Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 320 Richard Romero and Friends 2-12-2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83meslGp0a8
Here is the song after the song I posted yesterday from Richard Romero's set on February 12, 2009. Richard was joined by by Maciej Switacz on flute, Paul Lopez on congas, The Soul Man on guiro and yours truly on some additional lead guitar. Right on, to the righteous, jamtastic, 70s representin' Richard Romero.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 320 "Light My Fire" by The Doors
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FwmQLBWjHmg
That's right. My fire's been lit by love, by life and I am fired up as all heavin' heck. I may have to make my way down to the San Diego Civic Center and go kick it with my brethren fighting for justice. Peaceful fighting, my favorite. No violence. Peace and love. I thought that ship had sailed. That "Crystal Ship" if you will. Justice is arriving in America. The spirit of justice, which is hope and faith. Belief things can and will improve, stepping out to do something to make it so. I love it, like I love music, like I love a sunset, like I love an individual artist expressing his or her self fearlessly. like I love my family, girlfriend, my pooches and you. Cause that, my friends, is what life is all about. Loving in face of everything, always.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 320 "Solidarity Song"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J4GY_PluOW4
Each day I grow prouder and prouder of my brothers and sisters standing on the streets, speaking up for what is right, with the Occupy Wall Street movement. Everywhere I go I hear all these haters who've been conditioned to believe as Americans they don't deserve anything. It sickens me, people think if you want a good education, if you want health care, if you any sort of equality financially, that you are looking for a hand-out, that you don't want to work. It is nonsense. These folks think no one should say anything ever and everyone should just accept what little scraps fall to them off the billionaire's plates. I see things differently. To me a great nation, looks out for its constituents. It wants a population where people are given opportunities to thrive and achieve. This is the America my grandparent grew up in, my parents grew up in. In America that was great becas3u everybody got a chance to succeed.
Now all these folks think that that it's un-American to expect America's richest citizens to pay the same 5 tax as average Americans. It's obvious what is right and it's absurd that some folks are so greedy they just can't come to terms with the thought of sharing. hey can't come to terms with the thought of people having a small fraction of what they do. It drives them crazy. Has anybody read a history book. Do these rich imbeciles remember that out country was founded in Revolution against a tyrannical government that saw fit to tax in whatever manner they deemed appropriate.
This Paul Krugman makes some awesome points in an Opinion piece in the New York Times,
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/10/opinion/panic-of-the-plutocrats.html?_r=2&src=tp&smid=fb-share
Here's a quote:
"The way to understand all of this is to realize that it’s part of a broader syndrome, in which wealthy Americans who benefit hugely from a system rigged in their favor react with hysteria to anyone who points out just how rigged the system is."
Yep. #occupywallstret and watch the rich babies cry. They never learned sharing in kindergarten. They want all the toys for themselves. Not to mention the food, the health care, the education, the public voice... You can see how that's working out. Solidarity.
Stay tuned thorough the end to the hear the "Solidarity Rant" at the end of the "Solidarity Song."
Brothers and sisters, we are all one, even that 1%. We got to make them feel the love. Maybe we'll touch a nerve, or even a heart if we're lucky... if they have one. Just kidding. They do... right?
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Outtakes - 320 "Solidarity Rant"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IVnhR19C6hA
I detached my "Solidarity Rant" from the end of my "Solidarity Song" (where it was born) so those of you who prefer ranting, WWE-style, to musical ranting can enjoy one art form without the other. The love of peace, freedom and equality is alive in America. "Oooooh yeah !!!!! - "Macho Man" Randy Savage.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 313
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 319 Richard Romero 2-12-2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NGHbLzIEkQ
Here is Richard Romero, kicking off the Thursday show, on February 12, 2009. Richard is my bass player, but he plays his own awesome, 70's inspired, spacey and reflective songs. He is an amazing musician and a hell of a guy. Richard is joined here by Maciej Switacz on flute, Paul Lopez on congas and The Soul Man on guiro. Progressive, ambient, and lush, Richard Romero's textures really rule.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 319 "Chicago" by Graham Nash
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXLEeYjAQT8
Did I mention I was really excited about the awakened state demonstrated by the Occupy Wall Street movement? Well, I am. If anybody tells you this kind of stuff is un-American, than you should tell them they don't know what American is. You will be right. If everyone accepted the punitive crap that greedy, selfish leaders deemed them worthy of, we would all be British subjects, speaking English like songbirds of 500-year old fountains. That's what it sounded like to me when I was there. I had an easier time understanding the French.
I decided to go into the protest vault and dig on Graham Nash's "Chicago (We Can Change the World). Hell yeah! We can. We are. Maybe people will even start being interested in music again and what people are saying. I see a bright light on the horizon. I have been waiting a long, long time. I almost thought it was never gonna happen. Solidarity. Brotherhood and sisterhood. We all share a world. I view this a good thing. Everybody just needs to learn to play well with others. not try to hog all the toys for themselves. It is bad behavior and it's been ignored for to long. Hail peaceful protest and folks willing to stand up for what they believe in.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 319 "There Comes a Time"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xTK1An7UMY
Still being inspired by the actions of Americans and folks around the world, standing up against governments that have gone too far. Sharing is caring, bro. Dude, come on. You don't need 150 cars. It is tacky to have 46 houses. People starve to death. I'm sure you blame then for not working harder, or something, but I don't see it that away. I see a certain amount of stuff. Folks with power moves around that stuff where they think it should go. Money is one of those things. If you think because you worked heard, or your parents had a lot of money, that you are more entitled to 15 yachts than another human is to food, then to me, that's really messed up. To me, there is a connection. A direct one. A friend told me 30 billion dollars could feed everybody starving in the world. Then he told me the American military spends that every 8 days. I have not checked the numbers.
