Adam Watts
Caring has become a thing of the past
I broke bones, healed and I cut off the cast
Now nothing feels the same
And I'm numb inside but for this nagging shame
Nagging shame...
(pre chorus)
And I live but I never seem to learn
And I lie and lie so it doesn't hurt
Now I'm on my own in this desert I've made
Where the sun beats down, and I have no shade
(chorus)
Another breath in, Another breath out
Another false win, I can lie to myself about
I'm the sky and the rain, I,m the wild and the tame
'Cause I won't choose death, I'm the hero and the pain
The hero and the pain
The hero and the pain
Now I'm loading the gun, and I'm planning attack
And I'm asking the Son, for my life back
'Cause I killed all of my faith
When I cried for Him and no answer came
No answer came...
But I live, 'cause there's nothing else to do
And I scrape and grind, nothing left to prove
Got the devil inside and it's hot as hell
And I serve my time, in this prison cell
Chorus
(Bridge)
Color me in or shoot me down
I could be black or underground
Start up war and scream my name
Save my life or dig my grave
I'm just a man that's halfway done
Waiting for my ship to come
Will it come?
Chorus
Back in November of 2014, at one the lowest most scary times in my life, I realized something you can only see when you're there. I became, in some strange way, inseparable from the pain I felt. It was so all-encompassing that it was if it was within every cell, affecting my every thought and emotion. At the same time I realized that though I had become this pain, in order to transcend it I needed to also become my own hero. I had to make the choices required to pull myself out of it. An act of will in the face of soul wrenching and visceral pain. I had to be my own hero. I didn't understand where god fit into it all, in that sense I was confused. Spiritually at a loss, though I prayed, I believe in that moment my freewill was staring me in the face and I had to choose to keep going, God was there, but He is not a genie in a bottle. I believe He cared for me and maybe bolstered my strength and kept me on the path but being the hero and the pain was a fact. I made it through, and this was the first song I wrote as I recovered from this time.
A wave does what a wave does
A heart hunts what a heart wants
You could circle the world and never touch the land
Will it take crashing on the rocks to help you understand
(Chorus)
It isn't up to me...
And it never was
I could beg you on me knees...
But it'd be just because.
A wave does what a wave does
A wave does what a wave does
A life bends until a life breaks
When both give, does anyone really take?
I expected more, now I don't know what for
Though the rock breaks the wave, it just comes back for more
(chorus)
It isn't up to me...
And it never was
I could beg you on me knees...
But it'd be just because.
A wave does what a wave does
A wave does what a wave does
(Bridge)
Like a heart beats
Like an electrical storm in my veins
Like the sun beats down, down
And the moon takes it's place
Chorus
Sometimes it's hard to accept the way things REALLY are... the way some people REALLY are (including myself!)... we can hope all we want, but some things just ARE... a wave does what a wave does; don't jump in the ocean thinking they'll do something different.
This is how a heart breaks
It doesn't tell you why
It bleeds, then it dies
This is how the dark takes
Every inch your life
Then it laughs while you cry
(pre)
And you wonder where you are
How you were killed but didn't die
(chorus)
Where are you now
Motherfather... Motherfather
Where were you then
Motherfather... Motherfather
And I watch for the signs
The promise you'd appear
I feel you inside
As I fight through the tears
Where are you now
This is how the past shakes
And the earth opens wide
And pulls you inside
Then no matter how brave you are
The heat starts to rise
And reopens the scars
(pre)
Knocked to the ground the baby cries
Kicking holes in the sky
Chorus
Someone I know was going through some deep struggles because of mistakes their parents made along the way (early on in her life especially)... no parent is perfect... some make bigger mistakes than others... it's often part of a long complicated chain of generational chaos... it's all SO, SO difficult... and grace should be handed out in all directions, in as large of portions as possible... but sometimes the aches and pains just have to be let out... This song is for her as much as it is for me and anyone else...
Born under bright lights
Hearts beat, we're alive
Trying to be kings and queens
If we're lucky we're raised under love
But some of us starve, never get enough
Then we carry that weight up, up
(chorus)
They say we're running out of heroes
I say they're looking in the wrong place
'Cause if they really want a hero
It's in the way, in the way, you take away the pain
All night I sleep on a time bomb
With you by side it never goes off
They say we're running out of heroes
They don't see, you and me
And the secret that we both know
Hard falls, long nights
So few sympathize
We stand up, carry on breathing
We can choose to brave it alone
Gain the world while we lose our souls
But to save is beautiful
Chorus
The archetype of the hero is so played out... in movies... books... tv... online... sometimes the hero that really dos the saving comes in a more down to earth package... it's the person who will just sit with you through the hard times. Simple presence... care... love... commitment.
Violins, Cello & Viola: The Section Quartet
Don't understand it but I try to believe it
I have a feeling then a thought to destroy it
Under my skin a devil fights with an angel
While my newborn son breathes in and out in his cradle
(chorus)
Love & hate & pain & grace
When I fly I fall flat on my face
Live & die & in between
I will cage the animal parts of me
I'll cage the animal parts of me
I have desire then a habit to tame it
Exposing wires that will kill i touch them...
