Here is a view from the Naples, FL CD Release Show!
Please enjoy the music :)
Friday, October 1, 2010
A Spotlight for the Kansas City Show
Purchase your tickets via PayPal HERE!
Here is a view from the Naples, FL CD Release Show!
Please enjoy the music :)
Here is a view from the Naples, FL CD Release Show!
Please enjoy the music :)
Friday, September 24, 2010
meaning in miscarriage
I have spent the past 24 hours working on a video to introduce my song Forever Now that I just released on my new album, and it has been more difficult than I really imagined. My wife and I went through a miscarriage last December, and we were at the doctors office for Stacy's three month check-up, and they discovered the baby didn't have a heartbeat. We were lost, terrified, and broken.
Then people began sharing their stories with us... stories of how they had lost children, sometimes several miscarriages in a row or in between other children. I just imagined each of those wonderful people, their stories, our own story, and those days when it was even less "ok" to talk about this topic.
So this morning, after finally getting the video together, doing an introduction to it and getting it posted to youtube ... I found myself looking for others who may have shared that similar experience. And I certainly found what I was looking for... there are so many videos out there to children who had passed with just as many scenarios. Heartbreaking ... and it took me back to last December and the emotion of that entire experience.
There is one more part of the story though...
That Stacy and I are expecting ... in December, 2010.
lots of love to you today... wherever you are, whatever you are doing, and however life is.
nb
Then people began sharing their stories with us... stories of how they had lost children, sometimes several miscarriages in a row or in between other children. I just imagined each of those wonderful people, their stories, our own story, and those days when it was even less "ok" to talk about this topic.
So this morning, after finally getting the video together, doing an introduction to it and getting it posted to youtube ... I found myself looking for others who may have shared that similar experience. And I certainly found what I was looking for... there are so many videos out there to children who had passed with just as many scenarios. Heartbreaking ... and it took me back to last December and the emotion of that entire experience.
There is one more part of the story though...
That Stacy and I are expecting ... in December, 2010.
lots of love to you today... wherever you are, whatever you are doing, and however life is.
nb
Thursday, September 9, 2010
well... cd release show... friend... you are here
Seriously! Can it really, actually, really... actually.... be here!?
Well I can tell you this much: a lot of people have worked so hard to make this show come together. There have been a lot of challenges with the economy and sponsors for the show, finding the most amazing band EVER, putting together the show itself and all the little details... there is a lot that goes into an event like this.
But I have to also tell you, what a blessing this is. My record is finally together, reviews are really going well, people are digging the record, and for the first time I get to play this record out live that I have literally worked 2 years on. What a blessing...
There really are too many people to name... but thank you all. This is a dream come true... and tomorrow night, Friday September 10th... we are going to rock the world of Naples, FL with a great concert that was put on not by one person... but by the "whole village".
God is good... friends are good... my amazing wife... so good... and family just arrived from KC at the airport here... so I am overjoyed.
Sleep well... maybe get a few zzz's for me too.
nb
Well I can tell you this much: a lot of people have worked so hard to make this show come together. There have been a lot of challenges with the economy and sponsors for the show, finding the most amazing band EVER, putting together the show itself and all the little details... there is a lot that goes into an event like this.
But I have to also tell you, what a blessing this is. My record is finally together, reviews are really going well, people are digging the record, and for the first time I get to play this record out live that I have literally worked 2 years on. What a blessing...
There really are too many people to name... but thank you all. This is a dream come true... and tomorrow night, Friday September 10th... we are going to rock the world of Naples, FL with a great concert that was put on not by one person... but by the "whole village".
God is good... friends are good... my amazing wife... so good... and family just arrived from KC at the airport here... so I am overjoyed.
Sleep well... maybe get a few zzz's for me too.
nb
Monday, September 6, 2010
Thursday, September 2, 2010
merch. it's not just any t-shirt
You have no idea how picky I am. Well, maybe you do!
But the fine folks at T-Shirt Express in Naples sure do, because after spending copious amounts of time over phone and email we spent another 2 hours yesterday hammering out styles, colors, sizes, shapes... colors, did I mention COOLness, for the merch.
That means that what you are going to start seeing (and get a sneak peak at www.nathanbrooksmusic.com and click on big cartel) is the fruits of all the hard work not just with the cd and recording, but the overall design concepts with everything. We went KILLER with the designs (www.designbythekitch.com ... he will blow your mind!) and we went with the sport fit shirts with great feeling-gotta-have-it material for the guys, and of course the ladies not only have the amazing feeling shirts... but the bam-she-lookin-good in the fit, cut, and colors for the ladies. Even down to the tanks (just wait... black, hot, awesomeness) ... that are the best we can get.
So I can't wait for you to see everything, but go check out the shopping cart, pick your chin up off the floor, be happy, pick which shirts and how many cd's you need for each aunt, uncle, and perhaps third cousin you are going to need... and get ready!
Right now I also have a special... awesome, comfy, and super hip Nathan Brooks logo shirt that I am selling for ONLY $10! Yes, you read that right... so get it right now... order it up, rock the shirt... and get ready for the rest of them coming.
Order your dark blue one... well, how about... NOW!
:) See you in your city, your house, your church, your venue... soon. Make sure you email me where I should be playing, or if you want to have me play for you nathanbrookstour@gmail.com.
nb
But the fine folks at T-Shirt Express in Naples sure do, because after spending copious amounts of time over phone and email we spent another 2 hours yesterday hammering out styles, colors, sizes, shapes... colors, did I mention COOLness, for the merch.
