Friday, July 18, 2008

Early Bird Gets It

The Early Bird gets the worm.

This is something we all used to hear growing up. Its something that i go through phases with, and i've found its directly correlated to your mind state, goals, etc. For instance, in a slouching, lazy or insecure state, we are likely to want to sleep in, waking up with no rush and excitement whatsoever. On the other hand, when we have tuned into our self, and set goals, feel great, we wake up in a snap. It's these times that we look forward to starting another brand new day as opposed to dreading another one.

It really is the way we perceive things that makes this difference, and that being said, everything in this life is tied together. When we are unhappy, we are unhappy with our family, our friends, ourselves. Maybe our financial/work situation is not stable. Maybe its something in our personal life. Often its the way we feel, which with most of us is another direct correlation to the way we look, the way we eat, how often we exercise and how much natural energy we feel.

On the other hand, and speaking from personal experience, when we feel our best is when we are healthiest. Eating right, working out, feeling excited about tackling everyday, because we are alive. Because everyday is another opportunity to LIVE, to grow, to challenge and to achieve new goals.

Anyway, i feel great today, and it didn't come easily. I struggled for a long time to snap out of my mornings of waking up unhappy, without excitement. I was overweight, drank too much, smoked too much, and had crazy sleeping patterns. As i've mentioned before, it usually takes from 30-45 days to make a new routine into habit, and for that reason it is crucial to set those goals to keep on track.

SO, if you're waking up every morning and lacking energy and excitement to tackle your day, try mixing up your routine. It wont be easy, but it also shouldn't be drastic! Be patient. Don't do a diet that isn't realistic or will get you short term results, those are the ones that will get you right back to where you don't wanna be the fastest. Set goals, and have the courage to follow through with them knowing that you'll feel better later because of them.

If you're unhappy with your job, look into something else! Remember to love what you do and do what you love, if you truly want to be happy. It sounds cliche, but if you truly love it, you will succeed at it if you do your very best and never work a day in your life.

Also

Anyhow that's my 2 cents.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Songwriting, Singing and Beats, Oh My

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http://thehawtmovement.blogspot.com

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Writer's block. Not "feeling it". Lack of Inspiration.

These are all symptoms that many of you writers out there most definitely feel me on. Writing is re-writing, that's true, but every great song, poem, story, novel begins with a great concept. But even sometimes a concept can't do much more than build your title.

Anyways, I haven't felt inspired to write much as of late, but somewhere in the past few weeks that has changed, and i am now transformed back into an inspired mind with constant pen in hand. It's funny how it works, when you have writer's block it's virtually impossible to write, you feel as if you're forcing creativity. But when it rains, it really does POUR out of your soul. Anways, i'm just glad its back and i hope it never goes away!

As i said beofre, i want to expand this blog even moreso, but now even take it a step further and talk about new projects that we have, not only house music but music in general. Of course the podcast is an integral part of it as well. I got the idea from my brother GABY, who started his blog this year, challenging himself to compose a brand new song once a week! It's not easy, but he feels great knowing he already had a bunch of new material he may not have had without setting those goals. Now its clockwork, and he no longer needs to remind himself as its become a habit. Check out his blog here:

http://www.gabyvmusic.com/

http://www.myspace.com/gabyvmusic

My brother has always been a huge influence on me and my musical dreams. Years ago, he dropped everything to pursue his dream in music. He never sat around to wait and hear what anybody thought of it, and didn't ask for feedback. Instead, he knew this was his calling and he "went for it". Now he lives in the Bay area and is happier than ever following his dream and growing more everyday. I don't know if i would be on this path had it not been for his passion and leadership, a true inspiration.

We all need inspiration. Problem is, it doesn't always fall in your lap, something i am realizing. You have to open yourself up to it, to the world, go get it. Of course its easier said than done, but the harder it is to find that courage, the better it will feel when that music returns to your soul.

PHISH - "Free"





Monday, July 14, 2008

Sun is Shining, Weather is Sweet

Wow this weekend was fun!

I am amazed how great of a time i had, and sober at that! Our Dotbleep party went of Saturday night, and I stuck to my test, not drinking at all and it was great! I danced harder and for much longer than i had in ages! Acid Circus really set the tone and played a great set, I was very glad to have finally caught them, realizing that i should check them out more often now. Then Justin Long came on, and WOW. I gotta say, every time i feel uninspired by music, i end up seeing Justin play again, and i'm completely recharged. He is constantly pushing the envelope and the sound, and whether you dig the style he plays or not, you can't help but appreciate his energy and way that he attacks the dancers with musical bombs. Check this clip of him at the Detroit Electronic Music Festival this year:



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I must admit, i caved in and had a beer on Sunday at the Aquagroove pool party, but i rewarded myself in the sun when Justin Long and Sneak both played last minute daytime sets. Can you blame me? Anyway, although i did drink, all it did was remind me how unnecessary it was right now. So, back on track i am this Monday morning!

