Confessions of a Classic Soul

OneRepublic’s Dreaming Out Loud as a Lenten Reflection

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 13 years since OneRepublic released their first album, Dreaming Out Loud (herein referred to as DOL for simplicity’s sake). Since 2007, the band’s fame has skyrocketed, making them one of the most prominent bands of the 2000s and 2010s. Not to mention they are fronted by the unstoppable Ryan Tedder, the “Undercover King of Pop,” (catch him on NBC’S Songland in April).

OneRepublic has been an inspiration and a comfort for me over the years. Their music takes on a variety of forms and can be analyzed from different perspectives, like any song, any poem. The band is famous for their universal and relatable ear worms. OneRepublic knows how to capture what it means to be human (in fact their fifth album, due to be released later this year, is entitled Human).

DOL is different than the band’s other three albums, and not simply because it’s the debut album. There is a darker tone to the first half of the album-a sense of self-awareness. The second half features a positive uphill climb. So, from this perspective, the songs as a collective group can be perceived as a Lenten reflection. Christians can find the meaning of Lent in both the dark and the uplifting songs. While OneRepublic’s sole intent was likely not to provide religious commentary, the glory of music is that it holds different meanings for different people.

Let’s take a deeper look into the album–and yes, we’re going song-by-song!

1. “Say (All I Need)”

While this song is not one that you might expect to open an album, it certainly sets the tone for the first half of the album. This song is very materialistic, as the person Tedder refers to throughout lives a lonely life and cannot let go of possessions. The chorus of the song reminds us that we don’t need to obsess over the objects we hold in our hands. Instead, we are encouraged to be grateful for what God has given us–life. From the Christian perspective, we will live fuller and happier lives if we live simply and realize that we only need basic essentials, like air and shelter.

Jesus himself lives simply, and he advises his disciples to do likewise. When he is tempted by Satan in the desert for 40 days, he must live as simply as possible. He did not even eat, thus forsaking even a basic necessity such as food. While this view of life sounds grim, remember: God isn’t saying that we can’t go out and buy things. We just need to be mindful of what we have and what we need.

In the song, the person with the materialistic desires will have trouble finding life as pure and simple as it used to be. This person knows the consequences of these desires, “knows the end.” However, removing the blindfold is another story.

2. “Mercy”

“Mercy” has become one of my favorites on the album. Throughout it we begin to see that sense of self-awareness start to form. Who is this “angel of mercy?” Do you have one in your own life? We all have someone in our lives who has pulled us out of the deep, dark depths of our minds, hearts, souls. The song beautifully narrates the story of a mind in distress. We don’t always think people (or angels) are watching over us. We make elaborate plans and watch them disintegrate before our very eyes. We think we’re doing ok but we’re not. We sometimes think we’re innocent when we’re guilty and sinful. The point is that mercy is available to all of us. We all want to love and to be loved, but humans are prone to sin. So, tragedy ensues and we become desperate for that angel, for mercy.

Forgiveness leads to a fresh start. God doesn’t want us to beat ourselves up. Forgiveness, then, is twofold: God forgives us, and we forgive ourselves. Easier said than done, I know. But God’s love and mercy is always present. It’s not going anywhere. We just have to partake in it and accept it.

In the song, Tedder mentions waiting for a plane. When we are reluctant to forgive ourselves, the reminder of our sin invades our lives. We never forget to beat ourselves up for the sins we have committed. But while we are beating ourselves up, we desperately want to escape. We can’t stand ourselves anymore. Give us a mirror and we flee.

Do we need to escape? Yes. We need to fly to “nowhere” in order to begin again. Consider “nowhere” a place of mercy and love. You are forgiven and you finally forgive yourself. Congratulations: you have a fresh start and can now live life fully!

3. “Stop and Stare”

Ok, I lied. I love “Stop and Stare” more than “Mercy.” “Stop and Stare” is the perfect follow-up to “Mercy” because it continues in that self-awareness/forgiveness/start again vein. In this song, Tedder’s persona is that of someone who can’t hates to look in the mirror, but more so than in “Mercy.” Here he is stuck, but notice he hasn’t escaped the mirror. He embraces it. He is scared to move on and change, but he also can’t deal with the person he is now. This song is charged with tension. It’s about overcoming the self.

Sin makes us hate ourselves, especially once we see what havoc it wreaks on our lives, what it does to our heart and soul. After a while, we see a distorted image of our true selves in the mirror. We want fairness and justice, but do we deserve it? You may tell yourself that you don’t, but God doesn’t believe that to be true. God sent His only son to liberate humans from sin. God sacrificed His only son out of love and mercy. He did this so we might truly live again. Every once in a while we need to “stop and stare” in order to readjust our lives and our paths. God wants what is good for us, and He wants to guide us. By sending Jesus to die for our sins, He has opened the path for us to start again. All we have to do is accept the path and set our feet upon it.

