Darcy Cotten

2010-11-09T17:34:00.001-08:00

Oh, my, I just signed on and realize it has been one year to the day since I last wrote. Busy year, I'd say.... I am still working on the Hallowed Ground project and it is almost finished!!! I will be back soon with a lot more details.... Darcy

2009-11-09T18:29:00.000-08:00

I don't think it is possible to have any more fun writing, on the Hallowed Ground project, than I am having with my writing partners, John Sutton and Anna Owens. All the songs on this project are going to be originals written with them, as well as one I wrote with Kim Sherman and John.

So far, four of my vocals have been recorded and the fifth one will be recorded sometime this next month. Todd Lombardo is in the process of gathering up some of Nashville's finest, and we will be going into a major overdub session this coming January. If you have not heard Todd's guitar playing, extraordinaire, I suggest you go check him out. He's awesome! Anna is also amazingly talented as a vocalist, fiddle player, vocal coach, and of course, a writer. If you've read any on my previous posts, you'll already know I think John Sutton is an awesome writer.

Lucky me.... Darcy

2009-08-23T08:12:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce the beginning of my newest project is now in progress. I've recorded my vocal to Hallowed Ground, which is the title cut. This project will have a somewhat Americana/Singer-Songwriter feel. All the tunes will be original, which is very exiciting. I am working with co-writers John Sutton, Anna Owens, and Kim Sherman. The project is being recorded at Anna Owens and Todd Lombardo's studio, with Anna being my vocal coach on this adventure. To sum it up, in just a few words, "it's gonna be awesome!".... Darcy

2009-07-20T08:51:00.000-07:00

You've all heard a picture is worth a thousand words. Well, that's how I feel about my recent Las Vegas adventure. I had an absolute blast, and one of the highlights was going to see The Beatles-LOVE by Cirque du Soleil.

This is a photograph of Ethan Sutton and me having ourselves a wonderful time just before going into The Mirage theater.... Darcy

2009-07-18T20:30:00.000-07:00

Every now and then you get a most pleasant surprise when you least expect it. Tonite was one of those times. This review was so beautifully written and meant so much to me, I just had to share it.

Thank you, Mike.... Darcy

Love's Journey

author: Mike

There are certain sounds that are totally authentic and call up real places and times. The sound of the screen door in To Kill a Mockingbird is one. The sound of this album is another. These songs take me back to summer nights on a porch in Nashville where songs were sung and stories told -- usually at the same time. What can I say. It's the real deal!

2009-07-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalinable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."

United States Declaration of Independence
July 4th, 1776

One can only hope.... Darcy

2009-06-25T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce my website has now been updated and I look forward to getting back to visiting with everyone via my "News and Photo" page. It's really nice to have completed my second project, "Love's Journey," which features two original songs. One, the title cut, "Love's Journey," co-written with John Sutton, and the other, "For A Moment You Were Mine," co-written with John Sutton and James Prendergast.

I am currently working on a new project, and as I get further along, I'll have more details, but I can say, John and I will be including a few more originals on this one.

So, just a short note to say hello and to thank all of you who've been so generous with your wonderful comments thus far about "Love's Journey".... Darcy

2009-06-24T08:31:00.000-07:00

It's taking just a wee bit longer than I planned for my website to have a new look, but it's almost ready.... In the meantime I am working on getting MySpace up and running as well. Now, having gotten that mentioned, I look forward to just putting up all kinds of fun stuff, especially news about my friends.

Hope everyone is having a good summer so far.... I'm heading out to Vegas right after July 4th for a few days to visit with my co-writer, John Sutton and do a little more writing. While there we plan to see The Beatles - LOVE by Cirque du Soleil at the Mirage! Lots of reasons for me to be smiling.... Darcy

2009-06-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce, "Love's Journey" has been released. Currently my website is going under construction with Delevante, giving the site a new look.... This should be done in a week or so, and I'll be adding lots of cool information about all sorts of things, including what my friends are doing.

I also will be adding new links, plus a MySpace music site for me (with a little help from my buddy, Anna Owens). So, good times, great friends, and I'll see everyone very soon.... Darcy

2009-04-28T13:14:00.001-07:00

It's been a long time since I've seen everyone, and indeed Bonny has kept me more than busy. But the good news is, I have finished another project, Love's Journey, and was waiting for the right time to let everyone know about my latest CD.

Well, last evening, one of my co-writers on this new project, John Sutton, from Las Vegas, had some wonderful news to share, so I thought I'd start the new updates with a big congratulations to his son, Ethan.

