The Heart of the Matter
February 13, 2024
Colours of the Wind

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February 06, 2024
New Release by Stuart Hoffman

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If you are a lover of music, life, possibility, aspiration, soulfulness, hope, peace or joy, Stuart Hoffman's new song, "Us All" is most definitely worth a listen.

The vocalist on the song is the very soulful Lisa Frazier -- a powerhouse who has performed or recorded with the following notables: Boz Scaggs, Ziggy Marley, Bobby Womack, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Lopez, Rick James, Ray Charles, Eddie Murphy, and George Duke.

The song came to Stuart on October 7 -- Day 1 of the Israeli war -- after reading a despairing online post from a dear friend of his.

THE LYRICS

We're lost off course
Need a correction
Too much loss
Of all that's precious
Such a cost.
We're here for a moment
And then we're gone
Can't afford to get our signals crossed.

Millions of years we have waited
Millions of tears we have shed
Lifetimes of lamenting
The voices in our head

The scars were imposed
The lies that were told
The trauma that we carry
still takes hold
still takes hold

Please bring your kindness
Please bring your laughter
Please bring your wisdom
O my Lord

The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all

Please bring your kindness
Please bring your laughter
Please bring your wisdom
O my Lord

The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all
The same power... breathes us all

More of Stuart's songs
Anthems on the Rise

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January 20, 2024
Find the Miracle

PremRawat.com

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December 20, 2023
Love Must Find a Way

One more inspiring song from Kim Margolis. Turn up the volume! Enjoy!

Kim's website

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December 17, 2023
Nothing Lasts Forever

Gorgeous song by Kim Margolis from his new album. On steady rotation in my home and car. Thanks, Kim! Keep putting it out there! Love your music and the feeling behind it.

Kim's website

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November 15, 2023
Easy to Love

PremRawat.com

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October 14, 2023
Enchanting Song by Cara Tower

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August 16, 2023
Kim O'Leary Time!

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July 02, 2023
LOVE TODAY

A collaboration between Stuart Hoffman, Fernando Garcia, and yours truly. Enjoy!

PremRawat.com

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May 31, 2023
Fall Back Into Me

A beautiful new song by Stuart Hoffman. Let it in.

A just-published interview with Stuart on Medium
Stuart's GoFundMe campaign

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January 15, 2023
SOUL SURVIVORS: Lover to Me

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December 26, 2022
Winter's Light

Beautiful new song by Barry Ollman.

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October 12, 2022
One Million Strong

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July 18, 2022
Easy to Love

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June 05, 2022
New Song from Kim O'Leary

Bellatronic on Facebook

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April 02, 2022
Beacon in the Storm

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Wonderful new song by Stuart Hoffman, Jennifer Edwards, and Tony Cardo. Vocals by Stephen Rivera. Fuzzbee Morse on bass and guitar. Jerry Marotta on drums and percussion.

Available on Bandcamp for downloading.

And while you're at it, learn more about Anthems on the Rise, an innovative new music production company that writes, arranges, and produces songs for all occasions.

Photo: Joshua Hibbert, Unsplash

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April 01, 2022
Unchained Melody

Here's an inspiring piece of music for your delight -- Steve Kowarsky, on the Ewi, playing Unchained Melody -- a song made popular, decades ago, by the Righteous Brothers. See below for lyrics. Enjoy!

Woah, my love, my darling
I've hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me
Lonely rivers flow
To the sea, to the sea
To the open arms of the sea, yeah
Lonely rivers sigh
"Wait for me, wait for me"
I'll be coming home, wait for me
Woah, my love, my darling
I've hungered, hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me

PremRawat.com
TimelessToday

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January 27, 2022
Without Your Love

PremRawat.com

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January 21, 2022
It's a Real Love

Kim's website

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October 19, 2021
INTRODUCING A GREAT NEW SONG: "Can't Stop This Love"

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"Music is the universal language of mankind." - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

"Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier." - Mother Theresa

Love and music. Music and love. Hooray for them both and the universes born from their union!

And so, in honor of all things lovely and musical, all things joyful, heartfelt, inspired, mysterious, creative, collaborative, timeless, soulful, longing, deepening, and divine, I am so very happy that YOU have arrived, at this precise moment, at this precise blog, and, even more specifically, are in close proximity to the four-word title to a wonderful new song by Stuart Hoffman and Jennifer Edwards (vocals by Stephen Rivera).

And just in case you are wondering where this very clickable four-word title might be located, all you need to do is take a look at the very next paragraph which, lo and behold, is made up of only four words -- the same four words that just happen to be the title of Stuart and Jennifer's new song, which as fate would have it, was released just a few hours ago on Bandcamp. Can I get a witness?

Can't Stop This Love.

Without further adieu, I humbly invite you to unplug from whatever you are doing, turn up the volume, and let this beautiful song find it's way into you. Feel it. Let it take you. And if you feel like dancing, dance!

Oh, one more thing: if the song moves you in any way, please let Stuart and Jennifer know. Too many artists, these days, toil away into the wee hours of the night and the night after that, never really knowing if their deeply felt love songs to life have been received.

Let them hear from you and, hopefully, you will hear a lot more from them.

totalembrace88@gmail.com

THE LYRICS

How do you stop the ocean tide,
stop the breath inside,
make the rain go away,
how do you stop today?

How do you stop the world from turning,
make it spin the other way?
how do you hear the words you speak
if you've got nothing to say?

Can't stop this love,
can't slow this feeling down,
can't stop my heart
from reeling around,
can't change the moon
or the stars above,
can't stop, can't stop,
can't stop this love.

How do I stop looking at you
or feel the way I do?
how can I keep from telling you
how much I love you?

How do you stop the sun from shining
or the perfume in a rose?
Do you believe in a silver lining,
not just suppose, not just suppose?

Can't stop this love,
can't slow this feeling down,
can't stop my heart
from reeling around,
can't change the moon
or the stars above,
can't stop.
can't stop this love.

What's happening to me?
You've taken my heart,
I seem to have loved you
right from the start,
with every breath,
with every kiss,
you fill every moment
with bliss.

How do you stop the ocean tide,
stop the breath inside,
make the rain go away,
how do you stop today?

How do you stop the world from turning,
make it spin the other way?
How do you hear the words you speak
if you've got nothing to say?

Can't stop this love,
Can't slow this feeling down,
Can't stop my heart
from reeling around,
can't change the moon
or the stars above,
can't stop,
can't stop this love,
can't stop,
can't stop this love,
can't stop,
can't stop this love.

Lyrics: Jennifer Edwards

A wonderful book about love
Click here if you want Stuart and Jennifer to write a song for you

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October 12, 2021
A Change Is Gonna Come

Thanks to Evelyne Pouget for the heads up

PremRawat.com

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October 08, 2021
Peace Train

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September 26, 2021
Always Remembering You

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August 16, 2021
In Honor of David Andersen

God bless Tim Hain for this beautiful tribute to David Andersen, a long time friend and brother who passed away a few weeks ago. Treasure every moment, ladies and gentlemen. We are here for just a little while.

PremRawat.com
www.timelesstoday.com

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July 29, 2021
LOVER TO ME

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Click this link to listen to "Lover to Me".

Richie Ingui: Lead Vocals

Charlie Ingui: Bridge and Background Vocals

Kim O'Leary: Background Vocals

Fuzzbee Morse: Produced, arranged, bass, keyboards, guitar, drums & vibes.

