Press Release 1 for March 7, 2025 at 7pm

###


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


CONTACT:
Steve Schalchlin
Phone: 212-470-7593
Email: steveshack@gmail.com


STEVE SCHALCHLIN AND FRIENDS:

FROM OFF-BROADWAY TO BEATLES MAGIC AT DON'T TELL MAMA



A Genre-Bending Night of Music Combining Cabaret Heart with Beatles Harmony



NEW YORK, NY (January 2025) – Award-winning composer Steve Schalchlin, known for his poignant storytelling and emotionally resonant music, brings his unique sound to Don't Tell Mama NYC on March 7th at 7pm. Expect an evening of laughter, reflection, and soaring melodies as Schalchlin weaves together his signature blend of gallows humor and heartfelt depth. The New York Times called his work "triumphant and very touching," and this special concert offers a rare opportunity to experience that magic firsthand.



Along with a special appearance by cabaret legend Sidney Myer, the stellar ensemble features internationally acclaimed vocalist Carl Draper, known for his powerful baritone and emotive performances, rising star tenor Blake Zolfo, celebrated for his angelic voice and stage presence, and virtuoso Charlie Viehl on violin, vocals, and guitar, bringing his distinctive improvisational energy to each performance. The Rebel Nerds – South African musician Gavin Gold and Maine native Jake Adams – will bring their high-energy pop-punk infused sound to several numbers, with Adams seamlessly transitioning to bass with the Bonus Round Band.



The evening culminates as Schalchlin and Gold transform into the duo Strawberry Feels NYC, bringing audiences together through the universal language of Beatles classics. Expect a Sgt. Pepper's-inspired singalong of the Fab Four that embodies the same spontaneous, magical community spirit they create weekly in Central Park.



For those unfamiliar with Schalchlin, he's an award-winning composer whose career has been defined by music's power to connect, heal, and transform. From Off-Broadway musicals to Beatles singalongs in Central Park, he has consistently used his art to bridge emotional and cultural divides. Selected by George Michael to play John Lennon's IMAGINE piano for a documentary, Schalchlin has dedicated his career to music's transformative potential. His accolades include NY Drama League, NY Outer Critics Circle and awards from the LA Drama Critics Circle, GLAAD Media Awards, and LA Ovation Awards for works like the Off-Broadway musicals "The Last Session" and "The Big Voice: God or Merman?". This one-night-only performance offers a glimpse into his powerful ability to build community through music.


TICKET INFORMATION:


The performance takes place on March 7, 2025, at Don't Tell Mama NYC (343 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036). Seating begins at 6:15 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM. The cover charge is $20.00, with a $20.00 minimum (including two drinks).


Please note that Don't Tell Mama is a cash-only venue, so please be prepared. Advance reservations are highly recommended, as seating is limited. Reservations can be made at donttellmamanyc.com.



Don't miss this unforgettable night of music. Reserve your seats today at donttellmamanyc.com.

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#18: From Arkansas to Austin to Strawberry Fields

Last week, my three hilarious and horrible brothers and I (plus one amazing sister-in-law) piled into a U-Haul for an 11-hour journey from Arkansas to Austin. The mission: moving our 95-year-old father to his forever home. Those two massively heavy chairs he refused to leave behind? Worth every herniated disc. My brother Scott and his wife Annette transformed his room into something straight out of a boutique hotel - complete with a bidet, which has led to some interesting conversations.

Now Dad's surrounded by adoring family, grand and great grand nieces and nephews, being taken for daily walks, and settling into his new life. It's exactly where he needs to be and I'll be forever grateful for the care all my brothers have heaped upon him since mom died two years ago.

Meanwhile, back in the frozen tundra of Central Park...

I'm at Strawberry Fields in 30-degree wind chill, playing Beatles songs with semi-numb fingers. Gavin and I are becoming experts at the dress in layers performance technique, except I always feel like I never bring enough. Blake also showed up to sing. Carl had to work.

But here's the thing - people still come. They brave the cold to sing "All You Need Is Love" at the IMAGINE mosaic, their breath visible in the winter air.

And because life likes to keep things interesting, I just got diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma right below my eye. Surgery needed. Januay 29. March 7th show approaching. But hey, what's life without a few plot twists?

For some reason, today's song, Lazarus (different from "Lazarus Come Out") has been on my mind and was my late friend, Dick Remley's favorite song. I buried the sheet music in his grave.

It was written after The Last Session, after being given my bonus round life. I was internally struggling because I had come to terms with my impending death. I should be thrilled!

In it, I recollected how Death was like this sweet angel hovering nearby, who buys me a martini and says he'll make it all go away. And how I could picture the curtain falling.

When Death abandoned me, I was suddenly naked and having to live a new life. Feeling so guilty because so many didn't make it and here I was bemoaning my supposedly sad fate. I felt ungrateful to have these feelings. So I poured it all out into this song.

Listening newly this past week, I didn't remember it being so symphonic! My inner Freddie Mercury was ablaze. Have I ever sung anything this passionately in my life? (Links below).

The countdown to March 7th continues. Will your partially frozen, slightly medical, but still singing storyteller make it to the finish line? Stay tuned...

