Sunflare Songs

Garry Manuel: Singer-Songwriter, Producer, Guitarist

Singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer, crafting music shaped by years of dedicated experience and a tapestry of personal journeys, showcasing passionate vocals and instrumental skills.

Garry Manuel is a seasoned singer-songwriter and guitarist with a rich musical history spanning decades. As the owner of Sunflare Songs/Records and the founder of influential Rochester-area music initiatives like, Manuel’s Music Studio, and RAMP (Rochester Area Music Project), as well as founder and former chair of Project URGE, Inc., a non-profit focused on tackling issues of poverty and racism, with an intent to bring churches, and NGO’s together to work more collaboratively . He is a deeply rooted and a multifaceted figure in the music community. His music blends singer-songwriter traditions with elements of rock, Americana, acoustic intimacy, jazz, and pop, often featuring insightful lyrics, memorable hooks, and compelling storytelling. Renowned for his expressive vocals and heartfelt romantic ballads, Manuel's diverse songwriting also explores uplifting themes and occasional social commentary. Garry, in his own way, has busted down the restrictive borders associated with being identified with a particular genre. His writing style often leaps outside the singer-songwriter boundaries. In addition, Garry recently created his first documentary, “Training for Life”, that gives a glimpse into the life of a horse racing trainer, which also includes his music.

Key Highlights:

• Diverse Musical Palette: Melds singer-songwriter, rock, Americana, acoustic, jazz, and pop influences.

• Prolific Songwriter: Known for both lyrically rich songs with strong hooks and narrative-driven folk-inspired pieces. Some music is reflective of life in the thoroughbred horse racing world.

• Exceptional Vocalist: Particularly noted for his ability to deliver powerful and emotive romantic ballads.

• Founder of Significant Music Initiatives: Sunflare Songs/Records, Manuel’s Music Studio, and RAMP (Rochester Area Music Project).

• Community Engagement: Founder and former Chair of the non-profit Project URGE, Inc., demonstrating a commitment the social issues of poverty and racism.

• Shared Stages with Major Artists: Opened for Jackson Browne & Linda Ronstadt, Jimmy Cliff, The James Gang, and others with his band Sunup.

• Extensive Recording and Performance Experience: Decades of writing, recording, and performing in various bands and as a solo artist.

Musical Journey:

Influenced by the soulful sounds of Ray Charles and the iconic songwriting of The Beatles and Crosby, Stills & Nash, Garry's musical journey began with a transistor radio and a spiral notebook filled with lyrics. His professional career ignited in high school, leading to the formation of the band Meadow, which achieved some local success with the single, "You Don't Know the Pain." His collegiate years saw the emergence of Sunup, a dynamic band that shared the stage with renowned artists and recorded with industry veterans, such as, Mick Guzauski. When his music partner in Sunup, James Wilson pursued other ventures, Garry continued his musical pursuits, including jingle writing, session work, and performing. The later iteration of Sunup, featuring keyboardist Brian Soule, and bassist, Kerry Peterson, led to the "Saratoga Sunrise" album, a testament to his commitment to keeping spirit, and Sunup dream/concept alive and a continually evolving sound. This led to Sunup’s, “Saratoga Sunrise”.

Artist Statement:

"I've always been driven by the desire to take a song in its simplest form and build a sonic landscape that truly captures the emotion and intention behind it. For me, music is a constantly evolving language that speaks directly to the heart of our shared human experience."

Contact:
Sunflare Songs
Email: mmssunflare@aol.com
31 W. Church St. - Fairport, NY 14450
585.223.2310