tag:chakrableu.com,2005:/blogs/blog-62117a31-e936-409d-95a4-06467e9cb9a5?p=5
Blog
2023-10-16T02:56:03-12:00
CHAKRA BLEU ®
false
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107599
2019-12-03T12:00:00-12:00
2019-12-03T19:57:43-12:00
More reviews for WE SHALL OVERCOME
<div class="_zLbN _1szKo focus-visible" data-hook="post-title" data-focus-visible-added="">
<h1 class="_2NtDR _1X8-e blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color blog-text-color post-title blog-hover-container-element-color _1UFX- blog-post-page-title-font" data-hook="post-title"><span class="post-title__text blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color">Chakra Bleu- 'We Shall Overcome'</span></h1>
</div>
<div class="_3uWjK" data-hook="post-description">
<div class="post-content__body">
<div class="_2FZkM">
<div class="kcuBq xGuFA blog-post-page-font TCKPQ uatYj _1Ss7I" dir="ltr">
<div class="kaqlz _1PiV3 blog-post-page-font css-mjmmw0">
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Written by Victoria Scott & Staff</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _3Q43X _pt-Q _pt-Q">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ">
<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_c13a785c3198424ca5e9f49ea6a6e8af~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_240,h_240,al_c,q_5/file.jpeg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_c13a785c3198424ca5e9f49ea6a6e8af~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_336,h_336,al_c,lg_1,q_90/1a4d86_c13a785c3198424ca5e9f49ea6a6e8af~mv2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" />
</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">In Chakra Bleu's “We Shall Over Come,” social justice, reggae and pop-rock come together for a purpose. With lead guitar, bass slide, and rhythm guitar, the whole song flows. The arrangement is true pop-reggae incorporating guitar and drum riffs throughout. Rhythmically, everything grooves in the pocket. The instrumentation in “We Shall Over Come” is upbeat, intense, and gets the body moving.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">The performance is by Chakra (lead vocals, electric and rhythm guitar), John Billings (bass and engineer), Brice Foster (drums), Ronnie Godfrey (keys), Paul Allen (lead guitar), and Scott Ducaj (trumpet) - their playing is immaculate. You can rally hear how well synced theses musicians are. Chakra's popping lead vocals and beautiful harmonies are pristine.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Her lyrics speak about freedom, equality, and unity between genders, sexual identity, and ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Her meaning is clear from the start. <em>“Come on now, how long must this go on, this inequality’s lasted too long.” </em> As a united front, we shouldn’t repeat history, <em>“Why not learn from histories past mistakes, the time to ‘live and let live’ is never too late. We Shall overcome and lead the way.” </em>This song has such a powerful lesson and message that it needs to be heard, especially with what is happening in the world today.“We Shall Over Come” shines a light with hope, while inspiring and encouraging future generations.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">It is remarkable that Chakra Bleu was able to write a song with such an important and hard topic to speak on, while still being creative, politically sensitive, and firm in her message that everyone is accountable and can make a difference. This is how a great protest, social justice song is done.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ c-Mgr _1K2V0 _1K2V0 _3LSSz _2elWP _2elWP">
<div class="_2NwBk _3psod" data-hook="divider-single"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ">
<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_371b80e8c321403ea3ac023670570b21~mv2_d_1280_1280_s_2.jpg/v1/fit/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_5/file.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_371b80e8c321403ea3ac023670570b21~mv2_d_1280_1280_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/1a4d86_371b80e8c321403ea3ac023670570b21~mv2_d_1280_1280_s_2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" />
</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">"We Shall Overcome" is featured on BWH Music Group’s new release, ‘On Peace Street, Vol. One.’ The compilation album is a collection of 19 original songs in various genres by today's best independent artists and songwriters. Sharing songs about peace and social justice, the artist's songs will ultimately remind you of the importance of peace, fairness, love and unity. Filled with meaningful lyrics and exceptional music, this playlist is an example of how music can influence, and even change, people, movements, and society. Visit <a class="_2qJYG blog-link-hashtag-color _3sz0l" href="https://www.bwhmusicgroup.com/on-peace-street-vol-one" rel="noopener" target="_blank" data-imported="1"><span class="sDZYg" style="text-decoration:underline">BWH Music Group Album Release Page</span></a> for more information.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107598
2019-11-26T12:00:00-12:00
2019-11-26T19:45:52-12:00
We Shall Overcome: Review
<div class="_zLbN _1szKo" data-hook="post-title">
<h1 class="_2NtDR _1X8-e blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color blog-text-color post-title blog-hover-container-element-color _1UFX- blog-post-page-title-font" data-hook="post-title"><span class="post-title__text blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color">Chakra Bleu - 'We Shall Overcome'</span></h1>
</div>
<div class="_3uWjK" data-hook="post-description">
<div class="post-content__body">
<div class="_2FZkM">
<div class="kcuBq xGuFA blog-post-page-font TCKPQ uatYj _1Ss7I" dir="ltr">
<div class="kaqlz _1PiV3 blog-post-page-font css-f4e0m7">
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Review Written by Daniel Hoyt & Staff</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ">
<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_67657c34930c4abf9cf9a5aa7074d519~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.png/v1/fit/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_5/file.png" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_67657c34930c4abf9cf9a5aa7074d519~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.png/v1/fill/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/1a4d86_67657c34930c4abf9cf9a5aa7074d519~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" />
</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">'We Shall Overcome' by Chakra Bleu is featured on BWH Music Group’s new release, ‘On Peace Street, Vol. One.’ The compilation album is a collection of 19 original songs in various genres by today's best independent artists and songwriters. Sharing songs about peace and social justice, the artist's songs will ultimately remind you of the importance of peace, fairness, love and unity. Filled with meaningful lyrics and exceptional music, this playlist is an example of how music can influence, and even change, people, movements, and society Marketed under Americana, “We Shall Overcome” is a fantastically catchy tune that captures reggae and pop-rock styles with ease. The song is hard to pigeon-hole into one genre or style. It is reminiscent of bands like No Doubt from the 90's and Men at Work from the 80s. The tune starts with a 50's rock and roll intro and the verses follow with a Marley-esque reggae motion. The fusion of styles become an ear-worm of surprises and twists that engage you from beginning to end.The strong chorus boasts a timeless, catchy pop-rock tune.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chakra Bleu certainly shows that she has a diverse palate as a songwriter; she isn't afraid to write music that has vivid color. Another element that a listener with a keen ear will notice is the Corrs like tone Bleu has in her voice. It’s an amazing pop element in this song that is pleasing to any listener. Chakra's voice is very natural and comes from a place of confidence in what she is sharing, both musically and lyrically.</p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _3Q43X _pt-Q _pt-Q">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ"><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_8c9199ce5cb74a879e61508b06eaaa74~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_240,h_240,al_c,q_5/file.jpeg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_8c9199ce5cb74a879e61508b06eaaa74~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_336,h_336,al_c,lg_1,q_90/1a4d86_8c9199ce5cb74a879e61508b06eaaa74~mv2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Inspired by incidents such as the Michael Brown shooting and those that followed, 'We Shall Overcome' is a powerful song reminiscent of Marley’s “Redemption Song,” which explored themes like emancipation from mental slavery. Bleu's song could even be an extension of that idea because it is asking humanity to work together for unification. With lines like, <em>“Why not learn from history’s past mistakes,”</em> Bleu asks us to logically think about the injustices of the past and how we can change our future for the better. Bleu's song is ultimately about unity through peace, and not through violence. The song asks for the end of violence, and for a resistance to stooping down to the enemy’s level.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<blockquote class="_3jY04 _1J-OE _2XYO_ blog-post-quote-font blog-post-quote-color blog-quote-border-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">
<div><em>“Lions will lie down before the lamb.” </em></div>
</blockquote>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chakra Bleu speaks for the masses in her song “We Shall Overcome.” Her message, mixed with her insanely catchy melody, infectious beat, and down-to-earth vocals makes for a fusion that would appeal to any fan of any genre. This universal song is a good definition of all that Bleu has to offer. Her engaging songwriting and musicianship, along with her meaningful message, will surely stand the test of time.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ c-Mgr _1K2V0 _1K2V0 _3LSSz _2elWP _2elWP">
<div class="_2NwBk _3psod" data-hook="divider-single"></div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">About Chakra Bleu</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ"><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_de559d2f0877439bbd8f16999132bcb4~mv2_d_1370_2048_s_2.jpg/v1/fit/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_5/file.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_de559d2f0877439bbd8f16999132bcb4~mv2_d_1370_2048_s_2.jpg/v1/fill/w_201,h_300,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/1a4d86_de559d2f0877439bbd8f16999132bcb4~mv2_d_1370_2048_s_2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chart topping, Nashville artist, Chakra Bleu has been granted many awards throughout her career, including the “Arena Award. This award has been given to recipients such as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire and is granted to artists who have contributed an inspiring presence in their community.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chakra's music captures a fusion between genres such as Reggae, Americana, Pop-Rock and R&B. Bleu’s songs have been played across the US and Europe on Top 40, Country, A/C and AAA radio. She has also been in the spotlight of many showcases such as the Bluebird Cafe and BMI.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chakra Bleu has released nine albums to date. All of her albums have had enormous success. Off her 7th album, the single "All of Me" charted #2 on the Top 40 as well as #1 on the Indie Top 40, holding for five weeks then onto #7 on the Top 100. The second single, "The Shadow," went to #4 on (NMW) Top 40. Off her 6th CD ‘Souvenir,’ five singles simultaneously bedazzled the charts.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107597
2019-11-20T12:00:00-12:00
2023-10-16T02:56:03-12:00
Q&A's about 'We Shall Overcome' on compilation Peace Street album
<p> </p>
<div class="x_VfD">
<div class="_zLbN _1szKo" data-hook="post-title">
<h1 class="_2NtDR _1X8-e blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color blog-text-color post-title blog-hover-container-element-color _1UFX- blog-post-page-title-font" data-hook="post-title"><span class="post-title__text blog-post-title-font blog-post-title-color">Chakra Bleu - 10 Questions Music Interview</span></h1>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<div class="_3uWjK" data-hook="post-description">
<div class="post-content__body">
<div class="_2FZkM">
<div class="kcuBq xGuFA blog-post-page-font TCKPQ uatYj _1Ss7I" dir="ltr">
<div class="kaqlz _1PiV3 blog-post-page-font css-ny5mgi">
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ _2G2B- _11Kdb _11Kdb _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ">
<img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_7069c1582dfa47f28a968ca1c026ce11~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.png/v1/fit/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_5/file.png" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_7069c1582dfa47f28a968ca1c026ce11~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.png/v1/fill/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/1a4d86_7069c1582dfa47f28a968ca1c026ce11~mv2_d_1400_1400_s_2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" />
</div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Chart topping, Nashville artist, Chakra Bleu has been granted many awards throughout her career, including the “Arena Award." This award has been given to recipients such as Dolly Parton and Reba McEntire - it is granted to artists who have contributed an inspiring presence in their community. Chakra's music captures a fusion between genres such as Reggae, Americana, pop-rock and R&B. Her songs have been played across the US and Europe on Top 40, Country, A/C and AAA radio. Chakra has released nine albums to date. All of her albums have had enormous success with multiple singles charting on the Indie Top 40 and more. Chakra Bleu is one of the artists who will be featured on BWH Music Group’s On Peace Street, a compilation album featuring 19 songs about peace and social justice.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">What is the name of the song you have on Peace Street? </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">"We Shall Overcome"</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">What is the inspiration behind your song? Or, what is the song about? </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Music has the power to unite like minds and hearts. This song's purpose is to promote unification and awareness that will stir us into action, with the hope that a positive change can be made. May it help promote true equality and justice, for all races, for all genders, for immigrants, for all sexual identities, and for equal voting rights for all.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">With this song I ask the listener to consider their own dignity and encourage the dignity of all others through peaceful measures. Although this song was first inspired by the Michael Brown (Ferguson) shooting, along with the many other shootings following that, the overall message of this song reaches out to the Humanity in us all. This song reaches to unite us all from the Heart. This song calls out to come together in our diversity, to rein in Dignity, Justice, Freedom and Equality, standing up against those individuals and groups that chose violence, lies, fear, intimidation, hate crimes, greed and social-economic injustice. I ask that we use this song for the sake of Unification. We are at a crucial time not only in the United States, yet in the whole world, whereby the Voice of the Heart, the Voice of Humanity needs to come together and stand behind the leaders who stand for Peace, Equality and Justice. May this song promote a fervor in our hearts to stand and work together for the good for all and our Mother Earth.</p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ c-Mgr _1K2V0 _1K2V0 _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ"><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_82f8b9897de74239853dd5c9a12fb4ad~mv2.jpeg/v1/fit/w_240,h_240,al_c,q_5/file.jpeg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_82f8b9897de74239853dd5c9a12fb4ad~mv2.jpeg/v1/fill/w_336,h_336,al_c,lg_1,q_90/1a4d86_82f8b9897de74239853dd5c9a12fb4ad~mv2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">How did you write your featured song? Or, can you describe your songwriting process? I actually wrote the melody sixth months prior to adding the lyrics. I knew that the melody was going to be about a social conscious song. I have found it more productive in my songwriting process, to first concentrate fully on the melody followed then later by the lyrics. So when it was time to add the lyrics to the melody, I had rented a Air BnB in Brevard, NC, in the Pisgah mountains that really bring out a lot of inspiration through my Soul. I replayed the melody on my handheld cassette player, while looking out the window at the beautiful peaceful scenery. I then let a quiet overcome me, while asking myself, "What is this song about?" Soon the concept of the song came clearly to me, as well as lyrics spilling themselves in pieces like puzzles upon the yellow pad before me. The song was extremely emotional and covered a lot of territory into subjects of dignity, justice, freedom, equality to the tremendous injustices from those individuals and groups that have chosen violence, lies, fear, intimidation, hate crimes greed and social-economic and environmental injustice. Who are your major music influences?</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Country: Emmylou Harris; Willie Nelson; Johnny Cash; Waylon Jennings; George Jones; Buck Owens; Loretta Lynn; Patsy Cline; Patti Lovelace; Mary Chapin Carpenter; Hank Williams Sr.; Lefty Frizzell; Glen Campbell; Merle Haggard; Lacy J. Dalton Rock/R&B/Blues Pretenders; Fleetwood Mac; Annie Lennox; Heart; David Byrne; Tom Petty; Boston; Eagles; REM; Bruce Springsteen; Journey; Melissa Etheridge; Aretha Franklin;Bonnie Raitt; Stevie Ray Vaughn; Eric Clapton; Ella Fitzgerald; Billie Holliday; Sara Vaughn; George Benson; Delbert McClinton; **I have also been influenced by Jazz & Swing artists (& sang jazz in HS/College) ...some favorites include the greats: Sinatra; Glenn Miller; Lena Horne; Jango Reinhardt; Allison Mose; Tony Bennett; Dave Brubeck; Zoot Sims; ; Wynton Marsalis; John Coltrane; Miles Davis; Nat King Cole Trio; Thelonious Monk; Larry Carlton; Artie Shaw; and many more World Music thrills my taste in music in that is brings fresh sounds of rhythms and modes, bringing about the vibrancy of a particular culture. Favorite Producers: Owen Bradley (Brenda Lee; Loretta Lynn; Patsy Cline; Buddy Holly;Conway Twitty,etc) Emory Gordon Jr. (Patty Lovelace; Steve Earle; Rodney Crowell; Emmylou Harris; John Denver)</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Trevor Horn (Seal; Grace Jones; Barry Manilow; Paul McCartney; Pet Shop Boys; Tina Turner; Rod Stewart; Frankie Goes to Hollywood)</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Hugh Padgham (Police; Phil Collins; XTC; Davie Bowie; Melissa Etheridge; Split Enz; etc.)</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Scott Matthews (Etta James; Patti Labelle; Huey Lewis; Nick Lowe; Bonnie Raitt; teve Perry; Stevie Ray Vaughn; Eric Clapton; Elvis Costello; Roy Orbison; Pointer Sisters, etc.)</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">When you wrote this song, did you have a goal in mind? For example, were you trying to raise awareness about an issue that’s close to your heart?</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Although this song was first inspired by the Michael Brown (Ferguson) shooting, along with the many other shootings following that, the overall message of this song reaches out to the Humanity in us all. This song reaches to unite us all from the Heart. This song calls out to come together in our diversity, to rein in Dignity, Justice, Freedom and Equality, standing up against those individuals and groups that chose violence, lies, fear, intimidation, hate crimes, greed and social-economic injustice.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">I wrote this song for the sake of unification. I believe we are at a crucial time not only in the United States, yet in the whole world, whereby the Voice of the Heart, the Voice of Humanity needs to come together and stand behind the leaders who stand for Peace, Equality and Justice. I wrote this song to promote a fervour in our Hearts to stand and work together for the good for all and our Mother Earth.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">How did you get started in music?</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">I started playing the guitar in the 1st grade and began songwriting in the seventh grade. I picked up the bass, piano and mando later on... I sang in Jazz Choir in high school as well as playing bass for jazz band. I majored in music at EWU, all the while playing country and rock bands in the Spokane, WA. Soon after graduating college, I moved to Nashville, so that I could improve my songwriting, producing and recording artist skills.</p>
<div class="q2uC4 _2vlB-">
<div class="_2CvYQ c-Mgr _1K2V0 _1K2V0 _1hD8w">
<div class="_1Lhwj image-container" data-hook="imageViewer">
<div class="xdJBZ"><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_b3b9ca57836748bba1467d88fddd4b5e~mv2.jpg/v1/fit/w_300,h_300,al_c,q_5/file.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /><img src="https://static.wixstatic.com/media/1a4d86_b3b9ca57836748bba1467d88fddd4b5e~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_740,h_707,al_c,q_90,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01/1a4d86_b3b9ca57836748bba1467d88fddd4b5e~mv2.webp" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" /></div>
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Below is part of an artist bio from Phil Sweetland (New York Times music columnist) The whole bio can be read on my website: <a class="_2qJYG blog-link-hashtag-color _3sz0l" href="http://www.chakrableu.com/" rel="noopener" target="_top" data-imported="1">www.chakrableu.com</a> "Since she was a kid growing up in Spokane, Washington, she benefited from having an older brother with a varied record collection. She loved the music of artists like Fleetwood Mac, Boston, Daryl Hall/John Oats, Doobie Brothers,Tom Petty, Pretenders, REM, U2, Annie Lennox, David Byrne, and more. At an early age, spellbound by the roots country guys, as she and her parents watched country awards shows on TV and Opry legends like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn intrigued her, but her favorite and greatest influence at that stage was Emmylou Harris. The Washington native loves performing her own songs at popular Nashville venues, such as The Bluebird Café; 3rd & Lindsley; The Basement; Douglas Corner; The Rutledge; and many more. Like so many who move here, she spent a few years trying to write strictly country. That produced several fine songs. Chakra’s heart wanted more and so did fans at her shows. “It’s what is now called Americana, before Americana was defined,” she says, smiling. “I finally got to the place where I just wrote and played for the joy of it. It’s important for me to honor what my fans want.”</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Thanks to the growth of the Web, Chakra Bleu’s audience spans into Europe, Australia, and even as far away as Japan. “They’re really into Americana over there,” Bleu says of her fast-growing international audience. “It’s really refreshing. When the Internet came along, it allowed indie artists like me to take the reins and run.” Chakra Bleu has found that even in a co-writing town like Nashville, she does her best writing alone. Yet she has co-written with some of the Row’s best, including Kim Richey and John Foster. Bleu is also able to play a variety of instruments. Guitar is her primary instrument, but she also plays piano, bass, and mandolin, all which impact her writing. A key technique that enables her to create so many signature songs, are the songwriting retreats she takes twice each year. “In the fall I go to the Blue Ridge Mountains for 10 days and lock myself in a cabin. I take all my charts and a tape recorder. Then in the summer I go to Washington state for three weeks to write,” she tells us. Those two venues on two different coasts have been breeding grounds for dozens of Chakra Bleu album favorites. “I love writing in the majestic energy of the mountains, as well as at the other cabin retreat at the snow-fed mountain lake in the inland Northwest.” “I’ve found that the beautiful nature around me inspires countless lyrical ideas and melodies to bubble up effortlessly.” For Chakra Bleu, both of these rural retreats seem a million miles away from Nashville, but the material she crafts there rejuvenates her to do even bigger and better things every time she returns to Music Row, to radio, and the concert stage. “Playing and singing is just a real pleasure. On each and every one of my CDs, I include songs which have inspiring and empowering messages, songs that simply put are food for thought,” she says. Fans and radio both in the States and overseas will be loving a steady diet of Chakra Blue’s musical food for thought for a long, long time. "</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Of all the songs you’ve written, what was the most challenging and why? "We Shall Overcome" was challenging because it grouped a lot of issues into one song. I desire for this song to be Far Reaching and All Inclusive. Narrowing down umpteenth concepts, emotions and topics all included in this one song took multiple edits and crunching down words. Another song that was extremely emotional and mind demanding is 'Children Of The Sun'. This song is on my newly released 9th album, 'Living Life Grand'. The story of this song speaks on behalf of all Native Americans...the broken promises/treaties; stolen lives; broken spirits from missionaries coercing religious beliefs, all the while suppressing ancestral culture; land hungry homesteaders and minors bullying their land away with big guns, backed by the federal governments cruel tactics to outmanuever the dignity of countless tribes. This song cries out STILL on behalf of the heartless tactics of corporations backed by the WH to steal away and pollute even more Sacred Land. The land was never theirs to take.</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">How do you think music help promote world peace and social justice? Do you have a favorite social justice song? Music has the power to unite like minds and hearts through awareness. What is awareness? An idiom is to 'raise one's consciousness, to increase one's understanding of one's own needs, behavior, attitudes, etc. Music has a way to bring a proposal of a suggestion to a listener; allowing the person to give consideration to the ideas conveyed by the lyrics. These ideas are further motivated through the melody and emotional content that is portrayed through the content therein. There is a 'vibe' that is offering the listener a path to engage upon. Music and art, therefore can be powerful tools of communication. This particular song's purpose is to promote unification and awareness that will stir us into action, with the hope that a positive change can be made. I believe it can help promote true equality and justice, for all races, for all genders, for immigrants, for all sexual identities, and for equal voting rights for all. My favorite social conscious song is by John Lennon: 'Imagine'</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">What’s coming up in the future? I will be promoting my ninth CD, 'Living Life Grand' and it's new single on Americana radio format, backed by the reputable Nashville radio promoter who has fronted many other singles on my previous albums. Meanwhile, I have literally three albums worth of material ready to hone down into detailed plans of action. I am an Americana artist, which allows me to write, record, produces and perform 'American Music' which includes Rock/Pop; Country; Soul and even Reggae. I say, "life's too short to play one genre!" LOL</p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">Tell us where fans can access your music? <a class="_2qJYG blog-link-hashtag-color _3sz0l" href="https://store.cdbaby.com/Artist/ChakraBleu" rel="noopener" target="_blank" data-imported="1"><span class="sDZYg" style="text-decoration:underline">CDBaby</span></a></p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_">We Shall Overcome by Chakra Bleu on <a class="_2qJYG blog-link-hashtag-color _3sz0l" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/4iXliOCwe4t3Rvn4n9rGZQ" rel="noopener" target="_top" data-imported="1"><span class="sDZYg" style="text-decoration:underline">Spotify</span></a></p>
<p class="XzvDs _208Ie _2Dym_ blog-post-text-font blog-post-text-color _2QAo- _25MYV _2R0Lu _2Dym_"> </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p><a href="https://www.indiemusicinterviews.com/post/chakra-bleu-10-questions-music-interview" data-imported="1"> </a></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107596
2019-11-01T12:00:00-12:00
2019-11-01T23:03:05-12:00
'We Shall Overcome' on Peace Street compilation
<div data-block="true" data-editor="f257k" data-offset-key="4ulqh-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="4ulqh-0-0"><span data-offset-key="4ulqh-0-0">I am honoured to be chosen as one of the few artists on the brand new BWH compilation album of Peace and Social Justice songs:</span></div>
</div>
<div data-block="true" data-editor="f257k" data-offset-key="3pj6g-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3pj6g-0-0"><span data-offset-key="3pj6g-0-0"> </span></div>
</div>
<div data-block="true" data-editor="f257k" data-offset-key="884g2-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="884g2-0-0"><span data-offset-key="884g2-0-0">https://www.indiemusicreporter.com/post/we-shall-overcome-by-chakra-bleu-is-selected-for-bwh-music-group-s-on-peace-street</span></div>
</div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107595
2019-09-11T12:00:00-12:00
2020-01-15T10:09:47-12:00
Another great review of radio single 'I'd Rather Stand Alone'
<p><a href="https://www.pleasepasstheindie.com/post/chakra-bleu-i-d-rather-stand-alone" data-imported="1">https://www.pleasepasstheindie.com/post/chakra-bleu-i-d-rather-stand-alone</a></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107594
2019-07-26T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-26T22:16:58-12:00
Interview about First Single Release
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">https://www.indiemusicinterviews.com/post/chakra-bleu</span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107593
2019-07-14T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-21T09:01:09-12:00
Post CD Release - Chakra Bleu on Publicity Overdrive - Part 19
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">Oh Lawd, My Dear Friends, I don't complain much at all, but I would like to share a secret with you.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">The work that I have encountered now, including all the songs that have been written, edited and re-edited; arranged, produced; mastered; photo shoots; artist direction to prep Graphic Artist; prepping for manufacturing decisions; prepping for the Live CD Release Show.... (I really enjoy all those parts:)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">Yet, now comes the least fun of this business for me...Heavy Sigh... This is the chapter where I tackle the job of publicity, and media tasks. These tasks entail that of composing, addressing and sending umpteenth letters to publications to inquire for reviews and such. Yes, I'm a hands-on artist, yet this takes a LOT of TIME! This left brain admin stuff takes the snuff out of any live show-creative time. <span style="color:#99cc00">It was time again, to take the 'singer/songwriter' hat off to be the full time administrator and publicist.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">Meanwhile, the management company is getting a good start on radio airplay on Americana stations. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">Within a week, I will take my scheduled bi-yearly time off, to a writing Oasis, to BE THE SONGWRITER again; inspired by the water, trees, birds, beauty...to write songs that I hope to inspire when I sing these songs...as writing, singing, producing bring so much Joy to my Heart...it cannot contain this Energy...this Energy is meant to share the Beauty, Love and Joy...to remind us all of the Essence of Joy WE ARE.</span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107592
