Norman's Rockwell

No Monkeeing Around

2012-03-02T08:16:00.002-08:00

Lots of news this week.

I received the proofs from my photo shoot for my LP cover taken by Hendershotts photography. I am very excited to get to work on the design for the cover this weekend. Not to mention sharing new pix on my website, myspace, facebook, etc. Which also means revamping my current website, so watch that space, too.

We are a song or two away from being done with the mixes for the album. Producer Adam Marsland is focusing on the album closer, A Miracle Is On The Way. It's a blast of 1978 in all the best ways. I am still aiming to release the lead single at the end of the month, beginning of April.

I was saddened by the passing of Davy Jones from the Monkees. However, it seems he was on tour at the time. A true performer. I am an apologist for the Monkees. Everyone mentions Daydream Believer, but my favorite lead vocals by Davy were Valleri, She Hangs Out, Star Collector and the super-breathy ballad Forget That Girl. Revisit them and hear a bona fide pop singer at work.

Finally, tonight, I am performing with Adam and his band the AMCB at Cinema Bar. It is a free show, no cover. Lots of great music from Adam and some cool covers and mini-sets by guest vocalists, including yours truly. I will be up for a handful of tunes, so y'all come. Dress cute.

Peace!

Pretty Sophisticated Pictures

2012-02-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

In a word: COLD! In another word: FRESH! The preliminary results of the photo session are just that.

I have just unpacked all of my clothes after returning home from the afternoon/evening photo shoot for my album cover. Adam Hendershott and his team were fantastic. I have the highest regard for the Hendershott's work, so check them out. We shot most of the session in their studio before venturing into the NOHO Arts district to represent. A nice winter day here in Southern California. A perfect sunset, too.

Artist Vio Meyners did my hair and makeup. I will tell you this, never again will I do an album cover without the benefit of hair and makeup. Viva Vio! She has already posted a photo taken by Adam that I said could be a still from a lost Alfred Hitchcock technicolor thriller. She's the Kim Novak femme fatale applying "makeup." I'm the unsuspecting Gregory Peck fall guy in over his head.

There are so many cool photos to select from. Some really different moods and vibes going on. Suffice to say, I am sure my fans will be thrilled with the cover. Of course, I have to choose it first and get this album out to you. But if you look closely around facebook and the world wide web, you will get a taste of the day's experience.

Peace!

That's A Wrap!

2012-01-18T23:07:00.000-08:00

Monday, on King Day, I had my final recording session at Karma Frog. It was a wild adventure making this album. There is still mixing (which my producer Adam Marsland is also handling) and mastering to go. But here's a recap of what we hath wrought.

The session focused on backing vocals and a little ad libbed spice. We polished off five tracks with some wild results. Vocalist Teresa Cowles joined us midway through the day so that we could manage some live three part harmonies; as well as a poignant counterpoint duet on Huckleberry Finn. One of my favorite moments of the entire deal, sitting right next to Lady T in the studio to put down that vocal. I am persistently moved by that song each time I hear it. I had been joking about Eddie Murphy's riff on Michael Jackson crying in the studio. Of course, then I get misty listening to the playback. Oh, irony.

Prior to that Adam gave me a little stage direction and room to create and I invented some new scat vocal parts for the bridge and the coda of the title track, So Sophisticated. Much to our musical delight.

The most rigorous vocal was the last chorus of the album for the song A Miracle Is On The Way. The last part just wasn't satisfying and I realized that I needed to channel Martin Fry and do a full-throated finale, not my trademark falsetto to ride off into the sunset. It still took Adam to convince me that it was the right performance. That's what producers are for, not to say "yes" to every whim of the artist. Ha ha.

Also, I finally determined which episode of Parks and Recreation features my composition, U Had The $. It is the show entitled Fancy Party from Season 3. It is available through iTunes and Hulu. So check it out. Starting around the seven-minute mark, you will hear it playing at the party for several minutes. Super cool to watch Amy Poehler and hear my song. Super cold!

So for the next few days, I will be listening to Adam's mixes to get a handle on the finished recording. We are accelerating so that I can release a single in March. I will announce shortly what I have selected. You are going to dig this entire album; but there are some truly special moments that I cannot wait to share with you.

Peace & Disco Beats.

Hendershotts Across The Bow

2012-01-09T22:58:00.000-08:00

Tonight, I had a great collaborative meeting with Adam and Sylvia Hendershott who will be photographing the album cover for So Sophisticated. I am excited to be working with such artistic people. The project is motoring along nicely. We listened through parts of the new record; rapped about some favorite album artwork; drank some Folger's. I made a wisecrack about doing an album cover using only Instagram and Adam H. snapped a shot that is straight-up David Ruffin. Brilliant. Ha ha. Not only did we discuss the LP cover and what we want to accomplish, we began preliminary talks for a music video to coincide with the album release. Several different groups have approached me about videos; I look forward to working with all of you. Anyway, I am preparing for a March release at this point; just to make sure all facets are joined and shiny.

This morning, I got to hear an early mix of "Saffron Dancer" and the horns! Oh, my. In a word: COLD! The horns come blasting through. Adam (Marlsand) recorded and mixed them very effectively. Of course, Messers. Davis and Williams did some sublimely dynamite work. I can't wait to share these tracks with you.

The final recording session at Karma Frog will be on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. I think that's an appropriate occasion to celebrate and finish the album. The last session will entail putting down the remaining backing vocals. I am pleased to announce that the Urbane Hobos have been brought into the studio to do backgrounds and have been recruited for the last session as well. Adam M. does have a bit of trouble keeping them from laughing over each take; but it is worth it to work with them.

Tomorrow night, I will be joining Adam M. and his band for his next '70s show at Cinema Bar in W. Los Angles. It's a night of free entertainment, your favorite and some obscure covers from the 1970s. Not to be missed. Hit this link (The Return of Adam's '70s Show) for the show info! I hope to see you there.

Time to turn in, perhaps another cup of tea and a little reading.

Peace!

Top 10 of 2011

2012-01-02T08:38:00.000-08:00

The holidays were a wonderful time for me. I hope they were for you. Lots of blessings and fun events going on at church and the studio. That's right. During the last two weeks of the year, I finally got the horns laid down for the album. Larry O. Williams (Gap Band) and Rahmlee Davis (Phenix Horns; Earth, Wind & Fire) provided tenor sax and trumpet, respectively. It was a true honor to work with them and even more of a thrill to hear their playing on my own compositions. Our next and final recording session at Karma Frog is scheduled for King Day, Jan. 16. We will be wrapping up the background vocals. Then it is all down to mixing and mastering.

Then I will be able to concentrate on artwork and the other promotional material to go along with the album. I am sure that this will be my favorite record of the Dozens as my friends and I are calling 2012. Of course, how can I let the year begin without a recap of my favorite recordings from 2011? Well, here goes; a combo of LPs and singles. In descending order:

1. Beastie Boys - Hot Sauce Committee Part 2. Don't call it a comeback, call it a party.

2. Tom Waits - Bad As Me. A close-shave second. Rollicking, dark and danceable.

3. Duran Duran - All You Need Is Now. Call it a throwback. Their best complete album since Rio.

4. Roy Orbison - The Monument Singles Collection. Monophonic bliss circa 1962 from the man in the glasses.

5. Mayer Hawthorne - How Do You Do? Motor City soul by way of Ann Arbor for the 21st Century.

6. Hanson - "Give A Little." A pure single serving of pop.

7. Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues. A sublime collection of modern folk-rock.

8. Wilco - "Dawned On Me." I actually heard this on the radio. Remember radio!?

9. Foster The People - "Pumped Up Kicks." The catchiest single about mayhem and gunplay this year.

10. Midnight In Paris. Original Soundtrack to Woody Allen's comeback. File under Jazz.

11. Bonus for 2011. Black Keys - "Lonely Boy." The video for this single sold me.

Happy New Year! Check back soon for more updates from the studio.

Horns Are On The Way!

2011-12-13T21:43:00.000-08:00

Big news in the world of my new album. Tonight, my producer Adam and I met with our next key player. I am thrilled, honored and blessed to announce who will be contributing the horns to my record: Larry O. Williams and Rahmlee Davis. I invite you to check out their websites!

The two of them bring a whole new musical level to the proceedings and they will be featured on four of my new songs. Between Mr. Williams and Mr. Davis, they have performed and/or recorded with some of my all-time favorites: the Gap Band, Little Richard, Phil Collins and Earth, Wind & Fire. I am so thankful. Meeting Larry was extraordinarily cool and I get the sense that he and Rahmlee are going to have some fun putting down the sax and trumpet parts, respectively. The dates will be within the next week, which accelerates our production.

Adam and I anticipate having all of the recording done by or around Jan. 1, which puts me back on track for an early February release. We also have confirmed our mastering wizard's participation, that will be an announcement for a later date. Suffice to say, I am still jumping around after my pow-wow with Larry and Adam. So many wonderful people have put their talents to my record. You are going to dig it the most.

I hope that all of you are enjoying the Advent season. It's Christmastime in the city...

Peace,

Norman

Mixing It Up

2011-10-27T09:42:00.000-07:00

Adam Marsland and I had a productive mixing session on Monday at the studio. We cranked through preliminary mixes for five of the new cuts on the album. This was mainly to mold the dough. We still have a few more sessions to add vocal filigree; percussion and lastly HORNS! I am very excited about our prospects for horn players. Two very respected men are on our sonar/radar for participating. Can't tell you yet, but suffice to say, they both appear on several of my favorite recordings from back in the day. The album is simmering, just got to get that extra spice in there.

Been listening to plenty of new music as this week my preliminary Grammy ballot is due. The award categories were restructured so it feels there are fewer entries than in years past. Anyway, I have my favorites. Perhaps this will be the Beastie Boys' year.

I picked up the new Tom Waits' LP, Bad As Me. Actually bought the vinyl version at Amoeba which included a copy of the CD. Smart marketing, the album insert is worth the price of admission: great photos and easy to read lyrics. Now, Mr. Waits is an acquired taste, which I acquired back in high school in the midst of the Second British Invasion, Prince and non-stop MTV. This new record is amazing and rewarding for the listener on the first go. Many of Mr. Waits' previous works in the past 20 years took several listens to get through the clang, boom, bang. I've played the album clear through four times; it's his most "pop" work since Rain Dogs (1986). Several tracks immediately rank with his best: "Back In The Crowd," "Satisfied," "Talking At The Same Time." The album is an encyclopedia of Western musical styles (his guitarists are Marc Ribot, David Hidalgo of Los Lobos and Keith Richards) with Tom's dry humor and sharp writing anchoring each song. There are several artists that influence me without their influences appearing in my own work, Mr. Waits is at the top of that list. But I hope what comes through is his sense of daring and commitment to a song.

Peace!

Shameless

2011-09-20T09:20:00.000-07:00

That is my producer Adam's new one word review of the work we have wrought so far at Karma Frog. Shameless like Black Eyed Peas. Shameless like Culture Club. Shameless like Chic. I'm-a take it. I don't know if I could make an earnest album. In fact, most of my favorite records are shameless. Tom Waits may not be pop but he isn't ponderous. The second word that comes to mind with these sessions is fun. I am making the album I want to listen to, that I want to dance to and this has been an utterly joyful experience and I think you'll be able to hear it in every performance.

Last night was a night of harmony. Literally. One of my favorite recording sessions ever. I got to work voice-to-voice with the Ladies of Chaos, Teresa Cowles and the inimitable Evie Sands, on three part harmonies for five tracks on the new record. In this context, I was the weak link; but better that. As I figured, Adam and the three of us put down sweet vox.

We started with the album's big ballad "Our Love Is Known By Name." There is a challenge with making ballads interesting, especially the way I write them. I tend to get to the hook and stay there. The ladies and I did the choruses and then added a counter-point on the coda that opened the song wide. Then we added some filigree to the top of the number that elicited Adam's "shameless" comment. My reply was "ZAP!"

Then we took a step back in time to the heyday of Studio 54 for the bridges of "Saffron Dancer." When I performed this one back in 2006 on my first tour of Great Britain, this was more of a power pop number. Now it is another one of my rollerskate jams. Evie and Teresa definitely know how to get past the velvet rope to the VIP lounge. Adam's vocal arrangement was spot on for the feel.

One of my chief goals with this album, even more so than it was with A Talent For Loving, is to recreate my favorite listening experiences as a kid. When I was a preteen and teen, radio was much more inclusive and you would hear different genres (disco, rock and roll, country, soul) on the same station. E.L.O. followed by Fleetwood Mac, followed by Amii Stewart, followed by Rickie Lee Jones, followed by the Spinners, followed by the Rolling Stones. This was true at the roller rink, too. As long as you could groove to it, Johnny Lee, the Knack and Donna Summer were on the same playlist. That is the aesthetic, big word, I pursue. The album is still cohesive and 21st Century.

Next, the ladies and I worked out some doo-wop harmonies for the R&B waltz "Majestic Rejection." I'm going to use the word wheelhouse, because Evie's performance anchors the backing vocals on our "hoodoo doodoo doodoo bop's." And yes, that is the lyric I wrote on the spot. For a song like this, you got to tell that girl trying to mess you up that she's working some doodoo hoodoo.

"Supermodels" got the Ladies of Chaos treatment, too. Teresa sang a guest spot at the top of the song playing the role of your little sister. By the time we got to "A Miracle Is On The Way," we were on a roll. Again, this is where Evie's soul stylings were critical, she helped inspire me on the backing parts to avoid being too sentimental. Evie is simply an angel and one of the most brilliant vocalists I've ever heard. It is always an honor to sing along with her in a live setting. To have her sweetening and bringing her encouraging spirit to my record is a dream.

I've been really blessed to have some heavyweights contribute to this record: Evie and Teresa; drummers DJ Bonebrake and Kevin Jarvis; and of course, my main man, Bryan Farrar on guitar. Adam is no slouch mind you and I certainly don't take his work for granted. If you are in the market to make a polished album without paying Ocean Way prices, ahem, please check out Karma Frog and tell them I sent you. How's that for shameless?

We have two more recording sessions before we concentrate on final mixes. In two weeks, I will add the final layers of harmony vocals. In a month: HORNS!

Peace and disco beats!

Cruising Toward Albumdom

2011-09-18T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today, we wrapped guitar parts for the LP. Bryan Farrar added his rock and roll axe to "Supermodels With Gatling Gun." He also put down wah-wah tracks for the album closer "A Miracle Is On The Way" and the ballad "Our Love Is Known By Name." While we were listening to playback of "Miracle" I kept thinking about how much fun this record will be for dancing.

Last week, we passed the 100 hour mark in studio time. I looked back at the notes on my lyric sheets and saw that it was four months ago today that I arrived at the rearrangement of "Miracle." Time has flown; but this has truly been the most fun and satisfying album recording experience for me yet. Matched only by the session for the single of "A Talent For Loving" at Monnow Valley.

My producer Adam said that their are moments that the record channels everything good about 1979. I'll take that. On facebook, I put up a post asking, "Who has roller skates?" It's that kind of record. You will want to rock, roll, bounce and skate to this. I'm listening to some prelim mixes as I type. Adam has captured some wonderful performances and he's gotten a few new toys in the studio to sweeten the noises. No auto-tune, mind you. I'm also making a few adjustments to the track listing since we finished the basic tracks.

Tomorrow night, I will be back at Karma Frog with the Ladies of Chaos to record backing vocals for a mess of songs. I'm looking forward to that. I always enjoy singing with them on stage when we do covers with Adam (Bee Gees, Sly & The Family Stone, etc.). I will probably have one more solo session to do specific vocal flavoring and one more dedicated to the horns. Then it will be mixing and mastering.

As mentioned in a previous post, I am going to push back the release date for the CD. There is no time left in 2011 to get the record pressed, let alone organize the necessary record release shows and listening parties. This will give everyone something to anticipate for the New Year. And that way, you can use all of your gift cards to buy the record online after the holidays! This will also give me time to double-down for my return to the UK; and submit for domestic festivals and reviews.

I love all of my records, but this one really shines and there is still some polishing to do. I'm so anxious to share it with you! Dang, I'm listening to the waltz-time R&B torch song "Majestic Rejection" and it is blazing. Scorching vocal (if I do say so myself); outstanding New Orleans-inspired piano and amazing blues guitar from Adam and drumming from punk legend DJ Bonebrake. It will certainly vie for top instrumental performance on the LP. The Missus keeps saying we need to get this one to some of the choreographers on So You Think You Can Dance next season for some spotlight dances. Who has those contacts? Come on...

OK, y'all be cool and I'll report back tomorrow following the vocal session with the Ladies.

Peace!

Lead Vocals Reach Logical Conclusion

2011-09-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

Soul Citizens,

today marked the end of the principal recording of lead vocals for my new album. Wow, it took a little under three hours to get good takes for the last three sides. The songs I sang are "She's My Go To," "A Miracle Is On The Way" and "Saffron Dancer." Lots of disco/dance going on. The basic tracks are stunning and the studio was a particularly conducive setting this afternoon. That made getting the work done a lot of fun. I thank God that I got through all of the principal vocals without being sick once or having an laryngitis issues, etc. And yes, that has usually happened in the past.

We passed 100 hours of studio time for this album, but Adam has kept me on target and we have maximized the time. This coming week, we have sessions with Bryan Farrar who will supply lead guitar parts on a few more tracks. Then we bring in the backing vocalists (the Ladies) and this is something that will be a thrill. Adam is brilliant at arranging vocals, so it should be one of those fun challenges. I hear a few things in my head, who doesn't, but the tracks are so fresh that there is room for experimenting.

On Sunday, plenty of you attended the 9/11 Commemoration at North Hollywood Park led by Councilman Tom LaBonge. It was an honor to be the musical prelude for the ceremony. I wound up performing George Harrison's "Give Me Love (Give Me Peace On Earth)" five times in a 24 hour period. I will not play that song again for a few years. Anyway, it was nice to see you there.

Today, I posted another performance video from the 5 Towers show on YouTube. This time it's the slow jam, "Done Lost My Mind." Half of the show is now available to view on demand. So go demand it!

All right, time to rest on my laurels, aka lie down.

Peace!

Relive The 5 Towers

2011-09-08T23:29:00.001-07:00

More video has been posted to YouTube from Saturday's supersonic soul show at the 5 Towers on CityWalk. Check it out:

The show stopping U Had The $.

The show closing A Talent For Loving.

More to come. Enjoy these and get up off that chair and dance.

Fall Out, Live at the 5 Towers

2011-09-05T00:22:00.001-07:00

Click on the title, Fall Out, to view video taken by Phillip Mottaz of Me and the Band on the 5 Towers Stage, Universal CityWalk, 9/3/11. Dig it, share it, love it.

Peace!

Epic Show At 5 Towers [Show Recap]

2011-09-04T13:01:00.000-07:00

Salutations, Soul Citizens.

Last night's show at the 5 Towers on Universal CityWalk was simply epic. The stage was dazzling, the audience was beautiful and the band was jumping! I'm so grateful for every opportunity to entertain the masses and there were many hundreds of people at this show.

Did I mention the band. They were tight and the mood was joyful. It helped that the sound crew for the 5 Towers were handling biz expertly. We started the show with Fall Out. It was nice to be able to make an entrance at the top of the show. Adam Beesley, the MC, did a fab job of the introduction. But we came out amps ablazin'. From the top of the show, the energy was tremendous. Bryan's playing last night was on point and he kicked off our second number, Everyone's Ingenue. His guitar work was so much fun; and since I didn't play bass, I really got to watch and hear what he was doing. Omar D. Brancato, who handled the low end strings, was also a marvel. He was all over the stage with his wireless and brought a little extra flavor. Keyboardist Adam Marsland did a very cool vamp to bring us into Done Lost My Mind and the harmonies on that one soared.

We brought the rock and roll with the new arrangement of Supermodels With Gatling Guns from my upcoming CD (So Sophisticated). I like to think every song brought down the house. Supermodels is a gas to dance to, I know it had me moving. I could see all the dancers doing their runway stroll. Then we pounced on I Can't Cry From You featuring some stellar drumming from Matt Soule and hit a bunch of songs from my current release (A Talent For Loving).

Roses flew up to the stage; very fragrant and sweet. Perfectly timed for Everything My Heart Desires. We ended the show with a disco-trifecta. U Had The Money, the Bee Gees' Jive Talkin' and by demand, and I mean demand, A Talent For Loving.

I have posted a couple dozen photos on my facebook music page so far. More to come, along with video from the show. So be sure to stay tuned. The video will hit YouTube first. I'll be sure to announce when it is available. In the meantime, check out the photos, including the sample below of me doing my "Adjust the Cuffs" dance.

Peace & Disco Beats!

My Five Favorite LP Covers

2011-08-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, when you bought recorded music, it came in cardboard packaging measuring 12 inches by 12 inches. This was the main advertisement for the record. On the front side of an LP would be a posed shot of the artist. The back would feature the track listing, maybe another photo or lyrics. With the advent of files for music, the art of the cover has been minimized, although you can still find strong examples of elaborate record sleeves.

Here is a rundown of my five favorite LP covers of all time. I only own three of them on vinyl, but these represent my faves. Not even necessarily the most famous sleeves for each of these artists, but arguments could be made for their iconic stature. Interestingly all five feature the artist and are not abstracts. They are all photographs. Each one is super-evocative of the music inside and the stature of the musicians. The performers themselves may have had little to do with the choice or composition of the art; but each makes for great visual statements about the artists. My selections come from a cross-section of genres, too. It's hard to explain why I am so mesmerized by each of these covers. It helps that the music they contain is undeniable. [Let me start by saying that I will not include my own covers.]