If you work hard and wanna have stuff, I think that's great. If you think having money makes you better or more important than anyone else, than you are sorely mistaken. Money goes away. Nothing lasts forever, except love. Love is the ingredient needed to take this movement higher. Only love can heal our fractured times. Everybody wants to be loved. You have to believe. It appears now is the time for change to reign. We are all one and there's a lot on the line. Now, what happens next?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NGHbLzIEkQ
Here is Richard Romero, kicking off the Thursday show, on February 12, 2009. Richard is my bass player, but he plays his own awesome, 70's inspired, spacey and reflective songs. He is an amazing musician and a hell of a guy. Richard is joined here by Maciej Switacz on flute, Paul Lopez on congas and The Soul Man on guiro. Progressive, ambient, and lush, Richard Romero's textures really rule.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 319 "Chicago" by Graham Nash
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXLEeYjAQT8
Did I mention I was really excited about the awakened state demonstrated by the Occupy Wall Street movement? Well, I am. If anybody tells you this kind of stuff is un-American, than you should tell them they don't know what American is. You will be right. If everyone accepted the punitive crap that greedy, selfish leaders deemed them worthy of, we would all be British subjects, speaking English like songbirds of 500-year old fountains. That's what it sounded like to me when I was there. I had an easier time understanding the French.
I decided to go into the protest vault and dig on Graham Nash's "Chicago (We Can Change the World). Hell yeah! We can. We are. Maybe people will even start being interested in music again and what people are saying. I see a bright light on the horizon. I have been waiting a long, long time. I almost thought it was never gonna happen. Solidarity. Brotherhood and sisterhood. We all share a world. I view this a good thing. Everybody just needs to learn to play well with others. not try to hog all the toys for themselves. It is bad behavior and it's been ignored for to long. Hail peaceful protest and folks willing to stand up for what they believe in.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 319 "There Comes a Time"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xTK1An7UMY
Still being inspired by the actions of Americans and folks around the world, standing up against governments that have gone too far. Sharing is caring, bro. Dude, come on. You don't need 150 cars. It is tacky to have 46 houses. People starve to death. I'm sure you blame then for not working harder, or something, but I don't see it that away. I see a certain amount of stuff. Folks with power moves around that stuff where they think it should go. Money is one of those things. If you think because you worked heard, or your parents had a lot of money, that you are more entitled to 15 yachts than another human is to food, then to me, that's really messed up. To me, there is a connection. A direct one. A friend told me 30 billion dollars could feed everybody starving in the world. Then he told me the American military spends that every 8 days. I have not checked the numbers.
If you work hard and wanna have stuff, I think that's great. If you think having money makes you better or more important than anyone else, than you are sorely mistaken. Money goes away. Nothing lasts forever, except love. Love is the ingredient needed to take this movement higher. Only love can heal our fractured times. Everybody wants to be loved. You have to believe. It appears now is the time for change to reign. We are all one and there's a lot on the line. Now, what happens next?
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 312
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 318 Katie D 12-23-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-2Dj-pSWbo
Katie D is a nice woman. I don't know her as well as many of the folks who have frequented my shows over the years. She seems less insane than most of them, but can yo really tell? She says she'll be stopping by my new Open Mic at The Reunion on Wednesday nights from 8-11 sometime soon. The Reunion is located at 2205 Mendocino Ave in case you were wondering.
This is Katie D from my Open Mic on December 23, 2008. God bless her.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 318 "Skip To My Lou" - Traditional
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AOEzhRfM8w
Needed a quick cover. Today is a busy day in OB. It is Oktoberfest. The Jefferson Jay Band is playing a gig in 40 minutes at Winston's as part of the festivities so I am squeezing in these here videos real quick, while I have a chance. "Skip To My Lou." Who is this Lou?
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 318 "Rush"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiLSuOvewqc
This song, "Rush," is not by Rush, and it will not give you a head rush. I don't believe. I hit play on my mind and whammo! A song. I busted this one out quick, lickety-split. What does it mean? I may never know. It is open to interpretation. Shout outs to Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart and everyone from Canada, with the possible exception of Russell Martin, who I'm still a little mad from earlier this week. It will pass. Life... what a rush.
Shout out to Al Davis. Commitment to Excellence. Rest in Peace.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-2Dj-pSWbo
Katie D is a nice woman. I don't know her as well as many of the folks who have frequented my shows over the years. She seems less insane than most of them, but can yo really tell? She says she'll be stopping by my new Open Mic at The Reunion on Wednesday nights from 8-11 sometime soon. The Reunion is located at 2205 Mendocino Ave in case you were wondering.
This is Katie D from my Open Mic on December 23, 2008. God bless her.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 318 "Skip To My Lou" - Traditional
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AOEzhRfM8w
Needed a quick cover. Today is a busy day in OB. It is Oktoberfest. The Jefferson Jay Band is playing a gig in 40 minutes at Winston's as part of the festivities so I am squeezing in these here videos real quick, while I have a chance. "Skip To My Lou." Who is this Lou?
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 318 "Rush"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiLSuOvewqc
This song, "Rush," is not by Rush, and it will not give you a head rush. I don't believe. I hit play on my mind and whammo! A song. I busted this one out quick, lickety-split. What does it mean? I may never know. It is open to interpretation. Shout outs to Geddy Lee, Alex Lifeson, Neil Peart and everyone from Canada, with the possible exception of Russell Martin, who I'm still a little mad from earlier this week. It will pass. Life... what a rush.
Shout out to Al Davis. Commitment to Excellence. Rest in Peace.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 311
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 317 "Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" by Joe Raposo
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0bqrvmoIlw
There are so many good reasons to cover "Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" its ridiculous. I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner. Where to begin. Well first, a huge props-filled shout out to Sesame Street for teaching me to read by the time I was two. It gave me a huge advantage on other students, which I spent the entire rest of my academic career squandering. Not your fault Sesame Street. That one's on me. I somehow wound up with with Master's degree. Then again, I haven't really used it for anything... Also on me. I am in a really good mood so please infer the tongue-in-cheekness into my diatribe.
Onward. Well, I loved that show, especially Grover. The Count, Oscar the Grouch, and Snuffle-Upagus also were role models for me in planning a life in this world. Jon Stone and Bruce Hart helped Joe Raposo write the lyrics in case you wondering.
"Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" as a cover song entered my life on a a couple noteworthy occasions. First when I lived in San Francisco in the late 90's, many of y most fun times happened at shows by my friends Jumbo. Jumbo was the hippest band in Marin County in those days and I was friends with them all. We had some connections going back to Massachusetts. I was in a banc with their drummer, Jesse Rudolph. He was the first dude I was ever in a band with who listened and that made me like playing music a whole lot more. I already liked it a lot.
