When I was a kid, I thought it was so cool to have parents in a band. My dad was the lead singer, and my mom sang backup. We had a recording studio in our backyard, and when I was in third grade they released an album called Dreams Realized. When the band wasn’t recording, I’d sneak in the studio and sing into the microphone on the stage, pretending I was some huge rock star. In fact, up until I went to college, I thought for sure I’d be famous in the music world one day. (Then I realized I wanted to earn a living without being a starving artist for the rest of my life, so music went on the back burner. I still sing and enjoy music more than anything – I just didn’t make a career of it.) I totally see where I get my passion for writing lyrics and poetry (thanks, Dad) and always love listening to this album to take a trip down memory lane.
Well, a few months ago, my dad asked me if I could get his album online and share with some friends and strangers across the internet. I finally got it out there, via Soundcloud (which was super easy and intuitive, so I can see why many artists use this service). I’ve embedded the playlist below, so please give it a listen and let me know what you think. It’s a great album (of course, I’m probably biased), and tracks 1, 2, 6, and 7 are my personal favorites. I hope you enjoy!
This, my friends, is brilliant! Weird Al is at it again, releasing one new video per day to promote his new album, titled Mandatory Fun. The one released yesterday is titled “Word Crimes” and is absolutely share-worthy.
It’s catchy (you can’t tell me you don’t dance to the tune of Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” when you hear it), and will help you polish your grammar skills. Just file this one under “learning can be fun” – you’ll be grooving and cleaning up your grammar simultaneously in no time!
I have become obsessed with the song “Better Days” by Eddie Vedder lately. The lyrics really spark something inside of me – makes me want to further explore my beliefs. I have been struggling with trying to figure out what I believe in (religion-wise), because I’m realizing my views are changing drastically. As I grow older and wiser, I’m beginning to branch away from the religious views that I was indoctrinated with as a child. Although I’m not too sure about what I really believe in anymore – if anything – I’m starting to question and explore other ideals and beliefs. I was born and raised Catholic, but now I would say I’m more Agnostic and questioning. I am not sure I’m ready to open that can of worms at this time, but stay tuned – that’s sure to come soon.
This song may not have much to do about the above paragraph, but when I listen to it, I feel that I am right to question my previous beliefs. I feel there is something else out there that is a better fit for me, and the universe will help me find it if I just open my mind… I’m ready to explore and open up. I’m ready to “greet myself, read myself.” I love my life and am very happy with the way things are going, and I know they will only get better. I will find my answers eventually. My future is definitely paved with better days.
I wanted to share these lyrics with you. I also included a video (from the movie Eat, Pray, Love). Enjoy!
Better Days, Eddie Vedder
I feel part of the universe open up to meet me
My emotion so submerged, broken down to kneel in
Once listening, the voices they came
Had to somehow greet myself, read myself
Heard vibrations within my cells, in my cells
Singing, “Ah-la-ah-ah, ah-la-ah-ah”
My love is safe for the universe
See me now, I’m bursting
On one planet, so many turns
Different worlds
Singing, “Ah-la-ah-ah, ah-ah-ah-ah, ah”
Fill my heart with discipline
Put there for the teaching
In my head see clouds of stairs
Help me as I’m reaching
The future’s paved with better days
Not running from something
I’m running towards the day
Wide awake
A whisper once quiet
Now rising to a scream
Right in me
I’m falling, free falling
Words calling me
Up off my knees
I’m soaring and, darling,
You’ll be the one that I can need
Still be free
In case you haven’t been able to figure it out yet, I’m kind of obsessed with DMB. I came across this challenge via @JTR89’s twitter page, who originally found it on danayylovedmb‘s Tumblr. I am going to have to take part in this challenge! To save my dear readers time and trouble of looking through multiple posts, I will update the challenge list here. Peace, love, & DMB forever. :)
Day 1: August 6, 2010 – A Picture of the Whole Band
I love this band. The only way this picture could be more beautiful is if LeRoi were still with us. We will never forget the impact he made on this band and the fans. Rest Peacefully, Roi. <3
Day 2: August 7, 2010 – The Day I Discovered Dave
While I don’t remember the exact day I discovered this amazing band, I do recall that I was in high school when I started listening to them. My cousin was a huge fan, and he got me hooked. I started learning the songs, reading about the band, but I had not seen them live. The moment I saw a show, it was over. My like turned into love, which turned into obsessed… and here we are, 14 shows later.
