September 16, 2009
In Praise of Cover Bands
I will get back to writing about our recent trip to California and Oregon, but I’m a bit weary this morning. The last few nights have been rather hectic.
On Monday night, September 14th, Sheryl and attended the Brevard Live Music Awards at the Henegar Center in Melbourne, FL. We went mainly to support our good friend Pam, who was nominated for “favorite vocalist” award, and her band, “Chain Reaction” was up for the biggest award, “Entertainer of the Year.”
Since this was an evening dedicated to entertainers who played mostly rock ‘n roll, it was, to say the least, LOUD. I most sincerely regretted not bringing my earplugs (and an extra pair for Sheryl). My ears have only recently stopped ringing.
It may have been thunderous, but the musicians could truly play, no doubt about that.
It takes a special brand of musicianship to play in a cover band. An excellent cover band will faithfully capture the sound and spirit of a popular song, and still manage to put their own spin on the material. After all, if they were going to copy every note from the CD, then the club owners might as well hire a DJ.
A musician in a first-rate cover band must truly master his or her instrument, since they will called upon to play in many different styles and keys.
Fortunately, there are several clubs and restaurants here in Brevard County that support live music, and I salute them all. Not to take anything from DJ’s (a first-class DJ is really an entertainer, and can always get a party moving) but there is something special about listening to (and dancing to) a high-quality, live band. The audience instinctively knows that a lot of hard work went into creating the show, and they often get a chance to meet the musicians, and there is something glamorous about knowing a working musician personally.
By the way, congratulations to “Chain Reaction” on winning the award for “ENTERTAINER OF THE YEAR!” When they won, I turned to Sheryl and said (actually SHOUTED, since the music was rather loud…) “Just think, they played at your benefit last year!”
Now we’ve got to start getting ready to go play a two-night stand at the Vero Beach Yacht Club this weekend. Yep, Sheryl and I will be a cover band! Now, let’s see, where are the lyrics to “Sweet Caroline?” (It ain’t really rock ‘n roll, but they love it at the VBYC!)
Chain Reaction (Pam is the glamorous dark-haired one!)
Posted by leonolguin at 11:42 AM | Comments (0)
July 23, 2009
Songwriters’ Night One-Year Anniversary
Tonight Sheryl and I will be going to Nolan’s Irish Pub in Cocoa Beach for one of our favorite musical activities: Songwriters’ Night.
Every Thursday evening (except Thanksgiving, of course!) Nolan’s graciously opens its doors to the songwriters of Central Florida, and so far over 103 songwriters have performed. Some writers come in and play every week, others have come in once or twice, and some have come in on their way through town.
Sheryl uses the Songwriters’ Night as motivation to write a new song every week. She doesn’t always make it, but she’s written nearly an album’s worth of new material, and was able to perform these new songs very soon after writing them (sometimes finishing a song a few hours before we left for the pub…) and receive immediate audience feedback.
Tonight, July 23rd marks the one-year anniversary of this weekly event. Sam Tritico, owner of Island Music and the owners of Nolan’s started Songwriters’ Night a year ago today.
Their first thought was, “It would be great if we could find a dozen or so songwriters to support this.” Little did they know!
Songwriters’ Night is NOT an open mic. Interested musicians must sign up with Sam via email well ahead of time.
For tonight’s celebration, there will be 18 of Central Florida’s top songwriters performing a few songs each, along with a special surprise guest (don’t ask, only Sam knows!).
Of course, there is also beer. Now I don’t drink beer, but I understand that Irish beer is pretty good. In fact, my good friend Spike once told me, “If it ain’t Guinness, it ain’t beer.”
Posted by leonolguin at 10:14 AM | Comments (0)
June 16, 2009
Calling All Idols
Well, the madness is starting again. Any of you want to be a star? Now’s your chance!
Here's what some hopefuls are going through:
Just a few things first (these are last year’s rules, but I’m sure they are largely the same for this year):
· You must be able to prove at the time of your registration and audition that:
- You are a legal U.S. citizen or a permanent U.S. resident who is eligible to work full-time in the United States; and
- You are 16 to 28 years old on July 15, 2008 (which means you must be born on or between July 16, 1979 and July 15, 1992). If you were born before or after this window, you are not eligible to participate this season.
- You are ineligible to participate if you progressed in any previous season of American Idol to any of the following levels:
Season 1 - top 30 contestants
Season 2 - top 32 contestants
Season 3 - top 36 contestants
Season 4 - top 44 contestants
Season 5 - top 44 contestants
Season 6 - top 40 contestants
Season 7 - top 24 contestants
· If you are asked to audition for one (1) or more of the semi-final rounds of the competition (currently scheduled for November 2008), you MUST be able to demonstrate to the satisfaction of Producer at that time that you do not have any of the following agreements in effect (written or oral):
- a contract for talent representation (for example, a talent agent or manager);
- a music recording contract;
- an agreement relating to the use of your name, voice and/or likeness;
- an exclusive acting contract; or any other contractual arrangement that would prohibit you from fully participating in the show and/or entering into any contracts required by Producer, including an exclusive management contract, recording contract and merchandising contract.
· You are ineligible if you, or any member of your immediate family and/or anyone living in your household, is an employee, officer, director, agent and/or representative of Fox Broadcasting Company, Fox Interactive Media, Inc., American Idol Productions, Inc., FremantleMedia North America, Inc., 19 TV Limited., CKX, Inc., AT&T Mobility, LLC, Telescope, Inc., Coca-Cola, the Ford Motor Company, Sony/BMG, production personnel for the television program, participating television stations, advertising agencies, corporate sponsors or any person or entity connected with the production, administration or judging of the auditions, or any of the parent companies, affiliates, subsidiaries, agents or representatives of any of the foregoing entities.
And don't forget what a "star" is: a big ball of gas!
Posted by leonolguin at 11:35 AM | Comments (0)
June 09, 2009
Look Out, Old Macky is Back!
I had to sing “Mack the Knife” last weekend when Sheryl and I played the Vero Beach Yacht Club.
It’s a very popular number, and there seems to be a law requiring one to perform it at all Country Club or Yacht Club functions.
Here’s Bobby Darin’s Version:
Oh, the shark, babe, has such teeth, dear
And it shows them pearly white
Just a jackknife has old MacHeath, babe
And he keeps it … ah … out of sight.
Ya know when that shark bites, with his teeth, babe
Scarlet billows start to spread
Fancy gloves, though, wears old MacHeath, babe
So there’s nevah, nevah a trace of red.
Now on the sidewalk … uuh, huh … whoo … sunny mornin’ … uuh, huh
Lies a body just oozin' life … eeek!
And someone’s sneakin' ‘round the corner
Could that someone be Mack the Knife?
