Access

the-Edit Newsletter #33

2011-11-17T08:25:00.000-08:00

the-Edit Newsletter #33
Thursday, November 17, 2011

On January 1st, I married my wife Fiona in Vietnam. I returned to America to make preparations for our new life together in February through April. Fiona came to America with her cat, Sasa on July 5th.

On November 1st, we found out that Fiona is pregnant. It is a very exciting time.

With everything going on, my music output has been limited. However I have found time here and there to practice. I have written a few songs this year. However, this has been one of the few years that I haven't written so much.

Today, I am sending off 157 songs written over the course of 21 years (1990-2011) to the U.S. Library of Congress for copyright documentation. Something I have meant to do properly for so many years.

I discovered one of the songs I wrote many years ago had lyrics and no music. I wrote a simple melody for that song. The song is 'Destined to Be', a song I wrote for a dear couple in the mid 90's for their wedding. You can hear the music to that song here.

I'm not quite sure when I'll finish my other projects (Thick & Thin, Stage Fright, Joie de Vivre and Piano Solos). I do know that I would like to give many of my old demos new life. I will try to post more often than I have been in the last 2 years.

Happy Holidays,
Jerry

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the-Edit Newsletter #32

2010-11-04T23:50:00.000-07:00

Friday, November 05, 2010

Goodness. Has it really been a year since I wrote a newsletter?

Studio

I've been working on four projects off and on throughout the last twelve months. Thick & Thin, a collection of pop-rock songs, is almost finished. Joie de Vivre, a collection of contemporary songs, and Stage Fright, a collection of progressive synth tracks, are both nearing completion. Last, is a collection of piano instrumentals that are in various stages of productions and refinement.

Once again, I have cleared out most of my gear to survive.

Store

Retro Live, the 14 track faux-live album based around the Retro Live shows from 2009, was released in January, earlier this year. It is available for download on iTunes.

Video

You can now watch the 'Big Deal' album launch concert in 8 parts on YouTube.

That is pretty much it for now. I hope to release the aforementioned albums in 2011. Until next time...

See ya,
Jerry

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Cong Hoa Street

2010-03-22T03:04:00.001-07:00

Cong Hoa Street just outside the 'Navi Hotel' where I am staying during my time in Ho Chi Ming City, Vietnam.

Cong Hoa 1
Cong Hoa 2
Cong Hoa 3
Cong Hoa 4
Cong Hoa 5
Cong Hoa 6
Cong Hoa 7
Cong Hoa 8

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From Saigon

2010-03-22T02:06:00.000-07:00

I'm in Saigon right now. I arrived Friday night. The weather has been in the upper 80's and lower 90's. Internet access has been limited. In fact, some websites, I have been unable to access at all (i.e. Facebook).

At the moment I'm watching Edward Scissorhands in my hotel room. Never saw it before.

Getting hungry. See ya.

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Jerry Markham First Radio Airing

2010-02-16T21:04:00.000-08:00

**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT**

Jerry Markham First Radio Airing. Thursday 18 February, 2010 3:35 PM UK/5:35 PM Cypus - USA 10:35 AM Eastern/7:35 AM Pacific

106.3 FM Radio Napa - Cyprus
Drive Time with Chris Yearley

Witness this monumental moment in time as the music of Jerry Markham hits the airwaves for the very first time. Email Chris Yearley at Radio Napa studio@napafm.com or text 1+(357) 977-37929 to show your support.

Here's the link: http://www.radionapa.net

It is advised that anyone wishing to listen to be sure to have either iTunes or Winamp installed before attempting to access the audio stream.

About the show:

Three hours of quality music and chat with guest interviews and a quiz thrown in.

Chris Yearley's Drivetime is the most popular English-speaking show in Cyprus, with a core audience of several thousand Brits living on the island and up to one million tourists during the summer months.

The British ex-pat community get involved with the show on a daily basis, often providing hilarious written contributions in the form of text messages and emails.

**THE-EDIT PRODUCTIONS/JERRY MARKHAM MUSIC**
UK PR: http://archipelagopr.co.uk
Official Site: http://www.jerrymarkhammusic.com

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Meat?

2010-01-24T22:33:00.000-08:00

When I was a teen, I learned about vegetarianism through my interest in Howard Jones. Maybe at that age I wanted to be vegetarian because Howard was vegetarian, but I didn't really understand what that meant.

I am discovering that the older I get, the more grossed out I am becoming by meat. I doubt I'll ever become vegetarian. I just have different principles than some vegetarians have about eating meat. To each, his own.

But, I am literally on the edge of the worst feeling when I eat most meats now. This has been heavily magnified any time I have a bad experience with meat.

Taco Bell, grosses me out so bad. They have since the early 90's. For some reason I remember liking Taco Bell in the 70's and 80's. Maybe it was real food back then. Maybe that bad for you food tasted better back then. Maybe customer satisfaction was a bigger goal than cutting cost to save money for the franchise owner. Either way, I dislike it now and never eat there.

Midnight here in Rockwall, I got hungry for something. I will be up all night. Not in the mood for What-a-Burger or breakfast. So I wondered in a circle and ended up in the Taco Bell parking lot. I said to myself, "Really? Is this what it has come to?"

I managed to eat some of it because I was so hungry. But no hunger can down food that tastes so dreadful. Frustrated at myself for being so stupid for ordering it in the first place, I tossed it all in the garbage.

Is everyone's meat so bad nowadays? Or am I just becoming so discriminating when it comes to animal consumption?

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2010-01-13T10:51:00.000-08:00

I've been working hard on getting everything together for several projects. 'Thick and Thin', the next album is about 75% finished. Many other musicians to record before I can continue working on it.

I have begun working on some of the basic parts for some future releases for an adult contemporary collection as well as a progressive rock collection.

In the passed 6 days I have gathered all of the assets to start working on the 10th anniversary release of 'Calibrate'. It will be an enhanced production that will maintain the original aspects of the original compositions. So, like George Lucas, I want to produce it the way it was meant to be. The original album contained 14 tracks. The 10th anniversary album will include four additional tracks. I am currently about a quarter of the way through the editing process. So, keep an eye out for it in 2011.

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the-Edit Newsletter #31

2009-11-06T00:40:00.000-08:00

Hey there everyone!
Well, summer is over and things are beginning to chill here at home. 2009 has been very musical for me.
From the inception of the Retro Live idea, to playing it live, all the way up to recording the Retro Live album.

Live

As previously mentioned, I took many of my songs and broke them down to simple sequences and went for the early 80's synth sound. It has worked pretty well. There are a few songs that didn't do as well as a one man act but still went over ok. I've had to learn how to juggle entertaining with playing parts. Being solo makes it difficult for a few tracks.

We started out the Retro Live shows with the 'Big Deal' album launch gig at Liquid Lounge on September 18th. The audience was fantastic and so were the staff and other bands that played that night. The shows have been on a small scale. That has given me freedom to experiment with my song sets. I've learned some things to about booking, promoting, getting paid, etc.

Read my review of the gig at -
http://www.jerrymarkhammusic.com/Live_Gig_Reviews_Jerrys_View_Liquid_Lounge_18_09_09.html

You can find some photos from the Retro Live shows in the images section as we add them. In addition, video is currently being edited together by Bryan Castles. You can find clips scattered all over the internet, YouTube, MySpace, and Facebook to name just a few. I found it quite interesting that I had uploaded a video and within minutes it had been viewed several times.

Studio

I'm eager to get back to work on the next album. It has been in the making for over 7 years. I can't believe it. Before I can, I will be recording the faux live album 'Retro Live'. It will contain the stripped down versions of the songs from the recent live shows. All of the instrument parts have been recorded. I plan to record vocals and first rough mix by the end of October. The final mix should be ready to send off mid November.

The next studio album will be quite a challenge. Most of my parts are finished. My never ending quest to record real guitars and other musicians has caused much delay. But I really want to wrap it before the end of the year. Fingers crossed.

Store

New store items include shirts, CDs, autographed photos, and gig posters while supplies last.
Visit the Online Store.
http://www.jerrymarkhammusic.com/Store.html

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the following people for helping me out this year.

Jesus (My Lord and Savior)
Roz Woodward (Web/Ideas/Unconditional Support),
Joey C. Jones (Support/Ideas/Connections)
Charlie O'Connor (Representation),
Adie Bishop (Support),
Jason Janik (Photography/Connections),
Bryan Castles (Photography/Video/Technical Assistance/Stage Hand),
Robby Michaels (Video/Stage Hand),
Ruby & Dale Castles (Merchandise),
Nathan Hewitt - The Holocaust Humanity (Friendship and Support)
Rebecca & Carson Day - Aspersion (Support)
Whit (Curtain Club/Liquid Lounge)
Ethan Robinson & Shannon (Pocket Sandwich Theater)
Bill (Bill's Records)
and to the numerous friends, fans and family members who stick with me (you know who you are).

