The Commercial Suicide Songwriting Podcast

Donnie Winters... the MAN, the LEGEND, the SONGWRITER and (happy to say) MY FRIEND! Most folks only know him as the (very capable) soundman at Douglas Corner Cafe; a "must visit" stop on every songwriters' first (and every) trip to MUSIC CITY... but there is SO MUCH MORE to this amazing songwriter/performer's story. Such as? Well I'll attempt to keep the spoilers to a minimum but how's about THESE:He had his first cut while a Freshman in High School... with MARTY ROBBINS!!!He and his brother formed a band that played CHARLIE DANIELS' VOLUNTEER JAM FESTIVAL... repeatedly!!!He's scored cuts with artists as diverse as the LOUVIN BROTHERS, THE FLYING BURRITO BROTHERS, BARRY AND HOLLY TASHIAN, THE CHAPMANS, RONDA VINCENT, BUDDY & JULIE MILLER, NOB HILL BOYS and more!!!So sit back and listen in rapt attention to one of the more fascinating interviews we've presented yet. And by ALL MEANS make a point of stopping into Douglas Corner Tuesday Night on your next visit to Nashville... just be sure to call early to reserve a spot to play! DONNIE WINTERS MUSIC OFFICIAL DONNIE WINTERS FACEBOOK DONNIE WINTERS ALLMUSIC CREDITS WINTERS BROTHERS BAND OFFICIAL WEBSITE (INCLUDES TV SHOW INFO) NEXT GENERATION SONS & DAUGHTERS OF COUNTRY LEGENDS CONCERT (JUNE 9, 2016 6-11:30pm) DOUGLAS CORNER CAFE CALENDAR WINTER BROTHERS LIVE AT VOLUNTEER JAM 1979 ON YOUTUBE MARTY ROBBINS "SHOTGUN RIDER" ON YOUTUBE DON WINTERS (SR) "PRETTY MOON" OM YOUTUBE DON WINTERS (SR) "BE MY BABY, BABY" ON YOUTUBE BRENDAN SMOOTHER'S "PARAMEDIC SUICIDE" SONG AND FUND BRENDAN SMOOTHER MUSIC FACEBOOK WFMC JAMS NASHVILLE NIGHT WITH RANDY FINCHUM JIM OLIVER'S SMOKEHOUSE MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN LIVE (FEATURING RANDY FINCHUM AND FRIENDS MONTHLY) R.I.P. PRINCE ROGERS NELSON... YOU WERE ONE OF A KIND AND WILL BE MISSED

Rob Mackay and Garry Koehler. Good things come to those who wait, we're told; this episode will be no exception.Our own VIEW FROM DOWNUNDER correspondent (and rising Country music star in his own right) BRENDAN SMOOTHER takes the helm of the CSSP for an exclusive interview with the award-winning Australian Country duo THE BOBKATZ.THE BOBKATZ is comprised of ROB MACKAY and GARRY KOEHLER; both of whom have interesting musical histories to share as well as a wealth of fascinating tales about their journey together. They are indeed a living testament to the CSSP credo of KEEP ON WRITIN' AND KEEP ON KEEPIN' ON!So pour yourself a cold one (not a "Foster's"- I have it on good authority that it is NOT Australian for "beer") and enjoy this long-awaited and hard-fought-for interview. BOBKATZ OFFICIAL BOBKATZ FACEBOOK BOBKATZ on iTunes BOBKATZ on REVERBNATION BOBKATZ on YOUTUBE Brendan with his Tamworth award BRENDAN SMOOTHER OFFICIAL BRENDAN SMOOTHER on STARNOW BRENDAN SMOOTHER FACEBOOK BRENDAN SMOOTHER on BANDCAMP BRENDAN SMOOTHER TWITTER Be sure to catch Brendan's latest single, "WARNING SIGNS." “This episode is dedicated to the memory of legendary songwriter, performer and dear friend to all he met, Tommy Turner” Yes, Tommy; music is indeed wonderful. Random JIMMY ANDERSON sighting! with ANGIE PERRAULT aka MARIE PERRY!

Super-cool graphic by Walter Scattolon. Thanks, Walter! As hard as it is for us to imagine, we've reached the half-century mark. Cincuenta. Cinquante. Cinquanta. Fünfzig. Vijjftig. Caoga. Femtio. Pedeset. Pum Deg Piecdesmit. Fimmtíu. Viisikymmentä. 50. Tsib Caug. Fiddy. vagmaH. L.Any way you say it, it boggles the mind...So for the last episode of 2015, we sent out the call to our faithful contributors to provide some great content for your listening pleasure.Jimmy & Paulie were busy handicapping the U.S. Presidential Primaries and were thus unable to contribute this time (don't worry, kids; they'll be back for the next "regular" episode) but everyone else on the dais is represented here. Good stuff, too!Marvel as:Steve & Randy reveal the REAL SONGWRITERS behind most of the planet's hit music (allegedly)Dan Sullivan exposes NASHVILLE'S LITTLE SECRETAngie Perrault goes FISHING FOR THAT HOOK and we get to hear her song FISH ON Brendan Smoother gives us A VIEW FROM DOWNUNDER and shares some new music and personal newsRandy shares his favorite day of the week (and type of bracelets) in YOU THINK YOU KNOWWalter Scattolon (who also provided both the intro and title graphic for this episode) walks us through the creation of his song ALL THESE KEYS And we conclude this episode (and 2015!) with Christopher Shane Long's hit-to-be (you heard it here first) 1968 Randy & Steve JAMMIN" Christopher Shane Long & Steve Walter's underground lair! CSSP/Steve Rempis on FaceBook Steve Rempis on ReverbNation Randy Finchum on ReverbNation Randy Finchum's NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS' RADIO SHOW Angie Perrault on Songspace Reed waddle website Brendan Smoother on STARNOW Bec Hance Website Kelly Cork Website ABOVE THE BLUE Charity Album Jimmy Anderson on ReverbNation Dan Sullivan on ReverbNation The Window Panes (with Pauley Coconuts!) on Reverbnation Chris Long on ReverbNation

Here's the part where John Cleese would come out and say, "Now for something completely different"... if we could afford him! Indeed, this episode is unlike any other we've done; as it features an interview with the Nashville-based "Glam Rock" band LIPSTICK. Randy and I visited Greg Troyan and Steve Smith at LIPSTICK HEADQUARTERS recently to speak with the pair about their musical histories, future plans and all things LIPSTICK. For diehard glam fans like us this was quite a treat!So pull up a chair and pop open a cold one as we get down and dirty with LIPSTICK.STEEV LIPSTICK WEBSITE LIPSTICK FACEBOOK LIPSTICK TWITTER THE CONAN SONG VIDEO BLUE MATCHES WEBSITE REGDAR AND THE FIGHTERS WEBSITE THE MANPOWER bandcamp SNAKEVOMIT WEBSITE CSSP MAILING ADDRESS: 178 S. FORD ST GALLATIN, TN 37066CSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.com 

Well we're mighty glad to announce that the interview we did with Nashville living legend, TOMMY TURNER way back in June is finally seeing the light of day!For those not "in the know" as such; Tommy is an amazingly gifted songwriter with an incredibly inspirational story to tell. We'd go into more detail here but better you get the dirt from the man himself...We also have to mention that Tommy is one of the finest, kindest and most honest human beings you'd ever care to meet; we're both humbled and proud to call him FRIEND!So kick back, relax and prepare to be inspired. Be sure to listen through to the end, where we'll feature several of Tommy's works including:IT AIN'T OVER YET (written by Tommy Turner and Vanessa Hill, performed by Vanessa)DON'T MAKE ME LAUGH (DEMO written by Tommy Turner and Jan Buckingham)MISERY LOVES COUNTRY (DEMO written by Tommy Turner and Jan Buckingham)THE HOLE (written and performed LIVE by Tommy Turner) https://www.facebook.com/Tommynashville TOMMY TURNER on REVERBNATION TOMMY TURNER FACEBOOK

THEY thought they could keep us down, hold us back. snuff us out... but NO! The minions of darkness didn't prevail as we are BACK with a vengeance!!!So just WHERE have we been? Funny you should ask. We were RIGHT HERE ALL ALONG. although you (our loyal and adoring public) couldn't tell. Long story short (TOO LATE)? Technical issues (GREMLINS, say I) were preventing new episodes from showing up on the iTunes feed whilst showing a mere 10 previous episodes as being available for listening and/or downloading.What REALLY matters is that WE ARE BACK and here to stay (albeit after a considerable financial investment as was necessary to get everything fixed) just in time to celebrate our 3rRD ANNIVERSARY! That's right, folks: THE COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST first posted on October 31st 2012. How appropriate...Less a "true" episode and more of an explanation/ rap session between me, Randy and YOU; this will stand as EPISODE 47. There are, naturally a few "goodies" thrown in for your enjoyment (this being Halloween and all) such as an amazing opening sequence as provided by our CANADA, EH? Correspondent, WALTER SCATTOLON and an airing of the first REMPIS-FINCHUM original song, "TRAIN" to close things out. Solid!Lastly, I just want to give a heartfelt THANK YOU to each and every listener out there who has stood by us through all of our trials and tribulations over the past 3 years. This show is for and all about YOU and your journey as a songwriter... and we couldn't have come as far as we have in OUR similar journey without your support.Sincerely,    "NASHVILLE" STEVE REMPIS TRAIN on Reverbnation John Carroll Music Chris Long Music John Condrone Website 95.5 SON COUNTRY HLE RADIO Tiny House Nation Season 3 Episode 5 POPULAR CREEPS LIVE at Drena's Sept 7, 2008 VIDEO

