Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 281 “Chain of
Fools” by Aretha Franklin
“Chain of Fools” is actually by Don Covay, for those of you
keeping score at home. Busy days. I subbed for music today at a local junior
high. Tonight our Fall 2016 edition of Acoustic Evenings at The Athenaeum kicks
off. I am very excited. My long time friends Charbra will be featured as will
my pal, Annie Rettic and my newest friend Trish, the lead singer for the great
reggae group, HIRIE.
It is going to be a great night for the women of California
acoustic amazingness. I am fired up. Tired out too though. Oh, the dichotomy.
Here, I rocked out on some Chain of Fools.” Folks, let’s never act like fools.
May we carry ourselves with grace, respect, humility, and love always. Peace
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 281 “Happy
Halloween”
Clearly, I jumped the gun a wee tad on this one, but it’s OK.
Like in my seminal classic “Killing’s Wrong,” I improvise the lyrics every
time, so maybe I’ll offer up another version in the “Words” section on Oct. 31.
We shall see. Until then, here we are having some fun with this little jam, I
concocted at work about four years ago. I’ve had a ton of fun playing it over
the years and think if I ever become known by a larger group of folks, this
could be a song with some real legs. It’s fun, just like Halloween. That’s why.
Dig it. Boo!
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 281 “Chargers Lose”
The San Diego Chargers returned again to their Charger-y
ways, charging their way to another pathetic defeat last Sunday. Compared to
San Diego, Indianapolis is the City of Champions, but that’s nobody’s fault
besides the Chargers and Padres. Plenty of winners here, just none of them are
on out professional sports teams. So here, we laugh and make light of it a
little, ‘cause it’s not like there’s some magic words we can say to make them
winners. Instead we swim in a little reality and tell it like it is. The Chargers
could move next year, and they might, and it would have no effect on how many
Super Bowls San Diego ever gets. Sad, but it sure beats real problems, like
having a self-absorbed hatriarch (copyright Me, 2016) tied in the race to lead
out land. Vote Phil Rivs, the true Father of our Country.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 280 “Cat’s in the
Cradle” by Harry Chapin
It’s been a long few days. Not complaining, but mainly cause
I’ve learned there’s no point. There’s too much to be thankful for, for that.
When there’s stuff you don’t want to talk about, and you say what’s on your
mind, there can be an awful lot unsaid. Sometimes, that’s what’s best.
So here’s a cover I played at work the other day. I don’t
remember what it is. I will check soon. I’m sweating. How about you? Daylight
savings time is on Halloween this year. Some one told me that today. Can you
see I’m rough with small talk? Ummm… OK.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 280 “The
Meaning of Nonsense”
Some day real words just won’t do. Today is one of those
days. Who knows what is nonsense? Not I, Perhaps it’s just deep in some unknown
language. I don’t doubt it. Feel me feeling it here in this romp through the
unknown. That’s what life is anyway. Asleep and dreaming. These new virtual
reality games. Who know what really is? What this means, only the future can
decide.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 280 “It Might Be”
Here I break down “The Meaning of Nonsense” and what “It
Might Be.” We never really know but we can try to learn. Little things like don’t
always trust every stranger. When something’s too good to be true, it usually is.
Not always, but very often. We must learn some lessons more than once. Patience
is always a fun one to re-learn. But we try. We fall. We get up and we try
again. Greatness? “It Might Be.”
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 279 “The Inspiration"
Day has been taking some tough turns. I am hesitant to even explaining them until I get a better idea where this is headed. How mysterious and unnecessary. Been hot as all heck in SD this week. I was fired up yesterday though and was feeling the jams here when I improvised this little funky numero.
Big sigh. Looking forward to his playing out and being over. More information to follow.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 279 “Wooly Bully”
by Sam the Sham and the Pharoahs
Splash, right? It must have been the first time I heard this song. How gorgeous was Daryl Hannah? I see big things for that Tom Hanks. John Candy? OK, I admit it. I can't think. My brain is bubbling over with thoughts and feelings. Por favor. Life can be a "Wooly Bully." It can be a snuggly puppy. I think I like that side of life better. Vacation, anyone?
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 279 “What Words
Mean”
I don't know “What Words Mean.” I don't know anything. I try to stay true to the things they teach small children. Share. Be kind. It doesn't always work out. There are some unkind opportunistic folks out there. I try to avoid them, but Craigslist doesn't and sometimes I forget to avoid Craigslist. It's becoming more of a thing as time moves on.
I has more to say in my mind, but now I'm too hot, tired and wiped from life and living. Open mic in fifty minutes. Shower sooner. Holding on the phone. Typing this blog, About to post videos. May lots to do.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 278 “Wrap It Up”
by The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Enjoyed myself at work today. Extremely grateful. Happy to
share a few instants of fun. I was getting jolly with some Fab Thunds after lunch.
I’d like to say more. It’s 8:20. I haven’t eaten. Just having time to type this
now. Love you. One-third blog wrapped up.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 278 “No Way,
Jose”
I am still feeling the pain of Miami, of the Fernandez family
and the Marlin organization. I looked at some pictures. Sometimes a smile says
everything that needs to be said. I saw smiles like that on the pictures posted
of a pitcher as great as any in the short time he played.
As a young man, I lost my best friend. It was the formative
experience in my life. It changed me completely. What I thought was important
and why, forever transformed. I am glad those changes happened. I miss my
friend. Of course. In life, one of the strongest, most admirable things we can
do is push through extreme adversity. It helps us grow in ways we could never
imagine. There is an enormous price. Loss. Pain. Devastation. Questioning
everything. This is natural. It is nature. It is part of life. As hard a part
as any, almost. Who’s to say…
I understand the disbelief, the anger, the bottomless
sorrow. You get used to it. It’s nothing you can believe right when these
things happen, but you do. It’s how we get through Human beings are incredibly
resilient. You, the Marlins showed heroic resilience and honored Jose divinely
on Tuesday night. You have a powerful wise talented friend in high places now.
Someone looking out for you form beyond. Until you meet again, you get the
opportunity to represent Jose with your actions here. It’s quite an honor and
very spiritually rewarding way for a friendship to blossom when it seems last
likely. These words come from love to people I know are suffering right now as
a branch to grab, to catch a breath, a brief break from the pain. They come
from the most real place I know.
Jose, thank you. You inspired very many in a very short
time.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 278 “My Imitation
of the First 2016 Presidential Debate”
For some reason, I felt an American inclination to watch the
First 2016 Presidential Debate last night. It was a lot of arguing and
interrupting. Not a lot of respect. Some laughing, though it wasn’t very funny.
In case you didn’t get a chance to waste two hours of your life last night, I
will recap the whole thing real quick here and you can watch the next one if
you still have any questions.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 277 “Dude Duty”
Been a busy day. Got a new van. Trying to prepare for the
big switch over. A lot of stuff was in my old van. So, Now a lot of stuff is in
my living room. I’d like to put it away. (Perhaps not as bad as my wife would
like me to put it away.) I’m getting there, but not before I bust out three
videos, for you my friends, on the 365.
