SVSA MUSIC NEWS AUGUST 2019
AUGUST FeATURE Article Would Your Song Get The Job? What We Can Learn From Headhunters by Greg Trafidlo our product,” which was ourselves, A year ago, I told one of our at one time or another. members that their song was ready We’ve all faced the anxiety to pitch to Nashville ... and I could of the job interview from Hell. tell they had no idea how or where But, as we learned more about to start this music business journey. our professions, gone through the While looking for something employment process, and grown to send to David per his request for as individuals, the business worlds’ a cover story, I found this article fangs became rubber teeth. I wrote in 2001. It still applies for Whether you are pitching your anyone who ever had a dream of songs to a publisher or looking for having their songs picked up by a employment, the etiquette, tactics, major artist. and tools are about the same. A songwriter compatriot once I recently came across an article said to me that pitching songs was about job hunting and realized that like being on a continual job hunt. the same basic tools apply to our We’ve all been in a position quest of the almighty publishing where we’ve had to shine our shoes, deal. GREG TRAFIDLO be on our best behavior, and “sell See Feature Article, page 2
DUES BE DUE BE The next meeting of 7:30 and will last until provide at least 25 DUE BE DUE the SVSA will be held the last song critique is copies of the lyrics. Pay at a meeting, pay WedNESDAY AUG 28 finished, or 10:30 p.m., Critiques are limited on our website, or mail in the LL Rice Room at whichever comes first. to members only $35 to: the Jefferson Center Members may submit but non-members SVSA in Roanoke, Virginia. one song for critique (on and guests are Doors will open at cassette, CD, phone, encouraged to sit in on P.O. Box 698 7 p.m.; the meeting computer, or you can the discussions and Salem, VA 24153 begins promptly at perform it live) and should exercises. FEATURE ARTICLE Continued from page 1
Here are a few examples of or The Folk Alliance? If it’s true information to help you get a things we need to consider when that “Life Is A Contact Sport,” better handle on the business and approaching the people who craft of songwriting. can do our songs some good. How well organized are you? We can all benefit from making Are your demos cued up? Do the a few changes and adjustments. lyric sheets reflect word for Choose the areas that apply to word what is on the tape? you: Have you made a pitch sheet? Your song is your resumé Are the songs copyrighted? and your business card. If so, it shows the publishers Does it need updating? Re- that you are serious writing? A better demo? about your writing and have Do you want the job professional potential. It also (cut) bad enough to go that shows that you know extra mile to pitch your something about the business. tunes? Do you have enough Being a good writer is only faith in your work to spend half the battle. some of your vacation time to How is your telephone make a trip to a major music manner? Do you have a name at center to push your song? the label to talk to? Making cold Have you studied the trade calls is easy for some salespeople, publications like Billboard or impossible for others. The more Music City News, to know who’s you know about the label and who, who’s looking, or what’s are confident in your product current in the industry? Do you (songs), the better off you’ll be. try to learn what is happening Do you have a sense of at the labels? Who are their business etiquette? Would latest clients (artists), hirings, you think to send a hand- and firings? as Ken Kragen suggests, where written thank-you to the publisher Have you learned at least better to make contacts with other for their time? Would you think one new marketable skill that writers or publishers than these to call them back in six months would make you (your song) organizations? if they showed interest in your more hire-able? This is equivalent Are you co-writing? The songs? to learning a new instrument cumulative energy to two people Here are some tips borrowed or writing in a new groove. working on one song is a Gestalt from career counselors: How long has it been since process, greater than the sum What applies to potential you attended a songwriting of the parts. Plus, it means two employment can work for us as workshop, NSAI seminar, or people are excited about the song, songwriters. Career counselors writers’ night? not to mention more pitching and suggest that people get personal If it meant relocating to get performing opportunities. advisors, objective third parties to the job (a deal or a chance to Do you subscribe to trade review and evaluate themselves write for a label), would you do publications? How about in key areas, such as interviewing it? subscribing to one new one this skills, appearance, strategies, and What professional year. American Songwriter, Acoustic tactics. Why not apply these to associations do you belong to? Guitar, Sing Out! Dirty Linen, achieve your songwriting goals? Are you a member of NSAI, The Songwriter Monthly. There are Are you willing to subject Songwriters Guild, CMA, SVSA, many out there, each with current See Feature Article, page 3
2 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 FEATURE ARTICLE Continued from page 2