Photo by Thom Bresh Were y'all starting to think we were dead and gone? Us too (No, not really). Yes, yet another inexcusably long delay in getting this episode out. Life happens, donchaknow? I'd like to make a grand pronouncement about more prompt and regular postings in the future... but I'd hate to paint myself a liar.So how's the new site looking? Pretty slick, eh? And how's about our new "official" correspondents? Yeah, you haven't had a chance to hear from them in their new "official" capacities yet; but rest assured you will soon.Onward to EP 46...This time around we're offering up a real treat and a truly inspirational one at that. We interviewed Nashville favorite ROBERT K WOLF; a veritable "songwriter's songwriter" universally known and respected amongst those "in the know" here in MUSIC CITY USA. His is one heck of a tale; a story of a "classically trained" musician-turned-songwriter(!) and spanning two coasts! I'd delve into further detail here... but wouldn't you rather hear the story directly from the man himself?As well as being a brilliant musician and songwriter, Robert is also an amazingly positive and upbeat individual; exactly the kind of interviewee we need to hear from in these trying and often frustrating days. I'm proud to call him my friend and to have written with him (and will no doubt do again in the near future). But enough of me yakking... on with THE SHOW! Robert K Wolf Official WebsiteRobert K Wolf on REVERBNATION WebsiteRobert K Wolf Offical FaceBookPurchase your own copy of THE CRAFT OF LYRIC WRITING by Sheila Davis (highly recommended) on Amazon hereSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion, thinly-veiled death threat or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 178 S FORD ST. GALLATIN, TN 37066 The future home of the CSSP STUDIO... IF we can get sufficient support from our public (details to follow soon)...

Steve and Randy doing some last-minute remodeling to Steve's new home Yes, yet another crazy-long delay in getting this episode out. We've actually had this one "in the can" for a month... just couldn't get it posted due to multiple issues including the loss of yet another laptop. Guess it's time to invest in a "good" one for once. Of course, we can't actually AFFORD a good one, so if any of our more "well-heeled" and/or particularly altruistic listeners wants to contribute either the funds to purchase a new laptop or has one to donate; please contact us ASAP!So onward to Episode 45 where the BIG LITTLE NEWS is that "Nashville" Steve Rempis has relocated into a "tiny" house and will be featured on the FYI Network television show, TINY HOUSE NATION sometime in May. If you've ever had a hankering to see Steve in action (and who hasn't?), be sure to tune in. Additionally, the episode will feature snippets of Steve's original songs; including two which were co-written by CSSP co-host RANY FINCHUM who also makes an appearance in the show. The episode will end with Steve performing his newly-written TINY HOUSE NATION THEME, which is actually being considered (fingers crossed) for use in future episodes and promotional spots for the show. MAILBOX MONEY for the CSSP host(s)? A genuine possibility!!!As well as all the "breaking news" (albeit over a month old) you'll hear:STEVE AND RANDY giving the mother of all shout-outs to our amazing listeners who contributed to the first-ever ALL Y'ALL episode in which our most enterprising fans took the helm of the STARSHIP CSSP and rocketed into podcast greatnessRANDY taking us UNDER THE MICROSCOPE to discuss the thought-provoking Tim McGraw hit, LIVE LIKE YOU WERE DYINGSTEVE discussing the songwriting genius of RODNEY CROWELL in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTERANDY waxes both poetic and pathetic... er, PROPHETIC about having briefly "lost the faith" in his abilities in his RANDY'S READIN' WRITIN' and 'RYTHMATIC segmentSTEVE AND RANDY discussing the particulars and ramifications of a recent and highly-pulicized plagiarism case that could affect songwriters everywhereAnd of course all the good-natured banter and frivolity you've come to know and expect from Nashville's two most dysfunctional songwriter-podcasters!Enjoy! Steve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion, thinly-veiled death threat or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 178 S FORD ST. GALLATIN, TN 37066MORE LINKS TO FOLLOW SHORTLY (sorry!)... Be sure to check back!

Just let me say right here and now: we have THE BEST listeners in the world (and all around it as well)! Period. And this may well be the BEST EPISODE of this show we've ever posted... in spite of (or perhaps as a result of?) the near total absence of we hosts. As promised in EP43; the first show of 2015 features none other than YOU, our beloved listeners (or at least a fair number of you). And what an episode it turned out to be! It is also our most INTERNATIONAL show ever, with guests contributing from such far-off lands as AUSTRALIA, ENGLAND, CANADA and even RHODE ISLAND!So kick back and listen as:BRENDAN SMOOTHER discusses the work of Aussie legend JOHN WILLIAMSON in A VIEW FROM DOWNUNDERJACOB HALLER goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE and shares his song, "BLUE YODEL (T FOR T-REX)"DAN SULLIVAN shares a fascinating story about MARTY STUART and BOB DYLAN in YOU THINK YOU KNOW as well as letting us hear his own song, "LOVE MADE ME BELIEVE"STUART RAMSDEN gives us an all-new segment, TUBEWAY HARMONY featuring his own songwriting story; followed by one of his original songs, "CRAZY IN LOVE"Original CSSP "Superfan" JIMMY ANDERSON visits the OLD BARN while reviving the A SONG IS BORN segmentSTEVE AND RANDY will make their ONLY contribution to the show with a message recorded LIVE ON LOCATION from their tropical hiding spotWALTER SCATTOLON stops by to share the contents of THE MAILBAG in his own unique stylePAULIE COCONUTS (aka PAUL MORGAN) makes his segment (but not musical) debut on the show with a second YOU THINK YOU KNOW spot featuring a SEMISONIC hit with DUAL MEANINGSAnd at long last, BRENDAN SMOOTHER shares the premiere of his ode to first-call responders in crisis, "PARAMEDIC SUICIDE" It's more great entertainment than you can shake a stick at (and shame on you for shaking sticks at intangibles)! BRENDAN SMOOTHER'S PARAMEDIC SUICIDE WEBSITEJASON FRYE WEBSITE JACOB HALLER'S "TELL ME ABOUT YOUR SONG" PODCASTJACOB HALLER'S BANDCAMP PAGE Steve Rempis Randy Finchum Angie Perrault Soundcloud CSSP TWITTER CSSP FACEBOOK Got a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.com CSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066 There's simply no way to say THANK YOU enough to our "guest" host, BRENDAN SMOOTHER... but a donation to his PARAMEDIC SUICIDE PREVENTION campaign and/or purchase of his EP would make a fine start!

To close 2014, Randy and Marie coordinated a full-on ATTACK OF THE CO-HOSTS (past and present); "turning the tables" on Steve and interviewing HIM for a change. Hopefully this won't be too much of a disappointment to those of you who have been patiently (and no-so-patiently) waiting for EP 43...We also announce our plans for the first show of 2015, featuring none other than... YOU! That's right, folks; a show entirely made up of listener- supplied segments. So if you've ever had dreams of broadcast (ok, narrowcast) greatness; now is your time to SHINE!Record your favorite segment and send it in to cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.com or send us a link to where we can download the soundfile. Record your file on your smartphone, dictaphone, Abbey Road Studios... anywhere and any way you can. Don't sweat the audio quality (clearly we don't), just SEND THEM IN!!! Steve RempisRandy FinchumAngie Perrault SoundcloudCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066 Just wanted to give a sincere "thanks" to my loyal supporters and fans; I love you one and all.

