So, as y'all can decode from my Sunday music blogs I am a huge...make that MEGA country music fan...and I am not talking Taylor Swift Country. I was raised with bands who had the fiddle and steel whining...a haunting sensation in most done me wrong songs. Friday I was lucky to go celebrate my favorite Radio Stations birthday with them. It featured some new artist I have come to love...One was Jason Cassidy.
Let me get into Jason Cassidy. I first heard his what if song on the radio and thanks to good old Spotify I learned to devour all of his songs. My cousin had mentioned seeing Cassidy and his band on the morning news but I unfortunately missed the performance. I didn't however miss one of the best shows. Cassidy voice is pure and so country. Coming out of Texas you know I have to tip my hat to him. As I got lost in his melodic magic, I also couldn't help but feel my soul scream as his fiddle player got down. I truly believe that to have a country soul, you can not deny that you need a little fiddle-de-dee in your life. Cassidy is going to make it big, he is going to start the positive revolution to return country to it's rightful backwoods home. I got to touch Cassidy Hands twice and so Loved his hook em horns hat...I think that's cause y'all know I love Texas. I guarantee if you grew up in the age of Garth Brooks, Travis Tritt, and all those other kick ass 90's artist you will want to check the cool cat Jason Cassidy out especially What if...it's not the same old sad love song * insert clever smile here*.
The second person to perform was this guy name Jon Pardi...I didn't know him at all..Shocker since i usually only listen to mainstream artist when I have the radio on. I loved his guitar strap but unfortunately I need to listen to him more to really get the musical overdose that I got from Cassidy and the others.
Okay, this paragraph is going to be long. The third performance was from the dynamic trio Eden's Edge. From the time I heard Amen, I feel in love with their playful lyrics and undeniable country sass. Even though Dean is in the trio, you definitely feel the playfulness from Hannah and Cherill. Cherill plays a mean mandolin...plus she has become one of my fashion icons along with Hannah. What I love about Hannah's voice is it is so authentic...not fabricated and that girl can belt out the notes. I love how Dean compliments the girls and he plays a mean guitar. Of course we all know their smash hit, but it is there song Swinging Door that has been an obsession for a few weeks now. It country/ Americana roots run thick, as the trio headed by Hannah's fiery sass tells a man who was once in one of the girls lives that his train doesn't need to pull into the depot anymore...Well the lyrics say stop, but same thing. My favorite line is "You have a girl in every cow town." I suppose this is because I am so sure that my ex was playing me as a jaded fool, but he can run off to those other girls. Although, one song that really got me was their song Cherry Pie. Hannah explained that Dean and some friends had this idea to write a song and called Hannah up to ask who inspired her, to Hannah growing up in Arkansas it was her Welsh Pony named Cherry Pie. However, the lyrics related to the same feelings and devotions that I had with my best friend. The song brought tears to my eyes. I also got to touch Hannah's hand and Cherill could tell I was groovin'. I absolutely as they played felt like my soul was dancin' on the stage and that is what country music is all about. If you haven't felt the dimensional depth of this trio...go on a ride, you will be surprised and smilin' after every trip/
The final performer was Josh Thompson, a lot of people know him as the beer on the table guy, and the Way out Here. I have to tell you, Josh is beyond that. He is an amazing performer, has an amazing smile, can play the guitar, and his songs man they send this sort of energy over you that you cant control. While sing Way out Here I swear Whiskey Tangos felt like some Southern Country Revival, as if as we all balled our hands in a Rosie the Riveter fashion that we were going to take the world down, if not alone but together. However, Josh has a huge influence in his music from outlaw country singers and I love the line in one of his songs and he sings " I blame it on Waylon." I also love his song about losing yourself to someone for the first time and the feeling you get, the line " We lost more than a diamond earring." signifies that coming of age bliss. Josh pumped up the crowd and had us all singin' every word. One thing I loved about Josh's band is it featured a steel guitar player. I have to admit, I am envious of Steel guitar players. From a young age when I would hear that high whine in one of the songs I was listening to I would feel my heart burst. His steel player was awesome and I enjoyed his banjo playin' also. However, Josh Thompson made me cry when he played his song called Sinner...Josh said he had been searchin' everywhere to find a song that was the epitome of him, and he found it in that song. The song recalls that we all feel a sin coming on but a Sinner is thankful that God will never quit on him or her. The song gives me chills when I listen to it because like Josh I know if there was a limited space in Heaven I would not be going there.
If you are looking for true country music...take a listen to some of these artist. If you want to go back in time, have a line morph into a memory take a ride down their lyrical roads and you are sure to find a few artist that you can't help but sing along to even when there music isn't on.
God Bless
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Ode to the songwriter---> This is Jeff Scott Stevens Story
So, I decided to take a small detour but this detour is also highly important to the music. Some artist often need edged or assisted in the song writing process, for some Jeff Scott Stevens becomes that assistant. He has been getting acclaim for the vivid imagery his songs produce in his listener.
When I first discovered his song writing talent it came in the form of his song Daddy Don't Go. Stevens said that he envisioned the song being sung by either Martina McBride or Carrie Underwood. Stevens often envisions the vocalist as he progressively seeks the right combination of words and lyrical hooks. His song Daddy Don't Go came to Stevens from a familiar place: news stories. He had watched the news, read articles, and amerced himself in the stories of friends and family about young children missing there parents due to them fighting in the war. He took the stance in the song by looking on the outside in and wrote a heartfelt tune that stands ode to those individuals who must wait for their heroes to come home.
