Category: writing


Open Mic Tales – Hearing Young Upcoming Songwriters

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Dallas Songwriters Association, Family, Music, open mic, Songwriting, writing — Leave a comment
December 30, 2016
Tommy LeBoeuf

Tommy LeBoeuf

One of the enjoyable things about hosting open mics is getting to hear young upcoming and talented songwriters. Which is what happened the last time I was the host at Angela’s.

Tommy LeBoeuf is a regular at the Angela’s at the Crosswalk Monday open mic. He has also played shows during the week occasionally. On December 26, he brought the family, which included his daughters, Sabrina, and Elisa. In addition, Sabrina brought her boyfriend, Addis Riddle.

Sabrina played after her dad. Elisa joined her for the first song and their two voices blended well. None of the three songs were familiar to me. I had to ask her later if any of the songs were hers. The last song she did was an original. It was a very nice song, but I never caught the name of it. She said it was the only song she’s written. I told her to keep writing and told her about the Dallas Songwriters

Sabrina LeBoeuf

Sabrina LeBoeuf

Association.

A little while later, her other friend, Addis Riddle, played his three songs.  One of the songs he played was based on the Curious George song. I think one or two of the songs were original. Either way, he has written a number of songs.

Sabrina had a slightly stronger delivery than Addis. Though they both are relatively soft-spoken, their singing voices come across more powerfully. I’m looking forward to hearing them again and I’m thinking of including the two of them in a future DSA showcase.

Addis Riddle

Addis Riddle

You can catch Sabrina and Addis at the open mic at Angela’s. Sabrina sometimes plays shows at Angela’s with her dad. But if you get the chance to hear and support them, do so. You won’t be disappointed.

Keep writing the songs that are in your heart.

Peace be with you.

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Reach for the Stars Talent Contest

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Music, Talent Contest, writing — Leave a comment
December 29, 2016

reach-for-the-stars-flyerLittle Anthony asked me to be a judge for his Reach for the Stars Talent Contest. As you see in the picture of the flyer, the winner receives $500. Contrary to the flyer though, it will be held on Friday nights, not Tuesdays, but will still start at 8 p.m.

There will be 12 weeks of competition, 6 weeks of semi-finals, and a grand finale. Anyone who is interested and is over 21 should call 214-660-4799 to book a spot. There will be no drop-ins. The contest will be held at Harbor Point Club and Grill on Buckingham in Richardson. There are still spots open, so call to book a spot. Did I say the winner gets $500?

If you have been around Dallas a good while – particularly in music – you have heard of Little Anthony. Which would be Anthony Bellante, Jr. He played for years with his band around Dallas. He has taught kids to play a number of instruments and sing in his World Class Entertainers school and studio. He also has a CI-TV channel which will not only “broadcast” the talent contest, but also a few Christian shows. He also has a number of side businesses.

Anthony has held the talent contest for a number of years. It was affiliated with StarSearch in the 90’s. Leann Rimes got her start after being in the contest. It’s going to be fun, if nothing else. I’m looking forward to being a judge and performing. I don’t watch the talent contests on television, but it will be interesting to be involved in one and get to play.

So call and book a spot or put it on your calendar to come hear some good talent. Audience response is always a factor. Harbor Point has pool tables, dart boards, and shuffleboard tables to keep your hands busy while you listen to the music. Not to mention the food and drinks.

Keep writing the songs that are in your heart.

Peace be with you.

 

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DSA 4th Saturday Showcase on 3rd Saturday

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Dallas Songwriters Association, Music, Songwriting, Sound, writing — Leave a comment
December 28, 2016
Cat McGee

Cat McGee

Are you confused yet? Or did you figure out that we had the Dallas Songwriters Association 4th Saturday showcase at Angela’s at the Crosswalk a week early this month – and last month as well – due to Thanksgiving and Christmas. This was my first showcase as the new host. As showcase director for the DSA, I have been a guest host before. But with both Buck Morgan and Harry Hewlett having life changes coming about, I became the host.

I had the sound system set up by 7:15. Despite a problem I did not discover until I was breaking down the system, everyone sounded good to the audience, except me on part of my set.

The show began with Cat McGee – after a few technical adjustments. She delivered her show in her usual humble sincerity. Cat doesn’t take herself all that seriously, but her songwriting is a different matter. That alone lends a certain urgency to her lyrics juxtaposed with the casualness of her delivery. I have known Cat a while and consider her a good friend. I have read the press on her website before, but it evades me now. But simply thinking about it while replaying her set in my mind, her songwriting and performance remind me of Judy Collins and Joan Baez. The decidedly female perspective, with self-assurance and purpose. One of my favorite songs of hers – and there are a few – is Mydan-roark-3Tribe. Her tribe, of course, is songwriters.

Then the host, some guy named Dan Roark, came on and played his set. Which included several songs from his new cd of live songs. As well as the bonus song on the cd, What the Lord Intends. Which is also the song in his first music video which you can find on his YouTube channel.

