Mark, your band sounds amazing! I really enjoyed the song you wrote, too. How long do you play for on Thursday nights? If I get a chance I’ll have to try to tune in. Thanks so much for sharing!
My gut reaction as a wife with two kids is to say, "$750!? What were you thinking?". 😂 But as the musician in my house, I've put down some serious cash for instruments and equipment over the years. I had an American Fender P bass at one point. I bought it used, but it was still really expensive. My teacher at the time said if I wanted to play blues, that was "the one" I needed. It was a beast and years later, when I was playing acoustic rock, I traded it for a smaller jazz bass. I still miss my red Fender sometimes, though. 🥲 And the blues. 💙
Haha! I was wondering if anyone was going to comment on that. Agreed, it’s a lot of dough to spend on a whim! Hmm...I may need a “part two” to cover her reaction to Phil’s purchase.
It’s really neat to hear about your personal history with music. Thanks for sharing! Do you still play or still own any guitars? (By the way, if you find yourself spending some serious cheddar on a ridiculously expensive guitar/bass in the near future...I had nothing to do with it!) 🤣 🎸 🎶
I still own my jazz bass and a Fender Strat. Both in a closet in the basement currently. :( Until the pandemic broke our gig rhythm*, we had a decent run. Mostly played out as a duo, but we'd bring our drummer in for bigger venues and for albums. 😊https://twodaysfrommonday.bandcamp.com/album/season-left-behind
*It was partly the pandemic and partly me not wanting to play bars anymore. As a more jaded Mel might say, "I was getting too old for that shit." 😂 If you listen and are short on time, I sing lead on tracks 2, 4, 6 and 9. I wrote the lyrics on 9. :)
Very nice, Meg! Just had some time to listen. I enjoyed your stuff! “Shine” was great. Your band has a pleasant, uplifting sound. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊
Amazing!!! I had no idea. Thanks so much for sharing, Meg. I’m going to give your album a listen later. Really looking forward to it and checking out your music! 🎶
Feb 1, 2023·edited Feb 1, 2023Liked by Justin Deming
🤣 I hear you on gigging, Meg. I recently quit a band of 15 years because I was tired of the increasing hassles of gigging and practicing. And we only really did festival gigs (the fun ones.) So I put together an acoustic trio and we started live-streaming on TikTok from one member's garage. That was a year ago and we have 50,000 followers now. And they tip! No travel or setup hassles, just fun, and extra money.
But having said that, we are playing a gig Saturday night at a sports tavern. If it stays fun, I will keep gigging. When it stops being fun, we still have TikTok. 🤣
It is nice to meet some fellow musicians on Substack.
Well, first off, the story made me cry. Music is my first love, after all. Secondly, I’m getting to that age where losing a spouse is a real concern. The guy I’ve been listening to lately is named Jelly Roll. His rap/blues/rock combo is unique and deeply meaningful. He talks about real life problems and how God saved him. Give him a listen if you don’t know who he is. ☺️
Aw, thanks, Kim. Stories connect us, and I’m so happy you connected with Mel and Phil’s - even if it brought some tears. I totally understand where you’re coming from.
You know, I’ve heard of him, but for the life of me I can’t remember who the heck told me about him. I’ll be sure to check out his stuff. Thanks for the recommendation!
Holy crap, man, you guys were amazing. I don’t know if I’d ever listened to any of your music. You were the lead singer, right? Love those lyrics! I have to admit, this one hit me harder than The Descendents’ song above. Going to have to dig up more of your band’s music! Thanks a bunch for sharing.
Hang on. I'll send you a link to my favorite, though I definitely want you to comb YouTube for some stuff. But the one I'm going to send, Staredown , is extremely autobiographical.
I'm always "late to the game", but on YouTube, I'm listening to Japanese guitarist Ichika Nito (also is his YT channel name). He plays Ibañez amplified guitars.
Jan 31, 2023·edited Jan 31, 2023Liked by Justin Deming
"There was a tiny hole in his heart." I think this is your opening line right here. As a reader we see this sentence and ask, Why? (IMHO ha ha ha.)
Fine story, I can feel the lurching of his heart at the sight of all those Gibsons hanging on the wall. Such treasure! My mama, Katy, played a black sunburst arch-top f-hole Gibson for years. I still remember the bold sound of that mid-century steel-string acoustic . Thanks for reminding me, Justin. As far as bands... I have been listening to early 70s Graham Nash. He breaks my heart when he says, "I just want to hold you, I don't want to hold you down." One of the many genius musicians of my halcyon hippie days. Sigh. Thanks for the memories.