Ethan is in Cub Scouts, Pack #678. Last night was their annual Pinewood Derby race. He and his Dad built this cool car together and took Third Place (out of thirty five entries) at this event. Congratulations.... well done!

I look forward to sharing news of Love's Journey with you in the next couple of weeks, and getting my website updated, but today is Ethan Sutton day in Nashville, TN.... Darcy

2008-08-12T20:46:00.000-07:00

The big night arrived, Bonny Rose's first graduation from school. It's been a wonderful and rewarding experience. She's definitely been tagged the social butterfly of the group. There were eight puppies in all, with Bonny being the youngest. It's hard to imagine she was a mere 10 weeks old when she started, and now she's a gangly little girl. She acquired several suitors at school, all vying for her attention, but a little miniature pinscher named Harry (the instructor's dog) was her favorite.

I am happy to report that Bonny was in the top of her class. During the final exercises of sit/stay and down/stay all of the owners sat on the floor by their pups, but I chose to stand with her at my side. She stayed in position second to the longest in each of the exercises (over a minute and a half), but was the only one who stayed in position with a standing handler. I was so proud of her.

She has been accepted into Level One classes beginning next week. Although they generally require the dogs to be 6 months old for this class, Jean Erwin, the director of NDTC, wants Bonny to start. Jean will be her instructor for the next 8 weeks.

Now, all this said, don't get the wrong idea. Bonny is full of herself on many occasions, and keeps me hopping to stay ahead of her, even if I do have to turn my head away to keep from laughing at the crazy things she will get into.

She's sure my little joy and treasure.... Darcy

2008-08-09T09:09:00.000-07:00

Our Forever

My late nite thoughts turn to you
In a place so sweetly, safely held
A place where only you and I
Alone, together, forever dwell

I'll meet you there underneath
Tonite's blanket of the shimmering stars
Where nothing lies between us, love
Except the touch of your waiting arms

You'll take me slowly to the place
I long to always, forever be
Whether there only in my dreams
Or one day, in sweet reality

I am thinking of you today.... Darcy

2008-07-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

I have sat at my desk for over 30 minutes now, trying to come up with just the right words to express all the ways I wish my very best friend, Kim, a perfect Happy Birthday....

For the past twelve years, she has been a steady rock in my life, both in friendship and business. So from my heart, simply said with love, Happy Birthday to a beautiful lady.... Darcy

2008-07-21T10:43:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was a lot of fun. It included an outstanding outdoor party given by Land and Laura Deleot at our loft complex. They engaged James Prendergast, Bill Verdier, and Russ Barenberg to play old time music on their front porch, as guests meandered about enjoying beveragaes and food. Even Bonny had a good time hanging out with the crowd.

Another great part of the weekend was a visit from Michael who lives in Atlanta. As you can see from the photograph, music was a large part of our fun. If you are in the Atlanta area, you might check to see if his band is playing. They are The Hot Carltons and from what I hear they are awesome!

It's kinda hard to get back to Monday after having such a good time, but get back I must.... Darcy

2008-07-17T08:14:00.000-07:00

Sending out very Happy Birthday wishes to Dr. Joe Butler from Birmingham, AL.

One of the greatest joys of being with Cotten Music over the years has been meeting folks from around the country who find their way to our little shop, many of whom become long time friends.

Joe is one of these long time, wonderful friends. He's quite the guitar player (but very modest about it), in addition to his busy professional schedule.

Last evening found him in the Nashville area on business, so he invited Kim and me to share a birthday celebration with him. I asked him if there was anything special he'd like me to say. His quote was this: "There's no better way to spend your birthday, than with good friends."

Thank you Joe for the wonderful dinner, and for all the years of your support of Cotten Music. It's an honor to call you friend..... Darcy

2008-07-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone....

I know it's been a while, but for those of you who've had the joy of taking care of a new pet, I'm sure you understand.

My new project is coming along nicely. I've done two of the next four vocals (before the overdubbing session). They are, A Satisfied Mind and Thank You (by Led Zeppelin). All of these songs have gorgeous Celtic arrangements, thanks to my amazing producer, James Prendergast.... This music is the most fun and yes, it's a lot of work, but certainly a lot of fun!

The song for July is Danny Boy. I will be going into the studio this coming Thursday to put down my vocal. Another gorgeous song, with the most haunting lyrics I've heard. I am not sure which song I'll be recording for August just yet, but as soon as we get the vocals on that one, then Bill Verdier and John Mock will come into the studio for an overdubbing session to work their own magic, along with James. This should take place sometime in September.

