"Write Place... Write Time..."

Sometimes it's good to have a mission statement!

2008-09-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

Richard Finch... Some Things Never Change!

2008-07-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

I was going through some archival KCSB items today and ran across a "KC and the Sunshine Band" concert program from 'I think' 1978 --- what a treat to read through the history and the bio's of all of the band members!

But Rick Finch's stood out particularly for me (naturally!), but not just because I work with him, manage his career or because we are great friends - but because of how he virtually is no different from the young man described in this 30 year old program. I think that's important for people to know.

Even Harry Wayne Casey ("KC") had great things to say about Rick in this program - a description of Rick which holds true to this day:

When asked about his co-writer/co-producer, Rick Finch, KC is quick to attribute a large part of the KC and the Sunshine Band success to his partner: "Rick is an electronics genius. To be his age and to know what he knows and to do what he's done is amazing and unique."

Yes, like for everyone, time gives us tunnel vision into our past, and Rick is no different --- he is wiser for the lessons learned, sad for the losses, nostalgic for the good times --- but what sets Rick apart from perhaps most others in this business who possess a track record as impressive as his - he is a man who is not content to sit back and assume the role of 'observer' or to rely on his past accomplishments to define him --- Rick sees infinite possibilities and an abundance of talent in an industry barely surviving, and is not deterred by the insurmountable obstacles in trying to bring this amazing artistry to the world's consciousness - and until he draws his last breath, will continue to dedicate himself solely to that mission.

Does he have the answers? I believe he does!!! (I KNOW he does!!!)

So as you read through the copy below, you may ask, "What hasn't changed???"

Well.... he's still driven by that same passion for music which grabbed his heart and soul at age seven...

He's a focused engineer with skills, intuition and an expertise beyond what most people coming up the ranks today could only hope to have in their own careers 30 years from now...

Rick's interest in mentoring others still exists, but has expanded to areas which include not just engineering, but performance, musicianship and genuine quality of character (all of the parents of our younger performers and songwriters have been quick to point out to us the amazing improvements in their children on ALL fronts after working with Rick)...

Fast cars??? Oh yeah! (but let's not go there!!!)

Love and devotion to family??? Without question (and which has touchingly spilled over to my own 88 year old mother, who refers to Rick as "her other son").

"Bird adopter?" Yes, I see that as something which will pick up speed in the not too distant future (which should work well with his new found love of CATS!)

Yes, I believe the 'what you see is what you get' core of the Rick Finch from 30 years ago hasn't changed a bit (with perhaps the reference to him being 'soft-spoken' --- the Rick Finch "I" know is gregariously loud and funny beyond words --- I should have killer abs from all of the double-over laughing we've done!!!).

At any rate........... sit back and enjoy a little slice of history -- and be thankful that there is a Rick Finch working in the music industry today; someone who will never compromise his professional integrity or the integrity of others --- and stay tuned......... the 'next big thing' we've been working on is about ready to take flight!

**************
Richard Finch would rather be engineering a record than talking about himself, but soft-spoken and smiling, he volunteers precious time to chat. Putting the story together, he scratches his head, searching for the proper order of events, trying to be truthful without giving away too many of the industry's secrets. Fine, dark brown hair frames the boyish features... but this is no paradox. Rick Finch is young... very young to have accomplished so much.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Richard is the second youngest of five children. The family relocated to Florida one year later and Hialeah has remained their home. His father passed away when Rick was five. Powered by his affection for music and the desire to make life a little more comfortable for his mother, Rick has far exceeded his original goals. The respect he has gained for his performing, writing, producing and engineering skills is justly deserved.

A passion for records and fast cars characterized Rick's personality at the tender age of seven. The Beatles were happening then and he played their music endlessly, as well as the soul artists of that time. When second oldest brother, Junie, recorded a song in one of those booths that put the tune on a white wax disc for 50 cents, Rick was hypnotized. He had to know how those records were made... what it took to put all of those sounds together. The search seemed futile... writing to RCA for information, looking up recording studios in the phone book... it was a dead end street. Somehow, someway, Rick Finch did find the answers.

With a feeling for the guitar, Finch picked up his first bass when he was eleven. By the age of twelve, he was playing Country & Western music at the Disabled Veterans Club with a neighborhood band. The bass came naturally... he found C&W music easy to perform. Still, it was soul music that he wanted to perfect on the bass. In school, he met a few boys - some white, some black, who thought Rick's bass playing was terrific and professional. They formed a band called 'Ball and Chain' and grew up together, appearing as an act for the next five years. They played Top 40 music in a Miami Beach club called The Castaways for about 2 1/2 years.

A school friend, Lamont Synder, acquainted with recording artist Clarence Reid, introduced Rick, and soon he began spending his after school free time at the TK studio watching, learning, asking questions... absorbing all he could of this new "high energy" musical experience.

Apparently TK didn't consider Rick's curiosity a nuisance. Building his education on the console, they thought they were giving a kid a break. What they had done was open a major door for an electronic wizard. Rick at 16 years of age began engineering recording sessions.

TK hired him as a part time engineer for studio maintenance. Three weeks later he met Harry Casey. The two music enthusiasts met while packing orders in the warehouse. Casey wasn't aware that Rick played bass in the beginning, but soon they were collaborating on song ideas, cutting demos with basic, good concepts. The first demos were cut on Rick's 4-track TEAC in an apartment.

Lyric writing is part and parcel of Rick's talents, but the musical production end best suits his creativity.

"I'm more into chord changes and the beat and the percussion, phrasing and the background voices too. KC's really good at the lyrics." Casey and Finch put equal effort into the arrangement of those background voices that enhance the quality of The Sunshine Band melodies.

But there's too much to do to sit and dwell on material gains. They newly-built Sunshine Sound recording studio affords him the freedom to create at the moment of inspiration. Now Rick has all the time he needs to record the proper feeling. His instrument is a Fender Jazz bass for performing and he possesses a Telecaster and Mustang basses as well. He'd like to be adept on numerous instruments and would someday enjoy putting together a school for audio-engineering in the Hialeah area.

He also cares about his album-buying audience.

"We try to make everything that goes on one of our albums a hit because today people are going out and spending top dollars for albums that only have one or two singles on them and that's ridiculous! To me, an album's life should be longer than that. There should be more singles on an album and that's what we're not afraid to do."