So the Jumbo guys were awesome. I would go out to their shows. Sometimes, they would let me sit in. I would party with Noah (King), Darren (Nelson), Paul and Jay and we had a blast. I could go on, but the details are a bit lurid for public sharing. Sorry.
Then about ten years later, the Portugalia Era came about. My man Don Truesdail covered "Rubber Duckie," and my other super amigo Clifford M. Jomuad frequently belted out "Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" at many of his performances. Clifford always brought a high energy punched up version to the stage, usually referring to folks in the audience as "boys and girls." Incidentally, last Saturday afternoon, I enjoyed a performance by The Magic Montgomery Brothers at a church in Linda Vista. Clifford did an amazing job singing lead for the group, comprised of his crew from high school 30 yeas ago. It was a great vibes event and I couldn't stop smiling. Thanks to Clifford, Mike Lewis and the rest of The Montgomeries. Hope to hear you play again soon.
Finally, my direct inspiration for today's cover was a Facebook page I found called Occupy Sesame Street. An genial homage to inspired Occupy Wall Street protests, tauntr.com photoshopped some incredible images of the the gang getting manhandled by NYPD. I added them at the end of this video. Occupy Wall Street arrives in San Diego today. I have been working really hard teaching all the time and stuff, so I will be laying out of the first round of this fun locally, but I could not by happier for my fellow Americans for standing and sitting back down for something they believe in.
I have been reading some stories on the Occupy Wall Street movement and it seems Mayor Bloomberg and other folks, feel like thew people should just go away and accept things like they are. I bet they think that. Greed stinks. Sharing is caring. We need to return to marolas we teach our children and resume leading by example. Taking everything for yourself in unfair play. It's bully behavior and it's got to stop. Just because you can have endless wars, and keep all the monty for yourself doesn't make it right. We all live here. We are all in this together and everybody deserves some. No one is better than anyone else. Everybody has the right to live, eat and breathe. Some day, maybe soon I'm proud to say, people will look at our "culture" of selfish, superficial greed for what it is. Gross, revolting and wrong. It's simple. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Look it up. Democracy. One person. One vote. You're not supposed to be able to buy your way into making the world how you want it. All men are created equal. Come on!!!!!!!
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 317 Robin Lee "Pennies From Heaven" 12-23-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWxFHnfa-jI
Here, my homegirl Robin Lee does it again. I bet she's proud as a peach about the awakening occurring amongst some courageous Americans, standing up for fairness, justice and the ideal American way. Everybody gets a piece of the pie and if you don't like it (I've always wanted to use this one. It's been used on me so many times) LEAVE! That's right. If you're against people's right to peacefully assemble and stand up against injustices in the way our government works, go to Saudi Arabia or Syria or any place where the government decides how it is and no one has a say about anything. Our country was founded on disagreeing with a tyrannical leader who saw royal subjects instead of democratic citizens as the way that things should be.
This Occupy Wall Street movement has got me all fired up. Yes, it's just the beginning. There is so much more that needs to be done, of course, like all the change they're all campaigning for, for one thing, but it is the start that has me inspired. When Obama was elected, there was hope. It was the first time in recent memory, there was any reason to be excited about anything public and political in America. It was predictable that his impact would be muted as it is the system that has failed. No one person, even with the best intentions can make it all better. There are simply too may powerful people making too much money with it being the way it is. So I figured, the moment of his election was te triumph. It was the beginning of something, not necessarily something political, but hope in people's minds that the right thing can happen and that citizens may get a fair shake.
In many ways, things have gotten worse. I don't blame Obama per se, but he sure has polarized folks. His presence has revealed the crazy, nutjob, elitist, racist Right for exactly what it is. They should be called The Tea-Bag party, cause if they have they're way they'll teabag every America alive whose not a rich white fuck. Just give 'em time. Conservative means you don't want change. Well, change happens every day whether you like it or not and I feel confident this is only the beginning of protest in America. You better get used to it. Things just couldn't stay the way they were any longer. Thank God. I was wondering if this was ever going to happen.
So where I'm getting with this is, I feel like where the Occupy Wall Street movement is right now is "Pennies From Heaven," the classic Arthur Johnston and Johnny Burke-penned number, covered here by Robin Lee and Jack Davidson at my Open Mic 12-23-2008. I feel like the emergence of this movement is a gift from God, but it's just the beginning. The money disparity has in no way, shape or form begun to even itself out. That is probably the main reason the protestors haven't been beat down real bad yet, because the rich folks aren't yet feeling the financial pinch. God forbid Americans don't starve.
So that's why it's only pennies from heaven. It is just the beginning, a sprinkling of foretelling of social justice. It is just the initial announcement of the anger and emotion regarding the status quo. There is a lot of improvement to make in our world. I'm glad folks are rising up out of their shells and representing. It was sorely needed. I am proud to be alive at this pivotal time in our survival. Excelsior!
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 317 "Jay Allen Sanford"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TYh__ykc4I
OK. Enough ranting about in justice in the world. There is plenty to to celebrate. For instance, Mr. Jay Allen Sanford wrote an article about me an the 365 in this weeks San Diego Reader. The San Diego Reader is a free publication available all over San Diego County with a circulation of about 154,322 each week. He wrote about me in the Blurt column, devoted to local music and was even kind enough to tell me that it happened so I didn't miss it.
Links are here: http://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/2011/oct/05/blurt4/
and here: http://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/blurt/
That second one changes weekly, so if you don't click it this week, you won't see me and Gordo there as this week's lead story in the Blurt online. The first will be there until the internet no longer exists, at which point, none of this will matter any more.
So out of appreciation and respect for Jay Allen Sanford, I wrote a fight song in his honor. It was inspired, in part, by my high school's fight song. I believe the lyrics to that one were "Go Mighty Cutters." To show Jay Allen Sanford, the degree to which aI appreciate his attention and validation of my hundreds of hours of wrk, I enlisted the world cutest pup, Nigel for a special appearance to the 365. He, like me, now loves, Jay Allen Sanford. We are family, and by that I mean everybody. Everybody everywhere. We are one. And that is why one monster can't have all of the cookies to themselves. That's just not the way the cookie crumbles. Hail appreciation, respect, sharing and Jay Allen Sanford.