That means that what you are going to start seeing (and get a sneak peak at www.nathanbrooksmusic.com and click on big cartel) is the fruits of all the hard work not just with the cd and recording, but the overall design concepts with everything. We went KILLER with the designs (www.designbythekitch.com ... he will blow your mind!) and we went with the sport fit shirts with great feeling-gotta-have-it material for the guys, and of course the ladies not only have the amazing feeling shirts... but the bam-she-lookin-good in the fit, cut, and colors for the ladies. Even down to the tanks (just wait... black, hot, awesomeness) ... that are the best we can get.
So I can't wait for you to see everything, but go check out the shopping cart, pick your chin up off the floor, be happy, pick which shirts and how many cd's you need for each aunt, uncle, and perhaps third cousin you are going to need... and get ready!
Right now I also have a special... awesome, comfy, and super hip Nathan Brooks logo shirt that I am selling for ONLY $10! Yes, you read that right... so get it right now... order it up, rock the shirt... and get ready for the rest of them coming.
Order your dark blue one... well, how about... NOW!
:) See you in your city, your house, your church, your venue... soon. Make sure you email me where I should be playing, or if you want to have me play for you nathanbrookstour@gmail.com.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
CD Release show... only 19 Days Away
Hard to believe really. I have worked so hard on this record... seriously! Wanting to make this record come together, believing it would, having the time to get to LA, working with amazing musicians, amazing design team, mix and mastering people... all amazing.
So here we are. Street team is rockin (and YOU can be a part ... www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks ... ) and having lots of fun putting up posters and fliers. The musicians playing the show are so talented, we are going to really bring the place down... all these things are really coming together.
One of the hardest parts of this show was the location, wanting to find a place that would be able to hold everyone coming, be a venue we can easily set up the sound, lighting, and band gear. Having it at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples... is such a blessing!
We are coming down to the wire, and we have a few more seats available for the show... and so I am also announcing another sponsorship option for churches, non-profits, civic organizations, small businesses, or even large ones, and of course... just good friends. From now until they are sold out, you get 10 tickets for $100 ... and a place to put your business card, flier or pamphlet about your business. I hope you will take this opportunity to bring your friends, church members, and clients, out for a wonderful evening of entertainment ... AND you are helping support a local artist right here in Naples.
Thanks so much everyone.... and I will be seeing you September 10th, 7pm ... Ritz... it's a date!
nb
(here is the link to buy the Ticket Sponsorship packages... )
So here we are. Street team is rockin (and YOU can be a part ... www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks ... ) and having lots of fun putting up posters and fliers. The musicians playing the show are so talented, we are going to really bring the place down... all these things are really coming together.
One of the hardest parts of this show was the location, wanting to find a place that would be able to hold everyone coming, be a venue we can easily set up the sound, lighting, and band gear. Having it at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Resort, Naples... is such a blessing!
We are coming down to the wire, and we have a few more seats available for the show... and so I am also announcing another sponsorship option for churches, non-profits, civic organizations, small businesses, or even large ones, and of course... just good friends. From now until they are sold out, you get 10 tickets for $100 ... and a place to put your business card, flier or pamphlet about your business. I hope you will take this opportunity to bring your friends, church members, and clients, out for a wonderful evening of entertainment ... AND you are helping support a local artist right here in Naples.
Thanks so much everyone.... and I will be seeing you September 10th, 7pm ... Ritz... it's a date!
nb
(here is the link to buy the Ticket Sponsorship packages... )
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Global Ministries
I am so grateful and excited to be sharing a portion of every record sale with Global Ministries. I hope you will take a few minutes and follow this link... and read and watch a video about it!
peace :)
Nathan
http://nathanbrooksmusic.blogspot.com/2010/08/larger-than-life-this-is-exciting-to.html
peace :)
Nathan
http://nathanbrooksmusic.blogspot.com/2010/08/larger-than-life-this-is-exciting-to.html
Friday, August 6, 2010
FANTASTIC FRIDAY - AND GREAT priced TICKETS :)
I always like a good deal... that is why TODAY... you can purchase the tickets to my cd release show ... buy 4 tickets and get one free! Only today... fantastic Friday!
Here is the paypal link to purchase them... GO NOW!
Here is the paypal link to purchase them... GO NOW!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
larger than life - this is exciting to share.
I am not sure if you knew this... but for the record (no pun intended there... with a new record and all... wow! :), I tend to not have the patience I should. And if God didn't have a sense of humor, there are a lot of things happening in my life that I have to well... wait... and wait... and see where they lead. Certainly something that makes me think about and appreciate life as it happens, and also a daily reminder that I am not the one in control here...
So, there is BIG NEWS... yep... BIG. And I can finally tell you! A miracle indeed...
Here we go:
A large part of my faith and experience of God first started with a mission trip I went on in the 8th grade, accompanied by my Dad and a fairly good size group of youth and adults. We headed to Venezuela to help work on several churches, I attempted using the few spanish phrases I knew, and being a really talkative teenager (yeah, imagine that :)... I got to make some new friends. Of course, these experiences are life changing; they mold us and make us into the people we are today.
I can tell you that mission trip changed my life. It made me appreciate what I had, the family I had, the church I went to, the house I lived in, and having food on the table each and every night. This trip was encouragment for me to go out on other mission trips as well, to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and countless trips for Habitat House building, church work days, and camps, literally all over the country.
All of these experiences, friendships, time, and faith building, have helped form who I am, and are a large part of who I am as a songwriter as well. I want to not only be able to have a great record, and be able to share my faith in the way of singing and worship, but I also want to be able to support in other ways as well.
