The Shout Out award this week goes to...
Jennifer Wagner, and Sherry Pasquarello.
These are 2 of my Blogging buddies, and our friendship has taken me a step further in life.
It's really great when you meet people and you all click as humans. By that I mean that it's nice when you immediately feel that you can be yourself and know that they will be themselves, all without pretense.
I've never actually met Sherry, but we communicate with each other very regularly now...I met her by responding to her on her blog "After The Bridge," I read her wonderful poetry and found that I had to respond because it moved me so much.She graciously responded back, and now here we are, almost a year later and through her words I find much comfort...like a warm bath.
Jennifer and I met virtually the same way, only she came to realize that we live in the same town.She came to my library which she uses regularly, and one day just up and introduced herself and told me how much she enjoyed reading my blog...now that is definitely the way to start a friendship with me,direct and to the point.
I feel blessed to have her as a friend, she too is a comforting soul, her very presence makes me feel at ease.
Both of these ladies are the type of people that I want to surround myself with at all times.
If you get a notion, drop by and sit "On The Porchswing," Jennifer's wonderful blog and be enthralled by the soul of a great woman.
In all, as the saying goes, keep your friends close (I'm not adding the next part, because it doesn't apply here...), well my wish is for our friendship to last until eternity.
Both of their blogs can be accessed on the right...
Friday, March 31, 2006
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Lifting Up Spirits
So far my vacation has been wonderful, restful, and enlightening, but tonight I went to the Empty Glass and the bar was raised, it was truly spiritual.
On the stage was Spurgie Hankins and friends, and believe me it was like church (...and I'm not even Christian).Anticipation was very high as people in the audience waited for good while for the show to start, but baby when it did that place came to life in a big way.I've never seen so many people spinning around in Dervish like trances, the whole floor just swayed with the pulsations similar to my heart beat.
The one thing that I absolutely adore about playing with Spurgie's band is that I feel so free, he just lets you figure it out for yourself, which is really good for me sometimes, although admittedly, I love the way Michael Lipton pushes me as well in the Carpenter Ants. Either way, I'm in Heaven playing music with these people, it's especially challenging and fun at the same time.
Spurgie has a way with music that is truly unique, he writes from the view of the 3rd person, but with a point of view of the person actually going through the things he talks about (I know how weird that sounds...). In other words, he has the ability to leave himself out of a situation. It's almost as if he were sitting in a window watching a situation transpire, then giving a statement about it from his vantage point (see what I mean ?).
It makes for some very interesting music, and I love it because it really makes you think hard trying to interpret it when you accompany him.
I also want to mention that his band is really great, they've all figured it out as a group and are taking their music to the heights. Kevin Kidd (the bassist) is one my best friends and he already knows how much I dig him, but I'm now getting to know their percussionist TJ King as well, and that young man just moves my soul.He, as they say, got it going on...
This week guitarist Eric Dye subbed for John Compton (Spurgie's regular guitar player), and Eric and I played well together not stepping on each other ( which I can tend to do easily), and it was nice to play with him again.
My drummer Jupiter Little sits in with Spurgie on most Tuesday's and he brings a great dimension to them as well. Jupie is it for me as far as drummers. He just makes situations fun ...PERIOD.
I had promised Vickie that I wouldn't be home too late, but I am on vacation, and it is Spurgie, so I thought, I'll forgo my promise this once, and I hung out til 3am. When I awakened the next morning, Vickie took one look at the joy on my face and didn't even fuss...she loves Spurgie too, so she knows what it's like from my standpoint.
In all the gig was wonderful, and I really miss playing with them on a regular basis, but I don't feel too bad, because somewhere in this town, I know that Spurgie and his band are doing what I dream of; using their music and lifting up spirits from the dramas of the world.
By the way, how is your spirit, are you feeling down, or even happy for that matter ? Well, whatever you're feeling...
.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
On the stage was Spurgie Hankins and friends, and believe me it was like church (...and I'm not even Christian).Anticipation was very high as people in the audience waited for good while for the show to start, but baby when it did that place came to life in a big way.I've never seen so many people spinning around in Dervish like trances, the whole floor just swayed with the pulsations similar to my heart beat.
The one thing that I absolutely adore about playing with Spurgie's band is that I feel so free, he just lets you figure it out for yourself, which is really good for me sometimes, although admittedly, I love the way Michael Lipton pushes me as well in the Carpenter Ants. Either way, I'm in Heaven playing music with these people, it's especially challenging and fun at the same time.
Spurgie has a way with music that is truly unique, he writes from the view of the 3rd person, but with a point of view of the person actually going through the things he talks about (I know how weird that sounds...). In other words, he has the ability to leave himself out of a situation. It's almost as if he were sitting in a window watching a situation transpire, then giving a statement about it from his vantage point (see what I mean ?).
It makes for some very interesting music, and I love it because it really makes you think hard trying to interpret it when you accompany him.
I also want to mention that his band is really great, they've all figured it out as a group and are taking their music to the heights. Kevin Kidd (the bassist) is one my best friends and he already knows how much I dig him, but I'm now getting to know their percussionist TJ King as well, and that young man just moves my soul.He, as they say, got it going on...
This week guitarist Eric Dye subbed for John Compton (Spurgie's regular guitar player), and Eric and I played well together not stepping on each other ( which I can tend to do easily), and it was nice to play with him again.
My drummer Jupiter Little sits in with Spurgie on most Tuesday's and he brings a great dimension to them as well. Jupie is it for me as far as drummers. He just makes situations fun ...PERIOD.
I had promised Vickie that I wouldn't be home too late, but I am on vacation, and it is Spurgie, so I thought, I'll forgo my promise this once, and I hung out til 3am. When I awakened the next morning, Vickie took one look at the joy on my face and didn't even fuss...she loves Spurgie too, so she knows what it's like from my standpoint.