So I talked a tad and now we will have it forever. Thanks
Nigel for the cameo. Thanks Tealmobile for the memories. Praying my new van is
as healthy as I thought it was when I bought it yesterday.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 277 “But I
Ain’t Got Time”
I squeezed these suckers out real quick. My American urge to
watch the debate kicked in, so I blasted through and now as I listen, I’m
typing this to you. I hope you like this tune. I felt it when I was playing it.
Been racing around so much this afternoon, I barely recall what it said. My
first day back at junior high school by the way. Type on, young amigo, this is
your time. Dive deep.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 277 “If I Was
President” by Wyclef Jean
I was racing toward a cover with less than ten minutes until
the first presidential debate began. I tried some “Isn’t She Lovely.” It was
making it through. Then, somewhere else in the “I” realm, I found, a song I
first heard on the “Chappelle’s Show,” years ago. It made an impression on me
right away. I wanted to play it. The chords and lyrics weren’t anywhere on the
Internet so I figured them and typed them up and posted them. I think I was the
first guy who did that. Peace, education, knowledge, these ideas are powerful
and scary
So I went through it quickly and got it done for you,
moments before the debate began. Now I’m watching them argue. I’m not sure this
is the best use of my time. Ha!
Before we begin here today, a few words on the passing of
Miami Marlins ace Jose Fernandez.
Every day when I wake up, before much time passes I grab the
Internet device and check the sports news in case anything really big happened
when was sleeping. The only the time that stood out to me over all the years I
did that was the day when ESPN.com told me future Hall of Fame Kansas City
Chiefs linebacker Derrick Thomas had died. He was still an active player at the
top of his profession. That was the first time until today. Minutes ago I
learned that one of the best young pitchers in baseball Jose Fernandez passed
away in a boating accident last night. His girlfriend was pregnant. He was 24
years old.
Many don’t know how suddenly life can torn away. Life taught
me that as a 17-year old. I think this has provided with extraordinary empathy
under these circumstances. I know what it feels like more than many. That is
why I try to stay positive and enjoy life as much as I can every single day.
After you are party to this kind of thing, that becomes one of the best ways to
move forward and stay alive. It takes time. Huge condolences to everybody who
knew the man Jose Fernandez. Condolences to baseball fans who watched him
pitch, but for way too short a period of time. Like a comet, burning bright and
flying through the sky, I wish you the best in your travel beyond. Peace
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 276 “Bring
Your Best”
In this life, some of us are fortunate enough to do great
things. I like to believe, at one time or another, we all do great things.
Before I went to bed last night, I clicked on a little story about a man, Lee
Parker, and his friend, Ivan White, who saved lives by stumbling upon a
backpack bomb in my childhood state of New Jersey, moving it away from people
and alerting authorities. I was inspired and soon thereafter, started writing
this song that would be named upon completion, “Bring Your Best.”
I thought that was a very nice story, even though I only
read a short shrift one. I thought about how many not entirely emotionally
evolved people would judge these fellows. Maybe they would look down on them or
make some snide joke about homelessness or alcoholism. I believe we are all
great and capable of doing great things. I believe we are all equal and we are
all one. Look down on someone else and you are only looking down on yourself. I
skipped all that negativity stuff in my song, though and just focused on what
these guys did and how it relates to us and what we can do each day.
In a different field, Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez brought
his best. Through a devastating elbow injury that cost him a year on the field
to his magnificent work at home in Miami, the 24-year old Fernandez understood
the meaning of “Bring Your Best.” It is with a heavy heart that I dedicate this
song to him today. Acknowledgments for Mrs. Parker and White for what they did
and how it can inspire everyone to lead by example, never be limited by your
circumstances and do you best to manifest greatness each day. We never know
when it will be our last. With out Lee Parker and Ivan White’s backpack
adventure, it may have been the last for many more. Thank you gentleman.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 276 “Muttering Nonsense”
Sometimes, in the course of living life, there’s little left to do but mutter
nonsense. Here, I exemplify that standard late on Saturday night. I believe I
discuss the manliness of my current notebook and how we reflect upon each
other. I misused basic devices and mumbled a bunch absurd and unfunny minutia.
I hope you like it. It’s for you. With love.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 276 “The Carol of
the Bells” by Mykola Leontovich and Peter J. Wilhousky
Shout-outs to my Ukrainian homies, Mykola Leontovich and
Peter J. Wilhousky, on this here bell jam they busted. I’ve had fun singing
versions of this for ages. I do a mean one on the kiddie xylophone. C B C A | C
B C A | C B C A… Oh, I could ding it for hours. My glorious wife, Leanne and I,
heard here in the background shhshhing me as she tried to sleep, have a special
Colorado version of “The Carol of the Bells” for any time we travel on or near
Arapahoe Street, Road Avenue, or whatever it’s called near the lovely
metropolis of Denver. I won’t sing you that one, but I did sing you this one,
and if you ask me, that means you scored hard. Always appreciate the scoring.
You could be like the Yankees, shut out three days straight, or worse, even
have a problem that matters.
Shout-out
to my inspirational brother Wes Davis. Blessed enough to marry a Ukrainian gal,
today he turns forty. Happy Birthday. He said he it was, "weird having an
age that started with a four." I said, "Yeah, but you get used to
it."
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 275 “Yard Sack”
This world is full of things you’d never script, ideas you’d never imagine,
truths you’ll never see. They may be abstract or invisible. They may happen
over time like legendary Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully’s 67 years of
excellence at the microphone. They may be symbolic of something we missed.
Here, I allow a “Yard Sack” discovered in my very own front yard to speak for
itself. What it says to you will not be the same as what it said to me. Each
“Yard Sack,” like each emotion, like every word, will say something different
to each person it encounters, but the true beauty is just that, That it
encounters, What we do with our “Yard Sack” is up to us. Hail Neo.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 275 “Ray Genung
Bail Bonds” by Unknown
OK. Now I don’t know much about Ray Genung bail bonds. Most
of what I do know I learned during a brief Google search just now. Ray Genung
is or was a bail bondsmen based out of Crescent City, CA. He apparently has ads
in the local paper as far back as 1970, at least. Whatever. One more from the
apparently category, there is some fellow named Ray Genung near Flagstaff who
puts videos of marching bands on Youtube. This is very lightly researched.
So why, Jefferson, why, Ray Genung? Well, I lived in
Humboldt form November 1995 to March 1998, I believe. I drove around a lot in
my beloved 1983 Chevy Monte Carlo, “The Beast from the East,” and listened to a
lot of radio. Some A’s games, some Sports Fan Radio Network, the late Pap Joe
Chevalier was my favorite back then, Now I’m a Mike Francesa guy, Joe Beningo,
Scott and BR of course, deep sports radio on today’s 365. I was even a pizza
delivery boy for a short time. Still wish I hadn’t run that red light by Earl
Scheib tire. Sucks to lose money on the job. I eventually got fired for running
out of gas on the job in said Monte Carlo. Doubt I’ve shared that bit of trivia
in 20 years.
This “Ray Genung Bail Bonds” radio commercial was on all the time then. It is
still in my head two decades past. Wild. It’s cover. I haven’t done it before.
