The Son Also Rises: Jason Gould Finds His Voice. A <i>Stargayzing</i> Exclusive Interview

The Son Also Rises: Jason Gould Finds His Voice. A Stargayzing Exclusive Interview

Music October 4, 2012

Here are a few things you should know about Jason Gould: he is one of the most unassuming, loyal, and loving friends a person could ever have. People used to find him quirky and aloof, but he was really just quirky and shy. Here’s another thing: he has never had any of the temperament or entitlement issues one might ascribe to someone whose life seemed so charmed from the outside. Being the son of Barbra Streisand and Elliot Gould may seem like a decided advantage in life but, as you’ll see, it’s not without its own unique hurdles. Through the years Jason has taken many creative paths but usually in a very private way. As you’re a about to read, he is on the cusp of taking some very public chances.

“(Making music) was something that I kept very deeply hidden within me. You know, it’s funny, this is sort of second coming out”

The first time we met was in 1987 on Stage 15 at Warner Bros. Studio on the set of Nuts. I was a production assistant on the film and he was in town visiting him mom from N.Y.U. We had a mutual friend, Nancy Balbirer, who has told us all about each other. Not being shy, I went up to him, said “hello,” extended my hand, and made a friend for life. Even though Jason’s familial circumstances were unusual, we quickly found we a great deal in common: a shared interests in film and music, similar values and cultural backgrounds, and, oh yeah, we were both gay (though Jason hadn’t quite come out yet). I think he appreciated my complete lack of inhibition and I, in turn, appreciated his intellect, modesty, and extremely refined taste—qualities that he brings to bear on whatever he puts his mind to.

All these qualities and more are shown to great advantage with his newest project, writing songs and—perhaps more surprisingly—singing, and this time he’s letting all of us share his work. Having heard the results I can vouch for them: his music is melodic, personal, and deeply affecting. Perhaps even more significantly, I see in my friend someone who has cultivated enviable confidence along with his prodigious gifts, and I feel extremely proud that he’s gotten to the point where he sees in himself what I have always seen: someone with great talent, insight, and character.

I spoke to Jason by phone in Los Angeles last Friday, as he was preparing to leave for Philadelphia to begin rehearsing for Barbra Streisand’s tour, which will find him making his live singing debut in front of 20,000 people at the Wells Fargo Stadium in Philadelphia this Monday night. The following day his first collection of songs—the eponymous Jason Gould—is released. The Philadelphia show will be followed by stops in Brooklyn, Chicago, Vancouver, Las Vegas, San Jose, and the Hollywood Bowl. Here is our revealing and very personal conversation:

David Munk: Good morning! So I’ve been spending a lot of time listening to your EP this morning and I just want to tell you again, I think you’ve done something really significant with this, musically and personally, you know?

Jason Gould: Thank you. It’s so funny, because I have a second EP (an “EP” is the old analog term for something more than a single but less than a full album, technically standing for “extended play”) and I was considering just putting it out ASAP, and then somebody was saying “well I think you should make a whole album and you could probably just put these songs onto that album,” and I was thinking maybe I should do that. I don’t know, it’s all unfolding so quickly, I guess.

Munk: It sort of has a life of its own—in a way—you’re involved in shaping it, but I think the way that teaser (of his music) was leaked yesterday is an example of the fact that there are aspects of this—

Gould: (Laughing) —I cannot control, that’s for sure.

Munk: Which I would imagine is part of what is exciting about it.

“I finally got to the place in my life where the fear of not being good enough was not as great as my need to express myself.”

Gould: Yeah. I mean, I don’t even want to control it, really, as I said to you before, there’s something bigger going on here and I’m just sort of taking the ride, and I did my part.

Munk: Well you definitely did your part, and one of the things that I’m interested in talking about is the process, and going back to the beginning of it. Over the years, you’ve expressed yourself in a lot of different ways—you were an actor, a film director, an interior designer and worked with clay. I’m just wondering—your music—was it a spontaneous decision or something that was sitting in the back of your mind?

Gould: I was a kid who always came up with little melodies from way back. I mean, that was probably one of the first creative things I was drawn to do, but I never did anything with them. Some of them I had recorded, in fact, one of them I had put into a birthday present to my mother and she ended up using it in her last concert, I think, (he’s referring to Jason’s Theme, which was incorporated into Streisand’s 2006 show), it was just a piece of music, right? It wasn’t a finished song or anything like that, so there were these things that had come through me. I don’t read or write music but I sit at a keyboard sometimes and work out melodies, and I never quite knew how to make that into a song so I was always looking for a collaborator, somebody work with, to help guide me. So this really began because of my desire to write music, or take the music I wrote and develop it further into songs. So when I met (songwriter) Marsha Malamet at a lecture, literally, that’s how we met—she said “hello” to me, she was sitting behind me—she happened to be the person I collaborated with and we ended up writing several songs together so that started this process for me.

Munk: And that was like what, two years ago?

Gould: Yeah, two years ago.

“My mother and father were famous before I was born, so I grew up with the idea that people were looking and they had their own ideas about what it was like.”

Munk: It’s funny—I always knew you were musical, we’ve always listened to music together and talked about what we liked, but I didn’t know that you’d ever made music.

Gould: It was something that I kept very deeply hidden within me. You know, it’s funny, this is sort of second coming out, it really is, because in the same way that gay kids have to face their own shame and fear about whether or not they’re going to be accepted, it’s very parallel to that in some ways, you know? Like “finding one’s voice,” which is really what this is for me, can take many forms. So, I’m trying to get a website up and I wrote a little two-paragraph thing. I’ll read it to you. Tell me what you think of this. I used this Wayne Dyer quote, which really sums it up for me, the quote is “don’t die with your music still in you.” Have you heard that?

Munk: No, but I like it.

Gould: So this is what I wrote (in part):

“I was recently asked why was doing this now, and the answer was simple: to explore the part of myself that always wanted to make music. I finally got to the place in my life where the fear of not being good enough was not as great as my need to express myself, and it’s taken a long time to recognize that the nagging voice of judgment, self-criticism, and comparison, was not a loving one. I now know a big part of this human experience has been finding my own voice, literally and figuratively. For some of us this happens early in life, for others, later. I don’t know where it will take me next, but at least this music will not have died in me.”

That’s sort of what this is about for me.

Munk: It’s interesting, you sort of dipped your foot in the pool in the mid-90s when I facilitated that one recording session for you, do you remember?

Gould: Of course.

Munk: We cut a Stevie Wonder song and I knew the moment you opened your mouth that you had a beautiful voice, your own voice. I sort of put it in the back of my mind though and thought “I don’t know if he’ll ever get there.” What do you remember about that and why wasn’t it the right time—what’s changed for you?

Gould: Well at that time I hadn’t written songs and I really didn’t know what I would sing, I mean, the Stevie Wonder song (I Never Dreamed You’d Leave In Summer) was your idea and Stevie Wonder is one of the greatest musicians, writers, singers of all-time, but it wasn’t my voice, because I hadn’t really found my voice and I didn’t know what I wanted to say and I hadn’t really…I probably didn’t know who I was enough yet, because you have to know who you are to be an artist, I think, no matter what form it takes—

Munk: —Or maybe making the art is part of the process of discovering that.

Gould: I was very insecure about my voice, I mean sometimes I hear it and I think “uh, is this good?” but I come from tremendous perfectionism and, I mean…my mother has set a very high standard so it wasn’t like I was just anybody, you know, opening my mouth. I knew I was following in the footsteps of someone who has affected as many people as my mother. It can be a little daunting you might say, right?

Munk: For sure, absolutely. I think I felt that dynamic was almost a presence in the room during that recording session and could feel the weight of it for you as your friend—

Gould: —Right.

Munk: I remember thinking clearly that if you ever got to the point where you were able to manage it that it could be very powerful. Part of what’s happening now, from my vantage point outside of you, is that (your music) has a life of its own because of that aspect, and I’m wondering in what way your upbringing, not just in your family but in that whole world in Los Angeles, has prepared you for a kind of public exposure that you seem to be inviting in a little bit.

