tag:clintonhoy.com,2005:/blogs/mix-tape-stories?p=5Stories2024-03-14T11:49:48+11:00Clinton Hoyfalsetag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73667442024-03-14T11:46:15+11:002024-03-14T11:49:08+11:00Chapter 4: Finding the Pieces<p>Some people love jigsaws, some people crosswords, some love code breaking and others like those “spot the difference” things that I’ve, honestly, always been terrible at.</p><p>For me, the puzzle I love solving is putting a song together, finding a melody and lyric that match perfectly and a harmony that supports the whole idea. The difference here, I suppose, is that with all those other kinds of puzzles you can complete it, step back, and know it’s done.</p><p>Sure, maybe one day, you’d go back to the jigsaw, break it apart and do it again, but if it were truly akin to the puzzle of songwriting, it’d be more like coming back to it because there was a piece missing… or you found one under the lounge that didn’t quite match… or you got a piece of cardboard and made one yourself to fit.</p><p>Songwriting is, for me at least, an exercise in imperfection - being okay with that, learning, trying again and maybe getting it “more” right next time.</p><p>I was reflecting on this as I got lost down another rabbit hole recently, one called “modal interchange”. Don’t worry, I’m not going to give a lecture on the benefits of music theory (although ask yourself how you’d feel if your Uber driver proudly proclaimed “I never learned to drive, I just do what feels right”) but suffice to say it’s rare these days that I’ll settle for a “regular” chord progression… possibly to my detriment.</p><p>Perhaps the most intriguing aspect of songwriting as a puzzle is its inherent unpredictability. Much like a cryptic crossword or a riddle with no clear answer, the process of songwriting is filled with twists and turns, unexpected detours, and moments of inspiration. It's a journey into the unknown, where every chord change and lyrical shift holds the potential to transform the entire composition.</p><p>I’ll never forget the look on the face of my good friend Dallas Keenes when I brought a song chart into rehearsals for our then new band One Proud Monkey. I had written up 7 chords when Dallas made a comment along the lines of, “that’s enough chords for this song” when I informed him that I’d only just completed the verse. The song in question, “Jimmy Superfly”, ended up with around 23 chords give or take (ask me about inversions and chord extensions anyday).</p><p>“Pieces of Different Puzzles” is another such track, and there’s a chord at the end of the chorus - when I stumbled on that one… I just can’t convey the satisfaction that brought me. After all, songwriting offers a unique opportunity to embrace paradox and contradiction. In the world of music, dissonance and harmony coexist in a delicate balance, much like the pieces of a puzzle that may not fit together at first glance but ultimately form a cohesive whole. It's through this interplay of opposites that the true beauty of a song emerges – in the tension between light and shadow, joy and sorrow, love and loss.</p><p>Anyway… in the reflection I started to wonder if I ever want to write the perfect song - complete the puzzle if you will - because then I’d have to stop. And doing this brings me so much happiness, I just don’t think I can.</p><p><br>Thanks for being part of this.</p><p><br>Clint </p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73667452024-02-27T12:00:00+11:002024-03-14T11:47:29+11:00Chapter 3: Chaos Is Your Friend... Sometimes<p>I was so excited at the end of January, you may have heard me talk about it on the podcast doco thing a few weeks back, when I had 8 song ideas in 27 minutes.</p><p>Well these haven’t turned into songs like I hoped, so I did some reflecting.</p><p>When I was writing “The Soundtrack of Our Lives”, I was concentrating on the importance of a cohesive narrative and a structured approach to songwriting. Drawing inspiration from one of my favourite albums, "Life in Slow Motion" by David Gray, I sought to recreate that magic by infusing my music with a tighter structure and a compelling storyline.</p><p>Making the album was so much fun and I was so pleased with the results I figured I’d do it the same way for album #3, however…</p><p>In the solitude of my studio, I found myself stuck, relying on the same old routine of writing chords, bashing pre-written lyrics into place, and drawing from familiar influences. It was comfortable, yes, but it lacked the spark of inspiration I craved.</p><p>Then, an epiphany, I needed to search for music that I like but have listened very little to. My Last.FM listening stats (compiled since 2006!) came in handy here, I scanned my most played artists for something that wasn’t a bloke with a guitar writing alt country / acoustic / adult contemporary songs.</p><p>Shockingly, the first female on that list was at #129 (Thelma Plum) and after that #150 (Angie McMahon). If I was going to free my creative brain from this malaise, I was going to need a different input, and this is where it started. I was brainstorming female songwriters with a penchant for poignant lyrics and Joni Mitchell came to mind - and while she’s not on Spotify, there’s a “Joni Mitchell Radio” which pointed me towards Tori Amos - I was off and running (I eventually conquered my laziness and got some Joni from YouTube).</p><p>The moment when chaos truly disrupted my orderly world came during this week-long immersion in the music of Amos and then Regina Spektor, great songwriters who have such a different approach to mine, combined with a deep dive detour into advanced theories of harmony via a Jazz channel on Instagram that, kind of, broke my brain. It shook things up so much that ideas, not necessarily great, but creative, poured out.