Sting and Adam Reader- the Professor of Rock: A Must Listen

Every fan of Sting and of Professor Rock must listen to this one hour long interview! The man behind the hits of The Police and his own solo career talks in a surprisingly intimate and humble manner. 

As always, Adam Reader makes good use of his time. Equally transparent and clearly a fan, his heartfelt questions bring out the absolute best of this singer, songwriter, rock star. Catch it before it is removed again. 

If you want to turn the tables and listen to Adam and his band, Adam Reader and the Turks, watch him swing to "True" below!

Rock Star Secrets Beneath Red Rocks

What lies beneath the stage at the famous Colorado concert venue Red Rocks? Plenty! Everyone who's anyone in the music industry has performed here. And they've left their autographs on the walls right below the stage.  

Can you find the signatures of Paul McCartney and the rest of the Beatles? What about Sting? Perhaps Karen Carpenter and brother Richard signed their names here when the Carpenters were a hot new band? James Taylor has been here several times. And a million others. 

A friend of mine had the opportunity to go here after a concert as she knew a few of the band members. I'll withhold the name of the headliners to protect her privacy, but she was happy to pass these on.

Enjoy search for the names of your favorite musicians! There's plenty to look at!

Making Records with the World's Biggest Stars

What do the following legendary musical artists all have in common? Paul McCartney, Barbra Streisand, Bob Dylan, Sting, Paul Simon, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Gloria Estefan, Karen Carpenter, Billy Joel, Rod Stewart, Quincy Jones, Art Garfunkel and dozens more. They are have worked with producer Phil Ramone. 

The now deceased genius producer and artist goes behind the scenes of American Popular Music and reveals stories about the creation of one iconic song after another. How he did it and how he worked with some of the most gifted writers, musicians and singers to walk the planet. He'll mention the exciting work behind something like Still Crazy After All These Years, and the reader needs to turn on the record to hear what was put into it.

Who is the artist Phil said was most open to feedback? Who was terrified to meet Ray Charles and why? What song took over a decade to complete and which were written in a matter of minutes? 

Making Records: The Scenes Behind the Music is a fan's dream book! Phil and co-author Charles L. Granata make this one a must-read... and a must listen to.

The Forgotten Sting Album: Mercury Falling

After my disappointment in his last several albums (particularly If on a Winter's Night, The Last Ship, 57th & 9th, and 44/876), I was in the right mood to hear him, so I made the decision to go farther back into Sting's catalogue for some great music. But what to pick? Ten Summoner's Tales (1993) is my go to disc, but I wanted something very fresh. Something I hadn't listened to in a long time.

Mercury Falling was one I hadn't heard in a very long time.

Popping it into the car player- not my favorite way to listen to a disc but it had to do- I was surprised by how very different it felt compared his more recent albums. In a very good way!

In the past, The Hounds of Winter felt like a sheer throwaway introduction to the collection. Backed by his very skilled band, Dominic Miller, Vinnie Colaiuta, and the incredible but sadly long gone Kenny Kirkland, I could hardly believe the rich, deep, full sound of it all. Interestingly, not one instrument reigns over the other, resulting in each piece being showcased all the more effectively. On top of this, Sting's voice sails up and down the scales as the poetry leaves its impression in my head. From the rolling drum roll introduction to the repeat of the same at the end, it truly is a magnificent piece of work. 

The transition to I Hung My Head was quite jarring. As one of many country songs recorded over the course of his career, this cowboy saga has some of the most clever lyrics Sting has ever written. Listen carefully as he builds a story with subtle changes to key words and their meaning. 

I continue to be struck by his incredible command of the English language and the sometimes obscure literary references found in his lyrics. As a Christian, I am taken by his continued and very powerful use of Biblical imagery to paint a story.  On this recording, it's represented by his use of the the phrase "Kingdom Come", a reference to Jesus' return to earth out of the book of Matthew, Chapter 6. He may be a self-proclaimed agnostic, but you would guess that Sting, like many of us, is also searching for answers to eternal questions. I'm also certain that he could release a "Country Collection" and fill it up without giving it too much thought. The tune is very well done and pulls you into the story, but in all honesty, it's perfected on the orchestral version found on 2010's live Symphonicities disc. 

