Ten years ago I came to LA with half a band, 3 cats, a bird, a truckload of dreams, full of excitement and ambition. We rented a house in Van Nuys and converted the garage into a recording/rehearsal studio. It was badass, there was a lot of magic in that studio, The Becoming and ANKOH were written there, we had a Blast throwing several parties at the house....riding our bicycles all over the valley, up and down the hills at 2am....I rebuild the band a bunch of times, rocked sunset strip, packed the places, sold tickets, released 2 EP's and a full length, than core members changed, my long time partner left and I had to learn to do it all on my own...with Jim's support; we kept it going....got several film/tv placements, toured the US twice...got signed to an indie label that folded.....it's been a roller coaster for sure. It's been a lot of tears and frustration but also a ton of fun, laughter, adventure and something everyone should experience. In the process of all that, I've met some amazing people here in LA as well as all over the states.
Fast forward...
Private life....different guy, different place, two of my lovely cats and the bird have left this earth...R.I.P. Freeway and Zoe & Snow....I found my black cat Johnny the first year we were here, my little princes Heidi is still here and a dog named BOLT found us! ;)
Music!!! Nothing is what I thought it would be. The band is on hiatus until the new album is out, I now compose music for film/tv, get to collaborate with some amazingly talented people who are also my friends and I'm finally working on my own project....a solo project that I've been wanting to do for years..... Ten years is a long time and when I look back and ask myself what I would do differently...hmmm.....lot's of things. But I don't want to waste my time feeling regret. It's time to focus on what I have control over. I have failed miserably at many things I've pursued over the years. But all those things have led to better, bigger things. In the big picture, I have to admit that I miss the shit out of NYC, I left a comfortable life to follow my dreams. I gave up many things for my true love. And many times the thought of leaving it all behind, the thought of quitting has crossed my mind. But I've learned that things don't always turn out exactly as you expected, however, if you keep your eye on the road and enjoy the little detours...you will create your own luck. While I'm still miles from where I want to be, I'm trusting that I am on the right path....another thing I recently learned is that quitting is not a bad thing, quite the opposite. More on that later ;)
Cheers to ten years in Holywoodz!
xoxo
JVBeast
Showing posts with label dreams. Show all posts
Showing posts with label dreams. Show all posts
Friday, March 29, 2013
Thursday, January 17, 2013
A FLASH OF CLARITY!
I'm sitting here with 4 workbooks on my desk, [one for lyrics, 2nd for goals, 3rd is my daily journal, (my daily "to do" list and accomplishments) and the 4th is strictly my composing book, keeping track of what music/project I'm working on]
My workspace is cluttered just like my mind. While I'm inspired I'm also extremely frustrated. Too many roads I want to travel, too many projects and ideas. Seeking balance as an artist/performer and music composer.
Re-evaluating my life. I feel that it's time to move on. Start brand new, yet I can't seem to completely let go of the old just yet. And I wonder why? What exactly am I holding onto? Is it fear, faith or denial? I know I will continue making music, being an artist but it will be something different. I feel like I'm pulling a dead horse up hill.
So today I stumbled onto a few music career blogs that inspired me to stop the DOING and get very clear about what I want and why. I started answering a bunch of important questions defining my goals and the motivation behind them.
One particular exercise kept going on with the same question (once you've written down your goals, find the most important one to you), than ask "when I have this (your most important goal), what will that get me?" and you keep asking that question until you get to the core of it, which will most likely be an emotion, not a material thing.
It took me a while to get to the core and I'm still digging. Very interesting and eye opening. While I do want financial freedom, what I really want is artistic freedom. Do what I love. To create without limitations. Express myself. Inspire others. I love my friends and family and I want to spend quality time with them but I NEED to make music.
It's not something I do because of the money (hahaha, I would've quit a long time ago) It's something I must do regardless, to feed my heart and soul. It's something, I can't live without. And I do belief that I can be financially free by doing what I love. After all success is a mindset. What's your passion? What do you want?
If you are interested about these blogs, feel free to jump on musiccareers.net
Much success!
JVB
My workspace is cluttered just like my mind. While I'm inspired I'm also extremely frustrated. Too many roads I want to travel, too many projects and ideas. Seeking balance as an artist/performer and music composer.
Re-evaluating my life. I feel that it's time to move on. Start brand new, yet I can't seem to completely let go of the old just yet. And I wonder why? What exactly am I holding onto? Is it fear, faith or denial? I know I will continue making music, being an artist but it will be something different. I feel like I'm pulling a dead horse up hill.
So today I stumbled onto a few music career blogs that inspired me to stop the DOING and get very clear about what I want and why. I started answering a bunch of important questions defining my goals and the motivation behind them.
One particular exercise kept going on with the same question (once you've written down your goals, find the most important one to you), than ask "when I have this (your most important goal), what will that get me?" and you keep asking that question until you get to the core of it, which will most likely be an emotion, not a material thing.
It took me a while to get to the core and I'm still digging. Very interesting and eye opening. While I do want financial freedom, what I really want is artistic freedom. Do what I love. To create without limitations. Express myself. Inspire others. I love my friends and family and I want to spend quality time with them but I NEED to make music.