Ronnie Margolis: Cymbals & hi-hat

Recorded in LA in 1996: Mixed by Roger Nichols

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July 21, 2021
The Power of Love

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July 07, 2021
ALL IS WELL

www.PremRawat.com

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May 24, 2021
I'll Carry the Torch

Beautiful tribute to Richie Ingui, from his brother, Charlie. Richie, we miss you and we thank you for all the love and devotion you embodied for so many years. Until we meet again...

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April 21, 2021
Even in Your Darkest Hour

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January 14, 2021
John and Daya Concert Slide Show

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December 30, 2020
It's a Real Love

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December 20, 2020
Even In Your Darkest Hour



PremRawat.com

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September 27, 2020
FREEDOM TO ROAM

More Chris and Daya

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September 02, 2020
You Get More Beautiful

TimelessToday

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August 30, 2020
WAVING

Gorgeous song here, my friends. Lyrics by Tom O'Mara. Music by Stuart Hoffman. Vocals by Stephen Rivera. Turn up the volume. Forget about your troubles for a while. Feel what this song is all about. Let it in. Click the link below for the back story and the lyrics. Thank you Tom and Stuart and Stephen! We are all waving...

"WAVING" was inspired by a poem written by Tom O'Mara for Cynthea Forest Orrin Thyme who left this Earth on March 9, 2019. Cynthea was a dear friend of Stuart's-- someone he knew for many years. He loved her -- her heart, her laugh, and her devotion to her highest calling. Seeing her was always a delight. When Stuart read this poem by Tom O'Mara, he was compelled to write the music. And we are glad he did. Vocals by Stephen Rivera.

How long does it take
to say goodbye?
I am standing on the shores of Earth
waving to you, my love,
aboard that ship of ships
carrying you into the sky,
and I am waving and waving
long after those sails are gone,
I am waving at the stars
all night,
still waving at dawn,
and I'm waving and waving
all through the day,
and I think I can hear people say:
There must be something wrong,
that can't be right
to be waving all day
and night after night,
and it's quite possibly true,
my Love,
I've lost my mind
saying goodbye to you.

Yet I'm waving, my darling,
it's the one thing I know.
beyond the beyond
we'll be waving hello.

More of Stuart's music on Bandcamp

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August 17, 2020
WITHOUT YOUR LOVE

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June 18, 2020
A SILVER THREAD: John Adorney's Gorgeous New CD

Congratulations, John! Within a week or two of its release, A SILVER THREAD went to #1 on the New Age music charts.

John will be doing a radio interview this coming Saturday, June 20th from 8:00 - 10:00 am, Los Angeles time. (KSBR 88.5) and many of the songs from his new CD will be played. The best way to tune in is through something called Mixir. If you're going to listen on a mobile device, click here. There's a button for Mixir on the home page.

JohnAdorney.com

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June 13, 2020
CARA TOWER: Infinite Inside

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May 17, 2020
ESSENCE: A Beautiful Song by James Gallagher

If you have five minutes to spare and want to unplug from the momentum of your life, here's a real treat. Some of you may have already heard this song. Even if you have, like all great songs, this one goes in deeper and deeper the more you listen.

TimelessToday

Big thanks to Kristina Finn for the heads up!

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May 02, 2020
A Little Help From My Friends

PS: See if you can find Fuzzbee in this one.
PPS: We are all in this together. Reach out to a friend in need today.

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April 21, 2020
TIM HAIN: My Father's Child

Here is the fifth in a series of songs from people inspired by Prem Rawat -- this one from the one and only, Tim Hain.

The first in the series
The second in the series
The third in the series
The fourth in the series
TimHain.com
Tim's new book on Stirling Moss
Random photos of baseball

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April 15, 2020
MUSIC! John Adorney, Kim O'Leary, and Steve McPeters

Here's a beautiful break from washing your hands, wearing your mask, and thinking about how you're going to make a living. Plenty of time for that later. For now, music! Three delicious songs by John Adorney, Daya Rawat, Kim O'Leary, and Steve McPeters -- wonderful musicians who have been inspiring people for many years. Here's to music and courage and love and perspective and trust!


EVEN IN YOUR DARKEST HOUR: John Adorney


UNIVERSE: Kim O'Leary


UNTRAVELED ROAD: Steve McPeters

More John
More Kim
More Steve

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April 13, 2020
A Song for Silent Heroes

This just in from Stuart Hoffman (music), Jennifer Edwards (lyrics), and Stephen Rivera (vocals) -- a song of praise to the unsung, silent heroes everywhere whose selfless efforts are saving lives, raising spirits, and being of service to so many people in need.

Anthems on the Rise
Other Stuart Hoffman songs and anthems

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December 19, 2019
The Power of Music, Love, Collaboration, and Community

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Happy Holidays and a big thank you for being a reader of Heart of the Matter. I very much appreciate your open-mindedness, open-heartedness, and all around good vibes.

This blog, which began on a wing and a prayer in 2008, has now published 1,778 posts and has been viewed 1,648,125 times. Since I began this labor of love, only 15 posts have been "commercial" -- promotions for various fundraising efforts I felt moved to support: six Go Fund Me campaigns for friends with health challenges, five TPRF fundraising drives, and three of my own (ahem) book launches.

Guess what? Now's the time for fundraising drive #15 -- my heartfelt request for you to consider contributing to the just-launched, super interesting Anthems on the Rise GoFundMe campaign.

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Anthems on the Rise is the brainchild of Stuart Hoffman and Jennifer Edwards -- two good friends of mine who have recently written, arranged, produced, and recorded One Lit Candle -- an extraordinary anthem inspired by and dedicated to Greta Thunberg, the 16-year old Swedish climate change activist who has recently been recognized by Time Magazine as the Person of the Year.

Amazingly, just a few days after Stuart and Jennifer's anthem (vocals by the very soulful Stephen Rivera) went public, a Copenhagen-based, environmental organization (WAFA/Water Food Air Awards), posted it on their website to support their newly launched Youth Climate Award category.

That, in itself, would be plenty of holiday cheer for Stuart and Jennifer to imbibe, but just a few weeks later, WAFA invited the One Lit Candle creators to perform the song, with a children's choir, at the 2020 UN Climate Change Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland.

Can I get an amen?

In response to this fantastic opportunity for Stuart and Jennifer, I have just launched a GoFundMe campaign to create the support they will need to meaningfully respond to the adventure before them.

Bottom line, that's what this Heart of the Matter post #1,778 is all about -- my attempt to encourage you and other Heart of the Matter readers to help pave the way for Stuart and Jennifer to work their magic and be able, pro bono, to help WAFA get its very important, planet-saving message out into the world.

Here's the math as I calculate it: Heart of the Matter has 1,321 subscribers. If each subscriber contributed just $19 to the Anthems on the Rise GoFundMe campaign, the fundraising goal would be reached. Simple. It takes a village. Or at least 1,321 people willing to donate $19 each to help make some magic in the world.

If you are at all doubtful about the power of music, check out these quotes from various movers, shakers, and melody makers.

Well, there you have it. My impassioned plea for the Heart of the Matter community to pull together and radically increase the odds of Anthems on the Rise and WAFA taking off.

If you do not feel called to contribute, no worries. You can still lend a helping hand by forwarding this link, along with a personal note, to all your music-loving, planet-loving, and possibility-loving friends.

PS: Prem Rawat is one of WAFA's four patrons.

