I don't believe my story is a whole lot different from any other musician's story. I discovered the guitar at the age of 10 and puttered around on it for about four years before writing my first song and becoming totally hooked. Music became everything after that, and school kind of fell to the wayside as I was so sure I would be the "next big thing." After barely graduating from high school, I embarked on my career to stardom. Well, "stardom" took me into many cheesy dives to play in front of about 10 drunk people (on a good night) for a couple of rounds of beer. It also brought me a lot of rejection and "you ain't got it kid" comments. So, soon after leaving high school I did the smartest thing I could have ever done--I went back to school, which led to a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree, and a whole new way of thinking and seeing things. Education rocks! Along the way, I put out a Christmas CD called "Santa's Rockin' Band" and then formed a band, Half-Hour Late, with some of my best friends. Our musicianship was always suspect, but we had a great 15 year run with two albums under our belts and a pile of amazing memories. Now, I am writing, recording, and producing on my own. I have taken my most successful song, my cover version of the Christmas classic Snow Miser and Heat Mister, which has been downloaded over 15, 000 times in the last ten years and streamed over 300,000 times in the last five years, and have built an entire album of Christmas songs around it. The album contains four originals and seven covers, and it pretty much is a garage band meets classic and modern rock kind of thing. I feel blessed to be able to enjoy and share music with everyone, and I am thankful for all that music has brought to my life; music is so much more than money and fame. Don't get me wrong, if the money and fame ever came my way, I wouldn't complain, but it isn’t the main reason I do this. You are reading this and listening to my songs because I love music, and I write and record because it is my passion. All the best to you and may music bring you as much happiness as it has me!
Like pretty much every musician I have ever known, music becomes a part of your soul. It is part of everything that you are. I am no exception to this. It sits at the core of who I am and fuels, comments, reflects, processes, and has a hand in dictating just about everything I feel, think, and do. Music is pretty awesome, to say the least!
My dream is to be able to write, record, produce, and release music at a steady and regular pace. Along the way, I sincerely hope to be able to touch a few people with what I am saying. Dreaming big, I would like to be able to touch millions with what I am saying, but over the years I have learned that touching even one person means a job well done.
Changing the world starts with changing attitudes and perspectives. If my music has any ability to do that, even in just a small way, then I will feel very fulfilled.
It was the Partridge Family "I Think I Love You." I remember watching the show as a small boy, thinking Keith Partridge was the coolest guy ever and that song being the first pop/rock song to ever really stick in my head.
The Beatles changed how I thought about music. Buddy Holly was the first great rock musician/songwriter. Elvis because ... well... it's Elvis. Bruce Springsteen because he tells a story like no other. .... and so many more. I could go on forever actually.
What inspires me to make music? Good question. I am not sure if I can really answer that because music is so ingrained into me. I guess the best answer is: everything inspires me in some way shape or form to make music.
If I can make a person smile, tap their toes, think a little bit, maybe self reflect, or help with an emotion or issue they are going through I will be very happy. I want people to be able to relate to my music in whatever way resonates with them.
Performing is an amazing experience. When things are going well, it is almost a surreal feeling. It is something that kind of transcends our physical being and existence. But, I tell ya, on those bad nights and bag gigs ... and we've all had them ... sharing my dog's dinner with him almost seems more appealing! :-)
The online world has actually improved a musician's reality. We can now reach out anywhere on the globe to find like-minded musicians, fans, friends, you name it. It is an exciting time to be a musician. It's currently a renaissance of sorts.
Just discovered it. Liking it so far. Very unique from what I can see!
Too many projects ideas, songs, and other musical things I want to do and accomplish, but never seeming like there is enough time. It is kind of a good problem to have, mind you.
Hmm.. can't say that I actively do. I just don't seem to get out to venues and live gigs like I used to.
Integrity is important. Integrity in the music and with the self. Hard work and persistence are always needed, and of course every musician has to have a thick skin. They have to have the ability to take a punch and just keep on going.