JJV-SRV/Hendrix/Clapton

Joshua's Joys- It Hurt So Bad

Still feeling miserable, but had a day where we could have a little fun.  Wanted to do this before he goes in for surgery. My husband the definition of strength, grace, and toughness.  No one would know from looking at him that he is in excruciating pain and suffering from agonizing sickness.  My husband the rock, the real life Superman.  No could play like him and no one can fight like him.  I will be posting updates on his health as we get more news.  Thank you for all of your continued love and support.  Take Care friends.

Joshua's Jams

I was taking some time to play a little guitar, trying to get back into the groove of things and my wife, Mrs. Anna Bella Vaughan, for the second time that I know of recorded me on her phone. This is what she caught in the act.
~Joshua Jet Vaughan~

Intensity through Love and Passion- Music

While very ill and going through chemotherapy it had been years since I had picked up the guitar.  I was in the studio, warming up my fingers, I was weak, in intense pain, my brain was disconnected.  And even though my heart was dulled, I find myself needing to record.  While warming up, I was playing through one of my amps, which is a Peavey Windsor 100w Tube Head with a 4x12 speaker cab.  Using only a tube screamer pedal. (This amp has no effects, including reverb, so I love to warm up with it because of the challenge it is to get the sound that I am looking for.  The sound that I have found with other equipment.  It's like playing basketball and using an old bicycle rim for the basketball hoop.) My preferred amp is a 60w in 38w out Peavey Delta Blues with 1 15" speaker using several pedals.

My wife had recorded me on her smartphone.  I was using a 1970's reissue fat strat with a rosewood fretboard.  My strings were 12, 16, 19, 28, 38, 56.  Though my hands were cramping and usually the music flows through me without thinking, because of my health I was having trouble.  Eventually, this landed me in the hospital.  So to my former post that no man can play with the intensity or passion of my cousin Stevie for more than 30 seconds, a statement made by one particular musician, this is my response to him.






~Joshua Jet Vaughan~

Joshua's Joys- My cousin SRV anecdote

My heritage is of this: Just like most I am a mutt.  My wife, however, is a purebred.  Born in South Korea.  The story of my birth is quite interesting, but that is not the anecdote that I will share.  Most of my family, comes by way of Wales.  When coming over to the United States, as with most immigrants, names were changed throughout the years.  As I like to honor my family's name, or in this case names, I will state you the changes that have been made throughout the hundreds of years.  This has made my understanding of my ancestors' to be very confusing.  Before my grandfather, on my father's side, had passed, I had been given much information about my heritage from him.  I also had the great honor of knowing my great grandmother into my 20s.

 My surnames have included Zobel, Yetikevich, Jurkeweicsz, Conway, Davis, Barr, Smith and Vaughan coming by way of Israel to Poland to the United States.  This would be my Jewish/Polish side.  I am also black and part Native American Indian.  I do not state African American because there is no way to track my ancestry to Africa.  And then there is my Welsh side.  Vaughan is a Welsh name.  But all the names were changed several times within Europe and then changed again several times when my ancestors immigrated to the United States including myself.  So getting to the story about SRV:

I have many relatives in the city of Chicago.  They are Welsh.  But since a large amount settled and still live in Chicago, many of them married Italians.  Because this anecdote involves my Italian cousin who has an odd Italian name, I felt it necessary to state this.  His first name is Deano.  No his legal name is not Dean and we add the O, it is legally Deano.   Now that he's in his 50's, how odd it must be having this name.

Throughout my youth I had always felt as if something was missing.  I used to have these dreams/daydreams about holding a guitar.  Though my family came from music, back to my great aunt singing with Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, all the way to the great Stevie Ray Vaughan, my life was revolved around sports. When I was 7 years old, I went to visit my family in Chicago.  I was favored amongst my cousins and treated quite well.  As we were vacationing there for around two weeks, my cousin Deano was and is a very wealthy and is still a quite spontaneous man.

He owns a Think Tank creating ideas for major companies such as Apple.  Though it took a few days, he had convinced my parents to allow me to go to Austin, Texas with him.  Though a road trip would have been fun, as a 7 year old, I don't think this is something my cousin Deano would wanted to undertake.  Because of his company, he had access to a private jet.  I was excited, yet nervous, for the first time being able to fly as one of my dreams was to be a fighter pilot.  My cousin, Deano, wanted to culture me in the greatest music of all, the blues.

I have always been particular to the blues, but really had  not understood the genres of music.  Little did I know, Deano had taken me there to also introduce me to a long lost cousin.  Though I can not remember the name of the bar, as I was very young, one day in the afternoon, Deano took me to a bar to get lunch.  On the stage was a man sitting in a chair with his feet propped up on another chair, his hat was tilted downward and he was playing guitar.  I did not know it at the time until getting into music later in life what guitar he was playing.  As we listened for 45 minutes, my cousin Deano had grabbed a drink from the bar and asked me to walk up to the man playing the blues on stage.  It was none other than Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Deano said, I want to introduce you to your cousin.  And then I was introduced to SRV.

Of course, I simply called him Cousin Stevie.  As he put his guitar in his case, downed the drink my cousin Deano had bought for him, the three of us had taken a walk.  Cousin Stevie was kind and gentle.  Humble and timid.  Was very respectful, but also very convicted.  We had walked around the city of Austin.  I was introduced to many people.  Later that evening I went to meet the rest of my family.  Stevie's family.  I was very nervous, not because of my cousin Stevie, as I had no idea of who he was other than my cousin, but the fact that I was timid myself, especially around new people, though they made me feel at home.

I have always been an honest person, but for some reason I had felt ashamed when asked a question.  Stevie had asked me if I had a guitar.  As he had jammed a little bit and let me play his.  Though I'm sure what I was playing, as I knew nothing of music, was horrifying.  When asked, I said yes I do.  He had offered to give me an old electric and/or acoustic saying I could pick.  I did not accept at this time.  Later that night Stevie had a gig and I was allowed in the bar despite my age to watch because I was his cousin.  Though I loved the music, the atmosphere was what I drowned myself in.

Skipping ahead, many years later and around the age of 21, I had picked up the guitar.  As I stated, I was involved in sports, that was my passion.  Before picking up the guitar I had three influences. Keb'Mo.  Eric Clapton. And eventually my cousin Stevie Ray.  What's interesting within this story is that I had no conception of who my cousin was.  When I heard Eric Clapton play "Before You Accuse Me" electrically and then did some research as he was coming out with his "From the Cradle" blues album, I was hooked.

Unfortunately, at this time, my cousin Stevie had passed a few years prior. I had seen him several more times before his passing.  I had learned a great deal from this on how we overlook those within our family that are the closest to us.  I don't believe it's because we don't appreciate them or that we're so selfish within our own lives.  For me, I believe it's because I looked at him as my cousin, not as the great SRV.  I had built a good relationship with him.  But unfortunately, through most of his life, he had suffered from drug abuse and alcoholism.