A-there's a tugboat … huh, huh, huh … down by the river don’tcha know
Where a cement bag’s just a'droopin' on down
Oh, that cement is just, it's there for the weight, dear
Five'll get ya ten old Macky’s back in town.
Now, d'ja hear ‘bout Louie Miller? He disappeared, babe
After drawin' out all his hard-earned cash
And now MacHeath spends just like a sailor
Could it be our boy's done somethin' rash?
Now … Jenny Diver … ho, ho … yeah … Sukey Tawdry
ho … Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Oh, the line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town.
Aah … I said Jenny Diver … whoa … Sukey Tawdry
Look out to Miss Lotte Lenya and old Lucy Brown
Yes, that line forms on the right, babe
Now that Macky’s back in town …
Look out … old Macky is back!!
I don’t sing it like Bobby; I kind of do the “safe, bland country club version.” The folks enjoy it greatly, and dance a foxtrot when I perform it, but look at those lyrics! It’s a rather gruesome song.
Apparently there are some unused verses that make it even worse: check out this article from this fascinating site: “The Straight Dope.”
Be careful! This site will draw you in, and you may not come out for hours.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Bobby Darin!
Posted by leonolguin at 11:38 AM | Comments (0)
May 18, 2009
Open Mics (Or Open Mikes) – Where to Find Them
Back on April 30, I wrote about the benefits of playing at open mics.
It’s a great place to start for the aspiring singer / songwriter.
So, how can you find out where these open mics are being held?
Check out this site: www.openmikes.org.
Information from the site:
What is openmikes.org?
Ever been in an unfamiliar city, dying for a place to play tonight? Or at home, new song needing a tryout? Me too. Might be nice to have one comprehensive place to look... so let's build it.
openmikes.org is a listing of music open-mike nights in the US or Canada. Anything open (by invitation, sign-up, etc.) to the general public, where live music may be performed, may be included here.
openmikes.org is built and maintained by Paul Roub, a singer / songwriter / guitarist who fondly remembers some great open mike nights that led him to all sorts of amazing musicians and friends. Content comes from various sources, most notably from user submissions.
Access to the site is free.
You can use this site to find open mics everywhere in the USA, and in Canada.
By the way, go to the FAQ section, and check out the article: Why openmikes.org, not openmics.org, in case you’re wondering about the spelling of the site name!
Posted by leonolguin at 11:53 AM | Comments (0)
May 13, 2009
“THE SONG”
Over the years, I’ve gone to many “open mics”, where I’ve heard an amazing variety of songs. Of course, as a professional composer and record producer, I tend to mentally rate the songs as I hear them.
Most are, as you would expect, average. They leave no real impression. Occasionally I hear something that touches upon the edges of greatness, and once in a while I am blown away by a truly inspired creation.
Every once in a while however, I have to endure THE SONG. A song that would have to improve immensely just to be rated “horrible.”
A regular song can descend to the level of THE SONG in several ways. Maybe the concept of the song is hackneyed or even offensive; perhaps the music is trite and repetitive. Maybe the performance itself lacks a certain polish (or basic ability on the part of the performer), or is completely imbued with unjustified arrogance. Whatever the combination of elements, the result can be described as an “arrow to the brain.” That is to say, most painful indeed.
As THE SONG grinds on to its much longed-for end, I find myself thinking, “I hate this song. I really hate this song. Words cannot describe how much I HATE THIS SONG.”
I fervently hope that I will never hear THE SONG again, and I frantically begin casting about in my mind for a way to mentally erase it. Alas, this has always proved impossible, and THE SONG is soon burned permanently upon my memory. There it remains, an onerous musical specter destined to periodically haunt me, as it randomly rushes upon my memory from time to time, producing the most excruciating mental sensations.
This is the risk I take whenever I attend an open mic. Fortunately, encountering THE SONG is a most rare occurrence, and the good and sometimes inspiring songs I hear more than make up for the occasional agonizing experience.
Posted by leonolguin at 10:33 AM | Comments (1)
May 07, 2009
The Wisdom of Austin Church
Sheryl and I went out last night to hear a concert by our good friend Austin Church. He is a masterful songwriter and an uplifting performer.
I will always remember the first time we heard him play. It was at a now-defunct place called the Wacky Hut, and he was playing outside on a beautiful Florida evening. He sang one song that immediately became my favorite, “Know It All.”
The chorus hit home with me:
“All I know is that I know how little I knew
When I knew it all
I used to be a know it all
But now I know, I know nothing at all.”
He didn’t know it at the time, but he wrote that song about me.
It seems the older I get, the less I know, and the wiser I become.
It’s the same when I go out and play live. When I was young, I played an awful lot of notes. I had to let my listeners know how skillful I was. Now I’ve found that the less I play, the better it sounds. The more carefully I choose what to play, the more impact it has.
Amazing. But why did it take so long to figure this out? What am I doing and saying now that I will be ruefully shaking my head over when I’m 80?
By the way, if you ever have an opportunity to “go to Church,” go!
Words from the wise.
Posted by leonolguin at 10:27 AM | Comments (0)
May 01, 2009
Open Mic Story #1
Sheryl and I were at the open mic at Nolan’s Irish Pub last night. (Sheryl had a chance to do a couple of new songs).
At these get-togethers you hear a variety of songs, some pretty good, some that need work, and occasionally you hear something that really sticks in your mind.
Such was the case with a 95-year old gentleman who came up and did a couple of songs. He had a little trouble holding down the chords on his guitar, but his voice was strong. Normally the folks who come to Nolan’s for a drink but not necessarily the music will chatter away in the background while the performers sing, but when this gentleman ascended slowly to the stage and began his songs, the house fell silent. I can’t remember his name, but his image will always remain with me.
So will the chorus of one of his songs:
“Oh dear, what can the matter be?
Seven old ladies locked in the lavat’ry
They were there from Sunday ‘till Saturday
Nobody knew they were there"
There was a verse for each of the seven ladies; the last verse brought this epic tale to a memorable close (the more delicate among you should not read any further…)
“The seventh old lady was one Mrs. Tate
She tool castor oil for something she ate
She ran for the stall but was one second late
And everyone knew she was there.”
Ah, they don’t write ‘em like that anymore.
You never know what you are going to hear at an open mic!
Posted by leonolguin at 10:44 AM | Comments (1)
April 30, 2009
Getting Started: Playing the Mics
If you want to play music, you’ve got to start somewhere. You want to go beyond playing and singing alone at home, to playing for an audience. Realistically, you know that you are to going to be invited to play before a huge crowd in a packed arena anytime soon. Even the most famous artists had to start somewhere. But where?
