Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Preservation II -- The Love Continues
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
YAY! My BFF is singing in a national commercial for KFC!!! Check it out! http://ping.fm/6orqD CONGRATULATIONS, MICHELLE! <3
Monday, December 28, 2009
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
My Christmas Eve -- Bittersoulfulsweet...
Somehow I manage to keep a smile... Waking up this morning, I thought, "wow.. Christmas is tomorrow." I'm more excited for my children, because they have NO IDEA what I got them for Christmas presents -- I bought them cell phones. On one hand, I feel bad because I couldn't fill the entire living room with presents for them. On the other hand, I've managed to provide for them all year -- even during times when I thought I couldn't.
This morning, I received the horrible news that John Hampton (my mom's long-term boyfriend) died in his sleep. At first I was shocked -- and I stopped myself from going through this huge array of emotions. For starters, I didn't know what to feel... John and I weren't exactly the closest -- while he was known throughout Detroit as my "manager," he was really more of a fan. He didn't have any children of his own, and I know that he took to me like his "son." He was very proud of my music career, and when I made an accomplishment, it was like HE made an accomplishment.
I had a bit more respect for him as a result of my mother's death. He was the one who found my mother's body the morning she died -- ironically, she died in HER sleep as well... Now that I think about it, John and my father shared the same birthday... But that's a different story.
Anyway, I went through today feeling rather numb. That is, until I went to my Aunt Michelle's house for a family dinner.
For starters, I was so pissed at my sisters Melva and Angie, for not going... Michelle really wanted us to meet her boyfriend's family -- they'd just moved into their new house together, and in true Leo fashion (LOL), wanted to celebrate. I can relate. LOL!!! So the dinner was going rather smoothly -- just like in the movie Soul Food... The family laughed and joked together. We said a prayer, and dinner was served. I noticed that Stefan (my oldest son) wasn't eating... In fact, he looked quite pissed off. When I asked him why, he said he overheard some of the other people talking about me. They were making fun of the way I talk (something I've gotten all of my life), etc. Of course, when it was time to eat, he'd also overheard them saying "oh, you KNOW that FAT MAN wants some food!"
Seriously, I didn't hear them myself... But then again, I've learned how to just "not notice" these things. It killed me to see my child's feelings hurt. While I told Stefan to "just ignore it," I knew that it wasn't good enough. Stefan wanted to curse those bitches out -- and he had every good damn reason to... Mind you, if it was just ME, I would've just let it roll off my shoulders. (Notice how they didn't DARE say that shit to my face?) But come on... In front of my CHILD? REALLY???
Stefan was so hurt, as I said before, he wouldn't eat. He didn't want anything to do with them... So on that note, we left. It was a bittersweet moment because I commend Stefan for keeping his cool, as angry as he was. I felt PROUD that my son wanted to protect his father! But during the drive home, I couldn't help but feel BAD... It reminded me of all the teasing I had to endure in High school -- hell, since BIRTH... It took me back to my insecurities -- "oh, you sound like a GIRL..." Just because I wasn't a thug, or whatever... It was the same insecurity that made me ashamed to sing... I HATE that my CHILDREN have to suffer because of society's ignorance!
So here I am... barely after 8PM on Christmas Eve. I'm at home -- the only REAL place I feel safe in this world... I LOVE my sons for sticking up for me. I HATE the fact that after all these years of growing and learning, that I still have to endure this bullshit.
I have to keep it together!! I cannot break down... Even though my heart is aching right now, I MUST be strong for my boys. They WILL have a good Christmas, in spite of...
Okay, I've vented. I'm wiping tears from my eyes because I REFUSE to let them fall... Tomorrow, I'll show my sons the true meaning of Christmas -- the TRUE meaning of family... Or better yet, I'll smile because my sons have shown ME... We may have our ups and downs, but when it all comes down to it, we're STILL FAMILY -- and my children LOVE me. Tonight has proven that... What better Christmas present could I ask for?
Love,
Aaron-Carl
This morning, I received the horrible news that John Hampton (my mom's long-term boyfriend) died in his sleep. At first I was shocked -- and I stopped myself from going through this huge array of emotions. For starters, I didn't know what to feel... John and I weren't exactly the closest -- while he was known throughout Detroit as my "manager," he was really more of a fan. He didn't have any children of his own, and I know that he took to me like his "son." He was very proud of my music career, and when I made an accomplishment, it was like HE made an accomplishment.
I had a bit more respect for him as a result of my mother's death. He was the one who found my mother's body the morning she died -- ironically, she died in HER sleep as well... Now that I think about it, John and my father shared the same birthday... But that's a different story.
Anyway, I went through today feeling rather numb. That is, until I went to my Aunt Michelle's house for a family dinner.
For starters, I was so pissed at my sisters Melva and Angie, for not going... Michelle really wanted us to meet her boyfriend's family -- they'd just moved into their new house together, and in true Leo fashion (LOL), wanted to celebrate. I can relate. LOL!!! So the dinner was going rather smoothly -- just like in the movie Soul Food... The family laughed and joked together. We said a prayer, and dinner was served. I noticed that Stefan (my oldest son) wasn't eating... In fact, he looked quite pissed off. When I asked him why, he said he overheard some of the other people talking about me. They were making fun of the way I talk (something I've gotten all of my life), etc. Of course, when it was time to eat, he'd also overheard them saying "oh, you KNOW that FAT MAN wants some food!"
Seriously, I didn't hear them myself... But then again, I've learned how to just "not notice" these things. It killed me to see my child's feelings hurt. While I told Stefan to "just ignore it," I knew that it wasn't good enough. Stefan wanted to curse those bitches out -- and he had every good damn reason to... Mind you, if it was just ME, I would've just let it roll off my shoulders. (Notice how they didn't DARE say that shit to my face?) But come on... In front of my CHILD? REALLY???
Stefan was so hurt, as I said before, he wouldn't eat. He didn't want anything to do with them... So on that note, we left. It was a bittersweet moment because I commend Stefan for keeping his cool, as angry as he was. I felt PROUD that my son wanted to protect his father! But during the drive home, I couldn't help but feel BAD... It reminded me of all the teasing I had to endure in High school -- hell, since BIRTH... It took me back to my insecurities -- "oh, you sound like a GIRL..." Just because I wasn't a thug, or whatever... It was the same insecurity that made me ashamed to sing... I HATE that my CHILDREN have to suffer because of society's ignorance!
So here I am... barely after 8PM on Christmas Eve. I'm at home -- the only REAL place I feel safe in this world... I LOVE my sons for sticking up for me. I HATE the fact that after all these years of growing and learning, that I still have to endure this bullshit.
I have to keep it together!! I cannot break down... Even though my heart is aching right now, I MUST be strong for my boys. They WILL have a good Christmas, in spite of...
Okay, I've vented. I'm wiping tears from my eyes because I REFUSE to let them fall... Tomorrow, I'll show my sons the true meaning of Christmas -- the TRUE meaning of family... Or better yet, I'll smile because my sons have shown ME... We may have our ups and downs, but when it all comes down to it, we're STILL FAMILY -- and my children LOVE me. Tonight has proven that... What better Christmas present could I ask for?
Love,
Aaron-Carl
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Alright y'all.. 5PM EST. Michelle Weeks and I are doing a special W.A.R.M.T.H. Session... Tune in! http://ping.fm/vM6jq
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Friday, December 11, 2009
On tonight's W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions, a tribute to TRESOR: 1991 - 1997, at 7PM EST. http://ping.fm/lxJOg
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Just in... Electronic Directory Japan reviews our PRESERVATION cd... I'm SO happy! http://tinyurl.com/edjp1209
Monday, December 07, 2009
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Friday, December 04, 2009
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Wednesday, December 02, 2009
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
I really hope u like the CD... lots of hard work went into it! http://ping.fm/TYb10 (and it's JUST the beginning!)
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
If u wanna help Detroit's Electronic Music scene, u can start by visiting http://ping.fm/pvKK1 and order the W.A.R.M.T.H. compilation...
Saturday, November 28, 2009
SCAN 7 feat. Aaron-Carl "4 Types of People"
It's available now... YES!
http://wallshaker.com
FORMAT: CD, MP3, WAV
BTW, if u haven't heard, this compilation is getting excellent reviews! U should definitely show your support.. http://ping.fm/9EkFn
Thursday, November 26, 2009
PRESERVATION -- the day after...
As I write this, I realize that I am still recovering. The pressure, the happiness, the drama, and of course, the relief -- the events are still fresh in my mind, and as I sip my morning coffee, I prepare to revisit the wildness that I called "PRESERVATION..."
Going into this with high expectations, I was already a nervous wreck. Newspapers wrote stories about the event. We've spent WEEKS planning the party, the CD compilation, the t-shirts, the promotion, etc... It takes a LOT out of you. Well, I know it took a lot out of ME. I realize that I put so much of myself into this. In fact, I can't even call it a party. It was so much more -- it was the start of a MOVEMENT... But as I write this, I think back and realize that it was all worth it...
My night started at 7PM... I'd already spent the day in awe, checking the online sales of the PRESERVATION compilation CD -- it had just been released this morning, which was another soul-consuming process in itself. Thank God for Mel (Winders) and Jason (Jones) being here with me, because I don't think I would've remembered everything -- Camera, DAT player, CDs, etc. My damn phone kept ringing ALL DAY, from people with all sorts of questions. The BIGGEST question of the night: "Can you put me on the GUEST LIST?" (That is one of the most ANNOYING questions you can EVER ASK a promoter! After all of the money, hard work, blood, sweat and tears that went into this -- especially on the biggest bar night of the year -- you KNOW you're gonna come in and drink, but your ass didn't feel like paying a $10 cover charge? WHAT?! Are you SERIOUS?)