The last time I had seen him was in 1989, when he played at Austin City Limits.  This is when I had realized what guitar he was playing a decade earlier.  This guitar was his number one, the famous Fender Strat.  Stevie had said that he had over 200 necks replaced on the body of the guitar, but he also had several different bodies for it. Then there was the time I finally took the gift.  A multi-piece SRV number one, or in this case maybe number 151, guitar.  Finally, I had bought one of his CDs.  It was a remastered version of his greatest hits.  I was blown away.

Though it took me about another year to really appreciate what he was doing and what he would have accomplished through his music if not for the horrible circumstances causing his death.  Though I had an inside track on how he had gotten his sound. It had taken me years, as this was the sound that I wanted.  But to take it to the next level to accomplish this.  Though the equipment is a huge part of it, it is the technique and intensity that must be possessed.  I was given the same gift as my cousin was.  Unfortunately, my health has not allowed for many to see this gift, much less to even hear it.  I have done most of my playing live, and there are very few recordings of me.  Vocally, I have exceeded almost everybody.  Musically, I am the only person that can be and has been legitimately compared to my own cousin.  Throughout the years I have developed my own style as well, as when I came into my own, I had taken music to a new level.

The day that I am better is the day that this will be understood.  Without having Stevie musically, but also as my cousin, I would not have been able to achieve this.  So this is a great joy and anecdote, but there is a lesson to be learned here.  Whether we are youthful, whether we are getting up in years, we must stop and take the time to appreciate everyone, especially those that are closest to us. If we don't, life will pass us by and we will lose out on so much if we do not seize these gifts.

If Stevie wasn't Stevie, would I or anyone else appreciate him for who he was and what he has left behind?  If he was simply my cousin, but had never reached the level of success he did, if he never died, would he have had the influence on so many that he has now?  And is this something that he wondered, being such a gentle, humble soul, when alive?

When our hearts are full of love and we are contributing with the gifts that we have been given by God, we will be filled with our purpose to share with others.  It is very difficult to be sycophantic to your relative.  But it seems to be very easy to pass on by not only their gifts and talents but their love, as we expect it to go on forever.

Due to my health, it has made me question a lot of different variables.  Would my life be different today, would I even be sick if I had looked at life in this way, the way that I am asking you to look at it?  The way that I now see clear as day?  So this may be silly, but don't live your life in overcast.  Not only appreciate the beauty of everyone, but look for it.  Let it shine through.

As with many of my relatives that have passed early, again, I wonder how my life would be different if they were still alive.  The ones that have the great heart like my cousin Stevie. The great hearts that I have inherited.  And I surely do not want to pass without giving the gift that I have been given, but did not understand until it was too late.  And as far as the people who loved my cousin, no, I will not sell you or give you that guitar.  That is special to me.  But I'm sure all of you have been given something in equivalence.  Thank you so kindly for listening.  And God Bless you all.

~Joshua Jet Vaughan~


Post Script: Another statement that I make is that to lead we must follow and to follow we must lead.  Stevie was and is a leader.  Understanding this concept through his faith of God and his discernment.  Though we are similar in many ways, of course, I am my own man.  So again, I would be remiss if I did not add in Chris Layton, Tommy Shannon, and eventually Reese Wymans.  These men are an example of what I have just stated. The way they valued each other and, of course, Stevie.  This is a perfect example of my saying to lead we must follow; to follow we must lead.

As many Stevie fans watch his live videos, they can see how his band simply sits back  as Stevie takes the lead.  But without their support, without the love they had for one another, the way that this would have affected them as men and as friends would have not allowed for the music that we love and enjoy from Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble today.  Each man knew their place, as music, great music, that changed lives and is still changing them for the better was and is the goal, as today everyone wants to be their own "rockstar" dividing bands and music which is why music has no soul or life and nothing to give anymore.

To me this is an example of an appreciation for the love of friendship and family.  As family comes in all different forms as well as friendship.   Recently, my wife and I had attended the 2015 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction.  As I was to play, because of my current health and just being released from the hospital, I was not capable.  When inducted, the tears were flowing from everyone.  SRV and Double Trouble's induction was the greatest moment of this evening.

I had asked Chris what it was like and though I don't feel comfortable sharing his personal feelings without permission I will say that what he stated is exactly what you would believe he felt.  On a personal note, though it was a great ceremony, I was very disappointed with the people that were chosen to play Pride and Joy and Texas Flood.  Because he was and is my cousin, I feel that I not only have the right, but the responsibility to state my opinion on this. It was lackluster at best.  And frankly I was somewhat embarrassed.  There is a particular person who was playing and before I state this, obviously  none of this has to do with my cousin Jimmy or Double Trouble, the other artists that were chosen to play, specifically one, who I will not name, are a disappointment.

This one person, I am not speaking just about their musical ability, I am speaking of his personality.  He often goes on record stating that no one has ever had or will ever have the ability to play with the same passion or intensity that Stevie did.  Not only is this a comment made out of ignorance for his own inadequacies.  It is a comment that I believe my cousin Stevie would be appalled by.

Though he might be under the delusion that he is giving a compliment, he is taking away from all the other musicians that have been influenced by SRV, that have spent night and day with the same passion, the intensity that Stevie had, but simply have not been heard yet.  He is not understanding that because of Stevie, this has allowed people to take their music to the next level.  Just as the same could be said by Stevie himself for his musical influences.  Without those people, Stevie would not be what we know him to be musically or personally as a man.

Yes, him being my cousin has made me work to learn every song that he has ever recorded note for note, with the same phrasing, intensity and emotion.  With my Strat and simply playing any amp with just a tube screamer, with my massive strings, so high off the fret board, I have taken what Stevie has done and he has empowered me with a passion and love to play my music and of course his, with the respect of doing him justice.

Of course, without SRV, could this be possible?

Maybe, maybe not.

But this does not apply because Stevie was and is an influence to every musician.  And to every heart.  This musician that states otherwise does not understand the gift that he has been given from SRV.  And personally knowing this man, I believe that is his ego and lack of passion and love that made him state this selfish comment. When I listen to songs like Tightrope, or Texas Flood, or Pride and Joy, and then I listen to a song that is a sell out at it's best, as an example, Your Body Is A Wonderland, I feel no need to go on as I believe I have proven my point.

So all you musicians who are playing with the gift of intensity and passion, keep doing so.  Listen to the men like Stevie who encourage you to go after it, to be an open channel, and never make statements to restrict others or put them in a box, as this would be considered discouragement.  And personally, we must always try to surpass the greats that came before us within our own styles of music and personality.  Because of the respect that we have for what they have passed on to us.  Thank you my cousin Stevie Ray Vaughan and his incredible band Double Trouble, for the blessing you have given me and the rest of the world.  Remember, music grows and breathes and loves, just as we do.

The Last Good Fight

Wipe away all the tears,

but you say that's all that you have.  

