Calm down
Deep breaths
And get yourself dressed instead
Of running around
And pulling all your threads saying
Breaking yourself up
If it's a broken part, replace it
But, if it's a broken arm then brace it
If it's a broken heart then face it
And hold your own
Know your name
And go your own way
Hold your own
Know your own name
And go your own way
And everything will be fine
Everything will be fine
Mmmhmm
Hang on
Help is on the way
Stay strong
I'm doing everything
Hold your own
Know your name
And go your own way
Hold your own
Know your name
And go your own way
And everything, everything will be fine
Everything
Are the details in the fabric
Are the things that make you panic
Are your thoughts results of static cling?
Are the things that make you blow
Hell, no reason, go on and scream
If you're shocked it's just the fault
Of faulty manufacturing.
Yeah everything will be fine
Everything in no time at all
Everything
Hold your own
And know your name
And go your own way
Are the details in the fabric (Hold your own, know your name)
Are the things that make you panic
Are your thoughts results of static cling? (Go your own way)
Are the details in the fabric (Hold your own, know your name)
Are the things that make you panic (Go your own way)
Is it Mother Nature's sewing machine?
Are the things that make you blow (Hold your own, know your name)
Hell no reason go on and scream
If you're shocked it's just the fault (Go your own way)
Of faulty manufacturing
Everything will be fine
Everything in no time at all
Hearts will hold
Friday, December 4, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Can't be everything to everyone...
First off Happy Birthday to the greatest mother in the world! Thanks for being so awesome all the time!
December 3rd, 2009. Time is flying by and yet sometimes it seems to be crawling along. Somedays my mind is racing and I can't figure out where to start and then the next day I can't get out of bed to get my day started. There is a lot going on with everyone. The past couple weeks it just feels like we are on the edge of something. Good, bad, indifferent it just feels like something is about to break. It's just this feeling of pressure from everywhere at work, at home, with friends. I don't think it's just me either because other people have mentioned it.
I think one of the things I've struggled with for a while is trying to be everything to everyone. To try and do everything. I struggle with limits and saying no and sometimes saying yes. I can't live peoples lives for them and while sometimes I want to prevent people from making mistakes that I've made, but at the same time people need to learn for themselves. That's so hard to experience because I have this problem with caring. I fucking care alot and it fucking sucks to watch people you care about get hurt, because I take that with me. I'm always thinking about other people and their shitty situations and how I can fix it. Most times I can't fix it, I may not be able to help, but I just can't wrap my brain around that. I just want to tell people that everything is going to work out and we are all going to be okay, but the scary part is I don't know if that's true. Maybe it's not going to be okay, maybe shit is just going to get worse.
And I don't know if there is actually more bad shit going on or if I just am more aware of it. It's kind of like cancer. When I was younger I didn't really know about cancer because I didn't know anyone with it, or if I did people didn't talk about it, because cancer sucks and who wants little kids to worry about that. But now that we are older I feel like it's everywhere. Like seriously old, young, good, bad tons of people are dealing with cancer or know someone dealing with cancer. I don't know if there is more cancer and more bad shit going on in the world or if I'm just more aware of it. Screw people who say awareness is good. It would be much easier to not care if I didn't know all this shit was going on.
Then I try not to care, and I come off as an asshole and I'm totally not an asshole. I wish I could just go on cruise control or have a day where I don't hear about other people's problems and just sit back and talk about fun stuff like music or TV or go see a movie and just veg out. I need a vacation without anyone as weird as that sounds. Maybe even just hang with a random group of people where there is no pressure and no expectations. I can't be alone, because I hate being alone. So definitely in a crowd of people, hm.
So for now I'm going to continue caring, but just focus on productivity and try to be better at everything. I need re-prioritize some things in my life and maybe make a few sacrifices.
But here's hoping that we will all be okay, that the dust will settle and we'll all figure out whatever we are struggling with. And if not that we'll continue to fight the good fight because tomorrow could be the day that it all turns around (when I win the lottery and buy an island in the Carribean).
-Sh
"At the end of every hard earned day, people find some reason to believe" - BS
December 3rd, 2009. Time is flying by and yet sometimes it seems to be crawling along. Somedays my mind is racing and I can't figure out where to start and then the next day I can't get out of bed to get my day started. There is a lot going on with everyone. The past couple weeks it just feels like we are on the edge of something. Good, bad, indifferent it just feels like something is about to break. It's just this feeling of pressure from everywhere at work, at home, with friends. I don't think it's just me either because other people have mentioned it.
I think one of the things I've struggled with for a while is trying to be everything to everyone. To try and do everything. I struggle with limits and saying no and sometimes saying yes. I can't live peoples lives for them and while sometimes I want to prevent people from making mistakes that I've made, but at the same time people need to learn for themselves. That's so hard to experience because I have this problem with caring. I fucking care alot and it fucking sucks to watch people you care about get hurt, because I take that with me. I'm always thinking about other people and their shitty situations and how I can fix it. Most times I can't fix it, I may not be able to help, but I just can't wrap my brain around that. I just want to tell people that everything is going to work out and we are all going to be okay, but the scary part is I don't know if that's true. Maybe it's not going to be okay, maybe shit is just going to get worse.
And I don't know if there is actually more bad shit going on or if I just am more aware of it. It's kind of like cancer. When I was younger I didn't really know about cancer because I didn't know anyone with it, or if I did people didn't talk about it, because cancer sucks and who wants little kids to worry about that. But now that we are older I feel like it's everywhere. Like seriously old, young, good, bad tons of people are dealing with cancer or know someone dealing with cancer. I don't know if there is more cancer and more bad shit going on in the world or if I'm just more aware of it. Screw people who say awareness is good. It would be much easier to not care if I didn't know all this shit was going on.
Then I try not to care, and I come off as an asshole and I'm totally not an asshole. I wish I could just go on cruise control or have a day where I don't hear about other people's problems and just sit back and talk about fun stuff like music or TV or go see a movie and just veg out. I need a vacation without anyone as weird as that sounds. Maybe even just hang with a random group of people where there is no pressure and no expectations. I can't be alone, because I hate being alone. So definitely in a crowd of people, hm.
So for now I'm going to continue caring, but just focus on productivity and try to be better at everything. I need re-prioritize some things in my life and maybe make a few sacrifices.
But here's hoping that we will all be okay, that the dust will settle and we'll all figure out whatever we are struggling with. And if not that we'll continue to fight the good fight because tomorrow could be the day that it all turns around (when I win the lottery and buy an island in the Carribean).
-Sh
"At the end of every hard earned day, people find some reason to believe" - BS
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ten Out of Tenn 9/29
Sometime last year I heard about this touring group of musicians know as Ten Out of Tenn. As you might guess they are Ten musicians based out of Nashville, TN. The current line-up is the Vol 3 and features Kyle Andrews, Andrew Belle, Jedd Hughes, Madi Diaz, Joy Williams, Sarah Siskind, Ashley Monroe, Mikky Ekko, KS Rhoads, and co-founder Trent Dabbs. Last night Vol 3 made its way to Berklee's The Red Room @ Cafe 939.
The performers each take turns highlighting each others songs with each performer getting to spotlight 2 of their own songs. One thing is clear these guys (and girls) enjoy playing with each other. Take Joy Williams 'perma-grin' for example. Another member called living on the bus with all of them like being at summer camp, including the smells.