Photo: Spencer Imbrock on Unsplash

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November 26, 2019
WAFA: Water Air Food Awards

If you haven't heard of WAFA yet (Water Air Food Awards), here's your introduction. Based in Denmark, WAFA is a global volunteer organization that recognizes our world's silent heroes -- people making a difference in their communities with low cost, high impact, environmentally friendly innovations and initiatives. Prem Rawat is one of WAFA's four patrons.

WAFA's vision and mission
WAFA's patrons
A sampling of WAFA success stories
How to volunteer
WAFA's new 2020 Youth Climate Award

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November 23, 2019
ANTHEMS ON THE RISE TAKES OFF

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Dominos delivers pizzas (547 million per year). FedEX delivers packages (3 billion per year). And Anthems on the Rise delivers custom songs (one, so far, this year).

One? Just one? Yes. But what a one it is -- One Lit Candle (Song for Greta) -- now featured on WAFA's (Water, Food, Air Awards) website in the Youth Climate Awards category.

Hoffman and Edwards' compelling anthem (with gorgeous vocals by Stephen Rivera) has found, in WAFA, the perfect partner to get its message out to the world. Indeed, both WAFA and Anthems on the Rise are kindred spirits, committed, as they are, to shining a bright light on the very best of what it means to be a conscious, caring, creative human being.

WAFA makes it possible for the environment's silent heroes to have a voice and Anthems on the Rise helps make that voice come alive.

If you are inclined to help WAFA accomplish its ambitious planet-saving goals, click here. If your organization would benefit from having its own inspired anthem, click here.

And if you don't feel like clicking on either of the above links, click here for some memorable quotes on possibility -- something which WAFA and Anthems on the Rise, thank God, are both wide open to.

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Illustration: gapingvoid.com

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November 17, 2019
KIM O' LEARY IN DA HOUSE: Closer

Kim's website

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July 27, 2019
When the Rain Begins

Beautiful song by Stuart Hoffman. Vocals by Stephan Rivera.

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June 22, 2019
Kim O'Leary in Da House

www.kimoleary.com

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February 05, 2019
An Interview with Stuart Hoffman

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The following is an interview with singer/songwriter/composer/ Stuart Hoffman, a long time friend of Heart of the Matter and all-around awesome human being. It is the first in a series of interviews with Heart of the Matter readers with something of value to say.

Why is music especially important these days?

Music has been called the universal language. THAT is a powerful statement. These days, we, as a human race, maybe more than ever, need to be united, not divided. Music, the universal language, has the power to unite us.

What do you love the most about composing and performing music?

Giving my heart a voice. Bringing forth what was invisible and making it visible, what was inaudible and making it audible. Having the awesome feeling of being a channel for an expression that wants to be expressed, a message that wants to be shared. Being beyond the state of duality that enslaves the creative impulse. To put into words, without words, but with music. Channeling the love in my heart into the hearts of others. When I'm singing, I often close my eyes and feel as if I'm in a huge arena, the Hollywood Bowl, for example. The feeling is so massive, so all encompassing, so benevolent, so grand, and so life reinforcing.

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You have been a long-time student of Prem Rawat. What impact has he had on your music and creative life?

Prem Rawat has taught me how to go within myself to a place that is full of joy and peace. Spending time in this inner sanctuary and being filled by the beauty that lives there, I am compelled to give that feeling expression through music and song. He has dedicated his entire life to reminding me to spend time in the place that is the source of creativity within. It is because of his influence and the gift of having him in my life that I am compelled to try to express the beauty and gratitude I feel for life itself and all the amazing gifts wanting to be discovered everyday.

Over the years, you have performed at various Prem Rawat events around the world. What was that like for you?

Wonderful. A dream come true. Getting to give back in this way was a gift I will always treasure. It was a highlight of my life. Being a part of his events, him presenting his message to people everywhere, was such an honor. And getting to spend close time with him was precious.

What is the most challenging thing about being a composer/musician these days?

For me, making the time. Staying in a consistency of rhythm. There are many distractions, of course, the least of which is making a living. The primary way music is sold these days is via streaming. It has never been so difficult to get compensated for the mammoth efforts that go into the creation, production, recording, producing, mastering, distributing, and marketing of a music project.

What lyric of yours do you like enough to put on your tombstone?

"And if I could make a wish come true, I'd have one more day with you."

What songs have you written that are the you most proud of?

Many. Some instrumental, some words and music. From my first album "Silent Longing": Waiting (a collaboration with Marcel Adjibi). Joy to Joy

From my 2nd album, "Somewhere Tonight": Somewhere Tonight (inspired by my teacher, Prem Rawat's lifetime of endless travel to touch the Hearts of human beings.) One More Day. Capture the Day (a collaboration with Tara Liz Driscoll).

From my 3rd album, "Dance in the Dance": Dance in the Dance, Colors of the Beloved, You Get More Beautiful (inspired by the late Lee Hillyard)

From my 4th album, "Shine Your Light": When The Rain Begins (a collaboration with Jennifer Edwards, One Million Strong (a collaboration with Stephen Rivera, Shattered Dreams.

You've had several musical collaborations in your life. What do you like most about creating songs with a partner?

I love how all parties are taken outside of their abilities. I am always surprised by the magic -- the transformation of the piece into something beyond our greatest expectations. I guess, in this case, it's true that 1 + 1 = 11.

Imagine it's two years from now and your wildest musical fantasies have come true. What would that look like?

It would look like pure joy. It would look like performing in beautiful concert halls and arenas with my friends and musicians -- both my original music and covers I have made my own. And knowing our efforts are a part of a global effort to bring people together, to help usher in Peace on Earth for all peoples regardless of race, religion, color and differences. To finally celebrate and rejoice in the oneness we all share by the amazing fact that we are alive. To come together and sing from our hearts the glory of what we have discovered we have been given.

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As I understand it, you are a big fan of "anthems" and are in the process of creating new anthems for the future. What IS an anthem and why is it so meaningful to you?

An anthem can capture and express a universal feeling or knowing. An anthem sheds light on what was always there, but perhaps hidden from view. An anthem is the obvious made apparent. An anthem unites. An anthem lifts consciousness to a level where differences fall away and what is similar and common to ALL shines most clearly. An anthem brings hope where no hope could be found. An anthem transcends time. An anthem transcends age and gender and race. An anthem, if you are fortunate enough, writes itself through you. An anthem can speak to the most special place in all. An anthem can carry a generation, a nation. An anthem can unite the world. An anthem can bring out, without trying, what is the very best in us.

Can you tell me about your current musical project? How far along is it? What remains to be done?

My current music project is in its infancy. I am focused on new songs, collaborations, and an anthem or two. Beyond that, there are original and cover songs that did not make it on my latest music release, "Shine Your Light," that I am planning to include in my next project.

Finish this joke: A musician, a rabbi, and a politician walk into a bar...

A musician, a rabbi, and a politician walk into a bar. The TV is on. Donald Trump is talking. A musician, a rabbi, and a politician leave the bar.

I'm not sure if you are aware of it, but one of your songs (When the Rain Begins) is the fourth most popular posting (out of 1,710) on The Heart of the Matter blog. What do you attribute that to?

