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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 38 “The Love Cats” – by The Cure

Still feeling the cat motif from yesterday and this is where I landed. Back in the 80s, some pals Scott Baslaw and Eugene Lew turned me on to some of the new wave hits that were happening then and that is when I became aware of “The Love Cats.” Even though this is sort of a tongue-in-cheek, playful version of this tune, I actually really like “The Love Cats.” Thanks to Robert Smith, the godfather of emo. I don’t like emo much, not for me, anyway, but I do like “The Love Cats”

Shout out to Colorado’s love cat, Chase Livingston.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 38 “Sending Love Letters to the Moon (My Love)” by Jefferson Jay

I mentioned a few weeks back, my dog Angel died. It was six months ago next week. While I still miss her hugely, I have come to terms with it some, but it was not easy. I was devastated and not myself for weeks, maybe even months. I guess that’s what happens when you lose your guiding light for over fifteen years. Names are powerful and she was, and still is, my Angel.

One of the ways. I processed those emotions was by writing songs about how I felt. It may be the best thing about being an artist or a songwriter, having the outlet for your feelings when they need to get out. So I wrote her this tune and it was one of the final steps in my dealing with missing her so much.

I know many other people lose beloved pets every day. My hope is that this song can bring some relief to other people grieving loved ones and help them find some peace. It helped me that way.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 38 “Death is Not A Game?”

I considered naming this video, “Some Semblance of Sanity,” but then I thought nobody would know what it was about. They still might not. I am outraged by high school football. Eleven children died playing the game or on the practice field in 2015 and that is 11 more than OK in my opinion. No game is worth that toll on families, communities, and most importantly, those students who lost their lives.

The purpose of school and even growing up is to learn how to be a safer and smarter human and how to contribute to the betterment of our society and our world. What has happened to these boys is the opposite, sent out to play a deadly game by family and school staff. Maybe people are idealistic or naïve, but this is happening and hiding from it any longer is foolish. I pray as a race, the human race, we smarten up and stop pretending things are one way when we’ve clearly learned by no that they are not.

Let’s protect our children and stop calling this massacre a game. Even those who survive, do not unscathed. If ending war and extreme greed which begats extreme disparity (a.k.a. sharing) is too much to ask, then maybe we can at least leave this brutal violent game to paid professional adults, who at least have the adult ability to decide what is best for them

So, I am trying to decide if I want to post my new tune, “Death Is Not a Game,” which I wrote on this matter. I want to shed light and express my feeling that this unacceptable. At the same time, I do not wish to add pain and suffering to the families that lost more any “game” should ever take. I would like feedback. If not, I will have to decide myself. Dr. Omalu, can you hear me? I need your advice.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 37 “I Love Cats” – by Jefferson Jay

I had the pleasure of working at Jefferson Elementary School. It appears I’ve made quite an impression there as they’re put my name on the building. Today, after we sung our songs for chorus class, we embarked on a songwriting expedition and this happened, “I Love Cats.” I am allergic but that is neither here nor there. I would like to thank the boys and girls and Google for offering up all these cute cat pix.

Seems fitting to shout out to some of my favorite cat brethren while we’re at it. Uma, LapTop, Simba RIP Shout out to Oscar and Felix for making me like cats as a youth before I got allergic. Additional huge props to Roscoe and Nathan Truesdail and Sneakers, The Professor and the rest of the Dirty Dozen for representing for cats like they do. Solid.

Special mention goes to Jim the Cat, who lived in our kitchen window until we found him a home. What a cutie.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 37 “Just an Old-Fashioned Love Song” by Paul Williams

I’ve loved “Just an Old-Fashioned Love Song,” since I was a little kid, probably in part, because my research tells me Paul Williams performed it on The Muppet Show in 1976. I loved my some Muppet show back then. And that Paul Williams was a pretty likable-looking diminutive fellow. Still is presumably. So when this song popped into my head this morning, I decided to go for it. I was a bit more challenging then I’d hoped, having never played it before. And it took more tries then any 365 2 song so far. Worth it, though, ’cause it was fun and I made it though. Apparently Paul offered it to The Carpenters, who passed and it wound up with Three Dog Night who did this with it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AM7zb5FMmLM

That brought me lots of joy this morning and I hope we can route some of that joy straight to you

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 37 “Elephant Endorsement”

Presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders picks up another key endorsement on today’s 365 from some politically astute wildlife in my living room. Sanders’ momentum is palpable and the intensity of people’s affection for this idealistic political maverick is so thick you can cut it with a knife. Now that Sanders has captured the key elephant demographic, the GOP may be on the lookout for a new mascot. I believe the stinkbug remains available.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 36 “Axel F” – by Harold Faltermeyer

I think “Axel F” is the first tune I learned on any instrument. I must have been around 11. I remember figuring it out on the piano in my grandparents' house. I was no prodigy. It took me a long time to figure out. I never had a lesson. For many years, it remained the only tune I knew. Well, I picked up “Mary Had a Little Lamb” in there somewhere too.

I still play it about as well as I did in the 80s. Not super clean. I never even learned the change, but if you close your eyes and feel it, you can see Eddie Murphy scurrying around Beverly Hills, looking focused, on a mission. You can even feel it.

Thanks to Eddie Murphy and my Grandma and Grandpa and my dear friends at Jefferson Elementary School. After the “credits,” (which I got wrong, incidentally.... This is a cover, definitely not an original, not by me anyway…) After the credits, I shared the thing I played to warm up when I first sat down on the piano. It is evocative. It is based around the chords for my tune, “Wooden Boats,” from my first CD, “Great Story.” Enjoy.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 36 “A to Z” by Jefferson Jay

So I was playing me some piano on a break in the school day. After I busted out some “Axel F,” for old time’s sake, I launched into today’s original. I made it up, kinda missed my change the first time, but who’s to say. That may wind up being my favorite part of the song. It’s happened before. It is a practical manifestation of the whole “everything happens for a reason” mantra. Many say it, but I wonder how many truly believe it. I wish these types of things were more frequently discussed in modern day media and conversation. Like the real deep stuff, like why we’re here, and… stuff like that.

I only heard it the one time I played it. I’m sitting here wondering how it goes.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 36 “What Makes Great Art”

Doing it here and now is some and this video was actually inspired by a scene from one of my favorite programs, “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.” If TV goes away, they won’t be called “TV shows” anymore. Kinda like records. Zeppelin made records. I make CDs and even that… I guess we all make music… So on Wednesday’s “It’s Always Sunny,” Dennis reflects on what makes great art. What he said was reflecting on me. The glare was getting in my eyes. I liked it. I saw the light and wondered along with him here. It is highly subjective and not nearly as closely related to how much they get paid to do it as people often assume. I guess we just do because we do and what it means to other people is impossible to control. Doing it to do it. What makes great art?.?.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 35 “Bang Bang” by Blowski

Had a blast playing a tune by my friend Robin Lee yesterday, so decided to keep it going with the friend jams with “Bang Bang.” Back in 2009-2010, I had the pleasure of being the drummer in Blowski’s band, Acoustic Booze. It was an awesome experience to share with him and our fellow Boozers, Dylan Avery, Adrianna Martin-Morningstar, Patricia Mueller, Nancy Truesdail, Paul Ruiz, and The Soul Man. I first met this tune then. I’ve been playing “Bang Bang” on guitar for a little while and I enjoy playing it very much.

