My husband died in April with me by his side. HIs organs shut down as cancer consumed his liver. They had him on heavy drugs. He could no longer move or speak and they told me the last to go would be his hearing. So I stroked his arm and spoke to him of good times, how proud I was of him, for him not to worry that I would be okay and it was okay for him to go. His favorite song was Amazing Grace and Elvis was one of his favs so I played an album off youtube on the phone with the young Elvis singing Gospel songs including Amazing Grace. Then I told him I was going to rest for a little while and kissed him.
I had pulled the little recliner as close as I could get it next to his hospital bed. I'd been sleeping there for the past four days. The next thing I knew nurses were crowded around his bed saying his pupils were fixated and his heart had stopped - he was gone at 2 am. I stayed there with his body for a while, stroked his hair and kissed his head one last time. Then a security guard wheelel me holdling our stuff out into the parking lot. And I drove home in the dark. I could barely feel my feet.
I've been through loss. I've written songs about it. I have never felt like this. The pain has been almost unbearable at times. I cry rivers. Anything can set me off. My emotions don't give a crap what my intellect knows. Giant waves of sorrow find me. It was only one year ago he was diagnosed with cancer. The loneliness without his presence here is beyond words.
The GriefShare groups around here had all ended. I'm in an online 13 week group that goes through the summer. Thank God.
As for what's next, with much trepidation I'm likely moving to Kentucky to live in a room at my best girlfriend's house in the fall. I'll miss our home, all our things, and especially my music room. It's like a multiple whammy of grief on grief.
Meanwhile I try to take care of myself physically since I almost died in December. I'm so thankful he didn't have to go through losing me and facing cancer alone. He was so happy I was home that he made us milkshakes every night while we watched the bowl games. Four months later he's gone. We were together 47 years. LIfe as I knew it, is over. I know I lived everyday of it but it seems as if it all went by so fast.
PM's are welcome from those who've lived this or if you just want to say something privately.
I thank you in advance for any and all kind thoughts and prayers sent my way.
Your message brought tears to my eyes. I don't know you but I wish I could give you a hug and we could cry together. Please get that hug from someone near to you. I know it will help.
Your message brought tears to my eyes. I don't know you but I wish I could give you a hug and we could cry together. Please get that hug from someone near to you. I know it will help.
Dan
I feel the same way Josie.
I'm so sorry for your loss.
You are in my prayers.
Life is short so make sure you spend as much time as possible on the Internet arguing with strangers.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
A tragic end to a beautiful love story. Losing a life partner after 47 years of marriage is undoubtedly a challenging and heartbreaking experience. During this difficult time, it's important to remember that you are not alone and that there is support available to you.
Your love story is a testament to the enduring power of love. Over the course of 47 years, you and your husband created a lifetime of cherished memories together. Hold onto those beautiful moments and let them bring you solace and warmth.
Although your husband is no longer physically present, the love you shared will always remain in your heart. Love transcends the boundaries of life and death, and your connection with him will continue to be a part of who you are.
Take time to grieve and honor your husband's memory. It's okay to feel a range of emotions, from sadness to anger to confusion. Allow yourself to experience these feelings, and don't rush the healing process. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself.
Surround yourself with loved ones who can offer support. Friends, family, and community members can provide comfort, companionship, and understanding during this challenging time. Reach out to those who care about you and share your thoughts and feelings with them.
Seek solace in activities or hobbies that bring you joy. Engaging in things you love can provide a sense of peace and distraction from grief. Whether it's spending time in nature, reading, painting, or pursuing any other passion, allow yourself to find moments of happiness amidst the sorrow.
Consider joining a support group or seeking counseling if you find it helpful. Speaking with others who have experienced a similar loss can be immensely comforting. Professionals trained in grief counseling can provide guidance and support as you navigate this new chapter of life.
Remember that it's okay to ask for help. Sometimes, we may feel hesitant to reach out, but allowing others to lend a helping hand can make a significant difference. Whether it's practical assistance or emotional support, don't hesitate to lean on your support network.
Keep your husband's memory alive through storytelling and reminiscing. Share stories and memories with family and friends, as it can help you preserve the legacy of your love and keep his spirit alive.
Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Grief can take a toll on our well-being, so prioritize self-care. Get enough rest, eat nourishing food, and engage in activities that promote healing and relaxation.