It's not something I do because of the money (hahaha, I would've quit a long time ago) It's something I must do regardless, to feed my heart and soul. It's something, I can't live without. And I do belief that I can be financially free by doing what I love. After all success is a mindset. What's your passion? What do you want?
If you are interested about these blogs, feel free to jump on musiccareers.net
Much success!
JVB
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Choose Your Battles!
I don't really talk politics for obvious reasons. Everyone has an opinion and it usually ends up in an argument because everyone wants to be right and defend their party and beliefs. Just like religion, it gets ugly and stupid.
What slightly ticks me and amuses me at the same time is all these conspiracy theories. I do find them interesting and don't doubt for a minute that some of those are true. Was 911 an inside job? Maybe, but what am I going to do? Spend the rest of my life chasing ghosts? We will never know for sure.
What about gun control? Just like drugs, if you want them, they are available. Money gets you everything you desire. Do I like guns? No! Guns are dangerous but so are knifes, fireworks, tools, prescription drugs and alcohol.
Yes, let's go back in history and find out what happened to all those countries that had gun control...The government controlled the people. BAM! No brainer.
But lets fast forward and look at whats happening today. People eventually rebelled and stood up for their rights and freedom.
Say what you will, America is the best country I know of, it's the land of opportunity. How many self-made millionaires live here? I'm talking about people who came from nothing, had no or little formal education. I know for fact that wouldn't be an easy task in Germany.
We live in the 21st century. We have evolved. People state that the world is going mad and people are stupid and going crazy...I admit that while technology is a fabulous thing it can also cripple us, especially our new generation. We don't have to use our brain as much, our little robots are doing it all for us. (but let's be for real; the general public doesn't use their brain regardless)so let's not blame stupidity and ignorance on technology.
And if you do have kids, yes; the school system sucks, home school your kid! take charge! OR at least spend quality time with your kid. Don't treat it like a toy, something you hardly have time to play with. My parents worked hard and didn't have much time for me. I didn't end up a gangster or drug addict. They taught me basic manners, even when they were a slight mess themselves.
Another solution for you! Don't have kids if you can't afford them! Sounds a little harsh? Maybe.
Well, I'm getting off the subject here....the world is going mad???? C'mon...let's not forget back in the days when woman (and man) got hanged for being accused of being witches..AND people came to watch the hangings. That's supposed to be normal?
How about when people were being humiliated and torchered in public AND the public would watch it with enthusiasm like a football game. THAT'S MAD!
Humans have always been the worst creatures alive on earth, it's nothing new. We are driven by emotions, such as fear, greed, love, hate. Emotions start wars. Emotions can also create peace. Life is light and darkness. There will always be good and evil. It is up to us individuals to pick and choose our battles. We all go through highs and lows. We all mess up. We all experience pain and disappointment. But how much time do you want to spend living in misery and fear breeding hatred?
Why not enjoy life while we've got it. Stand up and fight for your beliefs, make a difference in the world. Just don't sit there complain about the world, waiting for the sky to fall. Don't play the victim. Get in the drivers seat and do something that matters. Be the best YOU can be. Do the things YOU do have control over.
Find purpose in your own life, a creative, fulfilling outlet that makes you thrive , stimulates your mind and takes your mind off all the negativity we are exposed to daily. It's easy to get sucked into it.
What do you want people to remember you by when you're gone?
The person that always thought the sky was falling or the person that always saw the good in people and life? A loving, caring, kind, smart, creative, innovative and inspiring soul that made a difference in someones life?
Spend less time watching the news, worrying about the things that may or may not happen...the things you can't control. Spend more time BEING in the moment with the people that matter to you most. Dream big. Paint beautiful pictures of how you want your life to be and go for it.
Do the things that make you FEEL GOOD and spread that good vibration.
Choose your thoughts, friends and actions wisely. And remember, your mind is your most powerful weapon on earth!
JVB
What slightly ticks me and amuses me at the same time is all these conspiracy theories. I do find them interesting and don't doubt for a minute that some of those are true. Was 911 an inside job? Maybe, but what am I going to do? Spend the rest of my life chasing ghosts? We will never know for sure.
What about gun control? Just like drugs, if you want them, they are available. Money gets you everything you desire. Do I like guns? No! Guns are dangerous but so are knifes, fireworks, tools, prescription drugs and alcohol.
Yes, let's go back in history and find out what happened to all those countries that had gun control...The government controlled the people. BAM! No brainer.
But lets fast forward and look at whats happening today. People eventually rebelled and stood up for their rights and freedom.
Say what you will, America is the best country I know of, it's the land of opportunity. How many self-made millionaires live here? I'm talking about people who came from nothing, had no or little formal education. I know for fact that wouldn't be an easy task in Germany.
We live in the 21st century. We have evolved. People state that the world is going mad and people are stupid and going crazy...I admit that while technology is a fabulous thing it can also cripple us, especially our new generation. We don't have to use our brain as much, our little robots are doing it all for us. (but let's be for real; the general public doesn't use their brain regardless)so let's not blame stupidity and ignorance on technology.
And if you do have kids, yes; the school system sucks, home school your kid! take charge! OR at least spend quality time with your kid. Don't treat it like a toy, something you hardly have time to play with. My parents worked hard and didn't have much time for me. I didn't end up a gangster or drug addict. They taught me basic manners, even when they were a slight mess themselves.
