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Laura Marie: Blog

Run, run, run, run,run! - August 16, 2008

I'm back!!!
From Miami, that is. Had a wonderful time relaxing, dancing, eating, kayaking, snorkeling and people watching. Amazing coffee in Miami. I was wired.

So, I head back into the studio to record a song next week with my friend, Mack Damon, who produced my last CD. It's a let's-see-what-we-can-do kind of thing that I'm excited about. It's fun to work with your friends. It's a new studio space and a whole new feel. It will be awesome. Plus, he tells me the unplugged video is well on it's way and I should be posting it soon.


Meanwhile, it's marathon training for me. This is my third and, now that I know I can finish, I want to push myself a bit more. Another let's-see-what-we-can-do kind of thing, if you will. I started running regularly a while back and felt like I'd hit a plateau. My time wasn't improving, my pace wasn't getting any quicker and I wasn't in any better shape than the last time so, I decided to ask for help.














With advice from personal trainer, Kristy Clarke (who is now in Australia and we miss her much) I feel like I'm on the right track (ahem...so to speak). She pointed out my big mistake. I was training at my maximum heart rate. In other words, my heart was doing everything it could to just keep up with me. There was no room for improvement...it was doing the best it could...survival mode.

DSCF0003
The lovely Kristy Clarke


Well, that spoke volumes. What I had to do was slow down if I wanted to speed up, train at a lower heart rate until my heart was ready to go faster. Let my heart tell me how fast to go? What?!? You can imagine how my ADHD brain took to that one. It's tedious. It feels like I'm running in slow motion. But there I am "running" up a hill at a snail's pace. I'll be honest here and say that I used to make fun of people who ran so slowly that other people could pass them walking. Now, I think maybe they have their reasons.

The good thing is it's giving me more time to think. On one of my longer runs it really hit me how perfect it is to learn to do this now. It's such a metaphor for what I've been going through the last couple of years. I was always getting ahead of myself and pushing my heart faster than it was ready to go. It's like being in a panic wanting to experience everything that's ahead now, now, NOW!!! Can't wait and don't want to (remind you of a song on my player?). No patience. That virtue has never been my strongest. All this time, I thought I was letting my heart lead but, the opposite is true. I let my brain run away with itself and the reason it hurts is because my heart can't keep up.

With that in mind, I'm allowing myself to slow down in all aspects of my life. I'm trying to be patient and let things unfold as they should. And, most importantly, I'm enjoying things as they happen instead of always running to get to what happens next.

There have been moments when I've had to laugh at myself. I sat across from someone the other day who was talking to me and I was screaming in my head "FOCUS!!! LISTEN!!! PAY ATTENTION". I don't remember what the hell they were saying but I made a huge effort and I hope it at least looked like I was listening.

There have also been simply beautiful moments that I would have missed if I hadn't slowed my pace. A moment in the presence of someone who loves you and someone you love. Wow. Those can pass so quickly and if you're not 'in the moment' you miss it. I'm so grateful for experiencing that feeling of just being full. It fuels me. I can see that Kristy was right. Things will get faster and better. There is no need to rush. When I let that little obligation go, the one that tells me 'you HAVE to NOW' the panic is gone and I'm enjoying life in a way I haven't in years.


Live, love, be free - LM

Vacation Starts Now - August 6, 2008

Random pics from Miami!

Find more photos like this on my.iGoSA.com

When it Rains - August 6, 2008

it pours.

TV Appearance tomorrow (see below) and a word about my anniversary :)

Lately, I've had too much time on my hands. I don't believe in coincidence. I am convinced that there is purpose in everything. So, my slowing down and having time to think has led to some great discoveries. I found that, apart from everyone else in my life, I'm still the person I want to be. Perfect? Yes. Because everyone is no matter what anyone thinks. We are who we are and that's just as it should be. I'm learning to accept some things about myself that I didn't before and I'm finding it easier to accept things in others. Well, relatively easier anyway.

There are a lot of people in my life I am truly grateful for. I have the best group of friends I could possibly have. There is always someone to make me laugh, let me cry, hold my hand, tell me things I like to hear and say things that need to be said. It's never a dull moment and I wouldn't have it any other way.

There is something I call "the burden of love". It sounds heavy but, it's only what you make of it. Sometimes the closer we get to someone the heavier things seem and the harder it is to let go and let the other be who they are or even to be yourself. The fear of losing each other can weigh down a love that used to lift you up. And, too often, we look to the other person to fix it when they are struggling just the same.

So, in this moment, I want to say what I am truly grateful for. Tomorrow is my wedding anniversary and I am grateful for the man who has been brave enough to look that fear in the face everyday and let me be me. Perfect to him? Not always....I'm sure...but accepted just the same. And I'll gladly give that gift to him as well. And, because I know what that feels like, I know I can give that to everyone else I know and love.

