Interesting profile from The Guardian. No huge revelations here (well, at least to somebody that’s followed the man’s entire career). But, I wanted to share nonetheless. I especially like the the bit that starts with “I feel there is a lot more to achieve.”
I really think Adams Clayton is one of rock’s finest bass players, and I have tried hard to learn from him. Adam is proof that there is power in restraint, and that less really is more.
Adam Schlesinger rockin' the Thunderbird
I was just flipping through a recent issue of Playback (ASCAP’s member magazine), and I was taken by the answer given by Adam Schlesinger (Fountains of Wayne, Ivy, Tinted Windows) to the question “is there a formula for writing a great hook?”
I don’t really know how to define a great hook, but you know it when you hear it. I do think that repetition is the key to hookiness and almost anything can become a hook if you repeat it enough times. When I’m working on a song, sometimes I think, “What part of this song would someone sing to someone else if they were asking them if they knew it?” That part is the hook.
I really like the last part of that quote. “The part that someone would sing to someone else…”. That’s a nice way of thinking about it, and gives the songwriter something slightly more tangible on the journey to “hookiness”. I’m going to remember that one.
How would you describe what makes a great hook?
Just ran across this video. It’s by a new group called Fiction Family, which is a collaboration between Nickel Creek’s Sean Watkins and Switchfoot’s Jon Foreman–two bands that I really dig for various reasons. When I heard about the project, I kinda scratched my head (especially considering Switchfoot’s post-”The Beautiful Letdown” letdowns), but after listening to this cut, with its chamber-pop/Beatle-esque cues, I’m thinking I’ll need to dive in a little deeper. Check it out.
For more post-Nickel Creek goodness, check out Sean’s sister Sarah Watkins.
Just ran across these clips when surfing a U2 blog. As many of you know, Daniel Lanois is the masterful producer behind such greats as Emmylou Harris, Bob Dylan, Aaron Neville, the Slingblade soundtrack, U2, Peter Gabriel and many more.
What I like so much about these clips is Lanois’ demonstration of his deep connection with the emotional and spiritual current that runs through music and sound. You can see this especially in his coaching of the drummer in the first clip. Plus, his parting comment at the end of each clip really makes you think about what music and performance is all about. Well said Mr. Lanois.
For Ryan Adams fans out there, this is worth checking out. “Werewolph” appears to be one of his many alter ego projects. Great for a laugh. Although I must say, “Mega Wizards” (track 3) is kinda growing on me…
http://www.werewolph.com/
You can now see my profile on eSession, an online musical collaboration community.
http://www.43folders.com/2009/03/11/kutiman
A thought provoking article with a very cool vid. I especially like the wrap-up:
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“And, that prospect should buoy and energize anybody with a scintilla of artistic entrepreneurship or the drive to just try making and offering their own stuff in their own way.
Man. What an exciting time this is. Seriously. We may not each have Kutiman-level talent and vision, but there’s absolutely never been a better time to at least give it a throw.
Remember: the only person who can sit on your a** is you.”
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I’m definitely guilty of sitting on my backside when I should be making something happen. Anything. This article is a good kick in the pants. Thanks MG for turning me on to it.
Thoughts?
Ryan Adams from RollingStone.com
I’m really glad I got to see The Cardinals this past September, because it may be my last time. It may even be a long time before I see/hear anything from Ryan Adams himself. He’s apparently calling it quits. For now. He’s citing mainly physical health issues, but I have to imagine his emotional issues are at play as well. Regardless, the man deserves a rest. After two stellar releases within the past few years (2007′s Easy Tiger and 2008′s Cardinology, as well as a number of long tours in support, the man certainly deserves a break. According to RollingStone.com:
In fact, Adams blames his ear problems for “false” reports that he’s been intoxicated during concerts. “People accusing me of not being sober when i am suffering tremendous pain and nausea from my inner ear symptoms,” Adams blogs, stating all the reasons why he’s going on hiatus for a little bit. “I am excited to step away. i lost more than anyone will ever know (hearing, someone i loved, my sense of dignity, a never ending losing battle with stage fright.” Adams also promises not to blog anymore, as he needs a private life that is his own.
Thanks for the awesome music Mr. Adams. Hope to see and hear you again soon.
This morning was a Peter Gabriel morning. “Up” from 2002 to be precise. I picked up this CD a while ago, but never really gave it the time it needs until recently. It is an amazing piece of work. What’s interesting is that several of the tunes sound like they could have been written during Genesis’ “Lamb Lies Down on Broadway” era. Dark, gritty, heavy. Great stuff.
What’s the plan, Stan?
Music Think Tank: “Keeping with a plan and when it is the right time to change plans” (link to article)
A good article for anyone in the biz, especially those who are in a self-management role–managing your band or your own career. It’s way too easy to loose track of the big picture. There’s some good advice in here to keep you focussed on the big picture.
What are some of the challenges you face in keeping your plan on-track? What sorts of things do you find helpful?
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