He then exposed his festive anthem Campfire song...a summertime anthem that despite its inability to be released the summer of 2011 it will definitely be an anthem for everyone in 2012. It is definitely a stark contrast to the seriousness of Daddy Don't Go but exhibits that Stevens has the ability to make you want to party or go grab a tissue.
Stevens says his start to exposing his music to social media started out slow on Myspace but once he found twitter the exponential growth of his singles being heard by fans. He enjoys Twitter a lot and is so grateful for the support that has come from the social media age of music. He also if you do not follow him would like you to know that you can find him as @jeffsstevens.
Other than writing music Jeff Scott Stevens enjoys playing with music software and technologies, he loves hanging out with friends and is a reality TV junkie. This probably helps describe his since of variations in who he dreams to collaborate with especially classic rock artist from the 60's-90s but his modern dream collaborations contain Reba, Blake, Lady Antebellum and so many more. He would be honored to submit his songs to anyone who could put the rich tone to his message.
Knowing that Stevens's songs often follow the storyteller ideology of country music, I asked him why he feels people listen to country music and he mentioned that "the vocalist and songwriters often collaborate what we as humans cannot or are to afraid to say, that and country music can be full of love songs, but also have the fun upbeat party songs."
I also asked if there were anything he wanted me to let you guys know and he wanted to tells his fans that they are extremely important to him and that he is grateful for all the support. To the new fans who check him out he wants you to know that along with Twitter he also has a facebook and you can find him at www.facebook.com/jeffsstevens and that all his music is downloadable at itunes.
If there wasn't songwriters there would be some song birds who would be song less and sometimes the song birds need a helping hand. It is people like Jeff Scott Stevens that know the best lines, hooks, and melodies that will have any music lover laughing, crying, or cracking it up. So, even if he doesn't sing the great tunes, check him out, you will be impressed.
When I first discovered his song writing talent it came in the form of his song Daddy Don't Go. Stevens said that he envisioned the song being sung by either Martina McBride or Carrie Underwood. Stevens often envisions the vocalist as he progressively seeks the right combination of words and lyrical hooks. His song Daddy Don't Go came to Stevens from a familiar place: news stories. He had watched the news, read articles, and amerced himself in the stories of friends and family about young children missing there parents due to them fighting in the war. He took the stance in the song by looking on the outside in and wrote a heartfelt tune that stands ode to those individuals who must wait for their heroes to come home.
He then exposed his festive anthem Campfire song...a summertime anthem that despite its inability to be released the summer of 2011 it will definitely be an anthem for everyone in 2012. It is definitely a stark contrast to the seriousness of Daddy Don't Go but exhibits that Stevens has the ability to make you want to party or go grab a tissue.
Stevens says his start to exposing his music to social media started out slow on Myspace but once he found twitter the exponential growth of his singles being heard by fans. He enjoys Twitter a lot and is so grateful for the support that has come from the social media age of music. He also if you do not follow him would like you to know that you can find him as @jeffsstevens.
Other than writing music Jeff Scott Stevens enjoys playing with music software and technologies, he loves hanging out with friends and is a reality TV junkie. This probably helps describe his since of variations in who he dreams to collaborate with especially classic rock artist from the 60's-90s but his modern dream collaborations contain Reba, Blake, Lady Antebellum and so many more. He would be honored to submit his songs to anyone who could put the rich tone to his message.
Knowing that Stevens's songs often follow the storyteller ideology of country music, I asked him why he feels people listen to country music and he mentioned that "the vocalist and songwriters often collaborate what we as humans cannot or are to afraid to say, that and country music can be full of love songs, but also have the fun upbeat party songs."
I also asked if there were anything he wanted me to let you guys know and he wanted to tells his fans that they are extremely important to him and that he is grateful for all the support. To the new fans who check him out he wants you to know that along with Twitter he also has a facebook and you can find him at www.facebook.com/jeffsstevens and that all his music is downloadable at itunes.
If there wasn't songwriters there would be some song birds who would be song less and sometimes the song birds need a helping hand. It is people like Jeff Scott Stevens that know the best lines, hooks, and melodies that will have any music lover laughing, crying, or cracking it up. So, even if he doesn't sing the great tunes, check him out, you will be impressed.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Fighters Breed Fighters - The Mckennon Wimberly Story
A young golden glove boxer was inspired to put on his gloves thanks to the ideology of the one and only Muhammad Ali...yet this boxer also just so happened to love bulls. To say that this is a weird combination is naive for whether fighting an opponent or dancing with a bull it takes the heart of a fighter to get the job done.
Mckennon Wimberly, the Cool, Texas cowboy as he has been called; eats, sleeps, and breathes the life of a fighter. It's something almost genetic about him. Growing up the son of Joe Wimberly it is no surprise that the addiction to the danger flowed readily through his veins. However, his reckless soul was nurtured by his mother Paula. His upbringing has made him a young man that many can relate to and all end up loving.
Back in 2007 when Wimberly broke on to the Elite Built Ford Tough Series at the age of 18, he saw some opposition from some rodeo fans seeing him as: a cocky cowboy who couldn't back up the words he spoke. Like a true Fighter, Mckennon triumphed by not letting them get to him and by anxiously applying the catch phase: "I'm young, I'm handsome, and I can't possibly be beat." Though, the 18 year old soon turned into a true contender in the year 2010 and 2011.