Nice job, Ski.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 35 “Sweet You” by Jefferson Jay

It’s nice to have a large bundle of tunes to choose from every day when it comes time to play my original for the day. Many tunes I’ve liked and played. It’s good to savor this now because in 200 or so more days, they’ll all be gone and I’ll have 130 more to go. Why do this? Because I can.

“Sweet You” was inspired by San Diego/Eagles songwriting legend Jack Tempchin. I’ve had the pleasure of talking songwriting with him a handful of times. It’s pretty awesome. This tune was not inspired by any of those talks though. We stay in touch some and I asked him where I could send him my new Hallelujah Expressway CD. You can hear it here. I highly recommend it. www.bandcamp.jeffersonjay.com The place I sent it ended in “Suite U.” From that this tune was born.

I wrote about half of a screenplay called “Gullible.” It’s about a guy who believes and does everything everyone tells him. “Sweet You” comes from that movie. Our protagonist overhears as a neighbor girl is strumming this tune on her guitar. Unbeknownst to her, he is doing everything the lyrics say. At the end of the tune, he jumps off the roof and she runs to check on him and they fall in love.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 35 “Sweet Lou”

When I was a young Yankee fan, Reggie, Goose, Guidry, Randolph, Nettles… all of them, were winning titles. None of them were my favorite though. I liked Piniella. “Sweet Lou,” the fans chanted when he stepped up, like he did in right field twice, big time, during the 1-game play-off with the Sox in ’78. “Louuuuuuuuuuuuuu.” Great stuff. He also through fits and bases as a World Champion manager for 1990 Cincinnati Reds

Also, great stuff, is this here hard-hitting interview with LouDog. Maybe you’ve heard of his old band, Sublime. I tried to ask him all the tough questions. This video may not be for the faint of heart. Please leave this type of interview work for the professionals. I repeat, please do not try this at home. Lou eats wood and is built like a bowling ball. He throws rights. And he’s not just giving up the answers either.

That said, we’re very excited to offer here one of these hard-hitting interviews that the Operation 365 may one day be known for. Enjoy a few moments with a true 365-favorite, Lou.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 34 “Simile Love Song” by Jefferson Jay

“Simile Love Song” is one of those cute songs you write, if you're me. A couple of years ago when I didn't have a 365, I would probably have nowhere to share with you like this. It's not exactly the kind of tune I played my band. It's just a little too cute for that. But it's a nice song that could probably fit good in a movie or something and while all this isn't delivering that directly to any studios’ doors, it's doing a lot more than it was sitting in a folder not being heard by anyone.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 34 “Get the Guns” by Robin Lee

“Get the Guns” is a classic tune by my friend, Robin Lee. She is currently occupied at the moment but should be having a lot more free time soon and I can't wait: to sit and sip tea with her, to play her tunes and to catch up and talk about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. It would be the American hero thing to do.

“I wanna be a peaceful warrior and let my love light shine,” too, Robin.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 34 “Never Trust Broccoli”

So, I used to trust broccoli. Until yesterday, when it was uncovered that broccoli stole my wedding ring. There is no other logical explanation. Yesterday, my wife Leanne was involved in some broccoli-related activities and lo and behold, what does she find in the broccoli bag, which was in the crisper drawer in the refrigerator, on a floret no less… but my wedding ring. So, this is another one of those handy helpful public service announcements Operation 365 will someday be famous for, “Never Trust Broccoli.” Ever. Especially during Mercury in retrograde. Thank God, that’s over.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 33 “Venture On (Uncaged)” by Jefferson Jay

I wrote “Venture On (Uncaged)” a few weeks ago when David Bowie died. I was moved by how moved everybody was when he died and thought a lot about what that meant about his Earthly contributions. This song applauds his efforts and wishes him the best in his transformation into being dead and all that encompasses. It is pretty.

I named it "Uncaged" for two reasons. One is literally leaving the cage of body to venture on freely as a soul and the other is because the chords on the verse part are C Am G Em Dm, with the capo on the 5th fret. I like to do stuff like that sometimes. Live on, David Bowie, Glenn Frey, Abe Vigoda and all the other righteous dead folks.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 33 “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves

Today was a tough one for finding a cover. I let myself feel the 365 pressure a tad. It was exhilarating. We walked on sunshine though and got it done. Cheers to Paul Ruiz for moral support and Katrina and the Waves. Did Katrina really write this song? I’m going to check. No. Kimberley Rew wrote it. Thanks, Kimb. I enjoyed playing your song today. Hooray for this fun 80s jam.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 33 "Coffee and Pants Don't Mix"

Folks, today, I was checking to see if my coffee cup was leaking like it does form time to time and… It was. Then, the lid popped off and was billowing coffee from all sides. I was operating a motor vehicle at this time. A stick shift van as a matter of fact, but somehow, I managed to keep hold of the cup and the lid and control of the van and nobody died. Even better than that, I only spilled a small amount of my hot coffee all over my legs, steering wheel, car seat and floor. Most of the beverage was somehow safely recaptured into the “resealed” leaky cup. It was a thrill ride in the AM.

Then I began the arduous process of attempting to clean my car, dry myself and minimize spreading of coffee everywhere, all while safely driving to work on the highway. It worked out and it inspired this Public Service Announcement from the Operation 365, our second, I believe. Folks, levity aside, be careful with coffee and I really need to go change my pants.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 32 “Friday on My Mind” – The Easybeats

Decided to hit the 365 hard, first thing Monday morning. I was thinking Monday tunes, “Monday, Monday”… Tried it. Nah. “Manic Monday”… Love that one, but it’s by Prince and he refuses to let anybody cover his songs, so I won’t bother. So I went in another direction. Forward. Into the past.

“The Past?” You ask. Well, back in high school we had a little student/teacher rock band called The Boptones. We sold out our 800-seat auditorium and it was very good for the old personal and professional growth. Who knew at the time? Not I. Anyway our teacher/leader turned me on to this tune during rehearsals for that group and here it is today, almost 25 years later. I am an optimist. I love Mondays, but as a people we love Fridays. Wanna feel good at the start of a long work week? Monday, have Friday on your mind.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 32 “The Same” by Jefferson Jay

I wrote this song in 2013, I believe. The 365 is good for keeping track of what I’ve done. Otherwise, it tends to all blur together. So I wrote this tune back then and when I’ve played it from time to time, I’ve liked it. I hope this is a good enough version for people to dig the tune. Peace

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 32 "Sentient Beings"

A message to all sentient beings…

What are words? Do they matter? Lying usually involves words, but ideas, thoughts, feelings, love. Within these, lies our grand ability. The ability to cure the world of what ails and rejoice together as one, once more…

Yes…

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 31 “Tilapia” by Jefferson Jay

Inspiration is everywhere, if you let it be, or if you need to post videos daily. Sometimes fatigue occurs. Casual Sundays. Band practice and football. I wrote a song today about the 11 high school children who post their lives playing the “game” in 2015, but that is a story for earlier today or another tomorrow. I am tired some now. It’s almost dinner time.