Shout out to Redd Foxx and the Theme Song from Sanford and Son.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5DnqW3F57E
NOTE: I've been carrying around The Reader with the article in it for two days and I had no idea. Thanks again to Jay Allen Sanford for telling me to look. I only had to go to my man purse to see my face in print. "I love it when a plan comes together." George Peppard as Hannibal Smith, The A-Team
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0bqrvmoIlw
There are so many good reasons to cover "Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" its ridiculous. I can't believe I didn't think of it sooner. Where to begin. Well first, a huge props-filled shout out to Sesame Street for teaching me to read by the time I was two. It gave me a huge advantage on other students, which I spent the entire rest of my academic career squandering. Not your fault Sesame Street. That one's on me. I somehow wound up with with Master's degree. Then again, I haven't really used it for anything... Also on me. I am in a really good mood so please infer the tongue-in-cheekness into my diatribe.
Onward. Well, I loved that show, especially Grover. The Count, Oscar the Grouch, and Snuffle-Upagus also were role models for me in planning a life in this world. Jon Stone and Bruce Hart helped Joe Raposo write the lyrics in case you wondering.
"Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" as a cover song entered my life on a a couple noteworthy occasions. First when I lived in San Francisco in the late 90's, many of y most fun times happened at shows by my friends Jumbo. Jumbo was the hippest band in Marin County in those days and I was friends with them all. We had some connections going back to Massachusetts. I was in a banc with their drummer, Jesse Rudolph. He was the first dude I was ever in a band with who listened and that made me like playing music a whole lot more. I already liked it a lot.
So the Jumbo guys were awesome. I would go out to their shows. Sometimes, they would let me sit in. I would party with Noah (King), Darren (Nelson), Paul and Jay and we had a blast. I could go on, but the details are a bit lurid for public sharing. Sorry.
Then about ten years later, the Portugalia Era came about. My man Don Truesdail covered "Rubber Duckie," and my other super amigo Clifford M. Jomuad frequently belted out "Can You Tell Me How To Get To Sesame Street" at many of his performances. Clifford always brought a high energy punched up version to the stage, usually referring to folks in the audience as "boys and girls." Incidentally, last Saturday afternoon, I enjoyed a performance by The Magic Montgomery Brothers at a church in Linda Vista. Clifford did an amazing job singing lead for the group, comprised of his crew from high school 30 yeas ago. It was a great vibes event and I couldn't stop smiling. Thanks to Clifford, Mike Lewis and the rest of The Montgomeries. Hope to hear you play again soon.
Finally, my direct inspiration for today's cover was a Facebook page I found called Occupy Sesame Street. An genial homage to inspired Occupy Wall Street protests, tauntr.com photoshopped some incredible images of the the gang getting manhandled by NYPD. I added them at the end of this video. Occupy Wall Street arrives in San Diego today. I have been working really hard teaching all the time and stuff, so I will be laying out of the first round of this fun locally, but I could not by happier for my fellow Americans for standing and sitting back down for something they believe in.
I have been reading some stories on the Occupy Wall Street movement and it seems Mayor Bloomberg and other folks, feel like thew people should just go away and accept things like they are. I bet they think that. Greed stinks. Sharing is caring. We need to return to marolas we teach our children and resume leading by example. Taking everything for yourself in unfair play. It's bully behavior and it's got to stop. Just because you can have endless wars, and keep all the monty for yourself doesn't make it right. We all live here. We are all in this together and everybody deserves some. No one is better than anyone else. Everybody has the right to live, eat and breathe. Some day, maybe soon I'm proud to say, people will look at our "culture" of selfish, superficial greed for what it is. Gross, revolting and wrong. It's simple. Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Look it up. Democracy. One person. One vote. You're not supposed to be able to buy your way into making the world how you want it. All men are created equal. Come on!!!!!!!
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 317 Robin Lee "Pennies From Heaven" 12-23-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWxFHnfa-jI
Here, my homegirl Robin Lee does it again. I bet she's proud as a peach about the awakening occurring amongst some courageous Americans, standing up for fairness, justice and the ideal American way. Everybody gets a piece of the pie and if you don't like it (I've always wanted to use this one. It's been used on me so many times) LEAVE! That's right. If you're against people's right to peacefully assemble and stand up against injustices in the way our government works, go to Saudi Arabia or Syria or any place where the government decides how it is and no one has a say about anything. Our country was founded on disagreeing with a tyrannical leader who saw royal subjects instead of democratic citizens as the way that things should be.
This Occupy Wall Street movement has got me all fired up. Yes, it's just the beginning. There is so much more that needs to be done, of course, like all the change they're all campaigning for, for one thing, but it is the start that has me inspired. When Obama was elected, there was hope. It was the first time in recent memory, there was any reason to be excited about anything public and political in America. It was predictable that his impact would be muted as it is the system that has failed. No one person, even with the best intentions can make it all better. There are simply too may powerful people making too much money with it being the way it is. So I figured, the moment of his election was te triumph. It was the beginning of something, not necessarily something political, but hope in people's minds that the right thing can happen and that citizens may get a fair shake.
In many ways, things have gotten worse. I don't blame Obama per se, but he sure has polarized folks. His presence has revealed the crazy, nutjob, elitist, racist Right for exactly what it is. They should be called The Tea-Bag party, cause if they have they're way they'll teabag every America alive whose not a rich white fuck. Just give 'em time. Conservative means you don't want change. Well, change happens every day whether you like it or not and I feel confident this is only the beginning of protest in America. You better get used to it. Things just couldn't stay the way they were any longer. Thank God. I was wondering if this was ever going to happen.
So where I'm getting with this is, I feel like where the Occupy Wall Street movement is right now is "Pennies From Heaven," the classic Arthur Johnston and Johnny Burke-penned number, covered here by Robin Lee and Jack Davidson at my Open Mic 12-23-2008. I feel like the emergence of this movement is a gift from God, but it's just the beginning. The money disparity has in no way, shape or form begun to even itself out. That is probably the main reason the protestors haven't been beat down real bad yet, because the rich folks aren't yet feeling the financial pinch. God forbid Americans don't starve.