So let's go in descending order...

5. John Coltrane, Lush Life. The casual, monochromatic lavender image of Coltrane is stunning and boy is he about to play the heck out of that tenor. Then there is the free-hand like font of the title and his name. Far out light blue and bold in contrast. Trane, y'all. Trane.

4. Queen, The Game. Like my favorite Stones' LP Some Girls, the music on The Game runs from disco to punk, country to soul; artists stretching out. But this one gets the edge in the cover stakes. Check out the pseudo-50's greaser look the band is rocking... with those awesome anachronistic haircuts. Just like "Happy Days." The cover was used first as a 45 picture sleeve for the lead single, the rockabilly redux "Crazy Little Thing Called Love." Here it gets chromed out. The LP cover actually has a sheen to the material that is lost with digitization, but in person, this cover is stunning and the band looks like a gang you'd want to join.

3. Thelonious Monk Quartet, Monk's Dream. No one artist has ever been more of an iconoclast and an icon for me as Thelonious Monk. This LP plays like a dream and the cover is a kind of reverie, too. Monk is purposefully out of focus, but there is little straight ahead about the man or his music, so it makes sense. His sartorial style is key here, too. That hat, the plaid jacket, the world's greatest goatee, all in profile against a pale teal backdrop. Where on earth was this taken? In the deep end of an empty swimming pool? Like Twin Peaks, perhaps it was all a spooky, irresistible dream.

2. Prince, Sign 'O' The Times. The flamingo-colored cloud guitar. The Cadillac grill with the double bass drums. The expressionistic neon sign backdrop. The curtain has risen on some straight up mess and there is Prince walking toward us and out of focus. He recorded most of this double album on his own and you get the sense that this is how he set up the studio, instruments everywhere, but with the full realization of the stage he will perform his tour upon. We have entered his musical subconscious. Prince dramatically altered his look in 1987, peach and black replacing the signature purple, John Lennon specs in favor of the pencil mustache; but we only glimpse it. We are at the beginning of living in a musical world strictly on the Artist's terms.

1. The Beatles, Rubber Soul. Now, I could have gone with half a dozen of the Fabs' LPs and not gone wrong. But this one is the pinnacle for me. It's the last time we see the group together on a cover unmasked. They are well past "yeah, yeah, yeah" but have plenty of classic cuts ahead. The story is that the slide projector or the screen tilted and stretched out the image. Who cares, the boys look otherworldly, like a four-headed being, individual but united. With songs like "Michelle," "Nowhere Man," and "In My Life" waiting burst forth. Only John is looking dead at us, try to look away. I dare you. The trees behind them, the brown suede jackets add to the warmth. Plus, this is widely considered the first album by a group so famous that they didn't need to have their name on the cover. Sgt. Pepper's may be more iconic or innovative, but this LP cover is more representative of the Beatles as I would always love to remember them.

So that's it. What are your favorites? If anything, I hope this essay increases appreciation for LP cover art. Perhaps you'll go crate digging or sift through your own records to find some wonderful sleeves and even better music inside.

Peace and Disco Beats.

Sophisticated Soloing

2011-08-28T23:42:00.000-07:00

Good Evening, Soul Citizens.

Lots of music going on in my world right now.

Last night I got to sit in, or rather stand and boogie, with Adam Marsland's Chaos Band for their 2 Nights of 100 Songs at Cinema. The numbers started with Sly Stone's "Hot Fun In The Summertime." I got to sing Sly's parts, righteous. That song was particularly a propos with the heat we've had this week. We followed that with renditions of the Bee Gees' "Jive Talkin'" and "Stayin' Alive" which featured dueling falsettos between Adam and myself. Always fun (hot or otherwise) to get people dancing. Next Saturday's show will be more of the same. Only one cover though. I'm gonna use my own material to get y'all to groove. We rehearse tomorrow night, so we are going to hone the funk. The show overall was a blast. Adam and his group were in good form and I just love Rob Z, Erik Herrera, Brian Whelan, Aimee Lay, Mike Schnee and Dan Janisch when they guest with the AMCB. Especially Dan, who is so elegantly unhinged, doing Van Morrison.

Today, we braved the century-mark heat to record guitar tracks at Karma Frog Studios in Reseda. The studio has A/C to any valley musician's delight. My songwriting partner/lead guitarist, Bryan came in to lay down solos for "So Sophisticated" and "On The Rebound;" two collaborative tracks. "So Sophisticated" is intentionally jazzy and has a solo section that is pure 70's George Benson meets Parliament. "On The Rebound," guitar-wise, lands somewhere between the Jackson 5 and the Allman Brothers. Again, Bryan is doing a 70's thing with real taste. There is going to be quite a bit of country/gospel/funk going on with this record between Bryan's solos and Adam's Hammond organ sounds. Bryan also supplied rhythm guitar for "Saffron Dancer," a tune that we performed live on our tours of the UK, but never got around to recording properly.

The sessions went well and all three of us, producer Adam Marsland included, were pleased with the performances. Our next sessions will have to wait until after our CityWalk show; but we will tackle two more guitar parts and three more lead vocals before we bring in the remaining guest performers to supply horns (sax and trumpet) and backing vocals. We're getting closer.

Lastly, I am going to do a blog tomorrow on my favorite LP covers of all time as I prepare for a shoot with Julie Sullivan-Shuford to promote So Sophisticated.

Exciting times! Stay cool and peaceful.

Norman

Don't forget: Norman Kelsey and His Band take to the 5 Towers Stage on Universal CityWalk for a FREE, ALL AGES show at 9 PM, Saturday, September 3!

Ferocious Show at IPO 8/4/11

2011-08-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

Last night's gig at Molly Malone's for IPO was a barn-burner. The band (Bryan Farrar on guitar; Matt Soule on drums) was on fiyah! The room sounded really good thanks to a super sound man, Chris. Of course, I have to thank everyone who was in attendance and the organizer of the the festival, David Bash.

I have been associated with International Pop Overthrow since its inception in '98, with a few years off from '02-'04, I think. But it has been a great way to reach music fans of all stripes and last night was no different. We brought the funk, soul and disco to the party. The lineup included some fun co-headliners: Resonant Heads, Morty Shallman. Everyone there seemed to enjoy all of the acts, chalk that up to Mr. Bash's adept curating of the event.

I was particularly pleased with my vocals. Being in the studio has helped me hone in on using my voice properly, rather than the usual show belting and hollerin' I've done in the past. Don't get me wrong, I did some hollerin' last night, too, but with more control, which makes it more fun for me.

We did a bunch of the hits from A Talent For Loving, starting with "Everyone's Ingenue" and ending with the title track. The audience respectfully stayed in their seats, but were all chair dancing the entire show. If you got the IPO program, you saw that, yes, I have given a title to my upcoming album, So Sophisticated. We did the electric debut of a new song called "Huckleberry Finn" especially for the festival as a sneak peak of the material that will be coming your way in November. "Huck" was well-received and the band played the heck out of it. I introduced it as the "dangerous" part of the show. You never know how brand new material is going to go over. I have debuted other songs at IPO with varying degrees of success, but this was a home run. (Thank the Lord!)

The slow jams also went over well. The band brought "Done Lost My Mind" down to a sultry whisper. Very cool.

So here is the set list from last night:

Everyone's Ingenue
Fall Out
Everything My Heart Desires
Huckleberry Finn (debut)
U Had The $
Done Lost My Mind
Supermodels With Gatling Guns
A Talent For Loving

All right. Have a peaceful weekend and watch this space for further LP updates in the coming weeks.

Tales from Karma Frog: Recording Update

2011-08-03T19:45:00.000-07:00

Another productive recording day at Karma Frog on Monday. I tracked the master vocals for four songs for the new record. I was very pleased with the performances. My producer Adam, was very supportive and gave me some good coaching along the way. One of the numbers required channeling a bit of James Brown and Barry Gibb simultaneously. That means really getting loose. Like I said, I am thrilled with the results. Preliminary mixes are the business of the next two weeks. We are well on our way with a remake of "Supermodels With Gatling Guns" and one of my collaborations with Bryan Farrar, which Adam is now thinking might make a great single. Plus, Adam threw a whole bunch of Hammond organ onto a handful of tracks. Welcome to 1975.

The other vocals were for the LP's title track, and another big ballad that will take a sonic journey to my sophomore year of high school. Fortunately, the heat didn't bear down on us in the studio, until we took our breaks outside. It was a gorgeous day in Reseda, just hot as blazes.

Following the recording session, I met up with Bryan and Matt Soule to rehearse for tomorrow night's show at Molly Malone's. This will be my first live performance with my band in a year. I have spent the past twelve months guest starring, which is a gas, with Adam's band for his various tribute shows. And of course, I have been writing and recording. But now, it's showtime!

I have lost track of the number of times that David Bash has been gracious enough to present me as a part of his International Pop Overthrow Festivals here and abroad. I am looking forward to the show tomorrow for several reasons: nothing beats live music, I'm debuting a new song and my friends the Resonant Heads are on after me. It's going to be a fun night. I am on at 9:45, but I recommend getting there early to check out the other acts. And of course, stick around for the Res Heads. A Talent For Loving will be on sale at the merch stand if you don't own it. And there will be free glossy IPO programs. Be sure to check them out, they are great souvenirs of the event.

Sunday, I performed a solo acoustic version of Bruce Springsteen's "The Wrestler" at church. Always fun to do something unusual for the good church folk. I also read the scripture from Genesis, Jacob wrestling with God. Get it? I felt the two went well together.

Tonight, I'm taking it easy. I'll practice bass parts and pick out the wardrobe for tomorrow. I look forward to seeing many of you at the show.

Peace and Disco Beats

July 25 Session Update

2011-07-25T23:16:00.000-07:00

This was one of those days where, by God, I got to be a musician nearly every waking hour. I haven't had a day like this in years. And the stress was minimal. Normally, I can be very tough on myself when it comes to recording my voice. I am learning to accept what my voice can and can longer do. It helps to have a supportive producer, who pushes in the right direction.

Today, we got master vocals done for three of the new tracks for the upcoming LP. We started with a ballad, so I eased into the process. I was quite happy after a half-dozen takes, I was getting the right feel for the song.This is the first time in years that I've put down a vocal for a song that I haven't performed live with a band. No preconception of the vocal, which was refreshing.

The second song, however, was a remake of Supermodels With Gatling Guns. That presented some problems as I usually belt that one out live, but it usually includes an array of rock and roll (i.e. "bum") notes. So it took a while to feel the vibe of the song in the studio without the benefit of my bass slung around my neck. Toward the end of the second hour of work on it, I captured the right attitude for it. That recording was exhausting, but worth the effort.

Around six in the evening or so, Adam and I agreed to give one more song its due, and we both chose the mid tempo On The Rebound. The first take was pretty luminous. I did a half-dozen or so takes and each one was a keeper. Nice when you find your range for singing and it can be effortless. That allowed for more creativity and some ad libbing. Again, not a song that has ever been done on stage, so today was the day to give it life. Fortunately, I've been living with the early edit of the song for a few days and I already enjoyed the guide vocal performance I did for it in May.

All for now, stay tuned. Going into overdrive to get the album completed. More vocals as the week continues and perhaps the remaining lead guitars before Labor Day.

Peace!

On The Rebound

2011-07-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

In many ways. It has been nearly a month since my last blog, but the album progresses.

Last night, I put down the last of the bass tracks for the new LP at Karma Frog, spending most of my time with On The Rebound. Rebound is one of a handful of collaborations with Bryan Farrar that have made it through the sessions. I was able to give it a pretty loose funky performance. My producer Adam has been busy contributing loads of synthesizer, keyboard and guitar tracks. Bryan, my longtime guitarist, will be coming in during August to supply solos.

Speaking of Adam's handiwork, his piano playing on two tracks in particular, Huckleberry Finn and Your Majestic Rejection are stunning. I took a 24 hour road trip to LV last weekend, dropped off an aunt/saw the Beatles' LOVE. But on the way, I had a demo disc to listen to and by God, I could not stop listening to those two tracks as I drove through the desert. Surprising because Finn is about life in the Mississippi, I'm no where near a river and yet it was fitting. Rejection is a straight-up vintage R&B waltz and I hear something new in Adam's playing each time I listen. I cannot wait to share these records with each of you.

In other news, my previous record A Talent For Loving is available for those who are subscribed to Spotify. Spotify is a new service that gives one access to about a billion songs on-line. I have to sign up myself to see what it is all about, but Spotify has been wildly successful in Europe as a way to get people to listen to new music without having to download it. Personally, I will never tire of LP's and even CD's. I must have the art!

Mark your calendars for August 4. That is when I will take the stage with my trio at Molly Malone's for the International Pop Overthrow music festival in Los Angeles. You can find venue details on my website.

Gotta jet. Be well!

Low End Theory

2011-06-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,
spent the last two days at Karma Frog Studios with my producer Adam. I put down bass tracks on five of the new songs. We decided that the first takes on two songs that were pre-tracked were solid enough for release. So that brings us to seven done as far as the low end goes. It was exciting putting down the bass riff for "So Sophisticated." Adam gave me time to be creative in the studio, while keeping focused on the grooves. The second song we worked on today was a bit more challenging. The song has been so dramatically rearranged, and put into a different key, that I was exhausted by the time we wrapped. I may want to revisit that track, but we'll see how it sounds to my ears in a week.

That leaves three songs for bass. In the meantime, Adam has been tracking piano parts. Some of them are incredibly evocative. You are going to be amazed by his handiwork. One song is going "sans drums" for the time being, so I'm looking forward to what Adam cooks up for that one. Dates in July are set for more recording. It has been a busy June for me, so it has been nice to be able to get sessions in.

What else is new? I found out that (at least) one of my songs was utilized on "Parks & Recreation." Placements are always a fun development; especially knowing more new music is on the way.

Last week, I got to see ABC for the fifth time (thanks, JT). Martin Fry and his band always do it up properly. They rocked the House of Blues on Sunset. The set leaned heavily on the new material from "Traffic" and "Lexicon of Love." The sax/keyboard player was amazing, as was the bass player. Much to be admired the way ABC have outpaced their peers. Although, I am really excited about the Stateside return of Duran Duran. The openers, Chain Gang of 1974 are ones to watch out for. A young group from Denver, their sound fuses Tears for Fears and Haircut 100. Don't be surprised if these guys become darlings of the KCRW/SXSW/Coachella crowd.

Thanks to all of you who expressed condolences for the loss of my father-in-law this month. He was a superdude and will be missed. Bryan and I performed the Beatles' "Blackbird" at his memorial this week. The two of us did that song the first time Rush Hour Soul really did its thing in 2005; and I recorded it with my high school band back in 198mmphm...ahem. It was a fitting and lovely tribute that accompanied the release of 65 white doves.

That's all for now. Keep four-on-the-floor, and keep reaching for the stars!

The First Twenty Years

2011-06-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

This week, June 1 precisely, marked the 20th anniversary of my arrival in Los Angeles. Hard to fathom, so much time has passed. There were plenty of times I felt like packing up and returning East, but I never did and I am thankful I made a go of it. I have had a fulfilling musical career thus far, and I haven't even peaked!

June 1 turned out to be a big day in music history as the legendary David Ruffin passed from an overdose. I didn't hear about it for a few days after the fact. I arrived from Florida via Orlando and Memphis. The drive from LAX to Pasadena was sensory overload. A special thanks to my friend Cara and her family for giving me an opportunity/start in Tinsel Town. The first 10 years were full of fits and starts. It truly took 15 years to figure out what I was doing and how to write a decent song.

I have played with several amazing bands and iterations thereof. I've collaborated with some very creative people. Been able to play all of the famous clubs in L.A. The city and the music scene have evolved dramatically since I got here. Almost none of the smaller venues exist anymore. A handful of my peers continue to pursue musical careers, too. I don't feel so old. Better still, I have made plenty of new musical friends through the Americana scene.

I will say this: the records people are making now are far superior to what was out in the Summer of '91. Not a lot of enduring music, but I have distinct memories of hearing "It Ain't Over Til It's Over" everywhere I went that first week in town. (Fortunately, artists have returned to using real instruments.) Hollywood Blvd. was a real hole then and Old Town Pasadena was years away from its renaissance; but Melrose Ave and Sunset provided lots of hangouts. My buddy Portner and I wasted many nights at the old Tower records on Sunset; singing karaoke at Clancy's in Glendale, etc.

I love L.A. It has provided me with a fun career, a great family and a multitude of memories and blessings. Here's to the next 20, City of Angels.

Peace & Disco Beats

Fourteen Is The Magic Number

2011-05-26T15:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I read an op-ed in the NY Times that mentioned Bob Dylan's 70th birthday was Tuesday. The author felt there was a musical and cultural significance to his age. He mentioned other musicians hitting that mark this year including John Lennon. The gist of his article was that these cats all turned 14 when Elvis was at his zenith. He also mentioned that Sinatra and Billie Holiday were 14 when Rudy Vallee became the first true recording star; and that Vallee hit that age as Scott Joplin's rags were the hottest contemporary songs. When we turn 14 we are at the beginning of adulthood and developing our own tastes. Or at least acknowledging popular trends.

So, I thought about my own 14th birthday in relation to the Hit Parade. In no time flat I rattled off 10 songs that are a permanent part of my cerebral fabric. Of songs released in my lifetime, 5 of these songs from 1983 rank among the most exciting pieces of music in my mind. I quickly created an iTunes playlist of 60+ songs from the month preceding my birthday to the end of the year; basically 1983. My 14 year old taste is permanently locked. Highlights included: "Billie Jean," "Is There Something I Should I Know?," "Let's Dance," "I'll Tumble 4 Ya," and "(Keep Feeling) Fascination." "Time (Clock of my Heart)" remains my favorite ballad of the era.

The first pop LP I bought with my own money was Culture Club's "Colour By Numbers." "Karma Chameleon" came on MTV; my Mom had to run an errand at the mall and I knew I needed to go along. I think I spent $8 for that album. Took it home and wore it out. I was already a fan of Culture Club, but this LP was stunning to me. Had I been 13 or 15 or 25, would I have been as in thrall? Culture Club (and MTV) were a gateway drug for my musical bent. From there it was ABC, Duran Duran, Madness, Bowie and myriad new wave/new romantic/British pop acts. Only Prince and the MPLS groups could pry my captured imagination from the likes of Boy George, Simon LeBon and Martin Fry after turning 15.

Of course there was the zeitgeist of my 14th year, who moonwalked all over us in the 8th grade. Only thing is, as influential as Mike was, his musical stamp doesn't seem to be on people my age. Perhaps he got too odd too quickly. There aren't that many 42 year-old pop singers out there to begin with, or at least that I interact with to know which influence is more important or what we'll remember at age 70.

Peace & Disco Beats

5 Years

2011-05-25T07:05:00.000-07:00

Good morning, Soul Mates.

Today is the five year anniversary of Rush Hour Soul's tour of the UK. We took off from LAX on the 24th, spent an entire day air-traveling. When we landed in London on May 25, we hopped right into our magic Peugeot and drove several hours to Sheffield. There, the home of ABC, we made our European debut at the D'n'R Live, thanks to Hayley Nelson and the Seaweed Biscuit fans. We shared the bill with fellow Americans, Locksley, a power pop combo who have gained a decent level of notoriety in Asia.

That opening night show was the beginning of a golden fortnight in the UK. Our travels took us further "oop north" with a clutch of shows in Liverpool, York, Huddersfield and Barnsley. The audiences really took to us and welcomed us. Of course, the band had fun recording in Wales at Monnow Valley Studio, visiting Stonehenge, touring the Abbey Road Studios and filming the video for "A Talent For Loving" with director Will Archer in the City.

If you revisit earlier blogs, follow along to the right (go to the posts from May and June of 2006), the trip is recounted quite vividly. It is exciting, knowing that a return to Blighty is coming in a year's time. That will allow me to get the new album completed for promotion and set up a dozen or so key dates. I am especially looking forward to participating in the 10th Anniversary version of Liverpool IPO (the 9th edition is going on currently, good luck DB) in 2012. The fans in the UK are so passionate and I cannot wait to reconnect with you, I think you are really going to dig this new long-player.

All for now. Dreaming of England. And Wales. And Scotland.

Peace and Disco Beats

Norman Kelsey's Second Album Journal Vol. 4

2011-05-23T17:41:00.000-07:00

Well, here we go, Soul Mates.

This new album has a bedrock. Today, we completed the drum tracking with Kevin Jarvis at Karma Frog. In about 4 hours we polished off 4 tracks, including a remake of "Our Love Is Known By Name." I'm truly excited, so much that I hardly know where to start.

OK, we began the day with "Rebound." This is one of my collaborations with Bryan Farrar. In fact, all three of the new cuts we tracked were co-written with Bryan. He handles the chords, I supply the melody and lyrics. Kevin did not require many takes to get a master take down. My producer, Adam Marsland, has really directed some fine performances on this record. I think the first takes on all of the sides were solid. "Rebound" is cut from that 70's pop-funk cloth and even though the arrangement is not particularly conventional, it should be a fun one for shouting and singing along.