Guest artist Branford Marsalis brings his talent to Let Your Soul Be Your Pilot, the lead single from the album.  The song reads like a mix between a gospel number, which is appropriate, and something you'd get from the great Stax records from the 1960's such as those hits from Otis Redding and Booker T. and the M.G.'s. The East London Gospel Choir adds the necessary sway with church inspired background vocals. It's not one of his best vocal performances on this disc, and perhaps it was a little strange for choice of a single. The song was never truly embraced by the buying public, just reaching the position of #86 on the U.S. Billboard charts, one of the lowest of his career. Sting is not really a singles artist as generally his songs are too textured and even quirky for pop radio, but this was still surprising. The release was quickly followed by You Still Touch Me a mere eight weeks later. (It performed only slightly better, peaking at #60.)

I Was Brought to My Senses. And so was I! After an all too lengthy minute and a half and very dry vocal intro, the song begins to take off with a lovely fiddle and acoustic guitar duet. At this point, his vocals are strong, confident, and almost bright, as Sting plays with his upper register to great effect. Marsalis' saxophone adds to the newly festive mood, making Sting's background vocals all the more playful. Just wonderful. A surprising and favorite cut.

The most commercial sounding recording on this disc is its second single, You Still Touch Me. It's short length and punchy production are in stark contrast to the more pensive tunes found elsewhere. Sting's vocal performance reminds me of his work on The Police's classic Roxanne. 

Our English cowboy rides the frontier again with the next cut, I'm So Happy I Can't Stop Crying. In this ironically clever upbeat version of the classic country tale of "I lost my truck, my wife, and my job", Sting plays with the devastation of an infidelity, a breakup, and a legal separation while "laughing" about getting joint custody of the kids. The song's been covered by Toby Keith and Johnny Cash, showing once again that a good song is a good song in most any genre performed by any decently talented artist. 

Returning to the Soul/R&B format, All Four Seasons brings a sense of fun to the old adage of a woman being able to change her mind and opinions as she chooses. The tune swings and rolls with Sting providing the playful vocal work that ties it all together. After so many "serious" cuts, the disc needed the change in tone. But it doesn't prepare the listener for what comes next.

On it's own La Belle Dame Sans Regret takes an interesting place in the canon of his work. I'm not that familiar with the French language, so I can't really say whether his accent works or not. More of a curiosity piece, even the translation of the lyrics reveals a tale of ambiguity. With so few songs on the disc, it's a pleasant diversion but nothing more. In interviews, even the artist himself questioned it appearing on the disc.  

The last two selections continue the overall sombre tone of this mostly interesting but forgotten collection, making "Side Two" less compelling than the first half. Valparaiso won't be making any "Best of" compilations with its less than catchy melody and extended instrumental ending, but it presents Sting as an artist that will do whatever he pleases. 

Lithium Sunset brings us full circle with another cowboy tune. Proving once again, he could and should do an all country disc, Sting's vocals slide up and down the scales with a twang that makes Nashville proud. The last words of the song tie it all together as the album starts and ends with the lyrics "Mercury Falling". Quite clever. I love these kind of artistic touches. 

Was Sting losing steam with this disc? Hard to say. As with most artists and a lengthy career, things wax and wane as their lives and interests influence art to often mixed but interesting results.  

Thinking About Sting

Sometimes an artist has just been away too long. It's certainly the case with Sting- and it is not to his advantage. Love the man's voice, songwriting skill and all around talent, but this album does not reflect his best work.  Part of this assessment comes from years of listening to the man both solo and in various groupings where he continued to shine. 

The new disc, his 12th solo album and his first true rock and roll album in an amazing 13 years- yes, 13 years!- isn't a total fail, but it's close.

The opening number, I Can't Stop Thinking About You, is a catchy, frothy, tune worthy of The Police. Yet, it's downhill from there and rather quickly. One Fine Day is the best of the rest, leaving a collection of mediocre songs to round it out. Cherry pick these couple of cuts from i-tunes and move on.

Perhaps it's time to put on his still excellent Ten Summoner's Tales or even the later Brand New Day disc and remind myself of the good old days. 

Message in a Bottle for an Island of Lost Souls

Mixing titles for The Police and Blondie here. It was one of those hard nights or should I say mornings. It was late. I was exhausted. But there was no way I was going to be going to sleep anytime soon. Sleep finally came, but it was interrupted quickly.