So that's why it's only pennies from heaven. It is just the beginning, a sprinkling of foretelling of social justice. It is just the initial announcement of the anger and emotion regarding the status quo. There is a lot of improvement to make in our world. I'm glad folks are rising up out of their shells and representing. It was sorely needed. I am proud to be alive at this pivotal time in our survival. Excelsior!
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 317 "Jay Allen Sanford"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TYh__ykc4I
OK. Enough ranting about in justice in the world. There is plenty to to celebrate. For instance, Mr. Jay Allen Sanford wrote an article about me an the 365 in this weeks San Diego Reader. The San Diego Reader is a free publication available all over San Diego County with a circulation of about 154,322 each week. He wrote about me in the Blurt column, devoted to local music and was even kind enough to tell me that it happened so I didn't miss it.
Links are here: http://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/2011/oct/05/blurt4/
and here: http://www.sandiegoreader.com/news/blurt/
That second one changes weekly, so if you don't click it this week, you won't see me and Gordo there as this week's lead story in the Blurt online. The first will be there until the internet no longer exists, at which point, none of this will matter any more.
So out of appreciation and respect for Jay Allen Sanford, I wrote a fight song in his honor. It was inspired, in part, by my high school's fight song. I believe the lyrics to that one were "Go Mighty Cutters." To show Jay Allen Sanford, the degree to which aI appreciate his attention and validation of my hundreds of hours of wrk, I enlisted the world cutest pup, Nigel for a special appearance to the 365. He, like me, now loves, Jay Allen Sanford. We are family, and by that I mean everybody. Everybody everywhere. We are one. And that is why one monster can't have all of the cookies to themselves. That's just not the way the cookie crumbles. Hail appreciation, respect, sharing and Jay Allen Sanford.
Shout out to Redd Foxx and the Theme Song from Sanford and Son.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5DnqW3F57E
NOTE: I've been carrying around The Reader with the article in it for two days and I had no idea. Thanks again to Jay Allen Sanford for telling me to look. I only had to go to my man purse to see my face in print. "I love it when a plan comes together." George Peppard as Hannibal Smith, The A-Team
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 310
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 316 Robin Lee 12-23-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxgrQz5NCmU
Robin Lee week continues here on the 365 with another clip of her playing at my Open Mic on December 23, 2008. 2008 was just before things got crazy for my friends and I down here. You can still feel the old, care-free, good friends vibe floating around in the air. I let this clip run long because I thought the banter with Robin, Edem Bastos and myself was too funny to chop off. It is authentic. I love authentic and it doesn't get much more real than Robin Lee. Still has her long hair too here. Very nice. I don't know what this song is, but I do know I love Robin.
Now I got to go watch the Yankees deciding Game 5 against the Tigers live from Yankee Stadium in the Bronx over at the Bunny's house. Amanda, his beloved, is making up some gourmet chicken pot pies. I don't think I've had a chicken pot pie in my life before. You see? Things are always changing in ways we couldn't possibly imagine. They call it that 'cause it's MADE in a pot, right?
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 316 "Instant Karma" by John Lennon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN7d07MYscg
John Lennon was awesome. I admire him. I would like to have a voice and make social commentary and music. The world needs a bunch more John Lennon's, fearless, honest, talented and on point. I did something I rarely do yesterday. I told a couple students that I am Jefferson Jay. I tend to try to keep my personal life school as separated as possible. Any way, a day later, I received some really well-thought out feedback, from one of the students. He said he'd watched many of my videos and that they were real good. A few of things he said were so flattering I wrote them down.
He said my music was "very relatable to what is going on right now." I am assuming he mens the world of war and the popular dissent that is finally beginning to emerge through the inspired and desperately needed Occupy Wall Street movement. Those folks make me proud to be an American, even though I'm sure many Republicans would have no problem with the military slaughtering those people where they eat. They may have to change the word Republican to "crazy, elitist, violent, clueless, greedy, sicko" if this stuff keeps up. I don't claim the Democratic party either, but at least they're not blatantly like this.
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/audiences-stealing-spotlight-candidates-republican-debates-195159152.html
Repugnant human behavior.
Anyway, I digressed. He also said I have b=my own style and that it's very lyrical. Thank you for taking your time and appreciating what I do. It means a lot. Hopefully someday, if I do have something valuable to offer the world in terms of art or insight, that connection will be made and I will begin to reach my potential in terms of helping others realize they're not alone and having in impact on people in the world. This Occupy Wall Street peaceful demonstration is a hope-affirming step towards creating the positive change in the world any body not blinded by greed can see is sorely needed. John Lennon would be proud.
A final blast of Republican ignorance:
http://news.yahoo.com/cain-rails-against-wall-street-protesters-234209220.html
Crazy, elitist, violent, clueless, greedy, sicko party candidate Herman Cain, or whatever his name is, says it's anti-American to protest, to dissent. OK?!? How do you think we got here? There was a revolution. If you're gonna write books, first you should probably read one first. How 'bout one involving Washington or Jefferson or any of those guys? Then again, you're a black Republican, so you'd probably prefer a book on Benedict Arnold. You've got about as much a chance of being elected president as me. Congratulations.
A snippet: ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain on Wednesday called the Occupy Wall Street protesters anti-American and anti-capitalistic.
"Don't be jealous, don't be envious," Cain said as he signed copies of his memoir. "I don't have much patience for someone who does not want to achieve their American dream the old-fashioned way."
What's that, Herm? Slavery?
NOTE: I love all people, but some of the these views are so hateful it's appalling.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 316 "John"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOQV0AnVy1E
So it came time to find an original for day 316 of the Operation 365 I was going through more old lyrics on my laptop when the whole John 3:16 thing came to me. Probably the most commonly found 316 in the world, John 3:16 is the most popularly quoted biblical phrase pretty much, at least at sporting events in America over the last however many years. As I understand it, John 3:16 states... well, I'll just quote it.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
— John 3:16 (King James Version)
OK... Well, I am into the whole God and love part. I believe people should believe what they want to believe, what makes them feel good. I do not believe there is only one "correct" set of beliefs and that everyone who doesn't believe that is "wrong" or will be punished. In my belief system, this is OK though, because people can believe different things. Anyway, I had to make my association for "John" on the 316th day of the 365. I decided to write a song about my brother John. I had never written one about him, so it seemed like the perfect day. I wrote one called "Brother Baby" about my brother and my sister (they are twins, incidentally) but I never wrote one about John alone, until just now.
