Tony Funderburk

Posted on March 8, 2020 by TonyApril 24, 2024

Celebrating International Women’s Day

I’ve been a staunch supporter of the rights of women my entire adult life. No, I’m not a so-called “activist”. That just sounds silly to me. Because if you need to set aside one day and give it a title like International Women’s Day, you’re missing the big picture.

International Women’s Day doesn’t give proper respect to women.

I get it. Draw attention to one day out of the year. And make sure everyone around the world knows about it. (like that’ll happen) Then, everyone stand up, shout, cheer, and pat each other on the back. Lots of hugs, speeches, and media opps. When you accomplish all that, men the world over will clearly understand the equal value of women.

Or not.

As it turns out, International Women’s Day began in 1911. That’s 109 years ago, as I write this, for those of you who’d rather not do the calculation. So, that means, it has basically been “celebrated” 109 days as of today. And here’s why I say that’s so fruitless.

Because 109 days is less than one third of one year.

“But why is that a big deal, Tony?”

Because it’s a much better idea to recognize and remember the value and importance of women every day. Not one day out of each year. But every day. Out of every year. That would have been almost 40,000 times in the last 109 years. Big difference.

And I have an even better idea.

Unless you prefer to be (or remain) sexist, when it comes to value and importance.

If you don’t already know how, learn to love your neighbor as yourself. Forget about whether that neighbor is a man or a woman. Don’t look for an opportunity to politicize or grandstand. Simply love your neighbor as yourself. And you know YOU have value and importance. Right? If you don’t believe that, why do you continue to feed and water yourself? etc. etc. etc.

Whether you believe it or not, your Creator knows when you truly love your neighbor. He sees when you beat them. Or steal from them. Or even murder them. Your heart of hearts is visible to the King of kings. Like the words to one of my songs says…

We will learn from His whole Word
And rightly divide it…
All in the name of our LORD.
We will fight against sin
Though the world wants to hide it
All in the name of our LORD.
We will love every neighbor
From the kings to the unborn…
All in the name of our LORD.
And we will rest in the knowledge
When we die, we are reborn…
All in the name of our LORD.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on March 7, 2020 by TonyFebruary 24, 2025

Writing music for kids - making them flip their lids

I’ve enjoyed writing music for kids

Kids give enthusiastic response when they hear music they like. Some will even flip their lids. For those of you who can’t remember far enough back, that means they go crazy. Metaphorically speaking. And that’s part of why I spent so much time writing music for kids. Even though my wife and I never had any, for some reason I was always able to entertain them. So, I did. But I’m curious about something, now.

These days, are most songwriters writing music for kids that is too simple?

I’ve just listened to about a half dozen songs for kids on a couple of different channels. And I noticed how the songs sounded so syrupy cutesy. Is it just me? Or do parents prefer their kids listen to twinkly, glittery songs? I mean, the songs I listened to practically gave me a toothache. And the ones sung by guys sounded “gay” to me. Not that every male vocalist has to belt out kids songs with a bellowing baritone voice. But at least keep it sounding like a real guy is singing and teaching and guiding.

But maybe that’s just me. Maybe I’m way, way too old-fashioned. And maybe my ideas of what music for kids should be are too outdated to even matter anymore.

Do you think that’s the case? When you get a chance, go to this page. And scroll down and listen to samples of my songs for kids. Then, leave me a comment. Or email me. And let me know what you think. Should I open my eyes to a new reality? And should I “call it a day” for the kids music?

Or do you think I should write and share more of it? Because I certainly don’t wanna waste my time on old-fashioned stuff nobody wants anymore.

There’s a place in my heart for kids
Where I write songs to flip their lids.
But if my songs live in the past,
Well, maybe I’ve written my last.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on March 6, 2020 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

$Music and math make you feel more of what's truly real.$

Music and math – it all adds up

Way back in my school choir days I remember how much I enjoyed when we started learning about music dynamics. Because dynamics give music so much more emotion and depth. And in this digital age, a lot of those nuances are represented by numbers. So, you could say (in fact, I AM saying) music and math go together like logic and emotions.

$Music and math make you feel more of what's truly real.$

Music and math show up regularly in a music producer‘s world.

When I dig in to the editing sections of my recorded music, in my digital audio workstation (DAW for short) a lot of it comes down to numbers. For example, many dynamics are represented by letters like p or piano, which means “soft”. Or f which represents forte, and it means “loud”. But now, in a digital studio, it’s a matter of numbers from 1 to 127 which represent “velocity.” Somewhere around 20 to 40 would be soft. And somewhere around 70 to 90 would be loud.

Then all those subtle degrees of loudness or softness that are represented by letters become the other numbers.

And I love both methods. But for the sake of this topic, I’m focusing on the numbers. Sure, mezzo-forte and pianissimo sound much more poetic than 83 and 27. But it all boils down to connecting listeners to music on a much more emotional level. And it connects you so much more than just singing and playing at a single volume all the way through a song.

Yesterday I talked about the pythagorean theorem. And I showed how it uses obvious numbers to calculate areas. Well, Pythagoras is also apparently the one who discovered how the intervals between musical notes always have whole number ratios. At least if you want them to sound good. Because non whole number intervals tend to cause dissonance. Think of that as something rubbing you the wrong way. The dictionary defines it like this: “lacking harmony: irregular, dissonant chords.”

