BACKPAGES JOURNAL, Jan 10, 2024
Buc-ce's Beaver Nuggets, Bill Withers, The secret world of writing daily.
I’ve got to admit it.
Chris Lambos tried to tell me, two weeks ago, “Do not even try any Beaver Nuggets from Buc-ee’s.” Well, as it occurs, one of my daughters brought me some of these rascals that many people find to be almost addictive, a gateway food.
With Chris’ words still ringing in my ear, I threw caution to the wind and tried them. “Just a bite,” said I. BANG! There it was! One of the most heavenly tastes in the universe.
Now, I do have knowledge of what addictions are, and I knew right off that these were the snacks that try men’s souls. “Get thee behind me,” I cried, but it was too late.
I tell you all this, in case I might have caught you before you have put the first morsel in your mouth. I know many of you will listen to me much like I listened to Chris, but at the least, I have tried to warn you, so there is no saliva on my hands, as they say in the old movies.
I try to finish a little morning writing by 8 am or so, in case anyone drops by because that is the time they look at the internet.
Then, I try to add whatever tune I have been humming since I woke up that day, simply to reinforce it in my head, And I go on to write and publish this morning’s medium article, where the first few paragraphs are here on this site, and a free friend link magically transports you to the conclusion over on medium.
That way, it also counts as a “read” for me even though you didn’t have to spend any money.
It is about 8:15 am over here right now.
This morning is cold and cloudy, the weather peeps are calling for some cool temps and maybe SNOW for us in the next couple of days.
There is a gentleman making repairs to my rather frail deck currently, and he has only been able to work some days, and some not, because of the weather.
In fact, I do feel bad, sitting inside, working on my computer, while he is on the other side of double glass doors, in the rain and snow, like Tiny Tim eating some porridge. To make myself feel better, I concentrated on this related tune.
If you’re a vinyl fanatic as am I, it’s still available.
What’s the Deal with Bill Withers?
Bill Withers (July 4, 1938 – March 30, 2020) was an American singer-songwriter known for his soulful and heartfelt music. He gained prominence in the 1970s with a string of hit songs that are celebrated for their emotional depth and relatability. Here are some key points about Bill Withers:
Early Life and Career.
Birth and Early Years
Bill Withers was born on July 4, 1938, in Slab Fork, West Virginia. He grew up in a small coal-mining town.
Military Service
Before pursuing a career in music, Withers served in the United States Navy for nine years.
Musical Career.
Breakthrough with "Ain't No Sunshine" (1971)
Withers' career took off with the release of his debut album "Just As I Am" in 1971, featuring the iconic song "Ain't No Sunshine." The song earned him a Grammy Award for Best R&B Song.
Other Hit Songs
Bill Withers went on to produce a series of successful albums and hit songs, including "Lean on Me," "Lovely Day," "Use Me," "Grandma's Hands," and "Just the Two of Us."
"Lean on Me" (1972)
"Lean on Me" became one of his signature songs and a classic in the soul and R&B genres. It conveys a message of friendship and support.
Grammy Awards
Withers received multiple Grammy Awards during his career, including Best R&B Song for "Ain't No Sunshine" and "Just the Two of Us."
Songwriting and Authenticity
Withers was praised for his honest and relatable songwriting. His music often touched on themes of love, friendship, and the human experience.
Retirement.
Retirement from Music
Bill Withers retired from the music industry in the mid-1980s. Despite his relatively brief active career, his impact on soul and R&B music is enduring.
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2015, Bill Withers was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Stevie Wonder gave the induction speech.
Legacy.
Influence and Recognition
Bill Withers is regarded as one of the great soul singers, and his songs continue to be influential. His music has been covered and sampled by numerous artists across different genres.
Impact on Popular Culture
Withers' songs have been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, contributing to their enduring presence in popular culture.
Personal and Approachable Style
Withers' personal and approachable style resonated with audiences. He was known for his humility and the authenticity of his performances.
Bill Withers left an indelible mark on the music world with his soulful voice, timeless songs, and ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
I am sorry, I started listening to Bill Withers now, I’m behind on my medium article for this morning. If you will be so kind as to excuse me for a while, I need to knock that out. I’ll be back. It’s about ten right now. I try to have the first story done every day by ten, in case anybody drops by. This site is always available. We may doze, but we never close…
While I’m gone, maybe you could coerce a friend to subscribe here. Thanks!
New Writers Can Make More Money on a Writing Schedule.
Don’t make it too hard. It’s already hard enough to commit to every day!
WRITER’S STUDIO | Real-life writing tips
Don’t tell us what you are going to do from now on.
’til the end of the month.
Tell me what you’re going to TRY to do ‘til the end of the month. Then we’ll talk about it.
As I have said before, when I do that it’s pretty much the kiss of death for my goals.
What I AM doing is this…
Before I start my regular job, I will try to do my morning writing on my Substack site and publish it to the site in case anyone comes early in the mornings to read it.
Then I try to publish my medium story in the Writing Studio.
Bill Withers was a master of soul music.