Yes,
Jimmy has hit 2nd year in Nashville pretty hard. He has had to take more hours on at work because he is supporting his kids, Melissa's kids, and his Father, who has not been doing too well. So he is pretty overloaded, doesn't have a lot of time to get on here. That happens when people move here, they get hit pretty hard with life. Which is why I suggest people think CAREFULLY before making a move here. If possible, make trips and get as much as you can done.
On any kind of controversy. We all play around here. But there is a huge WHINING factor among writers. Everybody finds something objectionable to complain about. It is easy to complain. It is also easy to do something abou it.
If you don't like certain styles of music, don't listen to it.
If you want to be different than what you hear on the radio, be different.
If you don't get along with certain points of view or attitudes, don't feed into it.
If music is "not what you liked growing up," Don't get caught up in what it's not.
There is no reason to attack other towns or points of view (responding TO ATTACKS are something different)
And work on being happy with what you have, instead of complaining about what you don't have.
It's true I would rather not have lyrics on here because it is really not the place for it. From time to time, we will post something that has to do with the subject matter, but it is usually more for discetion or illustrating a point on something than just posting a lyric. In this instance, Jarrod was trying to do that. But it is easier to post those in the lyric areas.
Here, I almost prefer talking about the "behind the scenes" about the industry, craft, and other things you don't get on other sites, with an emphasis on building relationships. That is really what this thread is about.
All of you have a happy Labor Day.
MAB
Great points MAB,
In ALL SERIOUSNESS I kind of feel sometimes like I personally take on the task of trying to change each person who dogs Nashville down here, and explain it to them in the way I feel like you would. Like "They don't NEED you, why bash them" Nashville to ME is honestly a place to be respected, revered, and admired. I could go on and on. While it does get under my skin when Texans talk badly about it, I just take a moment pull them aside and try to "let them see the err of their ways" My little contribution. My mind always goes back to that song forgive me i forget his name, of a vid you posted a while back "16th avenue" it gave me goosebumps... "... and for a while you'll go in style on 16th avenue" If there is a Texan down here who respects Nashville it's me... Blue eyes left his heart in San Francisco, I sometimes feel like I left mine in twang town.
On another Serious Note:
Brother JimmyB, (If you're lurking by chance)
Praying for you and your whole family man, keep at it, Prayers for your dad... everyone.
Jarrod,
Again good to see you can have a fun sense of humor, Lord knows you'll need it when the Old Dawg jumps on, i'm sure you've read enough of his posts by now, but it's great having you around. You'll learn a ton from MAB about writing and history and music in general if you stick on this forum, and with MAB. Not only that you'll gain friends, that honestly feel more like family.
Well my kid is pouring pedialite on the floor now, and wifes in bed with Strep throat and two ear infections... gonna go have some fun with kiddos and work bright and early.
Goodnight all, and God Bless, Happy Labor Day to you all!!!!
John, I can't figure out what I had to say about instrumentals, but thanks if it helped you at all.
MAB
Mmm Ugh mmh Pop!!
Now my tongue is unstuck from my cheek.
Marc.. I kept the lyric Brief 
TEST message ..
What was the test?
What was the test?
If i told you I'd have to grade you
NAh Simply trouble shooting for a member
MAB,
Very good explanation of writing something different; or staying within the proven peramiters that work. I think Ralph Murphy once wrote about writing within the lines because most country songs were written that way. Those songs were hits and had a proven track record of what is accepted and what works.
Like you said and have always said, we are welcome to write what we want; however we want. Why not color within the lines and write what works for the majority of writers and artists. Of course if anyone writes a couple of hits and wants to stray beyond the proven method, they can get away with it, more than an unknown writers like us can.
KevMo, I haven't gone back and read your lyrics; nor heard your song again but I will. The first thing I noticed was the mix. The music was up front a little bit too much for my taste and the vocals were hard to make out (for me). Your lyrics seemed a little bit generic to me. You had one line that said "If you don't come with me, my insides will explode". Really??? You also mentioned a fairy tale landscape; or something. What is that??? Then you mentioned a common expression "this ain't my first rodeo". Come on Brother, you have followed the MAB for 4 years now, you know better than that. Say the same thing, only different. My only complaint with you is that you feel the melody is more important than the lyrics. I do enjoy your melodies and Americana style; but if you'd spend a little more time on your lyrics your songs would improve greatly. Sorry, but there is my 'soft' critique for you.
