Jim Blue's Blog Page

 January - 2010

What's an Independent Artist to do?

I have a true dilemma.  I have tons of songs and mountains of ideas, but I can't seem to get them to market nearly as fast as I'd like (and definitely not as fast as my friends and fans would like!)  I spend hours and hours each day in the studio and slowly but surely crank out a tune now and then.  And it takes me a year or more to release a new CD.

A large part of the reason for this is because I do everything myself.  This includes playing the instruments, singing the vocals, recording and producing the songs, mastering the CD and on and on.

I'm not bragging mind you, it's simply a necessity.  I have my own studio and I'm an independent artist and, therefore, have full artistic sovereignty over all aspects of my music.  It's a lot of work and very time consuming.... but very much worth it.

So... back to my dilemma.  I've been brainstorming for quite some time about how I can speed things up.  How I can create and release songs faster.

Bingo!

When I least expected it, a solution popped out of nowhere!  Here's what happened.

On fairly regular basis, I am inspired by a piece of equipment that can enhance my creativity.  Recently, I was inspired by such a device, and it's called an Akai APC40.  Similar devices are used by many very creative artists.

Have you heard of Imogen Heap?

If you haven't you should definitely check her out.  She writes amazing music.  She sings beautifully, and she's strikingly attractive on so many levels.  She uses a similar musical device.

I was watching Imogen play "First Train Home" on her recent David Letterman appearance on YouTube and noticed that she had some type of cool musical device on her lap that she tapped occasionally and at the end of her song kinda jammed on with drum fills.  It had a lot of buttons on it and they lit up in different colors!

I just had to find out what that cool musical device was!  So, I started googling and found out that it was called a monome and made by monome.org.

I discovered that the monomes were out of stock so I searched further and found other similar devices.  The one that caught my attention was the Akai APC40.

Coincidence?

I read about it and studied it for several days and then my February  Recording magazine arrived.  I typically flip through the magazine before I read it, looking for new things that might enhance my music.  Nothing this month until I set it down on the coffee table with the back cover page (which I hadn't looked at) facing up, and there was the APC40!  Hmmmm, I thought, coincidence?

And Pete Townshend was pictured with the unit, and he liked it!  He said he was "hooked" on it!  I figure that Pete doesn't need the money, and I felt that this was more than a coincidence that a picture of the unit (that I was pretty much already sold on) was now laying on my coffee table.... so I bought one!  And I have to tell you, it rocks!

As soon as I post this blog, I'm going to fire my new APC40 up and start creating new music!

November - 2009

I just LOVE the internet!

Why?  Because it's so cool!  And because I have met wonderful people all over the world! Many of whom are also devoted fans of my music.

But, although I live in the USA, I recently discovered that my iTunes are downloaded 10 times more often abroad than in the USA!  What a wonderful surprise THAT was! That information resulted in a major paradigm shift.

Paradigm Shift

My iTunes realization lead me to seek out new ways to present my music to the world.

Being an independent musician is awesome but, one of the challenging aspects of that state of being is, financing a world tour.  So I began to research and google and read blogs and listen to podcasts.  I began thinking outside of the box. 

I opened my mind to all possibilities and lo and behold, the universe presented USTREAM.

What's so great about USTREAM?

USTREAM is kinda like YouTube but live.  It allows me to stream live concerts over the internet anytime, from anywhere I can hook up a webcam.  Once I made that discovery, I went right to work remodeling my studio to accommodate live concerts on the internet.

I installed stage lighting, a live sound system, and the computer technology necessary to webcast high quality video as well as rich stereo sound.

YOU can interact with me!

During my live webcasts, you can actually interact with me in real time!  You can request songs, comment on songs, applaud for songs, and also interact with other fans who are logged into the virtual concert hall.  Now, that's awesome!  

So what does that mean to you my friend?

You don't have to wait for me to play in your town!  The possibilities are endless.  Now you can see me from the comfort of your own home, over a jumbtron, or even your local restaurant, internet cafe or pub!

I've already done a live sound check and will be adding a calendar to my website so stay tuned!  I'm planning on at the very least, monthly webcasts, possibly weekly.

August - 2009

An activity that I very much enjoy and have done for years is journaling.  Some call it a diary.  I call mine a journal.  Seldom does a day go by without me making an entry into my personal journal. My journal has become the memoir of my life.

I really enjoy inspired writing and have found that a great source of inspiration is my journal.  Many of my writings (as well as my music) spring forth from the more profound life experiences I have recorded in my journal.

I would love to share my most recent original writings with you.  All of these inspired writings are about real life experiences that I have noted in my journal.

Here are the links to my inspired writings.  Click any of these links to open:

• Didgeridoos: Circular Breathing and Meditation

• Your Natural Flow

• Blissful Awareness

December - 2008

My dear friends,

It was the summer of 2007.  I became utterly consumed by the wonderful dream of creating the best CD I have ever recorded.  Opening my heart to the world and sharing the creative gifts I've been blessed with, using music as my vehicle.  The gifts I'm speaking of are my talents in voice, guitar, songwriting, and performing.

And I mustn't forget the incredible gift that is given to the songwriter (and subsequently given to the world) when the songwriter infuses a thought (an idea for a song) with unshakable determination, transforming what was once simply an infinitesimal nanovolt of inspiration into a one-of-a-kind recording that can be seen, touched, played, and heard across the globe, through our solar system, and millions of years from now, even in other galaxies as the radio waves continue to travel at incomprehensible speeds throughout the universe.  It just blows my mind.

I was driven by the profound desire to express and record deeply moving life experiences like love, romance, heartbreak, the importance of living in the moment, savoring a summer breeze from atop a tall tree, standing in awe while absorbing an amber sunset, the soothing comfort of a mother's loving arms, sharing a park bench with a wise old man, and the triumphant achievement of a childhood dream.

