Small Town Titans Frontman Phil Freeman: A Tea Time Interview

Can you have a Holiday Season without Small Town Titan's cover of "You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch"?
I connect with Phil Freeman, the master vocalist behind the mic at Small Town Titans, a small Rock & Roll band from mid-state Pennsylvania. When I say that Phil is a master, I mean that he is a voice coach himself, classically trained and just as scientific and inquisitive as I am in how vocals are produced.
This is a fantastic discussion that no one should miss!
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Elizabeth Zharoff is an international opera singer and voice coach, with 3 degrees in voice, opera, and music production. She's performed in 18 languages throughout major venues in Europe, America, and Asia. Currently based somewhere between Los Angeles and Tucson, Arizona, Elizabeth spends her days researching voice, singing, teaching, writing music, and recording TONS. She also plays Diablo and Dungeons & Dragons.
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Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational, or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.
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#rockandroll #Interview #TheCharismaticVoice
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[@PhillipNathanielFreeman]

What a fantastic time. Elizabeth, Kirk, team, thank you 🙏

[@normanpearce7392]

I had been looking forward to this, and it was better than I imagined it would be. Watching you two geek out was so much fun and you are so obviously on the same wavelength.

[@SeerWS]

Phillip and Elizabeth, loved the warm, intelligent convo. And congrats on the firstborn; I just put mine to sleep after he wailed at me like you did in Mr. Grinch (he was hungry). ♥️

[@FrugalShave]

What a great interview

[@josephmannphotography]

I have really been struggling with my art. Was on the verge of quitting...your chat today...was something I needed. I am embarrassed to say I was close to tears digesting your conversation with Phil. I have listen to this twice today. Thank you...I needed this.

[@seaturtlepoppy7679]

Seeing two passionate people talk about what they love is really inspiring.

[@dylanhamilton7190]

It’s wild how when someone comes off as such a good dude, it’s just makes me want to listen to their music that much more

[@Jamii.pages.]

Lots of fans here in South Africa! I found their song The Devils Choir long before I heard The Grinch cover. The Magic of youtube carries music all over the world!

[@QuirkyUncleDave]

Elizabeth's analysis of their Grinch cover last year was my first exposure to Small Town Titans and it sent me down a very fun rabbit hole. My personal favorite of their originals is The Devil's Choir. The video is great both for getting more of Phil's vocal capabilities (as well as some harmonizing with the whole band) and for seeing their sense of humor.

[@Scottybravo1]

The Devil's Choir video and song definitely kickass

[@MisterLongShot_Official]

Yes this is the song I most want her to analyze

[@sirkat344]

I think Phil not only has a nifty singing voice,but that he'd also make a good narrator. He was interesting to listen to. Glad I am able to be involved w/ premieres on Fridays- this is a great example.

[@soniagriffith2569]

Love Phil's jolly, yet ominous, deep laugh during this interview! Came across Small Town Titans recently and can't get enough of their original music! Phil's voice is so powerful and the musicianship is top notch with all band members. I love their silly music videos and that the drummer always has a fan blowing for maximum rockstar hair.. I also hope others noticed Elizabeth's custom Christmas sweater with "Wakawakawakawaka" across the top.. Adorable! I'm reading the first book of the Stormlight Archives series and wish I had her giant Shardblades in the background! Elizabeth is my long lost choir/nerd sister! Please, Please, Please do a tea time with Einar Solberg from Leprous if you can!

[@oglschmitt]

I'm am not particularly familiar with Phil, or the Small Town Titans. I do know that they have done some awesome covers, including "Hunger Strike", "Hallelujah", and of course "You're a Mean One Mr. Grinch." The TCV reaction to that is one of my earlier memories of the channel, and one I still enjoy watching. Phil seems like a fascinating fellow, and I'm looking forward to the interview, not just for information about his formidable vocal instrument, but for some discussion of the unique business model he has crafted. TGIP "Thank God It's Phil?"