</p><p>As I dove deeper into this world, something incredible happened. The chaos of my creative approach began to yield results. I discovered a freedom in my music, unshackled from the constraints of my trusty old ways. Each session in the studio has brought new discoveries, new ideas, and new directions to explore.</p><p>I feel myself growing as a songwriter. Embracing the joy of spontaneity, letting go and allowing the music to take me where it pleases. Chaos, it seems, has been the much needed catalyst for something truly rewarding—a positive outcome born from disruption and disorder.</p><p>Oh, and I finished 4 new songs this week. And this time, I actually like them.</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73667462024-02-13T12:00:00+11:002024-03-14T11:49:08+11:00Chapter 2: Would You Watch This Movie?<p>Would you watch this? Or is it a little too cliche... maybe I got carried away, it's all part of the adventure... read on... oh, and who should play me?</p><p>"The Silence Between The Chords"</p><p>Stuck in a small town and battling self-doubt, a 46-year-old aspiring songwriter wrestles with the question: is pursuing a creative dream in the face of doubt and practicality ultimately selfish, or the bravest act of self-acceptance?</p><p>Act 1: The Dream and the Nightmare</p><p>Clinton, a talented but self-doubting songwriter, spends his days toiling away teaching Art and Music in a small town, his dreams of music fame feeling increasingly distant. Despite his passion for writing original music, he struggles with feelings of inadequacy, haunted by the constant requests for 30 year old cover songs. His inner conflict reaches a breaking point when he has the opportunity to perform at a local open mic night. The applause he receives fuels his hope, but it's quickly overshadowed by all-too-familiar doubts.</p><p>Act 2: The Conflict Unfolds</p><p>As Clinton continues to grapple with his conflicting desires, he faces external challenges that further complicate his journey. Financial constraints, geographic isolation, and societal expectations weigh heavily on him. He begins to question whether pursuing his musical aspirations is selfish or if it's a valid pursuit of happiness. Sleepless nights dominate the summer, under the weight of his internal struggle, his family is supportive and encouraging, they even know the words to his songs - but he wonders, is this a fool’s errand?</p><p>Act 3: The Resolution</p><p>Despite the challenges, Clinton finds solace in the transformative power of music. He reconnects with the passion that initially ignited his desire to write songs and realises that his fear of failure was what was holding him back. With newfound determination, he takes a leap of faith and decides to pursue his dream wholeheartedly. Embracing his age and life experience, he sees them as assets rather than obstacles.</p><p>With his family’s unwavering support and encouragement, Clinton embarks on a journey that takes him far beyond the confines of his small town. Armed with his guitar and a suitcase full of original songs, he travels the world, sharing his music with diverse audiences. Along the way, he discovers that his music has the power to transcend language and cultural barriers, forging connections with people from all walks of life.</p><p>As he stands on stage, playing songs that resonate deeply with listeners, Clinton realises that his dream of connecting with others through music has become a reality. He no longer sees his pursuit of music as selfish but as a gift that he has to share with the world. In embracing his true passion, he finds fulfilment and a sense of purpose that he never thought possible.</p><p>This film is a heartfelt exploration of self-discovery, perseverance, and the transformative power of following one's dreams, even in the face of doubt and uncertainty. Through Clinton's journey, audiences are reminded that sometimes the greatest obstacle we face is the one we create within ourselves, but with courage and determination, we can overcome it and unlock the song inside us all.</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73667472024-01-29T00:00:00+11:002024-03-14T11:50:27+11:00Chapter 1: An Epic Adventure Awaits<p>Once upon a time, in the vast and sunburnt landscapes of regional Australia, there lived a dreamer named Clint. Clint was not your typical Aussie bloke; he was a songwriter with a heart full of stories and melodies waiting to be shared. With two albums under his belt, he was no stranger to the struggles of the independent artist. Yet, the call of his creative spirit urged him to embark on a journey to write his third album, an epic adventure that would test his resolve and passion.</p><p>Clint faced a daunting challenge – he had no record label backing him, no marketing machine, no publisher, and the news of Spotify abandoning payments for artists with fewer than 1000 streams left him feeling like a lone wanderer in the vast outback. Undeterred, Clint decided that this would be the album that would define him, the one that would echo across the hills and resonate with hearts around the world.</p><p>Armed with his trusty Cole Clark (tuned a half step down) and the desire, if not the skill, to incorporate piano and string arrangements into his work, Clint set off on the path. Even though you can’t hold a dream, Clint found it a heavy thing to carry. The choice was stark, play the game the way it has been played for all time, after all it works… for some. Or attempt to forge a new path, built on real stories and true connection… and risk being out there all alone.