Song Contest - Poppermost

From Nov '07 through Oct '08, we've been running a contest where one lucky winner per month won a song, with plans for all the songs to make up our next album. This contest is now closed to new entries. Congratulations to ALL our winners and thank you to everyone who participated.

Posted below (right underneath the rules and "regs") are the winning essays that inspired the new songs. All winners will receive 1 free copy of the full-length CD containing all the winning songs when the CD is released.

Bear with us for a moment - we have to slog our way through a little "legal-ese." This contest is free and open to anyone and everyone, including Blue Meanies, and has no restrictions with the exception of the following points:
1. Trivia question must be answered correctly for essay to be eligible.
2. Essay submissions must match the theme of the month, and must be received by 11:59pm of the last day of that month. No lyrics or music please; ONLY inspiration.
3. Sorry, folks. No one gets a percentage of royalties, merchandise, or publishing. You do, however, receive BRAGGIN' RIGHTS!
4. We are not responsible for lost email or snail mail.
5. We reserve the right to alter or cancel the contest at any time. We don't plan to do that, of course, but one never knows what hurdles life might throw at us.
6. Decisions of the judges (Poppermost) will be final.

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Winning Story for October Inspired Our Song "Wake Up, Tell Me"

Congratulations to Lady T of Minnesota who knew that Roy Rendahl is our bassist / recording engineer and submitted her answer to the question of the coolest video ever made. If you're not familiar with the video she enjoys, click here to see this cool video on YouTube. Thanks to all who entered this last portion of the contest.
Funny part about T's choice of video is that it received mixed reactions from the Popperbirds. Two LOVE the video as much as T does, and one doesn't (not so much the video itself, but the song it depicts). The first person (other than the contest winners) who figures out which bird didn't enjoy that song, and writes us with the correct answer, will receive a free copy of the "Especially For You" Song Contest CD when it is released.
Now here is Lady T's submission.

The coolest video that I ever remember seeing is "Take On Me" by A-Ha. In my opinion, it is the best video ever made! The story line and visuals (newspaper vs. reality) were imaginative and creative. I first saw it was sometime after it came out in 1985 on MTV, when they actually played music videos. TV was good then, wasn't it?! And as far as what I was doing at the time?... rrrrrright... I can't remember what I was doing YESTERDAY!
When I see it today, it seems as timeless as ever, and I guess it just feels good to see the girl get the guy in the end (I don't know; maybe wishful thinking). My children have seen it, and they love it, too! It's fun to share MY era music and videos with my kids. Surprisingly, they enjoy a lot of it.

Lady T's song actually ended up as the instrumental "351." But there were words originally written for it:

"Wake Up, Tell Me"
© 2009 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
We fall in love with love / And then we hate it / We show up late for work / And get berated / Bridge: Look inside yourself / And be your own salvation / Put the rest to bed... / Chorus: Won't you wake up, tell me / Life is what it seems / We feel our pain / We sweat and suffer / We wake up late again / Only to discover / Bridge: Lines are open / To start communication / The rest is up to you... / Chorus: Won't you wake up, tell me / Life is just a dream / And so we heal / And we forget again / We get back on / We're falling off again / Bridge: Find yourself some peace / And be your own salvation / The rest is up to you... / Chorus: Won't you wake up, tell me / Life is what it seems / Won't you wake up, tell me / Love is just a dream

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Winning Story for September Inspired Our Song "Angel Wings"

Congratulations to Rishi of New Orleans, who submitted the best essay on the subject of Who was your first love? You might want to get a tissue before you start reading... it's a very touching story.