What’s for dinner, dare you say? T-I-L-I-P-I-A.

Leanne Pearl on Kalimba. Nigel the dog on self-groom.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 31 “The Dog Song” – Unknown

This is a song Leanne, my wife, learned in day camp when she was 13. She generously taught it Dan and I as we searched for a cover for today’s fantastic 365 experience. Thanks for teaching us, Leanne. We can not be certain who wrote it or what’s its’ real name truly is. This may be the only version of it on the Internet. If Leanne is somehow mistaken and no one wrote it before, than she did, and I’m covering her.

365 logic.

Nigel is featured.

I vetoed this video on account that it might not be a song.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 31 “Seamus” – Pink Floyd

Tired, Sunday, I offer, this a capella “Seamus,” originally found on Pink Floyd’s “Meddle” record with Nigel being himself, chilling.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 31 “No Such Thing as Random 1”

Some people say stuff is random. I respectfully disagree. I offer this video as evidence against myself. Or do I???

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 30 “Wandering Johnny”

So, this morning, I gets up and heads out in search of my morning coffee. Shortly thereafter, my mind drifts to thoughts of the 365 and how I may be able to entertain my loyal “whoever’s watching” today. It occurs to me. I’m carrying a camera, a phone/ directions-advice/ newspaper/ weather-reporting camera. So I did what any self-respecting artist with a raspy morning voice would do and starting singing some inspired song about a miscellaneous man named Johnny. Johnny may have been a prodigal son of sorts to whichever character is singing this song. It is clear our narrator missed Johnny and is glad to have him back despite the fact that so much time has passed.

Then something dramatic happened. My camera filled up its space and stopped. So, I guess that’s the end of the story of “Wandering Johnny” for today. This is for the prodigal child in us all. Hail California and cheers to all the East Coast folks getting pummeled with snow this glorious day.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 30 “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” – Traditional

So, I’m guessing I still had Johnnies on the mind when I soul-searched for today’s cover tune. Fortunately, the universe co-operated and set this classic jam of the Civil War Era bouncing in my brain. Paraphrasing Wikipedia, folks missed their friends back in Civil War times and wrote and sang this jam about it. A dude named Patrick Gilmore is credited with writing the lyrics, but as is the case with many of these jams from long ago, the actual lineage is clouded in obscurity. How exciting.

In the spirits of our forefathers, may we all feel gay when Johnny comes marching home.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 30 “Mythical Johnny” by Jefferson Jay

Still feeling “Mythical Johnny” on this triumphant 30^th day of the 365 2, SO I decided to grant him the trifecta, the hat trick if you will, of all 3 songs for this day. This Johnny as my improvised song went on and on began to feel more and more like my brother John, but I think it is even more so the 3^rd piece of today’s “Johnny” saga. I found myself sing about “Johnny” as I walked down the street this morning. Then he came “Marching Home” all Civil War Style, making us all feel gay and finally, he gets this little blues song. Hail Johnny and to all the Johnnies out there from Johnnie B. Baker to snow New York City’s St. Johnnie’s, from Carson to Cash and from Appleseed to Knoxville, from Kanis, Janiga, Rodriguez, Ciemerataro to JFK himself, this bud’s for you.

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Game Day

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 29 “Star Wars” – John Williams

Sometyimes we get to play with our friends. Hoorya! We play a game called Palace. It is fun. We speak in a Mass. Accent a lot because that is fun too. Here, some of these are shared. Bonus: Beatboxing Stah Waws. I discovered Stah Waws when I went to Umass. Up to that point, I knew on.y Star Wars. . The Amazing Gilcvrest, a friend of mine,  He liked to crank it in his dawm.

Today, in Palace, it was decreed that 3s (the worst card)  are “faacists”. It is a fitting nickaname. I approve. You don’t want fascists  in your zone. We are playing right now. I’m typing with my wirless keyboard. Hooray!. I’ve won two in a row. It ‘s is slipping away.I fight through it. Exciting play-by-play.

For more fun with fascicsts

I lost.

Here’s beat-box Star Wars. Thanks ta Jawn Williams.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 29 “Play Palace” by Jefferson Jay

Did I mention we’re playing Palace? This is a song about playing and how to play and why to play. It is fun and a fine way to spend time withg amigos. So, enjoy a window in to our friend zone, Palace style, Firday afternoon.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 29 “Who’s the Bigger Threat?”

I oov eme some Bernie Sanders. The stuff his says. What he says he aims to represent. A grass roots political movemtn, a wakening, if you will, in this country. Who’s the bigger threat? Us, visible at home, playing our game, enjoyijgn g our life. Or anyone who has something to lose?

Let’s stop worrying and bathe ni the afterglow of the world we fixed. It’s time. Game on.

NOTE: Original misspelling kept for natural flavoar.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 28 “The Sounds of Silence” – Simon and Garfunkel

The star of today’s 365 is the irrepressible snuggle-hound, Nigel. If you can not fall in love with him through today’s videos, please immediately dial 911, because something may be seriously wrong with you. I’m concerned. Hilarious jokes aside, Nigel here effortlessly upstages me by licking himself, being cute and spitting up. How is my funky “Sounds of Silence” supposed to measure up to his supreme cuteness? It’s not, but maybe they can work together somehow. Keep hope alive!

Shout out to Harper Lee, who will be two soon and has hair just like Art Garfunkel.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 28 “Run Along” by Jefferson Jay

Christmas time 2012, I was taking accounts of my life and reflecting as we, artists do from time to time. I decided to write a song about every member of our happy household, which at the time included, my wife Leanne, my venerable best pal, the since converted to energy super-pooch Angel, my iPhone and our little pup, Nigel. We got Nigel during the first 365 and that worked out because it led to us having lots of videos of him at his puppy cutest.

“Run Along” was the tune I wrote for Nigel and I think it summed him up pretty well at the time. He runs fast and loves to be cute and snuggle. We are very fortunate and blessed to have him in our life. Here, he and Leanne dance around triumphantly, because they found this tunes’ infectious grooving, irresistible. Dig or dance around with your dog. It’s the way.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 28 “The Amazing Nigel”

Here, Nigel, puts the cherry atop the cake, which is his role in today’s Operation 365, by being cute and standing on my chest. Please DO NOT try this at home. Thank you for flying Operation 365 Airlines, home of the hella friendly skies. Words.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 27 “It’s Seemin’”

So the end of 2015 was not without it’s dark moments for me. After 15 and a half years, my beloved super pooch Angel, passed on and with that came some unpleasant darkness. I essentially hadn’t lived any of my adult life without her and I was reeling for a little while. I am delighted to say I am feeling way better now.