Now KevMo, I don't mean to sound like a pro writer; nor an expert. I have had many chances to co-write with SongRamp members, even a few that began their journey with The MAB. I can be a bastard to work with and I'm so picky about lyrics; yet I don't have the ability to write anything better than what they came up with. So, don't take my word for anything.
Jarrod, I give you credit for thinking outside the box; but I also praise The MAB for sending you "The Boot". You see, as long as he is sending "The Boot" to you, the Old Dog can breathe easy and relax a little. I have scars from that "Boot" and welcome it being sent in the direction of someone else. I didn't know what you meant by suggesting writing something different; if you meant changing up the structure, the melody; or what. It reminded me of Paul McCartney and how he would change up meolodies and almost write a different song within a song. I'm still not sure what you meant but the VCVCBC is not the only accepted song structure out there; although it is the most common, even if the bridge has no lyrics but is a short instrumental part.
Kid, you are always the Old Dog's favorite target. First of all, allow me to build you up before I tear you apart. We discussed you singing your songs out, a few posts ago, and I think you may have mis-understood me. I do think you have a nice sounding voice and that is something most of us songwriters don't have. However, you still need a little work in making your voice sound the best it can be. That doesn't mean you can't sing; because you should. I was trying to get across to you that you still need some practice to make your voice sound better with pitch and timing; which will only help in making your songs sound the best they can be. I only mentioned a vocal coach to speed up the process.
Another thing. I'm happy you have a job; but I'm not sorry at all you have a job that is forcing you to work hard and get into shape. You had 10 years of sitting behind a desk and chose to get soft and not work out at all, rather than to go to a gym and stay in shape. It's beyond me what a pretty girl, like your wife Katie, saw in your fat a** back in the day. She must have known she would have to work her job to buy groceries and come home to spend every minute in the kitchen trying to cook enough to keep you happy and full.
I don't think she realized when you had kids they would be twins. I don't think either of you realized the expense and that you would have to give up on some Texas beef jerky, and nights out at eating at the Mexican Restaurants. I have never told this story before; but on my last night in Texas when you raided your fridge and ate my left overs from the after church meal your parents bought me. That chicken fried steak your father claimed to be the best in Texas, was really good and I was looking forward to finishing it. I knew we had a problem that night watching TV and your eyes focused on my leftover chichen fried steak as your were searching the fridge for a late night snack. I was hoping then you had a job with the Trombal water department and would get a last minute call to go work some overtime.
I watched as the meal I was saving the next day for lunch, was devoured and my attempt to save some room because your in-laws were buying us dinner that evening was gone because you needed a late night snack. So I'm glad your job caused you to loose a little weight, I feel at least a pound and a half was my chicken fried steak I was saving. Now Kid, know the Old Dog loves to pick on you; but I'm also very proud of you for how far you have come in your songwriting journey. Just know if the Old Dog ever comes back for a vist, damned if I let you eat my leftovers. Ha!!!
By the way Kid, know the Old Dog love you and I love teasing you.
OD
OD: You are my favorite reviewer, seriously! Why? Because your tell the truth as you hear (and read it). Don't ever stop being you. I love well written lyrics that tell a great story as much as anyone, but you are right. For me, music and melody trumps everything. Now, I want to write great lyrics too, but sometimes they just aren't important to me. Blasphemy I know, but what can you do?
By the way, I like that line "my insides will explode" (ha, ha). You don't remember ever feeling that way??? But I also know that MAB would probably agree with 100%, so I don't want to argue the point at all. Like I said I appreciate you taking you time to listen and comment -- I will never, ever take that committment for granted. I do go back and go over my lyrics after the fact and see where I can improve them, but I also write and record my original thoughts as quickly as possible (and then it is hard to go back and change things, because it takes a ton of effort to record even the simplest things!). Slightly Out of Phase (I worked on dynamics a little, but I didn't want to delete and upload again here at SR). Wait -- what about the bass part, that is what I wanted you to comment on (ha, ha).
