Tag Archives: pop vocals

Reflections

Fall is my favorite time of the year for many reasons. But the main reason I love autumn, is it signifies change. And with change, I find myself holding closer to those things that keep me grounded and whole.

Of course, for me, music is one of those things I cling too when dealing with change, not only within seasonal change, but within the changes of life.

The song “Stone of Grief,” was written during a challenging time a couple of years ago. Not necessarily for me, but for the person on the journey of change and healing. I present this song, again, for you who are walking a road-less traveled, so that you may find encouragement on that road. I also share this song for those who are coming along side those treading the waters of change.

New Song – Shattered

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I have often mentioned how moved I am by this human experience we are all a part of. As a pretty high feeling individual (at least that’s what Meyers-Briggs tells me), I am most deeply moved by those moments when life is at its hardest.

I have found that simply validating a persons hurt, pain and loss, is far more comforting, because the person going through the difficulty feels heard. Sometimes, that’s all we really need. Being heard. Listened too, without judgement or clever bumper-sticker slogans.

Hummingbird at Dusk – Photograph by Aubrey Frimoth

The song “Shattered,” is about validating the hardship. Recognizing the reality of what has happened and offering to listen and just be there.

Playing Live in NE Portland This Saturday

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This Saturday, July 19, I’ll be playing in front of Cotton Cloud and Natural Bedding on NE 7th and Broadway, under their large awning. I’ll be there from 11a-1p. This is all part of the NE Broadway Summer Super Sale.

Just booked Friday Aug. 8, at Cellar 55, from 6:30-8:30pm. Located 1812 Washington St. Vancouver, WA 98660. I’ll be playing classics from Elton John, Billy Joel, James Taylor, Elvis Presley and others.

June 7 performance at Torta-Landia in SE Portland

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This Saturday evening, June 7, from 7-10pm I’ll be performing at Torta-Landia in SE Portland. This will be my second time around with them. Quaint little casual Mexican place and a wonderful intimate atmosphere to perform. My set will include originals, my own take on some cover tunes and instrumentals. I hope to see you there. Here’s their Facebook page.

Elton John Tribute this Wednesday at the Jade Lounge

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Reginald Kenneth Dwight was his birth name. He is now known at Sir Elton Hercules John, and we’ll be paying tribute to his music this Wednesday evening at the Jade Lounge beginning at 7pm.

Come enjoy the intimacy of the Jade along with some special guests who will be pounding out their own renditions of Elton’s music.

Would love to see you there.

Jade Lounge this Wednesday Evening

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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.

Covering A Classic

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This was the first Elton John song I ever learned. I can still remember being in the basement of my dad’s church where there was an upright piano. On the piano itself, an Elton John songbook. I opened the book to “Your Song,” and quickly learned it.

This version was fun to record in my own studio. I get help from Norm Bowler, whose the president of the independent label I’m with, Grumpy Old Bear from Seattle, WA. I sent him my recorded tracks and he mixed it together. I hope you enjoy “Your Song.”

With my high school cover band – “Bobby Bullet and the Revolvers.” I was a revolver.

Performing This Friday Evening Oct 11

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I’ll be doing a 30 minute set of original songs this Friday evening Oct. 11 at Artichoke Music in SE Portland, from 7:30-8pm. If you’re looking for a wonderful, relaxed evening of local music in a cozy environment, Artichoke is the place. Doors open at 7pm and there’s a $5 donation suggested.

Artichoke recently upgraded their sound system, so I’m looking forward to performing songs using the new system, on both guitar and keyboard this Friday evening. Would love to see some familiar faces in the crowd. Plus, stick around, you never know what you’ll hear at these coffeehouses.

My Neighborhood (the video)

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As I often do during good weather, I will sit on my front porch, often with my guitar in hand, looking into the soul of my neighborhood. Because music draws people in, I have found myself engaged with many different people over the years as I strummed.

“My Neighborhood,” explores the confluence of community within the ordinary lives of extraordinary people within their own neighborhoods. You might see yourself, literally and figuratively, with this new video, which was filmed, edited and produced by my daughter, Aubrey.

What I like about this song is the surprise ending, lyrically.

And now, I give you the video, “My Neighborhood.”

Download “My Neighborhood,” here.

New Song – Stone Of Grief

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Overcoming trauma and suffering is no easy task. For some, it can take a lifetime. But when you choose to walk down a road less traveled, and then reach out for some help, you are at your most vulnerable. Many won’t understand the road you are on. Though intentions may be sincere, the hurt caused by ignorance can run deep.

This song is about such a journey. It might be your own, or someone you know. May you find hope among the thistles and jagged edges, as you seek your own healing and wholeness. May others come beside you, to lift your own- “Stone of Grief.”

Download Stone of Grief, here.