I was speaking just yesterday that as songwriter, producer, mentor and coach that I do my best to choose my words in order to encourage fellow writers. Today words don't come easy when I received word that one of my mentors; John Braheny lost his battle with cancer.
Memories of my first rejection letter from a major publisher have been replaying since the news of J.B.'s passing. It wasn't until my relationship with Michael Laskow's company "TAXI" and my correspondences with John as a song screener for TAXI that I understood his value as someone who truly was the songwriters best friend.
Ironically, I never met John in person. Even so when I needed advice to become a better writer, he was there to pick me up through all the verses, bridges and chorus' in my growing pains of development from novice to pro.
I and others will hold fond memories of J.B. the next time a great hook line makes it from the scratch pad to a song. Eternal thanks to you John Braheny from all us Tulsa songwriters that were willing to trust you with our life's work. R.I.P.
The follow links to John Brehany's songwriting advice in print and video.
http://www.amazon.com/Craft-Business-Songwriting-3rd-Edition/dp/1582974667
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