On February 11th the American Cinematheque hosted an evening of Beach Party Movies at the landmark Egyptian Theater in Hollywood with a live performance by ‘me’ and a Q&A by Sheryl Farber of LuxuriaMusic.com. Me and my associate in Hawaii, Charles Brotman, guitarist extraordinaire and owner of Palm Records, co-produced an updated arrangement of a medley of my songs from the films. Maurice Gainen, engineer of my latest album,”Love it Away” was there to assist me with the sound equipment. Much appreciation, Maurice. Thanks to Eric Caiden and Grant Moninger for making it happen and a special thanks to Hal Lifson for enlisting everyone’s support.
Then, on Valentine’s Day ( as well as Chinese New Year; Tiger!) I flew up to San Francisco to sing my medley as well as introduce the title track of my new album at a special showing of Beach Blanket Bingo presented by Will Viharo. Here is the photo of a billboard of the Balboa Theater advertising the evening. Standing with me is my Jered. Hope to see you in the future with more of the same FUN, FROLIC & FRIENDS.
Friends in attendance were: Marlene and Gary, Lan and Pierre + his mom, Celine, Mike and Stephanie, Ross and Bo, and last but not least, Pete.
In addition, thanks Mark, for recording intros for Little Steven’s Underground Garage.
She is passionately asking us to wake up. Now, with the tragedy in Haiti, our hearts are responding to those who are suffering. We, the citizens of our planet have allowed neglect and exploitation of Mother Nature to the degree that She must remind us who She is.Remember and thank Her every moment for your life; your safety. No destruction man invents is more powerful than Her. Remember Her and show Her gratitude and I believe She will respond favorably. Every moment of gratitude is a building block toward our future well being. Look at the sky, the stars, the moon; acknowledge the cycles of the moon. Share your awareness with someone you know or just in the moment with someone passing by. Take time to watch a sunset. It is gone in a blink and symbolizes a day in your life. Respect the rage of the wind or a calm breeze. Mother Nature is talking to us, did you know?
The magic of human healing has remarkable recovery ability. Collectively we can heal! With the devastating event in Haiti we are tested once again if our hearts will open and remain open. There is much work to be done. I hope Mother Nature cooperates, don’t you?
Hope this finds you all well and busily scurrying around preparing for the holidays.
It’s been a very fulfilling time for me. Amidst the chaos on the planet I have managed to find a greater peace. This year, my mother died leaving her legacy for me to march on. At the same time my grandson was born. Now all my children are married and what more can make a mother proud and peaceful.
I’ve been writing my autobiography focusing on my early career and now, Hal, my associate is transcribing what I’ve written so far. 2010 will be a year of music and writing. Soon I will be releasing a new CD called “Love it Away”, the title song of the album, and before years end a very danceable version of “Love it Away” will be released as a single.
A new practice in my life has manifested emanating from Chennai, India. I feel we are all celestial beings and so I pray and say a mantra everyday to the universe of planets and entities that I call Creator. I find that connecting with the Infinite is very grounding for me. And so, I wish you inner peace and happiness.
Be your own creator.
With love,
DL
What does Thanksgiving mean to you? Now, more than ever, let us unite in showing gratitude for LIFE! Isn’t every day a challenge? Now, more than ever, give thanks.
I am so grateful to have been part of my baby Kt’s celebration of marriage. So much appreciation was shown by her family and friends.Flying home to Hawaii, seated next to me was my adorable Jered, husband #2. We danced the night away at the wedding, a Hollywood Glam inspiration. From the Cake Ladies’ gluten-free, sugarless, no-dairy wedding cake adorned in amethyst orchids (so deelicious), to the florist Gilly’s meticulous orchid arrangements under glass, inspired by the bride’s Lanvin heels, every detail was a reflection of the unity about to be sanctified by Rabbi Jay. Her gown melted LW’s heart as he proudly walked her down the isle to meet his future son-in-law. Mom (DL) was amply supplied with enough tissues, but not enough glue to keep those tears of joy from loosening up her false eyelashes. At the helm, navigating the rhythm of the evening was DJ Howie Pyro featuring his favorite genre; 50’s & 60’s rock n roll chosen specifically with our nuptials to perfection.
I first heard Howie’s name when I visited LuxuriaMusic.com** several days before. Actually I was on the Steve and Cheryl Show chatting away while they were spinning a few of my tunes: an absolutely gratifying experience.
The build up to the wedding lead me to the studio to record a few more tunes for my new release in 2010. So much to be thankful for. By the way, if you’re looking for a cool place to stay in LA, try the Crescent Hotel; very boutique, very chic and friendly staff. Ask for Shaw the manager for the best rates in town. Au revoir LA, my family and friends. Returning for Valentines Day.
Love from me 2 u
**PodCast will be available shortly; watch the NEWS section for updates
A new dose of HOPE is being dispersed; can you feel it? I know it looks gloomy ‘out there’ and inside. Gets our attention, huh! I guess that’s what it takes after so many decades, nay centuries of slow and steady dis-empowerment. Each one of us, and not just us humans, are born from an ignited spark of DNA so, we all, everyone of us has a unique gift. Just like our thumbprint is unique. Given to each of us, if left to our own devices, is an essence to create. I love speaking to folks who tell me they go to sleep at night and wake up each day doing essentially what they love to do. Makes a huge difference! Read More »
Our president has a knack for keeping his cool. It’s a true test of character to be of a benevolent nature in such an overwhelming position. I try and take his lead. I also congratulate the honor of his winning the Nobel Peace Prize. A peaceful warrior cannot react emotionally without contributing to the toxic matter already burdening us humans and all life on Earth. Making music, listening to music that elevates one’s spirit, expressing feelings and generally surrounding oneself with beauty and harmony is imperative. I see the choices intelligent people are making to actually walk their talk. Senator Barbara Boxer is proving to be a member of the Cool Club as well as President Sarkozy of France. Of course, Michelle Obama is also an advocate of super cool. So, let’s turn down the heat from all the hotheads that stir up more chaos. Remember, confusion is the answer for disempowerment. We, the meek, have had just about enough. So, sing in the shower. Hum in the market and when you’re walking down the street. Quietly connect vertically and raise your frequency. Is that cool?
Being in LA means two things to me; first and foremost I have opportunities to visit with my children and loved ones; second, to assimilate myself into the world of music. This time around I found myself in the studio recording some original tunes and some covers. A wonderful little place in Silverlake has produced some very nice sounds including my remake of It Only Hurts When I Cry. Will keep you updated on the progress.
The landmark, Amoeba Records in Hollywood is presenting a new project called Where the Action Is featuring my husband’s friend Phil Sloan and singer/songwriter Jackie DeShannon. I will be attending and saying hi to friends.
This morning I went online to check out the new project Beck is recording. The first of these spontaneous first-take performances is based on Lou Reed and Velvet Underground; very cool. In progress next is Leonard Cohen. Check out www.beck.com
My mind takes me to politics and what a mess we’re in. Seems like music makers may just be the light at the end of the tunnel.
