Monuments to Men

                                                                                By Scott Coner

                                          Nashville Recording Artist, Songwriter, Performer, and Author

     The other night my family watched “Monuments Men.” It is a movie directed by and co-starring George Clooney. To be honest, I would have passed on the show altogether, but our oldest daughter has been studying art history in class, and the story has been a topic. Mr. Clooney has a bit of a mouth on him when it comes to political opinions, but I am more than willing to keep my thoughts to myself. Everybody has an opinion anyway so what does it matter?

     We watched the story unfold, and I have to admit it was touching, to say the least. The characters came to life before our eyes. The art seemed to leap out at you from the screen. The screenwriters, as well as George Clooney, made a movie that told a part of history that should not be forgotten by any of us. I went to bed that night with the show's message weaving through my mind. I begin to wonder if we are that far apart if you get down to the brass tax of it all. Our country has been through so much to get where we are. We are allowed to stand anywhere within our borders and proclaim proudly and surely that we are the greatest nation in the world. But are we the greatest people? I think we are. Our people grew this nation with the common goal of being proud and committed Americans. During the industrial age, I don’t think people were coming here to divide us or try to kill us. They came here to chase a dream. They wanted to be American. Of course, they would still hold on to their own heritage. As a matter of fact, they would share it with the rest of us. But make no mistake. The people that built this country wanted the American way of life.

Scott Coner performing "Line In It"

     Here we are all of these years later divided right down the middle. The difference is we have news media telling outright lies from both sides of the fence. If you will agree with their news, they know you will be back the next day for more of their version of the “truth.” We all buy into it myself included. I may go to the gym early in the morning and see CNN twisting a story around to the point that I can’t believe it’s even legal to say such nonsense. Later that same day, I might here Rush giving his take on the position of our world. You can pick and choose pretty much any news contributor you want. I watch Fox in the mornings when I can, probably because they seem like they are giving basic facts for the most part. But, later in the day they sure like to give you their opinions as much as any of the others. It’s a slippery slope, to say the least. But with magazines, newspapers, radio and media coming at us all day and night, we begin to find ourselves joining one team or other for sure. Maybe in the midst of it, we lose our true identity. Maybe we give up the part of ourselves that knows what is right and what is wrong. Maybe if given a chance, we could find common ground. We may not be all that far apart.

Scott Coner's music video to "Line In It"

     “Monuments Men” seemed to remind me of this. George Clooney obviously has a passion for art as well as people. That fact just spills out of the screen. He also feels very differently about certain parts of our constitution than I do? It doesn’t matter, does it? He is just one man with a pretty loud microphone. You may be a woman or a man from a different view than me. But do we need to be enemies? Do we have to have such a great divide? Do we have common ground we can meet on and start from there? What about these people representing both sides in Washington? How can our country find it’s way back? Obviously, I am not qualified to answer that question. But maybe, if we tried to find the good in other Americans rather than waste energy being full of hate, we could move towards one another.

     We have some big decisions to make as a generation. If we look at our country like we look at our little families, we might make sense of some of it. For instance, every night before I go to bed, I lock the doors and set the alarm. Then I tell everyone in the house, “I love them and goodnight.” We do our best to make sure our kids do well in school. We pay our taxes. We watch our budget, so we don’t go broke. We try to help those around us that need help when possible. We take care of ourselves and try to stay healthy. We want our kids to have a promising future. We want them to love and appreciate others. We want them to keep Jesus in the center of all things. We want to celebrate our lives and our passions. We buy local when we can. We take care of our home. We love our country and her people. What part of this can we not agree on? Better yet, where in this short list can we find common ground? The condition of the country at this moment in history is going to wind up being part of all of our legacies. We can all do better. I’ll start with me.      

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Scott Coner is a country singer-songwriter who has worked in the studio with legendary artists such as Tanya Tucker, T. Graham Brown and Charlie Daniels. You can learn more about him and hear his music at his music page.            

   

  

“She Usually Hums ‘Yellow Submarine’ When She’s Thinking”

                                                                                   By Scott Coner

                                             Nashville Recording Artist, Songwriter, Performer, and Author  

     Our oldest daughter turns 21 years old this Tuesday. Her name is Emily Sae, and in many ways, I believe she has been the bond that allowed my wife and I to stay together. It was pretty tough back then when Cyndi and I got together. But, when Emily came along, all bets were off. There wasn’t anything in the world I wouldn’t do for my family, and you can bet my wife feels the same. I’ll never forget the day when Cyndi told me I was going to be a dad. She and I were still a long way from being on our feet financially, but we both knew God had his hand on our little family. He still does.