I wanted to arrive at the club early, so we could do a proper sound check. Most of the W.A.R.M.T.H. team had arrived early, as we were ALL excited to see this night become a success. Kevin King (and his wife Michelle), John Cline, Shant Kirmizian, Mel, Jason & I were able to have a nice little meal before getting started -- I was so frazzled, I was barely able to eat. Tink Thomas connected the equipment, and before long, the party had begun -- at least for us... It felt really good just to "unwind" a bit before the crowd came. The merchandise table was set up. Seeing the CDs & T-shirts on display gave me an overwhelming feeling of "WOW... this is REALLY HAPPENING!" Like a proud parent on graduation day, I was preparing to watch my "baby" walk across the stage, so to speak...
9PM... Karl Lucas started his set. At this time, NOBODY was in the club besides us. However, Karl played like he was performing in front of a massive crowd -- he was in a zone. I felt sorry for the people who didn't come early to hear him, because he truly BROUGHT THE PAIN! I admit I was nervous... It seemed like everyone in Detroit was throwing their own party -- which pissed me off. AGAIN, I must remind you... So much planning went into W.A.R.M.T.H. Personally, I believe that some people decided to throw their own party just to compete with ME (I do have haters, but whatever...). But as I've ALWAYS said about W.A.R.M.T.H. -- it's NOT about me. It's about OUR MUSIC and OUR SCENE... Some of these close-minded, hateful bitches can't see the "forest for the trees." But I digress... KARL played his heart out, and even if there was no crowd, I appreciated him.
10PM... People finally began showing up. Karl was still DJing, although Eric Johnson was supposed to start. Tink was gone, but told me he'd be back in time for his set at 11pm. By this point, I was like "fuck it. Whatever happens, is gonna happen..." It was out of my hands at this point, and I accepted things as they were.
Mel was working the door, and had issues with "correct change." Our car was parked in the wrong spot, and was almost towed away. My cell phone rang constantly -- when it worked -- from people either trying to find Oslo, wanting to get "on the guest list," or asking me what time my set was... Although I'd had a drink or two by this time, I still wasn't calm!
Eric Johnson arrived at around 10:15, ready to DJ. By this time, Quentin Harris was here, and we were hanging out at the bar. It's always great to talk to Quentin -- I think personally, because we're so much alike. DIVALICIOUS, honey!!! LOL... I love his attitude, and although we don't get to see each other as much as we'd like to (the bitch is ALWAYS gone, in some country SOMEWHERE!), when WE get together, BABY, it's a BLAST!!!
Back to Eric Johnson... when ERIC JOHNSON says he's bringing HEAT, you better believe it. I was starting to "come out of my shell," calm down and actually ENJOY the night. I remember people like Tasha Price -- I know this sounds silly, but I REALLY wanted to make sure that people KNEW how much I appreciated them -- just for walking in the door. Tasha said to me, "I wouldn't miss it for the world." I truly had to fight back tears, because my emotions were so intense. I kept thinking "wow... people are REALLY coming to support W.A.R.M.T.H.!" I wanted them to feel what I felt. Seriously, my heart was filled with so much love and appreciation. I really hope they felt that...
Okay, I keep straying, but... ERIC muthafuckin' JOHNSON... BABY, I don't know WHAT he played, but whatever that tune was, I was sitting down... the BASSLINE ripped right through me, and I ran up to the DJ booth and SCREAMED!!!!! (And I was even more proud to see him rocking it with his W.A.R.M.T.H. T-shirt on!)
11PM came and went... Where the hell was Tink?! I kept getting text messages from him, asking who was playing -- could he play at 12, instead of 11, etc... In hindsight, I understand that this is a "typical DJ trick," to ensure they have a full crowd to play to. Whether HE was doing that or not, I don't know. But again, whatever. It is what it is...
Eric Johnson continued to play, and everyone was satisfied. Karl Lucas asked if he could play until Tink showed up. I didn't mind. As far as I'm concerned, the VIBE was right -- I could give a shit less WHO was on the decks.
Jason, Kevin & Michelle King were taking turns working the merchandise table. I really wish you knew what I was feeling, seeing everyone in W.A.R.M.T.H. T-shirt -- each of them having a look of pride on their faces. This is TRULY a team, y'all... And I swear it was evident. Not a clique, or a crew... but a TEAM.
Shortly after 12 midnight, Tink returns. Mind you, the lineup schedule was COMPLETELY fucked up by now! Quentin and I (who'd decided to do a tag team set together) were supposed to play at 12... BONE was going to play at 1 a.m. -- another story altogether -- and JOHN COLLINS was going to close out the party at 2... I wanted everyone to be happy, so even if I didn't play at all, I didn't care. Tink was going to have his full hour to play, regardless... I know this sounds crazy, but Karl Lucas, Eric Johnson, Tink Thomas & John Collins were REALLY who I wanted to showcase. Why? Well, for starters, they're damn good DJs. DAMN good. And part of W.A.R.M.T.H.'s mission is to show the world that DETROIT DJs can rock a party like NO OTHER -- and I'm not just saying that! There's a reason why Detroit is so special. There's no denying that... And SURE, we had some "more popular folks" on the lineup -- Quentin, Bone & myself -- but I wanted to show people that it wasn't about US... People like Karl Lucas -- someone who most people outside of Detroit might not even know -- can hold their own, and truly kick ass.
So now Tink is playing... He's doing his thing and I KNOW people were into it. I was too busy dealing with OTHER drama at the time. A group of kids (over 18 y/o, but under 21) wanted to get into the club. I didn't realize that it was really for the "21 and over" crowd, so it's my fault for not advertising it that way. Anyway, after going back and forth with the owner, and basically putting MY neck (as well as theirs) on the line, the group was allowed to attend the party -- as LONG AS THEY DIDN'T DRINK! I made it my personal mission to ensure that these folks didn't drink -- I wanted NO drama. Hell... OUR party wasn't getting shut down, all because some underage drinkers!
True to form, shortly after they got into the party, the "games" had begun. The kids knew they were being watched, so after only about 10 minutes, they left. I overheard one of them saying "I'm leaving because I can't get CRUNK!" (I wanted to break a beer bottle over his fucking head when I heard that... HOW DARE YOU disrespect ME and this establishment, just because you wanna get drunk... Get the fuck out!)
Mike Banks, Juan Atkins, Lou Robinson (SCAN 7) & Eddie Fowlkes (to name just a few of Detroit's Finest) were in the house. I hate that I didn't get a chance to actually SPEAK with Eddie -- especially after our recent lengthy phone conversation... Mike was wearing his AFRO, as he said he would. I was just so honored that he was there. You know, after EVERYTHING that Mike Banks and I have been through, believe me when I say that I have such a GREAT love for that man! Like a father to his child, I KNOW that Mike has that same love for me. (The day before, he told me how proud he was of me -- words that will forever remain in my heart. Even today, I find myself wanting to make him proud.) So this party was EXTRA SPECIAL to me -- simply because I wanted MIKE to witness it, look at his "son" with pride and say "wow... he DID it."
My respect has grown so much greater for JUAN ATKINS! He'd been scheduled for a gig the same night as the PRESERVATION party. When he received the flyer and saw the lineup, he turned down his OWN gig, so he wouldn't compete with ours. When I heard this, I cried tears of joy. Later on, Juan told me that people were "pulling his arm" to take the gig, so eventually, he agreed. I understood, but I was STILL impressed by his gesture. Wow.. Juan Atkins, showing love to W.A.R.M.T.H. So when I saw JUAN at the party, I couldn't help but reach out and hug him. I asked, "do you know how much it means to me that you're even HERE?" Then it dawned on me -- wait a minute... Shouldn't HE be playing somewhere else right now??? (The gig got cancelled, he said.)
By this time, it was a little after 1 a.m. and the moment was right for Quentin and I to let the crowd HAVE IT...
Quentin started off with "something!" I don't even know what the damn song was, but let's just say that the magic was in the air... He worked a Martha Wash acapella looped over this track, and MMMMM... it was HEAVEN. Mind you, I'm not used to "tagging" with anyone. But something about this moment was SPECIAL... Spontaneous... Completely unrehearsed... Quentin and I were determined to whip each other's ASSES in the DJ booth -- figuratively speaking, of course! He played his track, then I took the decks... It was time to show and prove, so I dropped the ONE track I'd been saving for this exact moment. "4 TYPES OF PEOPLE" by SCAN 7 feat. AARON-CARL... Baby, the place lit up. The spirit took over, and I swear, people's mouths dropped. Granted, before this moment, MIKE hadn't heard the track. Nor did Quentin, Juan or Eddie. I wanted "4 Types of People" to drop on them like a BOMB... From what I hear, it did. :-)
From that moment, it was ON.. Quentin and I went back and forth, and the crowd was loving every moment of it. I even heard Tink in the background, agging us on. "Whatcha gonna do NOW, Q? Whatcha gonna do NOW, AC?" Quentin dropped "Apologize" -- the track we did together. Okay, I admit... I was amazed. (How dare you whip my ass, with MY OWN vocals?) Our set got cut short, because DJ Bone really wanted to play. Again, I didn't fuss... And when I stepped off the decks, I was exhausted -- in a GOOD way... I did what the fuck I came to do. It was up to Bone to keep that momentum going... From what I heard, he did.