Be who you are and be loved - Laura Marie


Friday, August 1st



Pete and Laura's Wedding Anniversary




schedule:

9am - KENS TV, Channel 5 - Great Day SA


Laura Marie will appear with the band to promote the CD and upcoming events

7:30pm - Casa Chiapas, First Friday on S. Alamo


It's Casa Chiapas' 2nd anniversary as well. 8 to 10pm and cake!
Come and join us for the festivities!!!




Thursday, August 7th


Pete and Laura hit the beach!

What you can do for music... - July 17, 2008

-Hello lovely people (and, by that I mean all of you),

Most of you, like me, are music fans. Duh. So, I wanted to share the news about Last.FM. Last.FM has built itself up to be "the social music revolution". Much like myspace, you can hear your favorite artists for free, find new ones, communicate with other listeners, etc. But, you can also build your own radio station, share your preferences and post your station on other sites. The best part: the artists, even those who are unsigned, get paid royalties.

Now, I have nothing against myspace. I love myspace. I have met more people, connected with more fans and booked more shows because of myspace. It's a wonderful thing. But Last.FM is leveling the playing field just a bit more for indie artists and I want to spread the word because, yes, it gives me a better chance of making a living as an artist but, it also sends the message that we don't have to listen to the same tired playlists on the radio and it's free. Some of the more popular artists don't have their full catalogues up yet but, trust me, once they start getting royalties, that will change.

So check it out.


http://cdn.last.fm/widgets/images/footer_bg/black.png) repeat-x 0 0;text-align:right;">



While you are at it, check out Pandora.com. This is another site where you can build your own station based on your favorite artists. Price: FREE I believe you can also listen for free on some mobile phones.



This week I'll be at the Jazz Annex late Friday night and at the following early on Saturday (3pm). It's a great cause! Come out and help the St. Judes Child Care Center:



Much Love - LM

RANDOM PHOTO ALBUM

Nice things happen to me... - May 27, 2008

I've had a busy month and June looks like it will be just as busy. But, I'm not complaining. It's been fun and there have been interesting things happening like my trip to La Grange, Texas where I played at the Bugle Boy Songwriters Showcase. If you are in Texas or passing through on a Sunday, you must check it out. It's like an American Idol for songwriters but without the ridiculously annoying judges. I mean, there are judges but they are supportive, music-loving types. Lane Gosnay, the proprietor, makes sure that everyone is respectful and courteous. Though, even she admits that the room can be daunting. And...it really is. I played songs that I know like the back of my hand and was as nervous as I've ever been on stage. That whole trip was an adventure.

First off, I'd spent the night before up in Austin sharing the stage with Cleve Hattersly and Sweet Mary of Greezy Wheels and Haydn Vitera at Hank Sinatra's place for the Songwriter's Series. I'll have video footage of that soon. The next morning I decided to head out early to La Grange and I'm glad I did because, just as I was heading into Flatonia, I got a flat. Well, it was more like a blow out.

Lucky for me, I know how to change a tire. Unlucky for me, there wasn't much of a shoulder on the road, 18 wheelers were buzzing by and the bar on my jack was bent. I couldn't quite get my vehicle up enough to get the spare on. But then, an angel by the name of Kevin pulled over with a jack that did the trick. Thank you, Kevin! I made it to the next town but the full service station didn't have a tire in my size and Harold said, 'there's nothin' open on Sunday' and he was right. So, I slowly made my way to La Grange and the showcase.

As mentioned before, it was a great experience and, best of all, we were treated to a performance by Susan Gibson who was also one of the judges. If you don't know Susan you might know her song 'Wide Open Spaces' which became the title track of the Dixie Chicks' break out album. Listening to her sing that song was a moving experience but she also shared another song she wrote about her nephew that nearly had me in tears by the end. Susan's new CD “New Dog, Old Tricks” will be available soon check it out Here

So, back to my story, I was heading back home to San Antonio driving 50 miles an hour on my spare when I reached Flatonia again and a car was trying to get around my slow-going butt in traffic. Just as it pulled ahead of me it had a blow-out. Coincidence? I think not. It was my turn to be an angel and it was a good thing I stopped because he didn't know how to change a tire. So, there I was crawling around on the ground in 90+ Texas heat and those 18 wheelers buzzing by...again. But, this time I was smiling. Oh, and taking pictures:





Did you know you can get my blog and select flickr pic updates sent directly to your inbox? You can subscribe here: Subscribe to Laura Marie Things by Email


*****

This Week:

Two shows on Wednesday!!!
8pm- Candlelight Coffeehouse then




Thursday I'll be featured on Am1670 along with Kate McCarthy 7pm-9pm Central.



*****

Note to runners:

Check out the running schedule on my calendar Calendar

This is the number of miles per week you should be working towards by August. :)



Much love - Laura Marie

Showing your love... - May 12, 2008

Hello, lovely people, friends, fans and family!

I want to thank everyone for all their support during the Mixfest contest. Love came from all across the country and even overseas....that sincerely warms my heart. I may not have won the contest but, I did gain a lot of positive publicity and even some new friends. That's all because of you and I can't thank you enough.

Here is something nice that happened this morning in case you missed the bulletin:

Joe Caruso played my song "Wait" on the New Joe and Karen Show on 105.3 FM here in San Antonio.