This year's group is quite eclectic, where Ashley Monroe and Jedd Hughes were a bit more country, Kyle Andrews was a bit more electronica/pop. Mikky Ekko and Berklee Alum's Madi Diaz got everybody moving and KS Rhoads was a bit reminiscent of the Mat Kearney show I attended last week, right down to freestylin' about his short stay in Boston at the end. Sarah Siskind stripped it down for a solo version of her song Lovin's for Fools, which has been recorded by Bon Iver and Joy Williams smile shone through on her "Charmed Life", which was co-written by Trent Dabbs and featured on
the "Grey's Anatomy" finale last year. Andrew Belle's "Static Waves" was a highlight for me with Joy Williams stepping in gracefully on back-ups, and Trent Dabbs "Your Side Now" really resonated with me.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this set-up is watching the musicians share the spotlight with such ease. Moving from keys to bass to guitar or from lead vocals to backing vocals, this was clearly a collaborative effort. If this tour is anything like the last one we will soon be seeing these individuals up here in Boston again for sure.
Next week Ten Out of Tenn Vol 2. alum Erin McCarley will be joined by Landon Pigg for two shows 10/9 & 10/10 at The Red Room @ Cafe 939. Another show not to be missed.
The performers each take turns highlighting each others songs with each performer getting to spotlight 2 of their own songs. One thing is clear these guys (and girls) enjoy playing with each other. Take Joy Williams 'perma-grin' for example. Another member called living on the bus with all of them like being at summer camp, including the smells.
This year's group is quite eclectic, where Ashley Monroe and Jedd Hughes were a bit more country, Kyle Andrews was a bit more electronica/pop. Mikky Ekko and Berklee Alum's Madi Diaz got everybody moving and KS Rhoads was a bit reminiscent of the Mat Kearney show I attended last week, right down to freestylin' about his short stay in Boston at the end. Sarah Siskind stripped it down for a solo version of her song Lovin's for Fools, which has been recorded by Bon Iver and Joy Williams smile shone through on her "Charmed Life", which was co-written by Trent Dabbs and featured on
the "Grey's Anatomy" finale last year. Andrew Belle's "Static Waves" was a highlight for me with Joy Williams stepping in gracefully on back-ups, and Trent Dabbs "Your Side Now" really resonated with me.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this set-up is watching the musicians share the spotlight with such ease. Moving from keys to bass to guitar or from lead vocals to backing vocals, this was clearly a collaborative effort. If this tour is anything like the last one we will soon be seeing these individuals up here in Boston again for sure.
Next week Ten Out of Tenn Vol 2. alum Erin McCarley will be joined by Landon Pigg for two shows 10/9 & 10/10 at The Red Room @ Cafe 939. Another show not to be missed.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Mat Kearney / Diane Birch 9/23/2009
So about a week ago, LiveNation started offering a 'passport' which would get you into all* shows for the rest of the year at various LiveNation venues/clubs across the country for $49.99. I thought it about it for a minute but then noticed the * which usually means there is a catch. The catch was it wasn't any show at House of Blues it was a limited number of shows, and only if those shows are not sold out. So is it really worth the hassle? Not for this guy.
I still managed to get into last week's Rusted Root/The Kin show (thanks to The Kin) and to last night's Mat Kearney/Diane Birch show (thanks Steph & Katarina). Both shows were great. The Kin are playing a show here Oct 16th and if you haven't heard these guys I would definitely recommend checking out their MySpace (www.myspace.com/thekin).
Mat Kearney was a last minute show and I have to be honest I wasn't too familiar with the newest album. 2006's Nothing Left To Lose was one of those albums that I could listen to start to finish on repeat, especially when I first got it. I was glad to see that the show was heavy with tracks from that album. The new album stuff worked well also especially the title track "City of Black & White" & "Closer to Love" both featured in the encore. Check out a unique rendition of "Closer to Love" featuring basketballs for percussion from Mat's tour blog http://tinyurl.com/njsu3f.
Opening this show was Diane Birch who not too long ago played a headlining show at Berklee's Red Room @ Cafe 939. Diane's soulful voice is a mix of Carole King and Grace Potter. She can bring it down real slow or get the crowd moving and clapping like a revival. Her album, aptly titled Bible Belt features the single "Nothing But A Miracle".
To close the evening in honor of the birthday boy Bruce Springsteen Mat's band brought out Diane and her band for a rousing version of "Dancing in the Dark".
The crowd seemed a little more interested in the drinks or each other, but the hits got some great reactions. A large group up front seemed to be singing along with Diane and while Mat seemed to be struggling to get audience participation the somewhat reluctant crowd played along. Overall a great show.
Next up Ten Out Of Tenn Tuesday at The Red Room @ Cafe 939.
I still managed to get into last week's Rusted Root/The Kin show (thanks to The Kin) and to last night's Mat Kearney/Diane Birch show (thanks Steph & Katarina). Both shows were great. The Kin are playing a show here Oct 16th and if you haven't heard these guys I would definitely recommend checking out their MySpace (www.myspace.com/thekin).
Mat Kearney was a last minute show and I have to be honest I wasn't too familiar with the newest album. 2006's Nothing Left To Lose was one of those albums that I could listen to start to finish on repeat, especially when I first got it. I was glad to see that the show was heavy with tracks from that album. The new album stuff worked well also especially the title track "City of Black & White" & "Closer to Love" both featured in the encore. Check out a unique rendition of "Closer to Love" featuring basketballs for percussion from Mat's tour blog http://tinyurl.com/njsu3f.
Opening this show was Diane Birch who not too long ago played a headlining show at Berklee's Red Room @ Cafe 939. Diane's soulful voice is a mix of Carole King and Grace Potter. She can bring it down real slow or get the crowd moving and clapping like a revival. Her album, aptly titled Bible Belt features the single "Nothing But A Miracle".
To close the evening in honor of the birthday boy Bruce Springsteen Mat's band brought out Diane and her band for a rousing version of "Dancing in the Dark".
The crowd seemed a little more interested in the drinks or each other, but the hits got some great reactions. A large group up front seemed to be singing along with Diane and while Mat seemed to be struggling to get audience participation the somewhat reluctant crowd played along. Overall a great show.
Next up Ten Out Of Tenn Tuesday at The Red Room @ Cafe 939.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Boyle and Nadal lose, Kate+8-Jon, Dave Matthews Band takes over Fenway and more
Susan Boyle lost Britain's Got Talent and soon after checked into a clinic for exhaustion. After going from practically nothing to being a worldwide overnight sensation has to take its toll. From a humble home in Britain, to our living rooms via YouTube, Larry King and Oprah there was tremendous pressure on her to win being the heavy favorite and after losing it is no doubt that she felt the need to recover away from the limelight. I hope that she is able to capitalize on her success, even if only for 15 minutes.
Nadal, the king of the clay, lost to the 23 seed in the French Open over the weekend. I love that immediately following in interviews people always ask, what are you going to do to prepare for next match. Give the guy a break it was like people being mad that Lebron didn't run over to congratulate the team that destroyed him. Lebron said imagine someone beating you up then running over to congratulate them for beating you up. It just doesn't feel right. Nadal said he's going to prepare for his next match by hanging out by his pool. Maybe he can invite Boyle and they can enjoy the lack of pressure for a while.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Discovery Health shows, but I never got hooked on Jon & Kate plus 8, but you can be sure that we watched the season premiere to see the drama unfold. Us and the other 9.8 million viewers who turned in. I think it's interesting to see how different Jon and Kate look from the first documentary about the birth. Much less 'real' and much more cleaned up for the cameras. I don't think that anyone is winning (besides TLC) from the whole situation and no one can confirm any alleged infidelity, but I think Jon said it at one point that somehow the show went from a documentary for their kids to see, to a business. The show moved from being about their life to being their life. Unfortunately the kids may be able to see the dissolution of their family on TV. I don't think that was ever the plan.