Mark Evans, who followed me (the moment has past, if you catch my drift), has a band called Safety Meeting. Alone, on acoustic guitar – as he was at the showcase – Mark comes through as folk with a bit of an edge – albeit with a positive outlook. And a love song is simply a love song. The band’s description of Safety Meeting’s music is “alternative, americana, and pop.” Having heard them live and recorded, I can say that sums them up fairly well. I’m not exactly sure how alternative they are, as far as lyrics and music are concerned. But pertaining to their live show, I can hear alternative to a point. Listening to

Mark Evans

Mark Evans

their recorded songs on Reverbnation before writing this, I caught a John Cougar Mellencamp feel to their songs. Hence the americana and pop distinctions. Catch one of their shows when you can. Their music deserves a good crowd.

Baylis Laramore ended the evening’s line up. Baylis‘ music is folk and americana. He’s a laid-back type of guy, and his music reflects that. He was born in Galveston and grew up around east Texas as a child. He “spent [his] teenage years living in Australia and Indonesia.” He has traveled to other places as well. Some of Baylis’ songs come from those years, such as Blonde Spanish Girls, written while he was in Spain. Other songs, like Ghosts of Galveston, are from stories he has heard and read. He also has written some humorous songs as witnessed by the song Junk Food Highway, written from a song prompt at the Southwest Regional Folk Alliance.

It was a good show. I’m sorry you missed it. Do yourself a favor and make it to the next DSA 4th

Baylis Laramore

Baylis Laramore

Saturday showcase at Angela’s at the Crosswalk on January 28. I’ll have the list of songwriters who will by playing in the next couple of weeks. But you can be sure it will be a good show.

Keep writing the songs that are in your heart.

Peace be with you.

 

 

 

 

Mark Evans followed me

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Thinking of Others Over the Holidays

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Family, Food, Theology, writing — Leave a comment
December 27, 2016

As I was enjoying Christmas with family, I couldn’t help but think about the families that we delivered food to during the summer and for Thanksgiving and all families like them. I hoped and prayed that they were able to have Christmas dinner and presents of some sort. Or whichever religious celebration they observe. Thanks should be given to Metrocrest Social Services, North Texas Food Bank, churches, and other organizations that make sure families – children and seniors in particular – have the nourishment they need.

Here is the music video of my song, What the Lord Intends (Sack Summer Hunger). Feel free to click on the YouTube logo in the bottom right corner to watch it on my YouTube channel and subscribe to the channel (you will only get an email when I upload a new video).

Peace be with you.

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Merry Christmas, from Jesus – poem

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Family, Poetry, Theology, writing — Leave a comment
December 24, 2016

Merry Christmas from Jesus

He walked through the streets in darkness,
Homeless but not alone,
A man on a mission of reverence
beyond the mundane chore of survival,
in a spirit of grace and mercy.

He stopped at Johnson’s Laundry
With it’s Closed for Christmas sign,
He knelt on the sidewalk outside the door,
Quietly saying the Lord’s Prayer,
the only prayer he knew.

Thanking “Papa” Johnson
For the clothes left unclaimed,
He left a small package – a crude, homemade cross
With a card on which was scrawled,
“Merry Christmas, from Jesus.”

Next was Garcia’s Grocery
For the leftovers not yet spoiled
He knelt and prayed –
Another crude cross,
And the card, “Merry Christmas, from Jesus.”

Ten blocks later, Miller’s Hardware,
For his sturdy, cardboard box dwelling,
and timber for his bed,
A kneel, a prayer, a larger crude cross,
And the card, “Merry Christmas, from Jesus.”

Too far from home, the mission closed,
He found a bench in the park,
after a passerby bought coffee
and he walked – recalling forgotten memories –
without knowing what they meant.

Early the next morning on Christmas Day,
he fought the wind and rain,
through the cold streets to the mission,
where Christmas dinner was served, the soul sustained,
and life again had purpose.

The rain stopped, the wind died down,
as he trekked on home,
home – an alley behind the church
white and made of stone,
with a view of the cross on the wall.

He turned into the alley
and stopped in his tracks.
Where his cardboard box had stood,
was a sturdy lumber shack,
with a roof, a window, and a door.

He opened the door to a sturdy wooden cot,
An orange crate table, his few possessions inside,
with something new on top.
A suit of clothes hung on a hook,
with the laundry marker still on it.

He closed the door because he could,
he’d forgotten what it felt like.
Walking to the table he turned on the lamp,
it had been years since he had his own light,
but then his breath went away.

Also on the table sat a Bible, brand new,
inscribed with a name he hadn’t used in years,
next to a picture of a family he’d forgotten he had.
He stood staring at them, his mind racing,
memories bombarding his thoughts.

He sat on the cot and picked up the Bible,
after staring at the picture a while.
He ran his fingers over the only thing he owned
that wasn’t worn by wear or weather,
with emotions he couldn’t control.

Through tears, with shaking hands,
he opened the Bible and read
“Merry Christmas, from Jesus.”

Peace be with you.

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DSA Song Contest Awards and Christmas Party

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Dallas Songwriters Association, Food, Music, Songwriting, Sound, writing — Leave a comment
December 23, 2016

The Dallas Songwriters Association’s annual song contest awards ceremony and Christmas party takes the place of the monthly meeting. Which was Tuesday, December 13th this year (The meeting day is changing in the new year – just to give you a heads up.) The event was once again held at Sons of Hermann Hall. What follows is from the program for the event with the pictures I took included. Because a couple of performers were stuck in traffic, the order was altered somewhat, but was essentially the same in the individual categories.