I am really excited to share with you, about Global Ministries, that does this mission and ministry on a really large scale... www.globalministries.org ... is an amazing organization, non-profit, voice, hand, heart, and mission... to and for the global church... working right now all over the world.
That is why I have decided to donate a portion of every single copy of "Dream in Truths" I sell to Global Ministries. They are a non-profit literally putting their money where their mouth is and I am really excited to be able to share in helping make their ministry happen.
I hope you will take time to check out their website and see how you could help with their ministry, and make sure you follow my blog here for updates that will be coming about Global Ministries, and on my email list www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks ... for the very latest with my new record coming out "Dream in Truths" ... let's help make an impact in the world with music, with our resources.. and with our mouths.
Go tell someone...
peace. Nathan
here are the links you need again:
www.globalministries.org
www.nathanbrooksmusic.com
www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks
You can pre-order my record "Dream in Truths" right now... just by following this link and purchase via paypal...
http://nathanbrooksmusic.blogspot.com/2010/06/nathans-cd-release-show-buy-your.html
(here is a video I made about all of this exciting stuff!)
So, there is BIG NEWS... yep... BIG. And I can finally tell you! A miracle indeed...
Here we go:
A large part of my faith and experience of God first started with a mission trip I went on in the 8th grade, accompanied by my Dad and a fairly good size group of youth and adults. We headed to Venezuela to help work on several churches, I attempted using the few spanish phrases I knew, and being a really talkative teenager (yeah, imagine that :)... I got to make some new friends. Of course, these experiences are life changing; they mold us and make us into the people we are today.
I can tell you that mission trip changed my life. It made me appreciate what I had, the family I had, the church I went to, the house I lived in, and having food on the table each and every night. This trip was encouragment for me to go out on other mission trips as well, to Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and countless trips for Habitat House building, church work days, and camps, literally all over the country.
All of these experiences, friendships, time, and faith building, have helped form who I am, and are a large part of who I am as a songwriter as well. I want to not only be able to have a great record, and be able to share my faith in the way of singing and worship, but I also want to be able to support in other ways as well.
I am really excited to share with you, about Global Ministries, that does this mission and ministry on a really large scale... www.globalministries.org ... is an amazing organization, non-profit, voice, hand, heart, and mission... to and for the global church... working right now all over the world.
That is why I have decided to donate a portion of every single copy of "Dream in Truths" I sell to Global Ministries. They are a non-profit literally putting their money where their mouth is and I am really excited to be able to share in helping make their ministry happen.
I hope you will take time to check out their website and see how you could help with their ministry, and make sure you follow my blog here for updates that will be coming about Global Ministries, and on my email list www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks ... for the very latest with my new record coming out "Dream in Truths" ... let's help make an impact in the world with music, with our resources.. and with our mouths.
Go tell someone...
peace. Nathan
here are the links you need again:
www.globalministries.org
www.nathanbrooksmusic.com
www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks
You can pre-order my record "Dream in Truths" right now... just by following this link and purchase via paypal...
http://nathanbrooksmusic.blogspot.com/2010/06/nathans-cd-release-show-buy-your.html
(here is a video I made about all of this exciting stuff!)
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
soundtrack to my life
I was sitting writing this on my flight back from Kansas City to Naples a few days ago... wanting to caress each word perfectly, and make sure it was written the way I wanted it... so put your creative cap on... and imagine we are on a flight together... at this very moment...
I am about 15 thousand feet in the air... and climbing.
Literally, at this very moment, on my way back from Kansas City to Naples on an airplane. There is something so intriguing and beautiful with the green sections, neatly separated by streets and the occasional overpass. I am sitting here sifting through the memories these past few days, with a few old friends, Stacy’s parents, and the time with my parents Tim and Jan, sister Melissa, and brother Christopher.
With my new record coming out, I have approached writing these songs from the perspective of a friend, of a brother, son, a husband, a child of God. Dreaming of what the world could be. Dealing with my shortcomings. Believing there is more to life than we can physically see with our eyes. Trying to somehow mold all those ideas into songs that not only deliver lyrics that explain those ideas, but songs that grab ahold of you. That talk about my faith.
Music in my life has truly been the one constant other than my family. It is there when I am creative, when I need to decompress, when I have a burst of energy, when I have those really hard days. Funneling the creative ideas from my brain to the 88 keys of a keyboard or the 6 strings of my beautiful guitar (when I am writing I love to play my Breedlove, a gift from my wife... and probably the second most important thing in my life next to her :) ... which involves an in-depth, ever evolving writing process for me. Not only is this dynamic process about the flow of one line to the next, but the energy, the emotion, to way a chord moves seamlessly to the next, and a tone that passes so briefly and eloquently that if you aren’t really listening closely you might just miss it.
It’s funny. I love watching the clouds as I fly. They are never the same. Today it is pretty sunny, with fluffy cotton ball like clouds. If Stacy was here, I would have an actual cloud name for you, but for this moment cotton ball like clouds will just half to do. But honestly, it’s moments like this, suspended atop all the hustle and bustle of life as we know it, I find myself being introspective; I ponder the happenings of my past, present, and certainly my future, which is the basis for the songs that I write. It is what I would call the soundtrack to my life, the undercurrent of all the things that have happened. These things all are coming in through my senses... all these things create this soundtrack.
As you listen the first time to my song Soundtrack, I hope you will think about what the soundtrack to your life is. What moves you, what makes you tick? How are you called in life to do something beyond just yourself? This song is about those things; a great meaning in life than just $5 coffees, glamour, and fancy cars. We live in a world with so much meaning, so much to discover, and so much more that we can do to make it better.
Let’s listen to that soundtrack... and let’s get to work.
Go to http://www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks and download it for free...