Dave Matthews Band returned to Fenway Park this weekend for the second time, the first since the loss of horns player Leroi Moore. The band was fresh as ever playing a healthy mix of new and old songs. Jeff Coffin of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones stepped in as a horns player along with Rashawn Ross (A Berklee graduate) and long time Dave collaborator Tim Reynolds filled out the guitar sound. Both nights had their strong points, but there was something about night 2. Willie Nelson stepped in to help on Gravedigger and recalled the lyrics a little better on night two. Night one saw an epic Jimi Thing while night two brought out Two Step and Dancing Nancies. The crowd was a Fenway crowd, strongest participations came during Yankees Suck chants and the night 2 cover of Dirty Water. My brother Mark, in town to celebrate his 21st bday, pointed out that during night one's Everyday the audience didn't seem to know the Honey Honey part. Makes me really wish I was going to the SPAC shows. New album "Big Whiskey and the Groo Grux King" comes out tomorrow! Overall a great weekend of music. Phish also graced centerfield Sunday although I didn't make it to that show.
Heavy week of shows at work this week. Jessica Lea Mayfield kicks of the week tomorrow night along with shows by Julius C, Kid:Nap:Kin, and bass legend Stu Hamm. Be sure to check out www.cafe939.com for more details.
Nadal, the king of the clay, lost to the 23 seed in the French Open over the weekend. I love that immediately following in interviews people always ask, what are you going to do to prepare for next match. Give the guy a break it was like people being mad that Lebron didn't run over to congratulate the team that destroyed him. Lebron said imagine someone beating you up then running over to congratulate them for beating you up. It just doesn't feel right. Nadal said he's going to prepare for his next match by hanging out by his pool. Maybe he can invite Boyle and they can enjoy the lack of pressure for a while.
Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan of Discovery Health shows, but I never got hooked on Jon & Kate plus 8, but you can be sure that we watched the season premiere to see the drama unfold. Us and the other 9.8 million viewers who turned in. I think it's interesting to see how different Jon and Kate look from the first documentary about the birth. Much less 'real' and much more cleaned up for the cameras. I don't think that anyone is winning (besides TLC) from the whole situation and no one can confirm any alleged infidelity, but I think Jon said it at one point that somehow the show went from a documentary for their kids to see, to a business. The show moved from being about their life to being their life. Unfortunately the kids may be able to see the dissolution of their family on TV. I don't think that was ever the plan.
Dave Matthews Band returned to Fenway Park this weekend for the second time, the first since the loss of horns player Leroi Moore. The band was fresh as ever playing a healthy mix of new and old songs. Jeff Coffin of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones stepped in as a horns player along with Rashawn Ross (A Berklee graduate) and long time Dave collaborator Tim Reynolds filled out the guitar sound. Both nights had their strong points, but there was something about night 2. Willie Nelson stepped in to help on Gravedigger and recalled the lyrics a little better on night two. Night one saw an epic Jimi Thing while night two brought out Two Step and Dancing Nancies. The crowd was a Fenway crowd, strongest participations came during Yankees Suck chants and the night 2 cover of Dirty Water. My brother Mark, in town to celebrate his 21st bday, pointed out that during night one's Everyday the audience didn't seem to know the Honey Honey part. Makes me really wish I was going to the SPAC shows. New album "Big Whiskey and the Groo Grux King" comes out tomorrow! Overall a great weekend of music. Phish also graced centerfield Sunday although I didn't make it to that show.
Heavy week of shows at work this week. Jessica Lea Mayfield kicks of the week tomorrow night along with shows by Julius C, Kid:Nap:Kin, and bass legend Stu Hamm. Be sure to check out www.cafe939.com for more details.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Twitter has taken control of my writing...
It so easy and convenient and I do it all the time. It's kind of like having a radio show, but not quite as cool. I'm doing song of the day and now talking about TV shows. I've realized that I'm such a pop-culture sucker and I'm just going to embrace it.
Missed the Bruce show in Albany tonight. It looked like a good setlist (Backstreets AND Kitty's Back) and got a phone call during Kitty's (Thanks KATE).
I did not get selected to go to New Orleans for Habitat for Humanity this year, but I will be re-applying for the program next year for sure.
LOST, Fringe, and Grey's provided great Finales this year. Excited for Summer, but hate having to wait several months to see the conclusion of these cliff hangers.
This weekend is the CF walk in Albany and unfortunately I will not be walking, but it's a great cause and Sarah is walking so please do anything you can. Even a $1 counts. Here's hoping you guys have great weather http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/dsp_DonationPage.cfm?walkid=5955&idUser=119750
Now it's time for The Office and Parks and Recs and 30 Rock. Working tomorrow night then the WEEKEND.
Peace Love and Cocoa Puffs!
Missed the Bruce show in Albany tonight. It looked like a good setlist (Backstreets AND Kitty's Back) and got a phone call during Kitty's (Thanks KATE).
I did not get selected to go to New Orleans for Habitat for Humanity this year, but I will be re-applying for the program next year for sure.
LOST, Fringe, and Grey's provided great Finales this year. Excited for Summer, but hate having to wait several months to see the conclusion of these cliff hangers.
This weekend is the CF walk in Albany and unfortunately I will not be walking, but it's a great cause and Sarah is walking so please do anything you can. Even a $1 counts. Here's hoping you guys have great weather http://www.cff.org/Great_Strides/dsp_DonationPage.cfm?walkid=5955&idUser=119750
Now it's time for The Office and Parks and Recs and 30 Rock. Working tomorrow night then the WEEKEND.
Peace Love and Cocoa Puffs!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Cage The Elephant
I had the great opportunity to work with this band on Friday and after getting their promo CD a couple weeks back I knew it was going to be a great show. I wasn't sure how it was going to be working with them, but I was pleasantly surprised. It was one of those nights like in SXSW where I just realize how lucky I am to have the job I do and meet the people I do. These guys are extremely professional and genuine.
Originally from Bowling Green, KY Cage the Elephant is made up of brothers Matt and Brad Shultz and friends Jared, Lincoln, and Daniel. After meeting in high school the band has had great success overseas and is just starting to see it hit in the states. Their single "Ain't No Rest For The Wicked" is getting seriously airplay in Boston and I'm sure elsewhere. (UPDATE: According to Mediabase 24/7 it is currently the 10th most played song on alternative radio stations across the country.) It was the boys' first trip to Boston and the sold out crowd made them feel welcome.
After a set this weekend at Bamboozle Cage heads to UK. Then it's back to several American festivals including Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza and All Points West. Next time they are back in Boston we'd love to have them back, but I'm guessing these guys will be playing Paradise Rock Club if not House of Blues.
Check out their website
Follow them on Twitter
Get a free download here
Originally from Bowling Green, KY Cage the Elephant is made up of brothers Matt and Brad Shultz and friends Jared, Lincoln, and Daniel. After meeting in high school the band has had great success overseas and is just starting to see it hit in the states. Their single "Ain't No Rest For The Wicked" is getting seriously airplay in Boston and I'm sure elsewhere. (UPDATE: According to Mediabase 24/7 it is currently the 10th most played song on alternative radio stations across the country.) It was the boys' first trip to Boston and the sold out crowd made them feel welcome.
After a set this weekend at Bamboozle Cage heads to UK. Then it's back to several American festivals including Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza and All Points West. Next time they are back in Boston we'd love to have them back, but I'm guessing these guys will be playing Paradise Rock Club if not House of Blues.
Check out their website
Follow them on Twitter
Get a free download here
Bruce Springsteen 4/22/09 Night Two Recap
So after the first night I was able to score a floor seat for the second night. The way Bruce works the floor is there is a front pit and the general floor section. To get in the pit you have to get a wristband, then it's a lottery system. I was number 66 out of 636 and they picked 501. 350 of us were let in and when I got in I went straight to the stage on the left hand side in front of Clarence. While the first night was great, the second night blew it out of the water. Maybe it was proximity to the stage or the fact that I high-fived the man during Waitin' On A Sunny Day but something about the energy of this show was incredible. It's been almost two weeks and I'm still talking about it.
Maybe I'll end up at the show in Albany too?
Maybe I'll end up at the show in Albany too?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Bruce Springsteen 4/21/09 Night One Recap
So this was my 5th Bruce show, but only my second E St show. I was hoping to score GA's but ended up on the lower level even with the soundboard and it was great. Of the two shows I've seen 43 different songs, and people are wondering why I want to go again?
