Don't struggle with insecurity. There are plenty of other things to get you down in this world without getting troubled over your writing. And you're not alone: There are more of us out here so don't feel alone. Join us on the first Wednesday of each month in Alex J. Cavanaugh's Insecure Writer's Support Group--a forum of writers who gather to talk about writing and the writer's life. For a complete list of participants visit Alex's Blog. Join me today for a double whammy of the #IWSG and later down the page you'll find this month's Battle of the Bands.Don't Be Troubled by the Writing
There are so many things happening in this old world of ours that sometimes our writing woes seem pretty insignificant. My sense as to why so many readers prefer escapist literature such as fantasy and sci fi is that it takes them away from the fears and woes of the present day. As for me I'd rather read non-fiction or stories that tend to be closer to my life experience. That has been my inclination regarding my own writing as well.
My earlier writing preference leaned toward science fiction and fanciful stories. I might continue to try to write in those veins someday, but for now I'm looking in other directions. Writing my blog posts has helped. It's not exactly where I want to be as a writer, but stylistically I'm closer when I write my blog posts. Now it's a matter of doing more writing beyond the blog.
But in the meantime, there is so much going on--so much that could make a person just want to run away and just survive the best they can. Where is this world going? And will writing make any real difference for any of us? I guess it's an outlet like watching television or taking a hike on a nature trail or whatever we do to get away to escape. An outlet. Not like a discount mall, but a way to vent our minds. Lord knows my mind needs venting.
Battle of the Bands
December 1st of 2015 is here which means the end of the year is at our back door. It's also time for another installment of Battle of the Bands. This event which takes place on the 1st and 15th of each month was started by Far Away Eyes at Far Away Series. Blogger Stephen T McCarthy maintains the participant list and answers your questions about the event--you can find his blog with a list of participants at StMcC Presents Battle of the Bands. Here's what I'm asking of you: Listen to the song versions presented below and then in the comments vote for your favorite and tell us why you liked it. Then visit the links listed near the bottom of this post for more Battles to vote on.
And now my song pick for this round of Battle of the Bands:
"Trouble of the World"
Also known as "Soon Ah Will Be Done", the song "Trouble of the World" is by most accounts a traditional Negro spiritual from the days of slavery. Later the song was formally arranged by 20th century composer and choir director William L. Dawson--his name will occasionally be credited on recordings of the song though usually the credit is listed as "Traditional". There are so many wonderful recordings of this song on YouTube that I could go for months having Battles that pitted the various versions against each other.
After I decided to use the song for a BOTB contest, news reports of terrorist attacks and so many other distressing events only served to emphasize the relevance of this song in our times. In past years I and other BOTB players have used traditional Christmas songs in our contests. Indeed this is not a traditional song of the Season, but since it has Christian subject matter I feel that the song is one that could easily be included in many Christmas programs.
Whatever the case may be, I'm using it because it's a darn good song that turns our minds to the birth of Jesus Christ and the messages he delivered to all of us. Our lives on this Earth are relatively short so we shouldn't get too overwhelmed by all the troubles we face while here.
Here are what I think are a couple of the better recordings of this song. I hope you enjoy them and are perhaps even blessed by them.
Mahalia Jackson "Trouble of the World" (1956)
My first exposure to Mahalia Jackson's version of "Trouble of the World" was in the heart-wrenching 1959 film remake of Imitation of Life which featured Lana Turner, Sandra Dee, and Mahalia Jackson herself. If you like tear-jerkers, you won't find many more powerful than this film. I've watched this many times and it never fails to leave me teary eyed. I highly recommend this fine film about racial injustice and family ties. A good tag line for this film might be a quote from the character Annie: "How do you tell a child that she was born to be hurt?" If you have not seen this film yet I encourage you to find it and then let me know what you think. I'm starting to cry just thinking about it.
In the mean time here's Mahalia Jackson's soulful rendition of "Trouble of the World".
Kevin Max "Trouble of the World" (2007)
Known as a vocalist with popular contemporary Christian groups dc Talk and Audio Adrenaline, Kevin Max also has a well established solo career with a number of LP's and EP's to his name. His version of "Trouble of the World" maintains the spirit of the rendition by Jackson while updating it with a solid rock spiritual sound and some very tasty instrumentation.
If Mahalia's version didn't grab you too much then maybe Max's version will do a bit more for you. Take a listen and compare.
