Today, being the Sunday following Mothers Day Sunday, Eastwood Christian Church (Disciples) held the annual Youth Sunday. Believe you me, dear reader, "Youth Sunday" at ECC(DC) is NOT "just another Sunday" or even "another Youth Sunday". It's far from the "same ol' same ol'". Each of the three such Sundays Eastwood has had since I joined (A.D. 2008) has been vastly different from the other two!
To start out with, this time around we had nobody graduating from either high school nor college. Lacking a grad to deliver the sermon, the duty fell on our Associate Pastor, Michael Lehman -- a first for Youth Sunday as far as I know.
(This does not mean our youth group is getting any smaller; it's merely the way age and school year distribution works out.)
Altho' Eastwood is blessed with many musically talented young people (several sing in the choir and/or play instruments), I suspect the current batch contains all the more! If true this is good news: barring any unforseen tragedy such as a move out of State they'll all be back for the NEXT Youth Sunday!
Yes, the morning's Anthem, "Homeward Bound", was sung by a male youth quartet, and several young folk delivered the Response in Song (to "Pastor Mickey"'s message) - more about that oh-so-special song shortly. But even starting with the Prelude music we had a young person, John Hartley (younger son of Pastor Jay), playing a spiritual tune on his violin (fiddle if you will). Shortly afterwards, in a novel twist on the childrens time/sermon we had "Grown-Ups Time", heralded by new lyrics to "Jesus Loves the Little Children":
...Jesus loves all the grown-ups, all the grown-ups of the world;
...Mean or cool or Jay Hartley, Jesus loves you so do we. . . !
We celebrated the Lord's Supper as we do on First Sundays: coming forward via central aisle to take a piece of bread, do intinction (dipping the morsel into chalice contents, then consuming) and then forming a circle around the sanctuary walls. Once all had partaken, Choir Director Julie stationed herself in a front pew with cue cards and the youth (or most of them) sang "I Will Rise" for the Closing Song. During a brief instrumental bridge before the final refrane some of us adult choir members stepped out of our places in the closing circle "surrounded" the youth while joining in the song:
...And I hear the voice of many angels sing, "Worthy is the Lamb!"
...And I hear the cry of ev'ry longing heart, "Worthy is the Lamb!"
The adult choristers doing such symbolized adult support of and love for our unique youth group, and our role as earthly portion of their "cloud of witnesses".
Speaking of "Cloud of Witnesses", this was the theme of Youth Sunday, taken from Hebrews 12:1 a verse from Scriptures read in the service. Indeed, Heb. 11:29-12:2 were the basis for the day's sermon: "No Ordinary Fans". It was also the title of the oh-so-special Anthem I mentioned earlier. Originally the lyrics were composed by Donna Gunn, one of our very bright and creative young folk at Eastwood and daughter of the church secretary, as a poem. But she wanted it to be more than poetry and so she asked "Pastor Mickey" to help her by composing a song. And what the two came up with stands as the most awesome of the many awesome elements of Youth Sunday 2011 at Eastwood Church!
Or as I told "Pastor Mickey" after the Sunday potluck dinner that followed Worship, "of all the several awesome elements, the song you and Donna co-wrote was 'the awesome-est'!" The Title in quotations is who the worship bulletin specified would deliver the sermon. While speaking about many positives and endearing traits of our youth group Michael mentioned that this was the nickname they came up with for him. And yes, he did at this point don mouse ears!
Ha, ha! I love and enjoy and rejoice in my church family! Thank God for Eastwood Church! May the Lord continue to bless the family who gather at 1604 Eastland Avenue in East Nashville to do what we do so well with the Spirit's and each other's help: love one another in our diversity and lovingly serve the community He has set us in!
Running account of my impressions of Nashville, Tennessee, a.k.a. "Music City", since my return at the end of July - altho' the blog commences at the beginning of November of A.D. 2008.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Taking a friend to church
Over the years of my life, with my numerous residences, jobs and congregational memberships, I've frequently invited neighbors or co-workers to come to church on Sunday. Seldom have I received an affirmative answer, alas.
Sunday the 27th of March I got that rare opportunity! The place where I've lived since the beginning of the year, "The Academy" (a transitional home mainly for military vets), includes another Army vet named Mick. He served in combat in A-stan. . . you can imagine the after-effects he's suffered. Despite those, he's a bright, calm and friendly fellow. I've liked Mick from the beginning, and the two of us have confided mutually in each other.
