Last week I had the opportunity to hang out with Barbara Cloyd of the Bluebird Cafe at a small gathering she calls "The Pitch to Publishers" Group. I was able to show Barbara some of the new songs that I've been working on and some old "rewrites" that she'd heard before with some changes and upgrades. Barbara is SO GOOD at analyzing a song for the fundamental elements of what makes it "GOOD." There needs to be a hook, it needs to grab your attention, it needs to move your emotions but at the same time it needs to be simple and efficient in the "economy of words."
I also had a chance to visit the Gospel Music Association and the BRAND NEW New Museum of Christian and Gospel Music near Broadway downtown. I host a Christian TV show called "The JESUS TAXI Show" on the CTN network and we'll be hosting a free coffee day at the museum coffeehouse THIS FALL. I love hanging out with songwriters, musicians and worship leaders. I'm always gaining new insight and making new friends.
I also had a chance to visit the Grand Ole Opry and to visit the Madame Tussaud's Wax Museum at Opry Mills Mall. Check out the picture I got with "George Straight!" No matter where you are on your songwriting and musical journey, take time for the adventure. Make new friends and always be writing NEW SONGS! It's through that regular practice of telling new stories and finding new melodies that the world is a richer place because of YOUR MUSIC!