The authenticity of such sharing magnifies the music and brightly shines through when the singer vocalizes the lyric with the heartfelt emotions intended by the writer.

That's when a song truly moves you.  That's when you can't get that melody or lyric out of your mind.  That's when it penetrates and mingles with your heart releasing vivid memories of times in your life when you felt the same way.  You can feel your own strong emotions rising up from deep within your soul as they are beckoned by the passion in the artist's provocative performance.

Did someone say passion?  Was I passionately consumed?  You bet I was.  I'm talkin' extreme fixation on the goal.  For a year and a half, whenever anyone would ask me "Hey Jim!  Whatcha been up to?"  My response was always... "I've been working on my CD!"

And why would it take 18 months?  Between writing and rewriting the music and the lyrics, recording track after track (I used no other musicians) of instruments and vocals and finally producing the music, It was almost overwhelming at times.

But I couldn't stop.  I didn't want to stop.  I seldom took a day off and typically worked most weekends.  And being somewhat of a perfectionist and having nearly perfect pitch, I often threw away weeks of recordings because I didn't like the way they sounded when I thought I was finished.  But I was always glad I did because the end result exceeded my wildest expectations.

And now I stand here elated to announce to you that my new "More Than A Dream" CD has officially been released.  It is now available as a CD at CDBaby.com, and is also available for download to your MP3 player at the major digital media companies such as iTunes, Zune, and many dozens of others.

My new, 12 song CD contains some of the best work I've done. The best vocals, the best guitar playing, the best songwriting, and the best production.  Speaking of guitar playing.... there is lots and lots of acoustic and electric guitar!

I will be booking gigs in Cleveland and the surrounding areas and will be adding a calendar to my website.  Check back often for website updates.  See you soon!

With love,

Jim Blue

April - 2008

Sometimes, when you spread your wings, you land in the most unexpected and wonderful places!

As of April 6, I accepted the position of featured guitarist for BeatleBrunch.com.  At over a million hits per month BeatleBrunch is the #1 Beatles website on the internet.

It's a one stop shop for Beatles news, Beatles theme cruises, a Beatlefest, a weekly  BeatleBrunch radio show and more.

 BeatleBrunchClub.com is the name of their new website.  I must say, it is very cool.  Members have exclusive access to a ton of perks and my video guitar lessons are part of the exclusive benefits for members.

P.S I am still working feverishly on my new CD release!

Check back often for the latest news on my CD and Videos.   Have a wonderful day!

March - 2008

Can you believe it's March Already?

Greetings and welcome back!  Here we are in March already.  Just a few days ago, it was 2 degrees at my house.  The snow was half a meter deep so I fired up my snow blower, hopefully for the last time, to clear 1/2 a meter deep snow from the entire 56 meter length of my driveway!  I'd much rather be in my studio!

Balanced Living Magazine

Although quite cold and snowy, February was awesome!  I'm very excited about my Didgeridoo Meditation article being featured in the January / February 2008 issue of Balanced Living Magazine.  I saw a significant increase in website visits and comments in my new guestbook since my article was published.

Relaxing Music and More

In addition to that, I've had a plethora of emails and comments regarding expressing my musical creativity in new and adventurous ways.  So many, in fact, that I lost count!

Fans of my relaxation music (Crystal Blue Tranquility) and meditations (Meditations for Tranquility) have expressed their concern that I won't be creating new music for  relaxation, reiki, massage, and meditation.  Rest assured, I will continue to create more relaxing music. :-)

Expanding My Music

The expansion of my musical endeavors was engendered by significant life events (wake up calls).  These "eye openers"  really got me thinking about taking more control of the direction of my life rather than drifting like a ship without a sail.  My music is a significant part of that transition but just one part of the whole. 

I realize that, although I love the relaxing music I create,  my creative self has been pushing against the perimeter of my comfort zone, resisting boundaries and compartmentalization..  Expansion is the natural state of the universe and, being part of the universe (the last time I checked!) I have the urge to expand my musical horizons.

Kind of like Harrison Ford (and many other actors).  When he decided to expand beyond Star Wars.  Everyone loved him in Star Wars but now, he's known for so many other wonderful roles.

Pushing the Envelope

So, now I'm pushing the musical envelope in order to share the superfluity of music I am so eager to communicate to the world.  They say that, if you're not moving forward, you're moving backward.  I'm all for living in the moment in balance with personal growth.  That lead to one of my goals for my new CD which is to be able to play all songs live at gigs.  I love a live audience and am looking forward to meeting lots and lots of new people.

Guitar Lessons

I am also energized by the tremendous response to my first YouTube guitar lesson!  I've had numerous requests to add more and I promise I will.  For now, though, my main focus is to finish my new CD but in between recording sessions, I plan on shooting and posting instructional videos on how to play both acoustic and rock guitar.

Studio Recording Lessons

I've also been asked to share my studio production expertise.  On my recordings, I do everything.  Music, production, engineering, mix down, everything.  I'm not bragging, it's just the way I create my music the most...... creatively!

I spend endless hours in my studio and it would be impossible to coordinate the timing with other musicians and producers.  It's hard work but the end result is that I can produce my music in such a way that the quality rivals the big name acts.

I hope to share my recording secrets through YouTube videos that will be posted on YouTube as well as JimBlueMusic.com and BlueTranquility.com.

If you have a request, please continue to share through emails and your awesome positive comments in my guest book.

The Wedding Song Sheet Music

One of the many golden nuggets that have been quarried through comments and emails is my new song "The Miracle" and it's possibilities. 

I've received many requests for sheet music for wedding ceremonies.  Although I think "The Miracle" is perfect for such an awesome ceremony, that application hadn't occurred to me!  It was a pleasant surprise!