your songs to scrutiny? If there “Why are my friends getting explained to me that it takes are flaws that are addressed jobs?” translates into “Why are perseverance, talent, and luck to in critique sessions, make the my friends getting songs cut/ have a prosperous songwriting changes if enough people see published?” Study their talents, career. The first two elements problems or suggest ways to strategies, and techniques. What’s are in our power to control improve the song. It’s one different in their songs? What can and build upon. When the luck hundred per cent better to have you learn from their successes? comes, and it will, it’s best your songs dissected at the local And finally, as with job that we possess those first two level, amongst friends, than hunting, what are you doing to elements. to have a potential publisher stay positive? That’s the hardest As for perseverance, one find the flaws. You may not get thing to do after putting your heart of Steve Seskin’s early songs is another chance. and soul into your songs and the entitled One Song Away. That Are there patterns to the world just doesn’t understand how elusive cut, that one song you critiques you receive? “Your brilliant your songs are. might build a career on, may be verse melody sounds like There’s nothing wrong with the next one you write. What your chorus melody” or “Not motivational tapes, inspirational a shame it would be to give up enough contrast,” etc. If you books, or daily affirmations to keep when you just may be only one receive rejection notices from things in perspective. It may mean song away from your goal. In potential employers, you need taking some time away from your other words, “DON’T GIVE to ask yourself what you need writing to clear your head and see U P.” to change to get the gig. The the world anew. Isn’t that where And always remember that pursuit of songwriting success is our best ideas come from anyway? the bigger the dream, the bigger no different. Publisher Chris Keaton once the reward.
David Simpkins was scheduled to appear at Blacksburg VA’s Steppin’ Out street festival for the 25th straight year on August 3, but an illness sidelined him. Into the breach stepped Greg Trafidlo (left), Kathy Acosta (2nd from left), and Britt Mistele (4th from left) – the KGB – who were already scheduled to appear with Simpkins. Joining them was Mike Pearrell (3rd from left) and Mike Franke (right) to make it an all-SVSA show. (Photo by Linda Giuliano Pearrell.)
3 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 3rd Street Pat Alger to hold songwriting workshop and Coffeehouse concert in Charlottesville on September 21 The Charlottesville concert “Here is a link to information tentatively plans series, Songmaker Series, will hold a regarding both events: https://the- musicians swap Pat Alger weekend this September. songmaker-series.ticketleap.com/ meet for Oct 26 Alger will lead a workshop on Saturday, September 21 as well Noted songwriter Pat Alger 3rd Street Coffeehouse in as hold a concert that evening at Roanoke VA tentatively plans to Cville Coffee. host a musicians swap meet on The workshop will be held Sat Oct 26 from 9 a.m.-noon at the in the community of Greenwood coffeehouse. Musicians are invited in the mountains close to to rent a table to sell or trade Charlottesville. equipment or music-related wares Long-time SVSA member Mary (including CDs and vinyl). Gordon Hall says, “Having Pat • 6 ft tables $15 in advance and Alger here is a once-in-a-lifetime $20 the day of the swap meet. event for the region. He rarely tours • 4 ft tables $10 in advance and anymore and is doing this show $15 the day of the swap meet. because he has friends in Virginia Setup will be at 8:30 a.m. and is planning to visit while here. 3rd Street will promote and “Our songwriting communities advertise along with selling coffee are fortunate to have this and donuts / pastries the day of opportunity. Both the concert and the swap meet. Direct any and all the workshop will limit seating and questions to Bob Schmucker at enrollment, so don’t wait to sign up [email protected] for this exciting event. Meeting Notes Twenty members and one Appreciation was noted for the guest attended the July meeting. exceptional turnout for the most In the pre-critique business recent Songwriters Showcase at 3rd portion of the meeting, members Street Coffeehouse in Roanoke VA. were encouraged to begin The next showcase is scheduled The 20th annual AMERICANAFEST, submitting songs for next year’s for late October and it will be set for Sept. 10-15 in Nashville TN, is dedicated to the promotion holiday CD. Mollye Otis has organized by Dan Hildebrand. of Americana and the roots of secured local studio owner Nine new original songs were American music. The festival brings Skip Brown as a judge in the submitted for critique. together Americana music artists and submissions contest. ~ Bill Stanton industry professionals for a four-day conference where attendees are treated to exclusive seminars, panels, Enroll in Berklee Online songwriting and more. The event is capped off with courses by Sept 9 and save up to $200 over 100 live musical performances Term starts Sept. 30. Learn a new musical skill, or sharpen an existing set across the city in a variety of open- one, and save big on cornerstone courses in music production, music air and intimate venues. For more business, performance, songwriting, and more. For more info: https:// info, see americanamusic.org/about- online.berklee.edu/early-enrollment americanafest
4 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 Trafidlo backs up folk legend Paxton at recent concert SVSAer Greg Trafidlo performed with legendary folk performing songwriter Tom Paxton at the Mason District Park in Annandale VA on August 16. The performance was part of the “Spotlight by Starlight” summer concert series, and was filled to capacity. At right, after the show, Greg’s wife Judy Larson, Greg, and Tom.