I am still considering Frank Brown -- when do you have to know about me to make your mind up?
KevMo Ol Buddy,
I don't know why you would hold my critique's with such high honor; because I rarely have anything nice to say. Having said that; I do enjoy your melodies in your Americana style, and I love the background sounds you make on your BIAB. However I do have a couple of comments for you. First, I would never post a song on open mic when it is in it's infancy. In your "Listening Room" perhaps for comments and critiques; but never on open mic. For me, open mic is a place to showcase your songs to attract fans and future co-writers. The songs on open mic should be your best production and best effort to present your songs to the open public.
Your last song, and past songs that I have gotten on you about; because they weren't ready to be placed on open mic, was because I held you at a higher standard as a musician, songwriter, and student of The MAB. You have come such a long way from your earlier days of being too wordy, your lyrics stepping all over your melodies, and getting messed up on your melodies trying to make your lyrics fit.
You are doing really well as far as making your words fit your melodies; but you still suck at paying attention to writing good lyrics.
My first question to you is; why do you still continue to write solo and not ask advise from fellow songwriters???
If your strong point is melodies and your weak point is lyrics, why not reach out to someone that may offer some suggestions to make your lyrics better. I'm not talking about me; but other members that would be happy to offer some suggestions and advise. You, me, and every other living room writer out there are guilty of having our blinders on and not seeing what a co-writer can add to a song.
Now, about Frank Brown. I'm still on the fence but would like to hear what your plans are and what you have in mind.
I will say that the office of the Regatta told me the price of a two bedroom Condo would only be about $10 or maybe $20 dollars difference per day.
Now, with you needing to work on your computer for a portion of the day, and The MAB probably being busy working with the girls during most days, the Old Dog is fine with that; but I can only walk the beach so much. I am still on the fence.
Tell me what your schedule looks like and what you have in mind as far as your length of stay.
OD
Kevin, glad you mentioned Frank Brown. Like I said earlier, I will be a volunteer at Florbama probably every day, at least for lunch. If not, I will be there for their afternoon open mic. And at nights, I will be a door monitor for at least one shift.
The other thing I'm thiking seriously about is driving over in my motor home and staying at the Florida state park at the east end of the beach road. Wheather I do that or stay in a hotel, I will still be going over the week before the festival for the Florbama open mic, volunteer meeting, voluenteer party, and the local kickoff on Thursday. So, guys, I cannot commit to sharing an apartment at Regatta. I DO want to keep up with you guys though and try to get together some.
I have MAB and OD'S phone numbers, but no one else. I'll post my phone number here, and/or send messages to ya'll in October.
phil g.
KevMo,
I just realized I did not answer your question about your bass part. Your bass was kind of hidden in the song; so I had to listen close to hear it at all. Your bass was fine and added to your melody.
OD
Hey OD, How do you get that nice font? This is NOT the default. I used whatever the font family is, but changed the size to 3(12pt). I really like your font. Not too big and not too small. I would like to post over in the issues thread for admin to change the default font and size.
phil g.
Oh Yes OD. (see, now I'm back to the default font/size) Frank Brown. In addition to getting there a week early, I may also stay for the whole 10 days. I really don't like being away from my wife that long (a whole nother story) but I kinda want to do the whole thing this year. You don't have to walk the beach alone. I'm sure I can find time to walk on the beach. Or maybe, find you a nice female companion? Or maybe, you could just hang out at Florbama? It IS right n the beach. AND, there's always "beach bunnies" hangin round there. The only thing is, I might put you to work LOL.
OD, and all planning to attend the Frank Brown songwriter festival. I WILL be there. Just finished making reservations at the Big Lagoon Florida State Park, about 10 miles east of Florbama to my camp site. I will be there for 2 weeks; Mon. Nov. 3, leaving on Mon. the 17th. OD, sorry I couldn't make the Regatta, but this just works better for me given my schedule.
