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Steve Ison

4/24/2008 4:36:47 PM

Succesful Artist dosn't mean successful person
I was talking with my mate Harper Stephens today about music n creativity.He was saying my utter obsession with striving to become a better creative artist dosn't equate at all with necesarily becoming a better human being..
You can develop powerful artistic skills and freedom in that realm, but still be very obviously inadequate and unbalanced...
I mean a history of the human wreckage of great artists is there for all to see Hendrix,Joplin,Syd Barrett,Lennon,Jim Morrisson,Arthur Lee,Nick Drake,Peter Green etc
Great artists? Yes...Succesful,balanced, happy human beings?..No..

Altho i'm gonna ruffle some feathers here,if i'm honest I see Paul McCartney and Bowie and the way they come across in interviews and the way they seem to be as people and think..Do i wanna be like that when i'm in my 60s? and the answer is definitely "no"...

I mean i'd love to have the freedom of Bowies early 70s creativity-but definitely don't wanna be like him as a person..

To make matters worse,2 of the very few modern signed artists i think are great and a little magical, Pete Doherty and Amy Winehouse are about as f"cked up as its possible to be without lying in a coffin..


Succesful living and artistic success are certainly not the same thing it would seem..


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Hugh Hamilton

4/24/2008 4:43:04 PM


Clapton was (if his autobiography is accurate and truthful) as messed up as possible, and yet he rallied and has been making amends. I'm with you, don't get the McCartney slam, don't know a thing about Bowie so that one's over my head...

I'd like to bitch-slap you into gigging in a fashion commensurate with your talent - so you could sell some records, make enough money to succeed or fail as a WEALTHY person (lol) and so maybe I could even hand you your towel and pitcher of ice water between sets, if not shake a tambourine in the shadows of your glorious gigs. Whatever gets you through the night(s)...and day(s)...is alright with me though, as long as I can get my grasping little hands on yer toonz...

:)
H


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Vincenzo Pandolfi

4/24/2008 4:57:10 PM


Very interesting topic Steve,

May be some people art is so great because it reflects the internal turmoil. Or may be that the artists expression reflects what he/sh wants to achieve internally but it can't.

It is obvious to me that totally inadequate people can create wonderful things, but unfortunately it does not necessarily follow that totally adequate people can create even greater things.

I have no idea what the answer could be, but I know which group of people I want to belong to. The good people group, and I think you and Hugh and lots of others here belong to it as well. Yet there is a lot of wonderful music here, so may be good people CAN write really good songs!!

I think I have just proven how totally confused I must be!!

Ciao,

Vincenzo


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Steve Ison

4/24/2008 4:59:11 PM


haha...Thanks Hugh...Maybe one day (tho you can be sharing the stage and glory lol)
I don't dislike McCartney i should say- and understand it must be difficult to be in his position deaing with the media..
The whole buisness-as-usual thumbs-aloft 'showbiz' facade he filters himself thru (even with something as tragic as Linda's death) dosn't exactly make me warm to him like i could with Lennon tho..


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Hugh Hamilton

4/24/2008 5:13:19 PM


Thanks for the clarification - I do understand, and I agree with your overall assessment - the reason I'm not gigging is exactly the kind of "decent person" thing I think you're talking about - family, etc.

I have a lot of respect for DAN ZANES, who has shifted gears into "music for the whole family" and does family-oriented matinee tours for a fairly brief spell each year. I can't help but think that something like that would work great for YOU, my friend - especially given your musical day job as it is.

I'm only one of many folks who really loves your music just the way it is, but would love to (a) see you live and (b) hear you with unlimited resources. Of course I'd also like to be up there making noise alongside you, but I'd settle for a decent seat out front, and I mean it, Amigo.

My best songs are painfully honest and from the heart. John used to rail against Paul for his "storytelling" songs, and I can't do musical fiction like that. I could bust my tail writing two or three songs a day, just to be a consistent "songwriter"...but I can't help but wait until things are bubbling over and more or less come out by themselves (usually). Songwriting as mental/psychic/emotional therapy. I think a lot of the "troubled" stars were that way. I must confess to holding back a bit though, so as not to go off the deep end. I really do think I understand what you're saying.

Thanks for including me among the "good guys" Vincenzo...!

xxoo,
H


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Hugh Hamilton

4/24/2008 5:15:46 PM


Must add, though, that Paul's "eternal optimism" is what brought us "Let It Be" and "Hey, Jude" and many others - songs that definitely get me through the night...and day...and long years...we're all human after all, it seems to me that Paul has managed fairly gracefully compared with many of his prominence...but I do get it....


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Steve Ison

4/24/2008 5:19:40 PM


Yeh Vincenzo-i think artistic energy feeds primarily off tension and turmoil(which is ironic as we all strive to be happy contented human beings in our hearts)


I thank you for your positive comment on my personality,but i wasn't thinking those artists i mentioned were 'bad' people-just dysfunctional and screwed up human beings...
Besides you might not believe i was such a good person if you really knew me ;)


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Vincenzo Pandolfi

4/24/2008 6:21:25 PM


Sorry Steve,

I Probably exagerated a little. I don't mean that they are bad persons either, just in turmoil. As fas as us being good persons if we knew each other well. That is probably not up to us to judge. I think the may thing is to want and strive to be a better person. I know that what I would like to be, and what I am are probably two different things. Intent is probably more important in the end. Getting off the track here a bit.

Going back to those artists, I agree with you that internal turmoil can lead to better art. I also believe that no matter how settled we may appear almost everyone has some kind of internal turmoil or another, and everyone handles it differently.

I can't even imagine what pressure someone who is almost suddenly incredibly successful must be under. Their fear of failure is probably overwhelming.

VP

PS: Hugh, I still think you are a good person despite your wish to (what do you call it?) bitch slap (I think) Steve!!



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4/24/2008 7:36:00 PM


Mozart and his arch-nemesis, Antonio Salieri are a fine example of this good/bad thing I think. Mozart was considered unworthy of his gifts in his time, whereas Salieri was the epitome of virtue and the supposed successful one of his time.
We all know which one we listen to today...

If I had to only listen to artists that were considered good role models by the "role model approval committee" then most of the music/artists I listen to would be null and void. And, for that matter... I then wouldn't make music myself because I don't consider myself a particularly great pillar of virtue nor a fine example of a human being to be held up to any community as a good role model. To me, music is a healer... and a language that transcends the boundary lines of our hearts. It penetrates our apathy and expands our horizons in empathetic ways opening windows to view each others worlds we might not have otherwise ever glimpsed or understood. Its powerful mojo and those that have the gift build bridges and break down narrow barriers. It is important for the arts to remain diverse and hopefully judged by the work rather than the personal state of the artist.

