|
7 members (Gary E. Andrews, texritter, bennash, Guy E. Trepanier, Fdemetrio, 2 invisible),
17,317
guests, and
6,208
robots. |
|
Key:
Admin,
Global Mod,
Mod
|
|
Welcome to the Just Plain Folks forums! You are currently viewing our forums as a Guest which gives you limited access to most of our discussions and to other features.
By joining our free community you will have access to post and respond to topics, communicate privately with our users (PM), respond to polls, upload content, and access many other features. Registration is fast, simple, and absolutely free; so please join our community today!
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Well Happy Holidays Everyone! I know, I know, you probably forgot I sometimes contribute MUSIC around here. Well, I'm very fortunate to be able to do so once again with the musical and vocal talent of our very own Sergio Mendoza Hochmann (aka SergeAMH). Some of you might remember this lyric from earlier in the fall ( http://www.jpfolks.com/forum/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/759719/page/6#Post759719 ). Serge spoke to me about musicating it, and I was very excited to hear his interpretation -- especially since I had heard it in my head with a female vocalist. However, as I believe you'll agree, he far exceeded any expectations I had for the song. I'm especially proud of the fact that with the commercial success he has achieved elsewhere, this is his maiden musication at JPF. So without further ado, ENJOY! And Serge, GRACIAS!! Beth http://www.soundclick.com/bands/default.cfm?bandID=949237&content=songinfo&songID=8519541"Yesterday's Mirror" (c) 2009 Lyrics Beth G. Williams, BMI/Music & Vocal Sergio Mendoza Hochmann She's rolled to her spot by the window Amid walkers and wheelchairs and gloom She sits and she waits Like she does every day Til it's time to go back to her room But she hears that there'll be a performance Her heart quickens, her stomach goes tight Then the music begins Ten young girls flutter in Her hands slide down and knead her dead thighs Still she feels a sensation Course through her, elation In yesterday's mirror She's free from this shell In yesterday's mirror She dances as well They line up to see her The Prima ballerina In yesterday's mirror She's back, her old self There is one girl she specially fancies Grace in motion, she floats on her toes She smiles as she passes Sparks a flame in old ashes Arms remember, sweep up to a pose But she can't hold it long Now withered, once strong In yesterday's mirror She's free from this shell In yesterday's mirror She dances as well They line up to see her The Prima ballerina In yesterday's mirror She's back, her old self The dancing is done, the girl breaks from her friends And turns to the woman who cried at the end She bends down beside her, gently strokes those old knees Saying "the heart's where it counts for us dancers...not these" Chorus repeat: Tag: Back in her room, she grins at the mirror A gift from the girl who brought yesterday nearer
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 12,082 Likes: 1
Top 10 Poster
|
|
Top 10 Poster
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 12,082 Likes: 1 |
Just getting ready to sign off for a few days and I see this pop up.  What a great way to end the day! Love it, Beth - a wonderful lyric. The kind that makes the movie play in my head. Moving but not sappy. And a terrific job by Serge on the musication. One to be proud of! Scott
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 8,688 Likes: 1
Top 20 Poster
|
|
Top 20 Poster
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 8,688 Likes: 1 |
This is great Beth, love it and what a song to have here at Christmas too...makes the heart feel so good..thanks for putting that in my heart today....lovely..like Scott says, Be Proud..glyn
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,236 Likes: 4
Top 200 Poster
|
|
Top 200 Poster
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,236 Likes: 4 |
This is such a pretty lyric and Serge did a wonderful job bringing it to life. You guys should both be proud of this. I love Serge's voice too.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 6,895
Top 40 Poster
|
|
Top 40 Poster
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 6,895 |
Hi Beth & Serge,
Wow! Great production. I couldn't imagine the music that would do these lyrics justice. Good thing Serge could. Wonderful vocal interpretation of these touching and bittersweet lyrics. And the brief acoustic guitar at the end was a great touch. Very well done, all the way around.
Ricki
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 9,649
Top 20 Poster
|
|
Top 20 Poster
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 9,649 |
Beth and Serge,
Muy, muy bonita! Me gusta mucho!
