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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 301 “The Edginess of Youth”

Some years back I found myself at a college football game. Free tickets I believe. My friend produces the KGB Sky Show, a local annual event where they blow up awesome fireworks along with some rockin’ music. Because it was college football, many youths surrounded us on all sides and I couldn’t help but hear their collegiate conversations. Let’s just say they weren’t super scholarly. I could hardly take it honestly, after awhile. So I diverted myself by writing this song, right there at my seat, about “The Edginess of Youth.” It’s a song and it helped me make it through the 4^th quarter, so hooray it. College seems so long ago when I think back on the day I wrote this song.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 301 “Put a Little Love in Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon

Some of the folks I work with were getting pumped up to do a singing/sign language version of this jam recently. I had fun playing it with them and here we are. I never heard of  Jackie DeShannon, but that doesn't mean she's not amazing. She wrote this jam with her brother. Isn't that nice. Hail Jackie and feel the love. That's what its all about.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 301 “Happy Birthday Don”



Today would be the 42nd birthday of one of my main men of all-time, Don Truesdail. Here, I share a few thoughts on the impact he had in my life and how grateful I am for our continuing connection. Don was a big part of the original Operation 365. This "Words" section was an "Archives" section where I shared many performances from some of my fine friends, filmed at shows I put on back then. I made a point to share all the video I have of Don, aka "The Parlor City Bard." I covered his music, told our story in the blogs and essentially did everything in my power to see to it that his legacy lives on.

Just last week, friends and family of Don's, tributed the man and his music at an event called Don Fest. I wish I could have been there but I am so thrilled they did that and all got to experience and celebrate Don's life's work. Well, I'll leave it at that for now. So much has already been said, but hail, my brother, and if you want to know a little more real quick, just click, 'cause I tell a story or two in this little homage to my friend, “Happy Birthday Don.”

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 300 “Too Far Gone”

Folks, few days are more red-letter in a 365 than Day 300. That means you are pretty far along, far too far along to abandon ship. Yes, we are approaching consummation of a second 365. Who else in the world does this? Who else can? Nobody. Am I bragging? I don't think so. I think it is fact. 

Now another fair question is, so what? Big deal. I wouldn't want to do that, one might argue. That is fair, I say, but that does not change the fact that I did and no one else has and being the only one on the planet who knows what goes into it, I'm not predicting anyone else ever will. Is it healthy? Absolutely. A little work every day, Some creativity, some productivity, Absolutely. How about doing stuff on days you don't want to? It builds character. It doesn't kill you, therefore, it makes you stronger. I feel stronger because of it. It just goes to show how far you've got to go to do something no one else has done at this point in the world's existence.  

So, this song is not about 365ing. In fact it's about something that's equally illogical though, falling in love. If you fall in love, you're already too far gone, There's no easy way out. Someone may get hurt. That is love. I'm predicting no one takes on an injury in the final 65 days of this intellectual exercise, but you'll have to stay tuned to see for sure. That's life for ya. Unpredictable. Like why would you even do a second 365. Because I can. That's why. Maybe I'm just "Too Far Gone."

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 300 “A Higher Place” by Tom Petty


Heard a band playing some Tom Petty song I never here bands play live the other day. It wasn’t this one. It was one from the “Wildflowers.” It was “Cabin Down Below.” I love that record. That cover of theirs inspired me to seek out this cover of mine. I may do that “Cabin Down Below” number some time soon as well. I think every day is a gift and if you are able to enjoy those gifts, you will indeed matriculate to a higher place.

Great music can aid you on your way. Accomplishments are the gateway. Creativity. Productivity. Day 300 is nice. I am taking a moment to reflect and appreciate what I’ve done here with you so far. Thanks for existing. May we all graduate to “A Higher Place.” That is the reason for the season. God bless.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 300 “The Meaning of 300”

Here, we take a final minute on Day 300 to reflect on the historic significance of this number. In some sports, bowling and baseball, for instance, the number 300 is a symbol of greatness, excellence if you will, even, dare I say, perfection. That’s right. Here, we bask and examine, just a little bit, what it means to have traveled so far down this unique creative avenue. I love you. Thanks for your support and if you make it back some time in the last 65 days ‘round here, we’ll leave the light on for ya. 