(By the way…Pythagoras was apparently a numerologist…a guy who basically worshiped numbers. Smart guy with no wisdom.)

So, even dissonance and harmony are based on music and math.

Intervals. Whole “number” ratios. That’s all math.

And when I’m writing a song, I’m always mentally keeping track of how many beats in the measure. How many measures in the line. The number of lines in the stanza. And even how many syllables per line, measure, or stanza. And when I get to a stopping point, it all adds up (See what I did there?) to a complete song.

I love music. And I love math.
And singing down a vocal path
That might feel like it goes nowhere,
But when it’s done, I find I’m there.
And every destination holds
A chance to see how life unfolds.
So, give me math and music, too,
And I will sing a song for you.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on March 5, 2020 by TonyJune 8, 2024

Pythagorean theorem is more than a magic serum.

OK, kids.
Let’s talk about the Pythagorean Theorem.

It actually sounds more complicated than it is. And writing it down certainly makes it look simple. a² + b² = c²But that looks almost a little too simple. After all, it’s called the Pythagorean Theorem. So, let’s give it a little more respect than that. And here’s what it’s talking about…

Do you remember the Pythagorean theorem from your geometry class?

I loved Geometry. Acute, obtuse, right, and straight angles. (I still have an issue with the straight angle, but I’ll let that go for now.) Finding the solutions to one part of a triangle or trapezoid by using other parts. Not to mention (but I will) how much I love the rhyme and reason of geometrical shapes.

But I said I was gonna show some more respect for the theorem. So, here’s how you write it out. And I bet when you see (or hear) this, you’ll go, “Oh yeah. I remember that!” Anyway…in a right angled triangle, the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.

It’s all coming back to you. Right?

One question that almost pops up when talking about things like theories, theorems, and hypotheses, is this. “Who cares?” Wait! No, that’s not it. The question is usually more like, “Why do I need to know this?”

Maybe you don’t NEED to know it. But…

Knowing things like this can help you figure out other things. And, at the very least, they can help keep your brain in decent working condition. And, much more importantly, the precision and predictability of math can help you clearly see design in life.

Of course, if there’s design in life, it implies there’s also a designer.

“Oh, Tony. Are you trying to tell me math leads to God?”

No, I’m not trying to tell you that. I AM telling you that. Because it’s true. But you can ignore the numbers. And you can close your eyes and ears. And you can see where that gets you. But, to put it in geometric terms: that’s not the right angle to take.

Geometric shapes and angles
Help you understand triangles.
But they can show you even more,
Like what we’ve all been put here for.
Unless, of course, you’d rather not
Go where math leads and change your thought.
If that’s your choice, you’ve cooked your goose
And burned up your hypotenuse.

Yes, geometry is another example of how life has Rhyme and Reason because God made you.

Stay tuned,

Posted on March 4, 2020 by TonyJune 5, 2024

Color of music notes when imagination floats

Ah, the color of music notes

The only reason I’m writing about the color of music notes, today, is because I feel like it. There’s no underlying or hidden message. And I’m not trying to get you to do, say, or be anything special. Nope. It’s just because.

Because I enjoy the imagery of the color of music notes.

And that’s as good a reason to write about something as any. Right? Of course, I’m not advocating that you write whatever comes to your mind. Filters are good. Especially when you can’t speak or write without dropping profanity or vulgarity. But, wait. I said I wasn’t gonna share a hidden message. No, there’s no agenda going on here.

And yet…have you ever noticed…

It’s almost impossible to write or talk about something without some sort of opinion. If you’ve lived more than a decade or two, you’ve at least started to accumulate some knowledge. And with knowledge comes opinions. With opinions comes opposite opinions. And I’m sure I don’t have to tell you where that leads. Right?

No, there’ll be no messages today. Hidden or in plain sight.

I just want to write about music notes and colors. And see where it takes me. I suspect it’ll be mostly a fruitless endeavor. But who knows? Maybe somebody will pull something out of the gibberish and be able to run with it. Or maybe I just need coffee.

The color of music notes is in your head,
In circles and parallelograms,
And in abstract and translucent bowls.
And it’s all held together by sonic thread.

The colors keep dripping down into the song
Like jellies and marmalades and jams.
And they take on sweet lives without souls.
And that’s where you’ll find yourself floating along.

Jump on the The TRUTH and be part of a growing band of believers who know life has rhyme and reason because God IS Real.

Stay tuned,

Posted on March 3, 2020 by TonyMarch 8, 2020

Going home again

Every person on Earth was once a thought in the mind of God. So, you and I originated in Him and that makes Him our first home. Whether you agree or not makes no difference. It’s still true. But only a few (relatively speaking) will ever be going home again. And by that, I mean going home to stay.

Only people who put their trust and faith in their Creator will be going home again.

Yeah, I know it sounds like an exclusive location. And I know “inclusive” is the darling buzzword these days. But the truth doesn’t fluctuate with buzzwords and feelings. Because the truth is true regardless of how anybody feels about it.

And the reason I’m bringing it up today is because someone I’ve known very well has just died. And I’m fully confident she went home to be with God. How do I know? Because I know she put her trust and faith in God. She, and her family, lived it. They ran a Christian school for 30 years. And they’ve always been the kind of family who cared for the health and safety of their Christian brothers and sisters. So, even though good deeds don’t get you to Heaven, they are at least visible fruit from your heart.