4. “Apologize”

Now to a song that has withstood the test of time: OneRepublic’s first number one hit. And for the record, as a musician, I still count all sixteen measures until Ryan Tedder begins singing!

This song takes on a bit of a different direction, as the sole theme is “no, I don’t accept your apology. It’s way too late for that.” I don’t mean to speak ill of the song, but from a Christian/Lenten lens, withholding an apology and clutching onto a grudge is one of many ways to harm the human heart and soul. Yet, the anger in this song is something we humans recognize all too well. We all know what it’s like to be betrayed, and sometimes we don’t want to let things go. If the other person didn’t care enough about me and my feelings, then why should I give him a second chance?

Quite simply: God will always forgive you (He even sent his son to die on a cross for you), so you must forgive others in order to be truly free. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespassed against us…”

5. “Goodbye Apathy”

Thanks to OneRepublic and this song, I learned the word “apathy” back in middle school. And even though the word does not bear a positive connotation, it’s one of my favorite words!

This song is complex. There are so many emotions going on here for a song about apathy. But wait–it’s a song about ditching apathy. He can’t sleep; he can’t walk right; he can’t breathe. This song may be the ultimate self-awareness song that the others have led up to. Finally, he is able to ditch his apathy. From the sound of it, he’s found a purpose, or someone, to live for. Emotions and empathy have begun to trickle back into his life and he is ready to dive back into life–into living. Yet, everyone is still watching him. These repeated lines at the end of the song show that people are skeptical of his transformation. Has he really turned from the apathetic side? Is he really empathetic now?

Much like the other songs on the album thus far, man is wrought with tension. His feelings are very raw and human. God wants us to express those feelings. What He doesn’t want is for us to be careless, and sometimes that seems impossible. With all of the chaos and evil in the world, it’s easier to turn off the news and not care for a while. We just have to be careful that we don’t become self-absorbed and turn away for too long, or our souls will pay the price. The more we turn inward and discard those who are in most need, the more we ruin ourselves and our relationship with God.

P.s. “Goodbye Apathy” is this month’s Monthly Mixtape. Head over to the Monthly Mixtape page to see features from previous months.

6. “All Fall Down”

Before we jump into this song, I need to pause and give a shout out to another member of OneRepublic. Brent Kutzle plays cello on a number or 1R songs, especially on DOL songs. Have you ever known a pop/rock band with a cellist?!

“All Fall Down” relates back to “Mercy” and “Stop and Stare.” When doesn’t our world come crashing down? The truth is, we are all human; sometimes it’s easy to forget because we get self-absorbed in our own problems. But as humans, we all fall down. It’s inevitable. We still like to beat ourselves up for it. Me? I’m a perfectionist. I hate falling down, but sometimes we just have to fail.

God speaks to us in our failings. When we fall down, He is there to pick us up. He loves us no matter how many times we fall or how many times we sin and betray Him. If His love wasn’t unconditional, then He never would have sent His only son to save us.

7. “Tyrant”

OneRepublic did it again. Thanks to them, I learned the word “tyrant” back in middle school alongside “apathy.” This song has a rock edge to it, something a little similar to what you would hear Imagine Dragons do these days. Looking back, it’s surprising that it’s a OneRepublic song, which makes the song even more powerful and unique.

“Tyrant” takes that self-awareness we just spent the past six songs forming and shatters it completely. Here, mercy has went out the window. Sin and evil are more important. This tyrant only cares about himself. He’d rather lie and live in denial. He doesn’t want justified. He believes he’s doing just fine. The apathy is back, and he can’t see that he’s actually blind to life.

Wow, we’ve taken a nosedive here. With that being said, we’re still human, and this type of evil runs in our veins at certain times in our lives. Our world has seen a number of tyrants over the centuries. In the end, we must turn to God and put our focus on Him. If we live too much by the world’s values, we’ll become self-absorbed tyrants for sure.

8. “Prodigal”

You read the title. You know where I’m going with this one, don’t you? The biblical story of the “Prodigal Son” is echoed in this song. I’ll admit, this song has always confused me a bit. The person Tedder is addressing is the prodigal, the one who will take anything. But Tedder is ashamed of the person and still wants to be with them? Huh?

Put simply, God, like the father in the biblical story, is always happy to see the return of a lost son. Jesus’ parable about saving one sheep and leaving the other 99 behind is also very similar to the situation here. God is not ashamed of us, and He will continue to love us. Drawing back to “Say (All I Need),” we sometimes have a habit of obsessing over material goods. Sometimes we get sucked up in the world and lose sight of who we truly are. God will be there to save us in the end, but only if we want Him to.