Well, my first love was Gary; I was sixteen, he was nineteen, and he played a mean blues harp. Every time he played it sounded like a beautiful sad bird whose wings were clipped, but wanted to fly. I loved him with every breath, but the sad thing was I could never sum up the courage to tell him. Then one day — which was the last day I ever saw him alive — he wanted to make love; I was too shy and declined.
I remember, so distinctly, the look in his eyes as I left for the train. He stared at me so hard that I was able to see past his love-lorn eyes how his broken heart was beating. A year later he rang me up twice and twice I wasn't home. He called to tell me he was going climbing up the Grand Tetons and that he would call me when he came back. He came back all right... broken and cold dead, crushed from the fall.
I could hear his blues harp at the funeral parlor playing over my head as I stood by his final resting bed shocked and confused at this handsome young man, who could have been my friend, my husband, with his navy blue suit without an aging flaw. I saw angel wings pass me by and I heard his sweet voice singing and playing that blues harp in G telling me he was in heaven and he was gonna watch over me... I still love him and by now I'm sure he knows it...

"Angel Wings" 3:43
An acoustic pop ballad about first and unrequited love; haunting lyrics and beautiful, ethereal vocal harmonies give it the air of classic early '70s AM radio.
Lyrics Released 12/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37306
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Angel Wings" at ReverbNation
Listen to & download "Angel Wings" at LV Weekly

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Winning Story for August Inspired Our Song "Gabriella Sasparilla"

Congratulations to Gaby of California for knowing the answer to the trivia question and for submitting the best essay for August. Gaby knew that only the Duckingham family is allowed to call Ms. Tex by her first name of "Daphne." Please enjoy Gaby's essay answering the question If you could have one prized possession from the past, what would it be? which was the theme for this month's contest. We hope you will enjoy her memories as much as we did.

ONE Prized Possession from the Past
If I can go back in time and capture emotions, and thoughts of certain events, they would all entail SPONTANEITY.

Flashback to a faded memory from yesteryear -- well, actually over a decade ago. When I was in my 20s there was so much going on: people were proud to be from the USA, President Clinton was in office, the L.A. riots occurred, I used my Mac to email & IM my comrades, I was free as a bird to soar to various places, meet new faces, and to come and go as I pleased...........

Living and turning 21 in Seattle when grunge was ROCK, and my boyfriend was a vegan masseuse with long blond hair and a love for nature. Jogging in the rain and taking long ferry rides up and down the Sound just for the fun of it!

Coming back home to L.A. in the mid 90s and starting my museum adventure. I would visit various museums throughout the city and would enjoy my walks in downtown L.A.

Traveling to Italy doing very adventurous things like going on a car ride with a complete stranger and ending up at Lago di Bracciano, dancing at a discotheque until dawn, drinking café, vino, and eating gelatos with the locals.

Dancing with the Hare Krishna devotees at Venice Beach just for the fun of it!

Hanging out with "Set Free" Christian bikers and going to their functions. This is where I ate maggots (by mistake, of course) and a couple of biker dudes threw up, but I was okay. Needless to say, I impressed a few bikers!

Taking swing, salsa, and ballroom dance classes, and having a hard time being led!

Playing in numerous water fountains in various cities, counties, states, and countries was a whole lotta fun!

Dating a bald-headed dude and having a hard time with his lack of hair really drove me batty, then couple of years later we were in Heaps Peak Arboretum and I was not too sure where our friendship with potential was heading; should I give him a pen or what? So many thoughts running through my head I need to use restraint, "But then I attacked him anyway." And that was GRAND!

Just being happy with myself and life is what kept a smile on my face and a hop in my step! Yes, those were the carefree, irresponsible days of getting up and seeing where my Subaru would take me and which friends I would frolic with. Now that I am a happy stay-at-home mommy and wife, I look back at the past and giggle because I am really glad I used my youth to be SPONTANEOUS. Now I have lots of stories to tell my young one and maybe one day I'll enjoy being spontaneous with her!

"Gabriella Sasparilla" 3:34
An up-tempo, '90s-inspired "bubble grunge" rocker about a woman's look back at her youth's most valuable possession -- spontaneity.
Lyrics Released 11/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37304
© 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl, and Brian Hudson
℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Gabriella Sasparilla" at ReverbNation
Listen to & download "Gabriella Sasparilla" at LV Weekly

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Winning Story for July Inspired Our Song "Liv Says"

Congratulations for winning this month's contest go to Liv from South Carolina who knew that before Lex Neon and Vegas Royal changed into birds they were "Alex and Roy." Of all the contest submissions we received this month, we thought hers was the most thought provoking and well written, and we're excited about writing a song around her quandary. This subject of how choices and decisions will affect us is something we've all had to face in our daily lives more often than we care to think about. So here, on the July theme of If you could change anything in your life, what would it be and how would you go about it? is Liv's very profound entry. Enjoy and let it carry you into the proverbial "what-if loop" as you read! And thanks to everyone else that entered. Keep trying!