One side a criminal the other a hero
Everything i want
Is a drug so I better be careful
chorus
I will cage
I will cage
I will cage
This is a song about the war between my lower self and my higher self... in religious talk, that'd be the war between the flesh and the spirit... the tension between the human animal and the transcendent soul. It ain't easy to keep it all in check.
It's a cold one
The dead of our winter
Words freezing hearts
As they fall from our lips
Ain't love a bitch
(pre)
I thought we agreed to play fair
Then I saw something fly through the air
(chorus)
You're dropping bombs, bombs, nuclear bombs
On this unsuspecting heart of mine
I might be wrong, wrong, all the way wrong
But you, didn't have to turn out my lights
Goodbye love & peace
Our wrath has been released
You and me... world war three
You and me... world war three
And it's no fun
No warmth cures the shiver
And we both hear, that battle call
Echoing, God help you and me
Pre
Chorus
"All is fair in love and war", a phrase credited to poet John Lyly. I'd have to disagree with the sentiment that all is fair... but I will say that certainly all things associated with war, at least metaphorically, are possible in love.
We can fight all night only to wake up the next morning with the collateral damage strewn around our hearts, only to have forgotten why we were fighting in the first place. We're then left only with the knowledge of what it is we're fighting for... the love itself.
We attempt to rescue love for the grips of insecurity, selfishness and doubt... and it can be an all out battle to get our needs met while meeting the needs of the object of our affection. One thing is clear, we only end up hurting ourselves when we hurt the ones we love.
Featured Vocals: iRussi
I'm in the middle of nowhere
The center of dark
This isn't about what is fair
It's about where you are... and where you're not
Oh how you run
Straight to your fun
And you bury it all
Turn your back as it falls
And now all I can trust
Is that a wave does what a wave does
(chorus)
So I won't pretend
That you'll just bend, 'cause you break
I'll back away
So if it's the end
I'll put on thicker skin
You should you know
From here, you're on your own
I'm painting a picture of us
It's a head, a fire and a heart
Where all of the rhythms match up
And the sparks, pierce the dark
But, oh how you run
Straight to your fun
And you bury it all
Turn your back as it falls
I know that you're trying a new way
But when your light turns on, I just might be gone
Chorus
I'll admit there's some bitterness in this one... it's hard not feeling appreciated when you've given a lot and feel like it wasn't reciprocated when it mattered... but that's life sometimes!
I can see that look in your eyes
I've seen it before a hundred times
It's not what I'm wanting to see
But seeing it means I'm the one you need
(pre-chorus)
And when you're done
Crying on my shoulder
You just see a friend
And my moment of hope is over
(chorus)
Can't hold your heart as mine
But somebody somewhere will
I can't seem to get this right
But somebody somewhere will
Somebody somewhere will
I can tell it's pressure you feel
As I'm trying to make the impossible real
That's how it goes this is life
You get what you get
And you wish for more every time
Pre-Chorus
I can see that look in your eyes
I've seen it before a hundred times
It's not what I'm wanting to see
But seeing it means I'm the one you need
Pre-Chorus
Chorus
This song is a story... a combining of situation and feelings into one story... unrequited love is a tough one.
Here we go again
You start a war
Oh you cared before
But you don't anymore
Here it comes again
And we aim to kill
To break the will
For the desire to win
The desire to win
There are only losers
In the fog of war
What do we do this for
Play such a deadly game
Is there another way
Can drop the weapons guns we're holding
I'd never want you to hurt for nothing
Here we go again
You start a war
And so I break the door in
To say, I'll let you win
Sometimes surrender is winning... the best win/win.
I wanna feel like this forever
I want the pain to hurt this good
I wanna live inside you're weather
Let it destroy me If I could
I want the ghost of you to haunt me
In every shadow looking on
Off to the side I'll feel you staring
But when I look you will be gone
(chorus)
And I'll miss you the whole time you're gone
But I won't fall apart even with brittle heart I'll be fine, I'll be fine
So don't take too long
I must admit...
That nothing else feels like this
I wanna close my eyes and feel you
Like I do when right there
And when I reach out to touch you
My hands find only air
Unlike a drug you don't destroy me
But I'm addicted just the same
The push, the pull, the rise, the falling
I only wish that you would stay
Chorus
I haven't written many songs about this... just feeling good... those times in life where there's a feeling of possibility... that the day is wide open to do what you feel you've been put on earth to do...
We try to be behave
We try to be brave
In the cradle of desperation
We cry out for a familiar revelation
Look me straight in the eyes
Remove your disguise
I'll remove mine
Give me kings I'll give you aces
Feed me truth I want to taste it
(chorus)
And the world just turns and turns
And the sun just burns and burns
And the waves run hands of water up the shore
And my heart cries out for more
Give me more, give me more
We count the days
Put on a happy face
In the quiet we're much more honest
Is there something more we could've missed
It's a slow and steady ride
We convict and punish crimes
Then somewhere along we face it
How it is we're all connected
Chorus
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Profile
About Adam: Adam Watts' varied work in the music and film industries as a Songwriter / Producer / Mixer has been featured on over 50 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, with over a dozen #1 HITS in multiple genres, an[more]Adam Watts' varied work in the music and film industries as a Songwriter / Producer / Mixer has been featured on over 50 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, with over a dozen #1 HITS in multiple genres, an ASCAP Pop Award, 2 ASCAP Film/TV Awards and 4 Dove Awards.
