Influences
I enjoy listening to all kinds of music, from hard rock to opera. I believe music is truly the universal language of humankind, able to strike an emotional chord with or without words. I watch my cousin's two year old "dance to the music" nonstop and I'm sure she doesn't understand all the words, but she's sure digging the sound and it's having a huge impact on how she feels! I've found my most accessible songs are a gift from a higher source. Ideas often come to me in flashes of inspiration (especially in the shower!) and simply pour from the spiritual self. Here are just a few of my ultimate all time faves whom I try to emulate: Favorite bands: The Beatles, Eagles, Allman Brothers, Steve Miller Band, Dixie Chicks, Chicago, CSN&Y, Poco, Fleetwood Mac and Sly & The Family Stone Favorite solo artists: Martina McBride, Cyndi Lauper, Carrie Underwood, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Anita Baker, Gloria Estefan, Billy Joel, Elton John, Linda Ronstadt, Patty Loveless, Alison Krauss, Collin Raye, Luther Vandross, Sting, Bryan Adams, John Jorgenson, Teresa James, Lisa O'Kane and Brian Brazil (blues at its best) Favorite songwriters: Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger, Carole King, Bernie Taupin, Diane Warren, Gary Burr, Gretchen Peters, Tony Arata, Randy Sharp, Craig Wiseman, Jeffrey Steele and Ace Baker (surely I've missed many others) Some favorite songs (that I didn't write!): Born To Run, Imagine, With A Little Help From My Friends, Independence Day, Vogue, Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters, Long Time Gone, Landslide, So Far Away, You've Got A Friend, Space Cowboy, The Joker, Life In The Fast Lane, Get Over It, Ships, Please Come To Boston, Tiny Dancer, I Can’t Make You Love Me, Dancin' In The Dark, Here I Am, Whip Appeal, God's Will, Change The World, The End of The Innocence, The Heart Of The Matter, Treat Her Right, Armstrong, The Song Remembers When and Love, Me

Sounds Like
I'm repeatedly told my songs sound like they should be in commercials. Genres and styles I compose most include: Country, Rock, Pop, R&B, Folk, Americana, Adult Contemporary Ballads, and even some Children's music. I write whole songs - words, melodies, music - or sometimes just words and/or melodies to tracks. I treat every project with a special focus and intent, letting the song dictate what's needed. For me, variety is the spice of life, and all music is yummy! It just depends what mood you're in...