Warmly,
Steve

LAZARUS
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/58mQxYJqXe6hIJOhIzw4Fd?si=647fb76863fd4935

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/lazarus/1082085482?i=1082085655

YouTube: https://youtu.be/7FXGinGYHjc?si=n7K9vVn_j1Ajg5kn



Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/albums/B01BIUT0RO?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_rh0gFnsfWlSwWl7AL21YkqFWL&trackAsin=B01BIUSST0
--
You are welcome to freely stream the songs but purchasing them (Apple or Amazon) is the best way to support independent artists such as myself. Or if you have the means, you can make a small donation through PayPal or Venmo using my email address: steveshack@gmail.com.

And please share this with friends!

Tickets to our show at Don't Tell Mama, March 7 at 7.

https://shows.donttellmamanyc.com/8788-steve-schachlin-friends-3-7-25

#17: A New Year's Eve Song and Message

Imagine a lonely diner on New Year's Eve. A waitress or waiter is working a double shift for lost folks who don't want to be alone, but also don't have some party to go to. Someone, perhaps a suitor, asks them what they're doing New Year's Eve. That's the setting for my final song of the year, called "The Cafe Gay Paree."

The holidays can be a time of great emptiness for too many people. I hope you have someone to be with. But if you don't, why not join me at the Cafe Gay Paree?

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/cafe-gay-paree-feat-bonus-round-band-piano-vocal/1788107245?i=1788107246

Spotify link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/68gCkKHLcJz2TJwV4c2zx5?si=3cf852df39514cd5

YouTube link:
https://youtu.be/GWbbaxstOhU?si=h7V5KrKkIdX5buKk

Amazon Music:
https://tinyurl.com/2s3a48tt

Cafe Gay Paree
©2024 by Steve Schalchlin

As I get dressed for my late double shift
Even as outside the snow starts to drift
I head to the cafe where I found my call
Each New Year's Eve, I'm the belle of the ball

Grace is a widow, framed in neon light
Spaghetti and small talk with a ghost all night
The Davis brothers meet once a year
Crunching their hash browns and fighting back tears

Each New Year's Eve, that's what I see at
My midnight shift at the Cafe Gay Paree

Todd brings his terrier, an illegal move
Chef makes an extra dish, a feast fit for two
In come some street kids, with barely a dime
I sneak them turkey, fries on the side

Each New Year's Eve, that's what you'll see
If I wait on you at the Cafe Gay Paree

Ted is an ex-con who's paid off his debt
His tattoos tell stories he'd like to forget
He waits for his wife and his two little boys
I see him flinching with every small noise

This is my mission, where I need to be
The doorbell, my fry cook, my apron and me
The characters change, but each year is the same
I serve them all, and I know them by name

This New Year's Eve, you asked where I'd be
I'll be bussing tables at the Cafe Gay Paree

Midnight's arriving, we all raise a glass
A Coke or a 7-Up, ain't we got class

This New Year's Eve, you ought to come and see
Don't know what you're missing at the Cafe Gay Paree

This New Year's Eve, surprise me and see
Midnight, you and me at the Cafe Gay Paree

Behind the Christmas tree at the Cafe Gay Paree

Since this is the final newsletter of the year, I want to thank all of you who actually read it and clicked on the songs. Not since writing The Last Session score in only a couple months have I been so productive. It feels fantastic and I'm really proud of all the songs I've released this year -- and I'm really excited about next year!

There is a link below to all the 2024 songs on a Spotify Playlist.

In fact, if you feel overwhelmed by the world, social media, the news and all of the chaos that surrounds us, next week's song is an antidote to all of it. I hope you stick around and want to be a part of it.

You are free to stream the songs but purchasing them is the best way to support independent artists such as myself. Or if you have the means, you can make a small donation through PayPal or Venmo using my email address: steveshack@gmail.com.

And please share this with friends!

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com] --

Steve Schalchlin
Living in the Bonus Round
Tickets to our show at Don't Tell Mama, March 7 at 7.
https://shows.donttellmamanyc.com/8788-steve-schachlin-friends-3-7-25

Spotify Links
2024 Songs https://tinyurl.com/3su9t85m
Love Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevelovesongs
Personal Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevepersonal
Comic/Humor Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevehumor
Inspirational Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/steveinspire
Meditation Music by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevemeditate
Political Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevepolitics
Rebel Nerd Songs - lyrics by Steve Schalchlin
https://tinyurl.com/steverebelnerd

#16: A Christmas Hanukkah Wish and My Dad's and My Story

Hello from Austin, Texas after a flight to Little Rock, an 11-hour U-Haul trip down here to bring my 95-year old preacher daddy to his new forever home with my brother, Scott and his wife, Annette.

Last night, we had our Christmas with the whole extended family of kids, grandkids, great grandkids, cousins, nieces, nephews, wives, husbands, partners and my dad, who had never met many of them before.

The night was filled with stockings, ripped-open presents, Christmas lights on everything -- and running in the yard, swinging on swings and throwing glowing balls and screaming. And watching dad buried in presents and children. It was magical.

As for dad, he talks a lot! He never used to say a word. Mom did all the talking. Kinda like with me and Jim.

On Sunday, he recounted growing up very poor in the hills of Arkansas during the Depression, insisting that our mother, his wife, made possum and sweet potato pie out of the possums he used to catch as a child, selling the hides to the town’s grocer for money to go to the movies.