When someone you know or care about dies, it should serve as a reminder how you’re on an extreme time limit. Your life, here on Earth, will come to an end. And probably much sooner than you dare to imagine. For example, this person I’m talking about was four years younger than me. And she lived a healthy life. Organic food. Filtered water. Plenty of fresh air and sunshine. But…

This broken world is full of disease and malefic microorganisms.

So, my recommendation, today, is simple. Hug, embrace, and kiss the ones you love…more often. Tell your loved ones how much they mean to you. Never let too much time pass without doing these things. And most importantly, if you haven’t already, get right with God.

Because your time limit might expire when you least expect it. Like the words from one of my song says…

Well time flies away…
Don’t put off who you should get to today.
Time flies away…
Don’t you wait till we meet in the angel café.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on March 2, 2020 by TonyMarch 8, 2020

Music is dead - at least that's what they said

Music is dead – yeah, right

I was about to do a little research on the Wizard of Google. So, I clicked into the search bar and started typing “music is…” And before I could type anything else, Google delivered up some “suggestions.” One of the main ones was “music is dead.” Of course, I couldn’t resist finding out why that would be a suggestion. So, I clicked on it, and in less than a second two billion results came up for that phrase. Pretty impressive. Right? Uh, not so much.

Most of the results for “music is dead” were lamenting or cheering the death of a genre.

And most of the first results were about rock music. It appears just about everyone is either really FOR rock music or AGAINST it. I don’t care either way. Because I’m not a genre snob. Well, I might have to include a caveat or two. At least if you’re gonna try and tell me something like “rap” is actually a genre of music.

But anyway…

It’s a fact (whether or not anyone else in the world agrees) music will never die. And that has nothing to do with genre. I’m talking about actual music. The emotional, timeless sonic expressions that travel through the air into your brain, heart, and soul.

Music can’t die anymore than time can run out.

Oh sure, you can ignore it, turn it off, and keep it locked out of your life. But that only limits its reach. It doesn’t erase it. And why would you want to even try to erase it anyway?

Celebrate music because it’s a gift from God.

Music helps you in so many ways.
It brings light to the darkest of days.
When you get up tomorrow, pick a song over sorrow,
And rise up just by singing a phrase.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on March 1, 2020 by TonyMarch 1, 2020

Let’s talk about music and the devil

Remember the movie, Footloose? And how the so-called “minister” in a small midwestern town banned rock-n-roll and dancing? Everyone was told music and the devil went hand in hand. So, of course music had to be banned. At least some music. Well, what if I told you there’s something to that whole music/devil connection?

It’s important to understand the connection between music and the devil.

But before I go any further, let’s call him by his name. Lucifer. You remember him from. Right? The most beautiful angel. In fact, the Bible says he was “…the seal of perfection, Full of wisdom and perfect in beauty.” Wow. Perfect in beauty. Like they say in Texas, it don’t get no better. But the trouble was, Ol’ Luci developed a superiority complex because of it.

Check out that link I just shared. And you can read the rest of the amazing description of Lucifer. I wouldn’t be surprised to find out it was the inspiration for the song, “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds”, by the Beatles. Of course, they might be surprised because they were probably high when they wrote it. And they probably forgot they ever came across the words. But anyway.

Getting back to that description of Lucifer, it also talks about his music gear. It says, “The workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day you were created.” So, it appears he had at least a drum and horns section in the band. But the point is, the future Satan started off with some amazing abilities and qualities. Not the least of which was music.

Hmm…a good looking musician?

Yeah, I’ve always struggled with that same blessing/curse.

But seriously. Think about it. Could you resist thinking too much of yourself, if you were as beautifully blessed as Ol’ Luci? Well, you’d certainly need God’s help to stay humble. So, you’d have a choice to make.

Yeah, that’s right. even the angel who was “perfect in beauty” had a choice to make. But he made an eternally bad choice. Because he chose to think he’s as good as God. And that made him God’s enemy. And you don’t wanna be God’s enemy. Remember, He holds the key to eternal life in His hands.

And that’s why I brought this up today. Ol’ Luci’s story should motivate you to stay level-headed. Especially if you’re a musician. Particularly a musician in the secular world with all its temptations. Or even some other sort of celebrity or person in a prominent position. Actor, actress, news anchor, motivational speaker…even minister of a church. Just remember it like this…

Keep your head level and learn from the devil
About what you shouldn’t oughta do.
Thank your Creator for music now and later
‘Cause He’s the one who gave it to you.

Music stories we can learn from in the Bible…more examples of how life has Rhyme and Reason because God made you.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 29, 2020 by TonyDecember 20, 2022

Music is communication of choice by
your friendly neighborhood RhymeTender

To say music is communication is a bit like saying water is wet. Of course it is! But it’s not simple yada yada communication. Because music is the way people share words, ideas, and emotions on a deep level. Even if they don’t speak the same language. Name something else that can do that.

Music is the preferred communication tool in a huge section of the Bible.

A lot of people say the book of Psalms is the longest book in the Bible. And it really depends on counting methods. Because a case has been made for Jeremiah being the longest book in the Bible. But even if it is, Psalms comes in a close second. And it still contains the longest chapter: Psalm 119. So, why do I bother to mention it?

No bother. It’s my pleasure.