9. “Won’t Stop”

We’ve made to the positive uphill climb! “Won’t Stop” begins the ascent we’ve been waiting for. On a sidenote, I always thought this song would make for a great duet!

Even though the song is meant to be romantic, you can also look at it from a Christian perspective. God always waits for you. He’s not going anywhere. Or, you can look at this song from a different perspective. Perhaps it’s you who realizes that your heart is going to beat for God. He is the one who will bring you back to life.

10. “All We Are”

Still on that uphill climb, “All We Are” speaks a lot for human relationships, especially romantic ones. When drastic change hits, we feel lost and don’t know where to turn. We even lose who we are. But when it comes to relationships, you don’t have to let these big changes ruin the relationship. Separation isn’t always necessary. People bring out the best in each other, and that’s the beauty of human relationships. No matter how hard we try, we need each other.

Friendships have a unbreakable bond; marriages are covenants. God doesn’t want us to give up. During Lent, one of the best things we can do is reflect on our relationships and brainstorm ways in which we can make them better, asking God for guidance along the way.

11. “Someone to Save You”

Don’t you need someone to save you? Similar to the “angel of mercy,” the song is a bit more accusatory, but we get a clear sense that the person Tedder is speaking to needs help. This person has been patient for way too long, likely because of apathy (I vote we rename this album Apathy)! The “angel of mercy” in this song is honesty. How often do we lie to ourselves in order to make ourselves feel (or look) better? How often do we go on believing something about ourselves that isn’t true? We don’t actually find out what this person has done–why honesty is needed. We don’t know if the person is believing negative things about herself or if she’s ignorant of the evil she’s done.

Regardless, honesty is the cure. No matter what we believe, God knows the truth, and we can’t hide from Him. In fact, He wants to help us find honesty. Like Tedder in the song, God doesn’t want to lose us. He doesn’t want us to head down this dark road that we can’t come back from. The farther we travel, the more we stray from honesty and who we are. We need God to show us a bit of honesty so we can rediscover ourselves and become free. In fact, God does send someone to save us: Jesus. And Jesus’ parables, miracles, and life help us return to honesty.

12. “Come Home”

I have much to say about this song in general, but I’ll try to limit myself. This song is beautiful from a lover’s standpoint. Such gentleness and such storytelling! If we relate it to Christianity, the song is a reminder that God wants us to come home to Him. He’s been waiting. Our loved ones have been waiting for us, too. Home is Heaven, the true home we’ve been striving for throughout this journey, throughout these past 11 songs. God makes us whole. God has been fighting for us the whole time. He went (and continues to go) to extraordinary lengths to have us with Him. Forever.

13. “Apologize” with Timbaland

Yes, this is the radio version of the song. A little different, but still iconic. And since we’ve already discussed the song at great lengths, I won’t torture you with it again. You’re welcome!

OneRepublic has been addressing the human condition in their songs throughout their entire career. Their debut album was no exception to this pattern. While each song holds different meanings for different listeners, the album as a whole can be a depiction of the human condition in connection with Christianity. During this crazy Lenten season, may we take a second to really step back and reflect on our lives and our relationship with God. And if you need some extra inspiration, I recommend Dreaming Out Loud.

Further Listening

If this review has left you craving more OneRepublic, I recommend all of their albums; however, I especially want to promote their newly released single, “Better Days.” It aligns with everything I’ve analyzed here in DOL. There will be better days. God hasn’t given up on us, so we can’t give up on Him. He’s always there to cheer us on!

Join the Discussion!

What song on this album speaks to you the most?

10 Things You would Never Hear the Dispatcher Say on Adam-12

Officers Pete Malloy (Martin Milner) and Jim Reed (Kent McCord) patrol LA and respond to a variety of criminal situations. Each crime, which is claimed to be based on real life events experienced by the LAPD, is announced by the dispatcher (Shaaron Claridge). Some of the situations turn out to be amusing, like when a boy gets his head stuck in a fence, or when a woman thinks there’s a rattlesnake in her suitcase when it’s actually an electric toothbrush. But how crazy can the crime get? Below is a list of 10 things you would never hear the dispatcher say.

“One Adam-12, One Adam 12…”

See the male, age 19, running from the college cafeteria with a 10-quart container of ice cream.🍨
See the woman with 5-inch stilettos break into a Camaro with a microphone stand. 👠
See the man outside of a burning warehouse who claims it caught fire while he was searching for his pet iguana. 🦎
Reported claims of disturbance at the bandshell between two clarinetists. 🎼
See the man, aged-40, chasing poodle down 5th and Main, weaving between traffic. 🐩
See two men dressed as cowboys having a gunfight in front of the supermarket. 🤠
Possible robbery at Smith’s Flower Shop. Suspect fled on foot. Sprinklers turned on inside shop.⚘
See the woman, early thirties and black hair, runs three redlights in Dodge pickup. Lava lamps in bed of truck. 🚦
Possible arsonist at Sunset Donut Shop on Nutmeg Avenue. 🍩
Robbery in progress: dog runs out of Joe’s corner store with jar of peanut butter on its head. 🥜

Join the Discussion!