It's an anthem! Some of my greatest collaborations have been with with my life partner, Jennifer Edwards. When The Rain Begins is a wonderful example of our collaborative process. We were asked to write a theme song, an anthemic piece for an upcoming animated feature film. One of the most wonderful parts of the collaborative process, for me, is discovering the marriage of the music with the words/lyric -- as if it was already there and they were always destined to meet. This was one of those times.

Jennifer penned the lyrics. I put them in front of me at the piano and, effortlessly, within 30 minutes, the entire song was born: intro, verses, chorus, bridge, outro. Then began the production of the song which was also a joyous process from beginning to end.

What state of mind do you need to be in to compose a memorable piece of music?

Receptive. Non-judgmental of self. Being in a state of worthiness to receive a most wonderful gift with an almost infinite possibility of touching others.

Imagine you found a patron (or won the lottery) and no longer needed to work a "day job". How do you think that would affect your music-making?

It would free up all that physical, mental, psychic energy and time I have to spend now to create a steady income stream. That space would be freed up to allow for the creation of new material, production, and arrangement and recording of existing material. Also, it would raise the production level of the project. And most importantly, it would allow the songs to shine and be brought to their highest potential.

What advice, if any, do you have for musicians just starting out?

YOU have something to say. Learn to allow yourself to SAY IT in your own, unique way. Remember your creations are, first, gifts to yourself. Always give at least an equal weight to that fact. The "world" tends to ignore this and insists that all your attention should go into what OTHERS think. HUMBUG!

It's what you think and feel, first. Trust your passion. Never doubt it. You have been given a unique voice to say what you see. Your perception is unique to you and is your gift to share. Why? Because no one else can. And there may be someone else is this world who needs to hear and see your unique perspective. Never doubt. Your music is your best friend. As long as you allow it, it will always be with you. Take care of it.

What are the most important things you have learned about life?

Allow light and life to win everyday. This is the MAIN mission. Be filled with what you have, what you are -- not drained by what you think you don't have, who you think you're not. Life itself is non-judgmental and unconditional love. It holds no grievances or grudges. Every single moment starts fresh and is like a new day. Life wants me to WIN in the truest sense. Life is my best friend. Always. Life is simple. Try not to complicate it. Make an effort to come back to its simplicity everyday. In doing so, you will have achieved true success not as defined by our culture or society, but by life itself. Contentment and gratitude and fulfillment are everything. Our soul's mission is written and embedded deep within our true heart's core. Come home to it. Stay home with it. Always. As much as you can.

NOTE: Stuart's music can be heard on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, Tidal and all popular streaming and download sites.

PS: Stuart is available for hire for movie and television soundtracks, commercials, and documentaries. He is also available for house concerts and parties.

Hoffman and Ditkoff
Prem Rawat
For You

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Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:27 AM | Comments (0)

January 10, 2019
When the Rain Begins

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Stuart Hoffman, Jennifer Edwards, and Stephen Rivera have joined their considerable forces to create an extraordinary anthem to love, hope, and possibility. Wow! When the Rain Begins is already a classic. Turn up the volume, turn off the news, take a deep breath, and enjoy.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:01 AM | Comments (0)

November 12, 2018
Love Today

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 07:33 AM | Comments (0)

June 21, 2018
1 MILLION STRONG

Turn up the volume, go full screen, unplug from whatever and enjoy Stuart Hoffman's joyful new release, 1 Million Strong. It's inspired, spacious, anthemic, cellular, and brought to you by the same power that gave you breath and the appreciation of it. Give it up for the soulful, artful, playful composer, musician, and man about town going for it full tilt boogey! Stoooiiieeee!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:45 AM | Comments (0)

May 28, 2018
Freedom to Roam



Chris and Daya's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 08:03 AM | Comments (0)

May 12, 2018
Even In Your Darkest Hour

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Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 05:15 PM | Comments (0)

April 23, 2018
Update on Kim O'Leary's Music

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If you are reading this, there is a good chance you know the music of Kim O'Leary. Kim has been inspiring people for many years with her soulful songs of love, longing, and life. Here, in Kim's own words, is an update about her music and plans for taking it further...

"This is to let people know of a crowd funding campaign that I have started. The main idea is that people who have enjoyed my music in the past will be able to buy my new album in advance. That will help me cover all the recording costs up front. It will also allow me to develop a production company for new artists which is now in its beginning stages. This link will take you to a short video that explains all of the relevant details. If you know of other people who might have an interest, please share this with them. I send my very best wishes and I look forward to sharing my new creative work with you when this album gets completed (due out in September). Thank you for your interest and ongoing support for my music."

Kim's website
Because of Love

Already Home

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 08:57 AM | Comments (0)

April 11, 2018
New Music from Manuel Iman

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I have been a big fan of Manuel Iman's classical and jazz guitar music for many years. His CD's are in steady rotation in my home. Always uplifting.

The only time I ever jammed with him was at Prem Rawat's 50th birthday event in San Diego. As MC, I sang the blues and Manuel, God bless him, played blues guitar, providing the rhythm and the grounding I needed not to completely implode.

Manuel has just released a new CD. It's a pearl. Like him. Give it a listen.


GooglePlay
Amazon
ITunes (Spain only)

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 02:37 PM | Comments (0)

March 10, 2018
New Song from Geoff Bridgford

Geoff's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 09:20 PM | Comments (0)

October 19, 2017
James Taylor on the Secret of Life

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 11:28 AM | Comments (0)

October 01, 2017
Even in Your Darkest Hour

We all get down from time to time -- even inwardly-directed people who have experienced great joy and bliss. No worries, mate! John Adorney's song is a definite pick-me-up. Listen to it a few times and forward the link to any friends of yours who might be feeling blue.

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Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 11:45 PM | Comments (0)

September 04, 2017
Honoring the Soulful Music, Life, and Family of Richie Ingui

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If you are a long-time Heart of the Matter reader, there is a good chance you are familiar with the music of Richie Ingui -- an extraordinarily gifted singer and deep-hearted man who unexpectedly passed away this past winter.

In the entertainment world, Richie was most famous for his iconic 1967 song, with the Soul Survivors -- Expressway to Your Heart. But there was also another side to Richie's music that many in the music marketplace never got to hear -- songs of love, longing, and gratitude inspired by his long-time connection to his teacher, Prem Rawat.

Many of us who knew Richie miss him deeply, but none more than his wife and soul-mate of 50 years, Cheryl, and their two children.

Recently, a few of Richie's Philly friends came up with a beautiful way to honor his memory, provide some much-needed help to his family, and share inspiration with people who have been touched (or will be touched) by Richie's soulful music.

Towards this end, a collection of 17 of Richie's songs, has been put together -- a kind of "Greatest Hits" from back in the day. It's called "Be A Lover To Me" and it is sure to inspire, uplift, and remind you of what the deepest part of you yearns for.

Because of copyright issues, these songs cannot be sold. However, the need is pressing and gifts can be freely exchanged. So, if you feel inspired to be part of this effort, here's how you can participate:

1. Send a gift, in the form of a check, to Cheryl Ingui. (38 Wheatsheaf Road, Shomong, NJ 08088.) Or, you can pay via Paypal: philysoul@comcast.net. All gifts go directly to Cheryl and the Ingui children.

2. Send an email to David Richman (Drichman007@gmail.com), informing him of the gift you mailed to Cheryl.

3. In response to your gift, you will receive a gift in the mail -- a USB drive containing 17 of Richie's songs.

If you are so moved, please consider forwarding this link to friends of yours who have been touched by Richie's music over the years. Your communication to them is likely to be the only way they will hear about this crowdsourced expression of love going out to Richie and his family. We are all in this together.