In all the gig was wonderful, and I really miss playing with them on a regular basis, but I don't feel too bad, because somewhere in this town, I know that Spurgie and his band are doing what I dream of; using their music and lifting up spirits from the dramas of the world.
By the way, how is your spirit, are you feeling down, or even happy for that matter ? Well, whatever you're feeling...
.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
The Perfect Balance
During the latter part of the 80's while living in New York, I met some characters the likes of which could make for great television drama, or comedy, depending on your point of view...(more about them in a minute).
My reason for writing about this, is that last night I had an experience, that I've actually had before, and I didn't like it then, and it brought back a host of bad memories for me of that period in the 80's.
I got a phone call from my drummer Jupiter Little to come and hang out and play some music with some friends of ours at a spot here in St Albans.
First problem: when I arrived there Jupie wasn't playing the drums, he was playing percussion, and this situation needed a drummer in the worst way.Next, it was so loud that you couldn't hear yourself think, let alone try to think of something credible to play to contribute. I couldn't quite believe that Jupie was subjecting himself to this, but to his credit Jupie is the kind of person normally, that can make a bad situation better, but even he couldn't salvage this.
What these guys needed was an objective lesson in creating a band...perfect balance, rather than abject noisiness. The sad part for me is that I like these guys a whole lot...individually, and would pretty much play music with any of them on their own merits, so it makes what I'm saying hard.
I am in no way an authority on music, but I can say that I've played in all kinds of situations that lead me to feel strongly about knowing what works and what doesn't...but remember, this is my opinion, and it's just that , an opinion. It certainly doesn't mean that I'm right about it.
The problem that I had in New York was that the young lady who was the band leader was a poor choice at best to lead a band or for that matter even play music.The truth was, she was terrible at it, and the fact that she was pretty wealthy didn't help her become any better. She had the money to go out buy the most expensive guitars (and she had alot of them...) stacks of amps and equipment, but no understanding of people enough to front a band.The guys that played with her liked her as a person, but hated playing with her, yet they agreed to it.
At some point when I got in the band we went into a recording studio to make a record. I went later that day because I had to work.When I arrived, the poor guy engineering the thing was at his wits end dealing with her. An example of what went on, was her wanting to add animal sounds to the mix...you read it first !
Needless to say, playing with Rakatan (there, I said it...) was definitely not the experience that was going to put me in the big time, so politely, I bowed out vowing to never let myself get that wrapped up again.
Fast forward to last night, it was that experience all over again, as I searched my soul for a way out, but I left finally and was quite crushed about the way that I was feeling, enough so, that I cried about it for awhile.
If you've seen the recent commercial on TV for this Insurance company,Geico, you'll relate to my next statement.In this commercial we find a group of fellas trying to establish a band, when the lead singer suddenly stops and says...ah this just isn't gonna work out, referring to the young man who just finishes ripping of some blazing solo on the guitar.Next you hear some guitar off in the distance...it's the Zorro-like guitar player,Esteban (you know, from the Home Shopping Network).
Esteban says," many young people long to express themselves with the gift of music." Next the guys are asking if he is going to give Duane ( the flashy guitarist) some lessons, and of course Esteban says "no, but I just saved a bundle on car insurance.
If that were me, I would pulled out a gun and killed myself on the spot.That would have crushed me more.
The reality is, that like it or not the music business is just not for everyone, but the only advice I would truly give to these guys is that if you're really really passionate about being in this game, learn about the perfect balance.
I am in no way better than any of them, but I won't play music just for the hell of it. I take my time on any stage that you see me perform on very seriously. I'd rather play to one drunken person in the audience than to play in front of thousands and sound bad. The perfect balance comes when you get to know your band mates, and you can anticipate their play, when you can read each other and fuel each other.
I'm proud of that fact with the Carpenter Ants, with Spurgie Hankins, Jim Snyder, Stratus, Darrell Ramsey and County Line, and just about every other situation that I've been involved in. I got to know the people in those situations as people, and I've understood my role in each of these circumstances.
To my friends, I will say, don't give up, but be honest about where you are in the scheme of things and redefine yourself as a group, and hire a soundman that knows you and can give the necessary tools to start off with...a good sound.That is part of the perfect balance, grasshopper.
I don't want you to think that I'm kidding about the bad experience with the band in New York.If you do a Google search under "Charles Tuitt + Rakatan," you should be able to find one of the records that I did with them. The Young lady who fronted the band is Melanie Ray. It's really horrible, but it's out there somewhere gathering a whole lot of dust...I hope, I hope, I hope.
She even coerced Noel Redding, and Mick Taylor (of Jimi Hendrix fame) to record with us...yikes !!
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
My reason for writing about this, is that last night I had an experience, that I've actually had before, and I didn't like it then, and it brought back a host of bad memories for me of that period in the 80's.
I got a phone call from my drummer Jupiter Little to come and hang out and play some music with some friends of ours at a spot here in St Albans.
First problem: when I arrived there Jupie wasn't playing the drums, he was playing percussion, and this situation needed a drummer in the worst way.Next, it was so loud that you couldn't hear yourself think, let alone try to think of something credible to play to contribute. I couldn't quite believe that Jupie was subjecting himself to this, but to his credit Jupie is the kind of person normally, that can make a bad situation better, but even he couldn't salvage this.
What these guys needed was an objective lesson in creating a band...perfect balance, rather than abject noisiness. The sad part for me is that I like these guys a whole lot...individually, and would pretty much play music with any of them on their own merits, so it makes what I'm saying hard.
I am in no way an authority on music, but I can say that I've played in all kinds of situations that lead me to feel strongly about knowing what works and what doesn't...but remember, this is my opinion, and it's just that , an opinion. It certainly doesn't mean that I'm right about it.