Another thing is... is it really an artists place to appease an audience...and can an artist really create a work of truth while appeasing the eye of the external?

Besides, I truly believe everyone would love to accomplish the virtues dictated by society as good... who wouldn't want to belong and get the pats on the back and fit in and be approved of and la da la de da...but things do go wrong in this life... there are no safe risks, there are too many diverse reasons for which way the wind blows and I find those that are so quick to judge others based on a few facts here and there to be quite narrow, fearful, and self serving and might be listening to mainstream ( lol kidding). But hey, we all get in that space from time to time, but unfortunately; many choose to make a lifestyle out of it... but then again...perhaps judging others misfortunes as apposed to ones own is the way to achieve this happiness thing... who knows... I'll tell you when I get there. I think we are all good/bad/happy/sad and everything in between and we are all perfectly imperfect and I hope we always are... We are all far too complex to separate into one group or the other...aren't we ? But there is one thing we might be able to detect... perhaps sincerity and a willingness to understand... to create...to share. Nature didn't hold back the apples growing on the tree even in humanities darkest hours... that sun keeps coming up every morning and I think those birdies are singing for everyone... I could be wrong, but so what.

I'm going to shut up now me thinks I'm being a bit indulgent here. Sorry Steve, I just really got inspired by your thread going on here. It's the bad in me that makes me do it...




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4/24/2008 8:03:59 PM


Here I am to further digress...

I have to correct one thing ... " I truly believe everyone would love to accomplish the virtues dictated by society as good "

That in and of itself is a complex array of subjectivity. ( I'm walking on eggshells here lol )

I meant that in the context of the overall desire of humanity to belong and find approval and love and feel useful and successful in our lives in some way both personally and collectively. Whew ! Dissension is often necessary and perhaps the "good" thing to do albeit unpopular. Oh man... I should have just gone and made a berry smoothie just like I was going to this gets my head ticking and it's all so vast... jeez.

Steve... there is no way the author of the song "I know a good thing" could be bad...there is far too much beauty and goodness going on in that tune as well many others you had the good grace to create. It's worth sacrificing a few helpless bunnies along the way ( lol?)


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Vincenzo Pandolfi

4/24/2008 8:20:40 PM


Very well put Crack*a*jack,

See I did say I was confused!! Thanks for putting all back into perspective for me.

In the end all we can do is admire and enjoy the art. And there is no good people or bad people group at least not in the artistic world. We can all be good or bad at times. This topic is too big for my little mouth to nibble at. I think I would just dig myself deeper and deeper into a hole. I should stick to cooking pasta and drinking red wine!!

May be a lot of great songs are great because they convey a feeling, some sensation. No judgements or solutions. I will go back in my dog house now....tail between my legs....


Vincenzo


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RedRobin

4/24/2008 11:57:52 PM


....This is a great topic, Steve.

I don't think that being a 'successful human being' or not has anything to do with artistic success - The 'successful' artists we all know about are just human beings like anyone else and it's their fame which has put them in the spotlight - With their warts 'n all their other imperfections. As individuals each one of us have different lifestyles.

It probably won't surprise you to learn that I particularly detest Amy Winehouse - Both her voice and her outrageously inconsiderate lifestyle (I could write a loooong tirade) - She's just an act in my opinion.

I think that Hendrix, Lennon, Bowie were/are no more or no less 'successful' as human beings as anyone else in the street and, in fact, gave much to mankind through their artistic endeavours and fame. I've known quite a lot of famous (some very famous) people and they're no different but just publicly famous. Never put anyone up on a pedestal.

[I'm over 60 and, some have said, 'successful'] :-)




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fly on the wall

4/25/2008 12:04:09 AM


Who said that?


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srm

4/25/2008 12:51:38 AM


"Succesful Artist dosn't mean successful person"

I think it comes down to how each person defines "success". There is a big difference between 'artistic success' and 'personal success', and even those terms tend to be translated differently, by different people.


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Conversation Suicide

4/25/2008 1:32:41 AM



Hmmm... This data from other musicians flys in the face of my previous theory ... that if I'm GOOD to people and fairly talented & creative, THAT's how I'll get my music out there.

Time will Tell! -Phlegm of Conversation Suicide


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Hugh Hamilton

4/25/2008 4:34:47 AM


Good one, Cracka.

I started defining "success" as "fulfillment" a long time ago, when I realized I was chasing the wrong stuff (fancy degrees, big ticket jobs, supermodels). I took Steve's original title of this blog to mean that people can achieve artistic success but can be personally destroyed in the process, often as a direct result of the material rewards that accompany it. That's the human condition though - not limited to art or artists...

I'm starting to get that old familiar feeling of being on the verge of revealing too much in too public a forum. That's the problem with these long distance mental love affairs (lol) - what should really be a momentary fireside chat with a few cronies becomes public and potentially perpetual.

xxoo,
H


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Kevin White

4/25/2008 5:25:58 AM


That's how I read it too, Hugh ... as it occurred to me that artists aren't the only ones who can wind up personally wretched by their success.

Sports figures, in particular, come to mind.

And what's wrong with chasing supermodels? I mean, if Ric Okasek can land one, can it be THAT hard?

And what's with America's next top model? Aren't there 1,349 of them by now? How can they ALL be the TOP model?

lol ...

In strange coincidence, I'm currently writing a song about supermodels ... the facade ... struggling with lyric a bit tho ...


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Chris Hance

4/25/2008 6:04:08 AM


So one can be wretched, unsuccessful, and not even an artist. wow!

Its almost like wiki here :)


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Hop On Pop

4/25/2008 6:34:22 AM


I had so many things to say, but y'all have touched on them already.

The one thing is that I have a former bandmate loves Paul Westerberg so much that he not only emulates his songwriting, but his lifestyle as well. Bad idea. Because, even though Paul has appeared to clean himself up, this friend of mine has never, and probably never will recover.

Is it worth the price? Because immortality is not guaranteed, but physical death certainly is.


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Richard Scotti

4/25/2008 7:00:27 AM


We should love these artists for baring their souls to us through their art and forgive them their human frailities. I deal with some of these issues in my song: "Borrowed Time" which is an like an open letter to all self destructive geniuses and directed to some of the artists whose art I admired but who had tragic flaws that hurt hurt other people or themselves.