It isn't often that major FM stations will play indie music and so I am grateful that Joe, after seeing my live performance at Mamapalooza, offered to play my song on his show. If you would like to hear more of my music on 105.3
please, please, please contact the station:

By Phone:

Local: (210) 470-KSMG (5764)
Toll Free: (800) 366-KSMG (5764)

or Email here:

http://magic1053.com/inside/playlists.html

This is a way that you can help my career keep moving forward and it truly is up to you. I can keep doing what I do you because you listen and support the music. Otherwise, I'd just be singing to myself.


You can also support my music by listening to stations that regularly play indie music. Here are some radio stations and podcasts that are playing some of my songs. They have my love and appreciation but they really want to hear from you:



KRIM - FM http://www.krim-fm.com/

KSYM - FM http://www.accd.edu/sac/ksym/index.htm

AM 1670 - Dewberry Jam Community Radio http://am1670.net/

Phoenix Radio - http://www.pheonixradio.net/

The Music Mansion on Phibble Radio http://phibble.com/radio/tmm.php

The Next Big Thing http://nextbigthing.libsyn.com/

Today on The Sixty One http://www.puntspeedchunk.com/

A Quiet Time Broadcast http://quiettimepodcast.com/

DALECAST in the UK http://www.dalecast.co.uk/

Radio Orphans Podcast http://radioorphans.blogspot.com/

Craftcast http://craftcast.com/

Soupy Gato Show http://www.soupygato.com

Indie Music Sampler http://www.IndieMusicSampler.com/

Homopod Radio http://homopodradio.mevio.com/

If I have missed anyone, feel free to yell at me.

_________

Here are some behind-the-scene people I want to recognize for their hard work and support:

My amazing vocal coach : Darrin Newhardt and the Musical Arts Center of San Antonio (MACSA)
My publicists and booking agent : Nikki Young(SA) and staff of Primmadonna Productions and Eugene Foley(NJ) and staff of Foley Entertainment, Inc.
My wonderful Street Team!!!! Pictures coming soon...
and, most importantly, my husband, Pete, who goes to the ends of the earth for me

Also, a special thank you to the anonymous person who donated money to the ASPCA in the name of my dearly departed pet, Bugsy.
Thank you so, so much. That was a beautiful thing and it touched me deeply.

________

If you are in town, come out and see me.

Laura Marie @ Candlelight Coffeehouse (3011 N. St. Mary's, SA, Tx.)
Wednesday, May 14th, 8-10pm

and I will leave you with me singing to my computer...again...


Find more videos like this on my.iGoSA.com

Like I don't have enough to do... - May 2, 2008

It's time to get it going and start training for the Inaugural Rock n Roll San Antonio 1/2 Marathon!!!

I know what you are thinking....Why the half marathon? Why not the whole thing?
Well, I've already run a marathon this year (Phoenix) and I have a lot of out-of-town gigs coming up this Summer that would wreck a full marathon training schedule so, it's the half for me.

Get Ready

We won't start the REAL training until September (Somewhere around my birthday...hint, hint) but, I need people to join my team now. Why?

1) This year, I want to run in support of a charity and the more people who run, the more money we can raise.

2) If you are going to run the race, you need some prep. Training will start at about 40 miles a week and end closer to 50 (that's over the entire week...not all at once) So, if you don't run much now, you have to start getting your mileage up before we can start doing the long runs together.

3) The sooner you commit the more time I have to plan. I'll be hosting group long runs, a celebratory movie night (running-themed, of course) and BBQ. There will be sponsors, t-shirts (hopefully) and other cool stuff. So, if you are interested, I need to know. And, if you will be traveling here, the sooner you make travel plans the better.


Get Set

So, to keep things nice and neat and well contained, I've started a running support group at MyiGoSA. It's a small community with some cool features that will be helpful for my purposes. So, here is the group:

Run, Forrest Run!

You can join for free and set your personal settings to private so you will not be bothered. I'll post training schedules, tips, info and events to this group on a weekly basis. This will be running info only and not music related.

Go!

Sign up here: C'mon, do it!

Here's a little motivation for you:

Run Fatboy Run





..


******************


Laura Marie & Reza @ Casa Chiapas
First Friday - May 2nd, S. Alamo
7-9:30



******************

Rest in peace, Bugsy

1994-2008

Long Time No Blog - April 23, 2008

It's been a while and there is so much to catch up on. First off, a huge thank you to friends and Street Team members for helping out at the Oyster Bake. You all were awesome and I want to take a moment to say how special you are:

Love to...

San Antonio film-maker, Robb "El Mero Mero" Garcia, for manning the merch table and showing his never-ending support of live music in SA.

Aspiring singer-songwriter and Street Team member, Chris Mendoza, for spreading the word and showing support.

JohnDavid from Scarcliff Photography for hanging out with the family and taking pics.