</p><p>The conventional path whispered promises of familiarity and safety, a well-trodden road where success was a calculated equation. But Clint's heart beat to the rhythm of a different drum, echoing the tales of the land and the stories etched into the hearts of its people. He yearned for authenticity, for a connection that transcended charts and algorithms.</p><p>The quest would be long and potentially (metaphorically) dangerous but there comes a time in an artist’s life where chances must be taken, lest one be deemed unfitting of the moniker.</p><p>Rewards await, however the work comes first, your unwavering support is the fuel that pushes us onwards.</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73350932024-01-17T12:31:20+11:002024-01-17T12:31:20+11:00Where we've come from and where we're going<p>As I sit back and reminisce about this time last year, I find myself transported to the recording studio, where the sessions for what would later become “The Soundtrack of Our Lives” were taking shape. The excitement of delving deep into the creative process, capturing songs that longed to be shared with the world, was palpable. From deeply personal compositions to some of my favourite work, the journey was exhilarating.</p><p>Fast forward to the album's release in May, and the joy of performing these songs live has been nothing short of thrilling—perhaps as exciting as any moment in my musical career thus far.</p><p>Now, with the dawn of a new year, there's a sense of reset, a chance to reflect and plan the next steps. While I'm not one for New Year resolutions, December and the early weeks of January have been spent contemplating the path ahead. I find myself deeply enamoured with the music-making and writing process, reigniting the drive that fuels my creative journey.</p><p>The primary focus is on the follow-up to “The Soundtrack of Our Lives”. I've decided to pull back the curtain on the creative process, offering you a glimpse into the journey from the inception of the songs to their recording and the album's final assembly. While I won't reveal too much now, I hope this album will serve as a genuine and worthy sequel to the emotional landscape explored on the last record. Expect an exploration of life's appreciation, the fleeting time we have on this planet, and the people we share that time with.</p><p>Keep an eye on your inboxes for updates and messages from me. While I'm uncertain about the next live performance opportunity, I encourage you to come, chat, and become a part of the music I'm creating.</p><p>As a token of appreciation, I'd like to offer you a sneak peek into the "where we've come from" aspect of this musical journey… An early demo from the last record—a version that sounds nothing like the final track. It's not better, just different, and I believe you'll sense the evolution. Enjoy this glimpse into the creative process, and thank you for being a part of this musical odyssey.</p>2:53Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73102162023-09-20T15:00:00+10:002023-11-28T14:56:25+11:00The Road<p>Whoever said the road has no lessons was obviously not paying attention. Or having too much fun. Either way, I've been playing around the place a bit recently and I've had some thoughts - some nuggets of wisdom if you will (definitely more healthy than actual nuggets). </p><p>Who knew Orange could get so chilly? I mean I did… so what I mean is - who would go to Orange so woefully underprepared (I would)… But hey, they sure dig songwriters and original music, which makes the cold worth it. The Vic, one of my favourite venues, hosted a killer "4 on the 4loor" last month and I was lucky enough to have a spot on stage. It's rare that someone comes up after the show to share how much they enjoyed the music, I wish it'd happen more - maybe you're scared that I'll start talking to you about it.... that connection with the audience is what I've always aimed for though, I'd like to think people are finding something in these songs.</p><p>And Bathurst, which outdid Orange for winterness (but again I knew this). Lesson learned: July is not T-shirt weather there, even in the middle of the day. On the bright side, they've got these awesome venues filled with people who genuinely appreciate original tunes. Playing at the Keystone felt like stepping into a scene from a Baz Luhrmann movie – seriously cool vibes. It's like tapping into your inner Greatest Showman, and who doesn't love a bit of that magic? (Yes I know Baz didn't make the Greatest Showman but whatever…)</p><p>The great thing has been the incredible new talent I've come across, there are insanely creative people everywhere - we should all get out more and show our support. </p><p>I recently joined the inaugural “Song Circles” – a gig with some of my favorite local musicians. We played each other's tunes, collaborated on some new ones... got a huge compliment from someone in the local scene I deeply respect, who said it was the best gig they'd seen in ages. Encouragement like that fuels this creative desire, and I'm pumped to see where it takes us.</p><p>Exciting times ahead as I continue to explore more of the regions. Can't wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.</p><p>Thanks for listening!</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/73102142023-05-29T14:00:00+10:002023-11-28T14:40:15+11:00"The Soundtrack of Our Lives" launch<p>Embarking on the launch of "The Soundtrack of Our Lives" after a dedicated 2 1/2 years of work, I was moved to see a crowd filled not just with random faces, but with individuals who have supported me throughout this odyssey. This album marks a pivotal moment I think… allowing me to strip back layers and explore the essence of being a songwriter in this phase of my life (still searching for a name for <i>that</i> phase. There's a collection of intimate feelings and strong convictions coming to the forefront as the driving forces behind these creations.