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satch

4/25/2008 7:08:48 AM


Oh come on people - all this slamming of Amy Winehouse and Pete Docherty... sure they're messed up people, but if they weren't thrust into the public eye by virtue of their chosen careers and an ever-ravenous gutter press, do you really think anyone would give a monkeys about them? How many other alchoholics and junkies do you care about in the same way? There are thousands, even millions, of screwed up people out there...

And further, if the rest of the world, and again, in particular the media, left Amy and Pete alone to sort out their lives, they might just surprise us all and actually get it all together... and hey, if Hendrix and Janis and all those other names had had a management team that actually cared about them as people, rather than a record label that saw them as profit-making machines, they might have been a little more protected and might just have lived a little longer to entertain us all.

Hey, we're all human, we all have our weaknesses and our frailties, our passions and our talents. We're all in the same boat together.

For me, the real issue is the hero-worshipping of artists and the cult of celebrity that exists, created by the mainstream music industry in combination with the press, and especially the papparazzi, when after all, all musicians and singers are just ordinary people, doing a job to earn a living, same as the rest of us.


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Hugh Hamilton

4/25/2008 8:08:58 AM


I don't even know who Pete and Amy are, and I'm not kidding.

I've had a few people (literally, a few) go gaga over my tunes and although I enjoy and find inspiration from honest praise, particularly when it comes from artists whose art I admire and respect, when it gets a little too thick my first inclination is to want to post my ugliest photos and do or say something obviously stupid so we can just KEEP IT REAL (lol). In this way I sabotage my own "career". But it's worth it for the mental health. I agree, Satch, that hero worship of all kinds is bad for both parties involved.

I personally feel like I'm kind of skittering around the edge of something big, and it's the "human wreckage" that Steve referred to in the original post that keeps me from heading in a bit more to the center. I get the sense that many of the most active folks around here have similar feelings, but I know I'm only speaking for myself. Trying to be a committed husband and parent is a pretty fair challenge regardless of your career. But anybody who hits the limelight in any arena is immediately going to have the challenge exponentially increased. So for those of us who feel that family is the number one priority (and not just in the form of making a fortune and writing checks) being any kind of professional performing artist is a real challenge. I have the greatest respect for the folks who do somehow manage to "keep it real". I think Neil Young has done that, though I really don't any kind of intimate knowledge of his life other than the media image, which is never to be completely trusted.

KEEP IT REAL!!
:)
H


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Hugh Hamilton

4/25/2008 8:15:23 AM


I'm reminded of Ringo's story of visiting his family in Liverpool after the Fab's success hit, and an auntie getting all flustered when somebody spilled some tea and saying, "Oh, now, Dear, we can't have that...now while HE'S here!" In telling the story, Ringo gave a sigh and looked crestfallen, in the "Awww...not HERE too???" fashion...


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Kevin White

4/25/2008 8:16:39 AM


I'm aware of Amy's troubles, in and out of rehab or something like that ... Coming up to the grammys, I believe, she was in and out of the news and broadcast from an institution somewhere ...

Beyond that, I've never heard a thing of her material.


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RedRobin

4/25/2008 8:22:18 AM


Richard wrote: "We should love these artists for baring their souls to us through their art and forgive them their human frailities. I deal with some of these issues in my song: "Borrowed Time" which is an like an open letter to all self destructive geniuses and directed to some of the artists whose art I admired but who had tragic flaws that hurt hurt other people or themselves."

....The problem arises when other artists look at those 'successful' (famous) artists as role models and believe that to achieve genius status they have to be self-destructive. Usually such people don't have the depth to consider anyone else and their own path of destruction selfishly destroys other lives as well - Such as their families.

Amy WhineArse is currently the perfect example of an artist who is hollow and utterly selfish. I don't like her voice either but that's merely my personal taste and I fully appreciate that she has many fans (whom she treats absolutely atrociously!) who would strongly disagree with me. I've got more respect for pure popster Lily Allen than Amy. Amy's song material is hardly original but not much ever is, and she spoils it. How is it that Kate Moss somehow manages to keep it all together?

Some 'artists' think that by following a lifestyle it automatically makes them talented musicians/players worthy of praise and financial success. Consequently they focus more on a hell-bent destructive lifestyle than anything else. Unfortunately a by-product is their influence on young people - Making them think that such selfish behaviour is cool.

Popular music doesn't necessarily reflect a high standard of music - It's more about being the glue for sharing a good-time among a peer group - It's been like that for generations, but there's nothing wrong with that.



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Jo Ellen

4/25/2008 9:50:31 AM


Art doesn't seem to have the boundaries that societies clearly do. Historically, art has been a medium for the rebel cause. I also believe that art is the medium to provide answers and healing. What is that, The Code, changing your mood changes your attitude? I also agree that art reflects the inner state of the artist, if the art is honest (not some pop culture junk). For me, writing is definitely a release of toxic energy.


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RedRobin

4/25/2008 10:04:42 AM


Jo Ellen wrote: "For me, writing is definitely a release of toxic energy"

....I'm interested in what you mean by that, Jo - I don't understand - I best not say I'm having a blonde moment! - I'll get flamed and accused of being sexist!....I'm having a senior moment :-) - I can say that because I've been roaming this planet for over 60 years.



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Jo Ellen

4/25/2008 10:20:39 AM


Well RR, you are entitled to which ever moments you wish. :-) Regarding,"For me, writing is definitely a release of toxic energy", I mean that some people work-out or take up a hobby to relieve stress. I write. It helps me find my balance, because it causes me to "reframe" the picture of my life and recognize what I believe is important. I hope this clears things up.


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satch

4/25/2008 10:28:23 AM


Red Robin wrote "Amy WhineArse is currently the perfect example of an artist who is hollow and utterly selfish. I don't like her voice either but that's merely my personal taste and I fully appreciate that she has many fans (whom she treats absolutely atrociously!) who would strongly disagree with me. I've got more respect for pure popster Lily Allen than Amy. Amy's song material is hardly original but not much ever is, and she spoils it. How is it that Kate Moss somehow manages to keep it all together?"

So you know Amy Whinehouse personally and well enough to form and pronounce the judgement that she is "hollow and utterly selfish"? Or are you forming that opinion based on your view of a media portrayal? What gives you the right to judge?

And Kate Moss? Keeping it together? Come on man - she has been convicted of all sorts of drug-related offenses!