[@QuirkyUncleDave]

I recently joined the "Titan Army" after being disappointed when the Patreon link I found in some of their videos no longer worked. It's always a challenge when a band takes more direct control of their brand like that, but also lets them be more true to whatever their vision for the band is.

[@Drewcifer1978]

This dude needs to do VO work on EVERYTHING. Audiobooks, games, everything...

[@PhillipNathanielFreeman]

Done and done! I've got about a dozen audiobooks and counting under my belt. It's too much fun and thank you for the encouragement!

[@alucide]

Another artist you should listen to; Tracy Chapman. She has such a beautiful powerful voice. There's a live version of her song "Fast car" at Wembley, it's her on a podium with just a mic and a guitar and it's incredible. Her vocals sound even better than they do on the perfectly mixed album (although the song deserves a full band). She's able to get 60.000 people to go quiet and pay attention with her singing in mere seconds.

[@robertbartz9919]

Love the band and now love the man. What a great dude.

[@MrSchmidthead]

Wonderful band and his voice is great! Very knowledgeable about vocals too!

[@michaeldinsen7641]

Humble band with incredible talent.

[@Dogfish63]

I guess I've been living under a rock. I'm born and raised in York and never heard of this band. Fantastic interview! Love the fact he shared some local flair to the interview! Now I'm now a fan of him and his/their music!

[@pattybristol8296]

Elizabeth! This interview is just blowing my mind this morning. I LOVE that you were able to get the time with Phil...'love his verbal expressions just as a dear friend! Thank you for this, so much. I also LOVE that in your interviewing role, you kept your natural personality. You're not at all a common journalist. BEAUTIFUL, Elizabeth, and BEAUTIFUL, PHIL!!! Happy Holidays!

[@martythestines]

No way! Every Christmas I always look forward to hearing "You're a mean one" play on 105.7 The X. I always tell people, Phil has the most metal voice ever. South Central PA, Represent! Small Town Titans needs to be on the list with Poison, Live, August Burns Red and Hailstorm, of Big Bands from the area. I forgot about that show with Tantric... WOW, been a minute. Barshinger wanted me to go.... I did not and regretted it.

[@theboynurse]

I agree with your assessment "the man" is the STT best song. Range is amazing- dynamics and fills are solid. Love the way these guys leave space early to built anticipation and then fill it at the end as a pay-off.

[@lacko623]

I've heard the song previously thanks to friend and it has since become a staple of my Christmas song list ever since. Also, that song reaction is how I came across the TCV channel and have stuck around since 🙃

[@trishmcculloch6201]

STT geek here. Had some medical stuff going on and it's in remission now (f*ck cancer lol). These gentleman need to come through NY cause they're definitely a bucket list show for me now that treatment is over and i can actually go to a concert! Amazing talent the music world needs more of!!

[@Prozac_Patriot]

STT fan here!! My favorite band. So happy to hear that you are in remission!! Cancer sucks!!

[@antivanti9805]

Always great discussions =)

[@timburke7158]

that's awesome! so glad to see STT getting more recognition!

[@mikesingleton2997]

Just ran across this interview...THANK YOU BOTH!!! Two of my favorite people to watch on the "tube"! You guys are so feel good kind of people/artists.

[@Bearish-Chris]

I think Phil literally gave the best overview of south central PA, especially with including Maple Donuts which he’s 100% right about. 😂 Love it brother.

[@Terol1970]

I’m new to STT, but man, are they awesome! I love the fact that all 3 members sing…and do it VERY well! Keep it up…you have a new fan!

[@dabumom]

Phil's vioce is amazing both singing and speaking. Discovered them last year...being a huge Grinch fan was extatic to hear them do my absolutely favorite Christmas song. Now equally as impressed by everything I've heard them do. Keep it going STT...love you!

