Hard Times

[Explicit]

sloparts

Genre: Rock

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Description

When I found out that Jack, Andy, & Patrick were coming to visit Jeannie & I here at sloparts studios in Barling, I decided early on that I wanted to have a song ready to go written just for the occasion. Since I had been working on an instrumental track with the tentative name of "Hard Times" and had the basic rhythm tracks and structure for the song done, all I needed to do was write the lyrics and lay down the main vocal for it.

Since they were due to arrive about 4pm on Saturday April 2nd, and as of Saturday morning at 10am I still didn't have any lyrics written, I figured I'd better get to work if it was gonna be ready for when they got here. Nothing like waiting for the last minute I always say.

So I set about writing the lyrics, which actually came fairly easily, and then laid down what I thought would be a scratch vocal track. As it turned out, my "scratch" vocal was pretty good so I decided to use it.

After the guys arrived that afternoon, and we had a chance to just visit and share a wonderful meal Jeannie fixed for us, (including the alligator surprise made especially for Patrick), we decided to lay down some tracks for the guys and see where it took us.

What you are about to hear is the results of our combined efforts

Andy - awigze - Sax and Mandolin
Jack - davisamerica - Harmonica
Patrick - Outtaorbit - Mandolin, Lead Guitar, & Vocals
Ed - sloparts - Bass, Drums, Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar, & Vocals

Here's a link to the Video we did on YouTube

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Lyrics

Hard times
By: Ed Wemmerus
Copyright 4-2-2011 Edward C. Wemmerus Sr.
All rights reserved

Key E Maj. Tempo 100 bpm

Verse 1

Hard times, is where you find your friends
Hard times, is where they see you through the end
That's when you know, who your real friends are
There the ones, who come to call,
When your back's against the wall
In the Hard times, in the Hard Times, in the Hard Tmes

Verse 2
Ain't it funny, how some folks like to schmooze
With the people they think will give them the most free booze
But when the chips are down they're nowhere to be found
The Hard time friends are the only ones around
When troubles and strife have got you down
In the hard Times, in the Hard times

Chorus
When the shit hits the fan, your good time friends never call
But your Hard Friends, will always try cushion the fall
That's who your real friends are, In the Hard times

Bridge 16 Bars musical ad-lib

Chorus
When the shit hits the fan, your good time friends never call
But your real true friends will always try cushion the fall
That's who your real friends are, In the Hard times

Ending
In the Hard Times, in the Hard Times
In the Hard Times, in the Hard Times
In the Hard Times, in the Hard Times
In the Hard Times, in the Hard Times

Song Stats

Hits: 1959
Comments: 105
Fans: 51
Plays: 130
Downloads: 54
Votes: 3
Uploaded: Apr 05, 2011 - 10:32:38 AM
Last Updated: Jun 30, 2011 - 06:00:08 AM Last Played: Jan 24, 2013 - 08:21:17 AM

Song License

Creative Commons License:
Attribution-NoDerivs

Song Actions

Keywords:

friends (74), hard times (6), good time friends (1)

Hardware:

Imac 2.0 intel, Tascam FW1804 FW interface, Peavy Generation EXP (Tele copy), Ibanez RX40 (Strat copy), Andy's Sax & Mandolin, a Harmonica, & Patrick's Mandolin

Software:

Logic Express 9

Comments

scofugate	scofugate said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	What a CREW!!--Texas Rangers--- What a Tune!! , Oh so true to have great friends brother!! I am glad you put this one together my friend!! Wonderful "Bluzzzzzie" tune ED! Your the man ED!!! Check out my latest song called Prelude and Jam W/Ibstrat

sloparts	sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Thanks Scott You are right about friends of course, especially when the chips are down. We had a wonderful weekend. Got to visit, have a great meal, and make music. It doesn't get any better than this. thanks again for listening and the great comment Scott, it is appreciated. Be well and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

guygrooves	guygrooves said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Awesome track!!!! Ed you and the boys knocked this one outta the park. Glad you decided to stick with the non friendly radio version ;P Great job guys!! Peace Check out my latest song called Summer Bossa with sloparts and Loob

sloparts	sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Thanks Guy Really glad you got to join us for the weekend even if it was only on iChat. Can't wait to see you when you get a chance to come to call my friend. Be well and be coo, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

davisamerica	davisamerica said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	so... who is taking care of who here?? too much fun Ed. I guess ya got the moat filled again now huh? Check out my latest song called 12

sloparts	sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	There's no reason I can't drain the mote on a moments notice amigo. Just say the word and the gator will be gone too. Love the fun we had together this weekend. We simply must do it again soon. Love all of you guys Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