Another solution for you! Don't have kids if you can't afford them! Sounds a little harsh? Maybe.
Well, I'm getting off the subject here....the world is going mad???? C'mon...let's not forget back in the days when woman (and man) got hanged for being accused of being witches..AND people came to watch the hangings. That's supposed to be normal?
How about when people were being humiliated and torchered in public AND the public would watch it with enthusiasm like a football game. THAT'S MAD!
Humans have always been the worst creatures alive on earth, it's nothing new. We are driven by emotions, such as fear, greed, love, hate. Emotions start wars. Emotions can also create peace. Life is light and darkness. There will always be good and evil. It is up to us individuals to pick and choose our battles. We all go through highs and lows. We all mess up. We all experience pain and disappointment. But how much time do you want to spend living in misery and fear breeding hatred?
Why not enjoy life while we've got it. Stand up and fight for your beliefs, make a difference in the world. Just don't sit there complain about the world, waiting for the sky to fall. Don't play the victim. Get in the drivers seat and do something that matters. Be the best YOU can be. Do the things YOU do have control over.
Find purpose in your own life, a creative, fulfilling outlet that makes you thrive , stimulates your mind and takes your mind off all the negativity we are exposed to daily. It's easy to get sucked into it.
What do you want people to remember you by when you're gone?
The person that always thought the sky was falling or the person that always saw the good in people and life? A loving, caring, kind, smart, creative, innovative and inspiring soul that made a difference in someones life?
Spend less time watching the news, worrying about the things that may or may not happen...the things you can't control. Spend more time BEING in the moment with the people that matter to you most. Dream big. Paint beautiful pictures of how you want your life to be and go for it.
Do the things that make you FEEL GOOD and spread that good vibration.
Choose your thoughts, friends and actions wisely. And remember, your mind is your most powerful weapon on earth!
JVB
Sunday, January 06, 2013
PASSION
There are days when I think it's time to quit. Than I play a show, look at the pictures and my heart starts to smile again. The stage is my home.
And of course having such amazingly talented friends like John King helps. He's one of my photographer friends. Great person with an I 4 The Unique! <3 xoxo JVB
And of course having such amazingly talented friends like John King helps. He's one of my photographer friends. Great person with an I 4 The Unique! <3 xoxo JVB
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
New Years Day...2013
Happy 2013! I spent most of New Years Eve in solitude in a beautiful backyard in Florida, staring at the stars and fireworks through beautiful oaks draped with spanish moss. It was very magical and something I've never done before. It's been a while since I had some time to just be in the moment, by myself. I started thinking about my life, the new year, my goals and dreams, how grateful I am for all I have right now enjoying the peace and occasional silence. (floridians love their fireworks)I did a champagne toast with Jim at midnight, which was nice. ;)
Every New Years I want to do something special, be at a cool party yet almost always fail at it. The best new years yet was with my parents about ten years ago, they came to visit from germany and we went to a friends party, we dressed up, drank, danced and laughed all night long! It was very special to me since both of my parents worked their entire life in the restaurant business, working every holiday, I never got to spend NY with them as a kid.
This may have been my second favorite new years eve as far as I recall.
Had to get up super early (5am, but overslept & got up at 5:45am) to get back to LA with a stop over in Nashville, didn't sleep much. The flight was scary, lot's of turbulences, the pilot seemed a bit crazy....both landings were pretty rough, yet I found all of it extremely amusing. As I started talking to the guy next to me, it turns out, he's the original drummer from Paramore, that was super cool. I saw it as an omen for the new year, great things are coming!
Back home now, LA seems like a ghost town and I love it! Unpacked most of my stuff, cleaned the house, got thai food, my health nut boifriend choose pizza. (yes, I'm being sarcastic);P I cuddled with my kitties, gave them some love, they were happy to see us, the cars battery was dead, had to get a jump start from a dear friend to get the car back up and running; picked up the last member of my little family, my dog "BOLT". He jumped all over me ,gave me hugs, showered me with kisses, and made little whining noises, like tears of joy. it felt awesome! If anyone out there seeks affection and unconditional love, adopt a dog....just saying. He was really excited to be back home, I didn't expect that. I think he actually missed the cats also. Not sure if they missed him though....;)
I'm exhausted and probably will be in bed way before midnight. I'm still on eastern time. Overall, I had such an amazing time spending the holidays with my family, something I should do way more often! I'm very grateful and looking back to 2012, it's been a great year, it actually ended fabulous! Now it's time to step it up to a higher gear, get moving, create momentum! I'm excited to get back to work, crack out some badass music! The beauty of it is, that it never feels like work. It's a drug and I can't get enough of that kinda crack!
As far as New Years Resolutions go: (in general)
-Let Action Speak!
-Risk More!
-Step Outside The Box!
-Re-Invent Myself!
-Express Myself!
-Be A Leader!
-Be Independent!
-Financial Freedom!
-Be Happy
-Act From Place of Love, Always!
-Stay curious
-Have FUN
-Don't Take Life So Serious
-COLLABORATE
-Learn, Grow, Expand!
-Follow My Instinct!