The book of Psalms is like an amazing collection of praise and worship, and wisdom and discernment. And it’s neatly placed right in the middle of the Bible. I see it as God showing us how much He likes music. And singing. And communication with Him by singing to Him and about Him. He likes it so much it’s the centerpiece to His bestselling book. Mighty cool.

And singing and communicating with praise and thanksgiving is what the main Psalmist, King David, did. And he even…dare I say it…danced. Uh-oh, I just lost the Baptists and Church of Christ readers and listeners. (just kidding…sort of)

You don’t have to sing to God to communicate with Him.

Even if you can’t carry a tune in a plastic pail, you can tell Him how much you love Him. Or thank Him for another day of life. And even thank Him for music. Because you love it. Right? And I know God created music because He knew how much we’d love it and use it to communicate on a deeper level.

Before you go off to sleep tonight
Listen to a song with sheer delight.
The kind of song that lifts up your soul
And makes you feel so totally whole.
You’ll sleep in peace and wake that way, too
‘Cause I know that’s what God wants for you.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 28, 2020 by TonyMarch 1, 2020

Music and memory connect in a way your brain won't deflect

I love the music and memory connection

My friend, Brian, and I were talking about starting to sing in front of a group of people and realizing you don’t remember the first words. He told me this happened to him recently. But he was impressed by how the music started, and when it came time to sing the first word, he just remembered. And I surprised him by sharing how my music and memory connection saved me lots of times during my full-time music career.

Music and memory go together like warm clothes and cold weather.

Some people might prefer another analog like, peanut butter and jelly. Or bread and butter. Or bacon and eggs. Oh no, I had to mention bacon. Now, I won’t be able to stop thinkin’ about bacon the rest of the time I’m writing this. And I’ve got a brand new package of it calling my name from the refrigerator. (Snap out of it, Tony!)

Anyway…I like the analogy of warm clothes and cold weather. Because it’s more appropriate for how music connects your power to remember. It sort of wraps your brain (or at least parts of it) with a warm, protective layer. And then those parts aren’t as likely to freeze up.

For example, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are almost 6 million Americans dealing with Alzheimer’s disease. They also say it’s the 6th leading cause of death in America. And several other mighty depressing facts and figures. But what I didn’t see on their site was much information about how well music helps people who are dealing with the disease.

And there’s a lot of people discovering the awesome music/memory connection.

My mom told me this story again, on a recent phone call. Her mom (my Grandma) forgot most everything, in her last couple of years, except some old hymns. Grandma stayed in a facility where music could be played. And when they sang the old hymns, she could remember all the words and sing along.

Of course, I think there’s even more going on there. Because I know who invented music.

But the point is…music keeps at least some neural pathways open. And check out how complicated a neural pathway sounds: According to an article on Wikipedia, “A neural pathway is the connection formed by axons that project from neurons to make synapses onto neurons in another location, to enable a signal to be sent from one region of the nervous system to another.”

Is that awesome or what? And the rest of the article shows even more of the complexity in the design of our nervous system.

Here’s what it all boils down to…

Music is powerful information and emotion based medicine. It’s provided by the Designer of human beings. And it’s best to never forget that.

Music and memory, they simply have to be
Connected, directed, sublime.
And I believe they will work well together till
The end of the last day in time.

And see if the rest of these words pop into your head…

Jesus loves me this I know
For the Bible tells me so
Little ones to Him belong
They are weak but He is strong

Memory is another example of how life has Rhyme and Reason because God made you.

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 27, 2020 by TonyMarch 1, 2020

Very good feeling about something that's revealing

Talk about a very good feeling

Imagine yourself in God’s shoes for a minute. Back at the time of creation. Those very first six days when He created Heaven and Earth. And everything in them. You’re looking down at it all and how perfect it is. Can you imagine? Wouldn’t it give you a very good feeling like never before? Well, that’s what God said about it.

Creating a beautiful, perfect world even gave God a very good feeling.

Here’s how He expressed it in the Bible:

“Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”

And God said, “See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food. Also, to every beast of the earth, to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, I have given every green herb for food”; and it was so. Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.

I understand, in a small way, how God felt after His creation time.

Because, in my spare time, I’ve been working on some music, recently. And the musical creation spirit is growing in me again. It’s very good feeling indeed. There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of composing a song. Being able to see and hear those sights and sounds that once were only in your head. Simply awesome.

I’m working on a collection of new, old songs. Songs I wrote a long time ago. And some I might have even recorded but never released them to the world. In other words, songs known only to me. But I’m giving them new life. With better beating hearts. And more relevant phrasing. The same songs. Only better.

This upcoming collection will be all positive, upbeat music. Not explicit Christian music like I’ve written in the past couple of decades. But a sort of secular reflection of the Christian message. Hope that makes sense.

Here are some of the lyrics to the one I’m working on this week…

Life Is Flying Like A Hummingbird

And your dreams light sparks of energy
Let the power flow into your heart.
Negativity can’t touch you now.
Be a brand new walking work of art.

Life is flying like a hummingbird”
Like a blur through time and space.
Fly beyond dark clouds without a word
There you’ll find your place in grace.

Stay tuned for the rest of the song,

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Posted on February 26, 2020 by TonyJune 7, 2024

Beware of my brain manipulation superpower

Hide your kids. Or at least cover their ears. Unless you’re willing to let them be controlled by my brain manipulation superpower. I’m able to activate their different brain lobes all at the same time. And even their brain’s motor center. They cannot resist my superpower. And there’s nothing they can do about it. (insert evil scientist laugh here)

Of course, you want to know what my brain manipulation superpower is.