Thankfully Bonny likes my vocal practicing, and as you can see, looks quite angelic in the below photographs, taken yesterday.... I was practicing and looked over at her, and just had to stop.... angelic, right....

So, shortly after this, she woke up.... stretched and emerged from her crate, looking curious but still angelic, right....

OK, now you can see what life is really like around here.... most of the time. She's fully awake and in her full puppy glory.... This is why I have been a little delinquent in catching up with my blog, although we have started Puppy Kindergarten at the Nashville Dog Training Club, with tonight being her second class....

Enjoy the Summer and I'll try to write more when the whirlwind (aka Bonny) settles down.... I am loving every minute tho.... Darcy

2008-06-18T20:28:00.000-07:00

Bonny and the ball....

Some of you may remember a post I made on March 31st of this year about going for a walk, while pondering all my troubles, up to the Belmont University Campus. This particular journey was one my Golden, Wynwood's Cotten Music "Capo" made many times before he left to play in the great field in the sky.

Here's a little excerpt from that post in case some have not seen it....

Anyway, my journey led me over to the track at Belmont this morning, all the while pondering my troubles. What I saw there changed my day completely, and perhaps it'll give you a lift as well. On the track, was an older lady. She was in one of those electric wheelchairs and beside her was the sweetest looking black lab, harnessed via a leash to her chair. What was she doing.... she was taking her dog for a walk.... thinking of his enjoyment, and sharing her love for her pet. It couldn't have been an easy process for her to get over there, but the dog and lady both were so full of smiles. Thru tears, I said good morning....

I went another few feet, and looked down... there was a muddy, stray tennis ball. I picked it up and brought it home. It will be my new puppy's first ball.On the way home, I noticed all the beauty around me, and was thankful to be walking home....

Yesterday Bonny made her first trip to the campus, not going the entire route because it would be way too far for her, and also, not walking all the way as I carried her some. But she had a most excellent adventure! Turns out it is orientation week at Belmont, so lots of students and parents were there. She loved all the attention and it is a wonderful socialization time for her.

So, like Capo, she too loves the campus.... and in case you are wondering, the tennis ball in the above photograph is her favorite toy.... it is the same ball I picked up on my solitary walk a few months back.

I've come full circle.... and it's a very sweet time.... Darcy

2008-06-16T20:12:00.000-07:00

I would like to thank all my friends who have sent the most wonderful emails to me welcoming Bonny. They've come from as far away as England, and in the U.S. from California to New York to Florida.

She's quickly becoming quite the little celebrity but remains very mellow about it.

Bonny had her first visit to the Vet today, weighing in at ten pounds, and was deemed "perfect" (but I already knew that).

She also had her first official day at Cotten Music and promptly stole every one's heart there. And yes, folks, she LOVES music.

Last evening Bonny received a Welcome Home cupcake from friends, Steve Lowry and Jerri Malloy. As you can see she was chomping to get to it, but this was as close as she got.

I certainly appreciate all the lovely comments that we've received. A very special time for a very special little pup.... Darcy

2008-06-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

Wynwood's Bonny Rose arrived in Nashville last evening, June 13th, via Northwest airlines.... This photograph by Kim captured our very first hug and simply says it all.... A moment in time to be treasured.

She's a beautiful little girl, very smart and quite the charmer. She already walks wonderfully on a leash, comes when called, bringing her ball back to me, and is very content at night in her crate. I will be getting in touch with a trainer soon, so she can begin her education.

Once again, I would like to thank Renee and Susan for Bonny's wonderful parents, Rylee and Ticket. Also, a very special thank you to Renee for giving Bonny, as well as all the eleven pups, such loving care. I can only imagine how much work that is, as one puppy keeps me very busy.

Welcome home my little Bonny girl.... Darcy

2008-06-08T11:28:00.000-07:00

A picture is worth a thousand words..... This one of Renee with all the puppies says it all.

The puppies are scheduled to go to their new homes by this coming weekend, so each of us who are fortunate enough to receive one of these beautiful little animals are going to be very busy, happily so.

Thank you Renee for all the loving care you give to the animals in your charge, and for placing one of them with me.... Darcy

2008-06-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

The following was so cool and highly entertaining, sent my way by Bill Verdier, fiddle player
extraordinaire..... Darcy

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The Washington Post's Mensa Invitational once again asked readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and supply a new definition.

