Its only 6:30 AM but I’m already awake, which is crazy for someone who works in the music business. I drag myself out of bed after a late night at the studio. Another artist. Another list of songs. Another deadline. It seems like it never stops. My manager, Stuey, keeps reminding me that we need to ride the wave until it stops. Which translates into meaning, keep working until you drop.
Even though it’s insanely early this is the best part of my day. This is the quiet before the storm. In a few hours I’ll be back at Capitol with record execs breathing down my neck. I take a minute to breathe in the peace that surrounds me.
I used to be a guy who stuck to a routine, but that was before Africa. After that I learned to live each day as if it were my last. I spend more time looking for those moments of spontaneity. It actually helps me produce better music and I hope it made me a better person. I guess those around me will have to decide.
Within minutes I’m down on the sand below, inhaling the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. On this stretch of private Malibu beach I’m alone. It takes me less than an hour to run the three mile stretch and back. Then I spend the next two hours replying to emails and voicemails. I know so far the life of a producer doesn’t sound that exciting. That part of my life doesn’t start for a few more hours.
I call Stuey and listen to him give me the latest on the next producer deal. He knows I’m not really paying attention but he does it anyway. After Africa I realize just how important Stuey is to my life.
After spending an hour in traffic I finally arrive at Capitol Studios right off of Sunset. I always dreamed about visiting this place, and it’s still hard to believe I’m working on my tenth record in legendary Studio A. For the next eight hours I’m stuck in my chair in the control room, giving direction to musicians, vocalists, engineers, and the artist. It’s always amazing to me how quickly you can find true talent. I admit there have been some artists that needed a little extra help, but when you find someone with true talent, it is literally like climbing on board and riding along.
By eight in the evening we call it a day, which is early but I’m learning to pace myself these days. I head back to Malibu to my gated estate and wait for that special someone to show up. She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me. It’s hard to believe how we met and what we’ve been through in such a short time.
D.J. is giving away one (1) digital copy of THE DISILLUSIONED for Kindle or Nook only. Leave a comment to be included in the giveaway. The e-book will be sent directly by the author. Contest ends June 30.
Meet the author
For the past fifteen years Williams has worked in the non-profit and entertainment industry. He has produced media projects that have raised awareness to help those in need. With the DNA of a world traveler, Williams was born in Hong Kong, has ventured into the jungles of the Amazon, the bush of Africa, and the slums of the Far East, to share stories of those who are overcoming incredible odds. Writing credits include Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse (Credo House, Fall 2009), as well as ghostwriting for other fiction authors. His novel, The Disillusioned, released in May 2013.
Williams has produced and directed over 140 television episodes syndicated on NBC, ABC, FOX and various cable networks worldwide.
Books are available at retail and online booksellers.
Just enough teaser, to get me hook. Dru, you can pick some great books, for us to read. Ok, if I am the winner, either version, be fine. Going, to go add to my wish list. Thanks, Dru for taking time out to do all the hard work & hosting the giveaways.
It might be a busy day, but it’s certainly interesting.
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Thank you for hosting today
Thanks for the chance to host.
wow, this makes me want to grab this book right away and read it. I think I will do that right now.
this sounds great!
Thanks for hosting today!
Thank you for the tour, I have enjoyed learning about your wonderful book.
Kit3247(at)aol(dot)com
Thank you for following. You can also stay connected to what’s next on my website, http://www.djwilliamsbooks.com. I appreciate the support!
Here’s another special excerpt:
“I’ve been locked up here for one thousand and ninety five days. I’ve had time to think about the choices I’ve made. I’ve thought about what is best for everyone. I’ve become a burden. I know it. I feel it. I hate it. The whispers inside tell me there’s only one decision to make, undoubtedly the hardest one of all. It goes against everything I’ve believed. But nothing is the same as it once was.”
I enjoyed reading more about Sam’s day. I’d love a gorgeous place in Malibu like that! I’m intrigued to learn more about “that special someone.”
catherinelee100 at gmail dot com
Thanks for the giveaway 🙂 Looks good
Please enter me kn the giveaway as the Bourbon totally hooked me
i would give this a try!!!
thank you for the giveaway!!!
Sorry for the late post. I’m playing catch-up here so I’m just popping in to say HI and sorry I missed visiting with you on party day! Hope you all had a good time!
kareninnc at gmail dot com
sounds wonderful
Contest is closed.