As a songwriter for Walt Disney Music Publishing for 10 years, Watts has written and produced songs for projects including High School Musical (1, 2, & 3), Hannah Montana (all seasons), Camp Rock (1 & 2), The Chronicles of Narnia Prince Caspian, Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure, Disneyland's 50th Anniversary Celebration (Fireworks Show at Disneyland), Lemonade Mouth, Let it Shine, Jump In, Austin & Ally, Brave, as well artist releases for Jesse McCartney, Aly & AJ, Ingram Hill, Cherri Bomb, Hey Violet, and many more.
Watts diverse skillset has led him to work in multiple genres and with artists including Demi Lovato, Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Jeremy Camp, Switchfoot, Jonas Brothers, Plain White Ts, Colton Dixon (American Idol), Angie Miller (American Idol), Javier Colon (The Voice Season 1 Winner), Drew Ryne (X-Factor), and many more. He is also a critically acclaimed singer-songwriter, having released ten self-produced solo albums, the most recent being "The Devil & The Light" released January 1st 2022.
Now published by Reservoir Media, Watts' most recent project was the Netflix original film "A Week Away", the first faith-based feature-length musical. Watts wrote, produced and mixed the film's many original songs (and the reimagined classic cover songs), as well as the soundtrack. The film won the Dove Award for Inspiration Film of the Year in 2021.
Watts is also an author and fine artist. His book "The Human of Being Art: A Holistic Approach to Being an Artist and Creating Art" has led to his teaching his unique approach to arts education at multiple Universities throughout Southern California. He is currently developing this approach into a full-fledged arts education and content creation entity, Broken City Artists.
Now the father of two sons, currently Watts is currently working on a series of children's multi-media franchise, "The Adventures of Owie & Raffy" featuring wondrously strange animal characters who are seeking to overcome their deepest insecurities, find self-acceptance, friendship, and a place to truly belong.
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Adam Watts Songwriter, Producer, Solo Artist, Author
Author of "The Human of Being Art: A Holistic Approach to Being an Artist and Creating Art", Adjunct Professor @ CBU
Music Releases: 10 Solo Album Releases: "The Devil & The Light" (2021), When a Heart Wakes Up (2018), The Hero and the Pain (2016), Haterfakers-Single (2015), Way Out (2014), Life on Earth (2013), Fallborn (2012), Murder Yesterday (2010), Sleeping Fire (2006), The Noise Inside (2004). Plus over 150 releases as a songwriter/producer/mixer.
Current Experience: Songwriter, Producer, Solo Artist, Multi-Instrumentalist (drums, vocals, bass, guitar, keys), Visual[more]Songwriter, Producer, Solo Artist, Multi-Instrumentalist (drums, vocals, bass, guitar, keys), Visual Artist, Author, Educator, Signed to Reservoir Media Publishing, Adjunct Professor (Cal Baptist University) [collapse]
Previous Experience: Songwriter/Producer with over 50 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, BEC/Tooth & Nail (EMI) Recording Art[more]Songwriter/Producer with over 50 Million Albums Sold Worldwide, BEC/Tooth & Nail (EMI) Recording Artist, Walt Disney Music Publishing songwriter. Extensive experience in rock, pop, alternative, CCM, TV, Film and Animation projects. 4x Dove Award Winner, 3x ASCAP Songwriting Award Winner. [collapse]
My Artist Type: The Visionary Artist
My Creative Work Type: The Entrepreneur
Short Term Goals: Release the FOLLOWING FIREFLIES multi-media book and music series
Long Term Goals: Share my HOLISTIC APPROACH with millions
Artist Q&A
List your Top 5 favorite songs of all time, and one reason why for each. (Think of it like this: if you could only listen to 5 songs for the rest of your life, which 5 songs would you choose?). NOTE: By definition, a song = a piece of music with vocals, lyrics and music.This is [more]List your Top 5 favorite songs of all time, and one reason why for each. (Think of it like this: if you could only listen to 5 songs for the rest of your life, which 5 songs would you choose?). NOTE: By definition, a song = a piece of music with vocals, lyrics and music.This is hard... this list kinda changes depending on the day... but I know I can't go wrong with this list:
1) With or Without You (U2) - haunting, beautiful, aching and timeless song about the tension that so often exists in a romantic relationship... the push and pull. Lyrics are poetry. Epic vocal. Love how it builds musically. Timeless production.
2) Mad About You (Sting) - This song has a feeling like no other. A biblical story from a cool original angle. something about this song just feels like me... it's one of the songs that inspired me to become a songwriter.
3) Fix You (Coldplay) - So emotional, so universal. A modern classic. It'd feel nice to have written that one! Again, another example of a heartfelt, artful song that's also been successful!
4) Hallelujah - (written by Leonard Cohen, but I dig Jeff Buckley's version)
5) Disappearing One (Chris Cornell) - This song feels like ME... how I feel... and it's got a perfect blend of mystery, angst, intensity, poetic artistry, musicality, and heart.
List the Top 5 songs you wish you'd written, and one reason why for each. (Any reason is viable!).