2019-07-14T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-21T09:01:23-12:00
SHOWTIME! - Part 18
<p>The day of the show had arrived! I rehearsed myself one more time, especially giving attention to the pedal effects for each song, varied with particular parts within a song itself. I had symbols of each pedal 'command' on my SET SHEET, that had the song order. </p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">I had my makeup on; hair fixed; outfit ready to go; instruments ready to load into my Subaru Forester...</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">'Load In' was at 4:30. That means the musicians can load all their gear onto the stage at that time. I had my Les Paul, two acoustic Guilds and mandolin; along with patch chords, guitar stands, effects, CD's, Square (for the music sales) , email sign up lists, etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">The stage was hustling and bustling with the musicians loading in...drummer, bass, lead guitar, singers, and the sound man dancing around all of us. I let him know that I needed a mic for my amp; two D/I's (direct inputs) for my acoustic guitar and mandolin; three microphone for me, harmonist, and bass player; a mic for the lead guitarist's amp, etc. The drummer had a surprise drama, where the high hat bolt had vanished on the club 'set'. Yes, the drummer brings the basics; yet most popular clubs have some basic expected hardware. This piece was essential. He flew off to the nearest music store to get the essential gear, which was a lot closer than his house. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff"></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">Meanwhile the videographer showed up and needed an extension chord for filming. I happened to have an extra one in my bag. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">Behind the scenes, during sound check, the sound guy and I cannot determine why I cannot get a signal out from one of my acoustic guitars. ( I had brought two for the reason that one was tuned to DADGAD, and would save time in between songs, from having to tune from standard tuning). Although the battery on the guitar was new, something weird wasn't working. Neither, I, the sound man, nor the lead guitarist (who also happened to be Martina McBride's band leader/lead guitarist), could figure out this problem. So I instructed the soundman to rig up another mic for the acoustic guitar. Little things like this happen sometimes on sound checks, beyond the knowledge of the audience. It's up to the musicians to 'play it off' like, it was nothing. It worked out live visually, yet it did put a kink in the video taping, which had to be held back.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff"></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">I had planned for the show to follow the order of the CD exactly, including the tempo of the songs, EXACTLY! The killer drummer, Dann Sherrill, already had the tempos cued up for each song, as I had instructed him to do. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">Each musician already had the song order, yet I had extra charts just in case. I also gave the sound man a copy of the song order as well. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">Once the sound check was good to go, we had a little bit of time to blow before the show. Folks were still coming in. I stepped outside for a few minutes, in the thick humid air of mid May while my makeup and hair wilted. Lol. (It was strangely too hot and humid for that month)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">At 6:00 PM, I gave the thumbs up to the sound man. He had all prepped while us musicians took our positions. The management team announced the gig, and we were off!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">The show flew by quickly, and I could see faintly from the bright lights in my eyes, faces in the crowd smiling, and people singing along on some songs. Beside my glasses fogging up from the heat and humidity in the air, I was having blast. The show ended, with the audience clapping for another song. We happily played an up tempo fun & feisty song about the hot summer in the South. It was perfect for the weather of that day. LOL.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">After the show, I walked through the club, thanking as many folks as I could, and then headed back to the merch table, where I signed some CD's and thanked more folks. The hardest part of a show is feeling that you haven't had the opportunity to sincerely thank all the folks enough, including the audience, musicians, staff, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">It was then time to quickly help with the break down off all my instruments, and gadgets; oversee that the musicians, sound man and staff were all paid. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff">Overall, it was a great CD/Album release show. The biggest thanks I receive, is from those in the audience who come to me smiling ear to ear, thanking me for the upliftment they felt as a result of the music, songs, and energy from the show. When that happens, I know I have done my job well! To me, that is what drives and inspires me the most: to empower and give the gift of music. I am a conduit from That which Gifts me with this music thang. It is I who am truly Grateful to Spirit.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ffff"></span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107591
2019-07-14T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-21T01:47:40-12:00
Time to book the CD Release Show! Whoop Whoop - Part 17
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">It was time to Chakra Bleu to book her album release show. I decided to book the show at the historic Douglas Corner venue, which happened to be the very first place I ever played a show in Nashville. I booked it on a Thursday night at 6:00PM, which would be conducive for the music business and most people to attend after their work day, especially that this was music Showcase, rather than an ordinary gig. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">Now that the date was booked, I had postcards printed to hand out by the dozens for the show. Chakra Bleu Music/ 1746 Records also emailed out invitations the Music Biz and Publicists in Nashville; as well as sending out personal invitations to some music business associates. The time to design and personally address the invites took a lot of time, yet it is what a 'Hands-On' artist does. Social media was also part of Chakra Bleu Music / 1746 Records job. Yep, more time...</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">Meanwhile, it was time to put the Live Band members together. These players/singers would have to be able to learn a lot of material; in a stellar manner, and be able to prepare their homework for one rehearsal before the show. These musicians had to be able to read charts; have a good stage presence and work well/ blend well with each other. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">"Really", you say? "Only one rehearsal?!" </span><span style="color:#33cccc"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">I needed to readjust the music charts for the twelve songs, since the studio recording. There were some minor changes made to some instrumentals, as well as some endings of songs that, in the recorded version were 'fade outs'. In the live version, I needed to write out a concrete version of when the song would end.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">The charts had to be PERFECT! Once I rewrote the live versions, I sent a CD along with the charts via mail, as well as charts via files/mp3 versions to those musicians that preferred such. Chakra Bleu was busy! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">She also had to start rehearsing herself. Wha?!! Yep, all this time, she had been wearing the 'producer' and 'administrator' hat. When she wears the producer hat, she completely is the Producer, so that she can make sharp decisions about the lead vocals, and production in general. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">So, rehearsing the songs was a chore, as it felt like changing uniforms. It was a new identity that was needed to kick back in for performance mode. I also was needing to decide which electric guitar that I'd use for live performance. My G&L was great for the studio, yet didn't bite enough for a live sound, despite effect pedals. I know, this is nerdy stuff. LOL. I decided to play my Les Paul along with my Fender Pro Junior Amp. This combination along with the detailed pedal effects for each song, would sound great! I tested and retested the tones and pedal combinations. Les Paul won for the live version anyway. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">I rehearsed countless hours with and without playing my guitar. Rehearsing just my vocals alone (acappella), allowed me to concentrate on the phrasing, the crescendo's, and the minute tones of my vocals in each song. The voice is an instrument and the technical details can easily get lost behind the sound of the competing instruments. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">I checked in with all the live musicians before the rehearsal, covering various questions they had about this or that in particular songs. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc">The evening of the dress rehearsal was a blast. I knew that each musician had prepared well already. As the band leader, I would run through each song front to back. I would note the problem areas and then run over that area once or twice again. I run a tight ship when it comes to rehearsal and the musicians appreciate that. We all were able to hone in on any hick-up areas, making necessary notes, for improvement and such. We all had prepared well, so that the songs could be rehearsed in a fun and timely manner. Of course we enjoyed some chilling' out time with a good brew afterward!</span> </p>
<p><span style="color:#33cccc"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107590
2019-07-14T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-21T01:52:28-12:00
Manufacturing - Part 16
<p><span style="color:#99cc00">Two weeks before I scheduled the meeting with the graphic artist, I needed to make very specific decisions about which templates were available for the CD's that OASIS, the manufacturer had available. There were choices of Digipaks, Zero-Carbon Footprints; Green Wallets, Jewel Cases and more. I didn't want to go for the very affordable PLASTIC jewel case: Too much plastic. I / 1746 Records had gone for the full cardboard 'Wallet' a couple albums back, yet that product wore down easily. The Jewel Case - all plastic, cracked easily when we sent CD's in the mail. So what we had decided on was the Digipak that OASIS offered. This was a highly durable board-package construction with a high quality protective (plastic) tray. Folks, My record company and I Really tried to avoid plastic, yet, the full on 'Wallet' wasn't protecting the CD enough. Jeeze...I know this is TMI (too much information) Lol. The decision was also made NOT to include an insert which would hold a booklet with all the lyrics. As much as I, the writer/performer/producer wants to have everyone to have the access to read the lyrics, it is just is not cost effective. The amount of folks buying CD's/LP's/Vinyl was diminishing compared to the digital sales. So the Digipak 4-panel was the template to then place the decided photos and credits upon. I sent this template to Christie/graphic artist two weeks before our meeting. This would allow her to know ahead of time what she would be able to prepare for, along with the documents I was sending. This saved us both time. Time meant money. Yet more than that: it allowed her, to spend more time relaxing into her artistry of designing...breathing and having fun creating the best product possible. No artist wants to log in time typing lyrics or credits. That's insulting. Lol.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00"><span style="color:#99cc00"></span><span style="color:#99cc00">After the graphic artist send me the proofs, I proposed very minor adjustments, mostly in the credits/script, etc. Soon thereafter, she sent the album art files to the manufacturer (OASIS Manufacturing). </span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00"><span style="color:#99cc00">A week later the agent from OASIS contacted me after reviewing the files. There was a problem with the font being too small on the CD itself. So I contacted the graphic artist to inform her about this. The details of this were taken care of before I could give the final "OK", get the CD's/products manufactured.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00"><span style="color:#99cc00">Little details that were actually BIG details on the tail end all added up to decisions that had to be made, while the clock was ticking to make the deadlines work for the release of Chakra Bleu's 9th album!</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#99cc00"> </span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107589
2019-07-13T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-16T04:51:38-12:00
Graphic Artist - Part 15
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">After the final 10 photos had been voted upon by 1746 Records Creative Committee, it was now time to take the project to Christie Trost, the graphic artist chosen for this album. She did an amazing job adding creative insightfulness along with her keen skills, on my 8th album. So I was happy that she was on board to be the Creative Director for Chakra Bleu's 9th album.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">There was more preparation necessary before the meeting with the graphic artist could be made. 1746 Records/ Chakra Bleu drew out by hand, the templates of what would be the front, back and inside album artwork for Christie. Chakra drew and cut out the exact measurements of what the CD cover/layout would be, and penciled in the details of where the proposed photo #1 would be, back cover photo #2 would be, inside photo#3 would be; the credits of musicians, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">Also the credits, "thank to..." that would be on the inside of the CD was typed up in Word Doc, along with the back cover information that had the song order and exact length of each song. Below that is the information that says, "Produced by Chakra Bleu; All songs written by Chakra Bleu, Recorded and Mixed at Warner/Chappel studios; etc. Even the small print on the side of the CD/LP: Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI)(copyright 2019)/1746 Records (register mark)..All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication is a violation of applicable laws. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">Whew...yes this is knit picking details and duties of the record company! Is your head spinning yet? Lol. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> Once the templates were finished, a meeting was made with the graphic artist. Christie and I were both 'to the point' worker bee's. Both of us prepared well for the meeting, and then got-er-done. She knew how to work with the manufacturers CD design templates already from my last project. First of all, I forwarded the template website page to her email as well as the Words Docs that had the album information. Then I laid out my homemade templates that had the front, back and inside CD details penciled in on the paper. Then on my computer, I brought up the 10 photos that could be selected for the front, back and inside panels of the CD. Within moments she could clearly see which photos would flow best for the album art. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">The eyes of a graphic artist are intriguing. These are individuals who are skillfully trained to see how the 'big picture' of the album works best as a project, picking out the best fonts, size and placement of everything included.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">Oddly enough, I had two other graphic artists on 1746 Records Committee voting team, that also chose the same combination of photos that Christie favoured. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">Well without a doubt, there was enough solid united evidence with votes backed by the graphic artist's input, that the best photos for the album were ready to launch!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> The graphic artist and I had quickly and efficiently made solid decisions on the best positioning of photos, credits, thanks to, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00">Now that Christie and I agreed on the game plan, she was free to go full blown into her Diva-Artist mode. I don't like to rush the creative process of any artist, yet we agreed that three weeks would be ample time for her to send me the first proofs. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ffcc00"> </span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107588
2019-07-13T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-16T20:41:29-12:00
Photo Opps : Part 14
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Now it was time for me (The Producer) to think about the artist's album photo's. I think y'all get that I am a 'Hands-On' artist, such the like of Taylor Swift and umpteenth other Nashville artists. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">So, some radio stations desire to have the hard copy - meaning a CD sent to them for radio airplay. Of course at shows, and on line sales, CD's, LP's or digital sales are required. All of these need a digital album cover of the artist. Cd's/LP's need a back cover photo, and the inside of the CD/LP need another photo or artwork along with the credits. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Being the Producer, administrator, artist, writer and more, I am making the decision of where the photo location will be shot. I also bring into these big decisions, my music attorney, close music biz posse, some loyal fanbase and management. I, Chakra Bleu am best at composing, performing, and producing. It is plain Wise for me to invite the expertise of these other folks for essential opinions!!! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Initially, 1746 Records / Chakra Bleu Music, LLC decided to hold the photo shoot at a cool East Nashville park, called Shelby Bottoms. It had these big towers of stone holding up railroads with lush greenery behind a rustic bench. Yes, the album was Country/Americana, so a backdrop of railroads in lush country greenery was quite fitting. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Meanwhile, I had been eying the talents and skills of an up and coming Nashville Photographer, Alyssa Barker, that I arranged for this shoot. She was skilled in outdoor as well as indoor shoots, creative, flexible and dependable.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">I had chosen three different clothing outfits for three different photo opps in that area. The date was set along with a second backup date if the first one was rained out. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Well, the day of the photo shoot was completely, utterly rained out. Chakra Bleu, LLC. drove to the location four hours beforehand and saw that it was a swamp! We looked for back up locations, yet the props and clothing for the artist would have been risking a muddy mess! So, the 'producer' called the photo shoot off and asked the photographer to be ready for the next weekend. ......which was rained out as well. Ugh.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Time was ticking. The overall project had to be off to the manufacturer by a certain date in order to make the release date of May 6. Chakra Bleu Music, LLC. had to find a inside location that would be available for a cool photo shoot. I put the word out ....and lo and behold, my Sista friend 'Jupiter', made arrangements with Charchez,my other Sista friend, who graciously opened up her vacant rental house in East Nashville for the photo shoot. Jupiter and I checked out the house, taking i-photos of the vacant rooms, the vibrant colours on the walls; the staircases that could be a possibility in a cool photo opp; the front porch swing on the front porch, etc. After taking the photos, I viewed them multiple times, thinking of multiple angles with the artist in them. What outfits would she wear? What jewellery? What props such as her guitars or amps would be around her? </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Totally satisfied with this awesome vacant house that my friends offered, I set the new date of the photo shoot with the photographer. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Meanwhile, I arranged for five different outfits for the six to seven photo shoot opps in the various colourful rooms. Each room and the colours of the walls determined what the outfits would be. This also included the jewellery and prop options that could be a part of these photo locations. Even details of polishing the artist's boots and guitars was essential for the photo shoot, with the added light of the cameras being present. Yes, the make-up had to be perfect as well! The colours around the eyes, lips, eyebrows detailed for excellence. Preparation meant money and time well spent. The 'administrator' was always crunching time, and dollars. What a hard to please individual!. Lol!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">On the day of the shoot, I was blessed with the help from Jupiter to help me load in multiple outfits, guitars, amp, and various other props into the house and large changing room. Yes, the big makeup bag was a part of this set up as well! Though I came to the location with the majority of my make up on, necessary touch ups were needed for lipstick, eyeliner touch ups and attention to my hair, before and in between each change of location in the house and the bedrooms - each painted with vibrant colours that my outfits were pre-arranged for as well.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">The 'producer' talked to Alyssa, the photographer about the specific locations and suggestions of outfits to go with those locations. The producer already sent photos of each of the rooms prior to the shoot, so that the photographer could get her creative juices flowing.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">And when all the cameras and lighting was ready, along with the various props....Room by room, angle by angle; Chakra Bleu was changing her clothes pronto, along with the jewellery, touching up her makeup, hair, etc....</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">The photographer was completely 'IN THE ZONE' for the proposed locations, outfits, etc. She took the ball and ran with it! Her suggestions of body angles and facial expressions were impressive, to say the least! It was a non-stop flurry of photos being taken of the artist; not a moment lost or wasted. What probably would have taken six hours, was brilliantly organised into a 2.5 photo shoot. It was precise, intense and creatively inspiring!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">At the very end of the shoot, Alyssa suggested that Chakra Bleu, wear her beloved leather coat and Drover hat and just spin and dance around, in a relaxed - impromptu fashion, in front of the camera. The end product of that particular shoot was what ended up on the front and back cover of the album: LIVING LIFE GRAND. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Several good photos turned out quite well, which were then voted upon by 25 music business folks and fans. The majority of the most well liked photos took precedence. Those preferences would then be taken to the graphic artist.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">Just as the photo session was ending, the sky opened up for yet another huge down pour along with lightning and thunder. We were scrambling to pack all the clothes, guitars, props, camera equipment into the cars. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">The creative team then drove in the huge down pour, to Chakra Bleu Central, where we enjoyed good pizza, brew and laughter for a good job done!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#00ff00">The photo shoot was intense and extremely productive, thanks to the extensive planning and preparation and to dear friends who made the arrangements for the very cool shoot location to happen.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"></span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107587
2019-07-12T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-12T20:13:47-12:00
After Recording/Tracking comes Mix Downs - Part 13
<p>After full on recording weekend at Warner/Chappel on Music Row, I continued in 'producer' mode for the most part. What most folks don't know about the studio process between recording and the release of the album, is a whole hoard of steps still to go. I'll be going into the behind the scenes here with your producer, Chakra Bleu. I realise that there will be too much information for interest for most of you. I invite you to read what suits your fancy. Again, I am not concentrating on condensing the information or making this a literary best seller. Lol. This is just for fun. Ignore the typos and elongated sentences:)</p>
<p>Mark Lonsway was the engineer on this record project. We hit it off right away and I was impressed with his intuitiveness and creative skills at the helm of the console.</p>
<p>I gave him a couple weeks to 'clean up' the tracks. So what this means is that when a song is recorded, there most likely will be multiple tracks for various instruments, whereby the musician 'patched in' a better recording in a segment of the song. This especially applies to instrumentals. Sometimes the engineer will record right over the undesired part that the musician needs to re-do, yet sometimes the engineer will save a track of lets say an instrumental of the fiddle and then open another track for that same spot. This can actually be helpful for the producer to use on mix down should there be a situation as follows: The first two bars of the instrumental on track 1 of the fiddle were not as good as what he did on track 2. So I have the engineer 'grab' the first two bars of track 2, paste them in on the first two bars of track 1, while keeping bar 3 and 4 on that same track, because they were played flawlessly or more melodically pleasing.</p>
<p>Mark goes through deleting unnecessary tracks as well white noise. Wha? So lets use this example: The fiddle player is waiting to play instrumental and just seconds before playing he sighs and quietly clears his throat. This is picked up on this sensitive microphone in the room. The engineer can see the wave forms on that track that tells him that that is not part of the instruments four bar instrumental. Mark, the engineer double checks the track and surely see that its deletable. Another job of 'cleaning up' the tracks is to meticulously make sure that the rhythm of the instruments are spot on. Even though I'm working with the best of the best professional musicians, there will be some spots in songs whereby the musicians didn't 'lock in' perfectly. In a live show, these tiny spots wouldn't be noticed. Yet this is what goes on behind the scenes for professional recorded albums.</p>
<p>So once Mark has cleaned up countless tracks of each instrument, he then puts the instruments and vocals in a 'rough-mix'. This rough mix is for the producer to get an overview of the song. I then listen ever so carefully to the mix of one song at a time, writing down notes of the levels of the instruments that need to be 'bumped' up or down - that just means volume up or down. I like to produce in 'clean' spacious way. What I mean is that I do not want any instrument competing for noise level with another instrument or vocal. This also applies to the harmonies competing too much with the main vocal. This takes a trained ear as well as 'feeling' a mix. If it seems too crowded, then I ask myself where there is too much collision with instruments or levels of instruments. </p>
<p>Next, Mark and I get back in the studio. He's at the console and I'm in the producer's table five feet back where there is a auditory 'sweet spot' with the studio speakers. We also have headphones to pick up even finer levels, as well as giving our ears a different perspective.</p>
<p>One song at a time, I direct Mark through the necessary changes needed to perfect the production of the song. On my yellow pad, is neatly numbered 'jobs' for each song. Once we make the noted adjustments, he records the 'first mix' of that song. He sends that file to my email via Drop Box. Drop Box allows the transfer of big files so they don't bog down a computer. After working on 2-3 songs, we call it a night. The ears can only take so much. It's super important not to push them past the point where the ability to hear details has declined because they're 'burned-out'. </p>
<p><br>We book another session in a couple days to then work on more song mixes. Meanwhile, I will have been listening down to Mix 1 of those first songs. I will certainly hear even more 'fixes' (tweaks that need to be adjusted in the mix), that will bring the song further into a more refined production. Sometimes, a song will need 3 to 4 mixes, with the 'fixes' being honed down to minute details of perhaps moving the decibel 1 db up or down of a particular instrument. It is Very knit picking on the final mixes. </p>
<p>On the final mix of the songs, I then must listen under the head phones for any digital pops. This has nothing to do with the actual recording. This just happens in the digital world of music. Once I give the engineer the final OK, he sends me the final files of the album, which then I will send to the Master engineer. Yet before I send the files off to Yes Master Studio for mastering, I need to tackle another job.</p>
<p>I now must ask myself the question, "What should the song order be?" I need to come up with a combination of order whereby the songs create suspense and anticipation. The order would work much like that of a sine wave: defined as the following: (a curve representing periodic oscillations of constant amplitude as given by a since function.)</p>
<p>The first song is like a lead of batter. It needs to be spunky, an attention getter, a solid hitter that will get on first base. The second song needs to be a base hitter, but with a twist of surprise. I prefer the first two songs to be up tempo, not deep, yet sassy and light. The third song changes tempo and is meant to start opening up the listeners heart, know that their mind has been hopefully captured. The forth song is the clean up batter, showcasing the song that will surely open the listeners heart, maybe even yanking some tears. The tempo is similar to the third, slower than the first two songs - a home run hitter! The fifth song, starts to raise in tempo and has elements 'Hope'. The sixth song tempo is faster, with an 'Empowering' message, that's a good-feeler! Now the 7th song brings in humour; because I chose number 8 and 9 to be 'food for thought' songs. Number 10 needs to be Very light, and unpredictable, much like a batter who will bunt, and sprint successfully to 1st base, advancing the other base runners. The 11th song is a lefty, who will drive the ball down 1st base line. And finally, the 12th song is a fast tempo, light, tongue in cheek summer party song that will have the listener turn up the volume and sing along, laughing with the lyrics.</p>
