I hope you are doing well and that you had a very happy Valentine's Day. This is my cover of the country song, In This Life, which was recorded by Collin Raye in 1992. I am dedicating this to my beautiful and amazing wife, Jennifer.
Here's the link to the video - In This Life (Cover)
There's a reason why this song is so significant. Around the time Jennifer and I met, I happened to find Collin Raye's greatest hits CD on the discount shelf of a local music store. So I picked one up. This quickly became one of my favorite CDs. If you haven't heard any of Collin Raye's music, I would seriously recommend checking him out. Some of his hits include Little Rock, I Think About You, One Boy One Girl, If You Get There Before I Do, and of course, In This Life.
Hearing any of these songs will remind me of that time period. It was time when Jennifer and I met and became friends. For the first time in years, I was really nervous and didn't know what to do. I knew I loved her, but I was afraid of hurting our friendship. Then it was like God gave me the boldness I needed to ask her out.
Valentine's day was also the day of our engagement. I'll never forget that day. I couldn't focus on work to save my life. We went to a really nice steak restaurant. But I was so nervous that I didn't have an appetite. However, I didn't want to come off as nervous, so I forced myself to clean my plate. The restaurant was too loud, so I improvised and took her to Starbucks. And then it happened. She said "yes."
We married 6 months later. At our wedding, a friend of our played and sang In This Life. So this will always have a special meaning.
Looking back, I would do it all over again. I have been blessed far beyond what I could ever deserve. She has been the best wife and friend a man could ever ask for. She has stood by my side through the best and worst of times. So this song is for Jennifer.
Happy Valentine's Day, Jennifer. I love you forever...
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Monday, February 12, 2018
Comparison and Perfectionism
I wanted to take a few minutes to be transparent about something I have struggled with for most of my life. I'm talking about the issue of comparison and perfectionism. My tendency has always been to focus on a small number of things, but to try and do these things well. My standards for myself are high, which can be good.
But there is also a downside. High standards can easily turn into impossible standards. It's very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that, if I'm not as good as somebody else or if I don't measure up to my own perfect standards, then I'm not good enough. Further, thinking that because I'm not good enough, it would be better for me to keep my talents to myself and not share them with others. This can be paralyzing and debilitating.
There are three specific areas that come to mind.
Speaking
I'm talking about speaking to a group. Or recording one of my videos. Really, anytime it's me giving any kind of monologue, it feels very awkward and uncomfortable. For most of my life, I avoided speaking publicly, unless it was absolutely necessary. It's really bad when I don't have a lot of time to plan out and rehearse what I am going to say. I'll start making a good point, but then go blank. Or I won't have any idea how I'm supposed to wrap things up. So I'll just awkwardly cut it off.
Songwriting
I was in a band for years for years and did almost none of the writing. The other guys were quite prolific, but I just wasn't. About 12 years ago, I started writing. It was very exciting at first. I was very quick to share my songs with other people. Others were generally very supportive. However, the first couple of times my songs were not received the way I hoped, I started to become lot more timid. I figured that I wasn't as good as others who were commercially successful. At some point, I stopped sharing my songs.
For years, I let these insecurities keep me from sharing my God-given talents. While others were sharing their talents, I remained on the sidelines because I never thought I was good enough. There were three realizations that turned things around and changed my perspective. They are as follows:
1. No matter how talented I become or how much time and effort I devote to improving, there will always be somebody more talented. And no matter how much I improve I always be well aware of my own shortcomings. If everyone were to apply my standard to themselves, almost nobody would ever share their talents.
2. There will always be people with less than talent than me who are boldly and unapologetically using their talents. So what excuse do I have? None. I came to realize that God had already given me enough talent to do what He had called me to do.
3. Even if my songs don't end up on the radio or sung in churches all over the world, I can still make a real impact in my own circles. Those around me who are hurting aren't going to disregard a song I share with a message of hope because I'm not as talented as somebody else.