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Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 04:31 PM | Comments (0)

August 27, 2017
NEW STUART HOFFMAN RELEASE: A Thousand Days With You

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Ta Da! Here is Stuart Hoffman's newest love song, A Thousand Days With You -- a single release from his upcoming CD.

Dedicated to the one and only Jennifer Edwards. All proceeds go to the "Get Stuart Hoffman Out of Debt" fund.

Click link below for the lyrics.

A THOUSAND DAYS (Jennifer's Song)

Life has carved for us a space
Whenever I see your face
I know I have found a love so true
And I smile for A Thousand Days with you

Yes somehow life knew
I had to open to
This feeling inside that only grew
And I'm glad for A Thousand Days with you

I had closed love's door a long time ago
A collision so deep left me reeling

But Life heard my prayer
And somehow put you there
Though I doubted someone could love me
Like you do
And I thank God for A Thousand Days with you

Yes somehow life knew
I had to open to
This feeling inside that only grew
And I'm glad for A Thousand Days
I thank God a thousand ways
And I love a thousand ways with you
And I smile for A Thousand Days with you

released August 26, 2017
Words and Music by Stuart Hoffman

And, in case you missed it last March, LOVE TODAY -- a Hoffman/Ditkoff collaboration

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:57 PM | Comments (0)

A NEW KIM O'LEARY RELEASE: Dance Above the Wire

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Hooray! Here's a wonderful new song from Kim O'Leary. Kim is a total treasure and her music radiates love and longing.

And an oldie, but goodie

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:41 PM | Comments (0)

August 19, 2017
We Go High!

Announcing the world premiere of WE GO HIGH, Jill Katz and Friends' new anthem to world peace. Enjoy! And please consider posting the link on FB and other social media sites. We very much need peace-themed counter-programming during these challenging times of ours. Yes, there is darkness. But there is also light. And, inspired music with a meaningful message helps bring the light.

In what ways can YOU and your friends do something to help inspire peace -- both inner and outer?

The We Go High website
We Go High on Facebook
58 inspiring quotes about peace

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 05:32 PM | Comments (0)

March 24, 2017
You Get More Beautiful

Such a beautiful song written and produced by one of the most wonderful people I know, Stuart Hoffman. Vocals by the extraordinary Daya Rawat. And, for good measure, here is Stuart's newest song, Love Today, one I had the good fortune to be the lyricist for.

TimelessToday

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:01 AM | Comments (0)

March 21, 2017
NEW RELEASE: Love Today!

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You've heard of Lennon and McCartney. You've heard of Sonny and Cher. You've heard of Abbott and Costello. Now you're ready for Hoffman and Ditkoff and the world release of Love Today. Spread the good news. Forward it to your friends and, if you have any enemies, forward it to them, too. Love is the most powerful force in the world. Let it rip!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:42 AM | Comments (0)

March 02, 2017
Song for Isabelle

Beautiful song. Steve Gilbert on guitar. Wendy Lewis on baby and vocals.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 04:02 AM | Comments (0)

October 18, 2016
Turn It Around

I nominate this wonderful song by Steve McPeters (with John Adorney) to be played at the inaugural ceremony of whoever is the next President of the United States.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 11:49 PM | Comments (3)

October 06, 2016
A World Awakens

Preview of A World Awakens, a wonderful new CD by John Adorney.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 03:55 PM | Comments (1)

September 20, 2016
In Honor of the Amaroo Rain!

It's raining in Amaroo, right now, so here is a song to celebrate the rain and the source of love within us all. Exquisite new song and slide show by Stuart Hoffman and Jennifer Edwards. Vocals by Stephen Rivera.

Soaked

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 06:02 AM | Comments (0)

July 06, 2016
The Gospel of This Very Moment

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 08:58 PM | Comments (0)

May 20, 2016
Chris & Daya in Montreal on May 22

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Good news for music lovers in the Montreal area. Chris Mac Vittie and Daya Rawat will be performing, on May 22nd, 8:00 pm. LION DOR, 1676, rue Ontario est, Montreal (Quebec) H2L 1S7. The very talented Sonja Ball and Friends will open the evening with a set of their enchanting music.

Purchase tickets here
Chris and Daya's website
Listen to their music

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:51 PM | Comments (0)

November 12, 2015
Chris and Daya in Boulder: 11/28

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"Neither a lofty degree of intelligence, nor imagination, nor both together, go to the making of genius. Love, love, love. That is the soul of genius." -- Amadeus Mozart

If Mozart was alive today, I think he would be a big fan of Chris Mac Vittie and Daya Rawat -- not because Chris and Daya play classical music. They don't. But because their muse and Mozart's muse was probably the same. Or, if not the same, then at least played in the same band.

Other similarities? All three of them started their musical careers early in life. Mozart was writing and performing concertos at the age of four. Daya was singing in her cradle. And Chris? Why, just last year, at 37, he wrote the title song to their groundbreaking CD, The Envy of Stars.

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Clearly, the music scene today is very much different than Mozart's in the 1700's. Patrons, now, are in much shorter supply. Wigs are out. Home studios are in. And the marketplace is way more cluttered. Back in the Mozart's time, there just weren't that many musicians on the scene. These days it's a totally different story. According to a recent MySpace survey, there are approximately eight million bands in the world. Last year, more than 141 million CDs were sold. That's a lot of competition for eyeballs and ears.

So why give a listen to Chris and Daya? What about their music is worthy of your precious attention?

For starters, their harmonies border on the divine -- as intricate as Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young and as evocative as Tony Bennett and whoever he happens to be singing with at the time. But even more than their exquisite harmonies, is the joy and feeling their music evokes.

Their hook? Life. As in live it to the fullest. As in let it rip. As in celebrate the very best of what a human being is -- or could be -- if only we allowed ourselves to tune in to what really matters.

Some reviewers of Chris and Daya's music characterize it as fusion -- the place where East meets West, country meets soul, and, yes, man meets woman. OK. I get it. True. But I think an even more accurate word for their genre is fission, the artful splitting of the atom -- in their case, the atom of love -- an act of creation that releases great amounts of heat and light: heat that warms the heart and light that illuminates the path.

If you are anywhere near Boulder, Colorado, on November 28th, you're in luck. Chris and Daya will be performing at the e-Town Hall on Spruce Street. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Concert starts at 7:00 pm. Purchase tickets here.

Chris and Daya's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 02:20 PM | Comments (0)

October 12, 2015
An Evening of Extraordinary Music

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If you are within driving distance of Asheville, NC and thinking of attending Chris Mac Vittie and Daya Rawat's concert on 10/16, here's the correct answer: GO! I had the pleasure of attending their NYC performance tonight and it was a total delight. Their voices are infused with joy, their harmonies are a magic carpet ride, and their lyrics pack a wallop. Plus, their stage presence is very entertaining. Chris and Daya are the kind of performers you will tell your grandchildren you saw before the word got out.

Opening for Chris and Daya are two extraordinary musicians in their own right, the incredibly gifted Ron Clearfield on cello and the divine Linda Kendal-Fields on violin.

Doors open at 6:30 pm. The concert starts at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $25.

Click to buy your tickets and find out where the concert is so you don't spend your entire evening driving around Asheville and wondering why you didn't click on the link.