This Friday night we have the return of John Larner to HAWT. He has always been one of the favorites at our parties, and this Friday is no different! He is super excited to get back to LA, as are we, so if you wanna get your house music fix, come out this Friday night!



Anyways, have a great week and remember to enjoy the summer while you can! It's already mid-July and will be gone before we know it, so hit up the beach first chance you get, get outdoors and soak up the sun!

Friday, July 11, 2008

Originality in Music

Gelly turned me onto this interview by Zach Katz, who is one of the top managers for producers in the hip hop industry. Although it specifies hip hop, the main jist is in there.

Basically what Zach says is that you should be original with music. Sampling can only get you so far no matter what style you make, and instead of following trends, you should find your own sound and strive to BE that new thing, lead instead of follow. Not to mention, the difference between sampling and original music can mean making or breaking a million dollars, straight up.

Anyhow, i thought it was very interesting, so check it out.

Thursday, July 10, 2008

My Dirty 30: A Test

MTV's "My Sweet Sixteen" ain't got shit on this!

So, I am turning the "Dirty 30" next month, and that got me thinking about some things....

I have always been one that loves to get my party on at any possible moment, I try to have fun as much as possible all the time, so on and so forth. By the same token, I am turning 30 on August 3rd, and that's pretty nuts(especially since i act like 19).

Anyhow, I am going to take a little pre-30 test. It's kinda crazy, but i think it will be fun and it will also push my limits and test my toughness. So, i decided to see how long i can go completely SOBER.

Now, when i say sober, that doesn't only include the obvious being alcohol, that includes everything. No more anything, no smoking, no coffee, no nada.

I figure that it will be tough, but i love a good challenge. I am even considering doing the Master Cleanse at some point this summer, so that should be interesting!

SO, if any of you wanna join in this test, lemme know. Start counting how many days you can go without intoxicating your body with any stimulants, alcohol, etc. Hey, what's the worst that can happen, right?

Let the games begin......

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Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Change of Scenery

This past weekend i went up north to see some friends and fam in the bay area, and boy was it fun. It was great to get away, and of course to see everyone up there, celebrating the 4th of July with them, BBQ-ing, listening to really good music by some stellar DJ's. It was a bit chilly up there for my taste, but the best part was the change of scenery.

It sometimes helps to change your scenery a bit. Whether only a day, a weekend, or even something more permanent, getting out of town really helps cleanse your thought processes, really understand where you are at in any given moment. It doesn't even have to be so far. Here in L.A. for instance, when i lived in Los Feliz, i would go for hikes alot. Not only is it great exercise, but it gets your mind thinking, your blood pumping. My former boss used to change the routes he would take to work every morning. Sure, some were longer than others, but everytime i tried it i saw something new, and felt more excited to get to work instead of getting there in the same routine. In other words, try changing your scenery a bit when you get a chance, it will work wonders for the soul.

Here is a nice lil jammy, "Balmes (A Better Life)" by Ian Pooley ft Esthero. This woman has one of the sweetest voices you will ever hear, so hope ya dig.



Giving Back

We are going to begin getting a group together for our 3rd annual Jackfrost Toy Drive here in LA. It doesn't start take place until Decemeber, but what i've learned is that its never too early to start planning for these. Last year by far exceeded our drive from the previous year, and this year we intend to shatter that number, all for a great cause. Anyhow, if you want to get involved and give back, or know someone who does, please let them know it's almost time for our first pre-production meeting next month.

Have a great day!

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

i read this somewhere...

"Patience:

patience is beyond a virtue. It's the weight of letting go of control, surrendering to the inevitable and allowing destiny to shape your path. Patience is the key to everything. It's patience that turns judgement into understanding, a plan into a purpose and allows your life to have meaning.

We force our feeling onto people-unwilling, unready.
In time...do not rush your destiny. You must not fight patience for control.
In time...you will have love, understanding, happiness...they will find you.
Shrug your shoulders
let life run free..."

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Recently i have been considering some drastic changes in my daily. Honestly, it scares the shit out of me, diving into something fresh that you have never experienced, that territory uncharted. It hurts, stings, and excites me all at the same time.

