The "J" Word

You know, people just get plain scared of the "J" word.

They see it and automatically form an opinion. It's usually either "I Love it!", or "I don't really like that!"

Yes, the term "Jazz" can scare the beans out of people.

If they hear a song that is described as jazz, they instantly react, mostly saying "this isn't the kind of thing I'm used to", or hear the word jazz and say "oh, I don't like that".

But I see Jazz as less of a music "style" and more of a description of my creative self.

The song "The Jazz in Me", which is also the title of my newest CD, does talk about how I'm more like Miles (Davis) than (John) Coltrane. But the comparisons aren't really about music.

Miles Davis is very well known as a Jazz icon. But if you study his life (or just take a listen to him playing), it wasn't his stellar playing that made him stand out and be revered as a giant of Jazz. It was his ability to put together the right people for the right job. It was unique style that didn't always require the killer, fast riffs (like Coltrane) to impress. It was his ability to be in the right place at the right time, and his staying power, even among players who were really better than he was.

I feel that's much more my strength: to put together great talent, find (or write) great songs, and then share that with the world. And it's what I plan to do pretty much the rest of my days.

In the second verse, I relate more to Thelonius Monk than Dizzy Gillespie. Certainly not because I'm able to play like Monk (dude was a freak), but I am much more messy and like him, more about the feel than the notes. The groove, passion, and attitude probably hit me more than being able to play cleanly and clearly. I loved Monk's laid back attitude.

In an earlier version of the song, I used basketball references for the second verse, saying I was more "Bird" than "Jordan". Now, anyone who knows me knows I am a gigantic Jordan and Bulls fan having lived in Chicago for a few years. But I'm certainly more of a Bird on the court than MJ, mainly because I'm just a big goofy white guy. But also because I rely more on smart shots, passing, and rebounds/defense (not that MJ wasn't good at all that..) I certainly use "the jazz in me" on the court though. I NEVER do the same move twice...much like my arranging.

But when I think of the "J" word, another word comes to mind: Jesus. Not to get over-religious, because that's definitely not my style, but when the word Jesus comes about, people definitely get uncomfortable.

As a guy who mixes jazz with spiritual ideas, it's funny to see the way people react differently to the word "gospel" which just usually means "black" to most white folks, and the word "Christian" which scares the "beJesus" out of some folks.

You can talk all day about the church, God, religion, etc, but the minute the words Jesus or Christ enter the conversation, people instantly get a bit unnerved. Isn't it funny that 2009 years later, Jesus still has that effect on people?

To be honest, I'd rather be more Jesus that Miles, Monk, or anyone, but that's easier said than done...and probably a whole other blog.

So, if you're still with me, here's your reward: a free download of "The Jazz in Me". Enjoy, share with friends.

But whatever you do, I implore you to celebrate the Jazz in you, whatever that may be. For me it's originality, creativity, positivity, musicality, and Jesus.

So what's the Jazz in YOU?

Thanks for reading! Find your free download at http://www.EricCopelandMusic.com/free.html

EC
----
Eric Copeland is a producer, jazz artist, and all around creative prophet. He takes his creative message out across the country each year and his company "Creative Soul" works with jazz and gospel musicians from around the world.

Want to get some free email lists for monthly inspiration? Join up here! http://www.ericcopelandmusic.com/contact.html

My Steps Are Ordered

Thoughts From a Creative Soul > My Steps Are Ordered
by Eric Copeland

"I don't know if we each have a destiny, or if we're all just floating around accidental-like on a breeze, but I, I think maybe it's both. Maybe both is happening at the same time." - Tom Hanks, "Forrest Gump"

"The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord, and He delights in his way" (Ps 37:23).

I was raised in a Christian home. My Mom was the organist at our church, and so we were there whenever the doors opened.

To me, God and Jesus were just who I grew up with. I was always "in the presence", and really, have never felt away from it.

I can't really describe it, but I've always felt somewhat like a character from a movie like "Forrest Gump". My daddy always told me life is like a note on a trombone. You never know what you're gonna get!

But seriously, I always felt like God just had a purpose for me and that I was just this lucky guy that God steered down each road. Like he let people systematically come into my life EXACTLY when I needed them. Things unfolded and happened around me almost magically.

I'm not saying my life has been a breeze and nothing bad or hard ever happened, but it has been a wonderful, interesting, amazing ride.

In many ways I do feel like Forrest Gump in that it seemed I always and still do just seem to come upon life as it is happening. See things so miraculous and wondrous that just seem to happen around me. Like God is running this whole show and ordering every step for His purpose, but my eternal gain.

And like Forrest, I gladly just take what comes. God is a loving and faithful God. And I am happy for each moment and will gladly walk in the steps He has for me.

I think this is the real meaning behind my song "My Steps are Ordered" from my new CD "The Jazz in Me".

I hope you enjoy it.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths" (Prov. 3:5)

Hear "My Steps are Ordered" at http://www.EricCopelandMusic.com or buy it now at http://www.cdbaby.com/copeland3

On Facebook or Myspace? Find Eric Copeland Jazz and become a friend!