DWL	DWL said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Must have been great fun doing this. What a buzz to be able to work directly with these guys. Great song Ed and a fine collab :-) Cheers Dick Check out my latest song called Not For The Likes of You

sloparts	sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	There's nothing like it Dick, getting into the studio with a bunch of pro musicians and laying down tracks for a project like this is just awesome. I heartily recommend it if you even get the chance. We had a great time and the song came out rather well I think. Tanks for listening Dick Be well and be cool Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

magnatone	magnatone said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hard Times this is FABULOUS, and so is the video, and the whole thread with photos and stories from the trip - it's all wonderful. glad you guys had such a great time and left us a song as a souvenir! Check out my latest song called Blind Love (Seeing Heart) - Orchestral Version

sloparts	sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Thanks Karen We had a great time, so we really wanted to share with Y'all. Glad you enjoyed the whole show and left the wonderful comment. Thanks again, Karen Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

KCsGROOVE	KCsGROOVE said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	dang , Ed! pity I live on the other side of the world, would have loved to play with you guys! Cool song, and the words so true, You learn who your friends are when the shit hits the fan.. It seems you got a few :-) Dig it, guys! KC Check out my latest song called I DON'T LIKE IT

sloparts

sloparts said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)

You are oh so right
about learning who your friends are Cees. The thing is, there are so many wonderful people on this site that always seem to go out of their way to help those in need that it just amazes me.

Glad you dropped in and had a listen, and would dearly love to have you drop in in person on of these day.

Be well and be cool my friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

dave_b	dave_b said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hard Times Great lyric, anyone that's been in a bad spot knows it's true. Bluesy tune captures the emotion in the lyric really well. The all-star band is playing some tight & tasty tracks. Great to hear another post from you Ed. Check out my latest song called Llarions Blues

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)

Thanks Dave
I haven't been able to do much music in the last 6 or so months, but this one was an important statement that I wanted to make about true friendship and love. These guys are some of the best people I've ever met, and it was an honor to be able to sit down with them and do this song.

Thanks for listening Dave, and the kind words. All of us appreciate it more than you know.

Be well and be cool m friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Symphony101	Symphony101 said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Awesome line up ! And a great song Ed ! Kudos to all ! Check out my latest song called Lonely Generation

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hello Yves I hope this finds you and your family all doing well. And you're right, this is a great bunch of players, working on a great song. Glad you enjoyed it. Be well and be cool my friend, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

awigze	awigze said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Wow What a weekend. Hard times turn to great times. It was good to see guygrooves there too via Skype. very special. Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Whenever I'm talking about my true friends, I am including Guy in the mix. He's a very special fellow, in the same way you guys are. The Hard Times did turn into good times this weekend, one that I'll never forget. Thanks to you and Jack and Patrick Be well and be cool, Andy Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Char	Char said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	You all put a lot of heart into this little ditty which has the ring of truth. Great job, everyone. Thanks, all. Check out my latest song called The Sea

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Thank you Char Really glad you enjoyed the song and the way we did it. It was a labor of love to be sure. Thanks again for the kind words, Char Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Bob Rodgers	Bob Rodgers said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	There is nothing better, having great friends to make music with and have a great time, sounds like you did just that here Ed, another wonderful meeting of some very fine people. Really enjoyed this song and the video, a great collab. All the best Bob Check out my latest song called We Can't Let It Go

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Thanks Bob Glad you like the song and video. We had a lot of fun doing them both, but especially being able to work together here in the studio. It doesn't get any better than that. Looking forward to out next chat Bob, Be well and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

drakonis	drakonis said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	nice music for great friends Excellent work, but the most important part is the real-life meetup, how special! Thanks again for sharing the video and photos on the forums (you should embed it in the description here too!) ttfn, Drakonis Check out my latest song called Belle Aire (for Mandolin Orchestra)

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)

Hello Drak
We had just a little too much fun this past weekend, but it was more than worth it. The visit was a real morale booster for Jeannie and I, and I think for the guy too. And while we were at it we managed to crank out a pretty cool song together. What more can you ask for then that.
glad you enjoyed it Eduard. Thanks for dropping in to listen and for the kind words. We all appreciate that more than you know.