What To Expect In March

Due to popular demand, I've decided to continue posting my new songs for  free listening.  I am moving forward at an insane pace with my music.  Don't let the fact that I haven't posted a song in awhile fool you.  I am working behind the scenes, perfecting the songs preparing for release.

In Closing

That's all for now my friends.  Is that a new melody I hear floating down from the universal river of creativity?  My, my, my!  It's a beauty!  I think I'm getting goose bumps!  I have to hurry and capture this!   I'm reaching for my newly strung Martin DC-16GTE (it sounds so sweet with new strings), turning on my mixing console...... there, I got it!!

Talk with you soon my dear friends.  Today, just for the fun of it, tell everyone you love that you love them.  I'll bet it will put a smile on your face too.  :-)

P.S.  Thank you for all your guestbook comments and emails.  Please stay in touch, I love hearing from you!

Jim Blue

February - 2008

Happy February to you!  I hope wherever you are in the world, it is nice and warm.

As of this writing, it is about 20 degrees in Cleveland, Ohio.... brrrrrrrrr!  I'm looking out my studio window right now and the 50 mph winds are howling through the trees, dumping snow everywhere.  But that does not dampen my spirits in the lease (OK, maybe just a little!).  

I am very psyched because, yesterday, I just uploaded my first guitar lesson to YouTube.  I had many inquiries about how I did the guitar solo in my new song "More Than A Dream" so I recorded a video guitar lesson and made it available at YouTube.  You can watch it on YouTube or on my homepage by clicking here.

Since I play and enjoy a very wide variety of styles from rock to classical, I plan on adding additional lessons in the coming weeks.  I will also be adding video lessons on playing the didgeridoo and circular breathing.

I am considering videos on meditation as well.   I just have to figure out the best way to present the meditation videos.  It might be kind of boring watching a 20 minute video of me in a candle lit room with my eyes closed!

I was just slightly hesitant to put my new songs up on my homepage prior to actually releasing my new CD (it was an ego thing) but my heart said that it was the right thing to do so I did it.  And I am so very, very  happy that I did!

Not only am I hearing great things from people across the globe who I didn't know before, but I'm also hearing from friends whom I've know for years but haven't heard from in a while.

I want to thank you for your support.  As I complete new songs, I will continue to post them, free for the listening, at least through end of this month (February).

As a matter of fact, I'm working on a couple of new ones today and hope to have at least one of them finished before the day is over.

Well, that's all for today my friends.  I'm reaching for my guitar, turning on my mixing console, and humming a melody for a brand new song as we speak.  Have a wonderful day my dear friends.

See you soon, please stay in touch!

Jim Blue

January - 2008

Jim Blue, guitar virtuoso, vocalist and songwriter, is on the home stretch to the release of his groundbreaking new CD.  His new 12 song CD presents a tantalizing mix of up-tempo tunes, unforgettable melodies, evocative lyrics, and introspective "unplugged" acoustic guitar selections.

All songs are written, arranged, and produced by Jim Blue.  All instruments and vocals are performed by Jim.  It is a tribute to Jim's wide diversity of musical talents and interests.

In this first news release of 2008, Jim Blue bares all in this exceedingly forthright account of his new musical direction, his new CD, and how it all came about.

In Jim's words:

"In 2006, I was run over by a Mack truck, metaphorically speaking. I traversed a monumental paradigm shift that launched me into a courageous new adventure of personal and musical discovery.  In retrospect, I understand it as a colossal spiritual / emotional evolution. As an artist and as a man, I've been kickin' around long enough to appreciate the significance of such a momentous milestone.

Don't get me wrong, sometimes these transitions feel as if you won't survive.  This was one of those.  I've endured my share of upheavals, and have learned to push my  ego aside and process the events from a loving space deep within my heart.  I realize that, only then, can I  attain the clarity of thought necessary to recognize my challenges as the lessons and growth opportunities they actually are.  And only then, can I internalize it so as to truly fortify and nourish my  spirit.

Once I finally put myself into the "silver lining" mindset (easier said than done) the light came on. And I'm not talking about a dim 60 watt bulb.  I'm talking about the brilliant luminosity of a supernova stellar explosion. I slapped myself on the forehead with the heel of my hand (it actually left a red mark) and exclaimed "duh!"  And within that millisecond, the direction of my life was changed…… forever.  Here's what I discovered, and how it guided me to the remarkable place I am now. Bear with while I set the scene….. :-)

I'm not bragging when I say that, I am a master guitarist and an excellent singer, songwriter, and performer.  I certainly should be. I've been playing professionally since I was 15. I've played thousands and thousands of shows in the United States and even as far away as Tokyo, Japan.  When I was playing full time I was doing as many as 350 shows a year.

 I released my first CD, "Crystal Blue Tranquility", in 2003 and I am very proud of it. Crystal Blue Tranquility has been enjoyed across the globe. 

The music reflected the holistic and transcendental endeavors that I was immersed in at the time such as meditation, massage, and Reiki.

After about the 3rd song and a few obligatory accolades regarding chord structure or melody lines, their less than enthusiastic comment would be, "where's the guitar?" :-(

Although I did play guitar on one song, "When Spirits Part", the rest of the songs on my Crystal Blue Tranquility CD were mainly keyboard and synth sounds but no guitar.  Early in 2007, I even got an email through MySpace from an awesome singer from Lakewood, Ohio whom I had met a few years earlier in person.  She expressed that she knew I had much more music to offer. She didn't mention the guitar but the implications of her email inspired me.  I have no idea how she knew, but she knew.  I was busted.