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Richard Scotti

4/25/2008 10:29:02 AM


Many celebrities don't want to be viewed as role models. They are just flawed human beings like the rest of us, striving for meaning and trying to earn a living. To look for role models in sports or in the arts is to look in the wrong places in my opinion.
People who achieve great things can be a source of inpsiration but it isn't necessary to focus on or be disillusioned by what they do in their personal lives. If we judged everyone by that criteria, no one would pass the test.The bottom line is nobody is perfect! Young people who need role models should look to people in their everyday lives, like teachers, family, and people who work in the community. These people are flawed too but you have to be selective. Every person has something to offer if you give them a chance.


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RedRobin

4/25/2008 11:04:41 AM


Satch, I have the same right to make judgements and form opinions as you do, irrespective of the basis or sources for forming such judgements and opinions.

It's just my opinon - So what. :-)



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Jeff Allen Myers

4/25/2008 11:16:24 AM


Winehouse Arrested on Assault Claims
AP
Posted: 2008-04-25 13:52:38
Filed Under: Star Scandals, Music News
(April 25) -- British singer Amy Winehouse was arrested on suspicion of assault Friday following reports that she scuffled with two men during a night out in a trendy north London neighborhood, Sky News television reported.

Perfect Timing!!!! Its not easy to be arrested for assault, especially if there was a defensive reason. Poor ol Amy.....just a sucessful artist with a f'd up life.
Probably many here who would love to be recognized with the success she has. There are women on this site that make her talent pale in comparison.


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RedRobin

4/25/2008 11:40:19 AM


....Ainjel Emme and Christy Fields are names which instantly come to mind as being far more talented than Amy W. There are many many more of course.

Greta of the FujiMinx seems to be a fairly hardcore rock 'n roller and she's waaaay more talented and better behaved (I think!!).

The list could go on and on and on.




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The Man With No Band

4/25/2008 11:47:52 AM


I'll probably get slammed here but.....
With all due respect to the "good" drug free folks ...
Art is created by expanding the mind away from the norm ...
Yes, there are ways to achieve this without drugs ... (I think)
But the use of mind expanding drugs has brought the world some of the GREATEST songs, literature, poetry, paintings, sculptures,etc. as well as philosophy and other good things.

The part that gets screwed up is when people stop using drugs as a tool and start letting the drugs use them.

It's been a long time since I tripped on shrooms and even longer for LSD, but I'll never regret having that experience, it truly "opened my eyes" to artistic possibilities ...

People are afraid of what they don't understand ... All of those screwed up people may only be screwed up in your eyes...


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RedRobin

4/25/2008 11:54:01 AM


I'm like you, Sam - Done my fair share of drugs on an everyday basis but stopped completely nearly 20 years ago and don't touch alcohol either. Absolutely no regrets - In fact, like you, quite the contrary!

Fear of the unknown is very 'normal' (but boring) in my opinion.




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Jo Ellen

4/25/2008 12:35:26 PM


Are we talking about being a little chemically imbalanced here? Cause I don't need drugs for that! I have an overactive left brain. :-P


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The Man With No Band

4/25/2008 12:57:10 PM


Jo Ellen .... I'm not trying to be a Pusher here ... :)

It's just a fact that some of the best artistic material the world has ever been given has come from those under the influence ...

IMO ... without drugs Jimi would have been just another guitar player ... and although it cost him his life, it brought the world some VERY SWEET sounds ...


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Jeff Allen Myers

4/25/2008 1:22:54 PM


Hey Sam, I am with you on the creative aspect of some hallucinogens or Psychedelics, but I am not sure how many great songs came out the other end of a Crack Pipe...


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Jo Ellen

4/25/2008 1:26:49 PM


Well, I guess I could compare the "drug experience" to a true spiritual encounter. Both allow you to let your guard down, transcend physical time and space, and heighten sensory experience. The difference is that Jimi is dead. I wonder if he thought it would work out that way? In any case, no judgement from me. I believe what you choose to do or not to do, doesn't make you any less or greater of a person. Anything (including spiritual experience) taken to an extreme, without checks and balances, can be dangerous. Balance is good for life. Imbalance is good for creativity? Much respect, Sam.


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The Man With No Band

4/25/2008 1:48:23 PM


Again ... it all boils down to how one chooses to use ...
Yes, Jimi is dead ... the drugs killed him ... but they also immortalized a man and his music for all-time ...
Once again ... I am not advocating drug use ... I am simply stating facts that most people do not want to hear ...
But once again I stand by my statement that drugs have given the world the best artistic pieces we will ever see, hear, read or touch...
...and a there are a lot of those artist, that didn't die from drug use and still many more that we are totally unaware of that are creating that way today ... I'm glad you have other means to get there Jo Ellen and are an open minded individual.

Jeff .. I can understand your statement but again it's how one uses ...
I know a very well respected creative freelance writer that has been published in several top-notch magazines ... He is well respected in the community and is often called in to the school for different functions and creative writing classes ... He doesn't look like a user ... he doesn't act like a user ... hardly anyone knows he is a user ... but... He smokes crack for three days in a row EVERY month ... no more, no less ... There are others too ... They are not crack heads ... but nobody would believe that ...


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4/25/2008 3:24:38 PM


Much like beauty... I suppose music and art is in the eye of the beholder. It would seem we are more willing to forgive the trespasses of those we value as true artists as apposed to those we deem as mediocre or false. I don't know... it all seems rather petty to me. We are all human beings after all, aren't we? And there is no denying wrong or right...we all know it's not a good idea to kill and lie and steal and all that obvious stuff. But, nothing good ever came out of witch hunts... perhaps that kind of mentality helped to create more of these problems in the first place ?

Addiction is a sad thing... fame or no fame. Experimenting with altered states is quite another...one is empowering, the other is not.

There is a book that I find interesting mainly because it actually approaches addiction in an empowering way as apposed to the usual "dependent for life" approach. For any of you that are interested you can read up about it at www.theaddictioncure.com


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Beth Fridinger

4/25/2008 8:18:24 PM


Life is very strange, and growth as a person seems to be related to growing pains experienced. I think if one's life is too easy, that person has less substance or is less interesting. I think a lot of times the most interesting folks have been through the most. Many of my songs have been written from sad experiences....pain I have experienced has helped me to be stronger.
Yeah I will never regret some of the experiences I had in the 60s and 70s because they opened the windows of my mind. My whole life has been a long strange trip. The adventure continues and gets more interesting everyday.
I loved Jimi Hendrix...he was simply amazing.


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Beth Fridinger

4/25/2008 8:21:35 PM


I like Amy Winehouse...and I feel really bad for her...for where she is in her head...having seen videos of her stoned out of her mind really upset me...and the way the media chases her and then posts it for all to see.