Here are this year's winners. Read them carefully. Each is an artificial word with only one letter altered to form a real word. Some are terrifically innovative:

1. Intaxication: Euphoria at getting a tax refund, which lasts until you realize it was your money to start with.

2. Reintarnation: Coming back to life as a hillbilly.

3. Bozone (n.): The substance surrounding stupid people that stops bright ideas from penetrating. The bozone layer, unfortunately, shows little sign of breaking down in the near future.

4. Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, which renders the subject financially impotent for an indefinite period.

5. Giraffiti: Vandalism spray-painted very, very high.

6. Sarchasm: The gulf between the author of sarcastic wit and the person who doesn't get it.

7. Inoculatte : To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.

8. Hipatitis: Terminal coolness.

9. Osteopornosis: A degenerate disease. (This one got extra credit.)

10. Karmageddon: It's like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And then, like, the Earth explodes and it's, like, a serious bummer.

11. Decafalon (n.): The gruelling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good for you.

12. Glibido: All talk and no action.

13. Dopeler effect: The tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.

14. Arachnoleptic fit (n.): The frantic dance performed just after you've accidentally walked through a spider web.

15. Beelzebug (n.): Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning and cannot be cast out.

16. Caterpallor (n.): The color you turn after finding half a worm in the fruit you're eating.

And the #1 pick:

17. Ignoranus: A person who's both stupid and an _ _ *intentionally left to the imagination, out of respect for some of my viewers.

2008-05-30T08:26:00.000-07:00

Wishing a very Happy Birthday to a wonderful friend and sweet lady, Jeni Hankins. Her smile lights up even the cloudiest day!

Jeni and Billy are just about to get ready for a big summer tour of various music festivals in Virginia and North Carolina, but before they head out, they will be at Norm's River Road House on June 12th.

In the meantime they are finishing up their soon to be released CD, Jewell Ridge Coal. I have been hearing some of the music from this upcoming release, and believe me, it is really great. They are making some of the best music around.

So, Jeni, have a beautiful day. You are a special lady..... Darcy

2008-05-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

One of these adorable girl puppies is Bonny, and I am soon to find out just which one! They are a month old here (born on April 24th).

It'll be fun to look back on the previous photographs and see which one is mine, because Renee puts different colored yarns around their necks from birth. So, when she lets me know which one she has chosen for me, I'll introduce her on my site as Bonny with "the color of yarn."

These little Wynwood girls are beautiful and very busy looking.... Darcy

2008-05-25T11:04:00.000-07:00

Remembering their sacrifice, yesterday, today, tomorrow.... Darcy

Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

2008-05-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

It's me on Jim Fungaroli's 1972 Norton Commando 750 Fastback (photo by Jim). He works at Cotten Music with us, and adds a lot of color to our group.

This Sunday, May 18th, the Nashville, Ton-Up British Motorcycle Club is having their annual bash at The Alley Cat Lounge, located at 1008 Woodland Street, 37206 (MapQuest for directions).

This British Bike show will go from Noon til Nite, believe me, it will! There will be live music featuring, The Trenches, Hans Condor, Big Baby, and Porter Hall Tn. For more information please call 615-308-9213

In the past, Jim has always had very, ummm, interesting stories to tell about the bash, but this year, I may just have to check it out for myself.... Darcy

2008-05-13T20:02:00.000-07:00

I love coming home from the shop and finding emails from Renee about the puppies! This one just in tonight. Here they are at 19 days old. In exactly one month from today, June 13th, I will have Bonny Rose here at my loft. I am certain it will be a very joyful night, with very little sleep.

Thought you might like to read the note from Renee which she sent along with the photograph:

Puppies are starting to rough it up a bit, here is Ms White taking a playful chomp of Ms Pink with Ms Purple looking on.

They are getting absolutely more adorable everyday.

Enjoy, Renee

One of these little girls might even be Bonny, but you can bet as soon as she decides which one will be mine, you'll see her picture.... Darcy

2008-05-10T04:45:00.000-07:00

I was inspired to write this poem yesterday, after thoughts came tumbling into my head during a morning walk. Although time and space can be vast, in matters of the heart, it matters not. Thinking of you.... Darcy

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Love's Journey

As silent as a falling star
And every bit as swift
With no way to stop the journey
Of love's kiss upon my lips

Like the surge of a summer's storm
As it moves across the plains
You caught me in your magic spell
When first you spoke my name

No way for me to put asunder
The feeling you imparted
When first you took me to your side
My love for you was started

I ask not why, nor do I care
For it matters not to me
As old as time itself just knows
What will be, will be

2008-05-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

It is my pleasure to introduce you to Hunter Allen (2nd from left) and friends. I met Hunter when he started taking guitar lessons from James (my producer) at the shop a few months back. He is an absolutely amazing young guitar player, and will most certainly make his mark on this world among guitarists in the future.