Know that it's okay to find happiness and peace again in the future. Although the pain may seem overwhelming now, with time, you will find moments of lightness and joy. Allow yourself to embrace those moments and know that your husband would want you to continue living a fulfilling life.
Please remember that these are just words, and the healing process is unique for each person. It's essential to be patient with yourself and seek additional support when needed.
God bless you, Josie Beck, and just know all your PG friends grieve with you.
Windows 10 (64bit) M-Audio Fast Track Pro, Band in a Box 2025, Cubase 14, Cakewalk and far too many VST plugins that I probably don't need or will ever use
I'm so sorry for your loss Josie. Surround yourself with loved ones, keep those memories alive and take one day at a time. You are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless.
https://soundcloud.com/user-646279677 BiaB 2026 Windows For me there’s no better place in the band than to have one leg in the harmony world and the other in the percussive. Thank you Paul Tutmarc and Leo Fender.
Thinking of you today and reminded of one of our songs from so many years ago…
Here in the quiet hours Where the wind cries in the rain When the sound of every raindrop Is as subtle as a train Here in the times of freedom Where the dreamer has the power It’s here that I dream you Here in the quiet hours
Here in the quiet hours Where the night becomes a haven When I give in to the silence For the thoughts that I’d been saving Here could be a mystery Where the garden has no flowers It’s you who is on my mind Here in the quiet hours
Here in the quiet hours Where the clock dial lights the room When the phone rings at 3am And it’s just a voice from the moon Here are all my reasons Where I climb the highest towers It’s a wonder that I miss you Here in the quiet hours
Here in the quiet hours Where the sand fills my eyes When the dreams that I’ve had Are too real to be realized Here is where I knew you Where the night pours down in showers It’s here that I wait for you Here in the quiet hours
Josie, I too am incredibly saddened by your devastating loss, but I hope that having shared your situation with all of your friends on this forum, that this might bring you some relief, and hopefully lessen the grieving that you are rightfully suffering now. Take care of yourself, you are very important. Trevor
BIAB & RB2026 Win.(Audiophile), Windows 10 Pro & Windows 11, Cakewalk Bandlab, Izotope Prod.Bundle, Roland RD-1000, Synthogy Ivory, Session Keys Grand S & Electric R, Kontakt, Focusrite 18i20, KetronSD2, NS40M, Pioneer Active Monitors.
I never know what to say in times like this, Josie. I feel for you, and am sorry for your loss. I hope the fond memories you have will ease the sorrow.
So very sorry to hear about your husband, Josie. This is devastating, I know. It will get easier but that doesn't help much right now. You are so strong and kind for being there for him all the way to the end. We should all be so lucky to have someone like you. Take time to grieve. He will always be a part of you. Remember the great times, the music, those milkshakes. Take good care of yourself through this incredibly painful time. <3
So very sorry for your loss, I can't even imagine it at your age (so young) Very much wishing you the best moving forward (and prayers) Like JJJ said; please take care of yourself (make it a priority) .. we're all pulling for you
I do not work here, but the benefits are still awesome Make your sound your own!
I never know what to say or do when I encounter such sadness, grief and loss.
You are strong. I'm confident you will survive to live through this most dreadful experience.
Find someone to talk to and fill their ears with stories of both the good and bad experiences of the last 47 years. Contact his friends, family and co-workers. They don't know what to say or how to approach you. But sharing past experiences help the healing process.
I want to thank you. Every kind word and your thoughts and prayers mean more than you know. It's weird how surreal it can still feel at times. The grief counseling group is helping. I have minutes sometimes hours - I haven't made it a whole day or night yet without tears. Knowing y'all care helps. God bless you Josie
Dear Josie sorry to hear about your husband, I will be praying for you, reading your post. Broke my heart it was a genuine love story. God bless you my hope is he will place people in your life that will love on you and ease the pain your feeling. my sweet Helene is always on my mind September 28th will be 2 years since she passed take care of your self you will be in my prayers Eric
AMD (TM) 5950 4.9 GHz 16Core Processor 64 bit 32 bits of ram windows 10 pro 64 bit os. sound card Antelope ZenQ guitars Ibanez 2202a 1968 les Paul Custom and Cavin ae 185 Guitar boss Gt-100,GT1000 pedal Yamaha HS8 studio monitors
Lenovo YOGA 900 Window s 10 Home 64bit M4 pro Mac mini 1tb HD 24GB mem casio wk7500 presonus audiobox i2 usb interface casio wk-7500 biab & realband 2025 everything pk both with Current builds
We are so sorry to hear this and wish you continued strength to help you through this. The obvious love both of you shared will provide you with years of wonderful memories that sadly many couples have never experienced. Nothing breaks a bond like that.
