#29: A Gentle Soul Passes

For a gentle soul
In a brutal world


My dad, as expected, passed away a couple of days ago. He was surrounded by love and in complete peace.


My brothers and other family members and I have become close, which is a relief after I spent so many years kind of hiding my life from them. We’ve had great, hilarious conversations. Death brings life.


I wasn’t consciously thinking of my dad when I wrote this week’s song. I was actually thinking about what a warlike atmosphere has been created in public media, politics and religion.


Where does the gentle soul go to find comfort and peace? Is there even a home for peaceful hearted people?


Must I raise my hand?
Must I clench my fist?


My dad could be fierce if he wanted to but his was a gentle soul who served the people in his church. Fixing hot water heaters. Us babysitting all the kids in a family whose parent has to go far away for a medical treatment. Our house had an open door policy and everyone was welcome and cared for who walked through those doors.


This is a very quiet, very gentle song, piano, voice and some rich sounds to enforce the flow of the music. I hope it brings you a moment of peace and quiet and healing.


Gentle Soul
©2025 by Steve Schalchlin




For a gentle soul

In a brutal world

I must change they say

Or I won’t survive


It’s the angry voice

And the squeaky wheel

Who get things done

Who will stay alive


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul


But what kind of life

Do I have to live

If I have to beat

Other people down


Must I raise my hand

Must I clench my fist

Are there peaceful streams

In a stormy town


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul




But if I withdraw

From a wounded world

Does it only prove

What they’re telling me


If I turn away

If I step aside

Does the chaos reign

Does the anger hide


Shall I give up hope

And just let it go

Can we find no home

For a gentle soul


Can we find no home

For a gentle soul

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/track/0jgsqsve6fQt9I0ydLsklS?si=b285bc1e32e340ba


Apple Music:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/gentle-soul-feat-bonus-round-band-single/1805171784


YouTube Music:
https://youtu.be/D8N5PmM-2og?si=9JcbuJvu8-QRJHMi

#28: The Reviews are In!

My dad is still hanging in there. He is surrounded by my Texas family and the hospice worker who comes to my brother's home says he can hear them so they are lavishing him with praise and positive words. It should only be a few more days.

I'm feeling positive about it -- we all have to go sometime -- but I still feel this emptiness or sadness or something lingering and it's keeping me from being all that productive. My dreams are weird and disturbing, but this too shall pass.


Meanwhile, I promised you the reviews of my show! I've provided the links below but here is a summary.


And here is some footage taken by Magda Katz.


FOOTAGE:

https://t2conline.com/steve-schalchlin-a-genre-bending-night-of-music-combining-cabaret-heart-with-beatles-harmony


Steve Schalchlin's recent performance at Don't Tell Mama was met with enthusiastic and nuanced praise from multiple critics. Bart Greenberg captured the essence of the show, describing it as a "very satisfying evening" that successfully blended diverse musical genres through Schalchlin's remarkable "charm, charisma and enormous talent." Despite the potential challenges of mixing styles from country-western to punk rock, the performance maintained a cohesive and engaging quality that delighted audience members.

The songwriting emerged as a particular highlight of the evening. Alix Cohen noted Schalchlin's ability to transform various experiences into compelling musical narratives, praising his versatility in creating songs that could be "wry, tender, observant, or... rockabilly fun." Critics were especially impressed by specific tracks like "I Only See You Young," which was described as "a ballad for the ages," and "Someone to Get Groceries With," a charming piece that captured the universal desire for companionship.

Guest performers played a significant role in the show's success. Blake Zolfo, Sidney Myer, and Natalie Douglas were singled out for their exceptional contributions. Zolfo's performance of "My New York Life" and his co-written "Someone to Get Groceries With" were particularly praised, while Sidney Myer's comedic delivery in "Vacationing in Syria" drew special mention for its unique and entertaining approach.

The Bonus Round Band provided exceptional musical support, with Charlie Viehl's violin work receiving special recognition. The band's ability to navigate multiple genres - from folk to punk - demonstrated the group's musical versatility. While one review suggested some potential for editing, the overall consensus was overwhelmingly positive, highlighting Schalchlin's impressive songwriting and the show's warm, collaborative spirit.

Ultimately, the reviews painted a picture of a multifaceted musical experience that showcased Schalchlin's talents as both a songwriter and performer. From romantic ballads to comedic numbers, the show offered a rich tapestry of musical storytelling that left critics and audiences alike thoroughly entertained and impressed.
https://nitelifeexchange.com/the-multi-varied-universe-of-steve-schalchlin-entertained-brightly-at-dont-tell-mama/

https://www.womanaroundtown.com/sections/playing-around/steve-schalchlin-and-the-bonus-round-band/


https://www.broadwayworld.com/cabaret/article/Review-STEVE-SCHALCHLIN-AND-FRIENDS-Shines-at-Dont-Tell-Mama-20250313

If I didn't know me, I'd go see that guy!