Badlands
What I great way to hit the ground running. The song sounded great and I like it more at the beginning then the end.
Adam Raised A Cain
Back to back Darkness tracks raised the roof. Not a single person was still in their chairs and we were only about 10minutes in.
Outlaw Pete
Wasn't sure how this was going to be live and I really enjoyed it. After the first two rockers it brings it back down, but didn't complete destroy the momentum.
Out In The Street
A personal favorite of mine and we are back at full volume!
Working On A Dream
Love the message, still out on the song. It was good live, but I didn't LOVE it.
Seeds
I can do without this song. It's not one that I listen to on a regular basis, but it still rocked.
Johnny 99
As you can tell by my s/n this and Thunder Road are two of my favorites. I think its interesting that we've almost all of the last couple tours represented, except Devils & Dust. As long as he doesn't start closing the shows with Dream Baby Dream I would love to see a solo song or two or full band versions. Right around The Wrestler would be great. But Johnny 99 was smoking tonight.
The Ghost of Tom Joad
Nils shredded this song apart. If they can rework this, they really need to work on some of the Devils and Dust stuff.
Raise Your Hand
It was like Simon Says. Bruce said Raise Your Hand and the crowd obliged. Signs collected.
I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
Everyone loves a good cover, and this was fun, but I wish there were more BRUCE sign requests.
I'm Going Down
Really enjoy this and since Gillette when it was "Rarely played, and ever more rarely requested" it seems if there is a sign for this one, it's going to get played.
Growing Up
Another sign request. First saw this on D&D tour. Liked the full band version equally live.
Waitin' On A Sunny Day
I know here this song is tired and old, but I've never seen it and it's been a song with a lot of personal meaning to me. So those first couple chords really got be going. As much as the handful of people here are bored with it. First timers and others really get into it. It has to give the guys on stage a huge boost of energy.
The Promised Land
I fell in love with this song on D&D and personally think he should strip it down going into The Wrestler.
The Wrestler
This song live was awesome. More powerful and emotional if that's possible. I remember when someone recorded from the end of the film before it had released and I wasn't sure about it. Now I'm hooked. The smoke effect was pretty cool. It's interesting to see mid tour he dropped the super bowl screen. Wonder if it will come back?
Kingdom of Days
WOAD has been growing on me as an album and I'm glad that this was one of the ones I got to hear live. Dedicated to Patti tonight who had a spill off a horse, although not a 'Madonna-like' spill. This one went out to her.
Radio Nowhere
While the sign was great and I like this song...he replaced Jungleland for it. Sign maker is not forgiven.
Lonesome Day/The Rising
Where some people are really tired with Waitin'. I'm tired with these two. They are great and I'm sure I was singing at the top of my lungs, but can't we get Lost in the Flood or Thunder Road or Kitty's Back or more Working On A Dream.
Born to Run
Lights on. Security guy in front of my section looked startled that the lights came on, then was smiling from ear to ear. I think this works really well to close the main set. Tramps like us...
Hard Times
Good song. Prefer How Can A Poor Man... if he is going to do something along these lines and I'm not sure it works really well as an encore opener, but it does work with the PSA.
10th Avenue Freezeout
Some people think this has gotten to hammy, but I love this song. It's a 'New Jersey fairy tale' as he said in July. The crowd gets into it, the band has fun with it. And I mean it's the BIG MAN! (Who by the way was holding his own, but he sat in his chair during the encore break and Cindy helped him across the stage for the bows.)
Land of Hope and Dreams/American Land
It's when you know it's the end of the night. I like LOHAD but also think its tired in the Encore slot. I'm okay with a consistent main set closer, but get rid of these two for a bit.
Rosalita
Just like Gillette one more for the road. Rosie came out and the lights came back on and it was a rocking time in the Garden.
Great energetic night. Setlist was great. Hoping to score a single ticket for tonight!
Badlands
What I great way to hit the ground running. The song sounded great and I like it more at the beginning then the end.
Adam Raised A Cain
Back to back Darkness tracks raised the roof. Not a single person was still in their chairs and we were only about 10minutes in.
Outlaw Pete
Wasn't sure how this was going to be live and I really enjoyed it. After the first two rockers it brings it back down, but didn't complete destroy the momentum.
Out In The Street
A personal favorite of mine and we are back at full volume!
Working On A Dream
Love the message, still out on the song. It was good live, but I didn't LOVE it.
Seeds
I can do without this song. It's not one that I listen to on a regular basis, but it still rocked.
Johnny 99
As you can tell by my s/n this and Thunder Road are two of my favorites. I think its interesting that we've almost all of the last couple tours represented, except Devils & Dust. As long as he doesn't start closing the shows with Dream Baby Dream I would love to see a solo song or two or full band versions. Right around The Wrestler would be great. But Johnny 99 was smoking tonight.
The Ghost of Tom Joad
Nils shredded this song apart. If they can rework this, they really need to work on some of the Devils and Dust stuff.
Raise Your Hand
It was like Simon Says. Bruce said Raise Your Hand and the crowd obliged. Signs collected.
I'm Bad, I'm Nationwide
Everyone loves a good cover, and this was fun, but I wish there were more BRUCE sign requests.
I'm Going Down
Really enjoy this and since Gillette when it was "Rarely played, and ever more rarely requested" it seems if there is a sign for this one, it's going to get played.
Growing Up
Another sign request. First saw this on D&D tour. Liked the full band version equally live.
Waitin' On A Sunny Day
I know here this song is tired and old, but I've never seen it and it's been a song with a lot of personal meaning to me. So those first couple chords really got be going. As much as the handful of people here are bored with it. First timers and others really get into it. It has to give the guys on stage a huge boost of energy.
The Promised Land
I fell in love with this song on D&D and personally think he should strip it down going into The Wrestler.
The Wrestler
This song live was awesome. More powerful and emotional if that's possible. I remember when someone recorded from the end of the film before it had released and I wasn't sure about it. Now I'm hooked. The smoke effect was pretty cool. It's interesting to see mid tour he dropped the super bowl screen. Wonder if it will come back?
Kingdom of Days
WOAD has been growing on me as an album and I'm glad that this was one of the ones I got to hear live. Dedicated to Patti tonight who had a spill off a horse, although not a 'Madonna-like' spill. This one went out to her.
Radio Nowhere
While the sign was great and I like this song...he replaced Jungleland for it. Sign maker is not forgiven.
Lonesome Day/The Rising
Where some people are really tired with Waitin'. I'm tired with these two. They are great and I'm sure I was singing at the top of my lungs, but can't we get Lost in the Flood or Thunder Road or Kitty's Back or more Working On A Dream.
Born to Run
Lights on. Security guy in front of my section looked startled that the lights came on, then was smiling from ear to ear. I think this works really well to close the main set. Tramps like us...
Hard Times
Good song. Prefer How Can A Poor Man... if he is going to do something along these lines and I'm not sure it works really well as an encore opener, but it does work with the PSA.
10th Avenue Freezeout
Some people think this has gotten to hammy, but I love this song. It's a 'New Jersey fairy tale' as he said in July. The crowd gets into it, the band has fun with it. And I mean it's the BIG MAN! (Who by the way was holding his own, but he sat in his chair during the encore break and Cindy helped him across the stage for the bows.)
Land of Hope and Dreams/American Land
It's when you know it's the end of the night. I like LOHAD but also think its tired in the Encore slot. I'm okay with a consistent main set closer, but get rid of these two for a bit.
Rosalita
Just like Gillette one more for the road. Rosie came out and the lights came back on and it was a rocking time in the Garden.
Great energetic night. Setlist was great. Hoping to score a single ticket for tonight!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Please Enjoy The Music While Your Party Is Reached
New music player on the right side. I'll update it when I hear new music that I have to share!