But it's gone on for so many years.

that you can't even remember how to laugh.

You hope that the time comes,

that your life is not just a half,

a half of belonging, of seeing,

where your flag is at half mast.

When the only thing you know,

is sorrow and pain.

Which all you ever did was grow,

amongst the degradation and shame.

As you look to the Lord,

with your love, with someone to blame

Your dignity still in store

but it can't stop the rain.

So you're held up and beat down

with no where to go.

With all the gifts bestowed upon you

yet, none of them you can show.

The fire inside of you

and an ounce of dignity intact

with all the faith that you have

you wonder who has your back.

Is it cliche to think

that the words of Truth are actually true?

Supposed to hold us together

yet there are so few.

That, understand what I'm saying,

or am I the only one?

that keeps on praying,

but the answer is none.

So you're held up and beat down

and all of your strength and grace

but on this planet created for man

there seems to be no place.

No peace, no home,

no tunnel of light

just a long wind-y road

and just blurriness of sight.

So I wind up asking

for this very last time

not what is owed or

what should be mine.

But rather what could I do

with my needs bestowed upon me

and my love for you

is all that people would see.

So lift me up

and pick me up off the ground

give me once, what I knew

along with the new man that I have found.

For the glory only goes so far

if there's no one to show.  

So please give me this

or just let me go.

So no more held up or beat down

for this is all I know

So for who you have created

please please let me show.

If peace and salvation

is not just at the end

how did I lose so much

that I cant call the father the father or even my friend

As I look at this world

and I am not proud

yet in sickness or health

I still praise your name loud

The many gifts that have been given

they were once before

you leave me with only one

and when will she be no more

So I say this to you

with all of my heart

give me back myself

and the world will see my heart.

I'll stand up and fight

and give the glory to thy name

for there's no honor in sickness

just my spirit in shame.

Like said before

the three men I admire most

the father, the son,

and the holy ghost

But the love I feel from those

I surely can not boast

So I'm still held up and beat down

with no where to go.

This confusion in my head

I hope, is not all that I will know.

so pick me up

and put your hand into mine

let me feel your grace and love

and leave all this behind.

I'm not the only one who deserves this

I'm sure others do too

but I can't think of any one else

who loves you more than I do.

by Joshua Jet Vaughan ~ For all those hurting

Joshua's Joys

I've always loved this song. I find the lyrics quite curious. The title of the song, and the main line of the chorus, "Only the Good Die Young" is simple in nature. But so are most great quotes or song titles, etc. Do any of you believe that only the good die young? If you really give it thought, it's quite interesting where your mind goes.

Joshua's Joys

Soon we will be posting a quite interesting anecdote.  It is about Joshua's first meeting with his cousin Stevie Ray Vaughan.  So if you enjoy SRV, please stay tuned for an incredible story.

~GSET Team

In the Words of Joshua

Hello my friends. I have been very ill.  I spent a long time in the hospital. Have not had much to say as of late. Asked my friends, which we call the GSET team, meaning my wife Anna and I, to disable page as I have been in quite a difficult place. Had them restart it, but I did not want anything to be spoken of without my approval as I have been incapable. The GSET team, my wife and I will start reposting, but it will be tentative; until I feel better and more comfortable for the several followers who have continued  with their loyalty, I commend you on your friendship. As the message of love has resonated in your hearts. I send you all my love. As these words are spoken by myself, my wife and the GSET team: May God Bless you all.


~Joshua Jet Vaughan~


 

Joshua's Joys?!

When Joshua was in his teens, one of his good friends was the son of the inventor of the bullet proof vest.  The inventor's name is Richard Davis. He would hold an annual "Shoot." It was specifically called the Second Chance Shoot. Second Chance was the name of the body armor company.  When Richard Davis first tested his body armor in the late 70's, he shot himself pointblank in the stomach with a .357. At this time, the vest was the equivalent in thickness of 16 Hanes white cotton t-shirts. They would hire kids to pick up the bowling pins that they would shoot, amongst other small tasks. But would pay $100 a day cash to teenagers to do just this.


There would be a multitude of musicians and actors that would come to this. William Petersen from the original CSI cast. Paul Newman. Ted Nugent. Joshua had shared this anecdote with us before; saying that Ted Nugent was great fun but out of his mind. Always stating that his arrogance was stemmed from his insecurity.  Though never being a huge Ted Nugent fan, he always loved this song called Hey Baby. Though this song was from one of Ted's many ventures of trying out different bands. It is not Ted singing, but it is Ted on guitar. Before going on, there is an anecdote to come that is actually quite serious, related to the Second Chance Shoot, but for now let's stick with the song. Also loving the song Stranglehold. Something about the groove he would say.

There is always some form of plagiarism in movies and music.  Especially when it comes to blues music, or rock and roll, just a faster form of blues. Listen to the intro of Hey Baby by Ted Nugent, and then the intro of Truckin by the Grateful Dead. A subtle difference. But even the person that has the least musicality in their ear can hear it. Hear what? A similarity. Adding to what causes the difference between musicians/music and actors/movies, knowing who you are and finding your own style. That's what will separate you. On a statistical note there are over 12,000 chords on the guitar. There are 12 notes per scale. Yet, somehow we still find ourselves limited. Which comes down to our influences.

Joshua always states that there will come a time, as you are growing musically and as a person, that you will become your own influence.  And when you find your style through this, you will be somebody elses'. So compare, but enjoy both songs. And then we will throw in the psychedelic song that makes you feel like you're high without being so. Stranglehold.  And because Joshua would want to add a little Texas Blues, we'll throw in a little SRV.








Post Script~ Do not be afraid to embarrass yourself. Not because you are doing something foolish, but specifically in the field of music, pushing yourself to achieve the next level. Your voice, your guitar, whatever it is that drives you in music, whatever instrument that you play. Getting to that point where you learn your voice so well that throughout the years you will have missed notes, you will overbend a string on a guitar, hit a wrong chord, or even be in the wrong key. It's just like life. There are very few people that have not gone through this. Joshua has many recordings from many different artists, from Elvis to SRV showing, as you listen carefully, the mistakes that were made. Most people overlook them. Most of Joshua's influences were great before their time, but they still had those moments of embarrassment. It's simply inevitable.  Joshua has stated that he has had many of these moments throughout his music career. That it wasn't until he went into remission at 34 that he made no mistakes. As he will often state, this comes down to knowing who you are.  Arrogance lies in insecurity, but confidence is derived from the hard work stemming from conviction.  If you learn from your mistakes, the more you make, the less you will make. And in ending, music is the perfect metaphor for life itself.

Joshua's Joys

Our leader and founder has been in the hospital in a coma for almost two weeks.  We have been in contact with his wife, Anna Bella, and we hope and pray and believe that he will wake soon.  Joshua is needed and loved by all, and he is missed dearly here by the GSET team.