Unfortunately, the potential to succeed in 2011 was shattered by one ride. As bull riding fans know, all it takes is one injury to end a season, a career, and even a life. Wimberly's was in Anaheim, he had been spending time at the beach with his girlfriend, now fiance, stock contractor Mesa Pate. As always Wimberly felt confident that he could get the job done and make the 8 second buzzer. Neither him or Pate could envision what would really happen. As the nights festivities got underway Wimberly mounted up in his modern Warrior gear: vest, chaps, helmet. It would be this helmet that would save him from the first initial blow he sustained from MoeBandy.com from D& H cattle and country singer Moe Bandy. However, the force of the blow, sent his helmet flying. The unconscious Wimberly still tied on would then endure another blow to his head.
When accidents like this happen the arena falls silent. Almost like Hollywood orchestrated such a soundtrack. Gasps and awe struck stares looked on. It would soon be concluded that Wimberly Suffered a Traumatic brain injury, a crack in his shoulder, and a broken jaw.
Most people with Traumatic Brain Injuries never fully recover, but remember what I've already told you: Wimberly is a fighter. After months and months of rehabilitation Wimberly showed the world what his heart was made of and in Vegas in 2011 asked the love of his life to marry him.
Most people would call Wimberly's story one of a Cinderella moment. However, in a cowboys life nothing is ever certain.
That is one lesson he has taught me. I am gonna detour a bit and tell you a side story on this cowboy. One that turned me from just a fan into one of his friends. I met Mckennon his rookie year. I had no clue who the cowboy was but knew from his Kodak smile that he would be famous and I wanted to watch his success unfold. My best friend told me that he was a superstar in the making. I couldn't have agreed more with her. When Wimberly returned to Kansas city in 2008 I first caught glimpse of the humorous guy he was, as he placed my friends, sisters, and cousin's baseball caps on the wrong way after signing them. I suppose its that memory I default to quite a bit when I need to smile. For that would be the last time my friend would be standing next to this great athlete.
My soul sister Linsey Kay Nelson died September 12th, 2008. A day that is ingrained in me. In November I embarked on a journey to write my first novel called the Western Dreamer inspired by cowboys such as Wimberly and what it truly takes to fight for the dreams that burn inside. I am proud to say Mckennon owns a copy and even has a special dedication in the sequel...the dedication reads as such :
Mckennon Wimberly, the Cool, Texas cowboy as he has been called; eats, sleeps, and breathes the life of a fighter. It's something almost genetic about him. Growing up the son of Joe Wimberly it is no surprise that the addiction to the danger flowed readily through his veins. However, his reckless soul was nurtured by his mother Paula. His upbringing has made him a young man that many can relate to and all end up loving.
Back in 2007 when Wimberly broke on to the Elite Built Ford Tough Series at the age of 18, he saw some opposition from some rodeo fans seeing him as: a cocky cowboy who couldn't back up the words he spoke. Like a true Fighter, Mckennon triumphed by not letting them get to him and by anxiously applying the catch phase: "I'm young, I'm handsome, and I can't possibly be beat." Though, the 18 year old soon turned into a true contender in the year 2010 and 2011.
Unfortunately, the potential to succeed in 2011 was shattered by one ride. As bull riding fans know, all it takes is one injury to end a season, a career, and even a life. Wimberly's was in Anaheim, he had been spending time at the beach with his girlfriend, now fiance, stock contractor Mesa Pate. As always Wimberly felt confident that he could get the job done and make the 8 second buzzer. Neither him or Pate could envision what would really happen. As the nights festivities got underway Wimberly mounted up in his modern Warrior gear: vest, chaps, helmet. It would be this helmet that would save him from the first initial blow he sustained from MoeBandy.com from D& H cattle and country singer Moe Bandy. However, the force of the blow, sent his helmet flying. The unconscious Wimberly still tied on would then endure another blow to his head.
When accidents like this happen the arena falls silent. Almost like Hollywood orchestrated such a soundtrack. Gasps and awe struck stares looked on. It would soon be concluded that Wimberly Suffered a Traumatic brain injury, a crack in his shoulder, and a broken jaw.
Most people with Traumatic Brain Injuries never fully recover, but remember what I've already told you: Wimberly is a fighter. After months and months of rehabilitation Wimberly showed the world what his heart was made of and in Vegas in 2011 asked the love of his life to marry him.
Most people would call Wimberly's story one of a Cinderella moment. However, in a cowboys life nothing is ever certain.
That is one lesson he has taught me. I am gonna detour a bit and tell you a side story on this cowboy. One that turned me from just a fan into one of his friends. I met Mckennon his rookie year. I had no clue who the cowboy was but knew from his Kodak smile that he would be famous and I wanted to watch his success unfold. My best friend told me that he was a superstar in the making. I couldn't have agreed more with her. When Wimberly returned to Kansas city in 2008 I first caught glimpse of the humorous guy he was, as he placed my friends, sisters, and cousin's baseball caps on the wrong way after signing them. I suppose its that memory I default to quite a bit when I need to smile. For that would be the last time my friend would be standing next to this great athlete.
My soul sister Linsey Kay Nelson died September 12th, 2008. A day that is ingrained in me. In November I embarked on a journey to write my first novel called the Western Dreamer inspired by cowboys such as Wimberly and what it truly takes to fight for the dreams that burn inside. I am proud to say Mckennon owns a copy and even has a special dedication in the sequel...the dedication reads as such :
This novel is also dedicated to the fearless Mckennon
Wimberly, a cowboy who always inspires me to be my absolute best; a cowboy that
has taught me to fight for all my dreams. A guy who has a bright future full of
countless dreams himself.