What it comes down to is the fact that I already have plenty of talent and a platform to make a difference in other people's lives. And so do you. This is why I always end my videos with the phrase "if you have a song in your heart, sing it...because the world needs to hear it." Sure, there is definitely a place for recognizing your weaknesses and working hard to improve in these areas. But my point is that you don't need to wait until you have "arrived" to begin sharing your talents with others.
Can any of you relate to what I am saying? Do you have a tendency toward perfectionism or comparing yourself with others? Have you allowed a sense of inadequacy to keep you on the sidelines, rather than using your God-given talents?
But there is also a downside. High standards can easily turn into impossible standards. It's very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that, if I'm not as good as somebody else or if I don't measure up to my own perfect standards, then I'm not good enough. Further, thinking that because I'm not good enough, it would be better for me to keep my talents to myself and not share them with others. This can be paralyzing and debilitating.
There are three specific areas that come to mind.
Speaking
I'm talking about speaking to a group. Or recording one of my videos. Really, anytime it's me giving any kind of monologue, it feels very awkward and uncomfortable. For most of my life, I avoided speaking publicly, unless it was absolutely necessary. It's really bad when I don't have a lot of time to plan out and rehearse what I am going to say. I'll start making a good point, but then go blank. Or I won't have any idea how I'm supposed to wrap things up. So I'll just awkwardly cut it off.
Songwriting
I was in a band for years for years and did almost none of the writing. The other guys were quite prolific, but I just wasn't. About 12 years ago, I started writing. It was very exciting at first. I was very quick to share my songs with other people. Others were generally very supportive. However, the first couple of times my songs were not received the way I hoped, I started to become lot more timid. I figured that I wasn't as good as others who were commercially successful. At some point, I stopped sharing my songs.
Singing
This one is huge. As a kid, I enjoyed singing just for fun. Around the age of 13, somebody else made a negative remark about my singing. This comment shut me down for years. You couldn't have paid me enough money to sing in front of anyone else. In college, a good friend gave me some singing pointers, which I used to improve my singing ability. The first time I finally had the nerve to sing a solo in front of anyone was at the age of 26. But I was still very self-conscious. Probably more so because I married such a great singer. On many occasions, I had to push through nervousness so that I could get to the point of being more comfortable singing. It's better today. But almost every time I sing in front of others, it still takes me a few minutes to work through my nervousness.For years, I let these insecurities keep me from sharing my God-given talents. While others were sharing their talents, I remained on the sidelines because I never thought I was good enough. There were three realizations that turned things around and changed my perspective. They are as follows:
1. No matter how talented I become or how much time and effort I devote to improving, there will always be somebody more talented. And no matter how much I improve I always be well aware of my own shortcomings. If everyone were to apply my standard to themselves, almost nobody would ever share their talents.
2. There will always be people with less than talent than me who are boldly and unapologetically using their talents. So what excuse do I have? None. I came to realize that God had already given me enough talent to do what He had called me to do.
3. Even if my songs don't end up on the radio or sung in churches all over the world, I can still make a real impact in my own circles. Those around me who are hurting aren't going to disregard a song I share with a message of hope because I'm not as talented as somebody else.
What it comes down to is the fact that I already have plenty of talent and a platform to make a difference in other people's lives. And so do you. This is why I always end my videos with the phrase "if you have a song in your heart, sing it...because the world needs to hear it." Sure, there is definitely a place for recognizing your weaknesses and working hard to improve in these areas. But my point is that you don't need to wait until you have "arrived" to begin sharing your talents with others.
Can any of you relate to what I am saying? Do you have a tendency toward perfectionism or comparing yourself with others? Have you allowed a sense of inadequacy to keep you on the sidelines, rather than using your God-given talents?
Monday, February 5, 2018
Song Spotlight - When We All Get To Heaven
Here is a link to the video:
When We All Get To Heaven (Video)
This is one of those songs I heard countless times growing up that I never thought too much about. That was until my paternal grandfather was placed in hospice and was only expected to live a few days. My dad and I jumped in the car the next day and drove to see him, while there was still time.