It may not even exist on the Internet until now, so I how about that (Copyright
Mel Allen). Hope you’re enjoying a cappella day on this here Operation 365.
Love.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 275 “Don’t Mess with My Dirty Lemons”
Some days have to be dirty lemon days. Of course, we’d all prefer clean lemons, but how many lemons off the tree were you gonna eat anyway? And we can clean the chosen few if we need to, I suppose. Today, ages ago, became destined to be a capella day on the 365 2. No one knew when it happened and no one cared, but it happened ‘cause it was meant to. Now it’s a reality and we’re going to have to deal with the fact that there are some seriously filthy lemons hanging on our tree.
That said, we have to deal with our lemons. No one else can. You can come and try to clean my lemons, but it’s better if I deal with it myself. You gotta be trie to something in this life. If you can’t even handle your own lemons, that you’re too far behind to start, I’ll stay here and touch ‘em and sing about ‘em, and maybe even one of these days, I’ll get my sponge and eat ‘em. For now, though, I’m down to let ‘em grow, Maybe they’ll work this way through their dirty period on their own and we can reconnect down the road when it’s time that our paths cross again. I hope all of all of our lemons will be shiny and fresh by then. Organic.
Thanks for playing a capella day on the Operation 365 2.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 274 “Merry Go
Round”
I literally woke up with this tune in my head today. Pretty
neat. I had to figure out the chords (D and G), but it was easy, emboldened by
inspiration to round up my guitar and iPads and breach the threshold to the
outdoors where the magical moments take place. That’s right, folks. I woke up
with “Merry Go Round” song spinning in my dome.
I am going to do something today that I’ve never done
before, something I’ve been eagerly wanting to do for as long as I can
remember. I wish not to ruin the surprise, but it involves blue and angels, but
not the Blue Angels. I am looking for a new car, but this surprise does not
involve the VIN number… I’ve only watched X Files once or twice… I’m not a
Mulder guy, more of a … person.
This is a weak game. Hopefully, I’ll see a better one before the day is
through.
I might argue freeway traffic is the “Merry Go Round” of the
masses. Park on, my friends, park on. Hail the Tealmobile.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 274 “San Diego
Weather Revisited”
A few days back, our region was briefly plagued with less
than ideal weather. It was brutal. I honestly don’t know how any of us
survived. Here, I return with some truly revalationary news. The storm has
passed! We’re alive! I am extremely grateful, as is the little snail who tried
to board my foot for safe passage, but instead found himself featured in
another one of these infernal video blasts.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 274 “El Palomito”
by Los Originales Cadetes de Linares”
I work
with special needs adults for a living. My main goal is to engage them and make
them happy though kindness and music. It works pretty well and I love my job.
There’s this newer Spanish speaking young man who goes there. He loves classic
Spanish songs and Olivia Newton-John. He requests them and even though, I don’t
speak Spanish, I have lived in San Diego for 16 years and I try. He seems to
enjoy and he tells me my versions sound like the originals I’ve never heard and
don’t understand. So, I’ll apologizer again for my mutilation of one of the
great romance languages. If trying is worth anything though, this guys gets a
B+, at least. Now what was the name of that song again? I don’t even know what
their name means. I’m so embarrassed. I just heard the real “El Palomito” for a
second for the first time… Mine doesn’t sound like it. Yeah.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 273 “Rethinking the Seasons”
Here, on the first day of Fall, I consider the lack of sense made by the names of our beloved seasons. First, I should acknowledge that I choose to live in place that doesn’t even have seasons. They don’t exist. I have lived places they do though, and I only miss them a tiny little bit. Here, we examine why we call Fall, Fall and what other odd motivations have led us to name the other seasons what we have. What’s a Winter? I don’t know.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 273 “Pure Imagination” by Leslie Bricusse & Anthony Newley
While we're reconsidering things, now seems as good a time as any to reconsider the impact of "Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory." Hail Gene Wilder, the great comedic actor who passed away recently. "Willy Wonka" is a little scary for kids, but that is the least of it. It is colorful, candy-filled, creative and jam-packed with great lessons for kids, on gluttony, TV, selfishness and "Pure Imagination." I wish Gene Wilder the best in his future as a spirit. I bet he will be great at that too.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 273 “Oh Gee”
I was feeling a G-chord and then the next thing you know, I was feeling the G-chord based tune. I don't really remember the words, but I think they were somewhat meaningful. I'll let the universe decide. Too many other things to do. Peace, y'all.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 272 “I’m Only
Tired”
All's well, delightful in fact. Started rehearsal on “The
Hunt for The Great Christmas Tree 4: One for the Ladies” today. Richly
rewarding stuff with my special needs superstars. I have Open Mic later. I want
to continue my car hunt, in the sad wake of The Tealmobile’s impending demise.
Alas, a boy needs rest. So this is how was inspired this afternoon. No
calamities. No life or death situations. Just want to close my eyes and kick
back and dream a little. Rejuvenation, my friends. This great life.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 272 “I’m Only
Sleeping” by The Beatles
Shout-out to these lads from Liverpool on another of their
masterpieces. To honor their numbers “I’m So Tired” and “I’m Only Sleeping,” I
named my original for today, “I’m Only Tired.” Makes sense, right? Can’t blame
a guy for seeking slick musical neighbors, at least alphabetically and
subject-wise.
My greatest memories of “I’m Only Sleeping,” outside of
countless crankings of “Revolver” feature one of my best pals Matt Reischling and I singing this tune (and others) as a chicken might, in our ground-breaking collaboration, Bock Rock. I believe we performed our Bock Rock version of “I’m Only Sleeping” once live at a place I used to love called LeStat's. So cheers to the years where that was a place I went and when Bock Rock filled the world with bock n' rock' n' roll. Nap's coming soon.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 272 “Tribute to
Mark Turner”
I love my Open Mic people. I am extremely grateful to all of
them for coming out and bringing their energies and enthusiasm to the Winston’s
stage every Wednesday evening. So many interesting characters. It is quite a
delightful pastiche. While everyone is great, there is only one Soul Man. 98
years old, a veteran of World War II and The Korean War, he has been my
guiro-playing pal since 2000. We’ve been playing gigs and having fun together a
good long time now.
While there is only one Soul Man, a number of terrific
humans have taken turns driving The Soul Man to and from gigs the whole time
I’ve known him. A partial list of these people who get why it is awesome to
drive the Soul Man include Nico Gutierrez, Blowski, Mike Bumba, Travis Oliver
and Mark Turner. Soul Man moved so now he often crashes on one of those last
two fellas couches when he stays. Will you be willing to sleep on a friends’s
couch for the chance to play an Open Mic and kick back some IPAs and tequila
when you’re 98? Don’t feel bad. There’s only one Soul Man.
That being said, without everyone else, Soul Man and I could
sit there, but it wouldn’t be the same. In fact, I’m sure I’d have been fired
long ago. Long story short, I am tired today and need to grab some rest before
Open Mic, but not before honoring one of Open Mic’s more unique individuals,
Mark Turner. Shout-outs to him and his brother, Fusilage, who also sounds a
little like this. Here is my a capella “Tribute to Mark Turner.”