Well, on the 27th I'm sitting in the common area, dressed for and awaiting time to depart to Sunday worship at Eastwood Christian Church (Disciples). Mick comes walking in, attired in a dark suit, white shirt and dark necktie. I quip, "Well, Mick, you look like you're fixin' to preaching somewhere!"
Smiling, he comes around to saying that he's actually contemplating where to go for Sunday worship. In a heartbeat I invite him to come along with me to Eastwood. And Mick accepts!
So we two pile into "Antonio Margil", my new '95 Acura Integra, and headed over to East Nashville. On the way I describe the congregation, the style of worship and some of why I'm so devoted to this collection of brothers & sisters in Christ. As I told Mick, "I'm very hesitant to equate any one congregation with the (mystical or spiritual) Body of Christ, but Eastwood comes about as close as any congregation I've ever experienced."
Praise be to the Lord! My Eastwood brothers & sisters live up to my billing! It was a "typical" Sunday morning at 1604 Eastland St., in that I go away very spiritually refreshed. And Mick clearly is also nourished in his spirit. This is what "having church" is supposed to be. . . .
Sunday the 27th of March I got that rare opportunity! The place where I've lived since the beginning of the year, "The Academy" (a transitional home mainly for military vets), includes another Army vet named Mick. He served in combat in A-stan. . . you can imagine the after-effects he's suffered. Despite those, he's a bright, calm and friendly fellow. I've liked Mick from the beginning, and the two of us have confided mutually in each other.
Well, on the 27th I'm sitting in the common area, dressed for and awaiting time to depart to Sunday worship at Eastwood Christian Church (Disciples). Mick comes walking in, attired in a dark suit, white shirt and dark necktie. I quip, "Well, Mick, you look like you're fixin' to preaching somewhere!"
Smiling, he comes around to saying that he's actually contemplating where to go for Sunday worship. In a heartbeat I invite him to come along with me to Eastwood. And Mick accepts!
So we two pile into "Antonio Margil", my new '95 Acura Integra, and headed over to East Nashville. On the way I describe the congregation, the style of worship and some of why I'm so devoted to this collection of brothers & sisters in Christ. As I told Mick, "I'm very hesitant to equate any one congregation with the (mystical or spiritual) Body of Christ, but Eastwood comes about as close as any congregation I've ever experienced."
Praise be to the Lord! My Eastwood brothers & sisters live up to my billing! It was a "typical" Sunday morning at 1604 Eastland St., in that I go away very spiritually refreshed. And Mick clearly is also nourished in his spirit. This is what "having church" is supposed to be. . . .
Melodious Anniversary to the Crisis
The week ending today, Saturday 7 May, is the anniversary of the Great Flood of 2010. A year ago portions of Nashville, Clarksville and the rest of West and Middle Tennessee, and of adjacent States, got inundated by lethal raging waters of the Cumberland River and its tributaries.
AND THEN my fellow Music City residents truly showed their mettle. And showed it big-time!
Tuesday evening the Third of May they had a special edition of the Tuesday Nite Opry radio show on WSM. The day of week was particularly significant, as was the venue, the Grand Ole Opry House. You see, dear reader, The Grand Ole Opry show performed in the House on Saturday, 1 May A.D. 2010, as rain poured down, with no end in sight. More than one Opry cast member commented that night. By Tuesday the Fourth the House was inundated (Cumberland's flood crest having happened just before midnight on the Third), and the Tuesday Nite Opry scheduled for then was in need of an alternative location. Opry staff and cast -- and Nashvillians in general -- did not fold hands with a "Woe is us, we're ruined; stop everything!"
Instead, they located an alternative performance hall downtown in War Memorial Auditorium -- actually a former home of the show (1939-1943; see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Memorial_Auditorium, http://nashville.about.com/od/historyandsites/a/GOOpryhistory.htm or http://www.originaloldradio.com/show_history_for_grand_ole_opry.html for details).
The Opry family showed that "the show must go on!"
Fast forward to this week. On Tuesday the show took a subtitle: "Play on, Nashville!" This wasn't just a reflection on the disaster of a year ago, nor a celebration of Nashville's resilience and the rebuilding that's taken place in the ensuing year. Several charitable organizations got linked to the performance; both live and radio audiences were strongly encouraged to contribute, that repairs which remain can get done. PLUS that further funds go to assist victims and survivors of horrendous tornadoes which ravaged Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and other southern States -- not a year ago but merely last week!
