Hi everyone,
For the past few weeks, I’ve been buried in a project that’s been both exciting and humbling—finishing my new book, Two Simple Steps: Finding Your Voice and Sharing It.
Writing the book was only half the journey. Learning how to publish it has been an adventure all its own! Every day has brought something new to figure out, but I’m finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
If all goes well, the book should be available very soon.
I’d like to thank everyone who’s encouraged me along the way. I’m also hoping to make the Kindle edition available free to my subscribers for a limited time after it’s releases. I’m still learning exactly how Amazon handles that, but if that doesn’t work out, I’ll find another way to get copies into your hands.
This week I thought I’d give you a little preview by sharing Chapter One.
Chapter One
Chapter 1
The Singer I Wanted to Become
I simply didn’t believe it was possible.
I’m a professional singer, songwriter, guitarist, and
entertainer. As much as I loved playing guitar, I eventually
realized that if I wanted to create the music I heard in my
head, I had to become a better singer.
I never wanted someone else to sing my songs.
I’ve always loved the idea of the singer-songwriter.
There was just one problem.
I didn’t think I was very good at singing.
At the time, I was already performing in public, but if I
were being honest, my singing was average at best. I
could get through a song, entertain an audience, and
survive—but only because, like a lot of musicians, I had a
side hustle—my day job.
That bothered me.I wasn’t trying to become the world’s greatest vocalist.
I wasn’t trying to impress other singers.
What I wanted was much simpler.
I wanted a voice with a pleasing tone.
I wanted to sing in tune.
I wanted my own phrasing.
I wanted people to listen because the voice itself was
worth listening to.
Most of all, I wanted to become the kind of singer who
could move people emotionally.
To me, that’s what good singing is all about.
At first, I wasn’t even sure that kind of improvement was
possible.
Like many people, I believed singing was mostly a gift.
Either you were born with it or you weren’t.
Looking back, I realize that belief became the biggest
obstacle I ever faced.
It wasn’t my voice.
It wasn’t my range.
It wasn’t my lack of formal training.
It was the story I kept telling myself.
Fortunately, that story turned out to be wrong.
The journey you’re about to read changed the way I think
about singing forever. Even more importantly, it changed
the way I think about learning.
If you’ve ever wanted to become a better singer—or
wondered whether it’s even possible—I hope you’ll follow
along.
There is hope.
What’s Next?
As soon as this book is released, my attention turns back to music.
The next big creative project is Nick Saves Christmas, a children’s Christmas book that includes original songs. This time, my goal isn’t to let AI create the music—it’s to get into the studio and record it with real musicians and real performances.
My friend Pete Supersano, who produced my last album, has already said he’s in when our schedules line up. The recordings will be simple, warm, and hopefully something children and parents can enjoy together.
One song I’m especially excited about is “Do You Believe in Santa Claus?” I’d love to finish it with the sound of a children’s choir. I’ve been exploring different ways to make that happen. Whether the technology gets me exactly where I imagine or sends me in a different direction, that’s all part of the creative adventure.
Years ago, I recorded a Christmas album using the technology we had at the time. Now I have the opportunity to revisit some of those songs with fresh ears and today’s recording tools. I’m looking forward to bringing them to life in a whole new way.
One Last Thing...
If you’ve been following me on Substack, you’ve probably noticed I’ve been posting Notes almost every day.
Some are about music. Some are about life on the road. Some are little observations that make me smile, and others are simply an attempt to brighten someone’s day or maybe inspire a different way of looking at things.
I have lots of ideas for making my Notes even better, but one project at a time!
If one of them makes you smile, makes you think, or even makes you laugh out loud, I’d love to hear from you. A Like, a comment, or a quick reply helps more than you might realize. It also helps more people discover my work, and I read every comment.
Thanks for being part of this little community and for following along on the journey.
Until next time...
Keep creating, keep learning, and keep listening with your heart.
Alex “The Mudman” Smith
Here's a photo of Cactus Bob, Prairie Flower, and me—better known as Whispering Smith—from a show in Virginia City about 10 years ago. It was the first time the three of us played my song, Rain in My Heart. I wish I had a recording from that performance, but I don't. The video below is a different version of the song. I hope you enjoy it!