"Dad, you weren't married to our mom when you were five." He'll grin and say something snarky back at us. It's sad to see him diminished, because we look so similar but he stays ornery with a sense of humor.

He married my mom after his tour of duty in the Navy during the Korean War. He still has a small silk cloth he brought back for her.

Annette decorated his room just like it was before. I wrote about that in a song called "My Daddy's Room."

A rural Arkansas Missionary Baptist preacher, he moved us to Southern California when I was five, which is where I mostly grew up.

Then came the 60s, just as the flower power movement was taking hold, my musical life was filled with old timey Baptist hymns and Southern California pop like The Mamas and the Papas, Buffalo Springfield, plus The Byrds, The Monkees and The Beatles.

It was during my ninth grade that I inadvertently looked too -- longingly? -- at some boy in the gym -- and suddenly I was targeted by some tough kids. I never told anyone. To tell would be to tell why.

In the nick of time, my dad left the church he built -- yes, the preacher and the nurse from the song from The Last Session -- and moved us back to Monroe, Louisiana. I had a chance to start over! Clean slate! Unfortunately, I knew they could see it in my face -- and this school was big and scary. And JUST as they were about to figure me out, we moved again.

By the time this twice-burned adolescent landed in Buna, Texas I was solidly undercover and in denial, a hippie in my heart, listening to Credence Clearwater, an Unfortunate Son and terrified of Vietnam while playing the piano in my daddy's church and hanging out at the small hospital where my mother was a nurse. Went to a Baptist College, toured Texas in a Baptist rock and roll band.

My secret, so terrifying, I was now in my early 20s, was burning a hole in my heart. I had to leave. I had to get out. I quit the band and ran off to Dallas with some Iranian engineering students I met while working at a local Mexican restaurant.

I "disappeared" off the face of the earth — something impossible to do in this world of social media and search engines. (My brothers deeply resented me for doing, I later found out, but all I could think of was I had to get away. From everyone. Start new. Yesterday, David said during those years of my self-exile, he thought I was probably dead. Then suddenly, I’d call home announcing I was in Bermuda, New York or California or wherever.)

This also broke my dad's heart. But to be reconnected with him now, Jim's and my pic on his wall. With my brothers now. With family I thought I'd never interact with. It's overwhelming.

But, even as I walked away, he taught me.

When I, the front desk volunteer, in Los Angeles, was handed the task of reconstructing the National Academy of Songwriters after it went broke and the paid staff was let go. Recruiting volunteers, working 16 hours a day, I applied every lesson watching my dad build tiny church congregations up from nothing. Within a year, we were out of debt with a thriving membership and an office teeming with eager songwriters, pitching in and looking for a break.

After I nearly died from HIV and suddenly had my own career in the theater thanks to a certain Jim Brochu, I learned early how to utilize the Internet to spread the “gospel” of The Last Session, creating new families with each new cast.

And now, looking ahead, my friends and I have fashioned a new Bonus Round Band musical family. We're creating a community around the Imagine mosaic singing Beatles songs at Strawberry Fields with South African musician and great friend Gavin Gold, with vocalist and best pal, Blake Zolfo from Indiana, new pal Charlie Viehls on violin, vocalist Carl Draper and Jake Adams on bass from Rebel Nerds.

We can’t wait until March 7th for our first official headlining concert in New York at the legendary Don’t Tell Mama!! The line is gonna be out the door! I know you've already made your reservations.

SEASONS GREETINGS

I love that Hanukkah and Christmas coincide this year.

When I left my Baptist bubble and moved to Dallas, during my "exile," it was the "big city" Jewish people I met who accepted and loved me, made me feel "normal" — and who helped open my eyes to a different world of culture and compassion, where I didn't have to live in fear to be among humans. While Jerry Falwell was on the TV telling the world we were the worst humans on earth, I was among brilliant, educated and informed minds who were praising my talents and making me feel loved and accepted.

Hanukkah is a holiday to honor freedom from oppression and hope. It's a holiday that Jesus celebrated in the Book of John.

Is it a coincidence that the songs from my "inspirational" catalog work whether I sing them in a temple, a church or on a stage?

On this Christmas and Hanukkah Eve, hope is exactly what I feel. Even at 71, I can look forward and see momentous new opportunities to create something wonderful. And I thank you for being a part of it.

Thank you.

Steve

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com] --
Steve Schalchlin

Living in the Bonus Round

Tickets to Don't Tell Mama, March 7 at 7. https://shows.donttellmamanyc.com/8788-steve-schachlin-friends-3-7-25

Spotify Links

2024 Songs https://tinyurl.com/3su9t85m

Love Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevelovesongs

Personal Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevepersonal

Comic/Humor Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevehumor

Inspirational Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/steveinspire

Meditation Music by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevemeditate

Political Songs by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/stevepolitics

Rebel Nerd Songs - lyrics by Steve Schalchlin https://tinyurl.com/steverebelnerds

#15: A Painful Week, The Oak and The Willow, Urban Stages, & Don't Tell Mama!

Many exciting things to report this week! Personal stuff, a new song, a violin, a new friend, a new band, a sudden concert for Winter Rhythms and a new Don't Tell Mama concert date for next year.
First, a quick link to the song because I don't want you to miss Charlie Viehl's gorgeous violin work on this new release.
"The Oak and the Willow" featuring Charlie Viehl on violin. (Story below.)
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/track/6Zku8cyA2VynLH1P6cDt4j?si=09d49508f3f84b2b

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GA22QcOd430

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-oak-the-willow-feat-bonus-round-band/1785369242?i=1785369243

Amazon Music:
https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0DQ6DGN93?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_LiP0ZiKjvmkfuC9FThKO5xhyL&trackAsin=B0DQ6DHWPL

Now to all the news.

