I know it’s been awhile since I posted anything new. I have been getting things going with my band, The Great Outdoors. We had a few member changes and now I think we are settled in.

I awoke today to a series of movies on TCM about musicians and songwriters from the early 1900’s. All the shows lend themselves to a good insight as to what the songwriters of yesteryear had to go through to become the songwriters we know. They also show some of what a publisher back then had to go through, and why we get the shark reputations we have today. All in all, a nice day of inspiration. Of course the Hollywood influence appears in each film, the stories are basically true. Each artist went through a bit of hell to achieve success in their chosen professions.

First was the story of Rodger’s and Hart, a Broadway writing duo that penned songs like “Blue Moon,” “The Lady Is A Tramp”, and “My Funny Valentine.” They were an amazing pair. Richard Rodger’s melodies and Lorenz Hart’s lyrics raised the bar for Broadway songwriters.

Then came “Night and Day,” the story of Cole Porter. Cole was one of America’s greatest songwriters. He wrote song such as “Night And Day”, “Don’t Fence Me In”, and “You Do Something To Me.” Cole’s life was actually quite different that the movie portrayal, but it was a nice tribute to the man himself.

Following Cole Porter was one of my favorites. A movie I saw as a kid and inspired me to study harder on the piano. “Rhapsody in Blue”, the life of George Gershwin. George Gershwin, along with his lyricist brother Ira, were  probably the best songwriters of their time. An era that was dripping with musical talent. Gershwin’s “Rhapsody In Blue”, “American In Paris”, and all the songs from shows like “Porgy And Bess” and ”Strike Up The Band” were wonderfully crafted pieces. I think this is a must see for anybody.

“The Story of Gene Krupa” was next. It told of Gene Krupa’s struggles to make it in the jazz world as a drummer. Gene went through some tough times while trying to maintain the life of a star.

Last but not least was “The Glenn Miller Story.” Another movie from my childhood. Glenn Miller created a big band sound that brought new life to the bands of his time. He created a sound using clarinets and brass instruments together for lead lines. He is responsible for tunes such as “In The Mood” and “Moonlight Serenade.”

After a day like today, I am inspired once again to create. Do yourself a favor. When things are coming down on you faster than you can suppress, sit back and watch a few old movies and get inspired. It works.

 Good Writing