Street Team member, Alicia Palmer from ThePridePlanner.com for helping to get the word out about the music and just being awesome about it. Alicia is a party planner for the GLBT community so, if you are in need of services, please check out her site.

and special thanks to singer Sin Sinatra for his backstage help and support. The best body guard EVER!!! :)











Pics courtesy of Scarcliff Photography

Thanks also to Bliss and The Dog Men Poets for showing up early and showing the love.


***********

There is a lot coming up next. First off, tonight:

Laura Marie & Reza @ Candlelight


Wednesday, April 23rd
3011 N. St. Mary's Street, 8-10 pm

Candlelight footage HERE!
video courtesy of AllYouTV.com


Come on out and sign the mailing list if you haven't already. I'll be giving away an ipod with life-time subscription to lauramariemusic.com this Summer. What does that mean? That means the winner of the ipod will be gifted free downloads of all of my music present and future.


One more thing, interested in running the San Antonio Rock and Roll Half Marathon? I'll be running it and I want to start a team. If you are interested, e-mail me. There will be more info to come....


Much love - Laura

Get Laura Marie blog updates in your inbox:

Subscribe to Laura Marie's Blog by Email

Oyster Bake Tickets! - March 30, 2008

Win Two Passes to


Fiesta Oyster Bake!!!






On April 19th, I need people on my team!



Sign the mailing list and opt in for STREET TEAM and you could win passes to join me and the band at Fiesta Oyster Bake. True, we will put you to work watching the merch table at the show, but you’ll be free to enjoy the festivities with us before and after.
Two names will be chosen on Saturday, April 5th (One from the Laura Marie Street Team and one from the Club Pride campaign kick-off list). Winners will receive two passes each.

Sign the mailing list
don’t forget to check the ’street team’ box!




If you're like me.. - March 30, 2008

then a song can make your day, break your heart, change your mind and move you in every way possible. I love song writing and I love songwriters. Last night, as I was getting ready for my performance at Candlelight and John Mayer’s ’Belief’ was playing over the speaker system. I said, "Isn’t it just the perfect message for right now?"


Everyone believes
In how they think it ought to be
Everyone believes
And they’re not going easily

Belief is a beautiful armor
But makes for the heaviest sword
Like punching under water
You never can hit who you’re trying for

Some need the exhibition
And some have to know they tried
It’s the chemical weapon
For the war that’s raging on inside

Everyone believes
From emptiness to everything
Everyone believes
And no ones going quietly

We’re never gonna win the world
We’re never gonna stop the war
We’re never gonna beat this
If belief is what we’re fighting for

What puts a hundred thousand children in the sand
Belief can
Belief can
What puts the folded flag inside his mother’s hand
Belief can
Belief can

The first time I heard this song I just simply agreed with it. It made me think, "nothing is right or wrong but believing makes it so." Who said that anyway? It’s brilliant. Think about it.

And today I heard a song that made me smile and think "LOVE"! So, here. My love to all of you delivered by Mr. Jason Mraz:

I’m Yours!









This Saturday:

I’ll be performing an acoustic set.
This event starts at 7:00 and will be at The Limelight on St. Mary’s Street. Email us for more info.





Headliner: Ashlee Rose

Double Dog Dare - February 19, 2008

I'm taking a cue from my dear friends Nick Hinton and Chris Taylor who are both so incredibly prolific, spilling over with such music that they just have to share it with the world. It's just that, lately, I've been writing so much more than I used to and, since I haven't been able to get to the studio, I decided to do something I normally wouldn't. I used that little camera thingy on my iBook and recorded my newest song "Still". It was really kind of fun. This is the absolute first take, no do-overs and the sharing of this video with those closest to me was the first time anyone ever heard the song. Believe me when I say that this is a daring feat for me. Much like crowd surfing. I was a little light headed from the experience (sharing the video, not crowd surfing).

My dear friends at AllYouTV.com (add them as a friend) are hosting the video for me. I had a much easier time uploading there than on the other services I tried so AllYouTV.com will be my official video home. If you enjoy it, please feel free to share the video link.

So, here I am sitting on the futon in my office, playing you a song. You'll notice a CD collage behind my head. First person who emails me five artists on that wall (if you are a fan of those artists, five are definitely recognizable throughout the video) gets a free CD of unreleased material. Nick, you are not eligible! It would be too easy for you. :)

Video: Still

Lyrics:

I'm standing on the porch and it's a cold and cloudy night
Every single star has found a warmer place to hide
I've never seen the moon look quite as bright as you
But now I'm at a loss for that soft reflected light

Every song I sing contains a little piece of you
and every time I sing them every little bit is true
It's how I keep you close whenever I'm alone
whenever you are drifting away the way you do
It's how many times you cross my mind

Come back, I've learned to lie so still
and pass the time until
I won't just be your love.
I will be your lover
I want to be your lover

You could ease my mind like you do when you are near
Or you could help me find what I lose when you disappear
I want to feel the way it felt to feel the same
I want to win the game that I play when you're not here
Called how many times can you cross my mind

Come back, I've learned to lie so still
and pass the time until
I won't just be your love.
I will be your lover
I want to be your lover

