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Hi again. Btw, the theme I've grabbed at the moment is lyrics written from the perspective of someone who is afraid of taxes and the government 'stealing' peoples' money.
I like it. I see I have several stems to harvest! Yes I do think you are in the Freddy Mercury zone. You're threatening to jump up to the higher octave there in your scales. Let yourself jump where you feel it. Love it.
I like it a lot Laura. I can tell you are doing some vocal scale exercizes. I feel ya warming up. Feeling Ernie's drive on that bass. He pushes us. LOL Cool!
So I have some catching up to do. I just now Got her lead vocal stems in place (on Jazzy Days), and ready to find her best vocal take a mix it with your stems. I feel good things coming. Vocal stem on this one acknowledged as well.
I am thinking we'll experiment with different vocal FX in different places. The whole thing has a Queen vibe. We can shape this whole thing around the vox. You are singing scales, and we could work up some counter scales vocally too. Sounds pretty damned good and it's dry. THAT should jump when we put FX in. Go for it!
I know this is in developement mode. When you get lyrics like you want them we'll put it in the page. For now call it draft and is safe in comments for now.
Cool... I'm glad that you like the general idea, Freddy. I really love the percussion and bass. It drives! I can hear some places where my voice is a bit overextended on this version, as well as a few out of tune notes too. I think that I'll try to do re-record tomorrow and maybe experiment with some other vox lines as you mentioned. I like the idea of putting some FX on the vocals. This is lots of fun to work on!
I am slowly getting caught up with what you've presented Laura. Yes I am thinking of a good amount of different vocal FX. At least I want to try it. We can tryout your ideas and mine. Go where the muse takes us.
Ok I put your vocal stem into the DAW and lined it up using your mp3 mix demo to find alignment. It's the last one in the files area on the page. This is indeed a fun track!
Ok I am listening now with fresh ears Laura. I think your performance is good one this one. It needs badly some guitar, and or keys. It also needs FX on your vocals. Could also use some harmonies and or counter phrases (guessing). I will go to work on some gtr first. I will also tryout some FX on vocals. No I think you've done a fine job here. Maybe some of the counter phrases that occur to you will be upper register. The performance is fine here. The whole thing needs to be developed. I will put the lyrics in the page for safe keeping.
I agree, good start here! Needs a full band yes. I haven't listened to the other auditions. Not sure what I am hearing for a keyboard part. Maybe Rhodes? I don't know at this point. If there is a strong guitar idea, I think that might be what is needed next. I'll keep an eyeball on it, see what develops. Ernie's got chops!! Laura's got voice!!
No worries at all, we've got time! For guitars and keys, I hear funky. I hear Stevie Wonder-esk. Something grooving... Maybe even some trumpet to be love a horns section with the sax fills. .
Do some more takes on sax Laura. I agree with what you've said. We are in no hurry. The Power it is. I have to figure out the chords and I will tryout some guitar. I work totally by ear so it is slow for me. Ernie said it's key of E, buy I think Jay told me there are some minor chords in there. So I will spend today trying to get the chords. Anyone who is good with sort of thing can chime in.
An old friend of mine Jason Didner, has agreed to work on guitar for this track. He has given me a timeline of a week and a half to two weeks. Knowing Jason, it will be worth the wait. I think he'll be popping in here to comment soon. I believe you can use the "search" at the top of the site and find his profile. He's good! Have a look!
This is well on it's way! I am considering trying a horn section. The vox are really dry but I have big plans to add a good amount of different vox FX in places. Might want to think about counter phrases for backing vox. It's also ripe for sax add if you are inspired. Jason has not accepted the blogger invite yet. Once I get him to accept that he can join us here in the comments! I think it all works together so far. YAY! 💚
Thanks Fred for the invite to sit in with you guys! It's been a really long time since I've laid down tracks, and I really enjoyed doing it! We sound like a tight band. Looking forward to more collabs.
Laura & Ernie - now that we're bandmates I'd like to know if you have music web sites so I can hear and share more of jams! I've got a rock band for kids called Jungle Gym Jam (junglegymjam.com) and a solo site for my general/adult oriented rock (jasondidner.net)
Don't know if she is still having to worry about this, but Laura has had problems with a serious stalker in the past, so I have honored her wishes to not publicize her contact info. I don't even have a talent profile for her on the site, because she asked me to help her protect her identity for this reason. Laura and I are actually in an online band. We have probably 20 songs together. We had a 3rd person in the band but he seems to be out of the picture. Laura and I have decided to continue without him. I am migrating from the old project site to the new. I have an older playlist that Laura and I have completed together. I am in the process of putting up a new playlist of our songs. Once it reaches he comfort level I can give you her email (with her permission). she is very forthcomming with people she trusts (as you hear here). She is quite the writer, and I tell her I love her regularly. She is like a little sister to me. Jason is a good guy, and I've known him a long time. Not a Trump supporter. That in itself should tell you about his character.
Oh I am working on bringing Ernie into the project site too. I have his email, and am hopeful to bring him in, just as I did with you Jason. He is a monster bassist and is all over my archives. I just keep nudging people to get with the program. The thing is, we are all able to communicate without exchanging sensetive info for a bit. Once people get to know you (and me) then more info can be given out. I try not to push people and they come around in their own time.
I just uploaded a first draft of horn section ideas. I have a bit of work to do yet, but I think this does show that in general horns do fit the feel. I will work on this. It's in the files area on the page.
I have some stabs and other ideas I want to try. I will try to keep it in key too. LOL i have kontakt loaded up. I feel pretty good that horns fit this in general, but I have a good amount of work to do. I think where Jason does his low harmonics, just before his lead, I might try a trumpet solo. stay tuned!
Btw, I wanted to respond to the anonymous on the web situation for me. I am very grateful to you, Freddy, for keeping my name low key. Unfortunately, I would like to maintain this approach on the general web because of summer bad experiences in the past, as mentioned. I'm really happy, on the other hand, to collaborate on this safer space. I love the work with you Freddy, both just us and with others. I've at much to be thankful for with you!
No problem on the low profile. I am sure Jason and others will respect this as well and when the time is right, we'll exchange emails. You all are welcome to offer ideas up too. Try the Stevie Wonder type addition you are hearing if you like. Jason too. if something occurs to you, let's hear it.
I played around a bit with horn section ideas. I've uploaded an overview. I don't like the outro on this, but the rest is about what I was hearing. let me know what you think...
Cool, I have a listen! I forgot to mention that I used the mix that I had in my Logic without guitar and including the harmony parts I developed a bit later that the main vox. Let me know what you think when you've time.
Well one of the admin things I wanted to do was to insert the chords that Jason laid out for me/us in email. He is super talented and knows a lot about these things so I felt I needed to put it into the page for safe keeping. I do have Kontakt open and working on some horn ideas, so it helps. Thanks Jason! It's good to hear everyone's ideas! We've worked so much together Laura you know that it is often a combination of everyone's ideas. I will go and listen to your horn ideas now. Lots to listen to and catch up on. It's a good problem to have! I am NEVER bored because we have lots to work on together! I will listen for your harmonies too. cmdr_chill also added a male vocal part if you listen. I could no doubt get his stem(s) if you like. Jason is a vocalist too. It's all open for ideas folks!