I am still fascinated by the passing of time and what it all means, a recurring theme in my songs as of late. In today's song, I listed a bunch of noteworthy experiences we shared, some as children, others travelling as young adults. Then I wrote a chorus of appreciation and a bridge. The songs sums up with my brief re-iteration of John 3:16, as I feebly understand it and then reminding my brother about the time we were in our friend Josh's apartment in Hollywood and a candle lit up by itself in the darkness. Our little miracle. Something we can believe that we experienced personally. To me, personal experiences are the foundation for my faith and I wanted to remind my brother about the infinite and cosmic powers the world holds as the parting thought in his "John" song.
I also chose a John Lennon song for today's cover, "Instant Karma." I don't want to say it's random 'cause nothing is, but I didn't even realize til it was all done, that there's another right-on John on the 316th day of Operation 365.
Heartfelt loving shout-outs to John Cannito, John Warner, John LaDuca, John Ciccolella, John Tafolla and Jack Davidson, who's given birth name is John. Go Yankees!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxgrQz5NCmU
Robin Lee week continues here on the 365 with another clip of her playing at my Open Mic on December 23, 2008. 2008 was just before things got crazy for my friends and I down here. You can still feel the old, care-free, good friends vibe floating around in the air. I let this clip run long because I thought the banter with Robin, Edem Bastos and myself was too funny to chop off. It is authentic. I love authentic and it doesn't get much more real than Robin Lee. Still has her long hair too here. Very nice. I don't know what this song is, but I do know I love Robin.
Now I got to go watch the Yankees deciding Game 5 against the Tigers live from Yankee Stadium in the Bronx over at the Bunny's house. Amanda, his beloved, is making up some gourmet chicken pot pies. I don't think I've had a chicken pot pie in my life before. You see? Things are always changing in ways we couldn't possibly imagine. They call it that 'cause it's MADE in a pot, right?
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 316 "Instant Karma" by John Lennon
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SN7d07MYscg
John Lennon was awesome. I admire him. I would like to have a voice and make social commentary and music. The world needs a bunch more John Lennon's, fearless, honest, talented and on point. I did something I rarely do yesterday. I told a couple students that I am Jefferson Jay. I tend to try to keep my personal life school as separated as possible. Any way, a day later, I received some really well-thought out feedback, from one of the students. He said he'd watched many of my videos and that they were real good. A few of things he said were so flattering I wrote them down.
He said my music was "very relatable to what is going on right now." I am assuming he mens the world of war and the popular dissent that is finally beginning to emerge through the inspired and desperately needed Occupy Wall Street movement. Those folks make me proud to be an American, even though I'm sure many Republicans would have no problem with the military slaughtering those people where they eat. They may have to change the word Republican to "crazy, elitist, violent, clueless, greedy, sicko" if this stuff keeps up. I don't claim the Democratic party either, but at least they're not blatantly like this.
http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/ticket/audiences-stealing-spotlight-candidates-republican-debates-195159152.html
Repugnant human behavior.
Anyway, I digressed. He also said I have b=my own style and that it's very lyrical. Thank you for taking your time and appreciating what I do. It means a lot. Hopefully someday, if I do have something valuable to offer the world in terms of art or insight, that connection will be made and I will begin to reach my potential in terms of helping others realize they're not alone and having in impact on people in the world. This Occupy Wall Street peaceful demonstration is a hope-affirming step towards creating the positive change in the world any body not blinded by greed can see is sorely needed. John Lennon would be proud.
A final blast of Republican ignorance:
http://news.yahoo.com/cain-rails-against-wall-street-protesters-234209220.html
Crazy, elitist, violent, clueless, greedy, sicko party candidate Herman Cain, or whatever his name is, says it's anti-American to protest, to dissent. OK?!? How do you think we got here? There was a revolution. If you're gonna write books, first you should probably read one first. How 'bout one involving Washington or Jefferson or any of those guys? Then again, you're a black Republican, so you'd probably prefer a book on Benedict Arnold. You've got about as much a chance of being elected president as me. Congratulations.
A snippet: ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Republican presidential candidate Herman Cain on Wednesday called the Occupy Wall Street protesters anti-American and anti-capitalistic.
"Don't be jealous, don't be envious," Cain said as he signed copies of his memoir. "I don't have much patience for someone who does not want to achieve their American dream the old-fashioned way."
What's that, Herm? Slavery?
NOTE: I love all people, but some of the these views are so hateful it's appalling.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 316 "John"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOQV0AnVy1E
So it came time to find an original for day 316 of the Operation 365 I was going through more old lyrics on my laptop when the whole John 3:16 thing came to me. Probably the most commonly found 316 in the world, John 3:16 is the most popularly quoted biblical phrase pretty much, at least at sporting events in America over the last however many years. As I understand it, John 3:16 states... well, I'll just quote it.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
— John 3:16 (King James Version)
OK... Well, I am into the whole God and love part. I believe people should believe what they want to believe, what makes them feel good. I do not believe there is only one "correct" set of beliefs and that everyone who doesn't believe that is "wrong" or will be punished. In my belief system, this is OK though, because people can believe different things. Anyway, I had to make my association for "John" on the 316th day of the 365. I decided to write a song about my brother John. I had never written one about him, so it seemed like the perfect day. I wrote one called "Brother Baby" about my brother and my sister (they are twins, incidentally) but I never wrote one about John alone, until just now.
I am still fascinated by the passing of time and what it all means, a recurring theme in my songs as of late. In today's song, I listed a bunch of noteworthy experiences we shared, some as children, others travelling as young adults. Then I wrote a chorus of appreciation and a bridge. The songs sums up with my brief re-iteration of John 3:16, as I feebly understand it and then reminding my brother about the time we were in our friend Josh's apartment in Hollywood and a candle lit up by itself in the darkness. Our little miracle. Something we can believe that we experienced personally. To me, personal experiences are the foundation for my faith and I wanted to remind my brother about the infinite and cosmic powers the world holds as the parting thought in his "John" song.