Oh yes. I do have a couch that will sleep 1 (or 2 if it's a couple). The bad news is there is no sewer hookup, so I'll be trying not to use my shower or bathrom. BUT, there is a restroom/shower within 200 feet of my site.
MAB, If you could post your schedule before I make my volunteer commitment, I sure would like to catch as many of your shows as possible. AND anyone else that is coming down with you.
phil g.
Ah yes, Big Lagoon,
The site where all those campers were eaten by alligators last year. Should be very good. Just don't go out alone in the daytime or at night. Could be dangerous.
You'll probably find out my schedule the same time I will but I'll post it when I find out something. One year I was headed down and trying to get the schedule on my site by using their site. I found out they had the schedule from the PREVIOUS YEAR up on their site.
MAB
quick question,
A lady on another songwriters site just posted.........Send your 5 best songs for consideration
Her name is Jeannette Marguerite Porrazzo
Jetty Music Publishing 1010-B 16th ave. Nashville
Do you think this is legit?
Peggy,
I couldn't begin to tell you. Never heard of them but that doesn't mean anything. My question would be "submit for what?" As we have talked about here a lot of times, there are thousands upon thousands of writers in Nashville looking for publishers. There are millions on the Internet. There are hundreds of artists around town, millions on the Internet. What are they doing? What do they promise? What are their criteria?Who have they worked with? What are they talking about doing? What are they promising? What has been their most recent track record? Can they provide references?
You see, What does "LEGITIMATE" mean? Are they a company that deals in songs? What do they do with them?
If I had someone seeking me out on the Internet and knew nothing of me, I don't know that I would deal with them.
MAB
Thanks
Peggy,
Never heard if you found any answers to the questions you were asking. But I am going to do a thing on song pluggers and publishers that will give you some insight to answer your own question of legitimacy.
MAB
PUBLISHERS, AND PLUGGERS AND HACKS, OH MY!!!!
Many people go through the same thing when it comes to finding out about the music business. They read things on web sites, advertisements, or are contacted by people they don't know claiming to "pitch songs" to the major labels, producers, etc. I am very hesitant to call people "rip offs", but tend to think they overpromise and underdeliver. So I thought I might provide some insight into the world of pitching to show you what the 'other side of the desk' goes through.
First of all, why are their song pluggers? Don't publishers do the same thing?
Well yes and no.
A PUBLISHER is a CO-OWNER OF THE SONG.
A SONG PLUGGER is a FEE FOR SERVICE non-owner of the song.
If you look at the music industry, you can look at it like a large corporation. There are different departments in a company. Advertising, Accounts reciveable, Accounts payable, development, exectutives, main workers, etc.
Publishers spend their time, money and effort, building relationships with people over years and decades. They build their companies, and develop writers and artists. And they pay money to those areas. They usually line up financing, investors, bankers, for those companies.
Song pluggers develop their relationships with the industry and mostly FOR NOT WASTING TIME. They get together with their friends and contacts and physically have the "sit down" appointments with producers, labels, managers.
They study other artistrs, what they are recording. They know studio schedules. They get industry skuttlebutt on who is losing and getting deals. They are the "A&R departments of publishers. But they don't pay out the money. They are paid.
When an artist is cutting, most of their songs have already been picked. Things they or their publishing or record companies already own, and have paid money for are first on the consideration. Mostly things they write now, so there is less to pay out in ever diminishing royalty returns.
So the very few "outside" songs (which are never really outside as much as being represented by people they know, songpluggers.) come through. Usually they will listen to between 500 and three thousand songs in the course of a project. A huge majority of those songs are rejected out of hand.
The legitimate song pluggers and publishers are VERY DISTINCT in what they bring to an artist. They have learned about the artist, subject matter, style, on previous projects and understand the direction of the new project. They never go with more than about two songs at a time.
