When your muse plays hide & seek

…..I guess that’s being a bit dramatic, huh? My Muse is not lost; sometimes I just get in a funk and cannot find him. As most of you know, about 95% of my art is inspired by Lee DeWyze. Some people can argue that a true artist can work on anything, at any time. If this is true, then I guess I am not a “real” artist. Trust me, I have tried to do subjects that are not lee related. Those turn out ok, but there is nothing there for me; I am not attached to them. I know that is hard for some people to understand, but it is what it is. 

That being said, with my “Muse” being a touring, busy musician; he is busy. I have never been a needy person, but when life gets too busy for me to draw, or I don’t see posts and tweets about Lee creating…I can’t. I need to hear the new music, I need to explore new lyrics that spark new images in my head. 

 

For the last month or so, between my busy life and not being as active on social media, I have felt myself falling into a creative black hole. When this happens, it actually makes me sad. I have done a few sketches in the meantime, including a self-portrait, but I wasn’t feeling them. they didn't take me to that happy place. 

 

This Past weekend I watched the movie “Big Eyes”, the story of Walter & Margaret Keane.

It was about the famous “Big Eye” paintings in the 60's that became famous by an artist named Walter Keane; however it turns out that Walter never painting them. As a matter of fact,he was not an artist at all. His wife, Margaret Keane had been painting them for over 10 years and keeping this inside. I can not imagine how she must have felt! To have work that means something to you and no one knows where is actually came from. There is a scene in the movie where she talks about what her “Big Eyed” children mean to her. I was so moved by her because that is how I feel about my Lee art. They are not just sketches to me, they come from somewhere special. True Inspiration. You may think you have been inspired, but you don’t realize what that actually means until it finally hits you. 

A few of my favorite quotes from the movie that struck a cord with me are: 

Margaret: "People buy art because it touches them. Walter: You’re living in fairy tale land. People buy art because it’s in [the stores and in vogue]. They don’t get to discover it."

Margaret: "Why are you lying? You are taking credit for something you didn’t do. These children are a part of my soul"

"You don’t know what it’s like to put your emotions out"

Watching this movie sort of nudged me a bit to want to get back into the sketchbook. 

 

Last night, my husband went out for a mountain bike ride and I decided that enough was enough. If I could not think of visuals for lyrics, I was going to go straight to the source of my inspiration and do a portrait of Lee himself. We all know I am not the best at drawing faces… I have had some trouble in the past… 

I decided to put on my headphones, listen to Lee 's music and do a portrait. I took it so seriously too! Usually I just sketch with a No. 2 pencil and use my fat fingers to smudge. This time I broke out the sketching pencils and blending sticks I bought once and never used. Boy did that make a difference! 

I have never been one to toot my own horn. Actually, I do not even think my art is THAT good. I often feel that the praise is coming in merely because of the fact that the subject is a song someone likes, or just because they are Lee DeWyze fans,. Etc. Know what I mean? I know they like it, but there is always that doubt in my mind. And faces? Forget about it. My main style has always been no faces... You know, let the gestures set the tone and emotion....

 But Mostly because I am just not good at it. For instance, I recently did a sketch for one of Lee DeWyze’s new songs; “Give me something” For the life of me, I could not do the people’s mouths. So, I just left it as is. I know I’ll never finish it…. 

 

Well this time, I actually drew a face! I decided to draw a picture of Lee that was taken and posted by Vox concert series. 

I was so proud of it! I mean, it actually LOOKS like Lee. I've come a long way from my first portrait where he looks like he was stung by 100 bees. Haha. When Mark came home, I lifted up my sketchbook beaming with pride like a little kid. I was like “look what I did!!!!!!”  I can honestly say that although I have other sketches that are my favorites, this is the one I am the most proud of. I still have lots of room for improvement obviously... But still! 

 

Thank you Lee DeWyze, as always for giving me the inspiration I need simply by just doing your thing. 

Lee DeWyze is currently on tour! Go to his website for a venue near you! Get out there and see for yourself how amazing his man is!!! 

 http://leedewyzeofficial.com

-Jenn 

 

 

The Butterfly Effect: Lee DeWyze style

It has been said that something as small as the flutter of a butterfly's wing can ultimately cause a typhoon halfway around the world - Chaos Theory

 

The Butterfly Effect refers to a popular hypothetical example of chaos theory, which illustrates how small initial differences may lead to large unforeseen consequences over time.This post is not about time travel or “chaos” like in the movie, "The Butterfly Effect", but an explanation of how this theory applies to inspiration. How is this relevant you ask? How does this apply to the music of Lee DeWyze? Think about it. This all started with one act. It started when Lee auditioned for American Idol. Technically, it goes back to his friend that talked him into auditioning for American Idol. If that one event had not happened…most of us would not be friends; we would have never met. I might not even be creating art at all. Can you imagine? I went several years without creating anything. In the last 4 years of being inspired by Lee DeWyze, I have created a total of 18 paintings and 223 sketches. All inspired by HIS words & HIS voice. That’s kind of a big deal. Lee’s voice creates a Butterfly Effect of inspiration. When I hear his voice & lyrics, it inspires me to illustrate his story and post the story behind it, then seeing me post something might inspire someone else to do the same and so on and so on… get it? The continuing acts of us inspiring each other builds and builds into what can almost be the fluttering wings of a butterfly.

