"Red Is the Rose" (single) release day (Patreon)

Hi friends!

Back in September 2023, I posted a recording of "Red Is the Rose" that I'd made for a fan as a Kickstarter Reward. I'm delighted to let you know that I've finally publicly released that song as a Valentine's Day single over at Bandcamp and CDBaby.

 I've wanted to release the song since I recorded it, but I wasn't sure about whether a song a fan had paid for could be released for sale to the public. I mean, I really struggled with the ethics of it. Then I hemmed and hawed a good FIVE YEARS before finally sending him an email to find out how he felt about my releasing it.

There must be something really wonky in my wiring, because whenever I do something uncomfortable like this, I always think I'm about to get in deep trouble.

His response was immediate and brought tears to my eyes. I mean, I was definitely in trouble -- of being loved and appreciated altogether too much:

"You are an amazing performer. I'm honored you asked me but it's your work. You made it it beautiful. Of course you can release it! Absolutely definitely yes yes yes!! ... You should play that song in performances.   Everyone needs to hear it!!! Your version is haunting and beautiful [and] gives me goosebumps!!!!"

Still, it took me another two weeks to share it with you, and 1.5 years to let the public hear it. Sometimes I feel like such a weirdo!

I will spare you the litany of thoughts that interfere with my process on a regular basis, but maybe sharing the journey of releasing this one song will give you an insight into how overthinky it can get over here! It is much easier for me to support others' work and empowerment.

Well. It's a journey, ain't it.

I hope you are all well and warm. I believe you can download the song here, so there's no need to pay for it over at Bandcamp, but if I have that wrong and you want the song, PLEASE let me know ASAP!

Grateful as ever,

xotg