The problem that I had in New York was that the young lady who was the band leader was a poor choice at best to lead a band or for that matter even play music.The truth was, she was terrible at it, and the fact that she was pretty wealthy didn't help her become any better. She had the money to go out buy the most expensive guitars (and she had alot of them...) stacks of amps and equipment, but no understanding of people enough to front a band.The guys that played with her liked her as a person, but hated playing with her, yet they agreed to it.
At some point when I got in the band we went into a recording studio to make a record. I went later that day because I had to work.When I arrived, the poor guy engineering the thing was at his wits end dealing with her. An example of what went on, was her wanting to add animal sounds to the mix...you read it first !
Needless to say, playing with Rakatan (there, I said it...) was definitely not the experience that was going to put me in the big time, so politely, I bowed out vowing to never let myself get that wrapped up again.
Fast forward to last night, it was that experience all over again, as I searched my soul for a way out, but I left finally and was quite crushed about the way that I was feeling, enough so, that I cried about it for awhile.
If you've seen the recent commercial on TV for this Insurance company,Geico, you'll relate to my next statement.In this commercial we find a group of fellas trying to establish a band, when the lead singer suddenly stops and says...ah this just isn't gonna work out, referring to the young man who just finishes ripping of some blazing solo on the guitar.Next you hear some guitar off in the distance...it's the Zorro-like guitar player,Esteban (you know, from the Home Shopping Network).
Esteban says," many young people long to express themselves with the gift of music." Next the guys are asking if he is going to give Duane ( the flashy guitarist) some lessons, and of course Esteban says "no, but I just saved a bundle on car insurance.
If that were me, I would pulled out a gun and killed myself on the spot.That would have crushed me more.
The reality is, that like it or not the music business is just not for everyone, but the only advice I would truly give to these guys is that if you're really really passionate about being in this game, learn about the perfect balance.
I am in no way better than any of them, but I won't play music just for the hell of it. I take my time on any stage that you see me perform on very seriously. I'd rather play to one drunken person in the audience than to play in front of thousands and sound bad. The perfect balance comes when you get to know your band mates, and you can anticipate their play, when you can read each other and fuel each other.
I'm proud of that fact with the Carpenter Ants, with Spurgie Hankins, Jim Snyder, Stratus, Darrell Ramsey and County Line, and just about every other situation that I've been involved in. I got to know the people in those situations as people, and I've understood my role in each of these circumstances.
To my friends, I will say, don't give up, but be honest about where you are in the scheme of things and redefine yourself as a group, and hire a soundman that knows you and can give the necessary tools to start off with...a good sound.That is part of the perfect balance, grasshopper.
I don't want you to think that I'm kidding about the bad experience with the band in New York.If you do a Google search under "Charles Tuitt + Rakatan," you should be able to find one of the records that I did with them. The Young lady who fronted the band is Melanie Ray. It's really horrible, but it's out there somewhere gathering a whole lot of dust...I hope, I hope, I hope.
She even coerced Noel Redding, and Mick Taylor (of Jimi Hendrix fame) to record with us...yikes !!
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Friday, March 24, 2006
Shout Out 3-24-06
This week the Shout Out award goes to my best friend on the face of the Earth. Charisse Campbell.
If you're reading my blog, and enjoying it or hating it, either way the person that is in part respnsible for me telling my story is Charisse.
I had known her since the 7th grade, and I have no idea why she chose me as her buddy, but she did and my life is better for it.
Did you ever have someone that no matter what they stuck by you.Through thick or thin, good times, the hardest of times Charisse was my biggest and best cheerleader. Every situation with girlfriends, with hurts, disappointments, she made her presence in my life felt.
We never were inclined toward each other, but I loved her like no one else.The only person who shares this many facets of my life, is the woman that I'm married to, but when Charisse was alive she knew pretty much everything about me...A to Z.
One of the worst years of my life came in 1997, when my Mother died. Charisse and Vickie got me through it.
Vickie gave me strength, and Charisse gave me humor, 2 valuable gifts.
The next year, while I was away at a gig,Charisse died of a heart attack, and I don't know who cried more, me or Vickie. I truly don't know if I've ever gotten over losing her.
Right now though, I feel her closeness to me because I followed her advice (for once) and started writing about my life in music...and it's because of her.
Charisse would have been 53 today, and her life still matters to me, so I want to say that I miss you more than you'll ever know, but thank you for looking out for me still, from Heaven.
I will always love you...
If you're reading my blog, and enjoying it or hating it, either way the person that is in part respnsible for me telling my story is Charisse.
I had known her since the 7th grade, and I have no idea why she chose me as her buddy, but she did and my life is better for it.
Did you ever have someone that no matter what they stuck by you.Through thick or thin, good times, the hardest of times Charisse was my biggest and best cheerleader. Every situation with girlfriends, with hurts, disappointments, she made her presence in my life felt.
We never were inclined toward each other, but I loved her like no one else.The only person who shares this many facets of my life, is the woman that I'm married to, but when Charisse was alive she knew pretty much everything about me...A to Z.
One of the worst years of my life came in 1997, when my Mother died. Charisse and Vickie got me through it.
Vickie gave me strength, and Charisse gave me humor, 2 valuable gifts.
The next year, while I was away at a gig,Charisse died of a heart attack, and I don't know who cried more, me or Vickie. I truly don't know if I've ever gotten over losing her.
Right now though, I feel her closeness to me because I followed her advice (for once) and started writing about my life in music...and it's because of her.
Charisse would have been 53 today, and her life still matters to me, so I want to say that I miss you more than you'll ever know, but thank you for looking out for me still, from Heaven.
I will always love you...
Monday, March 20, 2006
Sunday Groovin', or groove is in the heart...