I can simply imagine how those unfortunate souls are still in shock. We Nashvillians were there a year ago. May our resilience then be an inspiration to them NOW!
I didn't get to listen to the entire show, but I did hear the beginning and ending. If for no other reason than that I heard Brad Paisley and Trace Adkins this show was worth the listening. But references in word and song to WHY the evening was so special caused it to be not just worthwhile but unique and valuable!
Speaking of Brad Paisley, here's a link to a report on the "Play On, Nashville!" evening, with special attention to this beloved member of the Opry cast. http://www.theboot.com/2011/05/04/grand-ole-opry-play-on-nashville/ And if you haven't heard it yet and are a Country Music or Opry fan, you need to hear Brad's latest hit single: "This Is Country Music (and We Do)"! Just like the Opry expresses Country and related American music genres, Brad's song presents and CELEBRATES certain enduring themes of Country song lyrics, and concludes with him singing well-known phrases from certain famous songs by famous artists. Here's a video of him singing "This Is Country Music" and accepting Entertainer of the Year at the 2010 CMA show (but get some Kleenex, to wipe your eyes):
http://www.musicloversgroup.com/brad-paisley-this-is-country-music-lyrics-and-video/
AND THEN my fellow Music City residents truly showed their mettle. And showed it big-time!
Tuesday evening the Third of May they had a special edition of the Tuesday Nite Opry radio show on WSM. The day of week was particularly significant, as was the venue, the Grand Ole Opry House. You see, dear reader, The Grand Ole Opry show performed in the House on Saturday, 1 May A.D. 2010, as rain poured down, with no end in sight. More than one Opry cast member commented that night. By Tuesday the Fourth the House was inundated (Cumberland's flood crest having happened just before midnight on the Third), and the Tuesday Nite Opry scheduled for then was in need of an alternative location. Opry staff and cast -- and Nashvillians in general -- did not fold hands with a "Woe is us, we're ruined; stop everything!"
Instead, they located an alternative performance hall downtown in War Memorial Auditorium -- actually a former home of the show (1939-1943; see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Memorial_Auditorium, http://nashville.about.com/od/historyandsites/a/GOOpryhistory.htm or http://www.originaloldradio.com/show_history_for_grand_ole_opry.html for details).
The Opry family showed that "the show must go on!"
Fast forward to this week. On Tuesday the show took a subtitle: "Play on, Nashville!" This wasn't just a reflection on the disaster of a year ago, nor a celebration of Nashville's resilience and the rebuilding that's taken place in the ensuing year. Several charitable organizations got linked to the performance; both live and radio audiences were strongly encouraged to contribute, that repairs which remain can get done. PLUS that further funds go to assist victims and survivors of horrendous tornadoes which ravaged Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and other southern States -- not a year ago but merely last week!
I can simply imagine how those unfortunate souls are still in shock. We Nashvillians were there a year ago. May our resilience then be an inspiration to them NOW!
I didn't get to listen to the entire show, but I did hear the beginning and ending. If for no other reason than that I heard Brad Paisley and Trace Adkins this show was worth the listening. But references in word and song to WHY the evening was so special caused it to be not just worthwhile but unique and valuable!
Speaking of Brad Paisley, here's a link to a report on the "Play On, Nashville!" evening, with special attention to this beloved member of the Opry cast. http://www.theboot.com/2011/05/04/grand-ole-opry-play-on-nashville/ And if you haven't heard it yet and are a Country Music or Opry fan, you need to hear Brad's latest hit single: "This Is Country Music (and We Do)"! Just like the Opry expresses Country and related American music genres, Brad's song presents and CELEBRATES certain enduring themes of Country song lyrics, and concludes with him singing well-known phrases from certain famous songs by famous artists. Here's a video of him singing "This Is Country Music" and accepting Entertainer of the Year at the 2010 CMA show (but get some Kleenex, to wipe your eyes):
http://www.musicloversgroup.com/brad-paisley-this-is-country-music-lyrics-and-video/
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Marvelously musical March!
Forget the NCAA's annual "March Madness"!
Oops, I hope you, dear reader, didn't think yours truly had forgotten this blog! But one of the minuses of being again gainfully employed for hourly wage is one has to spend appointed hours at work & NOT on-line. This IS a very minor "minus", you understand. . . .
ANY minuses, minor or major, are quickly forgotten once I step inside the worksite, the Grand Ole Opry House. It's such a joy to again guide visitors around the facility as I conduct the 45-minute tour. It's such a joy to again run into folk from the broadcast and Country Music world whom I admire and with whom I've had cherished relationships.