Because you want to be able to protect your kids. Well, did I mention you should cover your own ears, too? Yes. I can manipulate YOUR brain, too. And you are powerless to resist. Don’t think because your brain is more mature that it’s immune to my power. But I’ll tell you what it is since there’s nothing you can do about it.

Rhythmic Rhymes.

I create them every day. And they remain here, on my website and podcast, every hour of every day. Then, every day more and more people fall helplessly into my trap. Sometimes it’s as simple as listening to one of my songs. Other times I recite an innocent poem on the The Power of God’s Love Podcast. And blammo!

Their brains are mine to manipulate.

And they start to perceive that my words and music are true. Because, like I said, I tap into four system lobes in your brain. And my rhythmic rhymes immediately start building trust. Your defenses begin to lower. And it all starts to feel so familiar and comfortable and safe and true.

Then, you’re mine to manipulate as I will.

But don’t be surprised if and when you feel energized by the experience. You might even start feeling more successful. Or at least like you can be.

And that’s probably why a voice in my head keeps trying to get me to use my power for good.

“Think of the innocent lives you’ll enrich,” it says. “And all the happiness you can deliver.”

To which I reply, “Now, why would I want to do that?”

“Because your superpower could have eternal consequences,” says the voice.

“Stop! Get out of my head! I…won’t…listen…to…you…” (long sigh…)

Today, you should share your love and smile.
You might help somebody else a while.
And then they might wanna do it, too.
That’s how it all bounces back to you.
So try. Just go see if I am right.
And then, when you sleep and dream tonight,
You’ll rest with the peace you’re longing for
And wake ready to go share some more.

And go jump on the The TRUTH and join a growing band of believers who know life has rhyme and reason because God Is Real

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 25, 2020 by TonyMarch 1, 2020

Heart throb of the 80s

Yeah, I played music for a living back in the 80’s. A bit before that, and a long time after that, too. But those 80’s were a ton of fun. Straight ahead beats. Bright colors and pastels. Pushing up the sleeves on sports jackets. Big hair…on both guys and girls. And back then, the term “heart throb” was still being used a lot. Do an image search for heart throb of the 80s, and you’ll find just about all guys. But I wrote a song about the ladies.

Because I’m a red-blooded male, I preferred the female heart throbs.

But something that was so true then (and still is) was how many of those female heart throbs didn’t use their attractive powers in a good way. So I decided to write a song about it. I’m sharing those lyrics here. And The Power of God’s Love Podcast subscribers will get the song delivered to their inboxes and/or preferred podcast players.

Heart Throb

She’s got her new shoes on and a lot of money
She’s got that million dollar smile and those killer eyes
And she’s gonna call all her friends
Tonight they’re gonna party
They’re gonna find them some men
And cut ’em down to size

She’s a little heart throb Just a little heart throb
She wanna break the boys’ hearts
Then toss them all aside
She’s a little heart throb. She love to make your heart throb
And her woman’s intuition leaves them nowhere to hide

She’s got a hot pink skirt and a yellow t-shirt
She’s got the lightning in her legs
And the lasers in her eyes
She’s gonna call all her friends
Tonight they’re going dancing
And when they find them some men
They’re gonna cut ’em down to size

chorus

But some night she’s gonna find a man
Who’s gonna take her by the hand
And fill her full of sparks she can’t explain
And when she finally does I know
She’ll have to leave her friends and go
To free herself from this life in the fast lane

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 24, 2020 by TonyMarch 1, 2020

Is positive reinforcement always positive?

Earlier today we were out running errands. And at a traffic light we saw a lady and her dog stop to wait for the green. She looked down at the cute little dude, and he did a perfect dog sit. Then, he looked up at her expectantly, and Elgielene and I both said, “Oh, he’s about to get some positive reinforcement (aka a treat). And sure ’nuff, the lady reached into her pocket, popped out a little morsel, and the dog gulped it down. Success.

Positive reinforcement works great with dogs.

When our two (now deceased) Labs, Zazzo and NestlÄ“ were puppies, we saw how quickly they did what we wanted them to when a treat was available. And it was great to see them learn and behave better and better. Because if you don’t train your dog to do the right thing, you’re gonna regret it. In so many ways.

But what about people?

Should you give treats to little kids as a way training them up, too? Yes. And no. I know most people will disagree with me when I say human kids are not the same as puppies. But I’m gonna risk the ridicule and stick with that assertion.

Kids have a distinct advantage over puppies. They’re both designed BY God. But only kids are designed LIKE God. No, I don’t mean God was designed. C’mon, what planet were you born on? Then, He wouldn’t be God. I mean only human kids are designed in the image and LIKEness of God. And most people on the planet don’t believe that. So, that’s why I say most people will disagree with me.

Anyway, back to kids and positive reinforcement.

Now, before I go any further, keep in mind this is a rule of thumb. (Side note: the expression “rule of thumb” supposedly came from an English law that allowed a man to beat his wife with a stick as long as it wasn’t thicker than his thumb. And that should’ve been “longer” not “thicker”. But when humans make laws, what do you expect?) Now, where was I?

Oh yeah. Most of the time kids will become better adults when the proper amounts of positive AND negative reinforcement are applied. Gasp! “Did he just say negative reinforcement, too?”