So, here's what I've been leading up to!  Although I am an accomplished guitarist and singer, I admitted to myself that I had been hiding behind technology.  I wasn't stretching my comfort zone.  I wasn't putting it on the line.  I wasn't allowing the true Jim Blue to shine.  For some crazy reason, I was uneasy about offering my best to the world.  What's up with that???

Having arrived at this lucid realization, I plotted the course to the release of my new CD.  A CD to be remembered by with guitar on every song.  Some with electric guitar, some with acoustic guitar, some with both.  Singing on lots of songs. Include a wide variety of my best compositions. Ballads, up-tempo tunes, love songs, and uplifting songs about dreams fulfilled.  I was psyched.

The more I planned the more excited I became!  I began vocal lessons to get my voice back in shape, practicing singing 45 minutes a day, and also began practicing an average of 2 hours a day on my new Martin acoustic guitar.  I've been in that mode for more than a year now and the results have been astonishing.  I've even surprised myself at how far I've come.  I'm at the top of my game.

I've been working day and night in hopes of releasing my new CD in January but there's a perfectionist sitting on my shoulder, whispering in my ear, so I didn't quite make it.  Maybe it's a Capricorn thing.

The CD will have 12 songs including unplugged acoustic guitar pieces as well as full blown productions with drums, vocals, bass guitar, acoustic and electric lead guitar.  I'm almost finished recording but there are also some logistics to wrap up like finalizing the CD design, having the CD duplicated and shrink wrapped, and booking my CD release party!  I'm targeting February for release with a tour to follow beginning with bookings in March.

I have great news though.  I've had so many requests about my new CD that I decided to place several songs from it here on my website, for my fans to enjoy while waiting for my new CD.  Please tell your friends about this and send them the link to my website so they can enjoy them as well."

November - 2007

As Jim Blue's musical influence expands globally, this month, he shares his thoughts on reaching new audiences through two incredibly popular websites, Squidoo and MySpace.

"I really get a rush out of finding new ways and technology to reach new fans.  Besides my official website, www.BlueTranquility.com, Squidoo and MySpace are the two that I'm currently focusing on.  Facebook and YouTube will be my next endeavors.

As the January 2008 release date of my new unplugged CD approaches, I will also be producing music videos of many of the songs.  Those will definitely be posted on YouTube as well as www.BlueTranquility.com.

I will also leverage the calendar functions of these awesome social sites. 

In addition to studio produced videos of my new releases, I will also be releasing live video from my performances.

Getting back to Squidoo, I found a ton of very interesting material on Squidoo that was very enlightening and informative so I decided to post some of my magazine articles there.  It's fun and really easy.  I recommend it for anyone who would like to share their knowledge.  

Regarding MySpace, I've met so many wonderful people there.  It's an awesome place to meet new friends and new fans too!  As a musician, I am also able to add an MP3 player to my MySpace page so fans can listen to samples of my music and even purchase individual songs or an entire album.

Click here to reach my MySpace website."

October - 2007

Jim Blue gets a gold star this month for reaching number one!  That's right Number One!  Go ahead.... Give it a try!  Search for Jim Blue in Google and BlueTranquility.com, his official website, will display at the very top of the Google search page.

This coveted search engine position takes extreme effort  to achieve, and is the culmination of the accessibility of the Crystal Blue Tranquility CD and MP3s, not only at the largest retailers in the world such as Wal-Mart but also across the globe through more than 41 different MP3 and digital download companies such as iTunes.

In Jim's words,  "I really have to thank my dedicated fans all over the world for this.  

My website, BlueTranquility.com, and my website at CDBaby are constantly being viewed by people all over the world who are looking for music to use for relaxation, Reiki, massage, and the like.

It's an awesome feeling to have such a worldwide fan base.  This is a goal I've had for most of my life and I am thrilled to have achieved it!

I can't wait to release my new unplugged CD in January for the world to enjoy.  It's a bit of a new direction for me that I think my fans are going to love."

September - 2007

This week marks a monumental achievement for Jim Blue!

Of the more than 100,000 artists who offer their CDs at CD Baby,  Jim Blue's Crystal Blue Tranquility CD has soared to the #2 position in the New Age, Energy Healing category!

Jim's enthusiastically explains how this all came about:

"This honor has been a long time coming!  I'd like to share a few of  the most significant events that lead to this milestone. 

I first released Crystal Blue Tranquility in December of 2003.  Right around the same time, life redirected my attention in a way that resulted in me being way less focused on marketing my music than I otherwise might have been.

In the summer of 2006 my focus returned to my music and I began to do everything in my power to acquaint the world with my music!

It was no surprise to me that Crystal Blue Tranquility had taken on a life of its own, and had already gained a lot of worldwide momentum with very little marketing my me.

People around the globe had already discovered that the music of Crystal Blue Tranquility was specifically designed to restore balance through deep relaxation and stress reduction.

Professional bodyworkers and energyworkers had also discovered the meditative, relaxing, stress relieving qualities of Crystal Blue Tranquility and were using it during sessions with their massage and Reiki clients.

Nevertheless, I was inspired to research and utilize every avenue possible to touch the hearts of people everywhere with my music.

I began to add interesting content to my website such as instructions on how to meditate, including full length MP3s to meditate to.

I also added interesting magazine articles I had written that have universally meaningful life lessons, and a headlines page to keep my fans up to date on breaking news.

In addition, I've gone full steam ahead promoting Crystal Blue Tranquility through digital media such as iTunes.  The most popular companies my digital music is available through are listed on my "music" page (see link at top left of this page).

I also created a MySpace page called JimBlueMusic that includes my new SNOCAP MP3 store.  You can also find my new SNOCAP MP3 store on my "music" page.

Additionally, I created "Jim Blue's Meditations For Tranquility" CD and now offer that at CD Baby as well.