So anyone asking for "Five of their best songs" are suspect. If they are getting to know a writer with the intent of promoting them for co-writes, helping assess their catalogue and skill level, that is one thing. But if they are just trying to accumilate songs, many times for the purposes of getting people to record in their studios, use their song plugging services, be involved in contests, etc. that to me is very superficial. And if someone is on the Internet advertising for songs, I would be very suspect.
People who do this on a consistant basis, are very careful of their reputations. I would investigate what their repuatations ARE before entering into anything with anyone. And I would ALWAYS meet someone face to face before entering any relationship.
MAB
Peggy,
A lot of people think this looks easy. They come to town, set up shop and just think because they are now "PUBLISHERS" they are going to get thousands of songs (and they will) and they will find those nuggets among the rabble.(they won't)
When you go through a LOT of songs, you start to see them from a very different perspectives. Songs are "writer's children" and we all think they are each unique and special.
But when you start seeing hundreds and hundreds and then thousands and thousands, you start to see how very few of them stand out at all. In Nashville we see this pretty clearly because we are emmersed in songs all the time. When you hear the same subject matter, same rhymes, same uninteresting melody or structures over and over, or mostly SOUNDING JUST LIKE THERE ARE ALREADY TOO MANY OF ON THE RADIO, you tend to tune them out very quickly. When you couple that with the fact that ARTISTS ARE WRITERS TOO, as well as their producers, publishers, and the people who sign their checks, you know THEY have a connection to their songs as well. Do you think anyone else is going to be able to summarize Taylor Swift's emotions and experiences better than Taylor Swift? Not likely.
But new people have never been around long enough to see those nuances. They are just....new. They hear things on the radio and think "I can beat that." Or they may have worked with another publisher, never felt they got their due and decide to strike out on their own. If this person is on the Row, I would bet they are probably someone who has been involved somewhere before. Or a housewife wanting to "play publisher."
They come in on almost a daily basis. And a lot of them are like the "Internet Millionaires' that were supposed to be developed during the dotcom bubble. When the Internet got started, EVERYBODY was supposed to be able to make millions off the Internet. Everyone had companies, ideas, inventions, they thought were going to be so HUGE once they got on the net. They didn't count on EVERYONE getting on the Internet with the same ideas, and that when yuo put something on the Net, nine times out of ten, it is going to be USED for free, for the most part.
I believe there are a lot of publishers and writers that are like that. They are expecting big bucks when they get something ready to go on the Net. Then they put it up there, it is downloaded all over the place, even some of them become viral sensations (making everyone else think they can too) and the cycle repeats itself.
SOUTH PARK had a great spoof on this once, with all these Viral stars, in a room, talking about all the "hits" they had gotten. But none of it translated into actual money.
Sounds like you have found one of those. If they can't answer some simple questions, I'd say, they don't have good answers for it. But even the people in the scams, can do quite well because they prey on people's dreams. If they reach out to 5000-10,000 people and get ten to twenty percent of those spending money with them, they can do well.
I don't think ANYONE starts out evil or as rip offs. But I think they get into reality and find ways to make money in a market that for so many has gone belly up.
Just depends on how low you want to stoop.
MAB
For a week now I have not been able to comment. I tried to reach Fast Eddie directly but it was impossible. I found a way around the problem was to login but of course I don't want to have to do that every time I want to comment. Maybe the problem will go away. I had something to say to Phil and the Kid but it took so long I forgot what I was going to say. My brother Robert and I will be going to FBISF but won't stay the whole time. Robert feels if he isn't at his church on Sunday it will collapse without him. Anyway I am glad to be back onboard. I have enough songs written to make my fourth CD. It won't get me anywhere but I enjoy making and promoting music. Same old stuff: A couple of rockers, some slow, sad songs, some pure country.
Eddie R
Eddie, glad to hear you will be at FBISF this year. I will probably be at Florbama [at least almost] every day starting around 10am to work the lunch service. Hope to catch you there. Last year they had an open mic there from 1 or 2pm to I think 4pm? It was open to everyone.
About FBISF. [I THINK] the official web site is this; http://www.fbisf.com/ At least, when I go there the schedule is not there yet, but [a] list of performers is. And, it is different than last years, so I am assuming it is real?
phil g.