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Beth Fridinger

4/25/2008 8:22:07 PM


I like Amy Winehouse...and I feel really bad for her...for where she is in her head...having seen videos of her stoned out of her mind really upset me...and the way the media chases her and then posts it for all to see.


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Conversation Suicide

4/25/2008 11:13:17 PM


People forgot the other small thread up in here --- That MANY artists were genius or near genius, and MANY genius folk end up in an insane asylum or the like. To be an artist is to be trying to rise above your disfunctionality that most NORMAL people hide in a closet & find an outlet for expression that doesn't involve harming yourself or others...

SO of course MANY artists will not be viewed as SUCCESSFUL in relationships & social/political life.

They are also USUALLY part of evolution or the REV-olution process where by mankind is growing, and that ALWAYS involves some pain for those involved. Another reason, even though DRUGS are usually blamed, that many artists self-destruct.

-phlegm of Conversation Suicide


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The Man With No Band

4/25/2008 11:53:30 PM


.... pure genius phlegm !


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4/26/2008 1:53:27 AM


genius seems to have its limitations while stupidity seems to have an endless playground insanity just seems insane i'm just a monkey throwing poo at a computer screen one thing is for certain i am completely unable to grow facial hair
iiii mememe youyouyou ususus themthemthem
i want a dog and a brand new kazoo



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Chris Hance

4/26/2008 2:12:26 AM


OK, feet on the ground reality time,

Hendrix drowned on vomit induced by alcoholic overdose.

Shock, not a chinese whspers heroin od!!!

As far as Amy and Pete, the press put em up, the press take em down,
The press wanna story, they make one up.


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satch

4/26/2008 2:31:40 AM


Well said DT.


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Bruce Boyd

4/26/2008 7:40:28 AM


Hendrix had a cocktail of mind altering drugs in his system when he died. But it was a non-lethal mix.
What actually killed him was sleeping pills - he took some of his girlfriend's that night. But they were from Germany and many times stronger than the dosage he usually took. The instructions on the pack were in German (who knows if he would have read them anyway) and he took WAY more than he should have.
So when he started vomiting he was unable to wake up...and drowned in his own vomit.


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fly on the wall

4/26/2008 7:46:17 AM


It's not impossible that Jimi and Janis were killed by Nixon. The fact is, both would take drugs from anyone that handed them to em. Nixon hated the hippies and their overt sex messages.


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Steve Ison

4/26/2008 8:34:10 AM


Woh,some great ideas in this thread!

Thanks for the kind words about me from I Know A Good Thing Anjuli..I guess i do my best-but have a definite shadow side too-i try to get to know it, so it dosn't take me over! :)


I personally detest the endless press bullying of individuals whether its Pete Doherty,Amy Winehouse or somelike Heather Mills who is considered a total satan in most peoples eyes and utterly deserving of it..
As Satch said...Do we know them personally?
Have we the right to judge and condemn them-many millions verses one?
The worst of it is it gives the general population a reason to feel all smug n superior (Red Robin) and point the collective accusatory finger at the 'evil ones', piously believing themselves better people as they cast all their own repressed shadows onto THEM....



"Balance is good for life. Imbalance is good for creativity"

I like that quote Jo ellen...What a strange paradox tho.. We strive to become freer artistically when to be more succesful at that is to be unbalanced...And we all want to become more balanced human beings at the same time..


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Beth Fridinger

4/26/2008 9:30:34 AM


What a shame that Hendrix died....man...I loved his guitar playing...I picked up a guitar because of him...and Stevie Ray Vaughan. In the 90s I met Jimi's dad...at a Jimi Hendrix guitar contest at Mamakins in Boston...and shook his hand...and it was weird...because he looks like Jimi...then he had brothers & sisters there...I remember his sisters...one was very white skinned with dark hair...it was very interesting...


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Beth Fridinger

4/26/2008 9:31:06 AM


What a shame that Hendrix died....man...I loved his guitar playing...I picked up a guitar because of him...and Stevie Ray Vaughan. In the 90s I met Jimi's dad...at a Jimi Hendrix guitar contest at Mamakins in Boston...and shook his hand...and it was weird...because he looks like Jimi...then he had brothers & sisters there...I remember his sisters...one was very white skinned with dark hair...it was very interesting...


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Magnetfisch

4/26/2008 9:39:11 AM


Hello Steve & Co,
read in a book about Mozart recently (from W. Hildesheimer). About his precocious talent, his exuberant lifestyle and his financial/health sorrows. Thus, early pop-stars had the same problem as nowadays.

The same author also describes Beethoven, as a tormented person - increasing deafness, lovesickness - wanting to make the world a better place with his music. In a way this worked: Today, "Ode to Joy" is the anthem of formerly war-torn Europe. In this sense I disagree with Bob Dylan's quote "Chaos is a friend of mine." on today's IAC starting page... I think chaos in art may be fruitful, but it would be mindless to let it take dangerous proportions, both in life and society.

As Jo Ellen puts it, it is a question of balance 8-)


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Jo Ellen

4/26/2008 10:18:32 AM


Steve,

I look at it as two separate functions: art is my emotional or conflictual energy release which enables me to approach life as a more balanced human being. In other words, my art or creation "holds" the product of my emotional or conflictual experience, and allows me to walk away with less emotional/conflictual overload if you will. What I mean by conflictual (since I think you will wonder) are those ideas, feelings, and experiences that counter the sense of balance, yet cannot be ignored (are important to the artist).


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Jo Ellen

4/26/2008 10:29:38 AM


I have to say that I agree also with the genius theory. I think it is enevitable that someone who is emotionally and cognitively in-tune with what is "wrong" or "illogical" about society would experience an unending sense of inner conflict. Insanity (the extreme result) may emerge as a result of zero resolution. Again, this is just my opinion. I also understand that some individuals who suffer from different forms of mental illness are also extremely bright and creative (the hallucinogen effect?). Regardless, mental illness is a true hardship for many people, including artists. It is also possible that individuals turn to art as a personal therapy.


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Conversation Suicide

4/26/2008 7:18:59 PM



Nicely put. And to me that's the bottomline: If it ends up just being a personal therapy, even with all your striving to share the art with others, it STILL has value in staving off insanity!