It's been a lot of hard work but I can now see that regaining my focus is paying off in wonderful ways.  My digital sales this year actually surpassed my CD sales.  I sell a lot of digital music in Europe.  I'm even considering touring there!

The upcoming January 2008 release of my "unplugged" acoustic guitar / vocal CD will be the crowning achievement of the newly focused Jim Blue.  My creativity has been flowing and I've been rehearsing the new material for hours every day.

It's kind of like preparing for any physical competition.  I've got my acoustic "chops" in better shape than they ever have been so I'm totally prepared for the studio!

I really am proud to be one of the artists listed at CD Baby.  To have reached #2 of their top 40 in their New Age, Energy Healing category is truly an honor."

August - 2007

Almost two years in the making, the alliance between Jim Blue's CD distribution company CD Baby, and the SNOCAP mp3 distribution company comes to fruition!

Jim Blue comments on this partnership, what it means to him and his music, and what it means to his fans worldwide.

"I am so excited about this awesome partnership!  I've been anticipating this for a couple of years now.

Although I'm completely happy with the dozens of other very high quality distribution companies such as iTunes that offer my music, SNOCAP gives me a level of control that the others don't.  And I see that as a great benefit to my fans worldwide.

For instance, when I write a new song,  I used to have to wait until I had enough songs for a complete CD, 

record the CD, market the CD, then find a company to offer the digital version.

Now, I can write a new song and immediately make it available to the world through my SNOCAP mystore.   I can even offer discounts on my music for special events.

This is an incredible leap forward for the recording artist as well as the fans.

As with other digital download companies, you can listen to samples of each song and select any combination of songs for purchase.

I have incorporated my new MYSTORE here at www.BlueTranquility.com.  Anyone wanting to check it out can click on the 'music' link at the top of this page"

July - 2007

Having just released his super relaxing and inspirational "Meditations for Tranquility" CD, Jim Blue emerged from the studio to relax and speak about his new musical creation:

"Sometimes I think I must be crazy! Jim exclaimed.  Right in the middle of recording my new unplugged CD, I set down my acoustic guitar and decided to finish a guided  meditation CD I had started about two years ago!

Truth be known, I had a request from a friend to complete it and when she asked, I had the feeling that it was high time I finished it, so I did!

But don't worry, I'm back in the studio again working on my unplugged CD and it is coming along fantastically! 

Understandably, due to my current unplugged project, my "Meditations for Tranquility" guided meditation CD has an unplugged feel.  The  major instruments are didgeridoo, piano, guitar, and of course, my voice.

The CD is comprised of four selections.  Each selection is narrated by me:

1. Introduction to Meditation

2. Vibrational Full Body Relaxation

3. Deeply Grounding Melodic Rejuvenation

4. Blissful Awareness

Track one is simply an introduction to the concept of meditation.

Track two is called "Vibrational Full Body Relaxation" and is a head-to-toe guided relaxation meditation.  I played my hand crafted didgeridoo as the main instrument.  The didgeridoo produces an awesomely relaxing tone.

Track three  is called " Deeply Grounding Melodic Rejuvenation" and is a very grounding, relaxing meditation with beautiful melodies to enhance the meditative experience.

Track four  is called "Blissful Awareness" and is kind of a "walking" meditation that enables you to use your senses and nature to tune out worries and stress.

Who could benefit from these meditations?  Anyone who would like to relax.  Even if you're new at meditation, you can learn to meditate following the easy instructions on how to meditate.

Meditations for Tranquility is an awesome collection of meditations.

If you find that you enjoy my Meditations for Tranquility and would like them on CD, they are availably for purchase at CDBaby.com/cd/jimblue2.

March - 2007

Over the years, Jim Blue has spent thousands of hours in the recording studio, and thousands of hours writing and refining his material prior to entering the studio.

During a break in the intense recording schedule for his new CD, Jim articulated the details of his upcoming CD release and tour:

"This is the hardest I have ever worked on a recording project.  But I love it!  And I'm so excited about releasing my new CD, I can hardly wait!!

I used to wonder why famous recording artists were so obsessed with making each subsequent CD better than the previous one.  Now, having  released my first CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility in 2003, I totally understand that mindset.

I have established an awesome fan base and I don't ever want to disappoint them.  Yet, as odd as it may seem, that's a real challenge!

Why is it such a challenge?  Because, I have a ton of what I consider to be great new material that I want to include on my new release.  But how do I know my fans will even like it?  I won't really know for sure until I release it.

I do have a circle of close friends who I totally trust will give me their honest, objective opinion on my new material,  and that helps a lot.

Beyond that, I simply have to trust my instincts, pour my heart into every song and recording, and have faith that my emotion and devotion will radiate from every selection on the CD.

What kind of material am I recording?  You're going to love the wonderful music on my new CD!  Every song includes live acoustic guitar work.  And I am also singing on many songs.

On some songs, I embellish the music with orchestral instruments such as piano and strings but the heart of every song is me playing live acoustic guitar and / or singing.

One of my main reasons for this "unplugged" CD, is because I want to be able to reproduce each song during my live solo concerts.

What is the name of my new CD?  I haven't decided.  I have some great ideas for the CD title but I want to let those ideas simmer for awhile before announcing.

I'm targeting 5-23-07 for my CD release with my tour dates to be announced around the same timeframe.

My tour will consist of small, intimate venues such as coffee shops, wineries, and cozy little clubs where the audience appreciates live, original music performed by solo artists.

Check my website often because I plan on adding a sneak preview of my new tunes over the next couple of months for all my wonderful fans to enjoy."

December - 2006

Jim Blue is not only creative in the world of music but also in the world of inspired writing.