I'm gonna pick at least one song from every decade I've been alive!
1) With or Without You (U2) - haunting, beautiful, aching and timeless song about the tension that so often exists in a romantic relationship... the push and pull. Love how it builds too.
2) Every Breath You Take (The Police) - Because it's emotional but also artistic and most people don't know that though it's a love song, it's actually about obsession! Tricky. Also, it's one of the most played songs ever at radio. So it's artistic AND it's been successful... so again, the royalties would be nice!!
3) Fix You (Coldplay) - So emotional, so universal. A modern classic. It'd feel nice to have written that one! Again, another example of a heartfelt, artful song that's also been successful!
4) Perfect (Ed Sheeran) - A modern classic. Even though you could say it's a bit derivative of other classic songs, to me it just NAILS that utterly romantic feeling in every way... and it's so well sung... what a great vocal. And yet again, it's also been successful... so I'll take those royalties too!
5) Imagine (John Lennon) - It's such an undeniably emotional and thought provoking song... I'd change a couple lyrics:)... I also like that it's not only a great and meaningful song, but it's probably made a lot of money, so I'd enjoy that part too!
__________________
I'm not stopping!!
6) Black Hole Sun (Soundgarden) - amazing song that feels like no other.
7) Show Me How to Live (Audioslave) - Rocks SO hard and also has intense and meaningful lyrics.
8) Yesterday (The Beatles) - Such an aching song that nails the feeling of nostalgic regret in a way that feels so good.
9) Fake Plastic Trees (Radiohead) - this song so poetically and achingly expresses the sadness of the facades people put up in life... the hurt that lurks under the surface.
10) Chandelier (Sia) - One of the greatest pop songs ever. Incredibly poignant while being so catchy, soulfully melodic and powerful on every level. Amazing vocal... and such perfectly crafted and emotional lyrics.
11) I Can't Make You Love Me (Bonne Raitt) - Because... it's perfect.
12) Karma Police (Radiohead) - poetic, aching depth that I just really connect to on every level.
13) Lover, You Should've Come Over (Jeff Buckley) - beautiful, powerful, so in the moment. Everything about this song and recording is great.
14) Human (Rag 'n Bones Man) - One of the very best songs (in just about every way) of the last 10 years. There's a few "trendy" production things in there... but overall, a timeless and powerful song... songs like this are increasingly rare.
15) Someone Like You (Adele) - a modern classic of the 2000s. Just great, straight to the heart, honest songwriting.
16) To Make You Feel My Love (Bob Dylan, but Adele's version) - Such an amazing song from lyrics to melody... it just hits me.
17) The Age of Worry (John Mayer) - one of my favorite songs of his. It feels important and honest... it's emotional, thoughtful and just nails a certain feeling and perspective about life that I connect with while also being poetic about it.
18) My Hero (Foo Fighters/Dave Grohl) - one of the greatest rock songs IMO. "There goes my here... watch him as he goes... there goes my hero... he's ordinary...". So good in very way I want a rock song to be good: lyrically, musically, emotionally, and it KICKS A$$.
19) Maggie's Song (Chris Stapleton) - a song about a dog. We had to put our precious golden retriever Clementine to sleep in 2021 (she was almost 14 years old, totally blind, and in living in pain)... it one of the most awful, achingly horrible moments, yet also beautiful.... but she was an angel and added so much love/joy/beauty to my life. Man's best friend, for sure. This song NAILS the feeling... what it's like to love a dog and be with it from puppy to death.
20) Fire Away (Chris Stapleton) - a love song, but so much more.
21) Stairway to Heaven (Led Zeppelin) - because it's great, that's why!
22) Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper) - such a great song.
23) I Burn For You (Sting) - great in every way... so dark, yet so beautiful.
24) Slow Dancing in a Burning Room (John Mayer) - Such a great lyric, melody, recording... he nailed it.
25) Fortress Around Your Heart (Sting) - great in every way... WISH THIS WAS MINE! haha
26) Fragile (Sting) - This is kind of like Sting's "Imagine"... so good... so BIG... it's about life... and it feels real.
List what you believe are the Top 5 Greatest Songs Ever Written, and one reason why for each.
1) Imagine (John Lennon) - It's such an undeniably emotional and thought provoking song... I'd change a couple lyrics:)... I also like that it's not only a great and meaningful song, but it's also stood the test of time.
2) I Can't Make You Love Me (Bonne Raitt) - A warmly sad, aching love song that absolutely nails an archetypal life-situation/feeling in a way that's so emotional, mature, and utterly beautiful in a way that just feels like the truth. For a song released in the early 90s it's also pretty timeless sounding (actually sounds a little 80s).
3) With or Without You (U2) - haunting, beautiful, aching and timeless song about the tension that so often exists in a romantic relationship... the push and pull. Love how it builds too.
4) Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana, written by Kurt Cobain) - So raw... So Badass... So emotional... AND thoughtful in ways that are equal parts angsty and sarcastic.... there's a ton of artistry and subtext in this song. Sounds as vital now as ever.
5) Stand By Me (Ben E. King - written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller)
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Not stopping here either !!!
6) Fortress Around Your Heart (Sting) - great in every way.