You need to find a place where here will not be a lot of pressure, but a lot of support. You need a place where you can try out new songs and gain precious performance experience. You need a place where you can meet other songwriters and performers.
You need to play an open mic.
Sheryl and I will be going to one tonight, at Nolan’s Irish Pub in Cocoa Beach. Even experienced, professional songwriters appreciate the many benefits to be had from playing open mics.
Posted by leonolguin at 10:30 AM | Comments (0)
April 02, 2009
Sheryl Paige Live
Check out this video of Sheryl performing “The Fine Art of Doing Nothing” at Nolan’s Irish Pub back on March 26, 2009.
(Thanks to Ken for putting the video up there.)
Here’s the info on the Writers’ Night from their myspace page:
Writer's Night is every Thursday from 7:30-11:00 PM at Nolan's Irish Pub 5675 North Atlantic Avenue (A1A), Publix Cornerstone Plaza, Cocoa Beach, Fl 32931.
We're always looking for new writers for our show, as well as for the publishing company. If you write original music of any kind, and can perform it in a simple guitar-vocal format, and are in the area, let us know. We also seek locals and visitors to the Space Coast who are looking for a different kind of entertainment. There's no dance floor, and no Mustang Sally at 120db...no big screen TVs, just an intimate listening room with a family atmosphere where you can hear something unique and interesting, and meet wonderful and creative people.
Folk, Jazz, Country, Rock, Flamenco, Pop, Bluegrass, Fusion, Gospel, Rockabilly, Comedy, Ragtime, Soul, Poetry, and Blues...so far! Would you like to add to our repertoire?
They’ve been doing this since the middle of last year, and have hosted over 70 songwriters from around the Central Florida area.
There’s a lot of creativity going on!
Posted by leonolguin at 10:27 AM | Comments (1)
March 16, 2009
Songwriters’ Round in Orlando
For those of you in the Central Florida and Space Coast area, I wanted to let you know about the upcoming Songwriters' Round, to be held on Wednesday, March 18th at Infusion Tea, Orlando. Infusion Tea is located at 1600 Edgewater Dr., Orlando, FL 32804. (407) 999-5255.
www.infusionorlando.com
The performance will start at 7PM, and there is a $7 suggested donation.
This evening will mark one of Sheryl's first live performances since her bout with lymphoma that started last summer.
Sheryl is feeling a little stronger each day, is easing back into performing, and working on writing new songs. She’s planning to do a couple of new songs at this performance.
Also featured will be Sandz of Time, (our dear friends Spike and Sandy!) and Mark Smith.
Hope you can come out and support live music, and local songwriters!
Posted by leonolguin at 11:05 AM | Comments (0)
February 17, 2009
Live Music is Still Alive!
Check out Space Coast Live. This site is a calendar for all the live music performances taking place on the Space Coast (Brevard County, Florida).
Right there on the home page we learn that this site lists 1930 events, involving 685 different groups or solo musicians, playing at 453 venues.
What does this mean? There is a lot of live music going on in our little corner of Florida. There’s something for every musical taste.
This kind of thing is going on all over the country. Yet, we don’t read about it much in the mainstream media, where we mainly get stories about the “stars.”
It has been my privilege and honor to work with several of the musicians listed on Space Coast Live. They all have something unique and valuable to say through their music, and they all deserve to be heard.
Support live music!
Posted by leonolguin at 01:22 PM | Comments (0)
January 15, 2007
Freebo Again
Last Friday night we had the opportunity to see Freebo perform at the unity Church in Melbourne, Florida. (We went on a "double date" with Spike and Sandy. Hey, we sure had fun!).
The first time we saw Freebo perform was at a private house concert. We’ve also seen him perform as a duo with Jim Photoglo.
Here's some information from Freebo's Website:
Freebo's success in rock'n’roll has been well documented over the years. From bass player/band member with Bonnie Raitt for a decade to countless studio sessions and tours with artists ranging from John Mayall, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Maria Muldaur and Ringo Starr, to T.V. appearances on "Saturday Night Live," "Midnight Special," and "Muppets Tonight," as well as tuba performances with Dr. John and the legendary Spinal Tap, Freebo has achieved status and respect in a creative and highly competitive field.
Not satisfied with simply resting on his laurels as a top sideman, Freebo has continued to push his creative envelope, and now has evolved into an acclaimed singer/songwriter, with three well received solo CDs to his credit, 1999's "The End Of The Beginning," 2002's "Dog People" (songs about the human/canine connection), and his new CD, "Before The Separation."
Released in October 2005, Freebo's latest shows his complete arrival and comfort as a singer/songwriter, with thoughtful and insightful lyrics sung with soul and passion, framed by his acoustic guitar and signature fretless bass, and supported by tasty drums, electric guitar, and harmonica, played by some of rock music's finest musicians.
Freebo's songs span styles from folk, blues, and country to R&B, reggae, and rock 'n' roll, and incorporate themes of love, struggle, triumph, peace, and the journey of life. His live performances, mainly on acoustic guitar, take you on a musical and lyrical ride. Freebo creates an intimate unity with his audience and will likely leave you with a tear in your eye, but with a smile on your face.
What makes Freebo worth listening to?
His performance is polished, but not slick. He is definitely a skilled musician, but when he performs, it's just him and his acoustic guitar. No lip-synching, no fancy lights, no dancers, no explosions, just a man and his music.
He's worth listening to because he has something to say. He has definite opinions on the way things are in the world, and he is able to express these views eloquently through his songs. He invites you through what he says and sings to get involved in the world, to have an opinion, to care about something. He gives you something to think about.
When Freebo performs he gets the audience involved. He had us singing, whistling, and even doing harmony parts.
He comes across as earnest and humble, but quite sure of himself on stage. He obviously loves what he does and that contributes greatly to our enjoyment.
We had a chance to talk to him after the concert, and he was happy to see us again. He let us know that he would be willing to play bass on Sheryl's next project. I certainly hope it works out so that we can take him up on that!
Freebo and Friend (All right, his dog Harlow)
Posted by leon at 07:30 PM | Comments (1)
January 12, 2007
Nashville, January 2007
Friday night, January 5, 2007.
It happens every time. We're getting ready to leave for Nashville, and we plan to leave at five o'clock in the morning. (Yes, there is a 5:00 a.m.!)
So, the night before, I promise myself that I will be in bed at a reasonable hour, and be well rested for the long drive. But it never happens. Perhaps it never will happen. We always seem to be up as late as one o'clock in the morning, trying to tie up all the loose ends, pack all of our things, and make sure that we haven't forgotten anything important. (I always manage to forget at least one thing, however).
Anyway, we managed to leave on time with my mother-in-law in tow. We then went over to Oviedo, picked up Asli, and took off for Nashville. I drove the first leg, fortified by copious amounts of coffee.