Have a better situation that the dispatcher would never say? We’d love to hear it!

Dear Ijeawele and Rejecting Likability

At Saint Vincent College, several classes across a variety of disciplines are reading the Feminist Manifesto. In order to promote feminism on campus, each class is creating projects to coincide with Adichie’s powerful suggestions.

For our creative nonfiction course, we were asked to write a flash essay on an assigned suggestion. My suggestion was number eight: reject likability. Read my essay below!

Suggestion Eight: Reject Likability

S— was determined to not allow his speech impediment to prevent him from the things he loved most: working outside and cheering on the Steelers. For about a year or two, he and I were pulled out of our elementary homerooms to attend sessions with the speech therapist. His lessons were more intense than mine, as I was only there to work on my lisp. At first, I couldn’t decipher a word of what S— was attempting to say. But as I heard his progress and witnessed his hard work, I began to understand him, especially during our bus rides home when we would talk.

Not everyone acknowledged the school bus as a “no bullying zone.” In fact, I was bullied on the bus more than on school grounds. The other boys, naturally, viewed S—‘s speech difficulties as humorous, and they seized the opportunity to remind S— of it any chance they could. I remember S— would pound the back of the bus seat in frustration, his face growing bright pink. He’d quickly wipe away the tears in hope that no one would see him.

One day, the boys were verbally attacking S—, like always. S—‘s defenses were useless, and the frustration began to boil inside of me. Knowing that I’d likely be the next victim if I raised my voice, I spoke up anyway. “Leave him alone! Stop it!” Then the next round of insults was shot in my direction.

Photo by Linda Eller-Shein on Pexels.com

In the moment, I felt ashamed. These boys, some of whom I had likely played with at recess just a few years earlier, were mocking me. If they liked me before, they didn’t now. But on this day, the desire to support the underdog was ingrained in my heart.

Join the Discussion!

When is a time that you rejected likability?

Monthly Mixtape: “Love Potion no. 9”–Thirty-Third and Vine is Safer

It’s still February, meaning love is still floating in the air–well, arguably anyway. A few months ago I discovered “Love Potion no. 9.” Once the catchy and bouncy song enters your brain, it never leaves! But that’s one of the wonders of ’60s music. Except the song wasn’t created in the ’60s.

“Love Potion no. 9” was originally performed by The Clovers, a Motown band, in 1959. It wasn’t until 1963 that the track got a British makeover by The Searchers.

The first version of the song I head was by The Searchers, so I’ll admit that I’m biased toward it. The Searchers covered a variety of songs, including “Sweets for My Sweet,” “Stand by Me,” and “Twist and Shout.”

Let’s do some comparing of this mysterious-sounding ear worm. The Clovers perform the song at a slower tempo, giving it a classic Motown soul feel. I don’t actually mind this version, now that I’m listening to it again. The slower tempo and the singer’s elongated syllables promote an eerie feeling. And don’t forget the sax solo in the middle! There’s a suspense that makes the listener say, “Don’t take your troubles down to Madame Rue! Stay away from Thirty-Fourth and Vine!”

The Searchers, on the other hand, up the tempo of the song, giving it more of a bouncy feel (oh no, I’ve started swaying!!). The story doesn’t sound as eerie since it’s more upbeat, but the listener can imagine a somewhat comical picture of a nerdy guy stumbling down to get some love potion. Then the listener sees the same guy in a stupor of love, kissing light posts, trash cans, you name it! This cover fits the light and airy mood of other songs from its decade.

No matter which version you prefer, the verdict is that the song provides easy listening and is all-around pure fun. So go out and buy your little bottle of Love Potion no. 9 now! Don’t delay!

“Monthly Mixtape” is a monthly segment featuring a long-forgotten or underappreciated song that deserves to be blasted from rooftops…or just inside your four bedroom walls.

Join the Discussion

Which version of “Love Potion no. 9” do you prefer? Either way, you can’t go wrong!

7 Characteristics of a Classic Soul

What traits make you an old soul? Below you’ll find a list of traits (which is in no particular order) that I’ve come across in my reading and in my personal experience. Will you agree? Maybe you’ll find that you are an old soul after all!

1. The Old Soul is Rational

Old souls don’t rush their decisions. They carefully contemplate the most practical solution or answer. They don’t see the value of acting on a whim. In fact, old souls are usually advice-givers.