7) Let it Be (The Beatles) - it's so good it seems like it has always existed... but there was a time before it did!
8) Yesterday (The Beatles) - it's just hard to deny it's greatness on every level.
9) Fragile (Sting) - This is kind of like Sting's "Imagine"... so good... so BIG... it's about life... and it feels real.
10) Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper) - such a great song about such a basic thing:that notion of 'I'll be there for you no matter what'... this song nails that.
On the piano or guitar, do you understand how to build and/or play major and minor scales and chords starting on any note?
Yeah... scales are easier for me to find and play (to seem degree) on piano... it's all organized right there... on guitar I don't think in terms of scales, more so in chords and shapes... but I can find the scales on a guitar... I've never come at either instrument from a place of "learning my scales", but as an instrument to write songs on... so I find progressions and parts... I'm not a soloist.
Proficiency in the art and craft of SongMaking requires some solid understanding of the entire process. Are there any parts of the process you find confusing, intimidating, or difficult? (i.e. from the initial song idea to producing, mixing and mastering?)
At one time or another (to varying degrees) I've found EVERY part of the process a bit confusing, intimidating, and/or difficult. Pretty quickly though, I grew love every part of the process... I think it's SUPER important to dig in and get at least a basic understanding of every part of the process (even if it's not your specialty or career goal!). That initial intimidation feeling wears off fast and you'll be SO empowered by the control you'll have in crafting your music and communicating with collaborators. Just listen and explore.... and trust your instincts!
What instrument are you most proficient on? Also, do you sing at all (explain)?
I'd say drums... that's where I have the most obvious level of virtuosity... then voice (in an expressionistic sense)... then finger style guitar... from there I'm about the same level of proficiency on bass, electric guitar, and piano/keys... and I ALMOST consider Protools an instrument at this point!!
Do you understand the concept of of "relative major and minor scales"
Yeah... it's a simple thing, but wow is it powerful to use and understand in songwriting.
Do you know how to build Major 7th, Minor 7th, Dominant 7th chords, Suss-4, and Add-9 Chords? If not, please list which ones you don't know.
Yeah... but more often than not, I tend to like chord 7th chords much more when they're spread across multiple instruments and octaves as opposed to played in one octave on a single instrument... there's a feeling I like more when harmony is arranged in this way... I tend to like sparse and very deliberate use of 7ths! Every chord has it's context and has a feeling... and 7ths have a very strong and specific sound on an instrument... I'd often rather hear a more simple chord and hear the 7th in the melody or countermelody so it's used more as a passing feeling as opposed to one that's being SAT ON for awhile... but that's just me... it's a taste thing.
Can you read, write, and understand basic rhythms (from whole notes to 32nd notes)?
Yeah... this is the core of my training... as a drummer... and it's been helpful in working and editing in Protools.
Do you know the basics of how to setup a new session then record, edit, route tracks, and assign plugins in Protools?
Yeah... and if you don't, don't worry, it's not that hard... and once you know... you'll be off and running.
Which digital audio workstation (DAW) are you most familiar with and prefer using?
Protools for sure. Been working in protools for over 20 years and I love it... it's the industry standard... but that doesn't mean other DAWs aren't great and obviously many many people get incredible results on all kinds of software... it's about the user, not the program! There's an old quote... "it's the fool, not the tool!". haha
Do you understand how to put WAV files of individual drum samples into "the grid" in a DAW and make basic drum beats?
I do... And I like to play with how I put the sounds on the grid... sometimes shifting the sample off the grid a little bit (artfully!) can bring some humanity to a groove. ALSO: I'm a BIG believer in making my own samples.... I've been doing it since about 2013 almost exclusively... in this era where everyone has access to pre-0made samples that sound good... it's better to sound UNIQUE!! Every sound is made up of creative decisions... so create your own sounds... in real life, with a microphone... this makes a MASSIVE difference in your end result being unique. It's all about making intentional, instinctual and emotional creative decisions.
Do you know how to set up a basic signal flow to record with a microphone and/or instrument without unwanted distortion (i.e. from the instrument to the mic, cable, pre-amp settings, interface input, setting gain, and recording in your DAW, etc.)?
I do... but what's cool is that there are always new and unique ways to be found... so it's fun to experiment... sometimes what might be viewed as the wrong way to do something actually ends up sounding really RIGHT!!
Do you understand the basics of how to use EQ and compressor plugins?
I do! And if you don't... have no hear, use your ears! Don't fear the knobs. Just turn them fearlessly and LISTEN! It can be intimidating but just dive in and start turning knobs and listening to the results... find what YOU like and go for it. You'd be surprised at what you'll discover if you just goof around. There's no right or wrong with this stuff... there's what you like and what you don't... what sounds good and what doesn't.... just go for it... and of course, be open to LEARNING and just discovering by trial and error... and blend of both is the key to finding your own sound.
Do you tend to use plugin presets, or use your own custom settings (explain)?
This is a big one for me... I believe in really digging in and tweaking the knobs... finding out what they do so you can get the result you TRULY want... presets are a shortcut that can seem fun/easy but they remove a huge number of important creative decisions from your process... and the uniqueness of your end result IS dependent on how many customized creative decisions you've made... so make as many as possible! That includes tweaking every plugin yourself... not letting a preset make the decisions for you! It's tempting... but in the end you and your work will be MUCH better off for it!! If you've ever thought that a lot of new music sounds the same... it's partly because so many people are using presets and pre-made samples so much!! This is HUGE.