Looks like have several mp3s on the list to catch up on. Love the harmonies! Now if you could render as MIDI I could plug it into kontakt and render with it. Yes send up your harmony stem. If something doesn't get response, remind me. As producer, I try to listen to all ideas. Nice horn ideas L.
So it occurs to me that I should give Laura's Backing vox attention, and let that help shape this. The mix is pretty full just with Jason's guitar adds. I'd like to give the vox (overall) priority, and then decide on horns that will augment that arrangement. This will give the vox center stage in the production. Flute during Jason's low harmonic scale (which I think is very cool!) could work. Laura you play flute right? Sax and flue?
I am always wanting to let the vocals dictate the whole production. I am thinking to TRY some different FX for the vocals in different places for effect. I am fine with the idea of vocal driven tracks. You will see the mix evolve once we put in harmonies that Laura has told me she's done in session. She's having a lot of fun in session!
Hi all. The harmony stems are in the uploads for us now. I think that your idea to assemble with guitar and harmonies is a good one, Freddy. Then, we can hear how things are and recognize where the spaces might be. I play sax, but only flute sound on the keyboard :)
Will do Laurie. My focus (for now), is to assemble the vocals. I'll post a new mix soon and we can go from there. Today is my gym workout day so might be a day or so. THANK YOU!
Uploaded new mix. Added flute solo, worked on horns, added harmonies, and some FX on vocals. More work to do but you should hear some improvement. Will put this mix in the player at top of page. Happy T DAY!
Did some more work, and posted another mix. Nov. 28 mix. This one has some of the echo in it I was picturing. Will put this mix in the "Latest Mix" player.
Sorry... I sent my message in a hurry and didn't explain properly. I love the bass line and wonder if featuring it a bit up until the guitar solo might be cool. At that point, then adding the horns might build the mix up as well. What do you think?
I've been careful about not covering parts up with the horns. There are also some intentional dissonants on the horns. The way Ernie played the bass I think it's going to stand out no matter what we do. When I get serious about the final mix, the bass will have some compression on it. That might make it pop a bit too. I can try dropping the horns before the leads come in. You notice I didn't do a lot of phrasing under Jason's guitar on the sonlo. I kind of like how the horns work with his guitar chords on the intro. I was actually considering adding some FX to his held chords on the intro, but I didn't need to do that after adding the horns in there on the intro. I will try muting the horns early on. I think there is a good amount that will be lost but I am sure willing to give it a try. I can do a non-destructive save so we can backtrack if it's missed. I have taken a good amount of caution to not have the horns playing over key parts, but I am def willing to try different arrangements. I've shown the mix on the page to a few people and have not heard any negative feedback. WIlling to test arrangements. Worst case scenario we can have different versions of the song. That could happen too.
Just listening a bit more... Man, that flute really grooves! I live the vox FX too. I also really like the horn accents during the amazing guitar solo. Wow! Cool work here. I've been humming this all day. One question, is there also high harmonies on the last chorus or not?
Sounds good, Freddy. Can we try a copy/paste of the high harmony on the last chorus of its not to much work?
I like the horns... Just wanted to hear the difference with them coming in at the guitar solo. Definitely a non-destructive save is in order because it may very well sound better with them they way they currently are!
We don't have dealines Laura. If it feels like to much mork I will come back to it later when i do feel like doing it. For me personally it is more about focus. Being an artist and producer, I tend to go off on exploratory tangents, and end up not getting much done, but sometimes allowing ourselves to explore and go off on tangents is how we find the best ideas. And since we have reached a "non-destructive save", we have these well liked versions safe and will be visible on the page so we have them to hear while we explore. So i am not against trying any ideas. This is also part of why I encourage all to grab the stems. It allows you to take the reins and try things yourself, without actually waiting for me. Ultimately this song belongs to YOU as the author, so I would be listening to what you want, and I would be hopeful that you might allow different versions if we differ strongly. Ultimately I would relent and do it your way if not. I have done it your way in the past and not been unhappy. We have differed before and we did it your way (as owner/author), and I was not unhappy with the results. I think it was "Glimpses", where we had different ideas about how to proceed, and I followed the rules (owner's wishes are respected), and I was not unhappy with the results. I am hopeful we could negotiate "different final versions", but even this I will relent to your wishes if you can't see my way. It's a given that we will not always agree. How boring would it be if we always agreed? THAT is exactly why we have this rule. If we can't come to an agreement, then the rule is "author's wishes respected". I knew this going in. Hopefully when you hear my thoughts it persuades you, but I knew going in that it is possible we will see things differently. We usually do come together, after discussion, but if this does not happen, I already know what the rue it. It happens so rarely, it does not hurt me to relent. You say I am better than you at mixing and editing. That might be truem but that's all the more resons to jump in and start doing more of this. I encourage this.
I personally like the dissonants, and the horns in general, but we can try different ideas. The feel of the song in general is "STRONG", and "UPBEAT", so I feel like the horns in general fit the feel, but I am open to trying different passages. I can take MIDI if sent and render it with Kontakt, and just replace certain passages or mute. I will try muting up to the solo. I hate to drop the interaction between the horns and his clean guitar on the intro, but I am willing to try it. After I added the horns under his clean chords on the intro, I no longer felt like his guitar needed FX added. To me it helped his guitar and was fine with it being left clean. After the horns were added I no longer felt myself wanting to add FX to his clean gtr. I am open to any ideas. Just explaining my thought process. I could see myself missing several key areas if the horns were dropped altogether. I did actaully pump up Ernie's bass on that last mix, citing the exact same sentiment. It's done so well, I think it's going to stand out no matter what we do. If it was done this way onstage I think Ernie's playing would stand out no matter what. I like what we have right now, so I would be doing non-destructive edits as we try different things. I don't take it personally when you offer suggestions Laura. I can usually tell you WHY I have certain things in there, but I might actually like ideas you have. I sure would not know until I try them. So just so you know..... I have a version of what is mixed on the page player, safe so we can go right back to it if nothing bears fruit. I can also ADD PLAYERS to the page so we can quickly compare mixes and or arrangements immediately. I am willing to try any ideas, but I am now doing non-destructive, and might be wanting to go back to what we have at present. I can surely give ideas a try. That includes any Jason might offer up. Because I an doing non-destructive saves as of now, we won't loose anything to try these ideas.
What you wrote makes perfect sense, Freddy. I LOVE these interactions because, as you say, when we explore, it often takes us somewhere very interesting. If you prefer to stick with this mix, I'm also ok with that. IMHO, this is OUR song, not mine by any means! I love working with you so much... you are a huge asset to my happiness. Thank you so much. I'm sorry that I am indeed a bit lazy and lacking confidence with regard to mixing. You are just so good at that, far better than I am. I see what you mean though for sure. I also really like the intro interaction between the horns and guitar. How hard it is to leave it is as on the intro and from the guitar solo but mute during the singing bits before the solo? I just want to hear how it would sound... I am so sorry if I am a huge pain!
