A unique band was added to Universal Motown's label in June of 2008. 'Days Difference' joined forces with the ever-growing and continuously expanding label that has a knack for finding new talent and bringing them to the masses. Self-describing their musical style, band member Jeremy William Smith says they are "Coldplay meets Metro Station." This band is most certainly on their way to the ears of music lovers everywhere with the support of the Universal Motown Records label and the talent that they as a band bring to the stage each and every time they perform. Sharing their love of music inspires them and Per Smith, "As a band, we want to have a positive effect on people and influence them in a good way."
The dynamic of the band is definitely one that stands out as the band consists of four members, which also happen to be two sets of brothers. Frontman and main songwriter for the band, Jeremy William Smith (Vocals, Keyboard & Acoustic Guitar), and his brother Jonathan Smith (Vocals & Drums), are joined by Jeremiah Ricks (Vocals & Guitar) and his brother Micah Ricks (Bass). This makes for quite an interesting combination on many levels as one cannot help but wonder how the guys manage to get along.
They all met back in high school when Jeremy and Jonathan filled in for a no-show pianist and drummer at a concert that Micah and Jeremiah were performing in. As they jammed together onstage, they immediately recognized the incredible chemistry and connection that they had together was special and they knew that they had to work together. The beginning of something great was not lost on any of them.
The quartet from Virginia Beach, VA, all in their early twenties, released their self-titled debut album in the Fall of 2009, which has been described as "a collection of pop gems that showcase the melody-minded songwriting, expressive vocals, and the dynamic piano sound of the 21 year-old Jeremy."
Jeremy, along with his bandmates, formed 'Days Difference' in May of 2004. With hard work, perseverance and raw talent, the guys have come quite a long way in just a few years. They spent several years opening for other acts who came through Virginia Beach. Some of the artists that they have opened for include Paramore, Lifehouse, Third Eye Blind, Jack's Mannequin and Yellowcard.
Soon after in 2007, the guys released an independent album entitled 'Numbers' which then led to a nationwide tour. This particular tour, though quite amusing in retrospect, consisted of one disaster after another. This was perhaps the tour where they paid their respective dues, but as is usually the case in life, it opened many doors and the many challenges faced together as a band glued them together as even closer friends and band mates.
Their confidence never waivered, and there was never a moment of self doubt which catapulted them into their next endeavor, their much anticipated self-titled debut album. In addition to their multi-faceted talent as musicians, the guys enlisted help from several veteran co-writers and producers to help them out.
Some of those who came on board were Wayne Wilkins (Beyoncé, Natasha Bedingfield), Andrew Frampton (Natasha Bedingfield, Kylie Minogue), Stefanie Ridel Fair (Fergie, Pussycat Dolls), Michael Smidi Smith (Pussycat Dolls, Tupac), and Tim Myers, former bassist for OneRepublic. Myers and Jeremy co-wrote four key tracks: “Radio Song,” the touching ballad “Imperfections,” the radio-ready “Falling Into You” and “Magnetized.” The first single “Are You Happy?", which was produced and co-written by Jimmy Harry and Jeremy Smith, hit the radio waves and became a huge success.
On his experience working with Tim Myers, Jeremy says, “From the second we worked together, Tim and I saw eye to eye on everything, including the way the melodies and lyrics were supposed to sound. It’s almost as if he were my musical twin, but better. As far as co-writing, I just wanted to create the best songs possible. Great songs make great bands, and if you don't have great songs, then there's really no point in releasing an album. We wanted to make an album of hit singles — with great lyrics, great melodies, and great hooks. If you strike that chord with every song, people will connect with you better.”
The powers that be over at Universal Motown Records most certainly have a knack for spotting those musicians with the potential, talent and ability to connect and resonate with a wide audience. The band quickly signed to the label in June of 2008, a mere twenty-four hours after playing an industry showcase. Disney also climbed aboard, casting Jeremy, Jonathan, Micah, and Jeremiah as members of Miley Cyrus’s backing band in the big-screen version of 'Hannah Montana: The Movie', which hit theaters in April of 2009.
Dana Feldman - What is it like to be in a band formed of two sets of brothers? Please explain the dynamic.
Jeremy William Smith - We get along fantastically actually. None of us have egos, and the fact that we're brothers makes us closer. I think we have our parents to blame for that. They did a great job raising us. I won't deny we never fight. We argue over stupid things, though, like when we should stop to get a hotel or whether or not the end of 'Inception' is a dream.
Smith's original life plan did not involve becoming a singer. His Mom, as he tells it, made him take piano lessons when he was just in the first grade. Smart move on her part. Though his immediate reaction to the piano was one of disdain, this was quickly replaced by a sincere love and appreciation for it which has become a constant in his life ever since. Note to parents everywhere that tenacity pays off in the long run!
DF - How did the band get their big break of getting signed by Universal Motown?
JWS - Our big break with Motown came through four years of hard work and an introduction to our current manager, Jay Michaels. We credit him for our progress and rise as a band.
DF - As I ask everyone, please give me the best advice you can for other bands out there just hoping to accomplish what you have.
JWS - The more I grow as a person the more I realize that success comes to those who are persistent and patient. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are great bands. Practice, practice, practice. Work hard and then work harder. Be willing to take direction. Be willing to learn. Humility is so important. Producers, labels, agents and managers all hate working with egotistical musicians. So be humble, be kind and never give up.
In 2009, 'Days Difference' spent their summer touring with the Plain White T's, All Time Low, We the Kings, and Cartel. They ended the year playing with Owl City. "We really had a blast sharing the stage with such great acts and honestly, touring is our passion. We want to be in front of as many people as we can for as many nights as possible," says drummer Jonathan Smith. 2010 has already included several shows with Selena Gomez and a sold out show with Justin Bieber. This past spring they toured with Jordin Sparks and Kate Voegele. They followed the tour up with a short run with Allstar Weekend and more dates with Selena Gomez. Their single "Speakers" hit the radio and quickly climbed the HOT AC charts.
The guys will be in Los Angeles this week to shoot the video for their single "Speakers." In addition, the band is also currently planning a nationwide tour for this upcoming Fall / Winter. To find out more about the band and check out their upcoming tour dates, visit their website at www.myspace.com/daysdifference.
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