GregN

You are right in the sense that we cannot have meaningful dialouge if our terms fail to, at the very least, approximate shared meaning. Of course, and here you are mistaken, we must argue and discuss to get there. Right and wrong, though socially defined, can come with some certainty. Words may have specific (with all that word implies) meaning, if only fleeting. If we begin to agree on the right and the wrong, then we may proceed toward shared understanding of terms. If we all agree that A, B, and C may be equated with genius, and later someone fails to perceive B, because...well...maybe they lack a soul or something... we can regard them as wrong. G

There ya go.........GENIUS! Could be. Dang... if I was only a brother, I'd be a genius, too. Missed it by that much! I was mostly going for the rhyme and hyperbole. They are sufficient conditions, but not necessary.

I'm sorry but you are wrong. Even the pointy-heads contend that Hungarian Classical music is unique in its strong connection to folk music (not all of which is anonymous). It certainly alters your previous comments of category. Aristotle is now rolling in his grave. Popular music has "nothing" to do with being popular? Are you jokin'? Of course, it does. It's goal is to be so, it is derived by such, and it is despised by jazz snobs, whether one or 10 million hear it. This is like shooting fish in a barrel. Oh what else? Oh yeah... citing Elvis et al is what is regarded as reductio ad absurdum. Everything you've put forth thus far to negate Stevie's contended genius has been weak, ill-informed, missed the mark, and well myopic. Not because I say so, but because I have indicated so. Sooooo, reread the thread, bow down to the genius that is Stevie. And know that I am only having fun with you here. No offense intended.

Inspired, but not wholly I should add. Literally, inspired means "poured in". Well, I've been inspired not to put too much faith in literalism, so... ouch! lol

Inspired, but not wholly I should add. Literally, inspired means "poured in". That is, from some source without the artist. Usually something supernatural is implied. However, the rest is within, as I also believe Stevie put in the sweat equity required of any genius. What is the saying again? Genius is 10% inspiration, 90% perspiration. I do, however, dig your previous post. G

"My definition of popular music places it in a category that is not classical music (music composed in a strict tradition) and not folk music (anonymous music of the people). " Ever been to Hungary? Folk and Classical are strongly linked. And they are popular. Anyhow, Mike you argument is internally flawed. Just because these other folks are mislabeled, doesn't mean that Stevie is not a genius. It is a weak argument. So far, you've called upon this missed-premise twice. Now twice I will tell you that it doesn't directly negate Stevie's genius. Stevie's work was a work of inspired genius. Not because he was blind, not because of motown hype, not because he was young, but because it grooved like a mother, had compositions like no other, and because (and pardon the beggin' o' the question) he is one bad-ass brother.

Why does it have to be great "pop" music? Why can't it just be great music? Because jazz snobs have to call it either pop or commercial, so there's no mistaking it for "REAL" music.

I concur!

Actually it was used in an ironic sense. Read the entire context. Now for "jive ass". lol

"I do think it is valuable to step back and look at the big picture. What advanced pop in the 1970s can be viewed in relation to all American music, or all pop music, and in the end, all music - which seems to me to be the vantage point that Chuck is taking. On the radar screen that is so large that it includes Bach and the classical folks, let alone the never-to-be-known folks responsible for the non-Western traditions, is Stevie Wonder a towering figure? A couple thousand years makes a couple of great albums seem not so important. Which isn't to say they're not wonderful albums. Mike" One could quite easily argue that, a single Stevie groove has more* rhythm than a catalouge of Bach tunes. To me it's apples and oranges. If you define your terms of music appreciation narrowly, like some jazz snobs are know to do, than of course you can dump on all sorts of stuff. Of course, what is most revealing is that REAL players love Stevie. REAL players appreciate his vast contribution. Some may even call him a genius. And with regards to your other comment: Remember, Ivory Towers have historically and continue to breathe life into genres of music, which otherwise would have faded. They too, are social constructs. Just because they've been around.... wait did you say a couple "thousand" years? Anyhow.... I guess if we had to get nasty about it, I would say that anyone who doubts Stevie's genius, lacks either ears or a soul. But that would be wrong of me. *in terms of sophistication