 

                         Emily and family dog Brandy                                    Scott Coner and daughter Emily

     Cyndi had this pretty green maternity top that I thought she looked gorgeous in. I remember walking with her holding her hand. I didn’t know how to be a dad. I didn’t know how to hold a baby. I didn’t know how to do anything. But Emily was on her way. Her arrival was special. To me, it was like the arrival of a princess. Cyndi and I took her back to our little house, and we were both mesmerized by her beauty. I remember going to her crib in the mornings and her little arms and legs would be moving with excitement. I would reach down, lift her up, and hold her next to me and I could hear her tiny sounds of satisfaction as I carried her to our bed and put her between Cyndi and me. She would lie there all warm, just looking at both of us. When she smiled, my eyes usually filled with tears. I had no idea I could love someone so much.

     As years went by, Emily continued to amaze me. She and I would turn the stereo on sometimes, and we would slow dance in our living room. Her long blonde hair made her look angelic. We would read books together. We watched television together. We did as much as possible together. I used to love watching Cyndi get Emily dressed. She always had her looking pretty sharp no matter where we went. She would put her in front of the mirror and brush her golden hair. When her mommy was finished working with her, she would bounce into the living room with her ponytail flopping as she laughed.

Click above to watch video

     I miss those moments. I miss that laughter. But I don’t miss those feelings. That love I had back then is only stronger today because it never left. My mind still goes back to the times we have been able to share as a family. Our second daughter Taylor came into the world about three years after Emily, and it has been non-stop devotion around here. We are proud of our daughters beyond measure. I truly believe that both of our girls are something pretty special. But this week Emily turns 21 years old. She won’t hit the bars like a lot of young people. She won’t tolerate that behavior in her world. She will continue to pursue knowledge and develop into a woman of great integrity. Our lives are much, much better because of Emily Sae. If I could, I’d tell you all kinds of stories about her. The problem is, my eyes are full of water as I sit here writing this. The feelings of love, joy, pride and a bit of sadness seem to be getting the best of me. Happy Birthday, Emily. Thank you for allowing me to be in your life. I’ll be right here for you until my last breath.  

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Scott Coner is a country singer-songwriter who has worked in the studio with legendary artists such as Tanya Tucker, T. Graham Brown and Charlie Daniels. You can learn more about him and hear his music at his music page.            

My Journey Into Music... So Far (Part Two)

By Scott Coner

Country Singer-Songwriter

(Following is the second part of a series of blog articles offering my experiences as a singer-songwriter.)

         It is unfortunate that everything has a price tag on it these days. But all of the steps required in music or just about anything else have a cost attached to them. The good news is that you can go at your own pace. This also will allow you time to be certain of every decision and every step you take along the way.

         These days there are several hot spots around the country that are more open and willing to help you during the development of your career. Los Angeles may be one of those areas you want to consider. Out there, you have all types of music genres as well as opportunities to work in soundtracks and commercials. New York has always been another area, as well as Seattle, and of course Nashville. I chose to work in Nashville for several reasons. The obvious reason was it was very close to where I live. The other was its openness and long history in country and Americana music. But, I have also had a real interest in possible opportunities in L.A.

         I always encourage young people to pursue an education with at least a minor in business. One thing is certain and that is you will need to have the capacity to look at things with some understanding from a business standpoint. I also think it is a good idea to seek advice from someone you love and trust, because it is always helpful to have someone else’s perspective.

         Below, I am going to list a few things you might want to consider as you begin. Please remember that I don’t know you or where you live, so certain items or needs and services might cost more or less money. Also, note that this list may not meet your requirements in any way at all and all of this doesn’t need to happen at once. It will probably be part of the your process.

         * A checking account with your music company name: This account is where you should track all expenses from including travel, recording, payments for services, etc., but you might see fit to use your existing account you have had all along.

         * Federal ID number: You need a tax number for tax purposes. All expenses should be kept track of. This is only good practice and it also helps you keep a finger on the pulse at all times of your investments. (But note that you may not need to do this just yet.)

         * Recording: I am not a huge fan of too many “at home” recordings, although there have been some great ones put together in a few basements. Just remember that your songs will be listened to by people who listen to some of the finest music on the planet every day, so you want to present yourself the best way possible. If you plan on going to a studio, you can negotiate a package for a group of songs, or you can record one or two at a time. Often times, you can get your song across nicely with an acoustic arrangement.

         * Web Site: This is important for all kinds of reasons. Be certain you have a design that is easy and practical for others to check out your music, your bio, and your photos and videos, along with any other pertinent information you feel needs to be shared.