At this time, I sat down to talk with Ric -- a hardcore AC fan. I met him a few times before, but we'd never gotten to sit down and have a REAL conversation until now. So while sat on the outside steps, having our talk, Bone was inside ripping the people to shreds. (Get 'em, Bone!)
From what I heard, John Collins had left. I guess he figured he wasn't gonna get to play, and his personality is so calm, I can just imagine him saying "oh well... it's JUST a PARTY!" I admit, I was a bit disappointed, because I'd hyped HIM up so much. I wanted John Collins to shut it the fuck down... But at around 2:30, the crowd had thinned out, and the club was closing. I haven't spoken to John yet, but I REALLY want to apologize to him. I don't even know why -- it is what it is, right? I could blame OTHER folks for fucking up the lineup, but why? By this time, I felt like our party was a success ANYWAY! In spite of the drama, the mission was accomplished.
Let me also acknowledge Ms. Angela Slate & Dee Jones. Although they left the initial W.A.R.M.T.H. group and started their own collective, "Houseworks," it really warmed my heart to see them walk through the door, and SUPPORT this event. Their presence spoke volumes to me -- whatever our personal differences are, they showed me that THEY ALSO want to keep our scene alive... It's not about US... it's about the MUSIC. And I can't stress that enough. I wasn't being fake when I took pictures with them. While I wished we could ALL work as one, I understand that different people have different visions... I ONLY say this because of the bullshit I keep hearing in the streets. I've NEVER put any value on it, because at the end of the day, none of the drama really matters... I've stepped outside of Detroit -- and all of the fickle attitudes that come along with it -- and looked at the bigger picture. It's like a real family... You've got ALL types of people in this family -- some get along, other's don't. But we're STILL family.
Speaking of family... Angie Schwendemann (I spelled it RIGHT this time!), Tom Linder, Bill Stacy & his wife Becky showed up as well. I must've sounded like a broken record when I hugged them all and thanked them for coming -- but I wanted EACH of them to know that I MEANT IT!!!
Diviniti, Pirahnahead -- EVERYBODY really! (Especially my baby, Gary Martin... I STILL melt whenever he speaks to me, and he knows this. LOL.. I don't give a damn who knows it either. LOL!!!)
Everyone at W.A.R.M.T.H. worked so hard, and invested so much of themselves. All of the DJs, everyone who bought a CD or a T-shirt, danced to our music, etc... People who stopped in just for a moment, just to show their love. (Y'all don't understand!)
I'm still in awe of everything so far... From the extensive press coverage, to people spreading the word on the streets -- and that's just DETROIT! I haven't even begun to thank the people from all around the world!!!
As I write this, I received a few emails -- confirmations of orders. People who purchased the W.A.R.M.T.H. compilation CD. ALL of these confirmations (today) came from people in JAPAN... What?! JAPAN? REALLY??? Please know that again, I'm holding back my tears of joy. I am SO HAPPY and grateful to you.
I'm sure that by now, you've heard that W.A.R.M.T.H. is buying a building. I tried to keep it a secret for a while, but now that it's in the press, I guess I can't hide it anymore... This PRESERVATION event, as well as the CD compilation, was (among other things) a fundraiser for this purpose. How many of you actually knew that?
All of the DJs donated their time and talents -- most of them even gave their own money to the cause. Please don't make the mistake of thinking that this was "just another party," as I've said before.
We've received an outpouring of love and support from so many people -- it would be impossible to thank you ALL individually, although I eventually plan to do so. (I'm trying!) I get emails all the time -- ironically from people OUTSIDE OF DETROIT -- asking how they can help support the movement... At the time, I didn't know how to answer them. NOW I DO...
If you haven't, please find it in your hearts to actually SUPPORT our cause. For those of you who bought a T-shirt or a CD, I thank you so much. We even have the MP3s and WAVS of the album, for convenience. Come to our events if you can! Represent W.A.R.M.T.H. within your OWN organizations... Help spread the word -- we're REALLY dedicating ourselves to preserving the soul of Electronic Music. And YES, I'm reaching out to the WORLD... That's my biggest reason for changing it from "W.A.R.M.T.H. 313" (as it initially was) to W.A.R.M.T.H. INTERNATIONAL INC.
This party was the launching pad, and I think we're off to a great start. There's a lot in store for W.A.R.M.T.H., and I look forward to sharing ALL of these wonderful moments with YOU.
If you haven't done so, visit our website. Follow us on twitter (warmth313). Listen to our radio show (Fridays at 7PM EST on www.warmth313.com). Keep up with us, because together WE ARE REVOLUTIONIZING THE MOVEMENT OF TECHNO AND HOUSE!
Much love,
Aaron-Carl
Going into this with high expectations, I was already a nervous wreck. Newspapers wrote stories about the event. We've spent WEEKS planning the party, the CD compilation, the t-shirts, the promotion, etc... It takes a LOT out of you. Well, I know it took a lot out of ME. I realize that I put so much of myself into this. In fact, I can't even call it a party. It was so much more -- it was the start of a MOVEMENT... But as I write this, I think back and realize that it was all worth it...
My night started at 7PM... I'd already spent the day in awe, checking the online sales of the PRESERVATION compilation CD -- it had just been released this morning, which was another soul-consuming process in itself. Thank God for Mel (Winders) and Jason (Jones) being here with me, because I don't think I would've remembered everything -- Camera, DAT player, CDs, etc. My damn phone kept ringing ALL DAY, from people with all sorts of questions. The BIGGEST question of the night: "Can you put me on the GUEST LIST?" (That is one of the most ANNOYING questions you can EVER ASK a promoter! After all of the money, hard work, blood, sweat and tears that went into this -- especially on the biggest bar night of the year -- you KNOW you're gonna come in and drink, but your ass didn't feel like paying a $10 cover charge? WHAT?! Are you SERIOUS?)
I wanted to arrive at the club early, so we could do a proper sound check. Most of the W.A.R.M.T.H. team had arrived early, as we were ALL excited to see this night become a success. Kevin King (and his wife Michelle), John Cline, Shant Kirmizian, Mel, Jason & I were able to have a nice little meal before getting started -- I was so frazzled, I was barely able to eat. Tink Thomas connected the equipment, and before long, the party had begun -- at least for us... It felt really good just to "unwind" a bit before the crowd came. The merchandise table was set up. Seeing the CDs & T-shirts on display gave me an overwhelming feeling of "WOW... this is REALLY HAPPENING!" Like a proud parent on graduation day, I was preparing to watch my "baby" walk across the stage, so to speak...
9PM... Karl Lucas started his set. At this time, NOBODY was in the club besides us. However, Karl played like he was performing in front of a massive crowd -- he was in a zone. I felt sorry for the people who didn't come early to hear him, because he truly BROUGHT THE PAIN! I admit I was nervous... It seemed like everyone in Detroit was throwing their own party -- which pissed me off. AGAIN, I must remind you... So much planning went into W.A.R.M.T.H. Personally, I believe that some people decided to throw their own party just to compete with ME (I do have haters, but whatever...). But as I've ALWAYS said about W.A.R.M.T.H. -- it's NOT about me. It's about OUR MUSIC and OUR SCENE... Some of these close-minded, hateful bitches can't see the "forest for the trees." But I digress... KARL played his heart out, and even if there was no crowd, I appreciated him.
10PM... People finally began showing up. Karl was still DJing, although Eric Johnson was supposed to start. Tink was gone, but told me he'd be back in time for his set at 11pm. By this point, I was like "fuck it. Whatever happens, is gonna happen..." It was out of my hands at this point, and I accepted things as they were.
Mel was working the door, and had issues with "correct change." Our car was parked in the wrong spot, and was almost towed away. My cell phone rang constantly -- when it worked -- from people either trying to find Oslo, wanting to get "on the guest list," or asking me what time my set was... Although I'd had a drink or two by this time, I still wasn't calm!
Eric Johnson arrived at around 10:15, ready to DJ. By this time, Quentin Harris was here, and we were hanging out at the bar. It's always great to talk to Quentin -- I think personally, because we're so much alike. DIVALICIOUS, honey!!! LOL... I love his attitude, and although we don't get to see each other as much as we'd like to (the bitch is ALWAYS gone, in some country SOMEWHERE!), when WE get together, BABY, it's a BLAST!!!
Back to Eric Johnson... when ERIC JOHNSON says he's bringing HEAT, you better believe it. I was starting to "come out of my shell," calm down and actually ENJOY the night. I remember people like Tasha Price -- I know this sounds silly, but I REALLY wanted to make sure that people KNEW how much I appreciated them -- just for walking in the door. Tasha said to me, "I wouldn't miss it for the world." I truly had to fight back tears, because my emotions were so intense. I kept thinking "wow... people are REALLY coming to support W.A.R.M.T.H.!" I wanted them to feel what I felt. Seriously, my heart was filled with so much love and appreciation. I really hope they felt that...
Okay, I keep straying, but... ERIC muthafuckin' JOHNSON... BABY, I don't know WHAT he played, but whatever that tune was, I was sitting down... the BASSLINE ripped right through me, and I ran up to the DJ booth and SCREAMED!!!!! (And I was even more proud to see him rocking it with his W.A.R.M.T.H. T-shirt on!)
11PM came and went... Where the hell was Tink?! I kept getting text messages from him, asking who was playing -- could he play at 12, instead of 11, etc... In hindsight, I understand that this is a "typical DJ trick," to ensure they have a full crowd to play to. Whether HE was doing that or not, I don't know. But again, whatever. It is what it is...