Yeah, you’ve seen them. I know you have. Those bratty kids in stores with their moms. They cry and scream over every little thing not going their way. And those poor (ignorant) moms keep trying to win the kids over with treats and promises of treats.

And that so-called positive reinforcement almost never works.

But a little negative reinforcement goes a long way.

The board of education applied to the seat of knowledge can put a stop to a lot of foolish behavior. And yes, kids tend to be foolish. Until they learn how not to be. But…here’s the catch. They don’t tend to learn without being taught. I know. That’s radical outside-the-box thinking. But it’s true.

So, here’s a little positive talk for those of you doing the most important job in the world, raising kids. Before all else fails (not when) see what God says about raising kids. Do more of what He says. And don’t be surprised when things go exponentially better. Like I said, rule of thumb. There will be knucklehead exceptions.

There’s my public service announcement for the day. And here are the lyrics to a little musical endorsement for it. The Power of God’s Love Podcast subscribers get the song delivered to their inboxes.

Child Of The Living God

I am not a silly chance…
Not a random circumstance.
I am not a lucky dance
In an accidental place.

I am not a spark of light
That evolved from darkest night.
If you say I did, I might
Have to make a funny face… “˜cause…

I am a child of God…child of the Living God…
The One who spoke and made the universe.
I am a child of God…child of the Living God…
The One who saved me from my sinful curse.”¨(repeat)

I did not come out of slime.
That would take way too much time.
You can clearly see that I’m
A whole lot more than simple dirt.

Take a closer look and see
Information runs through me
From The One Who sets me free.
Listen now to my alert…

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 23, 2020 by TonyAugust 3, 2024

I captured some moments in time

I’ve mentioned before how I spent a year of prolific songwriting in Nashville. It was back in 1992-93. And I was under the mistaken impression that record companies were always looking for something new. No, this isn’t sour grapes. Because I know I’m basically not a country and western singer/songwriter. And the nice folks in the land of the Grand Ol’ Opry confirmed this for me. But I’ll always be grateful for my time there because it helped me capture quite a few magical moments in time.

One of the songs I wrote, during my time in Nashville, was around Christmas of that year. Elgielene and I love to take drives and see lights and decorations and the various neighborhoods. And as we passed through older parts of the city, I noticed a few different small groups of singers on street corners. And I noticed how diverse the people were, as well as the surroundings. So, I made a mental note of it.

Then, a few days later,

We watched an old black and white movie about a grumpy old rich man. Don’t remember what the movie was. But you’ve seen it even if you haven’t seen it. Because it’s a theme used in who knows how many movies.

Anyway…I had a dream, after watching that movie, about a cat in large house. I’m sure the dream was triggered by that movie. But it wasn’t connected to the theme of the movie at all. And being a songwriter, I decided to use the dream as part of a song idea I had been working on. As it turned out, the dream became a second vignette in a two-part song I wrote to capture two moments in time.

And the song turned into a musical mental journey for me. It’s over seven minutes long. And I’m sure, besides me, no one but Elgielene will even like it. But for several reasons, it’s one of my favorites. I enjoyed putting it together, building the instrumentation using the gear I had at the time, and most of all writing the lyrics.

The Power of God’s Love Podcast subscribers will hear the song (if they want to). And here are the words to…

Magic Little Moments

There was a ukulele lady on a corner by a Christmas tree
And a banjo bandolero with a turquoise pinky ring
Behind “˜em was a biker who was tapping on a tambourine
And a girl whose lips were moving but you couldn’t even hear her sing

And the shoppers did that shuffle that they do when the snowflakes fall
Every now and then a spark would dance through a neon light
The taxicabs would jockey for position by a store’s front door
And that quirky band of minstrels played their music for nothing all night

Oh, those magic little moments…
Oh, that somehow slip by
And oh, those magic little moments…
Those sacred vignettes that fade out with the blink of an eye

There was a crystal chandelier in the foyer of a grand estate.
And the sun created prisms that would decorate the empty hall.
There was marble on the floor that they waxed maybe twice a week,
And a cat named Orion who was sure he was the king of it all.

Late at night he would prowl for a while just to keep himself in shape.
But he knew he had appointments in the morning that he couldn’t be late for.
He was up at the crack of dawn and headed downstairs fast,
So he could chase those little prisms and go sliding cross the marble floor.

Chorus…instrumental…chorus twice and end

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Posted on February 22, 2020 by TonyFebruary 28, 2020

Singing songs of love along with the hawk and dove

Who’s singing songs of love?

Most recording artists aren’t singing songs of love anymore. Because most of them don’t even know what true love is anymore. And that’s sad. But not surprising. After all…where in the world can they learn about true love? Certainly not in schools. And unfortunately, probably not even in the homes where they grow up. Because, there, they watch TV shows and movies filled with everything but love.

Singing about hook-ups doesn’t equal singing songs of love.

Just skim through the current Top 40 (or even Top 100) of any secular genre. And try to find a song about true love. I’m talkin’ about committed love. The kind of love that says this is not only not about a one night stand. It’s also not about a thousand night stand. A song that says I love you enough to marry you and be with you for life.

Find those songs.

You can’t.

Because they aren’t there. And that’s because, like I said, most singers and songwriters are clueless about lifelong commitment. They don’t grow up around it. And they certainly couldn’t care less what God says about it.