At home, Richard has a large collection of tropical birds... 51 to be exact! As the story goes, a turquoise parakeet accidentally landed on Rick's shoulder while he was gassing up at a station. He took it home and a week later, bought it a few companions. A parrot named 'Rainbow' conned Rick into purchasing him with a simple "hello." When Rick greets his feathered buddies each morning, Rainbow can be heard to chant without coercion, "I love you, baby.'

Knowing Richard Finch, it's easy to see why.

www.rickfinch.com

A message from Producer/Arranger, Rick Finch

2008-06-07T14:49:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just wanted to tell you about an awesome 40-minute interview I recently did with MadPod.

CLICK HERE FOR THE INTERVIEW

I had an amazing chat with Shadoe Steel and it will give you an insight into some of the fun times I had during the KCSB days, as well as a sneak peek into what's happening now with my new artists and projects.

When you're done listening, do check out some of the other great interviews Shadoe Steel has done (btw, he's done over 2,000!!!), including chats with Peter Criss from KISS, Barry Manilow, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, Neil Young, Carly Simon, Barbra Streisand, Bonnie Tyler, Thomas Dolby, Art Garfunkel and many, many others!

It's an honor to share Internet "podcast" space with all of them.

Enjoy!

Blessings,

Rick Finch
http://www.rickfinch.com/

www.reverbnation.com/richardfinch

***********************************************

... and MY two cents:

This is just one of several amazing interviews recently done with Rick.

Hopefully you got the chance to hear Rick's interview with legendary Rolling Stone Magazine's former editor and now KFRC-FM's link to great interviews, the amazing Ben Fong-Torres --- but if not, click here and catch it "On Demand."

Also............. Global Music Star, the premiere music publication in Australia did an in-depth one-on-one with Rick for their March 2008 issue (still available for viewing in their archives). The issue was so successful that Rick's interview will be republished in the winter edition of Writer's Edge Magazine --- Rick also has the cover!

Last, but certainly not least.............. do stop by Rick's MySpace and his Reverb Nation sites to check out some of his new artists, including Nevada, The Miles, Robert Dooley, Scott Williams and The Memphis Rascals/Try-Love. Their music is amazing and once again fully demonstrates the production genius that IS Richard Finch.

The production company (and productions!) are ramping up big time with some interesting projects on the horizon (too "top secret" to talk about just yet, but I think everyone will be blown away once the press release comes out!). More interviews are also in the works and an awesome web site will be making its debut soon - so stay tuned!!!

"Leave the gun... Take the cannoli!"

2008-04-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how some people walk the earth, believing that they are self-empowered to make the rules and ruin people's lives accordingly. Nowhere is this more evident than in the State of _________ --- awwww, have some fun, people --- fill in the blank! I'm sure you've encountered this sort of thing in your own lives --- and the state that I mention might not be the geographical reality of your angst and woe.

So let's keep this generalized, just so you can also participate in the same righteous indignation I've experienced with this state since last winter.

... and it's not even so much the state --- I'm sure it's a lovely place to be and that many lovely people live in it (with the exception of the parasites this is directed towards). Actually, I know a total of nine perfectly fabulous individuals currently residing in this state --- no, make that 10! 10 absolutely wonderful people who I wouldn't trade for the world are currently living in the State of ____________. (my condolences to them!)

So................ to all of you who have ever dealt with or encountered unscrupulous, devoid of conscience bottom feeders, enjoy the following media, and always remember that:

1. The best form of revenge is success!

2. Don't get mad, get even!

... and

2. What goes around DOES come around! (and sometimes you live long enough to see it happen!)

(p.s. --- the following videos are not an endorsement for public whacking or 'sleeping with the fishes' --- I tend to roll with #1.)

Ahhhhh yes...... As Tom Hanks said in "You've Got Mail," "The Godfather" is the 'I Ching of business.'

In other words people - stay tuned for what is going to be some very publicly documented FUN!!! Let the games begin!!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers!!!!!!!!

Grammy Award Winner, Richard Finch / Little Vineyards Owner, Rich Little Join Forces to Release, "BAND BLEND – THE CD"

2007-12-07T11:04:00.000-08:00

...70's dance music icon and premiere wine producing vineyard enter into new business alliance.

San Jose, CA (PRWEB) December 9, 2007 -- Richard Finch, noted Producer / Arranger and co-founder of 70's mega-super group "KC and the Sunshine Band" and Rich Little, musician and owner of Little Vineyards Winery in Sonoma, CA have come together to launch "Band Blend – The CD" in conjunction with Little Vineyard's award winning "Band Blend Track 2" Gold Medal winning wine. The CD/wine combo will go on sale Monday, December 10, 2007.

This incredible 10-track CD, featuring an eclectic mix of Jazz, Blues, Funk, Reggae and Soul is performed by some of today's hottest new artists from Canada, Finland, the U.S. and also includes new, original music from both Little and Finch.

States Little, "Who knew that during a casual afternoon meeting, Rick and I would identify an untapped market and come up with an amazing idea to combine our 'Band Blend Track 2' wine with Rick's 'Band Blend' compilation CD." Finch goes on to state, "The concept that Rich and I have developed is unique and fresh, just like Little Vineyard's 'Band Blend' wine and the amazing music and artist's I've produced for this project. The pairing of the two truly is a beautiful fusion of the total sensory experience."

Finch is no stranger to success in the music industry, having produced and performed numerous Number One hits with KC and the Sunshine Band, resulting in seven Grammy nominations and five wins, plus four American Music Award nods and two wins and a commemorative star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame presented in 2002, recognizing the cultural impact of this 1970's super band.

Little Vineyards, a 17 acre family estate is owned and operated by Rich and Joan Little. Located in Glen Ellen, CA, this Sonoma Valley appellation is ideal for producing quality fruit and outstanding red wines. Zinfandel, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon are the primary varietals planted on this vineyard as well as a small block of Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petite Sirah and Merlot. Two award winning wines have been produced from their estate grown fruit: a 2002 Zinfandel and 2002 Resonance, and a Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon blend.

With an increasing number of today's listening public frustrated by the single artist CD, "Band Blend – the CD" offers listeners an exciting alternative to an otherwise passé format. Advance sales have been strong, and plans are currently underway to produce a second compilation "Band Blend" CD in August 2008.