Wonderful job from both of you. Like Ricki, I had no idea what to expect as far as music. Serge really came through for you...great music and vocal. And your lyric is so poignant. We had to put my mother in a nursing home this summer for early dementia. So this one kind of stuck with me.
Very creative on all fronts. Two thumbs and a big toe up for you!
Alan
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,858 Likes: 1
Top 10 Poster
|
|
Top 10 Poster
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 19,858 Likes: 1 |
Hi Beth / Serge, Enjoyed the listen, very nicely done. Merry Christmas to you and your familys. Calvin http://www.soundclick.com/bands/0/calvinstewart
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,016
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,016 |
Hey Beth and Serge, great hook, yesterdays mirror invokes the
past and intrigues of perspective views, the story is as strong
and everything else vocal, production etc is top notch, good
job,
Merry Christmas,
Tony.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,700 Likes: 2
Top 100 Poster
|
|
Top 100 Poster
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 4,700 Likes: 2 |
This turned out beautifully! Well done, Beth and Serge. Beth, what a lovely note - no pun intended - on which to finish 2009: a song like this! All the best for the coming year. Donna
Honour the Earth. Without it, we'd be nowhere.
Life is too important to take seriously.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hey Scooter,
Thanks so much for starting things off here before you go on holiday.
You have it right, too -- I am proud of this one. Samantha has her dance school's annual performance at the senior center today... and I'm anxious to let the Director hear it.
Serge really went above and beyond the call of duty on this one. He was juggling a lot of things, then had an issue with his vocal chords...but he remained committed. I'm so glad I was able to hold out, b/c like many of you, I was CURIOUS what he was going to do! As I said to him when I finally heard it, this was the perfect example of all good things are worth waiting for.
So thanks again Serge, I think your JPF musication debut is a success.
And Scott, I'm glad you enjoyed it. Marry Christmas.
xoxo,
Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Thanks Glynda! Just popping in to make sure I'm acknowledging folks -- I have been MIA so long musically I was worried I'd been forgotten about! I'm so happy you took the time to listen to this and enjoyed it. I'll be sure to report back from the Senior Center later today !! Serge did such a great job bringing my lyrics to life. I couldn't be happier with the result. Have a wonderful holiday girlie. And hope that 2010 is YOUR year!! xoxo, Beth
Last edited by Beth G. Williams; 12/24/09 04:26 PM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 10,943 Likes: 3
Top 10 Poster
|
|
Top 10 Poster
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 10,943 Likes: 3 |
Very realistic lyrics, it's like a movie in motion. Music worked out well, too. Serge did a great job. I think the vocals were slightly buried here and there in the verses, but it might be the headphone setup, too.
Great song.
Kevin
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Thanks so much Wendy, GREAT avatar for the holidays! Just getting my rugrats ready for bed...as if they're gonna sleep any time soon (this is when Benadryl comes in handy -- lol!). Anyway, yes, Serge does have a great voice -- I was curious about a male interpretation, but I think it really worked. He rocks, man! So happy to have such a cool one to end the year with....otherwise I'd be WAITING and WAITING (lol, you know I'm kidding!!!  )... Have a fun day!! Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 2,526
Helping Hand
|
|
Helping Hand
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 2,526 |
This is really GOOD! I loved the lyric, remembered it when you first posted it, but wow, Serge just takes it to the next level! I love his voice! The musication is excellent too. You two should be really proud and excited! I see this as "alt rock" or maybe a song in a movie?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,725
Top 50 Poster
|
|
Top 50 Poster
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 5,725 |
Good story Beth, lots of interesting folks with incredible stories in nursing homes.
http://www.soundclick.com/louistwinn"If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away." Thoreau
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,706
Helping Hand
|
|
Helping Hand
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,706 |
Howdy Beth, Gus here. you know i've liked his from when you first
posted it,& it has finished off beautifully by Serge, 1st thing of his I've heard. Very nice
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 10,330
Top 10 Poster
|
|
Top 10 Poster
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 10,330 |
Well done, both of you. This was a neat story, Beth. Serge, well arranged. Loved your voice and singing. Whoops forgot to mention the melody. Liked that too.