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Chris and Daya's website
Preview their new CD
Check out their lyrics
Read more about Asheville
Chris and Daya in Atlanta on 10/17
Sneak preview in a radio station
Fun photos from past concerts
What's a concert promo without a Facebook page?
The Nicholas Brothers after seeing Chris and Daya

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NYC concert photos: Matt Miller

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:39 AM | Comments (0)

October 08, 2015
Fuzzbee Morse In Da House!

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Here is extraordinary review of Fuzzbee Morse's recently released CD -- Dreams and Other Living Things -- by Paul Zollo, Senior Editor of American Songwriter. Read it and leap. Then buy it and listen.

"Imagine, if you can, a collaboration between Hendrix and Steely Dan: complex but melodically visceral songs with ferocious electric guitar and flawlessly tight musicianship, and you get an approximation of the Fuzzbee Morse experience.

An astounding guitarist who has played with countless legends, from Bono to Lou Reed and beyond, he's a real-life guitar hero. He commands that edgy ferocity Hendrix embodied, and his solos throughout this album are revelations. Sometimes they are wildly fierce, other times touching that immaculate transcendence of the Santana realm, pure electric eloquence.

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Fuzzbee also sings with the spirited soulful phrasing and tone of Hendrix, and brings us not one but two faithful Hendrix covers, "Voodoo Child" and "Angel." And while few singers can do Hendrix like Hendrix did Hendrix, and so wisely choose, like Sting did, to go in a whole other direction, Fuzzbee lights a Hendrix rocket and soars on it into the soul stratosphere.

But that's only part of the trip here. His own songwriting is sophisticated yet soulful. The man knows how to structure a song with stamina and poetry, such as the stunning supernova instrumental "Zonga!," which is as lyrical as a song with no lyrics can be. Or a song with words, like the great "It's Time To Go," which revolves around a killer chord vamp before unfolding with a pure funk perfection. It's a lesson in remarkable songwriting, with an ideal pre-chorus that explodes into the elevation chorus, punctuated by a horn section and then a great Fuzzbee/Hendrix riff. It really doesn't get better than this.

"Long As The Wind Blows" opens the show with beautiful Lennon-like melodics, a gentle melody set against counterpoint vocals, leading to a lovely chorus of sweet remembrance. "Brother Ray" is an elegy for Ray Charles and his world of soul, as Fuzzbee testifies to the lifelong impact: "I can't say where I'd be today without the one and only Brother Ray."

The closing "Underground Railroad" is a haunting and redemptive journey that starts with a promise of liberation, "someday I'm gonna walk on water." Suddenly we are on gospel ground, and with the great churchy authority of singers Lisa Frazier, Willie Chambers, Joe Chambers and Tyra Juliette, we are lifted from the earthbound to the spiritual river, rafting headlong towards the eternal ocean. It's an exalted conclusion to this musical feast.

By virtue of being Fuzzbee, he was able to put together a band of his friends who happen to be among the world's greatest musicians. The rhythm section throughout is Jerry Marotta on drums, Tony Levin on bass and David Sancious on piano and organ. Marotta also plays ocarina, rainstick, Omnichord and assorted percussion. Fuzzbee arranged and produced.

Utterly amazing. An absolute masterpiece, and one which I hope others will invite into their lives. Given repeated listenings, the inherent beauty and dynamism of this dizzying collection becomes beautifully apparent, and like the greatest music, blooms ever better with each listening. An album for the ages."

Fuzzbee's website
Download or buy CD from Bandcamp
Download or buy CD from iTunes
Download or buy CD from CD Baby
Spotify if you must
American Songwriter

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Ummm... if you've gotten this far in the article and haven't yet downloaded Fuzzbee's new album, now's the time. Support the arts! Feed a musician. Listen to some awesome music.

Download or buy CD from Bandcamp
Download or buy CD from CD Baby
Download or buy CD from iTunes

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 08:00 PM | Comments (0)

Chris and Daya Concert in New York City on October 11th

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GOOD NEWS!

Chris Mac Vittie and Daya Rawat, two awesome musicians, will be performing at Hunter College, 695 Park Avenue, in New York City, on Sunday, October 11th, at 5:00 pm. Jazz guitarist, Larry Newcomb, will kick off the show. Doors open at 4:30 pm.

Tickets are $25 and can be purchased on Chris and Daya's website. Click on shows and scroll down to Hunter College.

Listen
Other, upcoming shows

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:20 PM | Comments (0)

August 11, 2015
Chris & Daya Concert in Hollywood, FL!

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If you are anywhere near Hollywood, Florida on Saturday, August 29th, you are in for a treat. Chris MacVittie and Daya Rawat will be in concert at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center, 1770 Monroe Street at 7:00 pm. Doors open at 6:30 pm. $20.

Chris and Daya are the real deal -- consummate musicians with a soulful presence and something meaningful to say. Inspiring. Uplifting. And memorable. After the show, Chris and Daya will be signing their new CD, The Envy of Stars.

Purchase a ticket online

Envy of the Stars on iTunes
On BandCamp
On Amazon
On GooglePlay
On YouTube

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 07:17 PM | Comments (0)

June 16, 2015
New CD from Daya & Chris on iTunes

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Click here to preview and/or download the fabulous new CD from Chris Mac Vittie and Daya Rawat on iTunes. Also available from Eversound.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 09:20 PM | Comments (0)

May 16, 2015
Something to Sing About!

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Two beautiful songs by Prem Rawat are now available for downloading on a newly launched website, Rawat Creations.

Each download is variably priced, depending on format, and includes a PDF of the lyrics. Other songs will be posted on the website as time goes by.

Brief message from Prem Rawat
Other videos

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 02:38 PM | Comments (0)

February 15, 2015
Don't Worry. Be Happy!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:16 PM | Comments (1)

December 16, 2014
Happy Hannukah and Harmonies!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 09:57 AM | Comments (0)

November 14, 2014
Always Remembering You

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 02:29 AM | Comments (0)

November 07, 2014
ALL OF US: A Wonderful Peace Project

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I want to call your attention to ALL OF US -- an inspired music video project being developed by Cara Tower and friends to help forward the cause of peace on the planet. Cara is deep in crowdfunding mode now, trying her best to raise $3,500 to get the project off the ground.

Click here for more info about the project on GO FUND ME and to view a 4-minute video of Cara singing the song that inspired her efforts.

The text below is Cara's description of the project. If this moves you, please consider becoming a supporter of ALL OF US. Every little bit helps.

IN CARA'S OWN WORDS:

We're raising seed money towards the making of a music recording, video, and film.

Whats it about? We want this project to display the unifying message that we are all human beings first and foremost. Therefore, when we can place our politics and religious beliefs aside.

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Our goal is to invite a musician, choir. and singers from each continent to participate.

This is a non-profit project. When you contribute to the production you become a collaborator. You will be informed of each expenditure and of each new development. This is a transparent project. You can write feedback. Each one of us who contributes will have their name and country of origin scroll in the ending credits. It is our hope that many people from many countries will have their names appear as a clear, collective statement that says, "We are simply united as people of the earth".

The ALL OF US project is an opportunity for everyone, everywhere to get involved with a creative unifying, collaborative effort. Together, we can bring awareness, through song, as we focus on the solution, not the problem.

The videos are demos of the "All Of Us" song so you can listen and read the lyrics. It's a song to be shared to help unite the focus of everyone, everywhere by helping us all to remember that we are human beings first and foremost. When we recognize this simple fact, it's easy to see that we have everything, fundamentally, in common, regardless of our circumstances, beliefs, religion, economics or demographic location.