I am about 15 thousand feet in the air... and climbing.
Literally, at this very moment, on my way back from Kansas City to Naples on an airplane. There is something so intriguing and beautiful with the green sections, neatly separated by streets and the occasional overpass. I am sitting here sifting through the memories these past few days, with a few old friends, Stacy’s parents, and the time with my parents Tim and Jan, sister Melissa, and brother Christopher.
With my new record coming out, I have approached writing these songs from the perspective of a friend, of a brother, son, a husband, a child of God. Dreaming of what the world could be. Dealing with my shortcomings. Believing there is more to life than we can physically see with our eyes. Trying to somehow mold all those ideas into songs that not only deliver lyrics that explain those ideas, but songs that grab ahold of you. That talk about my faith.
Music in my life has truly been the one constant other than my family. It is there when I am creative, when I need to decompress, when I have a burst of energy, when I have those really hard days. Funneling the creative ideas from my brain to the 88 keys of a keyboard or the 6 strings of my beautiful guitar (when I am writing I love to play my Breedlove, a gift from my wife... and probably the second most important thing in my life next to her :) ... which involves an in-depth, ever evolving writing process for me. Not only is this dynamic process about the flow of one line to the next, but the energy, the emotion, to way a chord moves seamlessly to the next, and a tone that passes so briefly and eloquently that if you aren’t really listening closely you might just miss it.
It’s funny. I love watching the clouds as I fly. They are never the same. Today it is pretty sunny, with fluffy cotton ball like clouds. If Stacy was here, I would have an actual cloud name for you, but for this moment cotton ball like clouds will just half to do. But honestly, it’s moments like this, suspended atop all the hustle and bustle of life as we know it, I find myself being introspective; I ponder the happenings of my past, present, and certainly my future, which is the basis for the songs that I write. It is what I would call the soundtrack to my life, the undercurrent of all the things that have happened. These things all are coming in through my senses... all these things create this soundtrack.
As you listen the first time to my song Soundtrack, I hope you will think about what the soundtrack to your life is. What moves you, what makes you tick? How are you called in life to do something beyond just yourself? This song is about those things; a great meaning in life than just $5 coffees, glamour, and fancy cars. We live in a world with so much meaning, so much to discover, and so much more that we can do to make it better.
Let’s listen to that soundtrack... and let’s get to work.
Go to http://www.reverbnation.com/nathanbrooks and download it for free...
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Soundtrack promo
Soundtrack promo
To be honest, it is so surreal for me to be posting a link from my "record." I have dreamed, worked, practiced, and believed for a long time that this day would someday finally be here. And it actually is.
This is a sneak peek at my song Soundtrack, off my new record "Dream in Truths." I can't wait to share this record with you...
Enjoy.
:) nb
To be honest, it is so surreal for me to be posting a link from my "record." I have dreamed, worked, practiced, and believed for a long time that this day would someday finally be here. And it actually is.
This is a sneak peek at my song Soundtrack, off my new record "Dream in Truths." I can't wait to share this record with you...
Enjoy.
:) nb
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
the best video ever
I will tell you, putting this promo video together was really a lot of work. When I started putting this concept together on paper I really was excited about the possibilities, but not certain I would really be able to get enough people to participate to make it the way I dreamed it. There was a very different turn of events.
Hours and hours of footage came in, emails of support, thankful friends, fans, and people all over the planet came together to help put this promo from idea to realization. Considering I had friends in 4 states, 3 countries, and 19 people who helped sending me videos to put this promo together, it really is astounding. The video was going to happen... at least the pieces were in place!
Step One: So, I started wading through the hours and hours of video from backyards in North Carolina, the Lake and suburbs in Missouri, a group of crazy and awesome guys from Dallas, Texas, a music lover in the Netherlands, a dear friend and soldier who has just a few short days left in Iraq, and several friends here in Florida who were eager to help out in any way they could. The settings and different people really made the motion of the promo video interesting, because in the end it really does take a life of itself with the energy and enthusiasm from everyone participating.
Step two... I also didn't account for the countless hours of editing, cutting, recording the footage of my lines and playing music for the video, and my incessant and driven obsessiveness to do the very best that I am capable of. Add up that math problem, and it tells the tale of my poor wife who finally made it to bed around midnight, and for another 4 hours and 20 minutes, I burned the midnight oil. You see, I said that this video would be posted on Tuesday... and I was going to have it posted.
I am so proud, so grateful, so thankful... so blessed to have all of you in my life. Thank you to each person who took the time to send me your file, figure out file format, almost miss a plane, try your best to get the lake in the picture but the rain didn't cooperate, get all the kids together and cooperating, not waking up roommates, and above all... taking your time to do something for me.
Thank you so much! I hope you all enjoy this video as much as I enjoyed getting to put this together ... the promo for the promo... an introduction of my record coming out in a few weeks... and to the EPK (electronic press kit) that will be released on Friday, July 9th, 2010.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
not a good waiter
As in. Patience.
I am pretty sure this is a reoccurring theme for me, probably something I should be writing a song about. Haven't found the song yet, but I certainly have the impatience part down.
For one thing, I have several really amazing things happening in my life... at least ALMOST. As a writer I have a record that I went, recorded 10 songs, and I am now waiting to the ALMOST have this record in my hand. The pain!
Does it really hurt. No. Well, kind of. I know that these things, these moments, are just little microcosmic events that are not long term no matter how much I dwell on them or believe they are the end all of my life.
How about this one... I am going to be a DAD! I can't help myself reading about week 24 and week 33 because I love learning, and I am impatient! (Yes, and momma... we are on week 14 for those wondering.)