In the recovery process, I wrote a number of songs that explored a lot of the feelings I was having. I wrote some about sadness, others about loss, some about Angel and ultimately, some songs about how I came to feel better. I think it will cathartic for me to some degree to share them, so I imagine a bunch of them will be popping up in this here 365 in the days and weeks to come. Speaking of…

Sometimes in these dark moments, we must laugh as well and few love a good pun as much as I So I deliver. In other words, I’m 12. Please enjoy “It’s Seemin’.”

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 27 “Bathtub Gin” by Phish

I love Phish and consider them a huge part of my life and my musical existence. I have enjoyed 80 or so shows and had countless amazing experiences through the band. Phish led me to jazz and other music I may never have loved without them. I am deeply grateful.

Even in the last year, seeing the Trey Anastasio Band play a great show at House of Blues was a thrill. An even bigger thrill was going to see Trey play with the Grateful Dead in Santa Clara last June. I have been seeing Phish shows since 1993. I feel I have grown with the band and the mood was just right that night for me to recognize the world as one without question. I could see it. Sometimes, I just know this in theory, but at this moment, I felt proof. I was so happy for Trey, like an old friend.

I felt his joy because I’m him and he’s me. We are all each other. We’re the table, the chairs. We are the walrus. I figured out what they meant by that there and then. I was very humble basking in the brilliant joy of this experience. Hail to all my UMASS friends with whom I enjoyed so much Phish. Hail to Mike Warrington, my friend and mentor, without whom, I highly doubt I’d have done any of this.

Hail to Bathtub Gin. In the end, pigs do fly.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 27 “From the Annals 1”

“Sharing is caring.” Not sharting. Be careful for typos. They can be messy

Today I wasn’t feeling words so much. I’ve said a lot already it seems in 27 days of 365. So I delved into the arsenal. The silent arsenal of words I’ve gathered since 1992. Here I picked a book and read. It took me on a journey as everything does, ultimately landing in January 2002, when I was 27. On the 27^th day of the 365. Everything happens for a reason. There is no random. And that’s why a new year, Star Wars, crossroads and acknowledgements of an artist with an arsenal, me, fell into my hands on today’s 365.

Everybody has a 365. I just film and share mine.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 26 “The Big Leap”

These days, it’s fairly tragic, the way folks break up. It’s not that they break up that’s the problem. Of course, people break up. Everyone can’t stay together forever. It’s the breaking up and getting back together endlessly and destroying a good deal of their own sanity and dignity to this end, that I lament. I have seen it so many times that I expect and salivate at the thought that two adults could be mature enough to stop seeing each other before they’ve jumped the shark more times than all the worlds’ TV shows put together.

It’s sad because people usually have to have had a good deal of affection for one another to build up such intense feelings in the first place. It is such a shame to see things get so ugly. If you’ve broken up ten or more times, it’s probably not going to work out. Stop trying.

I wrote “The Big Leap” on stage at Open Mic many years ago, probably in 2012. I am glad it was recorded because I made up the whole thing on the spot and I liked it. I had to transcribe it off the initial recording. I have continued to play this song over the years and it was very fun to have the chance to play it here with two of my best friends and fellow Jefferson Jay Band members, Paul Ruiz (trumpet) and Dan Ratcliffe (guitar). 

Kindness, folks. It’s cool to be kind. Love isn’t having to say “F off” a thousand times.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 26 “Desperado” by Glenn Frey and Don Henley

I learned about 24 hours ago that Glenn Frey of the Eagles passed away. This discovery was a lot different for me than every previous time I’d ever heard a rock icon or celebrity had passed because Glenn Frey is a friend of friend of mine. Jack Tempchin, who I booked to play my Acoustic Evenings at The Athenaeum Series a number of times struck up a friendship and my heart immediately went out to him for the loss of his close friend and longtime songwriting partner. Jack wrote “Peaceful Easy Feeling and co-wrote a number of hits with Frey including “Already Gone,” “Smuggler’s Blues,” and “You Belong to the City” to name a few.

Jack and I hit it off. He even said he used to be me once to one of our audiences. I think by that he meant, a hustler/songwriter/Open Mic impresario who knew the folks around at the time. Jack just happened to know Jackson Browne, Tom Waits, Joni Mitchell and the Eagles. Those were his pals. He went up to L.A. a bunch I believe. Jack shared details of his songwriting sessions with Glenn in the context of the storytelling format of my Athenaeum shows and also some to me, socializing at other times. So, my heart really goes out to Jack, personally, for his loss and through him, I felt like I knew Glenn a little too. It is sad. Obviously.

“Desperado” has another significance for me as well. As a child I would drive around with my dad in his car and he would play Eagles Greatest Hits Vol. 1 in his car often. I bonded with “Witchy Woman” and over the years built a relationship between my Dad and our relationship and this beautiful song. So, I thought it would be a fitting one to share here today. Rest in Peace, Glenn. Very sorry for your loss, Jack.

I chose to play this one a bit faster because this song is so darn sad as it is, that I couldn’t even bare to play it at the right speed. We could all use a little levity during these dark moments, even if it’s forced to come in the form of a dozen or so extra beats per minute.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 26 “Glenn Frey and I” – Jack Tempchin - 10-5-2012

I was beginning to think about some words that would be appropriate to share today. I am not really feeling hilarious jokes, spiritual searching or political silliness in the wake of Glenn Frey’s untimely passing at age 67 yesterday. I felt like I knew Glenn a little through the friendship I’ve developed with Jack Tempchin, especially listening to Jack recall tales from long ago about writing songs with Glenn, as he does here.

Jack is not just a great songwriter, he is a great entertainer and a great communicator. Jack effortlessly has folks laughing out loud as he recaptures amazing story after another from his incredible life in and around rock n’ roll. I forgot I even had this footage. I’ve never shared any of it. While there are some Jack tunes recorded at this show that are as moving and impressive as anything I’ve posted in my over 1200 Youtube videos, I’m not sure Jack would want that, so I have no intention of posting any of them any time soon. Here, though, I thought a few words from Jack about writing songs with his friend Glenn would be better than anything I could possibly say.

Also, when you’ve got it you’ve got it and I think Jack says some brilliant things here, even taken outside the context of the short story his is telling. I think Jack has a gift for saying interesting provocative things, even when he’s not necessarily trying to. It makes him a really fun person to sit and talk to, especially about music and songwriting. I feel blessed to have had as many chances as I have to do just this. So, enjoy the story and the jewels of humor and wisdom that make it both humble and ornate.