         * E-Mail Address: Obviously, you need this. I find myself checking my mail every time I look at a phone.

         * ASCAP, BMI or SESAC: You will want one of these companies to have all of your music registered. There are a few more companies like these you might want to check out. (I am with BMI, and I can’t say they have been much help so far.)

         * Facebook, Sound Cloud, Reverb Nation, etc.: These sites allow access to all types of people all over the world. Pretty amazing when you think about it.

         * Photo Work: You will need lots of photos made. We live in a digital world, so at least you don’t have to buy film. Always seek photos that seem to represent you in some way. Each of us has a certain identity, and that should always be conveyed the best way possible. I’m sure you will have a lot more to work with than

I do that’s for sure.

         * Video Work: I have grown to appreciate videos. If done well, they can give the listener even more to consider from the song.

         * Education: Try to study your field of interest as much as possible. Consider all of the different types of production, the artists and bands. You will find there are some pretty amazing artists out there. I have long considered myself a student of classic rock and classic country. To me, these genres both represent a part of my roots. In a way, I suppose it’s like a guitarist studying the Delta blues to better understand the craft. I find myself reading about all types of music and artists simply because they hold a special interest to me. I don’t even have to enjoy the music that much. I just have an interest in their approach to their craft.

         Anyway, this is a start at least. There is so much I would like to go over with you, but in truth, as you begin each path, you may find that you have different needs and interests. Just remember that in order for you to do this, other things may need to be put on the back burner, but life happens in the midst of it all.  It is impossible to have a specific plan going into this business. Instead, you can only prepare for everything the best you can and try to be open for changes as they arise. I hope this helps you in some small way.

 

         I look at music the same way I look at staying in shape. I can do well in the gym. I like to work out and feel the burn and the sweat. But it is the time away from the gym that offers the real challenge. If I work out hard but eat like a pig, I probably won’t accomplish what I want. It’s the same thing in music. The short time spent in the studio will be wasted unless you truly seek out and study the very best way to reach your goals. Always be aware of your time and money, be kind to people along the way, and listen to what everyone has to say. One day the fog will lift and you will see the road you need to take. That will be a special day for you. I promise that if you give your all, you will never regret the time, money and energy you invest.

         Scott Coner is a country singer-songwriter who has worked in the studio with legendary artists such as Tanya Tucker, T. Graham Brown and Charlie Daniels. You can learn more about him and hear his music at www.Facebook.com/ScottConerMusic, www.YouTube.com/user/ScottConer, and www.ScottConer.com. Follow Scott at www.Twitter.com/ScottConer.

(Stay tuned for future installments of "My Journey Into Music... So Far".)

Becoming a Song

By Scott Coner

Country Singer-Songwriter

            There have been moments here lately that I find myself in the beginning stages of a meltdown. I see the videos, the songs, the photos, the interviews, and everything else that goes with this business, and I begin to panic. I feel humiliated and embarrassed as I realize what I have allowed myself to give to this music. It isn’t a natural act for me to be so outward with my feelings. Yet, as I look at my own private diary set to music, I see that it is far passed too late to pull back now. It might be comparable to the “sexting” that we hear about on the news. Take a picture of your private parts in high definition and share it with the world, and you can’t retrieve it no matter what. 

            The issue with me is this: I started writing at such a young age, I didn’t take time or have the capacity to process the act of writing itself. When you’re a kid, you take everything literally. So when I began writing, I wrote about what was going on in my own life. Even though in truth there wasn’t much going on in my simple little life, it was big and important to me. I remember the fall of my sophomore year. The sky was a perfect shade of blue, and I was wearing a jean jacket. I remember a girl that I thought a lot of telling me she didn’t feel the same way. I was beyond crushed. But I wrote a song about how it felt, and it was then and there that I realized that life’s little punishments had a silver lining. 

Scott Coner (photo provided by Cynnamae Media Productions)

            Dan Fogelberg wrote a song called “Same old Lang Syne”. One of the verses of the song says, “Just for a moment I was back in school... I felt that old familiar pain... The snow was falling on my way back home... Then the snow turned into rain….”  

For me, that pretty much sums everything up. As a man, I have thought a lot about that perfect line or verse. Capturing childhood feelings or feelings in general is hard to do sometimes. I think we lose touch with those emotions after we enter adulthood, pretty much the same way we forget how to imagine a bicycle is a motorcycle or a box is a spaceship. But you can find a song if you allow yourself to open up and forget about the protective walls we all have a tendency to build. At least, that’s how it is with me... just a man sitting alone in his Avengers pajamas writing about life. How’s that for being too transparent?