So all in all, what you are hearing is perhaps 30% whining, and 70% just the dealing with... waiting. There are so many cool things happening in my life and I am so thankful, grateful and blessed. Sometimes it is just hard for me to wait, be patient, and let things happen in the time of say... in the way that god connects all things, rather than me trying to control everything ... in vein.
Alas. I can't wait for you to hear the record. I can't wait for my cd release show. I can't wait for a few things I can't tell you about yet! AND... I can't wait to be a dad.
Patience is a virtue they say. Where can I buy one!?
I am pretty sure this is a reoccurring theme for me, probably something I should be writing a song about. Haven't found the song yet, but I certainly have the impatience part down.
For one thing, I have several really amazing things happening in my life... at least ALMOST. As a writer I have a record that I went, recorded 10 songs, and I am now waiting to the ALMOST have this record in my hand. The pain!
Does it really hurt. No. Well, kind of. I know that these things, these moments, are just little microcosmic events that are not long term no matter how much I dwell on them or believe they are the end all of my life.
How about this one... I am going to be a DAD! I can't help myself reading about week 24 and week 33 because I love learning, and I am impatient! (Yes, and momma... we are on week 14 for those wondering.)
So all in all, what you are hearing is perhaps 30% whining, and 70% just the dealing with... waiting. There are so many cool things happening in my life and I am so thankful, grateful and blessed. Sometimes it is just hard for me to wait, be patient, and let things happen in the time of say... in the way that god connects all things, rather than me trying to control everything ... in vein.
Alas. I can't wait for you to hear the record. I can't wait for my cd release show. I can't wait for a few things I can't tell you about yet! AND... I can't wait to be a dad.
Patience is a virtue they say. Where can I buy one!?
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Nathan's CD RELEASE SHOW! BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE!
So here is the link to buy your pre-order of the record Dream in Truths... it will be mailed to you the first or second week of August... and you purchased tickets to the cd release show here as well:
The Ritz-Carlton Gulf Resort
Naples, Florida
September 10th, 2010 7 p.m.
PRE-ORDER CD DREAM IN TRUTHSWednesday, June 23, 2010
media machine
You know... crazy, all this media stuff. I tell you... I just don't see how people have all the time to post the things they do. AND I POST A LOT OF STUFF! (yes, Nathan... tell us something we didn't know!)
Well I will tell you this.
The music world of 2010 is very interesting. I have had to change the way I do things from just 6 months ago, and I imagine I will be changing things again in 6 months from now. One of the ways I have had to adjust is the hunger for videos. You stare at a screen with you "mug" on it and see how comfortable it is... pretty weird! But I am working on the comfort level with it... and you can check out this new video I just did today of my song, Long Hard Road (which will be on the new album being released August 2010).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wffqlpfjIc
It seems like it just comes down to someone who happens to have 20,000,000 myspace or youtube subscribers and bam... you are instantly out there. Well ... to my 5,600 friends on myspace... we just have a few million to go.
:) nb
Well I will tell you this.
The music world of 2010 is very interesting. I have had to change the way I do things from just 6 months ago, and I imagine I will be changing things again in 6 months from now. One of the ways I have had to adjust is the hunger for videos. You stare at a screen with you "mug" on it and see how comfortable it is... pretty weird! But I am working on the comfort level with it... and you can check out this new video I just did today of my song, Long Hard Road (which will be on the new album being released August 2010).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wffqlpfjIc
It seems like it just comes down to someone who happens to have 20,000,000 myspace or youtube subscribers and bam... you are instantly out there. Well ... to my 5,600 friends on myspace... we just have a few million to go.
:) nb
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
this is really... really...
I don't know if you realize, but miscarriage is something too terribly common, and it is also devastating. My wife and I had the unbelievable joy of finding out we were pregnant late 2009, and the day we thought we would be able to share with all of our friends of the impending major life change, our joy became a nightmare with seeing an ultrasound of a baby ... but with no heartbeat.
People were so caring, so loving, and wanted to be there for us. And if you have experienced this before, and I am sure there are different feelings for different people, but there is nothing that makes it feel better .... but time. The thing I couldn't believe was how many people had gone through this, sometimes 2 or 3 or even 4 miscarriages. Stacy and I weren't even sure we could try again for a child, knowing how hard it was to go through this experience. But we also knew that nearly every person who talked to us and had gone through a miscarriage, had also had beautiful children after.
This story has a twist. Our hearts raced today, as we had an emergency appointment at our doctors office, because...
Today, is 10 weeks, and 5 days. And we are excited that we are pregnant again. After wondering today if we had yet gone through another miscarriage... but to find out things were okay, we have decided to do things a little differently this time. Instead of waiting and dealing with whatever the outcome in silence, we instead want to come out with this amazing joy in our life, and ask for prayer, for love, and for positive thoughts. We want people to know that even though we have gone through this very hard thing in our life, we believe that in the end life will be better...
Please think of us, and more specifically, say a prayer, have a moment of silence when you have that time, and just know how much we appreciate, and love all of you.
Here's to the new Brooks' baby... Nathan (and Stacy too)
People were so caring, so loving, and wanted to be there for us. And if you have experienced this before, and I am sure there are different feelings for different people, but there is nothing that makes it feel better .... but time. The thing I couldn't believe was how many people had gone through this, sometimes 2 or 3 or even 4 miscarriages. Stacy and I weren't even sure we could try again for a child, knowing how hard it was to go through this experience. But we also knew that nearly every person who talked to us and had gone through a miscarriage, had also had beautiful children after.
This story has a twist. Our hearts raced today, as we had an emergency appointment at our doctors office, because...
