tag:melgreensings.com,2005:/blogs/blog?p=2Blog2021-10-26T18:15:33-04:00Mel Greenfalsetag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/67877332021-10-26T18:15:33-04:002023-10-16T10:56:49-04:00"Mel Julian & Me" Reviewed by Roger Deitz, columnist for SingOut! Magazine <p><strong>I wish I’d read “Mel, Julian & Me” A Memoir by Mel L. Green,<br>before I listened to Mel Green’s superb CD, I’m Taking My Time, because... </strong></p>
<p>... the book not written yet, I wondered, “Who is this South African stranger with so much talent, to have created such musical and auditory perfection?” I thought I had a pretty good handle on music and performers from the far flung corners of the folk music scene. Rarely did I receive a CD out of the blue (and sleeve) that so moved me. I was floored. I wanted to learn more about this well-traveled South African stranger. </p>
<p>So, I asked my physician who hailed from Johannesburg, South Africa to have a listen. I handed him the CD. He looked at me, then kvelled, “Don’t you know? Mel, Mel & Julian were the biggest stars of the 1960s Joburg folk scene!” He had just booked a cross-country trip to watch Mel Miller do his stand-up comedy routine (when he toured in California a few years ago.)</p>
<p>Then, into my lap, fell this book. </p>
<p>There is much to know about Mel, Mel & Julian. Who better to tell the tale than Mel Green (“Little Mel”) an artist from a “Greenwich Village” on the other side of the globe, who gathered with his mates to ignite their own good-natured Folk Revival. </p>
<p>There was much to learn. “Mel, Julian & Me” gives a detailed account of this influential group, their development, and many exploits. This is a book about harmony; musical and otherwise. There is more to these members of the trio than their set list alone. The book is a charming discovery, a good read, an exacting documentation of the goings-on that unfolded in 1960s South Africa, on and off my radar. </p>
<p>In the book, the players are brought back for an ‘encore’. They are musicians that ignited and energized the Jo’burg scene with their home-grown and humorous brand of folk music. The book is the perfect companion to Mel Green’s album, (and also their other recordings, you may wish to peruse) as it contains a wealth of information seen through the eyes of a discerning and most artistic observer. And there is much to know. </p>
<p>As noted, the other Mel turns out to be Mel Miller, who early on at art school went duo with Mel Green. It didn't take too long before they recruited Julian Laxton to complete the trio. After the group's short but stellar career, Miller went on to become a renowned South African Stand-up Comedian and Actor. His liberal anti-government views led to his being arrested by the South African Security Police. But he reemerged in fine form to act, perform and tour again. </p>
<p>Over the years, Mel Green went on to produce and make his own catalog of superb music and creative work..which now included this book related first hand and well-written as only this artist’s eye and recollections could capture. Mel’s voice and palette (palate?) makes this book a true artist’s creation. </p>
<p>Mel Green settled in the Greater Boston Area in 1973 continuing to make music while working as a graphic artist both here and in his native South Africa. In addition to performing, writing, and recording, he is a superb watercolorist. </p>
<p>If you think you knew everything about this world of folk music, think again, then pick up a copy of this well-written and colorful book. It will entertain and inform you – as MM&J did back then. The book is highly recommended for those who do not know the pleasure of engaging Mel Green in conversation, and it will have a slot on bookshelves where this history of Jozi music should nestle and join other important histories. </p>
<p><em>Roger Deitz, columnist, Sing Out! magazine</em></p>Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/66181352021-04-30T11:15:46-04:002021-04-30T11:22:55-04:00Singing for Myself (Mostly)<p>As have many old folkies, songwriters and many friends who've always wanted to do so – we've been singing and playing for ourselves. Solitary, yet essential. For me this is exercise.</p>
<p>If the reports are to believed, more musical instruments have been purchased during this awful pandemic than during many preceding years. No surprise... we have to do more than the day to day. like watching too much TV!<br><br>I make a point of playing guitar, learning new songs, working up old favourites and learning my own tunes, and in so doing making them better by repetition.</p>
<p>Regretfully, my gigs at Senior Centers stopped suddenly over a year ago, as did those of many performers who make their living from every gigging opportunity that could be found. For me this was rather sad, if only because I had found that elderly audiences give back more than one could ever give them. </p>
<p>The feedback I have received from these lovely older people was "from the heart". Truthful. Real. Priceless.</p>
<p>God Bless these people. They obviously crave entertainment of almost any kind. It turned out that this white-hair was of the same mindset. I enjoy playing for anyone, and I found that their receptiveness was of an especially catchy nature.</p>
<p>So, in actuality, I have not been singing for myself, which made my efforts very special.</p>
<p>Knowing that this particular audience has a lot of music embedded in their synapses (however often I was told that the elderly are forgetful) because I dug up many tunes they already knew, and they enjoyed my versions, played with one guitar, sung with one voice. Sometimes the occasional singalong was joyful, as these elders sang with broken voices, smiles and twinkling eyes! Songs they knew and have never forgotten.</p>