If it was anything through the process of exploring my writing it was Mckennon's voice who echoed "journey on. and stay the course." In 2009 I realized the true meaning of being a fighter. It's about being knocked out and never settling for anything less than what your best. Through, this friendship I have also grown to be friends with his mom Paula. Paula reminds me that in this day and age its okay to be strong willed : I think she is who Mckennon got it from. I have also briefly talked to Mckennon's sisters who are so proud of their little brother.
For people wondering if Mckennon can ever reach the climax he was heading to in 2011, I say, wait and see. For he is ready to prepare for battle. Much like the warrior attitude he displays for his fans, his loyal followers have adopted the name Wimberly Warriors to honor him. It is his fighting spirit that inspires, motivates, and commands attention. The next time you see this cowboys name on a Rodeo Roster go up and shake his hand. Your bound to find that behind his smooth lines, is a genuine 110 percent cowboy and you'll make a friend for life.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
I'm Dyslexic
Today I went to drop my two year old niece off at my older sisters. I was shocked that the neighbor boy preceded to tell me that he was a better reader than my 5 year old niece because she can hardly read some of the stories in their readers. I could see this ounce of shame in her eyes. I could see the little girl I was when my teacher suggested to my parents in the 2nd grade that I go get reading assistants. Back then you didn't just get labeled a dyslexic if it wasn't extreme. It wasn't like I couldn't read I just had a rather high difficulty scoring at the level on my peers on spelling test. It was that difficulty that made me cry in the 5th grade because I missed a perfect spelling test score by one letter. ONE FREAKING LETTER BROUGHT ME TO TEARS. It was a joke later used by one of my favorite teacher but what she doesn't realized is I expected myself to do better because I knew I had some hurdle to overcome.
By my sophomore year of high school however, I was reading above many of my classmates. I chose to read classics like The Great Gatsby and fantasy books such as Wicked. I soon realized that my spelling impairment helped me speed read and one summer I went through about 20 books. I still love to read and don't do it as often as I should because I am focusing on trying to get into school but as I went off to college I soon also understood why the same year I got sent to reading assistance that I was also told to go to math. Much like my jumbled up spelling at times; Numbers seemed to flip. I sometimes tell the time backwards (well did when I was little), Working retail I often tell someone there total is less or more than it really is and immediately correct myself. I suffered horrible grades in both chemistry and physics because I was to scared to admit to my professors until it was to late that I was not necessarily approaching the question wrong I was just misplacing my unknowns and known.
I am not trying to say pity me...seriously, I don't want that. I just want people to know that millions of people have some form of this. Our brains just like to play tricks on us and at a young age its often cruel to say a kid is delayed or not at a sub-par. I am rather intelligent when you meet me, lets not talk politics that is not my strong suit but much like my obsession with Bull Riding if you talk about science with me you will realize my intense love for anatomy and the functionality of the human body. I don't hate God or my parents for never recognizing or getting me treated for in fact the teachers who assisted me at a young age did that. They reminded me that I was highly capable like the rest of my class. I didn't go off to be Valedictorian but I did rank in the top 11 percent of my class. I didn't become any kind of cum latte in college because of one freak semester that changed the course of my life.
I want people to know its okay to be bad spellers, just use spell check and dictionaries often. I want kids to know that its not funny to pick on someone for any reason. For the individual must overcome their monster enough in life, they don't need to define it or take it from anyone else.
I am a writer and I have dyslexia. I love chemistry but I mix up numbers....I am not gonna let labels or small imperfections in my brain stop me from engrossing myself into both the writing and science communities. It's like everything else in my life...I just gotta try harder.
Blessings and Well Wishes
By my sophomore year of high school however, I was reading above many of my classmates. I chose to read classics like The Great Gatsby and fantasy books such as Wicked. I soon realized that my spelling impairment helped me speed read and one summer I went through about 20 books. I still love to read and don't do it as often as I should because I am focusing on trying to get into school but as I went off to college I soon also understood why the same year I got sent to reading assistance that I was also told to go to math. Much like my jumbled up spelling at times; Numbers seemed to flip. I sometimes tell the time backwards (well did when I was little), Working retail I often tell someone there total is less or more than it really is and immediately correct myself. I suffered horrible grades in both chemistry and physics because I was to scared to admit to my professors until it was to late that I was not necessarily approaching the question wrong I was just misplacing my unknowns and known.
I am not trying to say pity me...seriously, I don't want that. I just want people to know that millions of people have some form of this. Our brains just like to play tricks on us and at a young age its often cruel to say a kid is delayed or not at a sub-par. I am rather intelligent when you meet me, lets not talk politics that is not my strong suit but much like my obsession with Bull Riding if you talk about science with me you will realize my intense love for anatomy and the functionality of the human body. I don't hate God or my parents for never recognizing or getting me treated for in fact the teachers who assisted me at a young age did that. They reminded me that I was highly capable like the rest of my class. I didn't go off to be Valedictorian but I did rank in the top 11 percent of my class. I didn't become any kind of cum latte in college because of one freak semester that changed the course of my life.
I want people to know its okay to be bad spellers, just use spell check and dictionaries often. I want kids to know that its not funny to pick on someone for any reason. For the individual must overcome their monster enough in life, they don't need to define it or take it from anyone else.
I am a writer and I have dyslexia. I love chemistry but I mix up numbers....I am not gonna let labels or small imperfections in my brain stop me from engrossing myself into both the writing and science communities. It's like everything else in my life...I just gotta try harder.
Blessings and Well Wishes
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Who is this cowboy? Dustin Lynch
In the opening lines of his song Cowboys and Angels which is getting radio airplay everywhere, Lynch croons out the words "There's a want and there's a need, there's a history between...girls like her and guys like me...cowboys and angels." From his song their is this since of iconic nature of such a relationship. For it takes his rugged, dangerous ways to make her sweet natured life complete. In all of Lynch's song listeners can be thrown into musical stories narrated by the sweet sultry voice of the Tullahoma, Tennessee cowboy.