</p><p>The overwhelming love and support is not lost on me, and I wanna extend my heartfelt gratitude. As I look forward to taking this album on the road in the coming months, I hope I'm creating meaningful stories and experiences to share. To everyone who has been a part of this musical adventure, thank you for your unwavering support—it is genuinely appreciated. Until the next show, thanks for listening and thanks for showing up. It's everything.</p><p><i>This show was supported by Dubbo Regional Council and the NSW Government via the Country Artist Support Program</i></p><p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/226246/16aae7a18aafe42528ce18a4b910785525fc48c1/original/launch-setlist.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/71564092023-02-18T21:50:37+11:002023-11-11T01:04:00+11:00Puzzles with Different Pieces - Part 1<p>My last album was released in 2019, so it’s nearly 4 years old, though some of the songs have been with me much longer than that - Ramble first appeared as a bonus track on the CD for the last One Proud Monkey record (go on check, it’s there!), Stare at the Clouds was actually performed once by the same band, as was We Gotta Get Together - in Coonabarabran of all places.</p><p>Bringing all of these songs together was a massive undertaking, of course I didn’t realise it at the time - so many things in my life fall into this category actually…</p><p>It’s really only now, on the eve of the release of my new record, that I can actually look back with any perspective on the experience of putting the Pieces together. So before we close the puzzle box, come with me for a chat about album #1, the (accidentally) very aptly named “Pieces of Different Puzzles”.</p><p>It'll be on your favourite podcast channels, well, as soon as they deliver it. I'd love to hear your insights on the record too!</p><p>Part 1 includes We Gotta Get Together, Building an Empire, Autumn Leaves and Atmospherians - and there might be a few surprises along the way too...</p><p>Get reacquainted here: <a class="no-pjax" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7k0B0RosnUszAwJEeAfFuu?si=UB6zhkSMR_CnLFZFOZoizw" data-link-type="url">https://open.spotify.com/album/7k0B0RosnUszAwJEeAfFuu?si=UB6zhkSMR_CnLFZFOZoizw</a></p><p>Thanks for listening!</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/71461882023-01-31T20:05:17+11:002023-01-31T20:05:17+11:00Recording the Soundtrack of our Lives - Day #2<p>I was aiming for a 9:30am start. Nice and leisurely. </p>
<p>My motel neighbours didn’t get that memo. I’d hazard that the 4:30am wake up knock rattled the doors of many unappreciative rooms. </p>
<p>I probably the needed the extra time anyway, I did have to walk 15 seconds up the road to the servo and grab a toothbrush. Thankful for the opportunity to rise early, I suppose. </p>
<p>I tried to go back to sleep, I meditated, ruminated… plotted revenge… I got there eventually but restful it was not - so I celebrated with a Bacon & Egg McMuffin. I’m not a quick learner. </p>
<p>Two International Roasts later and I was rueing my morning’s dietary choices but at least I was on the road. </p>
<p>6 hours is not a lot of time to finish an album plus a newly written song it turns out but we squeezed every available moment from the time. The saving grace is that some of these songs are piano songs. No, I haven’t learned to play, I just needed a new way to write and get some of these songs out. The performances on the record will be of a much higher quality than my demos. </p>
<p>Some of the songs we tracked on Day #2 probably give off a certain mood - “Death Bed” and “Fallible” come to mind, but there’s optimism beneath the skin. The thing I found strangest was recording songs that belong to the midnight hours at 11am. “Fallible” in particular is one of the most vulnerable songs I’ve ever written, yet here I am bouncing into a beautiful studio, warmed by a host made (great) coffee and proud of what I’m putting down, it requires quite a mindset shift. </p>
<p>But you know what, we got it done. 11 - yes, 11 songs - in effectively 1.5 days. The whole experience, from when I started writing 18 months ago to the final take on “The Last Song” (I’ll rename it, don’t worry), has taught me so much. It has taught me about making music but also about me. There’s more of me than in any other record. More truth. Or more accurately, facing up to truth. More love. More wonder. </p>
<p>I’m really looking forward to giving these songs to you.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/ee5006a477ef71cd2c117b32373024379b47a69f/original/img-0784.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/71415632023-01-23T12:25:05+11:002023-01-23T12:31:49+11:00Recording the Soundtrack of our Lives - Day #1<p>I’ll be there by 1030 I said confidently. I’d typed the destination into maps and had a 10 minute buffer, for me, that’s luxury. </p>
<p>It was all planned out, I’d cue up a few Sodajerker on Songwriting podcasts for inspiration and then half an hour out of Bathurst I’d do my vocal warm-ups, ‘cause I’m a professional. </p>
<p>Oooh, if I go the back road I can save myself an additional 4 minutes. I mean, who wouldn’t? </p>
<p>6.5km out of Orange. </p>
<p>Thump. </p>
<p>Hiss. </p>
<p>I don’t remember the wheel pulling to the right this much usually. </p>
<p>And being that there wasn’t a towel or sheet 3/4 of the way out a window, that flapping noise was concerning too. </p>
