Hey Dana Jane

Tag: Music

  • Rise Above: Why Supporting Todd Ashbeck Is the Right Thing to Do

    Betrayal is a harsh tune, and unfortunately, Todd Ashbeck knows it all too well. After pouring 12 years of heart, soul, and pure grit into Rising Phoenix—a band he founded—Todd was blindsided by the ultimate betrayal. His so-called “bandmates” unceremoniously ousted him from the very group he created. What’s worse? They’ve tried to carry on without him, as if Rising Phoenix wasn’t Todd’s brainchild from the start.

    Let’s get one thing clear: Rising Phoenix without Todd Ashbeck is no Rising Phoenix at all.

    Todd’s story is one of passion, dedication, and relentless drive. He didn’t just start a band; he built a legacy. He handpicked members, made connections with venues, and kept the band alive even when others faltered. And how was this loyalty repaid? By a coup orchestrated behind his back, led by individuals who couldn’t even respect the man who gave them their platform.

    Let’s break it down:

    • The Undeniable Truth: Todd founded Rising Phoenix in 2012, long before his former bandmates joined the fold.
    • The Backstabbing: Key decisions, including the firing of another member, were made without Todd’s knowledge.
    • The Smear Campaign: They’re now trying to paint Todd as the bad guy, twisting his words and actions to suit their narrative.

    But Todd’s passion and integrity can’t be erased with a few petty lies.

    What kind of “friends” plot to push someone out of their own creation? Todd’s account exposes the lack of respect, underhanded tactics, and toxic dynamics that led to this fallout. From rejecting great show opportunities to griping about money and venues, these former members clearly lacked the dedication Todd demanded.

    And let’s not even get started on band member, Josh. By Todd’s account, “The New Guy” had been scheming from the start, undermining Todd’s leadership at every turn. If this is how they treat a leader and founder, what’s stopping them from betraying others?

    Venues, take note: booking the so-called “Rising Phoenix” without Todd is supporting theft—plain and simple. This isn’t just a matter of band politics; it’s about integrity. Venues that respect artistry and the hard work it takes to build something from the ground up should refuse to support Todd’s former bandmates.

    Instead, we encourage venues and fans alike to stand with Todd as he rebuilds under a new band name. This new chapter promises the same passion, talent, and energy that Todd has always delivered—this time with a team that truly values him.

    Todd Ashbeck is a fighter, and he deserves our support. After 50 years in music, he’s not about to let a group of backstabbers silence his voice. His resilience and commitment to his craft are qualities we should all admire and support.

    To the venues considering booking “Rising Phoenix” without Todd: Don’t. There’s only one true Rising Phoenix, and it’s the one with Todd at the helm.

    To the fans: Let’s rally behind Todd and make sure the world knows the real story. Follow him, support his upcoming shows, and let’s help him rise above this betrayal.

    Todd, we’ve got your back.

    Stay tuned for updates as Todd reclaims his rightful place in the music world—because legends don’t lay down; they rise.

  • Elvis Presley: The King Lives On

    Today, the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll would have turned 90. Ninety. Let that sink in for a moment. Elvis Presley—hip-swiveling, velvet-voiced, heartthrob of the universe—would be blowing out candles on his 90th birthday cake if life had dealt a different hand. The thought feels surreal, doesn’t it? Can you even picture Elvis at 90? Because I can’t. His timeless persona exists forever in the glitz of his Vegas jumpsuits, the smolder of his early leather jackets, and that iconic lip curl. Elvis might have left the building 47 years ago, but let me tell you, he still occupies a penthouse suite in my heart.

    It’s almost laughable to think of Elvis as an old man. The man was pure energy, a lightning bolt in human form. Could he have even slowed down? I imagine him still strutting around, hips defying gravity, probably managing to make orthotic shoes and bifocals look sexy. Maybe he’d trade in his gold Cadillac for a Tesla. But let’s be real—he’d have it custom-wrapped in rhinestones.

    The thing about Elvis is that his magic doesn’t age. His music, his movies, his charisma—they’re as fresh today as they were when they first lit up living rooms and jukeboxes across America. “Jailhouse Rock” still makes me want to dance like no one’s watching, and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” still makes me swoon. (And if you don’t get goosebumps during that scene in Blue Hawaii, you might need to check your pulse.)

    What blows my mind is the devotion of his fans. We’ve been loving this man for decades, through thick and thin (and yes, even through those infamous peanut butter and banana sandwiches). For 47 years, we’ve kept him alive in our playlists, our hearts, and, let’s be honest, in our Elvis-themed kitchen towels. Because when you love Elvis, it’s not just fandom—it’s a lifelong commitment.

    So today, let’s raise a glass (or a peanut butter and banana sandwich) to the King. Here’s to 90 years of Elvis Presley, the man who redefined cool, who brought rock ‘n’ roll to the forefront, and who taught the world that a little hip action could go a long way.