A few days ago, Hunter sent me his first YouTube video, and it was so cool, I asked him to see if it was alright with his parents if I shared it with everyone on my blog.

You have to love his credits. They are as follows....

Videographer: David
Nerd: Hunter
Retard Gangster: Jay Robinson

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJVdAl06hlI

Congratulations Hunter! You've got all the right moves.... Darcy

2008-05-04T12:01:00.001-07:00

On May 1st, after having completed recording my vocals along with James's guitar/mandola tracks on four songs, we did an overdubbing session with Bill Verdier on fiddle, and John Mock on pennywhistle, mandolin, and bodhran.

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James and I have been working on a song a month for these past few months, and it was so nice hearing these guys put down their wonderful music to our tracks. I'll keep you posted on any additional instruments added to these songs as they are recorded.

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The songs are, Bonny Light Horseman, The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face, The Wind and Rain (or Two Sisters), and Have I Told You Lately.

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I cannot even begin to tell you how great these guys are, and the excitement I feel over this new project. My goal is to have all the songs (13) completed by the end of December, and a new CD out sometime in February, 2009. However, in the meantime, I am just going to enjoy this wonderful journey and savor every moment.

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Thanks so much to Kim Sherman for all her beautiful photography. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and hers certainly are. You can see how much everyone loves what they are doing, and the smile of a happy Producer says it all.... Darcy

2008-05-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

Can you find eleven puppies?

Renee took this picture yesterday, May 2nd showing them at nine days old. I don't know just yet which one is Bonny Rose, but I will in another couple of weeks. I love seeing the positions these little pups get in for sleeping.

Talk about mellow.... Sure brings a nice smile to my face to see them.... Darcy

2008-04-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

On April 24th, Rylee from Wynwood Kennels whelped eleven puppies, five girls and six boys, all healthy and strong. Renee took this photograph shortly after their births and when I arrived home from the shop, I found her announcement waiting for me on my email. Earlier this month, I'd posted a note about Ticket, the father of the puppies, so now you can see how wonderful both parents are! As the puppies grow, Renee will be sending more photographs my way which I'll share.

I am so fortunate and more than proud to let everyone know, one of the beautiful little girl puppies will be mine, and coming to Nashville on June 13th. Her official name will be Wynwood's Bonny Rose, but she will go by Bonny.

Her name came to me from my last CD when I sang The Rose (such a lovely flower), and the latest project, being Irish, the word Bonny meaning, pleasing or beautiful to see. So, welcome to the world little Bonny Rose. I'll be waiting anxiously to care for you.... Darcy

2008-04-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

I have now recorded four vocals for my new project with just the guitar tracks. My goal is to do one a month for a year, then around year's end, I'll have a second one almost finished. It's a nice easy way to enjoy the musical process, while having a lot of fun. (I have to smile here because my producer, James Prendergast, insists it is work).

Towards the end of next week, James will bring in the other musicians to lay down their tracks for these four songs. They will be, Jeff Taylor on accordion, Bill Verdier on fiddle, John Mock on pennywhistle, and James will be on guitar as well as mandola.

In the meantime, I have been inspired to write a couple of poems, and thought I'd like to share this one with you as Spring flows into Summer.... Darcy

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My Morning Sun

Once I heard a butterfly
Whispering in my ear
Words so sweetly beautiful
Words to me so dear

But they were softly fleeting
As on crystal wings he flew away
Toward the morning sun
Yet, he turned around one last time
His message not quite spun

He whispered, I'll return to you
Tho not the same as now
But you will know my velvet touch
My wings will kiss your brow

So, all alone I waited
While the days rolled into night
Till at last I saw him once again
In the morning sun's first light
Flying on the Summer's wind

2008-04-22T02:02:00.000-07:00

Happy 18th Birthday to Tia Chanel Wells

I thought a long time about what I wanted to say to honor Tia's 18th birthday. She's a wonderful young woman, who brings a joyful light into my life.

I would like to send this poem out to her written by Lord Byron in 1814.... Darcy

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She Walks In Beauty

She walks in beauty, like the night
Of cloudless climes and starry skies;
And all that's best of dark and bright
Meet in her aspect and her eyes:
Thus mellowed to that tender light
Which heaven to gaudy day denies.