5 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA MEMBERS OPEN MIC REVIEWS
THE ENTWINED (Dan Hildebrand & Adonna Lemon) @ Ruby’s Lounge, Harrisonburg VA, Wednesdays, 7-11:00 p.m.
Adonna and I were second 7:00 p.m. to sign up and then in line after an electric guitar head upstairs to the Clementine guy who had an interesting and Café for a beer and some eclectic tuning to say the least. outstanding fare before you go We performed to an on. appreciative and supportive The Open Mic at Ruby’s has audience who seemed to truly been a staple in the Shenandoah enjoy our three cover songs Valley for many years and is a including Guy Clark’s Homegrown must for your Open Mic tour list. Tomatoes. 153 S Main St Adonna and I were quite Harrisonburg VA 22801 by Dan Hildebrand surprised at the amount of 540-801-8881 Ruby’s Lounge of performers Harrisonburg VA is located in for this Open the basement of the more well Mic – about a known restaurant Clementine dozen or more. Café and is located on main street Yet everyone in this charming college town. got a chance The Open Mic Night is held to perform on Wednesday evenings from three songs 8:00 p.m. to 11-ish depending each. The on the crowd and the amount time between of performers, according to acts was Chris, the Open Mic host and a very quickly performer as well. transitioned Ruby’s Lounge has an by Chris who “underground” vibe and a pretty did a quick boss sound system when it gets sound check Dan Hildebrand cranking, which it often does. between each and Adonna Lemon Wednesday’s at Ruby’s has performance at Ruby’s Lounge a true Open Mic feel with poetry and then it was readings, electric guitars, covers, “you’re on!” acoustic originals, keyboards, If you go, djembes, and a varied audience here’s a smart with a strong millennial vibe. tip: Arrive at
6 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 Club Havoc THE FRONT ROW LOCAL, REGIONAL http://clubhavoc.net/author/jojohavoc https://www.facebook.com/ 202 Market Sq Roanoke VA thefrontrowsalemave/ OPEN MICS 540.343.6644 356 Salem Ave Roanoke VA Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m. Hosted by Eric 540.345.1542 Larsen. Thursdays. 8:00 p.m. Bring your own instruments. Come rock the house. Dogtown Roadhouse www.dogtownroadhouse.com GINA’S 302 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 https://www.facebook.com/ 540.745.6836 pages/Ginas-Food-with- Sundays. All ages. No cover. Music starts Flavor/435558020265249 Submit any Open Mics that are not listed at 6 p.m. Sign-ups begin at 5:30, sign- 4145 B W Main St Salem VA here. We’d like to make this listing as ups for later slots begin at 7 p.m. PA 540.404.3867 comprehensive as possible. Provide the and sound man provided. Fridays. 6:30-9:30 p.m. Hosted by information in the format shown. McFadden and Holmes. Performers Also, if you should see a listing that has DRAPER MERCANTILE & TRADING CO. eat free. Musicians contact Peggy at shut down, or if you know of an update http://www.drapermerc.com/open- Gina’s. to the current entries, drop a line to the mic-night.html SVSA gmail address. Let’s keep this a 3054 Greenbriar Rd Draper VA 24324 Good Times Tavern vital and up-to-date source. 540.994.5659 https://m.facebook.com/ Fridays. 6-8:30 p.m. All talents welcome. goodtimestavern540/ BILLY’S BARN Will provide one mic, PA assistance. 3107 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA http://www.the-cellar.com/ 20 minutes for musical acts, 10 for all 540.849.7407 1790 Thompson Memorial Dr Salem VA others. Must be family friendly and not Open Mic / Jam Session 24153 too loud/disruptive. Tuesdays. 