The winners are listed following the program. Congratulations to all the winners!

Keep writing the songs that are in your heart.

Peace be with you.

 

Barbe McMillen - DSA President Emeritus

Barbe McMillen – DSA President Emeritus

WELCOME – Barbe McMillen Founding President Emeritus, Newsletter Editor, Administration & Song Contest Director Barbara founded the DSA in 1987 after running the group for several years as part of the now defunct Texas Music Association. Currently a working Music Therapist, performer, and Associate Professor of Songwriting at Collin College, Barbara is caring for the admin duties and editing a newsletter for DSA. She is a voting member of the Recording Academy and a member of the Producers and Engineers Wing of the Academy. She has produced a number of albums for other artists and her own. Her songwriting spans the genres of Rock, Pop, R&B to Americana. Her rock musical, Give Me A Break, has been performed in the metroplex and off Broadway. To get to know more about Barbe or to sign up for an online Songwriting Class, visit her website, http://www.barbaramcmillen.com.

PERFORMANCE by multi-semifinalist DeDe Wedekind, Houston, Tx
Stronger from Dream of You, My Unsung Hero, A
Leaning on Heaven , Sell Me Out, Recipe of Love, Love Lives On
DeDe’s music is a mix of pop, Americana, and jazz, with some Gospel thrown in and has been compared todedewedekind everyone from Michael Buble to Adele, and from Linda Rondstadt to Emmylou Harris.
Her music has been and remains on several WORLD TOP 10 CHARTS on Broadjam.com Although she writes mainly pop, she’s also a Crossover Gospel artist. Recognizing that a lot of the current popular music out there is focused on young teens, and also may have depressing, violent, or negative messages, she decided to “fill the gap”, and write positive music She writes beautiful melodies, powerful and inspiring lyrics, and good clean music full of hope. Breathecast.com’s Timothy Yap says, ” When it comes to song interpretation, she is without peer.’

PERFORMANCE by multi-semifinalist Rick Babb, Dallas, Tx
Lucky In Love, Praise You, Roly Poly , Walk Away
Born and raised in Tulsa, OK, Rick was introduced to music and the guitar by his Uncle Don. 3
Rick began writing his own tunes and started performing them at family reunions as a teen. When he moved to Texas in 1969, he began performing in coffee houses and working behind the scenes in the concert industry in the early 1970s. In the 1990s, Rick moved to Nashville

Rick Babb and his wife Paula McClanahan

Rick Babb and his wife Paula McClanahan

to pursue a song-writing career and, during that time, also worked various odd jobs from radio DJ and dishwasher to bartender and circus wrangler.He returned to Dallas in 2003, performing again in the Dallas/ Ft Worth area. He now performs regularly with Royce David James on mandolin and Paula McClanahan on upright bass and vocals.
PERFORMANCE by Americana semifinalist John Mason, Grand Prairie, Tx California   For 30 years gifted singer-songwriter, John Mason, has been a musical inspiration. During the 1970’s and 80’s, John recorded and performed in Southern California. Now living in Grand Prairie Texas John writes and plays a contemporary style of folk, country and Americana.

Dan Roark, Director of Showcases and Workshops In addition to being a singer/songwriter, Dan Roark is an author, writer, and poet. He played in the band, Southern Plains, for twenty-five years prior to the death of bandmate and musical partner, Joel Nichols. After

Dan Roark

Dan Roark, Showcase Director

taking time off from performing while he and his wife, Cyndy raised their three boys, he has returned to performing and the Dallas Songwriters Association.  You can find out more and listen to his music at danroark.com. Follow his blog at chasingafterwind.net. He also writes posts for the dallassongwriters.org blog.
Dan Roark presents AMERICANA Semifinalists
California by John Mason, Grand Prairie, TX
Just Can’t Drown a Broken Heart by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX
Lucky in Love by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX
My Unsung Hero by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Two Trains by Renee Saffier, Andy Hill and Hard Rain, LA, CA

AMERICANA AWARD

PERFORMANCE by Pop semifinalist Richie Smith, Richardson, TX
For A Reason
At the age of 3, the first instrument Richie learned was the bass then later on he learned to play the

John Mason

John Mason

piano, violin, ukulele, guitar, harmonium, and more. While attending Collin College, he was a student in Barbe McMillen’s songwriting class where his love of singing and writing music matured. Towards the end of that semester, he underwent brain surgery and was diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer which he is still battling.
On this journey for 4 years now, he’s written music through all of it. Ritchie says, “God does everything for a reason”.