Little Vineyards is offering the "Band Blend" CD alone (MSRP: $15), or in a one or two bottle "Limited Edition" gift set (MSRP: $30 and $45 respectively) via the Little Vineyards web site. Shipment is available worldwide (domestic shipping restrictions may apply to your state – please inquire).

For more information or to place an order, contact Little Vineyards Family Winery at 707-996-2750.

For more information on Richard Finch, visit Finch's MySpace music promotion web site.

Rick Finch... the man who put the "Sunshine" into Disco!!

2007-11-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

Once in a blue moon, an amazingly gifted artist will cross my path, and funny enough, the moon has recently been a beautiful shade of Azure. So it was no surprise when the talented, soulful Rick Finch (multi-Grammy Award winner, American Music Award Winner, brilliant bass player/producer/arranger, 'Hollywood Walk of Fame' star recipient and one half of the team which founded "KC and the Sunshine Band") and I strangely stumbled upon one another.. (that, in itself is its own story............. stay tuned for a future installment!).

When people think of the Disco years, there is no way to escape the impact this band made on that era - they WERE that era, and I'm sure that most people automatically think of the front man as being the 'star power' of this act.

But let the record show, the 'great and powerful Oz' behind the KC and the Sunshine Band 'curtain of success' wasn't their lead singer, but rather, the unassuming dark-haired bass player in the back row. Rick Finch was keenly in tune with music trends back in the day, even at the tender age of 16 --- and this was recognized by Henry Stone, founder of TK Records in Hialeah, Florida who allowed Finch to tinker in the recording studio after hours. With this creative freedom, Finch went on to craft "The Miami Sound," launching the Disco era and jettisoning the then recently formed KC and the Sunshine Band into super stardom.

With 2007 commemorating the 30th Anniversary of the release of the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack on which Finch's track "Boogie Shoes" was featured, it seemed a great time to catch up with him for an interview, talk about those years as well as hear about all the new music he's creating today.

LR: Tell me Rick......... what's it like, looking back 30 years and seeing that even today, people are still digging your music?

RF: It's an awesome feeling! In some ways surreal. Here it is, 30 years later and the music that KC (Harry Wayne Casey) and I created together still stands the test of time. You'll hear it in movie soundtracks, television commercials - "The Ellen Show" just today used "Shake Shake Shake" in one of their skits - Rap artists are sampling it for their work. Who would have thought that 30 years later, the shelf life still hasn't worn off!

LR: Anyone who's really done their homework on you knows that you're pretty much a quadruple threat --- musician, song arranger, producer AND engineer, but yet, you're not a household name.

RF: I really prefer the role of the behind the scenes guy to being the center of attention. It was always a better fit for me to be in the background, because it gave me the ability to gather precious information pertinent to the success of the band and any of the other artists I was producing at that moment.

LR: The whole 'living in a bubble' existence was probably interesting. Given that, did you have much freedom just to be "you?"

RF: You know, I did have freedom to have a life... even in the crazy world we were dealing with at the time. I had the ability to work on the things for the band that really interested me like the show and staging our performances, networking with the radio station guys and the local promoters when we were on tour and even at the local Miami stations where we were based. But my favorite part of the process was to do artist development and work on the music arrangements, fine-tune the recording process, perfecting new sounds and techniques and of course, producing projects for other artists and working on new music.

Many people thought that when the Disco years ended that great, fun music also stopped. To be honest - the music did stop for me for a good number of years and for various reasons, which of course will all come out in complete detail as you and I write my autobiography*, but with emotional and spiritual clarity and stability comes a rebirth of spirit - and in so many ways, the music industry is reborn for me now. I know I have a lot to give to so many new artists coming up the ranks. I was given a unique gift and it's important to pass on the knowledge and nurture up-and-coming talent.

(*"Behind The Sunshine... the unvarnished story of KC and the Sunshine Band" is the working title for this explosive accounting of Finch's years with the band, and the years following his severed professional collaboration with Harry Wayne Casey)

LR: You and I recently spoke about other people in the industry you've enjoyed working with. Any names or projects that the readers might recognize?

RF: Not many people know that I was the first to discover the talents of Johnny Depp back in 1979-80 when he was a young musician starting out in a local Florida band called, ''The Kids.'' I saw something unique in him, as well as in bassist/front-man Bruce Witkin, who is also a unique, gifted talent. I guess you could say the rest is history.

I also assisted producer Scotty Storch with the production of, ''Me, Myself & I'' - Beyonce's Number One Hip-Hop single.

LR: So where is the best, new music coming from today for you?

RF: Well... I've met quite a few new local artists where I live and I have produced a few CD's for them. The Internet has also proven to be quite a treasure trove of amazing talent. I'm also fielding proposals on a daily basis from artists contacting me on my MySpace account. So many people are in disbelief that I am so down to earth, humble and approachable – and of course, many don't believe it's really ME, just because there are so many people on MySpace, and the Internet for that matter, who pretend to be someone famous. So at times, I do have to field questions and comments from skeptics. LOL!

I also just put the finishing touches on a compilation CD of amazing new music, which will be coming out in the beginning of December and sold through a unique portal. It's called "Band Blend... The CD" and is being sold in conjunction with the award winning "Band Blend" wine being produced by Little Vineyards out of Sonoma, CA. I'm extremely proud of this project and the people I partnered with to make it happen. We all hope the public's response will be tremendous! Plus, the plan is to make this an annual CD to introduce songs from new artists along with a popular Little Vineyards vintage - so most likely these CD's will become collector's items.

Basically, this is a new and interesting label and music distribution concept. I'm thrilled and proud to be the person along with winery owner and musician, Rich Little pioneering this vision, but I've always prided myself as being a person who thinks outside of the lines and boundaries! "Forward thinking" and non-conformity are the only things that will save today's music industry and make it a viable profession for new artists, in my opinion.

LR: As mentioned, you play the bass guitar and drums. What was the draw to these two instruments?

RF: Making the speakers move!

LR: Too funny!!! Do you play any other instruments that people might not know about?

RF: Yes... percussion (various types), rhythm guitar... and, I can plow my way through a keyboard when I need to. LOL!

LR: And you're pretty much self taught, correct?

RF: Yep, I've been playing by ear my whole life. Sometimes I regret not schooling myself to actually read music. I've penned music for many years via recording devices, but I wish I'd taken the time to pick up on the reading/writing of it all.