-Live In The Moment
-Be Adventurous
-Be Spontanious
Let's see how consistant I can be with my blogs this year :)The plan is to write a little something every day, my progress with the music and life in general. Hopefully a ton of cool stories, discoveries and adventures will surface but...let action speak! Cheers to a fantastic, kick ass 2013!!!!! xoxox JVB
Every New Years I want to do something special, be at a cool party yet almost always fail at it. The best new years yet was with my parents about ten years ago, they came to visit from germany and we went to a friends party, we dressed up, drank, danced and laughed all night long! It was very special to me since both of my parents worked their entire life in the restaurant business, working every holiday, I never got to spend NY with them as a kid.
This may have been my second favorite new years eve as far as I recall.
Had to get up super early (5am, but overslept & got up at 5:45am) to get back to LA with a stop over in Nashville, didn't sleep much. The flight was scary, lot's of turbulences, the pilot seemed a bit crazy....both landings were pretty rough, yet I found all of it extremely amusing. As I started talking to the guy next to me, it turns out, he's the original drummer from Paramore, that was super cool. I saw it as an omen for the new year, great things are coming!
Back home now, LA seems like a ghost town and I love it! Unpacked most of my stuff, cleaned the house, got thai food, my health nut boifriend choose pizza. (yes, I'm being sarcastic);P I cuddled with my kitties, gave them some love, they were happy to see us, the cars battery was dead, had to get a jump start from a dear friend to get the car back up and running; picked up the last member of my little family, my dog "BOLT". He jumped all over me ,gave me hugs, showered me with kisses, and made little whining noises, like tears of joy. it felt awesome! If anyone out there seeks affection and unconditional love, adopt a dog....just saying. He was really excited to be back home, I didn't expect that. I think he actually missed the cats also. Not sure if they missed him though....;)
I'm exhausted and probably will be in bed way before midnight. I'm still on eastern time. Overall, I had such an amazing time spending the holidays with my family, something I should do way more often! I'm very grateful and looking back to 2012, it's been a great year, it actually ended fabulous! Now it's time to step it up to a higher gear, get moving, create momentum! I'm excited to get back to work, crack out some badass music! The beauty of it is, that it never feels like work. It's a drug and I can't get enough of that kinda crack!
As far as New Years Resolutions go: (in general)
-Let Action Speak!
-Risk More!
-Step Outside The Box!
-Re-Invent Myself!
-Express Myself!
-Be A Leader!
-Be Independent!
-Financial Freedom!
-Be Happy
-Act From Place of Love, Always!
-Stay curious
-Have FUN
-Don't Take Life So Serious
-COLLABORATE
-Learn, Grow, Expand!
-Follow My Instinct!
-Live In The Moment
-Be Adventurous
-Be Spontanious
Let's see how consistant I can be with my blogs this year :)The plan is to write a little something every day, my progress with the music and life in general. Hopefully a ton of cool stories, discoveries and adventures will surface but...let action speak! Cheers to a fantastic, kick ass 2013!!!!! xoxox JVB
Thursday, December 01, 2011
Three Reasons to be Thankful that you are an Artist!
I was just reading an article I got in my e-mail this morning,and it made me realize and reminded me, how fortunate I truly am to be an artist.
Being a creative person isn't always easy. We tend to be needy, moody, live on a crazy schedule, usually spent a lot of time in solitary, we want instant gratification, make a living doing what we love. We usually can't deal with a 9-5. It sucks the energy out of us, it's exhausting, leaving little if no room for creative time. We deal with our inner demons, criticism, usually don't have too many people around us that understand and support us, well, the list goes on and on. It's easy to focus on all the negative things but let's NOT forget all the beauty of being an artist.
1. You've got a creative outlett!
You are alive and able to express yourself in the form of art, whatever it is you do, it's a gift, a talent that most people wish they had. Embrace it. The more you use it, the stronger it will get. Life isn't always easy and what better way to cope with difficulties in life than pouring it all into your art. How many amazing songs have been written because of a broken heart as well as someone being madly in love or just happy and high on life? It's your way of helping you get through life, it puts perspective into your life. Once the pen is moving, things start to reveal itself, you plant a seed and watch it grow. Make room for your creativity and it will welcome you into a world of endless possibilities!
2. You do something you Love and are Passionate about
So many people live their lives not even knowing what they are truly passionate about. They spent half their life working for someone else than die leaving nothing behind. Everybody has a purpose on this earth. Fear is the main reason most people don't follow their dreams. Your Passion and Love are the fuel for making your dreams come true. It soon becomes not only an obsession, an addiction, it's infectious, it sets you on fire, it's something you can't live without, it makes you act and come from a place that sees no boundaries, knows no limits. It's what makes you thrive. It gives you strength and power, moves mountains. The beautiful thing is, your passion, your gift is the one thing no-one can ever take from you. The trick is to stay focused on your goal, enjoy the journey and take the little set backs on the way as inspiration, a challenge. We grow and learn only by doing, we find out who we truly are. Embrace it. It's a never ending journey. Life is all about growth and decay. You are either growing or dying. It's what keeps us alive inside!