<p>I am looking forward to doing this again. Please God – soon.</p>Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574552018-05-01T00:00:00-04:002023-04-15T18:05:18-04:00My South African Trip – Going Home<p>My Homepage for the last 3 months or so began with these paragraphs of promotion... Mel Green returns to South Africa... Appearing in Cape Town<br>The Barleycorn Music Club on Wednesday March 21st at 3pm at the Saggy Stone Restaurant Villagers Rugby Club, Claremont, Cape Town. Mel joins an esteemed Cape Town line up including Steve Fataar, Steve Newman, Bill Knight, Tim Parr, Amy Tjasink, Jono Taitt, Wayne Pauli, Jamie Jupiter, Nick Turner, Jenny & the Jameses, Gerald Clark & Blacksmith. A benefit for the Barleycorn Club, after the loss of their sound equipment due to flood damage on Human Rights Day from 2 - 9pm.<br><br>AND later in Johannesburg<br>Mel featured at TJs Folk Club in Emmarentia, Johannesburg on Thursday the 12th of April <span>at Marks Park Sports Club, Judith Road, Emmarentia, Johannesburg. This is reputed to be Johannesburg's finest acoustic music venue with a superb sound system... Performances from 7 - 10pm. </span> </p><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">Well. I have to mention a few observations... </div><p> </p><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">I had rehearsed practiced and mulled over these two gigs in particular, all the while attempting to subdue any expectations of how it would be, how it would turn out and how I might feel about the whole thing afterwards, And I am glad I did!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">We landed in Cape Town on the 15th of March and immediately, on the very first night I was looking forward to visiting my dear cousin, Lyn Resnick, who had invited us to a get together at her and David's house for a get-together with 8 first cousins and their spouses, and some friends... oh, and her brother, Howard and his wife Ann from San Diego who were also in town suggested I drive all of us, and by the way, bring my guitar too, please.</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">A gig, literally singing for my supper in front of family, a first for me!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">And so, I sang five of my songs to this attentive, inquisitive crowd, some of whom had never seen me perform in my earlier life as a pro. All went well, no one fell asleep, and if nothing else, it proved that I can in fact remember lyrics in a sleep-deprived state , after a nice meal! </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">Cape Town and it's environs gave us a nostalgic good time, and proved that you can't really go home again... in this case so much had changed! </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">The afternoon of the above-mentioned Barleycorn Music Club Benefit came around, and my wife and I arrived fairly early at the venue within the clubhouse of the Villagers Rugby Club in extremely scenic Claremont. I was ready and expected to go on second in the roster of performers, which was fine by me, as the organizer had told me that the solo or folkie acts would go on early, to allow for the rowdy bands featuring electric instruments to go on later, when things were expected to actually get rowdy!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">My good fortune had me following the opener, one very famous South African muso, Steve Fataar, of The Flames, a band I knew back in my Durban days in the mid-60s, and which went on to be chosen by The Beach Buys (yes, that band!) to join them in California, and from which union came much great music and recordings, including the hit ”Sail on sailor”!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">Following Steve was a duo, led by the incredible South African guitarist, Steve Newman of the band Tananas... (look him up, you won't be sorry!)</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">Then it was my turn and I managed to squeeze in four of my songs, to good applause and obvious appreciation... thank you Barleycorn!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">With that gig out of the way, and a bunch of new acquaintances as a bonus, we continued our wonderful week-long stay in Cape Town, and on the 22nd we checked out and drove a couple of hours eastward up the South Coast to the little former whaling village of Hermanus, now a very pleasant resort town. 2 days there had us happy for our next leg, a 4 hour drive further along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay, a very beautiful place, and the initial reason for our trip, 6 days at the famous Beacon Island Hotel, situated on the edge of a rocky outcrop overlooking the Indian Ocean. our fourth day included a staff concert of variety, comedy and music, into which I was roped, to sing a song, which I did to much applause again... for me this was another opportunity to perform for an audience of strangers. A good thing.</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">After that sojourn of beach, evening meals of delicious local fish and sleeping to the lullaby of crashing waves and the sussurance of the receding tidal flow, we regretfully drove back to Cape Town, staying with cousins and again treated to the sights we had missed seeing during our first week's stay.</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">We flew north on the 2nd of April, landing in Johannesburg, and after a nice breakfast, proceeded to drive eastward to the Kruger National Park, for an idyllic week of wild-animal spotting, lousy restaurants and an experience we'll never forget. We saw many of the wonderful animals, numerous Giraffe, Elephant, Antelope, Hippo, Wildebeest, Aardvark, birds, Crocodile, Hyena, Wid Dogs and Lions, but alas never did see Leopard, Cheetah or Rhino. Still it was a wonderful bucket-list time we enjoyed.</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">Returning to Johannesburg for our last week of vacation was a bit of a let-down, only because the southern Autumn was taking hold, which meant a few days of cold rain, overcast skies, and realizing we were not equipped with the right clothing. Thank you Woolworths!</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">The evening of my feature gig at TJs Music Club, which was fortunately held in a lovely rotunda-like building, with a huge stage, a terrific sound-system and on that night, an eager audience, with friends amongst them... I am happy to say that Des Lindberg, one of my earliest influences, and from whom I stole a lot of fingerpicking tips was present, as was my old partner in crime, Mel Miller, form my 60s folk-comedy band, Mel, Mel & Julian.