Dear Grandpa - FREE Single Release

Dear Grandpa was one of the most difficult songs I have ever written.  The emotion and memories and all that.  This was done shortly after the death of my last remaining grandfather.  He had been ill for a long time but it was still a shock to get the news, as it always is.

On my mother’s side, my grandfather was someone I admired greatly growing up.  He knew about everything, built things, played drums (although I could never get him to play my kit), made me parts for my own drums when I had toy kits in the beginning and was someone I always wanted to be around.  On my father’s side, my grandfather was at work a lot of the time, where he preferred to be.  I spent very little time with him but he was a kind man with a loving heart.  We would go on day trips on the weekends sometimes but never an overnight.  In early years, he smoked cigars and I can still remember the smell.  They did not create the best aroma but there is a comfort in that memory just the same.

The rest of the story I will let the song tell.

On location filming Cult Cartel with MoviesMakingADifference (Check them out  they do truly fantastic things that affect people's lives in an amazing way!), I looked up between takes and saw these two clouds that were a perfect representation of the story.  So close but so far.  The same but very different.  I immediately connected them with the song and snapped a quick picture on my phone.  I had been planning on releasing the song already so this was just perfect.

Originally, the idea for the song was going to be licensing Return to Innocence by Enigma and putting the beat and chanting from the song as the background to me rapping  these letters to my grandfathers ala Eminem’s song Stan.  Not having the resources for that, I composed the music after playing around with some cello sounds.  I then did a demo version where I rapped but then changed it to a straight read.

I hope you enjoy it.  It may be an emotional connection for you or it may not.  Relationships are unique to each person.  Some people are raised by their grandparents and others never even meet them.  Both were very special to me in their own ways.

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Click to listen or download for free: Dear Grandpa

Jabbawockeez: Jreamz – Journey Within

Tonight, for the first time, I attended Jabbawockeez at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, NV.  I had walked by the theater dozens of times and never thought much of it.  From what little I knew, it was a hip-hop dance show, neither of which held any interest for me.   Much like opera, I have the greatest respect for those who work hard and do it well, but I wasn’t excited to experience it.  Less than ten minutes in, I was so glad I went.

The setting is intimate.  Certainly comfortable seating (I was treated to the front row, where the long bench was comfortable and my ticket also came with a gift, free drink and popcorn (always remember to tip your bartender and wait staff)).  Even being nearly directly in front of the stage left speakers, the sound was not overbearing.  In all fairness, I did wear my Eargasm Ear Plugs, as I do in any venue.  Hip-hop, by nature, can be bass heavy and driving with percussion so I always suggest bringing ear plugs.

I don’t want to give away too much about the show because it really is simply an amazing experience with a fantastic message.  The story line is generally easy to follow.  It does get slightly abstract at points but always comes back quickly.  That is just the nature of the art but it is tastefully done with some fascinating dance moves and simple but powerful costuming.  The music, lights, and effects do not disappoint in any way; very tasteful and compliment the show well.  There are many musical favorites and even the sound of Mario grabbing coins in the basement.

Being the private, sheltered individual that I am, there is one thing I didn’t like.  I realize I may be in the minority on that so I will preface my statement with that going in.  There is some crowd participation involved.  Clapping, stand up (aside from the standing ovation) and two people are even brought to the stage.  My take on this is that I prefer to be fairly anonymous at an event.  I like to observe and enjoy and though this is common practice is some of the major shows, I prefer concert style, where I know I can go in, watch in my own way (which usually just tapping my foot while I watch and listen, taking it all in).  Again, I will say, that is just me.  There are plenty of people that jumped up immediately and I thought one girl might even start twerking.

Overall, I wish I had taken advantage and seen this show much sooner.  If you like talented dancers, a well put together evening and surprises around every corner, go see this show!

https://www.mgmgrand.com/en/entertainment/jabbawockeez.html

As of this writing, the show performs Thursday through Monday but that is always subject to change.  Enjoy!