 

This post is not going to be about my art. Outside of the title piece, you’ll see none of my stuff today. This is dedicated to all the other Lee DeWyze fans that have been inspired by Lee and his music. There are so many people out there affected by his music… he inspires them to draw, play instruments, sing, write....even get his lyrics as tattoos...The list is long. Obviously his lyrics play a huge part when inspiring his fans, but it’s not just that. It is his delivery of his words, his character… the whole package.

 

You are about to enter the online gallery I have created to show you how Lee inspires his fans. Halls of picture frames....full of brilliant thoughts, inspirations and other musings from fans inspired by Lee DeWyze. There are so many talented people out there that have been affected by his music and they deserve to be in the spotlight. So many people actually, that I was unable to use ALL the submissions in this post due to the size, however… that just means we’ll be able to do this again! You never know, seeing all this other work might inspire more people. So without further ado, Welcome…….

“You have been created in order that you might make a difference. You have within you the power to change the world.” 
― Andy Andrews, 

 

 Below each piece, you will find the creator's name and some info: 

Portrait by @Maximized702- this is just one of Max's amazing Lee drawings! He has done several more of Lee , including one with Jonna. 

Portrait by @cristististi – this is just one sketch out of the many creative projects that were inspired by Lee 

Portrait by @ArtByAbigail- Abigaail is an amazing artist that does all kinds of portraits and figure drawings. She actually does commission work! So, if you are interested in any of her work or want something more custom, you can e-mail her at abigailervin@gmail.com

The two pieces above were not submitted, but found by other fans on the Deviant Art site. I made sure the artist’s names were posted on there so it was clear who creates them. These are SOOO amazing and way too good not to share! That bottom one in color? Crazy good! 

Tattoo in progress: @Marekatslp –This is an in progress tattoo inspired by Annabelle, the first song she ever heard that had a life of it's own and she just wanted that feeling with her always.

The two above were submitted by the same person, @Lees_biggestfan. Kelly not only created this amazing picture frame with song lyrics on it, but her “Stay” tattoo represents her favorite song. Lee actually wrote the word on her ankle and the tattoo was done over it.

These two lyrically inspired tattoos belong to @sidewaysSavage. Both are beautiful pieces designed around beautiful lyrics.

This tattoo belongs to @Freecielynn. Set in a beautiful frame to capture the essence of his latest album “Frames” is a message from Lee, with his signature.

The two collages above are by @Jessk2489. Not Only has she created amazing gifts for Lee like this guitar strap, but she has a lyric tattoo, plays guitar covering his songs, and has created a bunch of little Lee DeWyze treasures.

@Jessk2489, @Lees_biggestfan & @Palantineleefan have become super close friends through meeting up at Lee shows, before a show they created this bear dressed like Lee to give him after the show.

@marekatslp-Mare is an amazing writer. She did the visual Album review with me for "Frames". She has often explains how she finds herself again & again in the music. That connection makes her want to write

 

The two above pieces are portions of a novel that @alloftheabove90 is working on that was inspired by listening to the music. This is the first time she has shown anyone. I can not wait to read the final product!

@Assorted_raisins (instragram)- Sabrina writes and takes photos. She created this “frame” piece to tell you how Lee inspires her

@melissawill1 – is currently learning to play the piano thanks to Lee. I cannot wait to hear her play! Melissa is from Australia and has traveled to L.A to see him perform.

@67grandma – Claire travels all over the US to see Lee play. She is been to 28 shows so far spanning from Boston to L.A. and at 72 years old, does not plan on stopping anytime soon. I love this woman

@Isye8586- Isye is so amazing and sweet. She is so moved by Lee and his music that she traveled to Chicago to see him all the way from Indonesia!

 

@MissDeterm1ned- above you can read how Lee inspired Jenna who is currently enrolled in a program in Chicago. Lee inspired that journey all the way from Finland.