So here, briefly, Jack recounts meeting with Glenn Frey to write what turned out to be “Smuggler’s Blues,” at his show at The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library, October 5, 2012. Rest in peace, Glenn. So sorry for your loss, Jack.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 25 “I Have a Dream”

Been getting a little political in the Word part of the 365 the past few days and it’s fun. Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Here, I read Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, initially uttered on August 28, 1963. The world has changed a lot since then. Thank God! We had a lot of room to improve. And still do. I have a dream of living in a world where people come together and lead and are led and work together, arm in arm, humble, toward the world of peace, harmony and equality that Dr. King contributed so mightily to before his tragic assassination on April 4, 1968.

We have many Dr. King’s in our world. Sadly, they remain closeted, embarrassed, or unaware of how they can contribute to our summating that mountaintop that Dr. King spoke of. I am coming out. I care and want to help. Everyone. Everywhere. I think it is urgent and I have a passion. I want to live in the world that actively seeks solutions to its ills. Where we out equality first and our focus towards delivering the love that exists to every corner of our universe, globe, nation and community. It is not too late. In fact, it is always the perfect time to arrive at the higher realization that we are still walking arm in arm with Dr. King towards those same goals. We just need to speak up and reawaken the spirits in us that want to celebrate arm in arm the greatness we’ve accomplished in our lives. The dream never dies and we need to rise up, awaken, share in the dream and end the hibernation. I dream of a bunch peace-hungry bears awaking all at once and marching toward that bright white light, arm in arm, everywhere.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 25 “Martin Luther King Jr.”

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2012, I wrote a song with a bunch of youngsters. I was teaching at ARTS, then located in Liberty Station and our songwriting lesson/session culminated in this song about that fellow they’d learned about at school that day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. This song illuminates the perceptions small children retain from these early history lessons. It was quite a delight. Thanks to Google for the images and Dr. King for fighting the good fight as peacefully and powerfully as he did. I look forward to the future. In my dream, your dream finds a sequel.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 25 “Blue Bossa” by Kenny Dorham

I love jazz. Rarely is it featured in ye ole 365. So today, I’m delighted to rectify. Here, Jefferson Jay Band members, Paul Ruiz, trumpet and Daniel Ratcliffe, guitar do the heavy lifting through this sweet standard, while I do my duty on the djembe. I didn’t know Kenny Dorham wrote this song, but now I do. Nice work, Ken. In further attempts to rectify, I lean on my man, ‘Peed. Wikipedia:

“McKinley Howard "Kenny" Dorham (August 30, 1924 – December 5, 1972) was an American jazz trumpeter, singer, and composer born in Fairfield, Texas. Dorham's talent is frequently lauded by critics and other musicians, but he never received the kind of attention or public recognition from the jazz establishment that many of his peers did. For this reason, writer Gary Giddins said that Dorham's name has become "virtually synonymous with underrated."[1] Dorham also composed the jazz standard "Blue Bossa," which first appeared on Joe Henderson's album Page One.”

Well, I’m glad I could contribute slightly to spreading the message of McKinley Howard "Kenny" Dorham. Sharing credit feels good. When we all walk arm in arm, it feels right.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 24 “Hurtful Words

Yesterday, immediately upon posting my “Feel the Bern” video, I was deeply disheartened to discover four comments of a less than friendly nature on my video. Not very gentlemanly behaviors, Alpha Omega… if that’s your REAL name…  Well, taker this, this alleged “liberal loon” is no stranger to sticking up for himself. Feel the Bern, bruh. I love you anyway, Alpha Omega. Take that.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 24 “At the Hop” by Danny & the Juniors

According to Wikipedia, today is Wikipedia’s 15^th birthday. Happy Birthday ‘Peed. I am so skeptical of the Intent and it’s accuracy, I struggle to even believe that they are right about their own birthday.

Peed also said “At the Hop" was written by Artie Singer, John Medora, and David White,” and this,

“On the 2008 nationally-televised PBS documentary Wages of Spin: Dick Clark, American Bandstand and the Payola Scandals,[6] Singer claimed that Dick Clark would not play "At the Hop" without receiving half of the publishing proceeds. Singer agreed to make the payments and called the situation "bittersweet" because although he didn't like having to give the money, he credited his success in the music industry to Clark and therefore was grateful to him. Payola was not illegal at the time and Clark sold the song prior to the 1960 payola hearings.”

WTF, Dick! Not cool.

Hope you enjoy this #1 hit from 1958 on a glorious Sunday on Earth.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 24 “I Love the Law”

On a trip to Colorado a couple of years ago, I was deeply moved by the trust the state government placed in me. They felt, apparently, that as an adult, I have the right to decide what is best for me and what I want to do with my own body, time, mind, and money. I truly appreciated their trust and enjoyed being treated like a grown-up in this manner. It was refreshing and surreal.

So, I did as we songwriters do, and wrote a song about these sensations I was sensing. I actually wrote five, but this is the first one to make it to the 365. Enjoy freedom. It feels good.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 23 “Feel the Bern”

Wrestling-style promos are too often underutilized as a way to make impactful statements. Martin Luther King Jr. knew this and this is one of the reasons he rules. Very charismatic and captivating. Perhaps just a few notches back on the charismatic and captivating scale, is Democratic presidential hopeful, Bernie Sanders.

While I do find his policies, what I know of them anyway, to be extremely exciting, I wondered if they could be even-more electrifying, if read in the manner of a WWE superstar. Bernie, if you can use this, you have my blessing. I am available any time you want time to read any of your ideas to the people. Feel the Bern and enjoy my dramatic reading of this email I from  Bernie via MoveOn.org earlier this week.

Peace

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 23 “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor/Cake

One of the big events of 2015 for us was New Year’s Eve, when our Jefferson Jay Band played a very fun show at Ocean Beach’s Mother’s Saloon. At this moment of our show, a young lady came up and asked us to play Cake. I don’t know any Cake and resorted to wise remarks about how we went to school together, Cake guy and I, which isn’t true.

Our guitarist, Dan Ratcliffe, on the other hand, had a plan, he launched into those chords that start “I Will Survive,” and the band followed. I danced and laid out mostly except for some stirring backup vocals and the rest is music history. At one point in the song, you can see girl’s hand put five bucks in the tip pitcher. I gave it to Dan. He earned it.

Shoutouts to Freddie Perren and Dino Fekaris for actually writing this song.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 23 “Erin and Dave”

Big event of the day/week/year is today over on the Sunset Cliffs here in OB. Two of our dear friends Erin and Dave are getting married and they generously chose me to perform the ceremony. I wrote this ditty for them and will play it in addition to whatever wise words I can muster, before pronouncing them man and wife.

Last night, my wife, Leanne, her pop, Tom and I recorded a special version of “Erin and Dave,” for the soon-to-be newlyweds and our Internet audience abroad. So, enjoy! Happy days!