One shade the more, one ray the less,
Had half impaired the nameless grace
Which waves in every raven tress,
Or softly lightens o'er her face;
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
How pure, how dear their dwelling place.

And on that cheek, and o'er that brow,
So soft, so calm, yet eloquent,
The smiles that win, the tints that glow,
But tell of days in goodness spent,
A mind at peace with all below,
A heart whose love is innocent!

2008-04-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Bill Ivey on the upcoming release of his new book, Arts, Inc. How Greed and Neglect Have Destroyed Our Cultural Right, due in bookstores and online, May 1st, 2008.

Bill came into the shop yesterday. He brought an advanced copy of his book for Kim (thanks for the photograph of Bill) and me.... What a wonderful accomplishment for him after four years in the process. I wish him the utmost success. I don't see how it could be otherwise since it is written about something we should all be impassioned about.... "A thoughtful and thought-provoking book on the state of the arts in America today." -Jane Alexander

Bill chaired the National Endowment for the Arts from 1998 through 2001, directed the Country Music Foundation from 1971 to 1998, and was twice elected chairman of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. He presently serves as founding director of the Curb Center for Art, Enterprise, and Public Policy at Vanderbilt University.

Below are a few of the comments written about Bill's book. If you check the link above, you will find these and more.... After reading them, I think you will want this book for yourselves.... Darcy

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"Walt Whitman was democracy's eloquent poet, who understood that democracy is not just a form of government but a way of life rooted in culture. Bill Ivey is culture's eloquent advocate, who knows that as democracy needs the arts, the arts need the advocacy of government. This is not just a vital book about the arts but a vital book about democracy." -Benjamin R. Barber, author of Jihad vs. McWorld

"Bill Ivey's Arts, Inc is a must-read for all those interested in American art and culture and the public interest in preserving access to our heritage for everyone, and as it contributes to the arts of today and tomorrow." -Frank Hodsoll, former chairman, National Endowment for the Arts

2008-04-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Hi there.... bet you all thought I'd gotten lost.... just busy rehearsing my vocals for April's song, Have I Told You Lately.... this one is going out to John S.... First run on that will be Thursday so please send all good vibes my way!

It was a real treat this morning to find the following email, sent to me via a friend from the Flatpick L group.... so thank you Roger Renfro for sending me Harry Moore's comments to the group, and Harry, what a wonderful thing to know I am riding around with you.... and in the company of Marty Stuart, no less!

So, here's what I saw this morning that gave me a big smile.... Darcy

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I don't own an iPod.In the house, stacked next to the computer for play while readingfp-l digests:10 Years of EWOB - various bluegrass groups from Europe and the US ofA

Deep In the Mountains - LongviewTalk to Your Heart - the Eddie Adcock BandAppalachian Swing -

the Kentucky ColonelsBlue Highway - Midnight StormLester Raymond FlattTraditional Bluegrass (Cracker Barrel re-release of Rounder 0044) -

J.D. Crowe and the New South Different Roads - the Seldom Scene Hot Rize (their first album on Flying Fish - the one with the biscuit on the cover)Skaggs and Rice

In the Cruiser:
The Pilgrim - Marty Stuart
Remember Me - Darcy Cotten (this one is fast becoming a standard for me - I really like it) check it out at http://www.darcycotten.com/ music by Darcy and photos by Kim - two of my favorite folks from Cotten Music in Nashville!!Harry**********

2008-04-11T10:55:00.000-07:00

Jeni Hankins and Billy Kemp gave a riveting performance this past Tuesday, April 8th, at Norm's River Road House. As I'd mentioned earlier in the week, I knew in advance the evening would be great, but that was an understatement.... It truly was wonderful.

Jeni was so charming in the telling of her stories about Jewell Ridge. Then as she and Billy performed their songs about the coal mining town, it was mesmerizing.... I wish you all could have been there to hear them, but you can be certain, I'll let you know their next performance date. Their new CD, "Jewell Ridge Coal," should be released very soon. What a treat for us all!

Thanks so much to Kim Sherman for the photograph of them.... Darcy

2008-04-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Susan Kluesner and
OTCH Int. CH. Raggedy Run Just The Ticket "Ticket"

Ticket is the father of my "yet to be born" puppy, and has just received his OTCH (Obedience Trial Champion), this past weekend.

Susan writes:

"Ticket and I did great at the dog show in Fargo and finished the requirements for our OTCH! I am thrilled as this is a very difficult title to obtain. And Ticket earned his title with his normal flair. He is so much fun to train and show."

