified. But after only a couple of rehearsals I started to loosen up and find my inner performer again. The final show was incredible - a life changing experience. In all honesty it was a real turning point for me in terms of gaining back self confidence, and I would recommend anyone in the same situation to just take a leap of faith and do it. I know how scared I was, but I would do it again in a heartbeat."
Catherine and Pet Food Only perform "Roadhouse Blues" by The Doors
“I'd always fancied myself as a bit of a drummer having been in a few bands with mates thrashing about on a Saturday afternoon, annoying the wife, kids and neighbours playing along with my favourite cd's, as between work and family life I’m pretty busy. So when I heard about the Rockstar program and especially the coaching available, I thought I owe it to myself to have a go. As always I was a bit nervous about my ability compared to the other guys/girls, but we all got matched up into our bands and within the first few hours friendships were made and I was actually doing it for real. With a coach for every instrument (including a drummers dream in Mr Elyan Fernova ) no one was ever stuck, or out of their depth. I have learnt technique, how to work with other musicians, and adjust my sound for all types of music - and have a whole new network of mates. I got to rock a room of around 250 people with real lights, big sound - with friends - and I’m still grinning :-) With today’s technology I can watch it any time, and the memories will always be there. Thanks to Leah, Paul and the whole Rockstar team.”
Mark and The Rockstar Experience Superband* perform "You Really Got Me" by The Kinks
The Rockstar Experience Superband was made up of selected members of both bands and they played this song together for the first time, live on stage, with no prior rehearsal as a total group - great stuff!
“Rockstar Experience was fantastic. The coaches were really helpful and supportive without being pushy. This allowed participants to develop their performance in an enjoyable environment without unnecessary pressure. The people who I met and played with were not only a great group of musicians but a really good bunch of fun people. I had an absolute ball. If you’re considering Rockstar Experience but have some doubts I say, do it…sign up…you won’t regret it!!”
Pete and Payload perform "Better" by The Screaming Jets
"Rockstar Experience gave me a taste of rock stardom. Although I'm a pro keyboardist, the program afforded me the unmatched opportunity to pick up a bass guitar and 'rock out' to hard rock tunes that have no place for a keyboard player. The learning curve was steep, but definitely worthwhile. Coaching was top-notch and all rehearsal equipment was provided. The exhilaration leading up to the showcase performance - plus the unique friendships I developed with bandmates along the way - was incomparable!"
Shaun and Payload perform "Highway To Hell" by AC/DC
