Insecure Writer's Support Group
The co-hosts for the August 1 posting of the IWSG are Erika Beebe, Sandra Hoover, Susan Gourley, and Lee Lowery.
August 1 question - What pitfalls would you warn other writers to avoid on their publication journey?
Since my publication journey has not seen any significant achievement there isn't much I can say about this topic that relates to my experience or anything I've heard from someone I know. One thing I suggest to avoid is old fashioned typewriters. Oh, I know some folks love them and that's fine, but for me the computer keyboard made my writing life so much easier.
This month's question does however relate to something on my mind of late. To give some background, songwriting has been a passion of mine since high school. This past April in the midst of the Blogging from A to Z Challenge a song pervaded my mind. Much of my inspiration had come watching some of my granddaughter's singing performances. My song "Let's Run" was written for her.
Since I had mentioned the song in previous posts on my blog and even shared the copy that I recorded with neighbors who further shared with their circles, the thought crossed my mind that someone might "steal" the song. I guess I'm not particularly concerned since I don't think my creative range is limited to one thing.
Like Jimmy Durante (some might remember him) used to say, "I've got a million of 'em!" Even if a song (or some other creation) was used by someone else for gain I think it becomes an affirmation that other stuff I do is worthy.
Do you think I'm taking a big risk by just putting original songs on places like YouTube? Have you ever been wary of sharing you creative work without getting the proper documentation that says that work is yours? Are you ready for another Challenge--a musical Challenge?
Sure, I have a Battle of the Bands coming up below which I hope you'll vote on, but there is also another challenge addressed to any musicians, singers, or who knows anyone who might be interested in a musical challenge. I'll explain further after this...
Battle of the Bands
Wait Until Tomorrow
Jimi Hendrix fans will probably know this song well. For me a sense of impatience I've been feeling of late rings with the reminder that I have to wait until tomorrow for some things. Tomorrow should be a good thing so I hope they keep rolling in for all of us.
The Hendrix song lyrics are less optimistic. The song is about a couple who are going to elope. The father puts an end to it all with a shotgun. I'd much rather wait for good things to come. No need to wait for the Battle because here it is...
John Mayer Trio "Wait Until Tomorrow" (2008)
Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso "Wait Until Tomorrow" (1994)
Time to Vote!
Don't wait until tomorrow to vote lest you forget to come back! What's your favorite between these two choices? Which song version do you like best? You don't have to know about music to have an opinion since it all comes down to your own personal taste.
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:
StMcC Presents Battle of the Bands
'MIKE'S RAMBLINGS'
'Curious as a Cathy'
Sound of One Hand Typing
Angel's Bark
Debbie Doglady's Den
Jingle, Jangle, Jungle
Winner of this Battle Announced Wednesday August 8th
In addition to announcing the winner of the above Battle of the Bands, I will provide an update on my Cover Version Challenge of the original song "Let's Run"--hopefully I can debut in some form or fashion for my next Battle of the Bands on August 15th.
Did you catch what I just said?
This is a call to singers and/or musicians who have access to recording equipment (heck, your phone might work just fine). If you are involved in music or know someone else who is and would like to share their talents, please spread the word. I'd love to get some YouTube covers using my song "Let's Run" so I could use them in some upcoming Battle of the Bands segments.
Currently my plan is to use the version I've recorded with some friends put up against another version we were planning to record with a different vocalist. However, due to life stuff we may not be able to pull this off. I'm hopeful, but not certain. It didn't take too long to whip the first version together, but the next one might not come together so quickly for us. That's where some of you might be able to come to our rescue with a cover of "Let's Run".
If you're interested in doing something then please let me know. I'll send a very bad rudimentary recording of the melody line and a couple of choruses sung acapella--enough to give a rough idea of what you are working with without my influencing your style.
The song can be performed in any style you wish in any form that you want to work with including instrumental versions. To illustrate, I had my mind's version of how the song might sound and when I passed the melody and vocal to my collaborator his vision of the song was completely different and totally cool. His rock vision of the song that went on to become the sole recording version we have so far became the theme song of my recent road trip--it's now my favorite driving song.