LR: You've inspired many musicians - what music inspired you when you were first embarking on your career?

RF: Motown. The Atlantic years. Aretha Franklin, Otis Redding, James Brown. All the Stax Record Company releases. The Beatles and all the old country greats like Merle Haggard, Patsy Cline, Webb Pierce and Hank Williams, just to name a few...

LR: So let's chat about "Boogie Shoes" - KC and the Sunshine Band already had a string of hits by 1977 but it was THIS song that wound up on the "Saturday Night Fever" soundtrack. How did that come about?

RF: Well... Robert Stigwood (from the RSO Record label) asked us to come up with a track that would be fitting for a film he was working on, so we wanted to give up something new and fresh and different that was also short and to the point, so ''Boogie Shoes'' was the obvious choice to us at that time.

LR: So what stands out for you as being some of your more significant accomplishments?

RF: Well... having a helicopter view over everything really helps.. and.. keeping that ''down to earth'' perspective and still being able to relate to the needs of others in and out of the business, I feel, has been a major blessing. Also, the fact that the money never changed me... I remained spiritually founded and guided, even during the rough years.

LR: I know how rarely you give out interviews, Rick, so I want to say thank you for being so gracious with your time and your responses. I believe everyone reading this now has a better sense about you, the origins of the band - and I'm sure everyone will be looking forward to your autobiography, as well as to all of the great music you're creating and new artists you're discovering. So............. as we close out this first of what I am sure will be many more interviews to come, any parting words?

RF: Yes... Keep It Real... AND... look after the needs of others... ALWAYS!

"Mutts and Moms" Step in DEEP Doo Doo!!!

2007-10-17T08:33:00.000-07:00

Unless you've been hiding under a rock, the latest media hoopla is over the residential future of a precious Brussels Griffon terrier mix named "Iggy" that was recently adopted by comedian and talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres. Unbeknown to DeGeneres, the small print of the adoption contract stated that if she was unable to keep the pet, it was to be returned to the "Mutts and Moms" organization, located in Pasadena, CA.

Like many of us, when it comes to the fine print, we don't always read every single word, every dotted "i" or every crossed "t." That's a fun task we typically leave to our legal representatives. Ellen was no different and has heartbreakingly admitted her error in not following the rules. When Mutts and Moms contacted her to see how Iggy was doing, she didn't lie - she openly stated that she had found a wonderful home for the little guy.

Then, as they say, is when the 'fur started to fly!!!' Who knew that it was now necessary to be accompanied by an attorney to read over the contract when adopting a pet???

Ms. DeGeneres's heart has always been in the right place where animals are concerned. Her benevolent acts on behalf of our four legged friends is well documented. To her credit, rather than subject her feline residents to further cohabitation problems with her newly adopted canine, she acted in all of the animals' best interest. She sought out a new, loving home for little Iggy and found that home via her hairdresser and her two daughters (ages 11 and 12). Both girls immediately bonded with little Iggy, and he with them.

Marina Batkis, the owner of Mutts and Moms, stated to ABC News:

"If Ellen wants to start her own rescue group then she can decide where the dogs go. "Who is she to say who is a good home and whose not? And who is she to say where I should place my animals and how I should do this? I don't tell her how to run her show."

To further complicate matters, another reason that Ms. Batkis will not return Iggy to Ms. DeGeneres' hairdresser and daughters is due to Mutts and Mom's policy of not putting pets up for adoption to families with children under the age of 14.

In this entire scenario that has unfolded before our eyes, I find this piece of information to be the most disturbing.

What Ms. Batkis is practicing is age discrimination. Ms. Batkis automatically deemed this an unsuitable home based on the ages of these young girls. Not once did she take into consideration their feelings nor the feelings of Iggy, who had bonded with the children. To add insult to injury, she sent a police officer to remove the pet from their home. Had Ms. Batkis or her organization been in possession of a sensitivity chip, they would have fully understood the damage and trauma they were causing these two young girls and their mother. But in this case, more consideration was given to an 8 1/2 x 11" sheet of paper over the pleas and tears of these heartbroken children.

The RIGHT thing to do would have been to see that there are always exceptions to rules. Ms. Batkis could have done a home evaluation on the spot - she could have observed these girls with Iggy to see how much they love him - and she could have brought along new adoption papers. Had Ms. Batkis done this, the media storm that she's now complaining about never would have happened.

As of this writing, the Mutts and Mom's web site has been taken down (it's been reported that the organization and Ms. Batkis have been the recipients of death threats and other hostile acts or retaliation). This is in no way the mature or appropriate way in which to handle this situation and I would hope that people would choose to conduct themselves in a more thoughtful manner. The world is not going to collapse over this - but the hearts of two young girls certainly have, and that is the issue to which I would like to speak now.

I would like to make an appeal to Ms. Batkis to review the age policy Mutts and Moms has put into place. Thousands of loving, nurturing homes with younger children are being deemed unsuitable based on a number you have selected. Who is to say that a child of 14 is more responsible than a child of 11 or 12? Unless you have a Ph.D in Childhood Development and have extensive studies to back up your claim that a child under the age of 14 does not possess the maturity to own a pet, you are doing a great disservice to both the child and the animal. Some of my best memories as a child include the pets that I had over the years. They taught me more about unconditional love, responsibility, patience and commitment than any adult ever did. How does it feel, knowing that your age requirement is perhaps depriving a child of that same experience?

The BEST that any pet adoption agency can do is to evaluate potential families on a case by case basis. If Mutts and Moms has successfully put pets into good homes in the past, then they should have no trouble evaluating each family and situation individually, free from a restrictive chronological number. It's common sense: putting a giant, aggressive dog in the home of a three year old is probably not the thing to do - but an 11 and 12 year old owning a puppy just slightly larger than the size of a teacup?

Come to the table, Ms. Batkis - admit your error in judgment as Ms. DeGeneres has - and DO THE RIGHT THING. Amend your age policy and return Iggy to his family.

The world is watching................................................

Did the music die that day???

2007-09-07T15:36:00.000-07:00

Today would have been Buddy Holly's 71st birthday. Born on September 7, 1936 in Lubbock, Texas, sadly his life came to a tragic end in a plane crash on February 3, 1959. An all too short life with so much music left to be created.