Okay, so my essay is gonna be a question of change and how it would affect my life today... so I don't know if it's going to count, but here's my try!
I've been asked if I'm going through a mid-life crisis at 20 years old. Honestly, I'm not sure what it is. I just feel that I need a change. I'm not sure what sparked it; it could be the unexpected loss of something I took for granted; it could be the realization that I don't know what my future might hold. Whatever it is, it feels like I'm not on the path that I want to be on.

Or am I? I've been thinking about switching schools recently, because the institution I'm currently attending doesn't have a program of study that I'm totally devoted to. Or does it? Very recently, I've come across an opportunity that seems to fit perfectly with the path I'm already on. This opportunity looks to be incredibly enjoyable, and I would be foolish to pass it up.

But there's always this other path hovering in my thoughts. "What could my life be like if I went that way instead?" I guess I'm lucky in that I'm having this "mid-life crisis" at such a young age, and hopefully I won't have to worry about it later, as long as I choose the right path now. But which one is it?

I guess one thing I can look back and be thankful for is the path I've taken so far. Had I not gone to my current school, I can't bear to even think about how much different life would be. It's almost intimidating how one tiny decision can affect so many aspects of, not just one, but dozens of lives. I wouldn't know so many of the wonderful people I know. I wouldn't have had half of the wonderful experiences I've had. And one thing's for sure: I wouldn't be pondering this exact situation.
So, grateful for what I have, where do I go from here? Do I take what is guaranteed right in front of me? Or do I risk all that I have to venture into the unknown? Either way I look at it, a change is going to take place. And one small change can have a power unbeknownst to even the most intelligent of beings.

So reader, while you're still pondering all the possibilities, we'd like to direct your attention to the blogs that Liv writes on her "Homonym Girl" MySpace page. She shares our love of music, and keeps an excellent journal sharing information about artists she likes, and ways her music experiences (which are abundant) have affected her life. You can read her "Daily Tranquilizer" blogs here or access them from the link above.
Have a great day reading people, and go listen to some music!
"Liv Says" 2:42
Up-tempo power pop song inspired by a young woman's need to make a major change in her life and the ensuing confusion over exploring multiple choices.
Lyrics Released 10/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37301
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Liv Says" at ReverbNation
Listen to & download "Liv Says" at LV Weekly

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Winning Story for June Inspired Our Song "Momma B"

In the absence of any essay submissions for the "favorite teacher" theme this month, we decided to honor one of our own favorite teachers. Harriet just retired from over 30 years of teaching, and she will be the winner of a song written especially for her. This blog that Lex wrote for her birthday a couple months ago will tell you a little about this fantastic woman.

Harriet was my World History teacher for 9 months between September '83 and June '84. She was also the one person who "got" that I was bored with school. By the time I met her, my photographic memory had become rapier sharp - for tests, all I had to do was concentrate on the music that I listened to while I studied and I was guaranteed an "A." I had gotten lazy.

When we met, I was the kid that was perpetually late for her class. My homeroom was on the opposite side of the campus, and the measly 6 minutes given to "haul ass" for the next class was not sufficient. And I was pissed off because my tardiness didn't exactly make me the model student.

Then, it happened. She found out that I was a music geek. I left a folder in her class containing a "shopping list" of 45 RPM singles that I planned to seek out. She found the list, and asked me about it when I tried to retrieve the folder. On the list were '60s artists that she used to listen to "back in the day," like Donovan, the Dave Clark 5, the Byrds, Buffalo Springfield, and more. Then it hit me - the way she carried herself, the music she liked, and the way she dressed. She was the school's "bohemian."