Here's a special treat for all our faithful listeners: A success story from an aspiring songwriter that I believe we can all relate to... and such a familiar voice!Angie Perrault is a Nashville transplant from the "Great White North" (aka Minnesota) who relocated to pursue a degree and career in the music business, and wound up a songwriter along the way. We'll let you hear several selections from her catalog in this episode. You're welcome!Ever wondered what became of original CSSP co-host MARIE PERRY??? You'll find out all the "inside dirt" in this episode as well! (Hint: She's been BUSY!!!) Angie Perrault SoundcloudMarie Perry SoundspaceVideo of Randy & Steve performing "WITH MY EYES CLOSED" (Perrault-Finchum-Rempis)at THE ROW in NashvilleSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066

So we're back with what's really just EPISODE 40 PART TWO (but just pretend it's a whole new episode). We're sure you noticed that it took slightly longer than two weeks to get this episode posted, but we've both been UBER-BUSY. Sorry about that.Before we give you the skinny on the segments for this go-'round, let us first give you a bit of a "heads-up" about an upcoming MAJOR development...We've often made a point of mentioning that this show is all about YOU; our beloved listeners, and it's true. And very soon you're going to be called upon to show your support for this show in a very real, meaningful and tangible way. In the next few weeks, expect to see a short "BONUS" episode listed in our feed with details about our BIG NEWS and to learn what you can do to help make it a reality. There will even be a VIDEO featuring "Nashville" Steve Rempis and Randy Finchum in LIVING COLOR!!! Be looking for all this in the next 30 days or so.You won't have to wait another minute to enjoy all the GOOEY GOODNESS that is EP 41 though. Listen in as:We delve further into the business of MUSIC PUBLISHING, specifically talking about what we all REALLY want to know; namely, HOW DO WE GET PAID FOR OUR SONGS???Randy tells you where to write in Nashville "after hours" (hint: it's WRITE OFF THE ROW) as well as a "teaser" about the OFF THE HOOK COMEDY SONGWRITING CONTEST/SHOWSteve goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE to talk about the amazing classic that is THE OFFICIAL HISTORIAN ON SHIRLEY JEAN BURRELL by THE STATLER BROTHERS and then (in true "Nashville" Steve fashion) manages to totally mangle the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTE to DON REID of STATLER BROTHERS fame by losing his notes and naming EVERY Statler Brothers hit that Don Reid DIDN'T write, while simultaneously forgetting almost every one that he DID writeRandy soldiers on with the WHAT THE !@#$%? segment featuring SOULJA BOY and earns himself a new theme song in the processSteve explains why NOTHING COMPARES TO PRINCE in the YOU THINK YOU KNOW segmentRandy gets a spontaneous new segment to go along with his new theme song: RANDY'S THOUGHT FOR THE DAYWe feature a song by Nashville veteran songster LARRY M "THE OLD CHIEF" CLARK in the LISTENER SUBMISSION segmentRandy interviews JIM AYCOCK and discusses a seriously cool activity/ event that Nashville locals and visitors can participate in: THE OFF THE HOOK COMEDY SONGWRITING CONTEST/SHOW WRITE OFF THE ROWINSTANT SONGWRITING WEBSITE (Buy the book here)Jim Aycock FacebookSteve RempisLarry M Clark on ReverbNationRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066Nothing from nothing, but if we'd known this was going to wind up being our HALLOWEEN episode, we would've made it more scary (we'd hoped to have another episode ready for Oct 31). Instead, here are some SCARY vintage shots of Steve & Randy...

So yeah; it's been awhile. Sorry about that. We've been BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!! Since so many of you faithful listeners have been requesting MORE episodes (and getting fewer), we decided to record 2 whole shows worth of material in one go. The first half will comprise this episode and the second will be released in two weeks as EP 41. Fair enough?We have a bunch of cool news and announcements to share as well as lots of of hints and innuendo. Randy finally makes his bid for the "big leagues" with a Sammy Kershaw cut, Steve MAYBE has a TV appearance in the works (non-music related... except perhaps for the theme song)... and OTHER STUFF!Grab your cold beverage of choice and pull up a comfy chair (NO! Not the COMFY CHAIR!!!) and listen in as:Steve talks a bit about MUSIC PUBLISHING; an extremely important and yet very misunderstood parts of a songwriting career in NOTES AND BOLTSRandy's UNDER THE MICROSCOPE segment teaches us a valuable life lesson... DON'T BLINK!We celebrate ALLEE WILLIS DAY in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTE. Allee is one of Steve's favorite songwriters, responsible for millions of units sold and probably best known for her EARTH WIND & FIRE smash SEPTEMBER ("Do you remember the twenty-first night of September..."); as well as BOOGIE WONDERLAND (also EWF), NEUTRON DANCE (Pointer Sisters), WHAT HAVE I DONE TO DESERVE THIS (Pet Shop Boys) and I'LL BE THERE FOR YOU (The Rembrandts and the theme from FRIENDS) among others. Be looking for a future episode devoted to Allee soon...Randy discusses what must be a truly amazing woman; one who inspired at least two all-time classic rock songs in YOU THINK YOU KNOWWe make a pitch for the TENNESSEE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL (TENNESSEE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION); an organization that any songwriter would benefit from membership in. There's no better way to have direct access to Nashville publishers and producers who want to hear YOUR demos. The yearly dues are cheap too!!!We play not one, but TWO LISTENER SUBMISSION songs: PARADISE MOTEL by JAMESTOFFEE CONRAD and BOTTLE OF SUNSHINE by THE WINDOWPANES featuring Superfan PAULIE COCONUTS!!!Then stay tuned as do answer a pile of emails, give a load of "shout outs" and close the show with the song that started it all: "40" by none other than "Nashville" Steve Rempis Allee Willis WebsiteSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066

Welcome back, folks; it's been awhile. Hopefully this episode will have been well worth the wait!Steve discusses the very "bread and butter" of all forms of popular music, "THE HOOK" in NOTES & BOLTSRandy details the life and career of MEL TILLIS in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SegmentSteve takes a close look at the song that first introduced the legendary HANK WILLIAMS to the American public: HOMESICK BLUES in UNDER THE MICROSCOPERandy gets his "HUMP" on in the WHAT THE !@#$%? SegmentSteve marches to the beat of a DIFFERENT DRUM in YOU THINK YOU KNOWRandy shares his own unique brand of inspiration in RANDY'S READIN' WRITIN' AND 'RITHMATICOur "Aussie" corespondent BRENDAN SMOOTHER also shares HIS own bit of inspiration in his A VIEW FROM DOWNUNDER Segment, followed by an airing of his debut single, "INSPIRATION"And of course, all the usual news and nods that you'd expect from your favorite podcast hosts INSTANT SONGWRITING WEBSITE (Buy the book here)WRITE OFF THE ROWBRENDAN SMOOTHER'S PARAMEDIC SUICIDE WEBSITEBRENDAN SMOOTHER'S PARAMEDIC SUICIDE FACEBOOK PAGESteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 CALLIE CT. GALLATIN, TN 37066

Welcome friends and fans! Randy and Steve are (finally) back together and "in the flesh" for this long-awaited episode. Among the fun and frivolity you've come to love and expect; you'll also hear:Steve covering two months worth of emails, phone calls and personal inquiries in the NEWS and SUCH Randy going UNDER THE MICROSCOPE to examine the smash hit "I HOPE YOU DANCE"Steve giving a LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTE to JJ (sometimes J.J.) CALERandy giving the YOU THINK YOU KNOW treatment to a JIM CROCE favoriteSteve Taking BOBBY GOLDSBORO to task for HONEY in the WHAT THE !@#$%? segment, and marking the CSSP debut of DICK LIPSCHITZ and the FOUR-POUND BOLOGNA BAG to help illustrateRandy sharing some of his DEEP THOUGHTS in RANDY'S READIN' WRITIN' and 'RITHMATIC segmentBrandon Smoother taking his second shot at podcast glory in his VIEW FROM DOWNUNDERDan Sullivan tells us about Frankie Ballard in his first-ever installment of COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING WATCH A BONUS INTERVIEW SPECIAL FEATURE as Steve interviews up-and-coming future pop star, Belmont student and YouTube sensation NATHAN DILLER NATHAN DILLER OFFICIAL WEBSITE"LIVE THIS WAY" Single on ItunesSee Nathan's latest video, "LIVE THIS WAY" on YouTube NATHAN DILLER Music NATHAN DILLER on Facebook NATHAN DILLER on TwitterNATHAN DILLER on InstagramSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: 564 Callie Ct Gallatin, TN 37066

Sorry for the delay in posting this episode; life has gotten mighty hectic down here in Nashville as of late. Hopefully this interview will have been well worth the wait.We've always made a point of trying to feature songwriters from as many backgrounds and genres as possible, and we're extremely pleased to bring you an hour with our first verifiable SOUTHERN GOSPEL LEGEND!She's the "other" DW: DIANNE WILKINSON!!! This gal has had well over 100 cuts in her illustrious career, and is known for having penned some of the most powerful and endearing gospel songs ever committed to tape (as well as vinyl, plastic and sheet music). Additionally, she's a fascinating character with a rich history and an amazingly positive perspective on life, faith, and music. Dianne WilkinsonSouthern Gospel JournalAbsolutely Gospel Christian Author, Speaker, and Songwriter Daniel Mount's BlogVideo of The Kingdom Heirs performing WHEN YOU LOOK AT ME from the LIVE at Dollywood CD/DVD/>Steve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL :cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066 

So kids, you know how we're always telling y'all that we want your feedback and suggestions? That this show is all about YOU, our faithful listeners? That we love each and every one of you and value your opinions? Well, the proof is at hand: an episode detailing the creation of an original song (in this case, the very first Rempis-Finchum composition) as per your request.Of all the emails we've received; we've gotten more requests to talk about our colaborations, to write a song "on-air" (such as it is), or to collaborate with a listener. This episode will satisfy all the above, as Randy was still "just" a listener himself when we started this collaboration.So grab a tall glass of milk and a graham cracker (or whatever) and listen as we discuss the creation of "SHOULDA SHOT STRAIGHT" by Steve Rempis and Randy Finchum. Jimmy Anderson Kickstarter Jimmy Anderson on Facebook Jimmy Anderson Facebook Music PageJimmy Anderson on ReverbNationTravis Bowlin WebsiteMarie Perry at Songspace Pomplamoose WebsiteSuleAdam Liette VideoJoel Landy performing he and Dan Sullivan's I WISH WOODY GUTHRIE WAS HEREAlisa Burgos on ReverbNation Steve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066 Johnny Cash Memorial UrinalMemphis, TN Special thanks to Country Music legend, MEL TILLIS for this episode's opening callout.