Gould: Well I was really uncomfortable with that from the beginning, I mean my mother and father were famous before I was born, so I grew up with the idea that people were looking and they had their own ideas about what it was like. Show business is complex.

Munk: One of your mother’s great skills is, I think, shaping the business aspects of a career, controlling output to create demand, to step away sometimes, to have a strategy, but you seem…well, I’ve noticed you have a very unorthodox business strategy here, do you know what I mean?

Gould: (Laughing) The strategy is that I don’t have a strategy!

Munk: I get a kick out of that.

Gould: My strategy was I wanted to make music and see if I could. Listen, I wrote these songs and I didn’t even know if I could sing them—honestly. I was working in the studio for over a year and gaining confidence by doing it and I learned so much, I mean, this has been a beautiful experience. I have a great collaborator in the studio with Stephan Oberhoff.

Munk: Yeah, I was going to ask you about him because the production is excellent.

Gould: Well he’s a genius, an incredible musician and songwriter in his own right. We were brought together by Marsha Malamet, she had worked with him and I got to know him. I didn’t know him, but I got to know him and he got to know me and a real trust and respect developed.

Munk: I want to talk more specifically about the songs on the EP. The first song is Morning Prayer and I think it’s really stunning. I think I told you that when I was in L.A. I played it for Natalie (Cole) and she was drawn to the intonation of your voice—I think there is a real curiosity about what your voice sounds like—but she was also really moved by your sensitivity and how vulnerable you are, especially on that song. What was that song about, because I feel like you dug pretty deep.

Gould: Hm. Well, that was the only song on this EP that I co-wrote—all the songs we wrote together began with a melody that I had. When you sing something that came through you…I don’t even want to take credit that “I wrote it,” I mean, I don’t know how that happens—the creative process is such a mystery. But I had that melody, and I brought it to Marsha and Liz (Vidal), and Liz wrote this lyric, it was almost like she channeled it, and then we refined the lyric together. So there was a magical quality to how it was created. It’s a spiritual song but I didn’t honestly know what it was about until I recorded it. You can interpret it in different ways. It could be about a person but it could also be about God.

Munk: Interesting.

Gould: It was a collaboration on a deep level. I love it too.

“When I do the second EP or the album I was going to dedicate it to ‘anyone who ever believed they were not enough.’ Do you think that’s weird?

Munk: You’ve written many more songs than what you’ve included here. For example, you played me a song called In Time which I really liked, but you’ve held it back.

Gould: Well that will either be on the next EP or the full album, and I have to decide what I’m doing because I really want to get that out, I mean that (song) is something that’s much more personal to me and has a real statement. I already have four or five other songs mixed, I just have to master them.

Munk: You could have gone to a major label but you decided to release this independently.

Gould: Yeah, well, my understanding of how the record industry is at this time is that labels are not what they used to be and the power of the record company is also not what it used to be, you know? Because of YouTube and…really, everybody has access to the unbelievable power of social media and I am kind of stunned by that. It’s kind of incredible. And don’t know what percentage record companies take or even what they would do for me at this point.

Munk: Well what they would do for you is something that’s already done. Today record companies don’t sign someone unless they already have a fan base and you already have a fan base. I think you’re inheriting one. Like for example, that teaser that Broadway World put up the other day, you didn’t give that to them, they just got it.

Gould: I had sent it out to a couple of people to get their feedback and maybe one of those people leaked it, I don’t know.

Munk: Well it doesn’t really matter because the point is for people to be aware of the music and one of the advantages you have is that there are many people who are aware of you and are now aware that you’re making music and they’re going to show up for you. That awareness is something, ostensibly, that a record company could work a long time with a new artist to create.

Gould: Right.

Munk: When I told Matt Howe (from barbra-archives.com) that I was going to be speaking with you, he was curious about your feelings about standards and pre-rock era pop music in general and wondered if you were drawn to them because of your mother’s association (to the genre) or cautious around it for the same reason.

Gould: Mm. Well it wasn’t that. The way this whole thing unfolded was I first was working on the songs I wrote and trying to find my voice with that and then I thought, “it would be interesting to try to sing a song I didn’t write.” Then it was like “what song would that be?” You know, I didn’t want to sing songs that my mother had sung, obviously, so finding songs that I love that were great songs and so, that’s what drew me to How Deep Is The Ocean?, Nature Boy…these were songs that are great songs that I could identify with that also supported the message that I’m carrying in a sense…that I thought maybe I could bring something new to.

Munk: So what was it about Nature Boy? You knew it before I suggested it—

Gould: —of course—

Munk: —What was it about the lyric that drew you to that song because I love what you’ve done with it.

Gould: Thank you. There’s nothing more profound than what he says: “the greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” It’s hard to get more profound then that. I also saw myself in it. In some ways, “there was a boy… a little sad…a little shy,” whatever, so I could relate to it.

Munk: Tell me about Hello, because that song blew my mind when you played it in your car. I think it’s a hit. It’s a radio song, albeit a bit of an unconventional one, but there are formats that support this kind of music.

Gould: Well do you know how to do that, because I don’t. How would you do that?

Munk: Well you have to hire independent promotion people. I’ll explain that later, but I wanted to hear about Hello, because this is NOT Lionel Ritchie’s Hello!

Gould: (Laughing) No this is not Lionel Ritchie’s Hello… no, no. You’ll notice there’s a theme in every song I wrote or chose to sing. It’s sort of about the big picture, the human experience, the spiritual experience—whatever you want to call it—I thought that was an interesting point of view that I hadn’t heard in a song before. I thought it was a beautiful melody, you know, it caught me too. I thought it was very…not only catchy…but I really like the sentiment of it, you know, in terms of, the people that we’ve lost, and what is that and how do we relate to people that are no longer “embodied” but that we still love?

Munk: —In the sense that they’re still here. I love the duality that things that are gone are still present.

Gould: Yeah, the love is still present even though someone may not be here in body.

Munk: The song has a sense of presence—I feel it in the music. Would you mind telling me the story again of how your recording of Nature Boy ended up being the catalyst to move from the studio phase of this to live performance, because I think people will find it interesting. The decision to write songs or experiment in the studio is one kind of decision for you with one set of challenges and rewards connected to it. The decision to sing live is, you know, a completely different thing and it’s interesting how you got from point A to point B because, once again, I don’t think you planned on it.

Gould: No, not at all. I mean, I was planning on maybe putting out my own EP, and I didn’t know how that was going to take shape. My mother turned 70, and for her birthday I made her a film montage of our life, our relationship together. I was recording Nature Boy at the time I was doing it and it seemed so perfect. So I used that song and on her birthday it was shown as one of the multiple films that people show at a birthday party. And I think it surprised a lot of people, of course, they didn’t know that I sang. I don’t even think my mother had decided to do a tour yet.

Munk: If you would have told me 25 years ago that you were going to stand in a sports arena and sing a duet with your mother, you would have had to scrape me off the floor!

Gould: (Laughing) You and me both!

Munk: I mean it’s not like you grew up with Barbra singing around the spinet!

Gould: No, no, no.

Munk: What did you discover when you started rehearsing with her and started singing live with her? You’ve collaborated with her on film (The Prince of Tides), which is a more controlled experience. What’s it like to sing on stage together, is she “mom” or is she “Barbra Streisand?”

Gould: Well I haven’t done it yet, I can’t tell you.

Munk: (Shocked). What do you mean? You haven’t rehearsed? The concert is in a week, what are you waiting for?

Gould: I haven’t sung on stage with her yet.

Munk: Oh, I see, so you haven’t been in front of an audience, but you’ve been in a room, right?

Gould: (Deadpans) We’ve been in the living room.

Munk: Well you better get busy, no?

Gould: (Laughing) Well that’s why I go to Philadelphia next week!