Buddy was way before my 'music appreciation years,' but if you know anything at all about his legacy, you know that in his brief moment here on earth he made an indelible impression on the evolution of rock music and on the artists yet to come. His life was chronicled in "The Buddy Holly Story" with Gary Busey in the title role. The Francis Ford Coppola film, "Peggy Sue Got Married" featured Holly's music. Artists like Brian Setzer of the"Stray Cats" brought back his rockabilly sound, added a contemporary twist to it and even covered some of his tunes:

I wonder what 71 year old Buddy would have thought about today's music, talent platforms like "American Idol" and performers like Taylor Hicks who are bucking the system, making their own rules and not compromising their musical integrity - very much in the same way that he, as one of our pioneering rock & roll forefathers did.

So to that end, yes, when we lost Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. Richardson ("The Big Bopper"), it was the day "that" particular music died. But out of death comes life, which is why I posed the question: did the music die that day? In my mind, no - it didn't. Those three paved the way for some amazing musical 'births' - some of which you will see chronicled in the following video of Don McLean's "American Pie." This is the long version of the song - and for those of you who have always wondered what the song meant, this video will answer all of your questions:

Feel free to share your thoughts in the "COMMENTS" section!!!

It was 30 years ago.....................................

2007-08-15T11:35:00.001-07:00

30 years ago, the world lost perhaps the greatest entertainer of the 20th Century. For all that Elvis was in public - a larger than life personality with an abundance of talent and passion the likes of which we may never see again - he was first a boy from Tupelo, Mississippi with humble beginnings... a son... a friend... and eventually a husband and father. The same fame and fortune that freed him from the trappings of poverty also imprisoned him in a world where his only true freedom was on stage and through song.

As we remember Elvis this week and celebrate his all-too-short life's work, let's also keep in mind the high personal price he had to pay.

... and as we continue to celebrate the work of musicians and artists like Taylor Hicks, hopefully we never forget that they are first and foremost human beings who should not have to live in glass houses and sacrifice their personal freedoms for their art.

Brian Less: "Concerto in LiMBO Major"

2007-08-07T11:08:00.000-07:00

When it comes to authentic Rock, Funk, Blues & Soul, they don't come any better than Birmingham, Alabama's "Little Memphis Blues Orchestra...." and when it comes to HOT keyboard action, band member Brian Less is most certainly the 'King of the Ivory's."

2006 was a year which started out with more questions than answers for LiMBO. As their former band leader, Taylor Hicks, skyrocketed toward his own piece of the American Dream as a contestant (and ultimate winner) on "American Idol," the members of The Taylor Hicks Band pondered their future... a new name... and how best to carve out a new identity without the presence of their now former front man.

I recently had a chance to play catch-up with Brian to talk about this past 'year in the life of LiMBO' as well as chatting about the August 7th nationwide release of "The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra - Live at the Workplay Theatre" 2-CD set.

LR: So for those who don't know the back story of how the "After Idol" concert tour came to be, how about a short recap.

BL: I guess you could say it was a HUGE stop sign when The Taylor Hicks Band stopped playing when Taylor went to "Idol," auditioned and made it as far as he did --- and we were, of course as the saying goes, in "limbo" once it became obvious that he wasn't going to be voted off anytime soon. We certainly couldn't continue performing as "The Taylor Hicks Band" so my wife Staci (pictured above with Brian) came up with the name "The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra." So one day as the band sat around trying to figure out what our next move should be, I want to say that it was Mitch (Mitch Jones - bass player for LiMBO) who first said, "Hey - why don't we join the Idol tour and do some shows and kind of 'shadow tour' the American Idol tour?" Everyone agreed that it was a GREAT idea. So with the help of Dean (Dean Sanders, founder and CEO of FunkyTime Productions LLC) and yourself and a couple other people, an incredible "After Idol" tour was planned which turned out to be a HUGE success!

What made it fun was first of all, we got to travel all over the country and we got to see the fans and the "Soul Patrol." Then, with Taylor, Elliott and the other guys sitting in with us whenever they could - that really made for a fun 'after tour' event and gave everyone something to look forward to after the Idol concert. I think that was a wonderful thing. It's kind of like music history - we'll all look back in 20 years and say, "WOW - look what we did!"

LR: Well having booked two of the California concerts dates on your tour last summer with less than a month to pull everything together, I can personally attest to how much work goes into the process!

So knowing that you were going to be recording both the CD and DVD at Workplay, how far in advance did you have to plan this specific event with both the venue and cinematographer (Tyler McGhee, Owner of Piqtu Multimedia) and did this create any special problems aside from the normal ones that come with trying to get the sound, visual shots and levels just right?

BL: Well, we had very little time to put this together, and Dean is the one who coordinated it. Workplay is a unique venue. When you set up a live performance there, you have the ability to run every channel of audio and video into an actual studio. Say you have 50 channels and those 50 channels shoot to the studio core on ProTools. Being able to do this gives cinematographers and sound engineers the ability to go into each track and edit the actual sound from the show as if it were being recorded in a sound studio. So if a couple of mistakes were made or if the crowd noise was too loud, they could fix it in post and bring those levels down so you could hear the band.

To perform AND record in an environment like Workplay was a huge advantage with a project such as LiMBO's. The normal problems that come from trying to get sound and levels right in any other environment would have been a challenge. Producing the CD and DVD was much easier doing it in an environment like Workplay - so that really made the process less stressful. Overall, I think we were lucky because everything did run smoothly and I think that everyone who had a part in pulling it all together did a wonderful job. It could not have gone better!!!

LR: This is not the first time you had played at Workplay, correct?

BL: Correct.

LR: What was it like trying to get gigs there "pre-Idol?"

BL: Well the Taylor Hicks Band had worked hard to get gigs at Workplay and we were turned down many times, but finally, we got an opportunity to play there. After that first time, the crowd would grow every time we played.

LR: What was the size of the early crowds?

BL: I would say that it was 30 to 50 percent packed the first time we played, and as we continued to play there, there were more and more people. And of course, once Taylor went to Idol and came back to do that Workplay show last August, the one major difference was that this time, it was ABOVE capacity - and that was a huge thrill! Anytime you play in front of a capacity crowd, the energy is just tremendous and it plays a HUGE role when you're performing because you feed off of that energy. You kind of feel like a rock star for a night, I guess.