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 271 “Ode to Joy”
by Beethoven
Life is wonderful. Mercury in retrograde isn’t raining on my
parade. Though, the sky is. Thank God. It doesn’t rain enough around here. I
miss it. Here, we do a moment of rainy day reflection in the grayness of my
living room. Hail Nigel, my adoring pooch.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 271 “Eyebrow Lifts”
Heavy lifting. Gotta strengthen those muscles closest to the
brain. Power up that processor. If it’s good enough for The Rock… Ballers. I’ve
never seen it. Not yet. HBO knows shows. Lotsa creative work going on around
the house these days. Finishing CD #7. Final mixing The Best of Operation 365.
Soon to be ready for sharing with you.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 271 “Harmonix”
Having
a pretty moment playing some harmonics. Feeling this gentle groove. Decided to
capture it and share it with you. Feeling less loquacious than normal this
rain-soaked afternoon. Basking in the rhythm of the rain
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 270 “San Diego
Weather Report”
Today’s been one of those days. I guess I can’t complain
considering there’s only 3 days left in Mercury in Retrograde and it’s just
beginning to drive me insane. My day began with my keys missing. Well, they’re
not really my keys, as my van is dying. They’re my back up keys. They drive my
wife’s car and they have vanished. So I looked for them for half an hour was
late to my appointment. Then after, she had a flat tire. I guess I ran over a
razor blade. In the meantime, I fought Verizon (and won) about overcharges to
my bill. I was extensively ignored at the car dealership across the street from
where I broke down.
Finally, at 1, I ate, took Leanne’s car to the tire guy and
now I’m back to looking for my keys to no avail. Sigh. Gosh, I hope they show
up soon.
So, that’s about what I am preoccupied with at the moment. I
obsess slightly and it’s hard for me to stop key-hunting, even though I’ve
looked everywhere I can think of five times already. Oh well. I figured I ought
to get a move on this 365ing, although all I really want to do is find my keys
so I don’t have to think about it any more.
So, it’s hours later. My day has picked up quite well. Thank
you for letting me vent earlier. I think it helped turn my day around. The flat
tire is repaired. The keys have been found. Appears they vanished into my
wife’s purse. Fortunately, her new job is close enough that I could check and
retrieve them personally. She is busy saving animals and digging her first day
of work, I hope. I visited three times, so I’ve done my part.
It’s a rare gray day today. I feigned dismay. I embrace
weather of all kinds actually, save a tsunami, earthquake, hurricane, tornado,
volcano... I embrace weather, as long it’s not trying to kill me. Here, I acted
for you. My character here is a native San Diegan, uncertain what ill forces
have captured our otherwise sunny skies.
“The ocean reflects the skies reflects the ocean reflects the
skies.” - A Call to Action
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals – 270 “Femailman"
I was feeling this beautiful love song, but all that’s holy
under Mercury in Retrograde intervened rendering my attempts to romantic… well,
maybe they worked better than I realized…
I’m feeling and playing this little new idea of a song and
this substitute lady mailman starts smiling at me through my fence. Then, as
you can hear, she asks me something. I answer. Gotta be polite, right?
I decide. OK, let’s start fresh, see if I can remember what
I sang and get it going once more. Frankly, from a creative perspective, the
odds are already stacked against you at that point. A moment comes. It rarely
comes twice in a row one right after the other. It can, but that is rare. I
tried. Next thing you know, and this is some very un-mailman-type behavior, she
just came into my yard and started talking to me again. Maybe there was even a
third time. You can hear it. I’m pretty sure I’m going to leave it.
I’ve often wondered, should lady mailmen have a different
name? Mailwoman? Femailman? This experience, more than anything else so far,
makes me wanna double down on that bit of linguistic logic. Come on, Webster,
get this done! Fix that dictionary!
So another thing I’ll wonder is what this tune would have
been if its extreme romantic magnetism wasn’t effective enough to prevent it
from becoming what it otherwise would have. Don’t get me wrong. I appreciate
the friendliness of the sweet MailLady, but I’ll have to be more aware when I
start improvising enchanting songs in my front yard. Ladies, on the job,
literally start breaking in and making up reasons to schmooze me. Communication
situations. Oh Mercury, you card you. Sweet life...
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 270 “Rise” by
Katy Perry
I forget what song I played… an hour ago. Hmmm. Let’s think…
No idea. I hope it was good. Oh! I remember! It was a Katy Perry song I’ve
never heard. “Rise.” I wrote a song called “Rise,” once, in 2000. I have no
idea how her song goes. I was told it was the theme for the Olympics. That’s
great. I didn’t watch much.
I tried the song, once at work, where I became aware of its
existence. I did a slow Johnny Cash-ish version. I tried that today and then
sped it up instead, so here that goes. If you stick around through the need you can hear a bit of
the slow version. I have no idea how fast or slow Katy’s goes. She has pretty
blue eyes though. Don’t be alarmed by the apparently trapped man at the end
there. That’s just Dan. Danning.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 269 “Ode to an
Old Van”
Sundays are the hardest day to 365. Some day, most folks
gotta rest. Then again, you bust it out. You get back to regularly scheduled
program. Here we go. I woke up with this cute song in my head called “269” or “To
69”… Who knows? It was a cute
little pun fest and I even went for it. I think I may include it after the
curtain in my words video.
Had a great gig at Mother’s last night. It was tons of fun.
We played ‘til 1 AM and were still up and at it at 3. That ONLY happens on days
we have gigs at this point. It is nice to have a job that forces to you to
deeply penetrate the AM. I like to think of myself as an AM guy, but I do most
of my doings in the PM these days. I feel like I’m grandfathered in as an AM
guy due to all my contributions as a youth.
Well, in any case, during the first 365 in 2011, I picked up
a Volkswagen Eurovan. MV. I named it The Tealmobile. My then future wife taught
me to drive stick on it, after I already owned it. It led us on an outstanding
musical adventure to Humboldt County in April 2011 and I am saddened that a
local mechanic and numerous others have advised me that it’s time to let go.
Begrudgingly, I am coming to accept this reality, but I am a simple man, a
simple loyal man, who appreciates allegedly inanimate objects that keep me
alive each day. Thanks Shaquille O’Teal. Our journey isn’t over yet. Thanks for
the rides to and from the gig last night. I will always love you. Hope you like
your first song. Five years is a great place to reflect. Too bad it’s coming to
so close to the end of our ride.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 269 “Loyalty”
Sometimes you get more than you pay for. I got an extremely
generous deal when I bought my beloved Teal Eurovan, aka The Tealmobile in
2011. Despite dumping large amount of dinero into it’s upkeep I still feel
fortunate for having these five years together. It seems, alas, that era is
about to end. Here I tribute and lament the loss. More importantly, I discuss
my views on loyalty. I am a huge proponent, particularity with people, but not
exclusively. I think most people feel loyalty to their pets but I do not stop
there. Cars keep us alive, every day, against odds, folks. It’s dangerous out
there. Cars travel over 80MPH, and frankly, tons of folks are not paying any
attention at all. There is a lot to be grateful for every time you unbuckle
that seat belt and set your feet back on that precious pavement.