What kind of sound could some of you come up with for this song? I'd like to hear some other covers to see what else can be done with the song. This is a Creative Challenge that will only work if some of you get into it right away. I'm counting on at least a few of you to come through on this. It seems like it could be a lot of fun and possibly useful to the participants.
There's no official prize involved other than the satisfaction of achievement and who knows what could come of it all. If you're interested then send me an email at arleebird@gmail.com and I will send you your working recording, lyrics, and some additional information.
Wouldn't it be cool to put together something epic with this? Or even a contender for our neighborhood band. I want to debut the song I wrote, but I just want to do something a little bigger than just providing my video.
I hope some of you can help with this. Please spread the word!
That's cool you are taking the song to the next step.
ReplyDeleteThink I like the first version best.
Alex, hope I get some interest in what I'm trying to do with my song.
DeleteFirst vote goes to Mayer Trio.
Lee
I remember using an electric typewriter in high school and college (along with whiteout and eraser-tape). Computers are so much easier.
ReplyDeleteTamara, I became very discouraged with typing (and error making) so that I didn't type many manuscripts other than some short stories and school papers in college. I wish computer word programs would have been accessible to me back then.
DeleteLee
We ditched our typewriter years ago.
ReplyDeleteI like John Mayer's version.
L.Diane, I never owned a typewriter other than some weird device that came out in the eighties that was not particularly useful to me.
DeleteAnother vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
Wow! I can't wait to hear the results of your song challenge!
ReplyDeleteI'm going to vote for John Mayer. I like his vocals better.
Loni, hopefully I'll have some takers for my musical Challenge. Otherwise, I'll have to figure out something else.
DeleteA vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
Anything put in front of the public is taking a chance. I say fifty/fifty on how it turns out. The question is why are you doing it?
ReplyDeleteTo get discovered? To get feedback? To engage some followers? Once you have that answer you'll now if you are getting what you're seeking. :-)
Anna from elements of emaginette
Anna, Yes to all of those and more. I've made some rough recordings of previous songs I've written, but they've been heard by few. I hope to gain a wider audience and maybe get discovered in the process. Also I'm curious as to how others would interpret the song with their own versions.
DeleteI guess I'll find out...
Lee
Good for you in deciding to take your song to the next level. Regarding the two song versions, I prefer the first one. Something about the cadence and the guitar riffs. The second one was too... I don't know... clean? Anyway, thanks for the post. Good luck with the song, and happy (song)writing to you! :)
ReplyDeleteKathy, I hope I get some interest in my Challenge.
DeleteAnother vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
Being dead honest, that was just one of those songs that did nothing for me. I'm going to defer my vote as not to taint the election.
ReplyDeleteCW, but it's a Hendrix song! I don't see me not having some kind of opinion on song versions, but if it doesn't grab you then I guess that's just the way it is.
DeleteLee
I cannot wait to hear your song, even if you only get one version of it done! Maybe if you can't get two versions, put it up against another song by another "budding" artist somehow where both are audio only so we don't know which is which. Sort of a blind taste test.
ReplyDeleteI DO think it is a big risk putting your own creative work on the internet. People are mean and nasty and the internet seems to make them feel like dropping any "civilized" filter they have.
As for these songs, this is going to be a blowout for Mayer, with my vote included. I don't like it much, but it beats the other version by a long shot. Amazingly, Mayer's voice is WORSE here than Hendrix's... and that is saying something.
6-Gun, if I don't get another BOTB version then I'll just do it on my blog in October maybe. I'm not giving up on the BOTB possibility yet.
DeleteThere are always risks in putting oneself in the open, but some risks are worth trying at least once.
I think you're right about the blowout for Mayer, but we still have more votes to come.
A vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
John Mayer trio gets my vote! I liked his vocals better and he is a good guitarist!
ReplyDeleteMike, join the crowd!
DeleteIt's another vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
I remember begging for a typewriter for Christmas when I was younger. Now I would be extremely happy with a new computer.