We talked for about 45 minutes that day after school. Harriet stopped being a teacher and became a mentor. She became the person that I could ask anything, and I did. As I recall I asked her why history classes never covered the 1960s but yet we studied the Revolutionary War, which was "ancient history" to kids. Her answer was, "I don't really have an answer for that. The wounds are still too fresh, I guess."

The 1960s were more than just "peace, love, great music, and classic cars." I was born at the tail end, and wanted to know about those years. I could never learn anything from my family on the subject because of all of the "family drama" that took place during those times. I knew that my favorite uncle had to go to war for 2 years, which damaged him. I knew that Dr. King and the brothers Kennedy were killed. I knew that the Beatles changed popular music forever. I didn't know how that decade affected those who survived it.

Harriet may not know this, but she was teaching me three subjects: she taught me World History, 1960s American history, and music. I started applying my brain to absorb her class studies. She allowed me to ask questions about her life in the '60s. With those questions, she provided a marvelous soundtrack. (Sidebar: to the music supervisors of The Big Chill, eat your heart out.)

I was given access to a treasure trove of original vinyl that survived because Harriet also loves music and loves to sing. One day, I was out running around with my best friend. I came home, and my mom handed me a Pottery Barn bag full of vinyl, and a note letting me know that Harriet stopped by. I was fully introduced to Pink Floyd, CSN, Donovan, Todd Rundgren, Cream, the Band, '60s Steve Miller Band, '70s Dylan, and a bunch of other artists that had come and gone, like H.P. Lovecraft.

She effectively kept me off of the dangerous streets of south central L.A. by giving me something to dream about, so I decided to become Eric Clapton, Stephen Stills, and Todd.

We kept in touch after I left her class and graduated. When I got my first car, her house by the beach was my first destination. When I had my first serious relationship, Harriet was the first to meet my then "true love." During the riot that followed the Rodney King verdict, my best friend and I wound up at Harriet's. Her question was "Why are you guys driving around during all of this madness?" I told her the truth; "I wanted to get an Eagles CD." When my mom passed away from ovarian cancer, Harriet was the person I called. When I moved away from La-La Land and headed to Vegas, Harriet was the first call I made when I got my first phone.

My best friend and I have referred to Harriet as "Momma Banana" for years. She mentored and taught for years, and has had quite the eclectic bunch of "bananas" as her students, me included. I call her "mom" for short, and have never felt awkward or weird calling her that. There is a large part of my existence that was shaped by her frankness, honesty, candor, and love (another reason why I call her Mom).

She's retiring from teaching this year, and I wonder who will pick up that "bohemian" spirit in that school. Who will tell these kids that it's okay to be yourself? Who will give them that extra push, nudge, kick in the ass, and hug? I fell into a World History class 25 years ago and came out with an "A" in the subject. I also gained a much larger musical vocabulary that went beyond just rock and roll, and most importantly, I gained self-esteem. (Sidebar: I also knew every guitar riff and lick from Disraeli Gears). Not bad, eh?

Harriet, I say all of this just to say I love you and you are important to me. I can't speak for other kids that you took under your wing, but I can definitely say that I never had a teacher or mentor as great as you, before or since. Thank you for being there. Thank you for finding me in the darkness of fear and boredom and giving me the kick in the ass I needed.

"Momma B" 3:41
Inspired by the Beach Boys and Motown, the up-tempo swing of "Momma B" is proudly dedicated to Harriet B. There will never be another teacher / mentor like you, Momma!
Lyrics Released 9/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37308
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Momma B" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for May Inspired Our Song "All About You"

Congratulations to Randy G. of Minnesota for knowing that "Down" was the song where the singer sang of a shot glass full of "lonliness." He also wrote the most beautiful letter to his best friend and inspiration, Tanya, so for the two of you, we'll write a beautiful song, worthy of that great affection.

Thanks again to everyone else who entered for some very interesting letters. Be sure to try again for your chance to win next time; there's still time to enter this month. Now, please enjoy Randy's heartfelt thoughts.