And I'm most certainly NOT going to sneeze at the perks of this job! A few Saturdays ago, Steve Wariner was in the Opry gift shop (located at south end of front or main lobby) to sign CDs of his latest album. When I clocked out from doing tours, I hung around, removed my uniform jacket and tie and entered the shop to get his autograph. Not on that latest album, but rather on c.g.p. My tribute to Chet Atkins. AND on his page in the Opry picture-history book.
Then, on my way out the artists entrance backstage (House staff also use it) I ran into Little Jimmy Dickens. Smiling, I shook his hand as I said, "Little Jimmy Dickens, I must say this. 'Shake hands, old man, I married your sister'!" This is the punch line of my favorite joke of his.
i wasnt scheduled to work on my birthday, Monday the 14th, but while doing tours on Tuesdays, when I led them onto the stage to the famous circle, I'd first ask if any were celebrating a birthday. If not, I'd invite them to sing "Happy Birthday" to yours truly. I'd applaud them and while praising their singing talent would urge them all to applaud. Then I'd give the standard conclusion used by all us guides: "When you tell folk at home about your trip to Nashville, you can say that you got to sing on the Grand Ole Opry stage -- and got a standing ovation!"
Oops, I hope you, dear reader, didn't think yours truly had forgotten this blog! But one of the minuses of being again gainfully employed for hourly wage is one has to spend appointed hours at work & NOT on-line. This IS a very minor "minus", you understand. . . .
ANY minuses, minor or major, are quickly forgotten once I step inside the worksite, the Grand Ole Opry House. It's such a joy to again guide visitors around the facility as I conduct the 45-minute tour. It's such a joy to again run into folk from the broadcast and Country Music world whom I admire and with whom I've had cherished relationships.
And I'm most certainly NOT going to sneeze at the perks of this job! A few Saturdays ago, Steve Wariner was in the Opry gift shop (located at south end of front or main lobby) to sign CDs of his latest album. When I clocked out from doing tours, I hung around, removed my uniform jacket and tie and entered the shop to get his autograph. Not on that latest album, but rather on c.g.p. My tribute to Chet Atkins. AND on his page in the Opry picture-history book.
Then, on my way out the artists entrance backstage (House staff also use it) I ran into Little Jimmy Dickens. Smiling, I shook his hand as I said, "Little Jimmy Dickens, I must say this. 'Shake hands, old man, I married your sister'!" This is the punch line of my favorite joke of his.
i wasnt scheduled to work on my birthday, Monday the 14th, but while doing tours on Tuesdays, when I led them onto the stage to the famous circle, I'd first ask if any were celebrating a birthday. If not, I'd invite them to sing "Happy Birthday" to yours truly. I'd applaud them and while praising their singing talent would urge them all to applaud. Then I'd give the standard conclusion used by all us guides: "When you tell folk at home about your trip to Nashville, you can say that you got to sing on the Grand Ole Opry stage -- and got a standing ovation!"
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Hired for THE IDEAL job in Music City!
Today was my fifth work day (for pay) on my new job. After an A.D. 2010 of self-employment (pure commission & no withholding for Uncle Sam) and unemployment, to have ANY employment with a regular income is most deeply appreciated. But THIS particular line of work is truly a God-send!
You see, I'm once again guiding tours of the Grand Ole Opry House!
In the late 1990s I went from being a part-time or seasonal ticket seller, to Tour Coordinator at Grand Ole Opry Tours. One element of that position was guiding tours of the House -- the tour company's only walking tour.
And now I'm doing this again, with some alteration. For one, we begin the tour to the right of the central lobby with a six-minute video introduction to the Show and the House. And of course I knew, from the first Saturday last October, when 4,000 others and I took the free tour of the newly reopened House, that the backstage and to a lesser degree other areas, had been greatly improved in appearance. In fact, the Great Flood (May 2010) and the astounding and amazingly rapid restoration of the House are featured in the video. Plus, in the Green Room a metal strip we call Guests' attention to displays how high the floodwater rose.
But I very quickly learned this revised tour, and indeed this past Wednesday, my third day of work/training, got to conduct my first tour. afterward I asked the "veteran" Tour Guide how I did and she replied that I was wonderful! So perhaps I shouldn't have been so surprised at what occurred at week's end.
