MAB Q&A

I understand and agree with your entire post, but just wanted to add that I can relate to the cathartic aspect of writing, and the need to know when that is what it needs to be rather than a performed song.  When we wrote "Living for Me", it was the first song we wrote (since 14 years ago with "Don't Be Thinkin"), that I really felt passionate about getting out -- of ME, not out THERE.  I remember you asking me what songs I wanted to record first, and I kept skipping that one, and was almost afraid to admit that as much as I like the song, I felt it was already irrelevant personally.  I didn't think I could sell it, as I had moved on emotionally.   I realize that it is song that I very well may need to perform and record someday as it could be relevant in the future ... as it was the day we wrote it, and is universal.  You agreed saying that when you have other songs that are speaking louder to you, you have to go with that voice if you expect anyone else to hear you.  I was relieved that we were on the same page about that.  I feel compelled to stress my agreement with you on the topic of cliche' unworkable premises, as it is so important to me in life in general, but especially in music.   I think everyone is waiting to hear something that matters, or is just funny as hell, etc.  yet doesn't divide us as people.   Division is not what music is about.  The very essense of music's survival is uniting.  It remains "the universal language".  It is the ultimate challenge writers face, and it is a worthy endeavor in my book.  At least that is what I am aspiring to, and am thankful to have a mentor like you, Marc, to keep me on track!!