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Hi John, Thank you for both the download and the playlist, very much appreciated. Bob
You're very much welcome, Bob. It's a beautiful tune and a really nice addition to my collection which I'll play again and again. John
Hi John - many thanks for your thoughtful review of my tune There But For the Grace of God - I appreciate the words and I'm glad you liked it. Inspires me to keep going! Good Luck with your music! Nigel
You're welcome, Nigel. I liked those 80s songs as well. "One Night in Bangkok," "Life in a Northern Town," "Sanctify Yourself," the punk of Echo & the Bunnymen, Joy Division, stuff I can't write or record...and I loved the fluffy, sugary ballads of the Carpenters and David Gates (my "Stay Here Now" reflects that), and the disco tinged songs of the Bee Gees (my collaboration with Robert Quigley on "You Can Feel It"). Robert and I have realized we've got to update our sound and go more towards EDM, so I've been teaching myself mix/mastering and we'll look more into those styles. I love the mix of New Age synths and the energy that EDM has. I'd say with your songwriting skills, your dream of having a pop artist record your songs is in your favor. Best to you, Nigel. I included you in my latest news (not that I have any kind of following) but maybe a few friends will drop on by to listen to your pieces. John
Hey John thanks for the 5 stars on "Picture" Just a little project to get used to the new studio set up. Working on getting an old friend of mine to sing it for me, with any luck I'll get a choir too. lol My friend is a preacher. haha. The new PC is fantastic and fast as lightening. I tried to put as much emotion into the song as I could but It's easier with words. Thanks again John. your friend Scott
You're very welcome, Scott. I'm glad to know the new computer is great! You've got a great start with those chords. I'm interested in hearing the melody line. You've got the tunes! Right now we've been contending with multiple events: gunfire from a car a couple of nights, usually rounds lasting 10 to 20 seconds, the ridiculous T-Mobile breach, and a huge swarm of bees that nested in the roof above our neighbor. We got a beekeeper to get rid of the bees. Our neighbor bitched, "Why did it have to be in the roof over my apartment?" He was worried about the bill but the HOA took care of it. I've been working on changing passwords. Every American network has holes like Swiss cheese so I knew it would happen someday. T-Mobile was sloppier than most. Ever see a huge swarm of bees swirling by your window? Must have been one of those 50,000 to 80,000 swarms. It's bizarre! All this is taking time away from doing music, of course. I thought it was funny that you offered the tune because you can't sing. Neither can I. But then, I can't play, either! (Ha!) I rely on using the piano roll to fix my midi notes and I rely on other people to play guitars...then there's good old Band-in-a-Box to do it for me! Well, back to the fun! Your friend, John
Wow sounds like you have a lot on your plate just now... Gun fire, honey bee swarms is enough to unnerve anyone. wow. Stay safe my friend.
Hi John, Many thanks for the stars on The Drawing Room, very much obliged. Keep safe, Bob
You're very welcome, Bob. More to come. I'll get that on a playlist, too. I've immersed myself in learning production more than I thought I would so I have been spending less time on here. I think that will be very good in the long run since several of us cannot afford producers. Every time I learn something, I look back on my tracks and get more critical of what I've done. If I can get close enough to fool people, that will be okay with me! "The Drawing Room" really is a lovely instrumental that could easily be part of any of Narada's or Windham Hill's albums. Best to you! John
Praise indeed, thank you John. Bob
Hey John thanks so much for the 5 stars on "Standing Beside you in Darkness" It's part of the original Ravensong line up. Nothing like a nice vampiric love song to brighten you day. hahaha
You're much welcome, Scott! BJ doesn't tell you but I also 5-starred "13 Rooms." I like that dark, gloomy atmospheric type of music! I think "13 Rooms" could have a version that would sound like something off of The Cure's "Seventeen Seconds" or "Faith" album. Those were my favorite Cure albums! "Standing Beside You in Darkness" is a refreshing listen to a love song instead of the usual cookies and cream. I suppose you could say it has some bite! Ha! John
Hey, Scott. You're most welcome for my suggestions on what to look for in computers; Art Corey knows his stuff and he's the one who helped revolutionize my music with what softwares to buy and he sought out the great FiveRR site with affordable vocalists I could use; and we must keep in touch with Warren and the great vibes he sends out. You can't go wrong with Warren! JW
"Desert Road" has a beautiful haunting wistful melody and the string arrangements compliment it very well! Something about that melody!