This is just one of the MANY creations made by @Weyesoxboo. Boo is an inspiring person in her own right, but above you can read how Lee inspires her and her many colorful creations

Click on the link to bring this image to life! 

http://ashea.net/SL_TakeTheTimeToFind.gif  

Another animated creation! Click here: http://ashea.net/DontBeAfraidMaze.gif

These last 3 pieces were submitted by @dewyzefan6 . Follow the links to bring these creations to life. Annie id one of many people that are totally invested in promoting Lee & his music.

Thank you to everyone that has submitted the work above!Everything looks amazing. The stories are very inspiring.

  Due to the amount of submissions I received and hopefully those of you that have been inspired by this, we WILL be doing it again, so stay tuned and  Thank you ALL for all you do for Lee…I can not even begin to list everyone that spends their days requesting songs, spreading the word, etc. You are ALL amazing. I feel so blessed to be able to have gotten to know you all and can’t wait to welcome more into our continually growing circle.

A message to Lee:

 Dear Lee DeWyze, Thank you for inspiring us. Thank you for sharing your amazing gift with us, bringing us together and for not letting the industry change you. We may be viewed as crazy fans to people outside of the FamiLee, but I am sure I can speak for everyone when I say that is ok! Through your music, your words… we have all found something special and applied it to our lives…. Each one of us is an artist…...and a writer...and a musician... a friend...a promoter... and most of all a famiLee. All because you made that decision to audition for a reality show. So, Thank you. Thank you So much Lee!

 

  I highly suggest that if you aren't currently following Lee DeWyze, you do so. Go out and purchase "Frames", I literally listen to it everyday..... 

Below are all the ways you can follow Lee and keep up with what he is doing. If you are lucky enough to be near wherever he might be playing...don't miss it! There is nothing like seeing this man perform live!!! The music is taken to a whole new level when you can SEE the passion behind that voice!!! Never before have I seen or heard someone more meant to make music.Go check him out!!! 

And check this page out also! Another fan creation full of Lee info!!! Fans working together to promote what we love! 

http://www.ashea.net/LeeDeWyze_Info.pdf

Thank you everyone!!!! 

-Jenn 

A visual review of Lee DeWyze's new album "Frames", track #7 "you don't know me"

We are back!

This is the “other” painting I was referring to when I told you about track 2- “Fire Away”

The night I was actually up the entire night with ideas running through my mind. I woke up and worked on this painting and “Fire Away” at the exact same time. I’d add paint to one, and then while that dried… work on the other. Both paintings were completed by the end of that day. Both paintings are similar in the fact that they are simple, yet the message is pretty legit. As a matter of fact, the message on both songs is very similar as well.

 

The beat of the song is upbeat however I think that vibe changes depending on if you are hearing Lee sing it live, listening to the main recorded version or the acoustic version on the Deluxe album… I painted this one with the main album version in mind. To me, when I hear this song, from the very beginning I am just picturing a record spinning the entire time…skipping & jumping over the cracks. Although the music seems upbeat, the message is quite clear “you don’t know me!”  I painted this from the perspective of dealing with people that THINK they know you and THINK they know what is best for you. I can speak personally to this song as well from my past and at times in even the present.  It could be from a creative standpoint… where your creativity is being repressed and governed by people that think they know better and try to change you, but also in life, in general. I have always been that person that was always there for people when they needed me, I never asked questions I just was there when I was needed… but you know what? That takes it’s toll on you. You may think you are being the good person…not making waves….going with the flow, but eventually, it will catch up with you. As I grew as a person, learning to do what is best for me and what I want to do… I found that those people you were always there for… they refuse to acknowledge your growth, your opinions, etc. They think they know you; they look down on you when you grow a back bone… and you know what, you find you don’t need them or want them around anymore. No one can tell you what is good for you than YOU can… it took me far too long to realize this, and I still struggle with this. This is how I take this song… You are dealing with these people and now you are fed up, you do not want them around…you wish it worked out, but hey- it didn’t and you are doing it your way.  I think Lee did just that and I do not know about you, I’m pretty damn excited he did!

For someone to stand up for what they feel and believe in, then use that to fuel even more creativity?... hell yes! Slow clap to you Mr. DeWyze !

 

Here is Mare’s point of view from the music & the art: 

 There are times when people will make assumptions about you, stereotype you, or put you into a mold they’ve created and they’ll say “YOU have to be THIS!”... but it will be based on THEIR views, judgements, thoughts and needs. Sometimes, people have blinders on and can’t see others for who they really are... but they are convinced they are right. When someone makes an assumption about me or they think they know me and it’s completely wrong.... it pisses me off and it’s hurtful, however.... it makes it easier for me to write them off. I’ve learned that there’s nothing I can do when someone refuses to see the real me... I accept it and move on. Because somewhere, there ARE people who will.