3. You contribution to this world
Your art, your talent can make a huge difference in someone elses life. You might help someone get through a rough time, change someones life, you might inspire someone to follow their dream. Ever heard a song that says it all? It's exactly how you feel right at that moment? Imagine it's your song. How gratifying is that? We all want and deserve recognition, fame and fortune, and there's nothing wrong with wanting these things. Success means different things to different people. I believe the more successful you are, the more can you contribute. Be it a money, time or sharing your knowledge. We are here to live to our fullest and leave a legacy behind, to make the world a better place. Although not all of your work will be seen or heard, they are all stepping stones, part of you and your progress. Your journey to happiness and fulfillment.
As much as it can be frustrating at times, an ongoing uphill battle, no one cares more about YOU and your Business than YOU. You are in the drivers seat! When you really think about it, what a powerful position to be in, what an amazing gift to share!
I'm extremely grateful to be able to express myself through my music, performance and art. I know, you feel the same way! Be grateful and NEVER look back. Leave no reason to regret the things you could've, should've done! Risk a little. Live in the NOW! Follow your inner voice, let it guide you. And NEVER stop doing what you love. If it makes YOU happy, you're on the right path! Enjoy the ride!
xoxo JVB
1. You've got a creative outlett!
You are alive and able to express yourself in the form of art, whatever it is you do, it's a gift, a talent that most people wish they had. Embrace it. The more you use it, the stronger it will get. Life isn't always easy and what better way to cope with difficulties in life than pouring it all into your art. How many amazing songs have been written because of a broken heart as well as someone being madly in love or just happy and high on life? It's your way of helping you get through life, it puts perspective into your life. Once the pen is moving, things start to reveal itself, you plant a seed and watch it grow. Make room for your creativity and it will welcome you into a world of endless possibilities!
2. You do something you Love and are Passionate about
So many people live their lives not even knowing what they are truly passionate about. They spent half their life working for someone else than die leaving nothing behind. Everybody has a purpose on this earth. Fear is the main reason most people don't follow their dreams. Your Passion and Love are the fuel for making your dreams come true. It soon becomes not only an obsession, an addiction, it's infectious, it sets you on fire, it's something you can't live without, it makes you act and come from a place that sees no boundaries, knows no limits. It's what makes you thrive. It gives you strength and power, moves mountains. The beautiful thing is, your passion, your gift is the one thing no-one can ever take from you. The trick is to stay focused on your goal, enjoy the journey and take the little set backs on the way as inspiration, a challenge. We grow and learn only by doing, we find out who we truly are. Embrace it. It's a never ending journey. Life is all about growth and decay. You are either growing or dying. It's what keeps us alive inside!
Your art, your talent can make a huge difference in someone elses life. You might help someone get through a rough time, change someones life, you might inspire someone to follow their dream. Ever heard a song that says it all? It's exactly how you feel right at that moment? Imagine it's your song. How gratifying is that? We all want and deserve recognition, fame and fortune, and there's nothing wrong with wanting these things. Success means different things to different people. I believe the more successful you are, the more can you contribute. Be it a money, time or sharing your knowledge. We are here to live to our fullest and leave a legacy behind, to make the world a better place. Although not all of your work will be seen or heard, they are all stepping stones, part of you and your progress. Your journey to happiness and fulfillment.
As much as it can be frustrating at times, an ongoing uphill battle, no one cares more about YOU and your Business than YOU. You are in the drivers seat! When you really think about it, what a powerful position to be in, what an amazing gift to share!
I'm extremely grateful to be able to express myself through my music, performance and art. I know, you feel the same way! Be grateful and NEVER look back. Leave no reason to regret the things you could've, should've done! Risk a little. Live in the NOW! Follow your inner voice, let it guide you. And NEVER stop doing what you love. If it makes YOU happy, you're on the right path! Enjoy the ride!
xoxo JVB
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Digging through the pile
There's so much I want to share, the Grammy's, the news about PinkStar and Otto's Daughter.
I'm finally back in the flow.
I have to write 27 songs for my music library due February 15th, besides that I have to finish our EP and do a photo shoot. AND, I could not resist so I signed up for a challenge to write 14 songs in 28 days (which is easy for me).
At first glance it may seem like I'm putting too much on my plate but in reality, nothing comes more natural to me than writing music. Today I worked on 5 tracks, sent 3 out. Another 3 will be going out tomorrow evening.
Magic happens when you make a commitment. I'm fired up and inspired as hell. Find your passion and set yourself on fire!
xoxo
JVB
I'm finally back in the flow.
I have to write 27 songs for my music library due February 15th, besides that I have to finish our EP and do a photo shoot. AND, I could not resist so I signed up for a challenge to write 14 songs in 28 days (which is easy for me).
At first glance it may seem like I'm putting too much on my plate but in reality, nothing comes more natural to me than writing music. Today I worked on 5 tracks, sent 3 out. Another 3 will be going out tomorrow evening.
Magic happens when you make a commitment. I'm fired up and inspired as hell. Find your passion and set yourself on fire!
xoxo
JVB
Monday, November 09, 2009
If you can live without it, do it!
I spent the entire weekend around people who are very much like me. Musicians! I went to the annual Taxi Road Rally; learned new things about the music business, was reminded of the things I already know, networked with people in the industry and most importantly reconnected with great friends and collaborators of mine having a great time. I look forward to this event the entire year. And every year becomes more fun.