There are two phases of the project.

The first phase is to raise support for the musical production. We'd like to record the basic tracks in a professional studio. We'd then like to invite a few singers and musicians to participate in the production from around the world via the internet. For example, a singer from the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas -- and a Chinese harpist, Turkish percussionist etc.

The second phase is to compile, shoot, collect and/or borrow footage from film makers around the globe that shows people doing a variety of things in a variety of ways; getting married, protesting in the street, celebrating, laughing, fighting, painting, dancing, or even singing on this song!

When the project is complete you can download it and use it for your own initiatives, because it will belong to you. It will belong to All Of Us.

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We launched this project on Sept. 22, 2014 -- the day after the International Day of Peace, not only because peace needs to be renewed everyday, but because it gives us a good head start so we can be ready to submit to the next Words of Peace Global cast on September 21, 2015.

Have another idea? It's your project too! Together, let's see what legs it might grow. Peace will come from each of us.

Peace is the responsibility of individuals, not nations. If not now, then when? If not us, then who?

I hope you will join us on the ALL OF US project and that you will make it your own by contributing and helping us spread the word.

Thank you! Cara Tower and the ALL OF US Team.

LYRICS TO THE SONG

We come from the same universe
We live in the same world
We shoulder the same sorrow
We turn with the same sky
We sleep by the same moon
We stand under the same sun,
It Shines on everyone...
Everyone of us
We're all of us.

We swim the same sea
We breathe the same breath
We quench the same thirst
We feel the same pain
We long for the same love
We dream under the same stars
Venus and Mars
Everyone of us
We're all of us.

Everyone of us is touched by time
Not one of us is born to be unkind
Behind the cruel divide
When anger takes it's side
As strange as it may seem
We're all on the same team.

We warm by the same fire
We cradle the same heart
We bleed the same blood
We seek the same peace
We follow the same light
We dream under the same stars
Venus and Mars
We stand under the same sun
It shines on everyone
Everyone of us
We're all of us
Everyone of us,
We're all of us.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 04:18 PM | Comments (0)

October 26, 2014
New Music from Daya and Stuart

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In the spring of 2012, Daya Rawat (vocals) and Stuart Hoffman (piano) spent several hours in Stuart's LA studio rehearsing for a TPRF benefit concert in Germany.

Neither of these two extraordinary musicians had any intention of releasing anything from that rehearsal, but after recently listening to a recording of the music they made that day, the two of them realized they had captured something very special.

So they decided to create an EP (extended play) on BandCamp -- and release it to their fans and the rest of the known universe.

The EP includes: "You Gave Me the Key," "This Is My Paradise," "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face", and "What A Wonderful World."

Click here to download now. The cost? $10. Less than two capuccinos and a muffin, but the effect will last a whole lot longer. You're in for quite a treat.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:50 AM | Comments (0)

October 25, 2014
Fuzzbee's New CD!

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See that guy with his head on my shoulder? That's Fuzzbee -- Fuzzbee Morse, world class multi-instrumentalist, producer, composer, Flying Fannoli Brother, raconteur, comedian, kibbitzer, and bundle of love.

In 1978 we were roommates. In an ashram. In Denver -- both of us having the same teacher, love of baseball, and propensity to laugh for very little reason at all. Our room was about the size of a jail cell. A very small jail cell. On many a night I would awaken around 2:00 am and see Fuzzbee on the floor, hunched over some scraps of paper, pen in hand, feverishly writing.

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"Ditty", he would call to me, "what rhymes with ocean...?" (or 'tunnel'... or 'whisper' ... or whatever word he had just written down for a song that would later become part of the soundtrack of my 30's).

Half-asleep, I'd call out something or other and Fuzzbee, flashlight in hand, eyes on fire, would chuckle and find a way to work it into the song.

It was clear to me, even then, that he was a master musician -- him having already jammed with Frank Zappa (at 15!), Jean Luc Ponty, Joe Zawinul, and a number of other greats.

But sharing that blissful little room with him 36 years ago, I had no idea he would go on to play with the likes of Lou Reed, Peter Gabriel, Bono, Richie Havens, Aaron Neville, Ric Ocasek, Willie Chambers, Dave Grohl, Karla Bonoff, Daniel Lanois, Jerry Marotta, Tony Levin, David Sancious, and many other musical icons of our generation.

Those of us who were friends with Fuzzbee back then, always thought fame and fortune were just around the corner for him. How could they not -- him being such a monster musician? In a logical world, that's exactly how it would have played out. But this is not a logical world, clearly demonstrated by the fact that Fuzzbee, for a while in his 20's, had to work in a cement factory and later, dress up once in a chicken outfit outside some low-rent, fast food restaurant, to make his daily bread.

Dues. That boy was paying dues.

But now, with the long-awaited release of his breakthrough debut CD, Dreams and Other Living Things, a stellar collaboration with Jerry Marotta, Tony Levin, and David Sancious -- those dues are beginning to bear some major fruit.

First of all, Oooh Baby is a likely candidate to become an anthem for lovers everywhere, background vocals provided by Daya Rawat. And Brother Ray, an homage to Ray Charles, doesn't just hit the ball out of the park, it transports the park to a place Fuzzbee's growing fan base would like to take a one-way trip to. Jimi Hendrix? You miss Jimi Hendrix? Here's your VooDoo Child fix -- the fourth cut out of 10 on this brilliant debut album.

Every track on this album rocks. And rolls, too.

Want to sample the CD? Click here for an iTunes preview. Want to download it? Click here for BandCamp. Or here for CD Baby. Of course, you could choose not to click, but that would be your loss. And besides, it will only take you three minutes to download.

Fuzzbee.com

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:09 AM | Comments (0)

July 10, 2014
Matisyahu ONE DAY

This Matisyahu video was one of the most popular ones shown in last year's PeaceCast livestream. If you know of others with the same kind of uplifting peace-themed message, please email the link to the good folks of PeaceCast who are in the process of reviewing hundreds of videos and picking the best for their September 21st livestream. It will take you less than three minutes to submit your link to PeaceCast.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:26 PM | Comments (0)

March 24, 2014
Barry Ollman's New CD. Wow!

All I can say is WOW! Barry Ollman's new CD, "What'll It Be?" is absolutely fantastic. Compelling lyrics, wonderful melodies, voice like warm honey, and a feeling that makes me want to hug Barry and everyone he knows. Barry's music is a treasure and a half. PS: Graham Nash sings harmonies on Imogen's Lament.

Barry's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:15 AM | Comments (0)

February 20, 2014
Real Elevator Music

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:50 AM | Comments (0)

February 11, 2014
Happy

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:37 AM | Comments (0)

November 11, 2013
Celebrate Life Events in London

Here's a 2-minute video that will give you a feeling for a cool, new music-themed initiative in London dedicated to bringing about positive change in communities. Inspired. Fun. Celebrational.