LR: What is the capacity at Workplay?

BL: The room that we played I believe held 500 to 700 people - and I think there was more than that there that night!

LR: So there's actually several different areas within Workplay where simultaneous events can be held?

BL: That's right - they have a sound stage where a lot of bands come in and do their tour rehearsals. If you saw the video from rehearsals.com when Taylor was preparing for his tour, it's the same type of setup. Workplay is also used for parties and other types of events. The area that we played in that night is for larger, live events.

LR: So whose idea was it to record a live CD and DVD and how did that all come about?

BL: That idea was actually Dean's. Dean said, "Hey, this could be a significant moment in time, so we should probably record this concert." He brought in a friend of his, Tyler McGhee who had just started up Piqtu Multimedia (a video production company located in Phoenix, AZ) and he and his people came in and did a wonderful job.

Dean took it upon himself to produce the Workplay DVD and CD and basically funded the entire project. It definitely wasn't cheap, but I'm glad that we did it because I think it's an incredible finished product!

LR: And with that, here's the link to the final product - the "Live at the Workplay" double CD as it's showing up in the Amazon.com music catalog. This may very well be the first time you're seeing this link live and ready for sales. How does it feel, clicking over there and seeing your music for sale on a web site known around the world?

BL: It's really exciting! You know, we've seen it for sale on our own web site, but it's a wonderful feeling going to a worldwide web site that so many people visit - and you see right there, LiMBO and the cover of the album, so it's really cool!!! It's surreal!!!

LR: Plus, to have come this distance in a relatively short period of time by the music industry's standards anyway. To think that in January you're kind of trying to redirect and refocus, and then there you are in August, recording the Workplay CD and DVD - and here it is one year later, a national release for the world to see and enjoy.

BL: ... and on that, I've had people ask me, "Isn't it a bit late to be releasing this CD and distributing it?" and I thought to myself, you know... it's not. It's one moment in music history which shows what can happen on the back end of the whole American Idol phenomenon when the lead person leaves a band and what is possible for the remaining band members after that. It shows that the band stuck together and that everyone was committed to working together during a time that probably would have spelled the end for most other bands. I think that 10 years down the road someone might want to pick up the CD and DVD and say, "Hey, what was this all about?" If you look at CD's and DVD's like "The Last Waltz" with The Band --- and I'm not comparing us to "The Band," but what I am saying is that people are still buying that music after all these years because people want to know what it was all about.

Hopefully, everyone from LiMBO will continue to go farther in their careers and this will be a CD and DVD that people will want to check out down the line if they ever want to know what our early years were like. And of course we all hope that people will want to continue following LiMBO and our careers and our music for many, many years to come. Also, with Taylor's book just coming out and him talking about how our careers developed, that might also spark some interest for someone wanting to know more about this moment in time.

LR: Taylor Hicks and Elliott Yamin both appeared as 'special guests' at the Workplay concert and are featured on the CD --- what type of feedback have you gotten from them on the final product? (assuming both of them have listened to it!)

BL: Absolutely, they have both listened to it and all of the feedback has been great. Taylor and Elliott and also Bucky and Ace - all of them have been very helpful and supportive of this project and of LiMBO. The support, input and advice that Taylor and Elliott have given to us over the past year which includes giving us their permission to use their names on the project - everything they have done for us has been positive.

LR: So LiMBO is just beginning to get a taste of fame and all that comes with it, though the band has had a little time to adjust to it --- unlike Taylor, who was pretty much drop kicked into the media and tabloid spotlight from the moment he auditioned for Idol. This is a little off topic, but I too would be drop kicked by the Soul Patrol if I didn't at least ask one Taylor-related question. Being that you're one of his closest friends these days and being in a position to see some of this insanity that's invaded Taylor's new life, from your perspective, how is 'life under the microscope' affecting him?

BL: Taylor has always stuck to his roots. When this whole Idol thing kicked off, people would ask, "Is Taylor going to change? Is he going to forget where he came from?" and you know, he's stayed the same - he's stayed true to everything that he said and everything he was about before he won American Idol. That is HUGE, because it really shows what his character is.

I've learned a ton from Taylor --- being kind of like an outsider looking in and also being an insider, seeing how to handle success and fame, and you know, it would be very easy to let it all overcome you and lose yourself. But Taylor's a perfect example of someone who just totally has kept his head and remains grounded.

LR: Looking back to that night last summer at Workplay, what stands out for you as being one of the more memorable moments during the concert? What performance, song or moment just gave you that "WOW" feeling?

BL: The most memorable "WOW" feeling that I had was after the show. Everyone was backstage visiting with friends, and there was a huge grand piano sitting by itself with no one around. I finally had time to sit down with Staci and we had a couple of minutes just to breathe to ourselves. So we walked over to the piano and I started playing. Five minutes later, everyone was around the piano, and it's on the DVD - you'll see that I started playing and everyone started singing, holding hands and hugging and taking pictures. That moment was just one of the best feelings in the world, because at the time I really didn't know it was being filmed. It was just amazing - and yes, we were all tired - it had been a long day and a long night, but in that moment, it just showed perfectly that it really is just all about the music! That was a wonderful feeling - it really was - to just have everyone there. It showed that even after all of that, you just couldn't get enough. I'm so glad that they did film it and that we were able to share that incredible moment with everyone. That would be the one moment that stands out for me.

LR: We kind of touched on this earlier but to revisit --- in January 2006 LiMBO was not quite yet "LiMBO" in the formal sense - yet by August, just eight short months later, there you all were at Workplay recording a double CD and filming a DVD. How surreal was that?

BL: It was awesome. It kind of went by fast, so I'm glad that we did the CD and DVD because we can go back and listen to it and look at it and enjoy it again. This represents us saying that it was a fun night, but that there's a whole lot more to come! It marked the beginning, and also showed all of the potential for tomorrow.

LR: How has all the notoriety and craziness impacted your families?

BL: I think I can speak for everyone in the band when I say that it's been a lot of fun and very exciting. Everyone's families have been involved. They've all come out to shows and all have been very supportive.

It's important to note that everyone in the band has been raised by parents who have supported us throughout our lives with music. For instance, no one ever told me, "Hey, don't do that - you need to go and get a 9-5 job." Everybody insofar as family is concerned has been great.