For an alternate link if video below is not viewable please try this one: Trouble of the World
Time to Vote!
Do you like one of these versions better than the other? Don't let the subject matter of this song be a deterrent to your participation. Which song version do you enjoy the most? Judge what you hear in the above videos. It's up to you to help determine the winner.
Please vote on your favorite by letting us know your choice in the comment section and tell us why you prefer the version you chose. Then after you've finished here, please visit the other blogs listed below who may or may not be participating this time around. And if you've put up your own BOTB contest let us know that as well so we can vote on yours
Here are some other places where you might find BOTB posts:
‘FAR AWAY SERIES’
StMcC Presents Battle of the Bands
‘YOUR DAILY DOSE’
'MIKE'S RAMBLINGS'
'Curious as a Cathy'
Sound of One Hand Typing
DC Relief Battle of the Bands
The Doglady's Den
Angel's Bark
Cherdo on the Flipside
Jingle, Jangle, Jungle
Janie Junebug Righting & Editing.
Book Lover
J. A. Scott
Quiet Laughter
Holli's Hoots and Hollers
NovelBrews
Results on Monday December 7th
What could be much more appropriate than announcing the winner of this contest on December 7th, Pearl Harbor Day. Talk about trouble in the world and after 75 years things seem to have only gotten worse. I know this is the "Merry" season, but still it's hard to escape the fact that peace and compassion are often so elusive in our world.
Do you find yourself somewhat fixated at times on the troubles in this world? What do you think is the biggest world trouble that we face? Do you sometimes find it difficult to enjoy escapist literature when there are so many real problems to be addressed in our lives?
The first video wouldn't play, so I'll have to try later.
ReplyDeleteSpeculative fiction can still be close to home. Yes, it's for escape, but it's another way of placing troubles and the bad things in life in a situation where we can better handle them.
Alex, and also some escapist literature is allegorical with lessons to be taught and learned.
DeleteLee
BOIDMAN LEE ~
ReplyDeleteI never would have guessed this!
Of course I've seen the movie, and of course I own Mahalia's version on CD (a couple of CDs, to be precise).
Great Battle concept. Really GREAT! I haven't time to listen to the competitor yet, so I will have to return on the weekend and cast my vote. (It's inconceivable, however, that my vote will land anywhere but with "The Queen Of Gospel").
Wow! Way better'n I expected.
~ D-FensDogG
'Loyal American Underground'
STMcC, I'd cast your vote for Mahalia now, but I'd rather wait until you make it official.
DeleteLee
Hi Lee - I prefer Kevin Max's version, but can quite understand how Mahalia voice embraced people with her songs - lovely sounding lady ...
ReplyDeleteCheers Hilary
Hilary, finally an actual vote and that goes to...
DeleteKevin Max
Lee
Wow, can I vote for both?? This is a tough decision. Mahalia's version is so beautiful and emotional. (The video evokes a lot of emotion too). I think I like Kevin Max's version better though, mainly because of the instrumentation. Both have incredible voices and I truly can't say I like one over the other. In this case it was the instrumentation that swayed my vote. So please give mine to Kevin.
ReplyDeleteGreat battle!
Michele at Angels Bark
Michele, each version has merit, but only one vote counts...
DeleteYours goes to Kevin Max
Lee
Hi, Lee!
ReplyDeleteI had to go hunting for this post because it has not yet appeared in my reader. You picked two great versions of "Trouble of the World" for your battle. My mother loved Mahalia Jackson and I was exposed to her singing at an early age. Kevin Max has a pleasing voice but I did not care for the power ballad type of arrangement. The instrumental backing overwhelmed his vocals and the song lost its feel and meaning. I'm going old school on this one and voting for the purity and simplicity of Mahalia Jackson's gospel drenched version.
Thanks, Lee!
Shady, I don't know that I'd call Max's version "power ballad" though I guess it has been more electrified than Mahalia's version, but hers is electrifying.
DeleteGot you down for the first vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
I have to admit, I'm not much of a Gospel music fan, but I love when our battles take us outside the box of what we are used to. Sometimes we discover great new music, but not always. As for my vote, out of the two, I prefer Kevin Max the most.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing something new to the group.
Jeffrey, I've often gone outside the box in my Battles.
