Blog #4--Supertramp Inspires Tuttle book

When I was writing my book “It’s a Secret, So Pass It On,” I was excited about the prospect of sharing selected lyrics from a number of musicians and musical groups whose music and prose both inspired me. A large number of lyricists have made references to the concepts I share in my book, adding credibility to those thoughts.

However, I was soon informed I could not use any modern-day lyrics without approval from the owners because they were under copyright. I tried to contact the publishers of the music I reference, but only one responded. Supertramp was kind enough to refer me to the person handling copyright matters for the corporation holding the rights to their music. I could have used their lyrics, but I would need to purchase them at a rate beyond what I felt I could pay. I’m sure most if not all other music publishers have similar policies.

Since I cannot share the lyrics, either in a book or a blog, I can at least encourage readers to seek out those lyrics and how they relate to the book’s content. I will discuss some of these special musical numbers as we proceed with future blogs. Today I’d like to mention Supertramp in greater detail.

I was introduced to Supertramp in 1975. I was so impressed I bought all their albums as they became available. Much of their work preceded any best hits listing in the United States, but they were popular in Great Britain by the time they traveled across the Atlantic. The two driving forces for the group are Rick Davies and Roger Hodgson. I understand Davies still tours with Supertramp, while I’ve seen one of Hodgson’s performances on television in the recent past. Both are outstanding in their own right despite varying styles.

One of the first Supertramp songs to hit high on US charts was “Logical Song.” It serves for some as a mantra for free thinkers. It encourages us to expand our awareness by lamenting how society in general limits us and reminding us how much more we can be. The song “Give a Little Bit” was another that sold extremely well. One thing I especially liked about its lyrics was a reference to reaching out to older men, who need love as much as anyone and are eager to return it.

Other Supertramp songs mentioned in the book include “Take the Long Way Home,” which shares how life’s problems provide us excellent opportunities for growth. After all, short-term problems can lead to long-term solutions for those willing to learn from complications in their lives. Also, “Lord Is It Mine?” reminds how one cannot judge differences in the darkness (letting go of judgment allows for spiritual growth).

“Child of Vision” states that our usual ways of doing things are not working, and new ways are needed. “School” criticizes those learning centers that simply tell us to mimic them and not grow beyond what they want us to learn. “Crime of the Century” refers to all those massive crimes that occur in the world, with the reminder that you and I are as guilty as anyone else (we are all connected). “Even in the Quietest Moment” appeals to our creator to let us return home.

There are a number of other outstanding Supertramp songs that are both musically and lyrically inspiring. Those I didn’t mention in the book include “Asylum.” Davies displays the intensity I felt right after my explosion of awareness back in 1978. I was eager to share what I was learning, but others looked at me like I was crazy. When I realized I wasn’t crazy, I found solace in “Asylum.” Another one is “Hide In Your Shell,” in which Hodgson’s deep-feeling emotions shine through as he offers assistance to a loved one. It is a mantra for those who are givers rather than takers.

Poets and lyricists can often reach more people with their indirect approach than those of us who have more direct tendencies. I loved Supertramp’s music so much, it took awhile before I focused on the lyrics. But once I did, I found tremendous inspiration throughout. I encourage everyone to check out and contemplate those lyrics. And I thank Supertramp and its representatives for being so cooperative.

http://dreamtime3.wix.com/jacktuttlebookComments and questions can be directed to dreamtime@insight-books.com