Die hard fans of Dustin have a lot to thank him for. For the songwriter he transposes people back down memory lane. In his song Hurricane, Lynch writes about those kind of girls that leave a man wanting more, but as she steals their breathe away they know the warning that is heeded in her kiss is soon to be a subtle consequence of a heartbreak. Although, Lynch also writes song that take you back to your first love, like in his song way back when.
His lyrics are quite simplistic, but in a world were everyone is trying to find a way to slow down they are perfect cinemographical pieces and they are not even cinema scores. The piercing blue eyes of Lynch along with his genuine smile has made woman around the states wanting more.
While Lynch is busy I had little time to hear how things such as social media has affected him or how being picked exclusively by GAC made him feel but I am sure that he is honored to be picked by GAC to show his exclusive Tuesday webisodes called life on the DL. I also know that he has thousands of loyal twitter followers and can only imagine that the more people find his music the bigger his smile gets.
If you have not heard any of Lynch's songs I would challenge you to do so. For Lynch is among the next generation of artist that will revert country music back to its simple roots. Dustin Lynch is one to watch for...for he can not only make the ladies swoon but he is a man's man.
I challenge you to get lost in his lyrics and after listening to his song's I promise you they will automatically play repeat when you least expect it.
Blessings and Well Wishes to all...and Keep the music thumping and playing always
Die hard fans of Dustin have a lot to thank him for. For the songwriter he transposes people back down memory lane. In his song Hurricane, Lynch writes about those kind of girls that leave a man wanting more, but as she steals their breathe away they know the warning that is heeded in her kiss is soon to be a subtle consequence of a heartbreak. Although, Lynch also writes song that take you back to your first love, like in his song way back when.
His lyrics are quite simplistic, but in a world were everyone is trying to find a way to slow down they are perfect cinemographical pieces and they are not even cinema scores. The piercing blue eyes of Lynch along with his genuine smile has made woman around the states wanting more.
While Lynch is busy I had little time to hear how things such as social media has affected him or how being picked exclusively by GAC made him feel but I am sure that he is honored to be picked by GAC to show his exclusive Tuesday webisodes called life on the DL. I also know that he has thousands of loyal twitter followers and can only imagine that the more people find his music the bigger his smile gets.
If you have not heard any of Lynch's songs I would challenge you to do so. For Lynch is among the next generation of artist that will revert country music back to its simple roots. Dustin Lynch is one to watch for...for he can not only make the ladies swoon but he is a man's man.
I challenge you to get lost in his lyrics and after listening to his song's I promise you they will automatically play repeat when you least expect it.
Blessings and Well Wishes to all...and Keep the music thumping and playing always
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Speak your mind
I know in the past it was frowned upon for a woman to have her own thoughts, dreams, and ambitions...but that was so 1920s. We have come on the times where a Woman while she may not get elected can be on a ballet to run for president. A woman can be secratary of homeland security. Sure, there are still glass ceilings for woman in the work place but one thing and one reason I have fallen in love with the Western Lifestyle is because every woman speaks her mind.
A cowgirl is taught to ride high in the saddle, always holding her head high, she is taught to shoot straight, how to cook a mean meal for millions, and how to be one of the boys while at work but a woman in the bedroom. She can be one of the sweetest girls you ever meet but if you cross her she can be more dangerous than a rattlesnake.
I grew up so scared to show the world who I was. In high school I wore a mask and some people don't believe it but while I chose to live my life out loud that is not how I was living in the four walls of that building. I then got cheated on and felt like shit. Like I was worthless.
I got to college and the first chant that taught us was called "All My Life...." there is a line that says Go Go Get em Get em and when you got em say Hoo Ha Hoo Ha....In four years of college among learning about Psychology and Biology I learned quite the art of trash talk and I am okay with that. Our rivals know that when we walk in...they should be afaird. Fear the Paw is a common saying around the campus and in life I still want people to FEAR MY PAW.
When I walk into the room with my boots on I am not doing it to declare something. I am doing it because its who I am. I am a fiesty red-head that after years of hiding behind what she thought she should be doing is finally living for her. I climb in the saddle and you sure as hell am not gonna get me off of it easily.
I made a comment about Carrie Underwood today. I dont support her...never really have. I found out last year that she donated a large sum of money to take rodeo down....and so my comment to some may had been uncalled for...but I was not spreading lies or bull shit about her. I dont support her I wasnt telling the world not to. I may have been just one voice that said something but I know countless other RODEO riders and Fans who CANT STAND HER.
To the rest of the world Rodeo is just some extreme sport. To the Western World it is a tradition. As American as Apple Pie ala mode. The cowboys and cowgirls who risk their pocket books to make a living are heros in their own right. To a fan like me, they are people I wish I could be. So, yes, I voice my opposition to Rodeo being taken away because one of my very good friends is a Rodeo Cowboy and his Fiance is a stock contractor. It breaks my heart to thank that while I am fighting to get into school for what I love that some people would try to take his livelihood away. They DONT KNOW HIM. THEY HAVENT SEEN HIM DEFY DEATH TO RIDE AGAIN.
My soul sista dreams of being a bucking horse owner. Its a dream I am so proud of for her. I know she is just learning but she is doing her best to learn everything. She is the Future. She started a Rodeo chat and low and behold on thursday nights we get to unite all the way from the US, to Canada, To Brazil, To Aussieland, To Wales, To England....and we talk about Rodeo. How can so many people love it and yet the world sees it as dumb, useless, harming.