1. Personal note. My Dad.
I am in Arkansas at my brother David's home. I'm here to help him pack up my 95 year old dad's belongings and drive dad by truck down to Austin to his new forever home with my brother, Scott and his wife, Annette. An eight hour trip.

I knew my dad was in declining health, both physically and mentally, but until yesterday at the assisted living facility, I didn't realize how dramatic the change had been. He was truly a great dad when I was a kid. I always felt loved and protected.

Since Dave is the primary care giver, I decided that I would try to take care of him with good cooking. First we went to the most gigantic grocery store I've ever seen in my life. I'm so used to the tiny NYC grocery stores where you buy what you need for the day.

Sunday night, I made chicken vegetable soup -- with onions, garlic, carrots, celery, green beans and peas. He said, "When I open a restaurant, this will be on the menu."

Monday night, I made pan roasted salmon and zucchini slices, caramelized onions and baked sweet potato. He asked me, "Do you eat like this every night?"

I cook like that every night. Being diabetic and wanting to help Jim with his health, I only learned it a couple years ago off YouTube -- and I went to one cooking class on a ship.

On Saturday, we will drive the eight hours to Austin in a U-Haul. Yes, I have my camera and yes, I'm going to document it. Maybe write a song or make a movie or both.

We will have a family Christmas on the 23rd. My dad will be meeting some of his great grand kids for the first time. I hate that I lost so many years of "family" during my self-imposed exile away from them.

Fly home on Christmas Day.

2. The Story of The Oak and the Willow and Charlie Viehl, violinist.

I met Charlie Viehl barely a month ago. He was referred to me by a mutual friend, Alicia Irving -- a great actress Jim once directed back in Los Angeles and is now here in my acting class with Andy Gale -- that he was young, new in town with a degree (Magna Cum Laude) from Boston College and looking to connect with the music theater scene as both a musical director, harmony singer and violinist. He also plays guitar.

Here's his resume. https://charlieviehlmusic.com/resume

I was recording this new medium tempo country folk song called The Oak and the Willow," about -- well, two trees in love -- and I had a space in the arrangement for an instrumental solo.

I said, "Wanna be on a record?"

We made a deal. I'd trade studio time and engineering to him and he'll play violin for me.

I brought him into the studio, set the mics and as soon as he played the first note, I knew he was amazing. Clean, tasteful, with chops and an ability to self-arrange around the vocal. When the solo happened, he soared.

He said he was eager to do stuff, anything. I asked him if he knew any Beatles songs, and he said he actually took a class on Beatles music at Boston College. Very popular course! So I said come down to Strawberry Fields and play "Eleanor Rigby" with Gavin and me. (It got too cold that week, so it's still on our ToDo List, but he came and met Blake Zolfo there and they bonded.)

3. Winter Rhythms at Urban Stages

Then, I got a call from Sue Matsuki and Frances Hill at a theatre called Urban Stages, that they wanted me to perform at the opening night gala with NYC cabaret legend, KT Sullivan. She would be the headliner, but she'd go first. I love being a closing act!

It would be a test. A new set of people. I love my ship people, but New Yorkers? They've heard it all, seen it all and will let you know if you're lousy.

After having done it onboard the ships several times this past year, I had a running order. Knew what worked and didn't work. This show is socko stuff, I told myself. Can't miss! But I needed to assemble my Bonus Round Band, which over the years, always consists whoever shows up to the gig.

I asked Charlie if he wanted to be in the Bonus Round Band and play his violin solo on "The Oak & The Willow."

I also called Blake Zolfo and Bill Goffi, because it was so last minute, they weren't available.

Then, Carl Draper, our friend who sings lead and dances on the Crystal Cruise lines, had arrived in town looking for something to do. So I said, how about learning and singing a new solo I wrote about being on the ships?

Here's a rough video of Carl singing "All That and More" at the show:
https://youtu.be/RgUnIdogT8U

He said yes, so now it's a week away and i have two new members, neither of whom know these songs.

I called Jane Goldman to see if we could rehearse at her place. Unfortunately, the piano was out of tune. So I got some tuning software, watched a few YouTubes and tuned it myself. I wrote out sheet music for all the backing vocals.

We rehearsed the day before the show.

I had planned on the violin only being on a couple of the songs. But it sounded so good, I told him to play on all the songs -- just make something up and stay out of the way of the vocals. He's so tasteful and non-showy, I had to coax him to blast off every once in awhile. He's a dream musician.

Rough video of us performing that night "I Only See You Young." https://youtu.be/w25cB_xdmME

Backstage, Charlie told Carl and me about how he learned to improvise as a good Catholic boy. Playing at Mass -- during the later verses of hymns that repeated over and over, he'd go off making up his own parts, just to be inventive and not get bored.

I told him I learned improv by trying to make the Baptist songs in my daddy's church sound like Credence. ("The church is not a rock group," my mother would scold.)