As I sing the words I know there has to be some reason for this time
in my life, for this place by my side

Come back, I've learned to lie so still
and pass the time until
I won't just be your love.
I will be your lover
I want to be your lover

- Laura Marie © 2008 all rights reserved

For those of you that missed the bulletin. FVIC Records in the UK did a review of my CD and an in depth interview that's posted on their website. I answer questions about my CD, my music, my femaleness and my producer. You can read those here:

Wednesday for anxious lovers: - February 12, 2008

I never go out on Valentine's Day...I either go out the night before or the night after. This year, I'm playing the night before so, I'm making it a special Pre-Valentine's Day show and I'm bringing back the chocolates. So, if you are there, be ready to catch a kiss..or a truffle...or some such chocolatey goodness.

Laura Marie @ Candlelight Coffeehouse


Featured guitarist : Mike Brannon
3011 N. St. Mary's, SA Tx.
8-10pm


loveisloveislove

(for those of you 'in the know' this pic size is 333x500 completely by accident)



_____________

Last Friday was a very special night for me. I opened up for the incredibly gifted songwriter, Susan Gibson at Club Pride. She's very well known 'round here and you may recognize her song "Wide Open Spaces" recorded by the Dixie Chicks. I hear she's coming out with a new CD soon so be on the lookout.

Another great thing that happened that night: Street Team Kickoff Campaign #1


I've gotten to the point where I've realized I can't do it all on my own. Seriously, it's a bit more than I can handle while trying to write new music, rehearse the band and keep up with the store.

So, I'm looking for some assistance.


Here are the details:


Win Two Passes to


Fiesta Oyster Bake!!!






I need people on my team!



Sign the mailing list and opt in for STREET TEAM and you could win passes to
join me and the band at Fiesta Oyster Bake. True, we will put you to work watching the merch table at the show, but you'll be free to enjoy the festivities with us before and after.
Two names will be chosen on Saturday, April 5th (One from the entireLaura Marie Street Teamlist and one from the Club Pride campaign kick-off list). Winners will receive two passes each.

Sign the mailing list
don't forget to check the 'street team' box!



Email List

Yup, I've resorted to bribery. But, here's the thing, membership has it's privileges and all that. I'll be looking for things to give away to my team members from time to time. Tickets, t-shirts, ipods, etc. Seriously, I want to find ways to thank you for spreading the word and all the other things you do to support my music (like the wine and the parisian chocolates...yum).

Sign up on the mailing list and hit the Street Team box if you want to be in on this and future drawings. Leave it as Fan if you just want the updates. You can change your status or unsubscribe at any time and you have my word (and Fanbridge's word) that your info will never be given to a third party. I don't care how much they torture me!

One more thing. I have a new friend. His name is Khamelien.
His song More Love is my theme song of the week. THINK PEACE!

Spread more love - Khamelien
There is no way to peace, peace is the way - Muste


Much love - Laura

I do...I really do - January 28, 2008

If you are a musician on myspace and you've requested an add and I've accepted, yes, I've listened to your music. Even if you haven't listened to mine and you used some bot to find me, I've listened to you. Why? Because I love music and I love the idea of finding new music and this is one of the places I can. This is one of the places it comes to find me and I love that. My car radio makes me sad ('specially 'round these parts). I can't live without my ipod. Well, I can but I get cranky.

If you love finding new music and you haven't been to TheSixtyOne.com do yourself a favor and check it out. It's a music discovery game and you get points for playing. It can be addicting. Recently, I had the pleasure of gracing the front page for what's hot in the categories of pop, acoustic and all. Pretty sweet, huh?

Check it:


sixtyone
Go to The Sixty One


You'll see some of my friends on there as well like We Were Pirates ,Noctaluca and Michael Joy.

I had so much to blog about but didn't have time so let me sum up:

The marathon: I finished. Yay! I beat my previous time by 20 minutes but missed my goal by 15. (Note: 26.2 miles is a long time to live with a mistake in shoe wear. Yikes!)

Phoenix: Many thanks to my beautiful top friends Xavier and Rodan for being wonderful hosts, friends and supporters. I had a great time playing at the Paisley Violin and Mama Java's Coffee House and being on the Midday Show. I'm making plans to return to Phoenix so, if you are there, let me know.

Politics: I'm not going to say much here because I believe other people can say it better. You live what you believe and I believe in your right to do so. Anyway, that's what I believe. :) But I'm following

The Us Campaign
Independent filmmakers, musicians, actors and artists
increasing awareness of political issues by commissioning short format
films, music videos and viral art in 2008.


The next few years can be beautiful. Just keep your eyes open. - LM

P.S. Here is a horrible picture of a great guitarist who happened to be playing a sweet solo acoustic set in a bar in a nearby town. Give your best guess.

On popularity and getting attention... - December 15, 2007

I'm shy.

No seriously, stop laughing, I am. Or, I can be. Really. I've always been torn between wanting attention and wanting to crawl into a hole and hide. I wore my hair very long for most of my life just to have something to hide behind while I was absolutely doing things that were going to get me noticed...go figure.