In the following commentary, Jim was more than happy to share the details of his writing endeavors, the creativity behind his thought provoking writings, and the lessons he loves to weave within his stories:

"I really enjoy writing.  Whether it be music, lyrics, or words about my life shaped into an interesting story, it really floats my creative boat!

Recently, I was inspired to write several magazine articles, one of which was published in Cleveland's "The Journey Magazine."

Where do I get my ideas?  Everywhere!  I carry a pocket recorder to capture ideas in real time and I also journal every day.  Whenever I need an idea for a song or an article I turn to my journal.

How easily do ideas flow?  Sometimes very easily and sometimes I get a touch of writer's block.

Ideas typically flow when I'm very relaxed and not really looking for ideas.  I've had some great ideas while mowing the lawn!

Getting away from it all tends to stimulate my imagination and awaken my inspiration.  I get  totally jazzed when the creativity begins to flow.  When a treasure trove of new material emerges, I lock myself in my studio and let it flow.

What kinds of subjects do I write about?  Whatever inspires me at that moment.  Currently, I find myself drawn to stories that revolve around nature.

I've written about the relaxation qualities of an ancient aboriginal instrument I learned to play called the didgeridoo.  I've written about being inspired by a hawk to be in the moment.  I've written about a close encounter with a car wreck that reminded me to take it easy and be more relaxed.

And it's fun to share a story from my own life that has universal meaning.  Life lessons that most people in the world can relate to.

I really want to share these experiences with the world because I believe that we all have more in common than we realize.  We're all going through similar challenges and we all just want to be happy!

I would like to invite you  to read and enjoy my writings.  I've had many requests about reprints.  I welcome you to reprint any or all of my writings for any type of non-profit use."

November - 2006

Once you've experienced a Jim Blue concert, you'll never look at the guitar quite the same.

Jim tastefully embellishes his 4 decades of professional guitar virtuosity utilizing technology to enhance his performances.  You'll wonder if he has a symphony orchestra hidden behind the curtain!

During a break between sets at a recent performance Jim demonstrated and articulated, in layman's terms, the details of this amazing technology.  Jim explains:

"The technology I use is called MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface).  I have a special MIDI device mounted near the bridge of my acoustic guitar that converts the analog guitar notes into a digital representation of the note.

This digital note is exactly the same as is produced by an electronic keyboard.  The digital notes flow into a device called a 'sound module' that converts these digital notes into a sound.

The sound module contains digital recordings of most instruments in an orchestra and can contain virtually any other instrument in the world.

As I play a chord on the guitar, you will hear the sound of the guitar as well as any sound or combination of sounds I choose from my sound module.

For instance, if I select the sound of a grand piano and play an arpeggio with my guitar, you will hear a grand piano playing that arpeggio.  If I select the sound of a string section and play a  chord with my guitar, you will hear the violins of the string section playing that chord.

Many of my fans thought I played keyboard to record for most of my CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility.  But actually, I used my guitar with MIDI technology.

Although I can play a little bit of piano (on an actual piano), I am way more fluent on the guitar so I simply select a sound and play the notes on my MIDI enhanced guitar.

You really can't tell the difference between the sounds my MIDI enhanced guitar produces and the sounds an electronic keyboard or synthesizer produces.

And I love using MIDI for live performances.  That way I can avoid using recordings like Karaoke and can play everything live and in real time.

The sound is so robust that I can sound like a full orchestra if I choose.  But frankly, I prefer  to keep the instrumentation simple so the songs, and the sweet sounds of acoustic guitar, don't get lost in a blur of technology."

October - 2006

Jim Blue, Recording Artist and composer writes about life.  The originals on his CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility, are no exception.

Let's take a peek into Jim's artistic mind as he discusses one of his most popular and touching compositions, 'When Spirits Part', the 2nd song on his popular Crystal Blue Tranquility CD.  The following is Jim's very candid account of his creative process.

"I find inspiration everywhere.  In the details of life as well as in the triumphs and the challenges of life.  The smooth sailing, the rough waters, the ups and downs, and the happys and the sads.  The more gripping the emotion, the more powerful the inspiration.

'When Spirits Part' is one of the most inspired songs I've ever written.  Possibly one of the most powerful.  And yet, it is ever so subtle.  It tiptoes into your heart and before you know it, you can't stop humming the melody.

The day the song came to me is a day I'll never forget.  A very dear friend and I had a devastating misunderstanding.

I realized that it felt as if our spirits, which were very very connected, were parting.  And the title of the song was born.  I immediately grabbed my guitar and the melody came pouring out.  I had most of the song written within an hour.

'When Spirits Part' is a song about life, love, transition, courage, acceptance, and resilience.  It seems to mean something different to each person who listens.

I'm really glad I didn't write lyrics for it because, as an instrumental, people hear the lyrics they need to hear.  People have even emailed lyrics to me...   words that are very meaningful to them for whatever type of 'parting' had occurred in their lives.

As for me, I have also found great comfort in 'When Spirits Part' since I wrote it.

I find that, when spirits part from my life, whether it be due to the sunset of a life or the twilight of a relationship, the melody springs forth new lyrics.

And they're always exactly the words I need to hear."

August - 2006

Jim Blue, guitarist, vocalist and composer of soothing music for bodywork, energywork and relaxation, has returned to the studio.  

In 2005 Jim was captivated by the meditative drone of an ancient Australian Aboriginal instrument called a didgeridoo.

The didgeridoo's relaxing sound and meditative qualities inspired Jim to record a guided meditation using the didgeridoo as the main instrument.

Jim  is expecting to release his guided didgeridoo meditation in January 2007.  When asked to explain how this all came about, Jim described the experience in detail:

"When I was very young, I was highly amused by a silly little song playing on the radio.  It was called 'Tie me kangaroo down sport, tie me kangaroo down' by Rolf Harris.  I thought it was very cool that my favorite verse contained my last name!  'Play your didgeridoo Blue, play your didgeridoo!'