Eric Johnson continued to play, and everyone was satisfied. Karl Lucas asked if he could play until Tink showed up. I didn't mind. As far as I'm concerned, the VIBE was right -- I could give a shit less WHO was on the decks.
Jason, Kevin & Michelle King were taking turns working the merchandise table. I really wish you knew what I was feeling, seeing everyone in W.A.R.M.T.H. T-shirt -- each of them having a look of pride on their faces. This is TRULY a team, y'all... And I swear it was evident. Not a clique, or a crew... but a TEAM.
Shortly after 12 midnight, Tink returns. Mind you, the lineup schedule was COMPLETELY fucked up by now! Quentin and I (who'd decided to do a tag team set together) were supposed to play at 12... BONE was going to play at 1 a.m. -- another story altogether -- and JOHN COLLINS was going to close out the party at 2... I wanted everyone to be happy, so even if I didn't play at all, I didn't care. Tink was going to have his full hour to play, regardless... I know this sounds crazy, but Karl Lucas, Eric Johnson, Tink Thomas & John Collins were REALLY who I wanted to showcase. Why? Well, for starters, they're damn good DJs. DAMN good. And part of W.A.R.M.T.H.'s mission is to show the world that DETROIT DJs can rock a party like NO OTHER -- and I'm not just saying that! There's a reason why Detroit is so special. There's no denying that... And SURE, we had some "more popular folks" on the lineup -- Quentin, Bone & myself -- but I wanted to show people that it wasn't about US... People like Karl Lucas -- someone who most people outside of Detroit might not even know -- can hold their own, and truly kick ass.
So now Tink is playing... He's doing his thing and I KNOW people were into it. I was too busy dealing with OTHER drama at the time. A group of kids (over 18 y/o, but under 21) wanted to get into the club. I didn't realize that it was really for the "21 and over" crowd, so it's my fault for not advertising it that way. Anyway, after going back and forth with the owner, and basically putting MY neck (as well as theirs) on the line, the group was allowed to attend the party -- as LONG AS THEY DIDN'T DRINK! I made it my personal mission to ensure that these folks didn't drink -- I wanted NO drama. Hell... OUR party wasn't getting shut down, all because some underage drinkers!
True to form, shortly after they got into the party, the "games" had begun. The kids knew they were being watched, so after only about 10 minutes, they left. I overheard one of them saying "I'm leaving because I can't get CRUNK!" (I wanted to break a beer bottle over his fucking head when I heard that... HOW DARE YOU disrespect ME and this establishment, just because you wanna get drunk... Get the fuck out!)
Mike Banks, Juan Atkins, Lou Robinson (SCAN 7) & Eddie Fowlkes (to name just a few of Detroit's Finest) were in the house. I hate that I didn't get a chance to actually SPEAK with Eddie -- especially after our recent lengthy phone conversation... Mike was wearing his AFRO, as he said he would. I was just so honored that he was there. You know, after EVERYTHING that Mike Banks and I have been through, believe me when I say that I have such a GREAT love for that man! Like a father to his child, I KNOW that Mike has that same love for me. (The day before, he told me how proud he was of me -- words that will forever remain in my heart. Even today, I find myself wanting to make him proud.) So this party was EXTRA SPECIAL to me -- simply because I wanted MIKE to witness it, look at his "son" with pride and say "wow... he DID it."
My respect has grown so much greater for JUAN ATKINS! He'd been scheduled for a gig the same night as the PRESERVATION party. When he received the flyer and saw the lineup, he turned down his OWN gig, so he wouldn't compete with ours. When I heard this, I cried tears of joy. Later on, Juan told me that people were "pulling his arm" to take the gig, so eventually, he agreed. I understood, but I was STILL impressed by his gesture. Wow.. Juan Atkins, showing love to W.A.R.M.T.H. So when I saw JUAN at the party, I couldn't help but reach out and hug him. I asked, "do you know how much it means to me that you're even HERE?" Then it dawned on me -- wait a minute... Shouldn't HE be playing somewhere else right now??? (The gig got cancelled, he said.)
By this time, it was a little after 1 a.m. and the moment was right for Quentin and I to let the crowd HAVE IT...
Quentin started off with "something!" I don't even know what the damn song was, but let's just say that the magic was in the air... He worked a Martha Wash acapella looped over this track, and MMMMM... it was HEAVEN. Mind you, I'm not used to "tagging" with anyone. But something about this moment was SPECIAL... Spontaneous... Completely unrehearsed... Quentin and I were determined to whip each other's ASSES in the DJ booth -- figuratively speaking, of course! He played his track, then I took the decks... It was time to show and prove, so I dropped the ONE track I'd been saving for this exact moment. "4 TYPES OF PEOPLE" by SCAN 7 feat. AARON-CARL... Baby, the place lit up. The spirit took over, and I swear, people's mouths dropped. Granted, before this moment, MIKE hadn't heard the track. Nor did Quentin, Juan or Eddie. I wanted "4 Types of People" to drop on them like a BOMB... From what I hear, it did. :-)
From that moment, it was ON.. Quentin and I went back and forth, and the crowd was loving every moment of it. I even heard Tink in the background, agging us on. "Whatcha gonna do NOW, Q? Whatcha gonna do NOW, AC?" Quentin dropped "Apologize" -- the track we did together. Okay, I admit... I was amazed. (How dare you whip my ass, with MY OWN vocals?) Our set got cut short, because DJ Bone really wanted to play. Again, I didn't fuss... And when I stepped off the decks, I was exhausted -- in a GOOD way... I did what the fuck I came to do. It was up to Bone to keep that momentum going... From what I heard, he did.
At this time, I sat down to talk with Ric -- a hardcore AC fan. I met him a few times before, but we'd never gotten to sit down and have a REAL conversation until now. So while sat on the outside steps, having our talk, Bone was inside ripping the people to shreds. (Get 'em, Bone!)
From what I heard, John Collins had left. I guess he figured he wasn't gonna get to play, and his personality is so calm, I can just imagine him saying "oh well... it's JUST a PARTY!" I admit, I was a bit disappointed, because I'd hyped HIM up so much. I wanted John Collins to shut it the fuck down... But at around 2:30, the crowd had thinned out, and the club was closing. I haven't spoken to John yet, but I REALLY want to apologize to him. I don't even know why -- it is what it is, right? I could blame OTHER folks for fucking up the lineup, but why? By this time, I felt like our party was a success ANYWAY! In spite of the drama, the mission was accomplished.
Let me also acknowledge Ms. Angela Slate & Dee Jones. Although they left the initial W.A.R.M.T.H. group and started their own collective, "Houseworks," it really warmed my heart to see them walk through the door, and SUPPORT this event. Their presence spoke volumes to me -- whatever our personal differences are, they showed me that THEY ALSO want to keep our scene alive... It's not about US... it's about the MUSIC. And I can't stress that enough. I wasn't being fake when I took pictures with them. While I wished we could ALL work as one, I understand that different people have different visions... I ONLY say this because of the bullshit I keep hearing in the streets. I've NEVER put any value on it, because at the end of the day, none of the drama really matters... I've stepped outside of Detroit -- and all of the fickle attitudes that come along with it -- and looked at the bigger picture. It's like a real family... You've got ALL types of people in this family -- some get along, other's don't. But we're STILL family.
Speaking of family... Angie Schwendemann (I spelled it RIGHT this time!), Tom Linder, Bill Stacy & his wife Becky showed up as well. I must've sounded like a broken record when I hugged them all and thanked them for coming -- but I wanted EACH of them to know that I MEANT IT!!!
Diviniti, Pirahnahead -- EVERYBODY really! (Especially my baby, Gary Martin... I STILL melt whenever he speaks to me, and he knows this. LOL.. I don't give a damn who knows it either. LOL!!!)
Everyone at W.A.R.M.T.H. worked so hard, and invested so much of themselves. All of the DJs, everyone who bought a CD or a T-shirt, danced to our music, etc... People who stopped in just for a moment, just to show their love. (Y'all don't understand!)
I'm still in awe of everything so far... From the extensive press coverage, to people spreading the word on the streets -- and that's just DETROIT! I haven't even begun to thank the people from all around the world!!!
As I write this, I received a few emails -- confirmations of orders. People who purchased the W.A.R.M.T.H. compilation CD. ALL of these confirmations (today) came from people in JAPAN... What?! JAPAN? REALLY??? Please know that again, I'm holding back my tears of joy. I am SO HAPPY and grateful to you.
I'm sure that by now, you've heard that W.A.R.M.T.H. is buying a building. I tried to keep it a secret for a while, but now that it's in the press, I guess I can't hide it anymore... This PRESERVATION event, as well as the CD compilation, was (among other things) a fundraiser for this purpose. How many of you actually knew that?
All of the DJs donated their time and talents -- most of them even gave their own money to the cause. Please don't make the mistake of thinking that this was "just another party," as I've said before.
We've received an outpouring of love and support from so many people -- it would be impossible to thank you ALL individually, although I eventually plan to do so. (I'm trying!) I get emails all the time -- ironically from people OUTSIDE OF DETROIT -- asking how they can help support the movement... At the time, I didn't know how to answer them. NOW I DO...
If you haven't, please find it in your hearts to actually SUPPORT our cause. For those of you who bought a T-shirt or a CD, I thank you so much. We even have the MP3s and WAVS of the album, for convenience. Come to our events if you can! Represent W.A.R.M.T.H. within your OWN organizations... Help spread the word -- we're REALLY dedicating ourselves to preserving the soul of Electronic Music. And YES, I'm reaching out to the WORLD... That's my biggest reason for changing it from "W.A.R.M.T.H. 313" (as it initially was) to W.A.R.M.T.H. INTERNATIONAL INC.