Yep, after a comedy of errors concerning the production of the April 1st show; the CSSP is back (as promised). For the first time, co-host extraordinaire Randy Finchum will be "flying solo" as he interviews Nashville transplant singer-songwriter ADAM JAMES; who will also be playing a song or two LIVE as well as including an exclusive preview of his new single "MISS AMERICA" (co-written by Randy Finchum himself) from his just-released EP of the same name.Adam is a uniquely talented singer and songwriter; even in a town known for the high-level of skill and musicianship that Nashville has a (much deserved) reputation for. He's also a real character and a joy to be around and work with, which should be obvious from the first few minutes of this interview.As an added bonus, we'll be closing the show with a recording of Adam's song "FIRECRACKERS" from the 2009 album by the same name.Be listening in two weeks when Steve and Randy will both be onboard once again, and (among other things) satisfying many listeners' requests that we dissect a song that we co-wrote together to illustrate the process for you. And there will (of course) be much more as well! ADAM JAMES WEBSITEHear ADAM JAMES Music On Spotify BUY ADAM JAMES Music ADAM JAMES on Facebook ADAM JAMES on TwitterVOTE to help DEA MEEKS win her independence with a much-deserved and much-needed handicapped-accessible vehicleSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

For Episode 34, we're pleased to bring you an exclusive interview with hit songwriter/performer/teacher BERNIE NELSON. With the help of friend of the show and music journalist extraordinaire, PRESHIAS HARRIS; Steve and Randy were given the chance to experience the event that is CRS (Country Radio Seminar) Nashville and interview Bernie the morning of the first day of the event.Bernie has been blessed with a successful career. His songs have sold over 25 million copies with multi-platinum cuts on the works of major artists such as Conway Twitty, Ricky Van Shelton, Kenny Chesney, Wynonna, Colin Raye, Confederate Railroad, Chris Ledoux, Randy Travis, Trace Adkins, Pam Tillis, Kris Kristofferson, John Anderson... and many others. In 2002 Bernie achieved ‘Million-Airplay' status on his #1 hit, ‘Daddy Never Was The Cadillac Kind.' and has had the pleasure of writing with everyone from Garth Brooks to Duane Eddy and performing with such greats as Mac Davis, Guy Clark and Alabama...just to name a few.Bernie has recently enjoyed success with cuts on Mark Wills (Looking For America), Jimmy Van Zant (C'Mon Man, Unfinished Life), Montgomery Gentry (Damn Baby) and Tracy Lawrence (The Ride and Heaven For A While).Additionally (and of special interest to our many aspiring pro songwriter listeners), Bernie offers a one-on-one weekend songwriting retreat/co-writing/mentoring session at his Nashville-area cabin which he affectionately calls "WEEKEND AT BERNIE'S."We kindly thank Bernie for taking the time to talk with us (just one of many interviews he was asked to do this particular weekend) and for frankly discussing his roots, his future career as a songwriter/performer and his candid opinions of the current (and future) state of country music and country radio. BERNIE NELSON WEBSITEWEEKEND AT BERNIE'S SONGWRITING RETREATCDX Article/mini-bio on PRESHIAS HARRIS' MUSIC LINE CONSULTINGVOTE to help DEA MEEKS win her independence with a much-deserved and much-needed handicapped-accessible vehicleTHE ROW KITCHEN AND PUB NASHVILLESteve RempisRandy FinchumTO DONATE TO THE CSSPCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKGot a comment, suggestion or want to be a SPONSORED GUEST of the show? CSSP EMAIL : cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066CRAZY CONTEST CONTINUES: Who will send the most bizarre/useful (or not)/unexpected item to the above address? The winner (and runners-up) will be recognized on the show and given the chance to do a "call-out" for the opening of a future episode! In Loving Memoriam, R.I.P. LORNA FLOWERS...

Yes folks, Steve and Randy are back in action after attending the annual Nashville CRS (Country Radio Seminar), armed with some great info, an interview for the next episode and... an awful flu bug of some sort that was the bane of many CRS attendees. Such is the life of a "podcaster in the fast lane" I guess. Steve And Randy flanking Country Music Legend MEL TILLIS at CRS!!! Our usual order of segments is totally awry this go-round, but no matter; you'll still hear your favorites... such as: Steve and Randy giving an overview of their last several (busy) weeks and their "hobnobbing" escapades at the Country Radio Seminar Randy jumps right into the WHAT THE !@#$%? segment with an update on an old Billy Ray Cyrus song so bad... it'll make you ache (all over again)Steve wishes ASCAP a Happy 100th Birthday by listing their TOP 25 songs (including some unexpected surprises)Randy touches on THE INTANGIBLES in his READIN', WRITIN' and 'RITHMATIC segmentSteve gives you a look back on a classic song "Just When You Need It Most" in UNDER THE MICROSCOPEWe premiere a BRAND NEW SEGMENT (hopefully the first of many) tentatively titled WHAT'S UP FROM DOWN UNDER thanks to listener/contibutor Brendan Smoother who'll be discussing the classic song "I've Been Everywhere"And we'll close out the show with some banter, a few updates, and details how YOU can invest in your own songwriting career by becoming a "Sponsored Guest" on the show. CRS COUNTRY RADIO SEMINAR WEBSITETHE ROW KITCHEN AND PUB NASHVILLE360 BURGER NASHVILLEGary Cavanaugh Indie Gogo Fund VideoSteve RempisRandy FinchumTO DONATE TO THE CSSPCSSP TWITTERCSSP FACEBOOKCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066NEW CRAZY CONTEST: Who will send the most bizarre/useful (or not)/unexpected item to the above address? The winner (and runners-up) will be recognized on the show and given the chance to do a "call-out" for the opening of a future episode! R.I.P. TIM WILSON... You'll be sorely missed, Brother

It's the day after Valentine's day, and we're tickled pink to be bringing you an exclusive interview with Nashville's own MARC-ALAN BARNETTE!Marc-Alan is a veteran songwriter with many credits under his belt, including the "unofficial anthem" of every struggling Nashville songwriter, "TABLES AND CHAIRS" and likely his best-known song (and a favorite of David Ball fans everywhere), "TOO MUCH BLOOD IN MY ALCOHOL LEVEL"As well as continuing to write and perform all around Nashville and helping amateur songwriters with his "Songwriter Coaching services; Marc-Alan also acts as a tour guide for the NASH TRASH "MUSIC ROW CONFIDENTIAL" TOUR, sharing his love and knowledge of "Music City" with tourists and music fans from all over the world. Marc-alan Barnette WebsiteMarc-Alan Barnette FacebookThe Nash Trash Music Row Confidential TourSteve Rempis/CSSP Facebook@CSSPod on Twitter (Follow Us!)Steve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comWanna win a prize and be recognized??? Start sending your most interesting items to: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066Marc-Alan was a good enough sport to provide us with these AWESOME old promotional "glossies" from his past musical endeavors. Enjoy!

Well folks, we're back to our regularly scheduled programming after two interview releases, and we want to send out a huge THANK YOU to both Bernie Faulkner and Marty Brown for giving us the opportunity to interview them for the show. You can expect periodic updates here on both of these great guys as new developments in their respective careers arise.The theme for EP 31 is BACK TO BUSINESS; both because that's how we feel after two interview specials... and because this episode's segments contain no other unifying theme! So there. That notwithstanding, listen as:Steve gets the jump on Eddie Rabbitt in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTERandy reviews a Bob Dylan classic (recorded by many other artists) in UNDER THE MICROSCOPESteve tries in vain to maintain his composure whilst discussing THE WORST SONG OF ALL TIME in the WHAT THE !@#$%? segmentRandy explains the difference betwen "Dreams" and "Delusions" in RANDY'S READIN' WRITIN' and 'RITHMATIC segmentSteve passes the soy sauce for some SUKIAKI in YOU THINK YOU KNOWWe spin a killer LISTENER SUBMISSION from Canada's latest songbird, Ambre McLeanYou get a BONUS listener submission/ world premiere exclusive/ previous guest update in the form of EP23 guest TRAVIS BOWLIN'S NEW SINGLE "Bad Bad Man"And all the usual NEWS, EVENTS, and SUNDRY ITEMS LORNA FLOWERS WEBSITETHE BLUEBIRD CAFE WEBSITECRS COUNTRY RADIO SEMINAR WEBSITEAMBRE MCLAIN WEBSITETRAVIS BOWLIN MUSIC WEBSITEJASON BLUME WEBSITE (order books and cds here)THE ROW KITCHEN AND PUB NASHVILLE360 BURGER NASHVILLESteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066NEW CRAZY CONTEST: Who will send the most bizarre/useful (or not)/unexpected item to the above address? The winner (and runners-up) will be recognized on the show and given the chance to do a "call-out" for the opening of a future episode!