7-10 p.m. Hosted by Melissa 540.728.0270 Mesko. Mondays. 7-10 p.m. Artists receive a DUE SOUTH BBQ mixed mp3 and a chance at $500. www.duesouthbbq.com Gospel Café 1465 Roanoke St Christiansburg VA https://www.facebook.com/pages/ BLIND BILL’S RESTAURANT 540.381.2922 Gospel-Cafe/392559714096332 https://blindbills.com Wednesdays. 6-10:00 p.m. In the Pig 926 Indiana Ave NE Roanoke VA 6724 White House Rd Huddleston VA Pen. Hosted by Rick Krajnyak and Tim 540.314.1423 540.297.6078 Pakledinaz. Fri and Sat nights. 7-10 p.m. Fridays. 8:00 p.m. Hosted by Steve Guidus. FATBACK SOUL SHACK MAIN STREET CAFÉ www.fatbacksoulshack.com https://www.facebook.com/ B-Sides 2440 Roanoke St Christiansburg VA mainstreetcafe434/ https://bsides33.com/ 540.251.3182 521 N Main St South Boston VA 467 Franklin St Rocky Mount VA Mondays. 6:30-8:30 p.m. PA provided. 434.738.3524 540.456.2337 Bring your instrument of choice and Thursdays. Open Mic / Open Jam 8:30 Tuesdays 7-10:00 p.m. Hosted by Dilly show us what you’ve got. All talent p.m.-12:30 a.m. Bring your instrument Valley Recordings. levels welcome. and jam! Or just sit and eat, drink, dance, and listen to good music. No THE CELLAR 5 Points Music Sanctuary cover charge. Hosted by Mike Warren. http://www.the-cellar.com/ http://www.5pointsmusic.com/ 302 N Main St Blacksburg VA 24060 1217 Maple Ave SW Roanoke VA MELODY HOOKAH LOUNGE 540.953.0651 540.795.5618 https://www.facebook.com/Melody- Mondays. 9:00 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Blues 1st and 3rd Sundays. Doors open at 5:00 Hookah-Lounge-1834216276875768/ jam. p.m. Sign-up begins at 5:30 p.m. Show 109 N Main St Blacksburg VA starts at 6:00 p.m. Comedy and poetry 540.739.3377 CHARLEY’S are welcome. This event is FREE. Sundays. 9-??:00 p.m. http://www.charleyslynchburg.com/ Musicians, singers, comedians, artists, 707 Graves Mill Rd Lynchburg VA FLOYD COUNTRY STORE rappers, bands. 434.237.5988 http://www.floydcountrystore.com/ 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of month. 7:00- music/sunday-music-jam 10:00 p.m. Bring your instrument and 206 S Locust St Floyd VA 24091 vocal talent! $5 food discount to the More Open Mic 540.745.4563 first 10 people to sign in. Hosted by listings on page 8 Sundays. All ages. No cover charge. Old- Jodie Davis. Time music 1:30-3:30 p.m. Bluegrass jam 4-5:30 p.m.
7 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 instrument, open ears, and tapping community of musicians from first toes. Tips encouraged for musicians, timers to old timers. Come out to LOCAL, REGIONAL no cover. listen, come out to play, come out to show support for local music. OPEN MICS RIVER CITY GRILL Continued from page 7 https://www.facebook.com/ STARR HILL PILOT BREWERY & SIDE Radford-Fiddle-and-Banjo- STAGE The Mill Iron Grill Jam-191719767524461/ https://starrhill.com/tap-room- https://www.facebook.com/The-Mill- 103 Third St. Radford VA 24141 locations/roanoke-pilot-brewery- Iron-Grill-114614645259055/ 540.629.2130 side-stage/ 10190 Stewartsville Rd Goodview VA Mondays. 7-10:00 p.m. Radford Fiddle 6 Old Whitmore Ave Roanoke VA 540.890.4766 & Banjo bluegrass jam. Hosted by 540.685.2012 Saturdays 8-midnight Chris Bell. Mondays. 6-9:00 p.m. Bring your own All levels of talent welcome. Hosted by instrument and join the jam. Hosted Rick Selfridge. Roanoke Diversity Center by Brian Mesko. http://www.roanokediversitycenter. Mulligan’s com STONEY BADGER TAVERN http://mulligansbarandgrill.info/ 806 Jamison Ave SE Roanoke VA http://www.stoneybadgertavern.com/ 6419 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA 540.491.4165 3009 Old Forest Rd Lynchburg VA 540.265.7484 1st Fridays. Play an instrument, sing a 434.384.3004 Mondays. 