Some people choose to conform, thinking things will be easier. People can get locked in to that and start to become what others think they are....and lose themselves. The people who KNOW who they are.... they refuse. When you don’t or can’t conform, you have three choices: bend, break or say goodbye. You can only be what someone else needs for so long before something has to give. You can only tolerate the “mold” for so long. You can only tolerate other people’s assumptions about you for so long. Sometimes people start out on the same page, and as time goes by, one grows and one doesn’t and you begin to go in opposite directions. Do you stay together or go separate ways? What happens when expectation and reality go in opposite directions? There is a shock that comes with the realization that people you’ve been close with WOULDN’T know you. No matter how many times you try to show people who you are.... they just can’t grasp it because they need or want you to be someone else. Whether it’s a relationship, partnership, personal or business.

Breaking out of that and walking away.... that’s freedom. Leaving the frustration behind and realizing that it’s ok for people to NOT know you, because YOU know you.... and then continuing to BE you.... that’s authentic.  

This song MUST be sung with attitude... and personally, I like to get a little “salty” with it.... because it can’t be helped. It isn’t an angry kind of song... It’s the stage just past that. It’s just confidence, without being arrogant... someone washing their hands of the past. A shrug, and a “peace out” kind of vibe... “I’m done”.  It’s an old time chill vibe with a definitive but easy beat mixed with the roughness and grit in a tone that delivers the message.... A confrontation, an acceptance and a goodbye.  

The art is obviously a record that is broken.... in a way that looks like it was stomped on. Behind it are the lyrics, torn up, stained in a vintage look...the past. It looks like frustration left behind. The record....a break from the past, and perhaps the road to true creativity.... and freedom.

Here are Danielle’s thoughts on this painting looking at the art alone without knowing the music:

 

This is such an interesting piece. On first glance I think about the broken record and that makes me feel like the music has stopped. Then I notice the words in the background and I think to myself…ha ha you may have broken my record but the music lives on...even in its choppy texture the words are still there! It's like the record is saying, "you can break me but you sure as hell won't shut me up" Now, if you remember I said at first glance...when I take note of the name of the painting I suddenly I feel like this painting is saying I know I sound like a broken record but this is who I am...the words are here you're just not listening...the painting screams, "MUST I SPELL IT OUT FOR YOU"

 

You can hear “You don’t know me” here: 

http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=EVGxBdqDE1U 

another amazing in studio video posted by Lee DeWyze 

 

“You don’t know me” Lyrics

 

You don't know me

So why you staring me down

You don't know me

And I don't want you around

 

And like a bullet from your lips that hit me right between the eyes

We knew it had to come to this, so it shouldn't come as a surprise

The problem is, in all of this

 

You don't know me

You don't know me

You don't know me, like you did before

You don't know me

You don't know me

You don't know me

Like you did before

 

What happened to your kiss

There is nothing left inside

Well there must be more than this

At least I can say I've tried

 

The problem is

In all of this

 

You don't know me

You don't know me

You don't know me, like you did before

You don't know me

You don't know me

You don't know me

Like you did before

 

I wish I was wrong, I wish I was wrong,

Wish I was wrong, I wish I was wrong

 

oh....oh....oh....oh....

oh....oh....oh....oh....

oh....oh....oh....oh....

 

 

 

A visual album review of Lee DeWyze "Frames" : Track #4 "Frames"

*this painting is rather large & wide...making it hard to take a great picture! But you get the idea 😉 

Frames, the title track (#4) is not only my favorite song on this album, but quite possibly of all Lee DeWyze songs. Instead of searching for the perfect words to describe the melody, lyrics and his voice… I’m going to describe it as this….everything about this song puts you under this mesmerized spell with its beauty. Or I can go the route we all describe it as: Hauntingly Beautiful!  Without being dramatic about it, I listen to this particular song about 20-30 times a day. I love it THAT much.

I’m excited to talk about this one because if there was ANY one thing that can show you just how in tuned I am to this man’s music… it’s this one, even though the art itself looks so simple and minimal.

 

The obvious choice for the visual here are picture frames…no shocker there, but this thought process has an interesting story.  I was actually thinking of another painting that I was working on while I was at work. (shhh..multi-tasker…my creative mind never shuts up) well literally out of nowhere this image just randomly popped in my head. I was so excited that I got out a piece of paper and started writing down the colors I wanted, the textures…. Everything about it. I actually put my other one on hold to start this. Out of all the inspired paintings I have done, this one hit me like a Mack truck. I had this painting done in about 2 days. This was the same week that the album was released. *fun fact: did you notice that the only frame that has a picture in it was one of my original Lee-inspired paintings? It’s for “Dreaming Alone” off of one of Lee’s Pre-Idol albums* see?:

 

  I was telling Mare about how strongly I felt about this idea and how it just came out of no where… Then something freaky happened…. Lol…. Ready?