            What allows me to find balance these days are the thoughtful and kind people who reach out to me. They tell me how they feel about certain songs. They let me know that it matters to them. I know it sounds strange, but knowing that something I have been a part of actually matters to someone else is extremely important to me. Those people may be the reason I wrote the song in the first place.

            The natural beauty of the craft of songwriting is simple. For me, it is a story that begins with a melody or a few chords. It is a connection that is made when I least expect it. It is one of those special moments that God allows me to have. Even though I will probably always have episodes of doubt, I am truly happy that I have been given the opportunity to write and share my songs. And if you are one of those kind souls out there who have supported me along the way, I just want to say, “Thank you.” It is because of you that I don’t grow a long beard, use Kleenex boxes for house shoes, and take myself off of the grid.  

            Scott Coner is a country/American/Southern rock artist who has recorded songs with legendary artists such as Charlie Daniels, Tanya Tucker and T. Graham Brown. Listen to his music and/or watch is his videos at http://www.YouTube.com/user/ScottConer, http://www.Facebook.com/ScottConerMusic, or http://www.ScottConer.com. Follow him at http://www.Twitter.com/ScottConerMusic.

Scott Coner: 'There are no Rules in Songwriting'

By Scott Coner

Singer-Songwriter

            NASHVILLE -- Songwriting seems to be different for all people. I have met and talked with several writers around Nashville as well as other places, and their approach is always consistently different. For me, for whatever reason, my writing seems to improve when I read quite a bit and don't listen to other music. I find that the silence allows me to hear other melodies and phrasings that I wouldn't be in touch with otherwise. I hate to admit it, but I also write better when my wife and kids are gone for a while.

            I find that I may have some line or phrase that I carry around for weeks or even months, and sometimes that leads to a song, or I might have a piece of music that I search for a suitable melody and theme that works. Most of the time I write with an acoustic guitar, but recently I have written several songs on a Les Paul using a loop pedal. I don't know how it all works. I wish I did. Writing songs for me is that place that I go to that is personal, imaginative and without rules.

            Paul Zollo has put together a fantastic book called, "Songwriters on Songwriting". In it, Mr. Zollo has chased down a massive amount of outstanding writers including the likes of Jimmy Webb to Burt Bacharach and Hal David. I actually keep his fourth addition on my nightstand and read it when I have trouble sleeping. I love the backstory of a song. I like to know why the song was written and what inspired the writer. 

            I have never been that guy with a ton of friends hanging around. I stay pretty quiet in my little world when I'm not working in Nashville or somewhere else. Because of this, and I mean no disrespect, I have always kind of understood Brian Wilson. Brian didn't surf, he didn't swim, and he didn't drive fast cars. But he wrote songs that would make you believe he was the golden boy of the California Coastline. The Beach Boys became an American institution, and it was all because of Brian's genius.

            I certainly don't compare myself to Brian Wilson's talent. But, I have written a lot of songs based on other people's lives and stories. "Maybe She Lied" is a song I recorded with Tanya Tucker a few years back, and it is a good example. A guy that I know came home one day and found out that some major changes had taken place while he was gone to work. His house was empty, most of his things were gone, and his heart was broken. I thought about what had happened to him for a few days, then sat down and wrote the song. As the lyrics came, I wrote it in first person as if the damage had been done to me. Thank God the story isn't about me, but as I put the song together, I "witnessed the movie" in my mind and the song wrote itself.

            There is nothing more cleansing to me than writing a song. I don't try to write for radio, and I don't write by radio's rules. I think a song should live and breathe the way it wants to, and this includes the length of the song. There is a theory out there that the hook should be the primary theme in the song, and there is no question that this approach works. But, I don't live by those rules. I don't believe the listening public needs to be on a diet of baby food. I think people still enjoy the journey a song that can be related to, can take you on. For radio stations, it is about getting X amount of songs in between advertisements. To me, it is about writing and recording a song that I feel good about and am proud of.

            So, if your a songwriter like me, you have no doubt noticed that I have no good advice. If you are a music lover like me, then I am certain that you agree that the song and the craft of songwriting is something that is magic and not available in a bottle. A song, if it’s lucky, ends up as part of the fabric of someone else’s life. I consider this to be one of life’s highest honors and most humbling achievements.

(Scott Coner has worked with some of country music's top artists and musicians, including Tanya Tucker, T. Graham Brown, and Charlie Daniels. Learn more about him and hear his songs at www.ScottConer.com or www.Facebook.com/ScottConerMusic.)