Such an honest, knowing, and hard look at the business side, but the love of what is at its core still shines through. I have to think that these thoughts and feelings about making art in some form while also trying to make a simple living resonate with those in the ether held by all those other artists who have struggled to make their art and get by decently. A hard life for many, but one that recognizes the essential value of art and music and writing to human beings and the culture of their times.
Takes special people to pursue their passions under difficult circumstances, and not nearly enough of them are rewarded sufficiently for what they create and share with the rest of us. The rest of us don't usually have such real gifts, for they are gifts of skill and insight and expression that many of us wish we had but don't to nearly the same degree, so we seek out those who do because they express things that we want to express and in ways that entertain, amaze, and often touch us deep;ly.
There is great value in that for fans and appreciators of art and music and writing - it is often what makes our lives richer and meaningful when so much of the everyday can be so hard to accept or love. So many have appreciated you, Tift, and loved your writing, playing, and singing, and I know so many still do as shown when you filled a certain large venue not all that long ago with folks who still remembered and still loved your songs.
Many of us long for new art and music from those who are so good at producing it. Hold that close to you in hard times. There is a shared bond between artists and their fans, and that matters more than a lot of other things in life because sometimes, the living itself can almost break you. That's why we depend on others so much.
I've always thought you were a supremely talented songwriter and performer with a canon of work that any musician with taste would be proud to call their own. I'm sorry you had to go through all that shit and still not get your just reward, but I'll always be listening, for whatever that's worth.
Your story, told in your words, is a page turner; it lifts and centers my own being walking in this world with thorns and flowers. I love you, the light in your voice, and what you have gifted your listeners.
It breaks my heart to hear stories such as yours that describe the horrors that women artists (any) have to deal with. I saw you years ago in Wilmington and was delighted and amazed at the songs, the sounds and gift of song writing you brought to the stage. Subsequently purchased 2 more CDs and have loved listening to them. Your fans want you to "sing with abandon" and write those songs that are still in that heart and mind of Tiff Merritt. Bless you and Jean. Hugs
Such an honest, knowing, and hard look at the business side, but the love of what is at its core still shines through. I have to think that these thoughts and feelings about making art in some form while also trying to make a simple living resonate with those in the ether held by all those other artists who have struggled to make their art and get by decently. A hard life for many, but one that recognizes the essential value of art and music and writing to human beings and the culture of their times.
Takes special people to pursue their passions under difficult circumstances, and not nearly enough of them are rewarded sufficiently for what they create and share with the rest of us. The rest of us don't usually have such real gifts, for they are gifts of skill and insight and expression that many of us wish we had but don't to nearly the same degree, so we seek out those who do because they express things that we want to express and in ways that entertain, amaze, and often touch us deep;ly.
There is great value in that for fans and appreciators of art and music and writing - it is often what makes our lives richer and meaningful when so much of the everyday can be so hard to accept or love. So many have appreciated you, Tift, and loved your writing, playing, and singing, and I know so many still do as shown when you filled a certain large venue not all that long ago with folks who still remembered and still loved your songs.
Many of us long for new art and music from those who are so good at producing it. Hold that close to you in hard times. There is a shared bond between artists and their fans, and that matters more than a lot of other things in life because sometimes, the living itself can almost break you. That's why we depend on others so much.
I've always thought you were a supremely talented songwriter and performer with a canon of work that any musician with taste would be proud to call their own. I'm sorry you had to go through all that shit and still not get your just reward, but I'll always be listening, for whatever that's worth.
Yes, my friend. 🤍
You are doing right for you and your Jean! And we are here for you however we can support you!
Your story, told in your words, is a page turner; it lifts and centers my own being walking in this world with thorns and flowers. I love you, the light in your voice, and what you have gifted your listeners.
It breaks my heart to hear stories such as yours that describe the horrors that women artists (any) have to deal with. I saw you years ago in Wilmington and was delighted and amazed at the songs, the sounds and gift of song writing you brought to the stage. Subsequently purchased 2 more CDs and have loved listening to them. Your fans want you to "sing with abandon" and write those songs that are still in that heart and mind of Tiff Merritt. Bless you and Jean. Hugs
Truth - I will continue to try to do better! Thanks