Little did I know, it was my first introduction to a one-of-a-kind instrument that would someday unleash new and exciting musical passions within me.

Decades later, while visiting the Cleveland Zoo Australian Adventure, fate was in the wind.  Kangaroos hopping about, wallabies stretched out comfortably in the shade, my ears and eyes locked onto a man, perched on a stool, in Aussie attire playing some sort of instrument.

During a pause in his performance, I asked what the extraordinary instrument was. He explained that it was a didgeridoo.  After hearing the amazing sound, I knew I had to get one!

As I researched about the didgeridoo, I found that the didgeridoo

is thought to be the oldest wind instrument on the planet.  Many believe the soothing drone to possess healing and meditative qualities.

I have personally experienced the meditative characteristics in both hearing and playing the drone.  I compare the sound of the drone to the sound of 'om' that is often used in meditation.

I bought my first didgeridoo at a local music store for $30.  It was made of bamboo and actually sounded pretty good.  Once I mastered circular breathing, my skill level soared so I invested in an awesome, hand made didgeridoo.  It was imported from Australia and crafted by the Australian aboriginal master craftsman Robert Marrpul.  He named the didgeridoo 'Spirits in the Wind.'

Spirits in the Wind is 55 inches long and was crafted from termite hollowed eucalyptus and painted by Robert.  The artwork features Robert's own handprints and a colorful patchwork of lines representing the native hill country of his youth.

I am very blessed to have hundreds of acres of woods behind my home.  I often take 'Spirits in the Wind' on my back deck or back in my woods and play.

I can feel it resonating with the wood and the energy of the trees.  If I walk way back in the woods there is a beautiful stream and a waterfall.  I also love to play 'Spirits in the Wind' near water, especially waterfalls."

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If you've never heard a didgeridoo or would like to hear Jim playing his, click on this picture of Jim's didgeridoo 'Spirits in the Wind' for a sample of him playing it.

Spirits in the Wind

(Click to hear the awesome sound!)

April - 2006

Jim Blue, guitarist, vocalist and Recording Artist, is no stranger to live performances.  He's played extensively in the USA and has even played on the other side of the world in Tokyo, Japan.  But every performance, large or small is special to Jim.  He plays with heart and it shows.

Jim was invited to play for a full house at the 4/29/06 Graduation Ceremony for the Cleveland Institute of Medical Massage. The following is Jim's description of his performance:

"I just love playing my music for people.  I'll play just about anywhere my music will be appreciated.  I especially like the shows where the audience is there to listen so they can enjoy what I'm playing.

I had a blast playing for the Cleveland Institute of Medical Massage graduation ceremony.  It was really fun. 

I think there were around 250 people in the room, the floor was carpeted, and the ceiling was acoustic tile so the acoustics were perfect.

I played many of the songs from my current CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility, and also surprised listeners with songs that will be on my next CD.  I got a lot of compliments and that always inspires me even more.

Playing for a full house of massage therapists and massage teachers at the Cleveland Institute of Medical Massage graduation ceremony was an awesome venue to play in.  The music I played for them is exactly the kind of music I write and record.

Since much of the inspiration for my CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility was a result of exchanging ideas with massage teachers and massotherapists, it was a privilege to play for the graduation ceremony."

June - 2005

Jim Blue, guitarist, vocalist and composer of soothing music for bodywork, energywork and relaxation, is now sharing his music with the world in a new and exciting way, Digital Distribution.

His brilliant and passionately crafted CD, Crystal Blue Tranquility which uses music and sound to restore balance through deep relaxation and stress reduction is now available through downloads (iTunes, etc.) as well as CD.

When asked about this relatively new mode of music distribution Jim explained:

"This technology enables people across the globe to enjoy my music in a whole new way.

Now massage, Reiki, reflexology, and yoga professionals,  as well as people who simply want to relax, meditate, or wind down after work, have access to my music anywhere in the world that has a computer connected to the internet.

And what's really fun is, with digital downloads, you have a variety of choices such as:  you can listen to a song or songs, you can download your choice of any individual song or an entire collection and all at a very reasonable cost.

My music is now being purchased all over the world. So far, there are 36 different companies distributing my CD world wide.  Companies such as Apple iTunes, AOL Music Now, Wal-Mart, Rhapsody, MSN, and Sony Connect.

Digital downloads are still but a fraction of an artist's sales.  Statistics show that most people still like to have the real CD, even if they created MP3s from it to play on their MP3 player like the iPod.  Personally, that's the way I do it.  I like to have the CD for my collection and then I will create MP3s for playing on my computer or on my iPod Nano."

February - 2005

Jim Blue, Guitarist, Vocalist, Recording Artist, and composer of soothing music for bodywork, energywork, and relaxation owns a very special guitar.

It was bequeathed to him at the time of his brother Charlie's passing in August of 2003.  When interviewed regarding this touching story, Jim's love for his brother was obvious as he teared up often while explaining:

"Yes, my Takamine acoustic guitar is very special to me.  It belonged to my brother Charlie, who lived in Nashville.  Charlie was a songwriter and a performer there.

Near the end of his life, Charlie even became a fine woodworker and crafted amazingly detailed, hand made,  rocking horses.

I remember the night I was given Charlie's guitar like it was yesterday.  It was a very sad night, yet the love and friendship that filled Charlie's Nashville home that evening after his funeral was absolutely wonderful.

I could barely contain my emotions when his wife said, "I know Charlie would want you to have his guitar" and then gave his Takamine to me.  That gracious, loving gift from her and Charlie means more to me than I could ever express.  I treasure it beyond words.  It touched my heart.