But, are love songs (about real, true love) important anymore? Actually, they’re more important than ever. Because love leads back to God. And He’s the source of perfect love. The kind that gets rid of fear.

I know it’s not sexy. And sexy sells records. But love lasts. The stuff found in the Top 40 charts doesn’t.

So, if you sincerely wanna do something to stand out from the musical crowd, sing songs about love. And commitment. And eternal life in the presence of perfect love. Now, that’s the way to rock-n-roll, man.

Do Something

Lightning, thunder”got this feeling that’s pulling me under
Magic, voodoo”when it’s got you what can you do?
I feel like I’m not the master of my fate
I do what I must and everything else can wait
I’m rolling in and out more often than the tide
And I don’t wanna be content to let it ride

I gotta do something
“˜Cause doing nothing’s wrong
I gotta do something
To last my whole life long
Find balance with the hawk and dove
Keep living for the perfect love
I believe my God above will help me”
Help me do something!

Longing, yearning”got this fire that won’t stop burning
This existence takes the path of the least resistance
I don’t wanna waste the time that may remain
And I wanna get all that I can out of my brain
I wish that I could always see which way to go
But it’s up to me to pray”and God to know

chorus

inst”chorus to end

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Posted on February 21, 2020 by TonyJune 8, 2024

Trust your gut if you dare But it's sneaky, so beware

Do you trust your gut?

And should you trust your gut? Look around the world wide web and you’ll find articles on all sides of that. One says, yes. Another says, no. Others say it’s psychological. And still others say the research is up for grabs. But one thing they all have in common. They’re not talking about your actual gut.

When you trust your gut, it’s not a matter of what’s in your belly.

I think just about anybody who’s been around more than a couple of decades knows the gut you trust (or don’t trust) is your intuition. And your intuition is more a brain feeling than actual gut feeling. But you might truly “feel” the sensation in your gut. So, that’s how it got its name.

“And this is important, why, Tony?”

Because your brain AND your gut might not be all that trustworthy.

So, maybe you shouldn’t trust your gut. In fact, if you trust your Creator, you might wanna rethink about the whole gut trust issue. Especially when it spills over into the whole “follow your heart” mantra you see and hear just about everywhere. Because your heart definitely will lead you astray. At least it will without proper wisdom and guidance. And guess what?

Good wisdom and guidance are as hard to find as a truthful politician these days.

Thankfully, they’re rare, but not impossible to find. Not impossible at all. In fact, you might have a great source of wisdom and guidance in your own house. And you might not even know it’s there.

No, it’s not the news app on your mobile device. And you can stop looking for it in Yahoo answers. You know what? Get off your devices altogether. Because you don’t need any of them. And you don’t even need the all-knowing Google search.

Now…are you ready for a punch in the gut?

Look around for a Bible. Even if you’re not the least bit interested in God or Jesus or any sort of gospel message, you can find incredible wisdom and guidance in the Bible. And when you find a Bible…and you can’t decide whether or not to open it…

Trust your gut. It’s clear-cut.
It might help you get back out of that deep rut.
Might be real…how you feel,
And if so, that would be perfectly ideal.
Take a break from the ache
And the pain of selfish lies for goodness sake.
You’ll be glad that you had
The good sense to find your life a launching pad.

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 20, 2020 by TonyJune 8, 2024

Alone in the universe

It sounds so sad. Right? We’re all alone in the universe. Just saying the words brings on anxiety, depression, and a deep, drowning sense of dread. Hit the record scratch sound effect. Not me! I’ve never felt that way a day in my life. Because I have a secret weapon. And I know how special our little, blue planet is.

We’re alone in the universe. But we’re not alone.

“Tony, that contradicts itself.”

Not at all. But being alone…truly alone…is a choice. Not a random set of circumstances. And certainly not a predestined destiny. Because every person born is an eternal being. From the moment you and I were conceived, we became inhabitants of eternity.

“Wow! That’s deep, man.”

You bet it’s deep. And wide. In fact, there’s a fountain flowing deep and wide. A fountain of living water. But you don’t have to drink from the fountain. And you don’t have to enjoy the benefits of never being thirsty again. It’s all up to you. The choice is there. Life. Or death. Love. Or a total separation from love.

But if you choose life and love, you will never (with a capital NEV) be alone. So, little astronomer, who do you choose?

Alone Not Alone

We are alone in the universe.
But we’re never all alone,
Unless we choose to reject design
Like we got here on our own.

We have a great place, this planet Earth.
And it stands out here in space.
It’s the world where the Creator was
Sacrificed to give us Grace.

Millionaires and even billionaires
Spend their money just to prove
Maybe brilliant, advanced aliens
Paused here when they made a move.

Sure, it sounds silly, but it’s just sad
But the truth will take this tone.
And if you trust aliens, not God,
Get used to it, you’re alone.

Jump on the The TRUTH and join a growing band of believers who know life is filled with rhymes and reasons because God Is Real.

Stay tuned,

Posted on February 19, 2020 by TonyMarch 14, 2025

Guacamole Song

I’m singin’ the guacamole song today. Because we bought a batch of avocados, and every one of them were excellent. If you don’t like avocados, or especially if you don’t like guacamole, I have to wonder about you. Elgielene made some excellent guacamole, her recipe. And we’ve been enjoying it on some awesome grass-fed beef. Why am I telling you this? And what does it have to do with Rhyme and Reason? Or words and music? Or anything else I usually talk about?