<p>Once I worked and reworked the song order, and having the help of friends and associates input on the order, as well as the title of the CD, I sent the file off to have it mastered. </p>
<p>Mastering basically evens out the tones of the lows, mids and highs, as well as putting the level of the songs all in perfect continuity within the album and at the radio volume level. It's a subtle smoothing out of tones. </p>
<p>The title, as y'all know is LIVING LIFE GRAND. I had two other titles that could have been strong, yet this title came with a vibrant feeling. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107586
2019-06-12T12:00:00-12:00
2019-07-17T08:59:12-12:00
Q & A: How Nature inspires CHAKRA BLEU's songwriting
<p>Q & A : How The Outdoors Inspires Songwriting</p>
<p><strong>Questions from Publicist Chuck Whiting to CHAKRA BLEU</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<ol>
<li>Tell me about your passion for hiking, climbing and camping in the wild? Why are you passionate about it? When did this become an important pastime?</li>
</ol>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Growing up in the Inland NorthWest, in the climate perfect for outdoor activities, along with growing up in an active Sports minded family, provided a rich environment for me to play softball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, iceskating, snow skiing, water skiing, etc. Though I was dilengently involved in organized and competitive sports through much of my years in school, I started also finding a great deal of serenity, in bicycling extended miles on the Up River Drive bike route, not far from where I lived in Spokane.Congruently, I was most fortunate that our family had a lake cabin, that we’d stay at in the summers. There were hiking trails in the woods, near our cabin, that became another beloved place of serinity. While solo hiking. I was constantly allured by the abundanct Life around me, including various trees, song birds, wildlife, etc. There was an unmistakable Presence of Life that I felt when in the woods, that I never felt in church. Hiking thos trails, my senses were full of wonder, awe and gratitude. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Exploring the wonders of the lake itself was breathtaking and renewing to me as well. I would often as a yound gal, row to the end of the lake (tulies),and watch the lotus flowers rise up out of the water to greet the morning sun, observing in excitement as their beautiful pink and white pedals opened so gracefully. Meanwhile, the duck families parading in and out of the lily pads, quaking. Fish would occasional jump around my row boat, sending tiny ripples upon the still glass lake water. The utter peace, adventure, and wonderment of the great outdoors calls to my heart and inspires me on so many levels.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">When I moved to Nashville, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to go on my first backpacking trip, which meant, carrying a backpack, full of my clothing, cooking gear, flashlights, etc. That first backpacking trip was ‘Raw’, in that a very bad thunderstorm had us all hanging on to the tent so it wouldn’t blow off; with no time for dinner; red ants and fire ants moved in our tent to get out of the torential rain as well, some into our pants..ouch! Ticks and Chiggers…both of which I hadn’t encountered in the North West. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The desire to know how to backpack more efficiently lead me to take some classes at REI. From then on, I’ve been backpacking in places around Nashville, for 2-3 day trips that would include some of my favorite 2.5 - 3.5 hour drives from here: Savage Gulf ; Fall Creek Falls; Virgin Falls; Frozen Head; Pickett State Park; Big South Fork to name a few. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Several years ago, I added In-Line skating to my list of favored outdoor activities which is also known as roller blading. It’s an invigorating feeling while I’m skating. Breathing in the fresh air, sun on my skin, sparkling river beside much of the greenway, passing the greenery, trees while taking in the beautiful scenery off in the distance is a high! It doesn’t feel like I’m exercising. In fact, I don’t walk, hike, scate, climb, bycycle, etc., primarily for the exercise. It’s secondary. It just feels good! Some people enjoy hours of TV and clubbing around. I prefer the healthy feeling I recieve when I’m enjoying outdoor activities. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Hatha yoga and Raja Yoga have been another cherished physical and spiritual practice I now incorporate into my ‘wellness-bath’. Raja yoga is the meditative, contemplative side of yoga. Hatha yoga is the postures that most people think of yoga to be about, generally in the Western Hemisphere. Both of these practices of yoga have added an overall feeling of wellness, including groundedness/connectiveness in Spirit, and flexibility, youthfulness and lightness in the body.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I also mix in a balance of circuit training (weight training) with 30 minutes on the elliptical machine (this applies especially on bad weather days).</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Several ago, I was introduced to rock climbing. Becoming ‘familiar’ with climbing heights, took some mental and emotional adjustment! Yet, in conjunction to learning how to trust the equipment that allows one to belay and repel up and down heights, I eventually learned to relax and enjoy the challenge and thrill that is required on many levels in this sport. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The folks that introduced me to climbing, are outdoor climbers. They had me enjoying the outdoors in a totally different perspective: UP, up and away! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">2.What are the benefits? Would you recommend others doing the same thing? If so, why?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The benefits of being outdoors is hard to condense into a paragraph! It provides one with an appreciation of Life; breathing in fresh air while moving (whether walking a trail, in the city or otherwise) is psysiologically healthy - that is, that its healthy for your mind/emotions and body!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">3. Provide a few short stories of your adventures (when, where and what happened). It would be good to include places in Tennessee, Idaho, and perhaps Colorado. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">A few years ago, I joined my beloved friends, (who’ve long been mountaineers), in Helena, MT. They met me there, after I attended a joyful family wedding.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">We traveled in their Mercedes extended van specially designed to travel, housed with all their climbing, and camping gear. The first night, the happily married couple and I camped in Helena Nat’l forest. You couldn’t see or hear anyone for miles around. The campfire was crackling and cozy, while the three of us enoyed plenty of laughter around the fire. The next morning we packed up and hiked the Helena Peak trail. From there we got in the camper and drove to Sun Valley, Idaho, where we stayed with another outdoors lovin’ couple. We rode mountain bikes for miles on a paved bike path, amidst striking mountains all around us. It’s a famous snow ski destination in the winter. We day hiked gorgeous trails, with good elevation climbs that had this gal from sea level, huffing and puffing, despite being in good shape! After a couple days there, we drove to City Of Rocks, Idaho, where we set up camp surrounded by amazing rock formations. This is a well known international destination for rock climbers. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">We enjoyed a restful evening around the campfire after a good dinner and a tastey brew.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The next morning the three of us walked in 45 minutes in the playground of massive rock formations. We climbed a rock called ‘Cruel Shoes’, which was three pitches. This was my first multi-pitch climb. The rock was grantite, as opposed to sandstone and limestone around Nashville climbing areas (King’s Bluff, Foster Falls, etc.). I found that my climbing shoes really grabbed the rock. That’s good, because at times the hand holds were sparse, to say the least! Being up that high and learning all the additional multi pitch belay, extended repel, double-rope techniques was thrilling and humbling. I felt confident in the years of experience in mountain climbing my friends had under their belt, having climbed many of the Grand Tetons, multiple times.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The next day, we were joined by our Sun Valley friends, one who had been an EXUM guide for years in the Tetons, as well as another former EXUM guide who now works as a ranger at the Grand Teton nat’l Part. We all climbed a multi pitch called Lost Arrow, and later on a rock called Bubbly Wall. It was a full day of rock climbing. Later on we all gathered around our campfire. I sang a set of Chakra Bleu music for them.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The last day at City of Rocks, just the three of us climbed Steinfell’s Domb- a six pitch adventure. Photos on FB. That was intensely fun! An ice cold Alaskan Ale was awaiting us in the camper cooler. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The next morning we drove to the Grand Tetons where we stayed at a quiet and secluded campground near the river. We rode our mountain bikes on a bike path adjacent to the 14,000 ranges. The next day we day hiked Jenny Lake Trail, which was a mountain fed lake. No words can describe the beauty upon the eyes as we hiked this trail in awe.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The next day we drove to Ridgeway, CO, which is where my friends have lived for several years. We chilled out the first evening, watching ice climbing videos of them making first ascents! Meanwhile, they asked me yet again, if I’d like to climb the Teton’s with them sometime. I finally said, “YES!” . Someday soon, I’d like to hike six hours straight up the base of the Grand Teton, and then climb 13 pitches with y’all. “I need to learn SO much more before I can do that, though!” </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">They assured me that I could do it. I swallowed hard, as up to just three days prior, I hadn’t ever climbed more than one pitch!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The next morning we got up. My long time friend, Kim told me that she was going to take care of some household chores that day. Yet, she and her husband invited me to go on a bike ride 8 miles down from there house at 8,000 feet elevation, to the town of Montrose, where Patrick and I could then take an hour and half level-two yoga class, then pedal back up 1000 feet to their house. She said, “It’s a real bitch peddaling back up,” as she laughed. It didn’t sound like that much fun at first, but when I walked outside their front door, greeted by the fresh 70 degree dry air, sun tickling my skin, and surrounded by snow capped mountains all around, i decided that another outdoor adventure was my cup of tea, even as intimidating it may be on the way back up!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The pedalling down was fun, as was the invigorating yoga class. It actually charged my batteries enough to pedal up from 7000-8000 feet. I admit I got off my bike a couple times to walk the bike a couple times, for a couple minutes, which helped to change up my muscle groups so I could get back on the bike refreshed enough to pedal up more miles up that hill! This sea level, Nashville gal made it up, without my lungs exploding. Lol, and little time to acclamate to the elevation.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">We enjoyed some fine coctails on their miranda overlooking the 1400 ft mountains all around. Patrick fixed us all an incredible dinner that night, while we re-capped on all our splendid adventures. They went climbing on Mt. Kilimenjaro the next month BTW!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">It was a memorable trip indeed. I’m so grateful for my adventures with them.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">4. Do you generally take these adventures on your own? What kind of gear do you need, and how do you pack everything up for your trips?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">There are so many other backpacking trips I’ve taken. Not enough time to get into.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Yet, I’ve learned that around the South, that to enjoy the backwoods, you can expect to get a few hitch hikers (ticks and chiggers); expect to see a Copperhead on the trail or swimming in the water with you! I’ve been grateful NOT to encounter a wild boar or angry Momma bear, yet. Yet, I hang my food at night and depend on my dogs nose and ears to give me fair warning of uninvited critters coming into my camp. Lol.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">My trail buddy’s and I have been covered in chiggers, and seed ticks, (literally a couple hundred seed ticks after one day hike and literally scraping them off as fast as possible, once we saw a sea of these things making their way up slowly and surely to the promised land. We were covered in bites, itching messes for days to follow!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I love the Southern summer nights, backpacking, when its not too humid…when I’m camped out next to a meandering river, sitting next to a cozy campfire; stars above; cicaedas and crickets singing rhythmically and loudly, while firefires blink on and off all around me. The peace and pure joy I recieve from Mother Nature is truly a Gift, that replenishes me on every level, inspiring me, and allowing me to give more of mySelf that is beyond mySelf…</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I often backpack alone, since I go into the woods to contemplate and ‘ground’ / ‘refresh’ my mind, body, spirit. Yet, I bring along my loyal companion who is also on guard with her keen nose, ears and sixth sense:)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">When I backpack, I pack clothing, stove, dishes, soap, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, tent, water purifier, flashlights, extra batteries, water bottles, hat, bug repellent, tea, freeze dried camping food, dogfood, nuts, dried fruit, a book and journal.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I determine what the weather conditions are for what type of clothing I need, such as warm or lightweight clothing. I count how many meals I’ll be eating and then create a list to make sure these ingredients get in my pack sacks, that eventually all get stuffed real tight and snug in my backpack. It can get heavy. Yet, if you have a good pack, it rests well on your hips and less on your shoulders, so you don’t feel like a pack mule!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I generally prefer to hike in no more than 5-8 miles. I then set up my tent and tidy up the campsite, preparing my fire that I’ll be lighting up later in the evening. Then I take a small day pack out for a much longer day hike which can be generally 8-20 miles.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">4. When and where do you do most of your songwriting? How do breathtaking, outdoor settings inspire you to write great lyrics and music? Can you share examples of songs you've written in Idaho and other places?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I take two writing sabbaticals per year, where I focus completely and solely on writing a dozen songs or melodies at these times. In the fall I rent a cabin in or around Asheville, NC; and in late summer I write at a beach location; one of my favorites being Santa Rosa, Florida. Both these locations are close to a lot of mountains or natural water, be it streams, rivers, ocean, and have access to hiking trails and greenways.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">5. What is your work ethic on songwriting sabbaticals? Explain how your day begins, when you write, and how you meet your goals. Do you balance work with rest?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">On my travel time to my writing locations, I set my songwriting goals. I normally set my goal to write either a dozen new melodies, or a dozen new lyrics that I’ll set on top of the melodies that were created on the previous sabbatical. I also spend some time in meditation and ask for Creative Guidance on my songwriting endeavors. This clearly opens an amazing Channel. At least it does for me. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Either trip focuses solely on creating full melodies and or putting lyrics to the melodies that have been created already.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">For example, in several weeks, I’ll be heading off to my summer sabbatical, where on this trip, I will be focusing on creating a dozen or so new full melodies. I chart the melodies and record the ideas as I progress throught the theme, then the verse, then chorus, then perhaps a bridge. I record my ideas on a tape recorder, because, that medium allows me to stay in the right brain. A computer, to me, is too much associated with business dealing, which pulls me into the Biz Mode, which is in the Left Brain…organizing, planning, correspondence, etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Once a full melody is written, I label it #1 or #2 and tape record the full melody onto a cassette tape with that corresponding key and #1, etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Then on the next sabbatical, or while in Nashville, I simply take those charts and cassette, refresh my memory. Then after playing the melody over and over, all the while, asking my self ‘What is this song about?” “What am I feeling when I hear this melody?” Sure enough, I start getting ideas for the direction of what the song is about. Sometimes, I just start hearing lyrics, a part of a phrase. Then I start the process of building a story.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The craft of songwriting comes in at this point. There’s a lot of specific skills that go into writing a song, that any serious songwriter should learn, either through</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">NSAI seminars, hanging around the songwriter nights put on by charting songwriters, reading books about songwriting and putting into practice. Write, write and write some more. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The biggest block any songwriter can do, is to pre-judge a song, and how good it is or isn’t, even before its written. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Write the story, from a Feeling first; can you relate it to a good cause that connects you to others? Is it meaningful? Does it come from your Heart? Once it does, then you can craft it on solid ground. Those songs last! Willie Nelson, Fleetwood Mac/Stevie Nicks; Dolly Parton; Johnny Cash; Dillon; Annie Lennox; Heart; Loretta Lynn; Phil Collins; Melissa Ethridge; Delbert McClinton: Emmylou Harris (who has always chose to sing ‘songs from the heart/songs of substance’);</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">U2; Eagles; Lenny Kravitz….there’s so many more influences…yet all these great artists have one thing in common whether they’re pop, Rock, Country, R&B…</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">They write songs that come from the heart. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">They didn’t care what folks would think about the song when they wrote it. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">The heart leads and the people can FEEL the sincerity and integrity of the song and singer’s honest intention upon the delivery. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Chakra Bleu writes from these principles!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Though I also write songs in Nashville, it’s not as conducive, as my focus in Nashville is on editing the new songs, singing/playing, producing the next CD, and hours of business in promoting as well as keeping up the social media connectivity. I wear several hats as a professional Recording Artist: One is a songwriter hat; one is the Editor hat; a singer hat; Producer hat; Project Coordinator hat; PR/Biz hat that handles the game plan with Radio Promoter, Publicist, Attorney; Administrator Hat-that includes copyrights; setting up the songs with the Distributor; preparing the umpteenth details for the CD details to be sent to the manufacturer; Art Direction hat (coodinating the artwork, photos, and song lyrics to the graphic artist); Artist hat; Stylist Hat- body fitness& nutrition, wardrobe; make-up; hair direction. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I start my morning with mediation. This is like a songwriting Multi-Vitamin! Why? Because it opens ones mind to the Big Mind and makes that connection into the Creative ‘Juice’, All That Is!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Then I eat a yogurt while I refresh my mind with a current new lyric or melody I’m working on, carried over from the evening before. This will only be about 15 minutes. Then I take a short walk about 4-5 miles near to where I’m staying on that particular sabbatical. On that walk I take paper and pen with me as I ponder about the lyrics and ideas about how to expand the story or concept of the songs. If it’s a melody, I just let it replay again and again, loosely in the back of my mind. I don’t get real Left brained about this process. I keep it light and unforced, in my Right Brain, as I keep a relaxed steady walk,all the while, admiring the beauty of nature around me.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Once back, I do 15 minutes of yoga followed by making a nutritious breakfast, while still thinking about the lyrics. (No radio or TV is EVER played while I’m on these sabbaticals. And I try to keep my business intereactions and ‘homework’ from my lap top to a minimum. I do NO surfing or FB chatting. At the most, I’ll do a small post here and there to let folks know what Chakra Bleu is up to in the music world. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Staying in the Right brain is very important. Being around nature allows me to stay in the Right brain - the receptive and creative side of the brain.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">After breakfast I work for three to four hours. Then I’ll go for a day hike, roller blading, kyack, swim or float on the lake…all the while….the ideas and melodies are cooking in the back of my mind.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I’ll read an inspiring book and rest my mind. Then I’ll eventually fix a vegetarian dinner, then hit the ‘song bench’ again, full on until 10Pm to midnight…just depends how the creative juices are flowing.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">6. Are there legendary songwriters or artists (like you) who inspire you? If so, who are they, and how have they impacted your art.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I’ll sum it up as such: The singer-songwriters/Artists that write from their heart, are inspiring to me! Artists that speak from their own experience of life; artists who have written about a cause…Artists who choose songs from songwriters who write songs from their Heart/Life experience… Those are the ones that have influenced me…many…</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Yet, the songwriters/songs that have been contrived from the cookie-cutting publishing machine, to make money for the sake of profit, devoid of the integrity of heart…that does nothing for my taste or inspiriation, whether it be country, pop, etc. I also invite curious fans to get more specific answers on this from my website’s blog section: www.chakrableu.com/blog</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">7. You are also a visual artist. Do your adventures inspire you in that genre? </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Yes, the delicacies of nature are so Divine and wondrous. I mean, I actually get ‘into’ looking at the details of a petal of a wild flower…counting its petals; looking at its unique shape, colour, texture, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">I do like to include nature into my paintings, often with symbology woven around these projects. I also like to craft with natural artifacts such as including shells, moss, acorn hats, etc. as well.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">8. Do you think it's important for songwriters and others to take trips/adventures like yours? For someone "without" hiking, climbing or camping experience, how might they get started? </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Well, I think its good for everybody to get outdoors! Every singer/songwriter ticks uniquely. So, as I’ve observed, it is not the norm for most songwriters to get their inspiration from nature. Us songwriters usually like to write about the human experience, whether it is describing someone elses experience, or experiences we’ve also come to know and understand, for which we can then relate a story for there to evoke an emotional connection with the listener. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">9. If someone can't travel away from Nashville, are there things they can do at home to foster adventure, free spirit and boost creativity? Can you provide a few tips?</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900">Yes, there’s so many day hiking and backpacking places withing 3 hours of Nashville, which a person can make a day or overnight trip. I mentioned some places above. Yet a person can Google, ‘best backpacking destinations near Nashville’, and be shown dozens of choices. Great day hikes around Nashville include Percy/Edwin Warner park trails, Radner Lake trail, Long Hunter State Park, Montgomery Bell State Park, just to name a few.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff9900"> </span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107585
2019-04-19T12:00:00-12:00
2019-04-22T19:39:06-12:00
Time to record - Day two/ PART TWELVE
<p><span style="color:#008000">DAY TWO OF THE WARNER/CHAPPEL RECORDING SESSION</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"><span style="color:#008000">I arrived at 10:00AM. This day was all about main vocals, harmony vocals and percussion at the tail end of the session.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"><span style="color:#008000">I had to squeeze in as many main vocal tracks as possible before the professional harmonist, Kim Morrison was to arrive at noon to record her tracks. She would be singing 3-6 parts on each of the twelve songs, and doubling most of those tracks. Yes, that means three part harmony, with answering parts that also would have another three part harmony. </span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"><span style="color:#008000">The pressure was on me to work fast and efficiently, not losing a hair of feeling or precision on my main vocals. I was able to record four songs before she arrived. It was important to lay down as many main vocals as possible, so that when she would record her harmony's, the rhythm and inflections would be aligned perfectly. So now I had eight of twelve main vocals recorded. I recorded the most demanding of the songs before she arrived.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"><span style="color:#008000">Mark had never worked with such a powerhouse harmonist like her before. She knew her parts well and didn't waste a moment of time singing track after track. Her pitch was superb and her professionalism was stellar. She had sung with Roy Orbison, Mose Allison, Pam Tillis and countless other famous country artists.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"><span style="color:#008000">I was excited for this day to work alongside a Nashville great! When she came in, you could feel her presence of confidence fill the room, as well as her lovely calming and friendly personality. Throughout the day, she would share stories of her extensive career, that dropped Mark and my jaw in awe. </span></span><span style="color:#008000">I had Kim start on 'I MISS YOU' - the song I was finishing up when she arrived, since that would be in her head, and fresh on her ears. I was in the engineer room with Mark, where I could hear her harmony parts, as she sung them in the vocal booth. The booth was encased in glass, so we could see each other throughout the session. </span><span style="color:#008000">She knocked part after part out. She clearly practiced and then some. She was a machine in that vocal booth! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">She sang the extensive harmonies for six songs back to back. This in itself would have exhausted a 25 year old. Yet she had energy stores beyond imagination. She knew how to use her voice like a science. No wonder she made an excellent vocal instructor as well!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">We now were at the song 'LOADED GUN'. This song is a 'Me Too' song and surely can be relatable to every woman in their own story, someway-somehow. It can be an emotional moving song that may evoke memories. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">The next powerful song that followed was another emotionally charged song about the injustices of Native American Indians called 'Children Of The Sun'. We both had ideas of placing a sound of choral voices in the middle of the song. Yet she had perfected the idea and called me in the booth to help belt out the 'Hey-Ya's'. Kim was also part Cherokee and this song spoke to her deeply, as it did to me too. When we were singing together those parts, and stacking more and more vocal parts on top of the ones we sung, the energy in the room was SUPER CHARGED. There was an undeniable presence of Spirit (Great Spirit/God/whatever one calls the Divine) there amidst us, while singing this song. Mark felt it too!</span><span style="color:#008000">I could also feel that Kim and I connected deeply on a Heart level through those two songs. I almost felt like I reconnected with a long lost Soul-Sister. I was beaming with gratitude to say the least.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">It was necessary for me to sing my final four songs before she laid down the harmonies. So I would sing the main vocals on a song, giving her a much needed break, and then she would sing the harmonies. We did that combination for the last four songs. It was a blast. We made a great tag team. We were on top of the world at the end of her session. Again, she was remarkable, in that she sung multiple tracks for twelve songs in one session. Kim was amazing in her personality, talent, skill, and professional delivery. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">After she left, I recorded the percussion parts for several songs. I played tambourine, shaker and cabasa. There were songs that called for all of them. I had rehearsed well before recording. Each chart was marked exactly where and what rhythm I would play. Tamborine was marked in orange; the Shaker in blue and the cabasa was in pink. The colour codes helped me dial in quickly to each part.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">After I finished the percussion, I perfected a couple main vocal parts sung earlier in the day. I also added another acoustic guitar track to 'Southern Wild'.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000">We called it a day - a Very Successful Day at that!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#008000"></span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107584
2019-02-28T12:00:00-12:00
2019-04-20T03:17:02-12:00
Time to Record on Music Row! - PART ELEVEN
