...God is magnificent and worthy to be praised...!

...the most recent ramblings at 'Megaphone Musings"...http://herbmerriweather.blogspot.com/2010/10/aint-to-proud-to-beg.html

Ain't To Proud To Beg...!

Recently I was involved with a job assignment that taught me several lessons...not the least of which was to ask for help when you need it.
We as voice over artists sometimes cocoon ourselves into our own little niches--working alone on projects both simple and extensive--relying on our talent, previous experience and know-how to get us through. Usually that combination of brains and savvy is enough to keep us consistent (and our clients happy). But what happens when equipment or experience or both leave you wanting...unable to deliver what you've promised?
In my case, I had simple one-sentence audio files to produce--the client had already enjoyed my audition and was ready for a complete product. After quickly recording and sending them, the client replied saying that the files were unusable and that there was a major audio problem. This news put me on high panic alert. 'Unusable!' 'Major Audio Problems!' I couldn't rest. Painstakingly, I re-recorded the entire project--lovingly auditing the files and assuring myself that, even though I may have rushed at first, this product would be much more to the customers liking. 2 days later my bubble was burst by the news that even though the files sounded better, they were still unusable and now the customer is expressing concern and even sent me samples of other audio files to give me direction. OH, NO! Faced with the possibility of forfeiting a much needed job, my mind began to race. What do I do? I'm obviously not getting it. That's when I realized that if I'm not getting it, I need to talk to someone who DOES get it. Someone local, with their own studio, who had the expertise, the equipment, and the patience to deal with such monumental incompetence!
Enter John Taylor--Hollywood voice over legend and newly-minted non-smoker!
After sending him an email filled with drama, he told me to send him a couple of the faulty files. Not much later, I got my answer--I record way too hot (and have been doing so for quite some time). John gave me a crash course in new era digital recording that sent me scurrying to my Soundforge program and resetting just about everything--including my own ancient ideas about audio reproduction.
Are you on the horns of a dilemma? Got a real head-scratcher that's not only costing you time and peace of mind but possibly money and reputation as well? You don't have to go it alone! Once you realize that others in the industry have answers and are willing to help, you can get better in your craft. If you remain 'teachable' you can overcome and excel.
Gratitude abounds...and I sound much better now! Lessons learned, job completed and John Taylor has shoved his cape back under his shirt--ready to come to someone else's rescue on a moments notice!
Thanks, John...and Happy Voicing everyone!

...still rainin', still dreamin'...(with apologies to Jimi)...

...out of 'The Hole' and on the road to Las Vegas tomorrow--I'm going to visit the money that they took on my last trip...

...edit (ed'it) v. 1. To assemble the components of (e.g. a film or soundtrack), as by cutting and splicing...

...auspicious auditions and alarming alliteration--ambling amiably at 'The Hole'...

..."Fire in 'The Hole'!...creative fire, that is--put that bucket down...

More Than A Legend...

The recent passing of legendary soul singer/songwriter Solomon Burke triggered a flood of emotion and memories that washed over our entire family. My niece, Kila, has been a life long friend of Queen Victoria Burke (one of Solomon's 21 children) and through that relationship we gained rare insight into his world and personality.
Solomon Burke was more than a legend--when Kila's infant daughter passed away from complications at birth, it was Solomon Burke who officiated the services...comforting and embracing all of us.
Solomon Burke was more than a legend--a man of devout faith, he insisted that gospel music be a part of his repertoire...and he insisted that my sister, Rosalind Graham, be the featured gospel singer at the Long Beach and Monterey Blues Festivals.
Solomon Burke was more than a legend--he was a man who ate with us and fed us; he laughed and teased with us and he mourned with us; he prayed and worshipped with us, sang with us and even appeared on Rosalinds' television ministry program (resplendent cape and all) just because she asked him to.
Solomon Burke was much more than a legend--he was a dear, dear friend...

...Happy Thanksgiving to my beloved Canadian Constituency--late, but heartfelt nonetheless...

...eerie noises and flashing lights cascade from 'The Hole'--not to mention a few auditions...

...Andy Boyns in Hollywood (and in 'The Hole') with yours truly...
http://andyboyns.com/vo/2010/10/podcast-herb-merriweather.html