If you read my last post, you'll know that I had a wonderful week, filled with lotsa music and fun, and a great surprise, but the crown of the week was definitely Sunday.
First, the Carpenter Ants sans Michael Lipton played a benefit for the family of our former band mate and brother Robert Shafer.
Rob's Sister, and Brother in law lost their home to a horrific fire, and if that wasn't bad enough, first, they had only lived there for 1 month, and in the fire they lost a puppy that the children had just received for Christmas when their prior one had died...that's a blow.
I have to say that when disaster strikes, West Virginians step up to the plate without giving it a second thought. Big or small, it doesn't matter, if they're needed they respond and this was no exeption.The music community showed up to play and to lift spirits, we hopefully raised a lot of money to help their family,and someone even donated a new puppy to fill the hearts of the kids.
In all it was just beautiful, the music and the vibe, and I was proud to be a part of it all. Robert Shafer is a stellar/ standup guy, and I'm glad that I could help bring a momentary smile to his family's faces, short of robbing a bank.
Next, it was time for our post Mountain Stage Jam at the Empty Glass, and 3 of the people who were on the show stopped by to hang out and join in the fun.
Teddy Thomas, Steve Shillings, and Gus Black, met today during the taping of Mountain Stage's radio broadast, but came over to the club afterward and had a blast hanging out here in Charleston.
The Carpenter Ants host this post M.S. Jam and it always fun, because it's not the same time trappings that they have to deal with at the show. It's just an intimate thing that we do, and for some of the folks who may not have made it to Mountain Stage, or some who were there it gives a club friendly vibe to some of the artists who were on the show. They get to meet some of their fans up close and personal.
The Empty Glass is the perfect spot for this sort of thing because of it's propensity toward music and merriment.
It seemed as though everyone was ready for an exciting night, and no one was disappointed.
Steve Ferguson simply astounded the crowd with his incredible guitar playing. Michael as always was on fire,as were Jupie and Ted.
Speaking of Jupie and Ted, they are this weeks choice for my "Shout Out" award.These 2 guys have been buddies since High school, and their playing reflects just that, their love for their instruments and each other...so playing music with them from my standpoint is a pure joy.
Our new Mountain Stage guests also felt the vibe and joined in the fun, as all 3 of them could not stop smiling.
I've said this before and it bears repeating...you know that you're in this game the right way when other musicians begin to remember what having fun is like.It's OK to strive for something, but don't lose sight of the fact that it can also be fun getting there. In other words, don't get so corporate that you forget how to have fun.
Groovin' Sunday is all well and good but definitely remember, that groove is in the heart.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
First, the Carpenter Ants sans Michael Lipton played a benefit for the family of our former band mate and brother Robert Shafer.
Rob's Sister, and Brother in law lost their home to a horrific fire, and if that wasn't bad enough, first, they had only lived there for 1 month, and in the fire they lost a puppy that the children had just received for Christmas when their prior one had died...that's a blow.
I have to say that when disaster strikes, West Virginians step up to the plate without giving it a second thought. Big or small, it doesn't matter, if they're needed they respond and this was no exeption.The music community showed up to play and to lift spirits, we hopefully raised a lot of money to help their family,and someone even donated a new puppy to fill the hearts of the kids.
In all it was just beautiful, the music and the vibe, and I was proud to be a part of it all. Robert Shafer is a stellar/ standup guy, and I'm glad that I could help bring a momentary smile to his family's faces, short of robbing a bank.
Next, it was time for our post Mountain Stage Jam at the Empty Glass, and 3 of the people who were on the show stopped by to hang out and join in the fun.
Teddy Thomas, Steve Shillings, and Gus Black, met today during the taping of Mountain Stage's radio broadast, but came over to the club afterward and had a blast hanging out here in Charleston.
The Carpenter Ants host this post M.S. Jam and it always fun, because it's not the same time trappings that they have to deal with at the show. It's just an intimate thing that we do, and for some of the folks who may not have made it to Mountain Stage, or some who were there it gives a club friendly vibe to some of the artists who were on the show. They get to meet some of their fans up close and personal.
The Empty Glass is the perfect spot for this sort of thing because of it's propensity toward music and merriment.
It seemed as though everyone was ready for an exciting night, and no one was disappointed.
Steve Ferguson simply astounded the crowd with his incredible guitar playing. Michael as always was on fire,as were Jupie and Ted.
Speaking of Jupie and Ted, they are this weeks choice for my "Shout Out" award.These 2 guys have been buddies since High school, and their playing reflects just that, their love for their instruments and each other...so playing music with them from my standpoint is a pure joy.
Our new Mountain Stage guests also felt the vibe and joined in the fun, as all 3 of them could not stop smiling.
I've said this before and it bears repeating...you know that you're in this game the right way when other musicians begin to remember what having fun is like.It's OK to strive for something, but don't lose sight of the fact that it can also be fun getting there. In other words, don't get so corporate that you forget how to have fun.
Groovin' Sunday is all well and good but definitely remember, that groove is in the heart.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Saturday, March 18, 2006
Whew, what a week...
Well, I made it, rest and relaxation at last...no I'm not hanging out with Elmer Fudd, but my vacation started at 5pm yesterday, and it was the culmination of a grueling but great week.
This week I had a huge surprise, and from there everyday got endlessly better.
First, let me tell you of something sort of negative that happened a short time ago, but was rectified this week. In the latter part of October last year my Uncle John passed away unexpectedly, and my cousin Patricia called to inform me of it, then she was going to Barbados to receive my Uncle's remains and bring him home to Brooklyn to be buried.She was supposed to inform me of the date and time when she returned to New York, but instead, she had the funeral and reception without even calling me, so I missed it. To say the very least I was angry about this, he was my Father's brother and I should have been there.