Thx John. I didn't think anybody heard it. I just put it up. Glad you heard it and liked.
Thank you, my friend, on your March news mentioning my songs. I'm very delighted to see your song, "I Never Thought," at #1 Earth! I'm going to toast and celebrate with a beer! John
Hey, Art. "Didn't Know What to Say (Softer Version)" is it! Sounds contemporary and it brings out the vocals of Jess very well.
John, glad you liked our song, "Didn't Know What To Say? We were going for a Olivia Rodrigo feel and sound....how did we do?? Art C................... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmD BbnmKpqQ
I like yours better in that it sounds more mature and richness...well, in that Olivia sounds like a teenager, Jess sounds like she's well into her 20s or early 30s. Your instrumentation with the softer sound is closer to Olivia's style of production.
Hi, Neil. Thank you for your enjoyment of my songs! I have listened to several of yours. "My Kind of Loser" has a classic country theme, terrific melody and colorful imagery. Many of your other songs are in the raw. So were mine, except you play guitar and sing better than I do. Did you go to a studio for "My Kind of Loser"? Not easy being on a budget but I have found ways! Also liked "Time Machine." Poignant, painful, and sympathetic. You tell stories that need to be told and you do that well.
Tnanks for the compliment Johm.. Im actually blushing? Did you have ant feedback on my other query? That is, being a prodcucer as well do you have any contact that in th music publing world, a muis producer or directly to an artist thems elves who would be in need of a dyed in the woll, bona fide HIT song that fell right into their laps? If you do have thos e conatcts , and you may and you may not, th's why I. asking, We could work out some form fo cash agreemnet, legally -bing and with oversight ny BMI, whose sole duty is to make sure composrs of songs ( and I would register whatever sog we wher trying to sell with you as half of the composing team, so BMI is offically having to look for you up -front payments and any continuing royalty streams, thats whatthe y do. So we;d have a contract,,ther ewould be on risk. Im think a we draw up an agreemnt for a 70/30 split which is ibdustry standard, I do believe. Let me know whay you think Its a small, samll risk, for a very , vert possible profit. And agian, thas just an emormous prifit on ONE song, let alone hoe much you could make if your contact lired 10 or 20 o fmy 55 listed (and believe me, if you listen to one;s I wrote to yo inmy post, they will!! Later neil Fergus neilpfergus@gmail.com cell :347-1585
Hi John--Thanks for the stars and listening to "Too Far Away". I value your input!
Once in a great while, I'll chance upon a song that really strikes me. "Don't Tiptoe Around My Heart" is one of those. The first thing I pick up on is how unique the melody is. The tune has lots of energy and mood and express the emotion of the lyrics. It's enjoyable and engaging. That's great songwriting. Love the touches like the background "ohs" in the chorus. All three are terrific versions...I think the disco version is my favorite. John
Thank you. I am trying to get it covered. I feel sure it is a hit. Evan Pace
Hey, Scott. "The Ghost of Saturday Night" is great! T. Rex meets The Doors! I love the tune! You really make that one ROCK! Your friend, John
Hey John thank you so much that means a lot. So happy you liked it. I might do a bit more tweaking though. Your friend Scott
Here's to the very best composer in all of Arizona! I'm very happy to see you at the top of the Arizona, Unique, and Soundtrack charts! I've been waiting to see that happen. You have great composing skills that I admire. You are able to put across any emotion, any message, in your music, and you do it with care, purpose, and thought, and that's a big difference.
Thanks so much John! I really appreciate the kind words! Its especially helpful right now since I've been somewhat discouraged lately, with several songs rejected for different opportunities. I keep wondering if I need to change my approach or something. I appreciate the encouragement. Good luck with all of your music projects!