 

So the day the album was released, a lot of us fans had already pre-ordered it. So we were all excited to go home and see if the album was delivered, like a little child wating to open their Christmas presents. I’m sitting at work and I get a text from Mare to the effect of “Do you want me to show you something, or do you want to be surprised?” well. Um…. Now you have to show me. Lol. Can’t do that to someone…

So she sends me a picture of the CD art… and it was eerily similar to my painting! The colors, the textures… everything…  How weirdly awesome is that? A few things that made it so freaky were that 1) the image came into my head so fast when I wasn’t even listening or thinking about that song at that moment. It was like it pushed its way in there  and 2) since the Album was already being delivered they had to have already been at the printers before I even started my painting. Obviously I have always felt a strong connection between my art and the music but damn, this was just too much. You can see the side by side images here. I am also including one of “The Ride” which is track 8, however we already wrote about that in a previous post. When I got home, I noticed that another pic in the CD art had a similar vibe to the Ride painting. Mare saw this also but was waiting for me to see if for myself… what do you think? Also, I wanna know what Lee thought when he saw the painting, haha… since obviously the art was already on it’s way to being printed.  :

 

Here is Mare’s point of view, as a fan of the art and the music:

 

I will start off by saying this is one of my favorite songs on the album and one of my favorite pieces of art. Trying to break down and edit everything I feel, hear and see is extremely difficult. Isn’t that what truly makes it all “art” though? Something that makes you feel SO much, that it’s hard to put into words.... It goes to my soul. I feel this song. Literally. Sometimes, if you’re lucky, notes, lyrics, tone... they vibrate within your body in an un-namable place...

 

When I hear this song, I actually imagine a spectrum of feelings pounding within a heart. If feelings of sorrow, desolation, hollowness, hurt, disillusionment, reminiscence, reflection, haunted, aching, anger, hope, regret, loneliness, defeat and acceptance could be visually seen marching through someones heart and soul... well that’s what I “see”. I live those feelings every time I listen to it. In the background of this song, there is a specific beat... a slow one, that gradually picks up speed, before slowing again. It’s those feelings taking place within the song...and the heart. The guitar, the tone of his voice... that’s what makes the story within the soul wrenching lyrics resonate. 

 

Visually, I imagine a person sitting in a dark, empty hallway, on a dusty floor with only their memories surrounding them. Filling in these empty frames with the images behind their eyes. The art is the visual view inside the imagination of the writer as he writes. The wall is old, weathered, textured, stained and cracked.... so are memories and imaginings. It’s how we can sometimes feel if we go down that dark hallway of thoughts in our minds. The frames are antiqued, without a pattern up on the wall... a few are missing and leave only a reminder that they were once there, and one..... one has an image peeking out. A torn, hazy picture... but it is still hanging on. This wall, and these frames have been through hell, and yet as a whole, they are painfully, achingly beautiful. 

 

“What could have been... What would have been.... What was..... What if, what if, what if.... Just make it stop....”.... Echo's that we all hear at some point in our lives.... I know I have.

 

 

Here is Danielle’s point of view, looking at the Art alone:

Frames.... this is such an awesome painting. The first thing that pops in my head is forgotten memories, lost friends, dreams abandoned by the wayside. Although in another perspective perhaps the empty frames represent an inner cleansing in order to rid ourselves of negative and replace our old frame with  positive. There are so many ways this painting can be interpreted whether it represents positive or negative emotions would depend on what mood I'm in when look at. Either  way I can take away the notion that we as individuals are free to fill our frames with anything we wish...and only we have the power  to empty them when those things no longer full fill our needs. 

 

 Listen to "Frames" here: 

 http://youtu.be/oKKXrQr9vGs this awesome video was taken by Kelly ( @LeesBiggestFan) thank you!!!!! 

Frames lyrics:

 

My heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it could

And for awhile I believed that I was Superman but I misunderstood

And you could chase me down, 'cause you know how, I wanna feel like what we had was good

Now my heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it should

With this empty space I can't replace the overwhelming memory of your face

And in this hall of empty picture frames I wish I never even knew

These halls of empty picture frames who knew the heartache they could do

Halls of empty picture frames I wish I never even knew your name

Sleepless nights I'm terrified I wonder if I'll ever leave this space

But I'll lay here and wait my dear in case you ever need a place to stay

Well I know that this is just a song but maybe it will reach your ears someday

We both know I fucked it up now suck it up, and live and learn to love another way

Oh, easier is said than done my heart is growing heavy anyway

Well it's better to have loved and lost at least that's what the lonely people say

Well, I feel alone, I told you so, and time and time again I let it go

But if you've never had a broken heart then there's no way in hell you'll ever know

Oh my heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it could

My heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it should

Now my heart is getting heavier, now heavier than I ever thought it could

Well my heart is growing heavier, well, than I ever thought it should, ever thought it should

Now my heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it could

And for awhile I believed that I was Superman but I misunderstood

Well you chase me down, 'cause you know how, I wanna feel like what we had was good

But now my heart is getting heavier, heavier than I ever thought it should, ever thought it should

I feel alone, I told you so, and time and time again I let it go

But if you've never had a broken heart than there's no way in hell you'll ever know

 *********************************

I'll be away for the weekend, so we will continue the posts on Monday!!!!!