As we prepared to leave and head back home, the weight of the situation really hit. This would be the last time we would see PawPaw alive, at least during this lifetime. We knew we needed to head back home, but nobody wanted to leave.
As we gathered around for our final round of saying "see you later", we prayed - thanking God for a life well lived. Then we suddenly began to sing "When We All Get To Heaven." If my memory is correct, it was my grandmother who started the song. It just seemed like the perfect song to sing at a time like that.
Fast forward 20 years. My dad had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and was in hospice. Almost every day, I would bring my acoustic guitar. Sometimes for hours, I would just sit, play, and sing for him. Mostly hymns. One of the last songs I sang for dad before he went home was "When We All Get To Heaven."
So this is now one of my favorites for two reasons. First, it reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus. We don't have to be afraid of death because He has won the victory for us through His death and resurrection. Second, this song reminds me two people I love very much who are already in Heaven - dad and PawPaw.
I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to download the mp3. Once I do the "official" recording, I will upload this as well. Thanks and God bless!
When We All Get To Heaven (Video)
This is one of those songs I heard countless times growing up that I never thought too much about. That was until my paternal grandfather was placed in hospice and was only expected to live a few days. My dad and I jumped in the car the next day and drove to see him, while there was still time.
As we prepared to leave and head back home, the weight of the situation really hit. This would be the last time we would see PawPaw alive, at least during this lifetime. We knew we needed to head back home, but nobody wanted to leave.
As we gathered around for our final round of saying "see you later", we prayed - thanking God for a life well lived. Then we suddenly began to sing "When We All Get To Heaven." If my memory is correct, it was my grandmother who started the song. It just seemed like the perfect song to sing at a time like that.
Fast forward 20 years. My dad had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and was in hospice. Almost every day, I would bring my acoustic guitar. Sometimes for hours, I would just sit, play, and sing for him. Mostly hymns. One of the last songs I sang for dad before he went home was "When We All Get To Heaven."
So this is now one of my favorites for two reasons. First, it reminds us of the hope we have in Jesus. We don't have to be afraid of death because He has won the victory for us through His death and resurrection. Second, this song reminds me two people I love very much who are already in Heaven - dad and PawPaw.
I hope you enjoy it. Feel free to download the mp3. Once I do the "official" recording, I will upload this as well. Thanks and God bless!
Monday, January 22, 2018
Tribute to Dad
Today, I wanted to pay tribute to the single person whose musical influence has impacted me more than anyone else. I'm talking about my dad, Richey Craig.
Here is the link if you'd prefer the video.
Dad fell in love with the piano at an early age. His parents, who didn't have a lot of money, purchased an old used piano. On a regular occasion, dad would run home from school and play the piano until his parents would finally make his stop and go to bed. With the amount of practice time that he put in, dad's piano skills developed quickly.
He played for the Crazy Horse Saloon at Six Flags during the summer of 1965. In 1967, dad began traveling and playing the piano for the James Robison Evangelistic Association. For a big part of this time and for several years after, dad played piano for music evangelist John McKay. While working for James, dad met my mom and they married in 1970. He was the church pianist for a long time, which means the he and I were able to play together for several years.
Dad was a very skilled pianist. But what I really appreciated was the passion that was such a big part of his playing. Even though I ended up playing a different instrument, dad had a tremendous influence on my musical development. I learned many things from him over the years. There are three of these that I would like to share.
First of all, lyrics matter. It doesn't matter if you're not the one singing the song, the lyrics still matter. As an accompanist, it's very important to be aware of the lyrics so that everything you play supports the message of the song and doesn't detract from it in any way.