I also chose a John Lennon song for today's cover, "Instant Karma." I don't want to say it's random 'cause nothing is, but I didn't even realize til it was all done, that there's another right-on John on the 316th day of Operation 365.
Heartfelt loving shout-outs to John Cannito, John Warner, John LaDuca, John Ciccolella, John Tafolla and Jack Davidson, who's given birth name is John. Go Yankees!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 309
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 315 Robin Lee "?2" - 8-13-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5zmQF5qudM
Did I mention I hate when I don't know the names of the songs I post? I know I did. It's like telling someone to come to your show and not telling them where it is. My only solace is that it's better then not posting it at all. At least it's shared, even if it's name remains shrouded in mystery. Maybe that's appropriate as Robin Lee is a pretty mysterious gal. I miss her. Here, she is, doing it with Annie Rettic on violin at Joe and Jen Stevens' wedding reception on August 13, 2008, an amazing day no matter how you slice it.
I married them. In fact, I became a Reverend with the express purpose of doing so. Who knew it would come up again and again. I have two more weddings loosely scheduled for next year. Life is so full fo change it's absurd. Speaking of absurd, I've been working up a storm these days. Speaking of storms, I heard it might rain tonight. I hope that doesn't adversely effect my Open Mic.
Shout-outs to Blowski, Jilian Doty, Alan Silva, Clifford and all the other folks who make the friendship feel in these last few Robin Lee clips so damn tangible you can taste it. What else can I say. Hilarity, love and righteousness. Free Robin Lee!
This was filmed by Dylan Avery.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 315 "You're the Best" by Joe Esposito
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9k0UZjt4lM
I remember when I was 8 or something, the family had decided my Cousin Ben and I should go to the movies. They decided to send up to some flick neither of us had ever heard of, The Karate Kid. By the time we walked out of the theater, we were beyond hooked. To this day, I still bust out Daniel-San's finishing kick move from time to time. What an awesome movie, especially when you're 8. So, I always had You're the Best" in my crosshairs for this here 365. I'm glad the day has finally arrived.
When I teach, or sub, or whatever, I pretend that I am the most pompous, conceited person ever. I say stuff, form time to time, like "it is your honor to be here with me." Some kids get the joke. Others probably think I'm serios. Either way, it helps to get through the day. It's only October 5th. Geez. No matter. In a perverse way, I am trying to teach them self-confidence and that if they love themselves even half as much as I love myself, then that's a good start. They are kids. They may miss all this. I have no idea, bit I've got get through the day somehow and that's one of my moves. I like to see myself as a Mr. Miyagi for the modern age.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 315 "Me and Oscar"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iarY5pf0Vg
So I needed an original for today. What else is new? I peruse my laptop for some stray lyrics I could put music to and found "Me and Oscar." Oscar was a Mexican guy I worked with at one of the many random temp jobs I had long ago. I had tons of 'em. I've been a phone psychic, an arrow sign waver and a stuffed animal at little kids' birthday parties. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Just the tip. So somewhere, somehow along the way, maybe in Jersey. I worked with Oscar.
I barely remember and may not remember it at all if I hadn't written this future song. In a way, that's the whole point of writing stuff down, or doing this whole 365 even, to remember what happened. Why does that matter? Why study history? Why know anything at all? Anyway, I vaguely remember Oscar was a good guy and we laughed together. Or maybe I just read what I wrote down. Memory is funny in that way. I have a blurry image of what it looked like outside this workplace but I have no clue where or what it was. I guess that wasn't what was important about that job. That was Oscar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i5zmQF5qudM
Did I mention I hate when I don't know the names of the songs I post? I know I did. It's like telling someone to come to your show and not telling them where it is. My only solace is that it's better then not posting it at all. At least it's shared, even if it's name remains shrouded in mystery. Maybe that's appropriate as Robin Lee is a pretty mysterious gal. I miss her. Here, she is, doing it with Annie Rettic on violin at Joe and Jen Stevens' wedding reception on August 13, 2008, an amazing day no matter how you slice it.
I married them. In fact, I became a Reverend with the express purpose of doing so. Who knew it would come up again and again. I have two more weddings loosely scheduled for next year. Life is so full fo change it's absurd. Speaking of absurd, I've been working up a storm these days. Speaking of storms, I heard it might rain tonight. I hope that doesn't adversely effect my Open Mic.
Shout-outs to Blowski, Jilian Doty, Alan Silva, Clifford and all the other folks who make the friendship feel in these last few Robin Lee clips so damn tangible you can taste it. What else can I say. Hilarity, love and righteousness. Free Robin Lee!
This was filmed by Dylan Avery.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 315 "You're the Best" by Joe Esposito
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9k0UZjt4lM
I remember when I was 8 or something, the family had decided my Cousin Ben and I should go to the movies. They decided to send up to some flick neither of us had ever heard of, The Karate Kid. By the time we walked out of the theater, we were beyond hooked. To this day, I still bust out Daniel-San's finishing kick move from time to time. What an awesome movie, especially when you're 8. So, I always had You're the Best" in my crosshairs for this here 365. I'm glad the day has finally arrived.
When I teach, or sub, or whatever, I pretend that I am the most pompous, conceited person ever. I say stuff, form time to time, like "it is your honor to be here with me." Some kids get the joke. Others probably think I'm serios. Either way, it helps to get through the day. It's only October 5th. Geez. No matter. In a perverse way, I am trying to teach them self-confidence and that if they love themselves even half as much as I love myself, then that's a good start. They are kids. They may miss all this. I have no idea, bit I've got get through the day somehow and that's one of my moves. I like to see myself as a Mr. Miyagi for the modern age.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 315 "Me and Oscar"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_iarY5pf0Vg
So I needed an original for today. What else is new? I peruse my laptop for some stray lyrics I could put music to and found "Me and Oscar." Oscar was a Mexican guy I worked with at one of the many random temp jobs I had long ago. I had tons of 'em. I've been a phone psychic, an arrow sign waver and a stuffed animal at little kids' birthday parties. That's just the tip of the iceberg. Just the tip. So somewhere, somehow along the way, maybe in Jersey. I worked with Oscar.
