Sunday, March 30, 2014

Happy Birthday Deena


It's been three years. That darkness is still there and is so deep. I try to focus on the light, the beauty, the color; on all the ways the world is better because you were here. There are many. You’re still inspiring me to try to be better, too. Thanks, big sis. Happy birthday.

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Musical Forces -- And Respect


The Secret Sisters join emcee John Paul White to perform two of Hall of Fame inductee Hank Locklin's songs. 

The Alabama Music Hall of Fame Induction Banquet last week was an incredible melding of old and new, of traditional and contemporary. There was a common thread, though. That thread was respect. It was easy to see the respect young artists like John Paul White and the Secret Sisters have for the inductees. 

Inductee Candi Staton takes in the moment as she completes her performance
after  being inducted into the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.

The inductees, all so very gracious, showed a true appreciation for being honored, for each other and for the many professionals, performers and friends with whom they have shared the good times and the bad of the music business. Many of of the folks they counted as friends were on the stage too, that night, in the all-star band that made everyone sound good!

Special recognition was given to the producers of Muscle Shoals, the documentary about the region’s rich music history that’s gained international acclaim. If you haven’t seen it, see it now! It is an amazing compilation of photos, videos and stories. They show the major influence the area and its people have had on the entire music industry; and the respect that industry has for both.


Inductee "Spooner" Oldham
rehearses with the band.

   
Famous "Swamper" and the hardest working musician I know,
David Hood was part of the all-star band for the event.
















Songwriter Dan Penn is interviewed by a local reporter
(and admitted fan) before the banquet begins.

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Soaring with the Eagles

They weren't exactly soaring this morning, but watching these eagles definitely makes my spirit soar.


Dad was hanging out on a branch while mom kept the nest warm.