His wife Anna Bella had recorded this song for Joshua on her smartphone one day, because she would sing it to him on particularly rough days to bring him peace.  She wanted to record it for him, so that even at times when she had to leave his side, he would have a piece of her with him at all times, and will play it for him, even as he is not conscious.

Our love to Joshua and Anna, and Joshua please wake up and get better soon. We love you and need you.

~GSET Team

 

Joshua's Joys/ Tom Wright/ GHS Strings/Andy

Though we have not begun to scratch the surface of Joshua's Journey; most of his stories have been of severe tragedy and even those that have not been spoken of are beyond disbelief. As we have stated earlier, it is very difficult to keep in order his stories, because they are so many and so complex.


As Joshua graduated from high school early, he had received his doctorate in medicine at the age of 22. At the age of 21, he had picked up the guitar. Though he had practiced shortly in the field of medicine, he knew that his calling was music. It was not shortly after this that he became severely ill affecting his opportunities.  At the age of 22, Joshua had formed a band.  After one month of playing, submitted a song to a major record label. Just one. Within two weeks, he had gotten a reply. It was Atlantic Records.

Through a series of events, the record deal did not come to be. At the same time a wonderful company had offered Joshua an endorsement deal. GHS Strings. It was initially a three year contract at 70% off that eventually lasted for over a decade at 100% off all merchandise from GHS Strings and their sister company Rock Tron. A wonderful company who has promised that when he has recovered, his endorsement will be back in full effect. He's always considered them friends and family. And would play no other string.

Throughout the years, opportunity kept knocking. The music industry had changed quite dramatically as companies were buying out other companies; merging etc. The days of unsolicited material were over. You had to know someone to be someone.  It's like the old adage you can't get a job unless you have experience, but the job you're applying for would give you the experience. That is one of the reasons that Joshua started his own record company GTRecords; where he and his wife have control over such things as this.  Not with just a record deal, but with production, helping with the creative process, management, distribution, bookings. When you're in the music industry it all becomes very simple, but until you get there it is an excruciating process. Because of Joshua's illness, he did not do much recording.  He toured quite often.  Through some of his treatments, he'd have to see a doctor weekly.  One day Joshua was at home and he received a phone call from Tom Wright.  Some people know Tom Wright as being an amazing photographer, chronicling amazing photos of incredible musical bands.  How Tom came to be THE Tom Wright is that he grew up with the band The Who. He offered to be their manager and history was made; for that is what had happened.  Tom had heard of Joshua through word of mouth.  When Joshua would record, he preferred to go to his own studio that he had built throughout the years; a small town, so he could be alone and free from distraction.  Can you call this serendipitous? Tom Wright lived not just several miles from Joshua's studio, but had no idea.

It all started like this, during the summer break from college, a famous world renowned bar/restaurant with an incredible amount of other great enjoyments called Brownwood Acres, was reopened.  People such as Paul Newman, Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra would come and sing at this restaurant. 15 years or so earlier there was an actress named Christine Laudi who was a dancer at this club.  The dancers were called the Brownwood Honeybees. When the new renters had come in, knowing the history of this amazing place, Joshua was immediately asked to form a band and was asked to call it the Brownwood Killer Bees.  Within 2 weeks, as Joshua can play almost every instrument, taught this band how to play a 4 hour set of songs. This is the start of the word of mouth.

 Back to Tom Wright. Joshua, still being ill, was doing a little better. Though he was still having trouble with his medical treatment, Tom had called Joshua one day and they had a long conversation.  Joshua stated that Tom had extreme excitement in his voice.  Tom simply asked Joshua to do a recording.  He wanted it on a tape.  Yes a simple tape recorder.  As Joshua's favorite PA system to use for practice, called a Fender Passport, Joshua wracked out 7 or 8 tunes, some acoustic, some electric, some covers, some originals.  He sent it to Tom.  Tom called Joshua back three days later. The excitement was incredible.  Tom told Joshua that he had never heard anything like him.  He said "You need to be heard, and to be honest this will finally get me back to what I'm supposed to be doing, which is managing."

He explained to Joshua why he wanted the recording on a tape, as he was old school; because there could be no overdubbing or second takes. After that it was easy.  Tom offered to do all the work, but  explained that his mother was ailing.  So Joshua called up Epic Records, simply said Tom's name, which Joshua had already had dealings with Epic and had already turned down two record deal offers, but obviously it would not hurt matters to have Tom Wright in your corner. Joshua had flown down to Epic's New York headquarters and performed in one of the many A&R rep's offices.  He simply had a Peavey Delta Blues with a 15" speaker, a tube screamer, and his Fender strat, strings 13-58.  They asked if he could do a small demo with just three songs for legal purposes. Because of Joshua's illness, he had to fly back to where his doctor was.  He had left his equipment at Epic. As he went back into the doctor, he became very ill again.  A multitude of treatment, a multitude of medication.

When Joshua had first submitted to a record company, he had simply bought a book called SongWriters Market.  One of the biggest things he had learned was not to make excuses. A&R reps feel quite degraded when this is done.  Most believe they can hear the talent and gifts and to make excuses for your sound is irrelevant.  Joshua had read a book by Eric Clapton, who by this time he had met several times over and had played alongside.  Eric said, " I do not want a boy's voice, I do not want to hear a boy's voice, I wanted a man's voice." Explaining about all of the horrible recording sessions and how awful he was, yet thought he was incredible.  At this time, Joshua had only had a couple of amps and guitars. His best ones were left back at Epic/Sony Records. So he was left to use horrible equipment, plugged directly into the computer, doing all the instruments, going through chemo and on a lot of medication, this took away from his singing, of course, music ability in general. But, they already heard him live, so, he spit it all out, one take, then overdubbed the accompanying music; again, which he played all instruments himself.

As Joshua has stated before, so many opportunities have come and gone because of illness, that nobody has truly heard what he sounds like.  But this story is about the people along the way.

Shortly after Tom's mother became ill, so did Tom.  Joshua often feels disappointed as he has told us several times, what bothers him the most is that he could not give Tom the opportunity that Tom had so generously and unselfishly given him.  But this is one of the examples of who you touch in your life.  Of who remembers you.  Who knows of you.  But more importantly, what do they remember?  And what do they know about you?  There are always going to be people who have nothing good to say about anything or anybody.  Those people don't matter.  There will always be the Tom Wrights and the GHS strings. Many times people give false hope. Sometimes because they want to hurt, sometimes it's because they want to be something so badly for themselves and for someone else, they believe if they speak it they will will it to happen leaving people to be disappointed.  In life, you can be sure of something about lying, in a personal conversation the more information that people offer up about something that is not asked, it's more than likely a lie or an embellishment. And interestingly enough, it seems as if the more people know about something, especially a lie, that somehow it becomes the truth.