Not hard at all. The editing is really easy. I just save what we edit, and name it differently, and earlier arrangements are kept. Non-destructive. Let me give this a go, leaving the horns in the intro. Of course we all have part in this, but when it comes down to a decision, yours would be binding. You did the actual writing. I am editing, arranging, and producing, guided by our discussions. Next post will be that.
Hi again. Ok, I've just been listening again. I think I've targeted my thoughts a bit better now. I actually really like everything the way it is in this mix. My ears are flagging the horns only during the chorus. For me, the chorus at present sounds too busy. I think that one of two things would remedy this. First thing to try might be too lower the horn section volume during the chorus. Second option would be to use a horn style more like behind the guitar solo during the chorus sections. Let me know your reaction to these thoughts.
I just listened again to the horns in the chorus. That's the part where the echos happen. It's pretty much sustain horns in that part, so it IS the same style as like the intro. As a matter of fact I think it is the exact same phrase. Can't get much less busy than sustained chords.
I am planning to mute under the chorus for you to hear. Perhaps it the dissonants you don't like. I purposely did that but we'll try it without that in a mix. Working up to it.
I uploaded a mix with the horns muted during the chorus. I don't dislike this, just not sure if I like it better. I am going to add this mix into another player on the page to help compare. I'll let you know when it's on the page and you can compare too. Comparing should help refine opinions. 🤞
It might be worth trying some of the shorter yruptet fills from behind the guitar solo in the chorus... I don't know, maybe. I like it as is to though.
I just upped a new mix with the high harmony added to the last chorus. I am thinking I will add a little more fx to the vox to fatten it up and it'll be a wrap. Chorus is fine without horns.
I did have some horns that I thought fit the chorus for all and response. They fit the first chorus, but i thought they fought his guitar swells in the 2nd, so I thought to myself "horns in first but not 2nd nah", so I have to agree it doesn't need horns in the chorus at all. So I have to agree it's best without horns in the chorus at all. So I will be brainstorming ways to fatten the vocals up with FX, and I think we'll be at the finish line on this one. 👌
I need to bring the bass down just a tad, I think. That's where I'll start. The gtr and the horns are a little under so bringing the bass down should help.
Hi Freddy. You've been really busy, wow. So...I really like the balance and sound of the instruments in this last mix! I can hear the fattening of the vox too. For my ears, theres a bit too much FX on the vocals here though. It's hard to identify exact details for me though. I feel like the vials sound a bit like they are in another room from the rest of the instruments now. Does that make any sense? Maybe reducing the reverb and echo slightly would do the trick, but I'm not sure at all. Thoughts?
I've had the thought, but the lead vox are actually drier than the rest. I have been thinking it need MORE actual verb to put it in the same room. Let me listen some more. I think I will try a LONGER verb on one of the lead vocal tacks. I'll try it and see. I am using different tools than usual on this mix so I am investigating. If you listen it sounds like it's in a different room because the rest has a bigger verb.
Well I do agree it sounds like the lead is in a different room. That much I agree with. I might need to make the verb more subtle on everything. Yes let's see.
Hi Freddy. Sorry for the delay in my reply. Mix 5 is sounding really good! My small tweak thoughts for you to consider... 1. Can the 'one two buckle my shoe' but go into the mix a bit more? 2. Can the 'troops, children, ladies' but at the end come out a tiny bit too be sure the last few words are heard? 3. The vox are well balanced for my ears on the chorus. The verse areas still sounds a bit in another room. Not sure how to render that. Ideas? 4. All instruments, solos, ect. sound great to me!
Laura has OKed this last mix as final. If you want a copy of the mp3, now it the time to get it. The page has been updated and moved to the finished tracks jukebox at: https://www.fjamstudios.com/finished-tracks/funk/the-power Great job everyone! 😎
Hi Freddy. Isn't this song more yours and Eddie's? I just worked with you like Jason to add some bits, no? Man, it's such a great pleasure to work with you!
No technically it's yours Laura. We are talking legally, and who could take this and copyright it. That's melody, and lyrics. Remember when you used to listen to albums and or cds, and you saw the credits which was one or two people? Those were the authors of the melody and lyrics. That is why technically everything you and I have done together belongs to you. That's as it should be and I don't begrudge you of that. It's about legality. Legally you've been the "AUTHOR" of all of them. Melody and lyrics. If this bothered me I'd be doing more authoring. I usually get producer rights, which is tiny compared. I don't have any second thoughts about this Laura. We're both doing what we're good at and it works. Not saying you'd want to, but you have control of all of them. I don't think we'd every dream of such a conflict but if it came to it I wouldn't have a leg to stand on. It's why I pretty much asked Jason for permission every step of the way on releasing his work. It's his intellectual property. Of course Jason readily agreed, just as you have, (mostly). It's why I had to wait for YOU to ok that mix. The criteria is that you have control of your own writings. Has never been a problem with me. Even if we disagree it is slight and quickly gotten past, because I am well aware it's not my song. I can't see any other way of doing it. If there is conflict, the author's wishes are respected. I've been working with you close to a decade now right? I've not had a problem with this yet. Even when we did it your way, I came away glad I did. Usually after you and I discuss things we find common ground.
Anyone who doesn't like you getting so much authoring rights, needs to get in there and author the same way you've done for years. You earned it lil sis.
So the way rights are shown on finished tracks is predictable. If you did the writing, it'll say by Laura Holden. If you shared authoring, it'll be shared in the byline. It never occurs to me to try to rob you of this. Ernie actually did the arrangement when he added the bassline and we've been working to his arrangement from then on. I would be shooting myself in the foot to try to do anything other than this. I'd loose a writing partner and it never occurred to me. Why mess with what works?
That's crazy law though, Freddy, don't you think? I actually just added to what you already created. You are an amazing person for everything you do. I'm the lucky one everything we collaborate. I'm always learning so much from you!
For me, all that has ever mattered is our cool creative process together... And with anyone else who joins in. It's such a huge gift to me... You are a huge asset in my life. Music send our collaboration makes everything better.
My understanding is that arrangement has some right too, but even that is far less than the actual authoring. I've had people be aprehensive about putting their work on here to be developed, but think about it. It's time stamped documentation as to who did what, and when. Short of actual copyright proceedure, it's very effective to prove what you did. It's hard to deny the timestamps. You and I don't have this problem, but it is documented right here on these pages. And I think there are also wittnesses involved. I doubt it's enough in itself to show ownership but it sure would go a long way toward showing a history of how it came about. That is in the event it was contested. It will not be. Really if we wanted to be technical, Jason and I were just part of this. You have all authoring rights, and Ernie has arrangement rights. Jason and I just helped. I doubt he would say anything other than that. It was just a progression until you actually wrote and performed what turned it into a song. Yours are the parts that could be copyrighted.
I could never see this happening Laura, but I could maybe keep you from using my production, but you could take what you wrote and have it produced somewhere else. I could not do that. It's not my property. You could stop me from using your work, but I could not stop you from using your own work. We are discussing this just for understanding. I could never see us having such a conflict. Especially since I am well aware of who did the actual authoring. Believe me it does not reduce the enjoyment for me to give your your due.