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I arrived at Warner/Chappel on 16 Ave, in the heart of Nashville's 'Music Row', at 9:00. The musicians would be arriving soon as well, as 10:00AM was recording time.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I was greeted at the studio door by Mark Lonsway, the studio engineer, who happily helped me in with full load of gear including my two electric guitars; two acoustic guitars, mandolin, amp, gig bag with guitar chords, and effect pedal case. Yes, each instrument was specifically used for certain songs. (In a previous blog I describe that process.) </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Two weeks prior, I already discussed with Mark, the detailed lay out of the session. Paul Allen, the lead guitarist, who had already set up the date and time for me, had informed Mark about the musicians who would be present: the drummer, bass player, keyboardist, and utility player (dobro/fiddle/banjo/mando). Paul pre-arranged other studio arrangements/aggreements between Mark and I eight weeks earlier. The rest of the producer's work was on me. Paul had worked before with me on two previous sessions and knew that I would handle the umpteenth organisational tasks of the producer.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">So Mark (engineer) had the game plan and had already prepared the studio set up in each room with the mic's, and input boxes for the particular instrument. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"> I set up my electric guitars and effect pedal case in the main studio room, which was also the largest. I set my amp up in an adjacent smaller room divided with a clear sliding door. It also was the room where my acoustic guitars and mandolin parts would be recorded, since it was sound proofed off from the main room. I got my two Guild acoustic guitars out and tuned them up. One was tuned in DADGAD. It also had a slightly different tone that was perfect for the song 'Children Of The Sun'. I tuned up my 12 string Ovation as well as the mandolin. I set my lyrics and colour coded charts on the music stand in front of the chair that I'd be sitting on while recording my acoustic instrumentation. Mark already had the acoustic guitar mic set up and ready to go for sound check.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">The main room also had the drummer (Ross McReynolds), as well as the bass player (Aaron Hatmaker). </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">There was two more small adjacent rooms with big clear windows that allowed the other musicians to see all the other players. One of those rooms would have the Utility player (Justin Moses) and in the other small studio room, would be the cover singer (Amanda Broadway)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I greeted each musicians as they arrived and let them know they had a special snack bag and water at their recording station, as well as fruit and energy drinks in the kitchen. The 'producer' (moi) had already placed the folder with music charts on their music stands. As mentioned in a previous blog, each musician had charts designed for that particular instrument.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Mark dialled in the levels for the drums, as well as all the other instruments including the lead guitar, my electric guitars and acoustic guitars/mandolin; the utility players fiddle, dobro and mandolin; the cover singers vocal mic.,etc.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Once the sound check was finished, I went over the game plan with everybody. I told them that Amanda would be 'covering' the lead vocals for me for three reasons being 1) I could save my voice for the Real lead vocal recording later that evening and the following day</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"> 2) I could concentrate on recording my guitar parts</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"> 3) I could also give concentration to the direction of production while all the instruments were laying down their parts. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I told them that I would run through a song at a time, with Amanda singing as I played the guitar part, so that they could become familiar with the vibe of the song while following the specific directions given on the music chart.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">After I ran through the song once, Mark hit record and we all we're playing through the song. Of course it was rough the first two times. Meanwhile, any needed adjustments on the tempo, dynamics, stops, holds, etc. would be smoothed out at that time. By the third time through the first song, I could hear the musicians jelling </span><span style="color:#3366ff">together. And by the fourth take, I could usually hear a notable difference: We were all FEELING 'IT', and the song would come alive with its own amazing personality. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">At that point, there would be simple 'patch-work'. For example, the lead guitarist would say that he needed to record the tag only. Or the bass player would ask to redo the third phrase of the second verse. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Following the patch-work phase, I would proceed to get the 2nd parts recorded for the utility player or keyboardist. For example, Justin played the fiddle on one part of the song, yet I've asked him to play a dobro part in another part of that same song. Another example is where the keyboardist plays piano on one track and I've asked him to play strings on another track as well. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">On a sidebar, it's rare for acts to record 12 songs in one day, let alone have multiple tracking with the utility, lead guitarist and key player. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">One of the ways I saved big time was preparing some killer musicians:</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Ronnie Godfrey, the keyboardist who also happens to be sight impaired, got with me weeks before the studio date. I sent a CD with the guitar/vocal demos. I knew what multiple parts I could hear him playing for each song. After he listened down to the songs, he also had a good idea what keys would possibly sound good. We set a meeting and discussed our ideas. Strangely enough, we were on board for almost every single song...as if we could read each others Mind. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I did the same thing with the amazing vocal harmonist Kim Morrison. She and I both came to our pre-studio meeting with lyric charts in hand, ready to share where in the song, what and how many harmony parts would be laid down. Amazingly enough, our notes were very close, yet she had a lot more tasty nuances, coming from the extensive experience as a long time, well sought after, Nashville studio vocalist. I was actually nervous for that meeting having prepared and then some. I had heard her harmony work and it was scary-good! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I also asked Justin, the utility player if he would like a CD/mp3's sent before the studio date. I told him that there was four songs that had specific melody lines for the fiddle. Even though I had notated those parts, it would save time for all of us, especially since he was playing two - three instrument parts on several songs. I was happy that he was willing to listen to the demo'd CD songs beforehand.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I arranged the studio song order in a way where the first two songs were fairly easy to record. The next two songs were intense. I wanted there to be a flow between the band before launching into those. The third song was especially intense. It was about Native Americans and the sadness of much of their land being yanked away by some unfair dealings on paper and otherwise. It took some doing, yet we got through it. It took the longest of the bunch to record and to find the Vibe. It didn't help that we ran into some technical difficulties with the software. Mark had to reboot the system and that takes its sweet time.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">As the producer, I had to keep the flow and attitude UP! So I suggested that we take lunch then. It worked out great! My assistant 'Marie' helped me get out the yummy sandwich fixings. They all chowed down and I could tell the mood lightened up immediately. Food is a wonderful thing! Lol! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">We finished up the next eight songs without any further technical delays. My goal was to finish recording at 5:00 and that we did. Mark and I planned to stay another three hours after that. Yet before he and I started Part II of that 1st recording evening at Warner/Chappel, I passed out some Heineken brews for the hard working musicians. I was happy to see Mark finally eating a sandwich after burning massive braincells with all that had been going on with the production and various parts for the songs. Though I didn't have much an appetite, I made myself snarf down hummus and carrots, as well as drink a lot of water.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">After the session musicians left, Mark and I continued on in to the evening. He was a machine matched well by my 'get er done' work ethic. (Our brew had to wait until we were finished:)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">First of all I started over-dubs with rhythm guitar tracks on on two of the songs. </span><span style="color:#3366ff">Next I launched into recording the main vocals on four of the twelve tracks.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Folks, let me tell ya... Even though I had been a stickler for rehearsing the songs to the nth degree, marking where it would be most effective in the phrasing to take a breath..it still takes several takes through a song. The first two times through the take, a vocalist is usually getting warmed up, and into the 'groove'..loosened up. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">So Mark is recording me after take TWO through the songs. If it goes well, he and I may decide where in the song I could deliver better for vocal performance or emotional delivery. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I cannot say enough how well Mark Lonsway and I magically connected as artist and engineer on this part of the session. Recording my studio vocal tracks is emotionally vulnerable for me - partly because I tend to be an emotionally guarded/ Biz-Pro mentality person. So here I am; just Mark and I in the whole studio alone. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">(I have asked everyone else to exit before this Very Private chapter of the recording project.) I realise that I have never sung my heart out in front of this total stranger, except of meeting him that early morning at load in, and our former emails preparing us for the studio- 'game plan' of musicians and instrumentation for the recording. Tracking main vocal tracks demands exact precision. I expect the utmost perfection from myself. </span></p>
<p><em><span style="color:#3366ff">Singing live carries a totally different mode. It isn't about my lead vocal needing to be spotless. It is about interacting with the audience and being there for them, to entertain; to bring the listeners a joyful, fun experience. It's a volleying back and forth with the energy of the band and the audience.</span></em></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">So back to the vocal session... Soon into the first song, Mark's demeanour lowered my walls of steel. (I'll repeat again: I never like to have other people in the studio when I'm singing my vocals! It's an intimate setting. My heart is wide open. No cameras. No management. No one but me and the engineer. Gratefully, Mark and I connected sweetly - on a professional level. We communicated well, determining which vocal parts could be sung with various improvements. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I am tough on myself when it comes to this part of the recording process. Yet I also must be gentle in my self judgement, so that I can keep my heart open throughout the delivery of recording my lead vocals. It is a conflicting role at that time to play 'producer' and 'artist' at the same time. That is why, I was blessed to be able to rely upon Mark's good judgement, so that we were able to come up with a Heart felt quality delivery in lead vocals on each and every song. There were songs that were delivered in almost one take. There were others that needed more shaping to bring out the best impactful delivery.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">We both were spent after recording four song, after a long day of tracking twelve songs with all the musicians, hours before. So just for fun, lets add up how many takes that would average out to be. If the musicians and I played/recorded 12 songs 4-5 times, not including the over-dubs (the fixes that this or that musician need to do)...12 time 4 is 48/ 12 times 5 is 60. So you get the picture? </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">This producer, had to be extremely prepared so that she could guide the session players and engineer efficiently through each song, thankfully with specific charts and good snacks/water for the hard working crew.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Mark and I wrapped up about 1:00AM. We were spent and yet happily satisfied with the excellent work of the day. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107583
2019-02-23T12:00:00-12:00
2019-02-24T00:59:29-12:00
Producer's Assistant & Side Dishes - PART 10
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The week before the recording date, is hustle-bustle time for the 'producer's assistant', well yes, in fact this person is Chakra Bleu, wearing yet 'another hat' , which I refer to another job full of a lot of responsibility and planning. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">Chakra Bleu's 'assistant' (Lol) has a two projects which includes finances and food.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">1) Finances: She is responsible for writing out the checks and thank you cards for all the musicians, engineer and studio costs. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">2) The day of recording is intense. Every minute is accounted for by having the charts in perfect order in a fancy Bleu folder, provided for each musician. The cover singer and harmony singer will have a folder including lyrics instead of music charts. The engineer folder includes both lyrics and charts. All folders includes a list that has the order of songs to be recorded.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The vibe needs to be professional, fun and laid back. Keeping that mix in order is a minute by minute job of guidance that comes from the producer (Chakra Bleu) .</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The 'assistant' has prepared a snack bag in a festive paper bag, for each musician, that includes an envelope with their check and special thank you card, a baggie of nuts/raisons/M&M's, a power bar, a couple pixie sticks, Snicker's bar, and a bottled water.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">Each bag has the musicians name on the outside that corresponds to the name on their envelope and music folder. This organisation is very important, because if for example, the lead guitarist got the folder of the dobro player, the charts would be highlighted in a different colour that designates where the musician is supposed to decorate in between a certain phrase of the song. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">If you recall Part One, the producer has made colour coded charts that apply to the lead guitarist, banjo/fiddle/dobro/mando (utility player), and keyboardist.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">This treat bag gives the musicians necessary snack food, that is essential throughout the day long session that includes twelve songs. The focus and energy spent is tremendous, and the GORP (good 'ole raisons and peanuts) and other snacks help keep the musicians attention sharp, as well as their body energised throughout the session. The treat bag is fun, too!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The assistant needs to plan for the lunch menu for the musicians and engineer. The producer has found that it is advantageous to keep the musicians together at lunch time. The synergy would be disrupted if the musicians took off for lunch elsewhere, and the time factor would be longer, figuring travel time to get a lunch a couple miles away, as well as unexpected time and events that may come up in the dining out factor. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">So the evening before the studio day, the 'producers assistant', buys Non GMO bread, sliced beef, ham, turkey, pickles, (personally slices onions and tomatoes); condiments of mayo and mustard; sliced cheese, cheese squares, crackers, paper plates, napkins, baby carrots and hummus; bananas, apples, grapes, pretzels, soda and (beer which by the way, will ONLY be provided AFTER the session that day is finished!) Another treat for a job well done!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The day of the session, the assistant arrives an hour early with coolers that has all the delicious lunch makings. She places the fruit on the studios kitchen dining room table so the musicians can eat these nutritional treats anytime during the session. At lunch time, she sets out all the sandwich makings and soda, utensils, napkins, etc. She oversees that all the musicians are well fed and feeling welcome to the food at hand. Even details of refrigeration is her responsibility so that the meats and condiments do not spoil. It is her responsibility to clean up after the session making sure the nice kitchen and dining room is as clean, as spotless it was when she arrived. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">The producer's assistant surely must be a fine hostess and financial planner. That and then some, she is and delivers well! Lol</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff">BTW: The producer's assistant's name is MARIE:)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff00ff"> </span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107582
2019-01-11T12:00:00-12:00
2019-02-23T21:07:29-12:00
Rehearse the percussionist: PART NINE
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">It stretches ones ear to ask it to listen to the percussion parts in a song. Surely it is the music or lyrics that draws one into the song first and foremost. Often it is by the 2nd or 3rd time that a person hears more details of lyrics and or musical nuances. For each person it is a different experience.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Yet, most people </span><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">aren't aware of how the percussion puts the 'frosting on the cake'. Percussion instruments in pop/rock and country usually include tambourine, shakers and maybe stretching it to add cabasa, cowbell and congas. The sky is the limit really for the artists/producer. </span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Yet these </span></span></span><span style="color:#ff6600">spicy percussion instruments add SO MUCH!!! When I put my 'producer' hat on, which means that I totally separate myself from the songwriter and singer, then I am able to shift gears to ASK THE QUESTION: <span style="color:#ff6600">WHAT SONGS WOULD FLOURISH WITH PERCUSSION? OF THOSE SONGS, WHAT PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS WILL BEST BE SUITED AND WHERE?</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">So once I ask this question in my mind, MIND YOU, that all the other production has been addressed, then this 'ICING ON THE CAKE' matter can be entertained, delightfully so! Again, I play the songs one by one, preferably while I'm driving. I literally can start hearing where a song could benefit from tambourine, shaker or what not. Usually, these tasty treats are best on a Chorus and Tag.. </span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Once I decide what percussion instrument(s) will be on a song, I write the rhythm out in a short-cut style on the music charts. Each of those instruments will have a particular colour. So that when I am in the studio recording, I can quickly discern on the chart what instrument to pick up to play. For example, the shaker parts are in orange, tambourine is in green ink and the cabasa is in red ink. </span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">There was one song that I literally played three different percussion parts in one take, at different parts of the song! This meant picking up each of these instruments gracefully, quickly and quietly,</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">I diligently practiced the rhythms for each song with the demo before that particular studio date for percussion. When it came time to record percussion parts, I discussed the specific song order with Mark, the engineer as well as telling him what instrument would be on each song. Once I was the sound booth <span style="color:#ff6600">(A sound booth is an isolation booth that is a standard small room in a recording studio. It is both soundproofed to keep out external sounds and keep in the internal sounds) <span style="color:#ff6600">we got a sound check for the instruments. I also had the charts on the music stand in front of me, along with the instruments lying on a cloth towel in orderly fashion, so that I could pick each one up efficiently. My head phones were on and I had set the volume up just right in my ears, with the balance of the recording and level of the percussion instruments dialled in perfectly. </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Once I recorded all the parts within about an hour, Mark commented jokingly that he was pleasantly surprised that I recorded the percussion parts myself, as well as being so proficient. I didn't tell him the hours it took outside the studio to compose and practice the umpteenth parts! Shh - that will be our secret. Lol. Whew., what a job!</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Like I said, a person really doesn't direct their ear so much to listen for the percussion parts in a song. The levels are dialled back in the mix, so they're just 'icing on the cake'. </span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">It's fun figuring out the intricate parts for the songs. Some songs however do not call for any percussion whatsoever. Percussion is a delicate matter, and the producer along with the percussionist must be careful not to have these parts over-played, to where the parts overshadow the lyrics and song content in the delivery to convey a clear message to the listener.</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">There was one song whereby the cabasa parts I played just didn't fit like I desired. Yet with Mark's help, we found a perfect digital percussion sound called a Crunch. It fit perfectly!</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600">Recording is a creative process in and of itself. Oftentimes after the multiple parts have been recorded, the producer will decide that a particular instrument needs to change it's delivery so that the whole song gels better. With so many moving parts - instruments recording their parts, the complexities of tones and rhythms become quite cuisine where all the spices, textures, flavours must fit well together.</span></span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"><span style="color:#ff6600"></span></span></span></span></span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107581
2019-01-11T12:00:00-12:00
2019-01-17T19:06:48-12:00
Rehearse the Rhythm Guitarist- PART EIGHT
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">So again, TIME IS MONEY in the studio. That means EVERY detail must be worked out beforehand. Chakra Bleu plays her own rhythm guitar parts and the mandolin on one song on this album as well.</span> </p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">First of all, I determine which guitar/instrument is best for each song, which is determined by the particular guitars tone. Some guitars have warmer tones than other, while some are more crisp, having the ability to cut through with more treble tones. On several songs, I'll play two rhythm guitar parts: one which is on the acoustic guitar and another that is on the electric guitar. I also have the option to chose a twelve string, which has rich tones that 'ring out' more, as a result of the four octave strings and two courses of strings that are unison.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"></span><span style="color:#3366ff">If I'm playing one of my electric guitars (which is either a G&L or a Epiphone Les Paul which I've loaded with Seymour Duncan Slash Humbucker pickups), then I determine the </span><span style="color:#3366ff">specific effect pedals for each and every part of the song. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">The effect pedals I'll use are Digital Delay, Tremolo, Chorus, Flanger of Boss, and the OCD/overdrive pedal by Fulltone. I also determine if the guitar itself is in the low, mid or treble range. And then to add the specific tone on my amp. For studio I use the Fender Pro Junior, because of its straight forwardness, that lets me grab the preferred tones more specifically from my electric guitar and effect pedals. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Each song may use 1-4 different effect pedals in different places. So for example a song my start out with Digital Delay in the verses, yet then I may add Overdrive on the Chorus and the Tremolo on the bridge.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">It is also important that my effects are not 'rubbing' (not audibly cooperating with the lead guitar players tones and effects) *This can get complex, to say the least!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">** That is why it is always a good idea to play an acoustic guitar part, whenever playing an electric rhythm guitar part. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Secondly, I carefully determine exactly what style of strum for each song. Some songs will have a combination of strumming and picking. Some songs have places where the producer has arranged for the guitar to drop out for a verse, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">The parts are most extensive and painstakingly picky! I notate any specific melodic parts as well. I write down what strum/ pick, effects and dynamics when and where on each song. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I practice and practice and practice, so that the rhythms and effects are consistent and perfect before going into the studio. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">When recording on the studio date, live with the drummer, bass, keys and lead guitarist, one can expect that slight changes will occur, for improvement is being made on each take. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Wearing the rhythm guitarist, and producer hat at the same time is not easy, under the head phones, with the loud crash of the drums very apparent in the main room.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Yet it is my job to readily assess if the lead guitar and Chakra's guitar are rhythmically in sync and if the tones are working out. This especially applies, when the effects of my electric guitar and the lead guitarist's effects are in play. Two wave forms will muddy the ear. Wha? The producer (moi) aims to have a CLEAN recording, where there's a pleasing sound to the listeners ear. This happens when instruments are not all fighting it out in the mid-range, or all playing loudly, and off rhythm. Yes, the charts tell the musicians what key, dynamics, tempo and so forth, yet there is so much more going on when the record button is pushed!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Long story short, this gal comes to the studio prepared and then some! </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"><span style="color:#3366ff">(I realise that this may have been too much detail for many of y'all).LOL</span></span></p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107580
2018-12-29T12:00:00-12:00
2019-01-11T08:48:42-12:00
Rehearse the Singer: PART SEVEN
<p>The Producer as you have been reading, has been very busy! </p>
<p>Meanwhile, the lead singer 'Chakra Bleu' (moi) needs to rehearse a lot for this recording session. </p>
<p> The best key for my voice has been determined already. Now it's time to get into the vocal details of each song from start to finish. This is where my vocal performance training has come in handy, applying the techniques to bring out the best expression possible in each song.</p>
<p>There in my music office, I sit in a chair with my black F-25 guild on my lap, opening up the folder of studio songs and charts there on the music stand in front of me. It is my job now to determine where exactly I need to take a breath on each phrase. I mark the lyric sheets accordingly with a red pen, so that I'll follow that plan in the studio.</p>
<p>I then determine how to shape the phrases, with attention to dynamics and sensitivities to vowels, and attacks to particular consonants to bring out the best emotional delivery possibly. </p>
<p>For example, there's a song with the word 'Imagine' at the very beginning of the chorus. Singing a word with 'i' as the first vowell, needs sensitivity, whereby a vocalist adds a slight 'hhh' before it to give lift to the overall word. </p>
<p>Another example is a song that has the word 'fight' in it. I over emphasise the 't' to give it extra energy and gusto to the meaning of that word. </p>
<p>I go through each and every song, focusing on phrasing, breaths, diction, and dynamics, making notes, so that each time I rehearse that song again, I drive in those important nuances. When it comes time to record them in the studio, I will be prepared with the details that will bring the song into is best possible delivery.</p>
<p>I rehearse for 1-2 hours at first and then lengthen the rehearsal time, being careful to drink water. (water the vocal chords). I've learned the hard way of injuring my vocal chords years ago. Not fun and long recovery! Basically, the vocal chords are just like muscles. One trains them like a athlete would for a big game approaching. It's very nit-picking vocal stuff. That's another reason, I do not like to rehearse picky vocal details when anyone else might be in ear shot range. Behind the stage rehearsals like this are not enjoyable for other ears!Lol. Yet, I actually enjoy picking apart a song like this, because of the transition it takes on its course, blossoming in the end. </p>
<p>Another detail of importance, is learning to sing the song the same way every time, giving attention to exactly how long I hold the notes, how I end a word, and how and when I place inflections, rise and falls of a sung word. I know now where the harmonies will be, so once I lay down my main vocal, it has to be solid for the harmonies to create a perfect match, rhythmically and harmonically. If I would sing it one way this time and another the next time, the harmony singer would be frustrated in trying to follow me. (On my past four CD's I've sung my own harmonies. Yet on this studio recording, Kim Morrison sang 99% of the harmonies, which meant that I REALLY had to stick to exactness, for the sake of professionalism, time and money. The producer (moi) is always looking for efficiency in every aspect of studio recording projects, for the good of all.</p>
<p>I'm going to add a little further information about about vocal training. It is also important to train the lungs in a cardiovascular manner. </p>
<p>As Willie Nelson said, "When you're singing, you're using extra muscles, and it requires a lot of exercise and breathing. You can't do that if you're a sissy. If I have any fitness advice for people, I'd tell them to sing more. It's good therapy too."</p>