I wanted attention but I wanted it on my terms (can you say 'control issues'). Let me illustrate. When in High School, I joined the pep squad but 'flunked out' because I refused to wear the uniform at school. Why? I wanted people to recognize how incredibly good I was at being 'peppy' and not notice my legs in a short skirt. Ridiculous, yes. But it made sense to me then.

The truth is, I still want attention on my terms. Who doesn't? But, I'm slowly giving up trying to control it. There's not much use anyway. People will see what they want to see...who can control that? That's why I am absolutely grateful to those who have focused their kind attention upon me.

Thank you to Jason Gerard for nominating me for Best Female Solo Artist in the San Antonio Music Awards.

It means a lot to be nominated by someone who is working it just the same. (Someone explain to Leopold what 'it' is) And, thanks to those who participate. We have some wonderful musicians in SA. Please vote and nominate your favorites.

Thank you to Letty and everyone who has played me on Clear Channel. I entered that because I've challenged myself to do things I normally wouldn't do just to see what happens. I've gone from the top 1000 to somewhere in the top 400 in a few days which is nice. So, I guess that's what happens. :)

If I get in the top 10 I'll throw ya'll a party. Yes, I am a Texan.

Thank you to Dennis Parrish for the Elfing. Check it out here:


Click to see me dance


And a very special THANK YOU to Nick Hinton whom I blogged about earlier this week. He is spreading the word about my music and I truly appreciate it. Below is the interview he did with me recently. Nick is currently in a writing frenzy so, do stop by and give him a listen.


The holidays are sure to bring about a blog or two but, in case I get entirely wrapped up in my own holiday activities, I hope you are having a wonderful season!

Much love, Laura


Oh yeah, here is a free ringtone for your phone:

FREENESS



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Interview by Nick Hinton



Earlier last month, I discovered the music of Laura Marie, a singer songwriter who hails from Texas. Her song "Wait" really grabbed my attention, it was a similar experience to my reaction upon hearing "Ordinary World" by Duran Duran. I was moved by those minor chords and her vocal style - so I visited iTunes - pushed that 'buy album' button, and had a deeper listen to her CD "Drawn." What I've found so far is an inspired set of songs, and a record that quite literally takes me off somewhere else. I quite like that about a record, and don't like hearing too many obviously placed hooks in too many obvious places. Funnily enough, I can hear Tracy Chapman in there at times when Laura's giving it some, a little Suzanne Vega in the softer parts and yet these comparisons really don't describe her voice. You'll have to listen to it. She has a very unusual voice to my ears, and if you look at my influences, you'll see that it's always the unusual voices that get to me.

In a world where X Factor and American Idol would like to tell us who's talented and who's not - I'm quite pleased to have discovered a real talent, and she's right here to answer a few questions for us.

Q: What brought you into the world of singing and songwriting?

It was sort of automatic. From an early age I was fascinated by song lyrics. Lyrics and melodies were always popping into my head. It was like having a soundtrack for my life. It was just natural that I start writing music from there.

Q: Tell us about one of your first songs, and how you felt about it?

That's a tough one. I look back on some of the first songs I wrote and realize how painfully self-conscious they were. They are so 'on the surface' that you don't even suspect that there is a deeper meaning there. But, when I look at some of the first songs I wrote as an adult solo artist, I feel moved by what I was going through at the time. One of my favorites is a song called "Ricardo". It's about a childhood friend who saved my life by really just being there and loving me as only he could. That song always brings back such bittersweet memories and I'm moved whenever I hear it.

Q: In the song "Wait" - you say "Knowing does no good..." What did you mean?

I suppose it could mean a lot of things. The idea was to hit on that feeling of powerlessness when you may have realized something important but you don't feel like you can do anything about it. Everyone has those moments of understanding and clarity that can be so inspiring and make you want to change the world but, then comes the overwhelming sense of doubt when you don't know if you have the courage to live your life with such conviction. Sometimes, it's easier to shut yourself down than face what you are feeling.

Q: How would you feel about signing to a record label?

I've gone back and forth with the idea of that for quite a while. There would have to be a sense of intimacy with the powers that be. I don't want to be on a huge roster where blanket decisions that effect your craft are handed down from someone who doesn't know anything about your music or your fan base.

Q: Guitar or piano?

Guitar. But, only because my piano skills are much worse.

Q: When you write a song, do you scribble lyrics furiously on random pieces of notepaper, or does it just come to you? Describe the process a little.

I definitely scribble. I don't care how many notebooks I buy, I always end up with envelopes, napkins and wrappers stuck in my pockets. From there, I get my guitar and my laptop and hash it out. I usually have a phrase, a feeling and a bit of melody. Sometimes I have no idea if I'm in the chorus or the verse but I build everything around that initial piece.

Q: Who would you say your 2 biggest influences are?

That is really difficult. I used to say Sting and that was it but, I've been inspired by so many lately. I am blown away by David Poe and Ryan Adams these days.

Q: Did you grow up around music?