You're much welcome, Jim. That's the question for those of us in our group, The Rising Tide (Lifts all Boats) made up of myself, Robert Quigley, Jeana Potthoff, and Warren Hein. We are baffled, too. More on that in a private email. But of all of the tunes on BJ, there are a few songwriters who really know how to compose really terrific tunes and songs (my opinion anyway) and you are among them. I wonder, too, if we're just from a different time when songcraft really meant something. All the very best to you, too. Jim. John
Hi, Phil. "Wherever You're Hiding" has a very good winsome and reaching-for-the-dream kind of melody that matches the feeling of the lyrics very well! The chorus notes are a very good hook. The added orchestration at the end is a terrific climax. You live up to your name as a storyteller. Also, I'm glad you enjoyed "Down East in a Harbor Town" in your review. It's one of two story songs I have that were inspired by a journey I made across the country. John
Thank you John , it's always nice to get a great review !
Hi John--Congrats on "You Can Feel It". You and Robert created something very special! Expertly crafted. Thanks for listening to "Best Girl in the World (for Molly)". I appreciate the stars and endorsements!
Jeana, "Best Girl in the World" is a very lovely, contemplative, gentle and memorable piece, much like George Winston's "Winter into Spring" album but with your own unmistakable style, and your wonderful gift of melody. John
Hi John--Thanks for your kind words and the stars and endorsements. All appreciated! Congrats on "You Can Feel It". You and Robert created something very special! Expertly crafted.
You're much welcome, Jeana. I also cherish your belief in the songs I do.
A rocker and a shocker coming up? Hey, look out! I'm looking forward to it!
Hey John, yep a rocker and a shocker. hahaha As usual lately I just pic up the closest guitar and started playing and "Wela" I had the beginnings of a new song. Diving back in time to my band days and nights when we were rocking hard and loud. lol Always good to hear from you my friend, I'm still trying to get used to this new format. Hope all is well with you. Your friend Scott
Now that's frightening, I'm doing the same thing--though I'm still working on the demo after a month--it'll be loud, but too melodic I'm sure! Can't wait to hear the new one Scott! Keep chugging! W
Hey Warren yes doing the fun part now the writing and arranging, can't wait to hear what you got cooking it will be epic...
Well i'll go with those words my friend, except the very last one... ...it will be-- xoxo
Cheers John, and i finally found where to leave you a comment on a new...well...comment/thread! Thanks much for the stars on the re-sing of Hopeful Train Ride Home, much appreciated buddy! Hmmm went through Boise MANY years ago, Iowa too (relatives are there), remember being surprised at vineyards outside of Boise! Stay warm and safe, Warren
Know what? I'm still trying to catch on to the navigation of this site. For all its prettiness, I thought they would have matched it with easy navigation. "Hopeful Train Ride Home" is excellent. Oh yes, vineyards outside of Boise, about 40 miles west in the low hills near the Snake River and the town of Marsing. I still think of it as bizarre that there would be vineyards there. Always good to see a comment and email from you! John
Cheers to you--we then followed the snake--geeze it's a long river--far! Many years ago, many... Xoxo W
Hey, Scott. I'm getting used to this new layout. The updated look is very nice...if they would just make changes to the images they choose and make them better represent our community and the craft of songwriting. Anyway, check your email. Best to you, my friend! John
Hey John yes I don't think I like the new look or format much but I'm trying to get used to it. I read your email and just sent you a reply and this is it. Hey John thanks so much for you excellent comments and thoughts on "Wishes" I agree the vocals are a mess, I was experimenting with fx and trying, in vain, to compensate for my Inability to really be able to sing. Lol. You have some great ideas for various parts of the song and I will be totally exploring all of them in fact I have already rewritten the chorus which now goes. "I'll ride a dark horse for all my days, I'll ride a dark horse to my grave, I'll find the love that my fool hearts thrown away, I'll ride a dark horse for all my days" My vocals have long been a point of contention and i have decided its time to try to find a singer. Just a little back ground I've spent the last 46 years of my life in Ohio but now find my self back In Iowa where I began and where I swore I would never return but here I am. I know many talented people in Ohio, singers, guitar players, writers but alas none here in Iowa some times I feel kinda lost out here but that's another story. Lol Anyway Art has mentioned on several occasion the possibility of hiring singers of the internet, something I have never done but feel its something that I should be doing so I was wondering if you had any pointers or know how this works as I really have no clue. Lol As far as your group I would be honored to be a part of it with an opportunity to work with great songwriters such as yourself as I admire your talent greatly, let me know when your page is ready and I will be there. Again thanks so much for your help and encouragement and ongoing Support as it means a great deal to me. Your friend always. Scott