ReplyDeleteMy vote is for John Mayer Trio. The guitar work caught my fancy.
Looking forward to your battle using your own song. Exciting!
~Mary
Jingle Jangle Jungle
Mary, I always wanted my own typewriter, but I had to settle for my father lugging his big ol' monster machine from his office for me to use. At least it was an electric.
DeleteI"m hoping I can pull off the original song Battle.
A vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
I'll go with the Mayer Trio - for the instrumentals.
ReplyDeleteI feel the same sort of impatience, a sense of urgency that I think is a product of all the gloom and doom rhetoric we hear every day. Hopefully, it all will pass like the noxious gas it is and we can all get back to the business of living.
Meanwhile, you write a song! Amazing! I admire your passion - and courage. If nothing ever really 'goes away' on the internet, I assume the same goes for dates, which would prove who wrote/released your song first. Don't you think? Count me in for the unveiling!
Diedre, I see my life rushing toward the end so quickly these days that I have a difficult time keeping up with it. It's more of a me thing than what's going on in the world.
DeleteI'm thinking there are digital markings and my own documentation that would protect me, but I'm not overly concerned.
A vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
I am in love with the Mayer trio. His voice is a little more harsh and I like it. Also, I learned to write in a typewriter lol. That’s wonderful about your song for your granddaughter. Happy IWSG day Arlee :)
ReplyDeleteErika, I learned to type in typing class in high school--one of the most useful courses I took.
DeleteA vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
I agree with CW that I don't really like the song. I'm a little torn because I love John Mayer but his version sounded kind of busy--I like the clean sound of the second song along with the harmony.
ReplyDeleteIf you're sharing your music to connect with others, I think that the copyright issue is worth the risk. We all need connection. That's a big reason we're in a support group together!
Jennifer, I think many aspects of the modern age of electronic sharing media has made many to reevaluate how to get songs out to the public. Getting heard on YouTube is far easier than catching the ears of music professionals who will help. We are in a very different age from that in which I was growing up.
DeleteA vote for Veloso/Gil--thank goodness finally!.
Lee
A typewriter Lee? Aw come on, even you wouldn't type a ms on that thing, lol.
ReplyDeleteI'm not someone in the know when it comes to copyrights and such, but it seems to me putting your recording on uTube date-stamps it and leads the trail to you. The friends that are listening and sharing can be witnesses if needed on the date you gave it to them.
As for the Botb: The Mayer version is just - busy, or something. I like the more story, ballad form from Gilberto and company.
Good luck with your musical hop.
Donna, I would have if that was all I had. I did type a lot of stories that I submitted and got rejected--they all looked pretty bad I'd say.
DeleteI think I'm already adequately covered on my song so no big deal. Getting it heard by others is my main interest.
A needed vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
Manana - tomorrow never comes so I'm attempting to decide which is better. I want to say Hendrix but if I have to choose...eeny meeny minah bird...
ReplyDeleteFirst one by a feather ;-)
Roland, my tomorrows are coming faster than I can keep up with.
DeleteAnother vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
Howdy, LEE ~
ReplyDeleteWish I could help you with the song project, but I don't play nuttin' no-how.
As for BOTB... Like C.W. said, this song just doesn't do anything for me. I'm not surprised to learn it's a Hendrix original, as it contains all those little telltale elements which always turn me off from Hendrix songs. He'd be on my short list of 'Most Overrated'.
However, I'll cast a vote for Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso. At least it was less chaotic and seemed to be trying to find a melody somewhere in there.
Good luck with your music project! I hope it works out.
~ D-FensDogG
STMcC Presents 'Battle Of The Bands'
STMcC, I can't say I'm much of a Hendrix fan either, but I liked how the theme of the song fit into my blog theme for this round. Originally I was going to use the version by New York Rock and Roll ensemble which was the first version I recall hearing of this song. It's been on my BOTB list for years now. Then I decided to use the versions I picked for this Battle.
DeleteNot having much response to my project yet. I think I'm reaching out to the wrong audience.
A vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
I just had a long comment all written out to you and it disappeared because I accidentally closed out the tab and lost it all. I can't duplicate it but suffice it to say, it was a good comment!
ReplyDeleteAs for the creative copyright issues and fears of "theft", I totally understand. Back in the day when I was doing creative stuff I remember being told that in order to safeguard my work and prove it was mine first, I should mail a copy of it to myself and then don't open the envelope. Leave it sealed in a file cabinet forever but should the time come when I'd need to prove date of authorship, I'd have the USPS postal date stamp as proof. I still think that's a good idea, for whatever it's worth. But someone else pointed out that you'd probalby have the time stamp from when you first uploaded it to YouTube...but then again, could that be tampered with or lost? I don't know. But I'd do something simple and cheap to protect yourself without having to shell out the big bucks for copyright fees.
How very cool that you have written a song! And now have a recording of it too! Good for you! I hope you get some takers on your creative offer because it would be fun to hear it/them in a future battle.
As for your battle here now, I've listened to both a few times. I'm leaning toward the John Mayer trio but the
Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso version is quite good too. They're very different and I guess it would depend on my mood which version I'd prefer.
I've just finished listening to each for a third time and I guess I'm going to go with Gil & Veloso. They're just different and I'm kinda digging different right now.
Enjoy the rest of your week,
Michele at Angels Bark
Michele, it's so annoying to lose a comment like you did, but thanks for coming back to leave an epic comment still.
DeleteI remember that old advice about mailing oneself a copy and even had a friend who used to do that. I think in the digital age this might have changed and what I've done might be enough. Now I hope someone answers my call for cover versions.
Another vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
Jimi Hendrix, hands down. Good luck on your music hop. Very cool you music-acted out a score. Cheers!
ReplyDeleteAdrienne, I appreciate your vote for Hendrix, but unfortunately his version is not in the running so your vote doesn't count.
DeleteLee
Lee,
ReplyDeleteI used to be really paranoid to share original content on the Internet. There's always that fear someone will steal it but these days I don't worry about it so much. I don't think I'll ever make a cent off anything I do, but at the very least what share I hope brings a bit of happiness to others. I reckon that's payment enough. :)
Regarding your BoTB. I don't know a lot of Jimi Hendrix stuff or maybe I do and just don't recognize song titles. Anyhow I didn't know this one. It only took me a few seconds of play time on each cover to realize I the one that matched my ears best is contender #2. The mewsic arrangement and vocals seemed more soothing. So, please give my vote to Gilberto Gil and Caetano Veloso! I don't have a showdown this time but will on the 15th. :)
Oh how cool you're going to feature your song next time. My blogger pal & fellow Monday's Music Moves Me host, Marie from XmasDolly, husband plays mewsic with a band. I don't know if they'd be interested or have the time since but I will send this link to her to see if she wants to pass it on to her hubs. There's a chance that she might not see my email because she's in a lot of pain and will have back surgery later this month. I can't wait to see what you come up with!
Cathy, I'd almost rather see someone steal my work and have it get exposure than to just stay hidden away in my drawer and never get noticed. Of course, I'd prefer to make the money or get the recognition, but I don't want it to be just lost forever.
DeleteThanks for sharing the link. I'd love to get a few takers and it could work out well for them too if they participate. Never know until we try.
Another needed vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
We had an electric type writer when I was a kid but still formatting was an issue and we seemed to run out of white out at the worst times. I could not imagine using one now for anything.
ReplyDeleteStephen Tremp, the electrics were far easier for me than the manuals, but still I would make a lot of mistakes. I used to erase holes in my paper and have to start over. No way I'd want to use a typewriter now for actual writing.
DeleteLee
I wouldn't want to give up the convenience of copy and paste, or on-line access to the dictionary and thesaurus, but I do like the sound of typewriter keys hitting the page, and have thought about buying one of those keyboards.
ReplyDeleteMusic is ageless. I love that your granddaughter has inspired yours.
Lee, I use copy and paste and other amazing tools on a regular basis and wouldn't want to do without any of them now. The internet provides access to so many things that weren't always convenient to get to prior to the internet.