Last edited by Jean Bullock; 12/25/09 07:28 AM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 9,186
Top 10 Poster
|
|
Top 10 Poster
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 9,186 |
Hi Sergio and Beth
VerY Nicely done -- it works very well and this it would work as a movie placement.
Happy Holidays -- wishing you the best. jm
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 7,911 Likes: 1
Top 30 Poster
|
|
Top 30 Poster
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 7,911 Likes: 1 |
A sad song for Christmas morning but very well done! Makes you wonder about what your elderly neighbors were like in their younger days.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hey Limey, Have a minute b/w festivities here and heading to my parent's house for more, so first off Merry Christmas.... Second, thank you so much for your generous review of our song. I know we had talked about it along the way, so I'm glad you agree with my assessment of Serge's interpretation -- fabulous! BTW, I'll tell Serge separately, but the Senior Center contingency was THRILLED with it. Given that Samantha's annual holiday performance there was my inspiration for the song, their response made it all worthwhile. Thanks again, and have a great day! Eat drink and be merry --not necessarily in that order...  xoxo, Beth P.S. Tomorrow, back for other song crits!!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hi there Alan!
Thanks so much for giving us a listen on this one. I've been delinquent with the other crits I promised for today -- post-Xmas with two youngins was supposed to be calm!
Anyway, coming from someone with your experience and repetoire, your comments certainly mean a lot. Serge is just getting his feet wet here, and I am so thrilled he wanted to take a stab at musicating my lyric. He had something in mind from the get-go, and it certainly paid off in spades. While he has his own sound for sure, something about his interpretation reminded me of the stylings of our very own Mike Zaneski. I hope both gentlemen are pleased by this comparison.
I'm glad you enjoyed the lyric as well -- though I'm sorry for the circumstances surrounding your connection to it. For somewhat similar reasons, I got my Dad crying with it yesterday. Though his mom -- my Nonni -- is 103 and still lives at home with him and my mom, I can understand why the story touched him.
Anyway, thank you again so much for your generosity. I hope we get to hear more of Serge's musical magic very soon....
In the meantime, please send my regards to Helen. Here's to a happy and healthy 2010!
xoxo,
Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hey Calvin,
Glad you got a chance to listen to this one. I'm so pleased with how it came out, and certainly hope Serge continues to share his talent with us.
As for me, I'm a bit easier to pin down. I might even write a new lyric one of these days....
Seriously, thank you for your generous comments. You're getting downright verbose! You best hurry on over to Polly's New Year's Resolutions thread and commit to being more concise in 2010!
Ciao for now,
Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,910
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,910 |
Incredible work, awesome write, wonderful in every way for sure
my friend
Dan
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 938
Top 500 Poster
|
|
Top 500 Poster
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 938 |
I thought I had commented on this before. I was coming back for another listen and seen nothing from me.
I really love the journey in this tune very good write......More More More !!!