It amazes me how many musicians don't take advantage of this incredible opportunity. People from all over the world fly out to be part of this. I met people from Switzerland, Italy, Brazil, Australia and England. Incredible!
Besides learning about the changes in the industry, there's nothing more inspiring than listening to some mega successful people talk about their 15 year overnight success, their struggles, their passion for music, how they let nothing get in their way to make their dreams come true and the pay off. One of the panelists gave the greatest advice ever, he said: "my advice to you is; if you can live without it, live without it, quit! If you can't, well than you have no choice but to keep going". It hit home for me, there were several times throughout my music career where I thought about "quitting" but how can I cut off the very thing that keeps me alive? No way! Today I can proudly say that I have accomplished quite a bit and have gotten some mailbox money, which I love;)
Often, I choose staying home writing music over going out. My friends say I work so hard but what they don't understand is that this is not work to me, this is what I love to do. Plus ; I'm working for me; it's not like I'm busting my ass for someone else with no future benefits. Being social is also important, especially for live performers but when you are in a flow, you don't want to stop, you can't. Thankfully my friends respect and understand that.
With all this said, I encourage everyone out there; Do what you love! Live your dream and do whatever it takes. It's the most satisfying thing in the world and sooner or later it will pay off.
So what are you going to do today?
It amazes me how many musicians don't take advantage of this incredible opportunity. People from all over the world fly out to be part of this. I met people from Switzerland, Italy, Brazil, Australia and England. Incredible!Besides learning about the changes in the industry, there's nothing more inspiring than listening to some mega successful people talk about their 15 year overnight success, their struggles, their passion for music, how they let nothing get in their way to make their dreams come true and the pay off. One of the panelists gave the greatest advice ever, he said: "my advice to you is; if you can live without it, live without it, quit! If you can't, well than you have no choice but to keep going". It hit home for me, there were several times throughout my music career where I thought about "quitting" but how can I cut off the very thing that keeps me alive? No way! Today I can proudly say that I have accomplished quite a bit and have gotten some mailbox money, which I love;)
Often, I choose staying home writing music over going out. My friends say I work so hard but what they don't understand is that this is not work to me, this is what I love to do. Plus ; I'm working for me; it's not like I'm busting my ass for someone else with no future benefits. Being social is also important, especially for live performers but when you are in a flow, you don't want to stop, you can't. Thankfully my friends respect and understand that.
With all this said, I encourage everyone out there; Do what you love! Live your dream and do whatever it takes. It's the most satisfying thing in the world and sooner or later it will pay off.So what are you going to do today?
Monday, August 24, 2009
Another day in Paradise
I've been composing more than ever. I committed to 70tracks for my library and the game is ON. 50 more to go! While I feel slightly overwhelmed; I'm actually very confident that I can deliver. Life is all about choices and commitment.
I'm still working on finding the balance between being social online, offline and working, which is really more fun than work to me.
One thing that happens as a musician/composer; when you're in the FLOW, times flies by and you don't want to stop. You're in that ZONE where nothing else matters. Isn't that a great gift?
With that said; today I'm extremely grateful for all the opportunities and my ability to do what I truly love. I'm extremely excited about my solo dance EP, my new band PinkStar, My side project "When Planets Align"; my library deals, my collaborations and all future opportunities. I feel blessed! I'm grateful for all these amazing people in my life.
I'm writing this because oftentimes, I get overwhelmed and frustrated that things don't move as quickly as I'd like them to. I focus on all the things that I don't have. It's so easy to do and get caught up in it. I know I'm not the only one. This is a reminder that things are in fact "Happening". Just because we can't see it yet doesn't mean it's not happening.
The seeds are being planted. Trust and Faith is the only thing we need to move forward. (of course action is required however, if I just push and push, I'm not trusting the process).
Cheers to a fun and productive week!
xXx
JVB
I'm still working on finding the balance between being social online, offline and working, which is really more fun than work to me.
One thing that happens as a musician/composer; when you're in the FLOW, times flies by and you don't want to stop. You're in that ZONE where nothing else matters. Isn't that a great gift?
With that said; today I'm extremely grateful for all the opportunities and my ability to do what I truly love. I'm extremely excited about my solo dance EP, my new band PinkStar, My side project "When Planets Align"; my library deals, my collaborations and all future opportunities. I feel blessed! I'm grateful for all these amazing people in my life.
I'm writing this because oftentimes, I get overwhelmed and frustrated that things don't move as quickly as I'd like them to. I focus on all the things that I don't have. It's so easy to do and get caught up in it. I know I'm not the only one. This is a reminder that things are in fact "Happening". Just because we can't see it yet doesn't mean it's not happening.
The seeds are being planted. Trust and Faith is the only thing we need to move forward. (of course action is required however, if I just push and push, I'm not trusting the process).
Cheers to a fun and productive week!
xXx
JVB
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
The Big Picture
I've been wanting to write more blogs, be more active on here but there's just so much music flowing out of me lately that I've started to love twitter much more. It's short and to the point and I'm still connected to the world.
It's hard for me to stay focused. My mind is always working. I've got so many things in my head, there are so many roads to explore, so many things I want to do.