Admittedly, I didn't always understand my Uncle Johnny, but none the less I loved him dearly, so I was pretty hurt by all of that .
Anyway, fast forward to this week...Tuesday evening my wife calls me at work and says that there is an envelope addressed to me from Brooklyn
( I knew that it was from Patricia). When I get home and open it, out pops a picture taken in 1963 of my Father, Grandfather ( the original Charlie T)(notice the spelling there ?), and my Uncle John.
I just sat there and cried uncontrollably; three of the 6 men that I admire most in this world (aside from my other Grandfather, and my other 2 Uncles).
My week was about to get worlds better...
Wednesday night, show up for rehearsal at Michael's house and who's sitting there, none other than Steve Ferguson. He'd just arrived in town from Boston (I won't hold that against him) after recording with his buddy the great keyboardist Terry Anderson (of NRBQ fame). Steve was just as excited to see us as we were him, so later that night at the Empty Glass it was a great show, and everybody played really well.
Now Friday comes and it was St Patrick's Day, and we were invited to play a party at our good friend Fmr State Senator John Mitchell's home.
Here is a man who is as down to earth as one can be and be in the public eye.John and his beautiful wife Lee don't just throw a party...people, these folks throw a PARTY !!! There was enough food at this thing to feed a small army, and the frivolity was on high.
We've never done anything quite like this before, so it was a wonderful experience for us all.
Today we were up early to play a concert / Chili Cook Off, which was in part, a fundraiser for the Susan B.Comen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, and that is something that is close to my heart, as I lost my Mother to breast cancer, so my day was spent in thoughts of her.It was freezing cold outside, and normally, those that know me, know how much I can't stand the cold (I tend to become very cranky), but today was just different, and through all that cold we played really well, had loads of laughs, and I just further bonded with my band mates, as hour after hour during our show people kept coming to us offering us their business cards and wanting us to play for their upcoming functions.
I could not have been more proud today.
Then, finally arrive home and my son Marty is here, and I'm soooo glad to see him, he is doing very well in college, and I am proud of him for never giving up and plugging away.Then my daughter calls and tells me that she saved a woman's life today by performing CPR on her when she stop breathing.Kendra is studying Nursing and will be graduating in a month, and Dad is proud beyond belief !!
Tomorrow, starting around 4pm the Carpenter Ants will be doing a benefit to help out fellow musician Robert Shafer's family whose home was destroyed by fire less than a month after moving in there.
It's good to be of help to those in need and it's even greater to know that what we do as musicians can be of service to people in need.
Tomorrow night our post Mountain Stage jam at the Empty Glass, and it's anyones guess who will show up for that...I'm pumped.
All I can say is whew, what a week this has been, and after all of that, I'm now officially on 2 weeks vacation...it does not get any better than this.
I've been kinda on the whiny side lately, but truly, I'm happy, I'm content, and I'm grateful to be where I am.Allah has blessed me abundantly, and all praise is due to Him.
This post is dedicated to my son Marty Adams, and my daughter Kendra Dunham, 2 of Allah's brightest lights and people who put music in my life. Their love makes my heart hear a symphony.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always...and always tell your family that you love them.
This week I had a huge surprise, and from there everyday got endlessly better.
First, let me tell you of something sort of negative that happened a short time ago, but was rectified this week. In the latter part of October last year my Uncle John passed away unexpectedly, and my cousin Patricia called to inform me of it, then she was going to Barbados to receive my Uncle's remains and bring him home to Brooklyn to be buried.She was supposed to inform me of the date and time when she returned to New York, but instead, she had the funeral and reception without even calling me, so I missed it. To say the very least I was angry about this, he was my Father's brother and I should have been there.
Admittedly, I didn't always understand my Uncle Johnny, but none the less I loved him dearly, so I was pretty hurt by all of that .
Anyway, fast forward to this week...Tuesday evening my wife calls me at work and says that there is an envelope addressed to me from Brooklyn
( I knew that it was from Patricia). When I get home and open it, out pops a picture taken in 1963 of my Father, Grandfather ( the original Charlie T)(notice the spelling there ?), and my Uncle John.
I just sat there and cried uncontrollably; three of the 6 men that I admire most in this world (aside from my other Grandfather, and my other 2 Uncles).
My week was about to get worlds better...
Wednesday night, show up for rehearsal at Michael's house and who's sitting there, none other than Steve Ferguson. He'd just arrived in town from Boston (I won't hold that against him) after recording with his buddy the great keyboardist Terry Anderson (of NRBQ fame). Steve was just as excited to see us as we were him, so later that night at the Empty Glass it was a great show, and everybody played really well.
Now Friday comes and it was St Patrick's Day, and we were invited to play a party at our good friend Fmr State Senator John Mitchell's home.
Here is a man who is as down to earth as one can be and be in the public eye.John and his beautiful wife Lee don't just throw a party...people, these folks throw a PARTY !!! There was enough food at this thing to feed a small army, and the frivolity was on high.
We've never done anything quite like this before, so it was a wonderful experience for us all.
Today we were up early to play a concert / Chili Cook Off, which was in part, a fundraiser for the Susan B.Comen Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, and that is something that is close to my heart, as I lost my Mother to breast cancer, so my day was spent in thoughts of her.It was freezing cold outside, and normally, those that know me, know how much I can't stand the cold (I tend to become very cranky), but today was just different, and through all that cold we played really well, had loads of laughs, and I just further bonded with my band mates, as hour after hour during our show people kept coming to us offering us their business cards and wanting us to play for their upcoming functions.
I could not have been more proud today.