I kid not. I am deeply grateful and appreciative. That is
why it is actually hard for me to break off and say good-bye. I am, at this
point, much more disheartened about the loss of my loyal friend than I am
excited to get what will inevitably the nicest car I’ve ever owned, at least on
paper. So here it is, my spiel on “Loyalty,” backed by a rare B-side of my
“269” song that was in my head when I woke up hours ago. Peace, yo.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 269 “Never Smile
at a Crocodile” by Jack Lawrence
I guess I ought to look up who wrote “Never Smile at a
Crocodile.” It was… Did you know it was a deleted song from “Peter Pan?” I had
no idea. We sang “Never Smile at a Crocodile” in elementary school. How did
they find it, I wonder? Anyway, it’s Sunday, the laziest of Operation 365 days,
and I decided I was going to play whatever cover popped into my head, with
little to no regard for how the music actually goes.
That worked out reasonably well… Here, I made it minor. I
could only remember the first verse, so I sang it twice and improvised some
other theoretical or “adapted” if you prefer, verses. So, there ya go….Don’t
smile at ‘em, folks. Don’t even say later to ‘em, unless you’re down to table
with Darth Vader, which if you know what’s good for ya, you’re not.
Further research led me to learn, “Never Smile at a
Crocodile” appeared instrumentally in Peter Pan. It was also on The Muppet Show.
I think I’ll have to play The Muppet Show Theme for you soon. Jack Lawrence
wrote the lyrics. Frank Churchill wrote the music I didn’t use.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 268 “Lost In
Faith”
“Lost In Faith” is a song I wrote a long time ago, probably
close to 20 years. I was not nearly as stoked as I am these days and “Lost In
Faith” reflects that. That is the point of writing songs like this, to get
those feelings out so you can move through and past them. I have found faith to
be quite a friend in trying times. It has worked well for me. I am deeply
grateful. I hope for you that you are too.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 268 “Man Bun”
Unpredictable
things occur. One such circumstance is the unlikely trendiness of the “Man
Bun.” Are you joshing me?!?!? I have been sporting said style for ages, as it
is practical in a variety of ways. It keeps hair off the neck and out of one’s
face and it keeps it out of your way if you’re doing stuff. One thing I never
thought was that it looked cool. I mean, it looks OK, but I remain
flabbergasted by the fact that people ask me about my man bun now. It feels
like an alternate universe type of situation. Like a Bizarro world, if you’re
ready to go “Superfriends” with me. Obscure? Perhaps. Here’s betting the man
bun will be too someday soon. If it’s good enough for Sumo…
As a new, unlikely, way-ahead-of-my-time type of trendy hairstyle, here, I
nominate the “Man Pony Flop.” If everyone’s wearing one of these soon, you
heard it here first. Strange, strange, universe.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 268 “Lookin' for
Love” by Johnny Lee
Apparently, Day 268 is time travel day on the 365 2. First
we went back to the late 90s when I wrote today’s original, “Lost In Faith.”
Then we went back roughly that far to the time when I first started sporting
the “Man Bun,” long before those two words meant anything when said back to
back. Now, once more, we’ll travel back, this time, to roughly 1980.
Back, then, we were in the den and my mom was making a mix
tape. It was the first time I’d ever heard of such a thing. It was a great one,
so great we named it “Supertape.” I don’t remember all the tunes on it, but
“Lookin' for Love” was one of my favorites. “Don’t Give Up on Us, Baby” was on
there too. I think, the theme to “Grease.” So here we are once again, back in
1980. Or maybe it was that day in the late 90’s, not too long after I picked up
guitar, the day I wanted to play this song badly enough to figure it out by
ear. Maybe it’s all those times, always. Maybe they’re all right now. “Lookin'
for Love,” sounds a plan for the world, if you ask me.
Bayer bought Monsanto for 66 billion dollars. What the world
needs now is love, sweet love… Future cover…?
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 267 “The Vegan
Dilemma”
Some of you may recall my sorrow from yesterday, I was
lamenting the (at least temporary) loss of a friend due to me not being vegan and longing for a friend who could provide me with some patience-infused
guidance as I begin to attempt to change my eating habits that I’ve had my
whole life. It will be slow and steady, best-case scenario. The universe
listens. Yesterday, after we had a fun band practice, our neighbor heard us
jamming and rolled by with some delicious vegan corn bread to share. How nice!
I support people’s right to be how they want to do what they
want and I respond best to others who share that same appreciation and respect.
People can hopefully understand that things come more quickly to some than
others and trying to follow a righteous path is the gateway to getting there.
I’m still figuring out what I believe on all of this, but I do feel bad for the
beasts, even though as of now, I’m still eating them. Holy dichotomy, Batman.
So, I was very happy, to have a friend enter the picture
with corn bread and no judgment. I think I may already have stopped eating the
beasts if I wasn’t so put off by the sanctimonious nature of guys like this who
have decided they are better than us. We are murderers and rapists and… how is
anyone supposed to learn from anybody who approaches things like that?
It is like those people who use guns to spread peace. This
guy uses hate (toward people) to try to generate love (for animals). I believe
we are all one. Shouting at me and calling me names is only going to make me
resent whatever you are saying. Obviously guys like this don’t care. I care and
I have a lot more hostility about it all due to this obnoxious, judgy approach.
Understanding opens doors to love. We must walk our brothers and sisters
through these doors slowly sometimes, with our hands held tight. Badgering and
forcing people through doors isn’t what teachers and lovers do. It’s what
zealots and folks who think they know best do. We are all one. We are equal. We
are all the same. If you don’t want me to eat your friends, don’t assault me.
Don’t insult me. Teach me. Show patience with me, share your view with love and
kindness and maybe I’ll choose your way on my own, with your help and my
thanks.
Until tomorrow, thank you universe, for providing everything
I need and exactly what I ask for, in this case, with my new vegan amigo and
this opportunity to get these painful feelings off my chest.
Maybe I’m the one being too sensitive. My friend Happy Bear
often says, “We are all perfectly fine.” Thanks Happy Bear. May fate lead you
to this Angry Gary, who might really accomplish his goals if he wasn’t so
comfortable pissing people off. We are all one. So I am him and he is me and I
can probably take my own advice. Always. Love you.
I wasn’t going to post this tune. I thought maybe it was too
edgy, but it is very honestly what I am thinking about in my head, more or
less. Perhaps a teensy tad of entertainment was added, but maybe not even. Then
I thought, I’m writing all about it any way and it’s on my mind and I sang this
song, so what the heck? It’s real, and I’m probably not the only one feeling
this way. Sorry to all the vegans that I haven’t learned what you learned
faster. Thanks to all the vegans who understand that some things take time. I
read that article and it said education, not violence, is the way. I agree
completely. “The Vegan Dilemma” looks inside my mind as I weigh a lifetime of
food I fear will be bland and boring. I’m sure it wouldn’t be, at least after
awhile, anyway. That’s why the education part is important. Enough of this.
Let’s move on.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 267 “The Sad Sac
of Sensitivity”
I believe folks are way too sensitive in this world these
days. It’s why I enjoy South Park, ‘cause those guys don’t care. They are the
opposite of sensitive, it seems. Anyway, here’s a few words on how to manage
and what we can do as people to pull together and not apart. We are one and our
best interests are the same. So I rambled some here today, a bit more serious
than most of my diatribes lately. But I care. Too much anger. Too much hate.