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 22 “Mercury in Retrograde”

Now, I like to think I’m as optimistic as the next guy but, Mercury in retrograde has really been hammering me this year. I’m no astrologist but my limited understanding is that a few times a year for a few weeks at a time Mercury is moving backwards in relation to the other planets. And for some reason whenever this happens I become a helpless spaz. If beer needs to be spilled in to my camera or on my living room rug, if a huge cup of water needs to be spilled all over seconds before I’m about to go to sleep. If my bag needs to break and my wedding ring needs to vanish, Mercury in retrograde can assure that I will conquer all these tasks. Even the simplest of tasks like plugging in my phone or putting anything anywhere really, become rocket science if you’re me, during Mercury in retrograde. It’s tough. I’ve been looking for my wedding ring for hours and hours and obsessing on it the rest of the time.

Last night, between spill and expletives deleted, I wrote this tune so acclaimed director/amigo Dylan Avery, his new gal pal, Jessie and I would have a song to offer to ye Operation 365. So I wrote this tune, we recorded it. I recorded an amazing interview with Dylan after. Hilarious, if I do say so myself, but it’s Mercury in retrograde so it didn’t record right and no one will ever see it. Enjoy the tune and be safe through Jaunary 25^th, 2016.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 22 “As Long as She Can Go” by Scott Baslaw and Eric Townsend

In my formative creative years, I spent a lot of time in the chorus room of a certain Northern New Jersey high school. There, we youngins, spent a lot of unsupervised down time, during auditions, plays, rehearsals. When I was real lucky, one of the piano-playing youngins would sit down and play. I loved it. It mesmerized me often and sometimes it was just send-up sing-alongs that stuck with me maybe way longer than they should have.

This is one such song. My long time collaborator in the The Demarests, Scott Baslaw was on piano and Eric Townsend supplied lyrics and vocals. They were crude, inappropriate and funny enough that for years and years whenever I’d sit down at a piano, this is what I’d play. These chords and those words sure go together in my head and it still makes me laugh and smile. Here, I take a brief moment from my subbing day, to share those chords and reflect on those challenging and humorous days from so long ago.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 22 "Do Not Lose Your Wedding Ring"

Here is another Public Service Announcement from the Operation 365. Number 2, I believe. It is an important one, for a whole variety of reasons disclosed within. Be smart. Keep the ring on.

Hail Jumbo.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 21 “Use, Direct, Tire”

So I write a lot of positive songs, songs about being inspired and doing things that could help one to live a satisfying and rewarding existence. It may not be for everyone, but I like to think optimist-style. So, “Use, Direct, Tire,” while initially inspired by my favorite Eastern Massachusetts tire dealer, really means to use and direct your energies until you tire and then to get up and do it again the next day. It’s about taking your destiny into your own hands while working hard on causes you believe or while answering your muse

I do think it would be an incredibly wonderful commercial for Direct Tire though. Someone tell Barry Steinberg. I even added the irresistibly adorable British accent to amuse you and sell more rubber wheels.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 21 “Some Open Mic History” 10-16-2015

Here I am saying some opening words at a tribute concert for my friend Don Truesdail, held at Across the Street in San Diego on October 16, 2015. Don was an amazing singer/songwriter who passed away in 2009. At this show, Nancy Truesdail and I played about a dozen of his fine tunes. Here I set up the show with some history about how I met Don and Nancy and how we all wound up at the corner of Park and Madison on this October night.

I’ve been hosting Open Mics in San Diego for about 12 years. This story touches on how, where and why that came to be. It has had an enormous effect on my life, much more than I could have ever imagined. I feel humble and fortunate to have walked this road. Hail.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 21 “Hemophilia” by Don Truesdail - 10-16-2015

Don wrote some thick, dense tunes. I used to tease him about how scholarly and attentive one would have to be to understand him. We laughed about it. In retrospect it makes for a rich legacy. I believe he squeezed 12 albums worth of facts, fictions, ideas, opinions and beliefs into the three he recorded. Maybe many more. “Hemophilia,” in particular is like a novel.

I am so glad he took the time and care to leave such ornate and inspiring art behind. It is a gift that transcends life. I could tell you what “Hemophilia” is all about, but I won’t. I don’t want to deprive you the intellectual right to listen to decipher it for yourself. It’s worth it. Like anything you work for is, I suppose. Plus, Don didn’t want it to be easy to understand what he was talking about. He didn’t want it to be easy to cover his songs. He wanted it to be left for those who cared enough to really try to understand what he was saying and those who cared enough to figure out the sly, little subtleties that make his tunes harder to learn right.

He laughed about it. He was a wise man. Still is. So is Paul Ruiz, the handsome guy on the left with the trumpet. Two wise men. Mahalo.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 20 "Don and the 365" - 10-16-2015

So, seven years ago today, the earthly part of the world lost one of its’ greatest advocates when Don Truesdail passed away. A songwriter and freedom fighter, in the most artsy and traditional sense of the word, Don cared a lot and did what he could in his 34 earthly years to create and leave a legacy that will long outlive him. Much like David Bowie, Don did what he could in his time to leave and impression and make a positive difference. As his dear friend, I for one, greatly appreciate it.

Don referred to himself as a bard. Like many other Don things, for me to know what he actually meant, I had to study some. So “bard”, by definition, means

bard1 n

1.         in ancient Celtic culture, a poet who composed and recited epic poems describing important events

2.         a poet, especially one of national importance (literary or humorous)

So, Don wasn’t just writing songs for yuks. He cared and dared to try to make a difference.

bard2 n

a piece of armor for a horse

vt

1.         to put a bard on a horse

2.         to cover meat with fat before roasting it to prevent it from drying out

I highly doubt he meant that one, because Don didn’t eat meat.

The Operation 365 is all about everyone and this video, recorded at a tribute convert his widow, Nancy produced on 1-16-2015 explains in more detail than I ever realized I had, the deep connection between Don Truesdail and the Operation 365. It’s not too late to get to know, Don. Thank God! I strongly suggest it.

His 3 CDs can be found at www.truesdailstudio.com.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 20 “The Bastards” by Don Truesdail - 10-16-2015

Seven years ago today, one of my best pals, “The Parlor City Bard,” Don Truesdail passed away. Fortunately, he left behind a long legacy of love and music. His 3 thick, rich CDs are available at www.truesdailstudio. Each tune on each one of them is jam-packed with all the depth, truth, wisdom, knowledge and passion that Don brought with him everywhere he went. In New York City, 1961, Bob Dylan would have been his songwriting buddy instead of me. I’m extremely blessed and so was he. He woulda told ya himself, he was “living the dream,” like so many of transplanted east coasters in Ocean Beach and Southern California.

This is “The Bastards,” one of Don’s dark intense classics, one I’d wanted to learn for a long time. Here, I perform it at a show thrown in Don’s honor, featuring his music, at Across the Street, San Diego, CA on October 16, 2015 with the great Paul Ruiz on trumpet.