It was a rather uneventful drive, although as usual, we hit traffic around Atlanta. We arrived safely and went to our usual place for dinner, The Blackstone Brewery.
On Sunday morning, we slept in, and then went for breakfast at Noshville. Noshville of course, is a Jewish delicatessen, right smack in the middle of Nashville!
We then went shopping at Opry Mills Mall and my mother-in-law bought an amplifier at the Gibson Guitar Showcase store. Who would've figured?
That evening we left to play at the Bluebird and while we were hurtling down Highway 65 at 70 miles an hour, our van died! It was the strangest thing, it was as though someone simply reached over and turned the key, shutting off the engine! Suddenly I had no headlights, no power steering, and no power brakes, and so I had to wrestle the van to the side of the road. We called AAA and proceeded to wait. Before long, Sheryl had the bright idea of calling Mike Ward (works with us in BurnLounge), and he and his wife came and rescued us. AAA arrived, the van was towed to an auto service place near our hotel, and then Mike and Laurie took us over to the Bluebird.
Sheryl also called the Bluebird to let them know that we were having car problems. They were kind enough to put her on last in the songwriter showcase.
In spite of all the problems we had getting there, Sheryl did a marvelous job. We'll be going back to play the Bluebird again this coming July.
So, early Monday morning I was at Firestone Auto Care in Brentwood Tennessee, waiting to find out what was wrong with my van. Fortunately, the only problem was that I needed a new battery. It seems that Dodge Caravans have this unique “safety feature” whereby when the battery drops below certain voltage, it shuts the engine off. A strange design, when you consider that I had to drive a suddenly disabled car without power steering or power brakes while going 70 miles an hour on a rain slicked highway. Anyway, I was glad that we were all safe, and that all I needed was a new battery. We were soon up and running again vehicle wise.
On Monday night we attended a BurnLounge meeting. Sheryl had a chance to play a couple of songs. We also met some other members of our BurnLounge team.
On Tuesday night, Sheryl and Asli played at the Hall of Fame Lounge. The main problem with playing this particular venue is that it is not a non-smoking venue! Consequently, we all smelled like cigarettes upon exiting the club. Poor Asli even wound up choking on the smoke during her last song.
We left on Wednesday morning, dropped my mother-in-law at the airport, and came home. It seemed like a very short trip!
I’ll have some pictures soon!
Posted by leon at 02:30 PM | Comments (0)
November 07, 2006
Under the Radar
I wanted to put up a quick post today before Sheryl and I go off and do our civic duty (i.e. vote).
Poor old K-Fed. His latest concert was a bust.
It’s interesting to put this into perspective. K-Fed is aiming to be a famous rapper, nationally known, selling millions of albums.
Well, he’s temporarily famous, but he ain’t gonna sell millions of albums. He will soon become a footnote in music business history, a “whatever happened to” question.
In the article, he begged promoters not to cancel his concert. He ended up playing to a crowd of 300 in a venue that held 1500.
Most of the artists I’ve worked with would be thrilled to play to 300 people. For them, that would be an overflow crowd, since they don’t play in 1,500 seat venues.
(We just did the “Nashville Hit Makers” show at the Emma Parish Theater in Titusville, FL, and 300 people would have been a sell-out!)
Out of those 300 people, usually about 10% of them will buy a CD or two at the concert, and stay behind to meet the artist. So let’s say the artist sells 40 CDs. Their profit on each CD (since the artist is independent, and owns everything he or she produces) is just around $10. You can do the math.
Of course, they can sell that many because they have something worthwhile to say, and some folks want to take that home with them.
So if the artist is receiving an honorarium for the concert, and selling some product, well, it’s not a bad night’s work.
But money is only part of it. Most of the artists I know are ecstatic over the idea of writing their own music, and playing it for a receptive audience.
There are a lot of artists out there who are “flying under the radar.” They are not "famous", but they are producing great music, playing to appreciative audiences, and making a decent living. They’ll be able to keep doing it for as long as they desire, since their audience doesn’t care how old or how “famous” they are.
Posted by leon at 10:23 AM | Comments (0)
October 26, 2006
Let’s Put On a Show!
Things have been crazy around here, to put it mildly.
We are getting ready for the “Evening with Nashville Hit Makers” show at the Emma Parrish Theater in Titusville on Friday, October 27th.
It promises to be a great show, and it better be, considering everything Sheryl has gone through in helping put it all together.
I will spare you all the details, since for one thing I can’t remember them all, and secondly, it would serve no purpose to relay them all.
All I will say is, if you’re wondering whether you should come see the show, I would say, “Yes. You must come to the show. Definitely. And bring several friends as well. It’s well worth the price of admission.”
I hope to resurface next week, and start adding to this blog on a regular basis once again. There is so much going on out there, I don’t even have to resort to being snarky.
I may give in to the temptation to be a little snarky every once in a while, though.
Have a great weekend, and we’ll see you at the show!
Posted by leon at 02:56 PM | Comments (0)
October 17, 2006
Nashville Hitmakers
As I write this, I’m listening to Sheryl, Lathan Hudson, Austin Church and Bill Rice along with host Java John on TropicWaveRadio.
Java John has a daily program called the “Acoustic Record” and today he is featuring the “Nashville Hitmakers.”
There’s no way to adequately describe what I’m hearing. Great songs, great stories, funny jokes. As they say, “you had to be there.”
Fortunately, I’m recording this as we go along.
If you’re anywhere near Brevard County, you need to come see the Nashville Hitmakers when they appear together at the Emma Parish Theater in Titusville Florida, on Friday, October 27, 2006 at 7PM.
The event is called “An Evening With Nashville HitMakers.”
Here’s a link to a video preview:
Please contact us if you have any questions. We'll see you there!
Sheryl on the "Acoustic Record"
Posted by leon at 05:43 PM | Comments (0)
August 09, 2006
House Concert Photos
Sharon Osuna - She and her husband Ray hosted the concert in their beautiful home in Titusville, FL
Sheryl Paige (The Headliner) and the PSG
The PSG and his favorite "Country Sanger" - Sandy Ferris of Sandz of Time
Sandz of Time - featuring "Seamus" (Pronounced "Shame Us")
(Asli Walker, Leon Olguin, Spike Dean, Sandy Ferris)
Posted by leon at 08:24 PM | Comments (0)
August 08, 2006
House Concert - August 5, 2006
Last Saturday Sheryl and I played our first house concert, which was held at the home of Ray and Sharon Osuna (Sharon is one of the newest members of our “musical family”, having just recently recorded a six-song project in our studio).