What the world needs now is love. May have to cover that song soon.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 267 “Maneater” by
Hall and Oates
My wife is concluding her first “office” job today. Turns
out it wasn’t quite as exciting as she thought. She will return to the animal
care world shortly and I am very happy for her. Her soon to be ex-boss gave her
free tickets for this fancy fest up in Del Mar this weekend called Kaboo. There
are tons of acts ands it costs a million dollars to go to this thing, but we
have tickets for Sunday. I doubt we’ll go. God bless Jack Johnson, G-Love,
Garfunkel and Oates and whoever else is playing but I think I’ll pass. I do
have some interest in Cheech and Chong who are playing Sunday, Whether that
will be enough to drag me out with free tickets remains to be seen. Did I
mention life is wonderful and I am extremely grateful for every blessed second
of it? It is so.
Hall and Oates are playing. I’d like to see them. But I don’t
think it’s Sunday. Instead, I will bring you my “Maneater,” as unvegan a song
as you will ever find. In fact, it’s practically cannibalistic. In the 80’s, no
one even blinked about it.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 266 “I Like to
Eat”
Here is a simple silly song about liking food. I do and I
hope you do too. I purposely kept all mentions of meat and non-meat eating
items out, although I do contemplate these sorts of things often. There’s a
time and a place to discuss them and I decided not to on this song.
I have a friend who went vegan and thinks terrible thoughts
of me now, ‘cause I’m not. He told me. It makes me sad, but he is entitled to
his opinion. I miss him and wish he had more patience for me on my path. I
could really use someone to guide me away from a life of eating meat. It’s all
I know, but I feel bad for the critters. I truly do. I am open to the idea of
changing but it will be a process. He has not the patience for that though, so
we’ll lead separate lives for now.
Hopefully, tolerance, love and compassion will re-ignite the
friendship when the time is right. Friends need to challenge each other. Maybe
that’s what’s happening here and I don’t realize. That said, people must be
allowed to be different and learn things. I’m not sure I could be friends with
someone who was only my friend because I did what they thought I should do.
Then again, maybe I could. It’s complicated. I think about this friend and all
this every day. I like to think we can all agree, that food is fun and we like
to eat it. That is why this song exists. Love is why I exist. I believe.
This
jam features my virtuous work on the “The Wildly Noisy Little Wooden Thing.”
I’m pretty sure that’s what it’s called. Last night I had the pleasure of
sitting in with a belly dancing-led ensemble called Cairo Beats on this little
guy at the end of Open Mic. It was highly entertaining. I wish you were there.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 266 “Xanadu” by
Olivia Newton-John
One of the young gentlemen in one of my classes loves Olivia
Newton-John. He is always requesting either Spanish songs by folks like Roberto
Carlos and others. I actually play them for him, even though my Spanish, is
sub-par. I’ve never even taken Spanish, but I try anyway. It makes folks happy.
I must not be falling on my face too hard. This fine gentleman requests “Heart
Attack,” “Suddenly,” as Olivia songs he loves. I found “Suddenly” and tried it
for him. No one has typed out the chords for “Heart Attack” yet. All of this
made me think of “Xanadu,” a cool song from a fun movie in the late 70’s, when
Olivia was at the peak of her prowess.
So I
looked up “Xanadu,” and had a blast playing it. I wound up playing it three or
four times today. This is the final of those versions. It made me happy and
transported me to a simpler time. A time when roller skates were cool.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 266 “Love Myself”
Here’s another one of those special days where my “Words”
post is a song. More music. Hooray! The song has words and music is a form of
communication, even if it didn’t. “Words” is about communicating thoughts
different ways. So here goes an improvised song about a standard worthwhile of
universal adoption. “Love Myself.”
That’s the point of life, folks, and anything you can do to
help yourself and or anybody else get closer to that goal is time exceptionally
well-spent. Too many people have lost sight or forgotten about how crucial this
is. I support everybody and all their valuable causes, but helping everybody
learn to love themselves, including myself, is the true reason for the season.
Like I said earlier, I believe.
So, that is it, my simple standard for today. A simple goal
to aim for always, “Love Myself.” We are all one, so there is no difference
between loving yourself and everyone else really. Acceptance is key. Unconditional
love. It is a truly lofty standard, but one well worth pursuing. What else is
there to do? If that is too hard for you to do all at once, I recommend
starting by loving everyone else. You’ll come around to you when it’s time. You
deserve love. I love you.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 265 “Life Is”
So, hey! Hooray! 100 days left as of today? Will ya miss me? I like to think ya might… a little. Don’t worry. I’m easy to find, just maybe not every day. I can’t believe it’s Day 265 already. Seems like yesterday it was Christmas and today, at work, I had auditions for my Christmas musical. I wrote and direct Christmas musical with special needs adults. It’ s my job. I love it and am extremely grateful to do something so gratifying for dough.
Big sigh. Long day of auditions, some lingering car trouble and Open Mic is a couple hours away. Definitely no complaints, but I was not so feeling like pulling out my guitar and playing some jams for you this afternoon. I don’t mind posting and doing the work. Just some days I am more tired and private. So, like any good historical would do, I dug into the archives, which exist expressly for this precise purpose.
So I didn’t have to dig too deep. Just to yesterday, in fact. I found some scraps which have blossomed into glorious hydrangea. Here they are. I start with this jam I half forgot I made up yesterday. I was so tickled with the jam I made up first thing yesterday morning, (“The Weigh,” posted yesterday, Day 264), that I forgot this even happened. It did, though, and I sort of recall liking this one too. So here it is for you. We celebrate. Lift your glass and take a deep breath of the world’s finest oxygen as I prepare for the home stretch of this project’s last 100 days. Life is glorious.
I just learned that the Operation 365 2, so far, boasts original songs titled "Life Is Great," "Life Is the Most," and "Life Is Your Song." "Life Is the Most" was only four days ago. You think I might remember that. I did not.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 265 “Genius”
People get called all kinds of thing in life. I grew up in New Jersey. Most of the things I was called were nasty. I got used to it. Developed a thick skin. I wouldn't trade it. Once in awhile here in California, someone calls you something nice. In fact and fairness, many friends wrote many incredibly nice generous things about me on Facebook in response to my Huffington Post article from last week. Here's the link once more, in case you missed it.
I have no idea who is or isn't a "Genius." I know I can't imagine me ever calling myself in this lifetime. But, anyone in the public eye at all, must be able to take a compliment. I eventually learned the simplest way to handle it is to say "Thanks." Pretty simple, right? So thanks for the kind words here from my friend, Hollywood Man. It means a lot. I am deeply grateful for your kindness and everybody else's for that matter too. Thank you! Thank all of you, the wind beneath my wings.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 265 “Sex and Candy” by Marcy Playground
Here is a version of “Sex and Candy.” We'll save the discussion of where it ranks on the all-time list of “Sex and Candy” versions for some other existence. I learned of this tune during stint as a temp in a San Francisco Union Square office building. Like most jobs of its' ilk, it was boring, I listened to the radio all the time. When Howard Stern ended, that left tunes like “Sex and Candy,” which was actually one of the ones I liked most from that batch.