8-11 p.m. Hosted by Phil song, read a poem, sing karaoke, or Tuesdays. 9:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m. What Chitwood. just enjoy. No cover. Snacks provided. started as an idea has become a Small PA, two guitars, keyboard community of artists that help each Ober Brewing Company available – or bring your own other learn and grow on stage. http://www.oberbrewing.com/ instruments (no drums but smaller 1443 Lakeside Cir Salem VA percussion instruments allowed). SWEET DONKEY COFFEE HOUSE 540.404.0050 http://www.sweetdonkeycoffee.com/ Fridays 6-9:30 p.m. ROCK THE MIC - ROANOKE 2108 Broadway Ave SW Roanoke VA Bring your friends, show your talent, http://www.kingdomofrock.com/ 540.491.0004 share some laughs and a few beers. Rosetti’s Family Bistro Every other Friday (check web site for 202 Market St Roanoke VA announcement). 6-9:00 p.m. Hosted Parkway Brewery Wednesdays and Fridays. Killer sound, by Charissa Morrison. Bring your http://www.parkwaybrewing.com lights, merchandise table, sponsor instrument or bring your friends. 739 Kessler Mill Rd Salem VA giveaways. Loud rock and blues 540.404.9810 improv, covers, and shows. Sycamore Deli Mondays 4-8:00 p.m. http://www.sycamoredeli.com Majestic Mic jamboree welcomes SCHOONERS 211B Draper Rd Blacksburg VA anyone to try their hand at music. www.schoonersbar.org 540.951.9817 Hosted by Eric Larsen. 7226 Williamson Rd Roanoke VA Blacksburg Old-Time Jam. Wednesdays 540.563.4956 7-9:00 p.m. Open to anyone playing THE Q OPEN MiC Tuesdays 8-11:00 p.m. Bring your own Old-Time style. http://www.theqlive.com instrument. Hosted by Tim Rowlett. 8118 Plantation Rd Roanoke VA 3rd street coffeehouse 540.362.8437 Soaring Ridge Craft Brewers https://m.facebook.com/3rd-Street- Wednesdays 8:30 p.m. - ? http://www.soaringridge.com/ Coffeehouse-190361914329993 15 minute set. PA provided. Hosted by 523 Shenandoah Ave NW, Roanoke VA Trinity United Methodist Church Scott Joshway. 540.339.9776 305 Mountain Ave SW Roanoke Fridays 6-9:00 p.m. Take the stage and 540.309.4707 RADFORD COFFEE COMPANY share your sound, or just sit back and https://www.facebook.com/ 1st Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle. cheer on the locals who share theirs. 6:30-9:00 p.m. Smoke-free, alcohol- radfordcoffeeco/?hc_ Hosted by Betsy in The Verse. ref=NEWSFEED&fref=nf free, no cover. Hosted by Jim Page. 3rd Thursday Open Mic. 6:30-9:00 p.m. 333 W Main St Radford VA SOUVLAKI Smoke-free, alcohol-free, no cover. 540.838.2399 http://www.eatsouvlaki.com/ Hosted by Aspen Black. Saturdays. 6-9:00 p.m. Acoustic, rock, 1154 E Main St Radford VA poetry, etc. Small PA available. 540.633.0555 WHITE HART CAFÉ Wednesdays 6-8:00 p.m. Open to all. RISING SILO BREWERY http://www.thewhitehartcoffee.com/ 1208 Main St Lynchburg VA www.RisingSiloBrewery.com SPIKE’S GRILL 434.207.5600 2351 Glade Rd Blacksburg VA https://m.facebook.com/spikes.grill/ Fridays. 6-9:00 p.m. We will provide a 410.596.1200 1914 Memorial Ave SW Roanoke VA mic and you provide the talent. Open Monthly Irish Jam. Fridays, 7-9:00 540.345.9744 for all music, art, comedy, etc. p.m. Sit-ins welcome. Bring your Thursdays 9:30-close. A welcoming
8 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 OUT & WITHABOUT THE SVSA
SVSA member Egan Green performed as the headlining act at Blacksburg VA’s Tea & Jam Café on August 16.
Alice Black saw the Joni Aspen Black and Randy Walker shared a spot at the 3rd Street Coffeehouse Mitchell 75th birthday Third Thursday Open Mic last August 15. The next 3rd Street Open Mic will be tribute film last February. September 20.
