My writing mentor, Ed Griffin would tell me there’s no such thing as writer’s block. He’d say that writing is work just like everything else and it requires sitting down and hammering out the words until they make sense. Even if it’s gibberish put it on paper because you never know where it may lead. Ed was right but sometimes I need a bit of stimulation to ensure that the words continue to jump onto the screen. I’m still working on the third book in the My Temporary Life trilogy; in fact I’m halfway in. I have a potential title (it’s a secret), and most importantly I know how the story ends. The problem I’ve had with writing this book is I don’t want to write a good book; I want to write a great book.
When I feel myself veering off the path and creating predictable scenarios and unbelievable dialogue I go for a run, pull on my swanky cordless headphones and fire up my new friend – the music sharing service, Spotify. Lately I’ve found a couple of artists who are doing it the old-fashioned way. These are the kind of guys who think Miley and Kanye are cartoon characters. They’re hammering out their songs in smaller venues and trying to connect with listeners. Much the same way authors might utilize Wattpad or post their stories online in order to attract readers. Here’s three of the warriors that are helping me with my work in progress:
If Tom Waits and Lucinda Williams had a love child his name would be Chuck Ragan. Chuck’s music is indescribable. Hopefully with the new album he’ll be exposed to a larger audience. How’s this for a song title: Something May Catch Fire.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2B2TvdW7jk
With the release of his new album, Painkillers, ex-Gaslight Anthem frontman, Brian Fallon has absolutely put to rest the question of who is the heir apparent to Springsteen. Painkillers may not be Born To Run but it’s a pretty special album, in fact it might even be a significant album. Every track from it is strong. Here’s a sample:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OReOjoDaVQ
And, if you want to dig a little deeper into Brian’s catalog check out his work with The Horrible Crowes or Molly And The Zombies. How can you go wrong with band names like those?
When I first heard this song it made me stop what I was doing and say “Who is that?” It’s Dave Hause, of The Loved Ones showing that he was influenced by Springsteen also.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fzg60rawVp4
I’m working. Really, I am. I just needed to take a time out and listen to some tunes and share them with you. I’ll have more news on the new book soon. Thanks always for your support and encouragement!