Tanya,

It had been so long since I knew what it was like to feel like a man. The day to day had been going on for so long in my life, that you actually took me by surprise. Still to this day, I cannot figure out how you slowly changed my life forever. Your compliments and your support each day were slowly building me into a new man and I didn't even know it. I actually started believing in myself again. My lifelong dreams of the past were coming back into focus. There were days when I could not wait to tell you my plans and dreams. Then I'd listen to how excited you'd get for me. You encouraged me to pursue my dreams and made me feel things I haven't felt in a long, long time.

Soon now, I'll take that step that will change my life forever and I'll get that chance to live those dreams. You have truly saved my life in more ways then you'll ever know.

My heart and I will never be the same,
Randy

"All About You" 3:29
An upbeat and hypnotic declaration of love, wrapped in shimmering vocal harmonies and a groovin' backbeat, ala Laura Nyro.
Lyrics Released 8/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37305
© 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl, and Kyle Morrow
℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "All About You" at ReverbNation
Listen to & download "All About You" at LV Weekly
"All About You" music video at YouTube

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Winning Story for April Inspired Our Song "Then There's Jackie"

The winning essay for this month's song contest was written by Ann T. of Armonk, NY in hopes of winning a song as a birthday present for her friend, Jackie, who met her personal criteria for our Who is the most resilient and inspiring person you know? theme for April. Anyone who inspires that much devotion from a friend deserves a song, not to mention it was the most touching entry we received this month. Along with the correct answer to the trivia question (Ms. Tex shares her birthday with Ringo Starr), Ann's beautiful words have won Jackie a song of her own. May all the folks who read this essay be so lucky to have such a precious friend. Congratulations Ann and Jackie!

This is wonderful. I've been entering your cool song contest ever since you guys started it, and this time you gave me the perfect subject to write about.

Resilient and inspiring? My friend Jackie would beat everybody else hands down, no doubt about it. Why? What follows is just the tip of the iceberg, because to fully explore the high caliber of Jackie, I'd have to write a whole book. Bottom line, Jackie deserves a song! It would be nice if I could win on her behalf so she can have a song written for her as a birthday present (which just happens to be this month).

One of the things I admire most is her positive attitude in the face of adversity. Like the rest of us she's only human, but what makes her so special is that she deals with whatever life throws at her and uses the experience to improve herself and always carries herself with class, dignity, and aplomb.

Jackie has a wonderful, bright, inquiring mind and a wicked sense of humor. She has written some of the most beautiful and touching stories you could imagine, full of meaning and depth. Conversely, she is most definitely the Queen of Puns. She tells the best jokes in the world and isn't afraid to laugh at herself when the occasion arises. There's no doubt that her sense of humor and love of laughter is what helped in her speedy recovery after a very complicated back surgery that would have leveled most people.

I've known Jackie for seven years, and she has been the perfect kind of friend. She has the most generous and giving spirit, in all aspects of life, of anyone I've ever met. She gives her time and effort, and lends an ear when you need someone to listen. When advice is requested, she provides insightful support, and so much more. The beauty of it is she never gives unsolicited advice, which is one of hardest things for most people to avoid (especially me).

She is successful in whatever she touches, if for no other reason than the fact that she's brave enough to jump in with all her heart, and give it her best shot. That's more than most people ever attempt.

Everyone who knows Jackie comes out of the experience enriched and fortified. Sounds like what they do to make breakfast cereal better for you, doesn't it? But the fact is, anyone who knows her is made better by the contact.

"Then There's Jackie" 3:54
A mid-tempo acoustic-driven pop song with Flamenco overtones written in honor of the special friendship. Lead vocals by Ms. Tex.
Lyrics Released 7/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37310
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl, and Kyle Morrow
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Then There's Jackie" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for March Inspired Our Song "(I Am) Kait"

Congratulations to Kait of Las Vegas for finding the answers "Let It Shine" and "Bang Bang" to the trivia question, Which two songs deal with personal growth by "living life on your own terms" and "finding success and self-fulfillment."