Then, finally arrive home and my son Marty is here, and I'm soooo glad to see him, he is doing very well in college, and I am proud of him for never giving up and plugging away.Then my daughter calls and tells me that she saved a woman's life today by performing CPR on her when she stop breathing.Kendra is studying Nursing and will be graduating in a month, and Dad is proud beyond belief !!
Tomorrow, starting around 4pm the Carpenter Ants will be doing a benefit to help out fellow musician Robert Shafer's family whose home was destroyed by fire less than a month after moving in there.
It's good to be of help to those in need and it's even greater to know that what we do as musicians can be of service to people in need.
Tomorrow night our post Mountain Stage jam at the Empty Glass, and it's anyones guess who will show up for that...I'm pumped.
All I can say is whew, what a week this has been, and after all of that, I'm now officially on 2 weeks vacation...it does not get any better than this.
I've been kinda on the whiny side lately, but truly, I'm happy, I'm content, and I'm grateful to be where I am.Allah has blessed me abundantly, and all praise is due to Him.
This post is dedicated to my son Marty Adams, and my daughter Kendra Dunham, 2 of Allah's brightest lights and people who put music in my life. Their love makes my heart hear a symphony.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always...and always tell your family that you love them.
Monday, March 13, 2006
Festina Lente
Today my wife Vickie learned a valuable lesson about time and energy.
For years she always moved at the speed of light, taking care of our family as a part of her daily routine, but at break neck speed.
It's taken me quite a few years to get her to relax and take time for her, the way she wants it. Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for all of the attention, but nothing is more important than yourself, first.
I always hope that I'm not the kind of husband that feels he's got to have his wife at his beck and call 24/7. I can cook, I'm capable of keeping our home tidy and neat, and I do help out, so at times it would be aggravating because I want Vickie to pamper herself . If anyone on this Earth ever deserved it, she does. She has worked her butt off all of her life.
This morning prior to reading her daily devotionals, she was doing 10 things at once, getting me ready for work, getting my breakfast ready, doing a load of laundry, and just meeting her day head on at untold speeds.Finally, at some point she sat down to read her daily devotionals, and in there was a passage about slowing down and taking time....and much to her amazement, whatever she read made all kind of sense.She realized that yes, I do need to take my time, there's just no need to rush.With this in mind she set out and changed her pattern, she still got all that she needed to do accomplished, but with this new attitude, she enjoyed her day so much more.
The term festina lente is a Latin term meaning to "make haste slowly." When I lived in New York, there was a gentleman named Ed Ramsey who had that phrase on a plaque on his desk.He told me after 2 heart attacks that that became his reality, and his creed.
Most people are working toward some goal, or goals, and they are moving so fast that even if the goals are met they can't truly enjoy it, and that to me is criminal.I want to be in music, but I really try to take it slowly.I never concern myself too much with the length of time that this has taken me rather than taking it a day at a time and enjoying the process.
To many people who know me it would seem as if I'm everywhere at once, but even though omniscience is a lofty goal at best it's simply not true in my case.Rather, my thing is is that I work pretty hard in my daily life, and I've made my schedule with this music just that, a schedule. In other words I've worked out a strategy for the way that I strive for it...and for me it works.It gives me some time for me, as well as gives the necessary devotion to the other part of my life...my work life.
Be passionate about your life, but be more passionate about your time, for it's the only thing that we give away freely that we can't get back.
As the saying goes: take time to smell the roses, but make your haste slowly...Festina Lente.
This post is dedicated to my rose, Vickie.enjoy your life sweetie, you earned it.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
For years she always moved at the speed of light, taking care of our family as a part of her daily routine, but at break neck speed.
It's taken me quite a few years to get her to relax and take time for her, the way she wants it. Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful for all of the attention, but nothing is more important than yourself, first.
I always hope that I'm not the kind of husband that feels he's got to have his wife at his beck and call 24/7. I can cook, I'm capable of keeping our home tidy and neat, and I do help out, so at times it would be aggravating because I want Vickie to pamper herself . If anyone on this Earth ever deserved it, she does. She has worked her butt off all of her life.
This morning prior to reading her daily devotionals, she was doing 10 things at once, getting me ready for work, getting my breakfast ready, doing a load of laundry, and just meeting her day head on at untold speeds.Finally, at some point she sat down to read her daily devotionals, and in there was a passage about slowing down and taking time....and much to her amazement, whatever she read made all kind of sense.She realized that yes, I do need to take my time, there's just no need to rush.With this in mind she set out and changed her pattern, she still got all that she needed to do accomplished, but with this new attitude, she enjoyed her day so much more.
The term festina lente is a Latin term meaning to "make haste slowly." When I lived in New York, there was a gentleman named Ed Ramsey who had that phrase on a plaque on his desk.He told me after 2 heart attacks that that became his reality, and his creed.
Most people are working toward some goal, or goals, and they are moving so fast that even if the goals are met they can't truly enjoy it, and that to me is criminal.I want to be in music, but I really try to take it slowly.I never concern myself too much with the length of time that this has taken me rather than taking it a day at a time and enjoying the process.
To many people who know me it would seem as if I'm everywhere at once, but even though omniscience is a lofty goal at best it's simply not true in my case.Rather, my thing is is that I work pretty hard in my daily life, and I've made my schedule with this music just that, a schedule. In other words I've worked out a strategy for the way that I strive for it...and for me it works.It gives me some time for me, as well as gives the necessary devotion to the other part of my life...my work life.
Be passionate about your life, but be more passionate about your time, for it's the only thing that we give away freely that we can't get back.
As the saying goes: take time to smell the roses, but make your haste slowly...Festina Lente.
This post is dedicated to my rose, Vickie.enjoy your life sweetie, you earned it.
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Friday, March 10, 2006
Shout Out...3-10-06
This week the shout out goes to...Peggy Triplett, Bridget Herndon, Pam Hacker, and Garnett Clark.