Paul Gaines
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57 |
Thank you all very much! I'm very glad you've all liked it. I owe the music that I created to the wonderful lyrics that Beth crafted. The first time that I read them, the music started coming to my mind. The rest just flowed out. Sadly, I fell sick right when I was beginning to do all the arrangements and the doctor told me that my vocal chords were very swollen, so I couldn't speak for a while, much less sing. I knew that I could give the music tracks to Beth and have her get someone else to sing, but I felt like I had the vocal delivery right here in my head, just wasn't able to actually SING it for some weeks. For those of you who wonder about the technology behind the music, here's a breakdown of everything. Everything I use is legally owned, for my peace of mind (and anybody who does anything with me): * Recorded on Pro Tools 8.0 at 44.1 kHz and 24 bits. * Drums taken from EZdrummer, Nashville EZX, brushes, with midi loops taken from there and edited by me. Drum tracks phattened up using Izotope's Ozone 4. * Bass recorded in midi using Xpand2 * Piano played using Sonik Synth 2 * An additional synth sound played throughout the song using Xpand2 * Acoustic guitar recorded on two channels, panned 51 L - 51 R, using on the left channel an A.I.R. Chorus and on the right using a Digirack EQIII 7-band equalizer with a slight push on the mid-upper frequencies. I also used an A.I.R. Frequency Shifter on that guitar. * Lead vocal with a Digirack Compressor/Limiter, D-Verb, an EQIII and then ANOTHER EQIII hahaha... Call me crazy but that way it seemed to sound better!  * Second lead vocal for double effect panned 15 Left with a Digirack Compressor and D-Verb * Four channels of backing vocals, completely effects free (not even aux out effects or anything) panned 40 L-R and 60 L-R * Everything bounced down and fattened and brightened up a bit using Izotope's Ozone 4. Added a bit of overall reverb effect (a tad) but enough to give the song a more 70's-80's vibe, like Beth pretty much told me by giving me some examples of things she liked. I hope I don't appear as a pedantic, tech-nerd here but the fact is that the guys that make these programs, plugins and instruments have helped me, with their inventiveness, to make my dreams of creating music like I want come true. I'm still marvelled after all these years that I can do all this stuff here. Besides, I know that some people sometimes have questions about technical stuff, etc. Anyways, Beth showed me some songs for me to use for inspiration. Many times what I took where ideas for sounds and overall vibe instead of checking out the actual type of music that that song was. I had a very good time writing the music to and recording this song and want to thank all of you again for your great comments. Beth, this was a truly enjoyable, long-distance, Bernie Taupin/Elton John-esque cowrite. Take care all, Serge
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 433
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 433 |
Beth and Serge, I remember seeing these lyrics and thinking how good they were. This sounds like a soundtrack for one of those flashback movies. Good job!
redwing
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,831 Likes: 2
Top 100 Poster
|
|
Top 100 Poster
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 3,831 Likes: 2 |
Hi Beth & Serge,
I remember this lyric. I think it’s well-written, tells an emotional story and it’s great to hear it now!
I enjoyed the music and singing, especially the chorus. There’s a lot of feeling in Serge’s singing…it’s very nicely done.
You wrote a heart-filled lyric, Beth, and it tugs at us both lyrically and musically now.
Great job!
Kristi
A musician must make music, an artist must paint, a poet must write,
if he is to be ultimately at peace with himself. What a man can be,
he must be. -- Abraham Maslow, American Psychologist
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,706
Helping Hand
|
|
Helping Hand
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,706 |
Howdy Beth, Gus again. Cruised by for another listen,Found this slipping off of page 3. great job Serge!....Yak soon.....
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57 |
Thank you very much, Steven! BTW, cool Moai statue for an avatar  Cheers, Serge
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hey Beth and Serge, great hook, yesterdays mirror invokes the
past and intrigues of perspective views, the story is as strong
and everything else vocal, production etc is top notch, good
job,
Merry Christmas,
Tony.
Hi there Tony, Gosh, thanks for the listen and generous feedback. As Serge and I have both touched upon, it took us a while to get it here, but we're grateful you feel it was worth the wait. I'm glad you specifically mentioned the hook, too. It had been a source of minor debate in its strictly lyrical form....but I believe Serge's interpretation brings it to life and helps evoke every sentiment I had hoped for. We certainly appreciate your visit (your check is in the mail )... Take care, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
This turned out beautifully! Well done, Beth and Serge. Beth, what a lovely note - no pun intended - on which to finish 2009: a song like this! All the best for the coming year. Donna DM! Hello!! I'm so glad you got a chance to stop by on this one. You are such a good story-teller I was anxious to hear your thoughts. Thank you so much for the two thumbs up. I couldn't agree more with your assessment of the perfect 2009 finale. Serge really done good! Looking forward to hearing (and working on!) more great tunes in 2010, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 3,541
Top 100 Poster
|
|
Top 100 Poster
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 3,541 |
Hi Beth & Serge Wowzah, this is beautiful, Serge you done a great job of Beth's fantastic lyics, congratulations you two,  I just love it. Serge you have a great voice, in the beginning of the song, your voice is drowned out a bit, that's my only nit, easy fixed hah. Second listen now, and I've enjoyed listening immensely.  Tomorrow night is New Years Eve here, so YIPEE, it's time to PARTY! Big hugs Michele
Last edited by Michele Bolton; 12/30/09 10:51 AM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57 |
Hey, Michele,
Thank you very much! I'll be remixing the main vocals so that certain parts are not so low in volume. Thank you very much and have a great new year!
