============================================= *** R O C K Y M O U N T A I N H I G H *** ============================================= The John Denver Internet Fan Club Monthly Newsletter December 2002 Editor: Emily M. Parris ============================================= http://www.rockymtnhigh.org * emily@sky.net ============================================= Table of Contents December 2002 * Issue #104 John Denver Events...................................2 Concert Review: John Adams - Aspen, Colorado Reviewed by Brenda Bell........................2 John Denver Related Books: "Under the Midnight Sun" by John Jancik, Steve Gardiner and Javana Richardson..........3 "Fly Away" by Mary Williams........................3 Album Reviews: "Times Like These" and "Log Cabin Christmas" Mark Cormican Albums Reviewed by Emily M. Parris..................4 The Music of Dennis Warner Reviewed by Charmi Schroeder.................4 John Denver Notes....................................6 Poetry Corner: "Sanctuary" by Cynthia Gullage.....................6 "Rocky Mountain Rhyme" by Emily M. Parris..........7 John Denver Want Ads/For Sale........................8 * * * =================================== J O H N D E N V E R E V E N T S =================================== December 11, 2002 * TV: "The Christmas Gift" 9:00pm EST Lifetime December 14, 2002 * Doylestown, Pennsylvania / Second Annual Christmas Concert-John Denver Tribute with Christopher Westfall 6:00pm Donna Pinto December 14, 2002 * Greensboro, NC "An Evening With John Denver Friends" / Music by Billy Gardner / Bring your musical instruments and join us for an evening of music and fun. We'll even watch "The Christmas Gift." More info: CountryRoadsNC@aol.com December 19, 2002 * TV: "The Christmas Gift 3:00pm EST - Lifetime December 31, 2002 * Waynesville, NC ~New Year's Eve"- Birthday party - Let's celebrate John's Birthday and the New year Together! Seven Springs Center in the Biodome. 770 Shelton Cove Road (828) 926-9979 or 1-800-864-3258 Email for info: peac-e@usa.net March 16, 2002 * Australia / Virtual Concert screening of "The Wildlife Concert" / Royal Perth Yacht Club / Tickets: $27.50 http://www.bocsticketing.com.au Christine Egli -------------------------------------------------- Review of the John Adams Concert - Aspen, Colorado -------------------------------------------------- by Brenda Bell The John Adams Concert at the Wheeler was an affordable ticket with a highly inflated amount of talent for the price. His performance of "Yellowstone" was worth the trip alone. This is the closest thing to a John Denver Concert that I've ever seen, in both atmosphere, voice, band sound, widespread technical accuracy, fun, and professionalism. John Adams and his band also write their own music that is equally as good. After almost 30 years of singing John Denver music, he has now completed 3 years of shows in Aspen at the Wheeler, and has the 4th already booked. He's also doing little shows up and down the valley from time to time, warming hearts around town. I not only look forward to future shows, but I look forward to hearing more of John Adam's original stuff. More often than not, someone who performs someone else's music so well, falters a bit on their own style; not the case here. These guys and gals ooze years of experience and tremendous potential. About 17 years ago, I heard a bootleg tape of John Adams singing in Europe. Though I didn't hear him again until recently, I never forgot his name. The most important thing to me about the John Adams show, is the outpouring of respect for John Denver, and how he delivers his music with a very similar enthusiasm that Mr Denver had when singing his own. John Adams creates this atmosphere equally on John Denver's songs, or his own. He and the band created an energy in the room that until now, I've only felt at a John Denver concert. I'd say that's more than worth two hours of your time. Along side their own talent, these folks invest a great amount of money, time, and love into an event that is truly a tribute to one of the greatest singers of all time. Thank you to each and every one of you. Brenda in Colorado ========================= JOHN DENVER RELATED BOOKS ========================= UNDER THE MIDNIGHT SUN Javana Richardson has a new book out called "Under the Midnight Sun; The Ascent of John Denver Peak and the Search for the Northernmost Point of Land on Earth." It is by John Jancik, Steve Gardiner and Javana. It is 200 pages, Hardcover Publication: October 12, 2002 ISBN 1-889120-19-7 