DeleteGot you down for Kevin Max
Lee
I have seen this movie and remember the song. Kevin's version is fair but it pales in comparison to Mahalia, but the. Who and what doesn't. Give the lady my vote times ten. A most interesting BATTLE. The consolation is...soon we will be done!
ReplyDeleteFAE, the song is the message and that's what's important. We soon will be done.
DeleteA vote for Mahalia Jackson (but only one vote!)
Lee
I started writing poetry after two close berevements 17 years ago, I felt putting my feelings onto paper helped me release many fears and worries. Yes Lee there are many troubles in the world as you say.
ReplyDeleteI vote for Kevin Max's version.
Yvonne, writing of any kind can help us vent in many ways. Poetry is a wonderful outlet that I too have resorted to at times.
DeleteFor you it's Kevin Max
Lee
I really like Kevin Max's voice! I've been a fan since his dc Talk days :) Both versions are beautiful, but Kevin gets my vote.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy escaping in a good science fiction or fantasy story. There are just times when it is too hard to face reality. Most of my writing, though, is more about real life experiences, except I did break from that for the IWSG short story contest.
Elizabeth, I usually enjoy the times when I lose myself in good sci fi, but the reality transfixes me more most of the time.
DeleteKevin Max gets your vote.
Lee
I'm one of those who reads to escape. That's why I love paranormal, sci-fi, fantasy, all that stuff. It lets me forget about the troubles of the world. I think that's important for me too. Otherwise, I might drive myself crazy.
ReplyDeletePatricia, I need to read more, but I do plenty of escape in watching movies.
DeleteLee
I try not to dwell too hard on what's going on in the world. But I do think that religion has a lot to do with it. 'My god is bigger than your god and I'll kill you to prove it'. Right wing religious nut jobs trying to make legislation in our own country because they don't like women having reproductive rights over their own bodies. Fundie Muslims killing everyone they can until everyone in the world converts..... I do blame religion for it, yes.
ReplyDeleteJoJo, some religion I will agree, but there is a great deal of good that comes from some quarters of the faith communities. The "nuts" get all the attention unfortunately casting the good folk in a bad light. You might want to reevaluate some of your thoughts about the religious community looking at the positive side. It is there.
DeleteLee
I think this is more of a "made for Mahalia" song. Both versions were very good, though. I vote for the lady.
ReplyDeleteCW, the rousing versions might make you see the song as made for other folk too. I guess this song came about long before Mahalia came on the scene though she does elevate it to make it her own.
DeleteMahalia Jackson
Lee
Lee, Troubles of the World boil down to one thing....hatred. It's been with us from the beginning of time. God gave us free will to make our own decisions right or wrong. It appears there's been a whole lot of bad decision making over the centuries as that's why we have so many Troubles of the World. Of course, I can't do anything about what's going on around me, but I do trust God and it's in Him I place my faith NOT man. I will leave my worries at His feet. Now to get to today's battle. Interesting and powerful song choice. I haven't heard it before now, but I love both artists versions. Mahalia's dramatic vocals is well suited for this piece, so the simple music arrangement placed the emphasis with her style, which I enjoyed very much. However, I believe I preferred the newer, fresher cover of Kevin Max. His soulful vocals captured the lyrics, but the rock-ability of the music might have helped to reel me in his corner. So, give my vote to Kevin Max. Good battle!
ReplyDeleteOopsy, I forgot to click on Notify Me!
DeleteCathy, I think "troubles" boil down beyond hatred to include sin (which can be construed to be hatred for God and the Law), selfish ambitions, and the antithesis of all that is good. You make a great point though. We just go with the flow and leave it to God in the end.
DeleteAgree with you about the song versions as well.
Giving your vote to Kevin Max.
Lee
Hi Lee -
ReplyDeleteI think you must be in a down and philosophical mood these days. There is much evidence of that in your blog posts, but further evidence lies in both the choice of this song, AND in your choice of the competitors.
You selected two versions that are both slow and down-tempo. They scream emotionally about the "troubles." But - as you pointed out - there are SO many versions of this, and you picking two alike means that we listeners have to choose which "downer" version we like. Of these two, I'll pick Max... although I usually love Mahalia.
But I REALLY wish that for a true choice you had picked an UPBEAT competitor for Mahalia... such as any version from the movie "The Ladykillers." I think you'd have given us a wider emotional range to select from!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFTvHz1VV8s
SBB6, you must be looking into my future battle. Stay tuned as you have hit on "things to come". I purposely kept my picks for this Battle in a similar realm.