Many things that Joshua has taught us.  As of now, Joshua's the sickest that he's ever been.  All of us here at the GSET team have no idea why this is happening.  What seemed to be a simple fix within his body has now become so complex.  He has mentioned often; what if he would have taken one of those record deals, would his life be worth saving?  Or at least would he be getting proper medical treatment?  If you subscribe to "Nothing happens out of God's will." then there must be a reason.   Serendipitous.   Simply fate. Joshua has stated several times before, that at 34 it was finally his time to shine.  Though it has not come to pass, the last time Joshua was ill for three and a half years, when he had gotten better, he was thankful.  If God is listening, we ask for Joshua's healing. There are many people who have touched his life, but we believe even more in the people's lives that he has touched for the better.  Though there are so many tragedies yet to be revealed, and so many joys, living them, living through them, is completely different than seeing or hearing about them.  Something that Joshua had wanted to state before he was in the hospital, we only received part of it, but we believe it would be fitting to put out there.

When Joshua was 34, at that time he had met a young lady that was only 20, now his wife Anna Bella.  Though they have went through horrible tragedies together, the word that is being emphasized here is together.  Starting out in the purest love, how damaging sickness can be, real sickness. He said it seems as if when there's more love to be had, the more it can be taken away.  Desperation, frustration, confusion, ensues, but it will come to pass. Sometimes you shut yourself down so you can start from scratch and build yourself back up. Through all their troubles, we have never seen a truer love than that of Joshua and Anna's.  Through thick and thin, good and bad, they stayed by each other's side. Before Joshua went into the hospital, this is the last statement that was sent to us: In every situation in life, from the worst, to the best. from the smallest to the biggest, when you can only see yourself experiencing all of these things with only one person, and without that person there would be no joy to be had, then my friends, you have found true love. And that is Joshua and his wife Andy.

~GSET TEAM~

Joshua's Joys

As I have been through so much in my life, striving to learn, grow. Better myself and this world.  I have been held back by extreme sickness. I have had my blessings as well. Though I could not take full advantage of them because I have been ill for so long, they are now overlooked. As I have gotten so close to reaching my dreams and goals, just before my health had been stripped them away again. After being an athlete, becoming a doctor, finally getting into music. Something had resonated throughout my entire body.

I have often stated that there are only two absolutes in this world, that is math and music.  Though my confusion with God about my own personal life affects me greatly, it still does not blind me of what God is about. Every great idea that a man has had was placed on his heart by God. Though, as that is the case with me as well, we still have to work. As many people are lacking in faith because of how we feel that we are, we don't understand that we are living it everyday without seeing, without feeling.

We push so hard to reach our dreams and goals, and we simply have faith that they will happen.  We get knocked down and we get back up. I think of the bible and I correlate it with a movie trailer.  As we go through verses, that we specifically use for our own benefit.  A movie trailer that gets us excited as we long to watch this new upcoming film. Yet so much can be missed as the movie trailer is manipulated for each and everyone of us, specifically to draw our attention.  Yet the message will get lost if we do not take the time to watch the movie and understand. Which is the same result if we do not read the connecting stories and pages of the bible.

God gives us what we need in our hearts to succeed. People get in the way of that. We get in the way of that.  It is clear that God uses what He has created; for God got down on His knees, used His hands to help plant the Garden of Eden.  As He would walk through the Garden in the evening as He enjoyed and loved feeling the breeze flow across His face.  Mathematics is the key to the universe.  It is one of God's languages, as He is fluent in all of them, because He created them.

Music is the other.  My opinion of music today is that it is horrible.  A repetitious beat, with repetitious lyrics. There are no chord changes, phrasings, beginning, middle, end.  There are no modulations, no legato.  There are no hooks or bridges.  No chorus.  But more importantly no heart, and no soul.  For it has been overpowered as an avenue to become famous.  But if you are not a musician, and I do not subscribe to the word artist, if you do not live through your music, and do not allow others to do so as well; fame will be overshadowed by infamy, and that is not something that you want for yourself.  Personally, it's like listening to a reggae song, they all sound the same.  Obviously, not all reggae, but it's the example that I'm using as of this time and I have a great sense of humor... so laugh! And apparently I am very bossy. Though there are musicians out there that understand what music is; it is a passion, it is a being, it lives and it breathes. But these musicians are overlooked for the quick buck and the sad story and promiscuous outfits.  The gimmick, the image is what's important in the world of music today.

Music is truly healing.  As the world becomes worse, we don't correlate for some reason that our music has gotten worse.  People who just throw a song out there to be heard, so that someone else can give them an opportunity, when they should be taking the power back. For instance, with my first record deal, I was the commodity.  I didn't work for them, they worked for me.  I understood this, as I had turned down several record deals, as I knew something was missing within myself.  Simply I did not feel ready.  Unfortunately, I became ill again, but, that is when I had realized what was missing.  My self worth.  I worked out my own deal.  I reserved, as I pushed to own my masters.  Yet, few have heard me. Again, unless you have heard me play live, exactly what I can do through my music.  I know who I am. How I wait and long for my album to be released so I can be heard and will not have to explain anymore.  But also I long because it will give me the opportunity to give others opportunities.

I have had many ideas for many years. Striving, pushing.  In the music industry you can not send in unsolicited material.  It is ridiculous. I have spent my time creating an opportunity to others to submit their music.  I don't need a professionally done, produced cd.  I can hear it in a simple tape recording.  My health has affected the progress of this, is bothersome to the fact that I can not show my own gifts and talents, but that I can not help others to do the same.  Music has become a factory of computers, and it has been lost within the major record labels.

So getting to my point.  To the absolute that music is; a gift given to us by God is over looked by the title rockstar. Celebrity.  For the angels sang and danced, giving glory, praising the Lord for there was a secret chord that David played that pleased the Lord.  (on a sidenote: I have studied the bible long and hard as well as music.  And in my heart, in my spirit, I have found this chord.  It is literal and metaphorical.  When you find it, you are ready.  Yet I will not tell you the answer.  For the gift will not be appreciated if it is handed to you.  For the joy of Christmas morning eventually becomes lost.)  Music always is and always was.  It was intended to bring passion and joy, and of course love. It was a way to share a part of our soul in a few small minutes. Being able to say more and help more than we could ever do through words alone.  It is a form of an action.  Since celebrity, music and movies have taken over the world.  Well, there's nothing you can do about that.  But what we can do is change it, to the way God intended it to be. And the way we all want it.

We crave our fame so that we can finally be free to truly be ourselves, yet it never works out that way.  We must hold steadfast, believe in ourselves and hope this.  Athletics, music, two of my many joys in this world.  At the same time is so frustrating as I can barely sing a note any longer.  All of these wonderful avenues of media/social media have opened up the world for us.  And we have yet to understand that we are the ones that have the power. We determine what we say, how we act.  In today's world there's no need to be sycophantic.  To admire title.  We have a means.  We have a way to build a business that we never have had before.  A way to make people laugh. To share our beautiful hearts, our wonderful ideas.  Our voice. Through these avenues we have the ability to be better than we ever have. Without having to rely on the man, or the powers that be to determine if we are successful or not.