Hail forever.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 20 “You’re Innate”

Everybody has incredible abilities. Everybody is precious and crucial and it’s not too late to recognize that.

in·nate adj

1.         relating to qualities that a person or animal is born with

2.            forming an integral part of something

3.         coming directly from the mind rather than being acquired by experience or from external sources

4.         used to describe an anther that is joined to the filament by its base only

5.            forming an integral part of the thallus

Every single person is worth infinitely more than all the money in the world. I truly believe that. This song talks about that and wasn’t exclusively written ‘cause it gave me an excuse to sing a deep song where I sing words that sound like “urinate” over and over.

I am deep and mature.

Shout-out to my friend, Chase (also deep and mature), whose house I was at when I wrote this song. Also, to my special friend Eve, whose told me many times how much she digs this song.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 19 “Space Oddity” by David Bowie

“Space Oddity” is another incredible David Bowie song. There are so many. More than I know. I guess that’s the beauty of leaving behind such a thick, rich musical legacy; that people, for generations, can get to know David Bowie although he has matriculated from this plane.  Music and art are pretty cool in that way. Cheers to David Bowie. Thanks for all you did as a living person. Being an incredible spirit… Hey, we all need new challenges.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 19 “Rosanne” by Jefferson Jay

It seems everyone has a favorite aunt. I asked the special senior citizen folks I work with. I love them so much. What a delightful and appreciative bunch of folks. Honestly. They agreed with that hypothesis. So, it’s my favorite aunt’s birthday. I’ll give you one guess what her name is. I just wrote this song for her today. It’s already 6:57PM back East, where she is, so I best get to it if I want her to hear her birthday song on her special day. There’s no time to share the context for all these memories shared in these lyrics, but suffice it to say, they are very closely based on a true story. Like Fargo… but actually based on a true story.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 19 "Words on Nancy" 10-16-2015


Tomorrow is a big day on the 365 and I prefer to get into it more then, but as sort of a precursor, here's a few words I said on October 16, 2015 at an event tributing the life, times and music of my dear friend, Don Truesdail, who passed away on January 13, 2009. This event was put on by Nancy Truesdail, his widow and a fine musician in her own right. They are both two of my dearest friends and I can say without pause, that everything wise I know about love, I learned from watching them. So there'll be more about this in the couple days to come. Hail Don, Nancy, everyone and everything Truesdail.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 18 “Ziggy Stardust” by David Bowie

I awoke this morning to he news that David Bowie had passed away at age 69. He’d been on my mind recently as news of his birthday and his new record, “Blackstar,” were circulating this past few days. What a fabulous artist, a trail blazer, and a true original. If you want to open people’s minds you can try to pry them open bit by bit or you can throw them open like the Dutch Doors of an old time Western saloon. David did it that way. Suffice it to say, I noticed. Everyone did. I just made part of it, me. Colorful. Flamboyant. Expressive. A comet of a man.

Many years ago, in the early 90’s, some of the formative moments in which I fell in love with music, occurred in my basement room in The House of Love. That’s what we called my childhood home. Everything happened there, really. There, many of us youngsters would sit in awe as our pal, Chris Scelzo strummed the classics of the 70’s. We were mesmerized. It was such a thing, he made me a tape of some of the numbers so I’d feel more at home off at UMASS-Amherst. These classics included “Bell Bottom Blues,” ‘Sweet Home Alabama,” and “Ziggy Stardust.” It was awesome. It earned those tunes special places in my soul. It made them part of my home, my childhood and me. Thanks. Chris and thanks David Bowie. You set a magical example. Enjoy your graduation. Onward and upward.

Honorable mention to the Phish song, “David Bowie.” I love the holy heck out of that song. So many amazing experiences. Blessed life.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 18 “The Ice That We Skate” by Jefferson Jay

This is a song I wrote a few years back kicking on the boat of my friend Wes Davis. I was feeling the rocking of the waves, physically and artistically. Life is fragile and delicate, fleeting. This, we were reminded of today as David Bowie passed away at the age of 69 from a cancer nobody knew he had. I was feeling his presence and decided to go full regalia for today’s videos. I can vouch. Full regalia is fun. Dave was no dummy.

“Today is the ice that we skate. Today is the dinner and the plate,” say the lyrics of this song. We dance on blades on the ice of today, praying that it won’t soon be melting. Each meal, each moment, everything we have there and then, the dinner and the plate. That could be it. Savor each crumb. Savor the plate. Connections to boats, batteries, the frozen ground, the water beneath it, dinner, plates. They are everything. This is never clearer than in a moment of absolute awareness. Being. Om.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 18 “Angela’s Wisdom 1” 

I've been working on some music Mondays with my friend Angela recently. Angela really distinguished herself at Open Mic in recent months and it has been delightful to become her friends and watch her talents blossom. I've been realizing more and more that giving people opportunities is in large par, my special talent. I've been doing this for some years through Open Mics and other events, but it is just now that I am realizing how core it is to who I am and what I love to do.

So, in that ideal, I will let Angela share her positive outlook entering 2016 as the "Words" for today. And it could happen again. I like what she says. Uplifting stuff.

Attention all artists: I am excited to get more people involved, so if you want to participate in some 365, email me at jefferson@jeffersonjay.com 

Peace and love.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 17 “Born in the USA” by Bruce Springsteen

Sometimes in a man’s 365, he just has to go for it. There isn’t always time for the anal-retentive “perfection,” so may of us seek. My friend Happy Bear frequently reminds me that “we’re all perfect,” and “we all already know.” I choose to go with that. Love that guy.

So when doin’ it and doin’ it and doin’ it every day (especially Sunday) sometimes you gotta grab life by the horns and blow. So here it is, today’s 365. May we all blow in one concerted gust of just wind. Whoa.

I was feelin’ all fired up about his tune 30-something years ago and today, I’m feelin’ fired up about slightly-lounge-inspired versions of beloved 80s jams. “Jump” yesterday and “Born in the USA” today. Hail Bruce. Hail New Jersey. Hail the USA.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 17 “Jim” by Jefferson Jay

Feeling awful inspired, I offer this song to my best “imaginary” friend, “Jim.” Borrowed from my dear pal, Paul Ruiz, Jim is very useful when one’s keys have been misplaced, when feeling frustrated cause you can’t remember something OR when some other human has forgotten the basic rules of driving. All of these circumstances can be made more tolerable, by simple invoking, “Jim.”

“Really, Jim.” I say it a lot. And while many of my nearest and dearest (my Dad, Destructo Bunny, the guy who put together the Bible and Geoff Stevens’ baby) all share this delightful moniker, this Jim is none of these. Jim, like life, is whatever you make it, May “he” serve you as well as he has served me. Whoa, Jim.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay – Words – 17 “Is God Named Jim?”