It's so interesting to me because doesn't it mean that the person who authors the lyrics and melody get an unfair cut in the music world, generally? Without the other 'bits' it couldn't get finished. The mix/master is so important too. Fascinating!
Yes, I completely agree that I certainly cannot ever imagine us having a disagreement in future about any of this. Have you ever had this sort of issue with anyone?
Yes, but all that happened is I removed myself from the project. THAT is the only thing I have actual control of. It is good to get it out in the open and understood. I've sent many a bad attitude packing. It's why I use an alias. In case they start gunning for me. I like to say if someone is working with me for any amount of time they probably have a good attitude. I have a good circle of people I work with, but you gotta trust me that I whittled it down by sending idiots packing. You and I work together because we love and respect each other. We make strong attempts to not let our egos control how we act. That's important. You've given me 3 changes to make on this song near the end. At first I was a little put off, but then I had to admit that you were making sense. I put my ego aside and let your suggestions stand. They made sense and I do not regret accepting them.
Yes, I think it's really easy to be to close to a production. This has happened to me before got sure! I've even gotten unbreakable obsessed with something really small and can't let you of it .. so far, only when dealing with myself, I think (luckily for you). I always invite you to disagree with me! I truly believe that these open sharing of different sides always bring us to a good outcome. I totally respect you and applaud you for sending the idiots packing. We have to be careful who we surround ourselves with. Life is too short, time is too precious and there are too many good people to waste our previous energy on idiotic people... Haha! I totally think that though. Please always feel free to let me know if I annoy you :).
That's also why we don't talk much about licensing here. It's because the authors are not asked to give up their rights. If you wrote it it's yours. We don't ever ask you to give up your authoring rights. You wrote it, it's yours, end of discussion.
Well I feel the same way, but it is good to get it out in the open. My criteria is based on my understanding of what is legal. We have it out in the open and it's not really been a problem. Maybe if you start making million with your writing I might think about doing some authoring myself. LOL I am having tons of fun, doing what I love to do with people I care about. It's theraputic for us both. I don't watch TV because I am having so much fun collabing.
And there is no reason to be contentious. It usually works out that if it makes sense it get adopted. I try to stop and think about things. I often ask opinions. Every time I asked about what you said, they agreed with you. Hard to dispute multiple people backing up what you said. Ego went bye bye.
This track is very cool. Great energy and I was tapping my foot almost immediately. Has a great live combo feel. Well balanced sound between all the instruments and vocals. Some gifted musicians. I'm new here, so will go find some more of your songs.
john is part of this group now Laura. He comes from the old iComp site (which is now closed). He's on the new forums with us too. Getting ready to post his talent profile.
Hi there. I've had a fun play with piano to record a potential verse and chorus melody line. Have a listen and let me know what you think :)
ReplyDeleteHi again. Btw, the theme I've grabbed at the moment is lyrics written from the perspective of someone who is afraid of taxes and the government 'stealing' peoples' money.
ReplyDeleteInteresting, and most relevant!
DeleteI like it! Has a Freddy Mercury feel to it. Good start!
ReplyDeleteCool... I'll go ahead and try to do some lyrics and record again then!
ReplyDeleteHi. You'll see that I've uploaded a few draft files today. The lyrics are as follows:
ReplyDeleteVerse
Calling all troops to march on down here
Raise the flag and sing the anthem, yeah
Calling all ladies to raise the children
Cook and clean and join the anthem, yeah
Calling all the kids to grow and vote right
Stand up for the stars and stripes now, yeah
Chorus
Look out
Put your hands in your pockets
Get out
Keep your cash in your wallet
Speak out
Don't let them eat you up
Go out
Fight for what is right, yeah
Bridge
One two buckle my shoe
Three four shut the door
Five six pick up sticks
Ten ten a big fat hen
Chorus
Outro
Troops, ladies, children, kids
Hands in your pockets
Cash in your wallet
I like it. I see I have several stems to harvest! Yes I do think you are in the Freddy Mercury zone. You're threatening to jump up to the higher octave there in your scales. Let yourself jump where you feel it. Love it.
DeleteHaha... The power of Freddy Mercury is being channeled! I was pretty tempted to go up higher. I'll have a play with it tomorrow.
DeleteSo what would you title this song Laura
DeleteSomething you said above here sounds like it'd be a good title. The Power
DeleteHi again... I might have also added the following in the bridge, not sure.
ReplyDelete...
Seven eight lay them straight
Nine ten a big...
I like it a lot Laura. I can tell you are doing some vocal scale exercizes. I feel ya warming up. Feeling Ernie's drive on that bass. He pushes us. LOL Cool!
ReplyDeleteSo I have some catching up to do. I just now Got her lead vocal stems in place (on Jazzy Days), and ready to find her best vocal take a mix it with your stems. I feel good things coming. Vocal stem on this one acknowledged as well.
ReplyDeleteI am thinking we'll experiment with different vocal FX in different places. The whole thing has a Queen vibe. We can shape this whole thing around the vox. You are singing scales, and we could work up some counter scales vocally too. Sounds pretty damned good and it's dry. THAT should jump when we put FX in. Go for it!
ReplyDeleteI know this is in developement mode. When you get lyrics like you want them we'll put it in the page. For now call it draft and is safe in comments for now.
ReplyDeleteCool... I'm glad that you like the general idea, Freddy. I really love the percussion and bass. It drives! I can hear some places where my voice is a bit overextended on this version, as well as a few out of tune notes too. I think that I'll try to do re-record tomorrow and maybe experiment with some other vox lines as you mentioned. I like the idea of putting some FX on the vocals. This is lots of fun to work on!
ReplyDeleteI am slowly getting caught up with what you've presented Laura. Yes I am thinking of a good amount of different vocal FX. At least I want to try it. We can tryout your ideas and mine. Go where the muse takes us.
ReplyDeleteSounds good! Do you also hear a need to re-record at this point?
ReplyDeleteI have to assemble the stem, and then we should know more. Should happen today if I am productive. 😷
DeleteI've been really having fun with this.
ReplyDeleteOk I put your vocal stem into the DAW and lined it up using your mp3 mix demo to find alignment. It's the last one in the files area on the page. This is indeed a fun track!
ReplyDeleteHi Freddy. Do you think I need to re-sing at this point or not? What will we develop next? I could try some sax lines...
ReplyDeleteLet me listen a little more. I think I will try some FX in just to let us hear the difference that makes. It's wide open. Sax could work.
DeleteOk I am listening now with fresh ears Laura. I think your performance is good one this one. It needs badly some guitar, and or keys. It also needs FX on your vocals. Could also use some harmonies and or counter phrases (guessing). I will go to work on some gtr first.
ReplyDeleteI will also tryout some FX on vocals. No I think you've done a fine job here. Maybe some of the counter phrases that occur to you will be upper register. The performance is fine here. The whole thing needs to be developed. I will put the lyrics in the page for safe keeping.