I like to think ART is another way to buck the system, and try and change the world in a small way. Even if your sphere of influence never goes where you'd hoped it would, it can STILL make an impact for those you do affect on awareness of what's "WRONG" or "illogical" about society, and some ideas on how to change it. It's all about growing & sharing your ideas for change & sometimes that can lead to madness or self-destruction or (conspiracy theory time) assassination. But, important also is to provide some FUN & originality with your entertainment. If you can keep all that together, and still manage to survive in this economy that is nearing a depression, than your therapy as art may become therapy for others either socially, for entertainment purposes or as a political outlet. That's part of my dream!

-to entertain & enlighten? hopefully -- Phlegm of Conversation Suicide


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4/26/2008 7:44:34 PM


" It's not impossible that Jimi and Janis were killed by Nixon. The fact is, both would take drugs from anyone that handed them to em. Nixon hated the hippies and their overt sex messages."

I was always under the misguided impression that Pat Boone and his evil sidekick Lawrence Welk were behind their untimely deaths


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4/27/2008 4:06:56 AM


Hey !...you fools !!!

Jimmy & Janis aren't dead nor is Elvis or Lennon for that matter and Nixon didn't kill them he was there Father and he took them up on a space ship and they are living on one of Saturn's moons i tell yer, they are up there waiting for us when Planet X destroys us in 2012...they are coming back for us i tell yer and they are going to save us but you have to believe...you just have to believe...the CIA knows all about it {surprisingly} and the FBI {another surprise} and the inland revenue or whatever it's equivalent is called in the States ?...anyway they know all about it, as do many other departments...i haven't time to mention them all or indeed the energy and also i am suffering from repetitive strain syndrome and can only write a maximum of 40,000 words in one go before my fingers fall off ! Phew !....anyway, i digress....they ARE up THERE...i know because i am one of the chosen ones to join them along with Hugh Hamilton's banjo,Larrees plectrum and Superpusses drum stool...we will have to start all over again...it's coming i tell you..IT"S COMING....and these aren't the insane rants of someone who's just a little bit bored on a Sunday morning and hasn't got anything worthwhile to add to this post.....if you don't believe me then just go ahead and google ...SATURN/NIXON/JOPLIN/HENDRIX/PLANETXmoonlivingCONSPIRACYtheoryBUNKUM......and you'll see what they been hiding from you all these years.....whoops i forgot to say you should add ...GREY/REPTILIAN/PURPLE/ALIENS at the end......

THE TRUTH IS IN THERE.......{ just over there !..in the corner}

I hope this has been a useful addition to this thread


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srm

4/27/2008 5:20:22 AM


DAMN! I want some of what you're having!


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4/27/2008 6:12:48 AM


SRM,

I am selling it on eBay...i'll send you the link later !


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RedRobin

4/27/2008 6:51:35 AM


Steve Ison wrote: "The worst of it is it gives the general population a reason to feel all smug n superior (Red Robin) and point the collective accusatory finger at the 'evil ones', piously believing themselves better people as they cast all their own repressed shadows onto THEM...."

....There is some truth in that newspapers (the media of the written word) influence many people and make or break an artist's reputation by, rightly or wrongly, pointing accusing fingers etc, but when you are presented with the media of film, photographs, and filmed interviews, it's not difficult for each of us to make our own judgements about someone. Your examples of Amy Winehouse and Heather Mills are both very good examples - You've got to be fairly unintelligent or extremely biassed (prejudiced in favour of someone as an obsessed fan might be) not to see what these people are really like. There are doubtless justifiable reasons for them being who they are but you don't have to like them.

Of course, the opinion one forms about others may be of extremely little importance in the grand scheme of life, but only a zombie appears to have no opinions or what some call prejudices. Even animals decide whether they like you or not.

If my opinions and disagreements with you, Steve, cause an imbalance, then that's good! - According to Jo Ellen's post, it's good for creativity. :-)





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Bob Elliott

4/27/2008 8:42:49 AM


Why's everyone always down on McCartney? Seems like a decent guy, creative as can be.


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Kevin White

4/27/2008 10:44:01 AM


I believe he is decent.

What he said he and Linda tried to give their kids? "A normal family life."

Given his stature, that couldn't have been easy, but it was their goal.

Recent sad highlights have shown that he still believed in love when he remarried, but I'm certain that "no pre-nup" was a "mistake he'll no longer make".

His behavior, to me, seemed normal anger over deep hurt.

Kev-


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Steve Ison

4/28/2008 3:06:43 PM


"Your examples of Amy Winehouse and Heather Mills are both very good examples - You've got to be fairly unintelligent or extremely biassed (prejudiced in favour of someone as an obsessed fan might be) not to see what these people are really like"

So what are they 'really like' then?
Can you access the totality of them mediumistically- whilst you ascend the spheres on your flute?
Like God,perhaps?

Your spiritual gift grants you the ability to make irrefutably complete-and unquestioningly accurate- judgements about famous people you've never met, that i can only manage by reading newspaper columnists opinions and lazily flicking thru sensationalistic TV clips..


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satch

4/28/2008 3:31:05 PM


"Even animals decide whether they like you or not."

Simply not true - a lion doesn't sit on a rock, looking at a human passing by and think " okay, I like that person, I won't eat them for dinner". If the lion is hungry, it will quite likely attack that human. And dogs, it is often said that if a dog senses that you are afraid of it, it will attack you... that's nothing to do with deciding whether or not it likes you, it's a reaction to a sensual stimulus.

Just because you are okay with passing judgement on all and sundry, based on the most trivial of evidence, doesn't mean that all creatures great and small are the same - we (including animals) are all at differing levels of evolution and awareness and we all see things differently!


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RedRobin

4/28/2008 4:28:44 PM


Steve Ison wrote: "So what are they 'really like' then?
Can you access the totality of them mediumistically- whilst you ascend the spheres on your flute?
Like God,perhaps?

Your spiritual gift grants you the ability to make irrefutably complete-and unquestioningly accurate- judgements about famous people you've never met, that i can only manage by reading newspaper columnists opinions and lazily flicking thru sensationalistic TV clips.."


....Tut tut, Steven - You're not doing yourself any favours with vitriolic posts like that. What's consuming you?

What on earth has my flute playing got to do with my observations and hence mere opinions about the likes of Amy Winehouse etc?

I agree with you that much of what newspapers print isn't necessarily true but I already said that earlier and was only saying that photos and film-clips were sufficient for anyone intelligent enough to form an opinion from such observations. You sound as if you think that every public photograph or film clip you see is a fabrication. If so, it's a somewhat bitter and cynical view of life, but each to their own.

It's not whether you and I happen to agree or disagree about something but the poisonous attitude you repeatedly express towards me personally via the pipeline. Well, pump it as much as you like if it makes you feel better.