2. The Old Soul is Loyal and Trustworthy

I began thinking about this trait while researching Croatia. Croatians are loyal to each other and are committed to helping each other, especially family members. Of course, you can be an old soul and have no Croatian blood flowing through your veins (unlike me!). Nonetheless, the old soul is someone who can be counted on. The old soul is reliable.

3. The Old Soul is Often an Introvert

Not all old souls are introverted, but many are. These old souls need time alone in order to contemplate and make informed decisions. At the same time, they need to focus on their own needs and desires after spending an extended amount of time with other people.

4. The Old Soul Loves to Learn

As a college student, learning is embedded in my “job description.” However, I admit that I enjoy learning new things, especially about my passions and interests. Old souls are curious about the world around them. After all, how can you help change the world and make important decisions if you don’t learn and stay informed. Plus, your wealth of knowledge can be helpful if you find yourself on Jeopardy!.

5. The Old Soul Spends Time with the Older Generation

Younger old souls enjoy spending time with people who are older than them. Young old souls are able to both gain advice from and share interests with the older generation. I honestly wish that I would have appreciated this trait earlier on in my own life. When I was younger, I didn’t mind being around people who were older than me; I just didn’t understand why. It’s refreshing to find people who share your ways of thinking!

6. The Old Soul Isn’t Obsessed with Current Trends

Tyler, one of my book characters, is up with all of the current trends, although by current I mean the ’80s–think denim, Star Wars, cherry cola. Nonetheless, Tyler is certainly not an old soul. Old souls take pleasure in things of the past (see number 7) or in things that aren’t as popular. However, this is not to say that we old souls don’t like current trends. Growing up, I may not have been a Jonas Brothers fan, but I took part in the Silly Bandz phase–yes, you may laugh. True, I may have three old decades’ worth of music bouncing between my ears, but I still appreciate some of today’s artists (OneRepublic and Imagine Dragons, if we’re being specific).You get the gist.

7. The Old Soul Appreciates Classics

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the old soul loves classics–literature, music, movies and TV, cars…need I go on? Personally, I find this trait to be the most exciting and the most frustrating alongside of all the rest. I pride myself in knowing the classics, but, when you’re young, it’s hard to relate to others your age when no one has a clue who or what you’re chattering about! This struggle is likely why younger old souls seek out older generations. On the other hand, old souls really create their own little worlds, even if those worlds are recreations of the past they never knew. This world can truly be a much needed escape. After all, how will the classics remain alive without young old souls?

Reference/Further Reading:

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/15-signs-youre-old-soul.html

Join the Discussion

Are you an old soul? What traits above define you the most?

Five Famous Personalities Belt out Beatles’ Tunes

A review of the “It was Fifty Years Ago Today” Tour.

From https://bestclassicbands.com/beatles-white-album-tribute-tour-9-30-19/

“It Was Fifty Years Ago Today”

In the fall of 2019, an unusual cast of well-known and quirky musicians embarked on a Beatles tribute tour that was unlike any other. “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today” paid tribute to the White Album, although, yes, 2019 marked 51 years since the album’s debut. The tour featured Christopher Cross, Micky Dolenz (The Monkees), Joey Molland (Badfinger), Todd Rundgren, and Jason Scheff (Chicago). Each artist’s connection to the Fab Four made the combination of voices and personalities apt and, in the eyes of this 20-year old, perfect!

“The Young Generation”

Let’s back up for a second. Aside from attending performances by local symphonies and instrumentalists, I had never been to a concert that featured one of my favorite musicians – one from the pop/rock world. Over the past year, I’ve quickly ascended the ranks of Monkee fandom. Truthfully, I had always been a fan, as I distinctly remember blasting “Daydream Believer” on a cassette tape that was a part of my mom’s ” ’50s and ’60s Greatest Hits” collection set. But I didn’t know much about a group who intentionally spelled “monkey” incorrectly. After Peter Tork’s passing, my mom called me at college to tell me that one of the local channels was going to start running The Monkees. Curious, I clicked on the television and entered a new world, a new escape. Until that moment, I thought that Davy sang every song (clearly I couldn’t tell the difference between a British voice and an American voice??). I was soon corrected, of course, and I became absorbed in the silliness of the show. Why? Well, I’ve always been mature for my age. I’m too serious, and I worry way too much. For thirty minutes, Micky, Davy, Mike, and Peter take me away from everyday life and I can nerd-out. I also escape to the Monkees’ world in an attempt to distract myself from my dad’s illness. The TV band provided me with an outlet, a place where I can go and get lost in cheesy antics. I also firmly believe that a lot of their music is underrated today, despite the fact they weren’t meant to be an actual rock band. But that rant is for another time…

When I learned about “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today,” I was excited to find that Micky was still performing. I had never truly planned on experiencing this amazing concert, as the only tour date I spied in PA was on the other side of the state. One morning, after finishing a mentally exhausting online quiz, I stumbled upon a social media notification alerting me that the tour was coming to the Palace Theatre in Greensburg. I was in sheer disbelief. I thought it was a lie. It had to have been a mistake – another Palace Theatre. But no indeed – I had the opportunity to watch Micky Dolenz perform before my own eyes. And as a super ’80s music fan, I was excited for Christopher Cross, too. Reality didn’t set in until November 30.