We hope to do many more house concerts! It was great fun, playing Sheryl’s songs for a warm and appreciative audience in a very intimate setting. We got to eat dinner beforehand, hang out with a great bunch of people (including several other members of our music family), and we got paid. What more could we ask for?
House concerts are put on by dedicated music lovers like Sharon who open their homes to musicians and fans for an afternoon or evening of music in comfortable surroundings.
I have since learned that there are House Concerts being given in almost every part of the US and Canada.
The following description of House Concerts is by Bruce Woytuik from houseconcerts.ca.
A house concert is not a new concept; in fact it dates back to the days of chamber music where people would gather in their drawing rooms and salons to listen to traveling musicians. It was a way to get together with friends and, at the same time, to be introduced to artists and their work. It was a time when involvement in the arts was a part of everyday life.
Today, most of us are accustomed to concerts where the performer is inaccessible, so the experience of a private concert in an intimate setting provides a refreshing contrast. House Concerts are unique events. The audience is close enough to see the details of the artist’s performance – the nuances of a facial expression – or see the artist’s fingers attack the strings before they hear the sound of the notes. Not only can the guests see and hear the performance better, they also have multiple opportunities to meet and mingle with the performer.
As performers, Sheryl and I could easily get used to playing this type of show!
Thank you Sharon and Ray, and our thanks to those who came to support their effort (and us!)
I hope to get some pictures of the event soon.
Posted by leon at 04:37 PM | Comments (0)
July 20, 2006
Lake Wales
Last Friday and Saturday Sheryl and I journeyed to Lake Wales to play at the Highlander Bar and Grill. This was at the invitation of the owner, Robert, who had heard about Sheryl from Bryan Rivers, who regularly plays there.
We were scheduled to play both Friday and Saturday night, so we decided to stay in Lake Wales on Friday night at the new Hidden Gardens Bed and Breakfast. The B&B was so new, in fact, that we were their first guests! Since they only had one room finished, we had the while place to ourselves. Eventually, they plan to have four rooms.
Lakes Wales reminded us of Mayberry! Everyone was friendly, and they all seemed to know each other. Robert was the town’s “Andy Taylor.” (There didn’t seem to be a “Barney Fife” or an “Otis”, however.)
Not only did he own the Highlander, but he also had a real estate office, and was getting ready to announce his candidacy for the city council. His wife Susan owns an art gallery in the downtown area, and also works as a flight attendant.
We played from 7 to 11PM each night, and performed a mixture of cover tunes and Sheryl’s originals. It was great fun!
We’ll be going back and doing it again in August. We’ve already booked our room at the Hidden Gardens B&B.
By the way, this is the 100th post to this blog!
I don’t know if this should be commemorated in any way, but it has to be some kind of milestone!
Posted by leon at 01:25 PM | Comments (1)
June 06, 2006
Nashville – June 2006 - Day 3 Continued
Sunday Evening, June 4 - On Sunday evenings the Bluebird Café hosts the “Sunday Spotlight” featuring up and coming artists and songwriters, followed by the “Writers Night” which has been hosted for the past 17 years by Jeff Pearson.
The Writers Night consists of 10 songwriters invited by the Bluebird to perform three songs each. This is followed by a 30 minute set with the featured writer, who on this night was Gerald Smith, of “Hee Haw” fame (I knew I should have watched that show!).
Rachel Williams was the featured Sunday Spotlight artist.
This was my first opportunity I had the chance to hear her perform.
She’s only 20, but she has the stage presence and moves of a seasoned performer, (she started young!) and is developing into a fine songwriter.
After her set came the weekly writers’ night. Sheryl was performer number 8.
She sang “Love Shows Up”, “Red Hat”, and “Who Could Ask for More Than This.”
It’s amazing how quickly 15 minutes goes by when you are on the stage at the Bluebird!
Now I thought she was outstanding, and was really starting to connect with the audience by the time of the third song.
Sheryl did not think she did that well, but I’ve always believed that if you are a musician and performer of quality, you will almost always give a good performance, no matter how you feel.
Of course, coming up and doing three songs, without a sound check, in a potentially stressful situation such as “playing the Bird”, makes it nearly impossible to get comfortable. Indeed, we always see a performer or two who is visibly nervous in this situation, even to the point of observing their hands shaking a bit.
But everyone made it through, without any “train wrecks”.
One thing that’s makes the Bluebird such a coveted venue is the legendary attentiveness of the audience. This is truly a songwriters’ room. No competing with cell-phone yakkers, arguing couples, noisy unsupervised kids, or whirring blenders and hissing cappuccino machines.
The audience is paying attention, and it’s always interesting to see the reactions that the various songwriters receive from the audience members.
I would roughly categorize the various audience member reactions as:
1. Wow! Why isn’t this person a star!?!?
2. I could listen to this person all day. Who is she, and where can I hear her again? I realize that this artist may never become a mainstream star, but I would like to know more about her.
3. Wake me when he’s through. I will clap out of sheer politeness.
4. Uh, OK, of all the songs I’ve heard, that was one of them. How did he ever get in?
5. This person needs professional help, but I liked what he did!
I think the reaction to Sheryl fell firmly into category 2.
There were a couple of writers who fell into category 1 (they were young and female).
There was one fellow who combined comedy and songwriting, was definitely hilarious, and unquestionably a category 5.
There were a few songwriters in category 3 or 4, but unfortunately (fortunately?) I can’t remember their names, or their songs.
There were several category 2’s, and we made sure to get their names and contact information.
Posted by leon at 10:55 AM | Comments (0)
May 10, 2006
Sheryl on the Radio!
As I write this, Sheryl is on Internet radio, a guest on “What’s Happening Brevard” on Tropic Wave Radio.net.
Check them out sometime:
http://www.tropicwaveradio.net
I have to admit, this is the first time I’ve listened to an Internet radio station. I guess I’m not very hip.
Sheryl, as usual, sounds great! She’s doing a song right now called “Who Could Ask for More Than This.”
It’s quite an experience to sit in her office, write about her, and listen to her at the same time. Not many husbands can make this claim.
I should also mention, I’m writing at one computer, and I can turn around and watch Sheryl on the webcam on the other office computer (So not only does she sound good, she looks good as well).
All this computer stuff! Man, I feel so 21st century! But I also think I am somewhat akin to George Bush senior, when several years ago he expressed his excitement over supermarket scanners (a little behind the times).
On the show Sheryl is talking about all kinds of things that are coming up. Mamapalooza, of course, will be a major topic. The time for the event is fast approaching.
For details on Mamapalooza, check out http://www.mamapaloozafl.com.
In late June, our NSAI group will be hosting a songwriting seminar featuring Nashville publisher Susan Tucker, and songwriter and producer Kim Copeland. I’ll certainly write about this event more as it comes closer.