Serge
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Very realistic lyrics, it's like a movie in motion. Music worked out well, too. Serge did a great job. I think the vocals were slightly buried here and there in the verses, but it might be the headphone setup, too.
Great song.
Kevin Hi Kevin, I am determined to respond to this whole thread by year's end... but the kids are bouncing off the walls! Anyway, thanks so much for stopping by with your kind feedback on our song. I think Serge is actually going to play around with the vocal balance a bit, so good catch. I also appreciate the "movie-in-motion" comment. That is just what I was shooting for -- and Serge did a great job interpreting the lyric to create that effect. Stay tuned for his tweaked version....and in the meantime, Happy New Year! Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
This is really GOOD! I loved the lyric, remembered it when you first posted it, but wow, Serge just takes it to the next level! I love his voice! The musication is excellent too. You two should be really proud and excited! I see this as "alt rock" or maybe a song in a movie? Polly baby! I am so glad you could take the time out of your burgeoning musical career to give us a listen!! Your vocals are soooo sexy! Anyhoo, I'm flattered you recalled this lyric...and agree with your assessment of Serge's musication and vocal. He rocks!! It was sort of a tough song for people to imagine with music...but he did it! Also, you're the second person to mention a movie soundtrack-y feel to this; that is a real compliment, thank you. You stop by ANY time now, y'hear?? In the meantime, have a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR -- you deserve it... xoxo, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Good story Beth, lots of interesting folks with incredible stories in nursing homes. Happy New Year Louis! Thanks a bunch for listening to our song. While I'm sure pleased you enjoyed it on a literal level, I'm delighted you could also look beyond it to the underlying message; more specifically, that our elders are wondrous creatures!! You're a man of few words on your crits, Louis, but you make every one count and I appreciate 'em. Take care, Beth P.S. I see you've got a new song or two posted. But I have vowed to finish reponding to the people who were nice enough to comment here now -- and don't worry, i play good catch-up!!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Howdy Beth, Gus here. you know i've liked his from when you first
posted it,& it has finished off beautifully by Serge, 1st thing of his I've heard. Very nice Hiya Gus, Are you running for mayor or something? I swear, you have to be one of the sweetest guys goin' around here. On second thought, then, you probably wouldn't do well in politics -- you're too genuine. Accordingly, let me express my gratitude for your support on this song, and just in general as a pal. You should think about getting yourself cloned....lol. As for Serge, yes this is his first piece here. He already has quite a repertoire (you should check out his music pages)... so I was thrilled my lyric somehow spoke to him. He really jumped thru a lot of hoops to do it, too, so A for effort and finished product as far as I'm concerned. Thanks again Gus. Hope to talk more as we get a bit further into the year. Ciao for now, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Well done, both of you. This was a neat story, Beth. Serge, well arranged. Loved your voice and singing. Whoops forgot to mention the melody. Liked that too. Hey Jean, First off, thanks for holding down the fort down at the Challenge Forum. This has been sort of a kooky and distracting time for me... Anyway, I'm much obliged you took a listen to our song and found it worthwhile. I know you can be a tough audience sometimes (which is GOOD, don't get me wrong)...and that just made your comments all the more meaningful. Thank you too, for giving Serge his due here. Without his vision about the lyric, it would have ended up in Mark K's likely-overflowing Graveyard of Songs....  ! So have a good evening, and Happy New Year!! Ciao, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hi Sergio and Beth
VerY Nicely done -- it works very well and this it would work as a movie placement.