[@monaskau1830]

This was sooo wholesome ❤ I was captivated immediately and just had to devour it all at once. The energy, enthusiasm and just pure joy and nerdiness, while being thoroughly planted on the ground and connected... Whoa... It resonated so much and this conversation just really emphasised what matters in life ❤ Thank you for this wonderful tea time interview ☺️

[@coastermaniacs]

ahhhhhh yessssssssssssssssssss love these guys

[@andrew1479]

How about an analysis of Karen Carpenter, please... "Its Only Just Begun" is a particularly fine example of The Carpenter's output. Many thanks from London UK for your amazing channel x

[@Prozac_Patriot]

Absolutely love this!! I'm ready for more STT reactions from you. They're my favorite group with Halestorm coming in as a close second. I wouldn't be mad if you just started at the beginning and reacted to every STT song!! OK... Maybe that would be a bit excessive. LOL!! I love this channel and hope to see another STT reaction every time I visit. Loyal fan of both you and STT!!

[@michaeldowns410]

Such a cool interview. Small Town Titans is a band that has great potential. It was great to hear about many of the places and things that I grew up around. I live in Georgia now, but I get Phil's feelings about being anchored in York. I grew up and went to school in Annville, PA where Lebanon Valley College is located (many years ago). I make a trip up there every year, and the wife and I just love the piece and scenery that central PA has. I didn't realize they had attended LVC. I'm pulling for Small Town Titans to break out and get the recognition they deserve.

[@corytaylor2286]

I would have never heard about Small Town Titans if it werent for your channel and now ive watched the whole song on youtube listened to a whole album on spotify and shared them with my friends...it deffinitely benefits the band keep it up i love new music with strong vocals!

[@scottbourret1190]

Love the conversation about 'fair use' with your reaction videos. Sadly there are some artists, labels and rights owners that just don't get how you're helping the artists. Rick Beato has covered this topic on his site multiple times as he reviews the 'music'/instrumentation and has had run into multiple issues with his videos for older songs. He's even been in front of Congress to talk on the topic. Great overall conversation, and there are a few great places around the country to get maple 'doughnuts', or dough-dough's as my niece says. When in Michigan go to Louie's Bakery in Marshall and in Illinois Denny's Doughnuts and Bakery in Bloomington.

[@EricNeuls]

I JUST SAW THEM THIS PAST WEEKEND! HE WAS SOOOO GOOOD

[@Robert_Herring]

What an incredible, insightful conversation. Thanks, y'all, for doing this.

[@dannyjewers604]

Great discussion. Thanks for sharing. Been a fan of STT for a few years now and have become a fan of the Charismatic Voice in the last few weeks. Keep up the great work.

[@Prozac_Patriot]

Same! I discovered TCV because a video of her reacting to STT's Grinch popped up on my KZbin. Been a fan of hers ever since. Her reactions are so genuine with almost childlike joy. Never fails to make me smile!!

[@nightmusic8]

How did you have time to do another tea-chat? You dont ever sleep do you? Looking forward to what Phil & Elizabeth bring in their combined chemistry.

[@TheCharismaticVoice]

I also filmed a Tea Time with Hansi of Blind Guardian, which releases next month. ;-)

[@joergojschaefer3521]

@@TheCharismaticVoice Ok Elizabeth, admit it... You have a TARDIS and your day has 48 hours...😁

[@oglschmitt]

@@joergojschaefer3521 I can totally see Elizabeth as Doctor Who.

[@kenlynn3563]

Her husband is a great Dad and husband.

[@kernira]

@@TheCharismaticVoice that news just made my day.

[@DeansMayhem]

Great interview. I came just to check it out for a bit, had no intentions of watching the entire thing, but I did! Very interesting.

[@Stevie.C]

Such a cool interview. I discovered these guys about 5 years ago and downloaded their music on my Iphone. I've been following them on FB. Nice to see you two catch up. Merry Christmas.

[@garyallison1905]

WOW JUST WOW!!!

[@sean_b_drummer]

If there was EVER video that should be 100% split screen... You two are so facially expressive I feel like I missed out on so much nonverbal interaction in this interview.

[@zannebrazeau]

l love phil's voice his range be mad insane

[@aaronrhawbaker626]

I’m in Chambersburg, pa. Only less than an hour from Lancaster and 45 minutes to York. The Dutch food is amazing around here 🔥. Great video. Thanks 🙏

[@asafish1650]

Love this guy!