ROCK A BYE  
By author Adie Bishop, available Saturday, October 17th!
Get the book, that I have done the soundtrack to.
Details at Adiebishop.com
http://www.adiebishop.com
Purchase at - http://www.publishamerica.net/product85198.html

Get the soundtrack by Jerry Markham, available on iTunes or Jerrymarkhammusic.com
http://www.jerrymarkhammusic.com/Store_Buy_Jerry_Markham_Rock_A_Bye_Album.html

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Retro Live Debut & Big Deal Launch

2009-10-01T00:34:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun at this show. Many of my friends and family had known I played for years. However they had never actually seen it. So it was a nice and warm audience that stood behind me that night.

I started preparing the Retro Live show way back in January 2009. I've always been told that I sounded 80's and like my heroes Howard Jones and similar 80's synth pop icons. I used to get kind of annoyed by that. My good friend and fellow seasoned entertainer, Joey C. Jones, told me that I should be honored to be compared to such icons. After hearing that I kind decided to go after that era of sound for at least a little while and just have fun with it.

The main key thing for me to do to keep things simplified was to eliminate the use of a computer for sequencing. I took my best songs and stripped away the massive layers of sounds. The new-old or Future-Retro versions of these songs would consist of a primitive drums machine sound with limits of just kick, snare, toms, claps, hats, cymbal and agogo. I painstakingly programmed these sounds to mimic the 1983 EMU Drumulator (http://www.vintagesynth.com/emu/drumulator.php). The sequenced notes would emulate a pair of 1980 Sequential Circuits Pro Ones (http://www.vintagesynth.com/sci/seqpro1.php). One for bass and one for phrase sequences.

That is it, in terms of what's going on underneath what is being physically played.

Each song would get 2-5 pre-programmed patterns or phrases consisting of 2-4 measures. Very simple programming. Because in those days memory was scarce. I wanted to apply similar limits to my programming. Phrases would be assigned to the lower keys of a Roland XP-60. By utilizing Roland's RPS (Realtime Phrase Sequencing) technology, any intro, verse, bridge, chorus or solo could be arranged live in realtime and kept in synchronization via the internal clock of the keyboard's sequencer.

In addition to these already stark old sounds, I spent a great deal of time creating custom patches to emulate pads, strings, etc.... from late 70's and early 80's synthesizers. Roland already has an extensive library of vintage synths in their SR-JV expansion series for the JV/XP family of workstations. I just like to tweak them a bit more.

I use a Roland JP-8000 for the thick bass chops and lead stuff. There is a preset called Dual Minis that I suppose represents to Mini Moogs. This required no programming. Lovely.

Last, I took a Novation K-Station and created a Moog Prodigy lead that I'm still trying to perfect.

All of January I programmed and began practicing. On February 7th I did my first live audition in front of a few friends to get a feel for how it would go. I filmed myself so I could find out if I was staying tucked away behind the keyboards and neglecting the audience. As any good performer knows, you have to work the audience. People want to be entertained and that was/is my focus.

Having said all of that, September 18th at Liquid Lounge in Dallas, TX was my first performance of Retro Live and the 'Big Deal' album release show.

Everyone seemed to have a good time. I like to be true and tell what my experience was like as well.

Intro and 'What's All This Confusion For?'
I had Joey introduce me and execute the verse phrase. That all worked great. My voice felt good and all of the music was going to plan until I executed the bridge phrase. The internal sequencer clock was never started. With the clock going, one phrase will finish the last measure before switching to the new phrase. Without the clock it will start the next phrase immediately when pressed. In the midst of putting on a performance it was a subtle 'What just happened?' in my mind but didn't fully realize what was going on until the second time it happened going into the first chorus. I'm sure no one cared or even really noticed. But if you listen to the recording of that night, you will hear what I mean. You can't fix something like that in the middle of the song. Well, I didn't want to attempt to. So, I coped with it. I think it worked out really well regardless.

'First Thought, Last Thought'
Everything went smooth even if I did cross a few lyrics. I think someone told me that night that this song reminded them of Thomas Dolby.

'Tortured'
I must have gone through my set at home dozens of times. I forgot to bring my set list to the show and drew a blank on stage and had to act quick. It was very dark on the stage and the light was making it hard to see the display on the XP-60 (main board). I hadn't planned on playing Tortured and loaded it by mistake. I thought I had loaded up 'Thoughts of the Day'. So, when the song started I was playing B Flat Minor over a backing sequenced programmed in B Minor. This must have sounded terrible. Not sure if anyone noticed. I was disoriented for a moment. I sang through a few lyrics long enough to get my bearings on the situation and made the transition to the correct key. I just felt like stopping and moving on. However, the natural flow of 'Tortured' allowed me to finish smoothly even though prematurely.

Howard Jones' 'No One Is to Blame'
To clear my head and get a fresh start I decided to go over to the piano and play a song the audience would be familiar with. I think everything went ok. My performance was hindered slightly by a foot pedal plugged into the wrong place. It was meant for sustain but was plugged into sostenuto. So, instead of getting those long angelic notes, they became very short and plucky. I had to overcome this by playing differently. Funny looking back, because earlier that night on the dark stage I had made a comment to my brother that I didn't know why the piano had two sustain inputs. SUST and SOST is hard to see the difference.

'Here Comes the Man'
This, of course was the highlight of the show and the song I was most eager to play. When I first wrote the song and the lyrics, I imagined performing it on the Liquid Lounge stage. Everything went perfect. The K-Station patch I had going was supposed to have this mono synth with a very long decay. For some reason with the Roland AX-1 shoulder keyboard plugged in, there was no decay at all. It still worked well enough and the audience were very receptive to the barefoot man plunging into the audience playing the Egyptian theme and 'Oh! Susanna'.

'Thoughts of the Day'
Finally, my favorite song from 'Big Deal' went over spectacularly.

Information Society's 'Tomorrow'
I probably shouldn't have even said anything to the audience about this being an INSOC song. I think they were expecting 'What's On Your Mind? (Pure Energy)'. Maybe there was a die hard in the audience that knew the song. Anyway, I think I lost the audience towards the middle. I threw in some Thomas Dolby 'She Blinded Me with Science', Gary Numan 'Cars', Harold Faltermeyer 'Axel F' (Beverly Hill's Cop Theme) and Howard Jones 'What Is Love?'.

'Stranded on the Moon'
With my set list completely improvised I had about 4 minutes left to play and pulled out this song that my friend, Robby likes because of the lyrics and a private joke about the song's literal meaning. This song brought the third 'I really liked that one. You should do more like it.' from someone in the audience that I didn't already know. This song is still a work in progress and I don't think I've ever played it the same way twice.

So, that's how it was for me. People were really cool and so were the club staff. Refreshed and encouraging. I think once again, it worked excellent from the audience POV. At least the feedback was positive. But, there's a lot going on that people can't see or ever understand. I'm finding new ways to disconnect myself from trying to get it all perfect. I just want to do everything I can to deliver the best entertainment to those who are willing to make the trip out to see me.

Thanks again to all of those who could make it and to all of those who helped make it a great event.

Jerry

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Newsletter #30

2009-08-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. I hope you are having a great summer.

I wanted to inform everyone of live shows coming up in September and October. These are very important shows for me. Especially the September 18th show. I need you there. Bring everyone you know. I promise you a great show like no other.

Retro Live (2009)

09/18/2009 08:00 PM - Liquid Lounge
2800 Main Street
Dallas, Texas 75226
US
Club Phone Number: 214-742-6207
www.curtainclub.com
Cost:$10.00
Description:’Big Deal’ album launch with guests The Holocaust Humanity and Aspersion

09/27/2009 09:00 PM - Absinthe Lounge
1409 S Lamar St 8
Dallas, Texas 75215-6800
US
Club Phone Number: (214) 421-5500
www.absinthelounge.net
Cost:No Cover
Description: with guest Isopod

10/14/2009 08:00 PM - Pocket Sandwich Theater
5400 E Mockingbird Ln 119
Dallas, Texas 75206
US
Club Phone Number: (214) 821-1860
www.pocketsandwich.com
Cost:$10.00 by Reservation
Description:Dinner and Show. Doors open @ 6:30 pm. Food and drinks served 6:30-7:45pm. Show starts at 8pm. Limited seating of 140. Please call to make a reservation.