He was a founding member of the band EXILE. He "discovered" Billy Ray Cyrus and Montgomery Gentry... only to have them both leave him behind when fame and money came along. He wrote the song "April's Fool" which was on Tracy Lawrence's million-selling album, "Sticks and Stones" and he's more active today than ever! He's BERNIE FAULKNER, a Nashville songwriter favorite and a true character.Bernie was gracious enough to host Randy and Steve in his Music Circle demo studio/publishing office for an EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW and even passed along a demo of his as-of-yet unreleased song "Fortune (That You Can Never Spend)" for inclusion in this episode. Bernie Faulkner Music WebsiteBernie Faulkner Music FacebookJimmy Anderson's "Grandpa Said" VideoSteve Rempis/CSSP Facebook@CSSPod on Twitter (Follow Us!)Steve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

ALL ABOUT YOU is the theme of this episode, and it makes sense: why we do this, why we work hard to give you great content show after show, and why we KEEP ON KEEPIN' ON with this podcast... it's ALL ABOUT YOU!MARVEL as Randy tells the tale of "Cowboy" Jack Clement in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTETHRILL as Steve goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE with the Kris Kristofferson/ Ray Price classic "For The Good Times"BATTLE NAUSEA as Randy features the Vanilla Ice trainwreck, "Ice Ice Baby" in the WHAT THE !@#$%? segmentWONDER at the differences (and similarities) in the versions of "I Will Always Love You" in YOU THINK YOU KNOWLook forward to the future as Randy (and Steve) discuss goal-setting in RANDY'S READIN' WRITIN' and 'RITHMATIC segmentLISTEN to a very special LISTENER SUBMISSION by Kenny Lewis (bass player for Brad Paisley!) Plus all the usual NEWS and NASHVILLE SCENE stuff Kenny Lewis Website (under construction)Kenny Lewis Facebook Page360 Burger NashvilleThe ROW NashvilleSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

Here's our holiday gift to you, our dear listeners! An exclusive interview with Nashville songwriting great LORNA FLOWERS. Lorna moved to Nashville in 2004 after years of commuting from England (!), and has become one of the most respected and well-known writers (as well as producer and educator) in the community. She's had 70+ cuts worldwide, including four #1 songs, several “Best Song” and “Best Single” nominations in the UK Country Radio Awards between 1998 and 2002 and won the ‘Listeners' Choice' award in 2004 and Song of the Year in 2008. She's written with artists as diverse as: Roger Cook, Bob Welch, John Peppard, Bridgette Tatum, Kirsti Manna, Keith Burns, Bernie Nelson, Arlos Smith, Joie Scott, Karen Staley, Jon Robbin, Brian White, Benita Hill, Steve Dean, Jim Femino, Dwight Liles, Kathy Chiavola, Daisy Dern and 80's pop-star-turned-country artist TIFFANY!Randy and I had the pleasure of spending an afternoon with Lorna in her Nashville home to discuss topics like: What to expect when you visit (or relocate to) NashvilleThe common traits of successful Nashville writersThe common mistakes new writers makeOpen-mic etiquetteChoosing a P.R.O. (and when to)And MUCH more... Lorna Flowers WebsiteLorna Flowers ProductionsLorna's Nashville Songwriter ServicesSongUSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

It's a new co-host, new studio, new gear, practically a whole new show (eh, maybe not)... but you WILL hear all your favorite segments and then some.Listen as:Randy talks co-writing in NOTES AND BOLTSSteve discusses uber-successful writer/producer DESMOND CHILD in theLEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTERandy tells us all about FRIENDS IN LOW PLACES in You THINK you KNOWThe most-played song in history goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE with SteveWe'll hear the debut of RANDY'S WRITIN' & 'RITHMATICSteve PUTS ON THE RITZ in the ever-popular WHAT THE !@#$%? segmentPlus news, events, mail, and contest updatesDon't forget that we're still accepting submissions for the DESIGN US A NEW DAMN LOGO and ADD A SOLO TO THE PODCAST THEME contests!!! TOP 60 COUNTRY SONGWRITER CHARTYOUTUBE DAVE CARROLL VS UNITED AIRLINES VIDEOLIFE IS HARDSteve RempisRandy FinchumCSSP EMAIL: cssongwritingpodcast@gmail.comCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

Can you believe that the CSSP has been doing what we do for a whole year already? 'Tis true!To celebrate this monumental event, we've put together a really special show for y'all. So be listening for several of your favorite segments, a special guest or two, and the bittersweet announcement that our much beloved co-host Marie Perry is moving on to 'greener pastures"... so let's all wish her the best in her future endeavors!Meanwhile, I'm thrilled to announce that my new co-host will be none other than pro-songwriter (and subject of EP 21) RANDY FINCHUM (!) who's also our in-studio guest on this episode!Listen as:We get the party started with some NEWS & SHTUFFIn a special installment of NOTES & BOLTS, I'll be discussing SURPRISE ENDINGS in songsMarie gives us a crash course on real-world publishing deals in her final ACADEMIC MOMENT segment"Godfather" of the show, JASON PYLES will be joining us via Skype to congratulate us on our first year, and to discuss what he's doing these daysI'll wax poetic in a rare public tribute to YOU, our faithful listeners and dear community membersMarie will lead Randy and I down "memory lane" with a recap of the CSSP's first year"Muso Matt" will discuss the historic 50th Anniversary (sensing a sub-theme?) of the release of The Beatles' WITH THE BEATLES album in the final installment of MATT'S MUSO MOMENTI'll discuss the career and recent escapades of Miley Cyrus in the WT!@#$%? segmentMarie will make her "official" statement of intent and explanation for her adoring publicAnd we'll close up shop with a brief discussion about some future plans for the show (onward and upwards!)Don't forget that we're still accepting submissions for the DESIGN US A NEW DAMN LOGO and ADD A SOLO TO THE PODCAST THEME contests!!! Steve RempisMarie PerryRandy FinchumCSSP "Snailmail" address: PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066 Links for Jason Pyles (The "Godfather"):Movie Podcast Weekly: a weekly show that reviews new theater releasesHorror Movie Podcast: a bi-weekly show that discusses the horror genre and review old and new horror films The Songwriting Podcast: a now defunct show about the technical and creative aspects of the craft of songwriting (and the inspiration and blueprint for the CSSP)The Donut Show: a weekly podcast about pop culture and lifeAll About Autism Podcast: a weekly show about all things autism, hosted by Dave and Heather EatonThe Dave Eaton Element: the Bandcamp page for the band in which Jason plays pianoVimeo trailer for BEAUTIFUL JIM: The Jimbeau Hinson Documentary"For The Love Of Music" movie pageA glimpse of the future of THE COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST (so stay tuned, y'all!!!)...

You read right, kiddies. Song Of The Year Grammy Winner, 7-time Songwriter Of The Year nominee and writer of EIGHT #1 hits: RICHARD LEIGH, being interviewed in-person by Steve and Marie at his favorite pub in Pulaski, Tennessee.Richard is best known for his #1 hits, including:I'll Get Over You- Crystal GayleDon't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue- Crystal GaylePut Your Dreams Away- Mickey GilleyThat's the Thing About Love- Don WilliamsLife's Highway- Steve WarinerCome from the Heart- Kathy MatteaSomewhere In My Broken Heart- Billy DeanThe Greatest Man I Never Knew- Reba McEntireRichard maintains an active performing schedule, playing corporate events and house parties throughout the United States, hosting songwriting workshops, and giving private songwriting tutorials to aspiring writers. Richard Leigh Official WebsiteContact Richard at:info@richardleigh.comrichard@richardleigh.comSteve RempisMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP disks, large sums of unmarked cash, or naughty polaroids): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

Our first LISTENER SUBMISSION SPECIAL EPISODE back in May was such a hit with the listeners that we had to do it again... and TWICE AS BIG!Lori Kelly- GOLDhttps://soundcloud.com/lorikelleyPressureplate- LIEShttps://www.facebook.com/bradley.ard?fref=tsSerassa- GOTTA GET AWAYhttps://soundcloud.com/serrasaA.J. Bigler- I'LL BE LOVING YOUhttp://www.reverbnation.com/ajbiglerDan Foster- GUITAR PLAYING MANhttps://soundcloud.com/dan-foster-4Brenda Joyce- MOON BEAM RIDEhttp://www.reverbnation.com/songwriter7Dan Sullivan- 21st CENTURY PARANOID BLUEShttp://www.reverbnation.com/dnsullivan/songsDrugsucker- NEW NORMALhttps://www.facebook.com/craig.garrison.7?fref=tsNeil Smith- BRIDE OF DRUNKEN STINEhttp://www.reverbnation.com/neilsmith/songsKenny Owens- WALKING IN ST.JAMEShttp://www.reverbnation.com/KennyOwensShawn Conerton- NEVER GONNA SEEhttp://www.reverbnation.com/shawnconertonSteve Rempis- A LITTLE BEHINDhttp://www.steverempis.comhttp://www.reverbnation.com/steverempisErnest Ebell with Daniel Chaney and the LaBella Brass Quintet- TO HAVE AND TO HOLDhttp://www.reverbnation.com/artist/artist_songs/528389?song_id=2500986PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:DOUGLAS CORNER SPECIAL SONGWRITER ROUND FEATURING:Gary CavanaughTommy TurnerRandy FinchumDon GaylordBELAThe show starts at 6pm and runs till 7:302106 8th Ave S Nashville, TN 37204(615) 298-1688http://www.douglascorner.com/Don Gaylord- COLD, COLD MOONhttp://www.reverbnation.com/dongaylord/songsGary Cavanaugh (written with Tommy Turner)- WILD BILL (aka HICKOCK'S LEGACY)http://www.reverbnation.com/garycavanaughTommy Turner- JACK DANIELS GLASShttp://www.reverbnation.com/tommyturner Bela- EVOLhttp://www.reverbnation.com/belakawalecSteve Rempis- COMMERCIAL SUICIDE (solo contest)http://www.reverbnation.com/steverempis Steve RempisMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP disks, large sums of unmarked cash, or naughty polaroids): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