</div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste"> </div><div style="height:1px;left:-10000px;overflow:hidden;position:absolute;top:1310px;width:1px;" id="_mcePaste">The organizers had generously doled out 55 minutes to me and so I had the luxury of really getting into my repertoire for the very appreciative audience at his full-house event. The audience were unfamiliar with my repertoire of compositions, and I was able to present 50% older songs and the other half were all new songs which I had been preparing and rehearsing for the previous 6 months. (And I am glad I did!)Well. I have to mention a few observations... I had rehearsed practiced and mulled over these two gigs in particular, all the while attempting to subdue any expectations of how it would be, how it would turn out and how I might feel about the whole thing afterwards, And I am glad I did!</div><p>The trip: (my first "back home" in 25 years!)<br>We landed in Cape Town on the 15th of March and immediately, on the very first night I was looking forward to visiting my dear cousin, Lyn Resnick, who had invited us to a get together at her and David's house for a get-together with 8 first cousins and their spouses, and some friends... oh, and her brother, Howard and his wife Ann from San Diego who were also in town, suggested I drive all of us, and by the way, bring my guitar too, please.<br><br>A gig, literally singing for my supper in front of family, a first for me! And so, I sang five of my songs to this attentive, inquisitive crowd, some of whom had never seen me perform in my earlier life as a pro. All went well, no one fell asleep, and if nothing else, it proved that I can in fact remember lyrics in a sleep-deprived state , after a nice meal! <br><br>Cape Town and it's environs gave us a nostalgic good time, and proved that you can't really go home again... in this case so much had changed! <br><br>The afternoon of the above-mentioned Barleycorn Music Club Benefit came around, and my wife and I arrived fairly early at the venue within the clubhouse of the Villagers Rugby Club in extremely scenic Claremont. I was ready and expected to go on early in the roster of performers, which was fine by me, as the organizer had told me that the solo or folkie acts would go on early, to allow for the rowdy bands featuring electric instruments to go on later, when things were expected to actually get rowdy!<br><br>My good fortune had me following the opener, one very famous South African muso, Steve Fataar, of The Flames, a band I knew back in my Durban days in the mid-60s, and who went on to be chosen by The Beach Buys (yes, that band!) to join them in California, and from which union came much great music and recordings, including the hit ”Sail on sailor”!<br><br>Following Steve was a duo, led by the incredible South African guitarist, Steve Newman of the band Tananas... (look him up, you won't be sorry!)<br><br>Then it was soon my turn and I managed to squeeze in four of my songs, to good applause and appreciation... thank you Barleycorn!<br><br>With that gig out of the way, and a bunch of new acquaintances as a bonus, we continued our wonderful week-long stay in Cape Town, and on the 22nd we checked out and drove a couple of hours eastward up the South Coast to the former whaling village of Hermanus, now a very pleasant resort town. 2 days there had us happy for our next leg, a 4 hour drive further along the Garden Route to Plettenberg Bay, a very beautiful place, and the initial reason for our trip, 6 days at the famous Beacon Island Hotel, situated on the edge of a rocky outcrop overlooking the Indian Ocean. our fourth day included a staff concert of variety, comedy and music, into which I was roped, to sing a song, which I did to much appreciative applause... for me this was another opportunity to perform for an audience of strangers. A good thing.<br><br>After that sojourn of beach, evening meals of delicious local fish and sleeping to the lullaby of crashing waves and the sussurance of the receding tidal flow, we regretfully drove back to Cape Town, staying with cousins and again treated to the sights we had missed seeing during our first week's stay.<br><br>We flew north on the 2nd of April, landing in Johannesburg, and after a nice breakfast, proceeded to drive eastward to the Kruger National Park, for an idyllic week of wild-animal spotting, lousy restaurants and an experience we'll never forget. We saw many of the wonderful animals, numerous Giraffe, Elephant, Antelope, Hippo, Wildebeest, Aardvark, birds, Crocodile, Hyena, Wid Dogs and Lions, but alas never did see Leopard, Cheetah or Rhino. Still it was a wonderful bucket-list time we enjoyed.<br><br>Returning to Johannesburg for our last week of vacation was a bit of a let-down, only because the southern Autumn was taking hold, which meant a few days of cold rain, overcast skies, and realizing we were not equipped with the right clothing. Thank you Woolworths!<br><br>The evening of my feature gig...<br>at TJs Music Club, which was fortunately held in a lovely rotunda-like building, with a huge stage, a terrific sound-system and on that night, an eager audience, with friends amongst them... I am happy to say that Des Lindberg, one of my earliest influences, and from whom I stole a lot of fingerpicking tips was present, as was my old partner in crime, Mel Miller, from my 60s folk-comedy band, Mel, Mel & Julian.<br><br>The organizers had generously doled out 55 minutes to me and so I had the luxury of really getting into my repertoire for the very appreciative audience at this full-house event. The audience were unfamiliar with my repertoire of compositions, and I was able to present 50% older songs and the other half were all new songs which I had been preparing and rehearsing for the previous 6 months. (And I am glad I did!) A big thank you to Nippy Cripwell, who accompanied me on upright bass... a big help, if only to make me feel more at ease during this first-time gig at TJs.) </p><p>The mini tour of South Africa came to an end... with me raring to go and do more gigs back in the States.</p>Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574542017-02-12T00:00:00-05:002020-03-04T13:25:21-05:00Testimonials<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Welcome testimonials formerly on my Guest Book page... </p>
<p>“After nearly 50 years I am still listening and enjoying. Write and sing some more. You will never fade away!” – Your old mate Ernie.<br><br>“Love your site and your music, Mel!” – Dean Driver</p>