Munk: Was it a good feeling?

Gould: You know, it was very meaningful, in a lot of ways. It was like a full circle moment in a sense, because I think a part of me was afraid to open my mouth—in front of anyone, but particularly, I think, in front of my mother. So to have that experience with her is really very healing—I think it sort of shocked her. I don’t think she quite knew…listen…I‘m not gonna brag about my singing. I don’t think I’m the greatest singer in the world, but I don’t know that she knew I could sing.

Munk: So it was different when she heard you sing live in a room than when you played her some of the stuff you’d been working on?

Gould: Well yeah, because when you hear recordings nowadays you never know whether the person really sings or not, with what one can do with auto tune, but you can’t auto tune live singing so, they were pleasantly surprised that I didn’t need that.

Munk: The performing piece of this began a gift for your mother, but I’m wondering if, at this point, you feel you may have given a gift to yourself.

Gould: I think it’s true. Absolutely. And giving a gift to the little boy in me that was always afraid to have his own voice. And that’s very meaningful. I think a lot of us gay kids…we have to face this fear: are we going to be accepted? Are we good enough? And that’s a lot of the message of the record I wrote that’s not on this EP, but that will come through much more so in what I have to say there (on the next CD). And that has meaning to me, I’m not just trying to hit notes, or anything like that, this is really something I’m trying to communicate.

“I knew I was following in the footsteps of someone who has affected as many people as my mother. It can be a little daunting you might say, right?”

Munk: Well I’ve heard a few of those songs and I think people are going to be very responsive to it. The thing that makes me kind of a little emotional as your friend is seeing the way that you seem to be embracing yourself and who you are, the comfort—

Gould:—well, that’s the greatest! That’s really all I care about sharing—the best part of the whole thing. I guess part of what doing something like this, when you share yourself in an artistic way with someone, is that maybe it inspires someone, or it touches someone, or they go “yeah, I have something to say too.” When I do the second EP or the album I was going to dedicate it to “anyone who ever believed they were not enough.” Do you think that’s weird?

Munk: No! I think that’s incredibly honest and I think that it’s incredibly relatable, more importantly. I think…look…there were many reasons why you felt like you weren’t enough.

Gould: Yeah, I know that’s a huge piece of the human experience, for all different reasons we struggle. I mean, I have my version of it, but it’s not uncommon, I know that.

Munk: Well your version had a lot of relatable elements to it. When we were much younger I didn’t relate to you on the basis of being the son of famous people, I related to you in other ways.

Gould: I was a deeply insecure, frightened, guy, you know?

Munk: We were just two gay kids trying to make our way!

Gould: Well that’s all we’re really doing here on this planet, trying to make our way. “To learn to love and be loved in return.”

Munk: When was the last time you gave an interview, by the way?

Gould: I spoke to the Advocate about ten years ago and I did some stuff around The Prince of Tides and when I had that short film out in the world (Inside Out), but other than that, no. I’ve been a really private person and I love my privacy.

Munk: You’re a private person who is threatening that privacy to a certain extent by making brave choices, but I feel like you’re doing it with a lot of consciousness, and you know that you might in some ways be changing the nature of that privacy, to some extent, you know?

Gould: Yeah, again, I know I’m not in control, but it’s bigger than me.

Munk: Well it always was, but I think you also see the upside of that, is that, there is built in curiosity, people want to hear what you have to say.

Gould: Right. Well I have a lot to say. It’s taken me a while to find my voice—literally and figuratively. Now the goal is to be comfortable in my own skin, to be enough, to love myself enough to take those risks and express myself. I mean, not everyone is going to like what I’m doing, but if I can feel that I’ve honored myself.

Munk: Well you’ve done more than that. Trust me when I say that it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but nobody’s gonna be saying “who the fuck does he think he is?” It’s better than that, it’s way better than that!

Gould: Well thank you for that. I know that you have your own standards, so thank you.

I promised you a Jason Gould song in its entirety. Here is Morning Prayer, which he co-wrote with Marsha Malamet and Liz Vidal. I think it’s something extraordinary and I’d love to know what you think. If you take the time to comment on the song or on this article I will be sure to share your feedback with Jason personally.

[soundcloud]http://soundcloud.com/david-munk/jAson-gould-morNing-prayer[/soundcloud]

To purchase Jason Gould’s EP, please go to jasongouldmusic.com

Color Me Hip Hop? An Exclusive Stargayzing Guide to Barbra Streisand’s Secret Place in Rap Music

The Son Also Rises, Part Two: My Follow-Up Interview With Jason Gould

The Barbra Streisand Solution: How America’s Greatest Voice Helped Me Find My Own

sc001c7b1c — “Two gay kids trying to make our way!” In front of the apartment on Tower Drive, Beverly Hills, 1986

188 Comments

Lynne Pounder
October 4, 2012 at 4:35 am

I’m blown away by Jason’s beautiful voice. I will definitely be buying the EP and I’m so pleased to hear there will be a full album. If Barbra brings her tour to the UK, I sincerely hope Jason comes too!
I’ve visited his website. Wayne Dyer is wonderful, a very clever man, I first saw him on Ellen. I’m struck by Jason’s spirituality. I’m a writer and completely understand when he says, the desire to sing became greater than his fear of not being good enough. That is how I felt! I’ve had novels published since I dared to step out. Mind speaking of the other track Hello (by Ritchie) oh man, imagine Jason singing that! Just sublime. But I love Hello from the EP. Rock on Jason, you’re special in your own right. God has gifted you and has a good plan for you. God Bless.

Peter
October 4, 2012 at 10:34 am

Thank you for this interview! Jason has an incredible voice and I can’t wait to have a full album next!!! I like what he’s saying and the idea to dedicate his next album to ‘anyone who ever believed they were not enough.’ I wish him a great career and all the best for the future,

sincerely Peter

mark bostridge
October 4, 2012 at 11:50 am

Beautiful. A superb piece of musicianship, and Jason Gould has a wonderful natural gift.

Brian
October 4, 2012 at 12:55 pm

I’m listening to “Morning Prayer” for the second time,Wow,extraordinary. A gifted singer and musician. Sing Jason,sing. Share your gift with us.

luis carrera
October 4, 2012 at 3:03 pm

Dear Jason, I think you have an amazing voice, and am so happy for you! It shows you’ve done your homework as a human being and artist. It shows your vulnerability, your sensibility and good taste. That uniqueness of being gay that only we know we have it, right? So glad you found it!

Ps. I won’t be seeing you live in NYC ( I’ve seen your mom 3 times already, haha) but looking forward for your EP and future projects !!

Your new fan, Luis

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:07 pm

Thank you for taking the time to read my piece. And please sign up for the newsletter! David

luis carrera
October 5, 2012 at 2:47 pm

Sure, i will David!

Anneke Rost
October 4, 2012 at 4:01 pm

Great song sung by a beautiful voice. I can’t wait to buy the EP.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:07 pm

You won’t be disappointed!

Tony Buchsbaum
October 4, 2012 at 5:02 pm

Wow. I was taken with the sampler last week, and now I’m floored by the full “Morning Prayer.” What strikes me is the intellgence and sensitivity of the lyrics as well as how Jason sings them. There seems not one shred of self-consciousness about his singing, which I find extraordinary. Nor does it feel like a performance. It feels as if he’s just woken on one of those bright, rare days, and these are the thoughts going through his mind. As if this is his internal voice, singing to himself. There’s gratitude, wonder, and anticipation, all at once. Thanks, David, for a wonderful interview…and thanks to you, Jason, for giving your voice, well, a voice.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:09 pm

Hi Tony, I agree with your comments and thank you for sharing. Hope you’ll stay in touch with my blog! David

Tony Buchsbaum
October 5, 2012 at 12:05 am

I plan to, David. I’m glad to have found it!