<p>Dodge the pothole is an intriguing game on our roads currently. Evidently it was one that I was unskilled at. </p>
<p>Let me show you a picture. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/9d328abd81e82f81ee155113227730aeaee4d0d2/original/img-0768.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Two people actually stopped to offer assistance. That felt nice. </p>
<p>Tyre changed and I limped to Bathurst, dented rim and bruised driving ego. Kris went beyond the producer’s stated role and morphed into my taxi as well so I could eventually get to the studio and we could start work. I had started with a day and a half to record 10 songs. The clock was well and truly ticking. </p>
<p>“The Boatshed” is idyllic… beautiful in its simplicity - if I could translate even some of that into the recording I’d be on a winner. “Start with an easy one”, Kris said. I laughed (internally), wishing I’d had a few more run throughs. The idea that you can forget a song that you wrote is intriguing - and all too common. </p>
<p>The next few hours were a whirlwind really. Somehow, among the birdsong, either side of the setting sun, we tracked guitar and vocals for 5 songs. I was halfway done, at the halfway point. Considering how things started, I was pretty pleased. </p>
<p>I’m partial to the odd spanner throw of course - ask any band mate who’s heard me suggest a new song 3 weeks shy of a gig - and I had this gnawing feeling I couldn’t shake. </p>
<p>“Don’t hate me” I said to Kris “but…” </p>
<p>“You got someone else to play piano?” he offered… </p>
<p>“Well, no, but… I’ve written a new song…”</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/70596932022-09-14T09:35:27+10:002023-12-11T05:08:30+11:00Is my music any good?<p>The question occurred to me during a discussion with some muso mates about the reasons why gigs seem so hard to promote sometimes, and why potential audiences seem so hard to reach. </p>
<p>We freely blame venues, conditions, competing priorities, the seemingly endless list of options for entertainment… sometimes, frustratingly, musos even blame the audiences themselves - “if they only knew…” </p>
<p>Rarely though have I heard someone ask, “is my music any good?” </p>
<p>And believe me, when you ask that question of yourself, it can lead to some intense thoughts. </p>
<p>I’ve been quiet lately, I can’t even remember the last time I wrote to you. I’ve been working extremely hard on my next record and you know what? Sometimes I’ve hated it. Honestly, it’s been hard and I’ve doubted my decisions and abilities almost every time I’ve sat down to write or rewrite or arrange any of the songs. </p>
<p>Please don’t think that means it’s not any good. I really think it will be. Just the process has been uncomfortable at times, testing too, though very instructional. The process, working with a producer for the first time ever, has also given me moments of incredible happiness and satisfaction. I have produced things that I am so proud of and so excited to share… I am convinced that in a few years I’ll identify working on this record as a pivotal point in my creative life. So I’m thankful. </p>
<p>All of this however has revealed things that my previous recordings haven’t - so I started thinking, really thinking, “is my music any good?” </p>
<p>The truth is some of it is and some of it isn’t (I’ll leave you to decide which songs belong in which category!) but I’m not scared of this anymore. I know I’ve released work that was undercooked or overdone. I’ve released scraps of ideas that I didn’t respect enough. I’ve tried to cover up my voice and guitar playing with effects ‘cause I didn’t think they were good enough. Recently though I’ve started thinking that it is possible for me to create music that sounds good, is well produced and means something to people. This is what I want. </p>
<p>What I think is happening is that I’m finally realising what an amazing privilege it is to be able to write songs and share them with people. That it plays a massive part in my life and I get an immense feeling of achievement from doing so. </p>
<p>All this to say the record, “The Soundtrack of Our Lives”, is gonna take a while longer. </p>
<p>It’ll be worth it though. </p>
<p>Thanks for listening, and being a part of this wonderful musical life I have. </p>
<p>Clint </p>
<p>PS Hear a bunch of my songs here! <br><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lT4d4yjS27MvaiUTMlaAO" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lT4d4yjS27MvaiUTMlaAO" target="_blank">https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5lT4d4yjS27MvaiUTMlaAO</a></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/67811142021-10-08T00:00:00+11:002021-10-20T10:43:21+11:00Album #2 Inspiration <p>Talking to a mate the other day and the topic of mood boards came up. I’ve never been a particularly visual person, but I know people swear by them. It’s probably a reason why my output has been so varied (some would say scattershot). </p>
<p>One Proud Monkey releases contained 90s inspired grunge rockers and sweet waltz ballads. My own first record had straight up rock songs alongside time-shifting prog-pop and finger-picked acoustic laments. </p>
<p>So I’ve decided to change things up. </p>
<p>I’m currently writing album #2 and, while not a mood board, I put together a playlist to inspire my direction. </p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2TAzv2rpCpleYEn8jzXAEv" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2TAzv2rpCpleYEn8jzXAEv">https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2TAzv2rpCpleYEn8jzXAEv</a></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/67811132021-09-21T10:00:00+10:002022-09-14T09:36:02+10:00When I fell in love with music (Part 1) <p>Like many of you I’m sure, music was always around the house. For me it was usually the local radio station (an AM station specialising in not-modern songs) or, when I got a bit older, getting up to watch and tape Rage on a Saturday morning. </p>
