I use these a lot to help me in my production and writing process. Or just for goofing around. Some of them my kids love, too. DM1 This is an app for making beats. It’s great for when you’ve got some time on your hands (who are you, by the way?) or starting a new […]
Music Tool Apps I Love Read More »
A while back, Theo asked me what shows I’m digging right now. Here’s the list. Some are ones I watch alone. Others are ones Heidi and I enjoy together after the kids have gone to bed.  And some I watch with my kids. Thanks for asking, Theo! TV Shows I’m Watching Alone Get Back (Disney +) If
TV Shows I’m Loving Read More »
I have a new single coming out in a few weeks, but rather than show you the process after the release, I thought I’d unfold it with you. That way, by the time you are listening on Bandcamp or Spotify or wherever, you’ll know the backstory and have heard the various versions. Sound fun? Ok,
How a Song Comes to Be, Part 1: The Idea Read More »
Cowriting a song is a strange activity if you’ve never done it before. Especially with someone new. One of the hardest parts is beginning the song after you’ve gone through the regular pleasantries. But here’s something you can do to make it less awkward. It will also save you time and energy. Love, Aaron
Starting From The Headspace You’re In Read More »
My son was diagnosed with ADHD and I didn’t know anything about it except for the general stereotypes. As you might imagine, I was fearful and worried. But I knew a lot of that fear came from misconceptions. This book helped so much. If you or someone you know has ADHD, I cannot recommend this
“Hmm…this could be a song.” That’s the first thought I have before I record something in my iPhone voice memo app. It’s usually the moment I have a little snippet of lyric I like, and some guitar pattern I’ve been fiddling with. What does it sound like? It varies. But for “The Kindness of Strangers”
The Kindness of Strangers (Origins) Read More »
My dad’s birthday falls around Thanksgiving. It lands square on it every few years. This is one of those years (Happy Birthday, Pops!). I don’t think he minds sharing the day with Thanksgiving because my dad likes to eat. In fact, that picture above represents my father at one of his happiest moments: four bites
Thanksgiving/Dad’s Birthday Story Read More »
When you self-produce and mix your own music, you lose perspective. Why? Well, you’ve been listening to all the instrumental and vocal parts that make up the entire song for so long that your ears and brain hurt. If you’re lucky, you have a friend like Jeff Linsenmaier to give you feedback and maybe even
How Jeff Made My Music Better Read More »
I think about a lot of things when I think about the kindness of strangers. But one moment sticks out. It happened at the start of the pandemic, close to when I wrote this song. I talk about it in this video. Love, Aaron
About “The Kindness of Strangers” Read More »
I’m always conflicted about adding banjo to a recording because it’s such a specific and recognizable sound. Nobody hears a banjo and thinks, My goodness, what is that instrument? But I think the sound works in “The Kindness of Strangers.” It helps keep the song lighter. I bought this banjo in Fargo, North Dakota. I