Show of a Lifetime

After flickering lights and missile sound effects, all five performers appeared on stage to open with “Back in the U.S.S.R.” The room was full of an energy I was not quite prepared for, but I loved it, even in the very back row!

Mr. Dolenz provided the opening remarks, as he introduced his fellow musicians. He himself needed no introduction, but while Rundgren performed “Everybody’s Got Something to Hide Except Me and My Monkey,” Dolenz appeared on stage as a “Monkee.” Each artist performed several of his own hits in the former half of the show.

As to be expected, Dolenz proudly sang “I’m a Believer” and “Pleasant Valley Sunday.” He didn’t disappoint! Then we jammed with Joey Molland on Badfinger’s “No Matter What.” It took me a second to recall that Molland is actually British! The stage lights dimmed to a blue–a “Baby Blue” that is! Jason Scheff played guitar as Molland sang on.

And speaking of Scheff, I was a little nervous to hear Chicago songs, because, until then, I hadn’t heard anyone but Peter Cetera belt out songs such as “25 or 6 to 4.” But I didn’t need to worry, because Scheff’s performance of “25 or 6 to 4” was phenomenal. He dominated the notes as the signature bass line and guitar riffs swelled along with him. It was an electrifying moment, from a first-time concert-goer’s experience. Scheff also sang the emotional “Hard to Say I’m Sorry.”

Todd Rundgren performed his signature hits “Hello It’s Me” and “I Saw the Light.” He later introduced Christopher Cross, making a joke about seeing Cross “Sailing” down Pittsburgh’s three rivers. Cross followed “Sailing” with the iconic “Ride Like the Wind.” Scheff took over the back-up vocals that were originally sung by Michael McDonald. I guess you can say it was the first time I had heard one of my favorite ’80s tunes live. I was satisfied!

With the promise that “the Beatles had some good songs, too,” the second half of the show took the audience back in time to the White Album. The group covered a great deal of the album, so I’ll relate what I can remember!

I loved Christopher Cross’s version of “Blackbird.” His soothing voice was perfect for such a ballad. He also sang “I Will” and then joined Scheff on a gentle and comforting version of “Julia.”

Rundgren gave a performance, that much is indisputable! First of all, he covered “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” The song itself matched Rundgren’s musical style as well as his range. His seriousness soon vanished, however, and his versions of “Sexy Sadie” and “Bungalow Bill” had, well, costume changes. I–well–you just have to see it for yourself (see below). And yes, there was a squirt gun. I was very glad to be in the last row.

Mr. Dolenz came back onstage for several songs throughout the second half, and I was excited to see what would happen. He asked us all one very important question, “Why Don’t We do it in the Road?” Well, I think the answer is obvious, but nonetheless Micky sang intensely, giving emotion and assertiveness to such a blunt question! Story time occurred later on as he recounted the ballad of “Rocky Raccoon.” I had completely forgotten that he was going to sing “Happiness is a Warm Gun.” I was pleasantly surprised, and, again, his voiced soared as Mother Superior chose to “jump the gun.”

The famous and quirky group ended with “Birthday,” encouraging the audience to stand and clap along. But as with every concert, the guys strode back onstage for the encore. Want to take a guess at the song? Yes, it was “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da.” Needless to say, I didn’t want the night to end, but, of course, “life goes on.”

For me, the concert was an ultimate experience for a young old soul. This unique grouping was a onetime experience. I’m truly grateful for this amazing opportunity, and I won’t be forgetting it anytime soon. Just like the Beatles, these musicians know the true power of music. They enjoyed the night just as we did, and they succeeded in celebrating the legacy of the Fab Four, as well as their own individual legacies.

Join the Discussion!

Do you have a favorite song from either the White Album or from one of the “It Was Fifty Years Ago Today” artists?

When “You’re Lost and on Your Own,” Take Corey Hart’s Advice (Monthly Mixtape)

*Boy in the Box.*
https://coacs.home.blog/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2fa7b-boyinthebox.jpg

Music has a power that is so complicatedly wonderful, it is sometimes too difficult to string together into words. Songs have the ability to hold up a mirror to our hearts and souls, as if they knew exactly how we are feeling. Songwriters craft songs from emotion and the human condition. As a result, their music is relatable and even uplifting. So when “you’re lost and on your own”, I recommend taking Corey Hart’s advice and “Never Surrender.”