Happy Holidays -- wishing you the best. jm AAAh JM... ANOTHER crit I was looking forward to hearing! I'm so glad you enjoyed it...and I dont mind the reference to a possible movie placement at ALL! It's all Serge's doing.... Anyway, happy holidayz back atcha. Hope 2010 is another year of incredible musical growth for you.... Thanks and take care, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
A sad song for Christmas morning but very well done! Makes you wonder about what your elderly neighbors were like in their younger days. Howdy Colin, You're another JPF'er who's generous enough to share honest and construcitve feedback -- so I'm delighted that our maiden collab here passed muster with you. And yes, the question about "what did they do when they were younger?" crosses my mind every time we go to the senior center. Along the same lines, my daughter Samantha's Girl Scout Troup last year had a project about this very topic: they had to tape-record an interview with a senior citizen. We gave them some suggested questions, but they often just ended up following the path the elder led them along. It was a moving experience for all participants....you could literally hear the wistfulness of their recollections, as if they had left this time and place and were right back where the memory originated. Anyway, I digress as usual. Thank you for your visit Colin. We appreciate it! Cheers, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 672
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 672 |
Beth and Serge:
Wow, wow, wow! This is a fine song. Congratulations!
Beth, I loved the lyrics. They tell a moving story and they tell it visually. Everything here is fresh and polished. Plus, the lyrics sing beautifully.
Serge, the music is moving and catchy. Very nice arrangement/production. I especially liked the way you blended the piano and guitar. Excellent vocals, too...it reminded me a bit of America (they were big back in the 70s.) You had me humming along with the hook here. Well done! I'm looking forward to hearing more from you.
Mark
(Now, even after the song has ended, I'm still hearing the hook in my head.)
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,865
Top 100 Poster
|
|
Top 100 Poster
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 3,865 |
What an amazing piece!
I remember when this was born, and watched as it grew and changed...I'm so proud!
The two of you have breathed life into a beautiful, bittersweet story. I really am impressed with the musical parts, very well done! I know, I shouldn't be surpeised, but I always am by interpretations that are different than what I heard in my own little head. Serge, nice, very nice! Beth, well, since I had read this the first time, its really become more than it was, even though the beginning was wonderful. KUDOS, you two!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 57 |
Mark and Caroline, thank you both very much!
I loved the lyrics and wanted to truly do justice them justice. I'm glad you think I have!
I'm looking forward to other collaborations with other lyric writers here and soon will be starting a Soundclick page to put new songs on.
Cheers!
Serge
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Incredible work, awesome write, wonderful in every way for sure
my friend
Dan Hiya Dan, Boy, you sure now how to make a couple of JPF'ers feel good -- thank you! I'm so thrilled with Serge's performance...and I believe I speak for both of us when I say your exuberance is greatly appreciated. Have a good evening, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 2,263
Top 100 Poster
|
|
Top 100 Poster
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 2,263 |
Beth ... WOW! I love this piece of yours!
"In yesterday's mirror
She's free from this shell
In yesterday's mirror
She dances as well
They line up to see her
The Prima ballerina
In yesterday's mirror
She's back, her old self"
What a gorgeous chorus! Kudos!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
I thought I had commented on this before. I was coming back for another listen and seen nothing from me.
I really love the journey in this tune very good write......More More More !!!