For the past two weeks, I've getting up at 7am, doing my power walk with my fabulous man. This is huge for me; I don't get up early, even though I love the morning vibe, the smell in the air, everything is still slightly damp and quite.
Now, I don't mind it at all, half way into my first round in the park, I feel energized, alive, happy, motivated and already accomplished. I've been also going hiking quite a bit lately, more than usual, there are so many beautiful spots here in LA. It's just magical. I am a nature girl. Anything outside makes me smile, the dogs, squirrels, trees, flowers, the ocean, the people.
Life has been pretty magical lately, many changes are happening and they are all good and exciting. I feel closer to a lot of my friends and extremely grateful for them.
PS: I can't wait to share my and our new music with the world, with that said, I better get back to my music. While my focus is on the big picture, I take one step at a time. I'm so excited but have to be a little bit patient right now:)
muah
xXx
JVB
It's hard for me to stay focused. My mind is always working. I've got so many things in my head, there are so many roads to explore, so many things I want to do.
For the past two weeks, I've getting up at 7am, doing my power walk with my fabulous man. This is huge for me; I don't get up early, even though I love the morning vibe, the smell in the air, everything is still slightly damp and quite.
Now, I don't mind it at all, half way into my first round in the park, I feel energized, alive, happy, motivated and already accomplished. I've been also going hiking quite a bit lately, more than usual, there are so many beautiful spots here in LA. It's just magical. I am a nature girl. Anything outside makes me smile, the dogs, squirrels, trees, flowers, the ocean, the people.
Life has been pretty magical lately, many changes are happening and they are all good and exciting. I feel closer to a lot of my friends and extremely grateful for them.
PS: I can't wait to share my and our new music with the world, with that said, I better get back to my music. While my focus is on the big picture, I take one step at a time. I'm so excited but have to be a little bit patient right now:)
muah
xXx
JVB
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Stop it!
I got this message yesterday. It was written by Joe Vitale and it could've not come at a better time. I want to share this with you because it's so powerful.
Stop it!
Stop paying attention to the media.
Stop paying attention to the doom and gloom of anyone and everyone around.
Stop getting sucked into being a victim.
STOP IT.
You won't go anywhere buying into the cultural trance that there isn't enough and times are tough.
You won't accomplish your big goals, or do anything of real greatness, as long as you give in to outer circumstances.
You have to take back your power.
You have to take back your control.
You have to *awaken*.
Joe told a woman who was interviewing him that he was homeless and in poverty only as long as he stayed stuck in survival *thinking*.
As soon as he put his mind on what he *wanted* to have instead, he began to shift and got better results.
This can happen for you and me, too. It took him ten years.
We have to stop listening to the media paint a picture of darkness. The media paints it by finding something dark to report on, whether it's true or not. You and others listen to it, believe it, and before you know it, you have *created* what the media painted.
They predict a recession before there actually is one.
People believe the media, fall into fear, stop spending, and suddenly a recession is here. And that is just one of many examples.
This has to stop.
And it can stop right now, with you, and me.
Let us focus on how we want things to be and create those instead!
Thanks for the Blog Joe! You are always an inspiration!
xoxoxox
JVB
Stop it!
Stop paying attention to the media.
Stop paying attention to the doom and gloom of anyone and everyone around.
Stop getting sucked into being a victim.
STOP IT.
You won't go anywhere buying into the cultural trance that there isn't enough and times are tough.
You won't accomplish your big goals, or do anything of real greatness, as long as you give in to outer circumstances.
You have to take back your power.
You have to take back your control.
You have to *awaken*.
Joe told a woman who was interviewing him that he was homeless and in poverty only as long as he stayed stuck in survival *thinking*.
As soon as he put his mind on what he *wanted* to have instead, he began to shift and got better results.
This can happen for you and me, too. It took him ten years.
We have to stop listening to the media paint a picture of darkness. The media paints it by finding something dark to report on, whether it's true or not. You and others listen to it, believe it, and before you know it, you have *created* what the media painted.
They predict a recession before there actually is one.
People believe the media, fall into fear, stop spending, and suddenly a recession is here. And that is just one of many examples.
This has to stop.
And it can stop right now, with you, and me.
Let us focus on how we want things to be and create those instead!
Thanks for the Blog Joe! You are always an inspiration!
xoxoxox
JVB
Saturday, May 31, 2008
The Adventures of an Illegal Alien - part 1
The adventures of an illegal alien
NY NY; start spreading the news! I was singing the Frank Sinatra tune with my Burlesque group “Extremities” back in Hanover, Germany. 3000 eyes peeled on me, none of them knew that what I’m singing is more than just a tune. I am about to go to NYC. Can you imagine how great it felt to belt out that song? I add this day to one of the most exciting days in my life. My friend Sarah and I were ready for a big change, in a big way, heading to the big apple. We had planned it for a while and were ready for the big times.
We had plenty of motivation and reason for our major move. We were both bored of Germany, the scene, our jobs. But the biggest of them all was love. We both fell in love. Our guys lived in the USA and to make our dreams come true we had to follow our heart. There was no doubt in our mind.
