Archive for July, 2009
Some Recommended Songwriter Interviews and Biographies
July 30th, 2009 | Author: admin
Lately, I have enjoyed reading about some of my favorite songwriters. It is an attempt to understand their thinking and perhaps glean some of their methodologies, if such a thing exists. I was able to find a rather broad range of biographies in my local library. I will provide a brief description of a few books that I read recently and provide some additional comments.
First of all, there is an excellent compilation by American Songwriter Magazine appropriately entitled “Song” that has some very nice interviews with a wide variety of songwriters including Tom Petty, John Prine, Willie Nelson, Jeff Tweedy and Sheryl Crow. Each interview provides insights and recommendations to other songwriters which may be helpful. I recommend this book to those folks who may not have the time to dig into full blown biographies. It is a compilation of somewhat condensed interviews and many of the artists provide suggestions to aspiring songwriters.
I happen to be a Wilco fan since moving to the Chicago area, so I read a book called, “Learning How To Die” by Greg Kot. It is an interesting story of a group that defied the industry’s formulaic approach to popular music and songwriting. It also offers a very nice example of a band that managed to break through despite a variety of challenges. This book provides not only a very good insight into the current trends of the music industry, but also helps folks to understand how the music business operates. Furthermore, it helps distinguish the more avant garde approach of a singer songwriter from the more commercial approach of a pure performer or a pure songwriter.
I read Warren Zevon’s biography, “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” written by his friend and former wife, Crystal Zevon. It is a tragic story, but it provides a very nice description of the underappreciated Zevon, who wrote with a style that we may never really see again. Zevon is to music what Hunter S. Thompson is to literature. He was the epitome of “gonzo”, a term coined by H.S. Thompson. Hunter seemed to recognize this particular characteristic in Zevon as they became fast friends.
I recently read “Paul Simon”, a biography by Laura Jackson. I find this book particularly enjoyable as I recall the events surrounding the emergence of Simon and Garfunkel in the 60’s. I find it particularly interesting that some of my favorite songs written by Paul Simon had distinct ties to events in his life as well as events in history. There are too many songs to list but I especially love “Sound of Silence”, “The Boxer”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “America”, “Late In The Evening”, “Graceland”, “Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes”, and “You Can Call Me Al”. While it would be fun to provide an analysis of these songs, I will not spoil the book for those who may have an interest in reading it for themselves. However, I did find it interesting that Simon employed a habit of collecting somewhat random thoughts and observations in a notebook which were later infused in his writing.
I have just completed a biography written about the late Woody Guthrie by Elizabeth Partridge entitled, “This Land Is Your Land”. This book is very readable, yet, for me, it was extremely dark and depressing. After reading the book, I wanted to hug my 14 year old and go outside to see if the sun was still shining. It was, thank God. While Woody Guthrie is one of the most prolific songwriters of modern times along with folks like Leonard Cohen, his life was worse than I could have ever imagined. Nonetheless, it is difficult to cast Woody Guthrie in a 100% positive light. I cannot pass judgment on this man other than to say he was extraordinarily unorganized in every way except for his unique gift of songwriting. Incidentally, it was my interest in Bob Dylan that led me to Woody Guthrie. I had heard Guthrie’s name many times growing up, but I was not prepared for his tragic story.
If you are interested in songwriting, I would encourage you to learn more about the songwriters who have made an impression on you. It is interesting, but it can also be a bit frightening as you may find some characteristics similar to your own. There is definitely something that draws certain folks to this art form and it is interesting to see certain similarities that weave through their lives, in both circumstances and behaviors.
Perhaps one very positive attribute that stands out the most for me is the tendency for all great songwriters to be extraordinary observers of life, in general. They seem to have a peculiar ability to put words to things that are indescribable for the rest of the population. These words allow listeners to instantly identify with human thoughts and emotions in unique ways.
A bit on the darker side, there are certain characteristics that are very difficult to understand for those of us who are tied into society’s framework. Some songwriters have exhibited self destructive behaviors that seem to coincide with their success. For some of these people, there seems to be a common thread of introspection, depression and mania. While my list is rather tame compared to some of the others who were, perhaps, not able to achieve the same level of notoriety, there seems to be enough similarity to give us good reason to remain vigilant with regard to our own lives. Extreme circumstances and behaviors can provide ample material for a songwriter, but it just makes good sense to temper it with moderation (when possible) for the sake of maintaining the self control and respectability that I believe is necessary for a sustained, happy life. Art is a wonderful thing, but there are plenty of very good examples of art that exists without tremendous suffering as a prerequisite. If you have suffered, then by all means, find a way to convert your experience into art. However, I would urge anyone not to go through life looking for opportunities to suffer for art’s sake.