This party was the launching pad, and I think we're off to a great start. There's a lot in store for W.A.R.M.T.H., and I look forward to sharing ALL of these wonderful moments with YOU.
If you haven't done so, visit our website. Follow us on twitter (warmth313). Listen to our radio show (Fridays at 7PM EST on www.warmth313.com). Keep up with us, because together WE ARE REVOLUTIONIZING THE MOVEMENT OF TECHNO AND HOUSE!
Much love,
Aaron-Carl
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
The new W.A.R.M.T.H. Compilation is now available on MP3, WAV & CD.. Exclusively at http://ping.fm/U33Ys
YOU GUYS are the FIRST to get 2 order this CD... It's out OFFICIALLY RIGHT NOW! http://tinyurl.com/warmthcd1
This article just came out TODAY in the Metro Times... I'm so touched... http://tinyurl.com/warmth25
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Counting down the days.. only 13 more. Detroit will spread love all around the world... http://tinyurl.com/yapzhwd
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
I'm so happy! "Down" (Resurrected Mixes) are FINALLY released today -- both vinyl AND digital. http://tinyurl.com/yfeu8tj
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Monday, November 09, 2009
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Friday, November 06, 2009
On tonight's radio show, I'm giving away a couple of free passes 2 the PRESERVATION party. http://ping.fm/ou17x 7PM EST
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Michelle Weeks and I are having an impromptu W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions RIGHT NOW... http://ping.fm/NCVZX Come on down!
Friday, October 23, 2009
..see? THIS is why Michelle and I cannot be in the same room together.. let alone ON THE AIR!! http://ping.fm/XTpZt
Thursday, October 22, 2009
PRESERVATION -- The time has finally come...
As many of you know, I've been behind the scenes planning, dreaming and working like crazy! There are so many people to thank for this opportunity, and I'm grateful to EVERYONE who is working with me to make this event happen...
Before I continue, let me please take a moment to thank a few folks: Bill Stacy (DJ Seoul) & Bang Tech 12, Angie & Tom from Detroit Techno Militia, Bet Lemos, Mike Petrack, Quentin Harris, Ahnne Araza, "Mad" Mike Banks, and of course, my wonderful team at W.A.R.M.T.H. International Inc. Without you, this couldn't happen. I know this, and believe me when I say, I'm EXTREMELY grateful... Thank you so much.
...now what am I so excited about? I'll paste the flyer details below.
*********
W.A.R.M.T.H. International Inc. is proud to present "PRESERVATION: A celebration to Honor, Reclaim & Preserve the Soul of Detroit Electronic Music."
Featuring:
QUENTIN HARRIS
AARON-CARL
DJ BONE
and an arsenal of W.A.R.M.T.H. DJs
including
ERIC JOHNSON
TINK THOMAS
KARL LUCAS
Special Closing set by
DJ JOHN COLLINS (Sweat Recordings / UR)
LOCATION: OSLO 1456 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
DATE: Wednesday, November 25, 2009
TIME: 9PM - LATE
COVER: $10 before Midnight, $15 After
Drink Specials, Food and exclusive W.A.R.M.T.H. Merchandise available.
Please bring your cameras! Social networking, blogging & tweeting is encouraged...
VISIT US ON THE WEB: http://warmth313.com
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: http://twitter.com/warmth313
***********
Now you know why I'm smiling on the inside... :-)
Much love,
Aaron-Carl
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Follow W.A.R.M.T.H. on Twitter... http://ping.fm/HLNCB To hear first about upcoming shows, guests, IMPROMPTU appearences, etc.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
Showtime 7PM EST... http://ping.fm/5Ye6S See "Radio Show" for links to RealPlayer, Winamp, ITunes& Windows Media streams... See u there!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Monday, October 12, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Friday, October 09, 2009
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Monday, October 05, 2009
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Friday, October 02, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Playing some tracks on the air... right now. http://warmth313.com ...and YES, I'm in the chat room 2... SURPRISE!
Friday, September 18, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Victory
One of the hardest things to do is draw on our own inner strength, and truly FIGHT the battle. I've taken that first step right now. But before I continue, let me stop and say this:
I DO NOT regret writing that earlier post. As I said before, depression is REAL. It hurts. It kills... But I noticed something... When I claimed it as "MY" depression, I gave it power. Well, I'm officially taking that power BACK. I will NOT accept depression. I will NOT let it take over me...
Thank you to everyone who took time to read, FEEL, and respond to my earlier message. I wasn't really crying out for help -- not from anyone here on earth. I was crying out to God. As a result, I've been sent many signs. Some of those signs came from YOU, in a phone call, or an e-mail, or a comment -- even a prayer, or word of encouragement. Other signs came from me just being alone, sitting with my thoughts and tears. I know that through my blogs (as well as my music), I've touched somebody. I know I'm not the ONLY one who goes through what I go through. I ALSO know that some of us have it MUCH WORSE... This post, this VICTORY is for US.. it's ours. Let us claim it!
I know I leave for Europe in the next few days. I'm preparing myself -- body, mind and soul -- for the journey. I was both right AND wrong when I said earlier, "nobody gives a damn..." To everyone who prayed for me, sent me a message, called me on the phone, or even sat down with me face to face... I KNOW you care. And I appreciate it a great deal... Thank you.
Again, I have no regrets. I've been through EVERYTHING I've been through, and I'm STILL here. My revelation is this: In order for me to be the GREATEST, I have to overcome the WORST. I needed to be reminded that THIS BATTLE IS NOT MINE!!! Now is the time for me to TRULY step out on MY FAITH, and KNOW that GOD will fight my battles, and that victory IS mine.
Here's to the journey...
Love,
Aaron-Carl
I DO NOT regret writing that earlier post. As I said before, depression is REAL. It hurts. It kills... But I noticed something... When I claimed it as "MY" depression, I gave it power. Well, I'm officially taking that power BACK. I will NOT accept depression. I will NOT let it take over me...
Thank you to everyone who took time to read, FEEL, and respond to my earlier message. I wasn't really crying out for help -- not from anyone here on earth. I was crying out to God. As a result, I've been sent many signs. Some of those signs came from YOU, in a phone call, or an e-mail, or a comment -- even a prayer, or word of encouragement. Other signs came from me just being alone, sitting with my thoughts and tears. I know that through my blogs (as well as my music), I've touched somebody. I know I'm not the ONLY one who goes through what I go through. I ALSO know that some of us have it MUCH WORSE... This post, this VICTORY is for US.. it's ours. Let us claim it!
I know I leave for Europe in the next few days. I'm preparing myself -- body, mind and soul -- for the journey. I was both right AND wrong when I said earlier, "nobody gives a damn..." To everyone who prayed for me, sent me a message, called me on the phone, or even sat down with me face to face... I KNOW you care. And I appreciate it a great deal... Thank you.
Again, I have no regrets. I've been through EVERYTHING I've been through, and I'm STILL here. My revelation is this: In order for me to be the GREATEST, I have to overcome the WORST. I needed to be reminded that THIS BATTLE IS NOT MINE!!! Now is the time for me to TRULY step out on MY FAITH, and KNOW that GOD will fight my battles, and that victory IS mine.
Here's to the journey...
Love,
Aaron-Carl
The Fight
Depression is real... I say this to you because I feel it creeping up on me. As I said in my earlier status update, I cannot let this take over me. Not today. I REFUSE to succumb to this stifling madness.
I'm fighting, my friend... I'm fighting. I'm gonna get up and do something completely DIFFERENT from the routine. Maybe I'll take a walk thru my neighborhood. You know, I've been here TWO YEARS already, and have NEVER taken a walk thru my own neighborhood?
I don't know what's wrong... You'd think I'd be satisfied after what happened last night -- I did something I've NEVER done before... Karaoke!!! (I sang "Super Freak" by Rick James.) It was awesome, and I received a standing ovation -- the cute bald guy even bowed down to me, how funny! But I felt bad. I felt bad because I couldn't even dance an entire song without sitting down -- and it was the simplest dance on earth: The Chimp Shuffle. (Y'all know what I'm talking about...)
I felt it as I was driving home last night... It was like "oh God, I'm coming home..." And I did the same thing I ALWAYS do. I walked in, went straight to my bedroom, sat on this same ol' bed, get on the computer, and stayed here until I got tired. Then I laid down, went to sleep, woke up "just to do it all over again..."
But no. HELL NO. I refuse to go out like that. I remember my mother, who basically lived in her room. Her bedroom was her sanctuary, it seemed. When she came home from work, she walked in, went directly up to her room, and stayed there until the next day. Sometimes she'd cook. Sometimes she'd hang out. But for the most part, she stayed in her room listening to music, watching TV, and just living in her own world.
She ultimately died in her room... And now that I look back on it, I wonder if that will someday be me. I'm scared. I know she felt what I am feeling right now. You see, I know what it feels like to smile -- and have such a beautiful, captivating smile -- only to mask the loneliness and hurt inside. I know what it feels like to listen to the world around me -- the chaos and confusion from the kids -- and wish I was somewhere else... My mother used to say all the time, "All I want is peace in my house." I catch myself saying the same thing... All I want is PEACE in MY house...