<p> </p>
<p>“You really put your heart and soul into it - I think it's great that you had so many musicians to contribute to your songs and that your muso friends supported you. Your voice still sounds like I remember - voices don't have to age, do they? They just get better!” – Caroline Blundell</p>
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<p>“... have been listening to your excellent CD all week and I love, love, love it! The songs have great melodies and equally beautiful messages. You are an incredible songwriter. Congratulations on a masterpiece album.... it is just beautiful. And your voice is gorgeous. Well done.” – Ruthann Baler </p>
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<p>“Mel writes beautiful songs that draw in his audiences, whether they are listening to a recording or witnessing a live performance. His fine playing and beautiful voice draw his listeners in. He writes songs that encourage audience participation - they invite harmonies! His words are well-crafted, his music always shines through, and his arrangements are excellent!” – Ellen Schmidt</p>
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<p> “Great listening to you again. The voice hasn't changed in forty years. Just as great as I remembered it. Lovely melodies.. Don't ever stop writing.” – Mel Miller</p>
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<p>“Mel, you took your time and delivered a cracking effort, quite sublime, with a warm and easy professional style. An eminently listenable, thought provoking and nostalgic musical biography. The lyrics are poignant and the music kind of sticks in the mind.” – Ernest Allan Green</p>
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<p>“Hi Mel: We met at the Peaceday Festival at the garden in Rockport and I bought your wonderful cd. You have a great voice. Thanks for the music.”</p>
<p>– Wolfgang Witt </p>
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<p>“We should do another singalong sometime! It's good to see that you still going strong my old friend. My fondest and very best wishes I send to you.” – Gary Bryden</p>
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<p>“May you be blessed with many, many years to sing and enjoy your music and to be surrounded by all who appreciate your music, and your beautiful artwork.” – Diane Goldstein</p>
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<p>"Glad to have found this site. Takes me back to my youth in Durban. Listening to Mel,Mel & Julian…" – John Jackson</p>
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<p>“Mel Green, previously a founder of Mel, Mel and Julian, now has released his own CD"I'm taking my time". Well, the wait was worth it ! Mel's voice of polished silver leads the way through original, melodic, meaningful and expertly crafted songs. The trademark expert guitar playing provides the perfect platform for his haunting harmonies and vocal virtuosity. Talk about breaking the mould ? They sure don't make them like this any more! ” – Ron Newman</p>
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<p>“Yesterday I listened to your wonderful album.</p>
<p>What I loved were your carefully crafted lyrics that spoke of growing older, remembering younger days, and so much more. I was transported by your music to a place that spoke to my heart. It was inspirational. I'm not saying this lightly, you've really created something quite beautiful, a treasure, a work of fine art. You reminded me what is possible with words and voice, acoustic guitars and other instruments. I loved your melodies. I loved your voice. I loved your music. You've created something you should be exceedingly proud of. This CD won't go in a drawer somewhere, I'll be enjoying it for a very long time. Thank-you for sharing this with me and the world.” – Steve Gyurina</p>
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<p>“I'm taking my time”... truly beautiful. I had to sit down to listen – stunning... filled with joy and imagery...a visual feast for the ears :) Just brilliant! Thank you, for all the wonderful music.” – Shelly Ford, UK</p>
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<p> </p>Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574532016-01-18T00:00:00-05:002020-01-25T19:21:51-05:00Perfect Harmony?<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px"><strong>Harmony.</strong></span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">A blend of voices.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">Two. Three. Or four or more voices.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">The female timbres.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">Soprano. Mezzo soprano. Alto. Even tenor.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">The male voices. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">Bass, baritone, tenor, and sometimes even counter-tenor.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">When I first became aware of how sublime harmony singing could be, </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">it was not from listening to recordings, or even listening closely at various concerts.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">That realization came slowly...</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">I always sang along to the morning hymn at school, where everyone sang, even though I knew I really shouldn’t, because I am not Christian. But, the allure of some of the Anglican hymns we sang attracted me, so I sang. No one really minded.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">It all really started when I sang together with my fellow schoolboys </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">at the rugby games we attended, and where we were encouraged to sing all sorts of outdated melodies with lyrics that had been changed to relate to the game we were cheering for. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">Not knowing how to sing harmony I just sang along to the melody line, which we all sang in unison. Soon becoming painfully aware that others of my schoolmates couldn’t sing at all. Well, to be fair, they could sing, but not in tune, or else they couldn’t follow the tune we were so valiantly attempting to sing.