Even if I didnt make you think twice about your stance on the legacy of the rodeo cowboy or cowgirl I hope you take from this blog to never rest on things that you believe in. If you are passionate for something...Speak your mind. Just like today, twitter and facebook was a hot topic for the group Invisible Children. A group of three guys trying to stop a horrible LRA rebel by the name of Joesph Kony, who abducts kids and turns the boys into soliders and the girls into sex slaves and demostistic partners. FIND YOUR PASSION, SPEAK YOUR MIND
Blessings and Well Wishes to All
A cowgirl is taught to ride high in the saddle, always holding her head high, she is taught to shoot straight, how to cook a mean meal for millions, and how to be one of the boys while at work but a woman in the bedroom. She can be one of the sweetest girls you ever meet but if you cross her she can be more dangerous than a rattlesnake.
I grew up so scared to show the world who I was. In high school I wore a mask and some people don't believe it but while I chose to live my life out loud that is not how I was living in the four walls of that building. I then got cheated on and felt like shit. Like I was worthless.
I got to college and the first chant that taught us was called "All My Life...." there is a line that says Go Go Get em Get em and when you got em say Hoo Ha Hoo Ha....In four years of college among learning about Psychology and Biology I learned quite the art of trash talk and I am okay with that. Our rivals know that when we walk in...they should be afaird. Fear the Paw is a common saying around the campus and in life I still want people to FEAR MY PAW.
When I walk into the room with my boots on I am not doing it to declare something. I am doing it because its who I am. I am a fiesty red-head that after years of hiding behind what she thought she should be doing is finally living for her. I climb in the saddle and you sure as hell am not gonna get me off of it easily.
I made a comment about Carrie Underwood today. I dont support her...never really have. I found out last year that she donated a large sum of money to take rodeo down....and so my comment to some may had been uncalled for...but I was not spreading lies or bull shit about her. I dont support her I wasnt telling the world not to. I may have been just one voice that said something but I know countless other RODEO riders and Fans who CANT STAND HER.
To the rest of the world Rodeo is just some extreme sport. To the Western World it is a tradition. As American as Apple Pie ala mode. The cowboys and cowgirls who risk their pocket books to make a living are heros in their own right. To a fan like me, they are people I wish I could be. So, yes, I voice my opposition to Rodeo being taken away because one of my very good friends is a Rodeo Cowboy and his Fiance is a stock contractor. It breaks my heart to thank that while I am fighting to get into school for what I love that some people would try to take his livelihood away. They DONT KNOW HIM. THEY HAVENT SEEN HIM DEFY DEATH TO RIDE AGAIN.
My soul sista dreams of being a bucking horse owner. Its a dream I am so proud of for her. I know she is just learning but she is doing her best to learn everything. She is the Future. She started a Rodeo chat and low and behold on thursday nights we get to unite all the way from the US, to Canada, To Brazil, To Aussieland, To Wales, To England....and we talk about Rodeo. How can so many people love it and yet the world sees it as dumb, useless, harming.
Even if I didnt make you think twice about your stance on the legacy of the rodeo cowboy or cowgirl I hope you take from this blog to never rest on things that you believe in. If you are passionate for something...Speak your mind. Just like today, twitter and facebook was a hot topic for the group Invisible Children. A group of three guys trying to stop a horrible LRA rebel by the name of Joesph Kony, who abducts kids and turns the boys into soliders and the girls into sex slaves and demostistic partners. FIND YOUR PASSION, SPEAK YOUR MIND
Blessings and Well Wishes to All
Monday, March 5, 2012
Dynamic Duo- Welcome to Crawford and James County
I am pleased to write this blog about two Northwestern guys: Josh James and Aaron Crawford who combine to become country music's newest Dynamic Duo Crawford &James. I was lucky enough to get plenty of questions answered by one half of the duo Josh James and among the laughter got more insight into the music and the magic that makes Crawford & James a duo to watch out for. I asked them to define to me who they think their sound most commonly relates to, James told me that is a question they get asked a lot and love to find themselves drifting between the borders of country music and classic Americana. However, he says that the duo is highly influenced from the great Tom Petty and Marshal Tucker, although his hopes is they can create something new and fresh but still retain a traditional sound. Which is exactly what they do. They are refreshing but have moments in songs like Endless summer that scream tradition.
I was curious on why they would pursue a career as a duo instead of individually and the answer not only made sense but was truly insightful. They like options and with two members the options become twice as much as if they were to go it alone. Plus, with the retirement of Brooks & Dunn there was a void in the Male Duo department. I admire them greatly for coming together and finding their niche in the world of music.
Much like other new artist instead of diving directly into the CD process they released an introductory EP. This EP was to be almost like a preface to what was to come for the boys and much to their surprise they never intended it to reach so many peoples hands but are so blessed it has. James said "picking songs for the CD, "fell into place". That is music for you. It can magically flow together and as a fan I am stoked to hear the tunes that are forthcoming from this duo.
I also admitted my love affair to Josh James about one of the songs on their EP called Freedom like this. For a gypsy soul like me the line "You take the Map and I'll take the wheel" symbolically allocates how I one day hope my relationship will go when I find the right guy for me. James told me that songwriter Jedd Hughes wrote the piece and is notable for writing songs for Keith Urban. Much like the symbolism I saw in the lyrics James said "they love the song because it takes you somewhere." Much like the country music of old the story still resonates. Each listener can feel swept away to wherever they want to go. Need it be a ride down a beach front road or getting lost down the countless back roads. This song beautifully portrays the softer side of the duo.