So, I'll allow this “Sex and Candy” to fill the "Covers" space of Day 265, because... I am tired and I want to rest and my guitar wanted to rest too. So it is. I thank you for staying since Christmas. We'll be there before you know. God bless.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 264 “The
Weigh”
This morning, I was feeling it and I got busy. Put on my
creative hat. Flexed my creative muscles and conjured this little ditty out of
space. It feels good to contribute something to all that’s going on. I only
heard this song the one time I played it, but it still feels good inside. Like
I did something positive. Something better than I even realize. Well, get to
know ya later, song. I have 101 days. Let’s call it a Christmas present to myself.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 264 “Respecting
The Past”
Shout-outs to The Band, Fastball and Phish. While all kinds
of folks, are fecklessly ripping classic tunes names, I’m inclined otherwise.
No. This new song, I burst is not “The Weight. It’s not “Weigh.” And it’s not “The
Way.” Huge shout out to Zen Buddhism as well.
We walk in well-worn tracks. That is how we show us the way.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 264 “Fluffhead”
by Phish
I love Phish. I was feeling a little of them, because one of the fellows who works in the garden near the gazebo
I play in, loves Phish. I am always
aiming to improve folks life experience. Work can be one of the least enjoyable
parts of the life experience, so I particularly like to enhance people’s work
experience. Not just people I work with, but anyone. It’s just my way to keep
things interesting. For myself, if nobody else. People tend to appreciate
kindness, at least here in Southern California.
I started messing with the “Fluffhead” riff. It was
beautiful and fun. Therefore, my version here today, features that riff
prominently, perhaps even more centrally then the actual version. No matter. It’s
cool. “I’m going down to the central part of town,” a wise man once said. And
that’s what I did here today. Hope you dig some head of the fluff. Peace.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 263 “The Game
Remains the Same”
In a world seemingly complete with constant change, there is
one place left to look for a true constant. That place is Mission Valley, San
Diego, California, home of the NFL’s Chargers. Now that is a crew who can turn
a prom into the parking lot, a McDonald’s parking lot… at midnight. No lead, no
fortune, no loyalty, is too great to squander. When they’re not plotting to
leave San Diego, or have taxpayers pay to move them somewhere there is no
space, they demonstrate their disappointing nature on the gridiron.
Yesterday, was Opening Day in the NFL. Los Chagres built a
large lead on the Chiefs in Kansas City, 24-3, or something like that. They then proceeded to Chargers all over the whole thing, losing their best wide
receiver, Keenan Allen, for the season, in the process. They lost 33-27 to the
shock and surprise of absolutely no one. This song, “The Game Remains the
Same,” was written in the immediate aftermath of the Lightning Bolt’s latest
work of shart. I hope you like it. Stephen Stills’ once sang, “Love the One
With You’re With,” I’m not sure what’s lovable about perpetual heartbreak. We
could ask Cub fans, I suppose… What I do lift from Stephen’s sentiment is this,
“Know the one you’re with,” as knowing the Chargers is not only the only way to
stomach their seasons of sucking, but the only to truly taste a fine wine is to
know it’s a fine wine you’re tasting. Not that I’ve had much fine wine. The
point, appreciate what you go for what they’re great at. The Padres, excuse me,
the football Padres are the Super Bowl champions of letting their fns down
every time, in a variety of devastating and creative ways. No one is larger
than the Chargers at breaking your heart…
Except maybe the Browns, Jets, Falcons, Vikings, Dolphins,
Lions, Buccaneers, Bills and Eagles.
Actually, definitely not the Buccaneers. They actually won
once since the 1972 season.
A couple more notes: This is your Sports Song of the Week, a
project within a project. Sweet Mondays. I am programmed to come up with
Chargers song as part of my great friendship with Scott Kaplan and Charger
legend Billy Ray Smith of The Mighty 1090’s “The Scott and BR Radio Show.” I’ve
been on their show with songs like these for a couple of years now. Hopefully, I’ll visit and play this
song for them some time later this week. You can catch Scott and BR on 1090AM, 3-6
weekdays in San Diego, or any time you want at www.mighty1090.com
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 263 “Getting
Better” by The Beatles
It’s “getting better all the time,” The Beatles sang in
1967. Clearly, The Beatles didn’t know of Charger football. I like their
optimism though. What is far less than ideal is the woman beating they boast
about in this song. I sure hope they got better. Geez! I ranted about this after the song some, but many a song, singe of violence against ladies and
other humans. Let’s not even visit “Oh Susanna.” “Hey Joe?” “Down By the
River?” Gosh…. The stuff in those songs makes the beatings the Chargers take
seem downright gentle.
Well, I love The Beatles, but songs about beating ladies
wouldn’t fly as brightly here in the 21st century and I say that’s
OK. Then again shows with that stuff in it and movies are raking in the dough.
I guess songs and movies are little to be concerned with in a world where folks
starve and suffer in wars we shouldn’t have. Well, I like the Beatles’
optimism. If it’s getting better all the time, than maybe there’s hope for the
Chargers yet. And if they can get better, well, I’d say it’s inevitable that
we’ll get better too. Now, to figure out, what’s better?
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 263 “Some Change. Others Charge”
Here, we take one last chance to laugh (and sing) at the Chargers for
charging and reflect on a couple other odd peccadilloes stumbled over on the
road to consummating Day 263 on this here Operation 365 2.
Special thanks to Thom Senzee and the folks at The
Huffington Post for their lovely article about yours truly and this historic
project. Here’s a link, if you like reading.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 262 “Hit Your Own
Button”
Been having a lot of fun ranting and raving lately about
nonsense on the “Words” component on the now legendary and record-breaking 365.
Ha! A couple of people have asked me how it feels to be famous since my
Huffington Post article went live Friday. Uhhh… The same. Here is some first
rate shenanigans, touching on a wide variety of topics from invisible little
button-pushing men to the high quality and great work done by “Brown” folks
over the year. Enjoy Happy Sunday!
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 262 “The Ballad
of John and Yoko” by John Lennon
I was talking about “Brown” folks here, and then I went to
pick a cover in my front yard for you and I landed here at this tune. One of
the first lines in it, One I did not recall was about a man named Peter Brown,
a “Brown” man. How about that. Note: I have no idea what “color” Peter Brown
is. Who cares? Anyway, I powered through and near the end a neighbor walked by.
He loves wrestling, even has a customized wrestling license plate. That’s’ here
for you too. The Operation 365: the gift that keeps on giving. Love you.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 262 “Sympathy”
I took a few stabs at my "Twenty Oh-One" song but then decided against it. It is a song sung by The Great Christmas Tree in one of my afore-mentioned Christmas musicals. I think I will instead go with something a bit less provocative here on September 11th, 2016. It's really not that provocative, but with sensitivities being what they are, and my mostly wanting to hold off on my Christmas musical songs anyway, I went in a different direction. I went with "Sympathy". The point of this little song "Sympathy" is that it's not always easy to feel. Sure, you can't not feel sympathy for folks who were personally affected by 9/11. I'd hope that goes without saying.
