Try it.

I know no one follows this blog but here's an idea that I'm trying to help create more concrete scat lines as well as melodies for songs. A few days ago I brought pocket sizes music manuscript book. In it I've started writing down little scat lines that I randomly sing throughout the day. So far its been really affective seeing that I can never remember them even after I write them down. Its good practice for transcribing, writing, and a good scat exercise, even if its a scat line for an existing song. Consistency with scat is important. It allows for the singer to explore more with a song rather that winging it at a show. PLAN OUT YOUR SCAT SOLOS. You'll be amazed at what the chord progressions are offering you. This little book will help try it with me and see how it help, and don't worry if you don't have perfect pitch, write everything in C major/ A minor or whatever mode you're scatting in. You can always go back later and find a better key for it. Enjoy!

Thoughts on the Artist

I know I haven't posted in a while. Doesn't really matter because no on reads this. I know I created this blog to express my musical idea, and lately I've been doing a lot of listening, practicing, studying, and a little composing. I've also been being busy experiencing life, and doing a little bit of writing and reading to help me find myself, as any artist should. In my journey, which isn't close to being done yet, I've learned a lot about the nature of artist, thanks to a friend of mine. Artist are creators, demi-gods, if you will, off creating our own universes. Into the hearts of all things artistic we breathe life. Its a fantastic thing. But real art isn't perfected in the practice rooms, or the confines of walls with pen and paper, canvas and brushes, needles and threads, REAL art, and what I like to call PERFECT ART is inspired by life and the experience of it. I'm not saying don't set aside time for your craft. What I am saying is take time to recognize the universe around you that exist independent of you. It excites, it inspires and it demands our time and deserves our respect, and when you see that it becomes easier to mold your own universe, and let others in on it.

The Singer and the Lyrics

For me the most important task of a singer, is not only the knowing the melody, but understanding the lyric and phrasing of a piece. By understanding I mean an intricate relationship where the the melody and ad lib aid the lyrics rather than destroy them. I find that when I speak the poetry that is the lyric it becomes a lot easier to find the natural line, the rise and fall of a piece. It seems to me that singers in general have lost touch with out goal to preform poetry and tell stories through music. In a community where riffs and runs are more over done. I ask that you try not to forget the lyrics. When ever I sing I also like to ask myself what emotions were being felt by the composer or lyricist when they wrote it. that brings me to this video of Nina Simone who ask that very question. A question that we all as not just singers but artist and people should ask ourselves when performing or actively listening to or observing art. hope you enjoy the clip.

My Thoughts My Music

This is the first time I've ever blogged. I hope you find it edifying and enjoyable. I really want to use this blog to share my music and thoughts on music especially for singers. Particularly jazz singers. Here is a place to share thoughts, things I've learned. Also to share music get feed back and record my journey with music. I hope you come back to read and listen. My goal is to record and post a song every week.