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Happy Birthday Jayro.com
Thursday Sep 30, 2004 - Link to Entry
One year down. Lets take a look back –
In September of 2003 I set out a series of goals that I wished to accomplish in the following year. Those goals included:
Launching of RoundRecords
Birth of JeremyRound.com
Recording/Production of The Goodbye Project
Formation of a band
Regular Gigging
A move to LA
Continued writing and creative endevor
Business Classes
Internship
Continued Education in music
Finish the screenplay
Finish the musical
A year later I am looking at the list and am so thrilled that I a) wrote it down and b) did so much I set out to do. Aside from still not even looking at the musical I have made action steps towards success in all other categories. Since then I have played upwards of 15 times including once with Koala Jones – the short lived band. I have begun a serious revision of my screenplay. I have made my company official as it is state recognized and is a publishing member of ASCAP. I have taken classes, picked up a new instrument, made the move, and continued to find ways to promote my record and to pursue my entertainment passions via RoundRecords.
What does the future of RoundRecords hold? Over the past year it has become an umbrella organization under which I do all of my independent and freelance work which does include DJ-ing and will soon include Voice Over work and writing. Though originally intended as a independent music label RoundRecords has really become Jeremy Round the business. Though I must admit I am a bit saddened by the lack of success my record has had it is almost completely my fault. I still have a lot of avenues of promotion I need to follow up on which I have always put off stating that I’d rather have a band in place first just in case. Silly. I still have boxes to sell or at least move and I’d like to do so!
I’d expect that by the 2nd birthday I will be in a regular gigging band and be doing quite a bit of voice work. I do not think I will have a new record although I will certainly have a new record’s worth of songs. I will have finished my old screenplay and be close to done with the new. I will be an asst. editor at Aspect Ratio and a multi-tournament winner in poker.
Thanks to all who made the past year possible including in no particular order: Matt Jacobs, Jerry Becker, Jon Brandon, Romanus Wolter, Mark Wakelin, Denman Middle School, and my friends and family. Without your support and love I’d have approximately 140 more records to sell and very little drive to do so. Thanks everyone and happy birthday RoundRecords and JeremyRound.com!
Truth
Thursday Sep 30, 2004 - Link to Entry
Wayne Lerner, a wise and important man, always says, “There are three versions of truth. Yours, Mine, and the truth.” Truth is an intangible ideal, an unattainable perspective. Like I wrote in a documentary class in college, once human perspective enters the picture (hehe pun intended) truth is no longer captured, but instead a version of truth or an opinion is born. So it is truth that resides somewhere in Plato’s world of the forms while we are only able to see its shadow on the cave’s wall.
Yesterday I purchased “My Life” by Bill Clinton. Though read by the author who I have deemed one of the most charismatic and fascinating leaders in the history of the world, once he starts really going all I see is hedged bets, careful diction, and his version of truth. I mean what can a man really say who claims so much to love his family when we know that somewhere in chapter 34 he’ll be getting a hummer in the oval office? He often chooses to apologize for the actions with a little disclaiming line like, “The woman who I’d love forever, even though I’d give her more than her fair share to deal with.” Does this slight self-demotion leave room for forgiveness or is he just politicizing himself out of the dog house? Who knows!
Truth is – there is no truth. Even cold hard facts have a way of changing over night. But yet we as humans have a very black and white vantage point on crimes and misdemeanors, love, and history. Nothing is black and white – tis all a shade of gray.
As the World Turns
Wednesday Sep 29, 2004 - Link to Entry
Today is a very special day and a very sad day. At the moment in time that marks the year anniversary of JeremyRound.com is the same moment in time that my college a cappella group, Aural Fixation was proclaimed dead.
Aural Fixation, 1998-2004, was the beginning of a campus resurgence of a cappella. After its birth over 6 new groups followed, few of which still are singing today. With driven and connected members AF quickly became one of the top five groups on campus by gaining NU recognition and playing sold out venues throughout the early years. Our first big show was in the Willard Great Room in the Spring of 1999 entitled, “Chew on This.” Several other huge shows followed throughout AF’s brief life, “World Tour – One night only!!,”, “The Dragon Room,”, “Rocky Horror,” and so many more.
AF was a cornerstone in my college experience and almost as important as my house. Though I am not deeply saddened by its death, I do feel that future generations have lost an awesome tradition and opportunity. AF was a very close knit group that was able to tour to the East Coast, have crazy parties, and dabbled quite a bit in intragroup dating. Yes I was thrice the victim of such.