SHR Ambertrails Say What U Want SH "Rylee"...the mother of my "puppy to be," stayed home and is doing great. Susan called Renee at Wynwood to inform them of Ticket's wonderful accomplishment.... Darcy

2008-04-06T09:42:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday, April 8th, from 8:00 pm until 10:00 pm, at Norm's River Road House, should be an exceptional evening for music. I am so pleased to announce, two of my wonderful friends, Jeni Hankins and Billy Kemp, are FINALLY making their Nashville debut.

If you are free on Tuesday, you should go out to see them. I've been privileged to hear them play in private and already have a great idea of what the evening will be like. When Billy picks up the guitar, and Jeni starts singing, it's as tho they've been transported to another place. They play off of each other perfectly and their music is so genuine. When they both sing together, well, it just doesn't get much better.

Here's wishing them a wonderful show, and many more Nashville gigs in the future.... Darcy

2008-04-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

I've been in the studio with James recording a song a month, beginning this past January, for my new project. This project will be Celtic renditions of some Irish "proper" tunes, and some not. April's song has such beautiful lyrics, I thought it would be a perfect time to share a portion of them with each of you....

In many ways, these words are in my heart, as I think of all my friends today.... Darcy

*****************************************************

Have I told you lately that I love you
Have I told you there's no one above you
Fill my heart with gladness, take away my sadness
Ease my troubles, that's what you do

Oh the morning sun in all its glory
Greets the day with hope and comfort too
And you fill my life with laughter
You can make it better
Ease my troubles, that's what you do

2008-04-02T02:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Boss
(aka James Prendergast)

Wishing a wonderful day to my good friend and great producer.... you're simply the best.... Darcy

For those of you who would like to hear some really great music, James and Bill Verdier will be playing tonight, from 7:00 to 10:00, at the NEW Dan McGuinness Pub in Cool Springs (Carothers Parkway - Moore's Lane East exit off I-65 S, straight ahead, on the left .7 mi. after interstate exit ramp).

2008-03-31T11:48:00.000-07:00

There are times when I am sure each of us experience very challenging moments, days, weeks, months or beyond. For me, I was in one of those places this morning, thinking more of me than what was right in front of me, like the beginning of Spring, flowers, and warmer days ahead.

I decided to take a walk, and see what I possibly could sort out. I took a walk I'd been on many times with my wonderful golden retriever, Capo Cotten, who I lost last October. One of his favorite walks would be to go up toward Belmont University (and as always, he thought every student along the way would want to pet him). As we would approach the running track, he'd get very happy because along this track were tennis courts. The first time I took him up there, I let him off the leash, so he could run in the big field surrounding the middle of the running track. But, what he did was run right up on the tennis court and try to fetch the balls. Needless to say, I leashed him after that whenever there would be people playing.

However, now and again a stray ball would be found in the field, and it was Capo's treasure. I had so many of them I started giving them away to all the dogs in the neighborhood, as well as other family member's dogs. Then a few months ago, I decided to get another puppy. I contacted Wynwood Golden Retrievers, as this is where my buddy came from, eight years ago. If you go to their site, you'll see the mother and father, Rylee and Ticket, of the "yet to be born" puppies. They are due April 24th and I will keep you posted on this big event! If you click on the Rainbow Bridge, you'll find Capo.

Anyway, my journey led me over to the track at Belmont this morning, all the while pondering my troubles. What I saw there changed my day completely, and perhaps it'll give you a lift as well. On the track, was an older lady. She was in one of those electric wheelchairs and beside her was the sweetest looking black lab, harnessed via a leash to her chair. What was she doing.... she was taking her dog for a walk.... thinking of his enjoyment, and sharing her love for her pet. It couldn't have been an easy process for her to get over there, but the dog and lady both were so full of smiles. Thru tears, I said good morning.... I went another few feet, and looked down... there was a muddy, stray tennis ball. I picked it up and brought it home. It will be my new puppy's first ball.

On the way home, I noticed all the beauty around me, and was thankful to be walking home.... to borrow a phrase from my friend Steve Lowry's signature on his email....."Enjoy the day and those around you...." Darcy

2008-03-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Reagan Wilkins, College Station, TX on his performance last evening. I was so touched by his Dad's (Mike) email this morning, I just had to share it. I met Reagan a week ago when he and his family came through Nashville and stopped by the shop. He's a fine young man, and I know we will be hearing more from him as time goes by.