"A Miracle Is On The Way" came next and it is disco-ness lead to a conversation about the way rock groups, like Simple Minds, U2 and Franz Ferdinand, use the four-on-the-floor dance grooves. Adam appropriately pointed out that the Durans are the musical linchpin between the genres. I agree. On Saturday, I had a 22 hour road trip and got to listen to the new Duran Duran CD, All You Need Is Now, five times in its entirety. They are still one of my favorite groups.

Which brings me to "So Sophisticated." When Bryan and I started writing this track, I wanted it to be the centerpiece for an LP. It was challenging translating just the bass and guitar to a demo. No vocals, either. As a result, its importance to the new record diminished and other material was feeling stronger. However, driving home a few nights ago, I put the track on repeat and came up with a new hook. The bridge is straight-up jazz funk; that I did not touch. When Adam and I pre-tracked it on Friday, there was a some concern on Adam's part that it was still wonky, so we added lots of percussion and hand-claps, and I'll be if it didn't suddenly sound like some P-Funk. Now, with Kevin in, all of this was explained and he just smiled the entire time. I don't think he heard the track all the way through but once. On the first take, he took us to the funk-side of the moon. I don't know as if I have ever smiled that hard while listening to someone track any instrumental. It took all of my energy to stay in my chair, otherwise I would have ruined the recording. Friends, "So Sophisticated" regained its rightful place at the top of the track listing for the album and will most likely be the first single. It also has to be a front-runner for album title, too. For my fans who love the California Sunshine Funk: what it do!

The fourth side we worked on was a remake of "Our Love Is Known By Name." I realized I over-thought the original rhythm track and asked for a few musical cliches that were deemed unnecessary after a few listens to the rough. Kevin nailed it. Now, this ballad will be more straight ahead, and I hope, ear-pleasing.

The gist of this whole endeavor is to make a record that makes people want to dance. All of the best pop music should make you move. So much of the current dance music relies on electronics (not trash-talking, just fact-checking); this one is going to be much more organic. And I hope it won't feel like too much of a pastiche. I want things to feel familiar, but not sound grafted. Adam and I discussed how exciting it is to be producing what sounds like a vintage dance album, without feeling dated. It's very exciting for me, because there are so many unknowns. Only a few of these songs have been performed live. Some have never been heard by ears outside of the inner circle involved in this project. So far, the results have been breathtaking and gratifying.

If you are doing the math, that makes nine sides with drums. There is an elusive 10th song. The first song I wrote for the album, which may not get analog drums. Adam and I have discussed options for it, from a vintage drum machine to simple percussion. Either way, it is on to the next round. I will start tracking bass parts in June when Adam returns from the road and drum mixing is complete. Then we will start bringing in the guitarists. Adam will be handling the keyboards.

All right, my Indians are on TV. Gotta go support the Tribe. Thanks for checking in. If you are a friend on facebook, please be sure to "like" my music page. I will be shifting all musical attention there shortly, as well as relaunching my website.

Peace and Disco Beats

Dropping Science at Karma Frog

2011-05-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,
we had a productive pretracking session last night that crossed over into today. No rapture, so Adam and I kept going. Three tracks were tackled for Monday's recording date with Kevin Jarvis on drums. All of them are collaborative works with my songwriting partner Bryan Farrar (formerly of Rush Hour Soul, currently of Hypnogaja).

The first, entitled "Rebound," I consider the musical sequel to "Down By Love." It's got Bryan's trademarks; fun chord changes, a well-placed bridge and soulful melodic solo. As a collaborator, he gives me a good palette to work with and lots of freedom to build my own melody and lyrical theme.

Then we worked on "A Miracle Is On The Way." "Miracle" received the workout the other night, when I rearranged it and hit a good formula to present one of my strongest hooks.

Finally, Adam and I fleshed out "So Sophisticated." This was the track I originally heard in my head as being the first cut on the album and probably the lead single. It has healthy competition with "She's My Go To" and "Miracle." When I started writing it, I wanted a Chic-vibe. But it has become a hiphop jazz inflected piece that is sho' to be a mover.

One song remains un-tracked; the first one I composed for this LP. Adam and I are discussing a radical presentation for the rhythm track. It will be an 80's style new wave R&B ballad. So watch out.

I know it is a brief run-down, but there will be more news on Monday.

Peace & Disco Beats

Life Along The Mississippi

2011-05-19T22:30:00.001-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,

this has been a nice musical week. Started with Monday and a live performance for the Wesley School kids. My new song "Huckleberry Finn" got its world premiere at my church where I volunteer for the school chapel there. The audience (K-8) can be demanding, but their applause was loud after I sang. Pastor Joey dovetailed the song's topic and setting into the Monday morning prayer in nicely; reminding the kids to pray for the unfortunate souls who live in the towns threatened by the Mississippi River.

Then, last night, I had a major breakthrough on the tenth and final composition for my new album. It's a dance piece called "A Miracle Is On The Way." In preparation for tomorrow night's pre-tracking session, it occurred to me that the arrangement wasn't quite right and the 7th/minor chords in the verses weren't working. So I dusted off the old drum machine to get a beat and I completely rearranged the song. When I was finished, I knew that I had another potential lead-off track/single on my hands. It will be fun to hear it fleshed out at Monday's recording session.

I'm feeling very blessed and optimistic about the prospects for this album. I've got to find someone to work on my website, however. Almost time for new pictures and artwork, too.

Peace & Disco Beats

IPO LA Booked for Aug. 4

2011-05-14T09:06:00.000-07:00

Just announced, IPO Festival Los Angeles 2011. The line-up for this year's event is really cool. This will be my only solo appearance before my LP is completed. However, I will be playing material from the new album. Don't miss it.

Thursday, August 4 @ Molly Malone's
575 S. Fairfax Ave. L.A.
323-935-1577
$10

7:30 Aaron Durr
8:15 Brandon Schott
9:00 Morty Shallman
9:45 Norman Kelsey
10:30 The Resonant Heads
11:15 Math & Science Pretend Band

The Rockwell Is Back

2011-05-10T23:31:00.001-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,

It has been nearly a year since I gave up on Blogger. But I am back. I was in Bangkok 12 months ago when things went haywire with my blogs and posting. Hard to believe. And it has been 3 years since the release of A Talent For Loving. More nostalgically, this month marks the fifth anniversary of my first tour of the UK with Rush Hour Soul. Gadzooks, where does the time go?

I reread the postings specifically from the first half of 2006. All of that optimism and open road. That was a grand time, but the dream was deferred. Now with a new LP on the horizon and a return to England in 2012 in the works, I felt it was time to put energy back into the blog, my website and my career in general.

The new LP will be exciting. Half of it is material that began life as Rush Hour Soul faded, the rest is all new compositions. The older songs never got their due. Some were live favorites that went unrecorded or were recorded with meager budgets/means. The new tunes speak to where my heart currently resides musically. I miss being in a band setting, but with the new recordings there is freedom, too. Of course, I will have to put together a line up to present these numbers in a live setting.

I'm being fueled with a new sense of purpose. I'm on a mission from God and looking forward to entertaining all of you. Thank you for coming back to support me and my music.

Peace & Disco Beats

Norman Kelsey's Second Album Journal Vol. 3

2011-05-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,
remember that salutation? Well, the soul was in full effect at Karma Frog yesterday. So was the Spirit. We had Kevin Jarvis (Lucinda Williams, John Wesley Harding, Grant Lee Phillips) on the drums for the session. There were three songs on the agenda and I arrived as the first take was rolling. The first tune, called "She's My Go To" is a strong candidate for lead single. The groove was impeccable and Kevin gave it a Kid Creole flavor with the tome to go along with the dance beat it already possessed. I wouldn't have thought of that choice, but that's why I'm the singer. It was exciting to hear the rhythm come to life. Adam supplied the bass, the first time I have relinquished my Fender Jazz to another's magic fingers. Sometimes, I think Adam is just the palest black dude I know. He is fonky.

Next, we worked on my tribute to Sam Clemens and the Staple Singers. And you thought the Twain would never meet, Yount! Anyway, "Huckleberry Finn" was given a nice Mississippi River roll. Because this was a prime example of my free-form compositions with overlapping parts, the math was interesting. Fortunately, Kevin handled the bar count and made the transitions very dynamic. Kevin's snare work was a wonder to behold. Hence, my live comment on facebook about Sam knowing about the funk. Lyrically, it is one of my favorite compositions on the LP; though I'm not sure what Spike Lee will think about it.

The third track was a bit of a head-scratcher. For the pre-tracking, I multi-tracked a finger-picked acoustic guitar part. Very tasteful, but not helpful in conveying the song. We had fun discussing the directions we could take and whittling it down to the appropriate parts. Kevin's hi-hat playing will be a hi-light on the finished record. "Our Love Is Known By Name" is one for the ladies (Lady) and the lovers. Get ready to slow dance and get your back up off the wall.

Another productive day at Karma Frog. Adam is getting great performances and the process continues to be a thrill. We are taking the next two weeks off from the studio, however, Adam will be editing. Oh, I have officially pushed back the release date for the album. It will be out well before Halloween, but August 9th is too soon and I don't want to rush. That being said, the lead single will be ready in time for my summer shows.

Peace & Disco Beats!

Norman Kelsey's Second Album Journal Vol. 2

2011-05-06T00:15:00.000-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,

back to the lab at Karma Frog tonight. We pre-tracked a few new songs. The first two got knocked out pretty quickly. It helps when I have a clear vision of what I want a song to say or do. And these are brand new tunes. Never heard before by anyone other than the few people involved in the project and Mom and the Missus. I think they are going to translate well, under Adam's direction.

Thank goodness, Adam is patient with me. By the end of the session, the third song, I was running on fumes. I rearranged the song a few days ago and as a result threw out half of the lyrics and rewrote the hook. After Adam figured out what the heck kind of beat I was looking for and I put down the scratch vocal, we were in the clear. These tracks are being prepped for our next drum session on Monday with Kevin Jarvis. The songs are quite varied: a jaunty Southern Soul song; a big old ballad; and the third, which will be Disco-riffic for your dancing pleasure.

On Tuesday night, I had the honor of joining Adam and his Chaos Band on stage at Cinema Bar for his 70's night show. I sang Roxy Music's "Love is the Drug." That was a lot of fun. We followed that with "Stayin' Alive" with Adamd and me duking it out on the falsetto vocals. There were plenty of other cool covers performed including "Brass In Pocket" and "King Tut." I hope to be at Adam's next 70's show on June 14.

Peace & Disco Beats

One Night In Bangkok

2010-04-30T06:47:00.000-07:00

Hey Soul Mates,

I'm currently in Bangkok on holiday. Soaking up the local atmosphere and getting my musical headspace together. Gonna come back strong with some new cuts to record this summer. Listening to lots of David Ruffin, Steely Dan, GZA and the Beatles in mono to get inspired.

As you may have noticed there is a new URL for the "original" Norman's Rockwell.

Bookmark http://normansoriginalrockwell.blogspot.com for the time being.

Sawadee krap. Peace!

This blog has moved

2010-04-30T06:40:00.001-07:00

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A Spike Lee Joint Revisited

2009-03-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

Da Mayor: Doctor, always do the right thing.
Mookie: That's it? I got it, I'm gone.

Last night, I watched "Do The Right Thing" all the way through for the first time in six or seven years. The first time I saw it was on July 4, 1989 with my mother. Pure cinematic fireworks. All-American and revolutionary. We were both intrigued by this movie that had made such a splash at Cannes earlier that year. We didn't know anyone else who'd seen it, but we had seen Spike Lee's previous movie ("School Daze" featuring my Dad.) There were only another dozen viewers in that theatre in Jacksonville. We had no idea what we were getting into. When the movie was done, we all sat through the credits in stunned silence.

DTRT became a lightning rod that summer amid blockbusters like "Batman," "Ghostbusters 2," and "Indiana Jones 3." The opening sequence is iconic: Public Enemy's aural assault, the visual style of DP Ernest Dickerson and the electrifying solo dance routine of Rosie Perez. From the get go, DTRT is on fire. One hot day in a Brooklyn furnace.

So many classic lines fill the script. I won't even try to quote them. But I know that my GU posse brothers and I could recite most of the movie by the time September '89 rolled around. It was all we could talk about for days at a time.

Many careers were launched by DTRT along with Rosie Perez: Samuel L. Jackson, Martin Lawrence, John Tutturro, Robin Harris, Giancarlo Esposito, Bill Nunn. Oh how young they all look. And it brought Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee to a whole new audience. The only actor Oscar nominated from the cast, Danny Aiello was in the middle of a career high ("Moonstruck" preceded it). Speaking of Oscars, so many of the performances could have been recognized. Especially, Davis & Dee's work. In a just world Bill Nunn's doomed Radio Raheem would have been honored, too. The fact that DTRT wasn't even nominated for Best Picture is silly, considering "Driving Miss Daisy" won. Whew, what was we thinking, America!?

A decade ago, the AFI 100 was first published and I was personally outraged by DTRT's dismissal. Frankly, I would argue that Spike Lee's magnum opus is the most important American movie of the last 30 years. We are still struggling with the issues and the aftermath in our "post-racial" America. I have talked to people who think "Malcolm X" is Lee's best work. No disrespect, but as far as original material goes DTRT can't be touched. The film is a bit of a time capsule with its nods to Africa medallions, Air Jor-DANS, and day-glo biker shorts (au courant for 1989), but the themes are timeless. There may be better films that this, but none that can spark conversation, evoke a laugh or make me weep for humanity like it.

When Radio Raheem's body shudders to its end and falls face first onto his "LOVE" brass knuckles, I break down like a baby. Every single time.

I encourage you to watch "Do The Right Thing" and revisit the power of cinema, great storytelling and potent acting and vibrant direction. I remember many critics thought Lee was copping out. He was supposed to give us solutions, he was supposed to work it out for us, give us answers. Says who? The best art asks us to search ourselves for the answers. DTRT forces us to.

That's my 2 cents.

Peace... always

Not Desert Island, But the First 10 Discs I Bought

2009-03-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

After talking with Murdy yesterday, I realized that a top 10 albums list would take me too much thought right now. And I would have to go through all of my ticket stubs to rank the top 10 concerts I've attended. But John and I got to discussing the first CDs we purchased, back when buying a CD meant something. They were about $15 a pop on average in 1988. Doing the inflationary math that's roughly $27 to you and me now. And you think music is a rip-off today! Ha ha ha.

The very first title I bought, sheepishly, because I didn't actually own a CD player and somehow I thought the store clerk would know, was the Beatles' "Help!" Got it at the Wiz in the Pentagon City metro stop in NoVa after doing a tour of *duh* the Pentagon. So jogging my imperfect memory, between May and July 4th of 1988, I purchased, in order...

1. The Beatles, "Help!" The Wiz, Pentagon City.

2. Prince & The Revolution, "Parade." The Wiz, Georgetown.

3 & 4. The Beatles, "Beatles For Sale" and Prince, "Lovesexy" (the day it was released). The Wiz, Georgetown. The store clerk was pissed at me for my indecisiveness and said of Lovesexy, "Buy it now, you're going to eventually. Get it now!" I managed to borrow a floor mates CD player to listen to each of the above once before school was out for the semester.

5. Jimi Hendrix Experience, "Are You Experienced?" This I bought with my $70 Sanyo portable CD player at Coconuts in Jacksonville. I think that was every cent I had saved during the school year.

6. The Rolling Stones, "Rewind." The first used CD I ever got, from Vintage Vinyl in Jax.

7. The Clash, "Combat Rock." Coconuts. Should I Stay Or Should I Go became a belated party anthem for my apartment the next 3 years at college.

8. Tracy Chapman, "Tracy Chapman." What can I say, Fast Car and Baby, Can I Hold You? are great songs. But I returned it the next day for Steely Dan, "A Decade of Steely Dan." The Record Bar, Regency, Jax.

9. John Mellencamp, "The Lonesome Jubilee." Vintage Vinyl.

10. Paul McCartney, "All The Best." Coconuts, Orange Park. I think I shelled out $18.99 (a whopping and wallet-numbing $34 in today's cash) for this to the amazement of Mike and Mark who were with me that night.

Of these 10 CDs, I still possess 8 of them. Mellencamp was sold back shortly after buying it. The Steely Dan was replaced by the monster "Citizen Steely Dan," which was one of the first collections loaded onto my iPod. At the time, I was still alternating between CDs and vinyl. Not a whole lot of titles were available, but by the end of Summer I trucked back to Georgetown with about 40 CDs, including 90% of the Beatles' titles and popular party choices like "License To Ill" and the soundtrack to "Cocktail."

Don't Worry, Be Happy!

Just Keep Blogging

2009-03-04T22:54:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

don't know when Blogger will update my posts, so I'll just keep writing with faith that you'll be reading this soon.

In music news, a friend of mine has been plying me with tracks he's been working on for the past several months. Today, though he left one on my voicemail that was very enticing. All bleeps and blurps, but solid. It might be a one-off, but with yet another article in RS about the demise of the CD, that's probably the way to go for a new release: digital only.

I'm also pondering recording some of the acoustic numbers I've been doing at Church. Some of you might be interested in hearing my arrangements. We'll see.

As you may get from my previous posts, I'm listening to a lot of Dylan. I've reloaded all of Bob's material onto my iPod. Hadn't listened to Time Out Of Mind or Modern Times since late '06. Times was my favorite record that year. Word on the street is that Dylan's got a hard-country set coming out in April. I'm continually amazed at artists like Dylan who create at such a high level.

Before I ramble, I'll sign off.

Peace & Patience

Pressing On

2009-03-01T21:33:00.000-08:00

Hey Family,

Blogger is experiencing lots of glitches right now. So much of this may be repeated material from this week's blogs. Hopefully these past few posts will get published.

This morning, Church was wonderful. Pastor Joey's message was deep. He discussed how our personal faith is a private matter. You've got as much right to ask me if I've been saved as I have to ask how much money you make. You can probably guess, no alter calls at our church. I know for a fact that I'm loved and I'm trying to get right with Christ. Life is still challenging and exhausting, but the reward is greater for the effort.

Today during worship, I sang Pressing On from Dylan's 1980 LP Saved. This evening, I bought the whole disc (thanks Jackie & Medardo, it's a Birthday present!) from iTunes. It's an underrated work. I prefer it to Slow Train Coming, Dylan's first born-again record. I'm digging the title track, What Can I Do For You? and Solid Rock, particularly.

This lyric hits me in the breadbasket:

I know all about poison, I know all about fiery darts,
I don't care how rough the road is, show me where it starts,
Whatever pleases You, tell it to my heart.
Well, I don't deserve it but I sure did make it through.
What can I do for You?
Copyright ©1980 Special Rider Music

Pressing On first made an impression on me when I saw Todd Haynes' Dylan-approved Sci-fi-non-biopic I'm Not There. In it, John Doe does a vocal that Christian Bale mimes. A wonderful, life-altering performance. I give Bale credit (he can sing, but he didn't for this movie) for a truly believable moment. For all of those giving him grief, I give him props. I think Christian is quite an artist. Prior to that, I had not heard much of Dylan's music from the period. This number, though, I point to as a watershed in my journey.

I'll be doing the song again for Wesley School's chapel in the AM. My new guitar rang clearly and true in the sanctuary. All for God's glory. I'm looking forward to the privilege of playing for Him tomorrow. It's funny how this musical career is being steered. I love the venue and I really love playing for my audience of Three-In-One.

Coming up: A reprise of Take Me To The River at the end of the month. Pastor Joey has also put in a request for Dylan's What Was It You Wanted? for Palm Sunday. Got my work cut out for me. And then I'll open the Sign "O" The Times songbook for my 8:15 on March 15 & Easter.

I know in some traditions, Lent is a time to give things up. I see Lent as a time to take things ON.
But right now, it's time for rest.

Love & Peace

Hands And Feet

2009-02-28T11:08:00.000-08:00

Last night was our final drawing class at the Norton-Simon museum in Pasadena. It was part of a series of 4 lessons. I did fairly well with the head and face. But two sessions of the body/torso did me in. However, I made a nice comeback with the hands and feet. Didn't know I had it in me. It doesn't hurt to have 17th and 18th C. masters to study. I've mentioned my appreciation for the N-S before. Highly recommended.

My previous blog met with lots of glitches. I still can't tell if it published. So, just in case, a reminder: tomorrow I will be singing the Just As We Are segment in church at 10:30. The selected song is Bob Dylan's Pressing On from his 1980 LP Saved.

Time to work!

Peace & Love

Random Notes From Hollywood On Ash Wednesday

2009-02-25T19:15:00.000-08:00

Hey Y'all.
Been a good week for you, I hope. Got in a little while ago from communion for Ash Wednesday. God only knows how much I needed it. It was a silent service in Boyer Chapel. One of my favorite spaces.

Last night, we went to the Groundlings' theatre to see Jeremy Rowley reprise his show Inland Empire. Some bits were reruns and there were several new sketches, but it was all inspired illness. Jeremy plays these unhinged characters from the Riverside area; his mathematically challenged Dad in "Family Dinner" was a favorite of mine. You may know Jeremy's voice from the Lost Untangled shorts on ABC. Or check out his shorts on YouTube: Kids are Safe is Germanic madness and I don't even know how he filmed Trippin' At D-Land.

Something that struck me going to the Groundlings on Melrose was the loss of the Gig. I must have played the Gig several dozen times between 1997-2006. It had been two-plus years since my last appearance there with R.H.S. Another venue bites the dust. Now it's just reopened as another bar. The doorman was adamant about never having live music there again. Yikes. Wha'ppen?