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">The awareness of quality of voice. Mine and a few others of my friends.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">It was a lot of fun, and all that mattered was that our team won, and the stronger we sang to encourage them, then all the better.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">I was at boarding school for the last three years of High School, so that when I matriculated, knowing I would soon enter university in Cape Town, it did not occur to me that a vital part of my early years had come to an end… i.e singing at school.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">Even though I picked up guitar and sang for myself, and even though I occasionally earned the applause of a young girl sitting on her balcony opposite our block of flats where I lived with my mother and two younger brothers, I was essentially singing solo. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">That year I went to see “Wait A Minim” a musical/theatrical/comedy revue, which was playing to packed houses, and which included in it’s multi-talented cast, one Jeremy Taylor, a Brit, with a song-writing flair, whose songs satirized the mores and certain groups of South Africans. I was entranced. This only made me want to play and sing all the more.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><br><span class="font_large"><span style="font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:0px">Something was missing.<br> </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">Jump forward two years. I have left university, transferring to the Johannesburg School of Art to continue a more rigorous course of Graphic Design. I lived with my father, and because most of my courses were of a practical nature, I had very little to actually study. By this time I had purchased my first guitar and I had discovered the Troubadour where all the folkies would gather, fervently taking part in that current “folk scare”. It was wonderful. Now I got to actually hear a few talented contemporaries sing together, usually duos. I was encouraged and totally involved with this relatively new music form. To always be present, I got a job there as a waiter, just so that I could see and hear everybody on the scene. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">The duos who were particularly good were Des Lindberg and Keith Blundell. An amazing pair! Keith’s harmonies in particular were sublime. Two voices, two guitars, masterfully played. And then there was Leon & Mike (Leon Rabinowitz & Mike Sonnenberg.) Another great duo. Two voices, one guitar. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">But, I was still singing for myself. Never in public. I had joined the Johannesburg folk song society whose members all sang solo… no one there piqued my interest, or had showed their talent. So I felt that I was in good company.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">Then during lunch hour one day at art school, I was sitting in my classroom quietly playing and singing, while a few of my classmates listened politely… out of nowhere another voice joined in with my song, singing behind me from over my shoulder. It was the first time I actually encountered Mel Miller. Our song together came to it’s end, and I started chatting with him, after we introduced ourselves to each other. He had asked whether I minded him singing along, and of course I did not mind at all… in fact I told him that it would be nice to do it again. Soon.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">For your information, at this point it is necessary to explain a sort of evolution of sorts, one which occurred rapidly.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">One of my classmates revealed to me that he and Mel were in a rock band and that Mel was the lead singer. They even had played at socials and dances. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">So eventually it became clear that Mel would sing lead, to which I had no objection, because his voice was strong and confident, while mine was not… as confident.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">By listening to various recordings and by demonstration, that is, not by reading music, Mel soon showed me how to sing basic third harmony by ear. And within a short period of time we knew a few songs and had often sung at lunch hour for our fellow art students. <br> </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:0px">Here’s the point :</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">Mel and I soon got a gig at the Troubadour after I coaxed him to audition for Keith Blundell, who was the manager at the time. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="font-weight:bold; letter-spacing:0px">Being in the right place at the right time.</span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">We were informed by Keith that the Wednesday night slot would soon become vacated by John Seeliger and were we interested in taking over that slot for the foreseeable future? We were and our personal life histories were changed, but, I digress… </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">While Mel and I were learning new songs and increasing our repertoire, it soon became apparent that our pairing was truly “meant to be”… how else can one explain the goosebumps we got when we sang together, our voices blended very well indeed. Whether we sang on the way to gigs in his car, or in his or my living room. One just knows when the perfect harmony occurs. It takes a lot of singing, a lot of practice, a lot of concentration. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px">We were expressing two vocal parts which combined very well to make our unique whole. </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px">Listen please: www.melmeland julian.com</span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px"> </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px"> </span></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0.0px"> </span></span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; min-height: 13px;"><span class="font_large"><span style="letter-spacing:0px"> </span></span></p>Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574522015-10-03T06:00:59-04:002020-01-08T13:17:20-05:00Woodshedding