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 299 “Bee Interrupt This Program”

The Operation 365 brings you exclusive continuing coverage of the bee discovered yesterday. While our sleuth units have been digging 24-7 into the bee’s past, we have yet to uncover answers to the hard-hitting questions that are out there. Who is this bee? Will he be claiming the Republican nomination for President some time in the future. Is the bee even male? No one knows yet, but we at O365 are committed to getting you accurate answers and fast. Here is additional footage that we have acquired. It was filmed yesterday we believe and definitively shows that this bee may or not not be up to some serious shenanigans.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 299 “Bee”

Folks, Bee mania has swept the nation. Songs are popping up from all fifty states saluting this pioneer, this hero, this bee. To bee, folks? The answer can only be a resounding, “Yes!” Please enjoy Operation 365’s contribution to the story that’s taking the nation by storm, this mysterious and magnificent bee.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 299 “Free to Be You and Me” by The New Seekers

So, when I was a youngster, we had the record for “Free to Be You and Me.” I think a lot of people did. It was quite popular. I dug it. It was hip, as in hippie, more than hipster. Mel Brooks, "It's Alright to Cry," and the seminal title classic. Here it goes. No, banjo, but lots of love and soul. 

Shout-out to the bee that's taken over the news cycle and thew airwaves. I think what folks love most about the bee is it's freeness to be whatever it needs to be. No one will put it in a box, or a hive, as they case may be. No, this be is free, just like you and me, long to be. We love the bee for it's giant freeness, but will that be enough to lead it to the election in 2020? It's not to late to clearly see the power of the be.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 298 “Yankees Vs. A’s”

“Yankees Vs. A’s” was written as the disclaimer to al my other songs. I wrote it many years ago and am surprised it didn’t make it into the 365. I wrote it in the 90’s. 98 sounds right. In Denver. While watching a Yankees-A’s game. I think I may have a Yankee’s vs. Rangers” song somewhere too, but it wasn’t as significant or memorable as this one. It’s in a notebook in there. I like this tune and had fun playing it today.

Very very briefly, I was in a band called JJ & The Hustlers. It was the first band I fronted with my tunes really. It was only together for two gigs but it was fun. We played “Yankees Vs. A’s” heavy in that band. I hadn’t really imagined it that way I was thinking more cheesy and loungey… smarmy. But it was fun. Sounded really Primus-y. Maybe I’ll share that one of these years, Hail all my friends form way back then in JJ & The Hustlers. Positive memories.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 298 “Wonderwall” by Oasis

I don't really have too many serious thoughts about Oasis or "Wonderwall" I know they are polarizing, but I am nonplussed. I wonder if I used that word right. Probably not. I don't care right now. I know they have an album called "What's the Story, Morning Glory?" and I know morning glory is pretty hard core stuff. I think it attacked me. Well, maybe I attacked it first. I'm not sure. More at 11. 

I do know its great when you can love your brother... 

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 298 “BEE 2016”

BREAKING STORY: Folks, we have a huge exclusive here on the 365. It is going to trump all other stories in 2016 and we’re the first network on the scene with this bee. There is still a great deal of intrigue and mystery as to the details of who this bee really is. We can not say for certain what organizations he may be linked to. We can’t even say for certain that it is a he. What is certain is that we will be covering this story with the gravitas and journalistic integrity that a story of this nature demands. The public demands and deserves answers and The Operation 365 is your #1 for sure source into the news that matters most. We will now return to our regular programming, but we will be braking in with updates as this situation unfolds.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - BONUS – 297 “I Am... I Said” by Neil Diamond



Neil Diamond is just about the funniest guy when it goes to being way serious about your music making. I love his delivery and it is almost impossible to not have fun while sing Neil's songs. I was feeling. I let it roll. I even checked to make sure I hadn't done “I Am... I Said” in the first 365. It seemed to pass that test, but as I was preparing it for postage, I checked one more time. I had a funny feeling... Yep. In the last week of the first 365 in 2011, I “I Am... I Said"-ed hard. So back to the drawing board. A little extra work on a Sunday. I decided to post it anyway. Why not? What the heck.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 297 “Zsa Zsa Gabor”

I was being silly and started singing a song about Zsa Zsa Gabor. I said she is 94. Let me check and me see if that is true. Wow. It turns out she is 99. My friend Dan cast aspersion on her noble character, joking I'm sure but I censored it, 'cause I think censorship is great.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 297 “A Little from the Love Fest”



We went to an incredible party last night celebrating the marriage of our friends Laura and Dan. It was exactly as special as a party of that nature should be. Inspiring. Great music. Fine beverages. A cheese truck and some long-time friends. Great people. They called the party "The Love Fest" and it was a fitting moniker indeed. This song is a little happy hangover from the Fest. I brought a couple of the images that linger to life and then sang about love, because that is the reason for the season, every season. Cheers to Laura and Dan. We wish you a life of love and more of the excellence to exhibit each day you exist, Thanks for including us. We love you. Hope to hang again real soon.


Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 297 “1968” by Turnpike Troubadours



So, I thought I had a cover ready to go before I realized I already did “I Am... I Said” five years ago. So I thought, what should I do? Maybe I'll play the #1 song in the country, whatever that is. Well, miraculously I already did that tune, "Closer" by The Chainsmokers. I've still never heard it, but I did do it a couple weeks back.

Then, I thought, there's 68 days left in this 365. 1968 was one of the most interesting years in American history, so I wondered if there was a tune called "1968." I typed "1968" and "chords" into Google and found this tune by another group I've never heard of, "Turnpike Troubadours." Pretty straight forward and fun song to play. Sounds like it was written about a friend of theirs who died in 1968. I'm not sure. Hope you like it. Have a great day. Peace

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 296 “69”

Every day’s a cause to celebrate. They’re all red-letter days if you let ‘em be. Today, I’m a whoopin’ and hollerin’ ‘cause there’s only 69 days left in this here 365. This little numerical fact had me all inspired so I did what I do. I busted out my unnamed guitar and let the creative juices flow. When it was sang and done, a new tune was born and it sounded a whole heck of a lot like this.

Last night, I’d be remise to not mention, was another incredible evening of music at La Jolla’s Athenaeum Music & Arts Library. I am proud to produce what is truly becoming one San Diego’s finest music series, Acoustic Evenings at The Athenaeum with Jefferson Jay. Every night in this city, fabulous acts, national, international and local take to stages and do amazing. Honestly, far more than our million or so constituents can take in. Regardless, Jimmy Patton, Enrique Platas, Danielle Summerville, Case Ainley, Jimmy Dugan and George Narvaez joined me to put on a show for the ages for those blessed to be a part of it.

I have not been in a room where so many minds were blown in many years. Everybody played brilliantly, beautifully, but what Jimmy and Enrique do is so far beyond what can be believed. Even seeing it, does very little to remove the mysticism from their magic. Wow. Compliments were flying in all directions. Special things are happening here in this city. If the world were ever to find out, they’ be enraged with us for hoarding these sublime talents and allowing them to remain in obscurity in a world so desperately in need of proper inspiration. In the meantime, we musically, spiritually, and creatively soldier on, making our own personally epiphanies in lieu of any meaningful response from the public-at-large.

That said, I am not complaining, quite the contrary in fact. In a world where so many long for authenticity, organic experiences and art and experiences that are meaningful and true, we have more of these that we know what do with. We are blessed in this regard and we remain open, available and interested and sharing what makes our space and our selves so special with the rest of the waiting world. I hope when they discover us, we’re still around to share our sentient nature with their souls. Thanks to all who came and/or played at the show. That’s truly what living and sharing spiritually rewarding moments on Earth is all about.

Last night the theme of our show was “thinking outside the box.” I shared the fact that producing CDs forced me to find “outside the box” solutions to the types of technical problems that invariably pop up in the course of making a record. I talked about how our afore-mentioned musicals built “outside the box thinking” into their approach to doing what they do. Then to match my words with actions, I improvised a song for the audience to start the show. I even let them pick the tropics. Would you believe they had me sing about “Trump” and “Hillary…” and “gardening.” So I did, I think I even managed to avoid alienating anyone entirely. Hooray! So, here I did it again today, this time choosing my own topic of interest, the fact that as of today only 69 days remain in this labor of life, known as the Operation 365 2.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 296 “Oh, Brett Walling”

It was a Sunday night, about an era ago. A select group of us were hanging out enjoying the regular Sunday night  act at the venue I called home for years, Portugalia. Things commonly got crazy at The Port, which was one of the things that made it such a fun and interesting place to be. Our act this night was duo from the rock outfit, Chimney Fish, singer/songwriter Brett Walling and guitarist Jeff Shaefer.  Those two really knew how to whoop it up and some of these unsung Sundays were among the most memorable nights of the whole thing for those fortunate enough to be in attendance.