For the September dates it is important to mention at the door that you are there to see Jerry Markham. I am working on having some merchandise at the shows. Announcement will be made as this happens.

Come out and let's party like it's 1982.

See ya at the shows,
Jerry

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Drums and tracks

2009-07-06T23:48:00.000-07:00

I opened up the project file for 'Exodus' and it tells me the audio files are missing. I've searched all of my drives and they are indeed missing. Looks like I have to re-record this one. Back up your stuff folks. I'm actually due for another backup. Maybe I'll do that tonight.

I worked on the drum section tonight for a while. I'm not a drummer. It's a bit tough for me. I really need another electric drum kit. I'm not very good. However, it was nice to be able to record my bad drumming in real time, opposed to drawing in MIDI notes. Before, all I had to do is go in and clean up my playing a bit. I believe in leaving some of the mistakes to keep it somewhat human. But drawing in the MIDI data takes for ever and doesn't capture the same feel. I've got lots of work to do. It will have to do for now.

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Live Practice

2009-06-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

Live Practice

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The-Edit Newsletter #29

2009-05-31T22:27:00.000-07:00

Greetings great beings.

A completely overhauled website has been built by Roz Woodward of Squigalus Imaging and myself. I hope you like the new design. The new site features the most up to date information concerning my musical output. It is cram packed with new material, photos, videos, reviews and previously unavailable music. You can subscribe to the newsletter and blog to get up to the minute information and exclusive content. The site has integrated all of the old material as well. Enjoy a simplified shopping experience with the new store. Once again, a huge thank you to Roz on the site. Jason Janik has shot some amazing photos for the site and other promotional material. Another thank you goes out to Charlie O'Connor for all of her help promoting me in the UK and abroad.

On the music front, I spent a good chunk of November working on the next album. I’m currently looking for a guitarist to work with on bits here and there. It’s coming along nicely.

Over the course of January I’ve been working on drum and keyboard sequences for possible future live shows. A recording of this collection will be available in the future. Right now I’m calling it ‘Retro Live’. It’s a collection of about 90 minutes of my best live numbers but all vintage sounding. You can check out exclusive studio tests in the BLOG section of the website. In the VIDEO section, there are a few video clips of me testing it out in front of a few friends.

:: ROCK A BYE ::

I recorded a 5 song instrumental soundtrack last year for Adie Bishop’s book ‘Rock A Bye’. Be sure to go check out her book then buy a copy for you and a copy for your friends at www.adiebishop.com You can purchase a physical CD that compliments the book from jerrymarkhammusic.com or download it digitally from Apple iTunes.

:: BIG DEAL ::

The full electronic album is now available on CD from jerrymarkhammusic.com and as a digital download from Apple iTunes. The album was recorded in 2006 and saw a limited digital release for a few lucky people. The first track on the album, 'Underground to Camden Town' was featured in the UK magazine Future Music and has been played on Podcasts around the globe.

Want some free stuff? Find me on Facebook. There are currently 23 free songs on my profile page for you to download. These songs range from old demos to unfinished studio mixes. You can find lots of free songs on the official site as well under the SONGS tab.

In other news, my audio production company, The-Edit Productions, became official in March. www.theeditproductions.com

Everything mentioned above has kept me pretty busy in the creative department. I look forward to hearing from you and possibly seeing you at some of my shows this year. Welcome to Jerry Markham Music 2.0!

Take care now,

Jerry

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The-Edit Productions Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

2009-05-23T23:16:00.000-07:00

Here are photos of the ribbon cutting ceremony for The-Edit Productions. The ceremony was held Tuesday May 19, 2009.

What have I got myself into?

Welcoming committee!

Alright. Let's do this.

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Jerry Markham Music Newsletter (The-Edit) Migrates from Yahoo Groups to Blogger

2009-05-22T23:32:00.000-07:00

Hello friends and fans. I've been maintaining the Jerry Markham Yahoo group for a very long
time. However, it's time to move forward to a better way of keeping you informed
on what I'm doing.

Newsletter #29 will be the last one posted on the Yahoo group. If you wish to
continue staying up to date with what I'm doing in music. You will need to
subscribe to the link below. I will post newsletters and random blogs via
Blogger.

http://www.blogger.com/follow-blog.g?blogID=837869295587744157

You can always check out the archives on the main site at
www.jerrymarkhammusic.com

I don't plan on maintaining the Yahoo group after Newsletter #29. After a while,
Yahoo will most likely terminate the group if it becomes dormant.

I hope to see you all make the transition. If you have any questions or
suggestions, please send them to info@theeditproductions.com

All the best,
Jerry

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The Beatles on iTunes

2009-05-21T01:44:00.000-07:00

I've noticed most of my life that many of the bands I respect are fans of The Beatles. I'm a fan as well but I don't have any of there albums in digital format. Apparently, iTunes hasn't reached a deal with the record company EMI in regards to The Beatles. That's the pits because now I suddenly have the urge to download a bunch of their stuff. Oh, well! Perhaps by the time they reach an agreement, I won't care anymore or will have forgotten. At least you can get my music on iTunes though, right?

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Access (First Studio Demo)

2009-05-12T17:15:00.000-07:00

Jerry Markham - Access
Recorded December 7, 1996
Broadway Recording Studios Garland Texas

Only two copies known to exist.

First is:
8 track Alesis ADAT (VHS style tape cartridge)

Second is:
Original Master DAT tape

Track Order:
1) 16 Bit
2) 16 Bit (Disco Instrumental)
3) Safe
4) Always

Conversion:
Upload synchronized multitrack for each song from ADAT to DAW

ACCESS - Jerry Markham Music Blog
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1996 Demo Unearthed

2009-05-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Recently unearthed the original master for my first studio recordings from 1996. They are in ADAT format. I'm currently looking for a way to migrate them to digital format.

hACCESS - Jerry Markham Music Blog
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Back to Work

2009-05-10T17:07:00.000-07:00

I've taken a break from working on the next list of songs to work on my live stuff and to promote recent works. But I'm in a position to get back to work and I'm eager to do so. I'm currently listening to where I had left off. 'Am I Dreamin'?' is close to being finished before going to mix. I'm looking for a bigger sound for the end of the song.

Here is the original demo version created in 2002.

Big Deal CDs

2009-05-09T01:17:00.000-07:00

The album has arrived. They look fabulous. We just have a few last touches on the revamped website. The 'Rock A Bye' EP is already available on iTunes and Amazon.com. You will be able to purchase it directly from the site very soon. In addition, 'Big Deal' is being processed for digital distribution as well. The album will be officially released in June. I hope to have a proper gig and party to celebrate that. So, be sure to order your copy and tell everyone you know that they would be much more appealing if they got their own copy as well.

Music Link Updates

2009-04-26T09:33:00.000-07:00

I've been updating all the social network sites that link to my music. Taking forever.

Practice Session 2-4-09

2009-03-11T02:00:00.000-07:00

Here Comes the Man

Helpful Hand

First Thought, Last Thought

What's All This Confusion For?

Standing Firm

Free My Heart

I Don't Want Your Love

Confinement

2009-03-06T09:37:00.000-08:00

I'm working in a secure facility. Access to the outside world via internet is virtually impossible. It really sucks. Today is my last day here, thank God. Let me be clear. I don't mind the job itself. I mean it's not interesting but it has been paying the bills up till now. I just don't like being this confined.

Almost every website you go to is blocked. I'm completely surprised that this one is not. Anyway, I won't have to worry about that after today...which is dragging by, by the way.

According to UPS (United Parcel Service) the 'Rock A Bye' CDs should arrive at my door step before I get home today. That's cool.

Roz Woodward has been working her self crazy on the site relaunch. So, make sure you send her lots of cash and sweets.

I'm trying to find a good flash based media player for this blog. I'd like to throw up a few ideas here and there from time to time. I won't leave them up long. Just tired of using other sites to share my ideas.

Ok, I better go because big brother is watching!

The-Edit Newsletter #28

2008-11-06T02:25:00.000-08:00

Hey folks,

I just wanted to give you some overdue updates. No big news, just a few things to keep an eye out for.

In the Studio

I’ve started making some real progress on the next album. I’m getting excited about it. I hope to have a good chunk of the work done by the end of the month. Many of the songs were worked out a few years ago. Now it is simply a matter of putting everything together with a real deadline for myself. This is a more natural sounding collection of songs compared to the electronic stuff I was doing last year.