It’s really hard to say, isn’t it? Well, doesn’t mean we can’t continue to ask this and the other fine questions that titillate our universe? Hail Jim and the folks at Hess Brewing in Ocean Beach, who just called me to let me know I left my wallet there. Really, Jim….

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 16 “Inside” by Jefferson Jay

“Inside” is a tune I wrote for and about my friend Robin Lee right before she went off to serve a stint in the pokey for distributing medicine or selling marijuana, depending on whom you ask. Two sides to every story, indeed. “Inside” has a double-meaning, as in “inside” the pokey and “inside” the mind, our mental powers castle. Everything happens for a reason and as this song says, “this must mean there’s work there for you to do.” I’m sure she is making a positive impact on the lives of those around her, like she does. I love Robin and hope to sipping tea with her ASAP. I am beyond grateful to have as a friend.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 16 “Speaking in Tongues”

Always aiming to offer a little of something to everybody here on the 365, today we give you “Speaking in Tongues” I hope this heals you or helps you somehow to have a brighter day. In search of answers to how we can work together to create a better world. Moonachie, Moonachie, Moonachie….

Sidenote: If this doesn’t prove I should be working on sound effects and spooky creatures for the next Star Wars film, I’m afraid nothing will. My heavens, Master Luke.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 16 “Jump” by Van Halen

I somehow never covered any Van Halen in the first 365 it appears. How fun to get to do this 80’s classic. 1984… like it was yesterday. David Lee Roth… definitely an influence. Stage Kicks… Yes! Please. Hope you dig my groovy version. It was fun. Jump!

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 15 “Giant Freeness” by Jefferson Jay

Are we all born free? I like to think so. I’ve been thinking on this some today as it is the 62^nd birthday of a dear friend of mine currently incarcerated in a federal penitentiary for selling marijuana. Marijuana is currently legal for medicinal purposes in 23 US states and legal for recreational purposes (a.k.a. S’s and G’s) in four U.S. States and our nation’s capital, Washington D.C.

http://mic.com/articles/126303/where-is-marijuana-legal-in-the-united-states-list-of-recreational-and-medicinal-states#.EUwsCrexb

Here’s wishing you all a giant freeness and fabulous 2016. Make your Yuletide gay. How do ya spell “freeness”? Frenis?

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 15 “The Ballad of Robin Lee”

Here is a song I wrote about a dear friend, whose birthday it is today. #62. I believe. Hope to celebrate it with her some time soon. Here are the lyrics, for anyone who wants to know more of the story. Happy Birthday.

This here number is a talkin’ blues. Hail Woody Guthrie and the USA. Peace.

I just watched this video. I don’t always do that. It’s sad and sounds resentful. I feel positively about everything. A positive attitude is key. Our world has some prove to improve and I have faith things will. It’s a story song. I just happen to know the person in the story. I love America. Like everyone one of us, she has room to improve. I’d love to help.

The Ballad of Robin Lee

G

I had me a friend who was dealin’ weed

         C

She drove it from sea to shining sea

  G

Til she got pulled over in Missouri

 D                                                        G

 Now my friend Robin is federal property

In the state of California where she grew up

Where marijuana’s medicine like Stanley is a Cup

They sell it in the stores up and down the street

For cancer and glaucoma, they say, it can’t be beat

So running prisons is where money’s made

Corporations buy and sell ya, you know they get paid

You be who you are, believe in what you believe

That was the mantra of ole Robin Lee

Now, Robin Lee is 58

In the hands of a judge lies her fragile fate

Her sentencing is late next week

I got lots a hope but it may be bleak

Yeah. what makes a felon in our land today

Murdering innocent people in a land far away?

Nope, that’s another place where profits lie

Where the rich get richer and the innocent die

So here’s to our hero bringing medicine

Across our nation, makin’ new friends

The hypocrisy is painful, she can’t see the light of day

They’ve locked Robin in a closet and the key is thrown away

So what’s the moral of the story in America now

You can’t do shit to make a living, you can’t even push a plow

 Cause most seeds are illegal and the food that we eat

is genetically modified corn-fed meat

There’s a line that we are crossing Are we free to venture back?

Yeah, maybe we are this morning. Where’s the bell for the attack?

The silent revolution is occurring in our minds

Doing what we believe in even if it is a crime

That’s a lesson I learned from Robin Lee

My friend who’s rotting in a penitentiary

An incredible woman, an American seer

Helping people live like that’s the reason that we’re here

Yes, this is ballad of Robin Lee

 A victim of the madness that’s become our country

Where California’s medicine will get you locked away

How much longer ’til they lock you up for what you have to say

 I love you Robin

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 15 “Good Guys” by Robin Lee

This is a song by an incredible woman named Robin Lee. Robin is wise and it is an honor and a thrill to share some of her wisdom. “Always remember you’re a good guy and good guy is what you’ll always be.” – Robin Lee

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - BONUS – 15 “Good Guys” by Robin Lee

Had so much fun doing this tune today, I decided to do it twice. Then I figured, I’m not gonna have much use for this second one if you don’t share it here today. So, “sharing is caring” prevails again. “And I’m feelin’ good.” – Nina Simone

Operation 365 2... Blog 14

365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 14 "Black Hole Sun" by Soundgarden

Had ourselves a brief hiatus on the zany weather in Southern California this afternoon. I took the opportunity to hop outside and bring you my lounge-inspired take on Soundgarden's classic "Black Hole Sun." I love this tune. Big fan of Soundgarden, Alice in Chains and the grunge sounds of the early 90s. Nice job writing this one, Chris Cornell. Pretty cool.

I even liked the video for this tune. For a guy who makes a lot of "music videos," I sure don't know too much about current ones. Maybe this project is more of a living history than a bunch of music videos... My wife Leanne just said my fast folky version of this tune was "great." It is these types of comments that fill the fuel tank of the 365. Now she's talking about snot... 

365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals "Play the Game" by Jefferson Jay

I was at work today playing some music for some of my special friends after lunch. I launched into this "made-up" tune, meaning I hit record and wrote it. It is one of the ways to reach 365 tunes in a project of this nature. I wrote many like that for the last 365. In fact, I am currently recording a CD of tunes written for that last 365 and a handful that I wrote that way are included. Who knows? Maybe "Play the Game" will be on a Jefferson Jay CD some day, Life is pretty exciting and unpredictable, I must say. Cheers to Ed Grimley and my special friends, some of whom can be heard singing back-up on this here number.

365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 14 "Metal Musings"

What is a word? Words are tools we used to attempt to express ourselves and be understood. So in that sense, music is a word. The sounds are extremely open to interpretation. One man's metal is another man's Miles. Like words, people receive different words, different way, different places at different times. One of my special friends quite likes metal and especially likes that whole singing like a dog thing many metal-singers choose as their method of expression. See? One man's metal is another man's Manilow. Who's to say what's right? Not I. So today, I offer some exploratory metal musings in dropped D and maybe it will mean something moving to you. For my friend John, that's what it tends to do.