Her "how and where" response to our theme this month of To what event or time in your life can you attribute personal growth really struck our sense of humor and irony, thereby becoming the winner. Thanks again to everyone else for your wonderful submissions, and remember, there are still more chances to win, so keep submitting your stories for the new theme each month.

Now please enjoy Kait's story. It just goes to show that growth can happen anytime, anywhere!

I know it sounds a little strange, but I think the time and the experiences I had at my job in a porn shop called Filled With Fun was where I did some major growing up and finding out who I was and wanted to be.

One of the really cool aspects of the job was the fact that I was THE ONE. I got the hours I wanted, the shift I wanted, and I was trusted with just about everything. That made me feel like I was doing something right. [Editor's note: Hmm... growth in this environment... is it any wonder? Can I get an AMEN here?]

I'd never had a boss like the boss I had there, before or since. Ernie was the man. In fact, I called him "Mr. Man." I had worked my way up the very small ladder to manager and I loved it. You have to be a certain kind of person to work at a porn shop, so most of my co-workers were the greatest (and not just because I was the one doing the hiring -- I swear!). I learned a lot about who I was while I worked there. Freedom is a funny thing, it lets you express yourself, and I think that if I hadn't had that job, I wouldn't be the well-rounded individual that I am today! Haha...

But there comes a time when you have to just look at your surroundings and tell yourself "I need more than what I have," and that doesn't always mean money or possessions. In this case, I just needed more "life experience." It might have been a porn shop, which you'd think would lean heavily into the life experience market, but it was still just a small shop in a small town. With the help of my time there and my great boss and now life-long friend, Ernie, I had grown up in such a way that I was able to take the next step, without fear or dread, out into a bigger world.

I've grown more in mind and spirit since then, and continue to grow, but I can trace the real beginnings of all that growth to my time in the porn shop. It gave me the knowledge and power within myself to move on and LIVE! I met a man that I consider to be one of the greatest, yet worst things to happen to me, and survived it (although I do still talk to him to this day and still don't know if it's great or not - yes, more growing to do yet). I met some of the best people that I know back home. I moved to Las Vegas, where I met the Great Lex Neon and many other great people. The experience also made me appreciate family more; it's a lot different being 14 hours away from the people you love, compared to the 20 minutes it used to be.

I may never again know the variety of crazy freaks and full freedom that came from working in the porn shop, at least not until I open my own business. But thanks to the growing up that occurred there, I DO know what kind of a boss I would like to be when that day comes, and the strength of character I feel as the person I am now!

"(I Am) Kait" turned into the instrumental "Lady Kait."

"Lady Kait" 3:01
'70s style up-tempo acoustic (with strings) instrumental song.
Released 5/26/2013 ISRC US-WH5-10-37313
© ℗ 2012 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Lady Kait" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for February Inspired Our Song "Dark Summer"

Congratulations to Summer Solstice (location withheld by request), our winner for February's part of the song contest. She knew that "Blood and Luck" was the answer to this month's trivia question (Which Poppermost song deals with a broken heart by using the "wash away yesterday" approach?). The theme was What is the nicest way you've ever said, "I'm sick of you, get out of my life?" and of the many wonderful essays submitted, Summer's entry reminded us of just how hard it can often be to get out of a bad situation. Please enjoy her story.

I never leave easy and I never leave kindly. Life is not a sitcom where breakups are clean and without anguish. There is no easy way to say, “Hey, thought I loved you, but I guess I was wrong, sorry.” I was in a 2 1/2 year emotionally abusive relationship. I didn't know who I was anymore; this once safe relationship had become my souls' hospice. He wanted to marry me and have two children, a boy and a girl. He wanted the nuclear family. I just wanted my f***g opinions and not his.

One day I decided it was time to go. I knew if I did it face to face he'd just convince me, yet again, not to. So I loaded up my car, wrote a letter, and drove 200 miles away. There were broken walls but no broken bones. Eventually we talked again. We played the friends game for a time. One day he told me that I had changed, that I was not the same person he was in love with. I said I was, he just never really knew me. I never heard from him again.