When I clocked-in late Fri. afternoon, after battling Nashville's notorious Fri. going-home "rush" hour traffic, I was expecting to do whatever assigned tasks I'd be given while the Friday Nite Opry Show took place, then "shadow" or assist & learn the Post-Show Tour with an experienced Guide. And yes, I did spend some time scanning tickets at the Opry House front door and then guiding Guests to their seats in the auditorium.
But before I got started, my Lead informed me that I'd be doing a VIP Tour. I'd heard of these, but not much more than the term. This involved contacting a small group of Guests, in this instance six, at the seats as Intermission was ending, to escort them to backstage, to Dressing Room #1, which once served the late Roy Acuff, the "King of Country Music" and one of the "Four Pillars of the Grand Ole Opry". There they got to enter and meet for a few personal moments and a few photo shots with no less than Vince Gill! Afterward I took them on an abbreviated version of the regular backstage tour, so they could see the Green Room, other dressings rooms (each decorated to a theme) and the Opry House post office. Then I took them back to their seats so they could enjoy the rest of the show – including Vince, who "hosted" the final half hour.
When that final half hour and the show ended I was back in the lobby area to guide a group of Guests on a backstage tour. The Post-Show Tour is pretty much like the regular tour, except we skip the introductory video. After all, they've just enjoyed the Fri. Nite Opry Show and hardly need a six-minute explanation, not even by Carrie Underwood. But the BIG diference in the Post-Show is that things are still busy backstage, and some of the stars are fixing to leave. Thus, my group ran into Craig Morgan, and shortly afterward Vince! Both men graciously delayed their exit for pix and autographs. That's the way Country Music artists are, especially those who belong to the Opry family!
The next day (sat. the 19th) during a break between tours I went to the box office to inquire about groups rates and minimum numbers. And to my great surprise ran into Lisa Minix! She trained me on the computerized sales-cash register system when I first sold tickets at Opryland back in 1991! What a delight to see her again! We couldn't stop hugging each other.
Therefore yestereve's Grand Ole Opry Show carries special meaning for yours truly. Y'all come to the tour and show now, ya hear?
You see, I'm once again guiding tours of the Grand Ole Opry House!
In the late 1990s I went from being a part-time or seasonal ticket seller, to Tour Coordinator at Grand Ole Opry Tours. One element of that position was guiding tours of the House -- the tour company's only walking tour.
And now I'm doing this again, with some alteration. For one, we begin the tour to the right of the central lobby with a six-minute video introduction to the Show and the House. And of course I knew, from the first Saturday last October, when 4,000 others and I took the free tour of the newly reopened House, that the backstage and to a lesser degree other areas, had been greatly improved in appearance. In fact, the Great Flood (May 2010) and the astounding and amazingly rapid restoration of the House are featured in the video. Plus, in the Green Room a metal strip we call Guests' attention to displays how high the floodwater rose.
But I very quickly learned this revised tour, and indeed this past Wednesday, my third day of work/training, got to conduct my first tour. afterward I asked the "veteran" Tour Guide how I did and she replied that I was wonderful! So perhaps I shouldn't have been so surprised at what occurred at week's end.
When I clocked-in late Fri. afternoon, after battling Nashville's notorious Fri. going-home "rush" hour traffic, I was expecting to do whatever assigned tasks I'd be given while the Friday Nite Opry Show took place, then "shadow" or assist & learn the Post-Show Tour with an experienced Guide. And yes, I did spend some time scanning tickets at the Opry House front door and then guiding Guests to their seats in the auditorium.
But before I got started, my Lead informed me that I'd be doing a VIP Tour. I'd heard of these, but not much more than the term. This involved contacting a small group of Guests, in this instance six, at the seats as Intermission was ending, to escort them to backstage, to Dressing Room #1, which once served the late Roy Acuff, the "King of Country Music" and one of the "Four Pillars of the Grand Ole Opry". There they got to enter and meet for a few personal moments and a few photo shots with no less than Vince Gill! Afterward I took them on an abbreviated version of the regular backstage tour, so they could see the Green Room, other dressings rooms (each decorated to a theme) and the Opry House post office. Then I took them back to their seats so they could enjoy the rest of the show – including Vince, who "hosted" the final half hour.
When that final half hour and the show ended I was back in the lobby area to guide a group of Guests on a backstage tour. The Post-Show Tour is pretty much like the regular tour, except we skip the introductory video. After all, they've just enjoyed the Fri. Nite Opry Show and hardly need a six-minute explanation, not even by Carrie Underwood. But the BIG diference in the Post-Show is that things are still busy backstage, and some of the stars are fixing to leave. Thus, my group ran into Craig Morgan, and shortly afterward Vince! Both men graciously delayed their exit for pix and autographs. That's the way Country Music artists are, especially those who belong to the Opry family!