DeleteArlee
I'm with you when it comes to writing on a computer. No way would I want to deal with having to "white out" my mistakes when I type! Good luck with your song!
ReplyDeleteLisa, white out was so noticeable and ugly, but worn erasure holes were even worse. I make too many mistakes while typing.
DeleteLee
Screw the typewriter! I hated messing up and then getting out that whiteout with the brush. It would get all gooey and blobby..my word:) What is life without chances? I think it's fine but I also believe we need to protect oneself especially when we know we are really good at what we do. Good luck in finding someone for your challenge. I preder caetano and Gilberto over John Mayer because I like the quirkiness of it and I could follow it better than John Mayer so those 2 get my vote
ReplyDeleteBirgit, especially at my age I'm not overly concerned about things I put on the internet. I've been writing songs for over fifty years and they almost all reside in notebooks or on homemade cassette tapes that few people have heard. I really hope I get at least one challenger to record a cover of my song.
DeleteA vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
Hi Arlee
ReplyDeleteMusic first. I prefer Gil and Veleso. It was easier listening for me. I understood the words better and felt more comfortable with the overall presentation. I hate typewriters. I never got the hang of them. Word processing via computer is so much easier. Just backspace, take care of the mistake, and move on.(I backspace alot).
Enjoyed your blog. I may have to try the A to Z Challenge in 2019
Laura
Laura, I like the concept of typewriters and hearing them when a proficient typist at work. My father was an excellent typist and I used to marvel watching his fingers fly across the keys.
DeleteA vote for Veloso/Gil.
Lee
You know how people, once they’re retired, start new hobbies? Well, playing an instrument would be on my list for when I’m retired in a couple of decades from now. Until then, sorry, but no musical talent here. Lots of respect for musicians who do have it, though. :-)
ReplyDeleteThere’s a saying, “There’s always tomorrow” or “mañana”. But, then there’s the saying “Don’t wait until tomorrow with what you can do today.” I’ve followed both at separate occasions. :-)
The creative stuff... I’ve had thoughts like that as well. The photos I put on my blog, the name of titles and ideas... I am a bit worried about someone else stealing them. It’s so easy to do once something is onlne. You could get words and titles trademarked, but it will cost you/me. And, then there’s the part you mentioned when, if people use your stuff, it must be good/unique, right? :-)
Anyway, the reason I’ve not mentioned the going title for my current memoir is because I don’t want anyone to steal my idea. There!
Liesbet, playing an instrument or singing can be very relaxing and therapeutic. Never too soon or too late to start!
DeleteI never think about my own images that I've put up online. If someone uses my stuff then I consider it as kind of a compliment.
Lee
My pick was John Mayer. I learned to type on IBM so for a long time I preferred the typewriter. BUT, since I have not spent more time on a computer I prefer the computer, but I have lost some of the speed. On a typewriter I use to do 89 to 110 wpm, but computer its hard to get over 60 wpm for me.
ReplyDeleteHappy belated IWSG day,
Juneta, an IBM was what my father used to bring home from his office for me to use, but we never had a typewriter of our own. I'm pretty sure I can type faster on my computer, but then I have used it more.
DeleteA vote for Mayer Trio.
Lee
First, for the battle, I prefer the Gil/Veloso cover over John Mayer's. They were a little more melodic.
ReplyDeleteWish I could get in on your call for covers of your song, but I haven't played in years because of my hand. Damn stroke...
John, I wish you could still play. Still, you have accommodated yourself well to your stroke. Glad you're able to keep posting to your blog.
DeleteA vote for Veloso/Gil
Lee
Exciting to see you're going ahead with your song and the challenge sounds interesting. Here's hoping you get the volunteeers you need to make it happen!
ReplyDeleteI don't remember this Jimi Hendrix song and consider myself a big fan. The covers sounded okay but there was something off-putting, possibly the vocals, in John Mayer's version. Please give my vote to Gil and Caetano.
Debbie D, I hope I find some takers to my Challenge--so far not much luck.
DeleteVeloso/Gil.
Lee