Sharron, this is excellent advice! It would make a great opening line because it makes the reader ask that important question. Thank you for the feedback!
I can see Katy vividly through your description of her playing - simply beautiful. I’m happy this story brought you back. 🎸♥️🎶
Such a sweet encounter between two music lovers. I wasn't expecting the ending--but glad that Mel has his music for comfort. Amazing how many memories and emotions are attached to the music we love.
A great read Justin! Such a truth; the things we pause in our life that we truly love. Your story really brought it home. An acoustic guitar help bring my wife and I together! I saw her cute self with a guitar case, between classes in the church basement. (it was a religious college!) I had taken beginning guitar and started a conversation; and I was smitten! Sooo-guitars, I'm a fan!
Thank you so much for reading! And what a heartwarming story regarding you and your wife. I loved reading and seeing that little glimpse into your life. Thanks so much for sharing it with me. 😊🙏
Had that same feeling the first time I strummed a J-200. Could never justify the cost though. Jimmy Dooms Roulette Weal comments section brought me here. I like stories like this. Good work!
Hey Steve, welcome aboard! Thank you so much for subscribing! Jimmy is one of my favorite writers here on Substack. I’m happy you liked the story. Here’s another semi-recent one you might enjoy: https://alongthehudson.substack.com/p/old-soul
This puts some intrigue into it with the comment about his doctor's appointment. I read into it that it might not be good news.
As far as band or song, I've been listening to a lot of music lately. I can just point you to the two genres I listen to all the time: Country and Contemporary Christian. Anything in those genres gives me inspiration for my writing. If I'm not listening to music, the cursor sits still and the words don't flow. When the music is on, the words flow like crazy.
That’s a great point, Matthew, regarding the doctor’s appointment. I love this take. Receiving negative news might push him toward the guitar shop. Makes perfect sense to me!
I think it’s wonderful that music brings out so many of your ideas when writing. Sometimes it can for me, but I find that I focus too much on the lyrics and get distracted. I’m finding that I tend to write better in silence. But I love playing music just about any other time. 😄
Music, and stories about it, always tug at my heartstrings. Both of my sisters are self-taught hobby guitarists. Me, not so much. I'm a flute player, and boy oh boy did your story make me miss playing. I might just have to sit down and make some music now.
Yes, absolutely! You should create something, especially if you feel the pull! I can play the drums but not well. My brother and I used to jam all of the time growing up. I’d keep a steady rhythm for him and he’d just hammer on his guitar. Man...we had some fun times. I miss those days sometimes!
"used guitars already have their stories. Their memories. You ought to write your own on a clean slate.”
So true. The longer you have a guitar, the more stories it has. I couldn't imagine a life without music or playing guitar.
If you don't mind I am going to plug my new-ish band. We have our first real (paying) gig Saturday. We have been live-streaming on TikTok for a year.
https://www.tiktok.com/@americangarageband
Here is a song I wrote:
https://www.tiktok.com/@americangarageband/video/7166342529627983147
You guys sound really good.
Mark, your band sounds amazing! I really enjoyed the song you wrote, too. How long do you play for on Thursday nights? If I get a chance I’ll have to try to tune in. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks Justin. 🤓 We play from 9:30-11:30 EST on Thursdays.
Very enjoyable story. Sometimes during the ritual of life we need to find an outlet that we alone enjoy and just do it.
I believe hobbies are essential to living a good life.
Thanks, Peggie. Absolutely! Like Mark said below, I think it’s vital.
Sorry, Pennie! Darn autocorrect!
It's okay, Peggy was mom though.
My gut reaction as a wife with two kids is to say, "$750!? What were you thinking?". 😂 But as the musician in my house, I've put down some serious cash for instruments and equipment over the years. I had an American Fender P bass at one point. I bought it used, but it was still really expensive. My teacher at the time said if I wanted to play blues, that was "the one" I needed. It was a beast and years later, when I was playing acoustic rock, I traded it for a smaller jazz bass. I still miss my red Fender sometimes, though. 🥲 And the blues. 💙
Haha! I was wondering if anyone was going to comment on that. Agreed, it’s a lot of dough to spend on a whim! Hmm...I may need a “part two” to cover her reaction to Phil’s purchase.
