An Abundance of Originals

The past week has been pretty rough for me – much time spent in bed or napping on my couch. Though I'm still nothing close to 100%, at least I was able to get some chores done and step outside for a little while today. Fresh air and sunshine are always good medicine.

Watching everyone's entries was also uplifting. I'll admit that it was pretty hard to narrow down. We had a good selection of strong offerings, with an abundance of impressive original content.

As a songwriter myself, I'll always give more weight to entries that are vulnerable beyond just 'performing'. Not that covers can't sometimes be brilliant (and often are), but...being willing to share songs that come from within takes considerably more courage. I applaud all those of you who so bravely take that risk.

What follows are my top selections; songs that felt like part of my much-needed medicine in this moment. All but one are originals.

This piece had such a profound effect on me. I closed my eyes to better listen and was transported, deeply moved by the heartfelt music that spills through your capable fingers – music that somehow speaks to both hopeful joy and melancholy all at once. I'm struck by your ability to convey such a broad spectrum of emotion without uttering a single word. Absolutely gorgeous.

Well, that was just divine! <3 Welcome back – I've so missed the syrupy sound of you. Lovin' the jazzy swing of this one – the unexpected, vocal-phrasing at the end of every verse and that lovely outro (even though you totally faked us out!)

I'm quite the fan of your percussive, harmonic intro and little harmonic highlights throughout. Both grounding and buoyant, this song is sure to lift the spirit of anyone who hears you play it. Smile, indeed! I had need of that....

Your songs are always sweet, but this one feels particularly sincere. Some really lovely melodic shapes in your vocals, woven over appropriately simple guitar – makes for a wonderful combination. :)

I'm so in love with the tender sensitivity of your pristine voice. It envelopes my heart – like a warm honey salve – calming all the aches and pains it touches. You truly have a gift, my dear.

That's All Folks!

In addition to those mentioned above, we also had wonderful entries from @contrabourdon, @eugelys, @barski, @ylich, @orlandogonzalez, @esthersanchez, @edmundocentenor, @exoelias, @jubei333, @gibber, @danaidhbee, @jesusmedit & @fundakantoria. Thank you all for participating!

Smiling quietly at the rest of our SGL team – @krystle, @isaria, @pechichemena, @joseacabrerav, @ausbitbank, @paintingangels & @swelker101 – you guys are the best! <3

Until Next Week,
xo, zippy