Live

I recently came into contact with a guy named Joey C. Jones. Joey made quite a name for himself in Dallas back in the day. He’s full of insight and energy. I made some band posters to promote a few shows he was doing with his band Orange Helicopter. We have discussed possibilities of working together in the future.

On Line

I set up several music networking profiles on various sites during the summer. I didn’t get much of any feedback. However, it was interesting seeing how many hits my music was getting. ‘Thoughts of the Day’ from the Big Deal album has seen several plays on a few podcasts. Be sure to check with the Podsafe Network for my songs.

On the Shelf

Adie Bishop, who is a long time friend of mine, has written a book called ‘Rock A Bye’. The book will feature a special 5 track CD of instrumental music that I wrote to augment her work. It is expected to be available in 2009. More news on that when I have it.

Websites

Has anyone noticed the website hasn’t been updated in a while? Please be patient. Roz went through a ton of work to make it and did it for free. We aren’t web people but hope to find a more manageable way to keep you updated on the official site. You can always check out my official MySpace site for updates.

Ok, that’s it for now,
Jerry

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Rest in Peace Dad

2008-08-26T21:37:00.000-07:00

Today my father passed on to be with the Lord. Give me strength!

Access granted!

2008-06-27T14:41:00.000-07:00

Jerry Markham Music:\Initialize>run

Connecting to Host

Connection to Host Failed

Jerry Markham Music:\Initialize>destroy_host_and_connect_anyway

Connecting to Host

Host has been destroyed and no longer exists

Access Granted

The-Edit Newsletter #27

2008-05-19T02:27:00.000-07:00

What’s up ya’ll? I don’t know how many people read these things but it keeps me organized. I often find that I have to look back at some of the older newsletters to figure out dates etc… I can’t believe I’ve been doing these for so long now. I’ve hit some goal and some have been left in the dust. I’ll attempt to catch you up with what I’m doing now, followed by a brief newsletter history.

I’ve been working on instrumental music for a book called ‘Rock A Bye’, by author Adie Bishop. I’m getting close to wrapping up production. I will have pre-production versions up on MySpace but not forever. So check them out and buy tons of music from me. I’ll gladly take money for nothing if you just feel like cashing out your 401k or something.

http://www.myspace.com/jerrymarkhammusic

Ok, on to the newsletter recap.

So it goes… I made a four track CD called ‘the-edit.01’ under the name Joel in 2000. I’m glad I stopped using that name because it was a pain in the butt for people to remember, say and spell. In fact I didn’t even spell it right above because I didn’t feel like searching the character map for the e with the two dots above it. (back to the story). Anyway, by the summer of 2001 I was getting close to finishing my first CD, ‘Calibrate’, and decided to create this little newsletter.

I have been using the title ‘the Edit’ since 1992. It was a product of my imagination for a mock up record label. I wrote it on all of my old cassette tapes back then and so on. Little to no thought went into its meaning. I just looked at the edit button on an Alesis SR-16 drum machine that I had at the time and said, “Yeah. I’ll call it that.” In 1998 my stepbrother, a friend, and I started a small label, officially naming it ‘the-edit Records’. It was unsuccessful, if you don’t include the Howard Jones Tribute CD we put out. I mean that was cool and all but not many people outside of Howard’s fans took any notice. After the demise of the business side of things, I took the name back and have used it to refer to anything musical I do. Rather it be for my own music or music I do for someone else, this newsletter included, it all gets the markings of ‘the-edit’. (Bored yet?)

So the first newsletter came out on June 13, 2001 with a goal of finishing ‘Calibrate’, another Howard Jones fan CD and an instrumental dance EP. I’m happy to say I finished the first two and years later I kind of did the last one.

In 2002 I began archiving all of my old cassettes to digital format. So if you ever want to hear some early version of a song, I probably have it as an mp3 now. I mean if you’re really that big of a fan. I went through a devastating time after a breakup and wrote tons of music in 2002. I made a few one off CDs called ‘2002 – Raw Improvisations’. The few people that have heard that stuff found the recordings very moving. Some of these songs will turn up in the future. I also played in a rock cover band called Group Therapy for a few years. It was fun but it got old.

2003 introduced me to loop based dance music in the form of ACID Loop, a piece of music software. This discovery in the long run would serve as a platform to build what would come to be the electronic album ‘Big Deal’ much later on. In the fall, I lost my grandfather. He was my first inspiration to do music. I wrote a song for him that he got to hear just days before he passed. It was played at his funeral.

It appears that I had stars in my eyes for a while. I was buying all of this gear and getting songs ready to do solo electronic shows. Then I found out how much of a whip it is to try and organize shows on your own. I still haven’t quite given up on that idea. But there are still tons of roadblocks. Oh! Did I forget to mention losing a job back then and having to sell gear to pay the bills? Yeah that sucked. But that’s ok, I got newer and better gear immediately afterwards in 2004.

Anyways, no solo gigs in sight for 2004. So I was back in Group Therapy playing keyboard temporarily. This was a vital turning point in my life. I got out of the auto industry for the most part and began to make my transformation into a full time graphic artist. While I made that change, I stripped down to a basic one keyboard set up and wrote 17 new songs. I think it was at this point that I realized my strength is songwriting.

2005 was spent refining the huge lot of songs I had written over the passed three years. I had every intention of doing some of the more rock influence music first but I was misfortunate when it came to finding other serious musicians to work with. I focused my energy on the electronic stuff instead. Of course computers kept blowing up and old gear was exchanged for new gear. Either way, I was making progress.

Finally in 2006 after lots of distractions, I finished ‘Big Deal’. I never even released it properly, but one of the songs from that album got lots of attention.

Then, last year, I finally got the solo gig experience out of my system. Don’t ever do one of those battle of the bands things unless you have an easy setup. It was a nightmare. We pulled it off ok but it was more work than it was worth. I would like to do the solo thing again but as a full hour slot or something. The year ended with ‘Underground to Camden Town’ getting released with the UK edition of Future Music. That was pretty freaking cool that it got chosen out of the tons of submissions that they get per month. Oh yeah, and I got a pretty piano before Christmas.

Well, with getting a new computer and working on the five projects going on, I’d say that brings us up to date.

I had no intention of writing this much but it was kind of good to look back and see if I had any long forgotten goals. In summary, I love to write and record the most, as long as I have the tools, the freedom and the will. Life can get in the way. A LOT. But, I’ll eventually get the job done.

Bye bye,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #26

2008-02-19T02:36:00.000-08:00

Hello again,

I don’t know if people are aware of this but I have been changing out the songs on www.myspace.com/jerrymarkhammusic from time to time. I have recently settled down a bit to revive some older songs. I’ll be auditioning a few of them here and there. So if you get a chance, give them a listen and let me know what you think. There have also been a few covers on there as well.

I hope to get a new iMac this summer to increase my musical and artistic output. I bought a new performance piano about four months ago. So it’s been a bit quiet in terms of news. But I have been practicing and writing new material many times per week for months. A few close friends have been encouraging me to put together a collection of some of the piano pieces I’ve been working on lately. So, I may do that. We’ll just have to see how it all goes.

Cheerio!
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #25

2007-08-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone.

MEDIA
Keep and eye out for the October issue of Future Music Magazine. The magazine features a supplemental DVD. They have requested to include ‘Underground to Camden Town’. This is a magazine company based in the UK. However, it is distributed worldwide and available online. The issue should be available in September.

I hope you are having a great summer.

See ya,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #24

2007-04-13T19:25:00.000-07:00

WEB
www.jerrymarkhammusic.com is in its final stages of completion. You can here excerpts of the new album NOW.

LIVE
Sunday May 27, 8pm Curtain Club Tickets - Advance $8/Door $10

8 bands will compete in the ‘Battle of the Bands’. I will be playing a 30-minute electronic set. The next day is a holiday, so come on out with everyone you know and show your support. Check www.myspace.com/jerrymarkhammusic for updates and details.

STUDIO
It’s all practice right now. Guitarist/Violinist Kelsey Sharp is currently working on arranging one of my songs for a special release this summer.

Keep it simple,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #23

2006-10-09T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. It is finally here. The new electronic album ‘Big Deal’. This newsletter is the official announcement of the early Internet release of the album. For a limited time you can download the entire album for free along with a few mixes that will not appear on the album. So what’s the Big Deal? Go to the forums over at www.switchedonshow.com to listen to it or simply follow the links below.

I have worked on it since the summer of 2004. Please let me know if you want to use them on your shows, websites, etc... Point all references to http://www.myspace.com/jerrymarkhammusic and www.jerrymarkhammusic.com (up soon).