On a personal note from Ms. Tex to all our female friends... always believe in your own self-worth and never stay in any kind of abusive relationship -- emotional, physical, or otherwise. Know that you deserve respect from any person with which you come in contact. We ladies have to be strong and protect ourselves, but we don't have to do it alone. Always remember there are many support systems out there for anyone who needs help.

"Dark Summer (Out of Time)" 4:32
A mid-tempo acoustic pop song exploring the dark side of love and escaping a bad relationship.
Lyrics Released 5/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37309
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Dark Summer" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for January Inspired Our Song "Pattie's Record World"

It is with great pleasure, and some major irony, that we announce the winning entry for January's portion of our song contest. Congratulations to Pattie of Florida for her correct answer of "17" to the How old is Erika? trivia question. Her excellent story covering this month's theme of Which of your occupations or jobs do you regret not having anymore? What made it enjoyable? brought wonderful smiles to our faces. The irony of her story is that Lex just left his old restaurant job of 7 1/2 years to take a position as manager in a record store. Thanks to everyone else for all the great entries; we've had a ball reading about some of your very cool and interesting jobs! Remember to keep entering each month for your chance to win a song of your own.

Please enjoy Pattie's story as much as we did, and let it take you back to all your special music memories.

From 1979-1982, I worked at a collectors record shop in New York City as a clerk (part time for the first two years, then full time after that). I learned a tremendous amount about anything having to do with the recording industry, and especially about antiquities in recording and collectible memorabilia. I always got to work the record conventions and became a familiar face to a lot of people in the industry.

When I first moved to Florida, I went straight to the only collectors shop in town and landed a part-time gig there. Within a year, I was made manager. I had that position for 4 years until the owner sold the shop. The incoming owner had his own staff, so I got the boot.

Anyway... both of those jobs were like dream gigs for me. Between the two of them, I got to hear every kind of music imaginable and saw some of the most unusual pieces of vinyl and memorabilia in history. It also fed my own Beatle habit because when new stuff came in the shop, I got first dibs on anything even remotely Beatle-y. There were times I took Beatle collectibles in lieu of salary! By the time I was forced to sell my collection (sob!) I had 3 butcher covers, every picture sleeve from the US, the UK, Japan, Australia, and many other countries, promotional material, unreleased stuff. You name it, I had it. Of course, the prize was the Yellow Sub LP signed by all four Beatles AND George Martin! During slow days, I could bring my guitar and practice.

Celebrities would come in all the time looking for things. Once, Bo Diddley came in looking for some odd jazz records, and after I helped him we started talking about guitar playing. He said, "Hang on a sec," went to his car, got his rectangular Gretch (which just happened to be in the trunk), brought it in, and let me PLAY it! Then he gave me comp tickets to a show he was doing the following week!

I still have some old phone message tapes of Joey Dee, calling me at home looking for particular records. I'd get all sorts of perks, like free concert tickets, invitations to celeb parties (went to an "after concert" party for the Stones, who showed for about 10 minutes and then left), invitations to recording sessions, etc. I've got tons of stories.

All in all, besides being a working musician, working in collectible music was the best time I ever got paid for. I definitely regret not being in that industry any longer!

"Pattie's Record World" 2:45
Up-tempo pop tribute to the song's namesake and the magical world of the record store, something we fear is quickly becoming an endangered species.
Lyrics Released 3/31/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37311
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Pattie's Record World" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for December Inspired Our Song "Sweet Sofia Marie"

Congratulations to John and Tania D.G who are the winners of our Song Contest for December. They knew that the answer to the trivia question: Where does the wishing well reside? was "inside your heart." And in response to the essay topic: What puts you in a happy, danceable mood? they presented us with some very beautiful thoughts about their infant daughter, Sofia Marie. Thanks again to everyone who entered and be sure to keep entering each month for your chance to win your own song!

Here is John and Tania's essay (written by Daddy, John). May you folks reading this see and enjoy the same delightful and beautiful angel his words painted for us. And John, we'll do our best to write the masterpiece you want for Sofia.