Michael
October 4, 2012 at 5:42 pm

Very moving…. music heals, inspires and touches our deepest emotions. I’m thrilled that Jason is embracing his own special self expression. I’m struck by the lovely and gentle spirit that comes through his “Morning Prayer”.

wayne scot lukas
October 4, 2012 at 5:57 pm

my my my how genius,…

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:09 pm

Hi Wayne — thanks for your feedback. Stay in touch. David

Laurin Cowling
October 4, 2012 at 6:25 pm

This song is amazing, and Jason’s voice is truly beautiful! I thoroughly enjoyed his candid interview and appreciated his willingness to share his journey with us. As a gay man, I could completely relate to his inner struggles and his lifelong quest to find hiown, true voice. Please let him know he has MANY people pulling for him, and wishing him nothing but the best. I will be in the audience at the Brooklyn concert on October 13th, and I will be thrilled to hear him sing live with his mom.Jason, you are truly talented, and a beautiful soul. That completely comes through in your music, your film-making, and the way you have lived your life. You are an inspiration!

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:10 pm

Lovely sentiments. I will pass them along! David

Tim
October 4, 2012 at 6:29 pm

Jason, so glad you finally let go of your fear and embraced your own voice, ‘literally and figuratively’ as you say. I have always loved Nature Boy, looking forward to hearing you sing the entire song and yes: ‘the greatest thing, you’ll ever learn, is just to love and be loved in return.’ Thank you for sharing your gift, you are more than good enough!

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:10 pm

Hi Tim — thanks for reading! David

Tim
October 5, 2012 at 1:51 pm

Hi David

Thanks for your reply, I was ‘fawning’ over Jason’s voice and the song so much, I completely forgot to congratulate you on a very well written and thought provoking piece! I loved your ‘I went up to him, said “hello,” extended my hand, and made a friend for life.’ I guess sometimes it’s just that simple. All the best and L-O-V-E to you both……

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 3:37 pm

It kind of was that simple…thanks for reading Tim, and I hope you’ll sign up for my newsletter.

Philip
October 4, 2012 at 7:08 pm

Terrific article – obviously Jason is courageous, honest and thoughtful. The song is gently and warmly inspirational and his voice is really beautiful. Looking forward to seeing him in Philadelphia and Brooklyn. Warmest wishes for continued and well deserved success.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:11 pm

Thank you Phillip!

Christopher Nickens
October 4, 2012 at 7:23 pm

Who knew? What a wonderful surprise to hear such stirring vocals and cool arrangements. I guess everything happens when it’s supposed to, but I would loved to have heard this delicious music years earlier. Best of luck and good wishes to Jason, a stand-up guy and a genuine talent.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:11 pm

Hi Christopher. Well, I knew! But he wasn’t ready! Thank you for taking the time to read the piece and checking in! Hope you’ll sign up for my newsletter. David

Will
October 4, 2012 at 8:18 pm

This is truly beautiful. It’s beautiful writing and singing. It only sucks that we had to wait this long to hear from him. Congrats Jason!

Bryan
October 4, 2012 at 8:56 pm

Even if Jason’s mother wasn’t who she is,(and God knows, she’s been such a part of my life now I feel as if she’s my mother too!), and if I’d heard this track somewhere else without knowing who was singing I’d still have loved it. Gorgeous quality to Jason’s voice, lovely timbre and vibrato, really looking forwards to the album. Good on you Jason. Sing Proud!

Epinedecactus
October 4, 2012 at 9:04 pm

Thank you for this very beautiful interview of your friend, Munk. I am very touched by your words, Jason, and I like very much your voice and your music. I will be in the audience for the Brooklyn concert and see you on stage. This will be an incredible moment of emotion.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:13 pm

Merci beaucoup!

Barbara Juman
October 4, 2012 at 9:11 pm

His song and voice are really exquisite and you have done home justice with this insightful and sensitive interview. Thank you so much.

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:12 pm

Hi Barbara — I’m glad you liked it! Hope you’ll stay in touch. David

David Munk
October 4, 2012 at 10:08 pm

Hi Bob — thanks for taking the time to check in and for plugging the piece! David

Robin Lipman
October 4, 2012 at 10:21 pm

WOW!!!! Ths is just INCREDIBLE!!!! I’ve been listening to this GORGEOUS song all afternoon and I just can’t get over how PHENOMENAL your voice is. Believe me, I’m not AT ALL surprised….I’m just SOOO grateful you have decided to share your beautiful voice with us!!! It’s just like your mom said on the Katie Couric Show, it’s like you have a chamber of music right inside your vocal chords! I can’t wait to hear MORE and I can’t wait to hear you sing LIVE!!!!! I originally thought that I would only get to see you in Brooklyn, but I’m THRILLED to read here that you will be on your mom’s entire tour because guess what…… so will I!!!! Hearing you sing with her is such a FANTASTIC unexpected bonus!!!!!
It was so great to read this inteview and see what a beautiful person you are – so deep, so caring, and so spiritual. I wish you all the luck in the world with all of your endeavors. With your incredible talent, and your beautiful spirit, I have no doubt that you will SHINE for many, many years to come!!! I’ll DEFINITELY be there cheering you on every step of the way!!! See you on tour!!!

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:22 am

Hi Robin. I’ll pass your effusive response and good wishes along to JG.

Robin Lipman
October 7, 2012 at 3:26 am

Thank you SOOO much David! I actually got to hear him sing with his mom yesterday at her dress rehearsal. I was extremely lucky enough to sit front row, center to see and hear Jason’s debut and that FANTASTICALLY, GORGEOUS duet with Barbra and I was so blown away, I can’t even begin to tell you!!!! I’m DEFINITELY bringing BOXES AND BOXES of tissues for the rest of the tour! It was such a thrill and an honor to be there to witness that SPECTACULAR event!!!! I get chills just thinking about it! Hope to get to meet you as soon as Jason starts touring regularly! This is SUCH a thrill for me, you have no idea!!!! Thanks for your FANTASTIC interview!

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:29 pm

Hi Robin. So glad you enjoyed the piece. It was a pleasure to write! David

Steve
October 8, 2012 at 3:45 pm

STALKER!!!!!!

It’s sick…….get a life Robin and quit stalking Barbra, Roz & now Jason. When does it end?

Robin Lipman
October 29, 2012 at 7:14 pm

Hi “Steve”….shame you didn’t have the guts to use your real name…. but I DO know exactly who you are….

Thanks so much for your concern, but my life is VERY complete, full of a VARIETY of WONDERFUL things so I’m just fine….

On the other hand, since you felt so compelled to write this RIDICULOUS comment, it seems like YOU are a little too obsessed with MY travels and interests. So sorry that my going to concerts of people I admire bothers you so much, but it seems like YOU are the one who needs to get a life…….WHACKO!!!!

al currier
October 4, 2012 at 10:44 pm

I think the song and your interview is truly beautiful. Jason seems to possess such a warm and loving spirit, for me it shows through his artistry. I’m not able to go to his mothers concerts this time around but I’m betting that her and Jason are going to make beautiful music together. What a wonderful gift that him and Barbra have and to share it with the world..What a delight for all of us.

Beautiful interview thank so much to you and Jason for sharing..

Al Currier

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:23 am

Hi Al. Thanks for taking the time to comment – I’m glad you like the piece! I hope you’ll keep reading stargayzing. David

Christopher Nickens
October 4, 2012 at 11:14 pm

David, mixed up dopey me, I forgot to compliment you on the really insightful interview. Your affection for your friend shines through, as do his special qualities. Bravo!

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:24 am

Thank you Christopher. I appreciate your insight – I worked hard on this one. Hope you’ll stay in touch. David

Dean
October 5, 2012 at 12:21 am

Wow, what a voice.

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:24 am

Right?

Jeff Bazell
October 5, 2012 at 12:57 am

Hang on a sec, I’m getting up off the floor. Jason, your voice floored me. Like, “Where the hell did that come from?” David, your questions were perfectly worded. You knew when to talk about Jason as a separate entity from his parents and when to mention his link to his parents. Good show, mate!