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

sheilad

sheilad said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)

this is
by far my favorite. The story it tells could not be told any better and to have such wonderful people together to create it makes it even more special.

Friends ARE what keep us going through the good and the bad times, are the ones we lean on and the ones we are always there for when they need a hand in return. With friends like you guys, there are less and less hard times.

Check out my latest song called Nana Lives

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hello Pixie Great to see you here, but would have loved to have sen you "Here", if you get my drift. We had a wonderful time and it did make the hard times seem a lot less hard, having the guys up over the weekend. Thanks for everything Sheila, but especially for being you. Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

alackbass	alackbass said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hard Times Sounds like them hard times were a lot of fun! Great jam gents! Thanks for sharing! Check out my latest song called Just Ain't Worth a Song (2 Track)

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Thanks Andrew You are so right my friend.We had a wonderful time together breaking break, enjoying each others company, and making music. I can't see how it could get an better. Glad you like the song, Andrew. Thanks again for the kind words, we all appreciate it very much. Be well and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Bob6stringer

Bob6stringer said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)

You da men!
Sounds a little like a country outlaw dinging' the blues. (With a side of gator!) Glad to come callin' and hope I can cushion the fall, ed, because I love you, big brother-man. Cool groove, and GREAT collab.

In fact, for that great road-trip convergence, I hereby adopt you guys, Andy, Jack, Patrick, as official extended family, too. And don't try and talk yerselves out of it, yer stuck with me.

Check out my latest song called Call Me (Turn to Me Reprise)

awigze	awigze said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Bob6 Ya hear that gents... we're stuck with Bob... can't be a bad thing, right? Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

davisamerica	davisamerica said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	we are cool with that.... can we have our allowance now??? Check out my latest song called 12

awigze	awigze said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	as long as you don't get more than me..... Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

awigze	awigze said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	and another thing you just stick to playin your harmonica and stay out of my side of the room! DAD! Jack's staring at me! Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

Hello Bobby
This was a great experience for me and Jeannie, and for the boys from Texas too. We had just too much fun, but it was wonderful.

Thanks for being who you are and doing the things you do Bro. You are so special to Jeannie and I. Now that we have this extended family, we'll have to try to get the entire clan together one of these days.

Peace to you Bobby

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	I just figured it out, all Y'all are nuts. But I love that about you guys. Jack, if you want your allowance, you're going to have to stop teasing your brother. Straighten up and act right for gosh sake, will you please Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Outtaorbit	Outtaorbit said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	And the Duck? Check out my latest song called Strange World

ChristopherCihon	ChristopherCihon said 777 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Yes... Nice tune fellas. I enjoyed all the elements. They all fit together nicely. Amazing that you got Orbit away from making out with the duck so he could participate. haha!! Seriously...great job guys! Check out my latest song called The Strings Inbetween

davisamerica	davisamerica said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	he loved that duck man....lolol Check out my latest song called 12

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Seems to me that when I was a young man there was a saying gong around. It simply said, "Beg to kiss a duck". Never knew what it meant mind you, but apparently Patrick took it seriously. lol Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

RAVENS	RAVENS said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Nuffin better than friends... How wonderful that the guys paid ya a visit, Ed. It must be so much fun to jam with other MJers. Love the song & video, you guys rock! RAVEN ;-) Check out my latest song called Tattooed Scars (w/ Sigmund, Scofugate, Rok41)

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

You got that right Dani
Friends make it all worth doing. They give you a reason to get up in the morning when you really would rather just let the day slip by.

This extended family of ours put the fun in dysfunctional. But that works for me I'll tell ya.

If you ever get the chance to get together with this wacky family we all share on MJ, do it. You won't be sorry.

Be well and be cool Dani

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Carrie71	Carrie71 said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Hard Times What a fantastic tune. Love the vocals! Great job by all the boys. The harmonica hits just right, sweet touch! Check out my latest song called Pretty Baby Bang Bang w/ProtoTypeEightyOne/Gaylen75

sloparts

sloparts said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)

Jack is the man
when it comes to harmonica. And Andy laid down a Sax part that was just so awesome. It's like he reach inside my head and saw what I envisioned, and then played it. And then there's Patrick. Aside from his little adventure with our resident Rubber Ducky, he knew just what the song needed to give it that special something on the ending of th song, and just did it.