Sometimes I just want to run the fuck away. Sometimes I DO leave my house and get myself a hotel room, just to relax. Just to get away from it all... I'll sit on the bed, alone with my thoughts, and just do NOTHING AT ALL -- and it feels so good. Then I remember... My mother used to do that. I remember being so naive and asking her before, "You've got your own house... Why are YOU leaving?" Now I understand why.
I know what it's like to feel so emotionally drained, you don't want do anything except sleep. Those who know me well, know all the drama I've had to endure with my teenage son, Stefan. I was so depressed at one point, I just let myself go. I wouldn't cut my hair, barely got dressed, didn't care what I looked like, etc. In my mind, I was like "what's the point?" Nobody's gonna notice anyway. ...and sure enough, nobody noticed. The cycle continued until now...
Now, I'm starting to exercise my strengths again. I can see myself becoming successful -- and actually FEELING successful... But it's still a very hard battle to fight -- and I have tons of odds against me. I won't give up, because I remember how I USED to be. I'm still alive, and I don't want to take that for granted.
I look at myself today, and sometimes I want to cry. I look at this body and think, WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO YOU? All my life, I've been thin. I was a damn good dancer. Fast forward to today, and my big ass can't even do the Chimp Shuffle without sitting down? What?! I used to win TALENT SHOWS for dancing. This cannot be me!
I used to walk EVERYWHERE... to the bus stop.. to the store... whatever. Now I'm confined to this bedroom, like it's a prison. People can say "oh, just exercise..." It's not that easy. When you get winded just from walking up a flight of stairs, it's hard as hell to run laps around a track. And if I told you how much weight I have to lose, just to get back down to where I was before, YOU'D faint. It's depressing... I've literally broken CHAIRS just by sitting down in them. It's hard to shop for clothes when your shirt size is a fucking 5XL. And as attractive as I used to be, it KILLS me to think that today, I only appeal to "chasers." I've never felt so gottdamn lonely...
But I say all of this to say, I'm still alive. Thank God. I still have an opportunity to change my life. I don't know HOW I'm gonna do it. God, I leave for Europe in 4 days. I'll put on my game face. I'll walk my ass through these International airports, no matter how winded I get. I'll get on stage, do my thing, and be the FABULOUS MOTHERFUCKING AARON-CARL that I KNOW I am... I'll work the crowds into a frenzy, and give them everything I've got. They'll LOVE me -- for that moment in time... They'll REMEMBER me for a long time after I leave... I KNOW THIS!!!
And because I KNOW this, I cannot let depression get the best of me today. I wish somebody would come over to my house right now, pull me OUT of this room, and just FORCE me to get out of this funk. But no one's gonna do that. So, as with everything else in life, I have to be self sufficient. I've got to be my own knight in shining armor.
It's like that song by Queen, "Don't Try Suicide." One line I've always remembered from that record:
"Nobody gives a damn..."
Get up, AC. Snap out of this... You can do it. Come on, bitch. You're BETTER than this!
I'm fighting, my friend... I'm fighting. I'm gonna get up and do something completely DIFFERENT from the routine. Maybe I'll take a walk thru my neighborhood. You know, I've been here TWO YEARS already, and have NEVER taken a walk thru my own neighborhood?
I don't know what's wrong... You'd think I'd be satisfied after what happened last night -- I did something I've NEVER done before... Karaoke!!! (I sang "Super Freak" by Rick James.) It was awesome, and I received a standing ovation -- the cute bald guy even bowed down to me, how funny! But I felt bad. I felt bad because I couldn't even dance an entire song without sitting down -- and it was the simplest dance on earth: The Chimp Shuffle. (Y'all know what I'm talking about...)
I felt it as I was driving home last night... It was like "oh God, I'm coming home..." And I did the same thing I ALWAYS do. I walked in, went straight to my bedroom, sat on this same ol' bed, get on the computer, and stayed here until I got tired. Then I laid down, went to sleep, woke up "just to do it all over again..."
But no. HELL NO. I refuse to go out like that. I remember my mother, who basically lived in her room. Her bedroom was her sanctuary, it seemed. When she came home from work, she walked in, went directly up to her room, and stayed there until the next day. Sometimes she'd cook. Sometimes she'd hang out. But for the most part, she stayed in her room listening to music, watching TV, and just living in her own world.
She ultimately died in her room... And now that I look back on it, I wonder if that will someday be me. I'm scared. I know she felt what I am feeling right now. You see, I know what it feels like to smile -- and have such a beautiful, captivating smile -- only to mask the loneliness and hurt inside. I know what it feels like to listen to the world around me -- the chaos and confusion from the kids -- and wish I was somewhere else... My mother used to say all the time, "All I want is peace in my house." I catch myself saying the same thing... All I want is PEACE in MY house...
Sometimes I just want to run the fuck away. Sometimes I DO leave my house and get myself a hotel room, just to relax. Just to get away from it all... I'll sit on the bed, alone with my thoughts, and just do NOTHING AT ALL -- and it feels so good. Then I remember... My mother used to do that. I remember being so naive and asking her before, "You've got your own house... Why are YOU leaving?" Now I understand why.
I know what it's like to feel so emotionally drained, you don't want do anything except sleep. Those who know me well, know all the drama I've had to endure with my teenage son, Stefan. I was so depressed at one point, I just let myself go. I wouldn't cut my hair, barely got dressed, didn't care what I looked like, etc. In my mind, I was like "what's the point?" Nobody's gonna notice anyway. ...and sure enough, nobody noticed. The cycle continued until now...
Now, I'm starting to exercise my strengths again. I can see myself becoming successful -- and actually FEELING successful... But it's still a very hard battle to fight -- and I have tons of odds against me. I won't give up, because I remember how I USED to be. I'm still alive, and I don't want to take that for granted.
I look at myself today, and sometimes I want to cry. I look at this body and think, WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED TO YOU? All my life, I've been thin. I was a damn good dancer. Fast forward to today, and my big ass can't even do the Chimp Shuffle without sitting down? What?! I used to win TALENT SHOWS for dancing. This cannot be me!
I used to walk EVERYWHERE... to the bus stop.. to the store... whatever. Now I'm confined to this bedroom, like it's a prison. People can say "oh, just exercise..." It's not that easy. When you get winded just from walking up a flight of stairs, it's hard as hell to run laps around a track. And if I told you how much weight I have to lose, just to get back down to where I was before, YOU'D faint. It's depressing... I've literally broken CHAIRS just by sitting down in them. It's hard to shop for clothes when your shirt size is a fucking 5XL. And as attractive as I used to be, it KILLS me to think that today, I only appeal to "chasers." I've never felt so gottdamn lonely...
But I say all of this to say, I'm still alive. Thank God. I still have an opportunity to change my life. I don't know HOW I'm gonna do it. God, I leave for Europe in 4 days. I'll put on my game face. I'll walk my ass through these International airports, no matter how winded I get. I'll get on stage, do my thing, and be the FABULOUS MOTHERFUCKING AARON-CARL that I KNOW I am... I'll work the crowds into a frenzy, and give them everything I've got. They'll LOVE me -- for that moment in time... They'll REMEMBER me for a long time after I leave... I KNOW THIS!!!
And because I KNOW this, I cannot let depression get the best of me today. I wish somebody would come over to my house right now, pull me OUT of this room, and just FORCE me to get out of this funk. But no one's gonna do that. So, as with everything else in life, I have to be self sufficient. I've got to be my own knight in shining armor.
It's like that song by Queen, "Don't Try Suicide." One line I've always remembered from that record:
"Nobody gives a damn..."
Get up, AC. Snap out of this... You can do it. Come on, bitch. You're BETTER than this!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Monday, September 07, 2009
Sunday, September 06, 2009
...the last autographed copy of Erica LaFay's "RAIN" vinyl-only edition just got posted on Ebay! http://tinyurl.com/rainvinyledition
Saturday, September 05, 2009
Friday, September 04, 2009
Tune in tonight to The W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions, 7PM EST. It's gonna be a hot one, y'all!!! http://warmth313.com <3 <3
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
Radio Showtime!! 7pm EST.. http://ping.fm/esrr1 and there's a special guest (or two) in the chatroom already -- guess who they are!
Tonight's W.A.R.M.T.H. Session should be just as magical as last week. I can't wait! 7pm EST... http://ping.fm/Uq2uQ
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Saving Detroit House
Today I feel compelled to take action -- some kind of action, to save the tired state of Detroit's House Music scene. I'm sure you've all heard the stories -- such great talent, so little progress. It seems that the "former" tastemakers are getting older, dying off, leaving the scene, or shifted the focus from the SCENE to THEMSELVES... The younger generation barely has a clue. I REFUSE to let this scene die. It has changed MY life, from the first moment I heard that 4/4 beat. I know I cannot be the only one.
Yes, Detroit is known for its Techno. But what people don't realize is that, alongside techno, we also grew up on House. We took elements of Chicago, New York, Germany, London, etc., and added our OWN soul to it -- and I don't care WHERE you're from, you can't deny that Detroit has undeniable SOUL...
I guess the main purpose of my email is to express my disappointment with the state of today's scene. I sent out a proverbial "call to action." What surprised me was a few responses that I've received from some of the "names" here in Detroit -- the most shocking was "Good Luck."
WHAT?! Good LUCK? We're becoming extinct like endangered species, and all you have to say is "Good Luck?" (I shake my head in shame...) But instead of simply griping about the problem, I'd like to be a part of the SOLUTION... I'm more than willing to meet and discuss ideas with ANYONE who is interested in keeping Detroit's House Scene alive -- together we can move mountains.
Hit me up, let's share ideas...