I suck at blogging again
I know. I've not been good at blogging lately, but I'm working on it. I really want to get back into writing more and about more things and maybe finish that movie/book/tv pilot I'm writing. I was talking about it to someone the other day and they like it, so back to that soon. Things are crazy here at work, but good crazy. Trying to make some changes and seeing resistance, but I'm just remember that I can't change everything or that changes don't happen instantly. Serenity!
Music is great. Everyday finding new stuff and rediscovering old stuff. Trying to me less ADD and more focused on things and get the ball rolling on my 10 year plan. It's scary to think that I have a 10 year plan (and that I'll be 34 when I get to the end of it) but I have goals and if I want to make it happen, I have to start now. Too bad saving money is hard when all I want to do is go to shows. I'm not one to ask for favors and with the state of the music industry, live music is the only income these people are having. So I'll pay the $20 to see a band or $100 Million to see BRUCE! This week has been crazy. Working events day and night trying to get new stuff in here and more exposure for the cafe. But I'm getting tired. Late nights, early mornings. Hopefully I do it now and it pays off by the end of this 10 year plan.
Artists to check:
Toby Lightman / Lucy Woodward / Rachel Platten
Last night these three ladies graced our stage for the second time. Their voices really blow me away. Something very soothing and soulful about all of them.
Cage The Elephant
This show is coming up in a couple weeks and they are alternative country type and it just rocks. These guys are really starting to pick up steam in the blogs and press and I'm sure the show is going to sell out in a couple weeks.
The Hold Steady
I have been listening to Massive Nights for a while since I got it on a compilation disc a couple months ago, but after seeing an interview with them down at South By and getting some more urgings from friends I've been listening to the albums the past week or so. 'Chips Ahoy" is a great track about horse racing and drugs. The DJ for the event yesterday said their sound is "if Bruce Springsteen and Thin Lizzy birthed a band". Check it out for serious!
Delta Spirit
Still spreading the Delta Spirit love. Check the last post for more info on these guys. Long day that pounding bass drum really hits hard.
It's marathon weekend and there are Red Sox games, Bruins and Celtics are in the playoffs so the city is alive with tourists and runners. It's annoying because everything is crowded and people walk slow, but I love that the city is alive again. Summer is almost here.
No hot water this morning so it was a cologne shower this morning. Hopefully I'll get some time to run home this afternoon and freshen up. Looking for apts for next year or at least I should be. Looking for a roommate, but it may be time to grab a studio. Probably get more writing and focus on. TV has been running my life. So many great shows on right now. Will be happy when they wrap for the summer. More motivation to get outside and enjoy the sun.
We'll talk soon. I promise.
Shawn
Music is great. Everyday finding new stuff and rediscovering old stuff. Trying to me less ADD and more focused on things and get the ball rolling on my 10 year plan. It's scary to think that I have a 10 year plan (and that I'll be 34 when I get to the end of it) but I have goals and if I want to make it happen, I have to start now. Too bad saving money is hard when all I want to do is go to shows. I'm not one to ask for favors and with the state of the music industry, live music is the only income these people are having. So I'll pay the $20 to see a band or $100 Million to see BRUCE! This week has been crazy. Working events day and night trying to get new stuff in here and more exposure for the cafe. But I'm getting tired. Late nights, early mornings. Hopefully I do it now and it pays off by the end of this 10 year plan.
Artists to check:
Toby Lightman / Lucy Woodward / Rachel Platten
Last night these three ladies graced our stage for the second time. Their voices really blow me away. Something very soothing and soulful about all of them.
Cage The Elephant
This show is coming up in a couple weeks and they are alternative country type and it just rocks. These guys are really starting to pick up steam in the blogs and press and I'm sure the show is going to sell out in a couple weeks.
The Hold Steady
I have been listening to Massive Nights for a while since I got it on a compilation disc a couple months ago, but after seeing an interview with them down at South By and getting some more urgings from friends I've been listening to the albums the past week or so. 'Chips Ahoy" is a great track about horse racing and drugs. The DJ for the event yesterday said their sound is "if Bruce Springsteen and Thin Lizzy birthed a band". Check it out for serious!
Delta Spirit
Still spreading the Delta Spirit love. Check the last post for more info on these guys. Long day that pounding bass drum really hits hard.
It's marathon weekend and there are Red Sox games, Bruins and Celtics are in the playoffs so the city is alive with tourists and runners. It's annoying because everything is crowded and people walk slow, but I love that the city is alive again. Summer is almost here.
No hot water this morning so it was a cologne shower this morning. Hopefully I'll get some time to run home this afternoon and freshen up. Looking for apts for next year or at least I should be. Looking for a roommate, but it may be time to grab a studio. Probably get more writing and focus on. TV has been running my life. So many great shows on right now. Will be happy when they wrap for the summer. More motivation to get outside and enjoy the sun.
We'll talk soon. I promise.
Shawn
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
People, C'mon
Well it's been a week since South By and I'm still re-living the moments. It was right back to work so I haven't really had a chance to sit back and write about all the bands I saw, but I will, I hope. Work is good. A lot going on as the students wind down for the semester. We are already booking into June which is crazy talk. This week we have the last Executive Session of the semester Natalie Maine's dad and Acapella Friday night. Also the one year celebration of the club with three alum/student groups on Saturday. Steven's going to the KS formal as are a lot of people so it will probably be a pretty quiet weekend. Although after a week of detox after Texas I'm ready to go out again.
Thursday night will probably go to Northeastern's alumni center to grab a drink to celebrate Rebecca's new job (She's coming to Berklee yay!). Then its home to settle in for 3 hours of the end of ER. The end of an ERa. Growing up we had one night a week we could stay up as late as we want and pretty much do whatever we want, within reason. That's when I first saw ER. Carter was just an intern who had never been in an ER and Carol was supposed to die. 15 years later the hospital I grew up with, and which at one point had me wanting to be a doctor, will leave the air for good. (I once even watched a season finale from the Albany Med ER, a girlfriend had put her teeth through her lower lip and needed stitches.) Hopefully they do Michael Crichton and the original writers, and the characters the justice they deserve.
I might be going to New Orleans in June. Berklee pays for 4 Faculty and 4 Staff members to go and volunteer their time and build houses for Habitat for Humanities in a music village down there. I'm applying this week and will hear back the first week in May. Wish me luck.
Another casting call I may attend for fun this weekend, but look for more details on that later.
-S
Thursday night will probably go to Northeastern's alumni center to grab a drink to celebrate Rebecca's new job (She's coming to Berklee yay!). Then its home to settle in for 3 hours of the end of ER. The end of an ERa. Growing up we had one night a week we could stay up as late as we want and pretty much do whatever we want, within reason. That's when I first saw ER. Carter was just an intern who had never been in an ER and Carol was supposed to die. 15 years later the hospital I grew up with, and which at one point had me wanting to be a doctor, will leave the air for good. (I once even watched a season finale from the Albany Med ER, a girlfriend had put her teeth through her lower lip and needed stitches.) Hopefully they do Michael Crichton and the original writers, and the characters the justice they deserve.
I might be going to New Orleans in June. Berklee pays for 4 Faculty and 4 Staff members to go and volunteer their time and build houses for Habitat for Humanities in a music village down there. I'm applying this week and will hear back the first week in May. Wish me luck.
Another casting call I may attend for fun this weekend, but look for more details on that later.
-S
Monday, March 23, 2009
Back to Boston
South By Southwest was a whirlwind. I'm exhausted and refreshed and excited to get back to work with some great ideas and some great new bands. I'll update tomorrow when I'm fully rested.