I sat there in bed next to my wonderful wife thinking "There has to be more to life than this!" And there is. American Christianity pales in comparison to what we read about in the New Testament. We're so full of ourselves, we've forgotten Jesus called us to die to ourselves so that we may live. Lord, have mercy on me!

Not This Christmas, Herb Alpert

The "A" of A&M Records, Herb Alpert, is in the midst of recording a new Christmas album. It's release date is not this Christmas but tentatively scheduled for next year this same time.

The founder of the label that brought us The Police, Sting, and so many others, also made solo pop stars out of Peter Frampton and Janet Jackson, and a household name out of siblings Karen and Richard Carpenter. Alpert has enlisted his old friend, brother Richard, for the disc. They'll be recording a new version of the Carpenters classic Merry Christmas Darling. 

While Herb is still going strong and recording into his 80's, this will be the first appearance of Richard Carpenter on disc in quite awhile. Should be terrific as Richard is an amazing arranger, composer and producer. Perhaps this will lead up to something new in celebration of the Carpenters 50th Anniversary of their first A&M record back in 1969. 

Music That Rocks- And Doesn't

Like live music? Me, too! And I've seen some great and some horrible concerts in my time. Here's a quick recap:

Queen- 1977 Tour, Los Angeles. The band was tight, and Freddie Mercury sounded as great live as in the studio. Smoking version of the classic Jail House Rock as finale. One of my favorite concerts ever.

Four Tops/ Freda Payne- 1977 or so, Las Vegas. Great Motown night!

Peter Frampton- Also about 1977. One hour acoustic, one hour electric. Premiered Signed, Sealed, Delivered. My favorite Frampton cut to this day. Just before the release of the "I'm In You" album.

Carpenters- 1976, 1977, and 1978, Las Vegas. As my friends in UK would say "Brilliant". Karen sounded great. Met she and Richard back stage in 1976. Very nice people and wonderful musicians. Karen was just so warm. Richard surrounded by a group of hot blondes. The bad press they got for their music was unjustified.

Kenny Rogers/Crystal Gayle- About 1986, Orange County, CA. Both in top form.

Marilyn McCoo- About 1990, Denver. With an orchestra. Lovely. Her generation's Whitney Houston before Whitney's downslide.

Amy Grant / Gary Chapman- 1995, Denver. With the kids. Gary was a great musician. Amy was not bad on the guitar, and she was very friendly and relaxed with the audience. Vocally very strong, stronger than I expected. House of Love was great. Nice job, Amy.

Olivia Newton-John- 1982, Los Angeles and 1997 Denver. Way better live than you'd expect. Special thanks to my wife for both concert's tickets. She's not threatened one iota! 

Sting- 2011, Denver. At Red Rocks with orchestra. Father's Day gift from the kids. JUST INCREDIBLE.

BAD Concerts- Led Zeppelin- Robert Plant and crew too stoned to play or sing well. Waste of money.
Genesis- Bad sound. Pre- Phil Collins on vocals.

Top Ten Sting

The former Police frontman is an acquired taste. And I find Sting's  brand of pop/rock/jazz/easy listening very appealing. His more elcletic projects, such as The Last Ship, not so much. Nonetheless, after being a listener for several years, it is about time I present my Top Ten list, Police hits not included.

Being playful or is the joke on us?

1- Nothing 'Bout Me (Epilogue) (Single Remix): This bookend song from 1993's Ten Summoner's Tales puts every part of what I enjoy about the musician into play: Clever lyrics, great vocal presence, top musicianship and a jazzy vibe that hides the man's personal life under something so fresh and appealing. The U.S. version of the album is less horn driven and makes use of male background vocalists. The rarer U.K. single is more horn driven with female background vocals, giving the whole song a funkier vibe. It's a bit tongue in cheek and self-effacing, but it's great fun and a kick to sing along with on an afternoon drive. 

Jazz/Rock/Rap perfection.

2- Bring on the Night/When the World is Running Down You Make the Best of What's Still Around: From the 1986 live album of the the same name. Whereas the Police version of the songs are grittier and clearly rock and roll, this far superior eleven plus minute medley swings and rocks at the same time. The jazz rock fusion created an uproar among the hardcore jazz community when saxophonist Branford Marsalis decided to tour with Sting, but the end result justifies the partnership. The song smokes. Even the obligatory audience participation fits perfectly with the apocalyptic party scene. Sting rocks the vocals, Branford's swinging saxophone sizzles (who knew the man could rap?), but the unbelievable keyboard work of the late Kenny Kirkland takes the whole thing to a new level. Love him or hate him, this performance shows the visionary Sting is and how his gut instincts tend to be right when it comes to musical artistry.

