Welcome to another Sunday Spotlight! The artist in the spotlight today has something to say! He is a true-blue genuine-to-the-core man who chooses his words carefully. Then he delivers them with passion.
John Pops Dennie…honest, contemplative, sometimes…his voice is almost as thick as his big, grayish beard.” – Dallas Observer
His new album, “I’ve Got Something To Say” is timely as America trudges through a surreal 2020.
The first song on the album, “Rose Garden,” is nothing at all about the flowers and everything about the injustices of life. “We can’t feed our families on a seven dollar bill, work eighty hour weeks in conditions that kill, and we ain’t gonna live on scraps anymore…”
Since the album started out with a protest song, I thought the title track, “I’ve Got Something To Say,” would carry on that theme and to my surprise I found a great love song with a funky beat! “People say I talk too much, but I got a lot to say. When I think about your touch, I’m gonna shout it out night and day…”
“Adrift” is a poignant look at the state of affairs in America today. “I say it’s raining outside, my brother says it’s not. Sees only what he’s learned to see and he doesn’t learn a lot…He doesn’t see the fire. He doesn’t smell the smoke…”
One of the most melancholy songs I’ve ever heard, “Long Black Cadillac Train,” is a mournful refrain.
A compelling story, “Creole Lady,” is filled with powerful imagery and an easy melody. This song is the perfect example of how a writer can weave an entire story in just over four minutes. It is my #1 pick on the album. “It was a helluva day back in ’39, when they took her away to pay for her crime. Falling in love was how it all began, but she fell in love with a poor white man…”
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hstyWuh9lI&w=560&h=315]
Slowing it down, “You Can’t Hear Me” is another persuasive story song that tugged at my heartstrings.
Reminiscent, “Loving You Like Old Times,” speaks of lost love that will never be reclaimed, and it brought me to tears. “If I were a king, I would sell everything just to have you here with me again…I’d write your name across my heart in flames, if it would bring you back to me…”
“Gonna Move” is an upbeat story about a young man coming into his own.
A haunting melody, “The Pendulum Swings,” is the perfect depiction of Karma, and an addict you cannot save.
Another song that shows the versatility of this artist, “Escape From Bull Run,” takes us to a time in early American history.
The album closes with a strong statement with “Here We Are.” The lyrics say it all! “Never dreamed the likes of them would ever fall for the likes of him, oh, but but somehow, here we are…”
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jghLCYRq_Vw&w=560&h=315]
I cannot say enough about this album. The musical stylings run deep and wide with versatility and relevance. You’ll find everything from vintage country to rock, blues and folk. John ‘Pops’ Dennie’s twenty-four carat vocal delivery is warm and full. He is America’s conscience!
Please take a listen and pick up a copy! You will not disappointed, and at the same time, you will be supporting a music artist who is giving his heart and soul to the craft!
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Holy Hannah! John ‘Pops’ Dennie has a new fan. Thanks for this wonderful introduction, Jan. Wow. Hugs on the wing.
Yep! Me too, Teagan! I am going to make an effort to go hear a live show if and when that becomes possible! Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Teagan! Thank you so much. I’m truly honored to make a connection with you.
Thank you all for the warm reception you’ve given my new album. And thank you Jan Sikes for so eloquently describing the content and color of the work. I believe music is at its best when it becomes a conduit for connection between creator and audience. Your comments are wonderful affirmation that my music is doing its job. I’m humbled by your praise, and I’m so very glad we have connected.
I love that, John. Music is at its best when it becomes a conduit for connection between creator and audience. Wow! Profound. I am going to steal it. 🙂 Just kidding. I’ll give you credit, but I am going to create a meme with that saying on it. I hope you gained some new fans through this post. It was a true pleasure to have you featured here!
Thanks for the intro, Jan, to John, an artist I hadn’t heard before. I enjoyed the song too as well as his voice. Great energy!
I totally agree, Diana. He has great energy and a great voice! Thank you for stopping by!
Another great post, Jan. I love your introductions of musicians. ❤
Wonderful, Gwen! I love doing it!
A terrific introduction to John, Jan. Thank you. 😊
Thanks, John! I appreciate you stopping by!
Thank you for introducing John’s music, Jan!
My pleasure, Erika! Thank you for stopping by!
You are welcome, Jan!
His lyrics are great! Thanks for sharing him with us. 🙂
Thanks for stopping by, Yvette. Yes! He is a true wordsmith and a great voice as well!