Day two blog:

Where do we begin?

Sounds cliche but as with anything we do we have to begin at the beginning.

For musicians that means to learn to be the best musician possible. It’s not only about mastering the instrument of choice but also about learning to play (and not play) at the right times, with proper dynamics and with respect to the other musicians on the stage. Great musicians don’t spend all of their time perfecting solos but they spend lots of time learning how to make a song groove and flow perfectly.

For songwriters, this means learning the art of writing songs that make sense to the audience. A great song makes people feel something. Maybe it’s happy, maybe it’s sad. Maybe it reminds them of love or loss but at the end of it they have a feeling and emotion. It’s an art and something that can’t be ignored.

I encourage you to take a listen to the songs of Elton John/Bernie Taupin, Lennon/McCartney, Matreca Berg, Gary Burr and the other classic writers who have penned the classic songs we all love. Admire the styles, the lyrics, the pictures they paint and the stories they tell.

In conclusion, sing like you are living it, play like you feel it and write like you can’t wait for others to hear it.

That’s where great music begins.

Hey everyone,

Today I’m sharing a song I co-wrote with my friend Michael Goodman.

I had George Strait in mind but am perfectly happy with someone who has less number 1 hits.

Take a listen and see what ya think.

Making music make sense

People

Get

Ready

A brand new song.

I always want to be better than yesterday and to remember that I can still be better than I am today. Keep growing and improving. God’s still working on me.

Here’s a song I wrote several years ago about what can happen when you get what you wish for.

For over thirty years I have been blessed to make extra money by doing what I love to do, play drums and sing. Although the money is nice the biggest satisfaction comes from being able to pour my heart out in a performance and have people truly appreciate it.

In my first blog post for musicians and songwriters I want to encourage you to find YOUR space. There is no “fail safe” way to success. No amount of talent or money guarantees you will “make it”. With that being said my first piece of advice is to have fun and be yourself. Don’t try to change what you love or who you are. If you do, people will know and they won’t connect with phony.

Secondly, take it seriously. Whether you are playing for 5 people or 50,000 take pride in what you are doing and be prepared. Nothing is worse than working hard to be ready for a show and then showing up to find another musician didn’t do their homework. You are a crucial part of the music you are making. Don’t take yourself or your input for granted.

I will have much more to say as these blogs continue about my experiences and what I’ve learned. Please subscribe and stay tuned for what I believe can help you avoid some of the mistakes I’ve learned the hard way.

See ya soon!!!