The next day (sat. the 19th) during a break between tours I went to the box office to inquire about groups rates and minimum numbers. And to my great surprise ran into Lisa Minix! She trained me on the computerized sales-cash register system when I first sold tickets at Opryland back in 1991! What a delight to see her again! We couldn't stop hugging each other.
Therefore yestereve's Grand Ole Opry Show carries special meaning for yours truly. Y'all come to the tour and show now, ya hear?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Music City on the Silver Screen; a movie review
Saturday afternoon, 15 January, I did something I don't get to do as often as I wish. I took in a new movie, at the theater.
The movie is "Country strong".
I might not have paid it much more attention than any other flicks that have debuted so far this year. But when I watched Gwyneth Paltrow sing and play guitar, presenting the theme song, during last fall's CMA Awards show (right here in Bridgestone Arena, downtown) I got rather impressed. Plus, I came to remember that last year there was a call for Nashville residents to go to Municipal Auditorium to participate in crowd scenes for the movie.
Between the opening of "Country Strong" here and last Friday, I managed to read a few reviews of it. It generally got panned. I got to having second tho'ts about seeing it; wait 'til it would be available on DVD for check-out. However, I searched for the least expensive ticket in town and went.
I'm glad I did!
The movie was quite believable. In fact, I had to keep reminding myself that this was award-winning actress Paltrow PLAYING a PART, not a REAL country music star struggling with addictions and a troubled marriage. At one scene I got to feeling some animus against her character; she seemed too whiny (like Marsha Mason's role in "The Goodbye girl"). But then when she visited the schoolroom as part of "Make-A-Wish" I really warmed up to her. I began to root for her to overcome her dependencies and revive her marriage & her singing career. And then when she performed those songs on stage -- even tho' I knew this concert scene was shot in Nashville's Municipal Aud. and NOT in Dallas) -- I really was ready to stand up & cheer as tho' actually in the crowd at an actual Country Music concert! At this point also, Kelly Canter was making me think of Trish Yearwood and/or Faith Hill! (The latter, BTW, is Tim McGraw's real-life Pop-Country-star wife.)
As the reviews said, there were many clichés which've been in more than one flick about a country music star. I myself noticed ones I'd seen in "Coal Miner's Daughter" and/or "Pure Country", but these didn't really bother me. What DID bother me: some scenes were set in Texas or "on the road again" somewhere/anywhere, but I recognized all urban scenes as shot in Nashville & the rural road scenes in rural Middle Tennessee. Not that such makes a BIG difference to yours truly, who long ago made his peace with knowledge that TV shows set in the Deep South -- "Andy Griffith Show" and "Dukes of Hazzard" -- got filmed in California.
But the other thing that bothered me was the conclusion, after the big concert scene. It mocked the movie's title; "weak" would've served as a more accurate adjective. True, in REAL life famous people struggling to rise back up from an addiction-induced slump DO sometimes crash-and-burn rather than overcome. But I so much WANTED Kelly to make it! And everything in the flick SEEMED to be leading to a spectacular triumphant finale. Or maybe I'm just not sufficiently perceptive; were there hints, omens I'd missed?
Actually, I did notice that after she left the stage and was walking backstage she had a very weary, almost troubled look. And when she locked the door I started to get nervous. So I wasn't totally unprepared, but with such LITTLE forewarning, coupled with my growing affection & hope for her, that suicide ending simply left me very dissatisfied. I walked back to my car feeling that I'd been robbed.
Finally I shall say that I applaud "Country Strong" (despite the mockery of the title by the main character's ultimately-fatal weakness) for its presentation of Nashville. It really captured Nashville as Music City, a place where the music industry strongly influences our economy and living. I liked how it displayed this one aspect of my current hometown's character -- never forgetting it's "Music City" as in MANY genres, NOT only Country Music. Nor forgetting that as State Capital it's a major location of governmental activity, as well as finance and insurance. Nor that this burg has TWO other important nicknames which reflect two other MAJOR elements: "The Athens of the South" (much cultural activity & numerous higher ed. campuses) and "Buckle of the Bible Belt" (denominational headquarters & publishing houses).
The movie may have had its weaknesses, but the city most definitely has MANY facets -- STRONG facets.