This little guacamole song is just to show joy and gratitude for blessings.

Avocados are healthy blessings to your body. And here are just a few of those blessings…

Avocados are virtually the only fruit with heart-healthy monounsaturated (good) fat. Blessing!
Vitamin B5: 14% of the DV – Blessing!
And B6: 13% of the DV – Blessing!
Vitamin C: 17% of the DV – Blessing!
Vitamin E: 10% of the DV – Blessing!
Folate: 20% of the DV – Blessing!
Vitamin K: 26% of the daily value – Blessing!
And Potassium: 14% of the DV – Blessing!

But why do I say they’re blessings? You didn’t really just ask me that. Did you? Because each one of those vitamins and minerals (and fat) are essential for your good health. And your health is your best secret weapon. For staying ahead of the competition. And for living as long a life as possible. When you live a long life, you can be more, do more, and serve others more. More and better.

So, now that you know what and why, sing this little guacamole song with me…

Avocado and cilantro
And a hint of lime.
Salsa bueno, words you may know
When you take the time
To dip a chip into this dip
Like a foodie would.
Guacamole isn’t holy,
But, man, it sure is good!

Stay tuned,

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Posted on February 18, 2020 by TonyFebruary 18, 2020

“Izzy Carries The Dream”

Since I wrote Izzy Carries the Dream, I’ve written and illustrated several other books for kids. And some of them are also based on songs I already wrote. Here’s a tiny excerpt from the book…

Izzy didn’t know if he was awake or asleep. But there was something coming straight at him, and it looked like a bright, fiery yellow meteor. His eyes darted to the left. Looked like a deep, dark drop off to nowhere. And that bright, fiery yellow thing was still coming.

Get Izzy in both the ePub & PDF versions in one download for only $4.

And you’ll be able to read “Izzy Carries The Dream” on almost any device. This option is only here on my website. Just click the easy Add to Cart button.

I carry the dream in my pocket.
I carry the dream in my soul.
And I carry it’s weight on my shoulders.
But that’s what keeps me whole.

Of course, if you’d prefer to order through Amazon, here’s the link to the Kindle version my book on that tiny store. Apparently a few people actually still shop on Amazon. If you do buy it there, I wouldn’t mind you leaving a review. Especially if it’s a nice one. 🙂

Thank you for your support. And if you have an Izzy around the house, I bet he gets a kick out of the book. One Izzy I know of sure did. Maybe I’ll share that story with you some day, too. Anyway, be sure to check out my other books for kids (and adults). And you sure don’t wanna miss all my other books either. From possibly the most expensive book for kids on Amazon to some of the least expensive.

Stay tuned,

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Celebrating International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day doesn’t give proper respect to women.

And I have an even better idea.

I’ve enjoyed writing music for kids

These days, are most songwriters writing music for kids that is too simple?

Music and math – it all adds up

Music and math show up regularly in a music producer‘s world.

So, even dissonance and harmony are based on music and math.

OK, kids. Let’s talk about the Pythagorean Theorem.

Do you remember the Pythagorean theorem from your geometry class?

Maybe you don’t NEED to know it. But…

Ah, the color of music notes

Because I enjoy the imagery of the color of music notes.

No, there’ll be no messages today. Hidden or in plain sight.

Going home again

Only people who put their trust and faith in their Creator will be going home again.

This broken world is full of disease and malefic microorganisms.

Music is dead – yeah, right

Most of the results for “music is dead” were lamenting or cheering the death of a genre.

Celebrate music because it’s a gift from God.

Let’s talk about music and the devil

It’s important to understand the connection between music and the devil.

Hmm…a good looking musician?

Music is communication of choice by your friendly neighborhood RhymeTender

Music is the preferred communication tool in a huge section of the Bible.

You don’t have to sing to God to communicate with Him.

I love the music and memory connection

Music and memory go together like warm clothes and cold weather.

And there’s a lot of people discovering the awesome music/memory connection.

Here’s what it all boils down to…

And see if the rest of these words pop into your head…

Talk about a very good feeling

Creating a beautiful, perfect world even gave God a very good feeling.

I understand, in a small way, how God felt after His creation time.

Life Is Flying Like A Hummingbird

Beware of my brain manipulation superpower

Of course, you want to know what my brain manipulation superpower is.

Then, you’re mine to manipulate as I will.

Heart throb of the 80s

Because I’m a red-blooded male, I preferred the female heart throbs.

Heart Throb

Is positive reinforcement always positive?

Positive reinforcement works great with dogs.

Anyway, back to kids and positive reinforcement.

But a little negative reinforcement goes a long way.

Child Of The Living God

I captured some moments in time

Then, a few days later,

Magic Little Moments

Who’s singing songs of love?

Singing about hook-ups doesn’t equal singing songs of love.

Do Something

Do you trust your gut?

When you trust your gut, it’s not a matter of what’s in your belly.

Now…are you ready for a punch in the gut?

Alone in the universe

We’re alone in the universe. But we’re not alone.

Alone Not Alone

Guacamole Song

This little guacamole song is just to show joy and gratitude for blessings.

“Izzy Carries The Dream”

Get Izzy in both the ePub & PDF versions in one download for only $4.

OK, kids.
Let’s talk about the Pythagorean Theorem.

Music is communication of choice by
your friendly neighborhood RhymeTender