Just before I came upstairs to write this, we took delivery on a Gibson guitar! Well, I know why. We’re giving it away at Mamapalooza!
Sheryl at Tropic Wave
(She's still there as I post this!)
Posted by leon at 04:01 PM | Comments (1)
May 01, 2006
Two Originals
Sheryl was away at the ABWA (America Business Women’s Association) conference in Jacksonville this past weekend, but I managed to get out on my own and hear some great music.
There are many artists who sound like clones of other artists, but the two gentlemen I had the privilege of hearing this past weekend are true originals.
On Friday I attended the CD release concert of one the most prolific members of our musical family, Kevin Browne.
His new CD, “Scenery” features songs in English, Dutch, Norwegian, and German (sometimes with more than one language used in a single song!).
“Scenery” is Kevin’s third full-length CD project to be recorded at our studio, and his music can only be described as “Kevin Browne music.” He’s one of those artists who have a unique and original sound.
There are hints of various musical influences, such as the pop group America, a little folk, some Celtic, classical, and even Latin influences, but one does not hear his singing and playing and immediately say, “He sounds just like (fill in the blank…).
His wife Debbie accompanied him on backing vocals, along with his son Griffin on cello, and a terrific violinist named Phoebe.
Check out Kevin’s website: http://www.kevin-browne.com
On Sunday afternoon, I journeyed over to Nature’s Haven (http://www.naturespirit.com) to hear Lathan Hudson sing some songs and tell some stories.
Lathan is a Grammy nominated songwriter; co-writer of the worldwide number 1 hit “New Looks From an Old Lover” for B. J. Thomas. He worked for many years as a Nashville staff songwriter, and is now the proprietor of the “Musical Kottage” in Titusville, Florida. (Sheryl and I are members of the Kottage).
Lathan on Lathan:
"I was one of the original "Beatniks", possibly the only "Beatnik" (long hair) on a football scholarship at Troy State in Alabama (all the other players had their head shaved).
"We pre-dated "Hippies" and didn't champion any causes. We did our 'Beat' Poetry in Coffee Houses and played folk music.
After that, we moved to Nashville and I concentrated on my song writing.
"Although I've played a few songs every now and then for my friends and Musical Kottage Members, this is the first 'concert' I will have played since 1974."
In direct contrast to the angst-ridden songs I hear emanating from countless young songwriters today (to hear them tell it, all relationships go bad, or will go bad, and life just generally stinks…), Lathan’s songs have a certain warmth, hopefulness and maturity to them. Many of his songs (including his biggest hit) speak of “love gone right.”
He tells the stories behind the songs (and sometimes just stories) in a way that could be described as “down home, tongue in cheek.” The stories are as much fun to listen to as the songs.
There’s no way I can convey to you the flavor of these stories and his songs in this blog, it’s definitely a case of “you had to be there.”
I’m sure glad I was there!
Posted by leon at 03:40 PM | Comments (2)
April 05, 2006
Suwannee Springfest (and other stuff)
On Thursday, March 23 we left for the Spirit of the Suwannee Park in Live Oak, Florida, for the Suwannee Springfest.
After setting up camp (which went surprisingly smoothly, in spite of my inexperience) we went to the main music hall for the songwriters’ competition.
Sheryl was one of six finalists, and the only female artist in the competition.
She didn’t win, but I thought she did a great job, considering her throat was sore, and the pick-up on her guitar refused to work, forcing her to use a guitar mic, thus limiting her ability to move on stage.
I can’t remember the name of the winner, which goes to show you the ephemeral nature of show business.
Unfortunately, the weather turned cold and wet on our first night camping. We managed to stay dry, but not all that warm.
On Friday, we managed to see some good shows, featuring artists such as Tamerlin, (a local folk group) Uncle Earl (an all-female bluegrass group with a stupendous amount of talent), Buddy Miller and his band (more “Roots Rock” than folk, but a great show), and, before it got too cold, Mavis Staples and her band (definitely not folk, but the crowd loved it).
Our second night of camping proved to be the longest night of my life. The temperature dropped down to the low thirties, and we just couldn’t get warm.
Well I’m not going to dwell on the cold or the lack of sleep.
Sometime down the road I’ll talk about my impressions of the festival and the folk music scene in general.
We traveled home on Saturday, and that evening I played keyboard for our friends Spike and Sandy (Sandz of Time) at the Majestic Restaurant in Titusville. Sheryl and I weren’t feeling too great, but we still had a good time. (And the pickup on Sheryl’s guitar miraculously started working again!)
Now we had one day to get ready to go to Nashville!
Posted by leon at 03:24 PM | Comments (0)
March 13, 2006
Attack of the No See ‘ums (The Wekiva Riverfest)
It was our privilege to perform at the first annual Wekiva Riverfest on Saturday, March 11.
Put on by the Friends of the Wekiva River, this outdoor festival featured speakers, live music, exhibits, artwork, canoe races and activities for all ages.
We were invited to play at the festival by Asli and Greg Walker, who were in charge of the music.
It turned out to be a beautiful day. Sheryl and I were the first to play, followed by Dominic Gadious, who played a custom-made double neck guitar, one neck being a six string guitar, the other a 12 stringer.
He also played the didgeridoo. If you’ve ever heard a movie soundtrack that attempted to capture the sounds of Australia, then you’ve most likely heard the sound of the didgeridoo. Needless to say, we had never before seen and heard anyone who played this exotic instrument and the guitar at the same time!
Check out Dominic’s unique music at http://www.DominicGaudious.com.
We also heard the Space Coast Bluegrass Quartet, and the band Borrowed Reality (featuring Asli and Greg, along with their drummer Bill).
Several of our good friends from NSAI and the Musical Kottage where there to enjoy the day with us.
The only problem we encountered were the “no see ‘ums”, those bothersome miniscule creatures that Asli Walker aptly referred to as “flying teeth.” Sheryl unfortunately sustained several bites, as did a number of of our friends.
The insect bites will eventually go away, but we will retain the more pleasant memories.
Sheryl Paige and the PSG Perform at the Wekiva Riverfest
Leon Olguin, Sheryl Paige, Denise Rutjens, Sandy Ferris, Asli Walker
The Performer's View
(Ah, the sacrifices we make for our art!)
Dominic Gaudios
Borrowed Reality
I Got to Run Sound for Borrowed Reality
Posted by leon at 03:36 PM | Comments (2)
March 06, 2006
Cover Tunes
Last Saturday Sheryl and I played for a VIP reception held by a group of Doctors in Brevard County. Before the reception they put on a “Doctors’ Talent Show” with the proceeds going to the Brevard Alzheimer’s Association.