-sh
-sh
Thursday, March 19, 2009
SXSW Day 1
Ok. So I'm a little tired. The worst part was I woke up at 8:59, my free breakfast ended at 9pm. Awful. Yesterday was day one and I personally think it was a great pre-game for the rest of the week. I took it kind of easy. This is who I saw:
Ten Out Of Tenn - Caught a quick two three songs from these guys. I've seen these guys before and they are really great. I'm trying hard not to repeat bands I've seen previously, because it just takes away from why I'm doing this.
Roman Candles - These guys came on at the same British showcase that Ten Out Of Tenn were. It was really awesome and this was the first band of the day that I know I want to get to come play The Red Room. They are out of Nashville and even had a couple Ten Out of Tenners out to sing on a song.
Heartless Bastards - Her voice is just mesmorizing. It's very deep and had I not seen them on David Letterman, I would have thought it was a male lead. These guys know how to rock. They are probably too big for The Red Room, but still a great show.
Janelle Monae - This was a suggestion of a friend and let me tell you it blew me away. This girl can sing and she rocks out. With the soul and swagger of Amy Winehouse and the funk of Outkast (she is friends with these guys and Big Boi is performing tonight), Janelle isn't likely to be the unknown Grammy nominee for long. That's right she was nominated for best new artists and you now that I told her about you, you have to check her out.
Jessica Lea Mayfield - I've had Jessica tabbed on my computer for about a year after I saw a write-up about her on PopCandy so I knew I wanted to get to this show. At 20 years old, Jessica has built up some considerable buzz. While I wasn't blown away at her performance I was definitely impressed.
Angie Mattson - Caught her for a couple songs before Joe Pug. Really interesting. I'm going to spend some more time looking into her.
Joe Pug - Joe was supposed to play The Red Room and for whatever reason didn't really work out. So I knew he was playing and decided to check out a few songs. Really great singer/songwriter with a little country/americana feel. Solidified trying to get him into the room.
Delta Spirit - Okay so I KNOW I said that I wasn't going to see bands that I've seen, but these guys are SOOO good. I mean mindblowing soulful rock. They just put so much into their music and they are the real deal. No doubt in my mind that these guys will see some great press and rewards from this weekend. They played a new song which gets me really excited that they will be going back into the studio after they get back from a European tour.
So that was a really brief recap of day one. I'm actually in a panel about blogging as I type so I'm going to go, but I'll try and include links to all the bands later.
Sh
Ten Out Of Tenn - Caught a quick two three songs from these guys. I've seen these guys before and they are really great. I'm trying hard not to repeat bands I've seen previously, because it just takes away from why I'm doing this.
Roman Candles - These guys came on at the same British showcase that Ten Out Of Tenn were. It was really awesome and this was the first band of the day that I know I want to get to come play The Red Room. They are out of Nashville and even had a couple Ten Out of Tenners out to sing on a song.
Heartless Bastards - Her voice is just mesmorizing. It's very deep and had I not seen them on David Letterman, I would have thought it was a male lead. These guys know how to rock. They are probably too big for The Red Room, but still a great show.
Janelle Monae - This was a suggestion of a friend and let me tell you it blew me away. This girl can sing and she rocks out. With the soul and swagger of Amy Winehouse and the funk of Outkast (she is friends with these guys and Big Boi is performing tonight), Janelle isn't likely to be the unknown Grammy nominee for long. That's right she was nominated for best new artists and you now that I told her about you, you have to check her out.
Jessica Lea Mayfield - I've had Jessica tabbed on my computer for about a year after I saw a write-up about her on PopCandy so I knew I wanted to get to this show. At 20 years old, Jessica has built up some considerable buzz. While I wasn't blown away at her performance I was definitely impressed.
Angie Mattson - Caught her for a couple songs before Joe Pug. Really interesting. I'm going to spend some more time looking into her.
Joe Pug - Joe was supposed to play The Red Room and for whatever reason didn't really work out. So I knew he was playing and decided to check out a few songs. Really great singer/songwriter with a little country/americana feel. Solidified trying to get him into the room.
Delta Spirit - Okay so I KNOW I said that I wasn't going to see bands that I've seen, but these guys are SOOO good. I mean mindblowing soulful rock. They just put so much into their music and they are the real deal. No doubt in my mind that these guys will see some great press and rewards from this weekend. They played a new song which gets me really excited that they will be going back into the studio after they get back from a European tour.
So that was a really brief recap of day one. I'm actually in a panel about blogging as I type so I'm going to go, but I'll try and include links to all the bands later.
Sh
Monday, March 9, 2009
New Feature!
Ok. So I'm getting ready to spend a whirlwind week in Austin, TX next week for the South By Southwest music festival. I won't have my computer with me all the time, but I will be provided live updates over here ==============> on the right side of my blog. I can text what I'm doing or what show I'm at and you can all follow along. Exciting right? Of course it is!
Laters
Shawn
Laters
Shawn
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
A-Rod, Michael Phelps, and Chris Brown
So it's been a crazy week for these three men. One had a photograph surface of him smoking marijuana, one had a positive steroid test released from 6 years ago, and one allegedly beat is famous girlfriend and then left her on the side of the road. Phelps and Brown have had several sponsors and upcoming performances dropped, Brown has yet to make a comment (but charges have been confirmed), and A-Rod came out and fessed up to the Performance Enhancing Drug use.
Let's start with Phelps. Already with a DUI on his record, this isn't the first time Phelps' partying has gotten him in trouble. This time it was not a run in with the law, but a perhaps jealous or greedy party attendee that decided Phelps fate. Let's be honest, he isn't Bode Miller who has become infamous for his partying, he's a 23 year old who has set world records and won tons of medals for his country. As a result of his success, he has been put up on a pedestal to be a role model for young people. One commentator said that while he has been put in this position it is not necessarily a position he asked to be in. He accepted endorsements and in many ways was a representation of what hard work and determination will get you. So he's celebrating his accomplishments. Did his smoking marijuana that night take away from what he's done? Probably not. One comedian said parents are concerned about what to tell their kids when they ask if they can smoke marijuana like Michael Phelps and her response was "When you win 8 gold medals for your country you can smoke all the marijuana you want?" Marijuana in many states (such as Massachusetts) is slowly becoming decriminalized. I do not think that Michael Phelps career should be over over this. I don't even know if he should have been suspended, but I guess that had to make a statement. Luckily for them, the statement comes at a time when he wouldn't normally be competing for them.
Up next A-Rod (see also A-Roid, A-Hole, A-Fraud, etc). Was I disappointed when I read that A-Rod had tested positive for steroids? A little bit. Was I surprised? Not at all. Baseball is the one sport where I don't think I'd be surprised if there was a list of 104 players who tested negative for steroids. I think A-Rod's smartest move was coming forward and saying, yes I did it. I took Performance Enhancing Drugs, I didn't necessarily know what I was putting in my body, but I knew it would help me compete at a higher level. I can't believe how excited Red Sox nation was about this revelation. I'm sure if A-Rod had ended up on the Red Sox, they wouldn't be so happy about it. Again though the issue is this information was leaked. Someone with a vendetta against A-Rod or maybe the Yankees took it upon themselves to make it known 1/104 positive test results to the world. If they were concerned for the state of baseball they might have chosen to release all the names, but oddly enough they chose only one. Some are calling for the release of the other names (Curt Schilling) while others are probably shaking in their boots. I think that if we keep sweeping this under the rug it's just going to keep going. Perhaps we just put it all there and start with a clean slate. Some people will probably choose to deny it and others might admit it like A-Rod, but to punish A-Rod now is just not fair. After at the time of this testing non of the substances he tested positive for were banned by the MLB. It will be interesting as teams start reporting to Spring Training the end of this week how things progress.
