JPF Home Page Forums Thread Like Summary - 9 years ago...

I last posted in this forum a bit over 9 years ago. There's been a lot of success since then.
Sometimes life messes with me and I forget how far things have come. And how many things have gone amazingly well even if I did not think so at the time.
The last time I posted was because it was the first time I had paid other musicians to play a gig with me. A check from my new (at the time) production company.

I couldn't think of any other milestone I could possibly hit. When I started out I only wanted to be able to write.
Since 2015 - the last success post - here are a few of the things I never imagined in my wildest dreams:
Recorded in a truly professional studio setting.
Had a song included in a movie (2 Wheel Cowboy).
Started a weekly showcase in a steakhouse that lasted for 3 years.
Started the "Saint Cecilia Circle" monthly open mic at the same steakhouse. Covid killed the steakhouse, but the show is still going on at the Knights of Columbus Hall (first Friday every month). 6 years so far.
Started running a stage for the annual Arizona Songwriters Gathering, as well as running a stage for the Laveen Folk Festival.
Given a grant from the city of Glendale to put on a concert series at each of the city Libraries.
Got on TV 3 or 4 times playing music during a news segment.
Received an actual check from BMI for performance royalties
Was featured on the front page of the Kingman AZ newspaper for the "sounds of Kingman" concert series.
Played the Arizona State Fair for approx 2000 people(2 years running).
Won a local songwriting contest.

There's more I am sure. Thanks for letting me put this down in writing. Knowing that I have not just been spinning my wheels the last nine years makes me think - what next?

Congratulation Doug! I love hearing about JPF members success stories! Hope you have continued success.

Best, John

Congratulations Doug. Reminds me of the song (Little things mean a lot). Success comes slowly sometimes where sometimes it come with a splash and that is it. My music life is like that, little drib drabs but overall I am making headway and a bit of money above expenses. Good luck.

Thank you Everett
Thank you John

Brian:
After being hammered by the sheer mass of garbage on face book, I decided to come back here where I can take my time to think about what to say. I tend to ponder things for a while before responding. Just so I choose the correct words(if possible). Too many times I have thought about a post from someone on FB and when I go to find it again... it's down river to the ocean of dead posts and not to be found.
Here, even if it's been 9 years, as in this case, I can find a post and take the time to say something of value. Just for my own sake, even if no one reads or responds.
Plus, this place is like visiting old friends. I have been away too long. I did not know Joe Wrabek has passed. I still sing his song "Can I have your car when the rapture comes" at certain shows.

Thanks John
Thanks Craig