Barbe Presents
CHRISTIAN/ INSPIRATIONAL Semifinalists
Only A Prayer Away (Acoustic) by John Nelson Kullberg, Rivervale, NJ
Stronger from Dream of You by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Once Again by Jeff Moore, Dallas, TX
I WILL SING by Matt Stemme, Castaic, CA
It Could Be You by Robert Graham, Toronto, Can.
Love Lives On by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Praise You by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX
On the Breath of God by Len Seligman, Sarasota, FL
God is Too Big for Any One Religion by Len Seligman, Sarasota, FL

Richie Smith

Richie Smith

Hearts Wide Open by Michael Roth, Arlington, VA

CHRISTIAN/ INSPIRATIONAL AWARD

PERFORMANCE by COUNTRY SEMIFINALIST finalist Chris Michael (Sjostrom), Bedford, TX Wanted Man
He began singing and performing and developed his songwriting skills at a young age. A recent graduate of Dallas Baptist University with a degree in Music Business and an emphasis in songwriting, Chris has traveled across Texas and has performed shows, events, venues, clubs, bars, festivals and sororities. Many of his songs

Bobby Montgomery and Chris SJostrom

Bobby Montgomery and Chris SJostrom

and lyrics are embedded with Texas Culture and way of life in which he was raised,
DSA Executive Vice President, Bobby Montgomery, 2014 Songwriter of the Year, has been writing songs since he was a teenager. He says songwriting is a form of therapy and is his reason for writing. He has performed his songs at private parties, festivals, local venues and church. Recording his songs at JoMusik studios this past year, many have won the monthly critiques. Many thanks to Bobby for leading our fundraising drive and helping DSA stay afloat. He was Songwriter of the Year last year and is in the running for Song of the Year tonight. Thanks to Bobby for organizing our buffet tonight.

COUNTRY Semifinalists presented by Bobby Montgomery
Still Enough by Tim Sharp, Tomball, TX
Pills by Tim Sharp, Tomball, TX
I’m Singing My Heart Out by Charles Carter, Dallas, TX
Behind Bars by T Edwin Doss, Silver Spring, MD
90 Proof by Amy Abernathy, Canton, GA
Small Town Masquerade by Hayley McDaniel, Denton, TX
It Ain’t Half Bad by John Swantner, Bellville, TX
Wanted Man by Christopher Sjostrom, Bedford, TX
Coal Dust by Nitanee Paris, Jean-Pierre Williams, Clarence Lawson, Malibu, CA
Malibu, CA
Just Want My Baby Back by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX
COUNTRY AWARD

DSA President, Michael Brandenberger has been involved in music for over 40 years playing blues and jazz

James Pappas and the Christmas tree sculpture he made for the event.

James Pappas and the Christmas tree sculpture he made for the event.

guitar since his high school days in San Antonio.  His most recent band in Dallas was Big Daddy and the Swell-Tones who made the Hole In The Wall their home base up until its demise.  He only started writing songs several years ago but has had a few on local and internet radio stations.  The Dallas Songwriters Association has given him many opportunities to play his original songs at open mics plus the Deep Ellum Arts Festival, the Wildflower Festival and the House of Blues.
INSTRUMENTAL Semifinalists presented by Michael Brandenberger
Aural Therapy by Al Marcy, Downers Grove, IL
Analyze by Al Marcy, Downers Grove, IL
Russian Odyssey by Marc Tilson, Sacremento, CA
Enchanted Kingdom by Bill Wren, Port Aransas, TX
Recipe of Love by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Sell Me Out by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Shoot Out by Conrad Swartz, Vancouver, WA
Welcome Home by John Miltano, Miller Place, NY
INSTRUMENTAL AWARD

Jeff Palmer, Sean Layer, and Carlos Silva

Jeff Palmer, Sean Layer, and Carlos Silva

PERFORMANCE – Love semifinalist Sean Layer, vocals, keys, Carlos Silva, guitar, Plano, Tx
Under a Starlit Sky
Virginia born, Sean has lived in Iowa, England, and Texas. He is a multi instrumentalist who’s played both in orchestra and a rock band though out middle school and high school. His influences include Ed Sheeran, The Flipside, Marvin Gaye, and Passenger.

LOVE SONGS/ EASY LISTENING Semifinalists presented by Michael
Under a Starlit Sky by Sean Layer, Plano, TX
Let My Heart Take It From Here by Randy Overton, Waxahachie, TX
Sanctuary by Nitanee Paris Lawson, Rachelle Lynn Gislason, Malibu, CA
The Warmth of Your Love by Don Coyne, LA, CA
River of Memories by Charles Carter, Dallas, TX
Hate That I Love You by Deborah Gussin, Brian Bell, Luther Russell, LA, CA
Recipe of Love by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
Let Me Love You by Mimi Balkey, Plano, TX
LOVE SONGS/ EASY LISTENING AWARD

PERFORMANCE – Novelty/Childrens semifinalist Ireland, Casteel, Grapevine, TX Eenie Meenie

Ireland Casteel

Ireland Casteel

Ireland is a local singer songwriter who, even at the young age of 15, is a storyteller at heart that effortlessly captivates listeners with lyrics that speak directly to the audience.  She started writing songs and playing guitar and ukulele at age 12 and has over 20 originals already under her belt!