Today, is 10 weeks, and 5 days. And we are excited that we are pregnant again. After wondering today if we had yet gone through another miscarriage... but to find out things were okay, we have decided to do things a little differently this time. Instead of waiting and dealing with whatever the outcome in silence, we instead want to come out with this amazing joy in our life, and ask for prayer, for love, and for positive thoughts. We want people to know that even though we have gone through this very hard thing in our life, we believe that in the end life will be better...
Please think of us, and more specifically, say a prayer, have a moment of silence when you have that time, and just know how much we appreciate, and love all of you.
Here's to the new Brooks' baby... Nathan (and Stacy too)
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
New CD... and it has a title!
Well, the pondering, plotting, agonizing... and overanalyzing is over.
My first full length record, which consists of ten songs ... is entitled: Dream in Truths.
Dream in Truths is to take on multiple layers of thought, of ideas, of philosophy, of life, love, god... it is a pop record with solid roots in things that I feel connect us today as people... and how we relate, how we listen, how we feel.
The next few days I will take time to talk about some of these songs, the stories behind them... so you have an idea of what to look for. Three of the songs already have full arrangements and vocal tracks... and tomorrow will be another two songs down with vocals...
I am so excited... I have been dreaming of this for a long time.
My first full length record, which consists of ten songs ... is entitled: Dream in Truths.
Dream in Truths is to take on multiple layers of thought, of ideas, of philosophy, of life, love, god... it is a pop record with solid roots in things that I feel connect us today as people... and how we relate, how we listen, how we feel.
The next few days I will take time to talk about some of these songs, the stories behind them... so you have an idea of what to look for. Three of the songs already have full arrangements and vocal tracks... and tomorrow will be another two songs down with vocals...
I am so excited... I have been dreaming of this for a long time.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
timing
This morning has been wonderful, thoughtful, and relaxing... here are a few things I have been thinking:
How tired I am. Really, this record making thing is truly amazing, but so time consuming, and brain consuming.
The wonderful blessing I have in my life to be able to play music professionally.
Friendships that exist out of amazing love... a family who is supportive... and a wife who amazes, loves, care, and believes in me. I am so thankful for this time to make my record, and I miss you Stacy.
How these things, whatever it is you are wanting, hoping, praying, or dreaming for... come in time. Things happen outside our control more often than in control. Once I let go of trying to somehow make something out of nothing, piece by piece, one at a time, and not in days but months and years, these things have slowly come together.
I am certainly not a patient person... if you are close to me, you certainly know. But, I am learning. And I know there is something, someone, who is there to help guide me along the way.
How tired I am. Really, this record making thing is truly amazing, but so time consuming, and brain consuming.
The wonderful blessing I have in my life to be able to play music professionally.
Friendships that exist out of amazing love... a family who is supportive... and a wife who amazes, loves, care, and believes in me. I am so thankful for this time to make my record, and I miss you Stacy.
How these things, whatever it is you are wanting, hoping, praying, or dreaming for... come in time. Things happen outside our control more often than in control. Once I let go of trying to somehow make something out of nothing, piece by piece, one at a time, and not in days but months and years, these things have slowly come together.
I am certainly not a patient person... if you are close to me, you certainly know. But, I am learning. And I know there is something, someone, who is there to help guide me along the way.
Friday, May 21, 2010
the pressure
You would probably not think that making a record is a difficult task. It is the mtv guys hanging in some cool room with a bunch of cables and cool lighting; and don't get me wrong, it is something amazing. But there is also this incredible pressure to create the songs as you imagined and spent copious amounts of time on crafting every melodic line and chord to go with it. My need to bring them from the paper to the audio recording with perfection is this insanely driving force. It's hard to explain, but imagine whatever is the single most important goal in your life, the thing you could also not really believe would come to fruition, and then you are actually in the middle of it. I am doing that very thing... I feel so blessed to be here.
This record will surprise you, it will engage, and you will feel connected with these songs... after all I am a dreamer, and I believe it ...
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
LA... Day 1
Today, was a great day. First things first, even driving in LA is not for the faint of heart. I think I could forfeit my time at the gym just with the pulse raising experience of finding my way to the studio. But, alas, I did make it... safe and sound.
Justin, my producer, and I, began today working on the "pre-production" or the road map for the tunes. This process is sometimes challenging as the songwriter because you (I) have to take an objective look at the tunes from the vantage point of the listener. Do the works convey what you are really saying? Does the melody here work with the passage of the chords... does the song make sense as a whole? There are many many questions that are part of this experience.
Today we worked through two tunes, start to finish. By finished, it means that we have a full coordinated roadmap for us to follow once we are ready to begin actually recording the tracks that go onto the record. I am thrilled to get to work with Justin Glasco, a dear friend, and phenomenally talented musician and producer. It is hard for me to believe this day, my first day recording my record, is actually here. It is a good day.
Here is the first studio shot... a visual from the "office" for the next few weeks.
Justin, my producer, and I, began today working on the "pre-production" or the road map for the tunes. This process is sometimes challenging as the songwriter because you (I) have to take an objective look at the tunes from the vantage point of the listener. Do the works convey what you are really saying? Does the melody here work with the passage of the chords... does the song make sense as a whole? There are many many questions that are part of this experience.
Today we worked through two tunes, start to finish. By finished, it means that we have a full coordinated roadmap for us to follow once we are ready to begin actually recording the tracks that go onto the record. I am thrilled to get to work with Justin Glasco, a dear friend, and phenomenally talented musician and producer. It is hard for me to believe this day, my first day recording my record, is actually here. It is a good day.
Here is the first studio shot... a visual from the "office" for the next few weeks.
