ZIP
There's something about being high in the air that reminds you of how big the world is...and how you compare to and fit into it. I've been so inspired by the mountains and big sky of northwestern Montana in the last few years. I continue to grow and evolve into someone who desires more from life...for everyone.
I have become re-acquainted with the music of John Denver lately and I must say that although it inspired me as a young boy, it further inspires me now. I have incorporated a few of his songs into my concerts now and will probably do more in the future. I used to say that no one anywhere ever needed to sing another John Denver song again...how can you improve on a perfect thing? Now, I believe that those lyrics and melodies should live on forever. I, for one, am going to help to make sure they do.
I was talking to the "Zen Cowboy" Chuck Pyle yesterday about the magic of Denver's songs and how they truly captured the healing and overall positive qualities of the mountains. For me it was largely about the soaring quality of his voice..and how it reminds me of flying.
A great song and melody can do just that: transport us to another time and place, lift our spirits, inspire us to move forward, take us out of ourselves for a moment. Just like flying. It has become my new goal as an artist to move people to new heights and encourage them to lift off and evolve with my music.
Some of the other soaring singers over the years that I have had the pleasure of hearing, studying, watching, and even meeting: Stevie Wonder, Russ Taff, Luther Vandross, Sandi Patty, Michael English, Celine Dion, Bebe and Cece Winans, Matthew Ward, Dennis DeYoung, Jonell Mosser, Trisha Yearwood, Lisa Cochran, Guy Penrod, Marabeth Jordon, and on and on. You know the type...the person that can just lift you right out of your seat when they open their mouth.
Anyway, while ZIPPING today, I was reminded of what inspires me as an artist, performer, and person: Soaring!
May your life soar today!
I just loved John Denver and love his music. Thank you for singing his songs. You have a wonderful voice and I am so lucky to have had the chance to meet you during your tour with Jim Brickman several years ago. My mom and I are planning a trip out west in 2011 and plan to stop at the John Denver Sanctuary in Aspen.
Take Care and keep singing.
Traci