Hey guys...I like happy songs but I like hopeful songs even better...I hope there's hope in this one...I wrote this shortly after my nephew took his own life...this was my response (at least musically)...it's not meant to answer "why?"...the song is where I was and where I am when facing the darkness we all encounter and the council I would give...musically it's what I would call a "Christian country power ballad" or something like that.

I would welcome any and all comments especially concerning the mix...I used two acoustic guitars, bass and one drum track from BiaB but I've lost the original tracks and ID's somewhere in the vastness of my computer files and cannot find them (probably got erased!!!) as per usual.

As with many of my songs this is a hybrid mix of BiaB and the Yamaha Tyros and Genos that I use.

If you do...thanks for listening...Dan

The Heart of the Matter
https://soundclick.com/r/s7xfhc

A strong ballad about a tough subject to tackle. I thought the mix was spot for to my taste.

Charlie

Hi Dan,

Brother you've got some big ole fat country chops, let me tell ya! The vocals and musical arrangement are so smooth and flawless. Your vocals are like a meld between Elvis and Johnny Horton. Really nice listen, thanks for posting!

Thanks Charlie and Bawb for the feedback...I haven't heard the name Johnny Horton in a while...that is a major compliment that I will humbly receive...thanks.

Another very cool song. Super vocal and lyric. Acoustic was a very nice setting for the song. Lovely harmonies.

Pretty song!! Very passionate performance!! Take care. Greg

My My, what a tragedy.

You've represented it well in your song.

I wouldn't change a thing in your mix.

moto

Stimulated by a tragic situation and passionately performed.

The lyric reminds me (Bud) of my mother's attitude during some tough times.

The arrangement is strong (like the key change) and the mix sounds fine on the KRK's.

Thanks for sharing ... especially given how personal it is to you.

J&B

Beautiful song Dan! Such a great message that we all need! Once again the vocal and background vocals are top level stuff! Thanks, Torrey.

Scott, Greg, Cap, J&B and Torrey...thanks so much for all your comments...I really appreciate them...Dan

Lovely melody and poignant lyrics.

Excellent production and vocal!

Speaking (or writing) as one who, many moons ago, came close to ending it all, this song resonates deeply. Powerful message of hope presented with sensitivity and conviction. Great job.

True to life song. Good vocal.

When the heart of the matter doesn't matter at all
Cause your dreams have been shattered by the force of the fall

I think I have been close to that place. This song is a good reminder.

Thanks,

Billy

Ghost...thanks for your comments...your thoughts mean so much more because of the honesty with which you shared them...the "message of hope" that you spoke of was my purpose for writing it...Dan

Hey Billy...I really appreciated your comments...maybe we've all been there and just need to remember..."to the Father above, the heart of the matter is you"...the line you quoted maybe one of the most profound ever given to me...thanks for sharing your thoughts...Dan

Another outstanding production with content that is far above what is commonly heard.

Mike...thanks for your comments...some songs are more than songs...music has the power to be a lifeline...I hope this song is.