So without further delay...BIG DEAL

(LIMITED FREE DOWNLOADS OF THE ALBUM HAVE EXPIRED)

Please send all feedback to jerrymarkhammusic@gmail.com

I hope you enjoy it.

All the best,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #22

2006-05-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

Hey,

I just wanted to give you a quick update. The new album 'Big Deal' is almost finished. I should be finished up in the studio by July 9th. The first release will be a song called 'Underground to Camden Town'. I've mentioned it before. More on that next time.

As you may have noticed jerrymarkhammusic.com is gone. Then again it was pretty useless. I'm a musician not a web guy. But you can still get updates here and of course at www.myspace.com/jerrymarkhammusic

I'd like to tell you more about being a rock star but I'm not that. I'm a working class person like most people. Otherwise this album would have come out a year ago at least. but I'm taking a lot of time on it because I want you to hear it the way it's meant to be heard.

There will be bonus tracks released with remix singles in addition to the album.

I've written quite a bit of new material this year already. So always new things to look forward to. Thanks for your support.

All the best,
Jerry Markham

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The-Edit Newsletter #21

2005-12-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

MORE GROUP THERAPY
I was invited to play with Group Therapy at a place called Carson’s Palace in North Dallas on November 12th.
We were prepared for the long night ahead but things didn’t work out between the band and club. Hidden Agenda were originally slotted for the gig but couldn’t make it. Though we only played one set we were still compensated.
To finish up the year I will be playing keyboards for Group Therapy once again on December 23rd at Cruiser’s in Frisco, Texas. That is a Friday so if you aren’t doing anything, come see us. I hear the place is pretty nice. It would be nice to meet you.
www.grouptherapylive.com
www.mycruisers.com

Cruiser’s
2750 Preston Road
Frisco, Texas 75034
Phone: 972.712.0066
Fax: 972.712.0849
E-mail: info@mycruisers.com

UNDERGROUND TO CAMDEN TOWN
The song ‘Underground to Camden Town’ is currently being played on a few different podcasts. This is the first song from the electronic album ‘Big Deal’. It is a podsafe track available through Podshow Music Network.
It has been featured in the past on shows such as Bondtekoe The New Wave (Show 18), Bit Jobs for the Masses (Show 36), Closet Geek Show (Episode 14), The Nate and Di Show, Switched On Show, Twisted Pickle and others.
The Netherlands based Bondtekoe The New Wave are interested in doing a special show in the future to feature more music from Big Deal and possibly an interview.

http://music.podshow.com
http://bitjobs.net
http://closetgeekshow.blogspot.com
http://www.nateanddi.com
http://www.switchedonshow.com
http://thetwistedpickle.com

IN THE STUDIO
The electronic album has finally got a name. Big Deal.

So you may be thinking, “What’s this got to do with me?” For starters it is the first proper album I have finished for public broadcast. As mentioned on page one, ‘Underground to Camden Town’ is already being heard on podcasts and it isn’t finished yet.

There are only a few things left for me to do on this album before I hand it over for production and engineering treatments. Of course it still needs vocals. And for some listeners, that’s a BIG DEAL.

TRACK LISTING:
Underground to Camden Town
What’s All This Confusion For?
Standing Firm
Miles of Love
Unspoken Thoughts
Maneuver
If Only She Knew
I Don’t Want Your Love
Final Hour
Deceived
Free My Heart

Stagefright is the name of my pop-rock album. It has a little bit of everything in it. You may be able to hear the Phil Collins-Genesis influence in some places and maybe some others.

Many of the songs in this collection were written about a year ago. The remainder was written long ago but didn’t take form until recently.

Most of the keyboard parts have been recorded. I am currently pursuing other artists to work with on this album. I’ve said it many times but this one will take a while. I’m having fun with it. That’s what it’s all about at the end of the day. STAGEFRIGHT

TRACK LISTING:
Red Handed
First Thought, Last Thought
Sometimes
Am I Dreamin’?
Exodus
Not Like Me
Stagefright
I Can Sleep Tonight
The Last Dance
In These Arms
Step into the Light
You Know, I Know

WEBSITE
It’s coming. I promise you. Seriously. I know you’ve heard it before. But really…

I’m getting more interest week after week. So we are taking the new site seriously. It just needs to be a great place for everyone. I take a lot of pride in what I do and so does the web designer. It won’t be much longer. All of the elements are together. It’s only a matter of test and tweak, etc. Remember to check the yahoo site for updates.
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham

SOUNDSCAPES/OTHER PROJECTS
Right! What are Soundscapes? Well no one really knows. But that’s what I’m calling my random recordings of sounds, effects and other noises that I layer up.

I have only begun to record some of the crazy things that come out of my synths. But I’m also trying to capture more true to life sounds.

Try to imagine an artist who collects garbage, bits and pieces of this and that and mashes them all together to create a great form. That’s kind of what I’m doing but with sound.

I guess a part of me always wanted to work in the sound design department for George Lucas on a Star Wars film. It is also a great escape from doing traditional sound recordings.

More on this in the future as this develops.

Doing my part on the Switched On Show podcast has brought some attention to my music abilities. Not that we do much music. But many people have heard me when I do play.

I have been asked by Justin Newman of Newman’s Place to create a track specifically for a show he is putting together. The track is currently being worked on. More next time.
http://newmansplace.ca

And last but not least… Phil Coyne of Bit Jobs for the Masses will be hosting his show’s one-year anniversary in March of 2006. I hope to contribute to a song themed for the event.
http://www.bitjobs.net

GEARHEAD
I don’t expect many people enjoy reading or hearing gear heads talk about anything tech related. But I know there are a few out there. This section is for you. Or should I say for me? Anyways, let’s get on with it.

I have changed gear again. The Evolution MK249ii was given away to a long time listener and friend. Let’s just hope that she will play the thing some day. I sold lots of gear this year. Gone are the Nord Rack 2 synth, Waldorf Microwave II synth, Yamaha DTXpress drums, Roland JUNO 60 synth(ouch), Kawai K4 synth, Yamaha TX81Z synth, Roland JP-8080 synth and my complete Behringer PA system.

But that’s quite all right. I have replaced those items with the following. Roland JP-8000 synth, Novation K-Station synth, and an Apple iBook G4 laptop computer.

So I didn’t replace everything. But I’m quite happy with the more up to date sound, versatility and portability.
Here is a 3D model of the current rig.

New Site Coming in ‘06!
Visit: www.jerrymarkhammusic.com

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Jerry Markham Information
PO Box 605 Rockwall, Texas 75087 USA

Web: http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham
E-Mail: jerrymarkhammusic@gmail.com

I hope that everyone had a great year. I wish you all the best for 2006. Have a safe and happy holiday.

Please send any questions or comments regarding the-edit newsletter to jerrymarkhammusic@gmail.com with the-edit in the subject line. For all other questions and comments feel free to contact through the website or through e-mail.

Do you have a particular song of mine that you like? Let me know. I may have other versions of it that you may have never heard. There are also many one off songs that may become available once the new site is up.

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The-Edit Newsletter #20

2005-10-14T19:58:00.000-07:00

What’s up ya’ll? It’s been a while so I thought I would do a few updates for ya!

The new website will be up hopefully in a few weeks or less. This will be the last newsletter in this form. So twenty newsletters… The updates will continue but hopefully as special announcements only. All other information will be either in blog form, podcast or whatever else I think up.

Music
Most of the music for the electronic album is finished. The lyrics are being recorded at my leisure. Many things have become apparent to me throughout the process. Number one, I’m not the strongest sound engineer by any means. This is part of the reason the project is taking longer than I had hoped. There is one track in particular that I’m very proud of all the way through. It is called ‘Underground to Camden Town’. I may have mentioned it before. Oh well.

The more pop rock-ish album has been on the backburner for most of this year. However, I have written lyrics for some of the songs that were previously instrumental. This project will take a while simply for the fact that I don’t know many dedicated musicians that I can work with on a full time basis. I will pursue it more aggressively after I finish some of the other projects that are coming along.

I got a much better vibe about playing live in Dallas compared to last year. It’s all a matter of being persistent and finding the right people to talk to.

I have met several artists and bands in the passed few weeks. I’m hoping through meeting new people, I may find people to work with on future projects.

I have also been thinking of doing some experimental tracks involving noises and sounds from everyday life mixed with layers of musical tones.

Ok that’s all for now. Be sure to watch www.jerrymarkhammusic.com in the coming weeks.