It’s really neat to hear about your personal history with music. Thanks for sharing! Do you still play or still own any guitars? (By the way, if you find yourself spending some serious cheddar on a ridiculously expensive guitar/bass in the near future...I had nothing to do with it!) 🤣 🎸 🎶
I would say $1000 for a lifetime of enjoyment is an amazing bargain. 🤓
I still own my jazz bass and a Fender Strat. Both in a closet in the basement currently. :( Until the pandemic broke our gig rhythm*, we had a decent run. Mostly played out as a duo, but we'd bring our drummer in for bigger venues and for albums. 😊https://twodaysfrommonday.bandcamp.com/album/season-left-behind
*It was partly the pandemic and partly me not wanting to play bars anymore. As a more jaded Mel might say, "I was getting too old for that shit." 😂 If you listen and are short on time, I sing lead on tracks 2, 4, 6 and 9. I wrote the lyrics on 9. :)
Very nice, Meg! Just had some time to listen. I enjoyed your stuff! “Shine” was great. Your band has a pleasant, uplifting sound. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊
Amazing!!! I had no idea. Thanks so much for sharing, Meg. I’m going to give your album a listen later. Really looking forward to it and checking out your music! 🎶
🤣 I hear you on gigging, Meg. I recently quit a band of 15 years because I was tired of the increasing hassles of gigging and practicing. And we only really did festival gigs (the fun ones.) So I put together an acoustic trio and we started live-streaming on TikTok from one member's garage. That was a year ago and we have 50,000 followers now. And they tip! No travel or setup hassles, just fun, and extra money.
But having said that, we are playing a gig Saturday night at a sports tavern. If it stays fun, I will keep gigging. When it stops being fun, we still have TikTok. 🤣
It is nice to meet some fellow musicians on Substack.
Well, first off, the story made me cry. Music is my first love, after all. Secondly, I’m getting to that age where losing a spouse is a real concern. The guy I’ve been listening to lately is named Jelly Roll. His rap/blues/rock combo is unique and deeply meaningful. He talks about real life problems and how God saved him. Give him a listen if you don’t know who he is. ☺️
Same here, Kim, re: losing a spouse, or him losing me. So much closer, now.
Love Jelly Roll! :-)
If you haven't already heard his country song, "Son of a Sinner", you need to.
Thanks for recommending!
Aw, thanks, Kim. Stories connect us, and I’m so happy you connected with Mel and Phil’s - even if it brought some tears. I totally understand where you’re coming from.
You know, I’ve heard of him, but for the life of me I can’t remember who the heck told me about him. I’ll be sure to check out his stuff. Thanks for the recommendation!
Thank you again for reading! 🎶
Here's a song that I think fits and I've been thinking about since my drummer died.
Fans of The Descendents have different theories on the song, whether it was an homage to another band, or Bill Stevenson's thank you to his own band.
They're some of the most genuine people in rock n roll and easily one of the most underrated American bands of all time.
https://youtu.be/x8K4hjaB6Ok
Thanks for sharing this song! I enjoyed it and absolutely loved the energy. I’m really sorry to hear about your drummer, Jimmy.
We had some great times on stage and off
Here's one of ours he co-wrote. I wrote the lyrics, which include the line " live fast, die young, push it to the limit til the coffin calls"
https://youtu.be/0isF5w8KO8A
Holy crap, man, you guys were amazing. I don’t know if I’d ever listened to any of your music. You were the lead singer, right? Love those lyrics! I have to admit, this one hit me harder than The Descendents’ song above. Going to have to dig up more of your band’s music! Thanks a bunch for sharing.
https://youtu.be/omlgK9I3nGs
I can see why it’s your favorite! I bet you all had some fun times. You’ve got a new fan over here in New York.
I love that. It changed my life so much. And I got an acting career out of the deal. That's extraordinary fortune.
Hang on. I'll send you a link to my favorite, though I definitely want you to comb YouTube for some stuff. But the one I'm going to send, Staredown , is extremely autobiographical.
Beautiful, I can remember testing out instruments in the past and how they made me feel.
Thanks a bunch, Nick! I love music, but I’m far from a musician. I used to tag along with my big bro, though. 🎶
... he wanted to play.
Great story Justin -- thank you!
Thank you so much for reading!
How wonderful to write this for your brother!