Finally, these books provide an added bonus for fans of music during the most prolific 50 years in the history of music. There is a cultural aspect to each book that perhaps provides a better understanding of the environmental elements surrounding each artist. These elements include history, politics, social change, economic conditions, and pop culture. In addition, each of the above books is a “Who’s Who” of influential folks surrounding the music industry during this period.
By: Del Boland
About the Author:
First of all, there is an excellent compilation by American Songwriter Magazine appropriately entitled “Song” that has some very nice interviews with a wide variety of songwriters including Tom Petty, John Prine, Willie Nelson, Jeff Tweedy and Sheryl Crow. Each interview provides insights and recommendations to other songwriters which may be helpful. I recommend this book to those folks who may not have the time to dig into full blown biographies. It is a compilation of somewhat condensed interviews and many of the artists provide suggestions to aspiring songwriters.
I happen to be a Wilco fan since moving to the Chicago area, so I read a book called, “Learning How To Die” by Greg Kot. It is an interesting story of a group that defied the industry’s formulaic approach to popular music and songwriting. It also offers a very nice example of a band that managed to break through despite a variety of challenges. This book provides not only a very good insight into the current trends of the music industry, but also helps folks to understand how the music business operates. Furthermore, it helps distinguish the more avant garde approach of a singer songwriter from the more commercial approach of a pure performer or a pure songwriter.
I read Warren Zevon’s biography, “I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead” written by his friend and former wife, Crystal Zevon. It is a tragic story, but it provides a very nice description of the underappreciated Zevon, who wrote with a style that we may never really see again. Zevon is to music what Hunter S. Thompson is to literature. He was the epitome of “gonzo”, a term coined by H.S. Thompson. Hunter seemed to recognize this particular characteristic in Zevon as they became fast friends.
I recently read “Paul Simon”, a biography by Laura Jackson. I find this book particularly enjoyable as I recall the events surrounding the emergence of Simon and Garfunkel in the 60’s. I find it particularly interesting that some of my favorite songs written by Paul Simon had distinct ties to events in his life as well as events in history. There are too many songs to list but I especially love “Sound of Silence”, “The Boxer”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “America”, “Late In The Evening”, “Graceland”, “Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes”, and “You Can Call Me Al”. While it would be fun to provide an analysis of these songs, I will not spoil the book for those who may have an interest in reading it for themselves. However, I did find it interesting that Simon employed a habit of collecting somewhat random thoughts and observations in a notebook which were later infused in his writing.
I have just completed a biography written about the late Woody Guthrie by Elizabeth Partridge entitled, “This Land Is Your Land”. This book is very readable, yet, for me, it was extremely dark and depressing. After reading the book, I wanted to hug my 14 year old and go outside to see if the sun was still shining. It was, thank God. While Woody Guthrie is one of the most prolific songwriters of modern times along with folks like Leonard Cohen, his life was worse than I could have ever imagined. Nonetheless, it is difficult to cast Woody Guthrie in a 100% positive light. I cannot pass judgment on this man other than to say he was extraordinarily unorganized in every way except for his unique gift of songwriting. Incidentally, it was my interest in Bob Dylan that led me to Woody Guthrie. I had heard Guthrie’s name many times growing up, but I was not prepared for his tragic story.
If you are interested in songwriting, I would encourage you to learn more about the songwriters who have made an impression on you. It is interesting, but it can also be a bit frightening as you may find some characteristics similar to your own. There is definitely something that draws certain folks to this art form and it is interesting to see certain similarities that weave through their lives, in both circumstances and behaviors.
Perhaps one very positive attribute that stands out the most for me is the tendency for all great songwriters to be extraordinary observers of life, in general. They seem to have a peculiar ability to put words to things that are indescribable for the rest of the population. These words allow listeners to instantly identify with human thoughts and emotions in unique ways.
A bit on the darker side, there are certain characteristics that are very difficult to understand for those of us who are tied into society’s framework. Some songwriters have exhibited self destructive behaviors that seem to coincide with their success. For some of these people, there seems to be a common thread of introspection, depression and mania. While my list is rather tame compared to some of the others who were, perhaps, not able to achieve the same level of notoriety, there seems to be enough similarity to give us good reason to remain vigilant with regard to our own lives. Extreme circumstances and behaviors can provide ample material for a songwriter, but it just makes good sense to temper it with moderation (when possible) for the sake of maintaining the self control and respectability that I believe is necessary for a sustained, happy life. Art is a wonderful thing, but there are plenty of very good examples of art that exists without tremendous suffering as a prerequisite. If you have suffered, then by all means, find a way to convert your experience into art. However, I would urge anyone not to go through life looking for opportunities to suffer for art’s sake.