Our job at the reception was to play background music. This was a somewhat new experience for Sheryl. Usually she plays for an attentive audience, or in a coffeehouse type setting, where some people might be talking, but usually there are some who are paying attention to the music.
This evening, we were strictly background, so there was no talking between songs, and we did a mixture of cover tunes and Sheryl’s songs.
As for me, I’m an old veteran of the “background music” gig. Sometimes the conditions are less than ideal for soul-satisfying music making. It can be hard to play when seemingly no one is paying attention, or when the manager comes up and says “Can you bring the volume down a little? Some of our patrons say they can still hear you.” (I am NOT making this up, that really happened to me.)
So why do a gig like this? Several reasons:
1. It’s a low-pressure way to hone performance skills. I’m a big believer in the benefits of learning and playing cover tunes. Even when most folks are not paying attention, there are always a few who are listening, so you have to do your best.
2. It’s a bit like being paid to practice. You can try out new original material, or sing a cover tune that up to then you’ve only rehearsed.
3. You never know whom you are going to meet. Occasionally folks will come up to talk to you during your breaks. I’ve had the opportunity to tell people about the studio or about my teaching, or find out about their musical experiences. Sometimes we’ve met folks who wanted us to play for another function. (That’s how we got this job; someone had heard us play for a Christmas party. We got to play at the Christmas party because someone had heard us play somewhere else…)
So if you’re looking to sharpen your skills as a player and a songwriter, consider getting out there and playing some cover tunes.
Want to know more? Give me a call or email me by posting a comment.
Sheryl Paige
(I put this picture up 'cause I like it!)
Posted by leon at 09:57 PM | Comments (0)
February 27, 2006
Bryan Rivers at the Majestic
We were back at the Majestic Restaurant in Titusville last weekend to hear an artist we’d never heard before: Bryan Rivers.
Bryan hails from Lakeland, Florida, and is an English teacher as well as a singer / songwriter. His education shows up in his insightful, and often witty lyrics.
Since he often performs cover tunes as well as his original material, his left-handed guitar playing and singing skills are finely honed and he puts himself across with confidence.
On this evening he only did a few covers, including a touching version of “Golden Slumbers” by the Beatles. Most of his two sets consisted of originals, featuring songs from his two CDs.
There were many highlights, including a song with lyrics made up entirely of oxymorons (“he was eating jumbo shrimp…”), and a song that details the trials of a Florida based cover-tune singer who is often asked to “play some Buffett.”
“Now Jimmy and I have an arrangement
And up ‘till now it’s worked just fine
I don’t play any of his songs
And he don’t play any of mine.”
- from “Escape from Margaritaville”
(My apologies to Bryan if I got any of the words wrong.)
The concert was put on by FM Odyssey (http://www.fmodyssey.com) and Musical Kottage (http://www.musicalkottage.com) so in additional to Bryan, several members of the Musical Kottage performed, including Asli Walker, Spike and Sandy, Sheryl Paige, Mary and Sue Perry, Austin Church, and the newest Musical Kottage member, Chris Kahl.
All in all, it was another great evening of live music. To me it always beats sitting and home and watching TV.
The food at the Majestic is quite tasty, too!
Check out Bryan’s web site: http://www.bryanrivers.com
Bryan Rivers
Posted by leon at 03:55 PM | Comments (0)
February 19, 2006
Espresso Plus
Saturday, February 18 was a beautiful Florida “winter” day (about 75 degrees and sunny). I wanted to be taking a walk by the river, or maybe even working in the yard (a never-ending chore, as our house sits on over acre of land).
Instead, I was cooped up in the studio all day, working feverishly on a set of tracks for Jim McDonald, who is leaving for Europe in less than a week, and will be taking these tracks along so that he can work with them.
I would have stayed in the studio all day and all evening, but for the fact that Sheryl and I were scheduled to play a concert at Espresso Plus, a coffee house located just north of us in Titusville Florida.
Frankly, I was tired, and did not feel like going. I was only half finished with Jim’s tracks, and I had a deadline.
On the other hand, it was a chance to play live music with my wife, so after packing up our stuff, off we went.
We had never played at this place. It’s a small coffee house; rather new to the Central Florida live music scene.
We ended up playing for about 10 people.
Sounds like a recipe for a rather dismal evening, doesn’t it?
It turned out to be great fun, and one of those nights Sheryl and I will look back on fondly as we think about the various gigs and venues we have played.
We knew just about everyone in the audience, and the place was small and intimate, so it was very much like playing in someone’s living room.
To our surprise and delight, out friends and fellow musicians Spike and Sandy showed up, and they came prepared, having brought their instruments (there was to be an open mic following our show).
Since they knew Sheryl’s music well, they came up to play and sing along with us on a few tunes, and then I had a chance to play with them as they did some of their own material.
For a while there, I forgot that I was tired.
Playing music for an appreciative audience (no matter what size) can be a tremendously therapeutic experience. It gets into your blood.
Once you learn how to give a good performance, experience the positive reaction of an audience, and realize that you have communicated something of value to them, you’re hooked.
Sheryl even made a few dollars from ticket sales, and sold a few CDs.
It’s a good thing she likes to perform (and is good at it!), since we’re going to be playing somewhere for the next several weekends.
Check out http://www.sherylpaige.com to see the schedule.
Hope to see you there!
My next post will be Tuesday, if all goes well.
On Monday, I gotta finish Jim’s tracks!
Sheryl Paige and the Project Studio Guy at Espresso Plus
Sandy Ferris at Espresso Plus
Spike is on Fire at Espresso Plus
(Its a lame joke, but I couldn't resist!)
Posted by leon at 09:58 PM | Comments (2)
January 26, 2006
Concert Pics
I thought I would put up some pictures from the Freebo and Photoglo concert at the Majestic Restaurant in Titusville, FL back on January 13th. (See “Playing Out,” and “Freebo and Photoglo.”)
Sheryl and I had the privilege of opening for them.
Sheryl put this event together at the last minute…Freebo and Photoglo were originally coming to Florida to play at the South Florida Folk Festival, which was then canceled due to hurricane Wilma.
So these two artists had a hole in their schedule. Sheryl helped fill the hole by planning the event at the Majestic, and helping plan the concert the next night at the Unity Church in Melbourne.
She also arranged for us to go up to Deland and play the open mic at Café DiVinci on January 19th.
Freebo and Photoglo were so good that they sold a bunch of CDs at an open mic, no less!
Sheryl sold a couple of CDs too.
For me, playing live is as much fun as playing in the studio. They are two very different musical activities. I think I’ll write more about that some day.
Sometimes I can’t believe that I actually get paid to have so much fun.
Of course, it’s not always fun. Maybe I’ll write about that too, but I don’t want to depress anyone!