Photo by Mishelle Bergeron Travis Bowlin is an up-and-coming songwriter-performer with a very bright future ahead of him (which explains the shades in the photo)! His gritty and soulful vocal stylings and refreshingly "non-Nashville-sounding" songs set him apart from hordes of other would-be next-big-thing types. This is our first ON LOCATION LIVE MUSIC episode, recorded at Dan McGuinness' Irish Pub (home of "The only open mic that matters") just off MUSIC ROW in Nashville (Why yes, we would appreciate your sponsorship, thanks for asking!).As an added bonus, our own MARIE PERRY goes "on assignment in the field" in an attempt to get an interview out of country music superstar KENNY ROGERS!!! ...with varied results.We cordially invite you to enjoy the interview, and enjoy the music! Travis Bowlin Dot Com (Be sure to join the mailing list and get your TOTALLY FREE and TOTALLY RAD official Travis Bowlin temporary tattoo, while supplies last!!!)Travis Bowlin on TwitterTravis Bowlin Music on Facebook Travis Bowlin on InstagramTravis Bowlin on YouTubeTravis Bowlin on Reverb NationDan McGuinness' Irish Pub on FacebookSmokin' Hit Songwriters' RetreatSteve RempisMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP disks, large sums of unmarked cash, or naughty polaroids): PO BOX 727 Ga

Yippie-ki-yeh, Songwriters! We're "back to business" in EP22, and darned glad to be here. Listen as:Steve busts out the guitar and shows you that there's still plenty of TREAD ON THE OLD TIRES of even the most-used chord progressions in NOTES AND BOLTSMarie tells all she know about Dallas Frazier in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTESteve "takes the high road" (for once) in the WHAT THE @#$%&! segmentMarie goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE with a BEE GEES/ KENNY ROGERS/ DOLLY PARTON hitMuso Matt takes us back to Yesterday Marie takes us for a spin down Elvira Avenue in the You THINK You Know segmentWe'll be playing Just Love Me by Nashville open mic regular ROSE PYATTPlus all the usual mail, news, happenings, banter and... MORE Contact Rose Pyatt at: rose@rattlerscage.comRose Pyatt on FacebookSteve RempisMarie PerryJIMMY ANDERSON... text me when you see this!!! Just because...

"Hey Randy, what number is this take?" It took two tries to get this interview done, but it was well worth the effort.This is our exclusive interview with about-to-explode pro Nashville songwriter RANDY FINCHUM. Randy has had numerous cuts with various Nashville (and abroad) artists, and even came a hare's-breath from penning the theme to the 2012 Summer Olympics!We're especially fortunate to get this interview now, since the "BIG CUT" for Randy appears to be looming just around the corner... after which he may well be too big to talk to the likes of us! But seriously, as well as being a gifted writer and performer; Randy is just one heck of a great guy (so says I, and pretty much everybody who's ever had the pleasure of meeting or working with him).So pour yourself a tall glass of your preferred libation, put your feet up, and enjoy the interview!!! Randy Finchum Oden's Row FacebookOden's Row Promotions & Publishing MusicOden's Row FacebookOfficial Logan Hall FacebookOfficial Tyler Stephens FacebookSmokin' Hit Songwriters' RetreatSteve RempisMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP discs or ?): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

Can you believe we've reached EPISODE 20? Wild. Crazy. In fact, that pretty much sums up most of this episode. Within, you'll hear:Marie discusses a few "fool-proof" tests you can perform to determine if your song is "ready" (and any good!) in NOTES AND BOLTSSteve tells a few tales about "The Storyteller" Tom T. Hall in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTEMarie makes us all rethink the validity of "TGIF" in the WHAT THE @#$%&! segmentSteve combines the UNDER THE MICROSCOPE and You THINK You Know segments to explain why we just "...can't live if living is WITHOUT YOU"Muso Matt gives us the skinny on the "Truck Drivers' Gear Change"Steve and Marie "PRETEND" to know hip hop music in the LISTENER SUBMISSION SEGMENT (featuring X-PHAZE)Plus all the usual mail, news, happenings, banter and...Marie reciting Hemingway??? You'll just have to listen! X-PhazeSteve RempisMarie PerryArt For Artists Mental Health Activism-TexasCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP discs or ?): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066 Another hard evenings work...

We're excited to share our interview with Nashville songwriter and former HEE HAW regular GERALD SMITH (aka "The GEORGIA QUACKER"), conducted at the offices of his publishing company MELODY ROUNDUP MUSIC on "Music Row" here in the heart of Music City.As well as his "novelty" recordings and the distinction of being the voice of the animated duck on the HEE HAW television show, Gerald has written #1 Country Hits for LORRIE MORGAN ("What Part of No") and COLLIN RAYE ("Every Second"); as well as having cuts by GEORGE STRAIT, GEORGE JONES , JOHNNY RODRIQUEZ , JUSTIN MCBRIDE and many others! Gerald Smith MusicMelody Roundup Music PublishingDouble E Promotions (For Bookings)Steve RempisSteve Rempis SoundcloudMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP discs or ?): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

It's our MILESTONE 18th EPISODE (which really means very little, but is a great excuse to drink nonetheless!) and we're at your service as always. We're exited to add a NEW SEGMENT (yes, another one), A NEW CONTRIBUTOR, and to bring you (almost) all your favorite segments and features. Why? Because WE LOVE YOU ALL!!! Stay tuned as:Steve busts out his big 10 string (!) and gets moody in NOTES AND BOLTS while discussing chordsMarie takes The LEGENDARY SONGWRITING SALUTE to new heights (in terms of $) and lows (in terms of musical quality) in discussing the career of MAX MARTINSteve gets twice BLINDED BY THE LIGHT (not light beer!) in "You THINK You Know" Marie hits on both UNDER THE MICROSCOPE and WHAT THE @#$%!? in one fell swoop with The Backstreet BoysSteve gives a heartfelt "Thank You" to our listeners (and then some) in THE MAILBAG (and NEWS!)Marie somehow brings Nashville and Norrköping together in her ACADEMIC MOMENTOur "in the field" musical consultant MUSO MATT (aka Matt Demakos: pronounced "Dih - MOK - Kos") debuts in his NEW SEGMENT!: MATT'S MUSO MOMENT (yeah, we know...)We have an awesome LISTENER SUBMISSION (entitled "Robots") from Allyse HueyMarie recommends some cool new attractions in THE NASHVILLE SCENE ReportAnd mucho beverages de alcoholique are consumed (and it shows... sorry!) Allyse Huey MusicPBS Video: Off the ChartsSteve RempisSteve Rempis SoundcloudMarie PerryCSSP "Snailmail" address (for 100MB ZIP discs or ?): PO BOX 727 Gallatin, TN 37066

We've had interviews with some great pro songwriters and even a legendary character or two (and all were interesting, entertaining and informative); but never has one been as fun and fascinating as our recent Skype session with Dallas, Texas-based COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST fan and listener, EZRA VANCIL. You may well have heard Ezra's work in episodes of television shows like CELEBRITY REHAB, SOBER HOUSE and SKINS (UK).Ezra has had a Hollywood-worthy journey in music, from touring and performing with his family's gospel group as a child, to a seemingly "sure thing" high-level management deal and recording contract with a band in the early 90's (complete with all the drama and excess you'd expect), to recent unexpected success in songwriting and publishing. His is a story that will have you on the edge of your seat, and is likely to leave you inspired as well. Ezra Vancil at SOUNDCLOUDEzra Vancil at KOMPOZ.COMBe sure to check back soon for an additional article featuring an exhaustive list of songwriting and publishing resources compiled and recommended by Ezra.Love the podcast and find yourself feeling strangely altruistic? Click on the DONATE button to the left to make a contribution to the new "TIP JAR" and help us keep up the show running smoothly and sounding great! Can't afford to donate? Share the CSSP with a friend! Steve at Marie's desk: note the soon-to-be-retired 13-year-old (!) BOSS BR-8 recording deck we've been producing all the podcast episodes with!