Julia Ormond inspires the softer side of Sting.

3- Moonlight:  Another cut from the "Nobody will tell me what to do" department, Sting goes all out as dashing crooner on this 1995 selection from the soundtrack to the movie Sabrina. With Julia Ormond as his muse, he does it so well that you can count me in as one who will buy his Great American Standards disc should he ever choose to release it. 

The gift of a friend.

4- Englishman in New York: I had heard this song but hadn't given it a second thought until a soon-to-be dear Scottish friend brought it to my attention via his CV (resume). Thus, a business interaction began my reintroduction to the singer. From Sting's 1987 album Nothing Like the Sun.

Another disc, another character.

5- Dead Man's Rope: Like much of his deeper work, Sting mixed the spiritual with the natural, the lusty with the demur, telling tales from a variety of character's perspectives. Dead Man's Rope is the title of a gem found on the 2003 Sacred Love CD. Once again, Sting examines the life of the main character:

"A million footsteps, this left foot drags behind my right
But I keep walking, from daybreak til the falling night
And as days turn into weeks and years And years turn into lifetimes
I just keep walking, like I've been walking for a thousand years
Walk away in emptiness, walk away in sorrow,
Walk away from yesterday, walk away tomorrow,
If you're walking to escape, to escape from your affliction
You'd be walking in a great circle, a circle of addiction
Did you ever wonder what you'd been carrying since the world was black?
You see yourself in a looking glass with a tombstone on your back
Walk away in emptiness, walk away in sorrow,
Walk away from yesterday, walk away tomorrow,
Walk away in anger, walk away in pain
Walk away from life itself, walk into the rain
All this wandering has led me to this place
Inside the well of my memory,
sweet rain of forgiveness I'm just hanging here in space
Now I'm suspended between my darkest fears and dearest hope
Yes I've been walking, now I'm hanging from a dead man's rope
With Hell below me, and Heaven in the sky above
I've been walking, I've been walking away from Jesus' love
Walk away in emptiness, walk away in sorrow,
Walk away from yesterday, walk away tomorrow,
Walk away in anger, walk away in pain
Walk away from life itself, walk into the rain
All this wandering has led me to this place
Inside the well of my memory, sweet rain of forgiveness
I'm just hanging here in space
The shadows fall around my bed
When the hand of an angel,
The hand of an angel is reaching down above my head
All this wandering has led me to this place
Inside the well of my memory, sweet rain of forgiveness
Now I'm walking in his grace I'm walking in his footsteps
Walking in his footsteps, Walking in his footsteps
All the days of my life I will walk with you
All the days of my life I will talk with you
All the days of my life I will share with you
All the days of my life I will bear with you
Walk away from emptiness, walk away from sorrow,
Walk away from yesterday, walk away tomorrow,
Walk away from anger, walk away from pain
Walk away from anguish, walk into the rain"

Sting's character discovers there in freedom and hope found in relationship with Jesus Christ. In exchange for a life of brokenness, hopelessness, and disappointment, He gives peace and victory over death. Just as Christ himself experienced in his death and resurrection.

I have to say, I think Sting missed a great opportunity for a play on words. He should have included this verse from the Apostle Paul:
"Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (I Corinthians 15:55)

A man in love.

6- Fields of Gold: Unashamedly romantic. Instant classic. Radio staple. Signature song. 1993 was a another banner year for Sting as a solo artist. I can't hear this song without thinking of my wife.

Late night jazz radio perfected.

7- She Walks This Earth (Soberana Rosa):  Sometimes when an artist appears on a tribute or compilation of various artists, the end result can be a piece of throwaway music. Not so here. Sting's tribute to and cover of Brazilian artist Ivan Lins is smart, sexy, and altogether intoxicating. Worth hunting down if you don't own it.

Great video performance.