It isn't easy to let destiny shape your path. It isn't easy to get out of your comfort zone, accept life's challenges, or change the world.

But, if it was easy, would it be worth it? Course not. It's all about high risk, high reward, right? The best things in life are the ones that inspire greatness and positive change.

And at the same time, you don't know what you got til it's gone, so having the patience to let something run free is crucial, as much as it may sting.







love!

Friday, July 4, 2008

Bittersweet Symphony

It's a Bittersweet Symphony, this life. (don't worry i won't post that video on here, the 4th of July needs a better song!)

Day after day, one door shuts, another opens. Some doors re-open later, some stay closed. Regardless we carry on and continue to grow whether we know it or not. It's a journey, this sweet symphony.

It's funny how people always say things like "you should follow your dream" however, most never do. People say "timing is everything", and "listen to your heart", but it's definitely easier said than done. I catch myself spitting these clichés all the time, but don't always listen to my own advice. Am I crazy? Maybe a little, but for the most part i think I'm just human like the other 4 of you that are reading this, heheh.

Anyways, sometimes the truth opens your eyes, sometimes it hurts. Sometimes it makes you aware or even catches you by surprise. Regardless, the truth is just that, and when we are true with ourselves, the easier it may be to be true to others, and so forth. Anyhow hope that makes sense, and i hope i listen to my own advice on this ;)

As i mentioned, next week i will start this gradual expansion of this blog, beginning to incorporate more content, mixes, and a bit more structure instead of just rambling on and on and on and on....its still very much a clean slate so if you have any ideas, please do lemme know what they are!

Anyhow have a fantabulous, safe weekend and make sure to enjoy it.

I was going to post a fun weekend kickoff track, but "Don't Sweat the Technique" doesn't allow the embedding of it for some reason. So, i move onto the next radio station and another early 90's jammy, "Everything Is Gonna Be Alright" by Father MC and Jodeci:



And on that note how about another jammy from that era? LOVE it!

Thursday, July 3, 2008

Morning Radio Station

Today i had an old song in my radio station of a head, one i heard alot growing up as my father was a big fan of Billy Joel. It's funny, because i never liked my parents' music as a child. It wasn't "cool" enough, ya know? Thing is, then you get to high school/college, and you get past that, you realize that you love it more than anything. The Beatles? I couldn't stand them but now they're one of my favorites. Steely Dan, Celia Cruz, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson.........so so so many. I am thankful to my folks for having shaped my musical interests for so long.

Anyhow i have always written lyrics, songs and melodies, played guitar, although i guess you can say im just a "bedroom singer/songwriter", hehe. Billy Joel was always one of my faves, because he had it all from the voice to the keys to the lyrics and melody to boot.

Anyway, check out the tune below, and hopefully you'll see what i mean, and why he's such a brilliant artist.







Here are the lyrics. So simple yet passionate, and so poetic with such a wonderful flow. This particular song is called "Always A Woman", by Billy Joel.


She can kill with a smile
She can wound with her eyes
She can ruin your faith with her casual lies
And she only reveals what she wants you to see
She hides like a child,
But she's always a woman to me

She can lead you to love
She can take you or leave you
She can ask for the truth
But she'll never believe
And she'll take what you give her, as long as it's free
Yeah, she steals like a thief
But she's always a woman to me

CHORUS:
Oh--she takes care of herself
She can wait if she wants
She's ahead of her time
Oh--and she never gives out
And she never gives in
She just changes her mind

And she'll promise you more
Than the Garden of Eden
Then she'll carelessly cut you
And laugh while you're bleedin'
But she'll bring out the best
And the worst you can be
Blame it all on yourself
Cause she's always a woman to me
--Mhmm--

Bridge

CHORUS:
Oh--she takes care of herself
She can wait if she wants
She's ahead of her time
Oh--and she never gives out
And she never gives in
She just changes her mind

She is frequently kind
And she's suddenly cruel
She can do as she pleases
She's nobody's fool
And she can't be convicted
She's earned her degree
And the most she will do
Is throw shadows at you
But she's always a woman to me
--Mhmm--

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Anyways, hope you've already gotten your plans together for this weekend. Whatever you do, remember to make it a point to slow things down, and really appreciate every moment. It makes the day go by so much smoother, and you will enjoy it that much more.

Be safe and have a great day!

Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Pouring Sand into the Ocean

I woke up this morning eager to hit the day and get an early start and for the first time in awhile. I was anxious, excited to get the day started, and that's great because that is a feeling i have been lacking lately. Why is that? I admit, i have been trying to view things in a certain light, forcing my eyes to believe things that aren't. Kinda going through the motions and waiting for life to unfold instead of getting it. Do you ever make excuses for yourself, so much that you begin to believe them? Be honest. Anyhow that's exactly what i caught myself doing, and now that i look back at that i realize how silly i have been.

I don't really get why this morning was different, but then again maybe i do huh? I have been getting back in touch with my spiritual side, one that has been hibernating lately and i reaffirmed the place i am at. You know what, it feels great. Just little things like slowing things down, breathing deeply, really just absorbing the day. Right here, right now. It's crazy, but we all really do have the answers to most things, they are all before us if we're honest with ourselves. Sometimes it takes someone else to reawaken you, but more often than not, it's yourself that has the clues. Just open your eyes ;)

This Friday in San Francisco marks our 4th of July episode of HUSTLE, featuring DJ Sneak, Jason Hodges, Wally Callerio, and much more madness and mayhem. We tried this with our Yacht party @ this year's Winter Music Conference in Miami, and it was a very special event with the same cast and much more. Anyway if you don't have plans this weekend and wanna get away and get into something fun, join us up in San Francisco @ Mighty on Friday. BBQ Daytime, Fireworks @ night ;)




This is the 3rd week of THM blog, and still very much in it's initial stages. Gradually i will start incorporating a podcast, where you can check out several featured DJ mixes as well as some of our unreleased HAWT Music and samples of things to come. We'll also have a feature section where we'll showcase other cool sites, as well as friend's sites, so if you have one or know of something cool, please lemme know! We will also

Did you notice that it was July 2nd? That's right people, we are halfway through 2008! The summer is here so WAKE UP! This weekend hit up the beach, get outside, BBQ, and do things you're supposed to do on the 4th of July! After all we're celebrating our freedom so get out and have a blast. It's amazing to think what a beautiful world we live in, and sometimes we lose sight of the most amazing things due to tripping on small stuff. Sure, gas is pricey, our president is a baggadoosh, and this and that, but think of what we do have! We have the opportunity to do whatever we want, whenever we want, with whoever we want, so let the good times roll.

Okay, so the video below is a totally radical song by Smashing Pumpkins. I know i have seen the video a zillion times having grown up on MTV, but i never noticed until now how zany it is. Anyway, check it out!

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

China Cat Sunflower

Music.

It's just so amazing. A moment captured in a song, that can last forever and still send the same message at anytime, even in 1,000 years. I was thinking of this concept this morning, and i started skimming through and changing the virtual radio stations in my head to find a song i haven't heard in awhile, one that means alot to me, and one that i will hopefully have stuck in my head all day today.

Anyways, i thought of The Grateful Dead. I was first introduced to "the Dead" in high school, never really taking too much of a liking to them. I don't think i had given them too much chance, and maybe didn't hear the right albums, live sets. Then my first quarter of college, I came across their Europe '72 live album and i just couldn't let it go. To this day i've probably heard that particular one hundreds of times, and i love it because it really showcases them, Jerry Garcia, and the range of styles they have in a nutshell of a 2 CD set. They were very successful for decades, and one reason they were so popular was due to the innocent playfulness they had in their music, they were always having FUN. It showed everytime, starting with Jerry's huge smile, and the feeling their tunes conveyed.

Please do give it a listen, and peep the transition from "China Cat Sunflower" into "I Know You Rider", it soothes the soul.

Grateful Dead - 'China Cat Sunflower > I Know You Rider'






Music is the only thing that really makes me tick. It used to be sports, but after playing in college i hung my cleats up and now just play for fun. But music is the only thing that will always be there, a sort of guidance that, no matter what time or day, will sound just a sweet as it did the first time you heard it. It's amazing how you can hear a song, and instantly transport yourself back to that first time you experienced it, that exact time of your life and have that very feeling again! I get chills just thinking about it, and i know you feel me.

Lately, for whatever reason, I haven't come across too many new artists, types of music that have called my name. Maybe i haven't researched enough, or maybe its almost time for that next new sound to emerge? Either way, i can't wait to hear a song that inspires once again, for its been a minute. Got anything for me? Hit me please!

Nothing in the world can beat a sweet voice singing a sweet, sweet song.

And nothing beats the gift of a mixtape, or nowadays CD from a friend with music on it! I used to LOVE making these for my friends, even before house music for me, with a variety of music that i thought they might enjoy. So, that being said i'll be doing a podcast on here soon, just because there's so much music out there in the world, and never enough time =)