Finally, these books provide an added bonus for fans of music during the most prolific 50 years in the history of music. There is a cultural aspect to each book that perhaps provides a better understanding of the environmental elements surrounding each artist. These elements include history, politics, social change, economic conditions, and pop culture. In addition, each of the above books is a “Who’s Who” of influential folks surrounding the music industry during this period.
By: Del Boland
About the Author:
Article distributed by permission of Del Boland and Bluemusepublishing.com Bluemusepublishing.com is a free online community for songwriters, bands, and musicians.
Bon Jovi Live Concert 2008 In TYO(You Give Love A Bad Name)
July 28th, 2009 | Author: admin
Here is another requested song by the viewers & one of my most fave too.
By: ndt56
About the Author:
By: ndt56
About the Author:
**The 7th Annual Hukilau** Fort Lauderdale June 12-15 2008!
July 28th, 2009 | Author: admin
Famous Wreck Bar, take home Tiki treasures, mesmerizing performances and of course, a magical night with hundreds of other Tikiphiles at the historic Mai-Kai Restaurant! We have such a variety on the pu-pu platter this year including new musicians to spice up the weekend soundtrack, new historical presenters of Tiki history and an all new finale that is sure to please every Tikiphile! Also appearing at the event: Laramie Dean Trixie Little & the Evil Hate Monkey! And Much Much MORE!! So …
By: Medusa22
About the Author:
By: Medusa22
About the Author:
Music Buzzy Presents Michael Jackson MegaMix
July 23rd, 2009 | Author: admin
the web2upgrade google facebook world paris madives work from home property here today travelheretoday movie Robert kuntz buzzy crusies beaches sights wonders of ross hardman planet buzzbot2.oh Music Mix Megamix Artist 60s 70s 80s 90s music charts world music all the hits decades through the years all music pop rock dance disco party music Michael Jackson King Of Pop Dead Died Death June 25th 2009 Five Unbelievable Speechless World Popular Music Icon www.MusicBuzzy.com … Michael Jackson King …
By: travelheretodaybuzz
About the Author:
By: travelheretodaybuzz
About the Author:
Beyoncé – If I Were A Boy
July 15th, 2009 | Author: admin
Beyoncé If I Were A Boy from the album If I Were A Boy (C) 2008 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT … Beyoncé If Were Boy Pop Music Video
By: beyonce
About the Author:
By: beyonce
About the Author:
“Weird Al” Yankovic – Trapped in the Drive-Thru
July 13th, 2009 | Author: admin
on the web! Website – http iTunes – www.doogtoons.com Facebook – www.doogtoons.com Myspace – www.doogtoons.com Mailing List – www.doogtoons.com Twitter – www.doogtoons.com Download this video on iTunes! click.linksynergy.com Official music video for “Weird Al” Yankovic’s epic 11-minute long parody of R. Kelly’s “Trapped In The Closet” – from his latest album “Straight Outta Lynwood”. Music by “Weird Al” Yankovic Video animated and directed by Doug Bresler Produced by Doogtoons © 2007 …
By: doogtoons
About the Author:
By: doogtoons
About the Author:
Free MP3 Music Downloads – Free Music – Latest Music Albums, Mixtapes, Discographies and more
July 13th, 2009 | Author: admin
unlimiteddownloadcenter.net With over 15 billion files available, imagine all the music and movie files you can get with instant access! Download anything you want – no time limits, no bandwidth limits, no content limits. Download MP3s and movies to your PC… then burn them to CD or DVD and take them with you! Download music, movies, games, software & more! Ultra fast unlimited downloads 24/7. No additional fees per download. Get Instant Access Now! unlimiteddownloadcenter.net…
By: DownloadPlanet
About the Author:
By: DownloadPlanet
About the Author:
Michael Jackson – Billie Jean MSG Live concert at New York 2001 by nicobus at Dailymotion.com
July 12th, 2009 | Author: admin
MJ – You’re forever definately one of my Greatest Idol since my High School sophomore in the States in 1986, you are the King of Pop! Whatever the negative news on you, I NEVER EVER believe, I’ll always keep on trust in you!