Have a nice weekend!!!!! 

 

A Visual Album review: Lee DeWyze "Frames" track #1 - FIGHT

I triple dog dare you not to clap your hands and stop your feet when you listen to this song. It is Powerful and uplifting. This is the first track on “Frames” and actually one of the first songs from the album that us fans were introduced to at Lee’s shows.

Talking about this painting is easy. The entire concept was a no brainer.  I wanted to bring out the bold and fun beats of the song with a fun and colorful background. The background is actually my version on a picture that Lee posted on his instagram: Leedewyzeofficial , It was a picture he took in the studio while working on this album. It just felt like the perfect platform. I actually based my entire painting off of this pattern: (photo taken by Lee DeWyze)

 

My favorite thing about this song is that when you hear it… you KNOW it is Lee Dewyze. This is why I made it just him, his banjo and headphones. Instead of painting his likeness, I filled the entire outline with the lyrics. This makes sense to me. To me, Lee IS his lyrics… it is all you need to know the man behind the music. This one is THAT simple folks. As we go through the rest of the album, my stories behind why I painted what I did are more in depth. Like I said, this one is easy…..

 

You can listen to the in studio version of “FIGHT” here: http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=HFPIzdKq3go&desktop_uri=%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DHFPIzdKq3go

 

“Fight”

I wrote this song to make you feel alright today
I wrote it to make everything alright
And I would sing it every single day if you would say we’re fine

I can feel your heart is beating careful
‘Cus sometimes I pretend that I don’t care
I can’t believe I never let you know how much I need you here

‘Cus I will fight and I will beg
I just want to hear you say
That tonight will be alright and you will stay


It’s times I feel like you don’t know me anymore
And other times I think you know me best
I could love you better but I’d never wanna you less


So run away and I’ll be runnin next to you
I’d never let you run away alone
Before you run too far away I think that I should let you know

‘Cus I will fight and I will beg
I just want to hear you say
That tonight will be alright and you will stay

So put your hand in mine
We’ll be fine, I know
I know it, I
If you stay tonight
I promise I will show you

‘Cus I will fight and I will beg
I just want to hear you say
That tonight you will fight

‘Cus I will fight and I will beg
I just want to hear you say
That tonight will be alright and you will stay

So put your hand in mine
We’ll be fine, I know
I know it, I
If you stay tonight
I promise I will show you I will fight

 

 

Mare’s point of view as a fan of the music:

 

*A little music history*..... The Banjo was used originally in African folk music over 150 years ago, but has roots as far back as the late 1600’s! It was brought to the US during times of slavery where it eventually influenced blues and bluegrass music. It tends to be used for lively and upbeat music..... music that is needed to fight, find strength, give energy.... 

 

For me, when I hear this song, it’s about believing in someone, encouraging them, finding hope and following them through the dark. I think everyone has situations in life where you just get TIRED of whatever struggle, big or small, that you find yourself in. It could be a relationship, work, a health issue, or your own demons and life in general. Sometimes it’s watching someone you care about go through something. This song is like an interruption of the monotony of the daily fight. It tells me to REMEMBER. Remember there are people who care, that nothing is as bad as it seems, and no one is truly alone. Even on a bigger scale.... You may be sitting by yourself now, struggling with something.... BUT..... you aren’t the first person to feel or go through whatever it is... There’s an entire world out there, fighting with you. Take a step back and realize you ARE strong enough.... you just have to CHOOSE to be...and it’s ok to lean on others. Sometimes it takes more strength to lean on others than it does to face things alone.

 

What helps me to ‘Fight’ day in and day out, is music. I have very broad and dynamic tastes in music, however...... there is one voice, one artist, one song writer, one musician, that I typically immerse (literally) myself in when I NEED music. He’s here, in this painting, visually reminding me of the sound of his music by being made of lyrics I love....pouring out of him and into me...holding an instrument whose notes make my heart pound, reminding me I’m alive. The vintage shadow of the musician made of his lyrics. The same person and music I’ve always known...in a position I know well. The music lives inside of him.... and he is fighting HIS fight.... in the studio. It is MY reminder..... to FIGHT..... It’ll be ok.....I’m not alone. Thankfully, the music will always be there for me

 

And Danielle’s point of view looking at nothing but the painting:

 When I look at this piece it says to me, let your creativity flow. I feel like I should be filling the world with my thoughts, my ideas; like I want positive to fly out of me and engulf the world! This painting says come feel what I feel...like the melody he's playing is pollinating his surroundings with his own positive energy. 