(In the mix of The Oak and The Willow, linked above, on the final chorus after his solo, I pulled out all the other instruments. All you hear is my voice and his violin. It's so haunting and yet joyous at the same time!)

THE SHOW WAS AMAZING.

The response was over the top. ESPECIALLY because, at the last minute I decided to bring Gavin Gold on stage, we changed into our Sgt. Pepper jackets, and the two of us led a singalong of "Eight Days A Week" complete with a bending-from-the-waist Beatle bow.

Now, listen. People sing along at Strawberry Fields when we busk, but they are shy. I have to usually coax them.

Not at Urban Stages. The whole crowd was LOUD and rocking that song. They knew all the verses, too.

I had an epiphany that Beatles songs are like hymns, in that everyone seems to know them and sing along to them -- and they heal the soul. Even when they don't know them, they still sing along to them because the hooks are fresh and catchy after all these years.

Whenever you sing a lot of new material to an audience, it's asking a lot. They have to do a lot of work, too, listening and concentrating. So, when they get something they know, they can finally relax and just have a release. It's so satisfying.

Now I knew we had something. A new show! Out of thin air!

With the addition of Gavin plus his bass player and singer, Jake Adams from the Rebel Nerds, who is a total genius of a musician, we're gonna combine forces, creating a new super group of the Bonus Round Band and Rebel Nerds, complete with a Beatles -- dressed in our Strawberry Feels NYC uniforms -- singalong at the end.

But now we needed was a place to play, So, I wrote Tanya.

4. Don't Tell Mama, March 7 at 7pm

I contacted Don't Tell Mama, Tanya immediately wrote back with a date. They are thrilled! Friday, March 7 at 7pm. 7@7.

I like that! The emoticon looks like someone looking up and to the right, just as Joan Crawford told Jim she was taught at MGM when posing for a photo.

I STRONGLY suggest making a reservation. It's a small room. Which I like even more because it will be an intimate show just like on the ship. Personal. And the music is going to be so good.

Reserations: https://shows.donttellmamanyc.com/8788-steve-schachlin-friends-3-7-25

And that's all the news, which is a lot for one week. Welcome to the Bonus Round.

If you need a violinist and you're a performer or producer in the NYC area, be sure to put Charlie Viehl on your list.

A very happy Hanukkah and Christmas season to all.


Steve
--
You are free to stream the songs but purchasing them is the best way to support independent artists such as myself. Or if you have the means, you can make a small donation through PayPal or Venmo using my email address: steveshack@gmail.com.

And please share this with friends!

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com]
--
Steve Schalchlin

Living in the Bonus Round

Spotify Links
Love Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevelovesongs
Personal Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevepersonal
Comic/Humor Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevehumor
Inspirational Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/steveinspire
Meditation Music by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevemeditate
Political Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevepolitics
Rebel Nerd Songs - lyrics by Steve Schalchlin
https://tinyurl.com/steverebelnerd

"I Only See You Young" Live at Urban Stages NYC

Beatles Singalong at Urban Stages - Eight Days A Week

#14: My Thanksgiving Prayer

Dearest friends and readers of my newsletter,

Next week, I'll be performing a concert, along with cabaret legend KT Sullivan, at Urban Stages in New York City at the Opening NIght Gala of the Winter Rhythms songfest, which is an amazing series of concerts they hold every year as a fundraiser for their library and community outreach service to young people all over the city. https://www.tixtree.com/e/winter-rhythms-kt-sullivan-in-my-piano-me-c4f1f4f46e1c

Nine years ago, I was privileged to present "New World Waking" there as a part of this same series, featuring an incredible chorus of singers and, on the stage, a group of young people who were a part of their theater outreach program.

In that presentation, we performed "My Thanksgiving Prayer" sung by Stephen Anthony Elkins and Jake Wesley Stewart, written by myself and Rev. Peter J. Carman. There are a number of versions of this song, but this one is kind of special because of Stephen's amazing vocal, but also because of the context of the song, offered as a prayer of peace in response to violence in the community, in our souls and in the world.

Here is the link to that performance. And in this holiday season, as we gather and hopefully enjoy being with friends, family and loved ones, we also remember how many lives right now are scarred by war, terror and isolation.

I do pray for peace and the best way to start is by being thankful and grateful for the things we have that give us life, joy and comfort in our own lives.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0PbdXgt-Vvg

Next is a link to that same song being performed by the San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus and Women's Community Orchestra at Davies Symphony Hall.

Apple Music
https://music.apple.com/us/album/my-thanksgiving-prayer/481791968?i=481792769
Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/track/682AnA5Z8xKiheqDm897J0?si=86ef44ce9dc54328

And another version sung by the Sanctuary Choir at Christ Church Bay Ridge Brooklyn

Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/track/4fp4Ddu5AJ5Jbe9Er7BhEu?si=a1f47939efba44c0

Apple Music
https://music.apple.com/us/album/my-thanksgiving-prayer-feat-christ-church-bay-ridge/1038988148?i=1038991188

#13: The Rain Will Come

“This is one of my favorite songs you’ve ever written!”

That was the unexpected response from Jim Brochu when I played him the first demo for this week’s new song, “The Rain Will Come.”

And I knew he meant it because he played it five times in a row!

This brand new song uses rain as a metaphor, not for relationship troubles as is often the case, but for the renewal that follows hardship. The character, driving through the desert, encounters a storm and realizes that rain signifies life. It brings forth new growth in a barren landscape and revitalizes all living things.