I'm listening to Tom Waits right now, Used Songs. Just read a story in the latest GQ about 50 years of the L.A. Music Scene. Well seal the coffin, it's gone now. But there are nice (brief) interviews with the likes of Tom Waits, Dick Dale and the ever-cool Joan Jett. All three look fantastic in the accompanying photo spread.

If you like, I invite you to the church I attend (check the links to the right) between now and Easter and beyond. I will be doing several pieces during the main 10.30 services. This Sunday, I'm singing Dylan's Pressing On. Later in March, I'll reprise Take Me To The River. Just 'cause I'm singing isn't the reason to get to church, but I figured some of you might be interested.

I should know shortly the dates of my Summer performances. There will be at least one performance up on the Universal Citywalk and International Pop Overthrow in L.A.

Slumdog Millionaire certainly deserved all of the Oscars it won. Like I said "random notes."

Got to get ready for LOST.

Peace & Disco Beats

No Sophomore Slump

2009-02-15T22:42:00.000-08:00

I just finished doing something I haven't done in a decade or two. I played several dozen Beatles songs, including I'll Be Back, Tell Me Why, Julia and Michelle, on my (new) acoustic guitar. Picked up an inexpensive Yamaha with birthday funds. It occurred to me that I've never actually owned a real acoustic guitar. The first guitar I ever bought, and it's displayed in the corner of this very room, is not a hollow body, but is considered an acoustic electric. It's not really good for either, but it's a piece of my musical history. Anyway, after the old Ibanez couldn't hold a tune in church today, I determined that it was time for a new member to join the family. It took me about 90 minutes to pick out a guitar and then the salesman brought out a minty fresh one from the stock room. Trying to help the musical economy!

So this evening, I unwrapped the new guitar, tuned it up and went to town. First I worked on what will be the special music at church next month: a little spiritual from Sign "O" The Times. Then I spent an hour with the Fab Four and a fake book I bought at Olsson's in Georgetown during the Reagan administration. I learned this past month that Olsson's finally shuttered. I've always loved playing the Beatles, ever since I first taught myself how to strum chords on a borrowed guitar.

This morning, I lead the 8:15 worship service in the beautiful Boyer Chapel at church. My second sermon was entitled "Drop Me In The Water." It was based on an Old Testament text, 2 Kings 5, which was a challenge. From all accounts it served its purpose in proclaiming God's greatness. The special music today was Rev. Al Green's Take Me To The River. Rivers (the Jordan, Hudson and Cuyahoga) were a central motif.

I've got my work cut out for me as I have claimed the 3rd Sunday of every month to preach at church. Since my next sermon will be between Lent and Easter it might be a little heavier that the first two. I've selected John 2 from the choices of readings. I'm having fun, though it is a bit like walking a tight rope. Between the sermons and homilies once a month for the youngsters (and faculty) at Wesley School's chapel, I'm getting my church on. If you are in the L.A. area on a Sunday, join me. I'll spring for coffee afterward.

A note of thanks to my amigo, Christo, who sent me Prince's 21 Nights. It's a lavish coffee table book that came with a fantastic live CD, that went straight into the iPod. The album, not the book.

In non-musical news, non-church news, congrats to my driver Matt Kenseth who won his first Daytona 500 today in the driving rain. So what if the race was shortened. A win is a win!

I hope that you had a love-filled Valentines' Day or at least a pleasant Saturday night. As for tomorrow: Happy Presidents' Day. My top 5 favorite Presidents, in no order:

Abraham Lincoln

James K Polk

Barack Obama

Woodrow Wilson

Theodore Roosevelt

Peace & Disco Beats

GRAMMY Live Blog

2009-02-08T20:08:00.000-08:00

11:29 PM

Last year's Grammy Show was superior. Even though this one had Radiohead, U2 and Macca. I thought that Springsteen was invited. Glad we didn't go after all. Save the dough for next year. We have Springsteen and U2 to look forward to next time anyway. OK, in the morning, I'll format this blog into chronological order.

Checking the non-televised winners, I find some solace. Duffy won pop album of the year for Rockferry which improves with each play. Zappa Plays Zappa won best rock instrumental! Springsteen's Girls In Their Summer Clothes won best rock composition aka song. Hands down, the best lyric of the past several years in any genre. Peter Gabriel's spiritual Down To Earth from Wall-E nabbed best song written for a film. My choice for video, Weezer's Pork & Beans was a winner. I got the long-form Grammy winner Peter Bogdonovich's Running Down A Dream for my birthday this weekend (thanks, cousin Chris). So the pre-awards would have been fun to attend. Problem is you have to buy the ticket for the big show (which is always a bit of a let down).

Time to power down the blog. Phew. Goodnight, Tonight.

Peace & Disco Beats

11:22 PM

As big a let-down as last year for Album of the Year. I saw this coming from miles away. Plant and Krauss made a quality disc, but the punctuation at the end of this slate is a little flat. Robert Plant is deserving for maintaining. The academy though is doing itself no favors by having these younger acts performing, but not winning. This could be the final nail in the retail music coffin.

Time to wrap up. The wrap up music is playing. Wrap it up.

Back to a ringer: Stevie Wonder. However I don't recognize the song he's playing. Am I out of touch? Nope. It will be back to Franz Ferdinand in the morning.

11:17 PM

Plant and Krauss are on. The sound is horrid. What's going on!? At least they've got a light fan going to get those golden locks moving on both of them. I have to imagine that the sound on the stage is alright, because they are in tune. Just sounds like there is no accompaniment. Heaven knows that Led Zeppelin probably deserved any number of Grammys in their time, but I'm not sure this collaboration is representative of the best work of the nominated artists this year.

Hooray, Rick Rubin is producer of the year.

11:08 PM

I'm going to predict (again) that Plant/Krauss win album of the year. Just a feeling the way this is going. Although Shi'staynze and Coldplay are nice bets. Ne-Yo has no chance and Radiohead is still too avant garde for the Grammys.

Nice to see trumpeter Terence Blanchard and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band during Allen Toussaint's tribute to Nawlins. I met Mr. Blanchard at last year's Grammys, a dear and talented fellow. What's happened in the last 30 minutes that I didn't blog. Well, Neil Diamond performed. I walked the dog in the rain. Made sweet green tea.

10:38 PM

Jamie Foxx could have been a star at Motown in the '60s. He's one of the few acting talents that can really sing. This tribute to the 4 Tops is amazing. The producers chose really good people (Smokey, T.I. & Foxx) to join original Top Duke Fakir. Doesn't hurt that those are two of the best records ever.

10:30 PM

Now, I like JT, but he's the male version of Carrie Underwood. He's ubiquitous and now he's sung twice tonight. Someone show T.I. how to wear a hat. The hip-hop summit was ok (it was saved by M.I.A.'s presence). Neil Portnow is talking about Obama. I remember when the President won his second award for reading his autobiography. That makes him the first Grammy Winner to hold the highest office in the land. Represent!

10:26PM

Forget the Avengers movie, Samuel L. Jackson will apparently be playing Waldo in the new film Where the F is Waldo. Only Sam could make those glasses look hip.

10:17 PM

Gwyneth Paltrow IS the walking disco ball. She just introduced the "utterly brilliant" Radiohead. Uh, Gwyneth, Coldplay is in the room...

Thom Yorke is doing his thing with the USC marching band. That's a cool gig for the students. Radiohead are outclassing the rest of the field with this perf. Easily the most interesting act.

10:11 PM

Respect to Neil Diamond, but I can't hear his songs without thinking of Will Ferrell's riotous spoof of him on SNL. Or Diamond in black face in the Jazz Singer remake with Olivier.

10:06 PM

Yawn. Sugarland and Adele are earnest. But at the 2/3 mark, this show needs pep.

McCartney was in fine form, although good old Dave Grohl was overplaying. I Saw Her Standing There is a ringer. A Beatle is a ringer. You have to enjoy it. It's good for you.

Kudos for the due-today M.I.A. for her performance. She held her polka-dotted and very pregnant own with Jay-Z, T.I., Kanye and Lil' Babee Shi'staynze. In fact, for my money, the producers could have let M.I.A. do all of Paper Planes.

9:41 PM

Herbie Hancock out-dressed P.Diddy. Wild. Record of the Year. I voted for M.I.A. Denied. It's the Plant/Krauss show. Keep in mind this is the award for the the best single of the year. There's no way this recording was tops in that category. I like Robert Plant, but this is mystifying. Their song was not a hit single! But that's why I vote, so I can comment

9:32 PM

How committed am I to the live blog? Not very. I love the Grammy Awards, but I'm underwhelmed. Patty said (since the show is not live here in L.A.) that we'd be home by now. Or at least out at dinner after the awards. This is my first real attempt at a real time blog not including Election night, which was amazing. I might limit it to a check in every half hour. Katy Perry took a lot out of us.

9:27 PM

Kanye is needing his S-curl spray. The Mullet-fro is taking me back to 1984. He's channeling Andre Cymone more than Michael. Oh, the music dropped out again. Too bad that didn't happen during Katy Perry's act. I hope Duffy wins best new artist!

9:20 PM

Does anyone really care about Katy Perry? She descended in a jumbo chiquita banana! Nothing says Grammy like giant pieces of fruit on stage. Carmen Miranda would approve... of the mutated produce. Katy looks good, but she can't really dance or even move. She kissed a girl, but couldn't walk and chew gum at the same time. Patty is pained and says "Katy, get back in your banana."

9:16 PM

I know I supported Kid Rock for best Rock Album. Coldplay certainly sold the most albums that featured a band playing its own instruments. Wondering why Chris Brown is on the run from the law. CBS keeps touting him during the show, but the news bumpers say he's on the lam.

I won't bag on the kids too badly. This will probably be the most viewed Grammy Awards since Michael's heyday by virtue of the Jonas/Miley appearances.

9:13 PM

Superstition. Don't let the Jonas Brothers sing a long with this song. "Very sacrilegious."

9:10 PM

Stevie Wonder must have gotten a call from the Obama's to play with the Jonas Brothers. It was pointed out to me that though they play their own instruments, no one takes a solo within the context of the JB's music. Stevie's not mixed in this well, but he's singing the heck out of this song, like the boys can't. And soloing no less.

9:05 PM

Jennifer Hudson's outfit made much more sense this time around. And her vocals were great as usual, even if the mix left something to be desired. I have to remind myself that she's already an Oscar winner, a Golden Globe winner and a Grammy winner in the past 24 months since NOT winning Idol.

I predicted back in December at the nomination show that the Plant/Krauss team-up will win a grip of hardware. Let the count begin.

8:52 PM

"It's Miley!!"

8:45 PM

Kid Rock is playing a medley of his songs, including All Summer Long which was a surprise hit this Summer. The sound mix is getting curious. I can't imagine all of these vocal break-downs are intentional.

8:42 PM

At least Coldplay acknowledged that they were trying to be Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts' Club Band. I wanted Sara Bareilles to win the songwriter's award for Love Song. Duffy and Al Green did a nice job of presenting. Al's brief take on Moon River has been the best performance so far.

8:28 PM

I understand she's popular, an Idol veteran, and is racking up Grammy's, but Carrie Underwood doesn't need to be on the show every year. Wow and flutter, the sound is going in and out. That ain't my TV.

8:20 PM

Michael Caine called, he wants his glasses back. Coldplay are performing Lost. 60 Minutes did a piece on them right before the telecast. Chris Martin apparently repaints his piano on a regular basis. And he wishes his band had more personality. I found that interesting. Been there. So, as a result they spared us a moment with Andy Rooney. But we get Jay-Z! And now Viva La Vida. Hard for them to follow U2. They're like a technicolor, kid brother version of the monochromatic (much more impressive) U2.

8:13 PM

Timberlake cannot keep up with the Reverend Al Green. This is a 50th GRAMMY moment. Complete with wonky sound mix. Or maybe that was intentional. Al looks good though!

8:09 PM.

The Grammy Awards are on (previously recorded)! Bono and U2 opened and ran through their song, Get On Your Boots. So new that the lyrics had to be flashed on screen behind them. Not their strongest lead single, but it's U2. Always entertaining.

Whitney Houston just presented the Best R&B Album award. She seemed a little tipsy or woozy or whitney. Jennifer Hudson, your winner, brought her purse on stage with her. She can just tuck that gramophone in their and get back to her seat. Miss Hudson's outfit was not as flattering as it should have been.

Let's leave the comedy to the comedians. Poor JT and the Rock not working the room very well.

Happy Birthday, Stewart

2009-02-07T10:08:00.000-08:00

Ah, post-Birthday musings. What a wonderful night last night. The Aroma cafe was perfect. Even if were outdoors and had waterfalls on three sides of our casbah.

Some of you know that I sponsor a child through World Vision. His name is Stewart and he resides in Uganda with his family. I became connected to him through World Vision's Experience Africa exhibit last year. There were so many children in need of monetary and spiritual support to choose to sponsor. It was overwhelming.

I selected Stewart because of his angelic face and because his birthday falls the day after mine. So, I'm taking the time to wish Stewart a very happy 8th Birthday! I know he won't see this blog, but this little man, his family and village are in my daily prayers. Prayers for a long, healthy and happy life, free from violence, disease and poverty; full of fun, peace and God's love and care. I hope he got his present on time. Stewart's WV liaison wrote me a note that was decorated with drawings by Stewart several weeks ago. He loves football, so there were several soccer balls in the margins. How cool to get mail from him all the way from Uganda.

World Vision is a wonderful organization. They receive the left-over Superbowl souvenirs that feature the losers printed as winners. WV distributes these clothing items to needy folks around the globe. My joke is that somewhere in Africa people think the Patriots had a perfect season last year. Seriously, it's nice that the manufacturers donate the shirts so WV can clothe folks.

Several people gifted me with donations of ducks and chicks to the globe's neediest from World Vision for my birthday. Two friends also donated in my name to assist abused girls in underdeveloped countries. I'm pleased that they were moved to honor me so and that this is such a wonderful cause. God bless them and the staff at WV.

Peace and Disco Beats

Rainy Night In NoHo

2009-02-06T22:51:00.001-08:00

Thanks to everyone who sent their Birthday wishes. Extra thanks to those who braved the rain to join me for cake at Aroma. The donations to World Vision were wonderful. To my extended family and friends near and far, I want you to know that you are loved and appreciated. You make me feel so young!

Peace & Love

The 100 Yard Dash Away From The 30's

2009-02-05T23:21:00.000-08:00

Dog my cats, it's raining.

I've spent the evening putting together a few collages for my birthday gathering tomorrow night. Yes, I will be working at the studio tomorrow. I've got performers counting on me. My new extended family. Anyway, I have boxes of pictures I haven't looked through in (gosh) a decade in some cases. Back to the Idle Kings, the beginning of my life in Los Angeles, my misspent youth.

Just a few random thoughts.

1. Etta James is justified, little crazy, but so. She should have been invited to sing for the Obamas as long as At Last was part of the programming. This is Beyonce's second miscue, after last year's Grammy's when she called Tina the "Queen of Soul." Huh? Now, I know Beyonce is not responsible for either incident, but she's the common ground in each.

2. Franz Ferdinand continues to challenge me. This group puts out an album and makes me want to get right back at it. Tonight: Franz Ferdinand has some wonderful disco-rock moments, especially the lead single Ulysses and No You Girls. And worst, I've missed two chance to see them here in town the past month. They played an in-store at Amoeba last week. Dang.

3. Thanks to all of you who've helped me get to 40, especially the Missus, Mom & Dad, Nate & Gmom. Thanks to everyone who's made my musical career so fulfilling, especially Doug & Bryan, Larry, Dave, Adam & Lady T, Dennis & Scoots, Henry, Montana, Mikey & Mark. Scrap what F.S.F. said about no second acts in American lives. I'm on to Act III, so far as I can tell. Wait until you dig what's coming next for yours truly. Music, preachin' and a whole lot of love. It was three years ago on my birthday that I decided to take the band to the UK for the first time. Who knows what new madness I'll conjure?

4. John Lennon. Can't believe I'll be older than him very shortly. God bless his immortal soul and memory. The first song I will listen to in the morning will be the Beatles' Birthday. It's been my sole B-day tradition for the past 22 years.

The next time I see you, I will have begun my 5th decade. Thank you, Lord!

Peace & Coconut Creme Cake

Main Events I Won't Be Attending

2009-01-30T07:02:00.000-08:00

Just when I thought it was safe to not attend the Grammys. The tickets are very expensive, even for voting members of the Academy. Plus, the nominees list wasn't that thrilling to me. So, I made the executive decision to stay home. Last year for the 50th Grammy Awards, rumor was that McCartney and Michael would perform. Don't get me wrong: Tina tore the house down after Aretha raised the roof. It was a heckuva a show, but what if...

Now in the past 72 hours came announcements that Macca, Springsteen, Radiohead and Jay-Z would be there. Oh, and then today comes word that Kid Rock, Robert Plant and U2 will be on the bill. Whaaaaa!? Well, I'm just going to watch it in HiDef in the comfort of my own home. Maybe I'll put on the tux and strut around the beige carpet and loiter by the bar in my kitchen nursing a glass of veggie juice. Still, no Michael, so I can rest easy.

Then, in the e-mail this morning came the lineup for Coachella which Prince headlined last year. Now, there's no way you could get me out there. The 116 degree direct sun, no shade desert? With 21,000 of my closest friends? Never! Not unless you had McCartney, and like, Fleet Foxes and Franz Ferdinand or Public Enemy and the Black Keys along with Amy Winehouse and Leonard Cohen thrown in for good measure. What? They're all playing Coachella? DANG!

No regrets. The economy hasn't bouyed enough to afford the tix to either event.

Sometimes life is funny that way. I wish you all a happy weekend. I'm hoping to catch the AMCB set at Brennan's if I'm not exhausted after a day at the studio and the drawing class I'm attending at the Norton-Simon in Pasadena. Got to get my culture on!

Peace & Disco Beats

Eli Stone Hits Britain

2009-01-27T21:17:00.001-08:00

Thanks to the UK Soul Mates who alerted me that they heard "Everyone's Ingenue" on telly! Here in the States, the season premiere of Eli Stone was back in October. Nice to know that the show made it across the pond, my song intact. And better yet, that some of you caught it.

In music news, I will not be performing at this year's IPO in Liverpool. But, I'm contemplating a return to the UK in 2010. Even numbered years seem to work out well. If God wills it, I will be there to entertain you... somehow.

Peace & Disco Beats

"Definitely, Maybe" - Great LPs of My Lifetime (First In A Series)

2009-01-24T09:36:00.000-08:00

Days like today remind me of my discovery of Oasis. Rain coming in sideways, dreary January mornings walking to the bus stop and then on to the studio with an uphill mush. The music on my walkman propelling my legs made by five lads from Manchester, England.

It was the beginning of 1995. I had little exposure to British pop to that point. I knew Blur's campy Girls & Boys; Elastica's booming Connection was all over modern rock radio. But that was about it. Then one night, I was in the Tower Records on Ventura when I spotted a magazine called MOJO. The headline was "The Band You've Always Wanted." Really? A few days later, I trotted into Hollywood to seek out this band's debut CD.

For Christmas, I received a gift certificate to Blockbuster. They were pioneering the try before you buy model that eventually ran them out of business. It was my first time, so I sheepishly asked the attendant to listen to a disc called Definitely, Maybe. From the opening wall of guitars on Rock'N'Roll Star I was hooked. I didn't even need to hear the rest of the album. I got it and was back at my Hollywood hovel in minutes with the album cranked up. The next day I went to a newsstand and bought every British music mag I could lay hands on, including MOJO. BritPop became my crack for the next 3 years.

This past week, I put together a new play list of BritPop favorites. Oasis figures heavily. They became all I wanted to listen to in early '95. I only caught the music video for Live Forever once, but I would play it in my apartment constantly. Its chorus, "You and I are gonna live forever," became a mantra for me. A few days later, I shelled out $9 for an import CD single of Oasis' non-LP single Whatever. Wow. It was as if the Beatles had been reborn. I proceeded to buy up import single after import single to get all of the B-Sides. All in the span of two weeks.

The rain came down, I was making little money. It was a lonely time, but I had Oasis to amp me up. Then I saw the LA Weekly: Oasis were coming to town. I was late on the jump. Tickets had started at $10.67 (the show was sponsored by KROQ, the cost of the tickets being their location on the FM dial), but I missed out. I went to a broker and paid a whopping $35 for a standing room ticket. But what standing room. I was right next to the stage the whole night. Kicked in the head, pushed, jolted, bopped. Whatever. The show was glorious. They stoically tore through 95% of their album. Cigarettes and Alcohol still rings through my mind as I think about it. Oasis finished the set with I Am The Walrus. Ha ha. The nerve! They had it and have never lost it.

I lingered around the Palace's dance floor after the show, soaking up the atmosphere. From behind the stage emerged this shorter fellow with a Beatle Mop Top. It was lead guitarist, Noel Gallagher. I walked right up and introduced myself and told him how amazing the band and the CD were. He was very kind and seemed genuinely humbled by my compliment. He said "Thanks, nice to meet you, etc," and then was off for the bar.

Noel and his brother Liam have gotten bad raps over the years for being unapproachable, boorish, untalented... Whatever. I will always rank Noel among the coolest of my peers. Things came full-circle, in 2006, when I got to record at Monnow Valley Studio in Wales where Oasis had their first sessions for Definitely, Maybe.