<p>I also used to get a typewriter and type out the songs as they came on. Yes, at 7am on a Saturday… sorry, parents. </p>
<p>This story is pretty well told in the One Proud Monkey track, Olden Days. </p>
<p>I always related to music but I don’t think I really loved it until March 11, 1995. </p>
<p>None of us knew what we were getting into, a bunch of country kids jumping in a van to venture to the big smoke. </p>
<p>I’d seen live music before, loud stuff too - the annual pool concerts at the Dubbo pool were a highlight. I remember being blown away by Liquid Chicken (what a name!) and some of the people who played at my school assembly were temporary musical heroes. </p>
<p>But this was next level, this was THE band. This was with 40,000 people. This was what music should mean. </p>
<p>In a way I’ve been chasing it ever since and I’ve always thought how good it would be to give that feeling to someone else - that feeling I got when I realised that the bloke standing by himself on stage, singing “Throw Your Arms Around Me” in the afternoon sun… was Eddie Vedder. </p>
<p>I hope music has made you feel this way. I’d love to hear your story. </p>
<p>The setlist, if you’re interested <a contents="https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/pearl-jam/1995/eastern-creek-international-raceway-sydney-australia-13d64d15.html" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/pearl-jam/1995/eastern-creek-international-raceway-sydney-australia-13d64d15.html">https://www.setlist.fm/setlist/pearl-jam/1995/eastern-creek-international-raceway-sydney-australia-13d64d15.html</a></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/67472912021-09-08T12:00:00+10:002023-12-11T05:09:14+11:00How do you listen to music?<p>I was talking to a mate the other day about discovering new music, and it’s something that I’m almost fanatical about - every Friday the first thing I check is my <a contents="Spotify Release Radar" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZEVXbjuoodKEN4uU">Spotify Release Radar</a> playlist, I just can't imagine missing out! </p>
<p>It’s almost as if I’m trying to prove to myself that I’m not one of the “I like your old stuff better than your new stuff” crowd, or that I’m still young ‘cause I listen to new music. </p>
<p>There comes a time when you’re faced with this choice I think, maybe early to mid 30s (agree?) when you start to think that “the music that kids these days listen to is rubbish, not like my day” and it’s an intense battle… and we don’t all win it. </p>
<p>Sometimes we don't even choose to fight it. </p>
<p>What got me thinking was a little project I’m trying to put together with musicians playing their favourite songs from 1971, 1981, 1991 and 2001. I was reminiscing about how I used to listen to music when I didn’t have every song ever released at my fingertips. </p>
<p>Did I appreciate music more because I had to choose what I bought to listen to? Was it because I had more time? </p>
<p>And I got a little sad, because there’s something about the solid memory of putting on my headphones, listening to Stone Temple Pilots’ second record while I read along to the lyrics in the CD liner notes that I just can’t replicate now. Searching for lyrics on Genius and queueing up a track in Spotify doesn’t feel the same. </p>
<p>Maybe technology is the problem. Maybe it’s “kids these days”. Or maybe it’s me. </p>
<p>How do you listen to music?</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/67472902021-08-18T12:45:00+10:002022-09-14T09:38:50+10:00Embracing Change<p>I’ve been thinking about this a lot lately* - plunged into another lockdown, friends losing their gigs and other opportunities and a lot of clamouring for some kind of normal, although I’m not even convinced at this stage that’s going to help. </p>
<p>It occurred to me that musicians and the music business aren’t always the best at adapting and embracing change, seems we’re much more likely to bitch about why things are so hard now (now being anytime from the beginning of time until the end) </p>
<p>My first firsthand taste was when I was working for Warner UK in London. iTunes hadn’t come to Australia yet but we had millions of lines of royalties on spreadsheets that had no home due to misspelled artist names or incomplete records. That’s no exaggeration either - it could have been tens of millions, we lost count. </p>
<p>You may remember that prior to this musicians were trying to sue Napster, American record labels were suing kids and pirates were earning more money from ads on their websites than musicians could ever dream of. Still, it took a tech company to come up with the solution - even then record companies argued about everything before finally giving in and accepting this was the future. </p>
<p>Why is this relevant now? Well again, a non-music company developed the solution we didn’t know we needed. As live streaming took off during the first wave of COVID, DIY artists everywhere were going live from, well, everywhere. This was the saviour! But then the pros got in on the act and the production level skyrocketed… all of a sudden, someone singing songs with a guitar in their kitchen went from “intimate” to “boring” while bands that could were hiring soundstages and aircraft hangars to put on “unmissable” shows. </p>
<p>I feel the fatigue. As both a performer and an audience member - I was so keen at the start to see bands I loved playing gigs, I would have bought tickets to 10 or more shows, and usually they were good. In the last few months I’ve seen one, and “x person is going live” passes me by without a thought. </p>