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:25 am

Hi Jeff- I hope you didn’t hurt yourself! Thanks for checking in – I hope you’ll keep stargayzing with me! David

Marie L
October 5, 2012 at 1:11 am

I love Jason’s tone to his voice. The arrangements to the snippets are engaging. I will definitely be purchasing his ep. So many of the young adults are getting back into this music. Don’t be surprised if he is considered in the genre of Michael Buble and Harry Connick jr. You’re interview with Jason opened a window to a beautiful heart. You are a good friend

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:25 am

Thank you Marie! David

Kevin bowe
October 5, 2012 at 2:45 am

Hey David. Great interview thanks for that. His voice is great and the songs sound wonderful. I used to see Jason around Weho back in the day and we had a really nice conversation at the post office once and he was so nice and just a sweet guy. I’m glad he’s doing this. I’m seeing the show in here Vegas and at the bowl. I hope he performs there too. It would be a real treat. Best. Kevbowe

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 4:26 am

He’s doing the whole tour, so maybe you’ll get to reminisce about going Postal together! That reminds me, I spent a lovely morning at the DMV with Jody Watley once. Good times!

Ramon Arzon
October 5, 2012 at 2:46 am

Beautiful Song and Great Voice

WLWalker
October 5, 2012 at 7:33 am

This is a gorgeous, gorgeous song. Sung with great longing and regret and hope, but mostly a stunning love song that should have a life of its own. His voice is just right for it.

Christopher
October 5, 2012 at 11:10 am

Thanks for posting this interview. I remember the one he gave in the Advocate. What was exceptional about it was how mature and open he came across then, as he does now. It should not be the case that sincerity and self reflection are uncommon traits, but too many times that is exactly what they are. It is refreshing when a guy can speak from his heart, and has something worth saying. His choice of material is revealing. I’m sure his own writing is wonderful, but it is a true romantic who sings “How Deep is the Ocean” as part of his debut. Good for him. I wish him the best.

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 3:43 pm

Hi Christopher. Yes, his songs are wonderful. Morning Prayer is an original song.

Christopher
October 5, 2012 at 9:12 pm

It is. original. Beautiful, too.

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 11:40 pm

Agreed!

Janice
October 5, 2012 at 1:38 pm

Great interview, David–natural, warm and insightful. Thank you. And, Jason–what a genuine pleasure it is to listen to your voice. I look forward to hearing you with your mom in Brooklyn–I have the distinct feeling that your duet may just be one of those moments we’ll remember all our lives. : )

Bonnie Azzelino
October 5, 2012 at 1:41 pm

I enjoyed this song very much and look forward to hearing more from Jason!

Lou
October 5, 2012 at 9:09 pm

typo in my previous post. reposting below:

Wow! Just wow … So much emotion and warmth in his voice. Lovely is the word that comes to mind. I don’t just hear it, I feel it. And that is something special. Yes, something his mother has done for me all my life; but this is uniquely him, and something completely different. I’m so excited to hear anything and everything he has to share. All of us who never believed we were enough need to stick together, and let each other know we are enough – and more. Thank you, Jason. Thank you, David.

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 11:40 pm

Hi Lou, Thanks for taking the time to comment. I hope you’ll check in with Stargayzing again! David

Robert Kane
October 5, 2012 at 10:00 pm

Wow! The first thought that ran through my mind was, if I was Jason’s mom I’d be kvellinglike crazy right now! *L* Seriously, what a beautiful song Jason with a very haunting melody. And what a beautiful voice – who knew? I also was so impressed with your interview David. Jason certainly comes across as a very interesting, introspective and spiritual man. One of the things I have always loved about Barbra is that, when she gives an interview, her insights and her perspectives are so interesting and thoughtful. Clearly, Jason has inherited this gift as well. And one more thing – I agree with you David – if Jason dedicates his album to all those who never felt good enough, I think every single person will relate. I know, as a gay man, I certainly do. Best of luck to you Jason with your music career, and good luck on stage with your mom next week. Now there’s a duet that’s been a lifetime in the making.

David Munk
October 5, 2012 at 11:41 pm

And thank you Robert for your heartfelt comment. I’m going to send this to JG. I hope you’ll keep reading my writing. Thanks David

William MacLellan
October 5, 2012 at 11:46 pm

What a great article and interview this is! Jason is immensly talented; so musical and lyrical… he posesses a real gem of a voice. His voice is full and rich and he knows how to communicate very well vocally. I am so looking forward to hearing more from him; this is incredible happy news! Congratulations to him on this accomplishment. He is truly gifted both as a singer and writer. Well done!!!

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 4:02 am

Hi William! I couldn’t agree more. Thank you for sharing your thoughts — I hope you’ll check out some of my other pieces! David

cappy
October 6, 2012 at 1:21 am

I’m not one to cry easy but Jason sings with so much sensitivity and passion that the words “will you forgive me all my mistakes, will you come lie with me and sing my soul back awake” made the tears run down. Being gay and never accepting myself and being, still, feeling less than made this song reach deep inside. What a beautiful voice. What he can do with the lyrics. I want to hear more. Josh Grobin cannot sing like that. Really! God bless you Jason

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 4:03 am

Powerful words…thanks for sharing David

James
October 6, 2012 at 3:07 am

Jason has most definitely inherited the resonance and intonation of his mother’s voice- sublime and every note controlled. I am amazed but not surprised. I have followed Jason’s “career” for many years now. We are about the same age and both gay. A stunning voice with a stunning future. I am quite proud to be a new fan.

I am also touched that Jason doesn’t shy away from speaking of or referring to his mother, like some others, but embraces his relationship with her and is quite proud of her himself; as I am certain she is of him as well. She beams when she speaks of him. Now we all know why…

James

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 4:04 am

Hi James. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I think Jason’s openness to talking about Barbra reflects a lot of personal growth. It wasn’t always an easy topic. I hope you’ll stay in touch. David

Laurence Buffington
October 6, 2012 at 9:16 am

I’m speechless, blown away, by Jason’s voice and interpretation. Breathtakingly personal, raw, and beautifully vulnerable. Incredible!

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 7:05 pm

Hi Larry, thank you so much for taking the time to check in! I hope you’ll add stargayzing to your list of things you read regularly!

Raul
October 6, 2012 at 2:18 pm

I don’t know that nay of us can begin to understand the kind of inner strength that finding ones voice in the shadow of one of the greatest signers in the world might be like.

I am glad he has found it and that it is so beautiful.

In a way he gives voice to many of us that have adored her.

I will be there on 10/13.

Thank you.

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 7:05 pm

Hi Raul! Hope you enjoy the show. Thanks for reading and stay in touch! David

Trey Bounds
October 6, 2012 at 7:02 pm

This song is perfectly beautiful. Whenever I’ve heard or seen or read about Jason, which is rare, I sense this very deep sense of dignity. After reading this lovely article and hearing this exquisite song, I know for sure that it’s there. Self-doubt, if honestly dealt with can lead us to dignity, along with humility and compassion. I sense all of those here, and vulnerability too, especially in the restraint he uses in the crescendos. It’s incredibly moving.

Congratulations to Jason, I’m thrilled for him. And to you for such a great interview. I can’t wait to get the EP.

All the best from Dallas!

David Munk
October 6, 2012 at 7:06 pm

Hi Trey! Thanks for reading. I hope you’ll check out some of my other pieces! x David

Russ
October 6, 2012 at 8:33 pm

Hi,
This was such a well-done interview and, as others have noted, Jason’s beautiful voice and inherent musicianship are definitely apparent.
It’s funny the way you began the interview: “not being shy, I went up to him and said ‘hello’.” I was just the opposite… I was too shy! A few years after The Prince of Tides came out I was on the beach in Laguna and saw Jason. I wanted to tell him what a great job I thought he had done in the film but even when he got up to walk down to the water, I didn’t. What I DO remember is that he was wearing board shorts long before they became so popular (in the non-surfing world). When board shorts became mainstream, I thought ‘man, he was way ahead of the curve.’ Well, he’s definitely ahead of the curve with his music and I wish him the very best. I look forward to his duet at the Bowl. Thanks for sharing the interview.