Monday, May 17, 2010
love
As it is nearing midnight, and I should have been in bed probably 3 hours ago... I am just awed at the love and outpouring of support from all my friends and family. This upcoming record project is truly a dream that has come true in my life. I believe these things happen with hard work, with dedication, with passion, and with a little luck too. And tonight I have this very strong emotion of gratitude and love, for my wife.
I think sometimes our biggest fan is the one who is neglected. For all the moments when I forget to tell you, Stacy... that I love you, or that you are so supportive, or that you simply are the love of my life... I do, and you are.
This doesn't just come as a simple thanks, or love, but the knowledge that these kinds of endeavors lead me far from home, not towards it. Three weeks in Los Angeles with recording studios, microphones, celebrities, and meeting new people... and my wife at home, by herself. I guess this is just a reminder for myself as well... to be humble, to be thankful, and grateful for an amazing woman... who is my wife.
love you.
(this is Stacy and I atop the Empire State Building in New York... we finally got that honeymoon to NY and Paris, just 4 years late)
I think sometimes our biggest fan is the one who is neglected. For all the moments when I forget to tell you, Stacy... that I love you, or that you are so supportive, or that you simply are the love of my life... I do, and you are.
This doesn't just come as a simple thanks, or love, but the knowledge that these kinds of endeavors lead me far from home, not towards it. Three weeks in Los Angeles with recording studios, microphones, celebrities, and meeting new people... and my wife at home, by herself. I guess this is just a reminder for myself as well... to be humble, to be thankful, and grateful for an amazing woman... who is my wife.
(this is Stacy and I atop the Empire State Building in New York... we finally got that honeymoon to NY and Paris, just 4 years late)
Thursday, May 13, 2010
creating the video
You know... there are a lot of things I have had the pleasure of learning these past couple of months. What IS a publicist? How DO you actually do a photo shoot... what exactly IS this video thing you put out there for people to see.
So many things to learn! However, it is always a fun ride learning new things and I have to tell you, I took my first "stab" and putting together a video with a new song of mine. You would think a video that is... 1:14 long would take just a few minutes right? Not for this guy! Hours... not even sure where the time went. There will be more of these videos posted eventually and I look forward to hearing what you think...
Things learned thus far:
- this is harder than it looks
- I am a sucker for time on fonts and color of fonts
- more often than not I have to play the video over and over to decide if I like it.. and over... and over...
- once you are completed... it's still not completed... change this, check that, want this...
- this is harder than it looks
love to hear what you think of this video... let me know... post below!
So many things to learn! However, it is always a fun ride learning new things and I have to tell you, I took my first "stab" and putting together a video with a new song of mine. You would think a video that is... 1:14 long would take just a few minutes right? Not for this guy! Hours... not even sure where the time went. There will be more of these videos posted eventually and I look forward to hearing what you think...
Things learned thus far:
- this is harder than it looks
- I am a sucker for time on fonts and color of fonts
- more often than not I have to play the video over and over to decide if I like it.. and over... and over...
- once you are completed... it's still not completed... change this, check that, want this...
- this is harder than it looks
love to hear what you think of this video... let me know... post below!
Friday, May 7, 2010
just a good day
Today... enjoyed time with my mom, picked awesome clothes with wonderful people, continued to appreciate Teresa and all she does for me, and got to hang out with my mom and Stacy for a wonderful dinner and movie time together.
Sometimes, you just don't need many words... you need the time together.
Sometimes, you just don't need many words... you need the time together.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
dreaming
This has been the dream week. Seriously. It just doesn't happen like this very often. From start to finish the days have been crazy. Telephone calls, work and wonderful ministries at church, incredible opportunities for my music, and dreams. I love dreams. Dreams are what open my eyes to be able to see past the things right here in front of me, and to know there is something beyond what it physically possible to see.
I don't just have 1 surprise to share in the coming days leading up to the flight out to LA... but 4 SURPRISES!
Yeah... can't believe it. But you will, and I will be talking about them a lot. Right. Here. :)
nighty night!
I don't just have 1 surprise to share in the coming days leading up to the flight out to LA... but 4 SURPRISES!
Yeah... can't believe it. But you will, and I will be talking about them a lot. Right. Here. :)
nighty night!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
generation gaps
Tonight I had the pleasure of heading to the Naples Philharmonic for a performance of Maureen McGovern. The orchestra was great, Maureen's performance was wonderful, but it was a strange experience on another level.
First, me, being the youngest of the 1500 there in attendance, I really didn't know many of the songs. Well I knew a Beatles tune. But it seemed to me that some of the songs she was singing spent a lot of time pondering but never heading anywhere. Don't get me wrong, it was a concert that was enjoyable. At what level, at what age, do we move from a different generation? To me, I just don't connect on any level but musical arrangement, with most of them.
So I digress... I hope that as a songwriter my songs go somewhere. They take you around a story, a feeling, or an idea, that does something not only in your mind but in your body too. It moves you to ponder what life is about... and how to go about being a part of that world you want to be. I guess I just didn't get that tonight.
Maureen McGovern... you can sing. Just pick a few more songs to bring me along.
First, me, being the youngest of the 1500 there in attendance, I really didn't know many of the songs. Well I knew a Beatles tune. But it seemed to me that some of the songs she was singing spent a lot of time pondering but never heading anywhere. Don't get me wrong, it was a concert that was enjoyable. At what level, at what age, do we move from a different generation? To me, I just don't connect on any level but musical arrangement, with most of them.