I asked a pretty stiff question to them. Asking the duo if they think that their music could help country music throw back to its more traditional roots (i.e. using my favorite instrument the steel guitar)...James said they never thought about their music in such a way but like me feels like country music isn't country without a few key instruments. James believes a well played steel, with a great fiddle and a Dobro makes country music what it is.
Although, I wanted to focus on the groups sound I also wanted to dive into who they are as individuals. For often times for listeners of music a commonality with an artist brings them to listen to them more often (i.e. David Nail and Sarah Evans are both from Missouri like myself, I find a lot of there music I can relate to and are proud of what they do musically). James proceeded to outline that they are two normal guys. Aaron Crawford being the methodical one since he went to school and majored in music. James makes him do all the hard stuff but prior to joining the duo he was in several bands and bar tended on the side. Crawford loves to play fantasy football, work out, drink diet rock star (i didn't even know they made that), and attend church every Sunday.
When describing himself, James said he was born the son of a preacher and his mother is a nurse. He is from southern Oregon and started playing music in his dad's church at the age of 12. He says that his wife is to good for him and that they raise horses( made this horse lovers heart smile). That is actually how he met Mrs. James. They have lots of pets and he says that unlike Aaron's healthy lifestyle he lives an unhealthy one, refusing to give up cheese and red meat on account that he would have a seizure if they made him.
Being in the music biz artist often have one of two people they dream to collaborate with. Since I only contact with James he answered that George Strait would be his choice and not sure if Aaron would agree but he loves the King of country music because of his mastery of simple songs. I would totally love to see a Strait/ Crawford & James collaboration myself.
I also asked them if they had advice for people pursuing music (I have a cousin and thought maybe I could help her) but James told me they were trying to figure that out still but had a laundry list of must that I don't think I can remember but what I can remember is "write songs...if you don't know how...learn".
As for who they love to cover in shows it rattles down to about anyone from doing "Free Falling" from Tom Petty but adding some country flair. All the way to to the original outlaw of male duos Brooks & Dunn with " you're gonna miss me" all the way to Waylon and Marshal Tucker.
To wrap it up you can find their music in a variety of outlets from Itunes to soon they will be on the fastest growing outlet for music Spotify. James said he was surprised how social media has surged to help musicians and they have now taken to being real serious about using the outlets (so glad they are I like keeping up with them) However, if James was writing this I am sure he would end this the same way I am going to.
When you listen to Crawford and James or go and see them in concert You get what you see. They are two genuine guys who love music. Who are blazing their own path and are twisting country and Americana together to create a fusion that is so beautifully blooming to become the unique sound of the next great country male duo: Crawford and James! So, check them out. You'll like what you hear and be begging for more of the simple songs that send you time traveling. Make them a play list on your own special life soundtrack. You will love the freshness they bring and of course the adventures that they transpose into their lyrics.
I was curious on why they would pursue a career as a duo instead of individually and the answer not only made sense but was truly insightful. They like options and with two members the options become twice as much as if they were to go it alone. Plus, with the retirement of Brooks & Dunn there was a void in the Male Duo department. I admire them greatly for coming together and finding their niche in the world of music.
Much like other new artist instead of diving directly into the CD process they released an introductory EP. This EP was to be almost like a preface to what was to come for the boys and much to their surprise they never intended it to reach so many peoples hands but are so blessed it has. James said "picking songs for the CD, "fell into place". That is music for you. It can magically flow together and as a fan I am stoked to hear the tunes that are forthcoming from this duo.
I also admitted my love affair to Josh James about one of the songs on their EP called Freedom like this. For a gypsy soul like me the line "You take the Map and I'll take the wheel" symbolically allocates how I one day hope my relationship will go when I find the right guy for me. James told me that songwriter Jedd Hughes wrote the piece and is notable for writing songs for Keith Urban. Much like the symbolism I saw in the lyrics James said "they love the song because it takes you somewhere." Much like the country music of old the story still resonates. Each listener can feel swept away to wherever they want to go. Need it be a ride down a beach front road or getting lost down the countless back roads. This song beautifully portrays the softer side of the duo.
I asked a pretty stiff question to them. Asking the duo if they think that their music could help country music throw back to its more traditional roots (i.e. using my favorite instrument the steel guitar)...James said they never thought about their music in such a way but like me feels like country music isn't country without a few key instruments. James believes a well played steel, with a great fiddle and a Dobro makes country music what it is.
Although, I wanted to focus on the groups sound I also wanted to dive into who they are as individuals. For often times for listeners of music a commonality with an artist brings them to listen to them more often (i.e. David Nail and Sarah Evans are both from Missouri like myself, I find a lot of there music I can relate to and are proud of what they do musically). James proceeded to outline that they are two normal guys. Aaron Crawford being the methodical one since he went to school and majored in music. James makes him do all the hard stuff but prior to joining the duo he was in several bands and bar tended on the side. Crawford loves to play fantasy football, work out, drink diet rock star (i didn't even know they made that), and attend church every Sunday.
When describing himself, James said he was born the son of a preacher and his mother is a nurse. He is from southern Oregon and started playing music in his dad's church at the age of 12. He says that his wife is to good for him and that they raise horses( made this horse lovers heart smile). That is actually how he met Mrs. James. They have lots of pets and he says that unlike Aaron's healthy lifestyle he lives an unhealthy one, refusing to give up cheese and red meat on account that he would have a seizure if they made him.