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 12:52 am

Hi Russ — Love your story and appreciate you taking the time to share it. I hope you’ll sign up for my newsletter so you can stay in touch! David

Paris
October 6, 2012 at 9:10 pm

Great interview. Beautiful song. Keep making music.

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 12:52 am

Thank you so much david

Joseph Stackpole
October 6, 2012 at 11:12 pm

Thank you for a wonderful interview. I have wondered about Jason over the years, but only caught glimpses of him in films and his own short films. I didn’t come out to myself until I was 50, so I know how hard that can be for anyone. To do that and to be Barbra’s son must be quite intimidating. It is wonderful to learn that Jason seems to be coming into his own.
He has a beautiful voice and what a beautifully sensitive song. I can’t wait to hear the other selections on his EP and future albums.
I wish him much success and a grand debut with his mother.
I fell in love with his mother when I was a freshman in college. She has enhanced every step of my life. I am also glad that she has had so much success and seems to have found happiness and someone to share her life with as well.

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 12:54 am

Hi Joseph. Thank you for your warm thoughts. I hope you’ll stay in touch with me. You can sign up for my newsletter on the home page of my blog so you’re in the loop. Thanks for reading. David

Michael
October 7, 2012 at 5:01 am

David, thank you for such a wonderful insightful interview with Jason!! I’ve posted a link to your interview in the message thread devoted to Jason”s EP over at Broadway World. I love the rapport you guys have. I feel a kindred spirit in Jason. His spiritual journey in finding his voice and being true to his authentic self speaks to what is true within myself and many of us. Isn’t it miraculous that in just a matter of days, Jason’s EP preview has touched and moved countless people in anticipation of it’s release! His vocals, phrasing and lyrical interpretation are a joy to behold. There is a sweet melancholy tone to his voice that touches the soul and uplifts. Some may ask…”why has he waited so long to sing?” I’m reminded of the quote by T.S Elliot – “It’s never too late to be what you might have been”. Judging by this interview, the EP teaser and “Morning Prayer” – it is now clear that Jason’s natural talent was nurtured, shaped and deepened by years of life experiences all leading up to this moment! Welcome home Jason. Michael

*Broadway World – Jason Gould’s Debut EP:

http://broadwayworld.com/board/readmessage.php?thread=1051324&boardname=off&dt=39&boardid=2#sthash.KVOAkDgn.dpbs

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:22 pm

Hi Michael! Thanks so much for reposting. Much appreciated and I’m glad you enjoyed the piece. I will forward your thoughts to Jason! Send me your email so I can put you on my mailing list (unless you did that already). [email protected]

Darina
October 7, 2012 at 1:39 pm

“When I do the second EP or the album I was going to dedicate it to ‘anyone who ever believed they were not enough.’ Do you think that’s weird?”

No, it’s not weird. I know the feeling only too well, and it’s been a long struggle with it that isn’t completely over yet. Thank you, Jason. <3

And David, thank you for bringing this beautiful song and this beautiful interview to us. 🙂

Darina
October 7, 2012 at 2:16 pm

And oh, there is a 17-year-old gay boy in Bulgaria (a friend of mine) who is his fan now. 🙂

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:20 pm

Great music crosses all boundaries! (As does great writing, by the way!)

Darina
October 7, 2012 at 11:20 pm

Are there the lyrics in writing anywhere? I can understand everything as I listen , but my young friend’s English isn’t so good (I may still have to translate for him here and there, but I’m sure it will be easier for him to understand a written text), and of course there must be many other non-native speakers with the same problems.

Jason as a singer is very good at conveying feelings across language barriers, but still… actually understanding what he sings is better. 🙂

Michael
October 8, 2012 at 8:52 am

MORNING PRAYER
Written by Jason Gould, Liz Vidal, and Marsha Malamet

Do you remember the sound of my name?
How it rode from your tongue
like a poem of hope and heartbreak?

Warm as the sun,
and soft as a prayer.
When morning comes does the sound of it still fill the air?

I know that our love was a moment of grace.
And with one touch,
I was forever changed.

Closing my eyes,
I can still feel you near.
We’re bathed in the light of a flame that’s burned for 10,000 years.

I’ll wait,
I’ll wait until time disappears.
I’ll wait,
right here.

Will you forgive me all my mistakes?
Will you come lay with me
and sing my soul back awake?

I ache to see you
walk through my open door.
To fall in your arms
and know I’m not alone anymore.

I’ll wait,
I’ll wait until time disappears.
I’ll wait,
right here.

I still remember the sound of your name.
It rose from my tongue,
like a poem of hope and heartbreak.

Warm as the sun,
It fills the air.
Oh my love,
you are my morning prayer.

Do you remember the sound of my name?

____________

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:21 pm

Hi Darina! The pleasure has been all mine. Please sign up for my newsletter so we can stay in touch!

Darina
October 9, 2012 at 1:00 am

Thank you very much for the lyrics, David. 🙂

I did sign up. 🙂

Darina
October 9, 2012 at 1:07 am

Oops, I actually had to thank Michael above for the lyrics. It shows that I’m half-asleep.

But I can’t reply to that comment of his, so I can only hope he reads this. Thank, you, Michael. 🙂

David Munk
October 9, 2012 at 7:01 pm

Thanks for reading Darina! Hope you’l stay in touch. David

mitchell
October 7, 2012 at 4:33 pm

I am so moved by this song. So gentle and lilting. A Sunday morning voice. I actually met Jason very briefly at a party in NYC about 10 years ago…i didn’t recognize him at the time, although he looked familiar. He was as sweet and unpretentious as this lovely song. Looking forward to hearing his musical story.-Mitchell

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:20 pm

Hi Mitchell. I couldn’t agree more! Please be sure to sign up for my newsletter so we can stay in touch!

CB
October 7, 2012 at 5:01 pm

This 50-years-old Texas man is deeply entranced by Jason’s song and voice. I’ve sent it to to my four favorite people so as to share the enjoyment.

David Munk
October 7, 2012 at 7:19 pm

Thanks for reading!

susan
October 7, 2012 at 8:35 pm

I enjoyed reading and appreciate the two of you sharing that interview. The song blew me away…. the song itself is beautiful. Jason’s voice… yes, extraordinary… such depth. Thank you, David. Going back now to hear more.

David Munk
October 8, 2012 at 12:23 am

Hey Baby John — thank you for checking in. When you in NYC? xx

Gary
October 8, 2012 at 12:08 am

Oh man, I am so bummed that Nancy didn’t introduce me to you guys way back in the NYU days! Anyway, the music is as gorgeous as Jason himself. I can’t wait to hear more. Great article too!

David Munk
October 8, 2012 at 12:22 am

Hi Gary — thanks for the kind feedback and for signing up for my blog! Much appreciated. david

Laurie Hurst
October 8, 2012 at 2:56 am

Poetic beauty with music. Thank you so much for finding the curage to sing aloud.

wes
October 8, 2012 at 2:28 pm

Beautiful. Awesome. Who knew? Wanting more.

Alex R. Orue
October 8, 2012 at 4:07 pm

Such a beautiful and touching tune. He’s the heir of more than one gift. Can’t wait to listen to the whole EP.

David Munk
October 8, 2012 at 4:29 pm

Thanks for reading Alex! Be sure to sign up for my newsletter so we can stay in touch!

Robert
October 9, 2012 at 1:27 am

Jason, your an amazing singer! What a beautiful and touching song.