This reminded me of the dual nature of rain. While we've seen the destructive force of hurricanes in recent years, rain is also a blessing. It cleanses and nourishes life. This resonates particularly strongly now, as drought conditions across the USA have many people praying for rain.

I hope you enjoy "The Rain Will Come." Here are the listening links. The lyrics are below.

Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/track/3euc0HVAbamBFBbvtyNyuI?si=f43e65af45b44788

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-rain-will-come-feat-bonus-round-band-single/1780375701

YouTube link:
https://youtu.be/rHJZTvRdpK8?si=_uz-GbyvHmWOkWC-

THE RAIN WILL COME
©2024 by Steve Schalchlin

Mile Marker 102
Temperature says 103
Driving from where I was before
To where I never wanted to be

Heat waves dance on the blacktop
Mirages of what we could have been
Broken highway up ahead
Prickly cactus dusty green

The rain will come
The rain will come
The desert knows
The rain will come

Jack rabbits dash across the road
Wildflowers push through the rock
I pull into a barren stop
When the engine starts to knock

I listen to it tick as it cools
I take a dusty breath of air
I see a gathering storm
On purple mountains over there

The rain will come
The rain will come
The desert knows
The rain will come

My heart beats faster with each flash of lightning
My windshield pops with heavy drops
Burned out seeds spring into action
Colorful blooms pop in blazing reaction

Mile Marker 101
I turn the car to go back home
We shouldn’t be afraid of rain
It’s something that’s just gonna come

I burst into the open door
Apologize for my retreat
A storm can bring out signs of life
No reason to admit defeat

The rain will come
Let it come
The desert knows
The rain will come

You are free to stream the songs but purchasing them is the best way to support independent artists such as myself. Or if you have the means, you can make a small donation through PayPal or Venmo using my email address: steveshack@gmail.com.

And please share this with friends!

[This is the hand-crafted, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com]

-- Steve Schalchlin
Living in the Bonus Round

Spotify Links

Love Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevelovesongs
Personal Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevepersonal
Comic/Humor Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevehumor
Inspirational Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/steveinspire
Meditation Music by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevemeditate
Political Songs by Steve Schalchlin Spotify Playlist https://tinyurl.com/stevepolitics
Rebel Nerd Songs - lyrics by Steve Schalchlin
https://tinyurl.com/steverebelnerd

#12: Beatles Singalong and Two Things Too!

Am I a heretic or a believer?

A liar or an Honest Abe?

A genius or a fool?

The answer: YES. And so are you. We are all these things. To someone, at least.

That's why it's useless to try to label yourself as all good or all bad. All sane or all crazy.

That's the beauty and terror of being human. We are all these things. And that's what I tried to comically convey in this new song, released this week, called Two Things Too.

But before that, here is the YouTube link to this week's Beatles Singalong at Strawberry Fields. If the news from this past week, has you down, this will put a huge smile on your face.
https://youtu.be/3P9nCstPgcM?si=jL2AI_kv0EzB8R37

Two Things Too
©2024 by Steve Schalchlin

I'm a dream come true, I'm a nightmare too
I'm the stars above and I'm hell to love
I am Lancelot, with a twisted plot

I'm a Shakespeare sonnet, with a murder on it
I'm the Taj Mahal, with a crumbling wall
I'm a saw that swings, with an edge that sings
Cause it cuts both ways
And it's oh so true


You can be one thing and be two things too

I'm the king of hearts throwing poison darts
I'm the ace of spades tossing handguns
I am comfort class and a donkey's ass
A romantic tale on a gothic scale
I'm a valentine from a withered vine
I am French champagne made from acid rain

If that makes no sense it can still be true
We can be one thing and be two things too

Two things too no matter what we do
A mirror wall in a fun house mall

We can dive so far that we get the bends
We can both be lovers and yet still be friends
We can run red hot and sometimes feel blue

I can be a woman or a man for you
I can be too busy and have nothing to do
If I'm lost at sea, but my course is true
I can be one thing and be two things too

We can be one thing, and be two things too.

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/two-things-too-feat-bonus-round-band-single/1778376503

YouTube:
https://youtu.be/lu8wZ18DSRc?si=1CMxKAMsLCSYchX_

Spotify link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/5IIxfONESnIQk31TVg7TwI?si=b292f9d4399646e


-- [This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be added to the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com]

STRAWBERRY FIELDS Beatles Sing-Along - Nov 6, 2024

Newsletter #11: Comfort Food - Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Since today is voting day here in the United States, most of us are going to be breathing a sigh of relief that all the political ads are going to be over. We’re gonna be huddled around our TVs hoping for our desired outcomes.

So, today, a little comfort food. This past year, I recorded "Somewhere Over The Rainbow." I hadn't intended to, but I was rehearsing for a show I was putting together for the folks in my dad's assisted living facility, recording myself singing this.

The original was released in 1939 on the brink of World War 3. No one knew what was up ahead. Or maybe it had already started and the world needed some hope. But this simple song has such a lovely message.

Perhaps because I wasn't trying too hard, or because it was a labor of love, I released it after polishing up the accompaniment. I hope it gives you a little breath of fresh air.

