Thanks for checking out my page, this page is about the expression of music and song. The songs I write and sing are not confined to one particular genre and not in homage to any idol, (although there are many artists deserving credit). I love music that I can feel and that is the inspiration that I seek, as is with you possibly also. myspace is cool to hear music, exchange thoughts and ideas with others all over the world; although the chances of me finding common ground and agreeing with many that inhabit myspace is quite frankly unlikely. Still, let's face it where else would you be likely to hear my meandering home recordings! And if I have clicked add friends then I feel there is something that possibly we may share in one way or another, (like love of music; and maybe you make fantastic music), or, something I find of particular interest outside of the general bs. I am a bit of an outsider, preferring inspiration over commercialisation. Generally I don't like music that is without some kind of soul - not necessarily 'soul music' though. Some music just smacks of dollar signs, and I hate that. Music that goes beyond the daily life experience, and takes us into another world, one where everything is possible is where it's at I believe.
May sound naff but as a young kid I recall being concerned that when I grew up there might not be any songs left to be created. There've been times it seemed that it might have actually happened - if you go by play lists of many corporate radio stations (and charts). Music must not be left in the hands of the corporations as they will only continue to plunder and kill any of the aspects that keep music fresh and real, leaving us only with formulaic tunes that only mimic what music should make us feel. Without music there is nothing; and nothing is without music. Music reflects life and forms a vital part of the narrative of the life's experience. You dig! So do not leave the music to others, if you feel music then it is in you. Don't worry about the struggle or the ridicule they are just all part of life.
Bought my first record was when I was 6 yrs old with my mum, it was Strawberry Fields/Penny Lane by the Beatles. I still have vivid memories of listening to music as a youngster, and think that it was then I was first inspired by music. The Everly Bros, Miriam Makeba (with Harry Belafonte singers), Nina Simone ('put a spell on you' album), The Beatles and Pet Sounds by the Beach Boys, were possibly the first records that really grabbed me, as I still remember listening to them now.
Music to me is about communication, emotion and melody. Have never been a prolific songwriter, (even though it's what I love best), as I've spent most of my time listening to music by others, but I believe that music should have something to say and as such that's what I try to do. I am going to try in '08 to record some of my songs that I have written. I play all the instruments not because I'm any virtuoso (far from it)... Still, it gives me a chance to further explore the creative processes... and sometimes... the results even sound quite cool, (so I'm told?).
Longest Journey is about the struggle to find meaning in life in a world of adversity, where short term gain and jealousy reign. The 'Longest Journey' is something that can also be made in your mind, distance as it is, not necessarily equatable with learning. The Longest Journey in a round about way comes from my love of travelling, as a kid from about the age of ten I used to run away from home. As soon I knew there were roads and they could lead places I wanted to roam and have travelled to many amazing places. I left school at 15, and then home the next day by mutual consent.
Having travelled to more than 40 countries, living, experiencing (and landing on my feet occassionally), sharing moments in a lot of different places with people who have meant a lot to me, I've seen many changes. However, like many things in life its the getting there thats often the exciting bit... Let's not get too precious though; I've over looked so very much, been stupid reckless and done bad things, and wasted much time... Don't do what I've done. When the drugs wear off you'll regret it! No-one is ever what they make themselves out to be - so don't believe the hype.
I have a theory that there are songs 'out there' and that if you get in the right frame they will come to you. (Maybe I should get out a bit more!!) Sounds a bit New Age' or 'out there', which I am not really; oh alright, well maybe I am a bit, but it's true if you seek you will find if dedicated, work hard (and lucky)... which is not as easy as it sounds, with all the contradictions that arise.
Lastly, to sum up my thoughts on myspace: Before I began playing in bands, I used to hitch across Europe and particularly to southern Europe where it's warm, I used to find the experiences encountered along the way, seemed to somehow restore my faith in people; prone sometimes as I am to getting dis-spirited with the seemingly tiny spheres we find ourselves confined in. Through the web, myspace and the like seem to open up access to a far wider field of vision than the one we generally inhabit, allowing us contact to people we would never otherwise meet. So peace and prosperity, seek the good and good will follow. Thanx & Love, Richard.
