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Dave

I understand that each songwriter comes to the table with not just his or her song(s), but all of the experiences in life which preceeded the writing, and all of the prejudices, all of the learning and mentoring. In a song, and by how a song is "laid out," it is often possible to detect subtle differences in the influences, one writer from another. If it's an honestly written song it might well expose a person's very soul in some ways.

For me songwriting is much less about rigid formulae, and more about individual expression. The MABs of the world would argue that structure, and proven patterns and the Nashville process is crucial in order to have a shot at selling CDs. For a rock and roller the outlook might be different, such as an LA twist on style and marketing. I don't hold structuralists in lower regard; I don't hold an individualist (such as Alador) in higher regard.

I esteem each writer as a potential, as I say, with baggage and limitations. Individualists who are not as concerned with structure and set standards are the ones I learn the most from. Those who have the "it" factor are those--such as Alador--who BECOME their music as they express each song, whether or not stylistically they fit in. We are all improving and refining our craft every day, bit by bit. I'm in awe of Alador's POTENTIAL even more than his current writing level--which is fabulous now. I can see in him an unlimited potential.

Thanks for YOUR kind words--
JD