NOVELTY / CHILDREN Semifinalists presented by Barbe
Today I’ll Marry My Friend by DeDe WedeKind, Houston, TX
Dreamland by Charles Carter, Dallas, Tx
The Christmas Song No One Knows by Renee Saffier, Andy Hill and Hard Rain, LA, CA
Chicken or Beer by T. Edwin Doss, Silver Spring, MD
Grow Up by Lauren Paley, Lauren Paley, Cedar Hill, Tx
Roly Poly With You by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX
Eenie Meenie by Ireland Casteel, Grapevine, TX
Cool To Be Kind by Randy Sauer, Hays, KS
What Would I Do by Randy Sauer, Hays, KS
NOVELTY / CHILDRENS AWARD

Harry Hewlett and Richie Smith

Harry Hewlett and Richie Smith

Harry Hewlett, Director of A&R, Co-Director of Song Contest, Harry grew up near Lubbock, Tx, and went to Texas Tech, where he sang and played guitar in the quintessential 1960’s 4-piece garage band, performing mostly for frat parties and HS dances. He began songwriting years later, while living in NYC, where he joined the Songwriters Guild and Nashville Songwriters AssocHe’s been writing and entertaining with his own songs and humor ever since. Now retired, he lives in Dallas, and has two CDs, World Class Dirty Old Man and Tahoka Daisy. He is currently serving as A/R Director on the DSA board of directors. We thank him tonight for providing the song cues of the winning songs.

POP/ROCK Semifinalists presented by Harry Hewlett
Break Me Open by Debra Gussin, Brian Bell, Luther Russell, LA, CA
Find Myself by Jonathan Ditto, Kona, Hawaii
For A Reason by Richie Smith, Richardson, TX
Insignificant Other by Andy Hill, Renee Safier and Hard Rain, LA, CA
I’m Alright by Jeff Moore, Baton Rouge, LA
I’m Looking at You by Clark Ford, Ames, IA

Harry Hewlett and Hayley McDaniel

Harry Hewlett and Hayley McDaniel

Leaning On Heaven by DeDe Wedekind, Houston TX
Mystery Girl by Andre Kerek, Miami, FL
Never Come by Sebastien Parentin, Strasbourg, Lorraine, France
Oh Jenny by Debra Gussin, Brian Bell, Nate Shaw,LA, CA
Ordinary Day by Susan Odella, Virginia, MN
Sell Me Out by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX
She’s A Pistol by Vicki Lee, Pine Bluff, AK
Sunrise by Pamela Olivia, Santa Clarita, CA
This Means War by Mary Jennings, Nashville, TN
Word Man by Stefanie Johnson, Allentown, PA
Dear Fear by Katie Riley, Poetry, TX
KIcks by Jacquelyn Schwartz, Dallas, TX
Lost by Jacquelyn Schwartz, Dallas, TX
Walk Away by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX
POP/ROCK AWARD

PERFORMANCE by Singer Songwriter semifinalist Haley McDaniel, Denton, Tx Aaron See, Guitar
Small Town Masquerade
Haley has taken the Texas Country Music Scene by storm since the release of her hit, “Small Town

Aaron See and Hayley McDaniel

Aaron See and Hayley McDaniel

Masquerade” and shows no sign of slowing! Her writing style is authentic, conversational and reminiscent of 90’s Traditional Country; When steel guitars and story-telling lyrics ruled the airwaves. Her Hosting gig for The ETX ROCKS Show Podcast and YouTube channel has even further solidified her as a truly influential VOICE in Texas! She has received numerous awards and accolades for her Songwriting. Please welcome Hayley McDaniel performing Small Town Masquerade.
SINGER SONGWRITER Semifinalists presented by Harry Hewlett
10 Feet Under by M’Lynn Musgrove, Dallas, TX
Cleansing Rain by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX
Crash by M’Lynn Musgrove, Dallas, TX
Halleluyah Today by Denise Rosier, Lake Forest, CA
I’ll Be Coming Home Soon by Edwin T. Doss, Silver Springs, MD
Let My Heart Take It From Here by Randy Overton, Waxahachie, TX
Running Throuhg The New Brown Corn by Edwin T. Doss, Silver Springs, MD
Small Town Masquerade by Haley McDaniel, Denton, TX
Soft Place To Fall by Debra Gussin, Jonathan Bluth, LA, CA
Wilted Flower by Erin James, Nashville, TN
SINGER SONGWRITER AWARD presented by David Card

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS Anounced- presented by Barbe McMillen
Roy Elkins of Broadjam.com was our grand prize judge. You can read his detailed comments on the DSA website.
Explanation of the process.
All three winners in each category were placed in dropbox for our Grand Prize judge to listen to and pick the Grand Prize Winners. It is unknown to the judge how each song placed in it’s category. In the past we’ve had an HM win the grand prize. Also, he does not know who the songwriter and singer is. It’s very blind judging.

WINNER OF THE IPOD – Jeffery Moore, Baton Rouge, LA

LYRIC CONTEST WINNERS 2016
FALL 2015 Memories of the Future by David Byboth
WINTER In His Hands by Lauren Smith, Livermore, CA
SPRING Fences by Bill Kapac, Williamstown, PA
SUMMER  Addiction by Ireland Casteel, Grapevine, TX

Harry Hewlett, Mr. Troll, Rio King, Michael Brandenberger

Harry Hewlett, Mr. Troll, Rio King, Michael Brandenberger

PERFORMANCE by critique finalist Rio King, Plano, Tx Last Chance to Dance, Play Sump’n Like Dat & That Window Closes Fast
After early successes with his college rock and roll band, The Techniques out of Lubbock, and as a solo singer songwriter at Kerrville, Rio King has re-emerged from musical retirement. With deep affection for his native state, Rio has recently recorded his album, I’d Love To See Texas Again with Chris Gage of MoonHouse Studio in Austin to bring a great collection of original Texas Music. He is performing songs that were winners of the Best Songs of the Second Tuesday Meeting.
BEST SONGS OF THE 2016 SECOND TUESDAY MEETING