DeleteAnd yes, I've been philosophizing and contemplating a lot of things of late.
Don't need The Ladykillers link as I already have it on file.
Your vote for Kevin Max duly noted.
Lee
Oops! I'm sorry Lee! I didn't mean to spoil a future BOTB, or make you reveal your hand. And I assumed you'd know the Ladykillers version, as it was really popular... I put it in to illustrate what I meant to any other readers that were interested. Please go in and EDIT AND REMOVE that link so it doesn't spoil the future bit.
DeleteBy the way, I really enjoyed our visit on the phone a couple of weeks ago. Next time I'm in L.A. (or you are in Washington), we should get together. I get to northern CA once a year also, so I will try to catch up with StMcC first chance, also.
Six, no problem at all! It's nice to know when there is actual interaction in the comments since most people probably won't even see what you wrote--I hope I'm wrong, but I think this is true. It is amazing how many recordings there are of the song "Trouble of the World" and how varied they are.
DeleteYes, I'm looking forward to getting together sometime in the future. The get together that was imagined in STMcC's comments the other day would be great--that's the dream of getting together with a group of our closest blog circle for Thanksgiving or sometime. Likely just a dream, but you never know.
Lee
Just making a note that I read this and now know what's coming!
DeleteI agree that it would be amazing for a blog get-together IRL. Very tough to coordinate, but love the idea!
I have to vote for Mahalia Jackson because of the pain in her voice. I saw Imitation of Life on TV a couple of times, long ago. I had no idea that was Mahalia Jackson. I hope I can be forgiven because I was young and ignorant. Thank you for educating me. The troubles of the world bother me, and have bothered me for as long as I can remember. I don't think I could bear the troubles without venues of escapism.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Janie
Janie, to be honest the fact that Mahalia sang this in that film eluded me as well. I remember the scene, but didn't pay much attention to who sang the song.
DeleteWithout escape provided by the arts community we'd probably devise our own. A constant diet of trouble would be difficult for any of us to deal with without some escape.
Another vote for Mahalia Jackson.
Lee
People aren't worse today, though; they just have more destructive weapons with which to be the same.
ReplyDeleteAndrew, on an individual basis I don't think people are generally much better or worse than in times past, but from a societal reference point I think more things are going down the tube more than ever before. But it has all been foretold--most people aren't aware of this or just ignore this point.
DeleteLee
Hi human, Lee,
ReplyDeleteThe Mahalia Jackson version hurt my doggy ears! I have to vote, despite the painful tones within Mahalia's voice, for the Kevin Max version.
You seem to be in a reflective writing mood. As for me, I just tell my human to step aside as I demonstrate my pawblishing skills...
Pawsitive wishes to you, human, Lee.
Penny
Penny/Gary, I've always been kind of reflective.
DeleteKevin Max for the doggie vote.
Lee
Arlee - you've really sent me back to the old days. "The Imitation of Life" is one of my all-time favorite movies. I don't know how many times I've watched it. I remember this song from the movie, and usually am in tears, listening to the returning daughter's wails.
ReplyDeleteFast forward to my high school years. Twelve members of our high school choir were invited to sing with the Queens College choir. William L. Dawson was the special visiting director. It was incredible. We actually performed this song. I have it on an album, in my bookcase. It was a faster paced version. I will never forget meeting him; for four wonderful days in summer. If I ever get a chance to make a copy from the album, I'll let you know. It is worth a listen. First I've got to find a turntable (wow, huh?)
These two versions are much slower but I think Mahalia's takes my vote.
Dixie
Dixie, how cool that you got to have that singing experience under the leadership of Dawson. That is very special. The faster paced version is excellent--I've heard a range of versions of this song and they've all been good. It's hard to mess up a really good song unless that's what one is setting out to do.
DeleteAnother vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Oh wow-I love both! I knew about Mahalia when I was a kid. My mom heard her voice and bought her Christmas records. I had to go to youtube to play the Kevin Max version and this was stellar! I love the bluesy vibe from it with the base sound that was consistent throughout. I still have to give it to Mahalia thought because of how she interpreted the lyrics. There is so much feeling in her singing. She gets my vote. I agree that we can feel all sorts of fears about writing, publishing etc.. but we are not dealing with life and death situations. We need to not sweat the small stuff
ReplyDeleteBirgit, writing creates an illusion and mirrors life to a certain degree.