Paul Gaines Hi there Paul, You look so different from how I imagined...but a GREAT picture nevertheless (lol) ! Anyway, thank you for taking the time to come back for a second listen and to give us such encouraging feedback. I'd be psyched to hear More More More too ... Have a good evening and ciao for now, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Thank you all very much! I'm very glad you've all liked it. I owe the music that I created to the wonderful lyrics that Beth crafted. The first time that I read them, the music started coming to my mind. The rest just flowed out. Sadly, I fell sick right when I was beginning to do all the arrangements and the doctor told me that my vocal chords were very swollen, so I couldn't speak for a while, much less sing. I knew that I could give the music tracks to Beth and have her get someone else to sing, but I felt like I had the vocal delivery right here in my head, just wasn't able to actually SING it for some weeks. For those of you who wonder about the technology behind the music, here's a breakdown of everything. Everything I use is legally owned, for my peace of mind (and anybody who does anything with me): * Recorded on Pro Tools 8.0 at 44.1 kHz and 24 bits. * Drums taken from EZdrummer, Nashville EZX, brushes, with midi loops taken from there and edited by me. Drum tracks phattened up using Izotope's Ozone 4. * Bass recorded in midi using Xpand2 * Piano played using Sonik Synth 2 * An additional synth sound played throughout the song using Xpand2 * Acoustic guitar recorded on two channels, panned 51 L - 51 R, using on the left channel an A.I.R. Chorus and on the right using a Digirack EQIII 7-band equalizer with a slight push on the mid-upper frequencies. I also used an A.I.R. Frequency Shifter on that guitar. * Lead vocal with a Digirack Compressor/Limiter, D-Verb, an EQIII and then ANOTHER EQIII hahaha... Call me crazy but that way it seemed to sound better! * Second lead vocal for double effect panned 15 Left with a Digirack Compressor and D-Verb * Four channels of backing vocals, completely effects free (not even aux out effects or anything) panned 40 L-R and 60 L-R * Everything bounced down and fattened and brightened up a bit using Izotope's Ozone 4. Added a bit of overall reverb effect (a tad) but enough to give the song a more 70's-80's vibe, like Beth pretty much told me by giving me some examples of things she liked. I hope I don't appear as a pedantic, tech-nerd here but the fact is that the guys that make these programs, plugins and instruments have helped me, with their inventiveness, to make my dreams of creating music like I want come true. I'm still marvelled after all these years that I can do all this stuff here. Besides, I know that some people sometimes have questions about technical stuff, etc. Anyways, Beth showed me some songs for me to use for inspiration. Many times what I took where ideas for sounds and overall vibe instead of checking out the actual type of music that that song was. I had a very good time writing the music to and recording this song and want to thank all of you again for your great comments. Beth, this was a truly enjoyable, long-distance, Bernie Taupin/Elton John-esque cowrite. Take care all, Serge Hi Serge, Wow, Bernie Taupin and Elton John huh? I can live with that comparison! Thank YOU for such a wonderful collab experience. Of course I was thrilled to be your "first" here...and it was a real treat to be so involved with the musical direction of the piece. Still, while my lyrics somehow inspired you, it was all YOU that pulled it together. I was amazed at how much work goes into the musication process. BTW, I'm expecting a letter from the Director of the Senior Center about the song and how well it was received there. I had no doubt it would be...and I'll certainly send along a copy to you when I receive it. In the meantime, thanks again, Serge. I look forward to doing this again sometime! Cheers, Beth
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 695
Serious Contributor
|
|
Serious Contributor
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 695 |
Very nice. It made me think of my mother, a dancer by avocation if not profession, waltzing in her wheelchair before she got too weak. Anyway, one thing musically. The last verse is the punchline of the story, but the musical arrangement behind it doesn't change at all until "not these." It might be stronger emotionally, as well as a cue to the listeners not to let their attention wander, if you cut the music all the way down to just the piano on that verse. Maybe a small drum hit on "not" and back to the arrangement for the chorus on "these." Also, I know this is a very, very small nit, but it took me out of the story at first. The "prima" in prima ballerina isn't pronounced like prim and proper. It's like premium. preema
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386
Top 30 Poster
|
|
OP
Top 30 Poster
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 7,386 |
Hi All,
I'm embarassed I've been so remiss in reponding to your generous reponses here. Unfortunately, I've been a bit distracted by some personal matters, and feel badly I haven't given Serge his proper due by letting his first collab go so long unattended.
I do plan to address individual comments as soon as I'm able...but in the meantime, let me offer a hearty -- albeit belated -- thank you to Redwing, Kristi, Gus (again), Michele, Mark S., Caroline, Stan L., and Joyboy. Your feedback was very much appreciated.
And Serge, again, thank you for all of your efforts on our song's behalf.
Take care,
Beth
|
|
|
|
We would like to keep the membership in Just Plain Folks FREE! Your donation helps support the many programs we offer including Road Trips and the Music Awards.
|
|
|
Forums118
Topics128,681
Posts1,184,437
Members21,478
| |
Most Online148,207
May 25th, 2026
|
|
|
"Through the positive and supportive examples we are setting, it is becoming apparent that where our Just Plain Folks lead, the music world will follow!" -Brian Austin Whitney
|
|
|
|