I think it's fun, looking at it from my little brother's point of view --- for him to be able to call me and say, "What are you doing?" and I'm saying, "Hey, I'm playing in San Francisco!" When you're traveling the country, I think it's something that the family can be proud of - and that makes US proud to be able to make them proud! It's one of those, "See - look Mom - I told you I was gonna do this!" moments!

LR: ... and it's great that you have the support of your families. I can think of lots of people who tell their families, "Hey, I'm going into the music business" and who are not met with a great deal of support.

BL: My father is a musician and that is who I got my talent from. It's fun to see his face at shows and events. It's neat to see him get so excited! You know, when I first met Staci and she introduced me to her parents, she told them, "Yeah, he's a musician," and they're like "Uh..... okay....." and perhaps thinking to themselves, "What is she getting into?" But the thing is, they were always supportive which really helped - because when you get married, you gain a set of parents, and I think it's a necessity to have their support. Otherwise you have to kind of fight to prove yourself to them. I'm lucky in that I never had to do that - so I know that also played a huge part in the past 10 years of my life. So definitely, insofar as families and parents - I think LiMBO's success has affected them all in a positive way.

LR: LiMBO is well known for its amazing and unique interpretation of some of the world's best known cover songs, as is shown on this CD - but LiMBO's originals can most certainly hold their own when put next to them. In the future, will LiMBO start to move away from the cover tunes and eventually just play their own original music?

BL: The way that we've worked in the past, we've always focused on writing original music and to execute it along with the covers. That will continue to happen for now, but I think the ultimate goal is to perform all of our own music and I think we're close to it. One of the reasons we include cover tunes is because we think it's fun for the audience to hear them. If someone is new to the band, being able to hear songs that they can relate to will help them to get a sense of what we're capable of -- and some people like to sing the words, which is harder to do with new music until they become more familiar with it. But yes, eventually we will perform mostly originals. It's just a process and it takes time. Some of the shows we do like private parties or wedding receptions, they do want cover songs in the shows that we perform for them. But yes, it's a goal to eventually have a show just including all originals.

LR: But to that end, you're not a copy band... you're not a tribute band... you're putting your own flavor and spin on these well-known songs, so you're ultimately making them your own songs anyway.

BL: That's true! And it also shows people what our influences are too which is a very, very important part of who we are, since we grew up listening and learning from these artists that have played in the past or are still playing today. I think that when you play covers it kind of fills people in on what we listen to, who we are as musicians and what we love to play, giving a base and foundation for the songs we've written. Not to say that we're copying the songs, but to show the influence, musical structure and style that everyone in the band is capable of playing.

LR: Let's talk about LiMBO's future plans. Will the band as everyone knows it --- yourself, Jeff Lopez, Zippy Dieterich, Mitch Jones and Sam Gunderson --- will it remain intact or will there be member changes in the future? And will Erin Mitchell continue with the band in a lead vocalist capacity?

BL: LiMBO is still an entity, and of course while I was on tour with Taylor, the band's activity was pretty much dormant. But then the guys started playing with Erin. When we were playing before, Erin always got on stage and sang with us, and in the future, she is always welcome to get on stage and be a guest singer.

We will not be adding or changing members. The point that we were making by forming LiMBO was to keep together the band that Taylor spent 10 years putting together. LiMBO will remain LiMBO and Erin has her own band (the Erin Mitchell band), so they will remain two separate entities. You may see Erin come on and do a couple of songs with us, which we love because she has a wonderful voice, but it's not going to be a situation where she is a member of The Little Memphis Blues Orchestra because she wasn't a member of The Taylor Hicks Band.

LR: Fans have mentioned how much they enjoy the performance relationship that LiMBO has with Elliott Yamin. Will you be performing with Elliott again any time in the near future?

BL: Actually, I keep in touch with Elliott - we talk every few weeks. He's doing a show in Birmingham and I think he requested that LiMBO open up for him which is very cool! I know that he's had a band that travels with him - kind of like Taylor's band that travels with him. There's a possibility that maybe one or two of the guys from LiMBO could maybe in the future perhaps go on tour with Elliott, but as of right now, I think we're just looking at perhaps opening up for him on occasion or him sitting in with us - that's probably a more realistic possibility in the future right now.

LR: Well that could be cool. So along the same lines, I'm always asked whether LiMBO might be the opening act for Taylor's 2008 tour. Any chance that might happen? Are 'your people' talking to 'his people?'

BL: I don't know, but right now I would say, I doubt it. If we did that, we would want Taylor to come out and perform with us every night, and that would be hard for him to do because he would have just performed with his own band.

Actually, I think it's good to keep things separate. Maybe we'll do something similar like the Idol tour and perhaps play a few shows in the towns that he's in and he can come by afterwards for a show if he wants to. But I think that as of right now, I don't see LiMBO being an opening act.......... but of course, that could change! I have no idea what Taylor's thinking is and I don't think he's even had time to think about it - but I think right now at this time, I think it's safe to say that he would want us to continue growing on our own, doing shows as LiMBO without people saying, "Well, is Taylor going to be there?' I think that's what he wants us to do.

LR: So............ is LiMBO planning a 2008 tour?

BL: As of right now, we are starting to book gigs - we just booked a Sept. 22nd gig in Birmingham. We've got some private events that we're doing. Touring is something that's up to the band and you know, we're just now getting back into it so we haven't had a chance to talk about it, but I'd say it's a definite possibility.

LR: Aside from wanting everyone to get out there and buy the CD, any parting thoughts?

BL: You know, this has been an outrageous, wonderful ride so far and I hope that everyone enjoys listening to what we've done in the past and I hope that everyone's excited about what's coming in the future. We're working hard to write new music and Taylor's working hard to put out new music - everyone's going to have albums coming out: I'm working on a solo project, Zippy's working on a solo project, so there's a lot of things on the table that are in motion and I think there's a lot of wonderful music to come!

So, if you're reading this interview and you don't have the CD yet, pick it up - check it out. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised and I think it'll leave you hungry for more. I personally think it's very hard to resist this type of music. It's just incredible, good-feeling soul music that will leave you smiling!!!

*****

Brian... you can't see our faces, but we're ALL smiling right now!

My thanks to Brian for his time --- and to all of you, thanks for stopping by... and without fail, do get out there and pick up your copy of "Live at the Workplay Theatre" (if you haven't already done so).