More about Celebrate Life Events

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 07:16 AM | Comments (0)

October 17, 2013
One Coin Is All It Takes

Fabulous! Wow!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 05:06 PM | Comments (1)

October 11, 2013
The Woodstock Festival of Thanksgiving

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A musician friend of mine is organizing the First Annual Woodstock Festival of Thanksgiving Concert on November 30th and is asking for people to send him "gratitude themed" JPGs for a slide show he is putting together for the event which is going to include the entire community and spark an international "gratitude movement." Got something to send him? Email it to Marc Black (Blackmkt1@aol.com)

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:19 PM | Comments (0)

September 05, 2013
Brand New Day

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:25 AM | Comments (0)

August 28, 2013
The Boy at the Gate

Brilliant new book by Danny Ellis, one of the most gifted songwriters and singers I have ever heard. I've listened to his 800 Voices more than 100 times and hear something new every time I play it.

Danny's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 06:14 PM | Comments (0)

May 21, 2013
You Get More Beautiful

Daya singing Stuart Hoffman's "You Get More Beautiful" -- one of the many wonderful songs from Dance in the Dance. Great visuals in the accompanying slide show.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 11:58 PM | Comments (0)

March 10, 2013
Paper Bird

Gotta love Kim O'Leary!

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:49 AM | Comments (1)

November 29, 2012
New Music Video by Wendy Lewis

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 07:30 AM | Comments (0)

July 15, 2012
Last Night Beyond Words in Woodstock

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I wrote this piece last night at Karl Berger and Friends' awesome evening of gone beyond music in Woodstock. They opened a crack in time and space for those of us in the audience to enter. (The following piece is best read aloud).

I have a perfect seven-letter Scrabble word in my hand but nowhere to put it. It just doesn't fit.

The word is astounding, Olympian, holy, -- the perfect blend of consonant and vowel, but I just can't lay it down if you know what I mean.

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So I'm sitting, amazed, struck dumb by my knowing -- like the time, as a young man, when I experienced such a cosmic revelation that I had to write it down -- which I did -- infinitely content for the moment at having expressed the secret of life, my own personal scripture needing no confused disciples to argue, years later, about what it meant -- me still ecstatic the next day, contemplating whether or not I should start my own religion or speed dial the Dalai Lama and read him what I wrote to claim my rightful seat in some exotic realm only 3,000 year-old Tibetan monks have ever heard about, but dare not speak, afraid their telling would dissipate this moment's sand mandala of love.

Yes, it was that kind of moment I was having -- or maybe it was having me -- so I grabbed my trusty notebook and opened, like a rose, to the page now home to my sudden revelation.

Not my revelation, mind you, as in mine -- not something I could claim as the one who had had it. No, I was simply the caretaker of the knowledge every jazz musician worth his weight in the spaces between notes understands before playing.

That's what I'm talking about -- the moment when the blind piano player, alone in a room with no hope of high tipping tourists getting past the bouncer, takes a very long breath and exhales.

It was precisely at this moment that I opened my notebook, curious to read that which the rhapsody of my soul was only preamble to.

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I must say I was surprised at how little actually made it to the page. Most of it, like the first 64 years of my life or the entire universe, was empty space.

There were only a few words on that page, each one an orphan from a faraway land, the memory of caravans where no mirage abides, no grave robbers, no time, the place where madness and sanity are the very same thing and always have been.

"What did I write?" I wondered. What hieroglyph of my need to know had found its way through me in a blinding flash, last night's secret stash from a thousand gypsies dancing around the fire.

Four words. That's all there was. Four words -- none of them longer than four letters. One of them only two.

There it was -- my entire revelation, my night's escapade into the far reaches of knowing reduced to... just... four.... words -- like a stunned fan of Miles Davis backstage at the apocalypse with only enough time to say.... "Thanks, man... For everything."

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:37 PM | Comments (3)

July 10, 2012
It's Hoffman Time on This Blog!

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Ladies and gentleman, in case you didn't know it, that's a photo of Stuart Hoffman to your left. Stuart (along with Jennifer Edwards and Hannah Blake) produced Searchin' USA) -- one very cool video, methinks.

He also produced this cool invitation to Prem Rawat's North American tour, this one for Milan (along with others for Birmingham, Copenhagen, Munich, and Spain) and did the music for Dance in the Dance, with Daya and mucho other wonderful musicians (video editor: Fernando Garcia.)

But wait! There's more. Stuart is working on something to help get the word out about the Amaroo event in September. It should be done by July 23d or so. Stay tuned. You will see it here, first. Or maybe second or third.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 05:46 PM | Comments (0)

May 05, 2012
Something Good

Geoff's website

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 10:30 PM | Comments (1)

April 15, 2012
Can You Hear It Being Played?

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I have something to say to you
and it is this:
This!
This gathering of souls,
this timelessness,
this space.
Nothing else ever happens.
There is nowhere else to go.
Only this!
This!

Every flower, child,
breeze and breath
is saying the same thing:
This! Wake up! Sing!
There is no other possibility
or hope, my friends.
What you call future is a dream,
your well-intentioned scheme
to more thoroughly enjoy
what can only ever happen now.
This!

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There is nothing else to do,
nowhere else to go,
no one to come home to,
or if you are, shall we say,
spiritually inclined,
no one to chant OM to.
You see (and you do!) this... is... it!

Just this,
a chance like a leaf on a high branch,
to come undone, flutter down, land,
and there, at the root, find rest.

Let it fall to the place it can fall no further from!
Live there!
And when, as you might, finally decide to speak,
announce your discovery of pure and perfect presence,
you will be struck dumb,
stunned like a child just before tears,
mute, like someone upon whose shoulder a butterfly has come.
Moved, but unmoving.
Proof, but unable to offer any.

The perfect fool.

It is into this space that music enters.
It is into this space that hearts become drums
and we hear -- do not listen to -- but hear... music!

Can you hear the molecules and the atoms within,
the sound which ties us to God,
that like an identical twin
knows exactly what we want to say?
It is into this space that music is made.

Can you hear it being played?


Joe and Eddie

Eversound
Kim O'Leary
Geoff Bridgford
Daya Rawat
Tim Hain
Fuzzbee Morse
Stuart Hoffman
Cara Tower
John Adorney
Steve McPeters
Diane Arkenstone
Eliza Gilkyson
Marc Black
Playing for Change
Danny Ellis

Illustration

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 06:12 AM | Comments (2)

April 11, 2012
Great Eversound Concert on April 14th

Catch Daya Rawat, John Adorney, and a host of other awesome musicians at Eversound's 15th anniversary concert celebration at the Luke Theater in Santa Barbara, CA on April 14th.

Live concert on 4/14
More John Adorney
Eversound

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 12:07 PM | Comments (1)

January 20, 2012
Longing for Long Beach on 1/29!

Turn up the volume! Go full screen! Here is a fun way that Stuart Hoffman, Jennifer Edwards, and Hannah Blake are getting the word out about Prem Rawat's upcoming Long Beach event on 1/29. Forward it to family and friends! Dance! Sing! Breathe! Do whatever it takes to get there on 1/29. And if you can't, watch it two weeks later here.

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 07:42 PM | Comments (1)

December 25, 2011
Merry i-Christmas!

A light-hearted Christmas story

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 01:54 AM | Comments (0)

December 10, 2011
Singing For Someone Else's Supper

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Here's a beautiful song
by Dani and Daya --
an inspired effort
to raise funds
to support TPRF's
extraordinary
Food for People program.
Listen,
enjoy,
download,
give.
And spread the word.

More

Posted by Mitch Ditkoff at 11:36 PM | Comments (1)

Welcome to Mitch Ditkoff's blog about what's really important in this life: Peace, gratitude, love, joy, clarity, and the effort required to wake up and smell the roses. Enjoy!

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