<p>Woodshedding: A term for concentrating on practicing guitar, learning new songs, licks, styles of playing. Thinking about one's way of presenting oneself in performance. Navel gazing. Listening to others. Listening to oneself. This last year has been one where I've been doing all of those things. Not playing out very much. Assessing whether playing out regularly equates to playing better, or not... </p>
<p>Attending the Summer Acoustic Music Week (SAMW) this last July as usual made me realize that the mere joy of playing with others should always be considered to be one of the most elementary ways of learning. Learning how to play with others, How to step forward. How to step back and play a supporting role. How to be selfless. And also how to insinuate one's self into the mix. </p>
<p>Being complimented regarding how well I play with others at my age is no small compliment. And once again I am reminded that that is how I began in this musical oeuvre. And also why I love singing harmony more than anything. These days I don't often get that opportunity.</p>
<p>Every time I pick up a guitar, the realization that one can play anything one hears is a wonderful thing. Just listening to that inner voice or tune is a remarkable method to help one advance one's knowledge of an instrument. As I tell many American friends: when I began, all we had was records to listen to, and from which we had to learn how to pick out a tune on an instrument. Singing was easy for me, playing was not... which is why I find that learning a tune by ear from a recording can be a marvelous way of teaching oneself something new. </p>
<p>That's what woodshedding is all about – taking the personal time to listen, to play and to learn.</p>
Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574512014-08-09T06:09:29-04:002020-01-08T13:17:19-05:00Memories are made of them...
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">2014 was a year of much change all over this tiny blue planet.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">The music world, such as it is in this modern era of instant celebrity, and equally equal obscurity changed a lot too. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">One's personal musical tastes were fortunately much entertained and fulfilled, thanks to the many examples of wonderful music available to anyone with a computer, an iPod, iPhone and yes, even a turntable, as vinyl made a minor come-back.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">The music world at large lost it's share of giants… those of us fortunate to have heard them, met them and admired them were saddened at the news of those who ascended to that great choir in the sky.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">I particularly will miss… </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Pete Seeger, the pied-piper of folk since my pre-teens, and mentor to so many of us folkies.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Phil Everly, duo harmony singer, and a source of my most pleasurable listening moments as a teenager and beyond.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Jesse Winchester, the modest and very effective singer songwriter… </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">all were consummate musicians, songwriters and singers. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Charlie Haden, bass player supreme.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Bobby Womack, R&B legend. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Gerry Goffin, songwriter extraordinaire, who wrote so many hits with Carole King.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Paco De Lucia, flamenco guitarist. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Johnny WInter, Bluesman.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Mortals all, these extraordinary people made an indelible mark on the music world.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Condolensces to all of us who cherished their contributions.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; min-height: 14.0px;"><br>Lesser known to most of you, the following notables of South African origin…</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Johnny Boshoff, a wonderful jazz guitarist.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Ben Segal, the quiet yet influential founder of 3rd Ear Music, who recorded many South African folk singers, and assembled a huge music archive in Johannesburg.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Ritchie Morris, once part of the Johannesburg folk-comedy duo, Ian and Ritchie. A wonderful tenor singer and guitarist, originally from Wales via Rhodesia… a friendly rival during the great folk scare of the 60s.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica;">Mo England, one of the finest women singers in the South African folk scene.<br>They will all be fondly remembered.</p>
Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574502012-12-30T07:46:55-05:002020-01-08T13:17:19-05:00Wishes for 2013
<p>I read an article in a recent issue of what was The Boston Phoenix, (which has become a glossy weekly heralding all that's new and hip and going on in and around Boston)... the subject was about the demise of the "pop scene", and the factors which have driven it since as long as I can remember – radio play, the Top 40, recordings and so on. <br><br>Anyway, since record stores are going the way of the dinosaur, it seems that the young people of today might replace all those wonderful cultural markers with tweets and constant attention to their hand-held devices. </p>
<p>If that is so, then I really pity them, if only because a lack of musical references in one's life and times is probably going to leave our successors even more superficially shallow than they already seem to be. I truly hope this applies to a small portion of them, because, I truly feel that to be an active participant of this world, one has to have some significant cultural markers to trace one's existence in this world.</p>
<p>Time will tell, I suppose... stay tuned for more ramblings.</p>
Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574492012-01-04T07:10:03-05:002020-01-08T13:17:19-05:00Radio... or, if you're from someplace else you could get lucky?