Also, be sure to stop by the "COMMENTS" section here and let Brian know how much you enjoyed hearing from him!

COMING SOON: Part Two: "Brian Less... Unplugged!!!"

Taylor - Don't Sue Me!!!

2007-07-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

First of all, you've probably noticed that the name of my blog has changed to "Write Place... Write Time..." (... or perhaps not - I doubt I've made an indelible impression on everyone with my musings).

Anyway, last week, I was given a very 'curt' warning that I had 48 hours to change the name of my blog or face legal action from a business owner in Milwaukee who had taken out a federal trademark on the now 'defunct from my blog' phrase.

(Milwaukee??? The mecca of Internet blogger bullies??? Who knew???)

When this all came down, it got me to thinking. For example, I doubt that the Kimberly-Clark Corporation would stalk the Internet looking for people who may have named their blogs, "The Kleenex Connection" - especially if it wasn't a competing business or someone looking to make a buck. You would think that they'd probably appreciate the free advertising.

Ahhhh free advertising - certainly nothing to 'sneeze' at! (and yes, I hear your collective groans!)

Anyway, I did an Internet search: there are 265 MILLION web sites which use my former blog title, either in headlines, blog content or business names. I also found several well-known U.S. universities which have used this phrase longer than the individual who trademarked it has.

... which raises an interesting question: If one of these entities could prove consistent usage of the phrase prior to the individual who trademarked it, could they then sue this individual and take possession of the trademarked phrase???

So.... the question of the week is: How does one decide imminent domain over three commonly used words???

The most fascinating and entertaining aspect of all of this hinged mostly on one word: "THE." By removing the word "THE," the problem with the "sue-er" was solved. Funny, huh? So that's what I did. (I just don't have the time to devote to a long, drawn out, very stupid lawsuit - though I'm sure the media would have latched onto it as something quite amusing)

BUT WAIT!!! THERE'S MORE!!! I threw in a couple of extra words as a bonus. (however, I now await the threat of a lawsuit from the individual who has trademarked the words, "Write Time").

So Taylor... in the description of my blog, I've used "You've come to the right place, baby" from your song, "The Right Place." Please know that it's meant to pay homage to you and I am more than happy to give credit to the song's writer's, Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Same with the use of the photo (I would give credit to the photographer, but I don't know who shot this pic --- anyone with that info, drop me a note).

I'd also like to give credit to:

Dell Computer for my fabulous computer and flat panel monitor!
Microsoft for the quality wireless keyboard and mouse that give me endless hours of keyboarding and scrolling pleasure.
Bose for the awesome computer speakers which blast my Little Buddy Radio on a daily basis.
Thomas' English Muffins for their brand new, delectable whole wheat muffin creation.

There! I think I've covered all the bases!

Now is there a silver lining amidst this comical turn of events? Actually, YES. Now I have something in common with Prince (as people will now refer to my site as, 'the blog formerly known as...........').

COMING SOON: My one-on-one interview with Little Memphis Blues Orchestra / Taylor Hicks Band keyboardist, the amazing Brian Less - along with an exciting announcement!!!

Taylor gave to us... so let's give back!!!

2007-07-20T23:14:00.000-07:00

I typically don't spearhead these sorts of things because usually they have an ugly backlash - but I think in this case, it might actually be an idea well received (or at least I hope so!).

Over 300 of us who are "logistically challenged" had a wonderful experience tonight watching Taylor Hicks on the Internet (courtesy of the MyFoxAL web site) where he made a special appearance at the Kid One "Heart Full of Soul" book event in Birmingham, AL.

I don't know how everyone else feels, but to me, it was so much more than just a book reading --- it was an intimate glimpse into the life and musical spirit of someone who has opened (and re-opened!) millions of hearts to a world of soulful music - music which is experiencing a resurgence thanks solely to Taylor's tireless dedication and harmonious soul-infused "performance ministry."

During the event, the camera occasionally panned into the audience - and while this was a joyful event, I was saddened at the sight of so many empty seats - while here on the Internet, over 300 of us were having this amazing experience for free.

It didn't set well with me - it DOESN'T set well with me.

So the first thing tomorrow morning, I will be sending a check to Kid One in the amount of $37.50 (which was the price of general admission to this event).

I hope those of you who are in a position to do the same might consider following suit. After all, had we all lived in B'ham, we most certainly would have paid the price of admission to attend this wonderful event.

... and if you are able to send a check, perhaps make a notation of, "Thanks for the Internet broadcast!" in the memo area. Let Kid One AND Taylor AND all of the children that Kid One helps know how much you appreciated the opportunity of being that 'virtual fly on the wall.'

For those of you sending a check, here's their snail mail address:

Kid One
PO BOX 360943
Birmingham, AL 35236-0943

--- or, if you'd prefer to donate online, click HERE!

BTW - if you missed the broadcast, be sure to go to Taylor Made Online --- Gypsee captured the feed and details on where to view the broadcast can be found on her site --- as always Gypsee, you are the "Visual Media Queen" and you have the eternal thanks of your fellow Soul Patrollers!

(photo courtesy of lucky event attendee, alagirl77)

Also... if you have something you'd like to say about this amazing evening with Taylor or Kid One, be sure to share your thoughts with everyone in the "Comments" section on the blog.

How will you be celebrating the "Summer of Love???"

2007-07-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

Hard to believe it's been 40 years!!! 1967 was an amazing year for music in the San Francisco Bay Area, and though I was just a little girl at the time, I still remember the weekend my folks and I drove up to Haight-Ashbury on a sunny Sunday afternoon to check out the 'action' (that is, after we had a very 'conventional' soda as we sat all dressed up at the top of the Mark Hopkins hotel --- "Top of the Mark" as it was known).

Talk about two different worlds juxtaposed against one another and just a short distance apart. We don't often remember our early years, but I certainly remember THAT day!

Anyway, I thought it might be fun to celebrate some of that great music, so over the course of the next few weeks, I'll be bringing you some standout YouTube's featuring music from that amazing, musical, magical "Summer of Love."

This first song actually preceded the "Summer of Love" by a year, but it's noted for having set the tone for the following summer to come! Check out the Monterey Pop Festival performance of this mellow tune by Simon & Garfunkel!

Peace!!!