The Jazz in Me hits the streets!

Well, it's official folks!

My newest CD in 8 years is now available!

I'm so excited about the songs, the players that gave wonderful performances, and the feeling you will get by having one of your very own.

Perfect for your car, iPod, or just playing while you're relaxing.

I'm so excited that I can finally share the finished CD with you and your friends that I'm extending the Christmas 'buy one get one free' special.

Buy a CD for a friend and get a FREE one for yourself!

Either go directly to http://www.cdbaby.com/copeland3 or listen to complete clips and info at http://www.EricCopelandMusic.com

Thanks!

EC

The First Podcast

Here you go, the first podcast featuring the new songs from my new CD "The Jazz in Me".

Features "My Steps are Ordered", "Softly and Tenderly", and "The Jazz in Me"

Click on the title above to get the podcast, or find it on iTunes!!

Have fun!

EC

The Waiting...

Well the final Master is done for the new Eric Copeland CD, "The Jazz in Me", the first release by new label Creative Soul Jazz. Everything is at the duplicator and CDs are baking...

Now the waiting for the CDs begins!

If you're excited to get one and want one of the FIRST SIGNED COPIES, you can go to the totally revamped EricCopelandMusic.com and download the Order Form, send it in, and when the CDs roll in you will be shipped one immediately.

SPECIAL OFFERS:

To make your Christmas shopping even easier, I'm offering two immediate deals just for my blog and newsletter readers that involve the new CD.

OFFER 1: Order 1 CD of "The Jazz in Me" and get one FREE to give away as a gift to that jazz lover friend. Only one FREE CD per customer please. Any CDs ordered through the mail with THIS Blog attached will get this deal and get both CD signed by Eric. Shipping is $4.

OFFER 2: Order any 3 CDs for $30, 4 CDs for $40, or 5 CDs for $50. Again, this must have a copy of THIS blog sent in with the Order form and check/money order. ALL CDs will be signed by the artist. Shipping starts at $3 and add $1 per extra CD.

GOTTA GET THE WORD OUT:

We've started advance promotion to radio and webcast for the first Gospel Jazz single "My Steps are Ordered".

Currently working on some publicity leads to get to magazines and send out media releases about Creative Soul Jazz and this first release.

BOOKING THE 2009 COFFEEHOUSE TOUR

Imagine turning your church into a live music center for coffee, pastries, and some smooth sounds for a night. It's a great event to host for your church family and community, and gives parents a wonderful relaxing option of entertainment. A perfect compliment to a dinner out, or just a time out. We can bring our band (or play with jazz artists from your church family) and play familiar hymns, worship tunes, and originals in a smooth jazzy style that your folks will love.

If you think this would be great for your church or event, please go to EricCopelandMusic.com for more information and to contact us!

THE NEXT BLOG

Next time you hear from me the CD will be available online to buy and get downloads. Talk to you soon!

EC

Back to the Jazz in Me

After much thought, prayer, and just because I want to, I've decided to change my new CD's title to "The Jazz in Me". After seeing how it's turned out, along with my current fascination with the world, history, and figures of jazz, it makes the most sense.

Jazz has always been a part of who I am. Improvisation, imagination, composition...these have been a part of me since I remember. And much of this is a very personal album.

I think when an album's songs mostly center and talk about the artist, it's a sign of immaturity. And I can honestly say, I am still just at the beginning of being at artist. But that's OK. It just gives you something to look forward to.

I think I've actually matured alot just working on the this CD. But the future is very exciting, as I have just TONs of ideas to explore that I've been sitting on for years.

As a matter of fact, right on the heels of this CD I'm releasing the first CD in the Quiet Soul Solo Piano series, as well a CD consisting of a bunch of homemade demos that sound pretty good called "Notes from the Laboratory".

But for now, it's time to resume what I started years ago when I put out a few CDs, was known as jazz artist, and regularly played with my jazz group, Wherever He Leads.

Producing hasn't been a mistake, wrong road taken, or anything like that. But the jazz side of me is ready to come back out and play.

Hope you like what you hear.

The new CD drops Sept 12.

EC

Getting Closer....

Hey folks,

As we thaw out from another mild winter down here in Nashville, I'm getting ever closer to getting the new CD done.

If you have liked anything you have heard from me ever, you are going to be in heaven with this one. Ive been getting back some of the parts from the great musicians down here, and it's pretty amazing.

A few things that might hold you over...

If you don't have either of my CDs, Cooler or Stolen Moments, I'm offering a special until the new CD comes out: $20 for both CDs, and I'll throw in Creative Soul, the EP I put out last year with the jazzy versions of "Have Thine Own Way", "Breathe", and "Heart of Worship" for free! To get this deal, make sure youa re signed up on our mailing list, then email me!

I WILL be posting a rough mix soon of one of the new songs.

Also, if you like my jazzy production style, check out another Creative Soul Jazz artist I produce, arrange, and write for, Jessie Laine Powell. You can now buy her CD at CDBaby and her downloads at iTunes! We're working on a new record for her as well!

Keep standing by true believers...the new stuff is HOT!

EC