Great bunch of friends, and a great bunch of musicians as well.

Glad you liked the song Carrie, We all thank you for the kind words on it

Peace to you and yours,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Outtaorbit	Outtaorbit said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	I really don't get the whole thing.... About the duck? Sometimes love just happens. Check out my latest song called Strange World

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	I know the truth about the rubber Ducky, Pat You were trying to use it as a Conch shell. Am I right or am I right. Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

kassia	kassia said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	very cool what a group! this is great - Ed, great song and I really love the funky bass. jackrabitt you can really play that harp! love the combo of harp and sax in this song. you are the next fab four, i know it! Check out my latest song called Greensleeves

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

Fab Four
I like that one Kassia. Of course I'm not sure were ready for prime time just yet. I think we're going to need a few more on site practice sessions here at the sloparts enclave first.

I too love what the guys brought to this song. They gave it that something special it was needing to take it to the next level.

Glad you like the song Kassia. We appreciate the kind words on it

Be well and be cool

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

davisamerica2	davisamerica2 said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	Great to hear and see this, Ed You know it left many of us green with envy. There's a special bond we all feel here at MacJams. Must be that Master Link. Is the duck still there, or did she run off with Pat? D/L'd Check out my latest song called Muddy Fields/ w DWL & rmarris

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	We missed you Terry, but we also understand the realities you are dealing with right now. Looking forward to your next visit my friend. As for the Duck, it's still here, just in case you want a turn too. lol Be well old friend, see you soon Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Evil_Genius	Evil_Genius said 776 days ago (April 5th, 2011)
	We like Good friends, good times. Hard Times needed to know the difference Check out my latest song called You Must Understand

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Amen to that EG Hard Time separate the real friends from the wanna bees. thanks for listening and the cool comment, we surely do appreciate it. Be well and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

ShadowofNine

ShadowofNine said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

Hi Ed
My dad use to say, enjoy your friends and hope you have more than one good one...I can see from the video that you have more than one good one, I can't tell you how cool it was for me to see those guys, your friends and fellow musicians, as well as you and your wife. I had been wondering about you, but was unable to contact you because of my own health issues, which hit hard late last year, and put me back in the horsespital again in late March. Enough of my belly aching what I really want to say is I hope you are feeling well, and that your health is on the upswing, I enjoyed the tune and everyones participation on it...

Cheers

Dave

Check out my latest song called A Sad Goodbye (Julia's Song)

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

Sorry to hear you've been under the weather Dave.
I will include you in my Prayers and keep you in my thoughts.

This is a very special bunch of people that came to cal, and we had a wonderful time together just visiting and sharing a meal together. The music was the icing on the cake, and I think it shows.

Take care Dave, hope you are on the mend and doing better now.

Peace to you my friend

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Feter	Feter said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Hard Times Wow ...its like a dream come true ..my best friends get together on a studio and had good time playing hard times ... a true gem everybody ..Ed thanks a lot for sharin ...Kudos !! Check out my latest song called Roll with it

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Thank you Feter Glad to see you again old friend. It was special, that is all I can say about it. Very special. Glad you enjoyed the song, and the work we all put into it. Be well and be cool, Feter Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

awigze	awigze said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Feter wee miss you everytime we get together... soon, soon. Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

neilh79	neilh79 said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Hard Times What a cracking tune, great blues lovely bounce well done guys! Check out my latest song called Resurrection of Life Final Mix! (w/ Loob, Rok41, Symphony101, Gadzooks)

sloparts	sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Thanks Neil G;ad you liked the song. We do so much appreciate the kind words you left for us on it. These guys are some very special people, that's for sure Be well and be cool Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

PeterB7858	PeterB7858 said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Justice done... Must have been great to have a "band" drop around for a jam. You had a great song for them to work with, Ed. And they did it justice. Nice work by all concerned. Love the ending. Much enjoyed. Thanks for the D/L. Take care, Peter. Check out my latest song called Autumn Falling

sloparts

sloparts said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)

Yes it certainly was great, Peter
On all kinds of levels it made for a wonderful weekend and a wonderful experience. These guys are the best of the best in my book.

As for the song, I wanted it to express the truth about real friendship, and what it means. We had fun doing the finishing parts and it totally changed the character of the song from a somewhat monotonous jam into a song with character and soul.

Gotta love it when the band comes to town.

