Influence #4- Dave Matthews Band

What can I say about the Dave Matthews Band. This band shaped the way I view music in so many ways. The intensity, the passion, and the ferocity with which they play is compelling.

This band taught me that you can be hard and not have to be heavy. Your sound can hit someone in the chest and not have to have screaming guitars and death metal pedals. Seeing them live is one of the greatest musical experiences that i can recall. This band does spontaneous music and vocals better than anyone I have ever seen, in or out of the church. They also taught me to never get in a hurry with music. Sometime you have to let it marinate.

In my opinion Dave is one of the best songwriters in many years. His lyrics are some of the best I can recount. Before These Crowded Streets is in my opinion one of the best album i will ever own.



Dave Matthews Band- Don't Drink The Water

Influence #3- Bruce Springsteen

It's is no wonder they call him "The Boss". Everything from Thunder Road to Secret Garden, I love it! I love that he can say exactly what's on his heart; share something so personal and exposed and still be a "tough guy" from Jersey. That is amazing!

I love his passion for music and well...passion! Even if you do not agree with his expressed views you should appreciate his passion towards what he believes in.



Bruce Springsteen- Born To run

Influence # 2

John Mark McMillan-

What can I say about this guy. He writes worship music that does something in me. He says the things that I feel. In my opinion the best worship songwriter i've heard since Prosch.

Sound. I love his raw sounds. His guitar player James Duke is probably in my top 5 of favorite guitarists out there right now.

Lyrics. I can't say enough. He writes lyrics that touch you and leave room for your personal expression. I love that his lyrics draw a picture, but don't color everything in for you. That leaves room for the listener to feel part of the song as they listen.

His blog says that John Mark writes songs for God and humans to listen to. Interesting.



John Mark McMillan- Ten Thousand

Influence

I have been thinking some lately about my influences, musically speaking. Not, "who do i try to sound or write like". But rather who has helped shape the way I think about music and creating a song. I will try to make the list as concise as possible.

Ryan Adams-

Ryan Adams is an amazing artist. From guitar tone to lyrical expression his music has certainly had a large effect on me. This song is one of my favorites.



Ryan Adams and The Cardinals - "Everybody Knows"