The movie is "Country strong".
I might not have paid it much more attention than any other flicks that have debuted so far this year. But when I watched Gwyneth Paltrow sing and play guitar, presenting the theme song, during last fall's CMA Awards show (right here in Bridgestone Arena, downtown) I got rather impressed. Plus, I came to remember that last year there was a call for Nashville residents to go to Municipal Auditorium to participate in crowd scenes for the movie.
Between the opening of "Country Strong" here and last Friday, I managed to read a few reviews of it. It generally got panned. I got to having second tho'ts about seeing it; wait 'til it would be available on DVD for check-out. However, I searched for the least expensive ticket in town and went.
I'm glad I did!
The movie was quite believable. In fact, I had to keep reminding myself that this was award-winning actress Paltrow PLAYING a PART, not a REAL country music star struggling with addictions and a troubled marriage. At one scene I got to feeling some animus against her character; she seemed too whiny (like Marsha Mason's role in "The Goodbye girl"). But then when she visited the schoolroom as part of "Make-A-Wish" I really warmed up to her. I began to root for her to overcome her dependencies and revive her marriage & her singing career. And then when she performed those songs on stage -- even tho' I knew this concert scene was shot in Nashville's Municipal Aud. and NOT in Dallas) -- I really was ready to stand up & cheer as tho' actually in the crowd at an actual Country Music concert! At this point also, Kelly Canter was making me think of Trish Yearwood and/or Faith Hill! (The latter, BTW, is Tim McGraw's real-life Pop-Country-star wife.)
As the reviews said, there were many clichés which've been in more than one flick about a country music star. I myself noticed ones I'd seen in "Coal Miner's Daughter" and/or "Pure Country", but these didn't really bother me. What DID bother me: some scenes were set in Texas or "on the road again" somewhere/anywhere, but I recognized all urban scenes as shot in Nashville & the rural road scenes in rural Middle Tennessee. Not that such makes a BIG difference to yours truly, who long ago made his peace with knowledge that TV shows set in the Deep South -- "Andy Griffith Show" and "Dukes of Hazzard" -- got filmed in California.
But the other thing that bothered me was the conclusion, after the big concert scene. It mocked the movie's title; "weak" would've served as a more accurate adjective. True, in REAL life famous people struggling to rise back up from an addiction-induced slump DO sometimes crash-and-burn rather than overcome. But I so much WANTED Kelly to make it! And everything in the flick SEEMED to be leading to a spectacular triumphant finale. Or maybe I'm just not sufficiently perceptive; were there hints, omens I'd missed?
Actually, I did notice that after she left the stage and was walking backstage she had a very weary, almost troubled look. And when she locked the door I started to get nervous. So I wasn't totally unprepared, but with such LITTLE forewarning, coupled with my growing affection & hope for her, that suicide ending simply left me very dissatisfied. I walked back to my car feeling that I'd been robbed.
Finally I shall say that I applaud "Country Strong" (despite the mockery of the title by the main character's ultimately-fatal weakness) for its presentation of Nashville. It really captured Nashville as Music City, a place where the music industry strongly influences our economy and living. I liked how it displayed this one aspect of my current hometown's character -- never forgetting it's "Music City" as in MANY genres, NOT only Country Music. Nor forgetting that as State Capital it's a major location of governmental activity, as well as finance and insurance. Nor that this burg has TWO other important nicknames which reflect two other MAJOR elements: "The Athens of the South" (much cultural activity & numerous higher ed. campuses) and "Buckle of the Bible Belt" (denominational headquarters & publishing houses).
The movie may have had its weaknesses, but the city most definitely has MANY facets -- STRONG facets.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Happy New Year of Our Lord Twenty-Eleven!
Howdy & the Lord's blessing to you dear reader, from yours truly here in Music City, aka Nashville, Tennessee!
Yes, I notice that, one, I kind of faded out on this my blog as Two Thousand Ten drew to its ending. And two, HERE it's already the Sixteenth of January -- and I'm just now putting HNY greetings on it! ??!!?!!?
Oh, well, I resolve to do better! In fact, I already have a movie review planned for posting on Monday the 17th, of a flick I went to see Saturday (yesterday). Tune in tomorrow for that (hint: the flick I watched was filmed here in Nashville).