YouTube Link:
https://youtu.be/ZrpmDyXS0Fc?si=b4ala0O2r4Z977YH

Spotify link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/33gkPCHqKZtkjJNIWTRHjn?si=e0aa6a231062417c

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/somewhere-over-the-rainbow/1705326781?i=1705326782

Newsletter #10: Teddy Bears and Going It Alone

One of my most treasured friends is suffering in the aftermath of a severe medical condition. When she discusses her painful situation it reminded me of a song I wrote for The Last Session -- maybe the most popular song from that show, Going It Alone. Last week was the anniversary of the opening of our NY Off-Broadway production.

As for my friend, as part of her volunteer work, she would ride along with the local police department during domestic violence calls and care for the children during those intense moments. In her trunk, she kept a pile of Teddy Bears. She gave me permission to share one of these moments as an example of how we all can be of service to others.

#1: The Power of Plush

It was 1 AM as we pulled into the apartment complex in answer to the call of a break-in. The parking lot was dark; most of the street lights shot out.

The apartment we were going to was on the interior of the complex, also dark and sinister. It was the sound of crying that led us to the broken door and dimly lit apartment.

I drew the two twin girls onto the sofa and into my lap while the officer was gathering information and taking statements from the tenants. Both were sobbing uncontrollably, tears streaming down their little faces and little noses running.

I pulled tissue from my pocket and wiped noses and told them my name was and I was a friend of the police. I asked their names and they responded. I asked their ages. One held up three wet, pudgy, adorable fingers while the other just clung to my neck. I asked if they were twins and they both nodded "yes".

As I held them, I gave a quick glance around their home: only three small rooms: a tiny bathroom, a small bedroom with a mattress on the floor and the kitchen/living room we were sitting in. All dimly lit. Windows covered with black trash bags; no curtains. Front door with a now kicked in lock and what looked like multiple gunshot holes.

No pictures. No decorations. No color. And no toys.

As I held them, their sobbing calmed, but their grip on my neck and arms never lessened.

I asked if they would like for me to read them a story about a little mouse. They responded with a nod, but no words. I pulled a storybook from my bag, "The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear." It's a delightful book with beautiful expressive illustrations. I drew the girls closer and had them take turns turning the pages.

They were able to identify with the fear and anxiety of the little mouse who wanted to protect his treasured strawberry from the hungry bear. We scoured each page carefully, the girls showing me something special on nearly every one. I asked them which they thought was cuter: the little mouse or the hungry bear. Both said "bear!"

The officer finished her report and indicated to me with a nod toward the door that we should leave.

I pulled two six-inch plush teddy bears from my bag; one with a pink bow on one ear, the other with a purple bow. Hoping they would not both want the same bear, I offered them to the little girls as I rose from the sofa. Fortunately, no fighting!

They ran to show their mama and as I looked back to wave en route to the cruiser, I saw both girls holding their bears tightly and smiling. It hit me that there is power in plush! Little girls comforted and distracted from the violation of their home and hearts by brown bags of bear-shaped stuffing.

A reminder that we all find comfort when we have something or someone to hold onto.



So my song link today is "Going It Alone," which I put on my Tales from the Bonus Round many moons ago. I encourage you to share it -- and this newsletter -- with anyone you think it might help. Whether they be a caregiver or a patient.

Here is a rare video clip shot from backstage during an actual performance of the great Stephen Bienskie singing it with Bob Stillman.

And for your playlists, this is me singing Going It Alone: Apple Music link:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/going-it-alone/1082085482?i=1082085646
Spotify Link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/1y18S4tGWHOG05mqu5ekYx?si=efd9c6f3cd814314

As always, these are free to stream, but if you can afford to purchase the tracks from Apple Music, it's how independent artists such as myself can earn a living.

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com]

Newsletter #9: Halloween Song No. 2 & New Beatles

"After I Die" (below) is a new COMEDY song that ISN'T ABOUT ME, but Jim doesn't like it because he doesn't like to think about me dying, so I get that. And my friend Jane, when I played it in her living room last week, didn't love it because "It doesn't sound like you!"

However, they BOTH agreed it was funny and witty and worked AS A SONG. They just didn't like me doing it. :)

But I made it for your Halloween Playlist because it's silly and perfect for the kind of dark humor Halloween plays around with. Me, I like to joke around about death because that's what this kind of holiday is meant to do. It's like laughing at monsters or going to a horror movie. It's good for the soul. I swear I wasn't trying to upset anyone.

But before that, my Beatles Sing-Along video of the week. It's short because this past Wednesday was John Lennon's birthday, so a big band took our place in the garden and they had an all-day Beatles sing-along where the huge crowd sang all the songs with the band.

But on Friday, we got our usual morning slot and I managed to coax a few ADORABLE folks up to sing. https://youtu.be/m0p_riKg1MA

AFTER I DIE
©2024 by Steve Schalchlin

After I die I want college students
Playing with my bones
Breaking in on drunken nights
After hours puppet shows

When I will my body
To a science class
They can play with all my parts
And show my bony ass

I won’t care
Playing marbles with my eye
I won’t care
After I die

After I'm gone hang my skeleton
High on Halloween
Scare the kids on trick or treat
Make them scream

I will listen closely
From the great beyond
I’ll come back and haunt them
Even after I’m gone
I won’t care
After I die

Since you’ve already torn my heart to shreds.
And hosted so many others in my bed
Since you’ve cut me apart
While me I’m still alive
I won’t care
Cuz I’ll be hard and dry
After I die

Use me like a sex toy
Or beat me like a drum
Finally I can be of use
To someone

You already killed me inside
And that’s why
I won’t care
After I die

See? It's just some dark humor for a dark and spooky night. Put it on your Halloween playlist and run it all night! Or better yet, make a video with yourself singing it in costume! I'll feature you here on the newsletter!