<p>He's right. I usually so hungry after a long session of singing. Long story short, I make sure that my cardio exercise is consistent, especially before a recording session that will demand several hours of laying down vocals. It's rare that one just sings a song through one time. There's usually several takes of shaping this or that into where the song is the best it can be! It's tedious, and yet it's a blast! I love vocally perfecting a song, so that it's delivery can move the listeners heart and/or mind. If I have brought Joy/enjoyment to a fan, then I have done my job well! Doing what I love and loving what I'm doing is important. Yet, when both parties are really finding Joy/enjoyment through the music, it's all worth it, especially when the fan is buying my music. That's frosting on the cake for everyone!</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107579
2018-12-29T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-30T07:14:19-12:00
Producer's Homework for the harmonist: PART SIX
<p>I sang my own harmonies on my last four albums. It's a lot of work to arrange three more vocal parts, as well as arrange the time to do it, well after the main vocals have been laid down, so as not to over tax the vocal chords. The advantage of singing all the harmonies myself is that the vocal blend is perfect, for the tone is the same.</p>
<p>Yet, on this session, I had one weekend to record all the parts, not including the 'fixes'. (I'll explain that term later:) </p>
<p>So the Producer had to figure out the timing of who was doing what, when and how. The where: Warner/Chappel on 16th Ave, Music Row, Nashville, TN.</p>
<p>The game plan is as follows: The musicians arrive at 10:00AM on the Saturday and were scheduled until 6:00PM. After that, the main vocals would begin until 10PM</p>
<p>On Sunday, 10AM-10PM was vocals again.(Main vocals and harmony vocals) This time line meant that I would need to hire a professional kick-ass harmonist! A singer who could make excellent time and get the job done and quickly! With three part harmony's, "Oohs and Ahhs" interspersed as well, this meant a Work Horse, and a vocalist whose voice was well conditioned for such an intensive session. </p>
<p>I had briefly met Kim Morrison, through Ronnie Godfrey. Her reputation is Wicked Slammin', having sung harmonies for live and studio gigs for countless famous Recording Artists. I've never met anyone who knew how to direct the voice with such precision as she did!</p>
<p>I was nervous when I asked her if she would be interested in singing on my project. To my delight, she was very interested. She was familiar with my music through Ronnie's previous recording sessions with me. She was laid back yet held an air of solid confidence. I already knew of many Nashville Greats whom she had sung with, yet when she told me that she also sung with Roy Orbison and Mose Allison, I almost dropped my phone! Roy Orbison has been a strong influence in my music. </p>
<p>She asked for a copy of the songs and for me to tell her what I had in mind for the harmonies on those songs. A week later, I sent her a copy of the guitar/vocal demos along with the lyrics for each song. I tend to be a perfectionist of sorts and so sending a simple Garage Band guitar/vocal demo (with its imperfections) to someone, makes my skin crawl! And yet, it had to be done. ugh. We agreed that we would get together a couple weeks before the studio date and go over the suggestions and ideas that we would both be preparing for the studio.</p>
<p>Now, it was time to totally focus my mind on harmony arrangements for the twelve songs. What a job! It's kind of strange. It's sort of like I have a closet full of many fine dress hats. One is the producer; another for the harmonist; another for the key player; another for the guitarist; for the lead singer; the percussionist; accountant; producer's assistant and more. No- don't worry: I don't have split personalities. Lol!</p>
<p>Again, I played the demo's over and over again, while driving or at the gym, until I started hearing the third above the tonic, the fifth below the tonic and then, oohs coming out here and there. I actually really like arranging harmonies. It just takes a moment to 'shift' my focus in that direction. I made notations on my lyric sheets where I would suggest where the harmonies could come in on the songs. </p>
<p>The evening when I was to meet Kim to share notes on the harmonies, was long awaited. I surely put some time in on the harmonies, and anticipated working alongside her on this preliminary rehearsal of sorts. </p>
<p>After offering me a cup of coffee, we went into her rehearsal room. I saw that she had already underlined the areas where she heard harmonies. My lyric sheets were similarly lined in those same areas. She played the first song and I sang the harmonies above below and oohs and ahhs. She then agreed on the same parts and then added her points of suggestions, in which I was most satisfied with, to say the least. It was refreshing to work alongside a professional, who did her homework well and then surely had points of brilliance that would bring the songs even into further excellence upon recording. </p>
<p>It only took about an hours time to go through the countless harmony parts for the dozen songs. Yet, there was one song that she said that she and Ronnie had been working up further ideas together. They were both extremely emotionally charged about a particular song of mine, 'Children Of The Sun' © 2018 Chakra Bleu Music, which happened to be about the atrocities of Native American Indians. (I'll share more about how that song was written later. Let's just say it has been a Powerful, Soulful and Mystifying experience to say the least!) We finished with some intriguing vocal parts to be added in that song. I was game, yet didn't know exactly how it would work out, until the day of, and wow...did it ever work out, thanks to what Ronnie, Kim added, and some unexpected turns in the studio, which actually worked on behalf of that song, in a reverently haunting way.</p>
<p>On parting, she assured me that she would be able to deliver all the harmony parts in ample time. And on that recording date, she surely did! Wow!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107578
2018-12-29T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-30T05:38:51-12:00
Producer's Homework for Keys: PART FIVE
<p>Producer: Chakra Bleu prepares for keyboard flavours: PART FIVE</p>
<p>I was so grateful to have the opportunity to work with Ronnie Godfrey again, for the third time in the studio. Ronnie has played with many greats and his extensive experience over the years provides him with an encyclopedia of wisdom as a keyboardist. He also is visually impaired, which also adds layers of insight to his taste in choosing textures on the keys. </p>
<p>Because Ronnie cannot visually read charts, I prepare weeks in advance for a 'joint collaboration' in deciding the key parts. Wha?</p>
<p>Now that the charts are written and I know the instruments that go with each song, I can now direct my attention to what key parts I hear for each song. I use the same basic guitar/vocal demo. I'll now drive or exercise to these songs with the question, " What keys are playing on this song? Is is piano, Wurly, synth, strings, etc.? I'll eventually hear what key part would most likely be best. Often there's two key parts. For example, there may be piano with layers of synth or strings on the chorus. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, I've sent Ronnie the guitar/vocal demo of all the songs. He is coming up with his ideas of key parts as well. </p>
<p>Finally, I'll give him a phone call and I'll share with him my suggestions of key parts for each song. He then will weigh in with his ideas for those songs. Strangely enough, we will have both come up with the same ideas for the keys! Ronnie then kicks in his mojo, and rehearses the songs well. He also charts the songs on Braille. His positive, laid back energy and preparedness surely add to a nice solid foundation for the intense recording day.</p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107577
2018-12-29T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-30T04:47:23-12:00
Producer's Homework: PART FOUR
<p>I desired to produce this album as well. This is a big undertaking, yet well worth it!</p>
<p>First of all, I wrote out the charts for each song. I usually write them out in Nashville Number System, often with chords provided instead, since there are musicians who are more comfortable with chords. In this process of several drafts, I am determining the best possible intro, coda/outro, instrumental and tempo. </p>
<p></p>
<p>Secondly, it is important to 'breathe' a song. Wha? To create depth in a song, or as I call it (give it 'breath'), it is good to provide dynamics and breakdowns. </p>
<p>Dynamics is directing the musicians to play soft, medium, loud, along with places where to hold chords for a measure, or rather to STOP immediately. This gives expression and excitement to the ears and emotional reactivity to the listeners ears. </p>
<p>A breakdown, is where, several instruments drop out, leaving perhaps just a basic beat of a snare drum with a guitar alone, for 4-8 measures, which may bring emphasis to the vocal passage. This effect can give the song anticipation and interest in general. </p>
<p>Once the charts are written out, I play them over and over again, weeding out bloopers (mistakes), that save time and money in the studio. No matter how meticulous I am about this process, it seems a pesky blooper get past me. Lol. Meanwhile, I check and recheck the tempo. On studio day, with all the musicians playing and thus reshaping the feeling of the song, the tempo often will change a couple clicks slower or faster. If I give a starting point for tempo, again, I save time and money. </p>
<p>Once the charts are written, I focus my creative imagination on what instruments would be best for each song. This album's genre is Country. So I already know that there is acoustic and electric guitar; lead guitar which also can be slide guitar; dobro; mandolin; banjo; fiddle; keys which include piano, electric piano, string effects; 'wurly' (wurlitzer); accordion; flute, etc. </p>
<p>So each of the twelve songs has a personality, that will lend itself to different instrumentation. What helps me 'hear' the particular instruments for each song, is this: while driving here and there, I play the demo'd songs in my Subaru. I also add the songs to my i-Tunes and listen to them while droning out on the elliptical. I then ask myself, "What is the best instruments for this song?" Then I somehow, little by little I start 'hearing' with an inner ear, what imaginary instruments are filling in, behind the guitar/vocal demo's. </p>
<p>Then once I know who the 'players' are (what instruments are for each song), I will determine exactly where each instrument fills in here and there. If there is a melodic theme, what instrument will play it. On the first verse, perhaps I'll have the piano 'decorate' the end of the phrases, while on the second verse, I'll have the dobro decorate the end of the phrases. Then perhaps on the chorus, I'll have the lead guitar decorate, as well as take the solo. On my charts, I will colour code where each particular instrument plays and/or decorates. By the way, when I say 'decorate', it refers to the end of a the singer's phrase, where there's a space for an instrument to 'decorate'. The instrument says something interesting before the singer begins with another phrase of lyrics. </p>
<p>I will colour code each particular instrument, so as the producer/director, i can quickly look at my copy of the song chart and see what instrument is supposed to be playing when and where. Each musician will also be able to see exactly where and when to play, with the colour codes. There's no guess work, which also allows the musicians to feel at ease. </p>
<p>When I, as the producer, provide the musicians with an orderly chart and game plan, this gives the musicians the freedom to play and create to their best ability for each song. This is a win-win for the musicians, singer(s), engineer and producer. The more I prepare beforehand, the smoother the studio day(s) go. There may be some unpredictable situations that come up, be it technical, etc. Yet, with the game plan well prepared, it allows time and patience for those ordeals to unravel. </p>
<p></p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107576
2018-12-26T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-26T20:34:09-12:00
Getting the ball rolling : PART THREE
<p>I recall at the end of my last album project, the lead guitarist, a very respected Nashville session player (of multi-genres), mentioned to me to call him when I was ready again to record my next project. I felt honoured that he was already wanting to play on the next CD! He said that he had a lot of fun playing my material and it was technically more interesting than much of the basic 1-4-5 Country songs he plays on countless sessions. (1-4-5 is a music term that comes from the Nashville Number System, whereby chords are converted to numbers so that musicians can quickly and easily learn/follow a new song. Most songs follow this basic pattern of three to five chords, with the addition of a 2minor and/or 6minor). I'm getting off course here:)</p>
<p> So, I gave him a call September and said, </p>
<p> "Paul, I'm ready to record the next album. Well I actually have four albums ready to record! (laugh) Anyway, this one will be Country. I do not know yet what studio and even the musicians accept for the keys and you - that is if you're in! I know you're more of a R&B/Soul artist. I will ask Ronnie Godfrey from my last recording project. Other than that, I know there will be twelve songs and I will be producing the project."</p>
<p>To my surprise, he then offered to set up the studio location on 16th Ave/Music Row, engineer and session musicians. He asked when I wanted to record. I said October. Paul called me back in an hour and said that he had the date reserved for session. The next day I had an email copied to myself, engineer, drummer, bass player and utility player (that a multi instrumentalist that usually plays fiddle, mandolin, dobro, banjo, etc.) I meanwhile called Ronnie and got a big "Yes" in wanting to be on this session. I also was extremely happy to get the Great Kim Morrison on board. She is a reputable harmony session singer here in Nashville, who has sung for many top recording and touring acts. </p>
<p>Finally, I needed to find the perfect Cover singer for this two day intensive recording session. This singer would have to be able to sing anywhere from 50-60 songs throughout a six hour period; would be requested to learn all of my twelve songs perfectly; would have studio experience; and have a high level of professional quality, since I run a tight ship in the studio. I made several calls to my various music contacts and eventually found the perfect fit. </p>
<p>Amanda Broadway, a singer/songwriter herself, sang every Thursday night downtown in a high energy groove band for four hours solid. Her husband was a studio engineer and she had extensive studio experience. Of course I gave her a sample of my songs beforehand and gave her the game plan, which meant that she would be singing my lead vocals, while I was recording my various guitar parts in the main recording room (Studio A) where the drummer and bass player were recording their tracks as well. She would be in her own little vocal room, with a window into the main room, singing a 'Mock' lead vocal/she was 'Covering' the lead vocals. More on the details of this later...</p>
<p>So all the musicians were on board. I had personally contacted all the musicians and engineer, providing each one the essential information to help prepare for the session. </p>
<p>Paul already knew that I would write out the charts, arrange and produce the session in a organised professional manner. Having worked with me before he already had a feel for my music.</p>
<p>For the bass and drummer, I gave them three samples of previously recorded songs. I provided Amanda all the demo'd songs as well as lyric sheets. I also provided the Utility player (dobro/fiddle/mandolin/banjo) all the songs as well, because he had specific themes to play on several songs. Many songs he would be playing two instruments. For example, he would play the fiddle on one take or two, and then play his banjo part on a following take.</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107575
2018-12-17T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-26T19:11:25-12:00
Creating my 9th album/PART TWO: what songs to pick for album
<p>After arriving back in Nashville late August 2018, after my summer writing project, I got a strong gut prompting that it was time to start planning for my next CD recording project.</p>
<p>There sitting in my music office room, I pulled out my strongest songs and organised them into genres. Some went into the Pop/Rock pile; others into a country/American pile; and others into a R&B/Blues/Reggae pile. What was obvious was that I had the amount of four album worth of songs, which is about 48 songs! </p>
<p>I asked myself what genre I felt more pulled to record. The last album was Pop/R&B/Reggae. Though it was a tough decision, I decided to go with a Country genre this time. I had two albums worth of this genre, so I decided which songs would fit best together. I picked songs that were straight up country; traditional country; Americana; and three wild card songs. Wha?? One song is Western (a song about a woman who carries the ever present memories of sexual abuse); another powerful song about the atrocities of Native Americans; and the third wild card song is a very upbeat song called Living Life Grand. Think of the song 'Walking On Sunshine'. This one will cure anyone of the blues for sure! For days I would play these 12 songs together and found that two of the songs just didn't fit right with the others. So I replaced them with two other country songs that when played with the other ten, fit more smoothly. It's a bit like a puzzle.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107574
2018-12-07T12:00:00-12:00
2021-08-09T19:31:11-12:00
Creating my 9th album: It all begins with a song/PART 1
<p><span style="color:#ff0000">Part One: Leading up to this session at Warner/Chappel took two years of specially crafted songs.In my bio, I mention that there are two times per year that I devote completely to writing new songs. In the summer I write at a lake cabin. In the winter I write at a cabin in the mountains near Asheville, NC. In both of those occasions I set a goal of writing at least a dozen melodies and/or lyrics to melodies. I take my favorite writing folder, that has a list of title ideas for songs, and partially written melodies that I've worked on beforehand. I do NOT like to write or record my new material on my computer, because I desire to keep the initial creative process RAW. So no electric guitars either. All melodies and licks/themes start on my acoustic guitar, or mandolin. I often get a tasty bass lick from my guitar that works its way into chords on either guitar, and sometimes piano. So I bring my old fashioned, tried and true hand held tape recorder. Yes, I prefer to record new song ideas on my cassette recorder. Whatever..it works for me. I must have pencils with good erasers and a little sharpener close by. (Y'all are having so much fun with this, aren't you? Lol) I also find that my creativity flows best when I take some quiet time of reflection/meditation before I write. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000"><span style="color:#ff0000">If I'm on a 'melody writing' trip, then I will ask myself to come up with a dozen melodies. If I put lyrics to one of them, it counts for two melodies, just because lyrics usually demand more time. The easiest way to start a melody is to 'fish' for a melodic catchy 'hook'. Brainless, doodling on my guitar, with no judgement usually finds a 'fishy' within an hour or so...then I start reeling that 'fishy' in, slowly and surely until, I work out the melody for the verses, chorus, and perhaps a bridge as well. I record all of this on the cassette recorder. It's so easy and quick to handle, as far as forwarding, erasing, re-recording new improved melodies, etc. If it's a strong hook, it's easier for me to start hearing in my head, a melody start to form. It's always a work in progress as I'm working out the rhythm as well. So I hum mock syllables and vowels as I play along. Sometimes, I'll get a strong feeling of what this new budding melody is wanting to be about. It sounds strange, I know, yet, when I get a 'glimpse'/ inkling of a song idea, even a short phrase, I will jot it down. And while I've been developing this hook into a melody, and into a full song, I am charting it in a quasi Nashville number/chord chart. I'm a stickler on my writing process to be on a yellow pad as well. Lol. OK, y'all all getting to know my quirks. Basically, it's like this: For years I've developed a system that works for my creative juices to flow. When I stick to the same tools, nature settings, work expectations and rewards, then I can produce product well! And it's fun! Why?</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000">Because, I give myself the treat of being in a beautiful setting, and I make sure I give myself rewards for meeting my goals. Rewards for me are hikes, and sometimes a micro beer (one) at a local Micro Brewery. Then it's back to work. If i do treat myself to a brew, I take the tape recorder and notebook with me, should I have another idea pop in my mind. Often it does. It's a break, so I don't ask myself to go full focus at that time. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000">I carefully label my charts accordingly to the finished melodies and songs on the cassette tape label. Only when I return to my office in Nashville, will I convert the songs to Garage Band and type the finished song on my computer. Soon thereafter, these songs get their official Copyrights. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000">It is much later in the process, that I get picky about the best voicing, tuning and instrument that a particular song sounds best.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000"><span style="color:#008080">I want y'all to know that in this blog sharing, I'm not going to devote any time to editing my writing. There will be typos and incomplete sentences. Since the purpose of this is to give you a feeling like we were sitting across the table from each other, sipping on a coffee, then this is going to be an easy going conversation. See you later at the coffee shop for Part Two...</span><br></span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107573
2018-12-05T12:00:00-12:00
2018-12-05T20:44:12-12:00
Warner/Chappel Recording Project!
<div data-block="true" data-editor="e4llp" data-offset-key="173sh-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="173sh-0-0"><span data-offset-key="173sh-0-0">Happy Holidays y'all. There's much to be grateful for to say the least! I have been busy in the studio working on my 9th album! As y'all know, my genre is 'Americana' (which means I write/record/produce American music which includes Rock,Pop, Country, Blues, R&B/Soul, and Reggae too!) And yet, what I may add that makes Chakra Bleu stand out even more, is that I include 'Empower' songs on all my CD's - songs that are insightful, having 'food for thought'. Anyway, the recent session went quite well and was recorded here in Music City, USA on Music Row itself at Warner/Chappel Production Music, on 16th Ave. </span></div>
</div>
<div data-block="true" data-editor="e4llp" data-offset-key="6o1pd-0-0">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6o1pd-0-0"><span data-offset-key="6o1pd-0-0"><span data-offset-key="6o1pd-0-0">This CD will be full on country, and will be released in May. As the producer on this project as well, I am deep into the mixing stage as we speak. I simply cannot wait to release this so I can share this with y'all. It has emotional content that will reach out wherever you are in your heart, mind and soul. So now you know why I've been so quiet: I've been SO busy, writing, editing, prepping charts, pre-production, rehearsing myself, getting musicians prepped, and so much more!</span> </span></div>
</div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107572
2018-05-30T12:00:00-12:00
2018-05-30T20:45:01-12:00
NEW LYRIC VIDEO! 'Luke Warm Loving'
<h2>NEW LYRIC VIDEO!</h2>
<h2>
Dear Friends, Happy Summer! I love summer for the beach time, sunshine, (not so much the humidity, ticks, chiggers, extra poison ivy, mosquitos and meandering snakes in the south), yet for BBQ's with friends & family, backpacking/camping, swimming, sleeping under the stars, summer concerts, and down home music, etc.Here's the first of my Summer gifts to you, my Dear Fans: Southern Rock/Blues that'll get your Soul-On! Thank You & Enjoy!This Soulful/Blues CHAKRA BLEU song is from my 9th album:'Our Own Paradise', which is an album perfect for SummerTime music:
</h2>
<p> Chakra Bleu Music LLC; P.O.Box 160054; Nashville, TN 37216</p>
<p> <a href="http://www.chakrableu.com/" data-imported="1">www.chakrableu.com</a> For bookings & PR: <a href="mailto:chakrableu@icloud.com" data-imported="1">chakrableu@icloud.com</a></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000"><span style="color:#ff0000"> <a href="https://youtu.be/eZ1_TuT6gG4" data-imported="1">https://youtu.be/eZ1_TuT6gG4</a></span></span></p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107571
2018-04-14T12:00:00-12:00
2021-08-09T05:47:43-12:00
New Lyric Video release: Tumbleweed Roll On!
<h1>Dear Friends, </h1>
<p>I couldn't wait to share this treat with y'all: My new lyric video: 'Tumbleweed Roll On'. This song is from my latest CD (my 8th album) OUR OWN PARADISE. This song is about the struggle of getting back up again on your feet, after a romance falls. Heart broken and tail tucked for a good while...then giving 'Love' another chance, despite the fear in your heart and mind...to put yourself 'Out on the Limb' again. </p>
<p>I wrote this song with a Tumbleweed in mind....as I've seen those critters rolling across some roads, looking lost, yet still rollin' on..</p>
<p>..Kind of like 'Lookin for Love'... no - I did NOT say 'In All the Wrong Places!' Lol. </p>
<p>My 'Tumbleweed', in this song, is Hopeful and Determined to find the Love that's just around the corner, at the next Green Oasis. The swing music in this song, portrays a HAPPY DANCE into ROMANCE: uh hem...that rhymed. Wink/ Lol</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Enjoy Y'all and Happy Spring. I wish you all: BIG LOVE, Happiness, Health, Insight and Peace! Truly Yours,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Chakra Bleu</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107570
2018-02-14T12:00:00-12:00
2018-02-14T10:14:49-12:00
NEW Lyric Video! BE MY LOVE
<p>I'm happy to announce the new lyric video, BE MY LOVE. </p>
<p>This song is the kick off song on my 8th CD, 'Our Own Paradise'. If you like Tom Petty, you're probably going to dig the vibe of this song. He was surely an influence in my music, as you'll hear in this song. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Music and Lyrics by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Video producer was DJ Bets.</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107569
2017-12-20T12:00:00-12:00
2017-12-20T08:53:45-12:00
New Single! Test Your Faith: Winter Solstice Release
<p>My Dear Friends,</p>
<p>I’ve been looking SO forward to releasing my new song, ‘TEST YOUR FAITH’, for the birthday celebration of Jesus; the significance of his message, which also coinsides with the Winter Solstice (Jan 21). </p>
<p><em>(Below, I’ve provided more insight into the meaning of winter solstice. ***)</em></p>
<p> In this song, I aim to deliver the concept of what Faith is…for the definition is often so vague and misunderstood. Here are some more insights into the lyrics:</p>
<p> Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen. If you need to see what you desire, before you believe it, it cannot come. You must believe it <em>before</em> you see it. Imagine, what it would be like, if you were experiencing your desire <em>now</em>: What would you see, hear, feel, taste, smell? Anticipate and expect what you desire! In short: <em>ACT AS IF </em> <em>(It was here now..happening just as you desire)</em></p>
<p> Music Buy Links : TEST YOUR FAITH</p>
<div> </div>
<div>iTUNES: <a href="https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/test-your-faith/1311109967?i=1311109968&mt=1&app=music" data-imported="1">https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/test-your-faith/1311109967?i=1311109968&mt=1&app=music</a>
</div>
<div>AMAZON: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Test-Your-Faith/dp/B077FYHNFR" data-imported="1">https://www.amazon.com/Test-Your-Faith/dp/B077FYHNFR</a>
</div>
<div>SPOTIFY: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/26ia2zUyX2p6EvOIoxa25f" data-imported="1">https://open.spotify.com/album/26ia2zUyX2p6EvOIoxa25f</a>
</div>
<p>CD BABY: <a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu14" data-imported="1">https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu14</a></p>
<p> Believe and accept as true the fact that our desire has already been accomplished and fulfilled, that it is already completed, and that its realisation will follow as a thing in the future.</p>
<p>The success of this technique depends on the confident conviction that the thought, the idea, the picture is already a fact in mind. In order for anything to have substance in the realm of mind, it must be thought of as actually existing there. </p>
<p> * <em>(By Dr. Joseph Murphy; The Power of Your Subconscious Mind) </em></p>
<p><strong> <em>“What things soever ye deisre, when ye pray believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. “</em></strong><strong><em>MARK 11:24</em></strong></p>
<p><em><strong>“For as one thinks in ones heart, so she/he is’”Proverbs 23:7</strong></em></p>
<p><em> ***The winter solstice is a celebration of being ‘born again’ - not of flesh, but of the spirit. It’s a celebration of the birth of the spiritual Son, the Christ within a persons consciousness on the path of the spiritual sun. Symbolized as a child just as the winter sun is at its weakest, it will grow until reaching its full strength at the summer solstice = just as the spirit grows within a prepared individual to transform them completely from inner darkness into light. The rising of the sun on the winter solstice, out of the darkest day of the year, echoes the birth of the light from the dark void on the first day of creation.</em></p>
<p><em>Every genuine spiritual teaching throughout the world had some word for attaining enlightenment, whether it was Awakening, Self-Realization, Salvation, Imperishability or Immortality, etc. Most still have remnants of a diving savior associated with the sun, and many associated the birth of this savior with the winter solstice. this divine savior always taught humanity how to achieve enlightenment to become a ‘Son of God’ and return to the spiritual source awakened.</em></p>
<p><em>Although Christmas is now largely about shopping for many people, the birth of the savior was intended to bring to earth a profound spiritual message for the whole of humankind. This message has been brought to earth anew many times as previous teachings became old, obsure, and locked withing religious dogma. (Extract taken from the book,'The Path of the Spiritual Sun', by Belsubuub w/Angela Pritchard.)</em></p>
<p> <em>Merry Christmas and Happy Winter Solstice to each and every one of you! May you all be Blessed and Blissed with abundant Health, Happiness, Love, Prosperity, Peace, Adventure and Spiritual Insight! I surely hope that my song brings you empowerment to Be all you Really Are!</em></p>
<p> <em>Namaste,</em></p>
<p>Chakra Bleu </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107568
2017-11-15T12:00:00-12:00
2017-11-15T19:21:59-12:00
The Shadow - New Lyric Video RELEASED!