Day 3: August 8, 2010 – My Favorite DMB Song and Why
This is a tough one, but I can honestly tell you I’ve always been able to say that Dancing Nancies is my fave DMB jam. The lyrics, the music… album or live, it doesn’t matter what version. I am partial to Warehouse following (live versions), but I’m happy when I hear this song no matter what. It always helps me remember that no matter what is going on, I can get through it and find a brighter day. This song helps me remember that I could have really been anything, but what I am is who I was meant to be. <3
A close second would have to be a tie between Bartender, Don’t Drink the Water, and #41. It’s so hard to choose, so that’s why I have a top 10-20. ;)
Day 4: August 9, 2010 – My Favorite DMB Album & Favorite Song From That Album
My favorite album has to be Before These Crowded Streets. When I first listened to this album straight through, I was blown away. It was darker than the albums before, and was wonderfully produced. It doesn’t get better than BTCS. My favorite track on this album is hard to choose. I think it’s a tie between Don’t Drink the Water and Pig, although I am partial to The Stone and The Last Stop as well. Quit making me choose! ;)
Day 5: August 10, 2010 – Favorite Live Trax Album
That’s easy… Live Trax 15, Alpine Valley. This is the release that made me fall in love with Louisiana Bayou. Not to mention the Too Much-Fake>Halloween, Water into Wine TWICE, and that epic Two Step closer. *drools*
Day 6: August 11, 2010 – Favorite Picture of Dave Matthews
Can you tell I was excited? <3
Day 7: August 12, 2010 – The First Song I Heard
I honestly don’t remember! I know I heard songs from Crash on the radio when I was in high school… but the first song I really remember hearing – actually hearing – was #41. I fell in love immediately. :)
Day 8: August 13, 2010 – The First Time I Saw the Band Live (and my experience)
For this one, you’ll have to stay tuned for the Panda Adventures. ;)
Day 9: August 14, 2010 – A Song That Reminds Me of a Certain Event, Moment, Memory, &/or Person
That’s a tough one to narrow down! There are many songs that remind me of many things, so that might take more time than I have right now to think about! How about a couple – Grey Street makes me think of my first show. Crush, Rapunzel and You & Me makes me think of my sweetheart.
Day 10: August 15, 2010 – A Song I Know All the Words To
…How about songs I don’t know the words to? That would be the new stuff, like Black Jack, Break for It, etc. :)
Day 11: August 16, 2010 – Favorite Music Video
My fave music video would have to be Crush or Don’t Drink the Water. I also really like Dreamgirl, because every member of the band has some kind of cameo.
Day 12: August 17, 2010 – Your Least Favorite Song
My least favorite song? Wow… I guess I will have to go with You Might Die Trying. It’s not bad and I don’t hate it by any means, but it is what we (my DMB Twitter family) like to call a “pee break” song. LOL
Day 13: August 18, 2010 – Reasons Why You Love Them
Their talent is exceptional. The lyrics and music, and how it all rolls together blows my mind. Dave sings my life, and the boys play it. Every single live show is different. I have met incredible people because of our love for this band. They are inspiring. I can relate to what Dave writes and sings. They are all such great guys – family men who have morals and values. They are also all nice to talk to, and are willing to take photos and sign autographs with smiles on their faces. They love their fans as much as we love them. This list could go on and on…
Day 14: August 19, 2010 – Favorite Quote(s)
“Could I have been anyone other than me?” “I will go in this way and I will find my own way out.” “Lean upon me, I’ll lean up on you, We’ll be ok.” “I was just wondering if you’d come along, hold up my head when it won’t hold on…” “Naked you will see that we are all the same.” “Forever dancing with the GrooGrux King…”
Day 15: August 20, 2010 – Number of Shows I’ve Been To
Total: 14. Blossom ’06, Deer Creek ’07, IU (D&T) ’08, Deer Creek ’08, Vanderbilt ’09, Riverbend ’09, Blossom ’09, Deer Creek ’09, Deer Creek ’10, PNC ’10.