8- Brand New Day:  Perhaps a bit pedestrian for some fans, but I find this song of romantic plea for a new start encouraging in a world which continues to kick us in the teeth from time to time. It's a reminder to me that regardless of my own shortcomings (and there are many!) that God loves me and gives me a fresh day to start all over.

As the key and title song of his last album from the 90's, Sting decided to pair with a musical legend: Stevie Wonder. The combo works wonderfully, and Stevie's harmonica brings just the right amount of grit and humanity to it all. The music video places Sting as messiah- a very arrogant move- and like the album cover, is not a very good visual presentation of the music found on the disc which earned him two Grammy awards. 

Live and with an orchestra.

9- Every Little Thing She Does is Magic: OK, I said Police numbers were not included, but his solo version of the song is part of his Symphonicities disc of 2010. Often accused of being easy listening, Sting goes for it in that exact genre- with a twist. Even when being accompanied by an orchestra, there's no denying this old Police song is full of... magic. My wife and I were blessed with tickets to his Red Rocks concert for this tour. Incredible show (review here) and one of the few artists she would go see again.

Urban cowboy.

10- This Cowboy Song: An extra song added to his first solo hits collection. You'd think this would be another cut to toss aside, but Cowboy is a fun song with an even more enjoyable video that parodies but honors movies from the Western genre. On his Live in Berlin (Symphonicities) video, Sting and band create a hoedown worthy of the Old West. Urban Cowboy indeed!

So, are you a fan? If so, what are your favorites?

Totally Hot House Cleaning

The time had come. I had amassed so many CDs, that it was time to be brutal and donate those I really wasn't listening to any longer.   The space for storing discs had run dry, so the pressure I placed on myself was something to act on. 

It was clear that I was storing hundreds of discs but never listening to them. A pattern of not enough time and no longer not enough money either to keep building my collection. The books would be next, but this was a good first step.

In the 80's and 90's, I had become kind of a completest when it came to my favorite artists. Or even one hit wonders- mainly artists discovered on American Idol and such. (Here's looking at you, Elliott Yamin.)

Starting slowly with one box, I picked out discs no longer listened to by America, Gloria Estefan, George Benson, Amy Grant, Michael Bublé  Doobie Brothers, the Eagles, Olivia Newton-John, and more. So many more. Sure, I kept many Greatest Hits packages and every disc by Karen and Richard Carpenter, of course. But for every one I kept, I offloaded seldom listened to discs by Sting, Ambrosia, Neil Diamond, Michael Jackson, various soundtracks and compilations...even some Beatles.  I am sure among the 160 or so discs I donated, there are some gems serious collectors will be wanting.

The aftermath was a sense of release, a bit of sadness for letting go some of my history (isn't it amazing that we music fans associate so much of pieces of our life- good and bad- to our favorite songs?) and ultimately, more space in my life. 

Another White Guy With Guitar

Yes, Phillip Phillips has won season eleven of American Idol. Before another person shouts "White Guy With Guitar", I'd like to toss in some thoughts that should cause folks to stop and think.

The guys has talent. Real talent. At times, his voice reminds me of a young Sting, at other times, Jack Johnson. For once, his "star" match in the finale was spot on: John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival fame sounded great, but it was Phillip's strong but subtle voice that showed he was on par with the superstars before him. Both their duets revealed Phillip could add his own flare and still honor the original artist and style. 

He's 21 and has a lot of growing to do, but he seems to know who he is. Solid style. Honest approach to music. Phillip's humility will serve him well as he learns from those around him. (Was this the unintended by-product of living with his double name? And does it really matter? Not in the least. Grow up, Jim Carrey.) His guitar playing skills will strengthen. Phillip has a camera ready smile that will make photographers happy when they cover his concerts. All in all, it's pure and real music from a real, authentic artist. He'll be around longer than some hope.

This is all much better than a million other Rihanna wannabes or Lady Gaga followers or flash in the pan carnival acts like LMFAO. Take away the light show and raunchy poses and lyrics from these "artists", and what do you have? Nothing that appealing. They pander to the lowest common denominator.

Jessica Sanchez may be the real deal as well. Her voice is amazing. I am a big fan, and I cannot wait to see what she turns out on her first album. Comparisons to Whitney Houston may be too early, and Jessica needs to reveal whether she wants to be great or settle for trendiness like the above mentioned women. Hopefully, she and her producers will realize the gift of her voice and let it soar above instantly dated arrangements and material. Handled correctly, Jessica will also mature into a timeless artist.