These ladies are some of my co-workers at the library.
This has been a very trying week for me personally, but they proved to me the power of working together in love and respect.
They stood up for me during a bad situation. I'll never be able to thank them enough.
These ladies are some of my co-workers at the library.
This has been a very trying week for me personally, but they proved to me the power of working together in love and respect.
They stood up for me during a bad situation. I'll never be able to thank them enough.
Harlem and The Bronx (the making of Charlie Tee) #4
In this installment, I want to tell you about fears that plagued me and how I slowly learned to overcome them thanks to some sound advice from my Father. It's also a story of how real friendship can save your life.
Growing up I was overweight, but that didn't stop me from doing all those childhood and teenage things. I played hours of basketball, stickball, and played baseball fervently. Of course there was also music music and more music.My sister Caroleigh and I even competed there (although in truth, she was a far better musician than I would ever be...), but we loved each other deeply, and my parents loved that we had something that kept us close.
My friends were always close at hand to cheer me on doing something with my saxophone. flute , or at that time, the piano.At school when I was in the 7th grade I made all city as a saxophonist and flutist. When I went to High School though, all that changed.
My Mom got frustrated with schools in New York and made a decision to send me to military school. I wasn't thrilled about it, but I went because she felt so strongly about it. So I went to the only all Black military school in the world, St .Emma Military Academy in Powhatan Virginia.
Talk about being in the sticks, there isn't place in West Virginia that even comes close to that place, but it was OK, or so I thought...when I went to audition for the band, I got turned down. The band was it's own company, that lived in a separate dorm, took trips off campus, and performed just about everywhere. I found out that my company commander didn't like me so he spoke to the band's company commander and that was that, no band for me. That was my first hurt...
I came home during the Summer my freshman year, and resumed my music playing, even getting into my friend Butch's rock band. All was going well. At some point there was a girl that I really liked named Sonia Delgado who was the sister of my friend Jolanda. I really had a serious crush on her, and found out that she liked me as well, until a very ugly rumor started...and to boot, I walked in on the beginning of that rumor.
I chanced upon two guys who were supposed to be my friends talking badly about me.The rumor went something like this..."you know Charlie doesn't bathe, he smells like an old sock." I know that they never suspected that I was standing right beside a vending machine and heard ever word. I was absolutely crushed.That was bad enough, but one of the guys involved really did have an odor, and everybody knew it about him, yet I was the only one who always treated him nicely.I never ever ever talked about him, and once at a party I even left the room because folks were talking about him so badly...I was embarrased for him.Yet here he was talking about me like freakin' dog. I was hurt beyond measure.
Before long it got so bad that Sonia didn't want to have anything to do with me; and that truly hurt more than anything.
Somewhere along the way, my Father got wind of all this, and caught me crying about it in my room, and he came in and sat down and gave me a pep talk that not only lifted me up, but made me gain confidence in myself.Daddy said something along the lines of: " You are a wonderful person, you're talented, you're beautiful, and most of all, you're a gentleman.You've got more talent and verve in one finger, than those boys will have in their entire lives. You know the type of person that you are, and your real friends all know that as well. Watch what I'm telling you, before long Charlie you'll see, your true friends will rise up for you."
And that they did, they all stood up for me and were very adamant about their loyalty to our friendship.Although it didn't help with the Sonia situation, she never did give me a chance, and we in fact didn't talk again until she came to my Mother's funeral in 1997...some 30 years later.
She was nice, but hurts as they say, run deep. I spoke to her and was cordial but it just wasn't the same.
I learned a really hard lesson about people that Summer.I take my friendships very seriously, and if I call you my friend, you can count on me to be a loyal one.
It's important to surround yourself with "your kind of folks," whether they be on the bandstand or at work, or wherever.
I consider myself a fortunate man in that I have the love, and respect of alot of people from many walks of life.
The sound advice that my Dad gave me was this: let your reputation be like the sky, looked up to.
Have a wonderful weekend everybody, and remember...
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Growing up I was overweight, but that didn't stop me from doing all those childhood and teenage things. I played hours of basketball, stickball, and played baseball fervently. Of course there was also music music and more music.My sister Caroleigh and I even competed there (although in truth, she was a far better musician than I would ever be...), but we loved each other deeply, and my parents loved that we had something that kept us close.
My friends were always close at hand to cheer me on doing something with my saxophone. flute , or at that time, the piano.At school when I was in the 7th grade I made all city as a saxophonist and flutist. When I went to High School though, all that changed.
My Mom got frustrated with schools in New York and made a decision to send me to military school. I wasn't thrilled about it, but I went because she felt so strongly about it. So I went to the only all Black military school in the world, St .Emma Military Academy in Powhatan Virginia.
Talk about being in the sticks, there isn't place in West Virginia that even comes close to that place, but it was OK, or so I thought...when I went to audition for the band, I got turned down. The band was it's own company, that lived in a separate dorm, took trips off campus, and performed just about everywhere. I found out that my company commander didn't like me so he spoke to the band's company commander and that was that, no band for me. That was my first hurt...
I came home during the Summer my freshman year, and resumed my music playing, even getting into my friend Butch's rock band. All was going well. At some point there was a girl that I really liked named Sonia Delgado who was the sister of my friend Jolanda. I really had a serious crush on her, and found out that she liked me as well, until a very ugly rumor started...and to boot, I walked in on the beginning of that rumor.
I chanced upon two guys who were supposed to be my friends talking badly about me.The rumor went something like this..."you know Charlie doesn't bathe, he smells like an old sock." I know that they never suspected that I was standing right beside a vending machine and heard ever word. I was absolutely crushed.That was bad enough, but one of the guys involved really did have an odor, and everybody knew it about him, yet I was the only one who always treated him nicely.I never ever ever talked about him, and once at a party I even left the room because folks were talking about him so badly...I was embarrased for him.Yet here he was talking about me like freakin' dog. I was hurt beyond measure.