When I got back home to Cleveland, the first thing I did was carefully lay Charlie's guitar down and slowly open the case.  I was overwhelmed with a feeling of sacredness and reverence as I gently lifted the lid.  Charlie's beautiful spirit was definitely there with me.

Each time I play Charlie's guitar, I am humbled and honored to know that my fingers are pressing the very same strings and frets as did Charlie, the "flying fingers" virtuoso.

I play it every single day at least twice, typically early in the morning shortly after I get up, and in the evening just before bed, 

and, without fail, I am blessed with a new song or melody.

I had been in a dry spell for quite awhile and am certain that Charlie is the impetus behind this fresh, new stream of divine inspiration, and his guitar is the conduit.

I had been in a dry spell for quite awhile and am certain that Charlie is the impetus behind this fresh, new stream of divine inspiration, and his guitar is the conduit.  I can sometimes feel his hands guiding mine as I pick and strum each beautiful note he sends my way.

I've always wanted to collaborate with Charlie but we never quite could get that going… until I started playing his guitar.

The fruits of our collaboration are on my CD in the song "When Spirits Part", the 2nd song on my Crystal Blue Tranquility CD.  That's one of the songs people rave about the most.

I was actually finished with the CD prior to receiving Charlie's guitar but decided to go back to the studio to add the guitar track.

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Here's one of the many wonderful emails I've received about When Spirits Part:

"When Spirits Part, is so incredibly moving.  I am overcome each time I hear it and have a physical reaction, in a good way like I am filled to overflowing.  What I feel each time is that it is truly a spirit communicating in spirit language or something.

A message with no words and I am not sure if it was Charlie talking to you, my loved ones talking to me, or the whole spirit and angelic realm talking to all of us, but I would swear it is an oratory without words.  Anyway, just had to share. No other song has done that to me except Enya's Watermark."

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I've been inspired to feature Charlie's guitar on future CDs. And I'm sure I am receiving this direction from Charlie.  I will carry the musical torch for Charlie using his guitar to play and record the music he and I create together.

I know Charlie is proud that his talent and music lives on through me because I will continue to play, cherish, and care for his guitar until I see him in heaven."

October - 2004

When Jim Blue sets his mind on something nothing stands in his way.  He is a talented, sensitive, driven, meticulous, and caring man.

And when it comes to the creative passions in his life, he completely pours his heart and dedication into them.  One such passion is Reiki.

When asked to expand on the significance of Reiki in his life, and how he came to have two Reiki Master certificates hanging on his Reiki room wall, Jim was delighted to elucidate.  In Jim's words:

"Simply put, Reiki is an ancient Japanese technique that realigns the body's energies to assist in releasing blocked energy and restoring the body's natural state of balance and harmony.  Reiki is a nurturing and gentle hands-on treatment where the client remains fully clothed and can expect to experience deep relaxation and feelings of well being, inner peace, and tranquility.

I was first introduced to Reiki by a friend in 1999. Little did I know, Reiki would wonderfully transform my life.  At first, I wasn't compelled to learn Reiki but once the urge arrived, I couldn't get enough.  I trained in all levels: Reiki I, Reiki II, Advanced Reiki Training, and Reiki Master.

I attained Reiki Master level in 2001 from Ann Winters at the Sopia Center, Ursuline College and did hundreds of Reiki sessions during my first year alone.

I bought a very comfortable Stronglite Reiki table and did Reiki in my home as well as traveling to my client's homes.

While performing Reiki on one of my Reiki teachers, Pauletta Gwinnup, she noticed that I was very tuned into the subtle energies present during Reiki sessions and suggested I study Medical Intuition with Sarah Weiss, which I did in 2002.

Over the next two years, a series of 'coincidences' led to my meeting my friend Marcia Backos.  Marcia is a Reiki Master who was trained by William Lee Rand at the International Center for Reiki Training.  Marcia invited me to attend her 2004 Reiki Master training and I again attained Reiki Master .

Finally, at the beginning of this year, 2006, I was called to teach Reiki and that was an amazingly rewarding experience in itself.

The sacred space that is created during a Reiki training weekend is divine nourishment for the spirit.  Gradually, as the dynamic of the group synchronizes, you see each student begin to glow with inner peace.

Through Reiki, I have met the most wonderful people and many of them have become my new circle of friends.  I've been blessed to have witnessed what I consider miracles as well.  In one way or another, Reiki intertwines with every aspect of my life.  And, for that, I am forever grateful."

January - 2004

Jim  Blue, Guitatist, Vocalist, Recording Artist, and composer of soothing music for bodywork, energywork, and relaxation has officially announced the unveiling of his music and relaxation website www.BlueTranquility.com.

Jim's new website features his musical triumph, Crystal Blue Tranquility, a brilliant and passionately crafted  CD  which  uses  music and sound to restore balance  through deep relaxation  and stress  reduction.

Jim explains,  "I am humbled by the awesome reviews  Crystal  Blue Tranquility  has  received!

The 14 months I devoted to creating Crystal Blue Tranquility is one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Crystal Blue Tranquility is being used for massage, relaxation, stress reduction, Reiki, reflexology, yoga, aerobic cool-down, and so very much more.

When asked what inspired him to record such a beautiful tapestry of peaceful, reflective melodies and mood inspiring soundscapes, Jim describes the life changing events...

"In the year 1999, I was introduced to Reiki and many other holistic activities.  In 2002 I was enlightened by a licensed massage therapist / massage teacher regarding the music massage therapists use during treatments.

While studying Reiki and learning massage, I was immersed in wonderfully relaxing music and, having been a musician and composer since my mid teens, I was inspired to write and record my own CD....Crystal Blue Tranquility."

Copyright 2010 Jim Blue