For the first time ever, this episode is going straight from the disk to the world: no corrective editing. This means you'll hear all the "ums", "uhs", coughs (or worse) and verbal missteps made by the both of us. There simply wasn't time for editing this week, so for better or for worse; this is the episode exactly as it "went down" in Marie's den.Enjoy at your own risk!In NOTES AND BOLTS Marie discusses pro "demo" recordings for songwritersSteve explores the unbelievably successful career of JIMMY WEBB in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTEMarie puts on her best "POKER FACE" in the WHAT THE @#$%?! segmentSteve finds he's "UP THE JUNCTION" in UNDER THE MICROSCOPEMarie talks about the "NASHVILLE NUMBER SYSTEM" of music notation in her ACADEMIC MOMENTSteve debuts a BRAND NEW SEGMENT, entitled "You THINK You Know" and gets FOXY!We have a great LISTENER SUBMISSION from TIM DAVISAnd (as always) we'll check THE MAILBAG and share THE NASHVILLE SCENE Report Just Plain Folks (JPF)Song Charting Made Easy: A Play-Along Guide to the Nashville Number System (Play-Along Guides)- Jim RileyTim DavisEzra VancilSteve RempisSteve Rempis SoundcloudMarie Perry

After a brief hiatus (approximately one episode), our beloved co-host MARIE PERRY is back, and ready to rock (sort of).In NOTES and BOLTS, Steve will be addressing the dreaded affliction known as WRITER'S BLOCKMarie will discuss the tragic life and fascinating career of Townes Van Zant in her LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTESteve gets TOO SEXY for this podcast in the WHAT THE !@#$%? segmentMarie takes a close look at the touching "Sissy's Song" in UNDER THE MICROSCOPEWe listen to a "rough" of a great song by listener Dan Sullivan, in our LISTENER SUBMISSION segmentIn MARIE'S ACADEMIC MOMENT she makes an in-depth study of the rhyme laden FOR THE SAKE OF THE SONG by Townes Van ZantAnd as usual, we'll peer into the MAILBAG and take a quick peek at the LOCAL SCENE Be sure to be back in 2 weeks when we may well have a SPECIAL NEW SEGMENT for y'all...

That's right; our first ever LISTENER SUBMISSION SPECIAL EPISODE featuring the music of our listeners, including:1. Daniel DavisGhost Case Study 0017/ Molly the Maiddanieldavismusic.bandcamp.com2. Steve ThompsonYour Point Of View© 2011 Susan Butler Steve Thompsonsoundcloud.com/sthompson3. Jimmy AndersonLower Broadwaywww.jimmyandersonmusic.comjimmylogan.blogspot.com4. Trey HunterA Hero In Youwww.treyhunter.com5. Jason PylesThe Best of You and MeWritten by Jason and Phyllis Pylesmoviepodcastweekly.com6. Life Is HardLike No Otherwww.lifeishardmusic.com7. Nevet HamishC'Mon and Love MeNo info given8. Bid Sparks aka Peter Pedrazzi with Say No MoreWith a Kiss Goodnightwww.bidsparks.comMarie will be back for Episode 15, so FEAR NOT!

BEST SHOW EVER??? (probably not...)We have no particular theme this time around, but we DO have a few surprises up our collective sleeves.In NOTES AND BOLTS: Marie talks about lyrical imagery and how to turn even the most mundane lines into "mental cinema" for your listeners.Steve shares a (former) guilty pleasure in LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTE, discussing the career of BREAD singer/songwriter DAVID GATES.Marie gets "trucking mad" in WHAT THE !@#$%?Bread's "DIARY" goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPEIn a CSSP EXCLUSIVE "FIRST", we'll be playing a demo of Marie's song "LIQUOR STORE" as well as Steve's brief (iphone memo) take.We get knee-deep in "constructive (and not-so constructive) criticism" whilst exploring the MAILBAGA legendary "Music Row" songwriter hangout get a makeover and Marie is there to give her review for our LOCAL SCENE REPORTAnd last (but certainly not least!), our "SUPERFAN" Jimmy Anderson shares his song "HOMETOWN PROUD" with us all.This episode (having been recorded at Marie's home) once again features the aroma of OLE SMOKEY MOONSHINE... and lots of FLYING INSECTS! Steve RempisSteve Rempis SoundcloudMarie PerryJimmy Anderson

If you listened to EPISODE 3 (and SHAME ON YOU if you didn't), you heard Marie talk about today's guest interviewee; KRIS BERGSNES.Kris' writing credits include:All of That Love from Here- Wynonna JuddA Ring Where a Ring Used to Be- Billy Joe RoyalBrand New Me- John Michael MontgomerySomebody Must Be Prayin' for Me- Tim McGrawYou Didn't Have A Good Time- Randy TravisCross Against the Moon- Mindy McCreadyBorderline Crazy- Neal McCoy/Kevin Fowler/Branan LoganRedneck Side- Justin MooreFast Enough- Adam GregoryPlain Ol' Pain- Sonny Burgess/ Jason MatthewsEverytime I Close My Eyes- Tom WurthMy Precious Waltz/I Hate How Happy She Is- Cadillac SkySweet Sun Angel- Matt StillwellCold, Burn It Down -Halfway To HazardWhat Do You Want from Me- Natalie HowardCross Against the Moon, That Kind of Love- Nicole FrechetteDallas Days and Fort Worth Nights- Chris LeDouxMan Like Me, Ford Fairlane, Shadows of the Heartland, Time Well Spent - Bobby PinsonThe Honky Tonk Kid - Aaron Watson with Willie NelsonNo Mississippi- Andy GriggsCome Back to the Way It Was- Daniel Lee MartinDidn't I - Rachel ProctorThe Wings of Mama's Prayers - Jeff BatesLight Of Day, I See Heaven- Emerson DriveDoing Her Right (Where I Done Wrong)- Rich McCreadyGive Me a Ring Sometime- Lisa BrokopAnd a whole lot more besides. He isn't finished writing yet either!We had the pleasure of interviewing Kris at the offices of SB21 Publishing (Kris' Publisher) on "Music Row" in Nashville, and what a great time we had!We're sure you're going to enjoy this too."

In this, our 11th Episode, we'll be giving you some ideas to kick-start your creativity and generate new songs (or at least the "seeds" thereof) more quickly than ever before.In NOTES AND BOLTS, Steve will be talking all about the so-called "IMMERSION SONGWRITING" techniqueMarie will discuss the life and career of CRAIG WISEMAN in her LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTESteve will have you dancing (or at least standing upright and making stupid-looking arm gestures) in the WHAT THE !@#$%? segmentMarie waxes poetic about the recent classic "Live Like You're Dyin" in UNDER THE MICROSCOPESomething "comes over" Steve in STEVE'S PHONEMARIE'S ACADEMIC MOMENT shares valuable in formation on Performing Rights Organizations We'll peer into the MAILBAG and take a quick peek at the LOCAL SCENEAnd we'll finish up by giving a listen to "SHE AIN'T COOL" a submission by listener JASON RUMLEYThis episode may or may not have been recorded under the influence of OLE SMOKEY MOONSHINE (it was!), our new unofficial sponsor Related Links:IMMERSION SONGWRITINGCRAIG WISEMANSHE AIN'T COOL by JASON RUMLEYPAT PATINSONJIMBEAU HINSONWRINKLED RECORDSSTEVE REMPISMARIE PERRYOLE SMOKY MOONSHINE

We've reach a milestone of sorts, kiddies... our TENTH EPISODE! Thanks to YOU, our wonderful listeners; we've already achieved things we'd never have thought possible and far exceeded our own expectations. Give yourselves a bow!This episode has no particular theme; just our usual segments delivered with great relish- like a good hot dog. There are also a few surprises as well...In our NOTES AND BOLTS segment, Marie shares the finer points of PROSODY in songwriting. This material comes straight from Berklee College of Music instructor (and phenomenal songwriter) PAT PATTISON Steve tell you everything you'd want to know about MEATLOAF songwriter (and then some) JIM STEINMAN in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTEMarie comes close to having her first meltdown while discussing THE SPICE GIRLS hit "WANNABE" in WHAT THE !@#$%?Steve puts STEELY DAN'S sarcastic classic "MY OLD SCHOOL" UNDER THE MICROSCOPEBy reader suggestion, you'll learn how to protect your intellectual property via COPYRIGHTS in MARIE'S ACADEMIC MOMENTSTEVE'S PHONE is back, with a verse and chorus of "IT'S COMING OVER" for your listening pleasureWe'll reach into THE MAILBAG to share some comments and storiesAnd we're pleased to be featuring "THE DEVIL'S AT YOUR DOOR" by Nashville songwriter and CSSP listener JOHN CARROLL in our second-ever LISTENER SUBMISSIONS segmentRelated links:COURSERA SONGWRITING COURSEPAT PATTISONJOHN CARROLL MUSICSTEVE REMPISMARIE PERRY

In this episode's NOTES AND BOLTS segment, Steve will tell you how to use grammatical concepts such as VERB AGREEMENT to ensure that your writing makes SENSE to the reader and/or listener... and will likely make you wish you hadn't slept through all those language classes in school!Marie features none other than KRIS KRISTOFFERSON in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTESteve risks nausea to examine Beyonce's RUN THE WORLD (GIRLS) in WHAT THE !@#$%ALABAMA'S classic hit: DIXIELAND DELIGHT goes UNDER THE MICROSCOPE with MarieWe share a valuable "public service announcement" from the NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS ASSOCIATION INTERNATIONAL (NSAI)Marie's ACADEMIC MOMENT shares some well-placed words of wisdom for aspiring songwritersAnd as usual, we reach into the MAILBAG and give you the skinny on the NASHVILLE SCENEFriends don't let friends write lame songs!

