Featured Article in Muse's Muse - Songwriters

Muse's Muse 'Featured' my article 'The Importance of Being Real' in this month's Muse's News!  http://www.musesmuse.com/col-vivalavoice-beingreal.html

Living On In Your Music - The Passing of a Friend

I'm very sad to tell you that my friend, Phyllis Molinary (lyricist for 'Here's To Life") died today due to complications with emphysema in Los Angeles. She was such a great lyricist who always knew her craft. I lived with her when we both came to Las Vegas in 1989, and she has remained a friend and fellow artist through the years.

I am sad today because Phyllis represents so many writers/musicians who spend their whole lives working at their craft, out of love, but may never really see monetary gains from all their efforts. There are so many talented people out there who never get the recognition they deserve, and it always amazes me that we artists will go through hell and back; endure relentless rejection; and see others profit from our efforts; and still we remain true to our Artist's Path.

So it is with love and respect that I say goodbye to my talented friend Phyllis, knowing that her hard work, dedication, and love for her music will live on in the lyrics she leaves behind.

Singing Tips for Songwriters

It's really compelling when a songwriter sings their own music, as they are usually the best 'storytellers'. Unfortunately, a lot of songwriters are either too shy to sing, or don't think they're good enough. I say 'it's better to be a great storyteller than to be a perfect singer!'  I've posted some 'Viva La Voice Singing Tips' on my YouTube channel: http://youtube.com/vivalavoice - please check them out!

Don't Rush Your Bow !

You've worked hard to prepare for your gig.  You've studied your lyrics; understand the emotions behind the words; and have developed your voice so that you can tell your story and not be distracted by vocal challenges.

You take the stage and share your music authentically, making a sincere connection with your audience.  They feel your music and when your set is done, you get an ovation!  Here's my advice - don't rush your bow!  Enjoy your moment, you earned it!

Many times when I work with insecure or inexperienced singers they always have a problem with this.  The moment they're done with their song they practically run offstage!  Not taking a deserved bow robs your audience of the satisfaction of publicly thanking you.  It also shows your audience that you feel unworthy of their praise.

Being confident before, during and after your performance will demonstrate that you have arrived as a powerful, masterful singer who isn't afraid to take the stage with no apologies.

Do You Know What You're Singing About?

Make sure that you are prepared before you take the stage to sing!  That may sound elementary, but many times singers don't do the work that's necessary to really connect with their audience.  Specifically, I mentor my clients on the importance of breaking down the  lyrics for every song you're going to sing so that you know EXACTLY what the song is about; what the feeling is you want to impart to your audience; and what commonality you'll share with your audience when singing your songs.

What is it in your songs that people in your audience can relate to?  A lost love, a new love; triumph over a challenge?  Break down each verse, each chorus, each line so that you know exactly what the meaning is underneath the lyric.  Understanding the subtext of your lyrics is a big job and requires that a singer does their homework!  Knowing what you're singing about may seem simple, but many singers omit this crucial step.  It's not enough to be a good singer; you've got to be a great storyteller.

Inspiring new Songwriters!

I'm getting excited about teaching Songwriting 101 coming up next thursday in Salt Lake! I think it's so cool when you can show folks the 'secrets' of the craft, and get them inspired to write!