DeleteA vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Here's an alternate link to Kevin Max's version.
ReplyDeleteI loved both renditions and it's hard to choose! In the end, Mahalia touched my emotions a little more, so my vote goes to her.
Thanks for the alternate link, Debbie D.
DeleteAnd your vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
I'm glad that Debbie D posted an alternate link to Kevin Max because it couldn't be played on your link Arlee .. so I listened on Debbie D's link. I know you said we must vote only on the song but I'm saying that the graphics on Mahlalia Jackson's video were beyond gut wrenching.
ReplyDeleteShe gets my vote, it's more authentic.
Susan S., too bad there are some videos that don't play in certain places, but good that there are alternatives available.
DeleteGot you for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Hi Arlee,
ReplyDeleteI can so identify with what you're saying. At present, my blog articles come close to what I want to put into a book whether fiction or non-fiction. There is so much going on at the moment that it's really time we stopped escaping and start thinking about where we are headed. As for the clips that you posted, Mahalia Jackson is for me the runner. I have seen Imitation of Life so many times, the first time when I was sixteen. When I think of the heart and soul of Gospel Music, then Mahalia wins every time. She was an incredible woman with an incredible voice.
Shalom,
Patricia
Pat, writing from the heart and soul provides a great release as well as what is hopefully helpful insight to others.
DeleteYour vote for Mahalia Jackson is noted.
Lee
Ha! Never saw this one coming - what a tough decision. Both artists are awesome, but Ms. Jackson's rich, melodic voice conveys the mournful message with much more clarity.
ReplyDeleteIt's hard not to be fixated as the world around comes unraveled, and sure, sometimes it creeps into the things I write. That's when nature and reading (other than news) comes in handy.;-)
Diedre, incorporating current events into writing can sometimes date it, but it can also provide an interesting record of times for historical analysis years later.
DeleteNow in the lead if I'm not mistaken, another vote for Mahalia Jackson.
Lee
I've been a long time fan of Kevin Max, so he gets my vote. DC Talk and Audio Adrenaline were staples in my music growing up.
ReplyDeleteSome topics and styles speak to people more than others. I have a friend who reads primarily non-fiction, and prefers it. She is a lot like you, well connected to the community and concerned for the world.
Loni, I know a lot of people who have no idea about what's going on in the world or our nation's affairs, but they are well versed about books or movies or other entertainments. Different strokes as they say.
DeleteGot you down for Kevin Max.
Lee
You're right there's so much bad going on in the world that our little troubles seem insignificant.
ReplyDeleteMy votes goes to Mahalia. Her version was so beautiful.
Chrys, when I hear people around me gripe about their woes I want to remind them about other people in more troubled places of the world, but I usually avoid doing so since it takes away from them and their concerns. But it's true.
DeleteMahalia Jackson
Lee
Very true, the bad crap make everything seem small. Soon we'll all have to go hide in the woods or something. Damn religious nuts and greedy sobs ruin things, as they always have.
ReplyDelete#2 I liked the best at my sea.
Patt, I'll hide in my house until the bad guys drag me out.
DeleteA vote for Kevin Max
Lee
Tough battle, Lee. I listened to Mahalia twice and Max once. I guess I expected to vote for Mahalia and was shocked by how much I liked the Max version. So, I had to play Mahalia again just to be sure. They are both outstanding (so kudos on that). In the end, I'm going with Max, but this was not an easy choice at all. So, great battle!
ReplyDeleteRobin, I agree that the choice is a tough one.
DeleteFor you it's Kevin Max
Lee
it does seem rather depressing -mind you the world seems to have been going to hell in a hand cart as long as one can recall
ReplyDeleteDavid, as Rosanna on SNL used to say "It's always something". It seems the higher we try to climb, the farther we have to fall.
DeleteLee
Kevin Max did a remarkable version with backup singers and a full band. Mahalia Jackson's version was just as remarkable, with just a piano, organ, and drums backing her. She's my winner here.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, you might remember she did a five-minute TV show in the late 1950's and early 1960's, where she sang a song backed by some pretty good musicians (including Barney Kessel, Ray Brown, and Shelly Manne, three of my favorites). The Museum of Broadcast Communications has some of those shows on their website, mbc.org.