Angie
October 9, 2012 at 5:53 am

Wonderful piece. It’s nice to hear an interview with Jason. Thanks for posting the whole song, he has a great voice, and I look forward to seeing him in concert this month too now! I’ve been a fan of Barbra my whole life and this will be my first time seeing her, so I’m very exicted, and Jason being there will be a great bonus. I think it’s nice that they’re doing a duet together. Can’t wait!

Lawrence Distefano
October 10, 2012 at 2:02 am

I’ve been listening to the “snips” of Jason’s songs since I heard he had recorded some songs. I was kind of surprised to even hear that he was recording when his mom mentioned it on Katie. As soon as I listened to the first segment of the first song, I knew I wanted to hear more. His voice is filled with emotion similar to that of other male vocalists such as Josh Groban, George Michael, and the young Elvis even. This is the kind of vocalist that I’ll listen to over and over and over and never tire of it and the strong feelings that emerge from the obviously hand picked songs!!! This an example of falling in live with someone you know nothing about just by their ability to draw you into thei world. My only disappointment is that he didn’t start recording 25 years ago!!!!

The song “Hello” touched me in a personal way and brought me to tears. My partner passed away in May and although he’s gone physically, he’s with me everyday!!! The song was as though I had written it myself as the words were exactly as Inrelate to my Scotty now. Was that one of Jason’s creations? I’ve tried to research the writer and coming up with nothing. If you get a chance, please ket me know. I’d love to have the lyrics in writing.

I sure hope you make up for lost time, Jason!!!! Waiting for the other half of the album now. Thanks for sharing your gift.
Lawrence Distefano
Baton Rouge, LA

Lawrence Distefano
October 10, 2012 at 2:07 am

Oh and thank you David for being Jason’s friend!!! Without you I doubt we would have gotten such a heartfelt interview from him if he hadn’t felt so comfortable with the interviewer. Now I have your site to keep me informed on a daily basis about Jason as well as other great stories!!! Appreciate you.

David Munk
October 11, 2012 at 12:43 am

Hi Lawrence — Thanks for taking the time to share your impressions. Much appreciated. I hope you’ll stay in touch and check out some of my other pieces! Best, David

Lawrence Distefano
December 12, 2012 at 6:00 am

And I have been doing just that ever since!!!

JOE
October 10, 2012 at 2:37 am

Truly great voice…As they say Like Mother,Like Son..

cant wait to hear the whole album…
I could be a big fan of his…
i believe he will be BIG.

David Munk
October 11, 2012 at 12:42 am

Thanks Joe — I hope you’ll stay in touch and subscribe to my newsletter. You can also like my David munk writer page on FB! Heartfelt thanks for reading!

Denver Stedman
October 11, 2012 at 9:42 pm

David, I just discovered your site and I want to thank you for sharing such a wonderfully inspiring and insightful interview. ‘Morning Prayer’ is simply stunning! Jason’s vulnerability and courage, beauty of spirit and depth of soul, so eloquently expressed in this interview, is so clearly evident in his artistic expression as a musician. As a gay man in his 50’s who never felt good enough, I am inspired (knowing “it’s never too late to be what you might have been”) to dust off my paint brushes and canvases and not leave this earth with MY music still in me.

A new fan of you both,
Denny

David Munk
October 13, 2012 at 4:42 pm

Hi Denny — well thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. Very inspiring! I hope you’ll sign up for my newsletter and continue reading my work. It means so much to know people do.
David

Steve Gottfried
October 13, 2012 at 12:39 am

Great article and bravo, Jason. Love the song and your voice! You are indeed your own person, but have a beautiful gift. Looking forward to hearing more!

Randy Tom
October 13, 2012 at 9:30 pm

I had tickets to the concert last Thursday night, but my Mom had a very serious accident and was hospitialized so I was not able to attend. When I heard Morning Prayer I was so moved at how personal and intimate the song was. The melody is sentimental and yet haunting and the lyrics touched a nerve that I think only a handful of songs do. Jason’s voice is smooth yet delicate and hyptotic. When you first hear the song you immediately think of someone who has touched you very deeply and has changed your life forever. Someone you may have hurt and you want them to know you really love them forever. I love that expectation that they will surprise you by walking in that “open door” and say I feel the same about you and I still remember the sound of your name. You think of them everyday and they are your morning prayer. I am blown away by this song.

David Munk
October 15, 2012 at 1:16 am

Hi Randy. Sorry to hear about your mom. I agree with you about the song — it is very hypnotic. I hope you’ll keep reading me and it means so much that you took the time to comment. David

Luis Gutierrez
October 14, 2012 at 1:40 pm

Thank you for this wonderful interview. Jason is a truly gifted musician and I hope to hearing a lot more of his music in the future – I barely finished reading your piece and just had to purchase the EP. ‘Morning Prayer’ is so beautiful and heartfelt that one could be tempted to say, “Jason, why did you wait so long?” It’s very clear however that it is just the right moment, and it couldn’t have been any other way.

David, I learned about your blog yesterday at our little contest in Downtown Brooklyn (I was playing for Gayle) and after having read just a couple of posts I am hooked! You write superbly and I look forward to being one of your regular readers!

David Munk
October 15, 2012 at 1:24 am

Hi Luis — I’m sorry we didn’t get a chance to meet. I felt for Gayle — could not be her easiest gig. Thank you for taking the time read my work and i appreciate your kind words. Please sign up for my newsletter so we can stay in touch! David

Diane
October 15, 2012 at 4:13 am

Something about Jason Gould’s face has touched me for a long time. I find myself occasionally googling his name just to see if there’s any news about him so I was very glad to see what he is doing now. His face wears all his emotions on it. He is so transparent and everything I see in him is good. I see gentleness, caution, questioning, goodness…so many things that just make me want to hug him. His voice, and this song, are exactly as I expected them to be, touching, deep and genuine. Bravo Jason, I wish you nothing but the best in every part of your life.

David Munk
October 15, 2012 at 11:56 pm

Hi Diane. Thanks for taking the time to comment. I hope you’ll stay in touch and keep reading my work. Grateful, David

John Bales
October 15, 2012 at 6:22 pm

I saw the Katie Couric interview with Ms. Streisand and was interested when she stated she would be doing a duet with Jason on her tour. Mr. Gould has been such a private person I was surprised to hear he was taking such a very public step. So I found the EP and downloaded it. WOW! I got goosebumps! Such a wonderful voice. The only comparison with his mother is that he has a BEAUTIFUL voice, but it’s his own voice. The selection of music, the vocals, the instrumentals, just amazing. The interview adds interesting background for the release. I’m sure having such a famous mother makes a person step back and wonder if he’s being accepted for who HE is or who his mother is (in both music and film). I’m so glad he’s taking the chance and finding that the talent is all his own. I just hope that Jason surrounds himself with people that care for him and for his music and help to promote him instead of being there for what they can get from him and his connections to Babs.

David Munk
October 16, 2012 at 12:17 am

Hi John,

I am so glad you found my piece about Jason. I hope you’ll stay in touch. I’m grateful that writing about my friend has led me to new readers.

David

Brian Welborn
October 17, 2012 at 12:22 am

I’m blown away by Jason’s beautiful voice. I just bought the EP and downloaded it. It is wonderful. My partner and I were right next to you at the first Brooklyn Show. We were sitting on the side where the guy with all the controls were sitting. It was nice to see you singing live and doing such a great job. You have a gift and we know who side of the family that gift comes from. I am about your age and I know what it like to finally find your way and land on something that you feel passionate about. We truly felt your message in these tracts. Too bad we could not have met and had a drink and talked.
Take care and keep singing…you will go far no doubt!

Brian

David Munk
October 17, 2012 at 11:12 pm

Lovely words. Thank you Brian. I hope you’ll stay in touch! David

Dianne Harris
October 18, 2012 at 4:20 am

I loved Morning Prayer. Jason has a incredible voice. I bought his CD on iTunes. Please beg him to keep making and writing more music. I couldn’t wait to tell everyone when I heard Morning Prayer coming from the speakers. It’s like Jason sings from his soul and every note vibrated down my spine. Everything on the CD is perfect, the music, the voice, the arrangements and the pictures. Morning Prayer is an absolute standout. I look forward to buying his next songs he has written. He sings with such meaning. What an amazing voice – it’s touching, deep and genuine. I’m glad Jason didn’t with his music still in him.
I found Jason’s music separate to David’s interview. The interview just gave the singer an extra depth and increased my admiration for Jason the person.