<div><em>Hello my Dear Friends,</em></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div><em>I’ve got yet another Big Treat to share with you! I invite you to sit back and enjoy my new Lyric Video. </em></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div>
<em>The Shadow</em>’, (from my album ALL OF ME) talks about the worthiness and uniqueness of who we really are as whole beings!</div>
<div> <a href="https://youtu.be/VKvGkUrsOec" data-imported="1">https://youtu.be/VKvGkUrsOec</a>
</div>
<div>The <em>'Shadow</em>' in this song refers to the repressed, disowned and unrecognised aspects of ourselves. Everyone is a blend of day and night, qualities both desirable and perhaps undesirable. We often focus on the inadequacies of our personalities, which we label as being a failure and undeserving. We dampen our feelings of Self-Worth by perceiving our 'Shadow' as negative - rarely looking at the trapped energy it contains. When we accept all of ourself, we liberate and allow a higher transcendence of this 'shadowed' energy, which in turn can bring out our finer qualities.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I am releasing this Lyric Video purposefully in this season of Fall. The physical <em>decline</em> and darkness experienced by the land as we approach winter represents something else, as well: it is the external embodiment of the darkness all people contain within themselves. Those negative/unhealthy/untruthful qualities within us can be restored to positive/healthy/transformation through truthful, honest awareness, self acceptance/non-judgement/Self love and forgiveness.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Many mistake the mystery of Autumn for darkness and depression, but in reality it is just about endings and transformation which will lead to new beginnings. There comes a time when the night must be braved, when the darkness must be faced. Darkness and light exists in all of us. Yet darkness, if ignored, grows and takes over like mold. It is only when exposed to light that we can overcome those ‘shadows.’ Autumn is the time to face darkness, a physical reminder of opportunity to accept and transform our Selves.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Look for the Light beneath the Shadow- that hidden Inner Power and Beauty that is the True You! </div>
<div> </div>
<div>*This song was inspired by the book ‘A Mythic Life’, written by Jean Houston</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Buy Now: <a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu6" data-imported="1">https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu6</a>
</div>
<div>* Also available on all Major Online Music Stores </div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107567
2017-11-12T12:00:00-12:00
2017-11-12T18:36:56-12:00
You Go To My Head - RELEASE!
<table style="width: 100%;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td height="12">
<p>Dear Friends,</p>
<p>I could not wait to share this new release with y'all ! </p>
<p>This song is so perfect for the Football season - well actually ANY SEASON with a reason to share good brews with your friends!</p>
<p><a href="https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu13" data-imported="1">https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/chakrableu13</a><br></p>
<p><a href="https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/you-go-to-my-head-single/1300289201?mt=1&app=music" data-imported="1">single/1300289201?mt=1&app=music</a></p>
<div>
<a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/39r3rSVxw5hiLDVq5d4Skf" data-imported="1">You Go to My Head</a> (spotify link)
<div></div>
<div></div>
</div>
<div> OK, here's the Scenario: It’s Friday night and Brittney has met up with her posse at their favorite Micro Brewery. The gals are unwinding from a busy week at their jobs and they are SO happy to be at their festive hangout. Brittney strikes up a conversation with a friendly guy. She cannot believe how quickly he is growing on her - especially when she was NOT looking for a ‘Hook-Up’! Yep, sure enough - he’s Going to Her Head like a GOOD beer buzz! This song is meant for singing it at the TOP OF YOUR LUNGS with your Friends, of course, while enjoying your beer. (BTW: the beer is your excuse if you sing off key!
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<div>Cheers, Chakra Bleu </div>
<p> </p>
<div>Written by Chakra Bleu & Sue Halford; Produced by Chakra Bleu </div>
<div>copyright 2017; Chakra Bleu Music </div>
<p> </p>
<div></div>
<div></div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107565
2017-10-25T12:00:00-12:00
2020-11-04T23:25:35-12:00
About the song Willing To Fall
<div>In the song WILLING TO FALL, I compared the parallels of rock climbing to willingness in opening one’s heart in ‘dating’. </div>
<div>Both have risk factors of getting hurt; both require courage; both carry the risk of falling from ‘heights’; both do well with safety precautions; both require trust; both require the act of taking little steps forward to grow/improve - in order to grow both</div>
<div>require the willingness to fall; both do not do well with over-gripping; both require confidence, yet a humble heart; both open doors to self improvement with practice, self awareness, knowledge and learning (in a relationship, that would be learning more about the other person - asking what his/her feelings are about this, that; asking about likes, dislikes, etc); both require patience and a sense of responsibility; both do well with a lightness of heart and humor; both require to place oneself in a state of vulnerability; both flourish with a playful demeanor- having fun, being curious/wonderment/adventurous.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Interestingly enough, fighting against, anger and bleme do not work well for either one of these. Cussing out a rock wall, or blaming it for not performing to your expectations, is ridiculous. It’s a rock - it’s just there being a solid nature. It doesn’t listen or have a personality to fight back. It hurts if you use force to try to ‘be the winner’. LOL. Thus the same goes in a relationship: No one ‘wins’ when there is angry fighting and blaming. It doesn’t feel good. In fact it feels like it would if you slammed into a rock face (wall). </div>
<div></div>
<div>The rock face brings you face to face with your own thoughts, feelings, strengths and weaknesses, some of which these unpolished qualities are humbling to realize!</div>
<div>Such is the case with being in a relationship, that often reflects personality traits in yourself that you aren’t fond of, which bubbles up as feeling irritated toward the other person, which then of course you deflect and blame him/her for these (mirrored) unlikable qualities. It’s amusing stuff!</div>
<div></div>
<div>Both fourish as you come to a point of Acceptance of especially yourself as well as others. The quality of acceptance meaning being at peace - arriving at a place of non-judgment, right there in that moment, one foot step, one hand-hold at a time. This ‘Space’ naturally brings one to be encouraging and Loving to your Self as well as others, which brings you effortlessly into a state of selflessness, which coincidentally brings you to become more light hearted, which leads to more Fun and Joy/Happiness. Cool!</div>
<div></div>
<div>When I started rock climbing a little while ago, I was faced with my fear of heights. This is pretty normal for most folks, as heights and very loud noises kicks in our sense of self preservation. It turns on our ‘danger red-light button’. Anyway, my friends kindly and patiently helped me understand how the climbing equipment works, which included safety precautions. I wasn’t really having a lot of fun at first, because I was so focused on my fear of heights and falling. </div>
<div></div>
<div>Staying on point with the comparison of climbing and relationships, the lyrics in WILLING TO FALL portray, I will continue with my beginning days of climbing as thus: I had a Desire and Curiosity to find out why my friends felt so much enjoyment in this sport. I knew that I liked that we were outdoors, amidst trees, birds, fresh air and sunshine. Though this natural fear was prominent on several of my first climbing experiences, I began to question what ‘fear’ was in the big picture. ‘Fear’ in this case, could be translated to an experience that was ‘unfamiliar’ to my mind, emotions and physical body. I asked myself if I was ‘Willing’ to climb and experience what was ‘unfamiliar’, so that I could open up my mind to understand the skills even better. When one’s mind is focused only on Fear, there’s not space enough to focus on Understanding, which then allows a person to relax more, just for one. Anxiety really fries your nerves, and zaps your energy, and Fun factor!</div>
<div></div>
<div>So the same qualites exist when getting involved in a new relationship. Most of us have experienced the pain felt in heart-breaks, when we have invested so much of ourselves; our trust, hope, love, dreams, etc. only to have it feel like there’s a gaping hole in our heart. This feeling creates Fear and Anxiety to put ourselves at a risk to ‘Fall’ - get crushed again. Yet, if we don’t take the risk, we certainly will not have the opportunity to share the richness of being in love. That gem requires the</div>
<div>Willingness to fall. </div>
<div></div>
<div>Thankfully in rock climbing and mountaineering, there’s safety features, such as harnesses, ropes, gear, to allow the belayer to catch our falls. Yes, there are some safety precautions in the get-go of ‘dating’/hanging out’, such as taking it slow, good communication, etc. that are helpful. Falling either way can still be scary, yet the</div>
<div>thrill of living Big, living life Full, start with a Willingness to Open our Hearts!</div>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107564
2017-10-14T12:00:00-12:00
2017-10-14T20:38:14-12:00
More on SUNFLOWER OF MY DREAMS/ Video Release
<p>As for the lyric video release of SUNFLOWER OF MY DREAMS...<br>I'd like to give special thanks to...<br>Video Production: Shikar</p>
<p>My Nashvegas Music Meisters:</p>
<div class="text_exposed_show">
<p>Cello: David Henry<br>Steel Guitar: Johnny Heinrich<br>Keys: Barry Walsh<br>Drums: Rick Lono<br>Bass: Victor Krauss<br>* Acoustic Guitar: Chakra Bleu<br>* Music and Lyrics by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Engineer: David Henry</p>
<p>I recall vividly, bringing this song to the 'song committee' to be considered for the upcoming album 'You're The One'...<br>With pens and paper in their hands, I remember seeing tears running down smiling faces, yet the room quietly intense. I didn't know exactly what this meant until, I read the comments and ratings upon this particular song, in the running, to be or not to be on this 5th album of mine...<br>Anyway, the ratings the committee gave this song, gave 'it' a unanimous 'green light' to be on the CD. </p>
<p>As for the production, I thoughtfully decided which instruments would best compliment the sensitivity of the lyrics and symbolism in this song. In my head, I could strongly hear the cello and steel guitar delicately decorating the spaces in between the phrases and highlighting the solo, beginning and end of this song, which took on a personality of its own, in the writing and production. I simply took a back seat, so to speak, to what IT desired to BE.</p>
<p>I give credit to ALL the musicians and Video Producer on this song, which most importantly can hopefully bring Joy into Your Dear Hearts!</p>
<p>Namaste,<br>Chakra Bleu</p>
</div>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107563
2017-10-14T12:00:00-12:00
2017-10-14T20:30:43-12:00
Sunflower Of My Dreams/ Lyric Video Relase
<h1>Dear Friends, </h1>
<h1>With Fall and Thanksgiving in the air, I'm offering you a special gift for this season: my new lyric video 'SUNFLOWER OF MY DREAMS'.</h1>
<h1>The 'totem/symbolism' of the sunflower is Happiness, Vitality, Devoted love, Freedom, Beauty, Hope, unbending Faith, Prosperity, Strength, Success and Endurance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>
</h1>
<h1>The Native Americans use it as a symbol of Bounty, Harvest and the life giving force of the Great Spirit.</h1>
<h1>In Chinese symbolsm, it represents long life, good luck and is considered very auspicious, as it is always seeking out the light, following the path of the sun all day.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>
</h1>
<h1>Keep this song close to your Heart and may it bring a warmth of Beauty and Love from the inside-out, so you can pass this Light/Good Vibes out & about!</h1>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107562
2017-08-20T12:00:00-12:00
2017-08-20T20:37:16-12:00
Kudos to Lyric Video Producer
<p>I also would like to thank the video producer DJ Bets for catching the perfect Vibe on this video. I asked him to include images that had S'mores, campfire, romance, passion, and stars. Bravo, dude!</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107561
2017-08-20T12:00:00-12:00
2021-12-22T23:46:23-12:00
Please welcome: You're What's Missing LYRIC VIDEO
<h1>Dear Friends, </h1>
<h1>Here's a Very special Solar Eclipse LYRIC VIDEO surprise! You're in for a rich R&B/Soul, passionate vibe, that flirts with roasting S'Mores on a cozy campfire, under the moon and stars. Mm.mm Baby!</h1>
<h1><a href="https://youtu.be/JRiuqp4-_qw" data-imported="1">https://youtu.be/JRiuqp4-_qw</a></h1>
<h1> </h1>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107560
2017-08-06T12:00:00-12:00
2021-08-13T18:39:55-12:00
Lyric Video - Whatever You Want
<h1>Here's your next 'Summer Extravagaza LYRIC VIDEO gift'. It's fun & laid back with an Island-Reggae vibe. </h1>
<h1>I invite y'all to take a moment & make a special wish on this Full Moon Eclipse and let my song 'WHATEVER YOU WANT', guide you in applying the art of visualizing all that you truly deserve! Listen closely, envision, and Be....</h1>
<p><span style="color:#ff0000">https://youtu.be/PxFAhDSdY0o</span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107559
2017-08-02T12:00:00-12:00
2021-08-19T07:33:58-12:00
Dune Allen - Lyric Video
<p>I'm happy to share with y'all yet another Lyric Video from my 8th album, Our Own Paradise. This video <a style="font-family: Aclonica, sans-serif;" href="https://youtu.be/3EkgyddVMSE" data-imported="1">https://youtu.be/3EkgyddVMSE</a> is the song DUNE ALLEN, and it will surely take you on a mighty fine romantic trip to a Santa Rosa beach off Florida's Hwy 98 (also known as 30A). </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107558
2017-07-30T12:00:00-12:00
2017-07-30T20:37:38-12:00
Lyric Video for 'Our Own Paradise'
<p>I'm SO excited to shared with y'all a series of SUMMER EXTRAVAGANZA 'Lyric Videos'. These will primarily start from my 8th CD, an album with rich island reggae, R&B, pop flavours packed with a FUN summer vibe. <br>OUR OWN PARADISE is the album and this special lyric video is the title track 'Our Own Paradise'.</p>
<p>OUR OWN PARADISE is about…When you’re in love, it doesn’t matter where both of you are, or what you’re doing, for the experience will feel grand and larger than life.<br>For example: Your pay checks may afford you both to eat at cheesy fast food restaurants, yet when you’re in love it will feel like you’re dining at Five Star restaurants. Or, perhaps you both may be living in an apartment in a rundown neighbourhood, yet when you’re in love, it will feel like you’re living in a mansion in the high class part of town!<br>In other words, you both may be living like paupers, yet when you’re in love it feels like you’re a King and Queen, living in a Mediterranean Paradise!</p>
<p><br>Https://youtu.be/cfA9u82vDUo</p>
<p>Be sure to follow and 'thumbs up' me on twitter and Instagram.</p>
<p>Enjoy mes amies!<br>Chakra Bleu</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107557
2017-06-28T12:00:00-12:00
2017-06-29T08:52:52-12:00
Insights to the song Willing To Fall
<p>In the song WILLING TO FALL, I compared the parallels of rock climbing to willingness in opening one’s heart in ‘dating’. </p>
<p>Both have risk factors of getting hurt; both require courage; both carry the risk of falling from ‘heights’; both do well with safety precautions; both require trust; both require the act of taking little steps forward to grow/improve - in order to grow both</p>
<p>require the willingness to fall; both do not do well with over-gripping; both require confidence, yet a humble heart; both open doors to self improvement with practice, self awareness, knowledge and learning (in a relationship, that would be learning more about the other person - asking what his/her feelings are about this, that; asking about likes, dislikes, etc); both require patience and a sense of responsibility; both do well with a lightness of heart and humor; both require to place oneself in a state of vulnerability; both flourish with a playful demeanor- having fun, being curious/wonderment/adventurous.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Interestingly enough, fighting against, anger and bleme do not work well for either one of these. Cussing out a rock wall, or blaming it for not performing to your expectations, is ridiculous. It’s a rock - it’s just there being a solid nature. It doesn’t listen or have a personality to fight back. It hurts if you use force to try to ‘be the winner’. LOL. Thus the same goes in a relationship: No one ‘wins’ when there is angry fighting and blaming. It doesn’t feel good. In fact it feels like it would if you slammed into a rock face (wall). </p>
<p> </p>
<p>The rock face brings you face to face with your own thoughts, feelings, strengths and weaknesses, some of which these unpolished qualities are humbling to realize!</p>
<p>Such is the case with being in a relationship, that often reflects personality traits in yourself that you aren’t fond of, which bubbles up as feeling irritated toward the other person, which then of course you deflect and blame him/her for these (mirrored) unlikable qualities. It’s amusing stuff!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Both fourish as you come to a point of Acceptance of especially yourself as well as others. The quality of acceptance meaning being at peace - arriving at a place of non-judgment, right there in that moment, one foot step, one hand-hold at a time. This ‘Space’ naturally brings one to be encouraging and Loving to your Self as well as others, which brings you effortlessly into a state of selflessness, which coincidentally brings you to become more light hearted, which leads to more Fun and Joy/Happiness. Cool!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>When I started rock climbing a little while ago, I was faced with my fear of heights. This is pretty normal for most folks, as heights and very loud noises kicks in our sense of self preservation. It turns on our ‘danger red-light button’. Anyway, my friends kindly and patiently helped me understand how the climbing equipment works, which included safety precautions. I wasn’t really having a lot of fun at first, because I was so focused on my fear of heights and falling. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Staying on point with the comparison of climbing and relationships, the lyrics in WILLING TO FALL portray, I will continue with my beginning days of climbing as thus: I had a Desire and Curiosity to find out why my friends felt so much enjoyment in this sport. I knew that I liked that we were outdoors, amidst trees, birds, fresh air and sunshine. Though this natural fear was prominent on several of my first climbing experiences, I began to question what ‘fear’ was in the big picture. ‘Fear’ in this case, could be translated to an experience that was ‘unfamiliar’ to my mind, emotions and physical body. I asked myself if I was ‘Willing’ to climb and experience what was ‘unfamiliar’, so that I could open up my mind to understand the skills even better. When one’s mind is focused only on Fear, there’s not space enough to focus on Understanding, which then allows a person to relax more, just for one. Anxiety really fries your nerves, and zaps your energy, and Fun factor!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>So the same qualites exist when getting involved in a new relationship. Most of us have experienced the pain felt in heart-breaks, when we have invested so much of ourselves; our trust, hope, love, dreams, etc. only to have it feel like there’s a gaping hole in our heart. This feeling creates Fear and Anxiety to put ourselves at a risk to ‘Fall’ - get crushed again. Yet, if we don’t take the risk, we certainly will not have the opportunity to share the richness of being in love. That gem requires the</p>
<p>Willingness to fall. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Thankfully in rock climbing and mountaineering, there’s safety features, such as harnesses, ropes, gear, to allow the belayer to catch our falls. Yes, there are some safety precautions in the get-go of ‘dating’/hanging out’, such as taking it slow, good communication, etc. that are helpful. Falling either way can still be scary, yet the</p>
<p>thrill of living Big, living life Full, start with a Willingness to Open our Hearts!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Notes about my song: WILLING TO FALL by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107566
2017-05-03T12:00:00-12:00
2017-11-03T23:34:31-12:00
Our Own Paradise RELEASED!