I'm always "late to the game", but on YouTube, I'm listening to Japanese guitarist Ichika Nito (also is his YT channel name). He plays Ibañez amplified guitars.
Thanks so much for reading, Jenise! I hear you in regards to that. I’ll have to check out his stuff! Thank you very much for sharing. 😊
Excellent story. I know nothing about music other than I like to listen to it. Love how you tied in the family.
Scott, thank you so much! I really appreciate you reading and commenting. Happy you enjoyed it.
"There was a tiny hole in his heart." I think this is your opening line right here. As a reader we see this sentence and ask, Why? (IMHO ha ha ha.)
Fine story, I can feel the lurching of his heart at the sight of all those Gibsons hanging on the wall. Such treasure! My mama, Katy, played a black sunburst arch-top f-hole Gibson for years. I still remember the bold sound of that mid-century steel-string acoustic . Thanks for reminding me, Justin. As far as bands... I have been listening to early 70s Graham Nash. He breaks my heart when he says, "I just want to hold you, I don't want to hold you down." One of the many genius musicians of my halcyon hippie days. Sigh. Thanks for the memories.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpkELuj6kn4 - Graham Nash
Sharron, this is excellent advice! It would make a great opening line because it makes the reader ask that important question. Thank you for the feedback!
I can see Katy vividly through your description of her playing - simply beautiful. I’m happy this story brought you back. 🎸♥️🎶
Such a sweet encounter between two music lovers. I wasn't expecting the ending--but glad that Mel has his music for comfort. Amazing how many memories and emotions are attached to the music we love.
Thanks so much, Ricki! Isn’t it? I love how specific songs still bring me back to exact moments in time. Music is a powerful sort of magic!
Great story! There’s a lot of empathy between characters in your stories, which I appreciate.
In terms of rock songs, I was listening to one of my favorite bands in the car the other day - New Pornographers, “High Ticket Attractions.”
Thanks, Geoffrey. I like to think that we’ve all still got a fighting chance as long as we’re decent to one another!
Just checked out the song and it’s super catchy. The music video is pretty wild, too, ha! Thanks for sharing.
A great read Justin! Such a truth; the things we pause in our life that we truly love. Your story really brought it home. An acoustic guitar help bring my wife and I together! I saw her cute self with a guitar case, between classes in the church basement. (it was a religious college!) I had taken beginning guitar and started a conversation; and I was smitten! Sooo-guitars, I'm a fan!
Thank you so much for reading! And what a heartwarming story regarding you and your wife. I loved reading and seeing that little glimpse into your life. Thanks so much for sharing it with me. 😊🙏
Had that same feeling the first time I strummed a J-200. Could never justify the cost though. Jimmy Dooms Roulette Weal comments section brought me here. I like stories like this. Good work!
Hey Steve, welcome aboard! Thank you so much for subscribing! Jimmy is one of my favorite writers here on Substack. I’m happy you liked the story. Here’s another semi-recent one you might enjoy: https://alongthehudson.substack.com/p/old-soul
Yup, loved it. I'm a collector/ trader of vintage equipment and vinyl records. Obviously a music lover.
Great story Justin!
This puts some intrigue into it with the comment about his doctor's appointment. I read into it that it might not be good news.
As far as band or song, I've been listening to a lot of music lately. I can just point you to the two genres I listen to all the time: Country and Contemporary Christian. Anything in those genres gives me inspiration for my writing. If I'm not listening to music, the cursor sits still and the words don't flow. When the music is on, the words flow like crazy.
That’s a great point, Matthew, regarding the doctor’s appointment. I love this take. Receiving negative news might push him toward the guitar shop. Makes perfect sense to me!
I think it’s wonderful that music brings out so many of your ideas when writing. Sometimes it can for me, but I find that I focus too much on the lyrics and get distracted. I’m finding that I tend to write better in silence. But I love playing music just about any other time. 😄
Music, and stories about it, always tug at my heartstrings. Both of my sisters are self-taught hobby guitarists. Me, not so much. I'm a flute player, and boy oh boy did your story make me miss playing. I might just have to sit down and make some music now.
Yes, absolutely! You should create something, especially if you feel the pull! I can play the drums but not well. My brother and I used to jam all of the time growing up. I’d keep a steady rhythm for him and he’d just hammer on his guitar. Man...we had some fun times. I miss those days sometimes!