Definitely, Maybe continually shows up on Top 100 lists. I'm not sure where it stands for myself but certainly within the Top 50. The CD is still as fresh and exciting as when I first heard it. So of it's time: Cool Britannia.

They paved the way to my taste for new and established UK acts like Supergrass and Pulp and the Austin Powers phenomenon. With their very personal battle with Blur, they competed to put out superlative records on a regular basis. It was exciting to visit record stores back then to hear what would come out of England next. Yes, for a long time, Oasis were the "Band I Always Wanted."

Peace

Not So Chic, But Rock Hall Gets a Run(-DMC) For Its Money

2009-01-22T07:12:00.001-08:00

Well, friends here we are a few days into the Obama administration and I'm still excited. Bought all the various newspapers I could. It will take me a while to read through them, but I'll do my best.

On to music. The Rock Hall class for 2009 was announced recently and as usual, I am disappointed by the omission of Chic. This band, not simply a disco act or one-hit wonder, deserves the recognition. Perhaps in another decade, founding member Nile Rodgers will be honored as an individual in a technical category for his production and writing prowess. Le Freak excites me every time I hear it. Their other big hits, I Want Your Love and Good Times form the basis of a great jazz influenced dance canon. Oh, well.

[Search my blogs for previous entries touting the worthiness of Chic's induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.]

As for this year's class, I'm only truly thrilled for Run-DMC. They are one of the cornerstones of hip-hop and modern rock. Yeah, I said it. Without Run-DMC, no Beastie Boys, no Beck, no Public Enemy, no Aerosmith comeback or Johnny Cash's valedictory run. Why? Because along with the awesome, influential music Run-DMC created, their act is associated with the seminal label Def-Jam and a producer for the ages: Rick Rubin. To call Rubin a genius is fair. Plus Run-DMC was fun, they weren't about abuse, drugs or guns. They were all about the kicks, the Kangols and the rhymes. Their induction performance, minus deceased DJ Jam Master Jay, will be moving and spectacular. Run-DMC's inclusion in the Rock Hall will also open the gates for other deserving rap acts, like P.E., the Beastie Boys & (yeah, I said it) LL Cool J.

Congrats to the other inductees including Bobby Womack & Jeff Beck.

Peace & Disco Beats

King Day Thoughts

2009-01-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

My first blog of the new year. Happy 2009 everyone. I am feeling optimistic and hopeful about the direction my life and the times are heading.

I'm thinking about the reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this morning. It's been several years since the last time I went to his childhood home in Atlanta. Yesterday I preached at church for the first time and used two excerpts from his speeches, the Nobel Prize Acceptance and the sermon the Drum Major Instinct. In researching Dr. King, a huge light bulb came on. I am actually a few months older now than King was at the time of his assassination. Isn't that crazy? He was 35 when he won the Nobel Peace Prize. When I was 35, I hadn't even gotten the band to England.

My sermon was based on John 1:43-51, the calling of Phillip & Nathanael. It was entitled "Called (In The Name Of Love)." I spent time discussing how those disciples' reactions to their call was different, but ultimately yielded the same result; how in love, with love and in the name of love are the best ways we can respond to the call. Remember, He knows our hearts better than we do.

[Note: I will be preaching again on Sunday Feb. 15 at North Hollywood First United Methodist Church. The worship begins at 8:15 AM. Contact me or the church for more details]

During both of the worship services, I performed U2's Pride (In The Name Of Love), which was written about MLK. The second time I did it, in the main service I was nearly levelled to tears by the power of the lyric. To this day, I'm surprised that it took a band from Ireland to write the definitive pop song about Dr. King.

This has been a busy new year for me. Yesterday with the preaching; and at the studio I have a new role around the back of the house. I'm now supervising the singers and improv performers at the studio. It's exciting work and edifying, too. I'm supremely thankful to God that I'm actually doing a job that I don't want to leave at the end of the shift. Frankly, I'm thankful that I have a job.

Tomorrow, I have to be at the studio, but I will be near TV sets as much as possible. The DV-R will be set to capture all of the festivities for Obama's Inauguration. I attended Bush, Sr.'s inaugural while I was in college. It was fun, even though I was the loyal opposition. I have some twinge of regret at not being there in person tomorrow, but looking at the forecast, it will be toasty and in the low 80s here. Sorry, East Coast.

So, I encourage everyone to find a way to celebrate Dr. King in their hearts and actions. To paraphrase, King felt peace is a way of life, not a concept. Today is not just a day off, it's a day on!

Peace & Disco Beats

Christmas Round Up

2008-12-27T13:08:00.000-08:00

My Christmastime was marvelous. I hope yours was too. I'm extending mine. As I type, I'm listening to Dylan Thomas reading his poem "A Child's Christmas In Wales." It is simply one of my favorite works by anyone. I'm still going to memorize it someday. I'll let you know when I'm ready to recite it.

The week was alternately wet and frigid in Los Angeles. Perfect weather for doing a lot of eating. We went to the Huntington and the Norton-Simon museum. Christmas Eve church service was very moving and the candlelight ending was poignant. It was nice having Mom in town for the Yuletide.

The Monday Night Living Nativity was fun, even if we were frozen in place. A special note of gratitude to the couple who brought corporate cocoa to us. I'm sure we had the church's most irreverent cast of characters. I'd post pictures, but I'm afraid the rest of the congregation might "tsk, tsk" us for the next 12 months.

With Mom around and the weather inclement, we watched DVDs of the first season of Newhart. For my money, still the funniest sitcom ever. Followed closely by Fawlty Towers. What is it about hapless hoteliers that's so comical? I guess it's the absurdity of having to tolerate strangers and employees that no one else would in the name of service.

I got to one movie this week: Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire. Easily one of the best films of 2008. We also watched A Christmas Story, 25 years on. I can vividly remember seeing the Santa's mountain set in Higbee's at the Terminal Tower. My first brush with Hollywood as a kid.

I'm going to endeavor to keep Christmas longer this year. Even if the tree has to come down early. The spirit will remain. Smiling more. Certainly laughing more. Happy Birthday, Jesus.

Peace & Minced Meat

Top 10's For 2008

2008-12-19T19:51:00.000-08:00

Hey Soul Mates, I know, I've been a little lax in getting my year end Top 10's posted.

It's been a busy month: working the Christmas Tree lot, work in general. Festivities. My GRAMMY ballot arrived today, so that's on tap. Went to see Zappa Plays Zappa last Friday at the Roxy. That was an amazing 3 hour tribute to the genius of Frank Zappa led by his son Dweezil and Zappa alum, Ray White.

I was going to list the 10 best things I'd heard all year so I could include some non-2008 releases, like Springsteen's Magic (which would have taken the #2 LP slot and the #2 single slot for Girls In Their Summer Clothes) and David Ruffin's Unreleased Album from 1970 (#4 LP of the year). I'd also thought about marking the 30th anniversaries of the Stones Some Girls (crucial to my musical development) and Chic's Le Freak (still one of my top 5 singles of all time). But I'm omitting them and sticking to my usual format.

So here we go, just in time for a Joyeux Noel and the last days of Christmas shopping. I hope that if you purchase these as CDs or downloads that you enjoy them. Or at least are you might be curious about my selections.

Top 10 LPs of 2008 in ascending order.
#10 Blind Boys Of Alabama, Down In New Orleans
#9 Raphael Saddiq, The Way I See It
#8 Keane, Perfect Symmetry
#7 ABC, Traffic
#6 Duffy, Rockferry
#5 Supergrass, Diamond Hoo Ha. This record will forever remind me of trying to drive out of Oxford at peak hour.
#4 Black Keys, Attack & Release. Swamp-blues straight outta Akron, special sauce by Danger Mouse. Apocrypha tells us this production was borne out of material for an Ike Turner LP. I kid you, not!
#3 Fleet Foxes, Sun Giant (EP). Haunting.
#2 Fleet Foxes, Fleet Foxes. Shimmering.
#1 Norman Kelsey, A Talent For Loving. I'm biased. But if I'm lying, I'm flying.

Honorable Mention: MIA, Kala; Mariah Carey, E=MC2; Jimmy Needham, Not Without Love.

Top 10 Singles or tracks of 2008
#10 Robin Thicke, Magic
#9 Fleet Foxes, English House
#8 Keane, The Lovers Are Losing
#7 Black Keys, Strange Times
#6 Duffy, Warwick Avenue
#5 Fleet Foxes, White Winter Hymnal
#4 Peter Gabriel, Down To Earth
#3 Sara Bareilles, Love Song
#2 Norman Kelsey, U Had The $
#1 Norman Kelsey, Everything My Heart Desires. See notes for #1 LP.

Honorable Mention: Supergrass, Rebel In You; Oasis, I'm Outta Time; Black Keys, Oceans & Streams; Alicia Keys & Jack White, Another Way To Die; Coldplay, Violet Hill; Gnarls Barkley, Run and Blind Mary; Keane, Spiralling; REM, I'm Gonna DJ.

For 2009, I'm looking forward to fresh albums from Bruce Springsteen, Franz Ferdinand, Adam Marsland, D'Angelo and I hope and pray the NEW Michael Jackson!

Peace & Disco Beats

Give Peace A Chance

2008-12-08T10:00:00.000-08:00

This morning I delivered the homily for chapel at church for the Wesley School. Our theme this month is "peace." So I decided to split time for two poets. John Lennon and Maya Angelou. I was very pleased that several of the 4th graders knew Lennon's lyrics when I quizzed them. I.e. who said "Give peace a chance" or "All you need is love?" A couple of the girls were very quick tell us it was John Lennon. Turns out they had done book reports on him and the Beatles.

Today is the 28th Anniversary of John's assassination. What a pity he is gone. I can remember the following day, Tuesday morning, waking up to Strawberry Fields Forever on the radio. My 6th grade teachers (in their early 30s) were devastated. We spent the day talking about him and listening to his records.

John's music and the lessons of his life are as important as ever. As I clean the house, I have the Imagine album playing. Mr. Lennon means a lot to me. I've made two pilgrimages to Mendips and Strawberry Field in Liverpool. Played the Cavern Club several times. Visited the Dakota and Strawberry Fields in NYC. My wedding anniversary is even the same as his and Yoko's. Betcha didn't know that.

(Me at Mendips, 2008, flashing the peace sign. Previously unpublished photo.)

So for the homily, I decided that I needed to invoke John and remember him to a new generation of peace-loving people. As I mentioned, I also shared thoughts about Ms. Angelou. Then I read her poem "Amazing Peace." Appropriate for the season, "Amazing Peace" was composed a few years ago for the lighting of the National Christmas Tree ceremony. When I finished I stressed to the students that people like Lennon and Angelou are important because they promote Peace at all costs and under all circumstances. We should endeavor to do the same.

Peace. What an amazing concept. Waiting for the Prince of Peace to return, we gotta do our part. 'Tis the season every season.

Happy Xmas, War is over if you want it.

Peace & Mersey Beats

GRAMMY Nominations Concert Review

2008-12-03T21:47:00.000-08:00

Let me start with this: it was simply fun to be in the house and know that something was on the line.

Even though my GRAMMY dreams are deferred for another day, we had a swell time at the Nominations Concert at L.A. Live. It's a prime place for concerts and the Grammy shows are fun because I get to see many different performances. Foo Fighters ferocious take on You're So Vain, Mariah's Christmas (Baby Please Come Home), and the duet between B.B. King and John Mayer on Let The Good Times Roll were the highlights for me. Plus, Mariah looked great as Mrs. Claus. Frankly, all the artists did their thing, except for the vocally anemic co-host Taylor Swift. I was surprised they didn't let LL Cool J break out a classic hip hop number. But then, I'm not sure what rap songs are in the Grammy Hall of Fame.

John Mayer's post-show concert was entertaining. He performed solo and ran through his hits (Waiting On The World To Change, Wonderland) and tasteful covers (Crossroads, Free Falling). Most of his banter focused on his recently becoming tabloid fodder and mocking the "industry" in the audience for not making signs for him.

Overall, the nominations are lacking for my taste. Few artists I supported in the prelim round got nods. Raphael Saadiq did well. Bruce got several for the best song of 2008, not written by me, Girls In Their Summer Clothes. Peter Gabriel was nominated for his spiritual Down To Earth from Wall-E. But that's about it.

The awards show will be hip-hop heavy. Lil' Wayne, a crowd-pleaser apparently, who was atrocious on SNL, leads the nomination pack. But there will be plenty of rock if the Academy can convince Bruce to show up and persuade Radiohead to perform. Now that the Jonas Brothers made Best New Artist they are a ratings no-brainer for CBS. Seems a lock that Coldplay will perform as well as Robert Plant & Allison Krauss, who will rock this year's old-timey vote. Mark my words, Plant & Krauss are going to clean up. This is the kind of act and LP that my fellow voters love. As of now, I won't tip my hand, but for me, voting in many categories will involve much thoughtful listening - because I haven't heard much from the nominees.

Looking at the nominee list, I might be able to sit this show out. Unless they put together a really strong line-up of performers. As Duffy & Lil' Wayne's live TV performances showed me, most of the newer acts are lacking in stage presence. Their music videos may be representative, but the proof is in the live stage work.

It was very cool and I feel like I accomplished a lot by getting my album entered into the competition. I was also touched by the wonderful words of encouragement I received from you all. Thanks for the prayers. I'm looking forward to putting together my next record. Writing is slow going, but I've got three lyrics done. I need another dozen before approaching the studio. So, we're looking at another year before new music from yours truly. In the meantime, if you don't have A Talent For Loving yet, what are you waiting for? It also makes a great Christmas or Hanukkah gift.

Peace & Disco Beats

Tomorrow Night Never Knows

2008-12-02T23:16:00.000-08:00

Happy December. Christmastime is here again. Ain't been 'round since you know when.

I'm getting very excited about tomorrow night: GRAMMY Nominations will be announced. I will be in attendance at the Nokia Live for the event. It's not clear how many categories (other than the 4 marquees) will be announced. May be that the majority of the nominations will be released on Thursday morning. Regardless, it should be a fun night. Gotta look sharp. Anything can happen in Los Angeles. I might meet Paris and become her latest, newest BFF.

There will be plenty of performances for the show. John Mayer is doing a whole concert. Morris Day and the Time are playing the after-party. I'm looking forward to BB King and Mariah. The show airs live on CBS at 9 PM, EST. Check your local listings.

I'm believing that there will fantastic news to share with you on Thursday. No matter what, I've felt blessed through the whole process. My dog agrees with me. Or maybe it's the snacks. I'm rooting for some other artists to get nominations, too. I'll be pleased if the Black Keys, Raphael Saadiq, Keane, Fleet Foxes, Mariah & Bruce are recognized with nods.

So I continue immersing myself in vintage Temptations, who could be nominated tomorrow for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance, too. I went to Amoeba last night and got a copy of Temptations Live! from a concert date in 1966. Spectacular. I also have been studying David Ruffin's The Unreleased Album. What a gas to discover some new music. Along with Christmas music, the Tempts are in heavy rotation on my iPod.

Facebook finally got me. It's been a mind warp catching up with people I knew in 1st grade and college. A positive experience so far. I had been reluctant to sign up for "FB" and even after I logged on, I was leery. But finding all of these familiar faces has been cool. Especially since I moved around a lot as a kid. There are friends that I thought I'd never reconnect with and they are alive and well. So, if you are on Facebook, look me up. I have a musician page along with my profile. Of course, I will maintain my presence on MySpace. It's more advantageous for getting out my music.

Peace & Golden Gramophones

Thankfulness '08 Version

2008-11-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

It's Thanksgiving. Time to take stock of what I'm thankful for this year. Although I tell God all the time that I'm thankful for everything everyday.

But the emphasis this year is on the opportunities I've had to serve my church and community. I've had a blast assisting with morning chapel on Mondays. Leading Bible study has been cool and enlightening. Going to the San Fernando Valley Rescue Mission on a monthly basis has made me even more grateful that I earn enough to keep a roof over my head and food on the table.

I'm also thankful for my family: Patty, Callie, Renee, Mom & Dad, Nathan and Herb, Gmom, Nil & Uma. I'm appreciative of my church and musical families. Thanks for your love and support this year and every year. Friends and fans around the globe, I've got a lot of love for you too.

In one week, the GRAMMY nominations will be announced. I'll be at the Nokia theatre for the live concert and TV program, believing. Believing. Thanks to everyone who has expressed their support in action and in prayer for my career and this particular endeavor.

Thanksgiving has always been a favorite holiday of mine. It signals the beginning of the Christmas season for one. As a kid, the Wednesday before Turkey Day meant traveling: to Pittsburgh, to East Lansing, to Alexandria, to Oakland, to Atlanta, and now to Corona. A sense of adventure and the promise of tasty food. I hold those memories dear and look forward to creating new memories this year.

I wish you and your family a very Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.

Peace and Cranberry Sauce

The Boss's Latest Is Free

2008-11-24T17:24:00.000-08:00

New music has arrived on the interwebs. Fans of Bruce, or Obama for that matter, need to check out Working On A Dream. This was a song that Springsteen debuted while touring in support of Obama's presidential campaign. It's free on iTunes this week. I'm awaiting the whole new album from the Boss since it sounds like a true sequel to 2007's Magic, which featured the E Street Band in all its glory. Bruce and Co. will be the halftime entertainment at the Superbowl in January. Maybe he'll perform at the GRAMMY awards the following week. No doubt Springsteen will be in DC for the inauguration. Yours truly will watch two of those three events from home.

Other fresh cuts I'm digging right now include Keane's very 80's The Lovers Are Losing and the return of Q-Tip with Gettin' Up. I'm still getting my Motown education on with the Temptations. I'm hoping to check out their show with the Four Tops at the Gibson on Friday.

Happy Thanksgiving Week

Temptations

2008-11-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

On the Temptations.

Part 1: Thanks, Vanity Fair. This month's issue of the magazine features an (all-too brief) oral history of Motown Records. It was fascinating to read the first person accounts of the early years of Hitsville and Berry Gordy's successes. The vintage pics and current photos by Annie Leibowitz of the surviving Motown roster are wonderful.

The article reminded me how much I adore the records that came out of Detroit's hit factory. Many of the songs had gotten so overplayed on "oldies" radio, that I had forgotten how amazing the singles were on their own merit. As a youngster, I really enjoyed Smokey Robinson and the Miracles and of course, the Jackson 5. In later years, I gravitated toward the grittier sound of James Brown and the Stax label because their records felt fresher to my ears.

The real rediscovery was my love of the Temptations. I met the Temptations at the Charlotte airport coming home for Christmas as a freshman in college. I still have their autographs on a random piece of paper in my office. I can remember when I first moved to Los Angeles, I was really into them. I learned all of the vocal parts to their biggest smashes: Ain't Too Proud To Beg, My Girl, Just My Imagination, and I Can't Get Next To You. Each one of these cuts is legendary and we all know the words! The Tempts deserved to be part of the earliest Rock Hall induction classes.

So, I downloaded a bunch of Temptations records last night. Oh boy, they sound great. I blasted them on the stereo late into the night. The performances are brighter and more potent than I remembered. Get Ready is playing on right now. Wow. Sing it, Eddie! There are tracks I got that I have never heard before. Now, that's fun to uncover great performances lost in the tidal wave of the Classic Hits.

Part 2: This week's Rolling Stone has a spread on the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. FYI, the survey covers the Rock & Roll era, 1955 to the present. The musicians who were polled got it right for the most part. Each voter got to select their Top 20 which was then compiled into a list of the Top 100.

It's a crime though that Temptation Eddie Kendricks is missing from the list. [Steely Dan's Donald Fagen, Harry Nilsson, Teena Marie, Boy George and Rick James, also absent, would make my favorite 100.] I'm pleased that the voters recognized David Ruffin's contributions. But it seems odd that they neglected to include Mr. Kendricks, whose falsetto performances are as equally influential as Mr. Ruffin's iconic vocals. I'll drop Rolling Stone a line.

In the meantime, dig the sounds of the Temptations when you can. They really are the most amazing vocal group of all time. Without them, there's no Jackson 5, Sly & The Family Stone, Hall & Oates, Boyz II Men, Bee Gees, etc. I'm going to crank them Tempts up again. Sorry, neighbors. Don't Let The Joneses Get You Down.

Peace & Psychedelic Soul

Barack And The Family Stone

2008-11-05T10:38:00.000-08:00

My fellow Americans,
I've found the perfect soundtrack for this morning: Sly & The Family Stone's Greatest Hits. Jubilant, slightly defiant and entirely energizing. Though these songs are 40 years old, they sum up the moment perfectly. Hope overflows from these tracks and Sly's multi-culti pop family. Here's a sample of their wonderful songs spinning on my iPod:

Everyday People
Stand!
Everybody Is A Star
Sing A Simple Song
You Can Make It If You Try
I Want To Take You Higher

Let's get it together and keep it together, America. No matter our color, sex, religious belief or economic status. We all still speak English; democracy is alive. Sly speaks to us from the pregnant past to the funky future we are embracing. We are all Everyday People in a victorious new day! We've got to live together. You can make it if you try. And everybody is a star, or at least they can be now.

America rejoice. It took a lot of faith, hope and unity to get us to this moment. That's worth fighting for and remembering. In case you missed it or want to relive it, dig Obama's victory speech!

Peace to all of you. I do want to take you higher! I am Everyday People!