Now hurry up & get ready to watch Hart of Dixie in the CW at 8:00pm!!! Listen for "Fight"!!!!!!!! You might have just enough time to get a snack... 👏👏👏 

 

 

A VISUAL album review of Lee DeWyze's "Frames", track by track ....

 

What is a visual album review you ask?

 

“Art is love made visual” this is my favorite quote and I am taking it literally. I am taking the music I love and making it visual for the world to see ”

 

As many of you already know, my name is Jenn Harding and I am an artist. All of my work is inspired by the music & lyrics of Lee DeWyze. I started out just doing a song here, a song there… Every time I hear his voice it inspired me, but I usually just choose my favorite songs.

 

Ever Since “Frames” was released on August 20, 2013 under Vanguard Records, I have a painting for just about every track. I have listened to nothing but this album and my mind is just flooded with visuals.  There are a few paintings not yet started, however I at least have an idea and sketch for it.

There have been some amazing write ups for this album- fantastic reviews from talented writers. I mean, how can they not be fantastic? It is 43.48 minutes of pure perfection. 

 

The goal of the next 13 posts is to take you on a journey through my mind, sharing with what I see and think as I listen to these tracks….

There is a special place in my heart for ALL of Lee’s music, but the songs on “Frames”, they are extra special. He put so much of himself into these songs; you can’t help but be enthralled with every single song. He is taking you into the inner workings of his mind and heart. Not only are these songs coming from a place that is so personal to him… they are relatable! So much in fact, that it almost makes me feel like you are a part of them, like he was reading your mind when he wrote them. Do you know of any other song writer that can give you that experience every-single-time? (I bet you do not…)

The lyrics are hauntingly beautiful and alluring. His voice is (as always) this modulated smokey gruff , yet comforting all at the same time.

 

Each song takes me to a totally different place in which I’ll be sharing with you.

The format of each one will be the same and will be in the order the songs appear on the album.  You’ll be able to view the painting inspired by that particular song, hear the song, and read the lyrics. I’ll then explain to you how that song makes me feel and how I came to paint what I did. Not only will you be reading about my inspiration, you will also me getting the viewpoint from a fellow Lee fan who knows the music & lyrics, @marekatslp. She will be able to tell you how the painting affects her since she knows the music and can appreciate where I’m coming from.

I am fully aware that I am limiting myself as an artist to only painting Lee DeWyze music, but that is what I feel and painting what you feel is the whole purpose of creating art, correct? In order show you that these paintings can be appreciated by more than Just Lee DeWyze fans, I’ll also be posting the view point of my sister, Danielle Mazzo. She will be writing about the painting just as she sees it… not know the lyrics, not knowing the song, etc….

 

So are you ready? Please stayed tuned for my visual review of the first Track of the album, “Fight” – Which will be featured in Tonight’s Season Premier of “Heart of Dixie” on the CW at 8:00 PM.  Make sure you tune in!

 

While you are at it, please check out what Lee DeWyze is up to as well!http://leedewyzeofficial.com/

 

……..And so it begins……….

 

 

 

Hummingbird (aka Lullaby)

Hello again. As promised, here is the first of the many paintings I have completed over the past few months. The inspiration was flowing like crazy in this head. Seriously, I have not been sleeping because I lay there thinking of images, textures, playing each song over and over again.....(not that I’ll ever complain about that!)

 

This painting, “Hummingbird” was inspired my Lee’s song “Lullaby”. It is a beautiful song, one of my favorites. Unfortunately, it did not make the album. On an exciting note though, it was recorded by Ronan Keating. How amazing is that? An Artist like that wanting one of Lee’s songs? This was a huge step for Lee as a song writer. The world is starting to see what he can really do and it’s exciting. I’m so proud! The amount of talent this man has is unbelievable...

Right before I began this painting I injured my right hand, so I had to compromise on my normal painting techniques. (there is no way I was going to keep my ideas in my head until I was healed!) That being said, I did this painting using ONLY my left hand. (I am right handed). I relied heavily on the crackled textures and the lyrics peaking through the hummingbird and the flowers to tell the story. I do not have an impressive back story for this one. I merely wanted to represent the beauty of the lyrics, but also the roughness in which I had to work with.... a swollen bandaged hand was not going to keep me from creating. I have never been this inspired before, I mean...I have my sketch book with me at all times because each time I listen to the songs, new idea pop in my head. I loved reading what Mare and my sister had to say because art and music affects everyone differently... that is why I love it so much! 