But for right now, I simply wish to give y'all my greetings & best wishes for this young year, A.D. 2011. My only other item for today's post is to mention that I'm listening, even as I type this to the on-line edition of the radio program "Front Porch Fellowship". It begins shortly after 4pm on Saturdays and is repeated at the same time on Sundays. You can dial it on your radio; go to "Solid Gospel Radio", 104.9 or 105.1 FM. The lower frequency is tied to a small town west of Nashville, the higher freq. to one to the east. So if you're west of IH 65, you'll pick up 104.9 better, and the other if you're east of that interstate.
Or you can do as I'm doing. Go on-line to www.southerngospel.com and click on the rectangular button below ON AIR in the upper left corner. If you enjoy Bluegrass Music or Gospel Music, "Front Porch Fellowship" is the show for your great listening pleasure!
I've began listening to Les Butler's hour-long musical trip to Heaven in the late 1990s, when the Salem network commenced the dual-freq. SGM station in Middle Tennessee. This event brought Gospel Music back to the greater Nashville area for the first time since WENO-AM780 ceased to send SGM over the airwaves in the early Nineties. Les introduced me to the joys of Bluegrass Gospel Music, and also to one of the genre's most talented and beautiful (audibly as well as visually) artists: Rhonda Vincent. Thanks to my frequent communications to Les about how much Rhonda impressed me, nowadays whenever he sends one of her Gospel songs out over FPF on the airwaves, he dedicates the song to yours truly.
Furthermore, since I returned to Tennessee from San Antonio -- wonderful place to live, except that it's short on Rhonda Vincent as well as Bluegrass Music in general -- Les has several times mentioned requests for "Front Porch Fellowship" sent to him by a Mike Johnson in Burley, Idaho. Every time I hear one of these I get happy and homesick at the same time; you see, Idaho's the state of my raising & still home to most of my family of origin (I know exactly where in southern Idaho the town is & have been there), and it warms my heart to know there's a lover of Bluegrass Gospel there amid those potato fields!
Well, whether you listen to Les Butler's show ornot, may our Lord bless you abundantly in this year!
Yes, I notice that, one, I kind of faded out on this my blog as Two Thousand Ten drew to its ending. And two, HERE it's already the Sixteenth of January -- and I'm just now putting HNY greetings on it! ??!!?!!?
Oh, well, I resolve to do better! In fact, I already have a movie review planned for posting on Monday the 17th, of a flick I went to see Saturday (yesterday). Tune in tomorrow for that (hint: the flick I watched was filmed here in Nashville).
But for right now, I simply wish to give y'all my greetings & best wishes for this young year, A.D. 2011. My only other item for today's post is to mention that I'm listening, even as I type this to the on-line edition of the radio program "Front Porch Fellowship". It begins shortly after 4pm on Saturdays and is repeated at the same time on Sundays. You can dial it on your radio; go to "Solid Gospel Radio", 104.9 or 105.1 FM. The lower frequency is tied to a small town west of Nashville, the higher freq. to one to the east. So if you're west of IH 65, you'll pick up 104.9 better, and the other if you're east of that interstate.
Or you can do as I'm doing. Go on-line to www.southerngospel.com and click on the rectangular button below ON AIR in the upper left corner. If you enjoy Bluegrass Music or Gospel Music, "Front Porch Fellowship" is the show for your great listening pleasure!
I've began listening to Les Butler's hour-long musical trip to Heaven in the late 1990s, when the Salem network commenced the dual-freq. SGM station in Middle Tennessee. This event brought Gospel Music back to the greater Nashville area for the first time since WENO-AM780 ceased to send SGM over the airwaves in the early Nineties. Les introduced me to the joys of Bluegrass Gospel Music, and also to one of the genre's most talented and beautiful (audibly as well as visually) artists: Rhonda Vincent. Thanks to my frequent communications to Les about how much Rhonda impressed me, nowadays whenever he sends one of her Gospel songs out over FPF on the airwaves, he dedicates the song to yours truly.
Furthermore, since I returned to Tennessee from San Antonio -- wonderful place to live, except that it's short on Rhonda Vincent as well as Bluegrass Music in general -- Les has several times mentioned requests for "Front Porch Fellowship" sent to him by a Mike Johnson in Burley, Idaho. Every time I hear one of these I get happy and homesick at the same time; you see, Idaho's the state of my raising & still home to most of my family of origin (I know exactly where in southern Idaho the town is & have been there), and it warms my heart to know there's a lover of Bluegrass Gospel there amid those potato fields!
Well, whether you listen to Les Butler's show ornot, may our Lord bless you abundantly in this year!
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