John, I recall Mahalia back in my childhood, but I don't remember paying much attention to her TV appearances and don't remember the show of which you speak. I've seen some of the YouTube videos though.
DeleteAnother Mahalia Jackson vote.
Lee
Karen, sounds like you were cut off in mid-statement here. But, yeah, a lot of stuff is happening--more and more each day.
ReplyDeleteLee
Tougher than I thought-Mahalia gets it for vocal prowess, but I really like the arrangement on Max's version.
ReplyDeletePut me down for Kevin Max.
Larry, I hear ya on that.
DeleteA vote for Kevin Max
Lee
I've always said that writing is my therapy.
ReplyDeleteMax gets my vote.
Nicki, I've used writing as therapy since elementary school.
DeleteA vote for Kevin Max
Lee
I'm a fantasy reader and writer! I love regular life, too, so in my case I'm not trying to escape. I just love magic and adventure :) And writing IS important despite the world's troubles. Story-telling is vital, and you never know what part of your story, minor or major, will effect someone's whole life. There are countless stories of how books changed a person's life. They're good for our souls, like any other form of art.
ReplyDeleteAlexia, I think the real test of great writing is how it resonates with the readers and stays with them for years after reading.
DeleteLee
Writing is an escape for me! I try to slay my insecurities by writing daily gratitudes before I do anything else for the day!
ReplyDeleteDonna, writing about what you are grateful for is an excellent way to reaffirm thankfulness.
DeleteLee
I like weird writing, sci-fi, mystery and thriller. There are others. And yes, I think people read fiction to escape, for sure. I do!
ReplyDeleteI couldn't get the videos to load. Ugh. It's me, not you. :)
Teresa, I'm a big fan of the weird, probably because I'm weird.
DeleteI wish you could have heard the music as I think you would have greatly appreciated it.
Lee
Timely post, and I'm sure today's shooting hit you hard. It is so sad what the world has become. I read mostly in fantasy because the worlds are not real. I like to write made up worlds too, where I set the rules. Sadly, sometimes those worlds/rules are as devastating as reality. Utopia does not exist
ReplyDeleteThis is a tough battle. Mahalia has a powerful voice, that organ augments the tragedy of the song. I did like the voice and musical arrangement from Maxx. He did great in voicing the woeful sentiment.
Unfortunately for Max, I was wearing the head phones, and that scratchy guitar in my right ear was annoying. So Mahalia gets the vote.
The pics were disturbing, enough to just want to look away. I viewed them, and I do wish I could just cure the world of all the hatred, hurts, unrest. I am not religious at all because of these type pictures; how can a just and loving God allow such misery? It is easier for me to believe life just is as opposed to thinking there is a being up there with an agenda for such suffering.
Dolorah, we live in a fallen world and there are many who somehow think they can fix it themselves. I don't know God's exact plan but I trust his judgement.
ReplyDeleteBy default Mahalia Jackson gets your vote.
Lee
Definitely Mahalia Jackson!
ReplyDeleteI do think a lot of us need to vent but I like the walk in nature method (even if we have to talk to ourselves aloud while we walk) a lot better than the social media rant method. The first calms the soul. The second generates more stress for self and anyone who ends up reading the update or tweet. More stress is something we don't need.
Patricia, walking around my neighborhood could potentially lead to stress with all the traffic and all. But yes, a walk can be nice.
DeleteA solid vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Mahalia Jackson was my mother's favorite songstress and she has always captured my heart (and soul) too. I gave Max a listen and really liked what I heard, but nope. There was a buzz on his instruments that annoyed me, and besides - Mahalia! Can't resist her. As to the words - I find them soothing. Leaning into that trouble is better for me than pretending it isn't happening. My sad and tender heart is pained by all that has been happening, and yet - I still believe in the basic goodness of humanity. Like the sun, it is there - even when storm clouds hide it - we don't need to think it is gone.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this music right now. Powerful.
Jan, this song took on new meaning with the San Bernardino shooting and I don't think we'll see an end to the trouble.
DeleteAnother vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
I like the Mahalia Jackson version better. There was too much background noise in the second one, that for me detracted from the song. I've put the movie on my list of movies to watch next year..
ReplyDeleteThea, hope you'll enjoy the movie. I still enjoy seeing it though I've watched it a number of times.
