Granger Smith " Five More Minutes" and Unsent Letters"

Texas Music: My Passion

Texas Music: My Passion: "I have been wanting to write a bit on why I do what I do. So many of my musically-oriented friends have asked me this question. It's really ..."

Texas Music: My Passion

I have been wanting to write a bit on why I do what I do. So many of my musically-oriented friends have asked me this question. It's really is as simple as I am. If you are a Texas musician, you probably play, write, and sing because something in you says to do so. I have had the privilege of speaking to some of these friends on a personal level about their songwriting.  Songs are written for many reasons, but rarely have I heard anyone say because of money. If you are a songwriter, you know it is quite the contrary.  I do know that after the song is written, and after the song is performed that  one hopes that in the process of enjoyment that  the song will generate a financial gratitude in some way. I am no different. I love music. I was raised on Willie, Waylon, Reeves, Cline,  ZZ Top, Cream, Santana, Jerry Jeff, Billy Joel, Elton John, and the list goes on. Music has colorized every memory I have. When I discovered all the great music being written and sung in our little North Texas area, I had to share it with friends and family. What is known today as Texas Red Productions or hwy82musicreview.com is just an extension of this beginning. What is happening in Texas more and more is actually just a continuation of what Texas music is and has been all along....an independent people writing independent music in an independent state. Somehow, we as Texans, have managed to keep true to something that is grown here much like our pecan trees. Independence. We are part of something bigger, but have no fear of standing alone. In a day of political correctness and conformity, Texas music remains itself. That is worth capturing on film and supporting in any way I can. If support comes after that is done, I welcome it only to further more of my venture in capturing the Texas Music Scene. The fabric that is woven in the people I often video and photograph is so completely tough. It shines in the music that is written too. I recently went to see a new movie by the name of "Country Strong". I was utterly disappointed. At first glance, it is a movie about a woman who is a country music singer/songwriter. She runs through addiction and people like some musicians do, but in the end, ends her own life. The movie  makes a few statements about Texas music that could be close to the truth, however, "country strong" ends up being country weak. To end one's life is not strong at all. The only redeeming character in this whole movie was Bo, who was a singer/songwriter in love with the small town folk who enjoyed his music. That is true to the Texas music scene. We are surrounded by all kinds of musicians. Some still think that going to another state is where they need to go to be great. I chose to believe, based on my observations in this lifestyle of music, that the greatness of Texas music is in the ability to completely stand up alone. Those who pour out their hearts in music are, in my opinion, some of the coolest people to know. We have spent many hours  in living rooms, beside campfires, on backs of trucks and outside venues til all hours of the morning listening and getting to know the artists that live, eat, and sing in our areas. We feel blessed for this opportunity. I may have rambled a bit today. I hope that you will forgive me for typing as I speak. I do it intentionally because I do not have to be anything but me on my personal blog.: ) I just want to share my thoughts as if I were sitting with you, if that is ok.: ) I add too many smiley faces because when reading, I want you to know I am smiling too.: ) Please have a wonderful day in spite of the cold and always know that if our paths cross at anytime, you are more than welcomed to come and say hello. Until then, having a great day.: )

Aubrey Lynn England

Aubrey Lynn England

Everyone, who has listened to me rant on  the "male-dominated" Texas music scene here in North Texas, knows that I have a handful of female artists that I actually like to listen to. It wasn't until just recently that I went to check out this singer/songwriter.  From the gentleness of her presence to the stage presence she had the night I heard her for the first time, I was completely drawn to her. She brought tears to my eyes with a song the first time I heard it. Now, in a crowded bar, I  don't make it a habit to "cry" over my beer. She seems to still live desperately in her songs. Untainted. Deeply lyrical. Loving. Passionate. Real. Aubrey.......now listen.

I can't wait for her new single, "Raising Hell" : )

Texas Red Speaks for the first time!

OK, everyone has asked me to write, write, write...I will attempt to keep this blog up as often as possible. Between 9 kids at home, a website to run, homeschooling 4 teenage boys, working with 3 other websites I'm building, learning everything I can get my mind to warp around, photo shoots, meeting with musicians, and somewhere in there sleeping, I do not remain to hopeful at blogging ALL the time.: ) I will; however, promise to write down the important highlights of my life with the family and any wisdom gained, often the hard way, along with our adventures (or misadventures) with the whole Texas music scene. It seems to me that starting in the middle somehow deprives those who will read this blog of all the events leading up to this point in the story. It's like starting in the middle of a movie or book. So, for the benefit of those who take an interest in my little blog, I will, on occasion, go backwards when I can.  I do see that so many things and people in life circulate in some form or fashion. Maybe it won't be as confusing after all. I do appreciate anyone who will sit and listen (or rather read) my rants, much like I would do at a little store in a small town with an elderly man who actually used the phrase " as the crow flies" in trying to give me directions.: ) It still makes me smile to remember his serious face when he spoke those words to me.  I will warn you that I rabbit trail often, but only when I think it utterly necessary in painting an accurate portrait of a point. I will also say that I think people in general are the best and worst part of this rotating we rock we inhabit. We are worth the time it takes to get to know one another, love deeply, expand our knowledge and understanding of all the different aspects of each other in so many different walks of life. We are human....and that means more than most realize.Please feel free to visit my websitehttp://www.wix.com/hwy82musicreview/hwy82musicreview3212010 and see the people I will write about. Sit a while and have a cup of coffee while we listen to music most have not ever heard, but should have or will.AND please try to smile if you haven't today. : )