[@sjduncan9640]

Have followed STT for years.. God I hope they make it mainstream. So deserving!! And they are even better live.. Phil's vocals are stupid powerful lol but the all just bring the energy! Saw them with Hinder... yes we wanted more small town vs hinder lol. 🤘🙏

[@Prozac_Patriot]

Agreed!! In my humble opinion, they are far better than anything you'll hear on the radio these days.

[@TheCloverskull]

His voice is soooooo fucking cool.

[@thebikeguy2029]

I lived all over the east. I went to computer school in York, PA, lived in New Holland, Ephrata and Reading, PA. Ephrata is home of the first Amish church. It's a cool area.

[@mattrichardson5678]

This was a great interview, lots of great tangents and vocal science talk. Pennsylvania also has some great death metal, Rivers of Nihil and Black Crown Initiate from Reading are both excellent, and worth checking out.

[@rdman6d6]

Gotta hear their version of Folsom Prison!!! Outstanding!

[@ryanplutshack7241]

I first heard "behind the moon" and figured I'd better check them out because the song was awesome. Needless to say I was not disappointed in their music even a little.

[@Prozac_Patriot]

Great song!! STT is a deep rabbit hole. I have yet to find anything I didn't love. Some hit me harder than others, but every song has it's place.

[@ryanball2754]

New sub here. Man, I started really loving music since the early 90's when i was like 10 years old but this is the first time I have heard anyone explain all of the intricacies of music. I am loving it, good stuff. You should definitely check out Matchbox Twenty and Rob Thomas! I know you would love them! You should definitely start with "Bright Lights" and they have so many other amazing songs. My all time favorite group.

[@Molly-Pop]

Such a distinct sound! Would also throw Blues Traveler in the mix, John Popper is also a pretty unique sound

[@ryanball2754]

@@Molly-Pop Yep, Blues Traveler and Counting Crows. Amazing time for music...

[@TheDSMIVTR]

Great interview. I have another suggestion: Listen to "Choke" by The Warning and try not to think of Deep Purple's John Lord (I won't give it away, but you might know what I'm referring to. That instrument gives this trio such a full sound. It's one of their best!)

[@arlineandrews7619]

I can't help but share with anyone who will listen!!!!

[@nicrendesigns]

I was there in the studio when they were recording The Grinch and remember seeing Springwood stringing up those Christmas lights in the recording booth in the middle of July 😄

[@tomschrader8086]

I like STT music a lot, but Phil really likes listening to his own voice.

[@TheLunick]

Will Ramos has done a cover of Hypnosis by Sleep Token. And he is does clean singing! You will be able to truly analyze his voice!

[@Jrt567]

I used to make supply deliveries to Maple Donuts! They are pretty good and the warehouse smelled fantastic. But, nothing beats the donuts from Yum Yum Bakery in Quakertown.

[@ravagesatoru5094]

A band worth mentioning here, and song, that would be a great dissection would be Opeth - Hope Leaves. They are a prog band through and through, although at he time of this album, they were prog metal, was part of a two disc concept album, released under different labels. Beautiful music and beautiful vocal tones. Worth checking out!

[@ddo8521]

kind of reminds me of a Rob Halford voice :D love it.

[@vinskeeter]

What a voice, what a band! I miss Peter Steele......can we hear some Type O Negative? "Nettie"

[@pestilentfellow3609]

Invaluable vocal lessons in this.

[@williamward9733]

This is a GREAT interview and I love the part he talks about family! Titan Army 😁 Please look into Candice Night and Richie Blackmore and their band Blackmore's Night. It's all about music and family!

[@roadwarrior2348]

Hi Elizabeth... Hope all is well.. Im curious to hear what you think of Epica's new song "Siren" ... Its mesmerizing ! The singing is gorgeous. 3 ladies voices in the song. Visually stunning as well.

[@rickchyczewski576]

I am halfway through the interview but am really hoping you ask him about influences . I just found this band recently but if he is not at least partially influenced by the late,very great Chris Cornell, I would be shocked. His upper register is very similar.