I agree, good start here! Needs a full band yes. I haven't listened to the other auditions. Not sure what I am hearing for a keyboard part. Maybe Rhodes? I don't know at this point. If there is a strong guitar idea, I think that might be what is needed next. I'll keep an eyeball on it, see what develops. Ernie's got chops!! Laura's got voice!!
DeleteWell yes we need gtr in there for sure. I have been shopping it around for gtr, but so far nothing. I am thinking I might need to try some gtr.
DeleteI think i screwed up.... i played with Ernie and LsH... uploaded what i did but i do not see it anywhere
ReplyDeleteNo you did it right Paul. The upload arrives to me 5 minutes before it shows on the page. Laura check out Paul's additions.
DeleteI like the piano!! Very cool :).
Deletecheck mark checked
ReplyDeleteCool so you see all new comments in your email now.
DeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteI posted a few files:). Have a listen and see what you think...
I see your files Laura. It may be Monday before I can give them attantion. I see other uploads in my email too. Will work on them soon! Thank you!
DeleteNo worries at all, we've got time! For guitars and keys, I hear funky. I hear Stevie Wonder-esk. Something grooving... Maybe even some trumpet to be love a horns section with the sax fills. .
ReplyDeleteJust had a listen to the overview! Love the harmonies! You caught your stride here I think Laura. I will grab the stems.
ReplyDeleteHey what's the actual title of the song based on your writing Laura?
ReplyDeleteHi. Let's go with 'The Power', like you suggested!
ReplyDeleteI just had another listen. I like the harmony parts for sure. I'm not totally convinced with the sax part though...
ReplyDeleteDo some more takes on sax Laura. I agree with what you've said. We are in no hurry. The Power it is. I have to figure out the chords and I will tryout some guitar. I work totally by ear so it is slow for me. Ernie said it's key of E, buy I think Jay told me there are some minor chords in there. So I will spend today trying to get the chords. Anyone who is good with sort of thing can chime in.
ReplyDeleteAn old friend of mine Jason Didner, has agreed to work on guitar for this track. He has given me a timeline of a week and a half to two weeks. Knowing Jason, it will be worth the wait. I think he'll be popping in here to comment soon. I believe you can use the "search" at the top of the site and find his profile. He's good! Have a look!
ReplyDeleteNot sure why but "search" doesn't find him on the site. Here is his profile:
ReplyDeleteRight click and open in new window 👉🏼LINK
Does seem to be in E.
ReplyDeleteThat's excellent news! I'm looking forward to hearing how this develops further.
ReplyDeleteLaura, have a listen to Jason's guitar work. I like it a lot! It's in the files area.
ReplyDeleteI love the guitar, Jason!
ReplyDeleteThis is well on it's way! I am considering trying a horn section. The vox are really dry but I have big plans to add a good amount of different vox FX in places. Might want to think about counter phrases for backing vox. It's also ripe for sax add if you are inspired. Jason has not accepted the blogger invite yet. Once I get him to accept that he can join us here in the comments! I think it all works together so far. YAY! 💚
DeleteOh I've added that mix in the player on the page, and he's been added to the roster for gtr. Thanks you Jason! Top notch add brother!💥
ReplyDeleteThanks Fred for the invite to sit in with you guys! It's been a really long time since I've laid down tracks, and I really enjoyed doing it! We sound like a tight band. Looking forward to more collabs.
ReplyDeleteOk so now blogger sees your identity Jason. Last little bit is to put the checkmark in the box. Once you do that you'll be in the loop with us.
DeleteLaura & Ernie - now that we're bandmates I'd like to know if you have music web sites so I can hear and share more of jams! I've got a rock band for kids called Jungle Gym Jam (junglegymjam.com) and a solo site for my general/adult oriented rock (jasondidner.net)
ReplyDeleteRock on,
Jason
Don't know if she is still having to worry about this, but Laura has had problems with a serious stalker in the past, so I have honored her wishes to not publicize her contact info. I don't even have a talent profile for her on the site, because she asked me to help her protect her identity for this reason. Laura and I are actually in an online band. We have probably 20 songs together. We had a 3rd person in the band but he seems to be out of the picture. Laura and I have decided to continue without him. I am migrating from the old project site to the new. I have an older playlist that Laura and I have completed together. I am in the process of putting up a new playlist of our songs. Once it reaches he comfort level I can give you her email (with her permission). she is very forthcomming with people she trusts (as you hear here). She is quite the writer, and I tell her I love her regularly. She is like a little sister to me. Jason is a good guy, and I've known him a long time. Not a Trump supporter. That in itself should tell you about his character.
DeleteOh I am working on bringing Ernie into the project site too. I have his email, and am hopeful to bring him in, just as I did with you Jason. He is a monster bassist and is all over my archives. I just keep nudging people to get with the program. The thing is, we are all able to communicate without exchanging sensetive info for a bit. Once people get to know you (and me) then more info can be given out. I try not to push people and they come around in their own time.
ReplyDeleteI just uploaded a first draft of horn section ideas. I have a bit of work to do yet, but I think this does show that in general horns do fit the feel. I will work on this. It's in the files area on the page.
ReplyDeleteI have some stabs and other ideas I want to try. I will try to keep it in key too. LOL i have kontakt loaded up. I feel pretty good that horns fit this in general, but I have a good amount of work to do. I think where Jason does his low harmonics, just before his lead, I might try a trumpet solo. stay tuned!
ReplyDeleteHi. I like the idea of having horns for sure. I can 'hear' some sort of Stevie Wonder..esque horn section fills. Can't wait to have a listen.
ReplyDeleteBtw, I wanted to respond to the anonymous on the web situation for me. I am very grateful to you, Freddy, for keeping my name low key. Unfortunately, I would like to maintain this approach on the general web because of summer bad experiences in the past, as mentioned. I'm really happy, on the other hand, to collaborate on this safer space. I love the work with you Freddy, both just us and with others. I've at much to be thankful for with you!
ReplyDeleteNo problem on the low profile. I am sure Jason and others will respect this as well and when the time is right, we'll exchange emails. You all are welcome to offer ideas up too. Try the Stevie Wonder type addition you are hearing if you like. Jason too. if something occurs to you, let's hear it.
ReplyDeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteI played around a bit with horn section ideas. I've uploaded an overview. I don't like the outro on this, but the rest is about what I was hearing. let me know what you think...
cmdr_chill sent up some ideas too. Check it in the files.
ReplyDeleteCool, I have a listen! I forgot to mention that I used the mix that I had in my Logic without guitar and including the harmony parts I developed a bit later that the main vox. Let me know what you think when you've time.
ReplyDeleteWell one of the admin things I wanted to do was to insert the chords that Jason laid out for me/us in email. He is super talented and knows a lot about these things so I felt I needed to put it into the page for safe keeping. I do have Kontakt open and working on some horn ideas, so it helps. Thanks Jason! It's good to hear everyone's ideas! We've worked so much together Laura you know that it is often a combination of everyone's ideas. I will go and listen to your horn ideas now. Lots to listen to and catch up on. It's a good problem to have! I am NEVER bored because we have lots to work on together! I will listen for your harmonies too. cmdr_chill also added a male vocal part if you listen. I could no doubt get his stem(s) if you like. Jason is a vocalist too. It's all open for ideas folks!