How do you feel you learn best?
A combination of internalizing concepts, understanding and applying them, while also just getting my hands dirty and learning as I go (experientially). This is also how I tend to teach: a combination of those two approaches.
On average, do you prefer inventing/creating your own techniques or learning proven techniques (explain)?
I really enjoying being inventive and discovering my own ways of doing things... knowing that often that means I'll be stumbling upon classic ways of doing things. But I also really value learning the proper ways to do things. So a blend of both for sure. I'm a highly trained drummer and really value that training... but in most other areas I'm more self-taught. I think we can all benefit from a personalized blend of the two approaches.
When it comes to your artistry, what are you most confident about? Also, least confident about?
MOST: I'm most confident in my instincts and tastes... and my ability to find a way to express those in ways that are at a high objective quality. I have just enough talents and intellect to get there... but I don't feel like I'm one of those people who's just gifted and can easily do things (when it comes to the technical process of making music)... I have to really work hard for my best results... but I do feel that the instinctual and taste part is most natural.
LEAST: My ability to know precisely what's going on harmonically just by ear (from a technical perspective), particularly with more complex music. I'll often have to take some time to poke around and figure it out. I tend to hear music as feelings, rhythms and sonic textures first before I hear the harmonic technicalities... this has been both a blessing and a curse! I think it's REALLY important for us to understand that we ALL hear music differently and focus on different things... our perceptions vary a ton! Understanding this can become a huge asset!
Describe your dream scenario for your career as an artist. Be specific!
I've been blessed to make a few dreams come true with music, but I'd like to take it further and own my own media and education company with a very broad reach. To be able to develop and educate artists as well as create, market and distribute music, films and other multi-media on a global scale.
Do you tend to envy other artists or feel competitive with them, or are you supportive of others?
When I was younger I could sometimes fall into some envy (with other singer-songwriters especially) or a competitive mindset. But I've always been genuinely supportive of other artists... my friends especially... and more so now than ever. One of the things that's come with age is the knowledge that we're all unique and that art is so subjective that comparing artists and art (in a way that could lead to jealousy or envy) is really a dead-end!
On average how much time per day (or week) do you currently spend working on your craft?
I'm almost always thinking about it. The amount of time varies. Usually throughout my life, it's been daily for many hours.
What brings you the most joy in both life in general and as an artist?
Balancing the joys of family and my creative life... my two hilarious and awesome kids Rowan and River and my wife Natalie... and the deep joy of expressing myself... the deeper moments with my own solo music especially... But I think some of the most consistent joy I've had with art has been when working with my friends/partners on music in the context of my career... so fun to share those ups and even the downs.
What makes you most frustrated both personally and as an artist?
I get frustrated when I'm not understood by other people... and this extends out to my work: When I'm unable to achieve my vision in the moment I have it... to get out what I know I know I'm capable of... I find that if I just keep pushing I can get there (or at least close)... but it can be REALLY frustrating!!
Do you see yourself as more of a leader or someone who is comfortable in a supportive position? If it depends, explain.
More of a leader. I work best with those who like to jump onboard as I lead. That said, when someone has a great idea I'm totally happy to support it and them! I love when the creative process is dynamic and everyone feels involved and essential to the process. Love working in with a partner or a great team.
On average, As you grow and progress as a person and an artist, is it more important that you have fun, or do you believe in a no-pain-no-gain process? Explain.
I'm probably a bit more of a no pain, no gain guy... but I enjoy solving the challenges in the creative process so maybe it's not PAIN per se, but more like solving the problems and getting through little moments of struggle and getting stuff done that drives me forward... but more and more I see the value in REALLY enjoying the process as much as possible as well. I try to work hard, but I need to feel like it's worth it and like there are little moments to celebrate and enjoy along the way, even when it's hard work.
What are you 3 favorite movies/films of all time? And Why?
hmm difficult... but probably:
1) Shawshank Redemption - amazing story of friendship and struggle, amazing score, acting and cinematography...
2) Forrest Gump - amazing story of how having a lot of heart and perseverance can make up for a lack of talent or intelligence... plus amazing score, great acting, and cinematography...
3) Braveheart - amazing story of love, standing up for your beliefs and against injustice, pushing through struggle for the greater good.... plus another amazing score, acting and cinematography...
All of these stand up as timeless classics IMO.
What are your 3 favorite artists of all time? And why?
1) Thomas Newman - film composer - unbelievably beautiful music... pretty sure this is what heaven sounds like.
2) Sting - His legacy of music with The Police and as a solo artist makes for a really iconic mix of originality heart, musicality and intelligence.
3) Jeff Buckley and Chris Cornell - it's s tie - both incredible and unique voices with great songwriting.
Cornell's work with Soundgarden and especially his first solo album "Euphoria Mourning"... WOW... His voice... his writing... he was a tortured guy and you could feel it in his music... gone way too soon.
What are your 3 favorite songs RIGHT NOW? And why?