Absolutely, I grew up around music but not musicians. My dad and I used to play 'name that tune' wherever we were. My aunt gave me her collection of Beatle's 45s that I listened to constantly. My Dad actually did write lyrics for a song that was published in Spanish but that was before I was born. Mostly, I just sought music out or made my own.

Q: "On A High" "So Gone" or "That Says It All" ?

"On A High" for it's ability to change my mood. On days when I feel my attitude taking a turn for the worse, I blast it in my car. "There never will be no conspiracy of happiness"...ain't that the truth!

Q: Does Santa Claus exist?

If my son is reading this, yes.

Q: What are we to expect from Laura Marie in 2008?

I'll be back in the studio and I will be traveling a bit around Texas and possibly beyond. I'm working on that right now.

Q: Thank you for sharing your time with us, Happy Holidays LM!

You are so incredibly welcome. Happiness always!

Nick Hinton - December 9, 2007

I love my membership in the mutual admiration society. This time I'm going to gush about my new friend, Nick Hinton, from London. Perhaps some of my London friends are familiar with him. If not, please look him up. I mean, he's right there and you should enjoy him as he is in reach. I have to be content listening on the internet. Unless, someone wants to send me a plane ticket.

Yeah, that's what I thought.

Like me, Nick is a bit of a Sheik freak. Perhaps you will hear the influence in his music. I do. But Nick definitely has his own way of doing things and I find his voice to be incredibly soothing. My favorite songs are 'Wasting My Time' ("wish you were wasting my time...") and 'Reeve'. Though, 'I've got the flu' promises to be the song most likely to cheer me up when I'm sick. It should be the official flu theme song.

So, my dear myspace friends who absolutely love discovering new music, visit him here:



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And now for a word about CALHOUN

If you missed them in San Antonio (I know who you people are and I would have seen you there) then you missed something incredible. I will say that I really wanted to hear more off of their first CD but it was good to hear what they've been up to in the studio. On top of that, these are some really nice guys. Shhhhh...I don't think they know that they are going to be famous so, it hasn't gotten to their heads yet. Wish we could have hung out more but marathon training is no fun when you aren't well rested. (Or when you've had a couple of crown and sevens the night before.) :-)

And kudos to The Frontier Brothers who were highly entertaining.


Me between Jordan Gordon and Tim Locke of Calhoun.
cell phone pic-i hate when i forget my camera


I could go on forever about Tim and his lyrics but I'll save that for another time.

Much love - Laura
______________________________________

This Week:

Laura Marie @ Candlelight Coffeehouse


Wednesday, Dec 12th - 8pm
Candlelight

and @ Luna


Thursday, Dec 13th - 8pm
Luna

sofpostfront

With Gratitude
thanksgiving - November 20, 2007

It's almost Thanksgiving and I have never been more thankful in my life than I am this year. I hope I can say that every year. It just seems like things are getting more and more incredible each day and as intense as it gets at times, I can't tell you how absolutely amazing my life is. The people in it absolutely thrill me and the things I get to experience...wow...blessings. Life is good.

What I am grateful for this week:

A holiday with my sisters all in one place.
My youngest sister being safe after a very close call just hours ago
My dearest friends
Music in the mail
A great phone call from the East Coast
Every single person I've met in the last two years and an incredible group I met a few months ago
My family
Every single CD sold
Every single person on my mailing list
Every single person on my friend list
All the friends I make music with
Friends who remind me to smile
Friends that make me crazy and friends who keep my sane
It's all good.

I want to share with you a song that my good friend, Matt Barker, and I wrote a few months back. We sat down in front of my imac in his living room and threw it together. It's a bit raw but it means the world to me. :-)

It's the 3rd song on my myspace player and it's called
People

I'm off to El Paso for Thanksgiving. Have a great one - LM

How it Feels to be Wrong - November 6, 2007

I've had a couple of people this week ask me advice on songwriting and send me some lyrics. I'm quite happy to read them though I hardly think it's my place to tell someone much beyond whether the structure is solid or if they are using certain devices well or other technical things.

I mean, what you write can be so incredibly personal and who am I to say whether or not it is as it should be. One thing I know is that truth resonates with people even if they don't understand the personal meaning behind it. I always tell people to study the music they love and work from there. Anyway, that's what I do. I internalize all the things I love about music and then it all comes pouring out when something or someone inspires me.

Here's what I spilled today:

Did you notice my face?
Did you see how my eyes glazed
…how my breath had escaped
…how I choked back the intake?
Oh, time never flies
In the face of a bold lie
Just wait 'til it dies
Then you'll know what it feels like
Then you'll know what it feels like
Stop taking my side
I'm always wrong

You think we'll ever stop?
Do you think there's a drop off
…when someone gives in
…when we've learned our lesson?
Oh, please take your time
Nothing has to be just right
Hold me when you decide
So I know what you feel like
But I know what you feel like
Oh, maybe my side
is where you belong

- Laura Marie (recorded as "how it feels to be wrong", Nov 2007)


____________________________
Things to do:

Sign the email list and get a Free Download of In Code

Follow me on Twitter. What's Twitter? It's like I'm carrying you around in my pocket with me wherever I go.