Second, chord selection matters. It's not that dad was legalistic about only playing songs the way they were written. In fact, he changed things all the time. But he taught me that every chord and every chord played within a given context gives the song a certain color. If you're going to modify chords, don't do so indiscriminately. It should always be done with a purpose, being very mindful of the affect it has on the song.
Third, if you go through life as a know-it-all, you'll never learn anything. This applies to many things, including music. Musically, this meant being willing to learn things that were challenging and difficult. It meant seizing the opportunity to learn any style you had the chance to learn, knowing that it would only make you a better musician. Dad truly sang the song that was in his heart. Even with he didn't sing with his voice, he sang through piano and he taught me to do the same with the guitar.
These are three things that come to mind, and there were many more. But the most import things dad taught me were not musical. He taught me about being a godly man, husband, father, and friend. He taught me that people were not commodities to be used, but rather gifts to be treasured. He taught me that giving is not about expecting something in return or impressing others with my generosity. Rather, giving was about honoring God and blessing others. Dad also taught me that, no matter how I may have been wronged, life it too short to carry around anger and bitterness.
Monday, January 22, 2018 marks one year since dad left this earth and went home to be with Jesus. Since then, not a day has gone by that I haven't missed him. Great job, dad! Thanks for everything. I miss you and look forward to seeing you again!
Here is the link if you'd prefer the video.
Dad fell in love with the piano at an early age. His parents, who didn't have a lot of money, purchased an old used piano. On a regular occasion, dad would run home from school and play the piano until his parents would finally make his stop and go to bed. With the amount of practice time that he put in, dad's piano skills developed quickly.
He played for the Crazy Horse Saloon at Six Flags during the summer of 1965. In 1967, dad began traveling and playing the piano for the James Robison Evangelistic Association. For a big part of this time and for several years after, dad played piano for music evangelist John McKay. While working for James, dad met my mom and they married in 1970. He was the church pianist for a long time, which means the he and I were able to play together for several years.
Dad was a very skilled pianist. But what I really appreciated was the passion that was such a big part of his playing. Even though I ended up playing a different instrument, dad had a tremendous influence on my musical development. I learned many things from him over the years. There are three of these that I would like to share.
First of all, lyrics matter. It doesn't matter if you're not the one singing the song, the lyrics still matter. As an accompanist, it's very important to be aware of the lyrics so that everything you play supports the message of the song and doesn't detract from it in any way.
Second, chord selection matters. It's not that dad was legalistic about only playing songs the way they were written. In fact, he changed things all the time. But he taught me that every chord and every chord played within a given context gives the song a certain color. If you're going to modify chords, don't do so indiscriminately. It should always be done with a purpose, being very mindful of the affect it has on the song.
Third, if you go through life as a know-it-all, you'll never learn anything. This applies to many things, including music. Musically, this meant being willing to learn things that were challenging and difficult. It meant seizing the opportunity to learn any style you had the chance to learn, knowing that it would only make you a better musician. Dad truly sang the song that was in his heart. Even with he didn't sing with his voice, he sang through piano and he taught me to do the same with the guitar.
These are three things that come to mind, and there were many more. But the most import things dad taught me were not musical. He taught me about being a godly man, husband, father, and friend. He taught me that people were not commodities to be used, but rather gifts to be treasured. He taught me that giving is not about expecting something in return or impressing others with my generosity. Rather, giving was about honoring God and blessing others. Dad also taught me that, no matter how I may have been wronged, life it too short to carry around anger and bitterness.
Monday, January 22, 2018 marks one year since dad left this earth and went home to be with Jesus. Since then, not a day has gone by that I haven't missed him. Great job, dad! Thanks for everything. I miss you and look forward to seeing you again!
Saturday, January 13, 2018
Song Spotlight - He's Got You
"Through every season of life, He will give you the strength to fight and never ever leave your side."
He's Got You by Quincy Roan
Link to Video
Link to my Facebook Page
He's Got You by Quincy Roan
Link to Video
Link to my Facebook Page
He’s Got You was
written by my friend, Quincy Roan. Quincy initially wrote He’s Got
You as part of a songwriting challenge that he was participating in.