DeleteA vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
OK, my vote is now official: MAHALIA JACKSON
ReplyDeleteThe Kevin Max version wasn't bad - fairly good, even - but no way does it remotely compare to the power of Mahalia. In fact, based on the sound and power of their voices, Kevin sounds more like the female and Mahalia more like the man.
Great Battle idea, but in terms of the voting, it's a cinch for me. (This thing was running neck-and-neck for quite awhile but Mahalia may now have too big a lead to be caught by Kevin.)
~ D-FensDogG
POSTSCRIPT: Yep. The Scriptures are full of prophetic clues and... "soon it will be done".
Delete~ D-FensDogG
Kevin sounds more like the female and Mahalia more like the man.
DeleteThat line cracked me up, but I see what you're saying. Yes, Mahalia is coming in strong now, but the Battle ain't over until Sunday when I tally the votes.
Your vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
I usually take what I'm experiencing in life and changing it into something usable in my writing, so even if I write fiction, the negative stuff that bother me still get vented.
ReplyDeleteMisha, I think that's a good method to use. I think I've essentially done the same thing in many cases.
DeleteLee
I would rather write and read to escape.
ReplyDeleteNot crazy about the song and the two versions were a bit similar. I guess I'll go with #2.
Diane, writing and reading is better than TV watching I think and the latter is something I've been doing more of lately--unfortunately.
DeleteA half-hearted vote for Kevin Max
Lee
I had never heard this song before. My vote goes to Mahalia Jackson. It just gripped my soul a little bit more. Great post!
ReplyDeleteMary, I guess it's not a song that's often played though it's been recorded by many.
DeleteAnother vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
I have problems with the naiveté/Pollyanna attitude of our leaders when it comes to the issues/crises of the day. I have no problem blotting those out when reading books.
ReplyDeleteBooks By G.B. Miller
GB, if only our leaders would stop trying to be so PC and take care of business we'd be most likely better off as a country.
DeleteWhen I'm escaping in books, TV, or whatever, I can pretty well shut things out for at least a while.
Lee
Sorry that I'm late to the party, Lee! I've gone from strep to upper respiratory to pneumonia to WHY CAN'T I GET ANYTHING DONE?
ReplyDeleteI've got to give my vote to Mahalia Jackson! So powerful and emotive...
Thanks and happy holidays!
Cherdo, I wish you a rapid recovery.
DeleteAgain a vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Both versions were well done great battle! Jackson's version was full of soul and feeling and that one gets my vote!
ReplyDeleteMike, with another vote for;;;
DeleteMahalia Jackson
Lee
Mahalia Jackson gets my vote. Well said on our reaction to the troubles of the world, Arlee, but they've always been with us..:-)
ReplyDeleteDenise, I know, what can we do.
DeleteA vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Mahalia earns my vote just by voice alone. The song definitely suits her. Like Diane, I read and write to escape it all. Turn on the news anymore and all you hear is yelling and finger pointing, none of which solves anything.
ReplyDeleteBeer Guy, often the fingers are being pointed at the wrong people. There are some folks I just turn off when they come on TV.
DeleteA vote for Mahalia Jackson
Lee
Kevin Max - Trouble of the World.
ReplyDeleteCale, Thanks for that vote--it was needed.
DeleteKevin Max
Lee
Sorry I didn't get here sooner. My vote is for Kevin Max. Mahalia sure knew how to belt out a tune, but for some reason his version didn't seem to drag on as much.
ReplyDeleteJulie
Julie, added your vote to the list...
DeleteKevin Max
Lee
I do prefer to read escapist fiction, but I occasionally enjoy nonfiction and memoir. Right now, I'm reading an acquaintance's book, "They Only Eat Their Husbands," by Cara Lopez Lee. I've only just begun, so no opinion yet.
ReplyDeleteShannon, even much of the fiction I've read most recently read like non-fiction and that's okay by me.
DeleteLee
Mahalia Jackson, of course. I hope your premonition of things to come is wrong, but we all know that trouble tends to follow trouble. My fears? Another airliner attack, in our highest travel season. We need to pray.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy nonfiction that reads like fiction. Laura Hillenbrand's writing comes to mind. But I read all over the map too.
Sharon, I prefer that same kind of non-fiction. Dry recounting of facts and figures puts me to sleep.
DeleteLee