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;">I just received an email from DJ Peter Van Zeijl that music from my CD "I'm Taking My Time" is on the playlist for Folk en Zo (<a href="http://www.folkenzo.net/" data-imported="1"><span style="color:#0018ea">www.folkenzo.net</span></a>). Broadcasted every Wednesday evening from 8 until 10 (local time Holland) on Dollard Radio (www.dollardradio.nl) 105.8 FM coming from Winschoten, the Netherlands! </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>Yes, I am very pleased and honored that my humble efforts are being played overseas... and (full disclosure) I was also approached via email by old acquaintances from South Africa to ask me to send music to them in other parts of the world. So, I hear that "I" am being played in Hobart, Tasmania; Durban, South Africa... and a couple of other countries as well. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>As I mentioned, I am truly chuffed (i.e. pleased) that this is happening, for many reasons other than having my ego stroked... and that my music is being re-discovered by old and new acquaintances.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>These days, as one of the multitudes of DIY musicians, I have "invested" a ton of my own meagre financial resources into making my own CD. We do this for many reasons: but in my case, and I am certain I am not alone here, this latest and only solo CD was made because if I did not do it, I might never have the opportunity again, so I "did it myself" after much toil, sweat, and self-examination. </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>But, can I get it played locally? (Other than on WICN, Worcester, Massachusetts... Thank you, Nick Noble!) I don't really know. Maybe, and I am almost positive about this: it may be because I recorded parts of it at home, and the fancy bits in a local well-equipped studio, pulling in the help and talent of musicians I know and have played with for years, I also produced it myself. Maybe that was a mistake. One can hardly expect to be that self-critical, or can one? Next time, I will hire a producer, if I can afford one.</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>In retrospect, I am sure I could have sung a lot better, and perhaps not approached some of the vocals like an actor might (and besides,I was 66 years old at the time I completed the recording sessions, and no, I can no longer sing like John Denver or other wonderful vocalists... maybe I should have tried. Aaaah, ain't hindsight wonderful?) </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"><br>So, I join many of my local compatriot musos here in the greater Boston area, who have their own CDs to flog, in wishing that our local 24-7 folk station would play our music... but then, I don't expect they will... what the hey, I 'll just keep on mailing out my CD to radio stations in other parts of the country and the world at large... perhaps I will hear about more airplay, perhaps not, but like a lot of others, there are boxes and boxes of "product" down in mine and their basements, keeping our homes from flying away in a high wind. Who said music isn't useful?</p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 13.0px Tahoma;">Heck, why not just navigate over to my music page, and listen to my stuff there. (Although: it would sound a lot better on the CD, on your own player... really!)</p>
Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574482011-05-15T07:26:34-04:002020-01-08T13:17:19-05:00Nerves, if you don't have 'em you must be dead.
<p>Nerves... oy! An invitation to be one of four singer-songwriters at a new venue was received and accepted about a month ago. My friend Chuck Williams who was one of the invitees, generously recommended me to fill the bill. I had been somewhat of a nag asking him what the "format" was i.e. how large was the stage and could I bring my band (a trio, including myself). Well, the nerves kicked in about a week and a half prior to the gig, when I was told... "It is all about the song, so it's just you and your instrument." First I felt panic, then inadequacy and then a round and round bout of nerves... ye gads, I haven't played "solo" in donkey's years! SO, I diligently began practicing my songs especially with that solo presentation in mind...</p>
<p>The great thing about this "lesson" was that I approached e very song I considered suitable for this 30 minute set, and began re-interpreting the accompaniment.... how were the parts played by the other instruments I had originally arranged for my last recording (All on my CD "I'm Taking My Time")...</p>
<p>It was especially illuminating to approach my guitar playing as not just the backup instrument, but also as a solo instrument, playing horn parts, percussive parts etc. a little more carefully than I had in the past.</p>
<p>The gig has come and gone... the day was spent preparing by nourishing myself adequately, drinking a lot of water and tea and rehearsing the tunes that were still a bit problematic... a three-mile walk two hours before I had to leave for the gig got me into a good mood... and I dressed appropriately and remembered to pack my car with a guitar stand, some CDs, a music stand and a book of lyrics....just in case.</p>
<p>When my turn came to take the stage, and with the lyrics there to prompt me just in case my memory failed me.... I began my set, arranged for variety of pace and subject... I introduced each tune by only explaining the motivation for writing each song and by the time my set was over, I was feeling very good about myself, and by realizing how nerves can actually help one get through a gig.</p>
<p>Oh, and I slept like a log after getting home, happily exhausted by a good night's "work".</p>
Mel Greentag:melgreensings.com,2005:Post/61574472011-03-17T09:28:00-04:002020-01-08T13:17:18-05:00Musings...