Some situations are stickier though. For instance, they've been cutting down some stately old trees in the neighborhood here for safety. Well, that's great, but a lot of people don't want to see the trees go down. There is this whole pipeline issue in the news with the Native Americans in Dakotas. The Native Americans are another group it is very easy to sympathize and empathize with. I watched millionaire, retired WWE champion CM Punk try his luck unsuccessfully in the Octagon at UFC 203. Well, it's hard not to have sympathy for a dude who dreams big and takes a pounding, but that's why it is complicated and interesting and that's what this song, that I just made up here today for you, "Sympathy" is all about.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 261 “Even Rarer”
Hello! Another day of grand living on the 365. Will he step
it up a huge notch? The nation is asking. With the eyes of the world, firmly
fixated on the 365, due to the lovely article in The Huffington Post
Folks wanna know. Is he gonna go for a whole new level of
entertainment, capitalizing on the long-awaited attention? Absolutely not. I am
staying me and intend to continue the exact same brand of nonsense I’ve
faithfully brought you since Thanksgiving 20101, with a five-year hiatus from
Thanksgiving 2011 ‘til Christmas 2015. Enough history, let’s launch into
today’s incredible entertainment.
Oh wait, a couple of little details first. With this “news”
two (at least) things are now
cemented for all eternity (or at least until the Internet retires) I am now
officially the artist behind the largest 365 Internet project in history.
Genius, visionary journalist Thom Senzee has dubbed yours truly “the publisher
of “largest ‘365 project’ in the history of the World Wide Web.” Bam! The other
one is he dubbed me a stand-up comic… I stand. I make jokes. I’ll buy it.
Occasionally I sit and make jokes. Does that make me a sit-down comic as well.
It’s best to know when you don’t know. I don’t know. Now to today’s
history-making nonsense.
First, I ranted about some silliness. I don’t even remember
what even though it was only ten minutes or so ago. These 365 really pile up on
the brain. I love a good brain pile though, so bring it.
The universe it loves us. You keep with the kindness.
What is rare?
“You are rad. Keep it up.” – A Bird of Paradise
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 261 “Life Is
the Most”
Then, I decided to get all creative on y’all. I went to the
familiar and supportive key of G, to improvise I little blues song for ya, about
how great life is, as we speak. Oh, yeah! I hope you are loving life as well.
If not, this doctor has a prescription for ya. More 365. Yes, you just may need
a while lot more 365 in your life. Fortunately for you, I have 2000 videos in
the can, ready to watch, and 300 more coming down the pike.
Hail the pike and feel the love. What are you gonna do when
The Operation 365 runs wild on you? Love me some life.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 261 “Uptown Funk You Up” by Bruno Mars
Or whoever really wrote it. If you click on this video, you'll see me focusing less on the groove that made this song a smash hit, and more on the lyrics which I'll let speak for themselves. I've said many times, everything needn't be serious. I think this song is serious though. Serious about making a star out of Bruno and providing a woo-hoo anthem for the party people of the world. That's OK.
My job is not to judge. Great for Bruno. The world could use some depth too, even if they get it as a side dish to a huge plate of the dance-party boozing, this song is all about. God bless. Party on, but save some space for love and depth whenever it's time comes. Peace
I just learned “Uptown Funk You Up” is a Mark Ronson song. Never heard
of him. OK.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 260 “The Crystal
Ship” by The Doors
I wonder what "The Crystal Ship" is. I guess I could look it up, but apparently, I don't wonder quite that much. It's OK. I like a little mystery. Wanna know an interesting mystery? One we'll never know the answer to? I wonder what it would have been like if Jim Morrison made it to 2016. Would he remain the iconoclast he was in his life or would he have taken the paycheck like so many other 60's heroes and me pitching us Maybelline by now. Maybe he'd have pulled a Bruce/Caitlyn Jenner and be name Eunice by now. Who knows?
Well, The Doors remain provocative and interesting, so I'll have to fall back once more on one of my favorite old axioms, "Everything happens for a reason."
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay -
Originals - 260 “Salute to How It Seems”
On Labor Night, my beloved bride went schluffy (it means to sleep) early so I literally stepped up (out of bed) and went and wrote a dozen or so songs at about 11:11, approximately. It took 80 minutes or so. For some strange reason, I filmed myself writing these songs although all it involved was my writing words and chords on pages in my notebook for a really long time. Probably some of the boringest footage ever. Apparently, the computer Gods agreed, 'cause it's gone, nowhere to be seen. I guess I must be glad that only that footage vanished. Probably saves me from lugging it around in hard drives for decades as well. I'll take. Here's the second song of the string, one I've enjoyed playing at work lately. New songs are so fun. They're like babies. All fresh-faced and full of potential. All upside.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 260 “Staying Classy”
I know this is Southern California, where all the beautiful people reside, but I am not here to be objectified. Nosiree, Roberto. I think not. Now here, on Day 260, seemed as good a time as any to draw some firm lines and what types of titillation will and won't be accepted on this program. No blatant nudity. No sexual things. That about sums it up. Keeping it clean. If you're looking for some more scandalous material, might I suggest the first 365 by yours truly, or any of a million other website specializing in this sort of suggestive salacion.
No serious ideas were harmed in the making of this video
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 259 “Jane Says”
by Jane’s Addiction
Jane’s Addiction was definitely one of the cooler bands
around when I went to UMASS in the early 90’s. Some of my truly hip friend with
older siblings even knew about them when we were still in high school. “Ritual
de lo Habitual” and “Nothing’s Shocking” got cranked a lot. Even their weird
movie “The Gift” got watched some. As an old teenager, lots of folks told me I
resembled Jane’s frontman Perry Farrell. One time, some years later, I saw him
a party in San Francisco. That night, he looked much better than I did. That’s
an understatement.
We got to play before Jane’s Addiction as a big show on a
side stage some years ago. It was fun. They were amazing live. “Jane Says” is a
two-chord masterpiece. How I didn’t run into it during the first 365 is a
mystery that will forever remain unsolved.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay -
Originals - 259 “The Jackal"
Yesterday, I was the lion. Today,
I am the jackal. That’s what we learn in a decade, that we’re not as big as we thought
and we may be a dog and not a cat. I can buy it. I was enjoying some Parks and
Rec on Netflix and they got into an episode about what they’re spirit animals
were. I became intrigued and thought, maybe my spirit animal is a jackal. Research
began. Then I wrote a song about what I learned. It even says that in the first
two lines. This is also the only song I’ve ever written that features the
phrase “urine and feces” Congratulations world, another great day!
Accomplishments abound!
I forgot how the end went. It has some weird chords I forgot. So I made it up, musically. I think it works fine.
Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words - 259 “Riveting Banter”
So it's about 4PM. Yankee baseball is about to begin. Yet, I find myself in the familiar predicament of needing to spit out a few words of wisdom first before I can finish my functional fun for the afternoon. So with al the pressure on, like Game 7, 2 on, 2 out, game on the line, I stepped up to the plate and said some words. Heroic. American pride welled up within me. I spoke.
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