Discovering the Rhythms of Life: My Musical Journey

Discovering the Rhythms of Life: My Musical Journey

Hey there, lovely readers! I'm David Shelton, a 50-year-old who finds solace in the tranquil beauty of Kotzebue, Alaska. My heart beats to the rhythms of life, so I'm starting this blog. I'm here to share my love for motivation and inspiration, hoping to uplift your spirits with the melodies of life.

About Me and My Musical Roots

My life's tapestry is woven with threads of love and music. I grew up in a warm and caring environment, surrounded by the harmonious notes of my father's preaching and my mother's enchanting songs. Our family journeyed across the United States, sharing our faith and music wherever we went. These experiences inspired me to create this blog, even though I need to be more modern regarding technology.

Music: My Sanctuary and My Story

Music, to me, is more than sound; it's my sanctuary, my refuge. It's the heartbeat of my existence. I've penned songs that narrate every chapter of my life – the highs, lows, joys, and sorrows. Music is not just a passion; it's the story of my life.

As for my musical talents, I've dabbled in various realms. From playing the trumpet in my youth to taking piano lessons, I've explored the world of instruments. At home, I have a guitar and a bass that I strum when inspiration strikes. Yet, my instrument is my voice, and I've had the privilege of singing on various stages, big and small.

A Medley of Musical Tastes

My musical tastes are as diverse as life itself. I find bliss in the soulful melodies of Donny Hathaway and his daughter Lalah. Hip-hop beats resonate with me, from the lyrical genius of Rakim to the storytelling of Jay-Z and the raw emotion of Eminem. I groove to Earth, Wind & Fire, and rock out to classic Rock and Roll. And remember the masterful songwriting of Rick James, Bill Withers, James Taylor, and Dolly Parton.

Donny Hathaway 

While I wasn't allowed to attend concerts in my youth, I did get a taste of the live experience at a Johnny Gill concert during my senior year of high school. It was pure magic. I recently ventured into the off-Broadway world with a show called "Six," which stunned me.

Sharing the Music That Moves Me

One song with a special place in my heart is a rendition of "Apologize." It was performed on an NBC show where artists showcased their vocal prowess in acapella style. The sheer talent and emotion in that performance are genuinely captivating.

Committed "Apologize"

Discovering New Melodies

I discover new music through platforms like YouTube and my all-time favorite, NPR's "Tiny Desk." This show introduces me to emerging and established artists, allowing me to delve into their musical worlds.

Let's Connect Through Music and Conversation

I'm thrilled to connect with you through my website and blog. Feel free to leave comments, share your thoughts, or even recommend some music. I'm all ears and eager to engage in meaningful conversations with you.

As I embark on this blogging journey, I aim to connect with like-minded individuals who share my love for music, inspiration, and meaningful discussions. While I may be a hermit due to my age, I'm eager to break free from my shell and engage with this vibrant online community.

You can expect more music, inspiration, and connecting opportunities in the upcoming posts. Stay tuned for the melodies of life that we'll explore together.

A Family's Musical Odyssey

In a different chapter of my life, I found myself in the shoes of a single dad entrusted with the care of five spirited children. Money was tight, and the luxuries of Nintendo or PlayStation seemed like distant dreams. However, I believed in the power of family bonds and the magic of music.

After homework was done and dinner was cleared in the evenings, we gathered in our cozy living room. Instead of video games, we embarked on a different adventure – the world of harmonies. With eager hearts and voices full of potential, we started to harmonize as one.

                             

    Our Story 

Week after week, we practiced tirelessly, exploring the beautiful intricacies of five-part harmonies. The Sheltons, we called ourselves, as our shared name became synonymous with the harmony that filled our home. We learned to blend our voices, creating melodies that resonated with our souls.

As our harmonies grew more affluent and polished, an exciting idea began to take shape. Why not share our gift with the world? We envisioned stages bathed in warm spotlights, and audiences moved by our music. And so, the Sheltons embarked on a journey that would take us across the United States.

We sang our hearts from churches to intimate venues, pouring our collective passion into every note. Audiences marveled at the power of family harmony, and our music found its way into their hearts.

But our adventure didn't end there. One day, a remarkable opportunity came knocking on our door. We were offered the chance to lend our voices to the silver screen in a movie called "Burden," starring the talented Garrett Hedlund and Forest Whitaker. Our family and choir sang with all our hearts, becoming part of a cinematic masterpiece.

Movie "Burden" 2020

As our voices echoed through theaters and our single, "That's Why I Say," graced the Billboard charts, we couldn't help but feel that our journey had taken us places we'd never dreamed of. Our story was one of unity, determination, and the profound power of music to bring a family closer together.

And so, from humble beginnings to the grand stage of the entertainment world, the Sheltons proved that any dream could become a reality with love, harmony, and unwavering belief in each other. Our story became a testament to the unbreakable family bond, and the music that brought us together will forever be our anthem of unity and love.

                                                           The Sheltons "That's why I say"