9 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 Finding old melodies for new songs by Bill Stanton Back in the late seventies, I was playing in a Most veteran songwriters have trio called Consort and I had written a song called written a poem or a few stanzas Renaissance Fair which had a very joyous melody of lyrics – and maybe a really and a very driving rhythm that Consort (with two great chorus – and then found raging fiddles) soared during the instrumental themselves faced with the breaks with improvisational abandon. challenge of wedding these words For some reason lost in time, we never recorded to a rhythm and melody that this particular song and, when the members of “works” (whatever that means). Consort went their separate ways, Renaissance This can be an awesome challenge in the creative Fair went into some kind of musical limbo. My process. You love the words you’ve written – but remembrance of the lyrics is pretty shaky today. where’s the melody going to come from? Here is a piece of the first verse: My wife Debbie and I moved to Roanoke VA about three years ago and, although we visited family many times before we moved here, once we Renaissance Fair actually lived in this incredible valley and were here on a daily basis, this song began to write itself. Renaissance Fair is in the air After three or four trips from Roanoke to Floyd, We come to see the dancing bear Ladies dressed in gorgeous reds and greens I sat down and wrote the words. Here are the lyrics: Maidens with their mandolins Singing rhymes from Old England ...
The Happy Journey From Roanoke to Floyd Anyway, the lyrics may have faded but the We drive through these mountains, forces of nature melody and rhythm of Renaissance Fair are now They tower over this valley, majestic creations alive and well in The Happy Journey From Roanoke Awesome from a distance they reach to the sky To Floyd. I took the melody and rhythm from an Amazing Blue Ridge beauty oh so fine old song that I had nearly forgotten and adapted Chorus them to a new song that was demanding something From Roanoke to Floyd we will never tire special. No matter how many times we make this drive At our next SVSA meeting, we’ll see what the I can’t believe we live right here in paradise members have to say about it during our vetting We love these mountains process. And for all those veteran songwriters who have We drive through these mountains that are now our home been writing over the decades, hey – go back and We gaze out our windows at this breathtaking poem revisit some of those long-abandoned melodies. You Words really can’t do this justice oh no never know what treasures may be buried there. But words are all I’ve got – all I really know Editor’s Note: This process, of course, works in Repeat Chorus reverse as well. Sometimes songs in progress get Floyd’s got its festival; Roanoke’s got its star abandoned when they aren’t working out lyrically. To show you always just right where you are If you’re happy with a new melody and rhythm, These mountains from a distance look so very blue you can go back through your lyrics stash and see They hold me in a vision so mystical and true if some long-forgotten lyrics fit the bill. They might Repeat Chorus require some updating and revision (what doesn’t?) but, as Bill says, you might find a real treasure.
10 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA members Aug. 2019 Kathy Acosta Jerry Gilmore Paul Morrissey David Barudin Egan Green Eric Mosley Marc Baskind Mary Gordon Hall Jake Orzalli Alice Black Dale Hamilton Mollye Otis Aspen Black George Harris Charles (Jack) Page Clay Blevins Larry Helms Mike Pearrell Steve Clark Dan Hildebrand Larry Sakayama Dennis Danner Celie Holmes Bob Schmucker Evelyn Danner Matt Horner Denise Schmucker Sam Darby Josh Jones David Simpkins Frank Dieter Jimmie Landry Jeff Smith Mike DeGiorgi Ashley Lucas Bill Stanton Charlie Divers Barbara Martin Greg Trafidlo Paul Douglas Liz McAuley Randolph Walker Mike Franke Britt Mistele Tony Wegmann SVSA Treasurer Mike Franke performs Bob Coulter (In Memoriam) at Blacksburg VA’s Steppin’ Out street Sid Crosswhite (Lifetime) festival on August 3.
SVSA board member Bob Schmucker dusted off his fishing skills earlier this month.
11 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 3rd Street Coffeehouse FIRST THURSDAY Guitar Pull / Song Circle THIRD THURSDAY Open Mic SVSA member Aspen Black notes that the “Third Thursdays at Third Street All Open Mic” is a great way to share work, try out new songs DATE FEATURE ACT...... OPENING ACT or poems, offer CDs and merch for Aug 30 Steve Smith...... David Simpkins sale, and hang out with folks who Sep 05 1st Thurs Guitar Pull / Song Circle...... Jim Page share your interests. The next “Third Sep 06 Davey O...... Betsy Biesenbach Thursdays at Third Street all Open Sep 13 Songwriters Showcase Mic” will be on September 19. Sign Wayne Willingham, Bob Schmucker, Mike Franke up begins at 6:30 and ends when Sep 19 3rd Thurs All Open Mic...... Aspen Black the list is full (15). Beyond 15 will Sep 20 Dollar & Walker...... 4 Random Notes immediately go into the lottery for remaining slots at the end. Length of performance is determined by the SVSA member Marc Baskind is a number of participants. All levels of frequent performer at 3rd Street Coffeehouse. proficiency and styles are welcome, so long as your songs are appropriate for all audiences. 3rd Street Coffeehouse also holds a “First Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle” from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Hosted by Jim Page, performers can bring new material or play cover songs. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. to sign up. Performers will get to play two or three songs in an in-the-round setting. The next “First Thursday Guitar Pull / Song Circle” will be held September 5.