Love,
J&B
Our albums and singles are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora and more. If interested search on Janice Merritt. Thanks! Our Videos
Last Chance! The Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® Special Ends Today (May 31, 2026) at 11:59pm PDT!
Time really is running out! Save up to 50% on Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrades and receive a FREE Bonus PAK—only when you order by 11:59 PM PDT today!
We've added many major new features and new content in a redesigned Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
Version 2026 introduces a modernized GUI redesign across the program, with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, and a new Dark Mode option. There’s also a new side toolbar for quicker access to commonly used windows, and the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, making it easier to customize your workspace.
Another exciting new addition is the amazing new AI-Notes feature, which can transcribe polyphonic audio into MIDI. View the results in notation or play them back as MIDI, and choose whether to transcribe an entire track or transcribe specific parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, and much more!
Upgrade your Band-in-a-Box for Mac® to save up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® 2026 upgrade packages!
Plus, when you order your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac upgrade during our special, you'll receive a Free Bonus PAK of exciting new add-ons.
If you need any help deciding which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We are here to help!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 Mac Special Offers Extended Until May 31st!
Good news- we've extended our Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® special offers until May 31, 2026!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 is packed with major new features, enhancements, and an incredible lineup of new content! The program now sports a sleek, modern GUI redesign across the entire interface, including updated toolbars, refreshed windows, smoother workflows, a new dark mode option, and more. The brand-new side toolbar provides quicker access to key windows, while the new Multi-View feature lets you arrange multiple windows as layered panels without overlap, creating a flexible, clutter-free workspace. We have an amazing new “AI-Notes” feature. This transcribes polyphonic audio into MIDI so you can view it in notation or play it back as MIDI. You can transcribe an entire track (all pitched instruments and drums) or focus on individual parts like drums, bass, guitars/piano, or vocals. There's an amazing collection of new content too, including 202 RealTracks, new RealStyles, MIDI SuperTracks, Instrumental Studies, “Songs with Vocals” Artist Performance Sets, Playable RealTracks Set 5, two RealDrums Stems sets, and much more!
There are over 100 new features in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®.
When you order purchase Band-in-a-Box® 2026 before 11:59 PM PDT on May 31st, you'll also receive a Free Bonus PAK packed with exciting new add-ons.
Check out the Band-in-a-Box® for Mac packages page to find the best package for you.
Today's the Last Day of the Band-in-a-Box 2026® for Mac Special!
Order before 11:59pm PDT today (May 15, 2026) to save up to 50% off your Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® upgrade and receive a FREE Bonus PAK loaded with great new Add-ons to use with this new version!
Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac - Special Offers End at 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th, 2026!
Order before 11:59pm PDT on Friday, May 15th and SAVE up to 50% on most Band-in-a-Box® version 2026 for Mac Upgrade packages... and that's not all! With your version 2026 for Mac purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons FREE! Upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks... that's 222 NEW RealTracks available with version Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac!
Upgrade to Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac® today for as little as $49! Check out the Band-in-a-Box® packages page for all available purchase options.
Learn more about the Free Bonus PAK and 49-PAK here.
If you have any questions about which package is the best option for you, just let us know. We're here to help!
202 New RealTracks Released with Band-in-a-Box 2026!
With Band-in-a-Box® 2026, we've released 202 incredible new RealTracks (in sets 468-488) in a variety of genres—featuring your most requested styles!
Jazz, Funk & World (Sets 468-475):
Our new jazz, funk & blues RealTracks include a groovin’ collection of RealTracks and RealDrums! These include more requested “soul jazz” RealTracks featuring artists Neil Swainson (bass), Charles Treadway (organ), Brent Mason (guitar), and Wes Little (drums). There are new “smooth jazz” styles (4), which include a RealTracks first: muted trumpet, as well as slick new smooth jazz brushes options for drums. Blues lovers will be thrilled—there are more “classic acoustic blues” styles, including guitar (5), bass (4), and drums (10) with blues master Colin Linden, featuring understated and tasty background acoustic soloing, plus brushes drums and acoustic bass. There are also new electric blues RealTracks, including electric blues with PG favorite Johnny Hiland (3) and soulful electric slide guitar from Colin Linden (4). If you love funk & gospel, there are great new options this year, including gospel organ (3) from Charles Treadway, as well as new funk, tango, and rock ’n’ roll drums (3) and bass (1). And for big, bold arrangements, we have uptempo soul horns (4) featuring a three-part hip horn section with options for a full mix or stems of each individual horn — plus an accompanying rhythm section (4) of drums, bass, guitar, and electric piano!