Well folks, you're in for a real treat this time. We've interviewed some truly great songwriters, but never one that even other top-level writers look to in awe. That is, until now. We're thrilled and honored to bring you an interview with a genuine "living legend" JIMBEAU HINSON! Jimbeau's credits include writing:(I'm Settin') Fancy Free (#1 hit for The Oak Ridge Boys) Party Crowd (#2 hit for David Lee Murphy) Train of Memories (#3 hit for Kathy Mattea) Don't Give Candy to a Stranger (#4 hit for Larry Boone) Harmony (#5 hit for John Conlee) Hillbilly Highway with Steve Earle (off Earle's breakthrough album "Guitar Town") ...but this list only scratches the surface of an incredible career that spans 5 decades. We (Steve and Marie) were actually invited into Jimbeau's ranch outside Nashville to conduct this interview with he and his wife Brenda... and even got a tour of the house. You can be sure that this experience was a "high-water" mark for THE COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST, and we're excited to be sharing it with you. Now how are we ever going to top THIS??? Important JIMBEAU links: WebsiteFacebookMyspaceTwitterWrinkled RecordsNashville Cares

This will forever be known as the FRANKENSTEIN EPISODE, which I was forced to piece together from a pile of audio files. And as an ADDED BONUS, it features REALLY POOR AUDIO QUALITY! Hooray. Hopefully the content will be worth the inconvenienceToday's theme is PURPOSE-DRIVEN SONGWRITING, as will be deftly cover by Marie in NOTES AND BOLTS.WILLIE NELSON, NEIL DIAMOND and BRUCE SPRINGSTEIN get the "BEFORE THEY WERE STARS" treatment in the LEGENDARY SONGWRITER SALUTE.Marie discusses CAREER ADVICE given by Nashville music exec and ASCAP representative LEANN PHELAN in her ACADEMIC MOMENT.Steve focuses on possibly the "GREATEST COUNTRY SONG OF ALL TIME" in UNDER THE MICROSCOPE.Marie proves that she's not above throwing a 9-year-old "under the bus" in the WHAT THE !@#$% segment.We introduce a potential new feature where we'll PLAY AND CRITIQUE a listener's song.Steve explains that he's "SLEEPIN' LIKE A BABY" in STEVE'S PHONE.And as usual, we'll touch on the LOCAL SCENE and THE MAILBAG.Write, Rewrite, Rewrite (as necessary). Wash, Rinse, Repeat.

We've done it again, faithful CSSP listeners: another exclusive interview with REAL PROFESSIONAL NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS! But this time, we've done you one better, as both of these writers are also PROFESSIONAL SONGWRITING TEACHERS.Ladies and Gentlemen, the COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST proudly presents the married team of DEANNA WALKER and RICK BERESFORD. Deanna is a songwriter, producer, composer, and the founder of the Blair Songwriting Program at Vanderbilt University in Nashville. She's had cuts by Kenny Rogers, The Sweethearts of the Rodeo, Rissi Palmer, Kendra Chantelle, Jenny Gill, Jess Moskaluke, Brandy Clark, Jana Stanfield, Elizabeth Eckert, David. G. Smith, Sage Keffer, Jeffrey East, Brandon Bolin, as well as many others. Rick Beresford is a songwriter, producer, composer, and teaches Commercial Songwriting at Belmont University in Nashville. He is the director of the Kerriville Folk Festival Song School held in Kerrville, Texas each year and permanent faculty member of the NSAI. He's had cuts by George Jones, Brenda Lee, The Everly Brothers, Don Williams, Canada's Jake Mathews, Mickey Gilley, Sweethearts Of The Rodeo, Elizabeth Eckert, Kyle Wyley, John Conlee and many Grand Ol' Opry stars. Additionally, Rick has received two BMI AWARDS and a MUSIC CITY NEWS AWARD.You can actually schedule LIVE tutorial sessions with one or both of these amazing writer/teachers. If these two can't help you achieve your maximum songwriting potential, no-one can!Note that this was our first "in-person" interview for the podcast, so the sound quality may be a bit uneven. We're trying though! Here's a fairly comprehensive list of links for Deanna and Rick:Deanna's WebsiteRick's WebsiteBlair Hit Songwriter Series: deannalenwalker@gmail.com (Contacttrisha.johns@vanderbilt.edu for registration information)Winston-Salem workshopTo donate funds or auction items for Frank Chamberlin: fightforfrank.org

In this, our first episode of 2013; we'll "ROCK YOU LIKE A HURRICANE" while "KILLING YOU SOFTLY"!In the "Legendary Songwriter Salute", Marie chronicles the career of Richard("Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue") Leigh- her favorite songwriter!The topic of our "Notes and Bolts" segment,"Similes: Metaphorically Speaking" will be tackled by Steve as he explains how these devices can be YOUR FRIENDS!"Marie's Academic Moment" promotes POSITIVITY in your writing... whileCONTRADICTING Steve's whole methodology (LOL!)Steve very nealy has a meltdown in the "What the #$&%!" segment while discussingKe$ha's #1 hit, "TiK ToK" (!)Marie explores her own guilty pleasures by examining ROXETTE'S mega-hit, "IT MUST HAVE BEEN LOVE" in the "Under the Microscope" segment!In "Steve's Phone" you'll hear why exactly NONE have ever called him "Mr. Positivity" and hear a chorus of "Hope Your Dreams Come True"!Suggestions, kudos and criticisms abound in the "CSSP MAILBAG"!Marie shares some current info for Nashville-based listeners in the "Local Scene Report"!And whenever and wherever possible, we'll be sure include as manyINAPPROPRIATE and UNNECESSARY exclamation points as we can!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's a COMMERCIAL SUICIDE SONGWRITING PODCAST first (though it certainly won't be a last!): an exclusive interview with #1 hit songwritier KIRSTI MANNA and acclaimed Nashville Music Producer BILL WARNER. Consider this episode to be our holiday gift to YOU, our faithful and beloved CSSP listeners. Have a wonderful and safe holiday season, and be sure to be listening for EPISODE 5 on January 1st, 2013. Our focus will be SIMILES: METAPHORICALLY SPEAKING, and you can expect all of our usual segments (as well as a surprise or two).

This episode will be AWESOME... or AWFUL; as we will be discussing the POWER OF OPPOSITES!The topic of "Notes and Bolts" will indeed be all about the POWER OF OPPOSITES; and how they relate to a great song.In the "Legendary Songwriter Salute", Steve will be looking back on the amzing career of William "SMOKEY" ROBINSON (we're sure you'll "Second That Emotion")!As always, "Marie's Academic Moment" shares great advice from a veteran industry pro.Steve puts Lady Antebellum's smash hit "NEED YOU NOW" squarely "Under the Microscope."In the "What the #$&%!" segment, Marie brings the party to a crashing halt as she send's Toby Keith's "RED SOLO CUP" straight to the depths of hell where it deserves to be! As an added bonus, we'll be reducing the voulume of the dreadedAIR HORN!In "Steve's Phone" you'll hear one of his classic "orphan choruses" tentatively entitled "Long Before Us."Your comments, questions, and a few surprises will be addressed in the "CSSP MAILBAG".Steve will share BEST OF (per Nashville Scene Magazine) information for songwriters in the "Local Scene Report".And as always, you can expect a bit of spirited and unapologetically opinionated banter from your hosts!   Inspiration. Education. Entertainment.Be sure to make YOUR VOICE HEARD! Leave a review of CSSP on iTunes. 

In this, our first "real and complete" episode; we have an in-depth discussion of what is generally believed to be the most important part of a great song: THE CHORUS. The topic of "Notes and Bolts" will be all about THE CHORUS; what makes a great one, and how it relates to the song. In the "Legendary Songwriter Salute", Marie covers the amazing story of uber-songwriterHARLAN HOWARD. In "Steve's Phone" you'll get to hear a 1 minute demo of his song-in-progress, "TOO SMART TO COUNT TO 10." Marie examines the classic song "SHE CALLED ME BABY" in "Under the Microscope." Steve gives a scathing review of Justin Bieber's "BABY" in the "What the #$&%!" segment. "Marie's Academic Moment" shares great advice and an inspirational story from a pro songwriter. Your comments and questions will be addressed in the "CSSP MAILBAG". Marie will share some great information in the "Local Scene Report". And as always, lots of fun and frivolity from your hosts! Inspiration. Education. Entertainment.   Spread the word - we're out to be the NUMBER ONE songwriting podcast around!