Though that is subject as we determine our own success.  I love music. It is the truest form, the purest way to share your heart with someone else.  For the musicians and the movie makers, I hope you understand that the hearts you are touching, the souls you are healing, the inspiration you are creating is what all of this is about.  Do not look down upon others.  There's enough room at the top for everyone.  The person on the top right now needs to remember that there is someone on their way up that mountain.  You can either extend a hand to help them or you can turn your back reveling in your own glory. Eventually that person will make it to the top.  And as you had no room for them, they will have no room for you, and that is a viciously dangerous cycle.  Music is a revelation, it is a prophecy.  It is the only thing available today that we all can join together in and enjoy.  I love movies as well, but they only can be watched so many times. Yet billions of people a day will listen to the exact same song every day for decades.  A power like that could have only been created by God. So embrace it.  But no matter what you do, what your passions are, how all you think, your job where your life is, yet isn't.  There is a purpose. There is always a purpose.  And if you use your voice with conviction and love, the world will hear you.  Sometimes as musicians, we get tired with playing the same old tune.  The same verses. Remember though, someone is hearing this for the first time.  And no matter who your inspiration is musically, that one note, that one verse, could inspire the ten year old boy or girl to be the next Stevie Ray Vaughan, and of course I must add the next Joshua Jet Vaughan. damn you laugh!

As I would like to go in more detail into other things, I am beginning to trail off as I am hungry and tired.  I simply wanted to share with you some of my joys.  I try not to speak when I am having a hard time doing so, most that I say I don't think, it just comes out.  When I find myself struggling and having to think, it is time to stop.  Another reason why I love music so much because the same applies when creating a song.  But every day that someone helps us, it allows us to feel, how I miss laughing so much, but occasionally I will see, hear something that lifts me up.  We touch people in so many ways, but unless it is seen or heard by the masses, we overlook it. What we are failing to realize is that it might take time, because it always does, but eventually you will be heard.

It's been 2000 years since the bible has been written.  Yet, we're still reading it.  I have patience and grace.  Embrace your joys.  It has been 20 years since I had picked up the guitar.  But through my illness, mainly through touring, would really add up to about five that I have actually played.   But I have learned so much more, by taking the time, or rather being forced to take the time, to look back in retrospect.  This is what we must do.  We must do it for ourselves and for others. but again, this is another wonderful thing about music, as I listen to a song, it takes me back to the time when I first heard it, or the experience that I was having during that time.  And that is the only thing on this planet that can do that.  Whether you believe or not, that is divine.

~Joshua Jet Vaughan~

Post Script~ Most of us despise mathematics. But if you go beyond that, there are many answers.  Through mathematics we live in a world of theories. Theories are relevant, they are poignant.  And theoretically they are an answer. So a simple statistic for you, as I often say there is enough room at the top.  In my music and movie endeavors I have been to many studio lots.  I have learned that most industry that runs this world comes down to 7 people.  Yes the fate of the planet in the hands of 7 people with so much money and power they can do nothing but want more.  Back to my statistic, one of the major movie studio lots that I had visited is so large that you could take every person on this planet, put them side by side, back to back, and they would fit in that one studio lot.  Think about that.

Just before I turned 35 I had recorded my version of the song Hallelujah.  Though I am very humble, at that time I had an understanding and security about myself; a confidence, a conviction.  So, as I usually talk about my sickness and try to bring attention to what is right in this world and what we need to do, for one time I would like to say something about myself in a positive manner. After three and a half years of not singing or playing, I finally started to do so again as I went in remission.  When I had heard myself back on a recording, though I already knew, I had realized I had the most powerful voice that has ever existed. I had the most natural rasp.  I never missed a note.  And though what you will hear of me before my album, what you will hear of me on Youtube, is a horrible example of this, my album will show it.  I had taken my guitar to an entire new level that has never been heard.  No one has heard a voice like mine. Guitar playing like mine.  The way that I create music. Yet, I have used the influences and inspirations of others as I layed in my sickness thinking about what I wanted to sound like, what I wanted to convey through my music.  It's as if God had restored what I had lost, but 10,000 times better. So with a bass, drums, piano, and me on guitar and lead vocals, as my wife would accompany me, the version of the song Hallelujah will be the most powerful version that will ever exist.  As with many of the songs that will be on my album.  I would have wanted my album to come out first, and then said nothing; I feel the need to say this because it is partially therapeutic for myself.  As I had stated in another post, the last time I tried to sing and play I was in a coma for a week as my body collapsed.  So please do not think that I am bragging or arrogant.  Just let me have this one thing.  If you believe that what I am telling you is true, I promise not to say it again.  If today you are in a serious mood, I want you to remember, that I am laughing right now.  Not like a bumbling fool, but just a little snicker.  With everyone else, as they are serving their purpose, travelling the path as they are walking their journey, just as I had realized, that I had a long way to go, any years ago that also allowed me to understand how far I had come.  You must believe in yourself.  You must understand that what you are lacking in, so that you can achieve what you are working so hard for.  Though we may not understand the specifics of what we are lacking in, we know something is missing.  I believe for each and every one of you that this day will come to pass.  The person that refines themselves, their work, never resting in their laurels or bathing in arrogance, that you believe that you are great and beautiful.  And whether you are a mechanic, a comedian, etc, you will reach that goal.  And if you do so the right way, and God forbid any sickness comes about you pushing you off that path.  Embrace your confidence and conviction.  But stomp out any arrogance.  If you do this, you will succeed. No matter what your path is, it is yours to share with others.  I must believe our purpose in this world, is one in the same.  If you understand this, then it is your time to walk tall.  If you don't, your time will come.  Believe in yourself as I believe in you.  God Bless, I love you all.

Joshua's Joys~ A Capella Anna Bella

We just received this video from Joshua's wife Anna Bella.  She made this in honor of, and for her husband, our founder and visionary, Joshua Jet Vaughan.  This is a song she sings to him when he is having an especially tortuous day, to bring him peace and joy. That is love in the truest form.

Joshua's Joys ~Hospital Stoagie

In true Joshua fashion, took off with his IV bag, found a storage room, snuck a stoagie into it, yes he got caught, but worth it. Three years of continuous illness, three weeks of chemo, several days in a coma, nothing can stop this man. And he's sexy as hell. 

Joshua Jet Vaughan~ Stevie Ray Vaughan Style Fast/Slow Jam

My husband is a true musical phenom.  I've never seen or heard of anyone with the talent and gifts that he has, not just musically but in all things.  Everything he sets out to achieve he does, except when his health interferes.  The first time I had heard him play was one of our very first dates.  I was skeptical because, being a musician myself, I knew of how many people would say they are musicians, and could only play two chords, but the moment he began playing I was stunned. Awestruck doesn't begin to describe the amazement I felt at his skill and talent.  And he can play and sing anything.  It doesn't matter what genre, what song, what artist, he can play and sing with it.  He has the most amazing voice that I have ever encountered.  It sends chills down your spine, and flutters your heart, and makes your soul sing.  The rasp and the power that he has.  From the moment that he picked up the guitar he spent hours a day.