Thanks very much,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #19

2005-05-27T20:00:00.000-07:00

Hello again. I’m in London at the moment. What a city full of culture and creative arts. I wish there were more of this in Dallas. I’m trying to meet up with a few people here who could possibly have a positive impact on my projects. One key person is Stephan W. Taylor who mixes. The time is flying by and I haven’t really got much accomplished over here. I have gone to some great digital imaging events. Adobe puts on some smashing events. It’s really cool because it’s free, interactive and they even feed you. If you are an imager and haven’t seen the new features on Adobe Photoshop CS2, I suggest you check it out. Wow! Other interesting events from this trip...Star Wars Episode III charity screening featuring Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) in person. Then there was the floor pounding sounds of Moby in concert. I also saw Laurie Anderson in an elaborate candle lit theater. She plays violin, tells stories augmented with synthesizer ambience.

That’s pretty much all for now. I don’t like to report anything unless there is actually news. You may see me pop on from time to time just to let you know I’m still around.

Have fun,
Jerry Markham

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The-Edit Newsletter #18

2005-04-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

Electronic CD
I am just a matter of weeks away from completing the electronic CD. I’m hoping to finish it by the end of April. Depending on how it gets marketed, it should be available this summer for purchase. Of course I don’t know squat about marketing. So you can share this journey with me. I’m also working on remixes of several of the tracks. They will be released later in the year. All release plans are pending at the moment. Let’s just finish the thing first, right?

Pop-Rock CD
I have completed most of the keyboard and piano tacks for this album. Jazz-fusion drummer Jim Curtis is currently working out the drums. You can learn more about Jim here: http://jamesphilipcurtis.com

Following the drums will be recording all of the guitar parts. Then, it will be mixed, etc. Not sure about a release date on this CD. A lot more goes into acoustic recording and engineering obviously.

Podcasting
I’m not going to bore you with details about what podcasting is. I’ll just sum it up like this. You can listen to me, Jerry Markham, my step-brother, Bryan Castles, and friend, Rob Michaels on our podcast called ‘Switched On’.

Go to the website to read more about it here: www.switchedonshow.com
You’ll get a glimpse of what goes on in our normal conversations and even some music you probably won’t hear anywhere else.

Website
Yeah, yeah, yeah! You’ve heard this before. New website coming soon. But no. Really. There is one coming. Actually, there is something there but rather stagnant and out of date. I hope to have it operational very soon. I’m just not a web designer. We will have music, CD’s, news, photos and art on the website once it’s up. So watch www.jerrymarkhammusic.com for future updates.

All the best.
Jerry Markham

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The-Edit Newsletter #17

2005-01-12T20:04:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everyone. Sorry to take such a long break between newsletters. I ended the year with another trip to England. It was 'brilliant'. I have a very special friend there, I'm sure you'll hear more about in the future.

I have worked for about 2 months on the second album. It is sounding very tight and very crystal clear. I took a break from it though to work on some electronic music. I will be putting a collection of electronic works together also. I expect to release both albums this year as well as a single with remixes. It really is alot of work. I had to spend much time learning new recording techniques and software. I am sure that you will be pleased with it when I'm finished.

Watch this space. I will be putting a special track on the site so you'll have something new from me to listen to.

I wish you well and may your 2005 be productive and filled with joy.

All the best,
Jerry

PS. Please keep in mind the victims from the disasters from the Tsunami and the Mudslide in California. If you are moved, please do anything you can to help.

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The-Edit Newsletter #16

2004-09-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

Hello again. Well I've just finished a major repair to my computer that put me out in June. Those lightning storms can really cost ya without proper protection. I have moved the music rig to Rockwall, Texas. I composed over 18 songs through the months of June and July. Now that the computer is back up and running I can get down to working out some of those songs.

The official website was supposed to be up by now. However, due to the computer being upside down I haven't been able to do graphics and web design up till now. Hopefully it will be up soon. http://www.jerrymarkhammusic.com

I plan to put a few song samples up for people to download soon. Watch this space. The new website will feature a section for mp3 downloads.

Hope you are all having a great summer.

Best wishes,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #15

2004-05-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

Bon jour! Well, we have arrived at newsletter fifteen. Last month I got to put some music to a training video for Southwest Housing. It was only about 20 seconds of intro music. Oh well. On with the newsletter, right?

MUSIC
The first track for the dance CD is coming along pretty well. The song is called ‘Standing Firm’. There will be an alternate version as well.

LIVE
I’m still playing keyboards for Group Therapy. Here are the following confirmed dates that I’ll be playing out.

May 22
9pm
The Reservoir
3920 Rosemeade Pkwy #100
Dallas, TX 75287
(972) 862-7624

May 29
9pm
The Texas Stardom
2390 Parkwood Blvd.
Frisco, TX 75034
(972) 668-8108

July 17
9pm
The Texas Stardom
2390 Parkwood Blvd.
Frisco, TX 75034
(972) 668-8108

July 31
9pm
The Reservoir
3920 Rosemeade Pkwy #100
Dallas, TX 75287
(972) 862-7624

So, get off the couch and come see us!

You guys rock,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #14

2004-04-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

The-Edit Productions will be moving its studio from McKinney, Texas before the end of April. It has been in McKinney since September 2000. Since then, I have recorded Calibrate, the second Howard Jones compilation CD (Is There a Difference?), country singer Ed Vargas, the 2002 CD, music for USA+ Insurance CD ROM, music for Version3 studios, and have been writing the next two albums. I’ve also worked with the cover band, Group Therapy as well as jazz-fusion drummer Jim ‘JP’ Curtis. I will miss this city. However, the studio has quadrupled in size. The new studio will be relocating to Fort Worth, Texas.

The two albums I’m working on will probably be finished near the end of September. I would love to have them finished sooner, but I still have a job during the day. Who knows? Maybe an angel will fund me to get my music life off of the ground.

Last month I spent several days recording with the extraordinary guitar genius, Tom Teal.
A demo CD was put together for Group Therapy to promote themselves for booking gigs. Tom did an outstanding job mixing it all out using Steinberg’s Cubase ST (I think?) The demo is available for you to hear. If you want a copy, I’ll see if I can get them from Tom.

Go to www.grouptherapylive.com to read more about Tom in the Group Therapy Bios section of their website.

Also, the new website will be constructed very soon. So watch for that also. Until next time. Stop letting life pass you by.

Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #13

2004-03-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

It’s time again for another update. I’m a little late I suppose.

I’ve started on the first tracks of the next two CDs I’ll be working on this year. I’ve been working with guitarist Tom Teal of Group Therapy on a song called ‘Not like me’. I also wrote a new song called ‘Make it Better’ for the dance album.

I’m continuing to play with Group Therapy as the keyboardist. At least until they find a replacement. I’ve been playing only three keyboards at the shows. They are the master keyboard Roland XP-60, Roland A-37, and an Evolution MK-249ii. That’s really all there is room for on the stage. I also talked to Texas Stardom about playing open mic nights. I may do that soon. Here are a few images of the March 12 show at the Jubilation in North Richland Hills, Texas.

More updates coming soon.

All the best,
Jerry Markham
jerry@orangefactor.com

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The-Edit Newsletter #12

2004-02-17T20:24:00.000-08:00

I’m in the studio at the moment as I write this. I’m finally getting around to working on my next album; due out late this year hopefully. It will feature guest musicians on many of the tracks.

I spent a lot of time checking out clubs and pubs in Dallas. I’m very discouraged to find that most of those places either want a classic rock band or a DJ but not a keyboard player. What’s up with that? But I have read before that a man is never wanted in his own land so maybe I should try some different places, eh? Anyways, live or not I’m working on the music regardless.

Group Therapy’s keyboard player left the band and I was asked to help out till they find a new player. We had a gig at Sneaky Pete’s in Lewisville on January 29th. It sucked. I got there with my keyboard rig and there was no room for it. There were less than 10 people there but we still had fun. Then we played Valentines Day at Texas Stardom in Frisco. This one was a lot of fun and the place was packed. The next gig will be at Jubilation in North Richland Hills on March 12th. I’ve never played this place before.

I want to thank all of the Howard Jones fans that joined my site. Don’t forget, if you want to hear the Howard Jones covers I’ve done I’ll have to e-mail them to you. For some reason yahoo won’t let you download them. If anyone has any suggestions on hosting, let me know.

I have to get back to work now.

See you soon,
Jerry Markham
jerry@orangefactor.com

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The-Edit Newsletter #11

2004-01-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

First of all, I would like to say Happy New Year. I hope it is a prosperous one for you all. I got to sing in the New Year with a warm audience.