My personal AF highlights include my Rob Thomas numbers – “Smooth” and “Push”, “Gangsta’s Paradise,”, “I Like Birds,”, “Yesterday,”, “Aha Let’s Eat,” and “New Music” from Ragtime. AF was more than an outlet for me. It was something that kept my musical ear not only alive but developing. I became much more of a musician through those rehearsals, became much more of a leader through my time as president, and became much more of a teammate and friend through the groups ups and downs.
AF you will always be a fond memory in my heart. Thank you for all that you gave us!
A look back at the past year of Jro.com will be put off until my next entry.
Bad Beat -- Poker as Life
Tuesday Sep 28, 2004 - Link to Entry
If life is simply a game of poker then I need to remember to trust my instincts and know that if a given hand (“scenario”) goes sour I can get out and live to play another day. Some would say I wasn’t dealt the greatest two hole cards. Since I was born into a decent financial situation with a loving family (albeit a divorced one) we can say that my hole cards were A-6 unsuited. Yes tons of hands beat this but its not awful either. My life’s “flop” didn’t exactly bring me the goods, but I bluffed at it. After all in poker and in life you play the man, not the cards. So you could say for most of my life I’ve learned to run without the ball. Too many metaphors?
Point being – Lately I’ve had instincts to fold pre-flop but perhaps was on the blind or the button and attempted to get lucky. Consider my latest relationship. My first instincts were ones of warning which I promptly ignored. Truth is if you’re lucky enough to get a gut feeling on anything you should follow it all the way because not only is this a deeper insight to a situation but it will effect how you play the scenario later in the hand. Lets say this hand was 6-7 off suit (note – this is all a metaphor). Not a powerful hand at all. But the flop brought 5-6-6. I flopped the set! My instinct had been to run off, but now I was betting all the way assuming that I was ‘secure’ with the best hand. The turn was an A which I was glad to see because I expected that some of my opponents were sitting with A-K, or A-x, and they would now have top pair, easily beaten by my set. Three opponents remained into the river. 9 came on fifth street. I still hoped my opponents had Aces or perhaps two pairs Aces up. I checked to pretend I was on a straight draw with a 7-8 and away they went betting and raising. I then reraised and was quickly called. A turned over my set. The next to act quickly mucked his cards. The final player flipped A-A. A full house. My set was crushed. I had lost the hand and a lot of my chips – devastating me and my game.
The point of this story is simple. Go with your gut from the very first moments of any scenario in your life. If you believe you should not be in a situation—get the hell out!! Otherwise you’ll find false confidence and take a Bad Beat!
What the?!
Monday Sep 27, 2004 - Link to Entry
Apparently someone attempted to break into my journal and take over my stimulating blog column today. Shame! SHAME SIR!!!
Jesus I'm late for work! (Interesting fact -- the Holy Grail should prove that Jesus was just an awesome man and religious pioneer, not a deity...but I thought I should let him know I was running late-- dammit, now I'm later)
Jayro Out!
In the Thick of it All
Sunday Sep 26, 2004 - Link to Entry
Lately I've been beginning to feel like I'm hovering somewhere in the thick of it all. Par Example: Walking into Ralph's today I was asked if I wanted to see an Advance Screening of an upcoming sports film with Samuel L. Jackson. At first I was excited but then I quickly realized that I was already privy to this film at work. Ah what?! :)
Also where else but the center of Hollywood could one be solicited by a prostitute and have to pass a strip club and a library on a three block stroll to their friend's house? Dare you tell me....Where?
And I feel like I'm at the cutting edge of knowledge about the sacred Feminine and the demise of the Pagan followers after my quick "read" of The Da Vinci Code. Yes it is now clear exactly how the church ruined the entire world. I knew my instincts were founded on something.
But really I've been feeling a bit overwhelmed with my recent breakup, a friend's relationship struggles, and working hard at my poker game while trying to get in well at my new job, take voice over classes, and find time for music and writing. Busy, busy, busy.
I am still trying to solve the ongoing internet issue but hopefully soon I will be equipped to make more frequent updates. In the meanwhile keep reading and showing the love.
What a crazy world
Wednesday Sep 22, 2004 - Link to Entry
As the smog cleared the horizon suddenly was no longer draped in an endless grey haze. Mountains climbed up majestically where before seemingly nothing had stood. "Ah yes, this is California," I thought to myself as I drove on with the windows down enjoying the always great weather combined with a clear fall sky.