Original band, these were two guys that had played with all the greats.  They were studio players.  They had decided to play again, found Joshua, and sought him out. They taught him and allowed him to become the kind of person that they showed him.  They gave him a chance to grow, and to grow musically in a way that he may not have been able to on his own.  They supported him and encouraged him.  They inspired Joshua to become the type of man that they gave him the example to be.  The chance that they gave him, he in turn felt to pass along to others.  He would use his endorsements and connections to sponsor Battle of the Bands for kids.  He would call up and get memorabilia, watches, books, strings, and guitars.  GHS strings, one of Joshua's endorsers, who had supported and endorsed Joshua since he started playing at 21 years old.  Fender had donated guitars and a bass and overnighted it to them.  He had a passion for reaching out to kids, working with one band for 8-10 hours a day for two weeks helping them to prepare.  To learn. To grow, just like he had been given the chance.

All of the "artists" that are out there today are, frankly, crap.  No one has any soul anymore, it is all manufactured on a computer, there just isn't the passion for music that used to exist.  Even Miley Cyrus said, in  an interview on Conan O'Brien, that "there just will never be another Elvis Presley." But there is!  He's right here, and because of his health problems and his sickness stripping away opportunities for him, he hasn't had a chance to shine!

Joshua spent three and a half years in bed sick and suffering.  He wasn't able to play, he wasn't able to sing or write.  He wasn't able to eat or drink, and was completely alone.  He had God and he had his thoughts.  During this time he thought and prayed.  More time than anyone has ever spent in their life. 16 hours a day he would pray. Reflecting on his life, on the things he had seen, heard and done, and the people that he had known.  He thought about his music. What he couldn't do, he thought.  And what he couldn't learn through doing, he willed into being.  He wasn't even aware of this until he went into remission, and finally decided to go out to karaoke (the bar where we would later meet) He wasn't sure he could sing at all anymore, but when he did, he sang the way he had imagined, and that is what came out.  A whole new level.  His songs from his demo are from before then.  He never wanted them to be heard, but then knew that if he put them out there, and especially for a cause as great and needed as aid for the homeless, than people would see, when his debut album is finally released, that people grow and change, even the greats, and that hard work, perseverance and fight can achieve your goals and dreams.


Now once his album releases, I know everything will change.  My Joshua's voice and guitar and his music as a whole will change the world, the way his purpose has laid out for it to.  But it is so frustrating, not just to see him not celebrated and his talent not shared with the world, but with his worsening health problems, to see him struggle with his music and at times having not been able to play or sing at all.  It hurts him very badly, and he can't sing with his power and intensity because it causes him so much pain and singing.  It's angering to see him struggle and work so hard at simple tasks like setting up his guitar, when I would watch him for hours tinkering, when we first met, to get that perfect sound.

It was always one take.  One take and if it wasn't quite right, come back the next day, listen to it, and correct it in one take.  He never made mistakes.  His playing, his singing, his writing, all flawless.  Now when he plays he struggles.  It makes it difficult for him because his back locks up, his arms and his hands cramp, and the pain and the sickness start to overwhelm him.  He stops being able to feel his music and just let it flow, to having to think about what he is playing. It's part of what separates him from every other musician out there today.  The passion. The soul behind his music and his sound.  How the music just flows from his soul through his heart, down his arms and into his fingers.  And when he doesn't have that, he's always disappointed, because while it is still better than anything else out there, it's not him.  It's not Joshua.  He would get so sick that he would throw up, but he would get done, put it behind him and keep working.  That had happened for years, but he could go right back into.

For those who have had the blessing of hearing him play live, they would agree that no talent has ever existed like Joshua Jet Vaughan.  No one has ever had the power or rasp he has in his voice and no one has ever heard before the intensity and soul in his guitar or the heart in his lyrics.  Though there are many musicians in the past that possessed this, Joshua was born with it but has always had to struggle through extreme illness and adversity to develop it; with a passion for life itself.  His platform and forum was and is music.  Learning from the greats that do not exist today.  There are very few recordings of him, though he has paid his dues, done the hard work and played the gigs, toured the country.


The videos on the playlist below, two were from a demo that was never supposed to be released. He was going through chemo , and was in final negotiations for a record contract, after having gone over 70+ offers including Universal, Atlantic, and many others that are well known, deciding to go with Sony/Epic Records.  They had heard him play live, and one song had been all it took for them to make an offer.  But they needed a demo for legal purposes.  They had negotiated the signing bonus, how many albums would be involved, and Joshua insisted on owning his masters. The songs Red House and Come Together were from this roughly recorded demo.  He had gone in and played all the instruments himself, and added vocals.  He's always been disappointed in it, because he was so sick from the chemotherapy treatments that they do not do him, his skill, his talent, his guitar or his voice justice.

The SRV Fast/Slow Blues jam was recorded on my smartphone during a warm up/sound check during a recording session a few weeks ago.  He was just fiddling around trying to get his sound down, and I secretly recorded him and posted it on Youtube because he is so great.

The Drivin South Cover of SRV is of a concert we did back when we first met in 2009 that a tech had recorded.  We had just begun playing together, and Joshua had taught me the bass.  It was about two months of teaching, a week of rehearsals, before we landed this gig.  At the time Joshua was only about 35% better.  Though the guitar was a little harder because of the intensity that he would play with, it would cause him to become ill, playing very large strings.  Very thick and powerful sound. There still was an extreme struggle for Joshua because while the emotion and passion was flowing through his body, so was the pain and sickness. His mind still wasn't as sharp, and his fingers were not as articulate, so even though, still not being up to par, his sheer will and passion won out.We had no idea that this recording was even out there until Joshua's cousin/our drummer posted it on Youtube a few weeks ago.


I can not wait for my husband's album to come out. 90% of his upcoming debut album was recorded when he was in remission.  The album will be a 2 disc cd, with songs from his upcoming movie about his life that has already been green lit.  On one disc is the soundtrack and Joshua was to star in it before he got too sick again.  The other disc are mostly originals and a few covers of his true passion the blues.  For the world to see his talent, his skill, his passion, his soul, the intensity of his guitar, the power and rasp in his voice.  Everything from his inflections that he uses, to the words that he writes, to the melodies he sings, to the phrasing, the legato, the scat talk, the ringing of his high notes, the rumbling of his low notes, the soaring of his guitar.  Joshua believes that one great song can change the world, and I know when Joshua's album comes out, the world will never be the same.  With the struggles and the fight that he's been through and is going through, when the day comes that he is healed by God's hand, I will rejoice, and the whole world will rejoice with me.  My husband is too important and has too much to give, too much love to give for his life to have been in vain.  My Joshua believes to live your life in love.  Love is the way to righteousness and the right way to live.  Music is just one of many ways to change the world. For Joshua it's his way and God's way.