Being in the music biz artist often have one of two people they dream to collaborate with. Since I only contact with James he answered that George Strait would be his choice and not sure if Aaron would agree but he loves the King of country music because of his mastery of simple songs. I would totally love to see a Strait/ Crawford & James collaboration myself.
I also asked them if they had advice for people pursuing music (I have a cousin and thought maybe I could help her) but James told me they were trying to figure that out still but had a laundry list of must that I don't think I can remember but what I can remember is "write songs...if you don't know how...learn".
As for who they love to cover in shows it rattles down to about anyone from doing "Free Falling" from Tom Petty but adding some country flair. All the way to to the original outlaw of male duos Brooks & Dunn with " you're gonna miss me" all the way to Waylon and Marshal Tucker.
To wrap it up you can find their music in a variety of outlets from Itunes to soon they will be on the fastest growing outlet for music Spotify. James said he was surprised how social media has surged to help musicians and they have now taken to being real serious about using the outlets (so glad they are I like keeping up with them) However, if James was writing this I am sure he would end this the same way I am going to.
When you listen to Crawford and James or go and see them in concert You get what you see. They are two genuine guys who love music. Who are blazing their own path and are twisting country and Americana together to create a fusion that is so beautifully blooming to become the unique sound of the next great country male duo: Crawford and James! So, check them out. You'll like what you hear and be begging for more of the simple songs that send you time traveling. Make them a play list on your own special life soundtrack. You will love the freshness they bring and of course the adventures that they transpose into their lyrics.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Mighty Midwest's finest
People traditionally think cowboys reside in Texas, Montana, or Wyoming. Although, as rodeo fans know cowboys are born and breed most often anywhere. One such cowboy is Justin Koon. Koon resides in the natural state of Arkansas and is part of the elite bull riders from the Midwest. Koon has started to shine here of late in the Built Ford Tough Series, however, Koon began riding in the PBR BFTS in 2006 with his first event being in Billings, Montana...were he credits only being awarded with a separated shoulder.
Justin is no stranger to injuries though for a devastating blow almost cost Koon's his life. In the summer of 1999 Koon collided head first with a bull fracturing his skull. Doctors told Koon's parents to prepare for the worst...Miraculous Koon's survived and a long road of recovery was underway.
As fans know though, nothing will knock a cowboy down. Riding is always in his blood. So in 2004 Justin won big at an amateur circuit finals and went on to buy his Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association Permit.
Since then Justin has traveled to countless rodeos and recently has become quite the buzz amongst the elite bull riders of the PBR. Koon considers his success a blessing and only hopes to see it continue on. Justin said in an interview with Rodeo Chat that he would love to go against Asteroid. A bull slated for a Bull of the Year nomination and possible win. He also said he would like to face Bushwacker which is the reigning Bull of the Year in the PBR.
This weekend down in Arlington, Koon and the rest of the cowboys will be placed in a bracket format against each other and their bulls. This creates a ride to stay alive attitude. For if a cowboy gets passed his first bull, he gets another, and another until it two cowboys, two bulls, and only one will walk away the PBR Iron Cowboy. With as on fire as Koon is he could easily be one of the final contenders. Although, Rookie Chase Outlaw might still have a small bit of fire underneath him from his win last weekend.
What Justin needs to remember is that in each elimination it is just him and the bull. His first match up is against Rocky Mountain Elk Foundations Gunpowder and Lead. According to PBR.com this bovine athlete comes from Reigning stock contractor of the year Jeff Robinson and is consider highly rideable with 100 percent of the cowboys climbing on his back making the 8 second buzzer. The average score given to him is 44.50 which means Justin could score rather good against him.
So, from all the fans of Rodeo Chat we wish Justin Koon's the best of Luck this weekend at Iron Cowboy 3. We know you can do it JUSTIN!
Justin is no stranger to injuries though for a devastating blow almost cost Koon's his life. In the summer of 1999 Koon collided head first with a bull fracturing his skull. Doctors told Koon's parents to prepare for the worst...Miraculous Koon's survived and a long road of recovery was underway.
As fans know though, nothing will knock a cowboy down. Riding is always in his blood. So in 2004 Justin won big at an amateur circuit finals and went on to buy his Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association Permit.
Since then Justin has traveled to countless rodeos and recently has become quite the buzz amongst the elite bull riders of the PBR. Koon considers his success a blessing and only hopes to see it continue on. Justin said in an interview with Rodeo Chat that he would love to go against Asteroid. A bull slated for a Bull of the Year nomination and possible win. He also said he would like to face Bushwacker which is the reigning Bull of the Year in the PBR.
This weekend down in Arlington, Koon and the rest of the cowboys will be placed in a bracket format against each other and their bulls. This creates a ride to stay alive attitude. For if a cowboy gets passed his first bull, he gets another, and another until it two cowboys, two bulls, and only one will walk away the PBR Iron Cowboy. With as on fire as Koon is he could easily be one of the final contenders. Although, Rookie Chase Outlaw might still have a small bit of fire underneath him from his win last weekend.
What Justin needs to remember is that in each elimination it is just him and the bull. His first match up is against Rocky Mountain Elk Foundations Gunpowder and Lead. According to PBR.com this bovine athlete comes from Reigning stock contractor of the year Jeff Robinson and is consider highly rideable with 100 percent of the cowboys climbing on his back making the 8 second buzzer. The average score given to him is 44.50 which means Justin could score rather good against him.
So, from all the fans of Rodeo Chat we wish Justin Koon's the best of Luck this weekend at Iron Cowboy 3. We know you can do it JUSTIN!
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