So I digress... I hope that as a songwriter my songs go somewhere. They take you around a story, a feeling, or an idea, that does something not only in your mind but in your body too. It moves you to ponder what life is about... and how to go about being a part of that world you want to be. I guess I just didn't get that tonight.
Maureen McGovern... you can sing. Just pick a few more songs to bring me along.
Monday, April 19, 2010
news news news
You know sometimes there are just days that do seem to come together. I had a great day in the office today working on future music for our services at First Christian, the programs happening this Wednesday, and cool youth ministry stuff...
And, time with two of my besties Drew and Michael, and then, time in the studio. How does it get any better. Well, there is news to come... awesome things with the start of getting the word out for my tunes... check out my facebook page tomorrow... www.facebook.com/nathanbrooksmusic and you will find out!
It was just a great day. Happy Monday.
And, time with two of my besties Drew and Michael, and then, time in the studio. How does it get any better. Well, there is news to come... awesome things with the start of getting the word out for my tunes... check out my facebook page tomorrow... www.facebook.com/nathanbrooksmusic and you will find out!
It was just a great day. Happy Monday.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
surprises are fun
We got together about 6:30 p.m. and everyone was prompt and also helped out a great deal to get ready. Of course my wonderful wife, Stacy, had gotten the place in perfect shape.
Caroline arrived just past 7 p.m. and walked into the house... and Surprise! It was great... she didn't have a clue, and we had a wonderful evening being together.
Several people said it was the "best choir rehearsal ever." Seriously! :)
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Birthday
You know... Facebook is really a cool thing. For sending love to a friend a long distance away, or when someone needs support and you can communicate right then with them... Or even when a long time friend has a birthday and it reminds you. There are so many wonderful things that facebook and other sites online do to bring us together. I hope that you will take the time to tell someone today how much they mean to you. Thanks for celebrating my birthday with me too.
Monday, April 12, 2010
29 big years
Funny how the years can fly by so quickly. Thanks for all the friendship, laughter, trouble, and fun I have found and experienced with all of you over these past 29 years.
Friday, April 9, 2010
A Little Humble Pie
Playing out is something I love, almost more than anything in the world... (yes, my beautiful wife Stacy... you would still be before that.) But last night, as usual with me... I was invited up to play at the singer songwriter showcase at Bayshore Landing, and of course... my brain froze! I mean, words gone, brain dead, life... stopped. Writing songs is such a huge part of who I am, and it is so frustrating to then forget the words I have gone over time and time and time again.
So, for anyone out there who can just memorize... (yes Paul... my college roommate who could memorize an entire aria in 30 minutes... JERK :) that is such a blessing. For those of you who fall in my category... well, here is to more practice.
Most of all, this is a great reminder I am still one person... a simple, human being... not better, wiser, or greater than any human being. As I prepare the Steven Curtis Chapman tune The Change for Sunday, I am reminded...
What about the change
What about the difference
What about the grace
What about forgiveness
What about a life that's showing
I'm undergoing the change, yeah
I'm undergoing the change
What about being reminded that everything in life is worth a little more effort. Back to rehearsal... for this guy.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Music Mania
You know, it has been an AWESOME day. Beautiful weather. Music and hang with my friend Michael. Lunch with my publicist Teresa. And I have to tell you... there are really crazy things happening. Can you believe I will be in LOS ANGELES in just 5 weeks now. This last week alone we have had hundreds of plays, 15 or so "widgets" (little players and email base things). I can't tell you have wonderful it is to have friends who are supportive, loving, and take the time to share about what is happening.
There is really big news, still unofficial, but within a couple days... it will be up. Check back soon...
Have a wonderful Thursday :)
nb
There is really big news, still unofficial, but within a couple days... it will be up. Check back soon...
Have a wonderful Thursday :)
nb
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Easter is to celebrate
This morning I had the pleasure of working with all of my wonderful friends and musicians at First Christian Church of Naples. We have two services every Sunday, a first service that is traditional, and second with a great band and a little higher energy.
Today was a special day.
The choir sang two pieces this morning, one called One Lonely Night, and then Haydn's Gloria. They were amazing... inspired performances and it is incredible for me to think how far they have come since we began just a few years ago.
Celebrating this Easter Sunday, today was about friendships. It was about love. And the celebration of the "resurrection people" that brought us from just being people, musicians, and friends, to creating a worship experience for others as well as for ourselves, that was simply greater than the sum of its parts.
The band was on with the second service, and again, just incredible, inspired, and worshipful experience.
I am so thankful for all the wonderful singers and musicians I get to work with... you were amazing today.
Happy Easter.
Today was a special day.
The choir sang two pieces this morning, one called One Lonely Night, and then Haydn's Gloria. They were amazing... inspired performances and it is incredible for me to think how far they have come since we began just a few years ago.
Celebrating this Easter Sunday, today was about friendships. It was about love. And the celebration of the "resurrection people" that brought us from just being people, musicians, and friends, to creating a worship experience for others as well as for ourselves, that was simply greater than the sum of its parts.
The band was on with the second service, and again, just incredible, inspired, and worshipful experience.
I am so thankful for all the wonderful singers and musicians I get to work with... you were amazing today.
Happy Easter.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
bloggerific
Well, here we are.. Saturday afternoon, Naples, FL. I can't tell you the excitement I have after sharing a wonderful vacation with my wife Stacy, in Paris. We had a great time traveling around the city and checking out all it had to offer. And now, with returning home, I am looking forward to sharing with you where my music is headed, and what news is coming about with my new record project and all the tidbits that go along.
Here is a picture from Paris... Stacy and I in front of the Eiffel Tower... see you again soon.
Here is a picture from Paris... Stacy and I in front of the Eiffel Tower... see you again soon.
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