Hey everybody! Just got back from the first ever songwriter circle, here in Ocala. Very excited! I would like to point out to everyone, the reason I found out about it and got invited was because of that "R" thing MAB keeps preaching about. I became FB friends with a local singer/sogwriter and a couple days ago she posted she would like to start a songwriter circle at a little juice bar an caffee that is about 15 min. from my house. So I posted back, "Count me in!!" Today she posted she would be there giving the owner's daughter guitar lessons, and if anyone wanted to come by, she would be there late. So, I showed up, and one other guy showed up. It was AWSOME! Michelle writes Americana style, close to country. Brian writes mostly rock/pop. Then there was me, writing a form of contemporary country. Michelle has some really great lyrics with lots of emotion and visuals in them. Brian has some cool grooves. Both are really good singers too. We are going to be doing this every Wednesday from 6-9pm. Michelle also has decided to gives us "assignments" each week. This week the song had to include; Kentucky fired chicken, tin cans, road trip, and Mexico. It was interesting to see what Michelle, Brian and I had come up with. All three songs included a form of newley weds going to Mexico. Our next assignment is a song that includes Cheyene Pepper, two way mirror, hotel shower, and sweat.
It is a really small place. The three of us took turns playing original songs. No amps. All acoustic. It is not a bar setting, no big audiences. Just songwriters sitting around taking turns. There may have been 3 or 4 other customers there, and one of them also had an original song she played for us. It was just such a great, relaxing, fun evening!! I think I've found a new family here in Ocala!! Hoping this group will give me some inspiration to find new song ideas.
phil g.