Thanks for listening Peter and for the gracious comment, we all appreciate that more then you know.

Be well and be cool,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

hackneybloke	hackneybloke said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	hard times watched the vid and posted a comment on youtube. the whole thing had me smiling throughout. Check out my latest song called Every People Know w/Rok41, KTB, Scofugate & Sisters

sloparts	sloparts said 775 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Thanks Julian Well that's cool. Glad to see it brightened up you day a little bit anyway. We appreciate the listen and the great comments my friend, thanks again for that. Be well and be cool Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

egobandit	egobandit said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	oh yeah when the shit hits the fan, so true where are all those fair weathered friends, great down and true rock and roll blues, you guys must have had alot of fun! Check out my latest song called walkin out my door

sloparts	sloparts said 775 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Yep, There a ring of truth in this song for sure. And yep, we had a great time putting this one together. Not a hard task when you working with Pro's like these guys. Thanks for listening Tim and for the kind words. We all appreciate that very much. Be well and be cool Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Sigmund	Sigmund said 776 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Hard Times Man that good ol rock n roll doesn't get any better than this. Ed - excellent job here - in putting together an awesome collab group, and for a real cool tune. I enjoyed the video too - great to see you are all doing well - enjoyed - thanks! Check out my latest song called Under Your Bed - feat. strangedream, rok41 & Steve Ritter

sloparts	sloparts said 775 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	Rock-n-Roll forever man Gotta love it. thanks for checking this and the video out Sigmund, we're glad you liked them. Be well and be cool my friend, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Relic67	Relic67 said 775 days ago (April 6th, 2011)
	alright! you're telling it like it is... I like the sounds you guys put together. the mandolin is a very nice touch, harmonica too. very cool! Check out my latest song called Someone Else's Thing

johnwhitehead	johnwhitehead said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	Hard times... "when the shit hits the fan..." Righteous lyric and comfortable groove. Lotta nice touches: harp. wah wah guitar, sax, mando. Yeah, man! Check out my latest song called Wandering Blues

sloparts	sloparts said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	That's the only way to tell it, as far as I can see. Andy, Jack, & Patrick added a lot of drive and energy to this song, Without them it would have been just a groove behind the vocal and not much more. Thanks for the listen and the kind words Alec, we all appreciate that a lot Be well and be cool Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

sloparts	sloparts said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	Thanks John Glad you enjoyed the song, and the little touches we used to flesh out the original groove track I built for it. It was a labor of love I'm here to tell you. About how true friends, Like Patrick, Andy, and Jack, can really make a difference when the chips are down in "The Hard Times" Be well John, and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

tempie	tempie said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	man you've got some willie in your vocals this time around lots of fun and true. love that wah lead just plinking along under everything. Check out my latest song called Fan Fiction (Stan Lee Writes Reed Richards)

sloparts

sloparts said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)

Well, I'm glad about the willie,
in my voice, I think. Not sure what you mean by that, but I'll take it as a genuine compliment and thank you for it.

I wrote the song as a tribute to the Texas Mafia coming up to Barling in an effort to give Jeannie and I encouragement and morale support. These guys are the definition of "Hard Times" friends. The ones who are there for you when the going gets tough, and in our lives it has indeed got tough. That kind of friendship speaks volumes.

As for the music, it was a collaboration in the best possible terms. Andy's Sax and Mandolin parts gave the intro and verses a whole different and better character. Then, when Jack laid down that harmonica in the bridge he filled it out playing that part on top of the Wah-wah lead I'd put down on the original backtrack groove. What was the icing on the cake was when Patrick added the mandolin, vocals, and guitar play out to the ending of the song.

It was like we were all working with one mind to make this song the special song it is. Even the key for the song was different than what I usually do. Normally I don't do well singing a song in the key of "E". But this time, and I don't really know why, it worked.

Craig, I want to thank you from all of us for listening, and for leaving the gracious comments on the song.

Be well my friend, and be cool

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

bud	bud said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	Too much fun - that's obvious so glad you all got together and created this fine tune. Check out my latest song called ditto

sloparts

sloparts said 775 days ago (April 7th, 2011)

So are we Kevin, so are we
This was more fun that would be considered legal in some place in the world. Because we shared our friendship in this special way, we all came away feeling very good about the song, the visit, and our "Hard Times" Friends.

This is all about true friendship, in the very best frame of the word.