Genius is essentially socially defined or negated. Many things go into whether one person becomes highly regarded and another virtually ignored. Factors way beyond the artist, and without the artist. Yes, there is hype in the entertainment industry. However, as one noted contemporary philosopher has recently published, "Bullshit is very American". In general, we hype to sell. To sell our 'selfs' (our concepts of self, that is), to sell our ideas, and to sell our ideals. Throw hyper-critical art critics into the equation and it can get heated and stupid. With that said, there is a bit of narcissism (at least in the psychological sense of the term) implied whenever we go so far as to call one person a genius and not another. Notice spelling: Genus, certainly applies: for a it would appear that a very young man brought his brand of Saginaw soul to the hearts and minds of millions. AND to this day, moves people. New recruits!!; not just nostalgia driven consumption/regurgitation. Genus, in the sense that a whole category of music evolved and grew from his participation. If a prerequisite for genius is positive social good, then Stevie is at the very least worthy of consideration for just such a category. Greg

Lonnie was in rare form last night, back at the old hang, so to speak. It was a lot of fun! GregN, how'd that turkey dinner treat you? B-) They don't play at Baker's when it comes to portions. I don't think I will need to eat for a month. g

Not really, but it sure as hell isn't your father's organ trio, either. Uh, you know, my father (not really, but maybe his father's father's father...) rather had an alphorn trio than an organ trio But still: can I get my money back? I am a fairly accomplished blues player and I have heard these same myopic genre-posturings for 20+ years. They get silly.

From the first beat of the first song, I was hooked. Now here I am at 2:00 with my guitar in my lap. I should be sleeping, but I am practicing. Inspiration is a beautiful thing.

I think much of Stone's issues may stem from youth, or poor-asthetic coaching. Vocal wanking is, unfortunately, still in vogue. Joss and Juice? While I like the alliteration and internal slant rhyme, I believe the Joss may have a brighter future. Besides, if I were singing with Rod on stage, I'd want to fill all silences, lest the old coot asked me out on a date. G P.S. And as an aside, my cousin tells his twelve year old daily, "you can't spell CRAP, without RAP!" It just tickles me, that's all. No flame intended.

Saw him play on T.V. years ago, and was floored. Aside from his showmanship, the man can really play. I haven't heard any of his jazz work but my curiosity has been peaked. G

Yes. It is amazing!

Fixed! For me, Alicia Keys sounds too manufactured. Joss Stone is more raw than Alicia, and they're both overproduced. Jill Scott is a few atmospheres above both of them, imo. Haven't heard the Legend dude yet. Jill Scott is an excellent artist and at this point has a more unique artistic-voice. Or more succinctly, she is da bomb! (do people say "bomb" anymore?)(Is it "da" or "the"?) oh well... As far as pure vocal talent goes... I am leaning toward Joss. However, music, to me, is not a competition. With all the disclaimer, I still think Joss could kick Jill's ass, in a one on one battle of vocal emotivitication-isoity! NOW, LET'S GET READY TO RUMBLE!!! lol, just kiddin', and all that... ahem... jazz.

She is a very impressive young talent. Is she a novelty act? Yes, but not merely. She has gots some pipes. Would she still sell if she were black? Who knows? She would still have that age thing... Now, would she sell if she were 90? I guess if the production were the same and she had a slammin' fine booty, then yes.* What?! *Aretha is presently in the studio (I'm biting my tounge)

We'll be playing back to back festivals and community events July 6th-12th. We will present specifics as the tour approaches, meanwhile, keep on the lookout, Organissimo is coming to town! Greg Nagy Organissimo Mgt

Many thanks! It means a lot to the fellas. Greg Nagy Organissimo Mgt

Last weekend I was playing with my fly open. Does that count?

Dude, so what happened to the opener? Due to a very serious and personal tragedy, we had to cancel. The owner, while very excited about having us open, was also very understanding. In fact, he is anxious to have us play his club in the future. We are looking towards all future dates as a chance to heal; nothing does so quite like music. Respectfully, Greg Nagy Organissimo Mgt

Joe, I actually saw a DVD player for sale at the local grocery store for 39.00. True story. g p.s. I would be interested in going in on that with you, to defray costs. The DVD that is. You can buy your own stinking DVD player.

If you wish to engage your classmates in Jazz, you really ought to buy the Organissimo CD and play it for them. They will go nuts!!! You'll think the Fab Four... oh wait... uh, Brittany...or Jessica... or somebody really, really, awesome just entered their world. g