Sincerely,
Aaron-Carl
Yes, Detroit is known for its Techno. But what people don't realize is that, alongside techno, we also grew up on House. We took elements of Chicago, New York, Germany, London, etc., and added our OWN soul to it -- and I don't care WHERE you're from, you can't deny that Detroit has undeniable SOUL...
I guess the main purpose of my email is to express my disappointment with the state of today's scene. I sent out a proverbial "call to action." What surprised me was a few responses that I've received from some of the "names" here in Detroit -- the most shocking was "Good Luck."
WHAT?! Good LUCK? We're becoming extinct like endangered species, and all you have to say is "Good Luck?" (I shake my head in shame...) But instead of simply griping about the problem, I'd like to be a part of the SOLUTION... I'm more than willing to meet and discuss ideas with ANYONE who is interested in keeping Detroit's House Scene alive -- together we can move mountains.
Hit me up, let's share ideas...
Sincerely,
Aaron-Carl
Saturday, August 22, 2009
I'm on the air right now. I just feel like playing some tunes... If u wanna hang 4 a bit. u know where I'll be. http://warmth313.com <3
Friday, August 21, 2009
In spite of it all, I must go on... and in 10 minutes, I am. http://warmth313.com , 7pm - 9pm EST. Come chat and listen... NEW TUNES!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Happy Birthday To Me...
My goals this year are to remember the lessons that I've learned from the book of life -- My Life...
Resolutions 8:19
Resolutions 8:19
- I realize that I have the power to succeed, the courage to fight, the faith to sustain, the strength to persevere, and the will to survive.
- I shall accept that I cannot be everything to everybody; but know that I AM everybody, to SOMEBODY…
- I will take time to appreciate what I DO have, as opposed to focusing so much on what I DON’T have…
- I realize that my body is my temple. It is sacred, not to be mistreated or abused…
- I will realize that I AM worthy of happiness; I AM deserving of good things…
- I will not be silent, in a world where true voices are seldom heard…
- I will embrace my uniqueness, and vow to never blend in, for the sake of blending in…
- I will not be ashamed of myself – no matter who that may be in comparison to others…
- I understand that it is okay to go against the grain; to march to my own beat…
- I am special. My spirit is important. I have a purpose.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Monday, August 17, 2009
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
Y'all know the drill... 7PM EST.. The W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions, live radio show. http://ping.fm/W1SHS - come on in.., have some fun...
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
TODAY is the day! I'm so excited! Erica's new single drops TODAY!!! http://ping.fm/9hKE5 GET IT NOW, Y'all!!! 4 REAL!
Monday, August 10, 2009
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Friday, August 07, 2009
RADIO SHOW @ 7PM EST! http://warmth313.com ...and u KNOW I'm gonna clown tonight! I think I'm gonna play some DJ Assault. LOL! <3
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Monday, August 03, 2009
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Friday, July 31, 2009
Alright y'all.. Showtime @ 7pm EST! http://ping.fm/3h3si Come on over, have a listen & chat with me. See u there... :-)
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Monday, July 27, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Friday, July 24, 2009
Just a reminder... Tonight @ 7PM EST. http://ping.fm/6n2oU is the radio show. Tune in, why don'tcha?
Did u see the NEW W.A.R.M.T.H. site? http://warmth313.com -- there's more 2 come, BUT, u can register 4 the new chat room! <3 Listen 2nite!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
From Me 2 U
Hey there everyone:
I just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to listen to The W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions tonight. There was just something about tonight! The mood was right, the vibe was perfect -- even though the server crashed halfway through, LOL!!! But there was so much LOVE in the air, it was awesome. But then again, House & Techno can do that, right? :-)
So, in no particular order, let me please give some love 2 the following: Andy Ives (aka Doctor of Tekno), Lady Sarah, Trench, Ahnne Araza & the Subject Detroit famly, DJ Marcus Kennedy, Malcolm Moore (Altered Moods), Erica LaFay, Buzz Goree (Mixworks), Santiago Salazar & family, CeCe Peniston (don't forget to watch her tonight at 11 on The Wendy Williams Show!), Big Rob Martinez, Davor O., Jason Jones, Vince Santos, Jo Fuss, Jane Wiffen, DJ Booming B, Gaston Neves, DJ JAPAN (my Baby!), Aurelien Delaze Beaucaine (de Paris!), Viola Klein, Brogy(!!!!! from Croatia), Malik Boudari, and EVERYONE ELSE who tuned in from around the world. I feel like the credits are rolling, LOL!!!
Y'all know who u are.... Everyone on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and those who even had the nerve (hahaha) to CALL MY CELL PHONE while I was on the air. Thank you for showing your love... For real. Thank you.
As I often say, and always mean...
BIG OL' HUGS 2 U!
Aaron-Carl
I just wanted to say THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to listen to The W.A.R.M.T.H. Sessions tonight. There was just something about tonight! The mood was right, the vibe was perfect -- even though the server crashed halfway through, LOL!!! But there was so much LOVE in the air, it was awesome. But then again, House & Techno can do that, right? :-)
So, in no particular order, let me please give some love 2 the following: Andy Ives (aka Doctor of Tekno), Lady Sarah, Trench, Ahnne Araza & the Subject Detroit famly, DJ Marcus Kennedy, Malcolm Moore (Altered Moods), Erica LaFay, Buzz Goree (Mixworks), Santiago Salazar & family, CeCe Peniston (don't forget to watch her tonight at 11 on The Wendy Williams Show!), Big Rob Martinez, Davor O., Jason Jones, Vince Santos, Jo Fuss, Jane Wiffen, DJ Booming B, Gaston Neves, DJ JAPAN (my Baby!), Aurelien Delaze Beaucaine (de Paris!), Viola Klein, Brogy(!!!!! from Croatia), Malik Boudari, and EVERYONE ELSE who tuned in from around the world. I feel like the credits are rolling, LOL!!!
Y'all know who u are.... Everyone on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and those who even had the nerve (hahaha) to CALL MY CELL PHONE while I was on the air. Thank you for showing your love... For real. Thank you.
As I often say, and always mean...
BIG OL' HUGS 2 U!
Aaron-Carl
Today's W.A.R.M.T.H. Session should be great! New music from Orlando Voorn, plus much more. 7pm-9pm EST. http://ping.fm/8bs73
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Let's link to each other's websites. http://ping.fm/0YU76 Go ahead... Add me. What's your link? I'll add you too.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
In Memorium...
I just received the news this morning. My friend, Andrew "Drew" Decker has passed away... Wednesday night, he died in his sleep -- ironically the same day I last spoke to him. When his wife called me, I couldn't believe it. In a panic, I searched online for some kind of proof -- some kind of sign... Well, I found it.
I know that death is certain, but with this month's recent wave of deaths, I'm almost numb. I'm like, WHY? Why now? Why so young? I could go on and on, but I won't. I know that Drew loved House music -- which is why WE got along so well, obviously... We used to sit around and brainstorm, make plans & work on following our musical dreams. I'll continue on, Drew... But know that you will remain in my heart and as long as there's DETROIT HOUSE & TECHNO, you will live on.. I promise. :-)
Love,
Aaron-Carl
I know that death is certain, but with this month's recent wave of deaths, I'm almost numb. I'm like, WHY? Why now? Why so young? I could go on and on, but I won't. I know that Drew loved House music -- which is why WE got along so well, obviously... We used to sit around and brainstorm, make plans & work on following our musical dreams. I'll continue on, Drew... But know that you will remain in my heart and as long as there's DETROIT HOUSE & TECHNO, you will live on.. I promise. :-)
Love,
Aaron-Carl
Friday, July 10, 2009
Alright... 7pm EST is almost here... Another WARMTH Session tonight! http://warmth313.com or http://ping.fm/eHZxN
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Monday, July 06, 2009
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Friday, July 03, 2009
7pm EST... u know where I'll be... http://warmth313.com Live, on the air. U can also listen via http://ping.fm/W2Twd <3
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Friday, June 26, 2009
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Aaron-Carl remixes Official National PTA Theme Song!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Honoring the billions of children and child advocates around the world, international multi-platinum recording artist and Billboard star CeCe Peniston and National PTA made PTA's new song, "Above Horizons," available for download at www.PTAmusic.org. Peniston & CEO Byron Garrett recruited Detroit Electronic Music Producer Aaron-Carl for remix duties.
"It is such an honor to be a part of such a monumental event," says Carl, a father of two. "I feel like I'm doing my part to show children that with hard work, we can all achieve our dreams."
The release of the song coincides with National PTA's unofficial announcement of DownloadFundraiser.com as a PTA National Member Benefits Provider, and the "category exclusive" digital music retailer for National PTA. DownloadFundraiser.com will help PTAs around the country with their fundraising efforts by offering them their own customizable digital music store which will offer downloadable music, ringtones and music videos. DownloadFundraiser.com and Neurotic Media are managing the sale of "Above Horizons," which is available at www.PTAmusic.org.
It's available in three different versions: "Above Horizons (Original Mix)"; "Above Horizons (Status Mix)"; and "Above Horizons (Aaron-Carl Mix)." The cost is $1 per download or all three mixes are available in a 'bundle' for $2.25. Ringtones of each mix are available for $2.49.
About PTA:
As the nation's largest volunteer parent organization, PTA comprises more than 5 million members, including parents, students, educators, school administrators, and business and community leaders. With more than 25,000 local units, PTA flourishes in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Department of Defense schools in Europe and the Pacific. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned about the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
Download "Above Horizons" HERE
Honoring the billions of children and child advocates around the world, international multi-platinum recording artist and Billboard star CeCe Peniston and National PTA made PTA's new song, "Above Horizons," available for download at www.PTAmusic.org. Peniston & CEO Byron Garrett recruited Detroit Electronic Music Producer Aaron-Carl for remix duties.