<p>Chuck Whiting: <a href="mailto:Arts@WhitingPublicity.com" data-imported="1">Arts@WhitingPublicity.com</a> ;Whiting Publicity & Promotions; (615) 423-9857</p>
<p> <strong>AMERICANA ARTIST CHAKRA BLEU RELEASES ALBUM 'OUR OWN PARADISE'</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>Artist Explores Reggae, Rock and R&B with Breezy Feel of a Caribbean Island</p>
<p> NASHVILLE, Tenn. Hit Americana artist <strong>Chakra Bleu</strong> takes listeners to a tropical island paradise with a breezy, uplifting album that includes an eclectic mix of Reggae, Rock and R&B.</p>
<p>Bleu's eighth CD, "<strong>Our Own Paradise</strong>", features a dozen original songs that were penned during her songwriting retreats in the mountainous regions of the American East and West. The project was recorded in Nashville with contributions from veteran musicians bassist/engineer <strong>John Billings</strong>, drummer <strong>Brice Foster</strong>, keyboardist <strong>Ronnie Godfrey</strong>, guitarist <strong>Paul Allen</strong>, saxophonist <strong>Dana Robbins</strong>, trumpeter <strong>Scott Ducaj</strong>, and trombonist <strong>Chris Dunn</strong>. </p>
<p>"The theme of this album is summer fun and groove," said Bleu, who plays rhythm guitar and sings lead and backup vocals. "Some of the songs are love and relationship related, while others empower listeners to overcome life's challenges."</p>
<p><strong>To download selections from "Our Own Paradise," visit </strong><a href="http://listbabyqa.hostbaby.com/ln/?c=1785171&l=1268767&k=6acac8b2d2b3296537cbe7ad2e811b7e" data-imported="1"><strong>https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/album/our-own-paradise/id1135577053?mt=1&app=music</strong></a><strong> .</strong></p>
<p>Individuals may get the urge to party or dance with the rockers "Be My Love", "Our Own Paradise", and "Tumbleweed Roll On". Other songs are more reflective or inspirational, including "We Shall Overcome" and "I Paint My Life". Selections such as "Dune Allen" and "Whatever Your Want" encourage music lovers to relax, let go and dream.</p>
<p>"I wanted to record all of the songs live with the drummer, bass player, keyboardist and lead guitarist playing with me at the same time," said Bleu, who landed a number two single on NMW's Top 40 record chart last year. "Together, we made it happen. The energy on this album is amazing."</p>
<p>Bleu wrote melodies for the songs last August while mountain climbing and retreating in Wyoming, Idaho and Washington. The lyrics were penned later during an October songwriting retreat near Asheville, North Carolina.</p>
<p>Her album kicks into high gear with the romantic rocker "Be My Love", where the lover divulges the vulnerable truth that he needs a woman in his life, admitting that she completes him, his life utterly lonely without her.</p>
<p>The fun and lively Reggae cut, "Whatever You Want", introduces Bleu's latest musical exploration. The artist was inspired to write her first Reggae song after hearing Bob Marley's "Red Red Wine". </p>
<p>"Last summer at my song table by the lakeside, I asked myself what style of music I wanted to create," Bleu added. "I've learned that most people love to hear music in all styles. That’s when I heard passersby in boats pumping out upbeat pop/Reggae music by Bob Marley, Blondie and Cyndi Lauper. I'd never written a Reggae song before, but I decided to give it a try. I ended up writing four of them with a summery hint of Tom Petty."</p>
<p>Petty's rock, McCartney's pop, and The Band Perry's country quickly come to mind with the radio-friendly, hook-driven tune, "Just Where You Are". </p>
<p>The album soars yet again near the end with "I Paint My Life", a song that shows off Dana Robbins' soulful sax playing. The tune encourages listeners to speak their minds, keep their heads high, and choose their own paths no matter what the odds. "The choice is mine... I'm the artist... I paint my life...."</p>
<p>The last song, the Reggae-accented "We Shall Overcome", encourages Americans to unify peacefully to help solve important issues related to equality and justice. It was released as a single on July 5.</p>
<p>"Our Own Paradise" was recorded and engineered by <strong>John Billings</strong>and <strong>Michael York</strong> at Funky Tymz Studio, with Bleu's rhythm guitar tracks recorded at Wire World Studio with engineer <strong>Michael Wagener</strong>. Bleu produced all of the tracks for the project.</p>
<p>Bleu grew up in Spokane, Washington, with a passion for music and the outdoors. Her music accomplishments have been substantial. The rock/pop tune "All of Me" hit number one on <em>New Music Weekly's</em> Top 40 Indie Chart, while climbing into the top 10 on the NMW mainstream Top 40 and Hot 100 singles charts. Another recent single, "The Shadow", quickly climbed various NMW charts, reaching number four on Top 40, number four on Hot 100 A/C, number five on Top 40 Internet, and number one on Indie Top 40 (where it remained for six consecutive weeks). Her sixth album, "Souvenir", generated five top-40 hit singles on various charts, with the song "Addicted to You" receiving "Spotlight" recognition in <em>Cashbox Magazine</em>. Other hit singles from previous albums include "When I Hold Your Hand" and "Hopelessly in Love". </p>
<p>According to <strong>Dave Carew</strong>, a writer for the blog <em>Underground Nashville</em>, Bleu is "hands down one of the most original and distinctive pop/rock/Americana artists ever to grace the underground Nashville music scene. Inspired by everything from the styling of bands like Heart and the Cowboy Junkies, to transcendent New Age thought, she has forged, over the past decade, some of the most uplifting, eclectic, thought-provoking, and empowering music ever created in Music City USA."</p>
<p><strong>For more information about Chakra Bleu or to hear her music, visit <a href="http://www.chakrableu.com/" data-imported="1">www.ChakraBleu.com</a> . To book the artist for an upcoming event, send an e-mail message to <a href="mailto:174Records@chakrableu.com" data-imported="1">174Records@chakrableu.com</a> </strong></p>
<p><strong>1746 Records; P.O Box 160054 Nashville, TN 37216</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107554
2017-03-29T12:00:00-12:00
2021-07-26T06:41:10-12:00
Crafting my 8th Album: 'Our Own Paradise'
<p>I've begun the huge process of recording my 8th full length album, which will be titled 'Our Own Paradise'. I'll plan to release it this Spring!</p>
<p>As the producer, I wanted this album to be recorded in the original fashion, whereby the artist/musicians/band are all in the same room, recording their tracks at the same time. The reasoning behind this, is that there's a 'gel', a connective energy between the musicians when they're in the same room, such that one gets from a live show.</p>
<p>Normally, recording an album happens like this: The drummer is in a sound tight room, sometimes with a thick window pain that allows him/her to see the bass player, who is recording nearby. The drums have live mics placed in their perspective 'sweet spots'. The drummer has head phones on that allows him to hear the 'scratch track' of the singer (in this case Chakra Bleu and her guitar/mando,etc), as well as the bass player, and perhaps the keyboardist. Often the keys are recorded at a later time.</p>
<p>Usually the drums, bass and (scratch track of lead singer, who is playing along with guitar, piano,etc.), are the first layer of the recording process. </p>
<p>*Scratch track: means that the this track that the Singer/Songwriter/Artist who is often playing along with her/his instrument of choice, will eventually rerecord those vocals and instrument later on. Initially, this scratch track is meant only to guide the drummer and bass player, while there is a 'click/metronome' track in the background, making sure that the tempo stays consistent throughout the song.</p>
<p>Anyway, in most cases these days, the drummer is in a separate room; the bass player in another separate room; while the singer is also in a separate room, while recording this first layer. You can imagine that the communication is limited to hearing each other primarily, while following a song chart. </p>
<p>With the visual being cut off from the musicians, that much more 'communication' is cut off. Body language among musicians is huge! It allows us to follow and anticipate the other musicians playing. Furthermore, when the musicians are compartmentalised in their separate rooms, while recording, (this is so the live microphones don't pick up the other instruments, allowing the mix down process to be Clean), the compartmentalisation cuts off the 'connective energy= Synergy. This then cuts down on the overall Groove and Integration of the full recording potential of a song. </p>
<p>I was determined to find a way to record this album whereby all the main musicians would be in the same room, recording at the same time! John Billings, the engineer and bass player really helped me make this happen. We recorded at his Funky Tymz studio, which provided a very large open room. The prep work for this was immense, with all the direct lines required to snake a long way to the control room. He of course had plenty of sound padding around the drums, yet perfectly placed, so that he and Brice could see each other. </p>
<p>Here's how it worked:</p>
<p>In this big awesome room, we all sat in a big spaced out circle, while we recorded. Brice Foster on drums(live mics) sat at 12 o'clock; John Billings on Bass (direct) at 9 o'clock; Chakra Bleu (*live mic/direct guitar) at 7 o'clock; Paul Allen on Lead Guitar sat at 5 o'clock; and Ronnie Godfrey on keys sat at 3 o'clock. We had Mike York acting as second engineer in the control room. </p>
<p>So, how did my live mic work with the live drum mic's of the drums? Good question!</p>
<p>I had a cover singer learn the lead vocals of all the songs. John and I positioned her in the control room with her own separate microphone. On the first two run throughs of each song, I would sing the lead vocals along with all the guys. On the following run throughs of the song, up and until we actually recorded that song, Teresa, the cover singer sang the vocals in the control room. This way, there wasn't any 'bleed' of live vocals on the drum's mic's. Yet, I was still playing the 'scratch rhythm guitar track', along with the guys, as well as lip synching the lyrics.</p>
<p>The synergy worked! It was absolutely amazing! The energy was electric and I felt like this Very Special historical moment was happening, as far as pulling this style of recording off, and successfully at that! </p>
<p>We recorded seven songs on the first day, and six on the second day. Yes, I wrote the charts out for the musicians well beforehand.</p>
<p>I knew you would ask: What about the pre-production and all the work that went in before these first two monumental days of recording 'My Own Paradise?'</p>
<p>Well, first of all, I wanted to chose a group of songs that were mostly Upbeat, Reggae, R&B, and Rock in genre. I also wanted to chose songs that would come off with the vibe of 'The Tide Is High' by Blondie, and Cyndi Lauper's -'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun', UB40 and 'Red Red Wine' feel of Bob Marley. Why? On one of my last summer songwriting assignments to write a dozen new songs, I was sitting at my outdoor songwriting table, and was asked myself,</p>
<p> "What kind of songs, and what style, do I want to write this for this group new creations?"</p>
<p>I sat there quietly as a boat here and there full of happy people, laughing and talking would speed by, and I noticed the same Island-Pop music playing on their stereos. So, I decided that this album was going to include Reggae-Pop tunes, as well as elaborating more on last albums R&B feel, and definitely include a couple full on Rock tunes, one melody which popped out a rockin' Tom Petty feel. </p>
<p>Time elapses where, at the following songwriting session in Asheville, NC, I added lyrics to all those new melodies written at the lake scene. Add many weeks of editing, then even later, the time narrowing down the songs that would make up the envisioned next album...and later, writing out the charts, timing the songs, fine tuning how the beginnings (intros) and endings would go, where and how the instrumentals would go, what instrument would play that instrumental, etc.</p>
<p>Now....drum roll...... bring in Brice Foster!</p>
<p>Brice Foster and I got together many weekends and worked out the pre-production on the songs for this album. He and I did this on the 'All Of Me' album. It worked out so well, that we decided to do that again for this album. Basically, it was just he and I, in his garage studio. I'd introduce each song to him, while he would craft the song in his amazing style of groove on the drums. He has a way of interpreting an original song from it's first few months in the world. We would play the song over and over again until he and I felt we could record it on Garage Band. Meanwhile, the groove would improve each time, and allow us to tweak this and that in the delivery of that particular song, paying attention to dynamics, and umpteenth other details that he and I had a blast working on. Brice and I were like two kids in a sand box, totally in our 'element', putting our heads together on those days of pre-production.</p>
<p>After Brice and I recorded rough versions of drum/vocal/guitar demos, I emailed these to Ronnie Godfrey, the Meister on keys. Over many weeks, he came up with two to three key tracks for each song. I meanwhile, had in mind the production of what I thought each song should have as far as an organ, or piano, or Wurly, steel drums, etc. Then Ronnie and I had a phone conversation putting our minds together on what we thought we both were hearing for the key parts on each song. It was bizarre that we actually heard the same parts, like reading each other's mind!</p>
<p>So, when we recently recorded with the other musicians, Brice already had the songs sculpted. Adding the bass, lead guitar and keys, of course add a totally new feel to the personality of each song. So the song would change and 'grow up' before our eyes, even more, to the delight of all of us!</p>
<p>Though I (Chakra Bleu), come Very prepared for the recording, with charts and a clear game plan of how to record the songs, I also invite these specially chosen top-notch Nashville musicians (especially for the genre of this particular album), to voice their suggestions in the creative shaping of the song. It is Very important to me to provide the initial overall structure for the song, and then allow the Creative room for these talented musicians. It allows them to create, not just play to a chart. The songs came alive and then some, from the incredible creative collaboration of all these fine musicians. </p>
<p>With the tasty creative juices in collaboration all coming together on these initial recording days, along with the Electric Synergy of recording in the same room together, the songs have taken off with a magical touch and personality of their own! </p>
<p>So on day one and two of the Full Room 'original style' recording method, the tracks for the drums (Brice Foster), bass (John Billings), Lead and Rhythm guitar (Paul Allen), Keys (Ronnie Godfrey), with the scratch guitar, and vocal parts were laid down!</p>
<p>Since then Scott Ducaj (trumpet) and Chris Dunn (trombone) laid down a days work of horns on several songs.</p>
<p>And on yet another day, Dana Robbins recorded saxophone on four songs as well.</p>
<p>My main vocals were then recorded. I recorded four takes for each song, and later Joh and I would eventually compare the best track for each song. When I record my vocals, I stand there, with my lyrics and notes taped to the sound board that surrounds three sides of me. My water bottle is behind me on a chair. I drink between each take, keeping the vocal chords moist. Occasionally I do a forward bend to keep the circulation balance well in my upper body. I stay completely focused on the feeling of lyrics, as well as the phrasing and dynamics. I practice the technical parts of the vocalising a good week before recording, so that no time is wasted, and that the feeling comes forth clearly. </p>
<p>I had a tearful moment while trying to sing through 'We Shall Overcome'. The message in this song is so powerful and far reaching. </p>
<p>I truly enjoy recording vocals. Each song on this project had a personality of its own, and required a change in attitude/mentality to get into the heart of the matter, which was a blast!</p>
<p>I then recorded my mandolin tracks for the song, 'Our Own Paradise'.</p>
<p>Soon thereafter John was informed that the building his studio was in was going up for sale. This created some delays, yet blessings in disguise, as it allowed me to have that much more time to come up with the arrangements for the harmonies and percussion. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, Michael Waggener invited John and I to come record my electric rhythm guitar tracks at his famous Wire World Studio! (Discography includes Motley Crue, Accept, Dokken, Poison, Metallica, Alice Cooper, Janet Jackson, Queen, Skid Row, and many more). Michael cooked up the effects for these songs after I mentioned what each song was going to be given from my pedal effects, such as digital delay, overdrive, flanger, tremolo, or a combination of such on them. What a blast it was to work with him in this totally cool studio! </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Eventually, John created a temporary studio in his house, until he finds a new home for his official studio. Yes, the delays allowed me to work diligently on arranging the umpteenth harmony parts for all the songs. To beef up a harmony, the singer sings each part twice. Now there were some songs with three to eight different harmony parts and/or vocal 'answers' on them! That means singing up to sixteen harmony/answer parts on some songs! We're not talking about the extra takes to sing the parts with perfection!I sing/record my own harmonies in the studio. Ones voice blends best with the main vocal. The harmonies were tracked the first week in January. </p>
<p>The extra time also allowed me to work on the arrangements for the percussion. Hours and hours were put into deciding what percussion instrument was needed and for what song. Some songs required either a tambourine, shaker, cabasa and some songs a combination of these. I had to determine which of the three tambourines, and which of the several shakers, depending on their pitch and thickness of percussiveness. Which verse, which beat, which phrase, etc. My dog/Best Friend sat with me for hours as I worked out the details. Sometimes, (true story) if she didn't agree with the part I was playing, she'd up and leave the room! She was always right in her judgement. Lol. She an intuitive Soul! Yes, I decided to record the percussion parts myself, to save time and money. </p>
<p>I have learned over the years of recording many albums now, that time is money! I've learned to be an efficient producer as well as a project manager when making an album. Once I'm finished tracking my vocals and instruments, I go into full Producer Mode. That means, that I'm no longer wearing the 'hat' of the artist 'Chakra Bleu'. I'm the producer, calling each and every shot to decide how and where each instrument sits in the mix. </p>
<p>Now that all the instruments and vocals were tracked 'recorded', it was time to 'comp' the vocals. What?! That means that John and I go back through the four main vocal tracks, compare phrase by phrase which one is sung the best. Which phrase has the best inflection, style, etc. That takes a dose of patience. John is a saint and an incredibly patient engineer!</p>
<p>Next came MIX DOWN! John, whom now y'all know is the bass player as well as the engineer, is not only good at what he does, he's excellent to work with and practically reads my mind, which makes his initial mixes awesome. Once he cleans up the tracks, he provides me with a basic mix, and from there, I decide to fine tune the volume levels of this and that instrument, the harmonies, what instrument to be up front and centre on the intros, turn arounds, solos, etc. (Of course, I had already decided which instrument would be on the solo, such as a lead guitar, or trumpet, sax, etc. Yet sometimes, I'd have two instruments take a go at the solo, should one sound better in the long run; and/or like I did in Tumbleweed - I had John extend the solo another eight bars, whereby the lead guitar took the first eight measures and then the Trombone took the next eight measures. It opened the song up to dance more...weee...more fun!</p>
<p>The mixing is fun part of the process, as you can start hearing the full song coming alive with the wonderment of all the instrumentation and talent! There are about two to four mixes on each song, before I feel it's the best it can be. I email the 'fixes' suggestions of changing this or that in the mix to John, whereby he then resends me an mp3. I listen to it carefully, making sure the lyrics can be heard, that one instrument isn't drowning out another, and too many other producer things that would have your eyes rolling! </p>
<p>Once the mixing was done, and I combed over the music files to fish out any digital pops, I took it to Jim DeMain, at Yes Master Studio, here in the Gulch (Nashville, TN). He evens out all the tones, Lows, Mids and Highs, and creates the space in between each song. Yes, I also decide how many seconds would sound best between each song, as well as the song order. </p>
<p>Meanwhile back at the ranch, I was starting the process of graphic arts for the album. What would the title be? What photo would be on the cover, the back, the inside? Prepare the word docs with the lyrics of all the songs; prepare the credits of all the musicians; decide what kind of CD lay out is best for this project. </p>
<p>I decided that I preferred to have a beachy type photo on the front cover. I knew just the photographer that may have several choices with that theme. I contacted Deborah Beazley, an excellent photographer. She had many choices of beaches, sunsets, sunrises, even a parokeet photo! I was very happy with the vibe these photos had and knew they would be perfect with the Summer/Island/Groove album feel of the music.</p>
<p>Next I contacted the graphic artist, Christie Trost. I had made a mock lay out of the front and back panels of the CD, which included where the particular photos, lyrics, credits would be placed. The meeting was then a breeze, as Christie, an expert in her field, was readily able to see how the big picture would blend. She chose the best photos of those I suggested to be up for the theme. </p>
<p>Meanwhile, I got the master back from Yes Master. It's up to me to listen to any digital pops or any other sonic improvements. I listen carefully under head phones for these sneaky critters that must be snuffed out, before going to the manufacturer. It's nail biting. What nails?! There cannot be any mistakes at this point!!</p>
<p>Eventually, Christy started sending me the art direction on the project. It was up to me to play 'editor' on all the text. Any misspelled words, suggestions on photo placements, etc. was up to me to check and recheck, before sending the finished files to manufacturer. It's nail biting. What nails?! Once again, there cannot be any mistakes at this point!</p>
<p>Now I sent the master and graphic art files to OASIS, the manufacturer. Two weeks ago, they sent me the proofs to check out. I paced back and forth, between checking and rechecking. (It's still amazing how one or two tiny little jokesters get past ones attentive editing.) All good, I gave them my Green Light, and then they started the process of making all this project come alive into what is a miraculous product of a CD! A year long process, not including the time it took to write these songs, is pressed into this amazing treasure that is made for the intention of sharing a truly enjoyable experience for your Heart, Mind and Soul, in your car, your boat, in solo, with your loved ones, and your Best Friend! May it give you everlasting Fun! May it give you Insight and a sense of Empowerment! May it give remind you that You are amazing, and that you are deserving of the utmost dignity and equality that is of your True Essence! </p>
<p>The CD's arrived last Thursday! I was a basket case. I paced and paced again, before opening one up, to give it my final approval, making sure that the manufacturing process went smoothly. I turned the music on loudly listening carefully for anything but perfection. </p>
<p>Whew, I signed and breathed finally. I exclaimed joyfully out loud (no one was around) and threw up my arms up in sheer gratefulness, "It is Good! Thank You Thank You Thank You!"</p>
<p>Oh, are we finished? Nope. It's time for Publicity and Radio!</p>
<p>I had a meeting last Friday, June 24, 2016 with Chuck Whiting, a very savvy and successful publicist. I barely slept the night before, as I was going over in my mind all the points of the meeting that I wanted to cover. Thank goodness we met at Sam & Zoe's, a coffeehouse. Caffeine was my friend, again.</p>
<p>The first point we covered was setting a release date for the single from the album, 'We Shall Overcome.' This song was mentioned already on my FB page, yet it had not been released officially to the broader media. The release date would be set for July 15. This song is one of the Reggae tunes and carries a strong message of equality. With the disarray in politics and social-economic unrest, this song's time is now.</p>
<p>We decided to launch the album 'Our Own Paradise', July 22. The timing is perfect for this Summer/Island-Groove Vibe. I can't wait for the launch! Wow, do I have some work ahead of me! Yet, now I get to wear the 'Recording Artist/ Entertainer' Hat again. I like that! 'Cause I like singing to y'all a lot!</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107556
2017-03-23T12:00:00-12:00
2020-01-15T10:09:43-12:00
OUR OWN PARADISE: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p>All songs written by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI)</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Recorded & Engineered by John Billings at Funky Tymz Studio, Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Assistant Engineer: Michael York</p>
<p> *Chakra Bleu's Rhythm Guitar tracks recorded at Wire World Studio, Nashville TN with Producer/Engineer: Michael Wagener (www.michaelwagener.com)</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master Studio, Nashville,TN</p>
<p></p>
<p>Musicians:</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Lead & Harmony Vocals; Rhythm Electric and Acoustic Guitars;</p>
<p> Mandolin; Percussion</p>
<p>John Billings: Bass; Engineer'Brice Foster: Drums; Pre-Production</p>
<p>Ronnie Godfrey: Keys; Organ</p>
<p>Paul Allen: Lead Guitar</p>
<p>Dana Robbins: Saxophone</p>
<p>Scott Ducaj: Trumpet, Bugle</p>
<p>Chris Dunn: Trombone</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107545
2016-10-09T12:00:00-12:00
2017-06-29T08:55:38-12:00
ALL OF ME: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#0000ff">CD: ALL OF ME</span></p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu & John Billings</p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI)</p>
<p>Recorded and Engineered at Funky Tymz Studio; Nashville TN</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim Demain at Yes Master Studio, Nashville, TN</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Music & Lyrics; Lead & Harmony vocals; Rhythm & Electric Guitar; Mandolin</p>
<p>Brice Foster: Drums; Percussion; Pre-Production</p>
<p>John Billings: Bass; Engineer; Co-Producer</p>
<p>Tom Britt: Lead & Slide Guitar</p>
<p>Ronnie Godfrey: Keys</p>
<p>Dana Robbins: Saxophone</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107555
2015-08-29T12:00:00-12:00
2017-08-01T18:42:27-12:00
I must be doing my job well if my songs are Empowering enough for 5K!