On stage, he played his Gibson J-45 through an SWR amp. From the home video his Dad sent, it was easy to see Reagan's place was definitely on the stage singing and playing guitar.... It was a real treat for me to hear the response from his peers, during and after the songs.

I've included an excerpt from his Dad's email, because as his last sentence says, "Music, it does a body good...."
**********************************************************

"Background ... he's a Freshman at A&M Consolidated High School. They have a music-fest every year called Consolapalooza. This year 12-13 acts made the cut. He was the only Freshman on the program and the only solo act. He was also the only person to perform stuff that he has written (instead of covers).

So ... he played three originals, realized he had a bit of extra time, and branched off into a cover of a 1950's song that he has spent hardly any time learning ... all of this in front of a few hundred people he doesn't know. For someone who is extremely shy by nature, his comfort level with a guitar in front of him is not to be believed.

Bottom line ... his performance was great. I was expecting polite applause given that he's a 9th grader and nobody knows him. "Thundering" might be too strong of a word, but it wouldn't miss it by much....

Music ... it does a body good."

2008-03-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

To Music (Munich, January 11-12, 1918)

by Rainer Maria Rilke

written in the guestbook of Frau Hanna Wolff, after a concert at her house.

Music: breathing of statues. Perhaps:

silence of paintings. You language where all language ends.

You time

standing vertically on the motion of mortal hearts.

Feelings for whom? O you the transformation

of feelings into what? - : into audible landscape.

You stranger: music. You heart-space

grown out of us. The deepest space in us,

which, rising above us, forces its way out,-

holy departure:

when the innermost point in us stands

outside, as the most practiced distance, as the other

side of air:

pure,

boundless,

no longer habitable

2008-03-28T09:30:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my daughter, Sandra Leah Wells. I took this photograph following her induction ceremony to the Tennessee State Bar. She's a remarkable young woman, and I am very proud of her. Love, Mom

2008-03-26T13:09:00.000-07:00

“Darcy Cotten offers an intimate performance that for the most part is lost in today's, hit you over the head, approach to music. Sincerity comes across and the music rings true.”

Bill Piburn
Editor
Fingerstyle Guitar magazine

2008-03-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

During my years at Cotten Music, I've met so many wonderful people, bringing me lasting friendships from around the country, and overseas.

These last few days, I have received so many responses from them, offering tremendous support along with good wishes, and congratulations.

The cool thing about having a blog is, you can simply write these notes and let everyone know how much you appreciate them.... so, to name a few, I'd like to thank:

Joe B, AL
Tony A, MN
Willie Mc, AL
Hazel J, KY
Drew B, TX
Emil S, PA
Randy C, NC
Mike W, TX
Mark S, NYC
Roger R, KS
Derek B, CA
Rob R, UK

2008-03-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

My website is now up and running.... I'd like to thank Valerie Job at Delevante for creating such a wonderful site.... if you click on my homepage to the right of this post you will see it.... Darcy

2008-03-20T09:26:00.000-07:00

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter.

This is closely followed by the promise of Spring, bringing us warmth and new beginnings.

For me, I am back in the studio working on a second project with James Prendergast. This project will be using the lovely Irish instruments on all our tracks. We will be working on this over the next year, so I'll update more as we go along.... Darcy

Welcome to my blog...

2008-03-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

My website is currently under construction from Delevante, but will soon be up and running.

This is a very exciting and wonderful time for me. I've recently finished my first album, Remember Me, and was privileged to have sung with some of Nashville's finest musicians. My focus, when doing this project, was to bring some of the "old time feel" of music back to the present. We certainly had a great time in the studio, singing and playing these old classic tunes! Every song ended up having its own unique personality, as different guitarists and musicians brought their own styles to individual songs. If you click on the tab "shop," from my site, you will see a list of all the guitarists, along with the songs featuring their guitar solos, as displayed from the back cover photograph from the album.

Thank you for visiting me, some of you I know, and some I look forward to knowing. Along the way, I'll be adding news and photographs of all sorts, telling what my friends are doing, like where they may be playing or recording, in addition to letting you know what is going on with me. I also will be adding links to various sites I think may be of interest to you.

I would like to thank Valerie Job at Delevante for doing such a wonderful job creating my site, not to mention her unending patience with all my questions. Also, I would like to thank Kim Sherman who contributed her wonderful photographer's eye, capturing all the moments to be remembered during the recording sessions, some of which are now displayed on my website (many taken from the album itself).

Darcy