Day 16: August 21, 2010 – Favorite Concert/Tour
The best set I have ever seen has to be N2 at Deer Creek 2010. I was blown away. Close behind are Vanderbilt ’09, D&T @ IU, and PNC 2010.
Day 17: August 22, 2010 – Random DMB Picture
Day 18: August 23, 2010 – If I Could Spend an Entire Day With the Band, What Would I Do?
Oh man… the possibilities are endless. Let’s start with a bike ride and end with a relaxing dinner, complete with lots of wine. Whatever happens in between happens. I’m not that picky, just wanna hang with them. :) That would be ideal.
Day 19: August 24, 2010 – Ways the Band Has Changed My Life
This band has changed my life in so many ways… the way I think about things mainly. I listen to their lyrics and music and use them in my life for day to day activities. It’s something I have found I relate to more than any church, any religion, or anyone. It’s like he really does sing my life… and knowing there are so many others out there that feel the same way I do is amazing. I have met many awesome people because of this band. <3
Day 20: August 25, 2010 – Favorite Album Art
Big Whiskey & the GrooGrux King, by far. Dave’s own work, the references made in the cover art… it’s beautiful and personal.
Day 21: August 26, 2010 – How Long You’ve Been a Fan
I’ve been a fan since high school, but I really got into their music when I began college. In the last 4 years, I’ve become obsessed, especially after my first live show.
Day 22: August 27, 2010 – Favorite Band Member and Why
Fave band member?! Are you kidding? DAVE. <3 Sexy, sweaty, scruffy Dave!
Day 23: August 28, 2010 – How I Describe the Band When Someone is Listening for the First Time
I’m completely random. I talk too much, trying to point out the key factors of a song… It’s ridiculous. It’s like… “OMG, listen right….here! Did you hear that? Ahhhhhh!”
Day 24: August 29, 2010: Favorite Lyrics
Pretty sure I answered this… Yes, see Favorite Quote(s). :)
Day 25: August 30, 2010: How Do You Feel About the Death of Leroi Moore
This is a loaded question. When I heard he passed away, it devastated me. The day he died was also the anniversary of my oldest brother’s passing. When the boys decided to play their show as scheduled, it made my heart heavy. They just lost someone so close to them, and went on with the show – because Roi would have wanted that. Every time I hear “Why I Am,” I cry. I can’t help it. His talent was astonishing; his skills so refined. He is sorely missed.
Day 26: August 31, 2010 – If I Had the Chance to Write a Song With the Band, What Would It Be and What Would I Call It?
I don’t even know where to begin with this one. I would be honored to write a song with them… but I have no idea what direction it would take! We’ll see… :)
Day 27: September 1, 2010 – What Song I Would Perform With the Band
I would have to say Spoon. I think I could definitely pull off Alanis’ part. :)
Day 28: September 2, 2010 – How Do You Feel About the Break In 2011
I’m devastated! I’m going to have to find something else to do next summer. Boooo… but on the plus side, I do have plenty of time to save up for Gorge 2012 and a few more shows now… :)
Day 29: September 3, 2010 – Another Picture of the Band
Day 30: September 4, 2010 – Write a Letter to the Band
Dear Dave – Will you please be scruffy at all the shows? And come hang out with the DMB Twitterfam when you’re done with your break. Love, Me.
Dear Fonz – Could you please do the All Along the Watchtower intro like this summer, where you crouch down on the stage and play? That was awesome. Love, Me.
Dear Boyd – Keep tearing up that violin. <3 Love, Me.
Dear Carter – I love your smile. Love, Me.
Dear Jeff & Rashawn – The element you bring to the band is breathtaking. Thanks for everything. Love, Me.
Dear Tim Reynolds – you are a badass. That is all. Love, Me. Dear Roi – WE MISS YOU AND ALWAYS WILL. <3