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<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; margin: 0px;"><strong>What's in a name?</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"> </p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">Well, my mother named me Melvyn... evidently after the actor Melvyn Douglas, who was quite the heart throb in the late 30s, 40s and on into the 50s... I know, she dragged me along to many of his movies. </p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">My mother Rose, (given name Becky) loved movies, and I do too. During my early years I was taken to many movies by my parents. I squirmed through romances and many love scenes. I writhed with mirth during many comedies. I sulked through Astaire and MacDonald Dance epics, and I was transfixed by cowboy and action movies.... featuring stars named Buck, Hopalong, Roy, Gene, Durango and Billy. (Why didn't my parents name me one of those amazing cool names? I could've held my head up high with a name like that, but no, Melvyn it remained. Heck, in retrospect, I might have been named Melvin! (I am often abused in this way by people who don't know about the alternate spelling!)</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">Then, a cousin of mine, Lenore Leader, the eldest of all my paternal family cousins, thought I was a really cute little kid, and from then on named me Mel (thanks Lenore, sincerely!) From then on I had to struggle to be called Mel, but until I grew into myself at age 18 or so, it was not to be, as evidenced by the strident, elongated come-to-supper calls by my mom.</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">I was also named after my late maternal grandfather, Motelchai Katz.... and thus my Hebrew name is Mordecai... During the late 60s, I auditioned for the role of Motel the Tailor, when "Fiddler on the Roof" was produced in Johannesburg in 1969. I didn't get the part. Although a tall dark haired Christian guy named Tom McSomething did!</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">Then in 1963 I transferred to the Johannesburg School of Art, where I soon met Mel Miller, with whom I started a folk duo, at first called Melvyn & Melvyn (yes, his mother also loved Melvyn Douglas, the film idol!) This name for an up-and-coming folk duo was decidedly uncool, so we changed it to Mel &Mel... and when Julian Laxton joined, it was tempered somewhat to Mel, Mel & Julian.</p>
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<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">Mel Miller was much taller than moi, and both being fair haired, slim, blue-eyed, goyishe-looking Jewish boys, helped the name stick. Although at times, in my mind's eye I saw myself as a Woody Allen type, while he was of the well-built Charles Atlas variety. Like a typical "before and after", you know?</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">Anyhow, now that I am in my 60s, I don't really care about names, I like myself... and I've achieved a lot, made quite a few of my dreams come true...and I am so happy that I was not named something else... When I get the chance, let me introduce you to my (beloved) cousins, Selwyn, Wilfred, Max, Ivan and Errol...</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;">They will all attest that, based on their considerable achievements, they don't think that names matter at all either.</p>
<p style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Helvetica; min-height: 14px; margin: 0px;"><br></p>
<p><strong>Surprise, nerves... and memory!</strong></p>
<p>I dropped in at an Open Mic the other evening to catch good friends doing their feature. As luck and time would have it, I arrived later than I'd have liked to, due to late dinner and other obligations. </p>
<p>My other good friend who runs this really special venue in Lincoln saw me coming in and told his wife that he wanted me to do a song... how could I refuse? OK... I processed that and began to mentally figure out which song to sing. </p>
<p>These days I admit that I prefer to sing with backing musicians, if only for the reassurance that they might cover my flubs, and also because they really enhance my vocal and guitar playing. </p>
<p>I had not brought a guitar along because I did not register for the open mic (required by noon of the same day latest) and so I did not expect to sing, and that was really fine by me... so, imagine my surprise when I had just found a seat minutes after my arrival, when the host announced that I would be the <em>next</em> performer!</p>
<p>Instant yikes! Moisture in the armpits where there had been none before! I freaked... when I really should have taken a very deep breath instead... a friend sitting in the seat immediately in front of me offered to lend me her guitar, so she and I rushed into the "green room" where she unpacked her beautiful guitar from her gig bag... and I then went back out into the main performance room... obviously because I was not ready,the host had already put someone me else on in my stead to keep the "show" flowing smoothly.</p>
<p>This is where the nerves really kicked in... the performer was doing a song about the seasons, so I thought, "good idea"... I can do my song about the seasons which would be a brilliant segue. </p>
<p>The host generously introduced me., paying me all sorts of wonderful compliments ("one of my favorite performers and songwriters, always a pleasure to have at the venue etc. blah, blah etc.") Now I am really sweating!<br>I began the tune and would'ja believe it (yes you would!) I forgot the lyrics, then I remembered the first line, launched into a beautiful vocal, playing this gorgeous guitar, and again my memory failed me as I then began to make up the words as I went along, bad rhymes and all! </p>
<p>(My memory ain't what it used to be and I've performed this song countless times, as it is one of my earliest compositions... and once I had finished and after some appreciative applause (I had performed the song convincingly according to comments and compliments afterwards).</p>
<p>I realize that I should really play and practice these tunes if only to have them memorized when such a rare occasion arose again.</p>
<p>Yes indeed, surprise, combined with nerves, really do combine to screw up one's memory. Next time I'll do better... I hope!</p>
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Mel Green