You'd Better Believe It.

I don't care what year we're talking about, I still think this is true.

Special Thanks to Parkaavenue for this beauty.

Nashville Portraits

Amazing real, honest portraits.

Being an American, I was raised by fans of old-time country music (as well as other genres - mostly jazz and classical, honestly). When driving through Nashville as a kid, Dad got last-second, SRO tickets to the Grand Ole Opry (in the original, old, rickety building) and dragged us kids in. I think we saw Mel Tillis and Buck Owens among others. We, being kids, were miserable and hungry. My dad just kept saying "you'll remember this later." I do remember it.

And I'm still not a fan of all country - mostly the classic stuff that's really more folk than anything. But these photos are cool. Honest. And man, country is the only genre where the people are artists but still look like they could kick the crap out of you.

The Case For Increased School Library Funding

This is a real interaction with my son. My wife told me about the report he had to do for school and I went in, camera blazing.

Sound Advice, Mr. Graffiti Man.

Seen on my ride this morning. Good life advice, wouldn't you say? I think I'll give it a shot with my wife in a bit. Wish me luck.

My Tagline: Attempt #2

Okay, so this is another stab at my personal tagline. The first one is a tad over-the-top. A bit of an over-promise. While this one takes some liberties, I think I'm honing in.

Style Icon Of The Month: Rickenbacker

Pete Townshend
John Entwistle
Paul Weller
Bruce Foxton
John
Paul
George
Johnny Marr
Peter Buck
Mike Mills
The Edge
Roger McGuinn
Tom Petty
Thom Yorke
Noel Gallagher
Rick James
Lemmy

Me

It’s not as easy to play as other guitars. It’s sound is not versatile. Other guitars are more adaptable and more comfortable.

It’s a commitment. But like making a commitment to the woman of your dreams, it’s not hard to make. You can get a Stratocaster or Les Paul and play anything on them. With the right effects and amp, you can make them sound like whatever you want, really.

But the Rick has a voice. A style. That’s what Ricks stand for. Plug it in and it begs you to make something special. It pushes you to stand out. Whether it’s Pete Townshend windmilling his way to the top of cultural relevance or just little old me in my living room.

A distinctive look. Clean, mod lines. The sound. That British Invasion, guitar rock sound. Damn, brother. It’s cool and sexy as hell. And that’s when music is at its best.

Now THAT'S Diversity

This is a great image for reasons that should be obvious.