Not Morgan Freeman, But An Actual Black President

2008-11-04T21:20:00.000-08:00

Wow. Barack's speech has given me more hope for America's future than any I've ever heard. Seeing President-Elect Obama with Joe Biden is beyond moving. We have a real blended family taking over on Pennsylvania Avenue. Finally, we're witnessing the American Dream. Obama is the perfect face for our country. Truly a world citizen.

Barack's address to Chicago and the nation was smooth and firm. Easily the most amazing speech I've heard in my life. It really felt like watching a movie with a charismatic thespian (like Mr. Freeman) playing the President. America is once again a land of opportunity for all. One of the New York Times editorials stated that the American Civil War ended tonight. There will still be struggles, but we can see that the tide has changed. A new generation has spoken and we're seeing a bold, new America unfold.

Looking at the previous 43 Presidents, now I get to see a face that looks like mine. Now, there is a President with an equally different middle name as myself. Finally, there is a brown face in charge. This is so energizing. There are many problems facing our nation. My prayer is that as a country, as humanity, we can live up to the promise of our choice of President. Not just because he's black, but because of what he represents. Sea change. I hope that we all can celebrate Obama's win and unite in a meaningful way to restore the economy, heal cultural wounds, help the needy and educate our youth.

Surreal. We will get to tell our grandchildren that a monumental shift occurred tonight. How cool is that? I'm so pleased that I got to share the evening with my family and friends. Thanks for the phone calls everyone. Time to watch the rest of the coverage. Sigh.

Peace

#44... Your New President

2008-11-04T20:09:00.000-08:00

History. Rarely have I ever felt a positive part of American History before. But tonight is different. Barack Obama has blasted through the toughest glass ceiling. We got the news from Jon Stewart, who said "At 11:00 PM, Barack Obama is the President-Elect." This is too exciting for words.

I had a chance to talk to my Father twice on this historic occasion. My Dad who knows first hand the civil rights struggles that made this night possible. Thanks, Dad. I can't wait to talk to him tomorrow to get his further perspective. Of course, I can't wait to discuss with my Mom, too.

God bless you, President-Elect Obama. I wanted to be Commander-in-Chief as a kid, but always thought it would be impossible as a "non-white" person. The mantra of "you can grow up to be anything in America" never rang true until tonight. As a student of history, I couldn't be more excited. We'll get a woman into the White House soon enough, but for tonight let's keep on Baracking!

McCain has just conceded. Pinch me. Have we really elected a black man President? World, did you see that! Barack Obama has won and so have we. We put our votes where our mouths (and Constitution) are. He's black, y'all! And he's the new leader of the FREE WORLD. World, I am sorry for the last 8 years. The nightmare is over. Hope has come home to America.

I am so anxious to hear Barack's acceptance speech. Oh my! We've raised a toast to Barack and an administration that restores America to its former greatness.

Peace & Love

Barack Like Me

2008-11-04T07:47:00.001-08:00

VOTE!

The most patriotic thing we can do as Americans right now is to VOTE!

You all know that I'm supporting Barack Obama. He's had my endorsement for months. And Fred Armisen needs the work. I'm looking forward to watching the returns tonight.

May I remind you again? VOTE!

Time for me to get myself to the polls.

Peace and God Bless America

GRAMMY Update and a Different Madonna

2008-10-29T17:26:00.000-07:00

Only one week to go with nomination balloting for the 51st GRAMMY Awards. Thanks for all of the prayers and positive feedback! I've been reaching out to as many folks as possible to make them aware of my entries. It is a challenge being an independent artist, but heck McCartney is independent, too. Ah, the competition. Ha ha.

One of the coolest aspects of the balloting is being listed alongside legends (Macca, Al Green, Springsteen), peers (Gnarls Barkley, Raphael Saadiq, Robin Thicke) and folks I just plain know and like (Supergrass, Fleet Foxes). Balloting ends on Nov. 5. Again thanks to all of the Grammy voters who are considering my entries for nomination.

Monday, I had an afternoon off to visit the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena. They have a gorgeous Raphael, the 500 year old Madonna and Child with Book. As some of you know, I'm a huge fan of Raphael's. His colors are so vivid and his faces are spellbinding. I picked up a cool Taschen book on his work to learn more. I'll use it as a checklist to figure out where else to go 'Raphaelspotting.'

This was my first trip to the Norton Simon and I think it's one of the better collections in L.A. The atmosphere is unhurried and contemplative compared to other local museums. Worth the trip. Then, it was a table full of tapas at Bar Celona on Colorado Blvd. It was like being on a holiday. A great day in the valley, y'all.

Peace & Disco Beats

8th Wonder! One More Grammy Entry From "A Talent For Loving"

2008-10-22T10:36:00.000-07:00

Hey y'all.
A discovery today: the title track from my CD, A Talent For Loving, is an official Grammy entry in the Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance category. Quite a surprise to find myself in that company, but I am not complaining. That brings the total entries for the 51st Grammy Awards up to 8.

The other previously announced entries are:
Record of the Year (Everything My Heart Desires)
Song of the Year (Everything My Heart Desires)
Album of the Year
Best New Artist
Best Male Pop Vocal Performance (Everyone's Ingenue)
Best Pop Vocal Album
Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance (Everything My Heart Desires)
and now Best Solo Rock Vocal Performance (A Talent For Loving)

Reviewers and fans alike have raved that my CD has something for everyone. Apparently NARAS, the Grammy's parent Association, feels the same way. I am very honored and blessed by God.

I'm also pleased, because I will be attending the The GRAMMY Nomination Concert Live at the Nokia theatre on Dec. 3. This show will be presented on CBS at 9 PM EST. Check your local listings.

Peace & Disco Beats

Shindig! Digs Me

2008-10-20T23:31:00.000-07:00

Wow, thanks for the outpouring of prayers and support for my Grammy bid. I'm simply thrilled that the Grammy leadership placed my work among that of so many of my heroes and peers in seven categories. Here's hoping enough voting members are able to check out my record before the November 5 deadline. There's something else important happening of an electoral nature that week. My music is a perfect tonic for the times, methinks. Celebratory, ya dig?

Here's the latest print review from the UK based Shindig! Magazine:

"(Kelsey) has totally reinvented himself as a soul man! When I first saw him perform in this milieu at IPO Liverpool 2006, I was duly impressed; the man was Prince, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson rolled into one! Kelsey is the consummate showman who gives it his all... Put on the CD, point the laser to track four, grab a loved one, and prepare yourself for a romantic evening as you dance to 'Everything My Heart Desires.'"
- David Bash, Shindig! Magazine, Oct. 2008 (UK)

Peace & Disco Beats

Norman Kelsey: Official Grammy Entrant

2008-10-18T09:26:00.000-07:00

Yo relatives,
here's more neat music news. The official entries have been announced for the 51st Grammy Awards and I have secured seven. These are not "nominations," yet. There are several steps involved to becoming a Grammy winner. In order they are:
- Submissions for Grammy Entry. Approved by a select panel.
- Grammy Entries for Grammy Nomination. Voted by Grammy Members.
- Grammy Nominations for Grammy Awards. Voted by Grammy Members.
- Grammy Award! The awesome experience everyone sees on TV, as I have since I was a kid.

So, I've cleared the first step. Which is really cool. My work (all from the album, A Talent For Loving) has been honored with placement in the following categories:

Record of the Year (Everything My Heart Desires)
Song of the Year (Everything My Heart Desires)
Album of the Year
Best New Artist
Best Male Pop Vocal Performance (Everyone's Ingenue)
Best Pop Vocal Album
Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance (Everything My Heart Desires)

I'm most excited about the Traditional R&B Vocal entry. A lot of love went into that record.

Gotta give a shout out to some of my co-entrants on this project: producers Adam Marsland & James Rix and engineer Steve Refling; as well as those who played on the album: Doug Gordon, Bryan Farrar, Teresa Cowles & Patty Tokahuta. Thanks, gentlemen and ladies.

Finally, I've released Everyone's Ingenue to Myspace so folks may add the song to their play lists there. Enjoy. If you are a GRAMMY voter reading my blog, thank you sincerely for your consideration. Be sure to visit my official site or Myspace to hear the entered tracks in their entirety.

Stay blessed, as some of my British fans say.

Peace & Disco Beats

Everyone's Eli Stone

2008-10-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

(Updated at 12:15 PM PST, Oct. 15)

Thanks for the congratulations sent last night after the airing of the season premier of ABC's Eli Stone. My song, Everyone's Ingenue appeared six minutes into the episode in a scene between Eli and his brother Nate. Something about those brothers named Nate. If you missed it there will be plenty of opportunities to review. Go to the Eli Stone website to watch it on demand.

Overnight Nielsen ratings suggest that viewership for last night's show was around 10 million people. That's a lot of exposure and I'm thankful for it.

This weekend, I had a really nice mini vacation to Vero Beach, FL to see family members and to celebrate my grandmother's 93 birthday. It was a truly relaxing time. Found time to stroll the shore like in my old high school days. The ocean swimming Saturday was brilliant, but the sea was churning the last two days we were there. And let me tell you, Old Bay is the key ingredient for making some stupendous pick and peel scrimps.

Peace & Disco Beats

Eli's Coming

2008-10-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

Here's big music news from the world of Norman Kelsey. My song Everyone's Ingenue will be heard on the season premiere of ABC's Eli Stone. The episode airs in one week, on Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 9 PM PST. Check your local listings. I have no idea what the extent or the context of the song will be, so it shall be a surprise for us all.

Eli Stone tells the story of a young, visionary lawyer who may be a prophet or may just suffer from an aneurysm. It stars Trainspotting's Jonny Lee Miller and the show is known for its use of popular music. In fact, singer George Michael's songs featured heavily in Eli Stone's first season. So tune in and turn it up! Of course, you can purchase your own digital copy of Everyone's Ingenue from iTunes, Amazon, etc. Or order the entire CD (hard copy) from CDBaby.

In local music musings, my music will be heard tonight on the internet talk-radio show Broad Topics. This is cool news, too. This program, hosted by four funny ladies here in Los Angeles, airs from 7-9 PST. Podcasts are available.

Keep the faith!

Peace & Disco Beats

Citywalk AstroVision And You

2008-09-28T14:15:00.000-07:00

Quick heads-up:

My video for A Talent For Loving has been added to the rotation of the videos playing on the Astrovision on Universal CityWalk. It was very exciting to get a call from a friend who was at the food court last night. When was the last time that happened?

So Long, Butch Cassidy

2008-09-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

Sad news today from Hollywoodland. Paul Newman passed away. He was born in Cleveland, like myself and was the first celebrity that I understood was from my hometown. Newman's Sporting Goods was still open when I was very little. He attended the same high school as my mother (albeit a generation or 2 ahead) and I always thought that was a big deal. My favorite movie of his is Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. In fact, I'd reckon it's one of the 20 best films of all time.

How cool was Butch? Way cool. I'm not well versed in Newman's classic films (pre-1968), but I'd like to give a shout to his performances in Hudsucker Proxy, Road To Perdition and especially the greatest movie ever about hockey, Slap Shot. Can I get a witness? But go back to Butch Cassidy and he and Redford make the prototypical action-movie buddy team, complete with witty banter and sterling chemistry.

I can remember the earliest occasions of seeing Newman's Own salad dressing at the grocery store and asking my mom about his charitable work. It was his popcorn though that was the big no-brainer, although in later years, his cookies and pretzels remained hits in my household.

Here's to those blue eyes. Maybe I'll find time to watch Butch Cassidy this week.

Peace

LOVE and Fleet Foxes

2008-09-25T22:51:00.001-07:00

Hey y'all. I had a double dose of super-quality entertainment this week.

On Monday night, I went to see Cirque Du Soleil's LOVE, featuring the music of the Beatles. It was spectacular. I had the soundtrack, but it was simply listening to remixes without the mind-bending visuals that the Cirque's performers provide. The whole event was a highlight, from the instrumentals played as an overture with which my friend Mikey and I sang along. Within the show, though, I thought they hit their stride with the pieces that accompanied Being For The Benefit of Mr. Kite/I Want You (She's So Heavy), Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds and Come Together. I don't think it's a coincidence that those are some of John's most visually stimulating compositions. Mr. Kite/I Want You featured the most terrifying, gravity defying high stage trick I've ever seen and samples of Helter Skelter's vocals. Lucy featured some awesome aerial ballet to go along with a bit of sensory deprivation. And Come Together had great choreography that had the dancers reappearing on stage as lights went out and came up. Frankly, I cannot do the show any justice with the typewriter. Go to Vegas and witness it.

On Tuesday night, I saw and met the present and future of music. Fleet Foxes brought down the El Rey with their new brand of Americana. I've been touting their records to anyone who will listen, but their live show is actually more monumental than their CD and EP. Fleet Foxes are led by 22 year-old Robin Pecknold, an unassuming and utterly charming young man. His band mates added rich harmonies, spirited playing and lots of playful banter about Michael Phelps, the economy and "baby smooches." They started with an a cappella piece, Sun Giant, and threw down the gauntlet. Very daring in this day and age of auto-tuned and bland vocals. Songs from the records like He Doesn't Know Why, White Winter Hymnal and (my favorite) English House benefited enormously from the organic live setting and the additional harmony parts. It was Robin's vocals and lyricism, however, that had the audience in throes, especially on the handful of occasions where he took solo acoustic spotlights.

To say that the night was a spiritual experience would be accurate. There were moments when the performances were moving to the core. Oliver James felt like we were hearing the next big thing. Tender and intimate, Mr. Pecknold nailed these showcase pieces as if his life depended on delivering the goods.

To see this group hitting its stride in such a small venue was a real treat. Patty and I discussed how Fleet Foxes are an important band. So few artists are trying to be this melodic, let alone harmonious. I've been spoiled and want to see them again. Now! They added Ragged Wood to their encore along with Blue Ridge Mountain. These numbers are complex pop suites. Neil Young meets the Beach Boys meet Aaron Copeland. It's deep like that.

I had a chance to speak briefly with Robin. I'm always amazed to meet artists that young who have a solid artistic vision; a sophistication beyond their years. Don't let the shocked look on his face fool you, he was very warm in our conversation, the flash just went off twice. He's going to be a household name soon. If Fleet Foxes don't wind up with multiple Grammy nods, a spot on SNL and a place in your music collection, something is wrong with the world. God bless Fleet Foxes.

I know my reviews have not come close to how I feel about both experiences. Suffice it to say, I got my money's worth.

Happy Birthday to Mikey and Patty. Congrats to Mikey and Amanda. Thanks for the excuse to meet you in Vegas and go with you to LOVE. Love is all you need.

Peace & Rustic Beats

Pride

2008-09-21T08:40:00.001-07:00

My fellow Americans, I've been around the world and I've met wonderful people everywhere. I've seen amazing and eye-popping sights. Experienced an array of cultures. Tasted exotic foods and sampled delicious delicacies. But, I'm still proud to be an American. I present exhibit A:

Peace and Fife and Drums

p.s. Happy Birthday, Dad!

Sugary Beverage, Mr. Bond?

2008-09-14T00:09:00.000-07:00

Here it is a snippet of Jack White's kick-butt theme song for Quantum of Solace. It appeared yesterday in the new ad for Coke Zero. That mean guitar and the horns mesh nicely. This may make two Bonds and two theme songs in a row worthy of the title.

I can't wait. Casino Royale was brilliant, as was Chris Cornell's You Know My Name.

Peace & Disco Beats. Shaken, not stirred.

Another Voice From The Retro Club

2008-09-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

Artists are clearly tapping into tried and true styles from yesteryear. I raved about Fleet Foxes in my previous blog. Well, now I offer up a new exhibit: Nicole Atkins. If Mama Cass and Roy Orbison had a love child, she's it. Imagine that genetic combo backed by the Pretenders. The songs on her record Neptune City are all over the place, but she's got an operatic vocal quality that is as every bit mesmerizing as Amy Winehouse's blues snarl. Difference? Seems like Nicole's having fun with her noir-ish tunes. Plus it's nice to hear an American voice singing with gusto, not burpling like a vocodered teen queen (my own word, burpling).

Check out Ms. Atkins on le video:
Maybe Tonight
Neptune City (original version)

I expect her to make a decent run at Best New Artist (along with Fleet Foxes) at the Grammys. Hope her label makes the push. Her record came out last October, making it eligible for this year's awards. It's quickly joining my favorites of the past 12 months. I mean, on first listen (and I'm still listening) I know this is a record to be reckoned with.

Hope all my kith and kin in the South are weathering the storms. Fall has mercifully arrived here in L.A. Nice walks at night to the church with the family; Callie likes to run in the parking lot.

Peace & Disco Beats

Music For The New School Year/Reasonable Challenges

2008-09-11T08:08:00.000-07:00

This is a two part blog. It contains today's thoughts and a blog I didn't finish from a week ago. Let's start with the present.

I've been discovering lots of music the past few days. After discussing the track All Summer Long with my brother Nate, I picked up the new Kid Rock. I'm still wary of his raps (a little coarse for my taste, now), but his rock & roll moments are super. Then there's Jimmy Needham's Not Without Love. Jimmy is a Christian artist who reminds me of Elliot Yamin and Orson, for those who can dig that. I'm still listening to Bruce's Magic in heavy rotation, along with the recent Blind Boys of Alabama release. In "catalog," I found Elton John's Honky Chateau, featuring Honky Cat and Rocket Man. It is a really solid set of songs.

As for the most amazing thing I've heard this week? I've discovered the joys of Fleet Foxes. Their self-titled debut is a pastoral, choral masterwork. It evokes memories and provokes feelings of times-gone-by that never really happened. That's not an easy task. The whole album reminds me of autumns at Georgetown, without the homework. It takes me to leaf-crunching walks along red brick sidewalks and panoramic vistas out of the windows of New South onto the Potomac and Northern Virginia's changing colors. To me this record is the sound of a new millennium Crosby, Stills & Nash recording the Beach Boys' Smile. The lyrics deal heavily with forests, fauna and the seasons; life and death. Even when the words are dire, the performances are ethereal and uplifting.

I'm challenging myself. I've come up with 10 song titles. I'm going to write 10 songs. My goal is to write a cohesive album of tunes. Starting with the titles, I'll go on to lyrics and then the melodies. I've even got an album title and thus a title track. God willing, if the usual suspects are available in 2009, I should have a new record out by this time of year.

As for A Talent For Loving, it continues to chug along. Several songs/performances/tracks were submitted for the first round in the process that produces Grammy winners. Keep in mind there are several cycles of voting, etc. and typically signed acts make up the vast majority of nominees you hear announced on TV. Let alone the winners. Again, if God wills it, perhaps some of my work will show up on the preliminary ballot. What categories could feature yours truly?

Best New Artist
Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance (Everything My Heart Desires)
Best R&B Male Solo Vocal Performance (Everything My Heart Desires)
Best R&B Song (Everything My Heart Desires)
Best R&B Album (A Talent For Loving)
Best Urban/Alternative Performance (A Talent For Loving)
Best Pop Male Vocal Performance (Everyone's Ingenue)

Hopefully, I don't disqualify myself by posting this info on my blog. Ha ha. At least the works were entered. That's further than any other of my efforts have gotten.

Today marks the 7th anniversary of 9/11.
God bless us and God bless America.

Jacko at 50: Off The Wall

2008-08-29T06:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the King of Pop!

Billie Jean and I Want You Back rate among the greatest and most important musical moments in our pop cultural history. Time to celebrate the man who gifted us.

Hard to believe that Michael Jackson, who's music is eternally youthful, is turning 50 today. It's another half-century for another one of my favorite artists. Prince hit 50 back in June.

So today, I will be spinning Michael's greatest album on my iPod. That's right: Off The Wall. Over the years, people have come to realize that Thriller is Michael's Sgt. Pepper and OTW is his Revolver. I've spoken to many peers who agree that it is OTW that remains his creative high water mark. Not that Thriller is coasting, but OTW is simply more fun to listen and dance to. Plus, OTW was the first "soundtrack" for a road-trip for me, when my Dad, Nathan and I trekked to Pasadena for the Superbowl in a camper. And that was the 8-Track of Off The Wall, by the way.

My brother called me and said he'd heard Don't Stop Til You Get Enough on a club sound system recently and gushed about the quality of the track. I agree. So if you have a chance to Burn This Disco Out, do it!

You may remember my stories of dancing around the living room to Jackson 5 singles cut from the backs of Alpha-Bits boxes (thanks, Mom). Or shaking Michael's hand at the first concert I ever attended (thanks, Dad)! Regardless of tabloid fodder, I still love Michael Jackson.

Happy Birthday!

Photo Fabulous! More CityRock Photographs

2008-08-26T23:36:00.000-07:00

Here are 15 favorite shots from last night's performance on the Universal Citywalk.

Some repeat and new thanks are in order. Again, a big hand for the folks running the event (Heidi, Jeff, Silvana, Gene, Marcus; thank you). Also a shout out to Gilbert Cadena who also took some amazing pix posted to his myspace. Thanks to Lupe who runs the Norman Kelsey fan page on MySpace. All photos in this blog were taken by Patty. Brilliant work as usual. There are 49 pix on myspace from the show. These however are higher quality, suitable for printing. Featured are yours truly and my Merry Company (Larry, Bryan and Jennifer). I love y'all. Thanks for bringing your "A" game to the stage. You look mahvelous, too.

Peace & Disco Beats

CityRock Live [Show Recap]

2008-08-26T09:22:00.000-07:00

Wow. What a great show last night and a huge turnout on the Universal Citywalk.