This is hard. But I'll pick the first few that come to mind... for some reason they're all kind of ballads and ones I heard early in life... I love so many songs of so many vibes and styles from so many decades and eras... but these are like a heart-hug... and these are songs that I love that I also think are truly great, objectively.
1) With or Without You (U2) - haunting, beautiful, aching and timeless song about the tension that so often exists in a romantic relationship... the push and pull. Love how it builds too.
2) Imagine (John Lennon) - Even though some of the lyrics rub me wrong, overall this song is just nearly perfect and so emotional, vulnerable and beautiful while also being somewhat raw.
3) Fix You (Coldplay) - achingly beautiful and timeless song about empathy and love. This one builds much like my first song... just keeps getting bigger and more cathartic as it goes.
4) Mad About You (Sting) - honorable mention! This is probably the song that made me feel like I had to write songs... and it's such a vivid storytelling song with such a cool almost mysterious melancholic feeling throughout.
What emotions do you feel you most often feel the need to express through your artistic creativity?
Probably the feeling of intense struggle between the heart, mind, and soul/spirit. The feeling of tension between those parts of self. Do we feel about our thoughts? Or think about our feelings? Chicken or the egg.... and what is this SOUL part???? The consciousness that seems to exist outside of emotion and thought... the part of us that just IS.... so much of life is in navigating all of this.... and for me, songwriting is where I can hash all this out.
Is there one or more styles/genres of music that you despise/hate/can't stand?
There are none that I hate or despise.I tend to have a singer-songwriter core that emanates from classic folk and blues (meaning: good honest lyrics and melody are at the core) and then my tastes go outward into all other styles including alternative, pop, rock, indie, soul, r&b, funk and so many others... so maybe the further music gets from those styles (the less like "songs" in that classic sense) the less interested I tend to get.... but there isn't a style of music I don't like. I've heard great songs that I love in literally EVERY genre.
On a spectrum between 1 and 20, do you consider yourself more interested in technical perfection (1), or more interested in overall feel (20)? (For example, if it's an equal blend of the two you would answer: 10) Explain.
It varies from project to project... but I'd say I'm usually aiming right for a 10. It's the equal balance between the two that for me, really hits the spot!!
Have your parents been supportive of your artistry?
Absolutely. Very grateful for that. It's likely I would not have been successful without their support. I didn't experience legit music industry success as a songwriter or producer until I was 26 years old... and it didn't get REALLY legit until I was bout 28. These days I think there's a LOT of pressure on people to have success much earlier... but I think we need to give ourselves time to develop our artistry and skillsets... you're not a failure if you're still working things out into your mid-20s... even beyond that! I still feel like I'm growing, in my 40s.
Do you find that you prefer short bursts of learning/working with consistent breaks, or longer, focused times?
Longer, focused times for the most part. I definitely need to learn to take breaks! Sometimes I forget to eat when I'm super-focused.
What are your thoughts or opinions on counseling/therapy/psychology?
When it's good, it's GREAT! Gotta find the right fit with a therapist... when you do, it's SO helpful. It's been valuable to me in my life.
On a scale of 1-10 (10 being greatest), how do you personally rate the importance of the arts as entertainment or escapism? (as opposed to as a way to go deeper into ones thoughts and feelings). Explain.
7.5.... entertainment and escapism isn't art's greatest purpose IMO, but it's still obviously a valid use for it. It's important to be able to unwind, be entertained, have fun, and/or be transported into the imagination and take a break from "real life". That process can sometimes actually lead to deeper things.... realizations... catharsis.... rejuvenation.
On a scale of 1-10 (10 being greatest), how do you personally rate the importance of the arts as a means of personal expression, communication and meaning?
9 or 10. It can often transcend other forms of expression.... but it's no replacement for interacting with people 1-on-1 in a vulnerable way. That said, I do feel art CAN be important... and I think if god has gifted us with an artistic talent, we have a responsibility to bring as much meaning and value as we can to the world through our work... not just think of it as a self-centered way to feed our egos or make money!: ) Though making money doing this stuff ain't bad!
Are you technically savvy with regards to computers etc.? (What programs are you familiar with? i.e. Protools, Logic, Garage Band, Photoshop etc.). Do you enjoy this technical/engineering side of music? Explain.
Though I tend to resist learning new technology, once I do, I become fast and fluent on it. I'm very proficient in Protools and fairly good with Photoshop and Premiere Pro. I love applying technical knowledge to creating great music. The gear is nothing without its purpose which is to make music worth hearing!!
What do you feel is the best thing about you as a person? The least best thing?
The good: I try my best to be a good person... and if I make a mistake I try to correct it. I aim to be approachable and considerate to others. I aim to find the right balance of confidence and humility. I aim to be reliable and loyal. I try to do great work regardless of my mood. I want to do meaningful work that's not just about me, but about spreading goodness around. I seek to be truly fair with people in creative collaborations and in business.
The bad: I can be reactive, defensive, and sometimes withdraw when I'm criticized. In my desire to be understood I can also be stubborn! I can be rigid when I have a strong vision for something, which can be frustrating for others. Working on that.... Sometimes I can get overly perfectionistic (mostly with myself). I can tend toward being a workaholic and forget to pour into relationships enough. Sometimes all of these characteristics can add up to me not focusing enough on my own mental and physical health.