<p>I’m sure I’ve said it - but I’m increasingly disturbed by musicians starting conversations with the line “people should…” - like it or not, we all carry a little bit of entitlement about what we do. </p>
<p>People should pay for music, people should go to gigs, people should support ME!!! </p>
<p>People *should* do a lot of things, but they don’t. And what responsibility do the entertainers have? We should engage people, bring meaningful experiences, create amazing art… musicians also should do a lot of things they don’t. </p>
<p>Maybe it’s time we recognised that normal isn’t coming back, not the normal of 5, 10, 20 years ago - accept that it’s time for something new. Our audiences deserve nothing less. </p>
<p>What that new thing is I have no idea, but I’m committed to searching - ‘cause I want these things that (I believe) all artists should want. </p>
<p>Sometimes it’s healthy to say “maybe there’s another way”. </p>
<p>...and I’m up for any suggestions you might have! </p>
<p>Thanks for listening, <br>Clint </p>
<p>*I figure there must be some similar thinking going around at the moment because as I was about to start writing this I heard very similar sentiments on The Musician to Artist podcast created by Craig Honeysett from Dotted Eight Studios in Orange - shout out to great minds! ;) check out Craig’s excellent stuff here <a contents="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVGhJIExayoFAQ2nDW0zw-I_5rSqxlPv6" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVGhJIExayoFAQ2nDW0zw-I_5rSqxlPv6">https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLVGhJIExayoFAQ2nDW0zw-I_5rSqxlPv6</a></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/67472872021-08-02T12:00:00+10:002022-09-14T09:39:05+10:00What's the value of music?<p>I pulled my first guitar out of a rubbish pile in my shed the other day. I have not looked after it. At all. I nearly gave it away - in fact I'd agreed to and then reneged after talking to some friends and family who were adamant, "you can't do that to your FIRST guitar." </p>
<p>From a money perspective it's pretty close to worthless, but even just holding it and feeling the memories come flooding back, its value was instantly well understood. </p>
<p>A good friend recently released an album and we were stuck in conversation about value - how much is an album worth? How much should he charge? How much would people pay? I don't even know how related these things are any more. </p>
<p>Stadiums full of people can watch sport but musicians can barely play to a crowd. People want free gigs but will pay $40 to see their team play terribly, rant about it for a few days and then do it all again next weekend - I've never heard anyone say, "that band was terrible... got your tickets for next week?" </p>
<p>As a soundtrack to our lives I don't think we really know the role music plays, or at least don't truly appreciate it. When I can't play music or perform, I know it affects me - regardless of if I ever make another cent, it has value. </p>
<p>If you have a muso mate, give their song a share. If you can, go see some live music. If you need a new shirt, buy one from an excellent local band. </p>
<p>You will make a difference. </p>
<p>Thanks for listening, <br>Clint</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65624732021-03-02T20:38:15+11:002022-09-14T09:39:19+10:00Album of the Month - January and February 2021<p>I'm not going to pretend that there's any scientific algorithm at work here but I wanted to make sure that I had something arbitrary for these "...of the month posts" - so I'm using my last.fm data, send me a request if you're on there 'cause I'm interested in what you're listening to as well.</p>
<p><strong>JANUARY 2020 - Reluctant Hero - Killer Be Killed</strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/6bac163dd131a315cab7cc0ac717742651c8d966/original/screen-shot-2021-03-02-at-8-24-47-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="" />I do love a good supergroup, and these guys are a GREAT supergroup. Their album of a few years back was a favourite but this record steps it up big time, especially with the epic closer and title track, "Reluctant Hero".</p>
<p>As a big fan of Mastodon, it's really the presence of Troy Sanders that drew me in but contributions from the others (including Max Cavalera!) just make this the perfect package.</p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/album/1P5v6wJrkTzer6Mpg3ctkK" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1P5v6wJrkTzer6Mpg3ctkK">https://open.spotify.com/album/1P5v6wJrkTzer6Mpg3ctkK</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>FEBRUARY 2020 - (tie) Glastonbury 2000 Live - David Bowie and Escape Planet - Kids of Yesterday </strong></p>
<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/6b6831165042775d86f0e30e480b8323ddc76da4/original/screen-shot-2021-03-02-at-8-25-16-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/df2f457856ed14e6bb2ff6ad5951befb0caec0f1/original/screen-shot-2021-03-02-at-8-23-51-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="" /></strong>A tie you say? As I mentioned in the intro, this is statistically based to stop me picking albums that I think make me look cool [or, of course, ones I'd forgotten about]. I had been listening to a great podcast about Bowie [name escapes me, sorry] and felt like I needed to dig a bit deeper - and I still think that "live" is a great way to do that. All in all, a good listen. </p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/album/6frjpRu2P0fdF9xSS9stjY" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/6frjpRu2P0fdF9xSS9stjY">https://open.spotify.com/album/6frjpRu2P0fdF9xSS9stjY</a></p>