Chris Brown, 20 years old, on the top of the world. Hit singles, Top 40 dominating collaborations, and a pop princess for a girlfriend. Then something went terribly wrong. While there are limited details and tons of speculation this much is known, after leaving a pre-Grammy party Chris Brown and Rihanna got into and argument that quickly escalated. It moved from the car to the park where Brown allegedly attacked Rihanna and left her on the side of the road. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. Is this the end of Chris Brown? No. Is it the end of his clean cut image? Probably. Brown is talented and an assault charge and possibly jail time isn't going to change that. People will forever think differently of him, but I'm sure it isn't the end of Chris Brown. Rihanna will come out with a killer album with Supergirl attitude and rise back to the charts, this isn't the end of her either. Domestic abuse isn't a laughing matter, but the sad part is that millions of people are involved in domestic abuse every single day. They don't have the support that Rihanna has and they don't have the money for attorney's that Chris Brown does.
All of these stories happen to ordinary people everyday. I work at Berklee with a ton of musicians, do people smoke pot? Yup. Do they have multimillion dollar endorsement deals? No, but does that make them any better or worse as people? (Financially is a whole different story.) I go to the gym almost daily, I don't necessarily know people who use performance enhancing drugs, but do they exist for sure. Are they setting records? No, but are they trying to out do the next guy or live up to a public image? And Chris Brown, Ike Turner, Bobby Brown and other celebrity's who let money and power get the best of them, their actions are not justified or acceptable, but let's remember we don't know the whole story. We're just reading all of this through the eyes and ears of 'sources' and tabloids.
Heading home for a couple days this weekend for much needed family time.
-Sh
Let's start with Phelps. Already with a DUI on his record, this isn't the first time Phelps' partying has gotten him in trouble. This time it was not a run in with the law, but a perhaps jealous or greedy party attendee that decided Phelps fate. Let's be honest, he isn't Bode Miller who has become infamous for his partying, he's a 23 year old who has set world records and won tons of medals for his country. As a result of his success, he has been put up on a pedestal to be a role model for young people. One commentator said that while he has been put in this position it is not necessarily a position he asked to be in. He accepted endorsements and in many ways was a representation of what hard work and determination will get you. So he's celebrating his accomplishments. Did his smoking marijuana that night take away from what he's done? Probably not. One comedian said parents are concerned about what to tell their kids when they ask if they can smoke marijuana like Michael Phelps and her response was "When you win 8 gold medals for your country you can smoke all the marijuana you want?" Marijuana in many states (such as Massachusetts) is slowly becoming decriminalized. I do not think that Michael Phelps career should be over over this. I don't even know if he should have been suspended, but I guess that had to make a statement. Luckily for them, the statement comes at a time when he wouldn't normally be competing for them.
Up next A-Rod (see also A-Roid, A-Hole, A-Fraud, etc). Was I disappointed when I read that A-Rod had tested positive for steroids? A little bit. Was I surprised? Not at all. Baseball is the one sport where I don't think I'd be surprised if there was a list of 104 players who tested negative for steroids. I think A-Rod's smartest move was coming forward and saying, yes I did it. I took Performance Enhancing Drugs, I didn't necessarily know what I was putting in my body, but I knew it would help me compete at a higher level. I can't believe how excited Red Sox nation was about this revelation. I'm sure if A-Rod had ended up on the Red Sox, they wouldn't be so happy about it. Again though the issue is this information was leaked. Someone with a vendetta against A-Rod or maybe the Yankees took it upon themselves to make it known 1/104 positive test results to the world. If they were concerned for the state of baseball they might have chosen to release all the names, but oddly enough they chose only one. Some are calling for the release of the other names (Curt Schilling) while others are probably shaking in their boots. I think that if we keep sweeping this under the rug it's just going to keep going. Perhaps we just put it all there and start with a clean slate. Some people will probably choose to deny it and others might admit it like A-Rod, but to punish A-Rod now is just not fair. After at the time of this testing non of the substances he tested positive for were banned by the MLB. It will be interesting as teams start reporting to Spring Training the end of this week how things progress.
Chris Brown, 20 years old, on the top of the world. Hit singles, Top 40 dominating collaborations, and a pop princess for a girlfriend. Then something went terribly wrong. While there are limited details and tons of speculation this much is known, after leaving a pre-Grammy party Chris Brown and Rihanna got into and argument that quickly escalated. It moved from the car to the park where Brown allegedly attacked Rihanna and left her on the side of the road. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. Is this the end of Chris Brown? No. Is it the end of his clean cut image? Probably. Brown is talented and an assault charge and possibly jail time isn't going to change that. People will forever think differently of him, but I'm sure it isn't the end of Chris Brown. Rihanna will come out with a killer album with Supergirl attitude and rise back to the charts, this isn't the end of her either. Domestic abuse isn't a laughing matter, but the sad part is that millions of people are involved in domestic abuse every single day. They don't have the support that Rihanna has and they don't have the money for attorney's that Chris Brown does.
All of these stories happen to ordinary people everyday. I work at Berklee with a ton of musicians, do people smoke pot? Yup. Do they have multimillion dollar endorsement deals? No, but does that make them any better or worse as people? (Financially is a whole different story.) I go to the gym almost daily, I don't necessarily know people who use performance enhancing drugs, but do they exist for sure. Are they setting records? No, but are they trying to out do the next guy or live up to a public image? And Chris Brown, Ike Turner, Bobby Brown and other celebrity's who let money and power get the best of them, their actions are not justified or acceptable, but let's remember we don't know the whole story. We're just reading all of this through the eyes and ears of 'sources' and tabloids.
Heading home for a couple days this weekend for much needed family time.
-Sh
Thursday, February 5, 2009
25 Things You Might Not Know About Me.
Ok so, for those of you not on facebook, or not on my friend (you are really missing out), there is a thing going around where you write 25 things about yourself that people may or may not know. Then you include 25 other people and they have to do it. It's like an epidemic and I was bound to catch it, so I felt like I would share all with you. Enjoy!
1.) Music is my life, even though I'm not musical. If I had the time and effort I would learn and instrument, I still might.
2.) Along those lines I have an unnatural and sometimes creepy obsession with Bruce Springsteen. I blame my Aunt and Mike. The first time I heard him I sat outside Fenway Park freshmen year of college. Mike took me to my first show, my aunt was with me on my 21st birthday for my 3rd show and my best friend and I got soaked before my 4th show at Gillette Stadium.
3.) My best friends are like family. I'd do anything for them. Sometimes even if it's detrimental to me.
4.) I lived in Australia and it was some of the best and worst times of my life.
5.) I want a tattoo, but I'm afraid that I'll get one and then I'll be covered.
6.) I'm a Gemini (Some may read bi-polar)
7.) I love to travel and if I was independently wealthy, I would constantly be on the move.
8.) I enjoy cooking and I do it pretty often.
9.) My parents are two of the greatest people I know and sometimes I hope they outlive me.
10.) I will live in NYC again.
11.) It was once a life goal to be on the Real World and I've been to multiple casting calls. When I was in Australia Real World was too and I hung out with them, and bought a couple rounds of drinks before they told me they have an alcohol budget. I bummed a cigarette of Isaac. I did not make it on TV.
12.) I auditioned to be an MTV VJ, then they got rid of music on MTV.
13.) More often than not I work out to really embarrassing pop music.
14.) I've been working on a movie script/TV pilot for years, someday I might just finish it.
15.) I'm really 5 11 and 3/4 but I tell everyone I'm 6'. Sometimes I wish I was taller.
16.) There are very few things I regret in life. Although I regret not trying harder sometimes.
17.) I may or may not have a gambling problem. I once lost a $100 and lied about it. I once spent 2hours driving between different gas stations buying scratch tickets because if I won I refused to go back to the same place twice. I went to the Casino or played poker EVERY night in Australia. I was broke.
18.) I started a blog to share my thoughts with the world. I have a journal to write my thoughts that I will probably never share.
19.) If I'm not drinking Bud or Guinness, it's Jack and Coke or Soco. (Or water, I'm not that bad, anymore)
20.) I'm not a 'typical frat guy' but my Fraternity experiences are very much a part of who I am today.