Let’s just say the fun outweighs the non-fun.
Don't forget to check out:
http://www.solocreativemedia.com
Freebo and Photoglo
Sheryl Greets Some of Her Fans
(L-R) Andrea (Our friend Doreen's Daughter), Freebo, Louis (local percussionist), Jim Photoglo, Sheryl Paige, Leon Olguin (a.k.a. The Project Studio Guy)
Posted by leon at 03:12 PM | Comments (0)
January 14, 2006
Freebo and Photoglo
Last night was one of those nights that remind me of why I keep playing music.
Sheryl and I had the privilege of opening for Freebo and Photoglo. Let me tell you, if these guys ever come to your town, run, don’t walk to see them! The crowd at the Majestic was very vocal in their approval.
Sheryl and I opened the concert, with Freebo and I backing Sheryl on bass and keyboard respectively. It was exciting to play with a world-class bassist like Freebo, it took our performance to a new level, and it was obviously fun for the audience to hear. Freebo performed Sheryl’s songs with no rehearsal, having played most of them only a few times about two years ago when he played on Sheryl’s CD, but he was solid.
Sheryl was especially impressive as the “opening act”. (If I do say so myself. But I was not the only one to say so!) How proud can one man be of his better half?
As for the “headliners”, even though they are both long time established solo artists, Freebo and Photoglo make a first-rate duo. They are at times reminiscent of “The Odd Couple”. Take a look at the photos on their website (http://www.freebophotoglo.com/) and see if you can tell which one is which.
Their vocals harmonies are tight, and they take turns playing each other’s songs, one playing bass while the other plays guitar. They traded back and forth between bass and guitar.
Countless years of gigging have developed in them the ability to almost instantly achieve an easy rapport with the audience, and the strength of their material keeps the interest level at a high degree.
They demonstrate a palpable sense of friendship and a present unique contrast of performing and writing styles. Photoglo’s writing is classic Nashville: striking melodies, and insightful and memorable lyrics, as befits a man who’s had a fair measure of success as a songwriter. (One of his songs is featured on the new Garth Brooks Box Set). He delivers it all with flawless guitar playing and an amazingly elastic and expressive voice.
Freebo is the more idiosyncratic of the two. Many of his songs are songs that only he could sing, but they are no less memorable or well written. Years of playing for some of the biggest names in music, and playing his own music all around the country have made him a consummate performer.
I could go on and on, but we’ve got to get ready to go do it all again!
Sometimes this music thing can be more fun than a human being should be allowed to have.
I’ll be back Monday; I usually will not post anything on Sundays.
Posted by leon at 01:51 PM | Comments (0)
January 13, 2006
Playing Out
This weekend Sheryl and I are going to be doing a couple of concerts, (“playing out” as we call it in the songwriter game,) opening for the Duo Freebo and Photoglo.
Who are Freebo and Photoglo? You can learn more about them at http://www.freebophotoglo.com
Here’s a bit of info from their website:
“What do you get when you combine two artists who have collectively worked with
everyone from Bonnie Raitt and Dan Fogelberg to Vince Gill and John Mayall, who have had songs recorded by singers from Faith Hill to The Everly Brothers, worked on albums ranging from Maria Muldaur, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Ringo Starr, and Jimmy Buffett, and who can write, play both guitar and bass, and sing harmony like a dream?
“You get the irrepressible duo of FREEBO & PHOTOGLO.”
So Sheryl will be opening for the irrepressible duo. And what’s more, Freebo, who played bass on Sheryl’s latest CD, (Selling Out the Moon) will be backing her on bass (along with me on keyboard). What fun!
I know that some of my readers out there are planning to come to one of these concerts. Sheryl and I look forward to seeing you.
Well, I need to go get ready. There’s equipment to pack up and load in to the van, and I don’t let Sheryl do it!
I’ll be back on Saturday morning to tell you how the first concert went.
By the way, if you live in the Central Florida area, it’s not too late! Come hear some great live music for a fraction of what it would cost you to see the Rolling Stones, and you can shake hands with the artists afterward.
Go to http://www.freebophotoglo.com/calendar.html for more info about the concerts.
Posted by leon at 10:36 AM | Comments (0)
January 12, 2006
Sheryl Paige, Grandpa Paige
This weekend my wife Sheryl and I have the privilege of playing live music together. In fact, we’ll be playing this coming Friday and Saturday night.
Sheryl, as many of you may know, is a singer songwriter who goes by the stage name “Sheryl Paige.” http://www.sherylpaige.com
Why doesn’t she use her real last name? Well, there are three strikes against it:
1. It’s hard to pronounce
2. It’s hard to spell
3. It’s hard to remember
There are people who have known us for years and have yet to utter our last name.
The name “Paige” is her late grandfather’s last name, and he was a man we both greatly loved and admired.
In fact, the last thing I ever said to F. Delworth Paige was “I want to be like you when I grow up”. And mind you, I was in my early 40’s at the time.
What were the qualities that this man possessed that inspired so much devotion from the family and emulation on my part?
It would take a long time to list all his qualities, but here are a few that immediately spring to mind:
1. Kind
2. Loving
3. Generous
4. Humble
5. Confident
6. Gentle
7. Faithful
8. Trustworthy
9. Strong
I could write paragraphs about each one of these traits, and then think of dozens more. His was a life well lived.
What made me think about Grandpa Paige? Well, we’re coming up on the anniversary of his passing, and of course, I think about him every time I think about my wife’s music (which is often).
Sometimes we can get caught up in what we’re doing, and forget about who we are.
Posted by leon at 10:02 AM | Comments (0)
June 27, 2005
Sheryl Plays the Main Street Cafe
Even though this Blog is called “The Project Studio Guy”, I’ll actually be commenting on the music business in general, which includes studio stuff and live performance.
Sheryl and I have had a music-filled weekend (which actually started for us on Thursday).
On June 23rd, we went down to Homestead, Florida (just south of Miami) to play at the Main Street Café. It was a four-hour drive from Cocoa, Fl, made longer by persistent thunderstorms that seemed determined to follow us south.
The Main Street Café is located in historic downtown Homestead, and has been in operation for about eight years. They boast a full dinner menu (really good food!) and feature live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night. On Thursdays they host an open-mic, and also have a featured artist (who was Sheryl on June 23rd!)
They had a pretty sizeable crowd for a Thursday night, and they were an exceptionally appreciative audience.
Find our more about the Main Street Café at:
If you’re ever in South Florida, and want to hear some good live music, this is the place to go. It could be the “Bluebird Café” of Florida!
If you don’t know what the Bluebird Café is then check out:
Posted by leon at 12:01 PM | Comments (0)