 As always, at the end of this post I will have a link for you to hear it, as well as the lyrics. 

But First, as Promised, Here is Mare’s view point as a Lee DeWyze fan, knowing the music and his vibe... As well as My sister, Danielle’s point of view. Her and my music tastes are quite different, so she will be telling you what SHE sees, not knowing anything about the story behind the song, the lyrics, etc.... . I encourage anyone that would like to share their thoughts to comment as well either as a fan knowing the song, or a fellow artist going by what they see (Please remember this is a place of inspiration & love. Everything has been created out of pure admiration, so be nice or leave) :-) 

My sister, Danielle's perspective :

Hummingbird!! I absolutely love this painting. My first impression of The Hummingbird was bittersweet freedom. Let me explain this a little. I say bittersweet because of the different textures throughout the painting. It's like the hummingbird represents the beauty of being free and being able say, Look out world because here I am. The bittersweet textures tell me that this hummingbird had to earn the sweet nectar of those flowers! Like my life, I can go after anything and everything my heart desires....but I've gotta work for it. The textures to me represent all the hardships that I put before myself that  my own path to that sweet nectar we all crave! But right here, right at this moment when I look at The Hummingbird, I know that through all the rough textures that hummingbird still made it to the nectar, he's still free and amidst all that roughness is absolute beauty and I'm inspired!!!

And here is Mare's perspective; 

In mythology, the hummingbird is a creature that opens the heart. When the hurt that caused us to close our hearts gets a chance to heal, our hearts are free to open again. The hummingbird generally represents a joy of life and playfulness, a resiliency.  Hummingbirds have the amazing ability to fly backwards, and some believe that it teaches us that we can look back on our past, but not to dwell on it and to move forward.... as is the pattern of a hummingbird in flight.  The hummingbird can represent someone that has been through a lot in their life but have the ability to overcome hard times and difficult challenges....It has become a symbol of rising above trouble and hardship.

All creatures, no matter how strong, energetic, positive and resilient...eventually need to rest. They need a place to call home, something to give them the strength to continue, and the simplicity of stopping for a moment and just being.... Without it, they run out of energy, out of inspiration. As with all things, to stop and just let yourself be.... takes trust... a moment of letting your guard down.

The painting for “Hummingbird” is both rough and tender... strong and fragile.... it reminds me of what is in all of us. The overall roughness of the canvas texture is a harsh world for the hummingbird to live in.... as we all live in a rough world at times. The hummingbird and it’s flower are delicate and fragile, they appear stained.... How many of us have felt that way at one time or another?... But one feeds the other, giving energy and taking energy. The hummingbird lives in a harsh world.... but must trust enough to stop... for just a moment... to get what she needs. It’s not a coincidence to me that they are made of music notes and lyrics.  Music.... the RIGHT music.... can feed us, save us, speak to us and soothe us.... The simplicity of a song....A lullaby to end one day, to allow us to trust in just being....moving us through the night, to wake up and live again the next...and Fly... 

This is a link to Lee’s Stageit online concert. the video is from (JoviWyze) Thank you!!! Listen to Lee singing Lullaby here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVTh1JIamig 

and here are the lyrics. Enjoy and thank you!!! 

Now you'll lay me down to sleep

Pray the Lord your soul to keep 

But your heart is safe with me

If I die before I wake

I'm sorry, darling, for every mistake 

I've ever made

 

I could sing you the most beautiful song you've ever heard

You could sing along, you're my hummingbird

But you don't need to sing

I don't need to play, it'll be alright

I just want you to fall asleep tonight

 

This is your lullaby, lullaby

This is your lullaby, lullaby

It's just the way I say goodnight

It'll be okay, it'll be alright

This is your lullaby

 

When you told me you were scared

I was well aware 

That your heart came unprepared

You left it under lock and key

I swear, my dear, that your key is safe with me

Please believe

 

I could sing you the most beautiful song you've ever heard

You could sing along, you're my hummingbird

But you don't need to sing

I don't need to play, it'll be alright

I just want you to fall asleep tonight

 

This is your lullaby, lullaby

This is your lullaby, lullaby

It's just the way I say goodnight

It'll be okay, it'll be alright

This is your lullaby

 

And I could sing you the most beautiful song you've ever heard

You could sing along, you're my hummingbird

You don't need to sing

I don't need to play, it'll be alright

I just want you to fall

I just want you to fall

I just want you to fall asleep tonight

 

It'll be okay, it'll be alright

This is your lullaby