One of the things that is true of a songwriter, like any writer, is that, for the most part, writing is a solitary act. Songwriter’s can always collaborate, but often finding someone with a sympathetic process and manner isn’t always easy; given the many ways songwriters go about their craft. I suppose one could make the assumption that it is why songwriters will often do anything to perform their songs to anyone who will listen. After all, Art isn’t a true expression unless others perceive it. As my friend Robert Cowen has said (I will paraphrase):
“As a songwriter or performer you are selfish if you don’t share the beauty.”
Once the song is written a decision must be made to file it away, or step out and sing the song. I don’t really think most audiences are aware of just how difficult that is, or the amount of courage it takes to, not only, perform for an audience, but to stick your song out there to a critical audience. I have been doing this songwriting/performing thing for 40+ years and one thing I know for sure is how special it is to be around other songwriters who share their work, no matter their age, or level of skill. I have participated in songwriting events, since the late 60s, up and down the California coast, even in an old Baptist Church outside Dallas Texas, and what is always true is that there is something wonderful about taking a solitary singer/songwriter and putting that person in a room full of their peers – with a chair, a music stand, and a stage. That, sure enough, is putting your ass on the line. Every voice, wonderful or rough and pitchy, every verse and line, clever-smooth or not – every song whether worked hard over, or thrown together, is a thing of beauty. It is a place where the seasoned performer/songwriter gains some élan, a new understanding of the craft; the place where the beginning songwriters get inspired and gains a real sense of possibility in their own writing; a place where we realize our kinship as songwriters and performers, and maybe even an understanding of our connection as songwriters and the seldom mentioned unbroken tradition carried on from young to old for as long as there have been persons who have sat down and written a song. ‘Tis a magical thing indeed.
On Wednesday night just such an event happened.
Cathryn Beeks is a San Diego treasure; a person who is tireless in finding venues and places to play for songwriter/performers, as well as being a songwriter/performer herself. She hosts a Sunday night radio show on KPRI where she highlights local talent. Her website is Listenlocalsd.com She has also, for some time, been hosting an event inspired by Jeff Berkley called ‘The Game.’ The way ‘The Game’ works is Cathryn gives a title and the songwriters write and perform the song they write. Any songwriter is invited.
Something magical did happen.
Cathryn teamed up with a well known and respected local songwriting group, San Diego Songwriters hosted by the endlessly energetic, committed, and talented Cliff Keller. There are many music folk in San Diego that are advocating a collaborative music scene, rather than a competitive one. This event was an example of that philosophy in action.
The gathered 27 songwriters consisted of members from San Diego Songwriters, offering some wonderful and well-crafted songs and some local favorite songwriter/performers who never fail to amaze and delight. There was offered a knockout acoustic/rock tune by the beautiful and overflowing with talent Astra Kelly. Her mention of the energy in the room before offering her song was acknowledged by everyone present.
Josh Damigo offered one that exemplified his performance skill and ease at writing terrific self-aware and personal songs. Other highlights were euphonious offerings by the gifted Christy Bruneau, and a surprising offering by Christy’s three Middle School students, who received best song/performance of the night. The gifted Kim Moreno accompanied Christy on her tune and they both performed one of his, both tunes wonderfully written and performed. Diego Grey, a trio, was stunning with a far-too-short tune, with adroit playing and a three-part harmony – the length of the applause was longer than the song. “More, more guys!” Ron Johnson, a fan of Americana music and a journeyman songwriter, offered a true to genre piece, playing harmonica and delivering a well done, Guthrie-like, song of his own. The enigmatic and talented Mountain Ghost offered a well crafted and beautifully delivered piece on mandolin. I have heard Omar Musisko perform before, this time with a mandolin, and was taken by the power of his vocals and lyrics of the song he offered.
Carl Durant, a talented fellow with terrific stage presence, and an easy voice, did a song accompanied skillfully by Marylin Haifa. Cathryn Beeks offered a touching and heartfelt tune, a rare occasion and always a treat. She offered a caveat, but it wasn’t required, her voice and the lyric made it dramatically poignant. The night was closed with a tune offered by Cliff Keller, with the lead sang by Marylin Haifa. He claimed that his position in the evening was strictly by the draw. Whether we believe you or not Chris it was exactly the right Christmas song to end the night on.
All the songs offered were of surprising quality, both from performance, song structure, and lyric quality. Well done to every songwriter present. It was a privilege and an honor for me to participate. Thank you to everyone there for their effort, talent and unstoppable courage. The San Diego music community thanks you Cathryn and Cliff for your generosity.
Ken Lehnig
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Nice review…Well written & positive.