“Never Surrender” was a number one Canadian hit for the (also Canadian) singer/songwriter, and it was one of four hits released from the 1985 album, Boy in the Box. The song only climbed to number three on the U.S. charts, but over one million copies of the album were sold. You may be thinking, if the song was so popular, why are you featuring it on Monthly Mixtape?

From personal experience, I’ve realized that this song has little airplay these days (at least in my small town in Pennsylvania). “Sunglasses at Night” scarfs up all of the attention, as it also deserves, but “Never Surrender” is easily one of those songs that comes from the heart and speaks to the heart. In a Video Hits interview from 1985, Corey Hart agreed that the song was very personal to him and was like a biography.

“Never Surrender” is like a letter to oneself. It’s theme of staying true to yourself and not giving in to pressure is universal, but Corey Hart’s songwriting is poetic, and the repetition helps to emphasize that you’re not alone and don’t have to surrender. Staying true to ’80s style, the signature saxophone solo in the middle of the song is memorable. The saxophone’s wailing first echoes of despair, but it soon rises to a proud anthem of assurance. The solo symbolizes a journey, and the ascending scale leads to inspiration and success in the end. And if that inspiration didn’t remove all doubt from your mind, Corey Hart’s gentle voice enters to remind you once more that you aren’t alone.

Check out all “Monthly Mixtapes” under the tab on the homepage.

References/Additional Reading

https://www.billboard.com/music/corey-hart/chart-history/HSI/song/334031

“Monthly Mixtape” is a monthly segment featuring a long-forgotten or underappreciated song that deserves to be blasted from rooftops…or just inside your four bedroom walls.

Join the Discussion!

What does the song “Never Surrender” mean to you? What memories or emotions does it recall?

Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who has viewed, read, commented, and followed Confessions of a Classic Soul so far! Please share COACS with your family and friends!

Upcoming

Stay tuned for my review of the “It was Fifty Years Ago Today” tour, a tribute to the Beatles White Album which was performed by other famous musicians.

Author Interview

In December 2019, my short story “The Branded Shadow” was published in The Twofer Compendium. Check out my interview with the publisher, Celestial Echo Press. You can find the interview on Facebook and Instagram (see links on homepage).

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Do you have an picture that you think would make a great addition to the Touch of Old School Gallery? Do you have a topic idea or a rare song that we might like to feature? Send us your ideas via the message form under the contact page.

Stay Tuned!

When in Doubt, Eat Grandma’s Pancakes!

Pancakes made from Grandma Norma’s recipe.

In today’s fast-paced society, we don’t always have time to cook our meals from scratch. As a result, we tend to rely on pre-prepared foods, and pancakes are no exception. Sure pancakes from a box are still fluffy and delightful, but if you’re looking for a homemade pancake recipe, search no further. Grandma Norma’s pancakes have you covered!

In Mom’s collection of recipes, you can find a hand-written (in cursive) piece of paper with the famous pancake recipe. Once Mom taught me how to make them, I was hooked. I spent many Friday nights after school making pancakes for dinner.

Grandma’s handwritten recipe. To me, it’s an artifact to remember her by.

According to Mom, Grandma used the recipe for years, which likely came from her own mother. Mom recalled that one of her cousins would love to sleepover just to have fluffy pancakes for breakfast.

Without further ado, here is Grandma’s recipe:

Ingredients

2 bowls for mixing (I suggest using at least one bowl with a spout)
1 whisk or spoon
1 cooking pan
A spatula
1 1/2 cups of flour
3/4 teaspoon of salt
3 teaspoons of baking powder
2 tablespoons of sugar
1 egg
1 cup of milk
1/2 cup of water
3 tablespoons of vegetable oil

Time

Prep time: approx. 10 minutes

Cook time: approx. 15-20 minutes

Total time: approx. 30 minutes

Makes 12-14 pancakes.

Steps

Sift the flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar in bowl.
Beat eggs in a separate bowl and add milk and water.
Pour the liquid mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until the batter is moist. The batter will be lumpy.
Stir in oil.
(Optional) I like to add dashes of vanilla and cinnamon into my batter. Feel free to add any extra ingredients you like.
Grease your pan if necessary and turn on the stovetop to let your pan grow warm. I suggest using a lower heat setting.
Once the pan is warmed up, spoon the batter or pour directly into the pan.
Once the batter forms broken bubbles, flip over the pancake with a spatula. Cook until the bottom is brown.
Serve and enjoys with your favorite toppings!

Flip over the pancake once it bubbles. Don’t be surprised if your first batch is lighter on top. The higher the heat, the darker the pancake will be. Confession: my pancakes are usually dark and football-shaped! 🏈

That’s all there is to it! Enjoy!

Join the Discussion!

What’s your ultimate pancake look like? Do you have a favorite flavor or topping?