Such behaviour from you is hardly representing the friendly face of IAC.

Your words are well out of order and lose whatever respect for you I may have had. Thankyou and goodnight.


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LyinDan

4/28/2008 4:59:18 PM


If no one had an opinion, who the hell would we argue with? I ask you.


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RedRobin

4/28/2008 5:15:00 PM


"If no one had an opinion, who the hell would we argue with? I ask you"

....Absolutely agreed, though isn't it more fruitful to have a debated discussion rather than a heated argument?

Strongly differing opinions are one thing but I feel that Steve's posts regularly get personal towards me and express more about what his opinons are about me personally than the subject. That's openly unfriendly and disrespectful and deserves contempt.

Perhaps I've unintentionally entered Monty Python's Argument Room :-)


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Kevin White

4/28/2008 5:24:56 PM


"Opinions are fine.

So long as you're not grabbing for my food as you make them."


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LyinDan

4/28/2008 5:32:18 PM


On the other hand, RR, if Steve I. were to couch his counteropinions in mealy mouthed terms, you wouldn't get a clear picture of how he really felt, now would you?

It's incumbent on those of us who freely invite opposition in no uncertain terms to have armadillo skins.

:)


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SILVERWOODSTUDIO

4/28/2008 5:32:20 PM


----and there is always the 'genius undiscovered'

Who will never be famous, who eats burgers with his/her old Aunty--wearing holey cardigans and loves his/her pet gerbil!

Is he/she lucky or unlucky we will never be able to critisise his habit of walking around his/her flat naked but for one yellow sock and a toothpaste moustach?

We are not even sure how or why he plays all his music on a comb and tissue paper!

God, I Hate that Guy/ Girl!!!


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RedRobin

4/28/2008 5:37:59 PM


"Just because you are okay with passing judgement on all and sundry, based on the most trivial of evidence, doesn't mean that all creatures great and small are the same - we (including animals) are all at differing levels of evolution and awareness and we all see things differently!"

....I'm only "passing judgement" in the sense of having an opinion. "Passing judgement" makes it sound as if it's from the high and mighty, LOL. Okay if you believe that both Amy Winehouse and Heather Mills are fine human beings - I don't happen to think so and have a right to that opinion whether anyone thinks it's ill-founded or not. Though it seems to me that in the case of those two individuals, it's a bit of a no-brainer. Still that's only my opinion.

I know I didn't fully explain what I meant by referring to animals and you have unfortunately put a different spin on my words. But I did mean how an animal reacts to a person. It's 1:30am here and I can't be bothered to write more!

:-)



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LyinDan

4/28/2008 5:42:01 PM


Just to clear the air (ahhhhhhh...that sweet smell) Heather -no, yech. Amy, yes.


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Kevin White

4/28/2008 5:42:10 PM


And the red, red robin goes bob, bob, bobbin' along ... along ...

Sorry, bud. Couldn't resist.


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RedRobin

4/28/2008 6:01:58 PM


"On the other hand, RR, if Steve I. were to couch his counteropinions in mealy mouthed terms, you wouldn't get a clear picture of how he really felt, now would you?"

....Sorry but I don't see how that excuses Steve Ison getting personal. Methinks you are just trying to justify Steve's vitriolic text.

"It's incumbent on those of us who freely invite opposition in no uncertain terms to have armadillo skins."

....Since when is being thick-skinned a prerequisite for having either a debate or an argument? It's not about survival but about discussion. Politicians are usually thick-skinned - Not a great role model, but I'm doubtless "passing judgement" again :-).

For whatever it's worth, I'm not consciously inviting opposition in no uncertain terms but just sharing opinions.


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RedRobin

4/28/2008 6:05:40 PM


....Air cleared as far as I'm concerned :-)

This bob bobbing rockin' robin is going to grab some sleeeeeeeeep zzzzzzzzzzzzz :-)



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LyinDan

4/28/2008 6:08:13 PM


Yes, but by sharing unpopular opinions, you will get passionate reactions. I know you know that, so shut up. Just kiddin. You ain't no youngster, bud, I know you know I know you know.

The politic among us will post as someone's manager.

The rest of us, won't.

The consequence of that is real interaction. I don't get upset when someone calls me, uh, whatever, I wouldn't dare repeat such accusations here.

I mean, if you guys were face to face, I doubt that it would get that honest. But it can here, so if I were you, I value the mask off interaction. I do. Although, I'm so intimidating, I seldom get it. But, I would value it if I did and it was real.


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Black Velvet Lace

4/28/2008 6:32:32 PM


"You can develop powerful artistic skills and freedom in that realm, but still be very obviously inadequate and unbalanced..."



Methinks many artists, of all brands, are a bit unbalanced (take Van Gogh and the ear thing for example). To be an artist, I think, tends to tilt one a bit. Somewhat off-kilter, the higher the genius quality, the further out one falls on the bell curve. Lends for some interesting variances in the outer limits of normalacy. I'm speaking just in terms of abstract creativity, which has been thought to be linked with madness..

.. but then there's also the narcissitic side of some folks to consider. A whole other ballgame of abnormal...

~Lace~


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4/28/2008 7:16:33 PM


"Such behaviour from you is hardly representing the friendly face of IAC."

OK Red Robin, I wouldn't dare respond on behalf of Steve Ison nor do I feel he needs defending, and well, not to mention Steve's his own man and perfectly capable of doing that for himself as far as I'm concerned, however; that statement you made about Steve's behavior hardly representing the friendly face of IAC ... c'mon !

Steve is everything and more IAC is about according to it's mission statement and in my passionate opinion he is the epitome of the Independent Artist and to me he has achieved that quite successfully and with the coolest of conviction. Those who know this don't need me to explain any further...

What is this friendly face of iac you speak of anyway ? What are you implying with such a ridiculous statement dare I ask ? Perhaps I've been missing something here myself...


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fly on the wall

4/28/2008 8:14:40 PM


Hey, I'm the friendly face of IAC, and the rest of you are a bunch of losers. :~D


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4/28/2008 9:41:30 PM


I knew it I just knew it


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Larz Boah

4/28/2008 11:03:47 PM


OMG!!...there it is again!...the Van Gogh 'ear thing' episode!...i'm tired of 'hearing that'
... heh heh


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RedRobin

4/29/2008 4:18:39 AM


Anjuli wrote: "Steve is everything and more IAC is about according to it's mission statement and in my passionate opinion he is the epitome of the Independent Artist and to me he has achieved that quite successfully and with the coolest of conviction. Those who know this don't need me to explain any further...??What is this friendly face of iac you speak of anyway ? What are you implying with such a ridiculous statement dare I ask ? Perhaps I've been missing something here myself..."