Add your pics to my new profile guestbook. It's HERE on the left hand side of the page.

And, if you're out of town Demand Me...and help me plan on where to play next year:














Longer, better, faster, stronger - October 23, 2007

I'm no hater.

And I'll admit it. I'm hooked on that song by Kanye West. So much so that I 'm on the verge of buying it. DON'T JUDGE ME!!! It's just that it is SO GOOD to run to. I'm not kidding. I actually run better when I'm listening to it. Did I mention I'm training for a marathon? Yup...I know. DON'T JUDGE ME!!! :-)

I enjoy running. I love my running shoes (Mizuno's...they make me happy). I love logging my distance and I'm starting to love the challenge of trying a faster pace. It used to be that I could barely breathe when I ran. So, I ran alone because I hated when someone tried to talk to me and I couldn't breathe well enough to manage a response.

When I'd run with my husband who is taller and much faster (longer legs) I'd get irritated with him. He'd casually hand me the water bottle when I could hardly manage the oxygen and coordination it took to get the water in my mouth. I used to give him dirtly looks when he'd ask if I was thirsty. Then I'd dribble water all over myself and nearly throw it back at him. So, I ran a ten minute mile for a long time before I tried to get any faster.

He's still faster but now I can keep up with him when he's not trying to push his pace. And we can talk...so, I don't have the urge to throw water bottles at him anymore. Plus, I also have my own bottle.

All this to say, I'm running the Rock and Roll marathon in Phoenix in January. There is a band every mile. I love it because I'm used to listening to music when I run whether I'm singing it in my head or listening to my ipod.

So, this is where I need your help

:

I need songs to run to!!!


Or Kanye it is...I'm starting a new playlist. This is what I have so far:

O-Zone - Dragostea Din Tei (it's addictive)
The Panic Division - Goodbyes
Calhoun - Kick Drum Mind
David Poe - Childbearing
Elvis Costello - Pump it Up
Florez - With Your Soul

send me an email with your best suggestion :-)


____________________________________________________

Wed. night, October 24th, 8pm


Candlelight Coffeehouse, 3011 N. St. Mary's
Laura Marie w/Reza Kaleel



Planning to travel next year. Help me plan my route:
















Laura Marie Things

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Love me two times, baby. - September 24, 2007

Twice this week, anyway. Once on Wednesday, once on Saturday. (My apologies to Jim Morrison)


Wednesday, September 26th - 8pm


with Reza Kaleel
at Candlelight Coffeehouse
3011 St. Mary's Street



Click and Add me


Reza hates it when I air our dirty laundry but I think the story is funny. We used to be married. Ok, that's a lie. We weren't married....worse...we were in a band together and it ended in the studio while we were recording our second CD. Harsh words were exchanged...it was brutal. But now we play nice nice :-)

Do me a favor, come to the show and don't say a word about it. He never reads this stuff anyway. Just look at him and wink. It'll drive him crazy.

Saturday, September 29th - 8am



The San Antonio Aids Foundation Walk for Life
at Wooldlawn Lake Park


Click for info...then donate


All you have to do is show up and walk. How easy is that? I'll be there passing out my

Limited Edition Love Buttons


and playing some music somewhere around the lake.
all tips go to the cause.

___________________________



Otherwise, I'm in a holding pattern between the waves. Thinking about the business of the music business will do that to you. Creativity wanes and you just have to get out there and play it out.

See you soon - Laura

Home Again - September 8, 2007

Home Again!!!

I was only gone for four days but a lot can happen in four days. :-) I came home and life just looked better. Even the rain feels different. Wonderful.

So, a reminder:


luna



There will be some acoustic stuff to start out with but we are finishing up the night with the whole band.

Also, look for some new merch to pop up soon. Tanks, T-shirts, buttons. If you have any requests of specific lyrics to be printed on buttons, let me know. I have a few already.



I'd like to take a moment to honor my new friend Gladys Hardy


She is 88 years old and lives in Austin, Texas. Several months ago, someone sent me a YouTube clip of the Ellen Show in which Ellen calls Gladys and I lmao-ed so, I was very excited to find an add request from her and her family on myspace last week. It was also nice to come home from vacation and find my new Gladys Hardy t-shirt in the mail. Part of the proceeds go to charity so, check it out. I do believe I will be spreading the news about some of my new found friends with each blog from now on. I know some amazing people!

To my friends who are having trouble reaching me, I'm afraid I'll be out of touch for a few days. I have a lot of things to put in order so, I'll need a few days to reconnect. Feel free to drop a line, text (if you have the number) or send an email. Life is good. I love you all very much - LM


P.S. Almost forgot!!! My B-day coincides with the solar eclipse this year. I know I have some astrologer friends out there (or even if you just feel like making something up). Tell me what it means. The best explanation gets a present.

Currently eating: Green and Black's organic dark chocolate with ginger. YUM!
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