3rd Street Coffeehouse, venue. A hat is passed for donations 3rd Street Coffeehouse is established in 1987, is open every to the featured performers. located at Trinity United Methodist Friday evening. Opening act If you’re interested in opening a Church at 305 Mountain Ave SW, performances last from 7:30-8:30 show or headlining a night at 3rd Roanoke VA. p.m.; feature performer from 8:30- Street Coffeehouse, contact Josh More info can be found online 10:00 p.m. 3rd Street is a smoke- Jones at 540-761-1351 or email at www.roanoke.com Events free, alcohol-free, no-cover-charge [email protected]. Calendar and on Facebook.
12 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 On August 16, SVSA members Celie Holmes and Marc Baskind were at Blackwater Studios at Smith Mountain Lake demo-ing a song co-written by SVSAer Greg Trafidlo and Vince Lewis, When Love Is Gone. Celie took the opportunity to snap a selfie that shows her perspective of the main studio from behind the microphone.
SVSA Performing Members’ Upcoming Gigs Aug 31, Stoney Creek Campground, Collegians Reunion, DAVID SIMPKINS 8-11:00 p.m., Greenville VA. $5 at door. Aug 30, 3rd Street Coffeehouse, opening for Steve Smith, Sep 01, Unity Church of the Roanoke Valley, solo, both 7:30-8:00 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church, 305 morning services 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., Roanoke VA. Mountain Ave SW, Roanoke VA, 540.761.1351. Sep 06, Pete Dye’s River Course, solo, 6-9:00 p.m., Radford VA. MARC BAskind Sep 14, Big Lick Tropical Grill, with the Heat Of The Night Sunday evenings (Sep 8, 15, 22, 29), Luigi’s Restaurant, Band, 8-11:00 p.m., Lynchburg VA. solo, 6-9:00 p.m., Roanoke VA. Sep 20, Heritage Festival, with the Beach Nite Band, Aug 30, Palisades, solo, 6:30-9:30 p.m., Eggleston VA. 6-9:00 p.m., Cedar Bluff VA.
13 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
what’s done is done marc with a “c” long story short eyes on the water
carved in song folk singular co-writers in disguise old dog, new tracks
Mike Franke Greg Trafidlo what’s done is done — A debut release of Carved in Song— Most songs co-written 14 original folk and blues tunes about everyday with some of Greg’s favorite songwriters. life and interesting people featuring Mike’s Listen to audio clips at gregtrafidlo.com. fingerstyle and slide guitar. folk singular— Greg’s third solo CD reflects the diversity of his songwriting Marc Baskind and production skills. With SVSA-ers on marc with a “c”— Sampler CD of covers background vocals, and Marc Baskind on and original songs offers a taste of the varied guitar and vocals. styles of this accomplished guitarist/singer. Co-Writers in Disguise — Contemporary folk/country with an emphasis on well-crafted David Simpkins lyrics and humor. With a number of SVSA Long Story Short — Offers 12 original members appearing on the CD. Americana tunes blending rock, folk, blues, and country. Old Dog – New Tracks — Songs that range from silly to sublime, drawing you in with warmth, wit, and humor. Songs include “I Got The Panini Brothers Stuck Behind Buford,” “Time is a Mountain,” Eyes on the water — Debut CD from a and “The Tumbler.” Buy it from CD Baby or group comprised of SVSA members Larry contact Greg at [email protected]. Sakayama and Mike DeGiorgi as well as Chip Conway, Mark Earnhardt, and Scott Thomas. Jazzy, bluesey, eclectic, original tunes.
14 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
the crawlspace tapes silver winkin’ pacing the moon
cup of contradictions dimestore detective dog joggin’ songwriter sessions Greg Trafidlo Mike Pearrell THE CRAWLSPACE TAPES — Greg’s newest cup of contradictions — 13 original CD is a compilation of all his funny and songs. Lots of SVSA musicians singing and goofy stuff. Tom Paxton says, “Loosen up, playing. sourpusses. Greg is on the loose again!” dimestore detective — Mike’s first solo CD features 14 original songs. Produced by Trifolkal Greg Trafidlo; with a number of guest SVSA SILVER — The trio celebrates 25 years musicians. Available at Mike’s shows. together with a “fan favorite” collection of covers from the Beach Boys to Tom Paxton. Steve Clark winkin’ — This top-notch release from that DOG JOGGIN’ — Eleven sweet and true “trio fiercely dedicated to fun” tempers the amusing tunes comprise this quirky singer/ fun with poignancy and heart. songwriter CD. Available at cdbaby.com.