[@MySynthDungeon]

Solid!! ;-)! Cheers!

[@konawolv]

I went to school with Ben, the guitar player, played football with him

[@Scottybravo1]

I want Phil to do the voice on my GPS

[@keithalgeo7140]

Gotta hit that Shady Maple!!!

[@jpsother1183]

Most decidedly a guy one would love to have as a friend.

[@MisterLongShot_Official]

I would love if Elizabeth would react to The Devil's Choir, the song that got me hooked on STT

[@danielgordon3285]

One artist that is amazing is a band called “Casey” they are from Wales, the song of choice, would be either teeth, or fade from their darling album, highly recommend

[@Dollylynn44]

You have to listen to in this moment greatest woman in rock

[@RobbieFitzgerald]

Man this is good.

[@ronsilvia8127]

Happy thanksgiving 🦃🦃🦃

[@JNoelVelazquez]

16:40 This is why I'm here

[@williamsporing1500]

Pleeeease do a reaction of Yes….And you and I preferably. I’ve seen grown men cry watching it because it’s so good!

[@CallMeKes]

I'd love to see you listening to Voiceplay's Hide and Seek

[@thedaywerevolt]

Can you please do the "wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald" by Gordon Lightfoot? Doubt you have had many requests for this, but you MUST do this song.

[@FrancoBits]

Please review the song Flow (Amanda Achen), from Final Fantasy XIV

[@pestilentfellow3609]

I'm so happy Phil is a big fan of Gojira.

[@mattarmstrong1320]

You should listen to Being Able to Feel Nothing by Oathbreaker!!!

[@travisearls9731]

You should listen to “ So Far Away” by avenged sevenfold

[@markenders2904]

Woo-hoo york pa.

[@dmitryowens]

STILL waiting for Danzig.

[@vanessaetc]

I would LOVE to see you react to Tools music

[@MrMrp1962]

To bad you can’t get Phil and Geoff together and have a mini bass voice discussion.

[@terrancenolan6832]

That was awesome!

[@th3ragnar0k2]

Into Eternity's Timeless Winter please 🥺

[@94krle]

Hi,ur reactions is amazing, you should react to this song " V ŽIVO na Radio 1: Parni Valjak - Sve još miriše na nju," i know is not on English but is amazing :).

[@theresadubois9778]

waiting patiently for you to listen to Journey (any song with Perry as the lead singer)and the original Queen’s Bohemian rhapsody

[@chrisscott820]

You should check out Orbit Culture. They are like a cross of Metallica and Gojira. Mark from kardavox recently checked them out and enjoyed. Plenty of vocals stuff for you to analyze!

[@jeremycole3008]

You should "analyze" " Christmas Wrapping" by The waitresses from 1982. They did a last minute Christmas song that helped sell their other regular music, like their song "I know what boys like"

[@Dollylynn44]

Can you start reading horror or bed time stories .can listen to you talk forever. Your deep voice is amazingly perfect for horror.

[@mikegodfrey2221]

Hi Elizabeth -it would great for you to look at anything by the cocteau twins -if you havent already -possible this mortal coil song of the sirens ,

[@TheRadioBunker]

I know its unlikely you will see this but I watched your reaction to ozzy and listening to RR play the solos moved you. I would really like to see your impression of "For the Love of God" by Steve Vai

[@crystalearth33]

Im just waiting for more ZEPPELIN.. Try Night Flight

[@dadthewiseplays]

More Rush!

[@Jadedggs]

Check out Terrible Things by Mayday Parade in Munich or Miserable At best

[@tommyn8920]

Day 6/Video 6 requesting you to listen to and review Circle of life or everybody wants to be a cat by Sam Robson. Please!!!!!

[@LP-MeAndMyShadow]

When are you going to dive into some ELVIS? This was a fun video.

[@jeffw691]

Not sure the best way to leave a suggested song. I know you know Sia, but I believe you will truly love her doing Soon We'll Be Found on Letterman. Or do one of the best Sia live videos.