By: winling7
About the Author:
By: winling7
About the Author:
Pokémon Red & Blue – Gym Leader Battle Music [HQ]
July 10th, 2009 | Author: admin
Music played during the battle with each gym leader. Artist: Junichi Masuda www.music64.tk … pokemon red blue gym leader battle music theme song ポケモン misty lt surge ash
By: NickAura
About the Author:
By: NickAura
About the Author:
Attract Superstar Interviews to Agree to an Interview
July 9th, 2009 | Author: admin
When trying to get experts to agree to an interview you want to attract them to what you are doing. Basically, what’s in it for them is free advertising, it’s free publicity, it’s free exposure, and it’s free distribution. They do trade a little bit of their time for it, but it’s basically free. It is easy for them and you’re not asking them to write the interview.
I get approached from people who say they’d like to do an interview with me and they submit me maybe 20 questions that I have to write the answers to. I’m not going to do that, it takes way too long. It’s hard to write, but it’s easy to do an audio interview so it’s not a big deal for an expert to do it.
Plus, people love to talk about themselves. Whoever is listening, whatever expertise you are in, whatever you are passionate about, how many people do you really know who just love talking about what you love. So having someone who is really interested and be willing to listen and brag and talk about yourself, you know people will do it free just for that.
These are some reasons why people will do an interview. Then the higher profile people generally, they are the nicest people out there. There may be some cases where they weren’t nice but they are professionals and they are really nice and the real experts they like helping people out. They probably struggled from the beginning; they could probably see you in them of when they were getting started.
People like to help other people even if you say, “Can you help me out. I’m a nobody, I’ve got no Web site, but I want to do something with this interview, would you honor me to let me interview you and spend an hour on the phone with you.” You’d be surprised all you have to do is ask.
I think once you get them to agree to do the interview then you can kind of go over the outline of what is going to happen and you set the criteria. I guess if they are super busy, yeah, you could go over. You could go over and you could make an agreement with them. “Hey, we’re scheduled for 20 minutes; if it goes over would you be willing to do a Part 2 with me?” They may say yes or they may say no. Even if you have a very high profile person just to do 20 minutes, that is valuable. It could be 20 minutes of a couple great ideas.
But what else is really valuable? It could be being able to use their name on your Web site or in your promotion. That name could lead you to another interview. You know I interviewed John Carlton and I bet I can go get an interview with Clayton Makepeace. “Hey, Clayton, I’m Michael Senoff, I’ve interviewed John Carlton, Bob Blye, Joe Vitalie, a couple other copywriters,” which he knows, “would you like to be part of the copywriting interview series?” Why would he say no?
So you can use your interviews as proof to climb up to higher and higher levels. Definitely.
By: Michael Senoff
About the Author:
I get approached from people who say they’d like to do an interview with me and they submit me maybe 20 questions that I have to write the answers to. I’m not going to do that, it takes way too long. It’s hard to write, but it’s easy to do an audio interview so it’s not a big deal for an expert to do it.
Plus, people love to talk about themselves. Whoever is listening, whatever expertise you are in, whatever you are passionate about, how many people do you really know who just love talking about what you love. So having someone who is really interested and be willing to listen and brag and talk about yourself, you know people will do it free just for that.
These are some reasons why people will do an interview. Then the higher profile people generally, they are the nicest people out there. There may be some cases where they weren’t nice but they are professionals and they are really nice and the real experts they like helping people out. They probably struggled from the beginning; they could probably see you in them of when they were getting started.
People like to help other people even if you say, “Can you help me out. I’m a nobody, I’ve got no Web site, but I want to do something with this interview, would you honor me to let me interview you and spend an hour on the phone with you.” You’d be surprised all you have to do is ask.
I think once you get them to agree to do the interview then you can kind of go over the outline of what is going to happen and you set the criteria. I guess if they are super busy, yeah, you could go over. You could go over and you could make an agreement with them. “Hey, we’re scheduled for 20 minutes; if it goes over would you be willing to do a Part 2 with me?” They may say yes or they may say no. Even if you have a very high profile person just to do 20 minutes, that is valuable. It could be 20 minutes of a couple great ideas.
But what else is really valuable? It could be being able to use their name on your Web site or in your promotion. That name could lead you to another interview. You know I interviewed John Carlton and I bet I can go get an interview with Clayton Makepeace. “Hey, Clayton, I’m Michael Senoff, I’ve interviewed John Carlton, Bob Blye, Joe Vitalie, a couple other copywriters,” which he knows, “would you like to be part of the copywriting interview series?” Why would he say no?
So you can use your interviews as proof to climb up to higher and higher levels. Definitely.
By: Michael Senoff
About the Author:
Michael Senoff is a sought-after Internet marketer, interviewer and business coach with more than 50,000 students on four continents. For a limited time he is giving away free over 120 hours of in-depth audio interviews with some of the richest and most successful marketers, copywriters and business experts in the world at his famous website http://hardtofindseminars.com