....I think you're missing the fact that Steve got personal - And not for the first time. I'd have more respect for him if he argued his case without making insulting and totally irrelevant references about me and my flute playing which have absolutely nothing to do with anyone's opinion about Amy Winehouse or Heather Mills success as people.

As for Steve Ison being the epitome of the independent artist - I think that there is a greater variation between indie artists on IAC and not just one stereotypical epitome - At least I hope this is the case! In my opinion a respected ambassador of IAC needs to be able to temper their language and be more diplomatic, and that includes towards other IAC members.

I respect that Steve is passionate in his opinions, and so am I, but there's a difference in how such passions are expressed. On the other hand, if all my opinions are so unpopular, I don't really want to stir everyone up to the point they become abusive.

If he would care to apologise to me, I am genuinely happy to apologise to him for bringing out his worst side and then we can all move on.

:-)


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4/29/2008 9:58:01 AM


"As for Steve Ison being the epitome of the independent artist - I think that there is a greater variation between indie artists on IAC and not just one stereotypical epitome"

Really... a whole variation and everything ? I'd missed that somehow because I've been so blinded by the stereotypical epitomeness ( a word from anjuli's book of made up words ) of Mr. Ison... which of course means I've been missing out on other IAC artists. Thank you for pointing that out to me Red Robin I must branch out a little more and realize that there is more to iac then just Steve Ison. Thank you for freeing me from my small narrow little prison.


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fly on the wall

4/29/2008 10:20:50 AM


Entertaining thread, I've never been so proud.


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JOHN FRY

4/29/2008 10:50:13 AM


RedRobin wrote, "Greta of the FujiMinx seems to be a fairly hardcore rock 'n roller and she's waaaay more talented and better behaved (I think!!)."

Don't get me started. (lol)

Now as far as , drugged up, troubled Rock Stars go, I love 'em! So much cooler breed. But I'm talking old school rockers like, the Stones, Lennon, Johnny Thunders, '70's Bowie all skinny, and coked up. Different time and place. It seemed to go with the art of the day. Yes some died for it. Very sad. But it was a musical revolution back then. And people die in revolutions. In fact I'd would say, they died for our Rock and Roll sins. Back then if you didn't do drugs, you were a poser, and not considered cool. But that was then. Now, is there anything more cliche then a, "druggie rock star?" It is now the opposite in a way. You got to be a pro or nobody will work with you. Except the press.


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Larz Boah

4/29/2008 11:25:15 AM


So, So true John!...oh,...you forgot Dee Dee Ramone. :)


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Kevin White

4/29/2008 12:29:53 PM


I'm a pro, and STILL no one wants to work with me.

Maybe I should consider drugs ...

Does cholesterol medication count?


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4/29/2008 12:42:56 PM


I'm an ex Pro, my best years are all behind me !


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JOHN FRY

4/29/2008 1:06:51 PM


Yes Kevin, speedball'in today is Lipitor, with an Enalapril chaser.


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Kevin White

4/29/2008 1:27:16 PM


That's wonderful news.

With these new standards, I'm cutting edge (of a rusty razor)!

And here I thought I was totally uncool.

Off to celebrate by downing a full six of Ensure ...

Yeah ... I know ... pushing the envelope ... living dangerously ... it's hard to keep pace with me.


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srm

4/29/2008 1:33:37 PM


It won't be long before Ensure starts coming in "40's".


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LyinDan

4/29/2008 5:33:26 PM


I need a pro.

No, wait. I don't, anymore.


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FUJI MINX

4/29/2008 9:49:06 PM


Hey! I heard my name come up about half way up the page...

Thanks Red Robin!! I am a hard-core rocker and I am mostly well-behaved. But NoBody for president is right..I am a trouble maker! haha
And like Amy Winehouse I use a spoon.... except mine is Golden and has Old fashioned Vanilla Frozen Yogurt w/ Rainbow Sprinkles on it! I lve GOLDEN SPOON! Help I'm addicted!! 3 times already since Sunday! Ahhhh
Okay Golden Spoon, practical jokes, and sex! But only with a qualified, STD tested, and protected mate...mates! ;) MUHAHAHAHA


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FUJI MINX

4/29/2008 9:49:21 PM


Hey! I heard my name come up about half way up the page...

Thanks Red Robin!! I am a hard-core rocker and I am mostly well-behaved. But NoBody for president is right..I am a trouble maker! haha
And like Amy Winehouse I use a spoon.... except mine is Golden and has Old fashioned Vanilla Frozen Yogurt w/ Rainbow Sprinkles on it! I lve GOLDEN SPOON! Help I'm addicted!! 3 times already since Sunday! Ahhhh
Okay Golden Spoon, practical jokes, and sex! But only with a qualified, STD tested, and protected mate...mates! ;) MUHAHAHAHA -Greta


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Conversation Suicide

4/29/2008 10:25:32 PM



God Damn ! This post generated TONS of those scrollable comments! What a great subject. Uh...Nothing useful to add, except that in the GREAT continuum of Counter Culture through the ages, artists have ALWAYS had the teetering on insanity factor, because they are swimming up stream and makin' waves that can possibly (and have many times) change the world.

So of course a few will be lost to self-destruction by drugs and such. Certainly gives you pause to not be so judgemental of folks who are LESS moderate than yourself! I've met MANY a drug addict that had artistics offerings for this crazy world. The only trick I've found is to channel my addictive behaviour personality into art/film & music projects, and thereby have no time to self-destruct on drugs & alcohol.

Oh yeah, I forgot, having 6 of my kids living with me kinda makes major drugs become an economic impossibility. Try it sometime, poverty is a GREAT way to avoid problems with substance abuse and possibly help one stay on a more moderate path. But it sure can impeed your progress as an artist, that's why I'm hoping my movement for LATE bloomers contributing to NEW music will take off!
-Phlegm of Conversation Suicide


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RedRobin

4/30/2008 7:25:25 AM


With all the talk in this blog about Amy Winehouse as an example of success vs successful person, here in the UK there's a TV documentary next week called "Amy Winehouse: What Really Happened" - Should be quite interesting. Tuesday Ch4 10:00pm-11:00pm.

I expect that according to any prejudgements that any of us have, we'll either label this documentary as biassed and fabricated or truthfully revealing. I plan to keep an open mind and see if any of my opinions about her change.

:-)



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