    Happy Birthday, Elvis. Thank you very much.

  • Dancing Through the Dust: My Cleaning Frenzy Before Christmas Eve

    Twas the week before Christmas, and all through the house, not a thing was in order—not even the couch.

    If you’ve ever tried to get your home ready to host a holiday gathering, you know the chaotic mix of optimism and panic that sets in. Yesterday, I embarked on a cleaning frenzy with the same energy as a contestant on a game show where the grand prize is “Your Guests Don’t Judge You.” Spoiler alert: I didn’t win.

    Step 1: The Soundtrack of Cleanliness
    Here’s a tip from me to you: when it’s time to clean, crank up the music like your life depends on it. I mean BLAST it. Enter my new favorite cleaning companion: the JBL Party Box speaker. This thing is so powerful I’m pretty sure the neighbors felt my cleaning energy from three doors down. (Not a sponsored post, but seriously, JBL, call me!)

    To kick things off, I queued up a mix of feel-good classics, but things quickly took a turn. The kids commandeered the playlist, and suddenly our house sounded like a live rap concert with enough bass to rattle the ornaments off the tree. But hey, if it gets them to clean their rooms, I’ll allow it.

    Step 2: Dancing (I Mean “Cleaning”)
    My cleaning strategy involves equal parts scrubbing and jamming out. I had a broom in one hand and a makeshift mic (read: the TV remote) in the other. At one point, I’m pretty sure I spent more time perfecting my moves to Uptown Funk than dusting the bookshelves. The Huz walked in, gave me a look that said, “Are you cleaning or auditioning for a music video?” and wisely walked back out.

    Step 3: The Kids Get Involved
    Here’s the thing about teenagers: they’ll do anything if you make it fun. The JBL Party Box worked its magic, and before I knew it, the boys were competing over who could vacuum with the best rhythm. The bassline was pounding, the lyrics were questionable, but the floors were spotless. Win-win.

    Step 4: Reflecting on My Progress
    After hours of “cleaning” (read: hosting an impromptu family dance party), the house looked… well, not perfect, but good enough. Let’s be honest, if anyone’s inspecting the grout lines on Christmas Eve, they’re not getting invited back next year.

    Final Thoughts
    Here’s my motto: cleaning is what happens when music and caffeine collide. Whether you’re blasting rap, rock, or Mariah Carey’s Greatest Hits, just make it fun. You’ll be amazed at how much dust you can dance away.

    Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a tree to redecorate because apparently, JBL bass is strong enough to jingle the ornaments off the branches.

    Merry (clean-ish) Christmas!

  • Born Too Late: My Love for the Hippie Movement

    Born Too Late: My Love for the Hippie Movement

    For as long as I can remember, I’ve been enamored with the Hippie Movement. It all started with my Aunt Judy, who played a pivotal role in shaping my love for music. She introduced me to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, when I was just three years old. He became my first celebrity crush, and from that moment, my musical tastes blossomed under her influence. Aunt Judy’s vinyl collection was like a time machine, transporting me to an era of peace, love, and incredible music. Thanks to her, I grew up listening to The Beatles, The Doobie Brothers, The Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Joe Walsh, and The Mamas & The Papas. These artists left an indelible mark on me, and I’ve always felt a deep connection to that time in history.

    I’ve often felt like I don’t belong in this post-Summer-of-Love world. The 1980s passed by in a blur as I was too young to fully understand or appreciate the trends of the decade. And when I became a teenager in the early 1990s, I found myself rejecting the mainstream. Tight-rolling my jeans and curling my bangs? No, thank you. Instead, I grew my hair out long—no bangs!—and opted for flare-leg jeans and Doc Marten boots. While the world around me embraced grunge and pop culture, I held on to something different. I didn’t want to follow the crowd; I wanted to stay true to what felt natural to me. At the time, I thought I was ahead of my generation, but now, I realize I might just be a reincarnated hippie.

    If I had a dollar for every time someone told me I was born three decades too late, I’d be a very wealthy woman. I’ve always related more to the counterculture movement than to the fast-paced, material-driven world we live in now. The hippie ethos of love, peace, freedom, and community resonates deeply with me. It wasn’t just the music that captivated me—it was the entire lifestyle. I admired how the hippies rebelled against societal norms, advocating for love, understanding, and acceptance in a world that often felt cold and divided.

    The movement itself was more than a protest against war or a rejection of mainstream values. It was a search for something deeper—a desire for love, freedom, and a sense of belonging. The hippies were seeking connection, community, and a place where they could express their authentic selves. In a 1968 article, Baptist Pastor John Bisagno once said, “The kids are searching for authority, love, and understanding—ingredients missing at home. Jesus is what their fathers aren’t.” His words resonated with the era’s search for meaning, love, and acceptance in a world that seemed to lack those very things.

