OneRepublic - Counting Stars (R. Tedder) ~ Erwin Lazaro 170

I am being offered a recording gig in L.A. and promotions at Atlantic Records and Universal Records!  I was scouted by Ashley Camden, the Creative Director of Bel Air Talent Group in Hollywood, California.  Ashley let me know that Skyler Lexx, an Executive Producer, who works with major artists, is enjoying my videos on YouTube.  Skyler is a business partner with Romeo Johnson, who was the vocal coach for The Voice (seasons 1-4).  Romeo coaches celebrities, as well as new artists.  Both Skyler and Romeo are celebrities who have toured and work with well-known music icons.  They are in the business of promoting the latest sounds to broadcast over the airwaves.  Skyler wants to produce original music with me and shop our work together at Atlantic Records and Universal Records.  That’s a BIG DEAL!!!

 

During a wonderful conversation with Ashley I decided to politely decline the incredible opportunity being offered to me.  It sounds like a loss, but the door is open if I want it.  By travelling to L.A. and spending time developing music, this incredible opportunity would adversely affect the balance in my life.  I can’t justify the risk.

 

I did suggest the option to work with Skyler and Romeo from my own location since I have my own vocal studio, as I have done in the past with my friends in Italy, but they want me in person so I can perform with their session players.  I completely understand that the ideal performance is the chemistry between musicians.  The coordination would be spontaneous and magic can come to life in that setting.  I get it.  I wish I could make this work without compromise, but no matter how I consider my options, I’d have to give up something I’m not willing to compromise.  Under these circumstances, my choice was easy.

 

In light of this “open door” I thought of “Counting Stars”, my favorite song from OneRepublic.  The music snapped into my mind and I couldn’t shake it.  I immediately recorded my cover for “Counting Stars”.  Inspiration filled me and gave me an opportunity to make this new video.  I’m also able to commemorate this remarkable time in my life with a song.  Though, not my own original music, “Counting Stars” allows me to dream for just a moment, before I clearly look at those same stars and give thanks for all of the Incredible Blessings already permeating my life.

 

From Wikipedia:

"Counting Stars" is a song by American pop rock band OneRepublic from their third studio album, Native (2013). The song was written by lead singer Ryan Tedder, and produced by Tedder and Noel Zancanella.  Musically, it is a pop song with strong elements of folk music.  It was released as the album's third single on June 14, 2013 in Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.  The song has been one of the band's most successful singles, reaching No. 1 in many countries including Canada and the United Kingdom, No. 2 in the United States, and top ten in 20 countries.