Wrote this song last year after dropping off my daughter at college. I had an interesting exchange with young teenage worker at Taco Bell. The song is called, “Precious.”
Wrote this song last year after dropping off my daughter at college. I had an interesting exchange with young teenage worker at Taco Bell. The song is called, “Precious.”
It seems I have had a spike in new followers to my web site. I want to officially welcome you. I’m not sure why you have chosen to follow me, but I’m humbled by your willingness to know what I’m doing musically. Take a look around, follow the links to where you can preview much of my music catalogue. And thanks for your support.
Chris
Was given the chance to audition a song based on drinking clean and refreshing water. And this is what I came up with, “I Love My H-2-0.”
Transitions. I think I’ll name my next album, Transitions.
I’ve been transitioning in my personal growth and as a husband. Recognizing the mistakes I’ve made in my marriage, but instead of beating myself up for them (as I would have in the past) changing myself for the better instead.
My family is transitioning, as my two young-adult children are beginning to explore the world and discover their callings.
I’ve transitioned out of my church of nearly 40 years. A very difficult transition, but one I had been mulling for several years as I’ve sought how to reflect ethical authenticity and compassionate love.
I’m transitioning as a musician. I’ve learned that I’m seen as a singer/songwriter. Never knew what to call myself before that, but I like that moniker.
All those transitions, and many others, have influenced my guitar/piano-based songs, with more organic arrangements, simple melody lines, and lyrical depth that help tell my changing story.
I still celebrate being in love: So many of my newer songs reflect my 26 years with my wife Barb. I tackle songs that deal with loss and grief and how we’re all touched by these emotions – not hiding from them, but embracing and working through them.
I’m reconnecting with some of my instrumental roots, too. Performing songs I wrote nearly 30 years ago that still stand the test of time, along with newer songs that reflect thoughtful, playful vibes.
I continue to live, breathe, and write as a Portland Oregon resident, which gives me a gentle and nurturing platform for exploring transitions.
Here’s to opening new places, new journeys, new hope through transitions.
Chris Taylor
Wednesday evening at the Jade Lounge in SE Portland was a complete success. Here is a picture of the band: Left to right: Doug McCleary, Cynthia O’Brien, moi and John Hasenjaeger. We were given the band name, “Legion of Ambiguity.” We kinda like it.
The plan is to return next month on March 26. I’ll keep you posted.
I am so looking forward to my first performance at the Jade Lounge in SE Portland this Wednesday evening as part of the Songbird Showcase open mic, hosted by Cynthia O’Brien. Cynthia, along with the talented Doug McCleary, percussionist John Hasenjaeger and myself, are putting a fun set together of cover tunes from Bruce Cockburn, Vigilantes of Love, and others. Plus, we’ve worked up one of my originals, which is always cool.
Things get underway Wednesday, Feb. 26 at 7pm. Take a mid-week break and join us at the Jade Lounge.
Over the past few months I’ve been involved in some really fun musical moments. I regularly play at Artichoke Music in SE Portland, on Thursday evenings. One week it’s Songwriters Roundup, where all kinds of songwriters offer up one original song and have a very attentive audience. Every other week it’s Acoustic Village. This is usually a themed night of music. Recently, we’ve done tributes to Elvis Presley, Pete Seeger and John Denver. We did an evening of, “Songs of Hope, Protest and Change.” Great stuff. Plus, the audience at Artichoke loves to join in making the evenings extra special as a performer and audience member.
Along with my regular responsibilities with my church’s contemporary worship band, I’ve been part of an acoustic band playing for a chapel service at Westminster Presbyterian Church on Sunday evenings. Some new friends and musical allies makes for wonderful music and fellowship.
In the wings, a possible on-going gig at a popular sandwich shop and a return to Whole Foods in NE Portland with my H-Duo partner, Jeff Haagenson.
Enjoyed my time this morning with Good Mid Morning host, Liam Flannagan. You can hear part of that interview here.
The studio was slightly cold and my guitar strings got a little out of tune…not too bad, though.
I have been booked as a guest on a new local online program called, “Good Mid Morning.” You can listen beginning at 10am this Friday by clicking here. I’ll be featuring songs from my album “In Those Days,” plus, I’ve been asked to bring my guitar and prepare a few songs to be sung live during the show.
If you have the time to tune in that would be great.
I have always been a fan of instrumental piano driven music. George Winston and Keith Jarrett’s more contemplative compositions come to mind. I’ve recently recorded two instrumental songs. One song, “Goodbye,” I have been performing for more than 30 years and it was used in a video celebrating my church’s 50th anniversary.
The newest song, “Sabbath,” uses a simply chord pattern with strong melody line. Both songs are reflective and emotional.