Rock & Pop (Sets 476–482):
Our new rock & pop RealTracks bring a powerful mix of requested favorites, fresh genres, and modern chart-inspired styles! We have more of our popular “Producer Layered Acoustic Guitars (15)” featuring Band-in-a-Box favorite Brent Mason. We’ve continued our much-requested disco styles (10), and added new Celtic guitar (5) with a more basic, accessible approach than our previous Drop-D or DADGAD offerings. There are also highly requested yacht rock styles (17), inspired by the smooth, polished soft-rock sound of the late ’70s and early ’80s — laid-back grooves, silky electric pianos, warm textures, elegant harmonic movement, and pristine production aesthetics. Fans of heavier styles will love our new glam metal (13), capturing the flashy, high-energy sound of ’80s arena-ready guitar rock. We also have a set of rootsy modern-folk rock (18), with a warm, organic sound combining contemporary folk textures and driving acoustic strumming. And we’ve added lots of new modern pop styles (16) — the kinds of sounds you’re hearing on the radio today, featuring exciting new drums, synths, and cutting-edge RealTracks arrangements.
Country, & Americana (Sets 483–488):
Our new country & Americana RealTracks deliver a rich collection of acoustic, electric, and roots-inspired styles! We have new country pop (9) with legendary guitarist Brent Mason. There is also a potpourri (14) of bouzouki, guitars, banjo, and more, perfect for adding texture and character to contemporary acoustic arrangements. We’ve added funky country guitar (5) with PG favorite Brent Mason, along with classic pedal steel styles (5) featuring steel great Doug Jernigan. There are more country songwriter styles (8) that provide intimate, rootsy foundations for storytelling and modern Americana writing. Finally, we have “background soloing” acoustic guitar (12) with Brent Mason — simpler, but still very tasty acoustic lines designed to sit beautifully behind vocals or act as a subtle standalone solo part.
And, if you are looking for more, the 2026 49-PAK (for $49) includes an impressive collection of 20 bonus RealTracks, featuring exciting and inspiring additions to add to your RealTracks library. You'll get new country-rhythm guitar styles from PG Music favorites Johnny Hiland and Brent Mason, along with modern-pop grooves that capture today’s radio-ready sound! There are also new indie-folk styles with guitar, bass, 6-string bass used as a high-chording instrument, acoustic guitar, and banjo. Plus, dedicated "cymbal fills" RealDrums provide an added layer that work very well with low-key folky styles with other percussion.
The 2026 49-PAK is loaded with other great new add-ons as well. Learn more about the 2026 49-PAK!
2026 Free Bonus PAK & 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Mac®!
With your version 2026 for Mac Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, Audiophile Edition or PlusPAK purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons for FREE! Or upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for only $49 to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks!
These PAKs are loaded with additional add-ons to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box®!
This Free Bonus PAK includes:
The 2026 RealCombos Booster PAK:
-For Pro customers, this includes 27 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For MegaPAK customers, this includes 25 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For UltraPAK customers, this includes 12 new RealStyles.
MIDI Styles Set 92: Look Ma! More MIDI 15: Latin Jazz
MIDI SuperTracks Set 46: Piano & Organ
Instrumental Studies Set 24: Groovin' Blues Soloing
Artist Performance Set 19: Songs with Vocals 9
Playable RealTracks Set 5
RealDrums Stems Set 9: Cool Brushes
SynthMaster Sounds Set 1 (with audio demos)
iOS Android Band-in-a-Box® App
Looking for more great add-ons, then upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49 and you'll get:
20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums with 20 RealStyle.
FLAC Files (lossless audio files) for the 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums
MIDI Styles Set 93: Look Ma! More MIDI 16: SynthMaster
MIDI SuperTracks Set 47: More SynthMaster
Instrumental Studies 25 - Soul Jazz Guitar Soloing
Artist Performance Set 20: Songs with Vocals 10
RealDrums Stems Set 10: Groovin' Sticks
SynthMaster Sounds & Styles Set 2 (sounds & styles with audio demos)
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