"It is such an honor to be a part of such a monumental event," says Carl, a father of two. "I feel like I'm doing my part to show children that with hard work, we can all achieve our dreams."
The release of the song coincides with National PTA's unofficial announcement of DownloadFundraiser.com as a PTA National Member Benefits Provider, and the "category exclusive" digital music retailer for National PTA. DownloadFundraiser.com will help PTAs around the country with their fundraising efforts by offering them their own customizable digital music store which will offer downloadable music, ringtones and music videos. DownloadFundraiser.com and Neurotic Media are managing the sale of "Above Horizons," which is available at www.PTAmusic.org.
It's available in three different versions: "Above Horizons (Original Mix)"; "Above Horizons (Status Mix)"; and "Above Horizons (Aaron-Carl Mix)." The cost is $1 per download or all three mixes are available in a 'bundle' for $2.25. Ringtones of each mix are available for $2.49.
About PTA:
As the nation's largest volunteer parent organization, PTA comprises more than 5 million members, including parents, students, educators, school administrators, and business and community leaders. With more than 25,000 local units, PTA flourishes in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Department of Defense schools in Europe and the Pacific. PTA is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Membership in PTA is open to anyone who is concerned about the education, health, and welfare of children and youth.
Download "Above Horizons" HERE
Friday, June 19, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Monday, June 15, 2009
My label now has its own channel on YouTube. Feat. Erica LaFay's live performance of "Rain." http://ping.fm/nK5fT LINK!
Did a few things on my YouTube page. I will add more vids and stuff soon, so subscribe if u want 2! http://ping.fm/uP5L5
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Thursday, June 11, 2009
I think everyone who cares about Dance Music should read this article... Truer words have never been spoken! http://ping.fm/RoPA1
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
I normally don't get THIS excited about my own productions, but y'all GOTTA hear this one... "RAIN" by Erica LaFay. http://ping.fm/EXArh
AC's latest revelation... Miss Erica LaFay!
Yes, people... I met a girl. A singer from my neighborhood... We made a song together, and OMG, is it fierce! It's called "Rain" and although it's fresh from the studio, I want you all to hear and enjoy it. So, here's a few links I think you should check out.
To hear "Rain" by Erica LaFay, click here.
Let me tell you, the response was so good so far, we made an official ringtone... So, if you'd like it, click here. Or you can just text "ERICALAFAY1" to 69937 and download it that way.
Oh yeah.... And for those who couldn't wait for a CD -- believe me, I've already been asked, y'all!!! You can get it HERE. Right now, we have remixes in the queue, but I'm gonna release those (on Wallshaker, of course) at a later date... But y'all NEED this song RIGHT NOW!
I KNOW this is probably asking a LOT, but I'm asking anyway... When you DO visit her MySpace page, send her an add request -- give her some feedback. Let her know what you think of her debut single, produced by yours truly!
Alright, can you tell I'm excited?
Thanks for listening, and as always, I'll keep u updated with all the latest.
Big love,
AC
To hear "Rain" by Erica LaFay, click here.
Let me tell you, the response was so good so far, we made an official ringtone... So, if you'd like it, click here. Or you can just text "ERICALAFAY1" to 69937 and download it that way.
Oh yeah.... And for those who couldn't wait for a CD -- believe me, I've already been asked, y'all!!! You can get it HERE. Right now, we have remixes in the queue, but I'm gonna release those (on Wallshaker, of course) at a later date... But y'all NEED this song RIGHT NOW!
I KNOW this is probably asking a LOT, but I'm asking anyway... When you DO visit her MySpace page, send her an add request -- give her some feedback. Let her know what you think of her debut single, produced by yours truly!
Alright, can you tell I'm excited?
Thanks for listening, and as always, I'll keep u updated with all the latest.
Big love,
AC
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Friday, June 05, 2009
for those who asked me... you can hear a preview of "Rain" by Ms. Erica LaFay on her MySpace page. http://ping.fm/RS1lz
alright y'all... the tune I've been working on all week is now being debuted tonight on the radio show... http://ping.fm/z570x 7pm EST
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
It's OUT today!!! "I REFUSE" is out TODAY!! Check the remixes, y'all... WOOHOO!! http://ping.fm/dMazL
Monday, June 01, 2009
My latest revelation...
This morning I sent an e-mail to a vinyl distribution company. When I told them I was looking for a "home" for my label, they asked me to send them some music for consideration. My first thought was: Really? ME? After 13 years of successful records, you're telling me I actually have to AUDITION? But then I got over it. I put the old ego aside, and humbly submitted my music for their approval. Believe it or not, it felt good! I felt confident that they'd enjoy the new stuff I was producing.
A few short hours later, I frantically checked my e-mail, and received the reply: "...We probably won't do too well with the more uptempo tracks. When it gets more midtempo and sweaty & deep is when we could work it..." I was like WHAT?! WHAT?! (Calm down ego... calm down...)
Here's where I got confused. Mind you, I do many different styles -- and according to a recent review I read on Discogs, I do many different styles, yet I manage to "hit the mark" every time. (Thank you!)
The company specifically asked me for soulful deep stuff -- ie. Sky, My House, Crucified, Wallshaker... I sent them "Simply," "I Refuse" (both Rennie Foster & Quentin Harris rmxs), "Alright" (duet with Veronique) and my remix of Lady Blacktronika's "Lose My Life" (which was recntly hailed as the "deep house" track of the year). Was I wrong? Is "Simply" not soulful? 'I Refuse?" Are you KIDDING ME?
But anyway, realizing that I can't please EVERYBODY, I took a poll... You may've remembered the "tweet" I sent this afternoon, asking which styles you liked best. And as you might've guessed, the responses were all over the place. I've gotten love for "I Refuse," "Simply" and others like "Sky" & "Crucified" -- and even a few ones like "Drive (I'75)" and "I'm Not Free!" A few responses even said "All of the above!"
Well, as flattering as these answers are, I realize that it's not going to make a difference to the company. It's their money, their choice. They're going to release what they want, and if they only want to re-hash my old songs OVER and OVER again, okay... But really... How many damn remixes of "Crucified" can one do? Or "My House" even? I love these songs (obviously, I WROTE them!), but as an artist, I also love to evolve.
Don't get me wrong... I LOVE that my records have longevity. In fact, it makes me feel so good to know that people are actually following me and LISTENING to the tunes. I guess there's always gonna be that big divide between doing it for the LOVE, or strictly for the MONEY...
Nothing's worse than someone else telling you what YOU'RE worth...
In closing, I'd like to thank everyone who responded to my poll. Your answers proved to me that I can simply be MYSELF -- if that's deep, midtempo, uptempo or even ghettotech, it doesn't matter because somewhere in this world, YOU ARE LISTENING... I appreciate that. So I may have missed out on a vinyl distribution deal, but at least I KNOW what I've suspected all along. GOOD MUSIC is GOOD MUSIC -- and you'll find it one way or another...
Thanks again...
AC
A few short hours later, I frantically checked my e-mail, and received the reply: "...We probably won't do too well with the more uptempo tracks. When it gets more midtempo and sweaty & deep is when we could work it..." I was like WHAT?! WHAT?! (Calm down ego... calm down...)
Here's where I got confused. Mind you, I do many different styles -- and according to a recent review I read on Discogs, I do many different styles, yet I manage to "hit the mark" every time. (Thank you!)
The company specifically asked me for soulful deep stuff -- ie. Sky, My House, Crucified, Wallshaker... I sent them "Simply," "I Refuse" (both Rennie Foster & Quentin Harris rmxs), "Alright" (duet with Veronique) and my remix of Lady Blacktronika's "Lose My Life" (which was recntly hailed as the "deep house" track of the year). Was I wrong? Is "Simply" not soulful? 'I Refuse?" Are you KIDDING ME?
But anyway, realizing that I can't please EVERYBODY, I took a poll... You may've remembered the "tweet" I sent this afternoon, asking which styles you liked best. And as you might've guessed, the responses were all over the place. I've gotten love for "I Refuse," "Simply" and others like "Sky" & "Crucified" -- and even a few ones like "Drive (I'75)" and "I'm Not Free!" A few responses even said "All of the above!"
Well, as flattering as these answers are, I realize that it's not going to make a difference to the company. It's their money, their choice. They're going to release what they want, and if they only want to re-hash my old songs OVER and OVER again, okay... But really... How many damn remixes of "Crucified" can one do? Or "My House" even? I love these songs (obviously, I WROTE them!), but as an artist, I also love to evolve.
Don't get me wrong... I LOVE that my records have longevity. In fact, it makes me feel so good to know that people are actually following me and LISTENING to the tunes. I guess there's always gonna be that big divide between doing it for the LOVE, or strictly for the MONEY...
Nothing's worse than someone else telling you what YOU'RE worth...
In closing, I'd like to thank everyone who responded to my poll. Your answers proved to me that I can simply be MYSELF -- if that's deep, midtempo, uptempo or even ghettotech, it doesn't matter because somewhere in this world, YOU ARE LISTENING... I appreciate that. So I may have missed out on a vinyl distribution deal, but at least I KNOW what I've suspected all along. GOOD MUSIC is GOOD MUSIC -- and you'll find it one way or another...
Thanks again...
AC
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