<p>And Kids of Yesterday... honestly I can't tell you much about them but I heard their anti-gambling / anti-animal cruelty track "Horsin' Around" and I was very intrigued. I mean, have a go at these lyrics:</p>
<p>I went to the racecourse <br>And I saw a fucking horse get killed! <br>The Jockey took a tumble <br>Heard the grumble of the stumbling patrons <br>I could express atrocities of images I saw that day <br>But the cash I lost my hard earned clay <br>Might as well have paid for the poison</p>
<p>I have to say it aligns with some thoughts I've been having lately!</p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/album/17P4AtDGkfxdgAntiEJhF8" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/17P4AtDGkfxdgAntiEJhF8">https://open.spotify.com/album/17P4AtDGkfxdgAntiEJhF8</a></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65298352021-01-25T22:35:08+11:002021-03-02T20:17:18+11:00Album of the Month - November and December 2020<p>I meant to post these, I really did but... well, who really knew what they were doing in 2020...</p>
<p>Let me know if you've listened to these as well!</p>
<p><strong>NOVEMBER 2020 - Cannot Be, Whatsoever - Novo Amor</strong></p>
<p>If there was a more beautiful album released in 2020 I didn't hear it. These songs just drift on the air, playing out in a perfect dance that moves and relaxes you. It reminds me a lot of Bon Iver and I really only came across the artist after Shazaming(?) a song that was on an ad in Indonesia. Granted, not the usual way that I come across my music but still an incredible find.</p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/album/1KkBDNtkZDW8COUNKAWRPw" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1KkBDNtkZDW8COUNKAWRPw">https://open.spotify.com/album/1KkBDNtkZDW8COUNKAWRPw</a></p>
<p><strong>DECEMBER 2020 - The Modern Medieval - Something for Kate</strong></p>
<p>I had a friend at uni who was an absolute acolyte for this band. Truth be told I didn't get it. The music wasn't presented in a way that made sense to me and the singer's voice was... different. I mean, forgive me, it was 1998 (I think - maybe '99?) and having grown up with only terribly bland lunch rock radio stations this piece didn't fit my puzzle. Then Echolalia happened. I started trying to figure out these songs on guitar and I realised I didn't get it 'cause I didn't understand its genius. I joined the Paul Dempsey club that day and have never left. When one of your favourite bands takes this many years to make a new record you get worried, but I shouldn't have been - it's a work of brilliance.</p>
<p><a contents="https://open.spotify.com/album/01Bn2fpfFmzZ9oD6rP0fbg" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/01Bn2fpfFmzZ9oD6rP0fbg">https://open.spotify.com/album/01Bn2fpfFmzZ9oD6rP0fbg</a></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/32fa6aa2d8bd6fffb6388d3086e37d9048fa83b2/original/screen-shot-2021-01-25-at-10-33-51-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/7b6fa97e951244f5161ba5f4d1f1f43d1ffafe24/original/screen-shot-2021-01-25-at-10-34-12-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65150262021-01-07T10:40:41+11:002022-09-14T09:39:39+10:00The Music Advantage<p>I'm about to embark on another chapter in my professional life - high school music teacher - and while it scares the life out of me for some reason that something I've wanted for so long is so close, reading this book calms my nerves... music can do so much good in the world! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/226246/a6fb6d606d9018fa2b56c1223915a68c3f706097/original/41sh5auyfkl-sx325-bo1-204-203-200.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_center border_" /></p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65137692021-01-05T20:08:47+11:002023-12-11T05:08:31+11:00Epiphanies and discoveries<p>Something I look forward to every year with an astounding amount of enthusiasm is my Last.fm listening report. I've been using the service for well over a decade - it's heaven for stats nerds (of which I may be one).</p>
<p>Cool thing about 2020, I listened to more music than I ever have [well any year since 2007, probably not <em>ever</em>] - 10,580 tracks. That's 29 every day or 30 hours and 6 days worth of listening. Funnily my first reaction is... "is that all?" - music is a massive part of my life, yet I've only listened to music for 1/12 of a year - anyway, a challenge for 2021!</p>
<p>What I like most though is the "new music" section, where it tells me how many artists, albums and tracks I've listened to for the first time in a particular year - and 2020 had some great debuts - Cold Years and Chris Stapleton being my top picks, and new albums from Pearl Jam, the 1975, Slowly Slowly and Dua Lipa keeping my year fresh.</p>
<p>Hopefully 2021 is as full of good new music as 2020 was. Bring it on.</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65094932020-12-29T22:49:33+11:002022-09-14T09:40:48+10:00Mistakes That Make The Man<p>A while ago I got my Dad to write some lyrics and we were going to go into a studio and record it. I know it was a while ago 'cause it was a present for his 60th, and he'll be 66 early next year. Today we sat and re-wrote most of the lyrics but it's now something we're both happy with. </p>
<p>I guess sometimes it's ok to take a little extra time.</p>Clinton Hoytag:clintonhoy.com,2005:Post/65083232020-12-27T12:40:33+11:002023-12-11T05:09:47+11:00I'm ready<p>This past 12 months allowed many tangents in my creative practice - one that was much needed. But it's time to get on track... I'm ready.</p>Clinton Hoy