Sometimes I wonder what really matters in life. What are we striving for? What’s the point?
I find myself often wanting to do something that matters. I never really wanted to be a star, but I always did want to connect with people with my music. And the best thing in the world is going to a gig and having people request my original songs. I love that. I know that they can relate to my art on whatever level and it is very gratifying.
As I reflect on this past year, I’ve spent a lot of time working with a lyricist on a songwriting project that culminated in a trip to Nashville in December. In that trip, all the songs were produced and recorded by top musicians. I just got the final master yesterday and I have listened to most of it. It sounds great, but has much more of a country sound than I originally envisioned.
I’m not sure what’s happening on the remainder of the project. Sometimes I feel more like a hired musician than a real songwriting partner. So if I look at it that way, it’s easier to disconnect and not get upset when I don’t like the way something is going. Supposedly that’s how it goes when dealing with big record companies (or in this case, an affluent executive producer/lyricist).
Rebeeca,
Regarding Nashville, my experience is similar. It’s pretty hard to take the “Country” out of Nashville. It’s not only in their blood, I think it must be in the water too. But what a great learning experience for you!!! Learn and build.
When it comes to songwriting partnerships, I think most would agree that it’s the NOT the Bernie Talpin’s nor the Hal David’s that make the words come alive with unforgettable melodies, emotion, and energy. Those things are created by the Elton John’s, Burt Bacharach, and Rebecca’s of this world.
Thanks for the feedback, Dan!