Josh Jones The Entwined Pacing the Moon — Thirteen of the SONGWRITER SESSIONS — The CD was strongest songs Josh has written. For lyrics, released at Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn short audio clips and additional information, Resort in Belize in 2018. It’s a mix of 13 songs please visit www.jonesgroupmusic.com. written by Dan Hildebrand ranging from real- life ballads to feel-good ditties. Recorded at Blackwater Studios. Percussion and harmony by Adonna Lemon.
15 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA Members’ Recordings
tales from the road eastern western from the heart of a horsegirl poet cowgirl cowgirl
lovin’ the west my life gumbo style Aspen Black Jimmie Landry Tales From the Road — 15 original poems MY LIFE — Jimmie sings stories about his with musical backup. Every poem has a tie to friends, family, and life on the road. A jazzy- a road, although the road is never the subject. blues New Orleans-style piano and vocals Either the road runs through it, shows up in paint a picture of 60 years in music. a fleeting moment, or the whole story was inspired by, or witnessed “on the road.” GUMBO — Hot and spicy down-home jazz, funk, and soul that goes down easy. Ten Eastern Western Cowgirl — Eight originals and three covers. original Contemporary Western songs. Available at CDBaby.com/aspenblack7. STYLE — A blend of standards and one original in a variety of grooves like straight-ahead from the heart of a cowgirl — swing, samba, jazz, waltz, and funky second- Original spoken word poems adhering to the line blues. Western Music Association guidelines for the cowboy poetry genre. Available at CDBaby. horsegirl poet — Songs and poems about “The real artist has no pride. horses, cowboys, and rural life. Available at Unfortunately he sees his art has no CDBaby. limits, He feels obscurely how far he is from the goal. And while he LOVIN’ THE WEST — This is the latest CD is perhaps being admired by others, released by Western Music Association singer/ he mourns the fact that he has not songwriter – and SVSA member – Aspen Black. yet reached the point to which his It features 10 original selections, seven of better genius like a distant sun ever which are road-tested favorites. beckons to him.” ~ Ludwig van Beethoven
16 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019 SVSA DISCLAIMER About Classifieds: The ideas and opinions contained SVSA Music News free classifieds may be submitted in this newsletter are intended by paid members only. All classifieds must be music- to be helpful to songwriters. The related. Members, e-mail your classifieds to svsa. companies and organizations [email protected]. mentioned are believed to be legitimate; however, SVSA does not endorse any products or services and About articles and other written offers no guaranteed success based contributions: on the content. SVSA members write feature articles for the SVSA We are always looking for articles Music News throughout the year. Members can about SVSA members and articles submit other articles and features at any time. Non- of interest to the songwriting members may also submit articles and other written community. Email articles and contributions but their inclusion will be subject to time information to the Editor, David and space constraints. All articles may be edited for Simpkins, at svsa.songwriters@ space considerations and will be edited, as time allows, gmail.com. SVSA is a non-profit for spelling and grammar. E-mail submissions to svsa. organization. [email protected]. SVSA Board Members: About Announcements: Mike DeGiorgi – President Ashley Lucas - Vice President SVSA members may list music-related announcements in the SVSA Music News. E-mail them to svsa. David Simpkins – Secretary and [email protected] by the second Tuesday of Newsletter Editor the month. Announcements from members will be Mike Franke – Treasurer e-mailed to members as soon as they are received and, Mollye Otis - At-Large Board Member if still timely, published in an upcoming issue of the Bill Stanton - At-Large Board Member SVSA Music News. Announcements from non-members Dennis Danner - At-Large Board Member will be held for publication in an upcoming issue of the Larry Helms - At-Large Board Member SVSA Music News.
About Members’ Gig Listings: SVSA members may submit their upcoming performance schedules for publication in the SVSA Music News. The submissions will be printed as submitted; the more information you provide, the SVSA more likely the response. P.O. Box 698 Salem, VA 24153 www.svsasongs.com
17 | SVSA MUSIC NEWS | AUGUST 2019