SONG OF THE YEAR presented by Harry Hewlett

Michael Brandenberger and Rio King

Michael Brandenberger and Rio King

Explanation of the process
Each month songs of members are critiqued at the 2nd Tuesday meeting. Winners each month are published in Songwriters Notes. At the end of each year, the songs are judged by industry pros and the Song of the Year is awarded to the songwriter whose song garnered the most points from the judges.
SONG OF THE YEAR FINALISTS
1 Time to Leave by Beth Murphy, Richardson, TX
2 My Pickup Truck She Never Lets Me Down by Charles Carter, Dallas, TX
3 Last Chance To Dance In Texas by Rio King, Plano, TX
4 I’m Singing My heart Out in Dallas Tonight by Charles Carter, Dallas, TX
5 Play Sump’n Like Dat by Rio King, Plano, TX
6 That Window Closes Fast by Rio King, Plano, TX
ANNOUNCEMENT OF WINNER

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR presented by Michael Brandenberger
Explanation of the process.
The songwriter who has won the most Best Songs of the Meeting throughout the year becomes our songwriter of the year.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF WINNER

Thank You
Special thanks to Harry Hewlett for co-directing the contest, and providing the audio clips tonight.
Dan Roark, Cameron Roark and Dave Lewis of Sons of Hermann Hall for our live sound reinforcement, .
Bobby Montgomery for catering, fundraising and many other things.
Lisa Byrn, SOH Manager, Our Song Contest and Lyric Judges, Nancy Rynders
Ginger Stanoiu for setting up, Ken Duren for helping at the door
Michael Brandenberger for ramroding DSA through 2016

DSA Board of Directors 2016
President / Membership Director – Michael Brandenberger
Executive Vice President, Program Director, Fundraising – Bobby Montgomery
Newsletter, Song Contest, Admin – Barbe McMillen
Workshop, Showcases and Open Mics & Lyric Contest Director – Dan Roark
Treasurer – Dickey Johnson
A&R and Co-Director Song Contest – Harry Hewlett
Secretary – Ginger Stanoiu
Technical Director – Rachel Wilhelm
Marcus Belmore – Webmaster
At-Large: Joe Milton, James Pappas, Ken Duren, Steve Sullivan

Directors for 2017
Michael Brandenberger, Bobby Montgomery, Barbe McMillen, Harry Hewlett, Dicky Johnson, Ginger Stanoiu, Rachel Wilhelm, Steve Sullivan, Ken Duren, Dan Roark, Joe Milton, Marcus Belmore, James Pappas, Malini Shaw

2016 SONG CONTEST JUDGES
Grand Prize Judge : ROY ELKINS, CEO of Broadjam, Inc.

CATEGORY JUDGES
Americana: KENDRA TERRY, Booking manager of Uncle Calvin’s Coffee House.
Christian/Inspirational:  KIMBERLY INGRAM – Open Heart Musicals
Country: ROD PHELPS – VP Global Music Development, the American Music Channel
Children’s/Novelty :MONTY HARPER , award-winning children’s performer, and songwriter http://www.montyharper.com
Instrumental: TERRY HANKINS, premier jazz guitarist
Love Songs/Easy Listening : TONY HAKIM , Jazz performer and owner of the jazz venue, Kitchen Cafe.
Pop/Rock – Music Director KATHY FORSTE, KC Café Radio   http://www.kccaferadio.com
Singer Songwriter: DAVID CARD, Owner, Poor David’s Pub

SONG OF THE YEAR JUDGE
MR TROLL, Open mic host and doer of things at Poor David’s Pub

AMERICANA

1. Two Trains by Renee Saffier, Andy Hill and Hard Rain, LA, CA

2. Just Can’t Drown a Broken Heart by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX

3. My Unsung Hero by DeDe Wedekind, Houston, TX

CHRISTIAN

1. Hearts Wide Open by Michael Roth, Arlington, VA

2. It Could Be You by Robert Graham, Toronto, Can.

3. Praise You by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX

COUNTRY

1. Still Enough by Tim Sharp, Tomball, TX

2. Pills by Tim Sharp, Tomball, TX

3. Wanted Man by Christopher Sjostrom, Bedford, TX

LOVE / EASY LISTENING

1. The Warmth of Your Love by Don Coyne, LA, CA

2. Let My Heart Take It From Here by Randy Overton, Waxahachie, TX

3. Sanctuary by Nitanee Paris Lawson, Rachelle Lynn Gislason, Malibu, CA

INSTRUMENTAL

1. Shoot Out by Conrad Swartz, Vancouver, WA

2. Aural Therapy by Al Marcy, Downers Grove, IL

3. Enchanted Kingdom by Bill Wren and Frank Ralls, Port Aransas, TX

NOVELTY / CHILDRENS

1. Grow Up by Lauren Paley, Lauren Paley, Cedar Hill, Tx (email)

2. Cool To Be Kind by Randy Sauer, Hays, KS (email)

3. The Christmas Song No One Knows by Renee Saffier, Andy Hill and Hard Rain, LA, CA

3. Roly Poly With You by Rick Babb, Dallas, TX

HM Eenie Meenie by Ireland Casteel, Grapevine, TX    (email)