DeleteLooks like have several mp3s on the list to catch up on. Love the harmonies! Now if you could render as MIDI I could plug it into kontakt and render with it. Yes send up your harmony stem. If something doesn't get response, remind me. As producer, I try to listen to all ideas. Nice horn ideas L.
ReplyDeleteSo it occurs to me that I should give Laura's Backing vox attention, and let that help shape this. The mix is pretty full just with Jason's guitar adds. I'd like to give the vox (overall) priority, and then decide on horns that will augment that arrangement. This will give the vox center stage in the production. Flute during Jason's low harmonic scale (which I think is very cool!) could work. Laura you play flute right? Sax and flue?
ReplyDeleteTrumpet would work there but flute would too I think, and Laura plays. Am I correct Laura?
DeleteI am always wanting to let the vocals dictate the whole production. I am thinking to TRY some different FX for the vocals in different places for effect. I am fine with the idea of vocal driven tracks. You will see the mix evolve once we put in harmonies that Laura has told me she's done in session. She's having a lot of fun in session!
ReplyDeleteDo we already have your stems for harmony Laura?
ReplyDeleteHi all. The harmony stems are in the uploads for us now. I think that your idea to assemble with guitar and harmonies is a good one, Freddy. Then, we can hear how things are and recognize where the spaces might be. I play sax, but only flute sound on the keyboard :)
ReplyDeleteOk that is what I am about then. I just grabbed 2 harmonies, and 1 sax wav stem.
DeleteHi Freddy. Let's leave the sax out for now...I don't like it.
ReplyDeleteAs you choose. Tow harmonies then.
DeleteTwo. I can spell, I just can't type. 🤷♂️
DeleteNo worries at all!
ReplyDeleteThank you. Just let me know if you want the 'trumpet' or 'horn section' ideas in midi and I'll upload them.
Will do Laurie. My focus (for now), is to assemble the vocals. I'll post a new mix soon and we can go from there. Today is my gym workout day so might be a day or so. THANK YOU!
DeleteUploaded new mix. Added flute solo, worked on horns, added harmonies, and some FX on vocals. More work to do but you should hear some improvement. Will put this mix in the player at top of page. Happy T DAY!
ReplyDeleteDid some more work, and posted another mix. Nov. 28 mix. This one has some of the echo in it I was picturing. Will put this mix in the "Latest Mix" player.
ReplyDeleteHi. Can't wait to listen to both mixes!
ReplyDeleteI love the echo, flute solo and sound of the boxes in general. Very cool stuff here!
ReplyDeleteBoxes? Yeah sounding pretty cool! Listening for a bit.
DeleteHaha... Vocals!
ReplyDeleteOne idea... Could we try without horns, or only with horns from the guitar solo to the end?
ReplyDeleteSorry... I sent my message in a hurry and didn't explain properly. I love the bass line and wonder if featuring it a bit up until the guitar solo might be cool. At that point, then adding the horns might build the mix up as well. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteI've been careful about not covering parts up with the horns. There are also some intentional dissonants on the horns. The way Ernie played the bass I think it's going to stand out no matter what we do. When I get serious about the final mix, the bass will have some compression on it. That might make it pop a bit too. I can try dropping the horns before the leads come in. You notice I didn't do a lot of phrasing under Jason's guitar on the sonlo. I kind of like how the horns work with his guitar chords on the intro. I was actually considering adding some FX to his held chords on the intro, but I didn't need to do that after adding the horns in there on the intro. I will try muting the horns early on. I think there is a good amount that will be lost but I am sure willing to give it a try. I can do a non-destructive save so we can backtrack if it's missed. I have taken a good amount of caution to not have the horns playing over key parts, but I am def willing to try different arrangements. I've shown the mix on the page to a few people and have not heard any negative feedback. WIlling to test arrangements. Worst case scenario we can have different versions of the song. That could happen too.
DeleteJust listening a bit more... Man, that flute really grooves! I live the vox FX too. I also really like the horn accents during the amazing guitar solo. Wow! Cool work here. I've been humming this all day. One question, is there also high harmonies on the last chorus or not?
ReplyDeleteYou didn't sing the high harmony on the last chorus. I can copy/paste the high part in the 2nd chorus.
DeleteSounds good, Freddy. Can we try a copy/paste of the high harmony on the last chorus of its not to much work?
ReplyDeleteI like the horns... Just wanted to hear the difference with them coming in at the guitar solo. Definitely a non-destructive save is in order because it may very well sound better with them they way they currently are!
We don't have dealines Laura. If it feels like to much mork I will come back to it later when i do feel like doing it. For me personally it is more about focus. Being an artist and producer, I tend to go off on exploratory tangents, and end up not getting much done, but sometimes allowing ourselves to explore and go off on tangents is how we find the best ideas. And since we have reached a "non-destructive save", we have these well liked versions safe and will be visible on the page so we have them to hear while we explore. So i am not against trying any ideas. This is also part of why I encourage all to grab the stems. It allows you to take the reins and try things yourself, without actually waiting for me. Ultimately this song belongs to YOU as the author, so I would be listening to what you want, and I would be hopeful that you might allow different versions if we differ strongly. Ultimately I would relent and do it your way if not. I have done it your way in the past and not been unhappy. We have differed before and we did it your way (as owner/author), and I was not unhappy with the results. I think it was "Glimpses", where we had different ideas about how to proceed, and I followed the rules (owner's wishes are respected), and I was not unhappy with the results. I am hopeful we could negotiate "different final versions", but even this I will relent to your wishes if you can't see my way. It's a given that we will not always agree. How boring would it be if we always agreed? THAT is exactly why we have this rule. If we can't come to an agreement, then the rule is "author's wishes respected". I knew this going in. Hopefully when you hear my thoughts it persuades you, but I knew going in that it is possible we will see things differently. We usually do come together, after discussion, but if this does not happen, I already know what the rue it. It happens so rarely, it does not hurt me to relent. You say I am better than you at mixing and editing. That might be truem but that's all the more resons to jump in and start doing more of this. I encourage this.
DeleteI personally like the dissonants, and the horns in general, but we can try different ideas. The feel of the song in general is "STRONG", and "UPBEAT", so I feel like the horns in general fit the feel, but I am open to trying different passages. I can take MIDI if sent and render it with Kontakt, and just replace certain passages or mute. I will try muting up to the solo. I hate to drop the interaction between the horns and his clean guitar on the intro, but I am willing to try it. After I added the horns under his clean chords on the intro, I no longer felt like his guitar needed FX added. To me it helped his guitar and was fine with it being left clean. After the horns were added I no longer felt myself wanting to add FX to his clean gtr. I am open to any ideas. Just explaining my thought process. I could see myself missing several key areas if the horns were dropped altogether. I did actaully pump up Ernie's bass on that last mix, citing the exact same sentiment. It's done so well, I think it's going to stand out no matter what we do. If it was done this way onstage I think Ernie's playing would stand out no matter what. I like what we have right now, so I would be doing non-destructive edits as we try different things. I don't take it personally when you offer suggestions Laura. I can usually tell you WHY I have certain things in there, but I might actually like ideas you have. I sure would not know until I try them. So just so you know..... I have a version of what is mixed on the page player, safe so we can go right back to it if nothing bears fruit. I can also ADD PLAYERS to the page so we can quickly compare mixes and or arrangements immediately. I am willing to try any ideas, but I am now doing non-destructive, and might be wanting to go back to what we have at present. I can surely give ideas a try. That includes any Jason might offer up. Because I an doing non-destructive saves as of now, we won't loose anything to try these ideas.