Spotify link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/3Hdl72zMzYa5SnldRJszsr?si=9269925824f94ed0

Apple Music link:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/after-i-die-feat-bonus-round-band-single/1773280518

Amazon Music:
https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0DJRPD99B?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_KwBgNSaXyudXZ58yePvdPXoYR&trackAsin=B0DJRPNJGT

YouTube Music:
https://youtu.be/wgqB6FLwBxY?si=hDhBdP4WAOLzU47C

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be sign up for the list, send an email steveshack@gmail.com.]

#8: Halloween Song #1 - Zombie Funk

I know you've been looking for Halloween songs for your party playlist or to play for the trick-or-treaters. I got ya!

Also, this week at Strawberry Fields, singing Beatles songs with Gavin Gold, I made a video made on my birthday featuring tourists from around the world. They are so adorable and it's personally thrilling to be able to spread so much joy.

Beatles video:
https://youtu.be/XCl0TbHCAfM?si=e4HA-chFt2XNTTDl.)

The Zombie song is a few years old. But next week, I have a brand NEW Halloween song. Both of these enlist a little dark humor. And if you look really closely, maybe a little social commentary. But mostly, it's fun and silly. Lyrics for today's song with links below:

ZOMBIE FUNK (I'm So Glad I'm Not A Zombie)
©2015 Steve Schalchlin

If I were a zombie
I’d stare into space
and wander around
Shuffling from room to room

If I were a zombie
I’d stumble thru life
Not noticing art
Looking for stuff to consume
Stuff to consume

My skin would be rotting
My teeth falling out
My arm prob’ly broken
My legs barely moving
No grooving to the music

I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
I’m so glad I’m not a zombie

No, not me

If I were a zombie
I wouldn’t have to think
I’d just let feelings
Push me into the street


I’d see other zombies
And smell their zombie stink
But I wouldn’t notice
I’d only want fresh meat

My feet, they would fall off
My hands, they would grasp for
More steaming entrails
People to tear apart
Lives to annihilate
No time to hate just moving on
Just moving on

I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
I’m so glad i’m not a zombie
I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
No, not me, no way

I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
I’m so glad i’m not a zombie

Like you
I’d be surrounded by flies
I give each one a name
They’d bury eggs within me
and I get to know their kids
I’m so glad I’m not a zombie
I’m so glad i’m not a zombie

Like you

YouTube link with lyrics:
https://youtu.be/uwNvdLTMZiw?si=NCuIfmNGk-yFbrSU

Spotify link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/1hMlQxVcZ0bKj4tSZofmdp?si=ccfae08e27234ad6

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/zombie-funk-feat-steve-schalchlin-single/1050474927

Amazon Music:
https://amazon.com/music/player/albums/B016SS9K9Y?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_3VpYytBZDrA7GOoQUpxLIhVd8&trackAsin=B016SS9L5C

[This is the hand-crafted, no-AI, non-bot newsletter of Steve Schalchlin. If you wish to be removed from the list, send me an email. If someone sent you this and you want to be added, write me at steveshack@gmail.com]

#7b: Birthday Quick Links to "All That and More"

Today actually is my birthday, so All That and More is officially released. Here are the lyrics and the links to listen to the song are below.

All That and More
©2024 by Steve Schalchlin

I recall a meal aboard a
Luxury cruise line
Where the champagne was poured
From a silver chalice
Engraved with the name of
An old Russian palace

Then an orchestra played
A gossamer icing
Danced across the mirrored floor
I look at you and think
You are all that and more

I saw a museum in Paris
On a tree-lined boulevard
With Picassos on the walls
Adorned in rivers of blue
Even recognized
A masterpiece or two

I’ve climbed the Great Wall
Stretched across China
Saw fields as old as the sun
With acres of gardens
Planted centuries before
Then I see you and think
You are all that and more

The aurora borealis
Dazzling curtains of color
With light from heaven’s shore
Of every place I’ve ever been
Any poem I’ve ever read
Every song that’s drifted through my door
But then I look into your eyes and see
You are all that and more

You are all that and more

Spotfy link:
https://open.spotify.com/track/6gMu9D4z5qtRlXoFQiSRGu?si=2bbf9bad396742d6

Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/all-that-and-more-feat-bonus-round-band/1771907094?i=1771907095

YouTube:
https://youtu.be/ID2NJmyOSfc?si=yv2wwB8SjXHbi5FR

Amazon Music:
https://music.amazon.com/albums/B0DJC94VTH?marketplaceId=ATVPDKIKX0DER&musicTerritory=US&ref=dm_sh_Ud0B4BtrPJpYkCjmxP2cKbk2r&trackAsin=B0DJC81HJ9

If you purchase the song, that's the best way to support indie artists like myself. But please feel free to stream it, but if you do, add it to a playlist.

And thank you for all the wonderful good wishes I received this week. Being alive is a miracle so don't waste it! --