HM Dreamland by Charles Carter, Dallas, Tx

POP

1. INSIGNIFICANT OTHER by Andy Hill, Renee Safier and Hard Rain, LA, CA

2. BREAK ME OPEN by Debra Gussin, Brian Bell, Luther Russell, LA, CA

3. SUNRISE by Pamela Olivia, Santa Clarita, CA

HM FOR A REASON by Richie Smith, Richardson, TX

SINGER SONGWRITER

1. SMALL TOWN MASQUERADE by Haley McDaniel, Denton, TX

2. CLEANSING RAIN by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX

3. HALLELUYAH TODAY by Denise Rosier, Lake Forest, CA

HM SOFT PLACE TO FALL by Debra Gussin, Jonathan Bluth, LA, CA

GRAND PRIZE WINNERS

1. Enchanted Kingdom by Bill Wren and Frank Ralls, Port Aransas, TX

2. Just Can’t Drown a Broken Heart by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX

3. CLEANSING RAIN by Jared LoStracco, Nacogdoches, TX

WINNER OF THE IPOD

Jeffery Moore, Baton Rouge, LA  His entry, This Love, #102 was drawn.

 

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Open Mic Tales – Birthdays and Award, Pt. 2

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Music, open mic, Songwriting, writing — Leave a comment
Samantha as we sang to her.

Samantha as we sang to her.

On Monday, December 12th, the Poor David’s Pub open mic, hosted by Mr. Troll, was a celebration of Samantha Sanders’, birthday. Samantha Sanders is the bar manager at PDP, a hairdresser, a mother of three talented baseball playing boys, and an all around beautiful person.

Keith Crow started the show. He had to leave early, so Troll let him start. Troll followed Keith with Billy Keith Bucher joining him on cajon.  When Troll and Billy Keith finished, I took the stage – with a box rather than a guitar.

I asked Carlos to come up to the stage. While he was coming to the stage, I announced that Carlos was the 2016 Best Sound Man of the Year Award. When he reached the stage, I announced that, as showcase director for the Dallas Songwriters Association, I was presenting Carlos with the 2017 Best Sound Man of the Year award.carlos-sanchez-and-dan-roark

I was not trying to take away from Samantha’s celebration by giving Carlos the trophy. I was guest hosting when it was Carlos’ birthday celebration and I wanted Troll to be there when I gave Carlos the award. And, as in Carlos’ case, it wasn’t the actual birthday.

After the presentation and the two of us leaving the stage, David Card and Mr. Troll took our place. David expounded for a bit about Samantha’s talents as a bar manager and her charms as a person. Which we all echoed with shouts of agreement and applause. Then David and Troll led us all in singing Happy Birthday.

Poor David Card and Mr. Troll

Poor David Card and Mr. Troll

Then it was back to the open mic with the featured artist, Eric Sommer. Sommer is originally from Boston and now pretty much from the road. He has an old style blues guitar setup – from the amps to the acoustic guitars to the telecasters to the Shure iconic unidyne vocal mic. Eric reminds one of the blues players who came before him. Mixed, however, with a punk, salty, edge.

Sometimes being late to post works out right. Today is Samantha’s actual birthday. Go to her Facebook page and say Happy Birthday!

And the music plays on….

Peace be with you.

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Open Mic Tales – Birthdays and Award, Part 1

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December 22, 2016
The Enablers

The Enablers

Here I am, playing catch up again. I was guest host of the Poor David’s Pub open mic on Monday, November 28th. Which happened to be sound man, Carlos Sanchez’, birthday celebration. His actual birthday was on Tuesday.

I welcomed everyone and started the show with my three songs. The honorable David Card then came on stage to say Happy Birthday to Carlos in his inimitable fashion. Darren Rozell followed me. Then Mike Newkirk played, followed by 17 year old Cortlynn Blankenbaker . Then the stage was set for the featured artist.

Brad Blackwood, Scott Thornton, and Tin Man Travis

Brad Blackwood, Scott Thornton, and Tin Man Travis

After going through setup, Carlos and the Enablers took the stage. They are looking at other names, because they found out Enablers was being used. The band plays tunes from artists like Eric Clapton, The Band, and many others. And they play them well. It was like a mini Grateful Dead concert. The band rocked the house for about forty-five minutes. If I can get the names of the other members of the band, I will update the info. It’s hard to keep track of all the names that are not on the list when you’re the host.

When the band left the stage, Carlos stayed and invited Samantha Sanders, bar manager, to come down from

Samantha Sanders and Carlos Sanchez

Samantha Sanders and Carlos Sanchez

behind the bar. Samantha explained that her dad used to sing This Old House by Neil Young when she was young. She liked to sing it for him. Then she and Carlos played and sang the song. She sings better than she gives herself credit for.

Tin Man Travis played, then Mark Brandt, who reminds me of Leo Kottke, followed by Scott Thornton, and Robin Willis. Tin Man played with Scott and Robin. Brad Blackwood, a well known harmonica player, accompanied Scott and Tin Man.