ReplyDeleteWhat you wrote makes perfect sense, Freddy. I LOVE these interactions because, as you say, when we explore, it often takes us somewhere very interesting. If you prefer to stick with this mix, I'm also ok with that. IMHO, this is OUR song, not mine by any means! I love working with you so much... you are a huge asset to my happiness. Thank you so much. I'm sorry that I am indeed a bit lazy and lacking confidence with regard to mixing. You are just so good at that, far better than I am. I see what you mean though for sure. I also really like the intro interaction between the horns and guitar. How hard it is to leave it is as on the intro and from the guitar solo but mute during the singing bits before the solo? I just want to hear how it would sound... I am so sorry if I am a huge pain!
ReplyDeleteNot hard at all. The editing is really easy. I just save what we edit, and name it differently, and earlier arrangements are kept. Non-destructive. Let me give this a go, leaving the horns in the intro. Of course we all have part in this, but when it comes down to a decision, yours would be binding. You did the actual writing. I am editing, arranging, and producing, guided by our discussions. Next post will be that.
DeleteI will also put the new mix in an additional player on the page for comparison. Comparing helps make decisions and opinions.
ReplyDeleteHi again. Ok, I've just been listening again. I think I've targeted my thoughts a bit better now. I actually really like everything the way it is in this mix. My ears are flagging the horns only during the chorus. For me, the chorus at present sounds too busy. I think that one of two things would remedy this. First thing to try might be too lower the horn section volume during the chorus. Second option would be to use a horn style more like behind the guitar solo during the chorus sections. Let me know your reaction to these thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI will listen again (with your comments in mind), here Laurie.
DeleteI just listened again to the horns in the chorus. That's the part where the echos happen. It's pretty much sustain horns in that part, so it IS the same style as like the intro. As a matter of fact I think it is the exact same phrase. Can't get much less busy than sustained chords.
ReplyDeleteI am planning to mute under the chorus for you to hear. Perhaps it the dissonants you don't like. I purposely did that but we'll try it without that in a mix. Working up to it.
ReplyDeleteI uploaded a mix with the horns muted during the chorus. I don't dislike this, just not sure if I like it better. I am going to add this mix into another player on the page to help compare. I'll let you know when it's on the page and you can compare too. Comparing should help refine opinions. 🤞
ReplyDeletePlayer added to the page with "less horns" mix so you can compare to mix above.
DeleteHi Freddy,
ReplyDeleteOh yes! This new mix is perfect to my ears! I LOVE it!
What are your thoughts?
I don't dislike it Laura. We can go this way for sure! I want to listen some more but yes it's good! 👍
DeleteIt might be worth trying some of the shorter yruptet fills from behind the guitar solo in the chorus... I don't know, maybe. I like it as is to though.
ReplyDeleteI was picturing a bit of call and response in there. I would agree it feels better with less in there.
DeleteI just realized I need to put the high harmonies on the later chorus. Will do.
ReplyDeleteHi Freddy,
ReplyDeleteI think that the call and response approach could potentially also be really nice on the chorus... Maybe worth a try. What do you think?
Iam ok with the new mix but let me see if I can find less busy call and response that could work. I agree less busy is good.
DeleteI just upped a new mix with the high harmony added to the last chorus. I am thinking I will add a little more fx to the vox to fatten it up and it'll be a wrap. Chorus is fine without horns.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds fantastic! Well done, indeed, Freddy!
ReplyDeleteI did have some horns that I thought fit the chorus for all and response. They fit the first chorus, but i thought they fought his guitar swells in the 2nd, so I thought to myself "horns in first but not 2nd nah", so I have to agree it doesn't need horns in the chorus at all. So I have to agree it's best without horns in the chorus at all. So I will be brainstorming ways to fatten the vocals up with FX, and I think we'll be at the finish line on this one. 👌
ReplyDeleteNew mix posted. Have a listen.
ReplyDeleteI need to bring the bass down just a tad, I think. That's where I'll start. The gtr and the horns are a little under so bringing the bass down should help.
ReplyDeleteTamborine or shaker on the solos. I'll try that too.
ReplyDeletePosted another mix with bass down a lil.
ReplyDeleteFinal mix v3 is now in the files area.
ReplyDeleteHi Freddy. You've been really busy, wow. So...I really like the balance and sound of the instruments in this last mix! I can hear the fattening of the vox too. For my ears, theres a bit too much FX on the vocals here though. It's hard to identify exact details for me though. I feel like the vials sound a bit like they are in another room from the rest of the instruments now. Does that make any sense? Maybe reducing the reverb and echo slightly would do the trick, but I'm not sure at all. Thoughts?
ReplyDeleteI've had the thought, but the lead vox are actually drier than the rest. I have been thinking it need MORE actual verb to put it in the same room. Let me listen some more. I think I will try a LONGER verb on one of the lead vocal tacks. I'll try it and see. I am using different tools than usual on this mix so I am investigating. If you listen it sounds like it's in a different room because the rest has a bigger verb.
DeleteMaybe "longer verb" is more correct. The lead vox are pretty big, but the verb on the lead is shorter. I will try a longer verb and see what it does.
DeleteThanks, Freddy. It sounds like you have a plan... Investigate away and let's see where it takes us!
ReplyDeleteWell I do agree it sounds like the lead is in a different room. That much I agree with. I might need to make the verb more subtle on everything. Yes let's see.
DeleteThere is a fine line on reducing and keeping it fat sounding but I'm on it. You are not wrong with your feedback.
ReplyDeleteNew mix upped.
ReplyDeleteMix 5 is up. felt Jason's leads needed to come up a lil.
ReplyDeleteHi Freddy. Sorry for the delay in my reply. Mix 5 is sounding really good! My small tweak thoughts for you to consider... 1. Can the 'one two buckle my shoe' but go into the mix a bit more? 2. Can the 'troops, children, ladies' but at the end come out a tiny bit too be sure the last few words are heard? 3. The vox are well balanced for my ears on the chorus. The verse areas still sounds a bit in another room. Not sure how to render that. Ideas? 4. All instruments, solos, ect. sound great to me!
ReplyDeleteFind final mix 6 in the files.
DeleteLaura has OKed this last mix as final. If you want a copy of the mp3, now it the time to get it. The page has been updated and moved to the finished tracks jukebox at: https://www.fjamstudios.com/finished-tracks/funk/the-power Great job everyone! 😎
DeleteHi Freddy. Isn't this song more yours and Eddie's? I just worked with you like Jason to add some bits, no? Man, it's such a great pleasure to work with you!