There was no real story behind the song at the time. Several weeks
later, Quincy decided to record a full CD of his original songs,
including He’s Got You. He asked me to help him with the
production, recording, and mixing of his project.
About two weeks
before our planned recording start date, Quincy was diagnosed with a
very aggressive and widespread form of cancer, with a grim prognosis.
A couple of months later, while Quincy was undergoing chemo, some of
his friends and I put together a benefit with the purpose of raising
support to help with Quincy’s medical expenses. We did a worship
night and also played three of Quincy’s original songs including
He’s Got You, which my wife Jennifer sang.
Somebody who was
there recorded the event and sent a copy to Quincy. When Quincy and
I spoke, he couldn’t stop talking about how much he loved the way
Jennifer sang He’s Got You. He said that the song was perfect for
her and that she absolutely poured her heart and soul into it.
So a few weeks
later, when Quincy passed away at the age of 37, Jennifer sort of
inherited the song. At least as the one who would sing it on the
recording. Of course, at this point, He’s Got You had taken on a
much deeper and more personal meaning. It had become Quincy’s
story. It had become his family’s story. And then, when my family
went through a very difficult season, it became our story. He’s
Got You became a song that encouraged us through some extremely dark
and difficult times.
If you are
interested in downloading He’s Got You, you can do so at either of
the following:
Paid Download ($1
suggested minimum)
Please know that any
proceeds that come from the sale of Quincy’s songs, as well as
additional donations made, will go to support Quincy’s family.
This includes his widow Kari, and their kids, Kaleb and Khloe.
I hope you enjoy
He’s Got You. If you are going through a difficult season, I hope
and pray that He’s Got You will be an encouragement. Thanks and
God bless.
Monday, January 8, 2018
Change of Name - "Alan Craig Music"
Please accept my apologies for the long delay and lack of correspondence. I have decided to change the name and the focus of this blog. The new name is Alan Craig Music, which will go along with my YouTube channel called Alan Craig Music, This is a place for sharing music. Not just my music, but the music of other singers, songwriters, instrumentalists, producers, etc.
This reflects the direction my music life has taken. Yes, I am still writing and hope to continue doing so indefinitely. But recording, producing, performing, and collaborating with other musicians has been more of the focus.
If you haven't already done so, please check out my first two videos from last week.
Video 1 - Introduction
Video 2 - Intro Part 2
These explain the vision, direction, and format.
If you are a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, producer, etc. and you would like to have one of your songs featured, please contact me. I can't promise that I'll be able to feature all requests, but I will do my best.
That's all for now. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks and God bless!
This reflects the direction my music life has taken. Yes, I am still writing and hope to continue doing so indefinitely. But recording, producing, performing, and collaborating with other musicians has been more of the focus.
If you haven't already done so, please check out my first two videos from last week.
Video 1 - Introduction
Video 2 - Intro Part 2
These explain the vision, direction, and format.
If you are a singer, songwriter, instrumentalist, producer, etc. and you would like to have one of your songs featured, please contact me. I can't promise that I'll be able to feature all requests, but I will do my best.
That's all for now. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks and God bless!
Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Coming Soon: Songwriter Spotlights
Hey folks! It's been a few days since I have posted anything anything. I'll be in class for a couple of weeks, so I wanted to at least let you know what is coming up. I am in the process of talking with several songwriters who I will be featuring soon. This should be really interesting. From each of these writers, you will learn some things about songwriting approach, common frustrations or roadblocks, songwriting tips, etc. So far, the styles represented include worship, rock, rap, country, R&B, and choral. Plus there are several others I am also expecting to hear from. Whatever your style may be, I would encourage you to check out all of these interviews. Even if you don't care for the style of one of the featured artists, there are still things you can learn from them and apply to your own songwriting. Stay tuned as there is more to come...
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