Thanks for listening Kevin, it means a lot to all of us

Be well and be cool

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Vic Holman	Vic Holman said 774 days ago (April 7th, 2011)
	hard times now when someone mentions "it sounds like you guys are in the same room" this literally holds true. cool one fellas! Check out my latest song called Darkest Skies

sloparts

sloparts said 774 days ago (April 7th, 2011)

you're right Vic
and the best part is that the interaction of the people involved i right there in front of you to see and feel. We had a wonderful time over the wekend enjoying each others compay, share a meal together, and making some great music. There's nothing better than making music with good friends.

Glad you enjoyed the song Vic, and we all appreciate the kind words you left for us, Thank you for that.

Be well and be cool my friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

jiguma	jiguma said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	Jeez Andy, Jack and Patrick never drop by my place! This is terrific - everything about it is just right. Well done guys! Cheers from a rather itinerant Aussie MJer, :) Check out my latest song called News Is Gonna Break

sloparts

sloparts said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)

Hello Neil
I'm not sure, but I think the reason for Andy, Jack, & Patrick not dropping by you place might have something to do with distance and roadways. It's 294k from where they live to here at my place, and 13905k from their place to yours. Add to that the fact that they haven't completed, (or even started), the new bridge from our west coast to your east coast, and you can understand the inherent problems associated with making such a trip. lol

Anyway, glad you like how this one came out my friend. The boys from Texas did a wonderful job of filling in the blanks and making the song complete. We all appreciate you taking time to listen Neil, an the kind words you left. Thanks you for that.

Be well and be cool my itinerant friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

awigze	awigze said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	plot well we plotted 3 different routes and we decided that everything was 294k from Barlin' Arkansas. Somebody said, Hey- let's go to Jiggie's! But we ran out of that homemade tater juice. Check out my latest song called Dark Waters w/scofugate, ktb, Pickquickrecords, Ren-Tin-10

sloparts	sloparts said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	Geez Andy, why didn't you let me know. I've got 3 or 4 gallon jugs stored under the front porch just a stewin' away and gettin' better with each passing day. I'd have gladly given you guys a couple for the ride home. Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

RochaMalhada	RochaMalhada said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	sorry I could not make it! Had a conference to go to :( Next time, pal.... . - Harold Check out my latest song called Ascent of a Tree (w Mike_D & FEEL)

sloparts	sloparts said 773 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	Thanks Harold Looking forward to next time Harold. Would love to have you and John come up on of these days, you're always welcome. Be well and be cool my friend, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Ibstrat	Ibstrat said 772 days ago (April 9th, 2011)
	This made my night! Your singing on this is so good, the whole thing just feels fantastic. You've got soul man! Check out my latest song called I Could Write a Book

sloparts

sloparts said 772 days ago (April 9th, 2011)

Thanks Mark
Glad you liked the song, and my singing. I wrote the song as a tribute to true friends, the ones who are there for you when you get into the Hard times. These three guys are among the true friends and they came through in spade doing their parts on the song to boot.

Thanks again for listening Mark, and the very kind words.

Be well and be cool my friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

Doadars Uncle	Doadars Uncle said 772 days ago (April 10th, 2011)
	Real nice! So true! I've got 'em all weeded out by now! Great group! Good times. Check out my latest song called Alone (reboot)

sloparts	sloparts said 771 days ago (April 10th, 2011)
	All it takes is, is having something in you life go bad, and the weeding is done for you. Thanks for listening Doug, and the kind words. I had some of the very best to work with on this song and they really took it to the next level. Glad you enjoyed the song my friend, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

michaeljayklein	michaeljayklein said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	This was great! Great going guys--I'll have to check out the video when I get home from work! Three rounds of applause from The Twin Cities on this--thanks! Check out my latest song called Old Man Mose is Dead

sloparts

sloparts said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)

Thanks Michael
We had a lot of fun putting this together in person. Although I'm sure Andy, Jack, & Pat must think I'm some kind of tyrant when I've got my producers hat on. lol (inside joke, you had to be here to get the true picture).

A guy could not ask for better friends than these guy, I can say that from personal knowledge. They are the best. They're also some of the best musicians on MJ. That's born out by the work they did fleshing out the song with all the right stuff.

glad you liked the song Michael. I think you'll get a kick out of the video too.