Interspersed between these acts, and ending the show, were a number of rappers and hip-hop artists (I’m not sure which each considers as their type of music). The performers included SSG, DJ Whylie, Eyece, Blacc Majicc, and Rich Monii.

Which brought the interesting evening, and Carlos’ birthday party to a close. It was past midnight, so I wished him Happy Birthday for real before I left. Two weeks later, the party continued with Samantha’s birthday celebration. And I said award, right?….

Peace be with you.

 

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What Did Macaroni and Cheese Ever Do To Them?

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Food, writing — Leave a comment
December 7, 2016

bowl-of-mac-and-cheeseMacaroni and cheese – a simple concept. Cook the macaroni and then bake it with cheese. Which introduced the crust concept of macaroni and cheese (heretofore referred to as mac and cheese). Everyone was happy. The variation came in the kind of cheese used. Deluxe mac and cheese came about by adding more than one cheese. But it was still mac and cheese.

Then Kraft came out with mac and cheese packages. There was no reason to measure ingredients anymore. Cook the noodles and then add the cheese packet. Pretty much the way it always was. Velveeta got in the game, but the basics were still the same. Now you have individual bowls for single servings. But it’s still mac and cheese.

Then restaurants began to take advantage of the popularity of mac and cheese. It was cheap to make. They thought maybe if they added a bunch of crap and called it deluxe or gourmet mac and cheese, they could charge $8 a serving. And they were totally confused. They forgot one simple thing – which I will get back to.

Schotzsky’s made the more recent foray into the mac and cheese world. They have four new mac and cheese dinners. Actually three, with a variation on the third. One has chicken, one has shrimp, and two have brisket – albeit all with different extra ingredients. They have continually had sales and deals on the dinners, so it would seem that the options were not all that popular.

I need to say, however, that I eat Schotzsky’s sandwiches almost every Monday. Cyndy and I enjoy the Pick 2, the salads, and the flatbread options. But we will not have the mac and cheese dishes. Regardless of the coupons I receive by email. Obviously it is not because their food is not good.

I saw a commercial the other day from Red Lobster that mentioned a lobster and mac and cheese dish. Are you freaking kidding me? As Cyndy said , it might be palatable with a white sauce. But, seeing the commercial again, it was “regular” mac and cheese.

I’m amazed at the confusion that created all these dishes in the first place. What led them to completely misunderstand the name of the dish? It is as simple as anything could be. It worked really well for over 50 years. No one had any problem with it. Children loved it and it could keep them from yelling for food for a period of time.

Then restaurants decided – does this sound familiar – that if they added ingredients they could charge for a “gourmet” dish. It didn’t matter that the ingredients had nothing to do with mac and cheese. Forget the fact that you would taste little of the original mac and cheese. Our son, Cameron, had one of the Schotzsky’s mac and cheese dishes and threw half of it away.

Here is the one thing they all forgot or ignored. And that is the name and basics of the dish. It is macaroni and cheese. It is, has been, and always will be, a two ingredient dish – whether it’s a main course or side dish. You can have almost anything with mac and cheese – on the side. To add ingredients in order to make it “gourmet” and charge more money is a bastardization of the original dish.

If you have not reached this conclusion by now, here it is. The dish is macaroni and cheese. Just to be clear, the ingredients are macaroni and cheese. To call it gourmet would be with more than one kind of cheese. But the ingredients are still – say it with me – macaroni and cheese. I don’t understand the confusion.

Peace be with you.

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When Your Hands Refuse to Play That Song One More Time

Filed under: Communications, Current events, Music, Recording, Songwriting, Theology, writing — Leave a comment
December 2, 2016

Dan during video shoot

The week before we filmed footage for the What the Lord Intends (Sack Summer Hunger) music video, I kept practicing the song. I had already been playing it frequently in support of the program. But since we were going to film me playing the song, I wanted to be able to do it in as few takes as possible.

On Friday night, I played it numerous times. Then I got up Saturday and played the song to warm up. I arrived at the church at 8 a.m. I set up my camera and filmed myself playing the song a couple of times. Marcus Belmore arrived and began getting footage of the volunteers, including me, sorting and delivering the food to the families whose children received free or reduced lunches during the school year, but nothing during the summer.

I don’t know about other songwriters, but when I write a new song that I really like, I have a hard time getting it out of my head. And since I was playing it in support of the program during the summer, What the Lord Intends was really stuck in my head. I played it a couple of times after I got home from the church.

After a nap and dinner, I later decided to play the song again. I fingerpick on the song and couldn’t play the opening licks for the likes of me. My fingers just wouldn’t work together in the syncopated way they normally would. It was comically frustrating, if you catch my drift.

The lack of dexterity actually concerned me for a moment – even though it was only on that song. Working at the computer a lot of the time, I’m used to carpal tunnel type symptoms. I exercise my hands frequently. Playing guitar helps to stretch the fingers. Except in this case when the two worlds collided, so to speak.

Are there any lessons to be learned? Never play guitar after a nap and dinner? I don’t think so. Never film a video at a church on Saturday morning? Again, no. Don’t play the same song one more time, being tired, without playing other songs? That’s closer.

Anyone had this, or something similar, happen to them? Any other lessons to be learned? I laugh about it now, but it was scary for a while, not having the fingers work on a song.

Peace be with you.

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