Listening continuously to my Da Vinci Code on CD I not only learned the secrets of Jesus's mortality and the lies that billions have worshipped for 2,000 years, but I also developed a new LA hypothesis. People in LA are nice...that is when they aren't in their cars. When in their cars they are like New Yorkers.
Show tomorrow...Poker rules my world...Relationship over.
Bookworm
Monday Sep 20, 2004 - Link to Entry
I want all of you to know that I have reverted to my reading ways...sorta. See my new job entails quite a bit of car time and also as many of you know we have quite a bit of traffic in this Land of LA LA. So I decided instead of overplaying my favorite CD's and instead of trying to tolerate the substandard radio programming available I would read while I drive. Only, as you may or may not know, it is quite difficult to both read and drive simultaneously as both tasks require at least your vision and a bit of guidance from one hand. So I had no choice but to equip my car with a laser guidance system that literally gets me from point A to point B without hastle and with no effort whatsoever required. Unfortunately I found out after much research that no such system exists as of yet and if it did I most likely could not afford it on my modest salary. So finally I resolved to instead opt for the less desirable solution; Books on tape...or in this case scenario (is case scenario redundant?) a book on CD, The DaVinci Code.
After an errand that took me down to Irvine, which is in the depths of Orange country, I am already two discs in and loving it all the way! The narrator is quite a strong story teller and paints the world quite well with subtle skill and crafted tone.
Other notes of interest: I hate dance clubs, don't much care for drinking, fear that my music might be put on hold with my new unpredictable hours, am starting to fancy myself an advanced amature poker player, and I'm having a great time in LA LA!
See you Thursday at da Club...
Some things I've been noticing...
Friday Sep 17, 2004 - Link to Entry
Many people refer to California as the land of Fruits and Nuts. Well my first two years in San Francisco definitely had quite a helping of both but who knew that LA would show me so much of the latter. I have seen the following things in the past week:
1. A 58 year old woman in a bikini at the grocery store
2. A man wearing a darth vader costume at an ATM.
3. A group of HUGE Transvestites working a very industrial corner located between a Fed Ex and a meat packaging firm.
4. A group of 40,000 morons cheering for a little monkey who dances with a sign that reads "Rally Time"
5. A midgit twirling a rainbow umbrella humming a song that sounded like The Rainbow Connection.
Truth is there are a bunch of Nutty folks down here in So Cal but that is simply symptomatic of residing in such a huge city.
I've also noticed that there actually are seasons here. By the end of August and into September the weather has been dry for so long the leaves begin to change color and do fall. Thats right! Despite temperatures averaging into the 80's as of late Fall has begun.
Finally I've noticed that when I have short hair and I'm wearing contacts people sincerely confuse me for Adam Sandler. Twice recently I've been asked by total strangers if I was Adam or related to him. My response, "We're in the same tribe."
Back to work...peace
Life is good!
Monday Sep 13, 2004 - Link to Entry
I'm livin' the dream. Hollywood pad, hollywood job, hollywood gigs...Its goin' really well!
So today marked the first day of my second real job ever. Sorry Mark, but DJing just doesn't count. I am only counting jobs that deduct taxes and have benefits. My official position is "Runner." Today I learned this consists mostly of delivering and picking up footage/trailers and paperwork. Not a bad gig. Mileage is paid, overtime is time and a half, and they have free food for all meals of the day. Plus the people seem awesome and more than willing to teach me as much as they can to get me moving up the ladder as quickly as possible. As far as grunt work goes, this seems like a cushy first LA gig. Yea! :)
The music is going really well too. I now have an open invite to play at both venues that I have performed at thus far. My next step is to get the band together once and for all. I fear though that with my new job this will be harder to do as my scheduling will be somewhat irratic. Did I spell that right? Let me know....is it erratic? Oy!
And of course my social life is going extremely well. With so many of my closest friends already here, add the family, the girlfriend, and the new folks I'm meeting...well I just couldn't ask for much more. The only trick now will be balancing it.
Oh I forgot to mention...at work they really believe I could do some good voice over work. I'm struggling with how to read scripts but with a little coaching I think I could probably do it. Apparently it pays VERY WELL, as in VERY WELL! I'll keep you posted.
Ciao.