Do you feel it's important to finish everything you start, or do you tend to leave work unfinished for some reason? Explain.
I try to finish everything unless I realize it's not going anywhere, then I'll abandon it as soon as I'm sure it's a dead-end... I try not to waste time if it feels like it's going nowhere.... but I try to make sure I'm not just wanting to give up because I'm frustrated.
Do you often struggle with anxiety and/or depression? (if you'd prefer not to answer for whatever reason, simply answer: N/A)
I've struggled with both! For most of my life I'd say I've been prone to consistent times of melancholy... this would at times be something I'd think of as actual depression, but more so, it's been a sense of weight about the realities of life. That said, I've certainly dealt with overwhelming emotions that seem to be MORE than my fair share... I've sought support in those times, via counseling and that's been helpful... I didn't really experience much anxiety until more recent years... I think having kids and just getting older has made anxiety a new thing that I've had to deal with sometimes. I think it's SO important to be open about elements of mental health and seek support... we're ALL going through stuff and we need each other.
Do you plan to make music your full-time career? Do you have a Plan-B in terms of a career choice? If so, what is it?
Yeah... music and art.... creativity of any kind (which includes teaching!). That's plan A-Z:)
Define success in the most personal and complete way possible. i.e. What is success to you?
I want to make great work (artistically) that means something not only to me, but to other people.... and I want to make a good living making music/art. BUT, none of this means much without focusing on having a healthy balance of loving my family and friends and being healthy mentally and physically; that's the foundation of true success. Being wealthy and respected means nothing without health, loving relationships, and a strong spiritual center.
Besides music, what other artistic mediums to you enjoy working in?
Visual Arts (fine art, design, photography, film)
Writing (fiction and non-fiction)
Leatherwork
Carpentry
Knife-making
Archery
Martial Arts
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The Big Five Aspects Scale - Adam's results:
Agreeableness: 15% (Compassion: 72%, Politeness: 1%) [more]Agreeableness (the primary dimension of care for others). Compassion (the tendency to empathically experience the emotion of others) and Politeness (the proclivity to abide by interpersonal norms) for Agreeableness. [collapse]
Conscientiousness: 78% (Industriousness: 96%, Orderliness: 30%) [more]Conscientiousness (associated with duty, precision and responsibility). Industriousness (the ability to engage in sustained, goal-directed effort) and Orderliness (the tendency to schedule, organize and systematize) for Conscientiousness. [collapse]
Extraversion: 84% (Enthusiasm: 30%, Assertiveness: 98%) [more]Extraversion (associated with positive emotion). Enthusiasm (spontaneous joy and engagement) and Assertiveness (social dominance, often verbal in nature) for Extraversion. [collapse]
Neuroticism: 74% (Withdrawal: 57%, Volatility: 84%) [more]Neuroticism (negative emotion). Withdrawal (the tendency to avoid in the face of uncertainty) and Volatility (the tendency to become irritable and upset when things go wrong) for Neuroticism. [collapse]
Openness to Experience: 97% (Intellect: 96%, Openness: 93%) [more]Openness (interest in ideas and aesthetics). Openness (creativity and aesthetic sensitivity) and Intellect (interest in abstract concepts and ideas) for Openness to Experience. [collapse]
Enneagram Personality Assessment - Adam's Results:
Type 1: The Reformer
(Principled, Purposeful, Self-Controlled, and Perfectionistic.) [more]The Rational, Idealistic Type: Principled, Purposeful, Self-Controlled, and Perfectionistic [collapse]
Type 2: The Helper
(Generous, Demonstrative, People-Pleasing, and Possessive.) [more]The Caring, Interpersonal Type: Demonstrative, Generous, People-Pleasing, and Possessive [collapse]
Type 3: The Achiever
(Adaptable, Excelling, Driven, and Image-Conscious.) [more]The Success-Oriented, Pragmatic Type: Adaptive, Excelling, Driven, and Image-Conscious [collapse]
Type 4: The Individualist
(Expressive, Dramatic, Self-Absorbed, and Temperamental.) [more]The Sensitive, Withdrawn Type: Expressive, Dramatic, Self-Absorbed, and Temperamental [collapse]
Type 5: The Investigator
(Perceptive, Innovative, Secretive, and Isolated.) [more]The Intense, Cerebral Type: Perceptive, Innovative, Secretive, and Isolated [collapse]
Type 6: The Loyalist
(Engaging, Responsible, Anxious, and Suspicious.) [more]The Committed, Security-Oriented Type: Engaging, Responsible, Anxious, and Suspicious [collapse]
Type 7: The Enthusiast
(Spontaneous, Versatile, Acquisitive, and Scattered.) [more]The Busy, Fun-Loving Type: Spontaneous, Versatile, Distractible, and Scattered [collapse]
Type 8: The Challenger
(Self-Confident, Decisive, Willfull, and Confrontational.) [more]The Powerful, Dominating Type: Self-Confident, Decisive, Willful, and Confrontational [collapse]
Type 9: The Peacemaker
(Receptive, Reassuring, Complacent, and Resigned.) [more]The Easygoing, Self-Effacing Type: Receptive, Reassuring, Agreeable, and Complacent [collapse]