The minute I stepped foot onto NYC ground, I knew I was home. The traffic, the city lights, the energy, the vastness, I can’t even put it into words. I grew up in a small town in East Germany. I escaped East Germany before the Berlin wall came down and ended up moving to Hannover. Hannover is a beautiful town and seemed big at first but the longer I lived there, the smaller it became. I always dreamed about the big world. I knew it existed. And here I was.
It’s like a little kid going to the biggest toy store in the world.
Of course, being adventurous and fearless we decided to stay in the heart of it all. 42nd street.
Back than in the mid 90’s, it was still a dirty and somewhat dangerous place to be. But where’s the fun if we don’t experience this? I only knew of the Manhattan Streets from movies, the smoke coming out of the sewer. Now I was there, I could stand in the smoke, breathe in the air, get my coffee and donut anywhere on the street from one of those cool stands. I felt like being in a movie.
We checked into a Hotel right on 42nd, the elevator smelled like old carpet, a few very strange looking people were in it. NO not strange, just different. A transvestite and a business man to be correct. Still, we were clueless. We opened our room, a small, dirty room with all kinds of stains on the floor, roaches racing up and down the walls, just not what we expected. But it’s cool. We are in NYC; we didn’t come here to sleep anyway. We changed our clothes, left our luggage on the bed hoping the roaches wouldn’t bother crawling up the bed.
Off we went, exploring the big apple. All I felt was happiness and excitement. I’ve never seen a city like it, so big at the time. I had never seen so many people of so many cultures in one place.
It was like a dream come true. We had a few friends in the city and let them know we had arrived. John was one of them. A big shot Manager for some big shot bands. He invited us over to his house and we were happy to go, anything was better than being in that filthy little shoebox called hotel room plus he’ll probably take us someplace cool. (so we hoped) It turned out that John had a slight crush on Sarah but neither Sarah nor I wanted to spend the first night in the big apple in his apartment. He was way older than us; she had no interest in being his little pet.
Off we went on our own, in our funky outfits, just the two of us and the big city, no idea where to go, we just walked all over the place, still better than sitting in some dirty old mans apartment.
After walking around for hours, exploring, we were exhausted enough to just crash out in that scary room and anxious to move onto the next one early in the morning. It turned out; the hotel we stayed in was a pay by the hour hotel or in plain English a whore house.
How funny is that? Well, to us it was.
NY NY; start spreading the news! I was singing the Frank Sinatra tune with my Burlesque group “Extremities” back in Hanover, Germany. 3000 eyes peeled on me, none of them knew that what I’m singing is more than just a tune. I am about to go to NYC. Can you imagine how great it felt to belt out that song? I add this day to one of the most exciting days in my life. My friend Sarah and I were ready for a big change, in a big way, heading to the big apple. We had planned it for a while and were ready for the big times.
We had plenty of motivation and reason for our major move. We were both bored of Germany, the scene, our jobs. But the biggest of them all was love. We both fell in love. Our guys lived in the USA and to make our dreams come true we had to follow our heart. There was no doubt in our mind.
The minute I stepped foot onto NYC ground, I knew I was home. The traffic, the city lights, the energy, the vastness, I can’t even put it into words. I grew up in a small town in East Germany. I escaped East Germany before the Berlin wall came down and ended up moving to Hannover. Hannover is a beautiful town and seemed big at first but the longer I lived there, the smaller it became. I always dreamed about the big world. I knew it existed. And here I was.
It’s like a little kid going to the biggest toy store in the world.
Of course, being adventurous and fearless we decided to stay in the heart of it all. 42nd street.
Back than in the mid 90’s, it was still a dirty and somewhat dangerous place to be. But where’s the fun if we don’t experience this? I only knew of the Manhattan Streets from movies, the smoke coming out of the sewer. Now I was there, I could stand in the smoke, breathe in the air, get my coffee and donut anywhere on the street from one of those cool stands. I felt like being in a movie.
We checked into a Hotel right on 42nd, the elevator smelled like old carpet, a few very strange looking people were in it. NO not strange, just different. A transvestite and a business man to be correct. Still, we were clueless. We opened our room, a small, dirty room with all kinds of stains on the floor, roaches racing up and down the walls, just not what we expected. But it’s cool. We are in NYC; we didn’t come here to sleep anyway. We changed our clothes, left our luggage on the bed hoping the roaches wouldn’t bother crawling up the bed.
Off we went, exploring the big apple. All I felt was happiness and excitement. I’ve never seen a city like it, so big at the time. I had never seen so many people of so many cultures in one place.
It was like a dream come true. We had a few friends in the city and let them know we had arrived. John was one of them. A big shot Manager for some big shot bands. He invited us over to his house and we were happy to go, anything was better than being in that filthy little shoebox called hotel room plus he’ll probably take us someplace cool. (so we hoped) It turned out that John had a slight crush on Sarah but neither Sarah nor I wanted to spend the first night in the big apple in his apartment. He was way older than us; she had no interest in being his little pet.
Off we went on our own, in our funky outfits, just the two of us and the big city, no idea where to go, we just walked all over the place, still better than sitting in some dirty old mans apartment.
After walking around for hours, exploring, we were exhausted enough to just crash out in that scary room and anxious to move onto the next one early in the morning. It turned out; the hotel we stayed in was a pay by the hour hotel or in plain English a whore house.
How funny is that? Well, to us it was.
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