The Foxx Club
Sunday Sep 12, 2004 - Link to Entry
The club was bumpin' bumpin'. My first prime time slot, Saturday night at 9pm. A great trance Radiohead like band warmed up the crowd as the patrons shuffled in. Soon the room was filled with over 20 people who had come just to see me....Not bad, not bad at all :)
This venue was great for several reasons. First and foremost the setup was awesome. It was a little club hidden behind a neighborhood pub which turned out to be in Culver City, not Santa Monica as I had been told. It had a huge bar area where you could chill to the side if you wanted to talk during the show and also a decent sized sitting area to watch the stage. The sound man was TOP NOTCH. He was very focused on the performers and very gratious and kind. Warren, you da man! The stage was large but not as high as 14 Below's. The lights were still strong enough that I was blinded from really seeing the audience which I am quickly finding is my preference. Great sound system, great crowd (probably about 50), great experience!
I went on about 20 mins late which was perfect. By then the room was full and ready for some music. Because the first act was so low key I switched up my set a bit to put some high energy stuff up front. The set flew by. Some of my guitar playing was a bit rusty as a result of gambling more last week than rehearsing, but all and all I felt I had decent control of my playing and was once again thrilled with my vocals. Peace made its stage premier and I intended to play What If as well but ran out of time. The Great Cover Song was also cut from the set due to time constraints. But I had a great great time. The crowd sang along to the covers and got really into Peace, Tes Yeux, and Goodbye. For the most part just another positive experience down here in LA LA land :)
Also noteworthy: I will be beginning my career in movie trailer (previews) editing tomorrow at 9am. It will be a long road but at least I've found my way to the beginning. DHS had quite a healthy showing at the Foxx Club featuring four alums, Cari, Matt, Pres and myself. We caught up after the show...Muy Bueno.
Alright I've gots to enjoy my last day of freedom. Wish me luck and keep coming out to these shows...We've got some momentum rolling now!
I'm hired...I think
Thursday Sep 9, 2004 - Link to Entry
Today I went in and met with the future bosses. Using a bit of humor and focusing on my unusual path to LA through teaching I believe I won their hearts. Really today was a formality in my mind. I did not expect as formal of an interview process. Nonetheless I focused on how hard I'm ready to work while seeming hungry, eager, and able. I hope to have a start date in the upcoming weeks, but still no time table is set. I will of course keep you posted.
When the time comes to go to work I wonder if I will once again be able to handle the routine of it all. It has been a long time since I had people watching me to decide if I am making the right moves and preparing myself for advancement. Even in teaching my world went mostly unevaluated. This new presence of authority while I work for scraps will certainly challenge my spirit. That sounded a bit to religious...I take it back.
Big game tonight. I'll take the Colts just to spite young Rico and lil' yaf...even though i think the patriots will probably never lose another football game ever. Ever.
Hidden Treasures
Tuesday Sep 7, 2004 - Link to Entry
With the promise of new material I have been digging through my archives and have come across quite a few pieces that are ready for performance. Most newsworthy is a song that is over 13 months old called "She Wanted More." Its the tale of a failed marriage where both spouses are out late and end up dancing with each other at a mascarade party. Some of the lyrics are a bit wordy --i.e. annonymity. But all and all its a great little song. Come out and hear it at the Foxx Club this weekend!
Beyond digging through old music I've just been working on getting all my paper work up to date and to attempt to get my computer up to a functioning level. I've also been focusing on improving my poker game, picking blue lint out of my black towels, searching for my missing shirts (two polos lost somewhere admidst my world tour), and procrastinating as much as possible!
Between football and my shows, fans you'll be quite busy this fall...
Home at last...
Sunday Sep 5, 2004 - Link to Entry
After 15 days, 6 flights, 6 cities, 7 states, and the following modes of transport: Airplane, Airtrain, Subway, by Foot, Bus, "L" Train, Chicago Bus, several SUV's and sedans, taxi (only in chicago!), moving walkway, elevator, escalator, bicycle, yet never by boat or water vehicle -- I am Home!
Getting life back together will be no small task. Bills to pay, receipts to enter, jobs to pursue, friends to see, and messes to clean. But in a day or two it should be business as usual.
The final week of the World Tour ended up being a little more relaxed than the first. I focused on redeveloping my screenplay and catching up with my friends and family in Chicago. Shoutouts Alex, Adam R, David H., Barbara, David C and Erin, Addison the dog, Waxler, lil yaf, Rob and Michelle, Jenny and Robbie, and the whole family Adam, Joey, Cari, Becky, Sandye, Wayne, and new member Brad.
I must away to get some bills a paid but stay tuned for updates and get ready for a bunch of shows. Happy Labor Day!
PS. Interesting fact -- those that are unemployed actually hate holidays because it makes stores and restaurants and the like busy on a normal errand day.