21.) I wish I were Peter Pan, not because of the tights and weird hat, but because he could fly and never had to grow up, and to be honest growing up sucks.
22.) I think the only time I've ever cried watching a TV was the episode of ER where Mark Greene dies. Devastating.
23.) I hate the thought of teeth. If I hear about someone cracking a tooth or root canals I get the chills. I also have recurring dreams where I'm brushing my teeth or flossing and my teeth fall out one at a time.
24.) I hate cold weather and don't know why I've chosen to stay in the Northeast for so long. I'd rather be hot than cold any day.
25.) I sing in the shower, sometimes at the top of my lungs. I catch myself thinking out loud sometimes. This was way harder than I thought.
1.) Music is my life, even though I'm not musical. If I had the time and effort I would learn and instrument, I still might.
2.) Along those lines I have an unnatural and sometimes creepy obsession with Bruce Springsteen. I blame my Aunt and Mike. The first time I heard him I sat outside Fenway Park freshmen year of college. Mike took me to my first show, my aunt was with me on my 21st birthday for my 3rd show and my best friend and I got soaked before my 4th show at Gillette Stadium.
3.) My best friends are like family. I'd do anything for them. Sometimes even if it's detrimental to me.
4.) I lived in Australia and it was some of the best and worst times of my life.
5.) I want a tattoo, but I'm afraid that I'll get one and then I'll be covered.
6.) I'm a Gemini (Some may read bi-polar)
7.) I love to travel and if I was independently wealthy, I would constantly be on the move.
8.) I enjoy cooking and I do it pretty often.
9.) My parents are two of the greatest people I know and sometimes I hope they outlive me.
10.) I will live in NYC again.
11.) It was once a life goal to be on the Real World and I've been to multiple casting calls. When I was in Australia Real World was too and I hung out with them, and bought a couple rounds of drinks before they told me they have an alcohol budget. I bummed a cigarette of Isaac. I did not make it on TV.
12.) I auditioned to be an MTV VJ, then they got rid of music on MTV.
13.) More often than not I work out to really embarrassing pop music.
14.) I've been working on a movie script/TV pilot for years, someday I might just finish it.
15.) I'm really 5 11 and 3/4 but I tell everyone I'm 6'. Sometimes I wish I was taller.
16.) There are very few things I regret in life. Although I regret not trying harder sometimes.
17.) I may or may not have a gambling problem. I once lost a $100 and lied about it. I once spent 2hours driving between different gas stations buying scratch tickets because if I won I refused to go back to the same place twice. I went to the Casino or played poker EVERY night in Australia. I was broke.
18.) I started a blog to share my thoughts with the world. I have a journal to write my thoughts that I will probably never share.
19.) If I'm not drinking Bud or Guinness, it's Jack and Coke or Soco. (Or water, I'm not that bad, anymore)
20.) I'm not a 'typical frat guy' but my Fraternity experiences are very much a part of who I am today.
21.) I wish I were Peter Pan, not because of the tights and weird hat, but because he could fly and never had to grow up, and to be honest growing up sucks.
22.) I think the only time I've ever cried watching a TV was the episode of ER where Mark Greene dies. Devastating.
23.) I hate the thought of teeth. If I hear about someone cracking a tooth or root canals I get the chills. I also have recurring dreams where I'm brushing my teeth or flossing and my teeth fall out one at a time.
24.) I hate cold weather and don't know why I've chosen to stay in the Northeast for so long. I'd rather be hot than cold any day.
25.) I sing in the shower, sometimes at the top of my lungs. I catch myself thinking out loud sometimes. This was way harder than I thought.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Sun is back!
The sun is back, but it's still super cold out. Definitely ready for some warm weather. Looking forward to my work trip to Austin, TX in March. I'm going down for the music conference/festival known as South By Southwest. It's going to be awesome. Tons of up and coming bands that I've been wanting to check out, plus some panels/presentations from Quincy Jones and Steven Van Zandt (Miami Steve/Little Steven). This weekend I'm hoping to get tickets to the Bonnaroo Festival in Tennessee which I've been wanting to go to since it started and I think this year I'm just going to get tickets and go. It's not until June, but Bruce and the Band are headlining one night and Phish on two nights with a million other bands. Time to buy a tent :)
-Sh
-Sh
Monday, February 2, 2009
Superbowl
So because I had no attachment to either team in the Super Bowl this year, I was of course excited that the one and only Bruce Springsteen would be providing the halftime entertainment this year. According to several reports requests for his performance date back almost 30 years. It was only see bands such as The Rolling Stones and Tom Petty 'legitimize' the performance that he agreed to do it. Oh and he has a new album and world tour coming up. It's a different world in the music industry and I wouldn't consider it 'selling out', more making a smart business move. Bruce promised that the show would be like you got stuck on the Jersey Turnpike and circled for two and half hours and only made into his concert for the last 12 minutes. He held his promise. A silhouette of the boss and the Big Man reminiscence (but not quite) of the cover of the Born to Run album started the show and it was right into "10th Avenue Freezeout", the tale of how the E-Street Band came to be. Next a trimmed down "Born to Run". All the time the energy was as if backstage they had been playing for a few hours. The new Working On A Dream was a small bump in the road, but showcased his new stuff, backed by a full choir. Then it was right back to the "Glory Day". 'Speedball' became 'Hail Mary' and the momentum was back. It truly was Boss Time and if they let him go, he probably could have played into overtime, but no it came to an end. From "Is Anybody Alive Out There?" on top of Roy's piano, to his knee slide (into the cameraman) and jumping right out into the crowd, the whole world got a taste of the E Street Experience. Oh did I mention he'll be 60 in September.
Let's back it up a few though. Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the Star Spangled Banner was phenomenal. I don't think people are saying that because she's overcome so much and they wanted her to do so well, but because she actually blew that song out of the water. I saw a survey comparing her to the Whitney Houston rendition from 1991 and she was winning by almost a 50% margin. She is truly a talented vocalist and she may not have had the popular vote on American Idol, but she will be very successful and perhaps our generations Whitney Houston.
The game was pretty unexciting to start, but as it got closer to the end I was really pulling for the Cardinals. That last touchdown was awesome, except I knew that there was way too much time on the clock for the Steelers. I still think the last fumble was a incomplete pass, but I'm not an official. Congrats to the Steelers on a job well done. I heard a report earlier last week that if they won, the city of Pittsburgh was not sure if they would be able to throw them a celebration based on the state of the economy and the budget in Pittsburgh. I hope that they are able to do something at least for the fans.
Overall it was a good night. Can't wait to see Springsteen on tour. Apparently the scalpers were watching the Superbowl too, tickets are already going for between $100 to $1000 above face value. They went onsale 4 hours ago.
-Sh
Let's back it up a few though. Jennifer Hudson's rendition of the Star Spangled Banner was phenomenal. I don't think people are saying that because she's overcome so much and they wanted her to do so well, but because she actually blew that song out of the water. I saw a survey comparing her to the Whitney Houston rendition from 1991 and she was winning by almost a 50% margin. She is truly a talented vocalist and she may not have had the popular vote on American Idol, but she will be very successful and perhaps our generations Whitney Houston.
The game was pretty unexciting to start, but as it got closer to the end I was really pulling for the Cardinals. That last touchdown was awesome, except I knew that there was way too much time on the clock for the Steelers. I still think the last fumble was a incomplete pass, but I'm not an official. Congrats to the Steelers on a job well done. I heard a report earlier last week that if they won, the city of Pittsburgh was not sure if they would be able to throw them a celebration based on the state of the economy and the budget in Pittsburgh. I hope that they are able to do something at least for the fans.
Overall it was a good night. Can't wait to see Springsteen on tour. Apparently the scalpers were watching the Superbowl too, tickets are already going for between $100 to $1000 above face value. They went onsale 4 hours ago.
-Sh
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