Getting My Act Together
Right! So, what’s been going on? Hardly anything, to be quite honest. I have worked out the performances on about 9 songs in my living room. Thank God my neighbor is being cool about it because it can be very loud sometimes.

Networking
I have set a few goals for the first part of the year as follows. I’ll be visiting local clubs and pubs near my home town next week to network with people. You see, you have to be a business person when you’re not being artistic. If you have more talent in your pinky than most people could dream of but you don’t make connections with people, your future is hopelessly limited. Therefore, like Droopy the dog would say, “I’m off to the big city to become a musician.”

Open Mic and Talent Nights
I think the best way for me to get started will be to play some open mic spots here and there. This will give me a chance to try out the one man keyboard act to see what works and what does not work. I should do this for a month or so to find my feet. I will only play from 30-45 minutes. If the act isn’t working out well, the audience won’t get exhausted. There will be other acts the same night. I think I will do fine but you never know if the audience wants Hank Williams Jr. like my first gig back in the mid 90’s.

Opening Act
As a product of networking, perhaps I could be asked to open for some bands from time to time. If this happens, it will generate a bit of a following, hopefully. It will also get me some exposure. Once some clubs see that the show works, I’ll start booking full shows. That may be a good time to consider adding a guitarist.

Complete Shows
Let’s face it. My overall goal is to play my own shows and make a living at it. I want to play 2-3 times a week and maybe more. Depending on how fast this becomes successful, I will book out of town gigs and ultimately try and secure management. Following this success will be to get an album done along with radio air play.

Writing
It’s still the middle of January. However, I have already started writing another song. I have also made a short loop for Orange Factor that may or may not surface on our website later on.

That’s all for now. I have a lot of work and research to do. See you next time.

Jerry Markham
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham

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The-Edit Newsletter #10

2003-11-22T20:28:00.000-08:00

Well it’s time for me to ramble on again.

Music
Last time I said I was going to take some time off from working on dance music. I worked on a few tracks then it was right back into the dance music again. I also did some music for www.version3studios.com. I had to make something for their/our video trailer. 17 of the 39 tracks that I’ll be playing live next year are somewhat completed. I have estimated that I’ll be finished writing them by the end of January 2004. The best tracks will be selected from the list in February and pressed as a dance CD. It will be released next spring on the-edit Records label. The promo CD that I mentioned last time will be recorded in January next year and shopped to record companies and radio stations thereafter. I also hope to have my second independent CD finished by April next year. Finally, I’ll be working on my first independent maxi single in December.

Equipment
The KORG MS2000 analog style keyboard has been exchanged for the coveted Novation KS4 synthesizer. At last my 2400 Watt Behringer EP2500 Power amp finally shipped. I got some speaker stands and powered it all up. Wow, what a noisy person I can be now. My neighbors were cool with me testing it all out. See the new set up at the bottom of this page.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Jerry Markham
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham

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The-Edit Newsletter #9

2003-10-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

Hey, everybody. What’s up? This year is really flying by. In this issue…

Music
I will be taking time out from the dance music from time to time to work on some other types of music. One song in particular that I’m eager to work on is a song called ‘Red Handed’. I am also making a few one off recordings for future use on the web. So if you know anyone who needs music clips on their web site. I’m interested. The only other thing I can think of at the moment is getting down to producing the dance CD. I think it’s going to be just 4 tracks.

Performance
What a painful but fun task. I’ve been practicing a few songs with the current keyboard set up. I’m figuring out quickly what works and what does not. Most of the time is spent programming. I have to find the correct sounds for each song, configure each keyboard to communicate with the master keyboard and decide what I want to play and what I want to leave up to the sequencer. I have to be careful how I do this. I don’t want to restrict myself from the audience. I want to be free to move around the stage. I think a keyboard player fixed behind the rig the whole time makes for a pretty boring show. I don’t consider myself much of a front man. Therefore, the music must be able to hold on its own. Never the less, I have to be a showman and learn to wiggle my butt and all that crap for the audience. Just don’t expect cartwheels and all. I may use a flame thrower from time to time. By the way…I have a short clip of me playing with the current set up at home. Contact me for the 10.4Mb file.

Equipment
I’m currently running 6 boards. I purchased a KORG MS2000 analog style keyboard. It is astonishing. I also bought another MIDI keyboard controller. So the Roland XP-60 master keyboard is being controlled by 4 external boards. Why so many boards? I don’t like fiddling for sounds in live applications. I acquired a BOSS SP-303 sampler but it just couldn’t handle my needs. I took it back. I will get another one later. I’m currently using the internal noises in the YAMAHA DTXpress electronic drum module. It will do for the time being. I also have the drum pads mounted on the same A-frame stand as three of the keyboards. I’m still not sure how I’ll trigger samples and play keyboards at the same time. I’ll figure out something.
Here’s the set up excluding the shoulder board (Roland AX-1).

Well, that’s all for now. I want to thank all of you who joined my new temporary web page. The new one will be launched next spring. I may have already mentioned that before.

See ya!
Jerry Markham
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham

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The-Edit Newsletter #8

2003-10-01T20:38:00.000-07:00

What a blast September has been for me. I went to England to see my all time favorite artist, Howard Jones, for his 20th anniversary concert. It gave me a lot of ideas and energy for performing live.

Right, so here are some of my thoughts. I have much planning and preparation to do to get things going. The drawing board so to speak. What to do, what to do? I am convinced that my lust for knew gear will never be quenched. However, the final piece of equipment necessary to play live has been purchased. I should receive it this month hopefully. It's a power amp that's on backorder. The only piece of equipment that I need is a means of transporting my gear from show to show (A VAN).

I have to rearrange my living room so I can start practicing what I'll be playing live. This week has been devoted to getting this site up and creating storyboards for the official site which will be designed and launched by 'Version 3 Studios' in the spring of 2004. I am going to work on 4 to 5 songs for some open mic gigs. It will be a small set up for quick set up and tear down. Mind that these will not be paying gigs but more or less something to do live. I need to test this whole one man electronic thing just to be sure it works. I don't mind not being paid to test these ideas. I already know of 2 pubs that want me to play. They are Texas Stardom in Frisco and Sharkey's Pool Hall in Plano. I'm not too sure I'll do the Sharkey's gig any time soon. They will want a full 3 hour set and I just don't have enough material for a full show yet.

I will be working on a 4 track demo CD to shop to local pubs and clubs throughout October and November. Does anyone have any great ideas for merchandise? I plan on having T-Shirts, key chains, stickers, etc. made up for merchandising, as well as the CDs.

The last thing and perhaps one of the more important things to do is build a proper fan base. It's a common thing to hear friends and family say, "When you're big and famous, don't forget us." Well, that will never happen. Understand that in this early stage of things I need your full support. One of the vital factors of getting decent gigs is fan base. So, join the site if you haven't already http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jerrymarkham and tell EVERYONE you know to sign up. I will be posting e-mail reminders from time to time. If some of the people you know doesn't have a computer, I'll gladly mail them newsletters provided I have their mailing address.

Stay tuned in. I promise to bring you great music and an outstanding performance. It's what I do best.

Cheers,
Jerry Markham

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The-Edit Newsletter #7

2003-08-26T20:39:00.000-07:00

Right! So what have I been doing this summer? Well it's misfortunate that my grandfather and music mentor from my childhood died Friday September 22. The week before he died I wrote a special song for him to hear the influence that he had on me. It is my joy that he got to hear it before he died. The song was played at his funeral and it was very painful to listen to. The song is called 'All That Matters'.

I have also been working on the dance songs that I have mentioned to a few people about. I have about 10 done so far. I got most of my PA system for live performance.

Last of all, my final gig as the keyboard player for Group Therapy will be September 13th at Texas Stardom in Frisco, Texas. I will continue to play a gig from time to time with the band but only seldom. That's all for now. See you next time.

Jerry Markham

all that matters
a salute to hubert weldon whitaker

don’t know what to do
don’t know what to say
don’t know how to feel
it feels all up hill from here
don’t know where to go now
time has slipped away

you taught us laughter
you brought us music
we will follow in your life
carrying on the tradition

one thing is for sure
your discipline was hard
but a father loves his children
there’s no grander vision now
we must carry out the mission
that you taught us about

you left us much to cherish
things that will never parish
we must carry on
must pass the baton to our children

and i will follow you
follow where you lead
i couldn’t go on knowing i didn’t do what i could
we will spread your vine
the world will see in time
i will follow you because you showed me all that matters

we will carry on the tradition
we will do what is right in the sight of Christ
we live in you and you live in us
we must carry on

and i will follow you
follow where you lead
i couldn’t go on knowing i didn’t do what i could
we will spread your vine
the world will see in time
i will follow you because you showed me all that matters

and i will follow you
follow where you lead
i couldn’t go on knowing i didn’t do what i could
we will spread your vine
the world will see in time
i will follow you because you showed me all that matters

you showed me all that matters
you showed me all that matters

you showed us all that matters

words and music by jerry markham

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The-Edit Newsletter #6

2003-07-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

Hope everyone had a great holiday. I was just glad to have the day off. As many of you may know the newsletters have been far in between. For the past year I’ve been rambling on the web instead. I will be sending out newsletters for music (the-edit Productions) and the artwork I do (Final Hour Concepts) from now on.