<p>Music like Chakra Bleu's is motivational. I had a 5K race July 10th in downtown Seattle Washington, and during a part of the race I was tired and my knee injury was trying to flair up...again. Basically I hit a wall.<br>About that time one of Chakra Bleu's songs came on my IPod that I have on me whenever I'm racing. The song pulled me out of my funk. It was music to my ears, literally and figuratively speaking. <br>Any song could come on as I had it in the shuffle play order, but her song State of Mind did (one of my favs from the Album: How Long) and as I pushed through during State of Mind, it helped inspire me to keep going. By the end of the song, I was racing in normal form ignoring the pain and loving the tunes!<br>My other favorites from Chakra B. are Footprints in the Sand, Power of Love, and of course All of Me. Her entire alhum, Souvenir is kind of addicting too. Good stuff!<br>I hear she's going to be releasing some new songs very soon.<br>Can't wait to hear them and add them to my IPod.<br>Thank you for your inspiring music, <br>Monica L.</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107546
2015-04-07T12:00:00-12:00
2015-05-01T11:27:47-12:00
SOUVENIR: Album Credits/Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#ff0000">CD: SOUVENIR </span></p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu & David Henry</p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 2012</p>
<p>Recorded and Engineered by David Henry at True Tones Studio, Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Legal: Derek Crownover</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Music & Lyrics; Lead & Harmony Vocals; Rhythm & Electric Guitars; Keys</p>
<p>Kenny Vaughn: Lead Guitar</p>
<p>Viktor Krauss: Upright and Electric Bass</p>
<p>Rick Lonow: drums</p>
<p>Barry Walsh: Keys</p>
<p>John Heinrich: Steel, Slide, Banjo Guitar; Sax; Dobro</p>
<p>David Henry: Cello, Keys; Mandolin; Percussion</p>
<p>Ben Sanders: Fiddle; Mandolin</p>
<p>Joe Compito: Bass (Weathered The Storm)</p>
<p>Randy Howard: Fiddle; Mandolin (Weathered The Storm)</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107547
2015-04-06T12:00:00-12:00
2015-05-01T11:28:03-12:00
YOU'RE THE ONE: Album credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#333399">CD: YOU'RE THE ONE </span></p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 2010</p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu & David Henry</p>
<p>Recorded and Engineered at True Tones Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes master Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Legal: Derek Crownover</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Words and Music; Lead & Harmony Vocals; Rhythm & Electric Guitars; Keys (#11)</p>
<p>Rick Lonow: Drums</p>
<p>Victor Krauss: Bass</p>
<p>Pat Buchanan: Kiwamu Stewart: Lead Guitar</p>
<p>Barry Walsh: Keys; Hammond B3; Accordian</p>
<p>David Henry: Cello; Keys; Drum Loops; Percussion</p>
<p>John Heinrich: Steel guitar; Dobro; Sax</p>
<p>Melissa Dupuis: Banjo</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107548
2015-04-03T12:00:00-12:00
2021-08-09T18:56:20-12:00
SEIZE THE DAY: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#0000ff">CD: SEIZE THE DAY </span></p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 2005</p>
<p>Words and Music by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu; Chip Woody; Steve Alexander</p>
<p>Recorded at: Room With A View & Pro Bono Studios; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Engineered & Remixed at Room With A View by Steve Alexander</p>
<p>Mastered at Jam Sync by K.K. Profit; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Legal: Derrick Crownover</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Lead & Harmony Vocals; Acoustic & Electric Guitars</p>
<p> Harmony Vocals: Cathy Barker</p>
<p> Lead Guitar: Rusty Nix</p>
<p>Bass: Tim Schoen</p>
<p>Drums: Kevin Crowley</p>
<p>Keys: Bob Stamps</p>
<p>Sax and Steel Guitar: John Heinrich</p>
<p>Cello: David Henry</p>
<p>Drum Loops: Steve Alexander</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107549
2015-04-02T12:00:00-12:00
2022-05-22T19:33:33-12:00
HOW LONG: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#0000ff">CD: <span style="color:#ff00ff">HOW LONG</span></span></p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 2003</p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu & David Henry</p>
<p>Recorded & Engineered at True Tones Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Legal: Derick Crownover</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Words & Music; Lead & Harmony Vocals</p>
<p>Bass: Joe Compito; Tim Schoen; Mark Corradetti</p>
<p>Drums: Jeff Wade; Ginger Cote; Brian Molder</p>
<p>Lead Guitar: Kiwamu Stewart; Dave Meadows; Melissa DuPuy</p>
<p>Cello: David Henry</p>
<p>Keys: Jeff Armstrong</p>
<p>Harmony: Cathy Barker; Cindy Ellis</p>
<p>Dobro: John Heinrich</p>
<p>Oboe: Marianne Osiel</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107550
2015-04-01T12:00:00-12:00
2021-12-22T22:19:47-12:00
THE HIDDEN MIRROR: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#ff6600">CD: THE HIDDEN MIRROR </span></p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 2000</p>
<p>Recorded and Engineered by David Henry at True Tones Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>Mastered by Jim DeMain at Yes Master Studio; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***</p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Words and Music; Lead & Harmony Vocals; Acoustic & Electric Guitars; Mandolin</p>
<p>Drums: Ginger Cote; Maxwell Schauf; Jeff Wade</p>
<p>Bass: Joe Compito; Mark Corradetti</p>
<p>Lead Guitar: Dave Meadows; Melissa DuPuy</p>
<p>Keys: Jeff Armstrong; Jeff Jetton</p>
<p>Violin; Mandolin: Randy Howard</p>
<p>Oboe, Flute: Marianne Osiel</p>
<p>Dobro; Slide Guitar; Sax: John Heinrich</p>
<p>Harmony Vocals: Cathy Barker; Cindy Ellis</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107551
2015-03-31T12:00:00-12:00
2015-05-01T11:29:26-12:00
DON'T MAKE ME CHOOSE: Album Credits/ Musicians
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#008000">Album: <span style="text-decoration:underline">DON'T MAKE ME CHOOSE</span></span> (<span style="color:#ff0000">Out Of Print</span>)</p>
<p>Published by Chakra Bleu Music (BMI) © 1992</p>
<p>Produced by Chakra Bleu</p>
<p>Recorded & Engineered by Greg Loskorn at Eastside Sound; Nashville, TN</p>
<p>*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** </p>
<p>Chakra Bleu: Lead & Harmony Vocals; Acoustic Guitar</p>
<p>Drums: Rick Lonow</p>
<p>Bass: Joe Compito; Melissa DuPuy</p>
<p>Lead Guitar: John Foster; Lead Guitar</p>
<p>Steel Guitar: Michael Daley</p>
<p>Keys: Melissa DuPuy</p>
<p>Fiddle, Mandolin: Randy Howard</p>
<p>Sax, Steel Guitar, Dobro: John Heinrich</p>
<p>Harmony Vocals: Cathy Barker; Teresa Aguilar</p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107544
2015-03-23T12:00:00-12:00
2015-05-02T01:36:50-12:00
Photographers & Graphic Artists : (Credits)
<p>One can hover over the photos whereby most of the photos will give credit to the photograhper.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline">Photographers:</span></p>
<p>The majority of photos in Chakra Bleu's gallery are taken by the following photographers:</p>
<p>Deb Beazley; Christine Parsons & Shannon Fontaine.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline">Graphic Artists include...</span></p>
<p>ALL OF ME: Christie Trost</p>
<p>SOUVENIR: Daniel Meney</p>
<p>YOU'RE THE ONE: Daniel Meney</p>
<p>SEIZE THE DAY: Beth Kendig</p>
<p>HOW LONG: Shane Prine</p>
<p>HIDDEN MIRROR: Cathy Purdom</p>
<p>DON'T MAKE ME CHOOSE: Cathy Purdom</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107543
2015-03-11T12:00:00-12:00
2015-05-01T11:15:50-12:00
'Conscious; Positive; Smart- Pop; Empower Songs' : Insightful, Thought-provoking & Uplifting songs
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">I realize after several radio interviews and inquiries from fans, that there is a distinct interest in the song selections that I've added to each of my CD's, which I would call 'Conscious Songs'-that embody empowering, insightful, thought-provoking material. I have recently added the lyrics on the website to these songs, as well as offering some tasty tidbits to go along with some of them. I would like to note that these songs have no religious affiliation whatsoever. They were written for all Spiritual Paths; all cultures; women and men alike; and all sexual orientation. The songs are meant to be inclusive and provoke a direction of non-judgement, some that would question close-mindedness. Some have a sarcastic twist; some are like a riddle, where one can find the meaning in between the lines; some are asking for an awareness for equality and freedom, a call for political action-putting vote in action for those candidates who stand for the people, the 99%.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">An outline version which would make it easy to follow these songs of depth and soulful treasure hunting are as follows:</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">CD: THE HIDDEN MIRROR</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #1: Playing The Victim; Track #3: Land of Nod; Track #4: The Hidden Mirror</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track#6: Shoulda Coulda Would've Track #8: Tower of Babel Track 11: Save the Souls</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">CD: HOW LONG</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #2 Black Elephant; Track #3: State of Mind; Track #4: Unlock the Secrets</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #5: Steamroller Track#8: Be The Rhythm; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"> Track#10: Zombie; Track# 12: Mad in Overdrive; Track#13: Mockery of Prayer; Track #14: Power of Love</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#3366ff">CD: SEIZE THE DAY</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #2: Seize the Day; Track #4: Footprints in the Sand; Track #7: Fallen On Deaf Ears</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track#10: Retreat to the Center; Track #12: Black Madonna</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#3366ff">CD: YOU'RE THE ONE</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track # 12: Imaginary Lines; Track #13: Don't Go There Again</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#3366ff">CD: SOUVENIR</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #16: A Thankful Heart</span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration:underline; color:#3366ff">CD: ALL OF ME</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Track #10: The Shadow</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Each CD has a different flavor of musical style. I produce each with either more or less of Pop/Rock/Americana, with the exception of 'SOUVENIR' which is all Americana/Country. The next CD will have two 'treasure' songs, in which the CD will be in the sultry/sweet/R&B/Pop/Rock feel.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Namaste,</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#3366ff">Chakra Bleu</span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107552
2015-02-05T12:00:00-12:00
2021-12-18T09:20:24-12:00
How did the name 'CHAKRA BLEU' come about?
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">I have found that not only do people really comment on how much they like the name '<span style="color:#0000ff">Chakra Bleu</span>', but that they are intrigued by it, and desire to know how it came about.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">When I first started studying yoga, I was introduced to the chakra's (which are energy centers associated with our glands, organs, and overall health). There are seven that run along our spine; each one having its own significance, colour and so forth. The fifth chakra is located at the throat area and is blue. It corresponds to where one creatively expresses her/himself. (I will attach links to more information for you to read. It's truly fascinating! As I continued studying the meditative kind of yoga (Raja), and later started practicing what most of us Westerners think yoga is about-(Hatha), where one puts the body in all those crazy contortions. Lol.</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600"> Anyway, I was hanging around my friends this one night and sharing my experiences and fervour for yoga under the tutelage of my beloved teacher Swami Adeyananda. (Meanwhile, I was currently searching for a name that would best represent my passion for writing and performing music that exudes a conduit of Joy, through energy, intention, lyrics and singing; that connect my Heart's Essence to the Beauty and Core Essence of the audience and listeners.) My friends, almost instantaneously said, "You should call yourself 'Blue Chakra!' </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">We all laughed and agreed that the symbology of the name was perfectly fitting for my unique expression of music, that oddly enough, was able to connect to a wide array of audience (age, male/female, race, spiritual/non-spiritual/religious, etc.) </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">I said, "You know, Y'all Really have something here! I LIKE it and something about that name feels right! Yet, I'm going to suggest that my name be '<span style="color:#0000ff"><em>CHAKRA BLEU</em><span style="color:#ff6600">',</span></span> as I'm not a down and out sort of gal. You get it - my music is not down in the Blues! I'm going to spell BLUE the French way: B-L-E-U. Plus, there's a double entendre, whereby in French, there's an exclamation which is close to our 'Holy Cow!'/'Holy Mother!' - which is: 'Sacre Bleu!!' (pronounced Saw-cru Blu). I'll pronounce my name like: Shaw-cru- Blu. This will create a Vibe of 'Wow!' behind it. The name <span style="color:#0000ff"><em>CHAKRA BLEU</em></span> carries purpose, along with a sense of lightness, as well as a silly 'tongue in cheek' sort of thang! Fun! It's a fit y'all. Thank you!"</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#ff6600">The name <span style="color:#0000ff"><em>CHAKRA BLEU</em></span> took off quite well! So I created a symbol as well, and Trademarked it!</span></p>
<p>**** **** **** **** **** **** ****</p>
<p>Here's more information for you about what a Chakra is; and info about the fifith/throat chakra:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.chopra.com/ccl/what-is-a-chakra" data-imported="1">What Is a Chakra? | The Chopra Center</a></p>
<p><a style="font-size: 10px;" href="http://www.chakra-anatomy.com/throat-chakra-colors.html" data-imported="1">Throat Chakra Colors</a> <a style="font-size: 10px;" href="http://www.chakra-anatomy.com/chakra-colors.html" data-imported="1">Chakra Colors</a> </p>
<p>The Throat Chakra is the fifth chakra and it is the first of the higher or spiritual chakras on the "chakra ladder". This chakra is located in the region of neck and shoulders and its color is blue. </p>
<p><img src="http://www.chakra-anatomy.com/image-files/throat-chakra.jpg" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="throat chakra" height="249" width="250" />The gift of this chakra is accepting your originality, expressing your authentic voice and speaking your truth. </p>
<p>The energy of this chakra allows you to seek knowledge that is true, beyond limitations of time and space, beyond cultural and family conditioning. </p>
<p>The main challenge for the fifth chakra is doubt and negative thinking. When you gain and verify your knowledge through meditation and direct experience, then doubt and negativity are removed.</p>
<p>The "way of the Throat Chakra" is the way of inspired creativity, seeking and sharing of the truth. It is the way of standing up for what you believe, saying no when you need to, and being open and honest in what you say. </p>
<p>Do you dare to be creative? Do you dare to open up to a life full of infinite possibilities?</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The fifth chakra is linked directly to your personal integrity and a sense of honor. As a communication centre, it not only allows you to express who you are and what you stand for, but also allows you to listen deeply to another. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>A person with an open Visuddha chakra is a good listener, she enables another person to have the experience of being heard - one of the most profound human needs.</p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107553
2015-01-31T12:00:00-12:00
2020-01-13T18:58:18-12:00
Passionate Activities; Musical Influences & Likes
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Movies </span> <span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"> Radio Shows </span></span> <span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">TV Shows</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Wizard Of Oz NPR- Fresh Air: Terry Gross South Park</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Sound Of Music Rachel Maddow Show </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Avatar </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Raiders Of The Lost Arc (series) Bill Moyers Show </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">The Help 60 Minutes</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">The Secret </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Gandhi </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">The Blind Side </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Star Wars (series) </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Alien (series)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Cast Away</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Jurassic Park (series)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Bruno</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Moon Rise Kingdom</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Nine To Five</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">007-James Bond (all series)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Some favorite Authors & Books:</span></span> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Bhagavad Gita Ester & Jerry Hicks: Vortex, etc. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Yoga Sutra of Patanjali Shanti Christo Foundation: Way of Mastery</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">David Hawkins Paramahansa Yogananda books </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Matthew Fox Doreen Virtue</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Pema Chodren Marion Zimmer Bradley</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Michael Talbot: The Holographic Universe Edgar Cayce</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Joseph Campbell: Power of Myth; Primitive Mythology Emmit Fox</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Robert Masters: Neurospeak Charles Filmore</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Jan Houston: A Mythic Life; Primitive Mythology Joseph Murphy</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Charlotte Joko Beck: Everyday Zen James Redfield</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Lao Tzu’s: Tao Te Ching Margaret Starbird</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">B.K.S. Iyengar Deepak Choprah</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">T.K.V Desikachar James Haught: Holy Horrors</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Mystics: Emerson; Thoreau; Rumi Jess Stearn books</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Elaine Pagels: Beyond Belief Karen Armstrong: A History of God</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Mystics: Emerson; Henry David Thoreau; Rumi Meister Eckhart </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Richard Bach: Illusions; Jonathan Livingston Seagull </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Activities/Hobbies</span></span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Regular physical activities include cycling or elliptical machine for cardiovascular exercise; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">circuit training; yoga</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span><span style="color:#0000ff">Backpacking; camping; trail walking; snow-skiing; in-line skating; painting; reading, sport climbing; Water-skiing; playing in the water..surf, lake, peaceful fork of river</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Education:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">BA Education: Music & Exercise Physiology</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">CYI (Certified Yoga Instructor)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Reiki II</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Musical Influences:</span></span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><strong>Country:</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Emmylou Harris; Willie Nelson; Johnny Cash; Waylon Jennings; George Jones; Buck Owens; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Loretta Lynn; Patsy Cline; Patti Lovelace; Mary Chapin Carpenter; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Hank Williams Sr.; Lefty Frizzell; Glen Campbell; Merle Haggard; Lacy J. Dalton</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><strong>Rock/R&B/Blues</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Pretenders; Fleetwood Mac; Annie Lennox; Heart; Hall & Oates; Tom Petty; Boston; Eagles; REM; Bruce Springsteen; Journey; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Bonnie Raitt; Stevie Ray Vaughn; Eric Clapton; Ella Fitzgerald; Billie Holliday;</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"></span><span style="color:#0000ff">Sara Vaughn; George Benson; Delbert McClinton;</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">**Chakra Bleu also has been influenced by Jazz & Swing artists (& sang jazz in HS/College) </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">...some favorites include the greats: Sinatra; Glenn Miller; Lena Horne; Jango Reinhardt;</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Allison Mose; Tony Bennett; Dave Brubeck; Zoot Sims; ; Wynton Marsalis; John Coltrane; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Miles Davis; Nat King Cole Trio; Thelonious Monk; Larry Carlton; Artie Shaw; and many more </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">World Music thrills her taste in music in that is brings fresh sounds of rhythms and modes, bringing about the vibrancy of a particular culture. </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Favorite Producers:</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Owen Bradley (Brenda Lee; Loretta Lynn; Patsy Cline; Buddy Holly;Conway Twitty,etc)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Emory Gordon Jr. (Patty Lovelace; Steve Earle; Rodney Crowell; Emmylou Harris; John Denver)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Trevor Horn (Seal; Grace Jones; Barry Manilow; Paul McCartney; Pet Shop Boys; Tina Turner; </span><span style="color:#0000ff">Rod Stewart; Frankie Goes to Hollywood)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Hugh Padgham (Police; Phil Collins; XTC; Davie Bowie; Melissa Etheridge; Split Enz; etc.)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Scott Matthews (Etta James; Patti Labelle; Huey Lewis; Nick Lowe; Bonnie Raitt; Steve Perry;</span><span style="color:#0000ff"> Stevie Ray Vaughn; Eric Clapton; Elvis Costello; Roy Orbison; </span><span style="color:#0000ff">Pointer Sisters, etc.)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Favorite Songs:</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">At Last (Etta James); Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers/George Benson version);</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Sleepwalk by Larry Carlton; Sweet Dreams(by Don Gibson-Patsy Cline version); </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Together Again (by Buck Owens-Emmylou Harris version)</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">**there are umpteenth songs that are Chakra Bleu’s ‘favorites’ and would fill pages listing them!</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"><span style="color:#0000ff">Who Would Chakra Bleu Like to Invite to a Dinner Party?</span></span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">The Clintons; The Obamas; The Bidens; Oprah; Shirley Maclaine; Bono; Rachel Maddow; Whoopi Goldberg; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Seal; Ellen Degeneres; Ed Schultz; Sigourney Weaver; Ben Affleck; George Clooney; Bruce Springsteen; </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Dolly Parton; Lily Tomlin; Michael Moore; Bill Moyers; Terry Gross; Madonna</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Tony Robbins; Jillian Michaels; Nina Turner; Margaret Cho; Sasha Cohen; Annie Lennox; Melissa Harris Perry</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">*** Entertainment by B52’s !</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>“I’m not a person that has music on all the time, nor do I watch much TV, except for some current events like MSNBC & PBR shows. Often, I prefer the sound of silence on a trail, and thoroughly enjoy listening to the sweet songs of birds. The silence allows me to reflect deeply and the open space in my mind often leads me to hear new melodies and lyrics.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>It’s the sweet conglomeration of all the influences of artists I’ve had throughout the years, that are in varied genres milling around in my subconscious, that has shaped me into the Pop/Rock/Americana artist I am today, along with the full-on integrity to write only from the heart, within a disciplined skill of songwriting, thanks to Nashville music biz and years of hard- yet satisfying passionate work.”</p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">Above all, if I can inspire a person to feel a sense of joy and empowerment within themselves, </span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">through my music and/or words, then I’m doing my job well and fulfilling my deepest desire to</span></p>
<p><span style="color:#0000ff">serve through extending Love, Passion and Bliss.” ~ Chakra Bleu</span></p>
<p> </p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®
tag:chakrableu.com,2005:Post/6107600
2012-05-18T12:00:00-12:00
2020-01-12T18:23:19-12:00
New York Times Music Contributor : Artist Bio Article
<p><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><strong> </strong></span></span></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>By PHIL SWEETLAND</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>New York Times Music & Radio contributor (2012)</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong> </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>NASHVILLE – Once upon a time, Nashville albums featured variety, sparkle, insight, and magic.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Chakra Bleu takes us back to that stronger time, both in her latest work and throughout a series of highly personal yet delightfully accessible albums that reflect a personal and artistic Nashville journey that began in the early -1990s.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>For instance, on <em><span class="s1">Souvenir</span>, </em>Ms. Bleu’s latest album, the opening song “Addicted To You” is reminiscent of much of Mary Chapin Carpenter’s finest work, both in production and performance, while “Free Again,” the ideally named second track, is a Zydeco-flavored bit of syncopated fun that the late Clifton Chenier might have loved. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Fans have also noticed flavorings of Waylon & Willie – heroes of the Outlaw Movement in the 1970s – in Chakra Bleu’s writing and performing, and she’s the first to admit those are two of her personal favorites.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1"> </span><strong><span class="s1">Chakra Bleu’s 6th CD (2012)</span><span class="s1">, ‘<span class="s1">SOUVENIR</span>’ had seven singles simultaneously bedazzle: Top 40 Country Main & Indie Charts (sts) with Weathered the Storm (#8); She Walks Alone (#17); Top 40 Main Charts with ‘Sabotage‘ scoring TOP DEBUT single & charting (#8); ‘Anyday Now’ charting at (#10) for three weeks, as well as(#4) on Top 30 Indie Charts!; ‘Addicted To You’, on Americana Charts,and also making the Spotlight on Cashbox Magazine.</span></strong></span></span></span></span></p>
<div><span class="s1"> </span></div>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Yes,“Sabotage,” the title track, rocketed past superstar acts including Justin Timberlake, Pink, Maroon5, and Train into the Top 10 of the Top 40 Main Chart, while other recent Chakra Bleu singles made it into the Top 20 of both the Top 40 Country Main Chart and the Top 30 Indie Country Chart – a rare and difficult daily double!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>2010’s <em><span class="s1">You’re The One</span> </em>album showed a fascinating other angle of Chakra Bleu, as she and co-producer David Henry gave us 16 originals which embody “the Essence of the Sunflower: Happiness, Hope, Prosperity, Vitality, Serenity, Freedom, Beauty, Devotion, Success & Fulfillment.”</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Its ethereal single “When I Hold Your Hand” had strong showings at AAA and Americana, including reaching No. 27 on the mainstream Top 40 listing. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>In 2005, <em><span class="s1">Seize The Day</span> </em>yielded “Hopelessly In Love,” which got a lot of attention with a No. 16 Adult Contemporary chart success; another format Ms. Bleu’s music fits beautifully. Tom Mazetta, whose earlier radio clients have included Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, promoted “Hopelessly In Love.”</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“How long does a river flow?” is how the title track of 2003’s <em>How Long </em>opens, as Chakra Bleu sings of how love follows the unpredictable twists and turns of a river. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong><span class="s1">One of the strengths of all Chakra Bleu’s albums is her remarkable prolificacy at writing and producing songs. Each album gives us hidden gems like the smoky and yearning “Not Strong Enough” on <em><span class="s1">How Long</span>.</em></span></strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Titles are a strong suit, as <em><span class="s1">The Hidden Mirror</span> </em>in 2000 reminds us. That early record gave her fans “Playing The Victim” and the title track, both of which remain among the most requested songs at her shows. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>European radio and fans responded excitedly to the album’s “Shoulda Coulda Would’ve,” a title that only she could create and a tempo tune with rockin’ country overtones.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong> </strong><span class="s1"> Bleu’s very first album, </span><em><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1"><span class="s1">Don’t Make Me Choose</span></span></span></span></span> </em><span class="s1">from 1992, shows the pattern of versatility even just after she moved east to Nashville, with some songs that sound folk, others R&B, pop, Alternative, and country – but all clearly Chakra Bleu. All were unified by her strong, sensitive alto and radio-friendly writing and production.</span></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>This takes real creative vision, and a willingness to make often tough musical choices.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Since she was a kid growing up in Spokane, Washington, she benefited from having an older brother with a varied record collection. She loved the music of artists like Fleetwood Mac, Boston, Daryl Hall/John Oats, Doobie Brothers,Tom Petty, Pretenders, REM, U2, Annie Lennox, and David Byrne, and more.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>At an early age, spellbound by the roots country guys, as she and her parents watched country awards shows on TV and Opry legends like Johnny Cash, Hank Williams, Dolly Parton, and Loretta Lynn intrigued her, but her favorite and greatest influence at that stage was Emmylou Harris.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>The Washington native loves performing at popular Nashville venues such as The Bluebird Café, 3rd & Lindsley, Twelth & Porter, Douglas Corner and more.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Spokane’s eclectic music scene keyed “why I love rock and pop just as much as country,” she tells us. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Like so many who move here, she spent a few years trying to write strictly country. That produced several fine songs, Chakra’s heart wanted more and so did fans at her shows.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“It’s what is now called Americana, before Americana was defined,” she says, smiling. “I finally got to the place where I just wrote and played for the joy of it. It’s important for me to honor what my fans want.”</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Chakra Bleu’s audience spans into Europe, Australia, and even as far away as Japan. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“They’re really into Americana over there,” Bleu says of her fast-growing international audience. “Thanks to the internet it allows indie artists like me to take the reins and run.”</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Chakra Bleu has found that even in a co-writing town like Nashville, she does her best writing alone. Yet she has co-written with some of the Row’s best, including Kim Richey and John Foster. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong> Bleu is also able to play a variety of instruments. Guitar is her primary instrument, but she also plays piano, bass, and mandolin, all which impact her writing. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>A key technique that enables her to create so many signature songs, are the songwriting retreats she takes twice each year.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“In the fall I go to the Blue Ridge Mountains for 10 days and lock myself in a cabin. I take all my charts and a tape recorder. Then in the summer I go to Washington state for three weeks to write,” she tells us.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Those two venues on two different coasts have been breeding grounds for dozens of Chakra Bleu album favorites.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“I love writing in the majestic energy of the mountains, as well as at the other cabin retreat at the snow-fed mountain lake in the inland Northwest.” “I’ve found that the beautiful nature around me inspires countless lyrical ideas and melodies to bubble up effortlessly.” </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>For Chakra Bleu, both of these rural retreats seem a million miles away from Nashville, but the material she crafts there rejuvenates her to do even bigger and better things every time she returns to Music Row, to radio, and the concert stage. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>“Playing and singing is just a real pleasure. On each and every one of my CDs, I include songs which have inspiring and empowering messages, songs that simply put are food for thought,” she says. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong>Fans and radio both in the States and overseas will be loving a steady diet of Chakra Blue’s musical food for thought for a long, long time.</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"><strong><em> </em></strong></span></p>
<p><span class="s1"> </span></p>
CHAKRA BLEU ®