ReplyDeleteNo technically it's yours Laura. We are talking legally, and who could take this and copyright it. That's melody, and lyrics. Remember when you used to listen to albums and or cds, and you saw the credits which was one or two people? Those were the authors of the melody and lyrics. That is why technically everything you and I have done together belongs to you. That's as it should be and I don't begrudge you of that. It's about legality. Legally you've been the "AUTHOR" of all of them. Melody and lyrics. If this bothered me I'd be doing more authoring. I usually get producer rights, which is tiny compared. I don't have any second thoughts about this Laura. We're both doing what we're good at and it works. Not saying you'd want to, but you have control of all of them. I don't think we'd every dream of such a conflict but if it came to it I wouldn't have a leg to stand on. It's why I pretty much asked Jason for permission every step of the way on releasing his work. It's his intellectual property. Of course Jason readily agreed, just as you have, (mostly). It's why I had to wait for YOU to ok that mix. The criteria is that you have control of your own writings. Has never been a problem with me. Even if we disagree it is slight and quickly gotten past, because I am well aware it's not my song. I can't see any other way of doing it. If there is conflict, the author's wishes are respected. I've been working with you close to a decade now right? I've not had a problem with this yet. Even when we did it your way, I came away glad I did. Usually after you and I discuss things we find common ground.
DeleteAnyone who doesn't like you getting so much authoring rights, needs to get in there and author the same way you've done for years. You earned it lil sis.
DeleteSo the way rights are shown on finished tracks is predictable. If you did the writing, it'll say by Laura Holden. If you shared authoring, it'll be shared in the byline. It never occurs to me to try to rob you of this. Ernie actually did the arrangement when he added the bassline and we've been working to his arrangement from then on. I would be shooting myself in the foot to try to do anything other than this. I'd loose a writing partner and it never occurred to me. Why mess with what works?
ReplyDeleteThat's crazy law though, Freddy, don't you think? I actually just added to what you already created. You are an amazing person for everything you do. I'm the lucky one everything we collaborate. I'm always learning so much from you!
ReplyDeleteI meant 'on everything we create'
ReplyDeleteFor me, all that has ever mattered is our cool creative process together... And with anyone else who joins in. It's such a huge gift to me... You are a huge asset in my life. Music send our collaboration makes everything better.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for being you!
ReplyDeleteMy understanding is that arrangement has some right too, but even that is far less than the actual authoring. I've had people be aprehensive about putting their work on here to be developed, but think about it. It's time stamped documentation as to who did what, and when. Short of actual copyright proceedure, it's very effective to prove what you did. It's hard to deny the timestamps. You and I don't have this problem, but it is documented right here on these pages. And I think there are also wittnesses involved. I doubt it's enough in itself to show ownership but it sure would go a long way toward showing a history of how it came about. That is in the event it was contested. It will not be. Really if we wanted to be technical, Jason and I were just part of this. You have all authoring rights, and Ernie has arrangement rights. Jason and I just helped. I doubt he would say anything other than that. It was just a progression until you actually wrote and performed what turned it into a song. Yours are the parts that could be copyrighted.
ReplyDeleteI could never see this happening Laura, but I could maybe keep you from using my production, but you could take what you wrote and have it produced somewhere else. I could not do that. It's not my property. You could stop me from using your work, but I could not stop you from using your own work. We are discussing this just for understanding. I could never see us having such a conflict. Especially since I am well aware of who did the actual authoring. Believe me it does not reduce the enjoyment for me to give your your due.
ReplyDeleteIt's so interesting to me because doesn't it mean that the person who authors the lyrics and melody get an unfair cut in the music world, generally? Without the other 'bits' it couldn't get finished. The mix/master is so important too. Fascinating!
ReplyDeleteI could not stop you from taking it elsewhere. You could stop me dead from such attempt.
ReplyDeleteYes, I completely agree that I certainly cannot ever imagine us having a disagreement in future about any of this. Have you ever had this sort of issue with anyone?
ReplyDeleteYes, but all that happened is I removed myself from the project. THAT is the only thing I have actual control of. It is good to get it out in the open and understood. I've sent many a bad attitude packing. It's why I use an alias. In case they start gunning for me. I like to say if someone is working with me for any amount of time they probably have a good attitude. I have a good circle of people I work with, but you gotta trust me that I whittled it down by sending idiots packing. You and I work together because we love and respect each other. We make strong attempts to not let our egos control how we act. That's important. You've given me 3 changes to make on this song near the end. At first I was a little put off, but then I had to admit that you were making sense. I put my ego aside and let your suggestions stand. They made sense and I do not regret accepting them.
DeleteI've shown people what you were suggesting and they overwhelmingly agreed with what you were saying. Sometimes we can be too close to a production.
DeleteAnd you notice I didn't just release this before getting your ok. That is mostly because it's your property.
ReplyDeleteIf I get tired of you getting author credits I wills start authoring myself. It's not a problem for me. Ya done good!
ReplyDeleteYes, I think it's really easy to be to close to a production. This has happened to me before got sure! I've even gotten unbreakable obsessed with something really small and can't let you of it .. so far, only when dealing with myself, I think (luckily for you). I always invite you to disagree with me! I truly believe that these open sharing of different sides always bring us to a good outcome. I totally respect you and applaud you for sending the idiots packing. We have to be careful who we surround ourselves with. Life is too short, time is too precious and there are too many good people to waste our previous energy on idiotic people... Haha! I totally think that though. Please always feel free to let me know if I annoy you :).
ReplyDeleteThat's also why we don't talk much about licensing here. It's because the authors are not asked to give up their rights. If you wrote it it's yours. We don't ever ask you to give up your authoring rights. You wrote it, it's yours, end of discussion.
ReplyDeleteTo be honest, I just love working with you no matter who has rights to the songs :)
ReplyDeleteWell I feel the same way, but it is good to get it out in the open. My criteria is based on my understanding of what is legal. We have it out in the open and it's not really been a problem. Maybe if you start making million with your writing I might think about doing some authoring myself. LOL I am having tons of fun, doing what I love to do with people I care about. It's theraputic for us both. I don't watch TV because I am having so much fun collabing.
DeleteAnd there is no reason to be contentious. It usually works out that if it makes sense it get adopted. I try to stop and think about things. I often ask opinions. Every time I asked about what you said, they agreed with you. Hard to dispute multiple people backing up what you said. Ego went bye bye.
ReplyDelete:). You're the best, Freddy.
ReplyDeleteDitto lil sis you rock!
DeleteThis track is very cool. Great energy and I was tapping my foot almost immediately. Has a great live combo feel. Well balanced sound between all the instruments and vocals. Some gifted musicians. I'm new here, so will go find some more of your songs.
ReplyDeleteThank you, John Dee! We had lots of fun on this one.
ReplyDeletejohn is part of this group now Laura. He comes from the old iComp site (which is now closed). He's on the new forums with us too. Getting ready to post his talent profile.
DeleteOf course I'm always bragging about ya lil sis. ❤
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