Javana also wrote the book "A Tribute to John Denver: Poems, Prayers and Promises." http://www.starsend.com/underthemidnightsun.htm + + + + + + + + + + + + + FLY AWAY Mary Williams "I've just published my first novel about John Blake, a character based on John Denver and Kris Kristofferson. It is called "Fly Away." I wanted it to be a tribute to both of them so I used John's name and Kris's favorite poet (Blake). Throughout the book, I use references that John's fans will recognize. His boat is the Starwood, he struggles to save his marriage, fights the record industry because he doesn't fit into any one category, learns to fly his own plane, and searches for a spiritual answer. It's told in first person by John and also a flight attendant named Berry and covers the years between 1975 and 1995." Description from the Web Page: "Fly Away" lets you join Berry Hatchett and John Blake as they journey from the wonder years of the sixties to the confusion of the nineties. It's filled with reverent references to John Denver and Kris Kristofferson, plus humorous insight into the life of a could-be cover girl for "Unlucky in Love." If you've ever dreamed of stardom, wished for true love, lived through a rocky romance, or wondered what the "hippie thing" was really all about, you'll find kindred spirits in John and Berry." Paperback, 6x9in, 328 pages, Hats Off Books, December 2002 ISBN: 1587361507 * * * * * * * * * * * MARK CORMICAN'S ALBUMS: "Times Like These" and "Log Cabin Christmas" Reviewed by Emily M. Parris TIMES LIKE THESE All the music and lyrics on this album are by Mark. "Sometime" is a relaxing song about taking time for yourself, something that all of us need. "Dancing With Angels" is a very poetic song about skiing. "In Times Like These" - the title cut - is a very nice song about taking refuge in someone's love. Tracy Ann does beautiful backup harmony on the song "One More Day." Songwriting is the theme of "Out of the Way" and "Magic in the Air" is about the dream of love. The album is dedicated to Willard and Marie Cormican, Mark's parents and their picture is on the album. "Dear Dad" is a very moving and emotional song written for his Dad, Willard, who passed on in 1975. It's a very beautiful tribute. LOG CABIN CHRISTMAS: The title cut of this album has an easy-going "Back Home Again" feel. It talks of Christmas in their Log Cabin on Christmas eve. "The Marvelous Toy" is on this album. That's a song that John Denver sang on "Christmas Like A Lullaby." It was written by Tom Paxton. "Christmas For Cowboys" is also included and that is surely one of my favorite songs that John Denver sang. "Christmas Time's a Comin'" is a lively Christmas tune that I had not heard before. It has a nice down-home sound. Other traditional Christmas songs are included. This is a good cd to put you in the mood for Christmas. ___________________________ http://www.markcormican.com * * * * * * * * * * * * THE MUSIC OF DENNIS WARNER by Charmi Schroeder JOURNEY OF THE SOUL I have recently been fortunate enough to become acquainted with the music of Dennis Warner. As a life-long John Denver fan, I was struck at how Dennis' music - his words - strike the same chords within me as John does. Dennis has recorded 6 CD's - 3 of which are still available. His newest CD, "Journey of the Soul", released earlier this year, showcases Dennis' ability to paint pictures with clarity and passion. As the song "Want Nothing" points out, everything you need "is all right here". Dennis takes the listener through true love ("We Make the Good Times Last", "Now That You're With Me"), the awe-inspiring beauty found in nature ("Northern Lights"), and even the hurt ("Don't Laugh at Me") that is a part of life. With the world still redefining itself in the wake of 9/11, the song entitled "What Matters the Most" provides an impassioned plea for understanding and peace. With this CD, Dennis takes the listener on a journey of many emotions - truly a journey of the soul. In the end, you can't help but agree with the strength of "It's My Life". "It's my life and it's worth living." "Journey of the Soul" takes the listener on a journey that is worth taking. MY WORLD Also available is "My World". This CD, which ranks among my favorites of all time, combines powerfully worded songs with strong guitar and vocals to create an incredible passion for life and all it has to offer. Dennis gets right to the heart of the matter with the first song on this CD - "Someday, Somehow". While the subject of the song may be "so tired of