Like most people, at this time of year, I reflect on the previous twelve months for some hindsight clarification. And 2021 was a lot like 2013. Because that year I thought about Paul’s words in 2 Timothy 4. I read that passage and see myself like this: I haven’t completely fought the good fight or finished the race, yet. But I keep the faith. … Read the rest…
Several years ago I shared a scenario where going from first to last was a good thing. Since we’ve gone from the first day of 2021 to almost the last day (as I write this it’s December 30), I think it’s appropriate to share it again. Imagine you’re a runner in the 1 mile event at the track and field competition in the Olympics. … Read the rest…
This is something interesting I found out a little while ago. On this date, December 27, way back in 2005 an announcement came out that ‘Crazy Frog’ by Axel F was the best selling UK ringtone of that year. You might be asking, “Why are you talkin’ about a ring tone, Tony?” And the short answer is, “Why not?” But Ring Tone Tony has a … Read the rest…
The Bible says a “laborer is worthy of his wages.” But what about when the worker is doing work you believe is easy? You know, the kind of work you think isn’t done by the sweat of the brow? In other words, does that worthy laborer principle apply to musicians? Here’s something I watched Sting say about it a few years ago. Of course, … Read the rest…
10 years ago I wrote some Christmas songs. And one of them became one of my favorites. Yeah, I know. How unabashedly arrogant of me. Right? No, it’s OK to favor your own creative work. And it’s OK to have enough ego to admit it. Anyway…I’ve been sharing that song for just about every Christmas since then. This year is no different. May the … Read the rest…
It might still be possible. But my guess is, it’s rare. And I mean it’s rare for a person to have a lyricist career anymore. Especially since actual lyrics, with solid meter and rhyme. But something I shared yesterday led me to look a little more closely at the life of Johnson Oatman Jr. Ironically, Mr. Oatman didn’t really have a lyricist career. And … Read the rest…
In 2014 I wrote sort of a “year end review.” And I found it this morning, as I was looking for something else from that year. One thing I noticed, when I re-read it, was how the headlines of today sound similar to those from seven years ago. But the headlines of today are even more depressing than 2014. Back then I talked about … Read the rest…