So, give Phillip Phillips a break (Jessica, too). Enough with the beefs about American Idol being a white artists man's show. It's a cheap and easy cop out.

Elliott's "House" Has No Home

After the events of yesterday and the last few days, I went into the gym to blow off a little steam. Plugging in my i-pod, I starting running fast and furious, barely letting the music slip into my mind. And you know, sometimes it's just good to get away from yourself and your circumstances for a bit.  

I wasn't really paying too much attention, but I knew my shuffle mode threw in Sting's "Nothing 'bout Me", a great oldie in Peter Frampton's "Sign Sealed Delivered", and a few others. But in was all in the background.

All of a sudden, on came Elliott Yamin and his incredible live version of "A House Is Not A Home". Immediately, I was back in Season 5 finale of American Idol, hearing his voice soar on the tune... and wondering why the heck this song has never made it to one of his albums.  It's stunning, really- and certainly on par with other artist's renditions, i.e. Luther Vandross, Dionne Warwick, and the Carpenters. (And that last one is really saying something as Karen Carpenter had one of the most warm and emotional voices of all time. Backed with Richard Carpenter's elegantly restrained arrangement, their version of the song set a new standard.)

Perhaps when his new album "Let's Get to What's Real" runs its course, Elliott will go into the studio and record some old school gems that show off his retro side. While you are doing that, Elliott, how about throwing in a remake of "Where Is the Love?" as well. I can only hope this will happen one day soon.

1,000th Post- A Visual Journey

Today marks the 1,000th post on the Insights and Sounds blog! In a poor attempt to present something unique, I'd like to invite you to view a visual journey through the blog... just by looking at this post! Some of these randomly placed images, particularly the Imagineering art and travel photos, are ones I have left quite large. Just click on them to see them full size. Lastly, I may comment along the way, but certainly not every image. There's just too many. Please enjoy- and thanks for reading!

Indiana Jones Adventure has to be my favorite "new generation" theme park ride! The old school favorite? Pirates of the Caribbean, of course! With or without Johnny Depp, it is the ultimate Disney classic.

Not only was Disney's Beauty and The Beast the first animated picture nominated for an Oscar in the Best Picture category, it's my personal favorite. Tangled certainly ranks high up there, too. And I cannot wait for Ariel's Undersea Adventure at California Adventure! The Little Mermaid is a beloved film with our family. Ursula happens to be my favorite Disney villian ever!

What does the rubber message band say? It's a version of this, "God so loved the world that when Man ran away from Him, He gave His only Son Jesus to die on the cross and be resurrected, so that all the questions in Man's heart would be answered as he would turn to God to be saved from his sin." An appropriate discussion right before Easter Sunday, wouldn't you say?

Just dig the art of the SHAG man- and this piece designed especially by him for the classic Haunted Mansion is striking.

Our family at the Southern California beaches. That is, right before two recent marriages!

Breathe in. The best 80's band from the U.K. since the Beatles. Breathe out- they disappeared almost as quickly as taking a single breathe. Too bad- front man David Glasper was a great vocalist in the realm of George Michael and a terrific songwriter as well. Just catch a listen to "Does She Love That Man?" and you'll know that for yourself!

Stunning Mission San Juan Capistrano (above), and a man of the cross (below).

Karen Carpenter lives! The female voice of her generation, at least in my home. Vastly underappreciated and supremely talented. Lady GaGa could use a lesson or two in understatement and style. Let the hate mail begin. ;)

Television rarely gets better than Criminal Minds. Am I ticked they got rid of Paget Brewester as Emily? Faster than you can catch the unsub! Warning- if they ever kill off Hotchner (the brilliant Thomas Gibson), it's game over.

A bit of retro Disneyland... Love the old style maps- and yes, It's A Small World!

Salma Hayek and Matthew Perry teamed up for one of the sweetest and funniest one night stand movies ever, Fools Rush In! It's a romantic comedy with a bite, made for a generation that likes to laugh and live freely but has mostly forgotten about the long lasting benefits of doing the right thing.

Will Expedition: Everest's yeti go the way of Dreamfinder? Please bring them both back, and I'll have two reasons to return to Walt Disney World!

Paris. Say it again. Paris. It just rolls off the tongue and conjours up romantic nights and amazing sights. The food's not too bad, either. And yes, the French are friendly...