waiting", Dennis uses the strength of his guitar and the conviction that resonates through his voice to make the listener believe that no matter what or who they may be waiting for/dreaming of, anything is possible. The listener's dreams will come true - someday, somehow. The strength of the love that flows through "Feel Your Love" and "Nothing Better Than This" is at once comforting, convincing, sexy, and "right". Dennis draws the listener into a much needed and much appreciated hug with these songs. "My World" and "Like A Sunday in Salem" make the listener sit up and take notice of the world around them. Dennis reminds us of the injustices that cannot and should not be ignored or tolerated in the world. The intensity of these two songs combine to make the listener know that they need to be an active participant in the process of peace at home and around the world. The songs use the power of the words and the driving instruments to make the listener WANT to be a participant rather than just an observer. For a light-hearted touch, John Denver fans will appreciate Dennis' version of "Homegrown Tomatoes". It had me tapping my feet, remembering John, and marveling at the pure joy evident in Dennis' voice as he sang this fun song. Whether painting a picture of love, longing, pure joy ("Heart's Desire"), innocence ("Don't Be Afraid"), or the importance of friends, family, lovers, and complete strangers, Dennis' songs create visuals with a clarity far more intense than his contemporaries. No matter the interpretation, the listener will "see" the songs in their hearts and their heads. "My World" will leave you having experienced the full gamut of emotions. And, it will leave you glad that Dennis Warner shared a part of his world and his passion with you. A PERFECT MORNING The third CD still available, "A Perfect Morning", again combines the richness of Dennis' voice, the integrity of his thoughts/music, and the beauty of his guitar playing to make you feel glad to be alive. Dennis clearly conveys his passion and integrity through his music, and, in doing so, inspires integrity and passion within the listener. In the liner notes of "A Perfect Morning", Dennis dedicates the CD to the memory of John Denver. It is, indeed, a fitting tribute. __________________________ http://www.warnersongs.com ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R N O T E S ======================================= From: "Elizabeth Seger" From an article in the Winnipeg Free Press, early November, Canadian press Gayle MacDonald writing on Shania Twain "People ask me, 'Why do you think you sold 35 million copies of Come on Over,'" muses Twain. "And I don't know. You can't predict what mood people are in."...." The average person wants to hear a good straight - ahead lyric. Music that is easy to listen to. And more people are going to country because they're not finding it in pop. At one time, especially when I was a kid the Top 40 included all the best music in one place. It could easily have been John Denver, alongside Stevie Wonder and Led Zeppelin. Now pop would not play John Denver and that's the problem. I think there are a lot of people who still want to hear that type of music." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ======================================= J O H N D E N V E R P O E T R Y ======================================= SANCTUARY Aspen in October-2002 by Cynthia Gullage Aspens shed their leaves, like golden teardrops, Echoing my sentiments, this time of year For, every place I tread, I feel his presence, And, every place I look I see him there. In Sanctuary, close by rippling waters, Where stones stand stalwart, neath the azure sky, I pause and sit in deepest introspection, Still asking why it was he had to die. Cathedral mountains reach unto the Heavens, Crowned with diadems of sparkling snow. The eagle and the hawk soar into splendor. I know he's here I do not doubt it. No! The stars are so much closer to the Earth's life I feel that I can reach and touch each one The day draws to a close, and I am hopeful That, somewhere, far away, the battle's done. I thought that peace was something felt by others I hope that it would, one day, touch my heart. And, in the gentle glory that is Windstar, At last I find a light within the dark. In splendid quietude that comes with morning, I trace a path, where his feet may have gone. The singer may be silent, but resides here, Still caught within the wonder of his songs. ____________________________________ Copyright 11-7-02 by Cynthia Gullage