If you have an old fashioned recipe that you’d like to share on COACS, send us a message via our contact form.

Ringing in the New Year with Suggestion, Spectacle, and Serling

Image from: https://www.syfy.com/syfywire/20-years-twilight-zone-new-years-marathon-and-20-things-you-didnt-know-about-show

You know where you are when you hear both the iconic theme song and Rod’s eerily comforting voice. Ah, The Twilight Zone! Every year the Syfy channel plays a two-day marathon from New Year’s Eve through New Year’s Day. For me, this marathon has become a tradition that I look forward to, as I’m able to geek-out with no regrets. As I indulged this year, I began thinking about and analyzing how episodes of The Twilight Zone compare to classic horror films and appeal to audiences. The Twilight Zone is a subgenre of horror, so it includes the horror film techniques of suggestion and spectacle. Similar to horror films, Twilight Zone stories relate to the human experience.

Suggestion and Spectacle

According to Bruce Kawin, author of Horror and the Horror Film, many horror film directors employ the techniques of suggestion and spectacle in their motion pictures. With suggestion, viewers imply events of the plot based on the clues they see on the screen. For example, in the famous Twilight Zone episode “Eye of the Beholder,” viewers can imply that the hospital staff may not look like average humans because the camera does not reveal the staffs’ faces until the end of the episode. Likewise, viewers may come to think that Janet Tyler’s face is truly is hideous based on her dialogue and heavily bandaged face. Spectacle, on the other hand, occurs when the viewers directly witness an event. Toward the end of “Eye of the Beholder,” the viewers plainly see the hospital staffs’ distorted and disturbing faces.

Other instances of spectacle and suggestion take place in the episode “Night Call.” The weak and haunting voice on the other end of the phone sounds otherworldly, suggesting that the caller may be a ghost or a member of the undead. When the old woman travels to the cemetery and discovers that the broken telephone wire is in the grave of her deceased lover, she and the viewers witness a spectacle.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
Spectacle and Suggestion are Present in “Night Call.”

The Human Experience

But how does The Twilight Zone connect to the human experience and psyche? One way the TV series connects to viewers is through the depiction of traumatic and frightening experiences, such as war and alien invasions. Bryan Alexander, in his book review of W. Scott Poole’s Wasteland, explains that after World War I, each country dealt with the grief and trauma of the war by creating movies that featured monsters (like Frankenstein and Nosferatu) who embodied the grotesque. In Twilight Zone episodes such as “The Passerby” and “The Purple Testament,” death and war is central to the plot. In “the Passerby,” the zombie-like soldiers trudging down the road represent the casualties of the Civil War, and therefore embody the fear of that great death. Even Abraham Lincoln appears in the end of the episode! The fear of death also attracts audiences because it is a natural, yet intriguing feeling. The viewers are left curious, wanting to know how death plays a role in the story. Some viewers may even watch such episodes in order to try and overcome their fears.

Additionally, The Twilight Zone features morals at the end of each episode. Rod Serling’s narrations summarize the human experience and mentions the dangers of certain human behaviors. He even quotes Shakespeare several times. The plots of the episodes also relate to human feelings and desires. For example, viewers can recall times when they were greedy by watching “The Fever.” In this episode, Franklin Gibbs, who was recently dead-set against gambling, becomes addicted to slot machines and drives himself to the brink of madness. Because of his addiction, Gibbs falls out a window and dies. Viewers can be reminded of the consequences of greed by watching this episode.

Photo by Daria Sannikova on Pexels.com
Gambling leads to Franklin Gibbs’ tragic downfall in “The Fever.” *Twilight Zone* episodes typically feature a moral, which helps them relate to the audience.

The Twilight Zone will be immortalized in pop culture, thanks to the directors’ use of techniques such as suggestion and spectacle. While viewers may not classify the TV series as “scary,” viewers would likely agree that the series appeals to their sense of curiosity and familiarity. Just like horror films, the plots of Twilight Zone episodes may start too close to home but then they complete a full 360 and soar into another dimension. The series has survived throughout the generations, and directors have even rebooted the series to reflect more modern times. Viewers just cannot help being pulled into the unknown – to the fifth dimension where logic and life will never be the same. Enter on your own accord…

Works Cited

Alexander, Bryan. “The Horror of War and the Thrill of Horror.” Reason Foundation,

pp.46, August/September 2019.

Kawin, Bruce F. Horror and the Horror Film. Anthem Press, 2012. EBSCOhost,

search.ebscohost.com/login.aspxdirect=true&db=nlebk&AN=470549&site=ehost-

live

Serling, Rod, creator. The Twilight Zone. Cayuga Productions in association with CBS

Television Network, 1959-1964.

Join the Discussion!

Why do you think that The Twilight Zone has gained so much popularity over the years?