Before long it got so bad that Sonia didn't want to have anything to do with me; and that truly hurt more than anything.
Somewhere along the way, my Father got wind of all this, and caught me crying about it in my room, and he came in and sat down and gave me a pep talk that not only lifted me up, but made me gain confidence in myself.Daddy said something along the lines of: " You are a wonderful person, you're talented, you're beautiful, and most of all, you're a gentleman.You've got more talent and verve in one finger, than those boys will have in their entire lives. You know the type of person that you are, and your real friends all know that as well. Watch what I'm telling you, before long Charlie you'll see, your true friends will rise up for you."
And that they did, they all stood up for me and were very adamant about their loyalty to our friendship.Although it didn't help with the Sonia situation, she never did give me a chance, and we in fact didn't talk again until she came to my Mother's funeral in 1997...some 30 years later.
She was nice, but hurts as they say, run deep. I spoke to her and was cordial but it just wasn't the same.
I learned a really hard lesson about people that Summer.I take my friendships very seriously, and if I call you my friend, you can count on me to be a loyal one.
It's important to surround yourself with "your kind of folks," whether they be on the bandstand or at work, or wherever.
I consider myself a fortunate man in that I have the love, and respect of alot of people from many walks of life.
The sound advice that my Dad gave me was this: let your reputation be like the sky, looked up to.
Have a wonderful weekend everybody, and remember...
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Everybody Wants It
Here's another song that I wrote in the 80's. I wrote it when I tried in vain to have relationship with a lady in New York. But given the climate of the world today it still is very poignant.
verse 1:
It's something that we long for
And we feel it day and night
It's that thing for which we're livin'
But for some strange reason fight
And we try to justify it sayin', this or that ain't
But alone at night we're cryin'
'Cause we don't have what we like
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love,they say if the had it, that they would flaunt it
But do you love the one you're with...
verse 2:
They say each day is made for living
Treat your first like it's your last
Gotta make a move toward finding love
Stop worryin' about your past
'Cause life is for the finding out
If what's in store's to last
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love, they say if they had it, that they would flaunt it
So would you love the one you're with...
saxophone solo...
bridge:
Well you know love's in your heart
You know you really really care
But while you're lookin' for what you think is real
What's real is standing there...
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love,they say if they had, that they would flaunt it
Now you can love the one your with... yeah.
This is dedicated to Marie Baez...I hope that you found what you're looking for.
(Composed and arranged by Charlie Tee ,
Copyright 1987.,on file, Library of Congress.)
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
verse 1:
It's something that we long for
And we feel it day and night
It's that thing for which we're livin'
But for some strange reason fight
And we try to justify it sayin', this or that ain't
But alone at night we're cryin'
'Cause we don't have what we like
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love,they say if the had it, that they would flaunt it
But do you love the one you're with...
verse 2:
They say each day is made for living
Treat your first like it's your last
Gotta make a move toward finding love
Stop worryin' about your past
'Cause life is for the finding out
If what's in store's to last
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love, they say if they had it, that they would flaunt it
So would you love the one you're with...
saxophone solo...
bridge:
Well you know love's in your heart
You know you really really care
But while you're lookin' for what you think is real
What's real is standing there...
chorus:
It's love, everybody wants it for themselves
It's love,they say if they had, that they would flaunt it
Now you can love the one your with... yeah.
This is dedicated to Marie Baez...I hope that you found what you're looking for.
(Composed and arranged by Charlie Tee ,
Copyright 1987.,on file, Library of Congress.)
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.
Saturday, March 04, 2006
Shout Out...
I got an email today from a fan of my other blogsite where I sing the praises of fellow musicians and singers, whom I find inspiring (don't worry, there are more to come...). One of the reasons that I do this is that there are so many wonderful people that I would like you to know about.
Anyway, this note was asking about my friends who have inspired me as well, and that got me thinking ( I know that's dangerous), yes most of my friends have been been encouraging to me to say the least, so I thought, ABC News has a person of the week, I'm gonna do something similar so that I can at least say thank you for what they mean to me and my journey to music...so I'm gonna try to keep up a new space called Shout Out...
Many of my friends will die getting their names mentioned in this way, because I know that some of them really value their privacy, so with that in mind what I'll do for those folks is just mention them by name.
My friendships mean much, in the climate of the world today, and before things in life change too much, I would like them to know that I appreciate them...ALWAYS.
This weeks SHOUT OUT goes to:
Amy Bowe and to Michael Romeo (my Dentist)
These are 2 of my friends who are always encouraging me to keep striving, and in the face of adversities (which I have often) they are a calm port in a storm.Their love comes with humor, and kindness and always good advice.
Support Live Music today tomorrow and always...they do !
Anyway, this note was asking about my friends who have inspired me as well, and that got me thinking ( I know that's dangerous), yes most of my friends have been been encouraging to me to say the least, so I thought, ABC News has a person of the week, I'm gonna do something similar so that I can at least say thank you for what they mean to me and my journey to music...so I'm gonna try to keep up a new space called Shout Out...
Many of my friends will die getting their names mentioned in this way, because I know that some of them really value their privacy, so with that in mind what I'll do for those folks is just mention them by name.
My friendships mean much, in the climate of the world today, and before things in life change too much, I would like them to know that I appreciate them...ALWAYS.
This weeks SHOUT OUT goes to:
Amy Bowe and to Michael Romeo (my Dentist)
These are 2 of my friends who are always encouraging me to keep striving, and in the face of adversities (which I have often) they are a calm port in a storm.Their love comes with humor, and kindness and always good advice.
Support Live Music today tomorrow and always...they do !
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