One night Brett was really on fire. He broke a string, “borrowed” Jeff’s guitar to finish the set, which he did but not before I encouraged him to sing this little song I wrote at that moment. That song is this song, “Oh, Brett Walling,” which I reproduce here under far more sedate circumstances. Best wishes, Brett. I, for one, will be marking out at the Chimney Fish reunion, whenever the universe deems it time.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 296 “Destruction Device” by Justin Mills

“Destruction Device” is a song I intended to play as soon as I began this second 365. Justin Mills is a friend of mine, formerly of Open Mic. I even enjoyed the pleasure of backing him on bass for a piece of time. I sang a song I wrote for he and his new wife Raquel, some months earlier in this endeavor. I love Justin’s songwriting. Even though, for most intents and purposes, he is retired as a musician, I can’t allow his incredible body of work to completely fade into the past. I love it far too much. And I am not the only one. Justin made quite a musical impression on many of talented folks who were gathered back in the Portugalia Era.

I love this song. Who knows what details Justin had in his head with this metaphor of a “Destruction Device.” There are so many dysfunctional parts of the world, it’s hard to guess and that number has only multiplied since he wrote this song years ago. It sure resonated to me in regards to our current 2016 presidential election. I don’t know what could be more destructive than the empty rhetoric and transparent corruption that illustrates this battle from all sides.

In any case, I tried to bring some of the snide spirit Justin brought his satire and I hope you all enjoy his brilliance as much as I do. Justin, if you read this, I am hereby issuing the first invitation to the ten-year anniversary show of our 2008 “24 Hours of Free Music” masterpiece of a concert/day. I have no idea exactly where or when it will be. I guess there’s a chance it won’t even happen, but I hope it does and I hope if it does, you decide to unretire once again and honor us with your array of incredible songs. Unsung humans everywhere folks. What a gift to exist in these cosmos, surrounded by millions of anonymous stars.

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Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Covers – 295 “Paul Revere” by The Beastie Boys

Today’s theme is “thinking outside the box.” I am hosting a concert tonight at The Athenaeum Music & Arts Library in La Jolla. It is going to be awesome. It is all musicians who do things a little differently. That is a valuable skill to have and share in the world today. I’m excited to hear some George Narvaez, Danielle Sumerville and to meet local legend Jimmy Patton. Woo hoo.

I first became “officially” aware of this phenomena “thinking outside the box” while working on Pro Tools on my first few CDs. CDs 2, 3, 4 in my discography were3 called “Primary Colors,” individually “Red,” “Yellow,” and “Blue; A Kid’s Album.” Anyway, on the road to making this music, there were many dilemmas and pitfalls that required workarounds. Sometimes, it took hours. We learned the art of uncovering creative solutions a.k.a. “thinking outside the box.” It applies, obviously, in many other ways as well, for instance in the music-making stylings of my performers at The Athenaeum show tonight. Jimmy Patton literally plays two guitars at the same time.

Today, my dear friend and long-time trumpeter, Paul Ruiz, came over to lay some tracks on our upcoming “The Best of Operation 365” CD. There were some workarounds needed. We had to take a different track if we wanted to accomplish our goals for the session. We did exactly this and it worked. Then I stepped out into the living room on a break and recorded this “outside the box” version of Paul Revere. Paul ate Jack in the Box on the way over. Yet another box it’s best to stay outside. Hail The Beastie Boys and the guys who did that cool cover of “Gin and Juice.”

Best wishes to his future endeavors to former Padres President and CEO and Beasties-namesake, Mike Dee, who was relieved of his duties earlier this week. Seems last-place and industry-wide shameful behavior do have consequences after all. Now speaking of relief from one’s duties…

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Originals– 295 “The Ballad of the Unsung Vegetables”

Some of us don’t get enough credit no matter how incredibly awesome we are. Take my brother, turnips, for instance. Parsnips, rutabagas, artichokes deserve more love too. Where the hell would we be in this world without radishes. We are all one and therefore, I’m a doozer and so are you. Now, lets dooze and appreciate whatever it is we gotta dooze to sees to it that these veggies receive their just dooze.

Operation 365 2 - Jefferson Jay - Words – 295 “Some Odds and Ends”

Occasionally, there are but a few bits of housekeeping that remain in an eventful week. These are those. Here I pick them up with my metaphorical dustpan and say what needed to be said. Words.