I barely remember and may not remember it at all if I hadn't written this future song. In a way, that's the whole point of writing stuff down, or doing this whole 365 even, to remember what happened. Why does that matter? Why study history? Why know anything at all? Anyway, I vaguely remember Oscar was a good guy and we laughed together. Or maybe I just read what I wrote down. Memory is funny in that way. I have a blurry image of what it looked like outside this workplace but I have no clue where or what it was. I guess that wasn't what was important about that job. That was Oscar.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Operation 365... Blog 308
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Archives - 314 Robin Lee "?" - 8-13-2008
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLDELaq_ebI
I wish I knew the name of this song. I hate posting stuff and then not being able to tell folks exactly what I'm posting. I do know this. It's Robin Lee and she's awesome. She is playing with Annie Rettic on violin at Joe and Jen Stevens' wedding reception on August 13, 2008. It was an unforgettable night with several great performances and tons of great vibes. I love these days, but I miss those days too. It's a dichotomy.
This was filmed by Dylan Avery.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 314 "Junkhead" by Alice In Chains
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVx5BOzbZaM
Alice In Chains is probably my favorite band that I haven't covered so far in the 365. Them of Al Green? Nice, right? And "Junkhead" is one of my favorite Chains tunes. It's off their epic album "Dirt" which meant so much to me when I was a highly disturbed 18-year old. So I was gona do a goofy version of it, (it's a very serious song) but I wound up somewhere in between. Took me a few time. Busy days these days. Working every day again, usually more than one job. It's a rat race, and now I feel like I've been chasing cheese. I have been, waiting for things to change. My opportunity awaits. One can only hope.
Layne Staley, Chains' singer was a pretty disturbed dude himself. You can pick this up from the lyrics to "Junkhead" (and all their songs) pretty easily. Layne's singing and the painful honesty in his lyrics have been a huge influence on me both musically and personally. In a really dark time for me, back then, I looked to Layne, and he made me realize, there was hope. It could be a lot worse, like it was for Layne. May he rest in peace.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 314 "Ten Four"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXjG-bYoPP8
Life develops in changes in ways we can't possible imagine. This happens all the time. When I was in high school, imagining a world where everyone has cell phones, where an ipod can cart around your whole CD collection, and where computers do pretty much everything would have been preposterous. Life changes like that all the time. Look at 9-11 and everything that followed from that. Who could have foretold? No one.
So as I've gotten older, I've learned to go with these changes. "Resistance is futile," some Star Trek guy once said. Life throws curveball after curveball and all we can do it is try to learn to hit the curve. It doesn't matter how attached you are to fastballs. A curveball is coming, always. At this point in life, I embrace it. So in honor of this surrender to the whimsical nature life, I wrote "Ten Four." It is meant in the context of life, life decides what direction to send me and I respond with the old CB affirmative, "Ten Four."
It is no coincidence that today's date is 10/4. It is on purpose. Also, I chose the 10th and the 4th deliberately. "Ten Four" is in the key of A. The notes I chose are the 10th and the 4th of A, B and D... Well, they were supposed to be... The 10th is really a 3rd though and I chose B instead of C by accident, so forget all that. It's moot. I tried. Either way, I was inspired, even if it was erroneously.
I wrote two sets of lyrics to this jam. One I them, I tried to explain what I maybe, the other, one I tried to illustrate it. This one is the latter. Maybe I'll post the other one tomorrow, if I'm so inclined.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lLDELaq_ebI
I wish I knew the name of this song. I hate posting stuff and then not being able to tell folks exactly what I'm posting. I do know this. It's Robin Lee and she's awesome. She is playing with Annie Rettic on violin at Joe and Jen Stevens' wedding reception on August 13, 2008. It was an unforgettable night with several great performances and tons of great vibes. I love these days, but I miss those days too. It's a dichotomy.
This was filmed by Dylan Avery.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Covers - 314 "Junkhead" by Alice In Chains
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVx5BOzbZaM
Alice In Chains is probably my favorite band that I haven't covered so far in the 365. Them of Al Green? Nice, right? And "Junkhead" is one of my favorite Chains tunes. It's off their epic album "Dirt" which meant so much to me when I was a highly disturbed 18-year old. So I was gona do a goofy version of it, (it's a very serious song) but I wound up somewhere in between. Took me a few time. Busy days these days. Working every day again, usually more than one job. It's a rat race, and now I feel like I've been chasing cheese. I have been, waiting for things to change. My opportunity awaits. One can only hope.
Layne Staley, Chains' singer was a pretty disturbed dude himself. You can pick this up from the lyrics to "Junkhead" (and all their songs) pretty easily. Layne's singing and the painful honesty in his lyrics have been a huge influence on me both musically and personally. In a really dark time for me, back then, I looked to Layne, and he made me realize, there was hope. It could be a lot worse, like it was for Layne. May he rest in peace.
Operation 365 - Jefferson Jay - Originals - 314 "Ten Four"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXjG-bYoPP8
Life develops in changes in ways we can't possible imagine. This happens all the time. When I was in high school, imagining a world where everyone has cell phones, where an ipod can cart around your whole CD collection, and where computers do pretty much everything would have been preposterous. Life changes like that all the time. Look at 9-11 and everything that followed from that. Who could have foretold? No one.
So as I've gotten older, I've learned to go with these changes. "Resistance is futile," some Star Trek guy once said. Life throws curveball after curveball and all we can do it is try to learn to hit the curve. It doesn't matter how attached you are to fastballs. A curveball is coming, always. At this point in life, I embrace it. So in honor of this surrender to the whimsical nature life, I wrote "Ten Four." It is meant in the context of life, life decides what direction to send me and I respond with the old CB affirmative, "Ten Four."
It is no coincidence that today's date is 10/4. It is on purpose. Also, I chose the 10th and the 4th deliberately. "Ten Four" is in the key of A. The notes I chose are the 10th and the 4th of A, B and D... Well, they were supposed to be... The 10th is really a 3rd though and I chose B instead of C by accident, so forget all that. It's moot. I tried. Either way, I was inspired, even if it was erroneously.
I wrote two sets of lyrics to this jam. One I them, I tried to explain what I maybe, the other, one I tried to illustrate it. This one is the latter. Maybe I'll post the other one tomorrow, if I'm so inclined.
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