Dedicated to the N.C. Friends of J.D. Rocky Mountain Rhyme by Emily M. Parris Photos of Aspen - Memories true Sharing together a time A memory of the love we bear For the weaver of Rocky Mountain rhyme Campfires and concerts; singing Nights with mountain sunsets ablaze Sights of eagles flying effortlessly Precious memories filled with praise The reason we come here to gather Is a singer we cherish through time A prophet who saw in the future The subject for his Rocky Mountain Rhyme For he yearned for a time of perfection When all people would gather as one When nature and the earth would be honored And a satisfying peace would be won Together we have created a moment A memory of this uplifting time To honor the memory; the songs; and the man The singer of Rocky Mountain Rhyme _________________________________ Copyright 2002 by Emily M. Parris ================================================= JOHN DENVER W A N T A D S / F O R S A L E ================================================= Jennalynn Flesch Still have a huge amount of John Denver collectables, videos and recordings for sale. I'm in Canada and the email address ends in CA not com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Donna Pinto If you would like a copy of the Aspen Concert Program or any Chris Westfall video contact me via email. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Christine Egli Rosemount Estate & The Royal Perth Yacht Club in conjunction with VirCon are presenting a series of virtual concerts on the bay - a big-screen multi-media presentation with full concert surround sound - at the Royal Perth Yacht Club on the lawn, under the stars. John Denver: "The Wildlife Concert" will be screened on March 16, 2003. Tickets on sale now for $27.50 through BOCS on 9484 1133 or http://www.bocsticketing.com.au - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Instar Records We are now offering a Christmas Special. It's a 3 cd gift set in a special box with a card from Pete for $49.95 and Free Shipping. http://www.petehuttlinger.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Pam We have t-shirts and Eagles left from the Auction in Aspen. Eagles $20 plus $3.85 s/h T shirts are $25 plus $3.85 Priority postage. Pamela Beasley / 721 Ravencroft Drive / Garland, TX 75043 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Judith Gabriel How would you like to come and eat dinner and dance and listen to music on New Year's Eve this year to benefit the foundation in Reading, PA. The theme for dancing would be oldies from the 60's, 70's, and 80's and some JD music for sure. Email me for more info. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Mario Barnabe My sister is looking for a VHS copy of "The Christmas Gift." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Emily A lot of people have written to me wanting videos of John Denver TV Specials that have appeared on television. I thought perhaps I could link them up with people who have copies they could sell or trade: Wanting a vhs copy of "John Denver and the Muppets: A Christmas Together". Marc Marcia Spillane Timothy Davis Carlos Rios Sandra Rankin Wanting a video of "Take Me Home: The John Denver Story": Simon Brickwood Wanting "Rocky Mountain Holiday" TV Special on videotape: Catherine St. Onge Wanting John Denver Sheet Music Books: Bryan Bennett Wanting "Take Me Home" - John's Autobiography: Jayne Adderton Wanting John Denver TV Specials on video: Toby Maycroft Wanting Video of "John Denver with the Boston Pops" Bob White Wanting video or audio recording of the Cousteau Special where John first sang "Calypso": Wanting a video of the tv Special where John was singing in a weather controlled dome: John Painter - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Emily Please send news of all John Denver events, as well as JD Articles or news. I'll also accept JD Poetry, Reviews of cd's or events, or anything related to John Denver. If you've sent a poem in the past and I haven't used it, please feel free send it again so it will be handy in my email. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MERRY CHRISTMAS and GREETINGS OF THE SEASON from ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * ************************************************************* Rocky Mountain High: The John Denver Internet Fan Club emily@sky.net http://www.rockymtnhigh.org December 2002 * Issue #104 * Editor: Emily M. Parris ************************************************************* Emily M. Parris Rocky Mountain High http://www.rockymtnhigh.org