It's so difficult to explain and describe the specialness of our daughter.

Sofia Marie is the love of my life; waking up in the morning I can't wait to see her smile... she is incredible... she's always so very happy and playful and can be quite mischievous as well... always up to something... she wakes up in the morning and if she's in our bed she'll climb up in bed and look outside the window at the passersby and the cars.

At 11 months Sofia Marie understands Spanish, English, German, and some Italian. When my wife says Donde Esta tu Mano... Sofia waves her hand and looks at it, or when she is asked Donde Estan los pajaros (the birds) she points in the sky.

Now with the Holiday Season upon us it's so nice to share these moments with our daughter... our little angel. God has definitely blessed us with a beautiful lil character!

We just feel so blessed to have her in our life and we wish that through her whole life she can just be filled with that smile and happiness she has now.

"Sweet Sofia Marie" 2:40
A '40s Swing-flavored pastiche dealing with the friendly, adventurous, and precocious daughter of an old friend.
Lyrics Released 3/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37316
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Sweet Sofia Marie" at ReverbNation

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Winning Story for November Inspired Our Song "The Bigger Kids"

Congratulations to Roberto Delgadillo of California on being the first winner of our year long song contest! He knew that the answer to the trivia question: Which Poppermost song about "life at the bar" is known for "carrying a pretty mean buzz?" was "Myself," and submitted what we thought was the best of many wonderful essays received. Thanks to everyone that entered and be sure to keep entering each month for your chance to win your own song!

Who was your best friend in junior high school?
Tell us about your "partner-in-crime" during those turbulent times
when puberty hit like Montezuma's Revenge!

Here is Roberto's essay. Enjoy it and may it help you remember your own experiences of that time in your life and the making of lifelong friends.

The first vivid memory I have of junior high school was being pinned against the hallway lockers while 50 Crips ran past me to get at a rival gang member. Equally pinned on the opposite side of the hall was Alvin. We'd met the previous year in elementary; turns out we shared the knack for a good dirty joke, were bright, liked "adventure," and when I introduced him to Monty Python, he took to it like a duck takes to water.

We were co-pilots in our exploits. I was the "Trapper" to his "Hawkeye," and he to mine. If I wanted to light a smoke bomb in the boys' room, he would provide the match. If we wanted to engineer a "declaration of war" against the plucky boys of our school's R.O.T.C. program, we made sure we had enough pissed off juniors who were tired of being bullied. When the fight was over, we would be the bigger kids!

If I was lucky, Alvin and I had classes together. This was good because not only did I have my best friend with me, I also had my greatest academic rival. He kept me on my toes; we crafted and honed great term papers and kept our knowledge rapier sharp. On the other hand, if I was unlucky, I sat bored in class without my pal, concentrating on girls, the history of war, or Mad magazine.

Yeah, junior high was a "testing ground" in many ways. We found out about each other's lives on our walks home after school. We'd share root beer and Snickers bars over conversations about school, television, movies, and girls. He taught me about starting food fights in the cafeteria, ala Animal House, and I taught him about belching and farting with longevity. I like to think we taught each other the joys of having someone outside our own families to share times, good and bad.

Turns out that both Alvin and I are children of December, our birthdays being only days apart. A song would make a great gift for both of us (wink wink, nudge nudge).

Hey, Alvin! If you're reading this, I hope you know that there are a million reasons why I call you my brother. If you have time, listen to "Old Friends" by Simon and Garfunkel and reflect on the "laxative cookie experiment" and its explosive results. (heavy sigh) That poor bastard. Oh well . . .

"Bigger Kids" 4:10
'70s style "pop-eretta" about best friends and their trials, troubles, and tribulations relating to public school life.
Lyrics Released 2/1/2008 ISRC US-WH5-10-37312
© ℗ 2008 & 2010 Poppermost (ASCAP) Alex Oliver & Roy Rendahl
Recorded, mixed, and mastered at Trimordial Studio Las Vegas.
Listen to & share "Bigger Kids" at ReverbNation

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