Iowa, my gosh! I remember long ago, 1973, riding with my family on highway 3 across the northern part of the state to Dubuque and seeing the row houses on the twisty road into town. Other times, it was Interstate 80 all the way across. I don't think I could afford to go back to Los Angeles or any part of California. Home has been Boise, Denver, and now Phoenix, with brief stays in Utah and Fort Wayne. If we could, we'd make an exit out of Phoenix. Anyway, a reply is in your email and I'm going to contact Robert to see where we can find a vocalist. We are using Cooper Moss right now for "You Can Feel It." He is just nothing short of sensational on it! Your friend, John
Thanks a million John. Yes Iowa, cold, desolate and frozen just the place for a Raven to make his home. lol Please keep me posted. To answer your question earlier I have never tried to master any of my recordings nor have I ever had them mastered at all. All the best to you john. Your friend Scott
Scott, one vocalist we would pass on is Justin Beauchamp from Vancouver, BC. https://www.fiverr.com/justinbeauch amp?source=gig_cards&referrer_gig_s lug=be-your-male-vocalist&ref_ctx_i d=c2899b44c6ad57b0c8fe843f41e55d20 Next, mixing and mastering...you are in for some fun if you'd like to dive in! I've taken the slow route, of course, so I can start you off on some simple things to do plus a cheap online service. The results are immediate and you'll be surprised at what a difference it makes. I send things I find about mixing and mastering to Robert and Jenny, all illustrated from screen shots. Maximum investment to begin with: about $25 (for the online McMastering, Major Decibel). After that, plug-ins from Waves, the cheap but great way to go that goes beyond the free Cakewalk DAW. Cakewalk is great...then if you like you, you might like the Studio One Artist, which is $69 on sale, $99 regular. The sales happen often enough that I'd wait. So far, I'm not sure what I'm doing with all those numbers on things like equalization and compression, but the big general rule is to rely on your ears. "Equal!" came out quite well so I'm doing something right! You'll find yourself hearing things you'd like to do as you get into it. Your friend, John
Where do I find new song submissions in this new version very confusing Old way was better for an old timer like me
Anthony, I just asked the same query to Broad Jam!! Is it true you can't teach old Broad Jam Members New tricks??? That's really rude!!! Haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!! Toodles, The Corey's.......I'm 72 in three days!! Yikes!!
Having a hard time finding stuff, and not impressed with the overall cut and paste marketing concepts, one pic even showing a chick's nipple through her blouse--I'm no prude but come on, who the hell did BJAM pay to design this system? Not friendly and geared to 25-40s crowd, which I'll bet the metrics do NOT support! Warren
Warren, I am outraged also, a chick's nipple through her blouse, the audacity of it all!!! Please Pray for us us , we will probably all go to Hell now!! Oh......by the way Keen observation Dude!!! Where exactly did you find that photograph, what page on Broad Jam did you find it?????? I await you reply!!! Toodles, The Corey's........
Hell it was on one of the main pages, you'll have to look for it--maybe opportunities? LOL, not THAT opportunity... LOL, that comment alone may get someone's attention hahahaha
That's the password page. I'm not offended by female nipples...and they're covered. Yet people wouldn't mind it if they were to show a bare male torso? But aside from all that, it's the unwritten message, the appearance, the attitude, that I think is inappropriate and intimidating. Is that what it really takes to be pop song material?...even more so than the craft of songwriting itself? I agree that it marginalizes the member base and doesn't include the rest of us. The images, of course, are likely royalty free stock images. It does show that they're trying to attract a younger membership. I can get used to the new updated interface but they really need to work on the images they use to present themselves. I don't think they are depicting a professionally minded member base.