RECAPPING 2002-2003
Ok! Now, we’ll look back at some things that have happened up till now. My first CD ‘Calibrate’ generated sales to about 50 people or more. I probably gave away about 100 more. How pathetic. I guess I shouldn’t kill myself though. It was a home made CD. The only promotion was either from me or from a fan in Ohio.

When 2002 finally rolled around my girlfriend for a long time hit the road. So there I was in buckets of tears at the piano. I finished up the Howard Jones cover CD and sold about 20-30 copies and began working on songs of my own again. I wrote nearly 15 tracks. These were not normal recordings. I basically just improvised music and lyrics and recorded everything on the fly. It was a way of washing out my sorrows. This collection of recordings was called ‘2002’.

Also in 2002 I began working with other musicians. I met a drummer named Jim Curtis from Dallas. Jim plays fusion drums. We would meet up a few weekends and just hammer out some 15 minute improvisations with an occasional guest bassist or guitarist. Jim recorded a few things we did if anyone cares to listen.

Early this year I decided to start playing live with other people. I met a cover band named Group Therapy. I auditioned as their keyboard player and landed the spot. Since I’ve joined the group we have been playing every other weekend in two local pubs.

I have mp3’d one of the gigs that we did back in the spring. Contact the edit if you want to here them. Here’s the band website. http://www.grouptherapylive.com I will be leaving the band at the end of August to pursue my own musical interests. Here are the next dates that I’ll be playing with the band.
July 11th @ Sharky’s
July 26th @ Texas Stardom
August 9th @ Texas Stardom
August 23rd @ Texas Stardom

ACID
My brother, Bryan ‘bc’ Castles gave me a looping program called Sonic Foundry ACID Pro 4.0 that has inspired me to make the dance music that I mentioned in a previous newsletter. In May I started revamping some of my old songs and a few covers for a solo live performance. I just have to get geared up for the gig. I do have plans to get back to some music writing when I have the time. Once I’m free from the band thing I’ll have a little more time to do it, I hope.

Well that’s all for now. Peace out and see ya soon.

The-Edit Productions
Jerry Markham aka Joël
joel_calibrate@hotmail.com

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The-Edit Newsletter #5

2002-01-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to everyone. Hope it was a safe one. All I can say for January in Texas this year is that it has felt like Spring. Anyways, let’s get on with the news.

ARCHIVES (1987-1998)

I spent most of the month listening to cassette tapes dating back to 1987. These tapes have recordings of me learning to play and early improvisations of songs that ended up on my first CD. I decided it would be a good idea to get these early recordings onto CD before they were lost forever in some magnetic field.

I was able to edit almost eighty hours of crap down to about 6 hours of material. These recordings (Set of 3 CDs) will be called ‘the-Edit Cassette Archives’. The Set will go nicely with the ‘Joël – Demo’s’ (Set of 4 CDs). What the heck? If I die maybe someone will listen to all of this and be able to reproduce it and make some money. I just want to have it in a safe place in case that ever happens.

$$ FINAL HOUR CONCEPTS MAKES ITS FIRST DOLLAR $$
Yippee. So I finally get to make some money doing what I love to do. Next to music, I love to tinker with visuals. Rick Robertson of Dennison, Texas hired me to make some really nice pictures for Topshop Automotive, his garage. I created his company logo and this image of his 1968 Camaro. E-mail me for large image.

After many people had seen this photo, they wanted me to make similar ones for their cars and such. So, if you have a bunch of old photos lying around collecting dust. Give me a buzz and I can get them revved up to magazine quality standards. If I can’t, I’ll send them back. See the bottom of this page for E-mail contact information.

isthereadifference - asalutetohowardjonesbyjerrymarkham

So I’ve worked very little on the next Howard Jones cover CD, so what. I have finished about 4 of the tracks so far and still have loads of writing and recording to pursue. Haven’t decided if I will have a guest for any guitar work or not. Some times it seems such a chore to find a committed musician locally. I generally don’t bother. So anyways, I think the name of the CD will be called ‘Is There A Difference – A Salute to Howard Jones by Jerry Markham’. What do you think of that title? Tracks completed thus far are…ha, not gonna give it to you that easily.

http://communities.msn.com/theedit

Stay up to date with the-edit at http://communities.msn.com/theedit and visit often to get more information about the music and the art.

Good luck and whatever,
Joël
joel_calibrate@hotmail.com

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The-Edit Newsletter #4

2001-12-16T20:51:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

What can I say? It’s been a while since the last newsletter. Currently,
I’ve been working on my conceptual art. I also started college while
working a full time job. The music writing has been infrequent.

The concept art I do, collectively known as Final Hour Concepts, can be seen
at http://communities.msn.com/JoelCalibrate.

In the summer I spoke with David and Joe Stopps of Friars Management Ltd.
and David Donald of Warner/Chappell Music in the UK about putting together
some cover tunes by Howard Jones. With few contingencies, I was granted
permission to pursue the endeavor. I have worked on several songs since. I
have not decided when to make it available, however, because of time
restraints. After it is complete, it will be sent to FML (Howard’s
management) and to Warner/Chappell for review. If it is approved, a release
plan will need to be developed afterwards. Meanwhile, I continue to write
my own music and will continue to do so.

Susan Edmondson has been working hard to help me promote my first release,
‘Calibrate’. If all goes as planned, there will be a place for you to
download some of the music from the-edit at http://communities.msn.com/JoelCalibrate.

See ya!
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #3

2001-07-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

The first complete album "Calibrate" is finished. I've decided to lower
the cost of the CD since it is a self made album. The price is as follows: $8 US and $10 outside of the US. Postage is included in these prices. You can send your order to info@theeditproductions.com along with your address. Please include how many copies you would like. Send payment to The-Edit Productions PO Box 605 Rockwall, Texas 75087.

Thank you for your support and spread the word.

I will put up sound clips of the CD soon on www.version3.net/joel and
www.the-edit.homestead.com. I need you're reply to this e-mail ASAP. Good luck and all the best.

Jerry at the-Edit
info@theeditproductions.com

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The-Edit Newsletter #2

2001-06-27T20:54:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

  I just wanted to give you an update on the music.  

I will finish recording the final track for Calibrate on Saturday June 30th. The CD will be mastered by Bryan "bc" Castles, Robby Michaels and  myself on Saturday July 14th. Let me know if you would like to buy a copy of the CD. Cost will be $12 US/$15 outside of the US.  

Do not send your payment yet. I only need to know how many you want. If  price is an issue, let me know. We can work out something. I did not take the time in the last news letter to tell you what the music on this CD is like. It is very 80's style synth oriented music. This  collection of songs reflects the last 10 years of my music writing. These 14 songs sounded the best to me and to those who reviewed them. Influences include Howard Jones, Genesis and Information Society.  

A survey will be packaged with your CD(s). Your opinion of this album and the tracks wherein are valued. Please forward this e-mail to anyone you think that may be interested.   I need you're reply to this e-mail ASAP.

Good luck and see ya soon,
Jerry

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The-Edit Newsletter #1

2001-06-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,  

This is the first announcement from Jerry Markham(Joël) at the edit to inform you of what's been going on musically in my life.

  Last year I put out a demo CD entitled "the-edit.01". I got a lot of great feedback from that.  

Since Feb. of this year I have been working on "Calibrate" my first self made album. It is almost finished. Just a few more tracks of vocals and then done. I expect to finish it no later than the end of June.  

I have also contacted the management of Howard Jones(80's Synth Wizard) about releasing a tribute CD to Howard and his fans as well as pursuing to release a radio friendly single of one of his older hits(to be chosen later). More news will follow as I find out if I have permission to do it.  

Last of all, new music. After I finish "Calibrate" I will be putting together a 6 track CD of strictly club style instrumental music. Sorry, no country. I do like it but prefer to be the listener on country rather than write it.  

Let me know your thoughts!

Jerry

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