It began hot, hot, hot. But as the temps cooled, the stage heated up. Thanks to everyone who made the show happen last night. The folks on CityWalk and 102.7 KIIS-FM are to be applauded for putting on such a grooving event. Special thanks go to all the fans and all of the passersby on CityWalk who gave the band and me such great energy to put on a rollicking show. But the gang I really have to thank are my band: Larry & Bryan. You all have given so much to get the music across in an amazing way... More on that in a moment.

This was one of the larger crowds I've ever played to. There were plenty of people in the courtyard where the stage was set up, and more in the balcony of the food court and the patio of the Hard Rock Cafe (where some folks could enjoy their adult beverages during the set). Our performance was beamed to the Astrovision above the stage, I've seen a few stills, so I got lots of exposure. Looking good 15 feet tall. And the sound was booming. The quieter songs in particular benefited from a wonderful mix.

We kicked off the night with Fall Out, Larry vamping on the beat till the group was ready to blast. That was followed by U Had The $. The audience was down with the funk, for sure. Last night was the first time I had a backing vocalist for a whole show. Jennifer Tafolla did a super job adding the right parts to songs like U Had The $.

Everything My Heart Desires went over very well, as it usually does. And as I mentioned, the quality of the performances and the mix of the ballads made for a dynamic evening. I introduced my songwriting partner Bryan to start Everyone's Ingenue. The fans present and Ms. Tafolla helped sweeten the choruses on that one. Especially at the end of the song with the "I love you, love you, love you's."

We really rocked out I Can't Cry For You and got some of the gang from the studio dancing up front. Then came our first cover: Miss You. This has always been a highlight for me to perform Miss You. But when we got to the breakdown, something magical happened. Bryan channelled Stevie Ray Vaughn and blew us all away with an amazing improvised solo. Get down, Bryan! I was sorry to end the break, but the song had to end. Ha ha. The crowd unfamiliar with my music was with me, but they really got into Miss You and hung out until the end.

Done Lost My Mind became the big sing-a-long that it has in the past. I could hear the girls throwing the lyrics back at me. Nice! Love Someone followed that. We hadn't played Love Someone in months, but we pulled it together, even the four-part harmony at the end. It sure helps to have Larry playing the drums so tastefully and singing, too. Underrated singer, that Larry.

By this point, the audience was ready for A Talent For Loving. Many of the newer fans had checked out the song and the video online. So when we got to the refrain, they were all ready to shout "T.A.L.E.N.T!" Too cool. Bryan, of course, wailed on the solo. I had so much fun singing it, because with Jennifer on-stage, I could concentrate on the lead vox. That was pretty much true of the whole set, however.

We finished up with a number that I dedicated to it's author Isaac Hayes and we tore the roof off the outdoor stage with Hold On, I'm Comin'. Bryan and I clunked guitars at the start of the song and I missed the first line of the song. I had to keep myself from laughing. Last time we played it was in Liverpool at the Cavern Club. Once again, the crowd didn't seem to mind us doing a cover. I heard a couple of people shout out for Isaac, "Isaac, R.I.P.," etc. This was a hip audience.

After the set, my merch girls (Lisa, Stephanie & Megan) did a great job of getting CDs into the hands of the crowd. Signed lots of discs and posters. God has truly blessed me. This is my last show for a while. Don't worry I'll keep busy musically. I want to write some new material. Maybe record. I'm keeping fingers crossed for some song placements in film & TV. The Grammy nomination process has started, so I'm concentrating on that, too. The holidays are looming; I'll be singing at church. So I'm probably off the stage until 2009. Of course, you can always put on your CD of A Talent For Loving and relive the moments!

OK, there are lots and I mean lots of pictures. So this is going to take a few entries to get them posted. But here are the first few. I'll get a flood of them up this evening. And be sure to check myspace, too! Thanks to Patty for the action photos.

Peace & Disco Beats

Lost Boy Going For Gold

2008-08-14T22:37:00.000-07:00

Like many of you, I'm following the Olympics. 3 channels of HD sports I wouldn't otherwise watch. Including gymnastics. But I'm right there with our team, cheering for all of them. Here's one that I'll be rooting for especially. Heard about Lopez Lomong? He's one of the "Lost Boys of Sudan." As a youth he escaped a prison camp and lived in a Kenyan refugee camp for 10 years. Now he's an American citizen and running the 1500m. That's incredible, to coin a phrase. Check out Lopez's story on the official Olympic site.

USA! USA!

Step Into Africa

2008-08-14T07:04:00.000-07:00

Last night, we had the opportunity to visit Holman United Methodist Church in South Central to check out World Vision's exhibit "Step Into Africa." It was an incredibly moving experience. World Vision has authentically recreated the home lives of 4 children living in AIDS affected villages and towns in Africa.

You walk through the exhibit and, with the help of an iPod, hear narration and the child's voice telling their story. My guide was Mathabo, an 11 year old girl from Lesotho. The display is interactive, with sets, props and lots of photographs of the kids. By the time I got through Mathabo's story, I was in tears. It's alternately heartbreaking and inspiring. One set is a small chapel and inside were dozens of pictures of the children that World Vision is reaching out to in their mission. All of them were angelic. Of course, I had to choose one to sponsor. His name is Stewart. He is 7 and lives in Uganda. His birthday is the day after mine, it was the only way I could select just one.

If you live in the L.A. area (or anywhere the exhibit is touring), I urge you to take 30 minutes to check it out. Or at least visit the website and get more info. You might be moved. I know the spirit sure moved me. Step Into Africa will be at Holman UMC through Monday, August 18. Another neat part of the experience was meeting all of the ladies from Holman who were volunteering for the event. We shared our impressions of the exhibit and the mission. The majority of visitors have the same reaction, they told me. The plight of the continent of Africa particularly is a global responsibility for those of us who "have."

Say a prayer and lift up the children who are orphaned by disease and overwhelmed by poverty and hunger. There are plenty of opportunities in life to take action and help someone incredibly less fortunate, but equally loved in God's eyes.

Peace and Love

I Met The Walrus And New Music

2008-08-12T23:20:00.000-07:00

Check out this Oscar nominated short I Met The Walrus. It's the voices young interviewer and Beatle John in Toronto during the famous bed-in melded with some outta sight animation. Be sure to "watch in higher quality." (Thanks for the link, Bry)

What have I been listening to lately? Last night, I picked up a copy of the new CD by Blind Boys of Alabama Down in New Orleans. A fantastic gospel record made in the Big Easy with the help of Allen Toussaint and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. My dad took me to see the PHJB in Louisiana back in '81. Mom took me to see them around the same time in my hometown of Columbus at the time. I've always loved their performances and they are the perfect complement to the Blind Boys harmonies. The Blind Boys last few albums were actually a bit too adventurous at times. This one's that good old-time religion. Down By The Riverside is a favorite and the cd's finale I'll Fly Away is rousing.

Oh, for you, hip to the Internet, check out DJ Girl Talk. I'm sure I shouldn't like what he's doing on principal from a publishing stand point, but his record Feed The Animals is where we would be if the continuum from Paul's Boutique to today allowed for heavy sampling. I'm not partial to the harder raps that Girl Talk used, but the bed of over 300 (non-cleared) samples is mind-bending. Like playing name that tune with the past 40 years of pop music. Examples: Ride The Train mashed up with In A Big Country or Body Movin', Dancin' Machine and Back To Life spliced together. You can buy Girl Talk on his website for whatever you want to pay.

Also, I've still got Springsteen's Magic in heavy rotation. Buy that one ASAP.

Back to the Olympics. Time for Michael Phelps to do his thing... again!

Peace & Disco Beats

Fais Photo

2008-08-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some choice snapshots from my performance at Fais Do-Do on 8.8.08.
All taken by Patty Tokahuta. See more pictures from the show at Myspace.
Peace & New Wave Beats

Shut Your Mouth! I'm Just Talking 'Bout Isaac

2008-08-10T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sad news in the music world, Isaac Hayes passed this afternoon.

Most younger people know him as the voice of Chef on the infamous cartoon South Park. But he was an Oscar and Grammy winning performer who brought us the Theme From "Shaft" and a song I perform with some regularity, Hold On, I'm Comin'. Many folks don't know that he and his songwriting partner Dave Porter were responsible for many hits on Stax records in the '60s, including Soul Man and I Thank You for Sam & Dave. This was a seriously talented dude, who was also an inductee in the Rock Hall. Mr. Hayes was only 65.

Today was an exciting day for me. This morning, I was invited to perform the lectern duties (including the invocation and offertory) at church. It was kind of nerve-wracking, but thankfully, God got me through it with minimal missteps. It's wonderful and humbling to be involved and to serve that way. I hope that I'll be blessed with the opportunity again. Anyway, I hope that your Sunday is good and that the heat doesn't get to you!

Peace

Do Si Fais Do-Do [Show Recap]

2008-08-09T08:48:00.001-07:00

It was a wild night down at the Fais Do-Do. My first show in L.A. proper. My first solo performance in L.A. or the States, for that matter. And it was fantastic from my point of view.

Thanks to everyone who made the trip on a Friday night with high gas prices and a cover at the door. Sunshine funk makes good counter-programming for those who can wait to see the Olympics on their DVR. Ha ha. A special thanks to everyone who bought my CD at the show. Hope you are bopping to it now.

It was great to see a lot of familiar faces (Jen Tafolla, Paul Brown, Amee Brown) and some I hadn't seen in a year (Gabe Gianola, Lisa Golden, Bart Gold, TV's Star Hansen). Decades almost in some cases (Craig Hall). Many of you brought new people to see the show. You rock.

Like Homecoming, this year's International Pop Overthrow was chock full of friends: the Piper Downs played last night; Lisa Mychols from Nushu was in the house; Theresa Cowles, who sang on my album, was representing the Chaos Band; hadn't seen the guys from Adam's Attic or Checkpoint Charley in a few. In fact, Larry and I played the very first IPO in LA back in 1998 and many of the alums didn't know he was doing his thing with my solo act.

We went on at 8:30 and promptly blasted through our funkiest material, kicking off with Fall Out. The audience packed the dance floor in front of the riser. Cool. We jumped into Sucka and Bryan (aka Sterke Gitarrifs on guitar) and Larry (Astro on drums) brought their "heaviest" to it. This was the earliest I've ever played A Talent For Loving in the set, but it really worked. Bryan and I joked, because he threw up a prayer that he had started the song in the right key. The three of us hadn't been together to play or practice since we were in Liverpool. Take that! We hit our stride with U Had The $. That number continues to bring down the house. I really love playing it. Most of my old friends/fans hadn't heard the newer material and it was encouraging to hear raves for that song particularly.

Everything My Heart Desires followed. What can I say? Dedicated to the lovely Patty and all the ladies in the house. EMHD is a joy to perform. I gotta give a lot of props to my producer Adam Marsland for crafting such a listenable track. It's gotten dozens of plays on my iPod. How about yours?

We ended the set on a disco-note. Thirty years ago this week, the number 1 song in America was the Rolling Stones' Miss You. Many of you know this is absolutely a crucial cut for me. I can barely describe what the song touches in my soul. As threatened a few weeks ago, we played the heck out of it. Made it superslinky and I let Bry and Larry take turns burning that grease during the break down before "walking Central Park." People who had never seen me before were floored and the fans, well, the ladies loved it.

I will get some pictures posted from the show by the end of the weekend.

Of course, ours was the most slamming set. Although I really dug Armchair Oracles from Norway (nice trumpet solos) and Grove Hill from L.A. Groovy and grooving. The Piper Downs, who had themselves slyly introduced as Robert Bognar (Bobby, you may be getting your own TV show on the History channel and you may own normkelsey.com, but you can't keep up with me) rocked the house. Their new song "Handsome" is destined to stick in my head like the rest of their songs.

Overall, a wonderful night. Kudos to David Bash for putting on the best IPO night in L.A. ever. Yeah, I said it. Don't forget, in two weeks, I'll be headlining on the Universal Citywalk (Monday Aug. 25) to end their Summer concert series presented by KIIS-FM. I'm hoping to have a few surprises for you.

The other highlight in my life this week was meeting Martin Fry backstage at the ABC concert at the Gibson Amp. He was is great form for the show. I was really pleased that he played several cuts from his new disc Traffic. Told him so, too. He's a very charming guy and actually taller than me!

The whole of that concert was fun. The lineup included Belinda Carlisle of the Go-Go's and the Human League. That's right it was Sheffield's finest 80's pop bands. It was a thrill to hear the Human League play (Keep Feelin') Fascination, a 45 that I practically wore out back in the summer of '83. Whew... 25 years ago!?

On a serious note, I will miss Bernie Mac and his wall-eyed, full-tilt humor. His performance in the Original Kings Of Comedy makes me laugh just thinking about it. God bless you.

Peace & Disco Beats

In One Week

2008-08-02T08:56:00.000-07:00

Hey all, it's almost time for my American solo debut. The show is at Cafe Fais Do-Do in Los Angeles (W. Adams & La Brea). The set is presented by International Pop Overthrow. Fans aged 18 and up are welcome to attend. Since this is also my CD premiere party, the first 30 fans who buy my CD will receive a FREE A TALENT FOR LOVING poster!
Hope to see you there. It's gonna be a beautiful night!

Think Fast, Steely Dan

2008-07-26T22:37:00.000-07:00

A few nights ago, I finally got to see Steely Dan in concert at the minty fresh Nokia Theater across the street from Staples Center. First off, the venue is pristine. The sound is the best in town and they boast two hi-def screens that flank the stage. Not that the Dan are much to look at, but they are such fantastic performers, I got a kick out of seeing them "up close." Don Fagen channels Ray Charles by way of Transylvania. A vampiric soul man? Darn tootin'. And Walter Becker? He's like a Gerry Anderson Super-Marionette. His head and arms seemed to move independently as his body remained planted in place. But those guitar solos! Walter killed on FM. Steely Dan do come across well on stage. Don is a hoot and Walter does a deadpan that Dan Aykroyd's Elwood Blues could only dream of.

As for the set. It wasn't chock full of greatest hits. They did pull out their pop hits Hey Nineteen and Peg; but the show was mainly a gift to their albums' fans. The "Think Fast" Orchestra featured a four piece horn section, three female backing singers, keyboard player, a featured guitarist... and possibly the sickest drummer I've ever heard. When he was done with the drum solo from Aja, my jaw had been on the floor for several minutes.

The show started sans Becker and Fagen, with the big band playing hot instrumental versions of Everyone's Gone To The Movies and The Fez. Our duo strutted onto the stage with their chorus to The Royal Scam. The highlights for me were plenty. Showbiz Kids is as timely as ever. Steely Dan repeated the last verse for emphasis.

"Show biz kids making movies of themselves.
You know they don't give a f*** about anybody else."

Ah, Celebutantes... Fagen had your number thirty-five years ago.

Of course, hearing Peg and Kid Charlemagne live was outstanding (Modern hip-hop audiences know these tunes from sampling: De La Soul & Kanye West, respectively). Fagen's New Frontier from his solo disc The Nightfly was another favorite. The song has been playing in my head while I sleep for several weeks. Well, here's the set list:

Everyone's Gone To The Movies
The Fez
The Royal Scam
I Got The News
Show Biz Kids
Everything You Did
Two Against Nature
Hey Nineteen
Godwhacker
Glamour Profession
New Frontier
Gaucho [sung by Becker]
Babylon Sisters
Parker's Band
Third World Man
Josie
Aja
(Your Love Is Like) An Itchin' In My Heart [Band introductions]
Peg
Kid Charlemagne

encore:
Don't Take Me Alive
FM (No Static At All)

The fact that I was thrilled by this show and Steely Dan neglected to play my 5 favorite Dan songs (Reeling In The Years, Any Major Dude Will Tell You, Bad Sneakers, My Old School and Deacon Blues) speaks volumes about their canon and their entertainment chops. Nearly two hours of sublime jazz rock pop.

I got to thinking about the summer of 1988 when I started buying CDs. A Decade Of Steely Dan was one of the first I purchased. Shortly after that, I got a copy of The Nightfly (the first digitally recorded pop album) for Christmas. Mike or Mark gave it to me. Shame I can't remember. I'm sure they will tell me.

Thanks Steely Dan... and Think Fast!

Peace & Jazz

Happy Birthday, Han Solo

2008-07-13T09:12:00.000-07:00

Today is Harrison Ford's 66th birthday. Mr. Ford holds a dear place in my movie-going memory. Yes, I saw the new Indiana Jones movie after coming back from the UK. It was alright, but basically a pastiche of the original. The two big characters Harrison created rank among the most influential and coolest in my reckoning. No one has come close to Han Solo's effortless hipness nor Dr. Jones' wry heroism.

From 1977 to 1985, I went out of my way to see every movie starring Harrison Ford that I could. That meant many viewings of the western/Yiddish comedy the Frisco Kid as well as the innovative Blade Runner. I used to wait with baited breath for the opening of a new Harrison Ford movie. Mom used to take me straight from school on a Friday afternoon to see an Indiana Jones or Star Wars film the day it opened. Of course, my favorite memory was going to an advance screening of Raiders of the Lost Ark in Cleveland. I passed up going to the big end of the year party for the 6th grade to see Raiders. And I have no regrets. I didn't even know what Ark was missing; all I knew was this was Harrison Ford's new movie! It was such fun and still holds up as one of the best action flicks ever.

Mr. Ford's recent movies (i.e. anything the past decade) have not been among my favorites, but I'll put his Golden Age (ending with Witness, his only Oscar nominated performance) up against any other actor's. He's a true movie star. Happy Birthday, Harrison!

Peace & Making the Kessel Run in less than 12 parsecs

Magic

2008-07-12T09:13:00.001-07:00

My 500th blog. Thanks for stopping by!

Late last night I discovered that there is one more great Summer album. Bruce Springsteen's Magic. There are records that immediately evoke a place and time for me. I thought I might not find another Summer set. Music has gone so far down hill in general. There are some good singles, but few entire albums that hit the mark.

Magic was released last October to much fanfare and debuted at Number 1. The lead single Radio Nowhere wasn't a killer, even though it was a freebie on iTunes. So I didn't pay any more attention to the record. Combine that with the fact that Bruce was pretty well snubbed by the Grammys in the major categories.

Then around Christmas, I heard Bruce's second single The Girls In Their Summer Clothes. Now that it is the dog days, TGITSC is magnificent. The true test was listening to the CD in my car with the windows rolled down on a warm July night as I ran some evening errands. Brilliant. Shimmering. It's like a night-time carnival of sound. I'm looking forward to hearing it in broad day light. Livin' In The Future and You'll Be Coming Down are equally appealing. It's also fun to hear Bruce in great voice really digging for smoother vocal performances than usual. The slower moments are powerful, too. The album closer Terry's Song is a touching eulogy punctuated with the refrain: "When they built you, Brother, they broke the mold."

Bruce sure can write a great pop song when he wants to. My only quibble with the record is that it is over-compressed in places. I know Springsteen likes that Wall Of Sound aesthetic, but sometimes it can be too much for the digital age. When the E Street Band kicks into high gear though, the performances are undeniable. I haven't been this enthralled by Bruce since Born In The USA. I did get to see him and the Band at Dodger Stadium a few Summers back. Wish he was coming to town again to hear these songs in a live setting. Oh, well.

So for my record buying friends, this is a great back porch record or apartment balcony blaster. Albums like this were born to be soundtracks to BBQs. Better yet, cruise down the boulevard around 9 tonight with all the windows down and let the breeze cool you off and the Magic heat you up. I know I will on the way home from work. It's not a party album, but it does rock and roll and hits me right to the core.

Got a recent LP that shouts "Summer Album?" Drop me a comment.

Speaking of cooling off, time for a haircut. Gotta run.

Peace & Summer Breezes

Summer Breeze Makes Me Feel Fine

2008-07-09T22:39:00.000-07:00

Lately,
I have been having plenty of trouble with MySpace. I can barely log on without the site crashing my computer. Or without spyware leeching through the pages. I hope that if any of you are visiting me via MySpace that you are not encountering these problems. It's been very frustrating as you might imagine. Anyway, you should still be able to check out the song samples and leave comments there. It might take me a while to respond, but that's why.

Right now, I'm listening to Handel's Water Music. Nice and relaxing. I'm hopeful that the worst of the Summer heat is done. There's a cool wind refreshing NoHo. Between the high temps and food poisoning last week, I was done right in. Thanks again to everyone for their prayers and well-wishing.

Tonight, I attended a nice function at church. Dining on grilled hot dogs and crock pot chili. After dinner al fresco, a bunch of us watched August Rush. A very nicely done fable about an orphan who is a musical prodigy. August believes if enough people hear his music that his real parents will be able to find him. Suitable for all ages, obviously (it was church, people). But it does feature Robin Williams channeling the villainous Finnigan from Dickens' Oliver Twist.

What else is new? Well, with Tiger out of action, I'm making my move! I've returned to golf for the first time in over 20 years. Been hitting the driving range. I'm not planning on playing in the British Open. But I'm hoping to get onto an 18 hole course by the beginning of August. It's been fun getting back in to the swing. Literally. It's like learning from scratch. The first couple of times I went to the range, I was trying to bash the ball. My approach was all wrong. But I've loosened up and have started hitting fairly straight.

OK, MySpace is still giving my PC fits. I need to concentrate on a solution.

Have a great week, all.