    Even now, I see traces of that search in modern-day movements, but nothing feels quite as genuine or powerful as the original counterculture of the 1960s and 1970s. The hippies had something special—a sense of unity and a desire to create a better world, despite the turbulence around them. They were unapologetically themselves, and that’s something I’ve always admired and tried to emulate.

    So while I might have missed the Summer of Love by a few decades, I still carry its spirit with me every day. Whether it’s through the music I listen to or the values I hold dear, that connection to the hippie movement will always be a part of me. Maybe I was born in the wrong era, but that just means my heart is a little more colorful and a lot more free.

  • Wynonna Judd: Back to Wy Tour

    Friday night was a memorable one as I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Wynonna Judd concert at the North Star Mohican Casino in Bowler, WI. Wynonna delivered a remarkable performance that left me in awe, and I couldn’t help but be transported through time and emotions as the night unfolded.

    As I took my seat and the stage lights dimmed, the anticipation in the air was palpable. The moment Wynonna took the stage, her presence filled the room with a sense of magic and electricity that set the tone for the evening. The show began with an energy that resonated with the audience, and I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the weekend.

    Wynonna’s setlist was filled with some of my all-time favorite songs, including “Rock Bottom,” “No One Else On Earth,” “Love is Alive,” and “Grandpa.” Her voice was as powerful and soulful as ever, and the way she connected with her audience was truly remarkable. Each note, each lyric, seemed to come straight from the heart.

    However, it was when she sang “Mama He’s Crazy” that I felt a surge of emotions like never before. This song holds a special place in my heart, and hearing it live was a powerful experience. It brought back memories of my dear childhood friend, Melissa Haferman. Melissa had a voice as beautiful as Wynonna’s, and she had a dream of making it in Nashville.

    Tragically, Melissa’s life was cut short just as her career was taking off. She had recorded her first CD in Nashville and was on the cusp of a promising musical journey when her lifeless body was discovered in a vacant lot near the Louisville, Kentucky bus depot. It was a devastating loss for all who knew her, and it still feels surreal to think about it.

    Seeing Wynonna perform “Mama He’s Crazy” was like a bittersweet reminder of the times when Melissa used to sing it for karaoke in our local bars. Her passion and talent were undeniable, and I have no doubt that she would have made it in Nashville had her life not been tragically cut short.

    Wynonna’s performance was a tribute not only to her own incredible talent but also to the resilience and spirit of those who dare to dream and pursue their passions in the world of country music. The way she belted out the lyrics with such authenticity and emotion was a touching homage to the dreams that Melissa and countless others like her once held dear.

    In the end, I left the concert feeling grateful for the experience and blessed to have witnessed such a captivating performance. Wynonna Judd is an amazing performer, and I am thankful for the opportunity to see her live, even if it brought back some poignant memories and emotions. This night will remain etched in my heart as a tribute to both Wynonna’s artistry and the memory of my dear friend, Melissa.

  • The Beatles: And Your Bird Can Sing

    The Beatles: And Your Bird Can Sing

    Today, I found myself lost in the timeless melodies of “And Your Bird Can Sing” by The Beatles. This song has always held a special place in my heart, and every time I hear it, it’s like revisiting an old friend.

    The opening guitar riff, played by George Harrison and Paul McCartney, immediately draws me in. It’s like a musical invitation to a journey through the thoughts and emotions of the song. John Lennon’s vocals are delivered with a raw energy that conveys a sense of longing and frustration. It’s as if he’s pouring his heart out, telling a story that resonates deeply with me.

    The lyrics are cryptic, filled with vivid imagery and metaphors. “You tell me that you’ve got everything you want, and your bird can sing, but you don’t get me” – these lines always make me reflect on the complexities of human relationships. It’s as if Lennon is expressing a sense of disconnect with someone, a feeling of being misunderstood or overlooked.

    The harmonies in this song are nothing short of magical. The interplay between Lennon and McCartney’s voices is harmonious and captivating. It’s a reminder of the incredible musical chemistry that defined The Beatles.

    As the song progresses, the guitar work becomes more intricate, and the rhythm drives the music forward with an infectious energy. It’s impossible not to tap your foot or nod your head along to the beat. The song’s brevity adds to its charm; it’s over before you know it, leaving you wanting more.

    Listening to “And Your Bird Can Sing” is like taking a musical journey through the complexities of human emotions. It’s a song that speaks to the heart and soul, and it never ceases to amaze me how a piece of music can evoke such powerful feelings and memories.

    Today’s encounter with this Beatles classic served as a reminder of the enduring beauty of their music and the profound impact it has on my life. It’s a song I’ll continue to treasure and revisit whenever I need a musical escape into the depths of emotion and creativity.