Still trying to find the song opportunities submissions page I agree with you👍
yes my friend, that is of course my main point (so to speak...) it's cheap marketing and for who/whom? the average age of Bjam members must be at least 55? but of course that's a guess, anybody know? xoxo wh
Love love love "Equal"!! Outstanding music & Jenny McGregor's voice is incredible! Well done John Walradt!
Thank you very much, Gaelic Cat! It's the most personal song I've done and it's great that it reaches you!
Thanks for the 5 stars John. It's nice to know someone likes my music.
Ralph, your songs have that feel of a good friend talking to you: conversational, colloquial, that American home flavor. That's something unique, refreshing, a heck of a lot of fun and very easy to relate to. For the style of music you do, nothing short of perfection! They're songs that are the everyday stuff of American life yet told in your unique way of songwriting. What you do is enjoyable!
John--Congrats on the end date of March 8th! Think of all the time you will have to work on your hits!
Oh, I am! I think I'm getting out just in time, hopefully before the governor calls all state workers to go back into the offices, which are in bunkers disguised as office buildings! This morning, being a holiday, is so peaceful. I started cooking breakfast at 10:00 instead of logging in at 7:30.
Hey John, WOW! Thank you, thank you so much for your most excellent review it is greatly appreciated. Your encouragement and continued support remain a constant inspiration to me and you belief in and understanding of my music is a solid rock upon which to build further music upon. High praise from one who's music and skills I greatly admire is as always most welcome. As always I look forward to hearing new and exciting music from you and a whole new year of wonderful music. Again thank you so much John and play on my. Your friend always, Scott
Hey John thank you so much for the 5 stars on "wishes" Greatly appreciated. I also appreciate your very kind comments concerning my music as I have great respect and admiration for your music as well. Very happy to see that "Equal" is doing so well in Broadjam top 10s very well deserved my friend. Would love to hear any thoughts or comments you might have concerning "Wishes" As always all the best to you my friend. Scott
Hey, Scott, great to see a message from you! I enjoy the heck out of you and your songs! "If Wishes Were Horses" is a great song. You are on a roll! Great when that happens, huh? I'm going to listen to it some more as there are some ideas I have. Best to you as well, my good friend! John
Thanks John cant wait to hear your thoughts. Best wishes.
Hi, Dennis. I was looking through the reviews and i appreciated much that you enjoyed "We Didn't Have Time Enough." I dropped by to listen to your tunes and what delightful surprises you have! Your lilting melodies and storytelling, like Gordon Lightfoot or Paul McCartney, but definitely your own. Your guitar playing is virtuoso with smooth vocals to match...I lack both and admire those who can do it! "Lakes of Ponchatrain," "Katy's Dance," "Susie," "There's No Glory," and "It's a Lonely City," are a few I listened to, and all very good! If you enjoy writing memorable songs, you live up to it! I try to do the same, even if I play only to compose songs and then find others for the actual recordings. John
Hey John. Thank you for your thoughtful words regarding my song We Aint Leavin'!! Sending good thoughts and vibes for the new year. xo kj
Hi, Kathyjo. You're much welcome. You definitely have unique sounds and presence and that's a wonderful quality, and I think that's where you shine. Your songcraft is very well done. I really enjoyed "A New Day." I very much like that you speak out about social conditions. When I listened to a few more of your tunes, I thought, wow, this is really different! No one can accuse you using the cookie cutter formula! That is a wonderful thing to push and something that I would think providers and producers would look for. All the best to you. Thank you for the good thoughts and vibes. I wish you a very good new year as well. John
John, thanks so much for being so supportive to other songwriters out there. I can see in your latest news that you regularly mention other artists that people should check out. Its nice to see this!
Thank you, Jim! There are several songwriters as yourself who create such good tunes that I enjoy, and the latest news can be updated frequently. It's a good place to introduce others to what you and others are doing. Thank you for noticing. John
If the earth is traveling at 1.3 million miles per hour, covid is traveling faster than that! Everybody get vaccinated and get masked!