I was 16 when Adam Grafstrom asked me to join his band. He and Tony Erickson, the drummer, needed a bass player for their classic rock cover band. I was terrified. Real bands stood directly in front of people. I was used to church bands. We sat off to the side, like an orchestra pit. […]
Stage Fright at the Kittson County Fair Read More »
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What is the most important aspect of a song? I asked my friend this question. The reason I asked him is because he’s a multi-award winning and Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer. If anybody has any authority on the matter, it’s him. You want to know what he said? Before I tell you, here’s a clue.
The Most Important Aspect of a Song Read More »
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I grew up in a small house with three sisters and one bathroom. Add my mom and dad, and you don’t have to be a mathematician to know that’s an equation begging for logistical problems. Given the number of scheduling conflicts over the course of a childhood, I learned to travel the path of least
How to Grow Up with 3 Sisters and 1 Bathroom Read More »
Most of my life I spent working manual labor jobs. Construction, landscaping, stocking shelves at Wally’s Supermarket. I loved coming home exhausted. It was rewarding.
Why Your Mind is Like a Wheelbarrow Read More »
All right, thanks for filling in for me. I know you might not have cowritten a song, let alone written a song before, but you’re all I’ve got. Don’t worry, I’m going to show you exactly what to do, ok?
How to Be My Substitute Cowriter Read More »
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Are you married? If you are, there’s a good chance my mom was the pianist in your wedding.
Was My Mom the Pianist at Your Wedding? Read More »
I used to watch those pharmaceutical commercials for depression and anxiety and my eyes would well up with tears because I related so much. I’d almost involuntarily raise my hand.
Yes, I Take Medicine for Mental Health Read More »