Be well and be cool my friend,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

SJB	SJB said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	Hard times Best thing I've heard for ages. You did an excellent job putting this one together. Steve Check out my latest song called Harm(less)onics to Fade

sloparts	sloparts said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	Thanks Steve I credit how good this sounds to the contributions of my friends. I did the basics, and they added the sheen. Thanks for listening and the kind words, we all appreciate that a lot. Be well and be cool my friend, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

rok41	rok41 said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	Hard Times Love these types of collaborations...so much diversity. Very cool song and nice performances by everyone! Check out my latest song called The Game

sloparts

sloparts said 770 days ago (April 11th, 2011)

Hello Chris
Thanks for stopping to listen Chris. This was a fun song to put together if for no other reason then the guys were all here and we did it live. collaborations are great, but in studio live recording is so much better.

We're glad you liked the song, and we all appreciate the kind words you left for us. Thank you for that.

Be well and be cool Chris,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

TERRAPLANE	TERRAPLANE said 771 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	Good Times In these hard times Ed, Thanks so much for sharing this song & the video with us. Isn't it wonderful how music brought these special friends to you? I'll never forget back in my easyTbird days you were the first to comment on my songs & mentioned you lived in Oregon.The best to you friend. T . Check out my latest song called COME ON IN MY KITCHEN/ w Pockbluesman

sloparts

sloparts said 770 days ago (April 11th, 2011)

Hello Terry
It's been just over 6 years since I move away from Oregon, and even though I like were I am now, I still miss living on the Oregon Coast.

One of the really great things about this place called MacJams is the friends you make along the way as time goes on. Another is the spirit of giving and helping others that prevails here, whether it be helping someone to learn new things about doing music, or joining together to support others in our community in need. What a great place to live and grow musically !

Glad you enjoyed the song & video Terry. Thanks for listening and for being a friend.

Be well and be cool,

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

jibes	jibes said 770 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	Hard Times How true it is. Great job boys!!! Check out my latest song called JESSICA

sloparts	sloparts said 770 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	True it is Neal and the guys did a wonderful job of bringing the song to the next level. Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for the kind words on it. We all appreciate it. Be well and be cool, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

davisamerica	davisamerica said 770 days ago (April 11th, 2011)
	final word.... damn we had fun.... Check out my latest song called 12

sloparts

sloparts said 770 days ago (April 12th, 2011)

Yes we did, Jack
You guys are amazing friends and even better musicians. I cannot thank all of you for lifting my spirits like you did, and getting me to want to start writing music again.

But most of all it was the joy of being able to just be together, share some wonderful food and the laughter from all the kidding around we did, o top of the music.

More of those memories to last a lifetime my friends, from you, And, & Patrick. Even Guy got to come and say hello for a bit, via Skype. It and iChat are the next best thing to being there.

So yeah, "damn we had fun"

Jeannie & I love all of you guys

Ed

Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

FEEL	FEEL said 770 days ago (April 12th, 2011)
	What a bunch Bunch off fun having some close ones over to bring some good cheer. It sounded like a blast... Love the lyrics and the groove. Maybe some day I'll get the chance to sit in. Thanks for sharing this special occasion. Check out my latest song called I Want Emoticon

sloparts	sloparts said 769 days ago (April 12th, 2011)
	I look forward to the day John with you and Harold too. Glad you liked the song. Thanks for listening, it was a lot of fun working with the guys right here in the studio. I think they did a wonderful job of getting this song to shine with the parts they brought to it. Be well and be cool John, and thanks again for the kind words, Ed Check out my latest song called Quack's Blues

davisamerica	davisamerica said 643 days ago (August 17th, 2011)
	rest in peace Ed ... you were a blessing to so many here. Check out my latest song called 12

davisamerica	davisamerica said 637 days ago (August 22nd, 2011)
	i need my friend Check out my latest song called 12

SmokeyVW	SmokeyVW said 633 days ago (August 27th, 2011)
	RIP rest in peace Ed Check out my latest song called RUOK

Moviz	Moviz said 633 days ago (August 27th, 2011)
	You'll always be in our minds Ed..... really nice to have known you, RIP, M Check out my latest song called Shine Your Light

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Artist Info

Name: Ed Wemmerus
Location: Barling AR USA

I've been playing guitar since 1962. Over the years since then, I've also learned to play Bass, Drums, and Keyboards, as well as playing the Guitar. I live in western Arkansas now, and I am retired. I'm just kickin' back with my new found freedom, ... [see more]

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