Elliott Yamin seems to be pulling a disappearing act. Such a shame.

One incredible photo- and one amazing Creator. A product of evolution? Absolutely not!

Friends real (top) and imaginary. The true ones are available when there are tears, too. The television ones brought of years of laughs- and lots of sadness when they left the airwaves.

Another favorite singer seemingly out of commission. Gloria, where art thou?

Babies, weddings, celebrations. What a gift! God is so good and faithful.

When Epcot lost Horizons, it lost its most ambitious attraction. Yes, it was due for an overhaul, but from start to finish, it was wonderful to get totally absorbed in the adventure.

Old friends Herb Alpert and Richard Carpenter celebrate LIFE. Thanks for your partnership, guys- and for the faith you had in the Carpenters, Herb!

I love the islands! Anything tropical sets my dreams ablaze. Good old Walt Disney inspects the creation of his dream, Disneyland. My world would never be the same.

Compassion International. A great mercy based organization doing the work of Jesus among poor children of the world. I'm a huge fan!

The first of my children to get married. He's now heading towards a career as a college professor, she to Med school. Who would have guessed!

This is Jeremy Camp. If you happen to be under the impression that there is no such thing as solid Christian Rock, well, you'd be mistaken.

The first reading of Mysterious Island made me a Jules Verne fan for life. What a brilliant mind! Did you know he predicted things that would come to pass within the next hundred years of his life. Fascinating stuff!

Katherine Heigl's doctor Izzy made Denny's head spin on Grey's Anatomy- and launched a career at the same time. America's decades long love affair with the "blonde bombshell" continues strong.

Not the original but the best in the series. Harrison Ford and Sean Connery? A promotion man's fantasy- and what should have been the end of the series.

The trip of a lifetime. But lightning did strike again the following year...

Where it all began (above) and wedding Number Two (below)!

The King of Pop? Maybe, but Michael Jackson made one great album here. I much prefer Off the Wall to Thriller. Count me in the minority, but "Don't Stop Til You Get Enough" had my ears tuned in from the first listen. Quincy Jones knows how to make the sound, doesn't he?

A day alone at the beach. Yes, it is possible in California. You just have to know when and where- and I did!

Just days away and it's wedding Number Three! Another fantastic match...

Professor Quizzit. A non Disney character that is quite a character. You can find him strolling thre grounds while he fiddles with his Time Machine at Adventure Camp in Denver.

The most elegant and fascinating of all themed Disney lands. New Orleans Square shows what the Disney Imagineers can do when they are inspired and given the necessary cash to do it right. It is the gold standard in Disney theme park environments. Nothing in Paris, Tokyo, or Florida comes close.

My long gone grandmothers. How I miss them, their tender hearts, their caring souls. Rest in Peace.

Still a lovely voice. Olivia Newton-John made some terrific records, and her gentle duet with Andy Gibb on "I Can't Help It" continues to draw me to this day. Perfect late night ear candy on the radio.

Our wonderful and wise parents. There really are not enough years together...

Celebrating together in Paris. A wonderful three weeks alone all through Europe.

Maybe I don't want to grow up at times. But I have a great role model!

Long gone but always remembered. Like so many Disney attractions before it, Rainbow Caverns had to give way to newer developments. Can't please all of the people all of the time.

Oh, Roger! It's time to return to the screen- don't you think?

Santa Barbara is a paradise tucked away on the shores of California. The rooftop views are just as incredibe as what you'll find on the ground level.

Seaside, Florida has to be one of the prettiest towns in the United States. A planned community Jim Carrey was lucky enough to live in The Truman Show.

The ultimate Space Mountain is actually at Disneyland Paris. Want to discover them all over the world? Take a look here.

Little did the other members of The Police know they had a crooner on their hands! Sting can rock as hard as anyone else or be as smooth as Frank Sinatra.

Just a terrific new band! Check out Tennis and the captivating vocals of Alaina Moore!

From our Europe travels. The best photograph I have ever taken.

What are the suits dreaming up for Walt Disney World's 40th? It had better be good!

Well, this ends our visual tour of the Insights blog and the 1,000 th post! Thanks for reading! Now, what should I write about tomorrow? ;)

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company. Personal photographs copyright Mark Taft.)