On a side note: My husband has always said that your words and your actions are only as good as the heart behind them. We all have the ability to make this world a better place. We all have our gifts.  In today's world, many people believe that they are not enough.  We must take pride and have dignity in what we do.  There are no little people.  There are no celebrities, everyone's life deserves to be celebrated. Everyone has something to say.  And everyone deserves to be heard. We must stand firmly on our platform and those who have a voice and a forum must help those who don't.  Whether you work construction or in a factory, or you're an actor or a musician, the lives you touch matter.  We're all just people. We don't live by title or fame or fortune, but we can use these gifts as a way to reach out.   From a person who just gives you a nod and a smile, that brightens and lifts up your day.  Joshua always says I am a fan of no man. I am not a respecter of man. To me it is their words that are followed by actions and it shows their heart. But we all live through the same spirit. Growing up in the world, in a family with fame and money, he had seen the destruction it can cause. Or the foundation that it can build. No matter who you are in this world, you don't get to where you are meant to be (where you want to be) by yourself.  Pointing out to me and others many times, stories of individuals that have made this world a better place. Recently he had been speaking of Nelson Mandela.  Or Rubin "Hurricane" Carter.  Each of them had went through sufferings.  Yet, without the people to support them, they never would have made it through.  Just a handful of people. To where they had been inspired so much to continue fighting for their own lives that when they finally had justice; it inspired them to fight for other people's lives. Jesus is our greatest example of this. He had his twelve disciples. It is never just us. One person's love. One person's sacrifice can change the world for the better for 7 billion.  All we need is grace and patience. We must not separate ourselves from each other. We must look at how we act.  We must understand that we can destroy lives or better them.  Sometimes just by one word. One look. One gesture. It is disconcerning to my husband as people live their life as right fighters, not righteous fighters.  Wanting to tear down instead of build up.  He has spent his life alone.  Always believing in himself no matter what. And no matter how hard he worked, no matter how much talent he was given by God, just a handful of people have helped him to push forward. As my husband has recently become more ill, something I feel that I should relay for him.  When speaking of his music that has just been posted, knowing that it is not a percent of what he is capable of.  He bears no shame with what he was going through at the time, and what he is going through, he did his best. He does not subscribe to the word try. He just does. That's what we all must do. We will fail, but the more times we fail, the more chances we have to succeed.  We must take that opportunity to learn and grow. We must hold on to each other and must take the time for each other. Encourage. The world has so much to offer us, but we have more to offer the world. We just must realize that we are not alone in it.  We must know who we are in Christ.  We must help others.  And accept them.  Allow them to grow at the rate that is meant for them.  Do not look through rose colored glasses.  Our strength and our grace is a gift, but we must work for it.  Striving for conviction and righteousness, and as Joshua often says, as we already all know this, this is derived from truth, and love. Because there is no greater truth than love. Embrace your flaws. So that you can be great.  But always remember that the person to the left and right of you, the person that's behind you or ahead of you are just as important. For the people to the right and left are walking along side of you.  The person behind you is striving to find their way, as you are leading, the person in front of you, you are following because they have made their way.  But it is never ending. Understanding that to lead you must follow and to follow you must lead.  And I feel that it is necessary to put one of my husband's humorous rants. Always stating that social media is such an opportunity to share and care. Though he embraces the world of celebrity for the opportunity it provides, not just for himself but for others, oh the things that we could do.  But often ranting about Twitter.  Having millions of followers and never reaching out to one of them, saying do these people not understand that without these followers, their support system, not their fans, their friends, they wouldn't be in the place that they are in today. If they don't buy your albums or movie tickets, you have no career.  When dealing with movies, there are so many people involved, but only a few get the credit.  It is no different than the man who makes your car. That takes pride in his work, that works 18 hours a day to keep you safe. And without that man, you'd be walking everywhere.  Joshua talks of music as an absolute, though many people have a part to play in it, you are your own writer, director, actor, manufacturer.  It is a gift that suits my husband perfectly.  Often ranting, and how I love his rants, about Youtube.  Youtube is a wonderful forum.  But it is lacking in platform.  Joshua grew up in a world that you had to work hard, you had to pay your dues.  You earned respect and you became accomplished by these means, but also by the relationships that you had built along the way.  To use Youtube to share.  An opportunity that many take for granted.  Screaming out look at me! As he would often say about the musician who would play in his garage hoping that an A&R rep would drive by and offer a record deal.  It's not the views that matter.  If you have something to say, it's the people that you touch. But it is great in many other ways.  It is a great form of entertainment.  It can lift us up.  Everybody wants to be a Rockstar.  How about just wanting to be yourself and when you are true to yourself the truth shines through to others. Everybody wants their every word and thought to be heard. On Twitter. On Facebook. Being able to comment to each other, but it's always so full of hate.  Never understanding the dislike button on Youtube. Hiding behind a thumbs down.  Saying don't dislike it, just don't watch it, and keep it to yourself.  A way of hiding behind yourself to hurt someone else.  Of course, being a musician he is mainly talking about music, He loves so much that he doesn't understand arrogance.  Watching one of his friends on a talk show who believes that he should be paid because without him face book  would not be where it is today.  Stating, no, without the 90+ million friends you have a face book, you would not be where you are today.  But as always full of joy for the success that each person reaches.  Knowing that their heart longs for the same things that every man, every woman and every living being longs for.  To use these social media tools , not for greatness, but to do something great with them for others.  To share and care. When I listen to my husband I understand his passion for music.  A song, a note, that can strike up and bring attention to every emotion we feel.  But hide them.  Which has brought back my passion for it.  As everyday he inspires me, as I am a classically trained pianist, always telling me I have the voice of an angel, saying it does not matter how good of a teacher I am, it's how good of a student you are.  Capable of learning the bass and playing a very complex song and a multitude of songs in a two month period.  The willingness to learn will give you the opportunity to teach. How he dreams of waiting for us to be healed as we have our band Joshua Jet Vaughan and the Voice of God, we have our duo Mr. and Mrs. Smith.  we have our record company GTRecords, how we fight and pray for the day that he is healed.  He has so many ideas and all he needs is his health to put them into action as he is always fully committed and convicted.  This is God's plan.  And when that day comes we will rejoice. As will the world. For on that day it will be changed for the better forever. Amen!

~Anna Bella Vaughan~

Joshua's Joys~ More karaoke hits

As we're finishing editing part 2, of the letter from Anna Bella, for content size, here are a few more of the hits that she and Joshua would sing at the karaoke bar where they met.

Joshua's Joys~The Early Days of Stevie Ray Vaughan

Played over the phone, recorded on tape recorder/ answering machine.  True talent and hard work shows through no matter what. Stevie Ray playing guitar, Chris Layton his drummer, playing drums on a table and phone book.


 

Joshua's Joys~ Fast/Slow Jam

Joshua's Joys~ Drivin' South