Bill Hare, my producer, my friend.

It's almost comical to me that I've been accused of being verbose with my blog, and yet I sit here and try to articulate just the right words to express my gratitude and love for this man right here.............>

I've known Bill for over Thirty years. We grew up living next door to each other, and along with that came forming a band, and a deep connection of mutual respect and friendship. Life took many twists and turns for us both, Bill and his Mother opened a Recording Studio, and I ran off and got married. Then in 2010, after a short stint with another Producer, it seemed natural to me that I work with Bill. I'm not really sure why I hadn't before. I guess I kind of felt that my commitment level to my career wasn't to the point that I could work with someone of his caliber yet, that maybe I needed to figure out first what I wanted. I mean, he's working with major Labels, huge names, why would he work with me? It was really then that I discovered some awesome things about myself too.

See, Bill is the kind of person that guides an Artist with an easy hand, he's laid back, goofy as hell, and probably the most gifted musician I know. I don't even know how many instruments he plays, but I can tell you that every song I've released, he's played the majority of the tracks. He's known all over the world for his Engineering in the A Capella world, been portrayed in the novel "Pitch Perfect", he's received probably over 100 CASSA awards, and last year, a Grammy! Or is it two? A Capella Groups from all over the world line up to work with this man, and yet, (Don't tell anyone) many times he's pushed aside work for ME! How lucky am I?

Bill's taught me a lot. Both in my professional world, and personal life. I've learned that many times I will stumble in this crazy business, but I'm to suck it up, deal with it, learn from it, and get right back up! I've learned how to listen and appreciate all different kinds of music, and hear what's there, and what isn't. I've learned the ability to sit behind the board and literally feel him work. I've learned that when I'm sitting in the vocal booth and he pops into my headphones with direction, I know he knows what I'm capable of, and he knows how to get me there! He did pop in and call me a "Bitch" once though. I think I still owe him one for that!

I've also learned over the last three years how crucial a supportive producer can be in a music career. Someone who listens to your ideas, shares thoughts without criticism, can stand back when your adamant, and can follow behind you making sure you're grammatically correct. (He's not getting his hands on this blog post)

The interesting thing about Bill, and I relayed this to a reporter last year when I was asked, " What's it like working with a Grammy winning producer like Bill?" To which I replied, " I don't know, he's just Bill." Bill is one of the most down to earth, modest people I know. I know he's proud of the Grammy that sits in his Studio, but he's even more proud of all the great music he's mixed and mastered.

Bill, I know I can speak for all the thousands of talented musicians who've had the pleasure of working with you when I say, 'Thank you". Thank you for believing in me, and sharing your gift with us!

                                                Now get back to work!