Peace & Summer Breeze

Pizened!

2008-07-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
just checking in here on the blog. It's been a long hot Summer for the first two weeks of it. I've been really out of sorts. Got a nasty case of food poisoning on Tuesday that has lingered up to the present. No fun at all. Nothing like several hours in the ER getting an IV. And a return visit might be in store.

Interest seems to be building in my upcoming gigs which helps lighten the mood. But seriously, watch what you order when you're dining out.

Hope your 4th of July was safe and fun. I did get to see a dozen fireworks last night.

Peace & Health

Happy Sunday & The Most Important American Movie of 2008

2008-06-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

Hey All,
today was a wonderful (although very warm) day. Our charity variety show at the Noho First United Methodist Church was a grand success. Literally. We raised our goal in donations for the Red Bird Mission in Kentucky.

The program itself was a success and showcased all kinds of talent. I personally, performed I'm In The Mood For Love. It was the first time I'd played a song by myself on piano for an audience since a 4th grade talent show at Berwick El. in Columbus, OH. It went over well; everyone who remembered the song as a contemporary hit made sure to tell me so. Ain't they sweet? Playing the song was a lot of fun. There are plenty of standards from that era that I'm going to learn. Nothing like having a new party piece.

I also did a bit with the MC Hart Bakely (played by comic/writer Phil Mottaz). I certainly enjoyed the entire fake radio show. Thanks to everybody who attended and donated.

After all the Sunday activities at church, several of us went to the movies. We saw WALL-E and it is flat out brilliant. I won't give much away. But, I think it's the most important American movie of 2008. And the Pixar team have done an amazing job at depicting a version of Earth in the year 2815. Try to see it before anyone tells you about the plot or the themes. It references great sci-fi watersheds like 2001, Star Wars and Alien and even Disney's previous fantasy attempts the Black Hole & Tron. And frankly, WALL-E is rated G, which is wonderful, because this cautionary tale should be seen by every soul living on this planet right now. It's easily Disney's boldest cinematic statement in my memory... if they've ever had an agenda in the past. Don't leave early, the end credits are a history of human visual artistic styles and features Peter Gabriel's inspiring Down To The Earth. So, see the movie, then we'll discuss it.

You heard it hear first: Do NOT be surprised when WALL-E is nominated for the Oscar for Best Picture next year. In fact, the opening act is as powerful and wordless as the opening of my favorite film of 2007, There Will Be Blood. It will win best animated feature. The score by Thomas Newman was evocative. The one human actor that shows up is pitch perfect, too. And that's all I'm going to write.

Hope your week is filled with blessing, sunshine and the usual: Peace & Disco Beats!

Church Charity Event This Weekend

2008-06-23T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hey All,
long time since I blogged. Been learning new job parts at the Studio and it's been a hot week. Apologies for not checking in.

Here's the latest. This Sunday I am performing in a charity event at North Hollywood First United Methodist Church, 4832 Tujunga Ave. The show will be at Noon, June 29 in the social hall. It will be a mock 1940's radio show (not to be confused with the "1940's Radio Hour" that my Dad performed in in Atlanta) with skits and musical acts. I will be doing one number and one of the skits. It's a free show, although this is a fund-raiser for the Red Bird Mission, so free-will donations are welcome. Free food will also be served. So bring your yearning for yesteryear and join me on Sunday.

Also, my performance for Defy Music Group's premiere party is now scheduled to take place at the Avalon on Vine St. in Hollywood on Weds. July 30.

Time to beat the heat and turn up the A/C. It's sweltering here in L.A.

Peace

Some Girls Are 30 Years Old

2008-06-09T20:44:00.000-07:00

File under Music Appreciation.

An underrated (although big selling) masterpiece celebrates its 30 Birthday today. I'm talking about the Rolling Stones' Some Girls. One of the most exciting records put on wax.

I vaguely knew who the Stones were as a tot, but really couldn't tell you about their music. They weren't popular with my generation. Until Miss You. Oh, that groove, that falsetto, that sweet harmonica and a saxophone solo. Whoo! And disco!? I didn't know better. It surely represents a lot of what I'm after musically now.

I was a Saturday Afternoon roller skating fool at United Skates of America when I first really discovered the Stones. That was the Summer of '78. My favorites to skate to included Chic, Heatwave and the Stones!

I also remember muggy nights in Michigan rolling in my Dad's big old car and Miss You (or something from Steely Dan's Aja) would pop on and I'd be in music nirvana. And I certainly didn't know what they were singing about. In fact, later in the year, when Beast of Burden was released as a single in heavy rotation, I thought Mick was singing about courtroom drama. My Mom had recently finished law school, so the lyric I heard was "They never seemed to reach the verdict." I still think that would make a killer hook for a song. So I hear by claim it for copyright. Zap!

So right now, I'm digging Some Girls. If you've seen Shine A Light, the recent Scorsese doc/concert film starring the Stones, you know that tracks from Some Girls featured prominently. Shattered still reminds me of the weekend I spent in Brooklyn at my uncle Danny's. Dunno why, but it captured everything about NYC. And I probably heard it on the radio. I know for sure that I heard Emotional Rescue on that trip. But Shattered is brilliant in it's rock and roll decadence. "They got rats on the westside, bedbugs uptown!" Although, not at Danny's.

It also had the most distinctive album cover of my youth. Garish, bold and colorful, it was a fake advertisement for women's wigs and underwear with cut out faces, the band members peering from an assortment of faux-hairdos. I remember vividly seeing it at Meijer's Thrifty Acres, a precursor to Wal-Mart, in East Lansing. About the same time I first "noticed" tabloids. And who was on the cover? Mick and Bianca.

I didn't own a copy of Some Girls until the '90s, but I certainly had the Stones' greatest hits package Rewind, which had Miss You & Beast Of Burden. Of course, most of you know that I've covered Miss You for a long time. I'll have to dust it off for my Summer shows in honor.

So here's to the Stones and 30 years of a high-water mark in LPs. The disc is chock full of hits (I rate Miss You and Beast of Burden as two of the best singles ever), genre exercises and raucous playing. Exactly all a young man could want from Mick, Ron, Keith, Bill and Charlie.

Peace & Disco Beats

Prince and the Big 5-0

2008-06-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Prince Rogers Nelson who turns 50 today!
(And Happy Birthday to the twins: Peter and Juliana. I love you, much)

Can it be? How did Prince go from the 18 year old prodigy in a trench-coat and speedos to a Rock And Roll Hall of Famer (with 25 years of recording experience required) in a blink of an eye!? I've spent many blogs rhapsodizing about the Artist formerly known as the Artist formerly known as Prince, so I'll keep this one brief.

I can still remember the first time I heard When Doves Cry. It was music from another world and the first Prince single I purchased at Coconuts on the Arlington Expressway. And the flip side? 17 Days had a similar effect on my brain and music appreciation skills. Then came Purple Rain, the movie and LP. A paradigm shift with repercussions I couldn't escape if I wanted to. As I get older, there are songs of Prince's that make less sense to me, but they are still slamming recordings.

Of course, my guiltiest pleasure is the black & white carnival that is Under The Cherry Moon. Don't know if I'll have time to watch it today. But a day doesn't go by that I refer to it... And most people would never know. Unless, they're part of the old GU Posse du Cinammon. And you know who you are. The movie is silly and sublime and Prince at his celluloid best.

[It's pretty amazing that the big 3 of 80s Pop, Prince, Madonna and Michael Jackson all hit half a century this year. I will admit I'm not a Madonna fan (I like some of her music), but I'll cop to her cultural impact. But, Mike and Prince, hands down the best writers & performers of the past 30 years.]

Thanks for all the wonderful and strange rides, Mr. Nelson. Happy Birthday!!

A few favorite Prince highlights that I will cue up:
1999 (LP)
Purple Rain (LP)
Pop Life (single)
Parade (LP)
All My Dreams (unreleased track)
Sign 'O' The Times (LP)
Gold (album track)
3121 (LP) now playing!

Elephants and Flowers, Peace & Disco Beats

Remembering D-Day

2008-06-06T17:27:00.000-07:00

After visiting the coast of Normandy and touring the beaches last month, I have a renewed appreciation for the undertaking of June 6, 1944. There was lots to learn about Operation Overlord while we were there. And I feel I only scratched the surface. Many monuments along the road from WWI & WWII.

It was very moving to see the last of the Mulberry Harbor. And incredibly heavy visiting the American Cemetery in low clouds and rain. God bless the men who sacrificed themselves for the victory in second World War. Here are a few snaps from our drive around Omaha and Gold beaches. I will post details tonight.

Peace

Mulberry Harbor, Gold Beach. British landing site. Brainchild of Winston Churchill.

Road signs along the Normandy Coast.

Omaha Beach from the American Cemetery.

The ceiling of the chapel at the American Cemetery.

A sculpted table-top displaying Operation Overlord's landing sites.

Me at Omaha Beach.

Patty and the statue for the American Spirit.

Long view of the cemetery.

Vintage heavy armored vehicle in front of the American Museum.

Goodbye, Mr. Kong

2008-06-02T07:17:00.000-07:00

Sad day at work yesterday. I wasn't there, but I sure watched the news. One of my favorite pastimes at the studio was to walk around the New York Street sets and Courthouse Square. Especially on Saturdays. Like strolling through a Twilight Zone-esque deserted town. Solitude, mysteriously empty buildings and singing birds. Walking up New England St.; Georgetown St. and arriving at Courthouse Square. Always being careful to dodge any production that might be filming. There was one wedge of Brownstones that I particularly enjoyed.

Alas, most of it is gone now. But I'm happy to report that the courthouse (made famous in "To Kill A Mockingbird" & "Back To The Future") still stands. Bravo and 3 cheers for the fire fighters and Sheriff's deputies who responded to the blaze on the backlot. Just last Thursday I was tramming on the backlot and got to spend some quality time with King Kong. It's a shame that future generations will not see his likes again. But, I'm sure the studio's creative types will come up with sets and fun things to see on Kong's spot in no time.

I'm off to work in a new supervisory position today. Well, on-the-job training anyway.

I finally got all of the pictures from the tour loaded up into the computer. There will be a special page on my main website to view many of them. In the meantime, access my myspace page and you'll get a really good taste of my experience in France and Britain this past month.

I'm also happy to report that we are green for Go on the upcoming Summertime shows here in Southern California. Astro and Sterke, thanks for being there.

Have a safe and blessed day, y'all!

Peace & Disco Beats

Back In The Arms Of L.A. (Cavern Club Recaps)

2008-05-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

From David Bash's introduction of me at IPO Liverpool: "If this music doesn't get you to dance, then you're a cadaver!"

It was a triumphant Saturday matinee on the Cavern Club's Main Stage. Once again, the sound was amazing (thanks, Ricky). That has to be one of the best stages on planet Earth for performers. I'm very thankful I've had two opportunities to play it. There were plenty of ladies dancing and the fellas were down with the sound, too. And the Set List says:
Fall Out
Roosevelt's Revue
U Had The $
Everything My Heart Desires
Sucka
A Talent For Loving

The tour ended on a high as we stormed the iconic, brick front stage at the Cavern Club for the first time on Sunday. It was high energy considering how late the slot was.
Set List:
U Had The $
Fall Out
Hold On, I'm Coming
Everything My Heart Desires
Coming Up
Sucka
A Talent For Loving

Thanks again to David Bash and IPO for having me. I'll be performing at the Los Angeles version of IPO in August. Check the dates on my US show schedule. Hot fun in the summertime!

I'm back in L.A. after all of that left hand side of the road driving. Thanks to the band: Astro & Sterke were amazing and I couldn't have done it without them. We had a good time hoofing around the UK. Leeds Castle; Christ Church College in Oxford; the tour of the Lennon & McCartney childhood homes. We rounded out the weekend with a visit to Strawberry Field in Liverpool. And we stopped briefly in Wrexham, Wales on the way back to London's outskirts.

The flight home was fine. Our friends, the SparklejetsUK were on board too. I watched plenty of good movies, including "There Will Be Blood." Which I thought was mesmerizing.

Before I sign off, I gotta thank a few more people for making the tour a success.Thank you to Anne & Andrew for your support, The Foxes for the gear and camaraderie, and especially Patty for the navigation, photography and support.

I'll get more pictures posted shortly.

Peace & Disco Beats

Bringing Heat To The Cavern Pub

2008-05-24T00:29:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all,
I'm chilling at the Dock with some Twinings Everyday Tea and Lotus Biscuits (thanks, Anne).

The Cavern Pub was like the center of the sun. Hot! The set was full-tilt boogie. The Liverpuddlians were grooving to the tunes, for sure. I know I left everything on the stage. Astro went all rock and roll on us with his bloody knuckle. Sterke was blazing, too.

The band before me, the Palominos were very good. They warmed things up nicely. The crowd at the Cavern Pub got into my songs immediately; that's my kind of audience. Well over 100 people in a very small, subterranean venue. Place was packed and here's what the people rocked out, too:
Fall Out
U Had The $
Everyone's Ingenue
Sucka
Everything My Heart Desires
A Talent For Loving

Don't forget, there are two big shows remaining at the Cavern Club Saturday.
4.30 PM in the Back Stage.
2.45 AM in the iconic Front Stage. Technically this show is Sunday Morning.
Both shows are FREE.

Tomorrow during the day, we are doing the National Trust's tour of the Lennon & McCartney childhood homes. Should be fascinating.
Peace & Disco Beats

Less Lost In Liverpool

2008-05-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone,

we are safely in Liverpool. I only took proper turns today in Liverpool. Directly to the hotel. Which was good. I made several errant turns in Oxford this afternoon, where we stopped to visit Christ Church College (a part of the University).

CCC is where several scenes for the first two Harry Potter movies were shot (specifically in the great hall and it's staircase). The school property and it's inhabitants also inspired Lewis Carroll to write Alice In Wonderland. Also, the college's cathedral was used as a place of worship by John Wesley, who formed the Methodists. The church is also the resting place of John Locke; the actual John Locke, not the character from Lost. Time did not permit a visit to Magdalene College where Tolkien & CS Lewis wrote most of their land mark works.

Upon our rainy arrival, Astro and I walked over to the Cavern Club to check out the scene. The place was packed. That's a great sign for the International Pop Overthrow Fest. Ran into the SparklejetsUK before their set. They sounded really good. We also went across the street to visit the Cavern Pub, my venue tomorrow night: more intimate and very warm (temperature-wise).

Gotta get some sleep. It was a long day of driving through the Midlands. My hand is cramping and I'm falling asleep as I type. Hope to see some of you tomorrow. The shows at the Cavern Pub and the Cavern Club are FREE! And make sure to follow us back to the Cavern Club to check out the Foxes (Friday).

Peace and Discobeats

Maidstone's A Hit

2008-05-21T23:56:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all,
thanks to everyone who came to the Zebra for our show tonight. And thanks to the Foxes who lent us gear. Foxes, you rock. The Zebra is a nice large venue and I had fun time playing there. No matter what the circumstances (like a huge football match), I'm bringing it. Special thanks to those who bought CDs. Enjoy the music! Also, thanks to Sue, James and the staff of the Zebra. What a gift to be able to come here to perform. And Sterke and Astro really brought their A Game. A beautiful night.

For those of you coming to the Liverpool shows, spoiler alert.

Here's tonight's set list:

Fall Out
U Had The $
Everyone's Ingenue
Sucka
I Can't Cry For You
Everything My Heart Desires
Coming Up
A Talent For Loving

I plan on inserting a few different songs in the set the next few shows.

Prior to the show, we visited Leeds Castle a few miles up the road. It was serene and amazing. A thousand year old piece of property with some of the most beautiful landscape ever. The falconry demonstration has me rethinking my career choices. Ha ha.

Tomorrow I'm heading north. See you in Liverpool. And I highly recommend that you check out the Foxes while you are Merseyside. They will also be playing IPO.

Peace & Love

Dispatch From The Road: Paris, FR

2008-05-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone. I know it's been several days since my last post, but my trip has been jam-packed with activity.

First of all, we arrived safely on Thursday. Thanks to everyone praying for a safe trip. It was like a season's worth of Amazing Race boiled into one day on Thursday: navigate the 405 during rush hour; bear a 10 hour transatlantic flight in a crackerjack box; take 3 trains in London; sleep underwater; speak French to a cabbie; and find Mike Tyson in less than 24 hours.

It's true. I met Mike as we disembarked, he was on his way to the Cannes film festival. Naturally.

Now I will warn you. This blog contains few references to music. Although we heard plenty today at the churches we visited in Honfleur (a very sharp organist) and Rouen.

Friday was a whirlwind of site seeing in Paris. It turned out to be a gorgeous day, and it was actually hot. OK. Top of the Eiffel Tower. Notre Dame Cathedral. Louvre in the early evening. In between, lots of good eats at Cojean, Bleu Canard and Juveniles. This is my fourth trip to Paris and there are always the obvious places to visit, but they can't be missed.

My favorites at the Louvre are Raphael's La Belle Jardiniere (it's Mary with Jesus and John the Baptist as children) and Veronese's Wedding At Cana. No matter where you stand in the room, Jesus's eyes follow you from Veronese's wall sized canvas. Very moving. Especially considering this painting is across the room from the Mona Lisa. And seeing the Raphael up close is stunning.

Then yesterday, Patty and I hopped in a car and literally drove the Normandy coast checking out D Day monuments and memorials. It's lush countryside. Farmland dotted with churches and countless tiny towns. The rain rolled in at Arromanches where the British landed and brought in the Mulberry Harbor. We actually walked out onto the beach and got pretty close to the remaining hulk of landing gear.

Storm clouds and intermittent showers made our visit to the American Cemetery particularly moody. That is a moving experience. Seeing Omaha beach and the 9000 grave markers is breathtaking. They have a small non-denominational chapel, so I gave thanks for all those fighting men and those who survived. We're almost on the D Day anniversary. I have seen several famous battlegrounds, including Waterloo and Gettysburg and it always amazes me how serene and peaceful they are. Hard to picture the destruction and carnage.

I have no idea how many miles (or km's) we logged, but it was a plenty. A lot of long and winding roads through Normandy to get to Mont St. Michel. The abbey was closing, but we still hoofed it up the hillside to take in the setting and the view. France is so far North that it didn't really get dark until after 9 PM. As a result we didn't wait to see the Mont lit up. From there we zipped back East to Honfleur.

Today, we strolled the old harbor town of Honfleur. Charming, in a word. Today the local post office was celebrating Champlain's arrival at Quebec, Canada 400 years ago. Champlain's ship set off from Honfleur, so that was a logical location for a first day stamp cancellation. This little fishing village has a lot of ateliers (or studios) and I wondered how can the community support all of those artists or vice versa, but it does. Oh, by the way, driving in France easier than in the UK, 'cause you're on the right, tougher because those streets are narrow! The harbor actually looks like New Orleans Square and parts of Pirates Of The Caribbean (the ride). I mean that in a good way.

Our last stop before Paris was the Cathedral in Rouen. That place is a mess. The Church, begun in 1190, caught fire in 1200. Took them 400 years to lay the last stone. Then was bombed out in 1944, reopening in the '50s. Then in 1999, day after Christmas, a tornado ripped it up. And they still haven't finished repairing it. Can you imagine your family being members of that parish over 800 years and practically no one saw it as designed?

And don't get me started about the blight upon blight that surrounds the Cathedral. Yeah, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake there, but the citizens must have martyred taste and civility too. Rouen's heart and soul looks like a sad outlet mall & smells like used wine. Oh and we saw battling street accordionists. I don't know how you land a punch with that thing around your neck. Am I being too harsh? Maybe. But if I had paid money to stay in Rouen, I'd be shaking a fist.

That being said: I'm thankful to have had the opportunity to see the Cathedral at Rouen that so inspired Monet's famous series of paintings.

From the hotel room, I can see the Eiffel Tower and it's all lit up. Like the Rouen panhandler waving his big, empty green bottle at the daytrippers. Seriously. The Tower is incredible and just another reminder that there is a lot of beauty out there among the steel and concrete. And FYI, I drove through the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe tonight. Yes, I did. Like a local!

Tomorrow, we'll check out Sacre Coeur and view Paris from the north. Pictures to come. Check out myspace and you'll see one of Mike Tyson and me. That man has BIG hands. And apparently larger opinions about the cinema.

Bon soir, mes amis.

Peace & Disco Beats

Pop Matters Reviews "TALENT" 8 Out Of 10!

2008-05-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all, here's the latest review for the hottest newest. You know who! First the BBC, now this. Lord have mercy: Literarily!

Review starts here:

Norman Kelsey's A Talent for Loving is a non-stop, dusk 'til dawn party. From the opening beat of the title track, which is both boastful and believable, to the closing command of "Love Someone", Kelsey takes you from the bar to the dance floor to the bedroom and back again several sweat-soaked times. He's a soulful R&B powerhouse vocalist, and he's somehow managed to combine perfectly some of the best elements of '60s-era soul and Motown with a sense of style and command not seen since Prince was at his funkiest. Tracks like "Done Lost My Mind" highlight Kelsey's slow, seductive, soul skills, while songs such as "Fall Out" will, as the chorus says, "Rock you so hard / We falling out of your bed." No worries if you're all alone, either. A Talent for Loving will have you dancing your ass off all night, flying on a rhythm-induced endorphin high.

Rating 8 out of 10.

By Christel Loar
13 May 2008

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A TALENT FOR LOVING