David Munk
October 18, 2012 at 8:22 am

Hi Dianne — I won’t have to beg him! I promised! I hope you’ll keep reading my writing even though you found me by accident!”

Todd Lindevald
October 19, 2012 at 4:35 pm

I truly enjoyed the vulnerability of the interview responses. It is obvious you value and encourage Jason’s emerging comfort level with his exceptional talents as a performer and his sincerity as a compassionate human being. We as his audience certainly reap the benefits of his decision to share of himself. From the quality of his vocals on Nature Boy, I would love to hear him sing The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face. Would be a wonderful interpretation of the song coming from a gay man.

David Munk
October 19, 2012 at 5:47 pm

Hi Todd — thank you for taking the time to comment. Glad you enjoyed the piece! David

Daniel Fontaine
October 20, 2012 at 2:18 am

Living in Montreal, I was at Barbra Streisand concert in Bell Center. I was off my chair to hear the beautiful sound of the voice of her son Jason Gould, wow, what a hidden treasure that touch the soul! I would like to be able to find a place to write to Jason Gould just to tell him that!

David Munk
October 20, 2012 at 3:31 am

Hi Daniel — I’ll tell him for you!

Daniel Fontaine
October 20, 2012 at 10:33 am

Well, thank you so much. I hope that he will go on in music and who know toward a concert??? Thanks again.

Daniel Fontaine
October 20, 2012 at 3:29 pm

Hello again. By the way if Jason Gould ever open a twitter account, in Montreal we are far from Hollywood news, hope to be among is followers …. @DanielDafon have a great we…..

Drew
October 21, 2012 at 7:01 am

Munk, It’s Drew. Please tell Jason that I will be at the ‘Vancouver’ show and that I am so proud of his courage and his accomplishments.
I have ALWAYS always had a (HUGE) crush on Jason xoxo…Yes, you can tell him that for me too! Love to meet him one day!!!!
Thank you for sharing this article with us.
Much respect,
Drew.

Tammy
October 28, 2012 at 8:36 pm

Hi,
I have never posted on a web site before, but after reading your article and seeing Jason perform, I felt I just had to. David, this was a wonderful interview…great questions, so well-written….thank you for sharing it. I was at Barbra’s Chicago show on Friday, and I have to tell you that I was just stunned by the performance that Jason gave. The duet he did with his mother brought tears to my eyes. The way he sung “How Deep Is The Ocean” gave me goose bumps. I haven’t been this affected by anyone in a long time, and I cant wait to tell everyone I know how wonderful Jason is. I am beyond thrilled that he found his voice and is sharing it with the world. I hope that he continues to get comfortable and finds the strength he never knew he had to keep doing what is in his heart. If Jason is ever in need of a personal assistant, please let him know that I would be really interested in assisting him. I am in my early 30’s. I know some people in the business (a few who are actually part of Back To Brooklyn’s production staff), and a good friend of mine is an assistant of a well known person, and I have come to realize this is a dream job for me…one that I would rock at….so just throwing it out there because like Jason, I need to find my strength to pursue what I love. But I’d love it if you could tell Jason how deeply he has affected me by his beautiful voice, and I appreciate all that he has done in order to get to where he is today. He is very inspirational to me, and he really touched me with his performance Friday, his voice in general, and what a nice person he seems to be. Takes a lot of strength and courage to do what he’s doing, and I am so happy Jason is taking this path and following his heart.

David Munk
October 28, 2012 at 10:15 pm

Hi Tammy. Well thank you for your kind words and taking the time to not only read the piece but comment. I will be sure to share you thoughts with Jason and I sincerely hope you’ll stick with my blog. It’s easy to sign up for the newsletter on the homepage which will make keeping up with my jottings so much easier for you!

Best

David

Tammy
October 28, 2012 at 11:58 pm

Thanks for responding to me and letting Jason know how amazing I think he is. I just signed up for your newsletter!! I’m looking forward to reading more of your work.

David B.
November 8, 2012 at 7:04 pm

Great interview and what a wonderful voice Jason has! It’s funny because I write lyrics and many times I would see Jason on the subway in NY, and since I was never introduced to him, I never said hello. If I had only known he was a composer, I would haver certainly introduced myself to him as a lyricist and who knows what could have happened! Can’t wait to hear is EP.

David Munk
November 15, 2012 at 1:41 am

Hi David,
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. I hope you’ll keep reading and maybe take the time to sign up for the newsletter on the homepage.

Warmly,
David

Richard Johnson
November 11, 2012 at 3:52 am

Loved your article. Thanks for sharing. I’ve gotta admit that I was very skeptical when I heard Jason was releasing an EP. I didn’t expect much but I am happy to report that I am simply blown away by it! All I could think of is, “where the hell have you been all these years!!!?” But to find your voice, risk all the negativity that could possibility come from being Bab’s son, and turn out such an impressive piece of work as a middle-aged man……THAT is damn admirable & inspiring for this 50 year old man!! Who wrote “Hello?” Jason? I balled my eyes when I first heard it. I can’t stop listening to these songs. More! We need more!! I’ll be looking forward to that full album. Best of success to you as well, David. XO

David Munk
November 15, 2012 at 1:44 am

Hi Richard!

Thanks for your effusive feedback—I completely agree with the “where have you been all these years,” but as you’ve read the piece you know it took him a while to get the point of taking such an enormous risk. “Hello” was co-written by a talented singer/songwriter named Charlotte Martin (you can find her easily on iTunes). Not sure who the other writer on it was.

I hope you’ll stay in touch. I’d love to encourage you to sign up for my newsletter on my home page, if you haven’t already. That will enable you to catch up on things you may have missed.

Thanks again for taking the time to check in.

David

Lisa
November 14, 2012 at 9:43 pm

I saw Barbra this past Friday at the Hollywood Bowl and being a huge fan since a little girl surprisingly walked away being mesmerized by Jason. I immediately went home and downloaded the tracks on my Kindle and have been listening non-stop and anyone who comes over I play his music for. I am so moved by his voice and all the songs especially Morning Prayer. I’m so happy he’s decided to share his talent with the world…he’s truly amazing!

David Munk
November 15, 2012 at 1:52 am

Hi Lisa,

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Obviously, I couldn’t agree more! I hope you’ll take a moment to sign up for my newsletter on my home page so I can give you occasional updates on stargayzing.

David

joy mccallum
November 15, 2012 at 6:46 am

Wow! Tuned in here because I know Liz … then blown away by the song and the voice! Thanks, Jason!

David Munk
November 21, 2012 at 4:57 pm

Hi Joy,

Thanks for the feedback. I hope you’ll keep stargayzing with me!

David

Emily
November 19, 2012 at 4:19 pm

Hi David – been meaning to share my thoughts on this for a while, and now I’ve finally found the time. I think this is a wonderful, warm and heartfelt interview, and your respect and love for Jason shines throughout. I stumbled across Jason’s EP taster video on youtube a couple of weeks ago, and was blown away by his voice. It exudes such warmth and beauty. My favourite song is “Hello”. There is something in this song which really touches me, and it has been on replay since that very first listen! The sentiment is beautiful. I had also checked out Jason’s website and found the Wayne Dyer quote, which brought a smile to my face. It’s a quote I hold close to my heart as I pursue my own dreams and aspirations. All in all very inspiring, and wonderful to witness this unfolding. I wish you both unlimited success.

David Munk
November 21, 2012 at 4:57 pm

Dear Emily,

Thank you for taking the time to read the interview and especially to let me know you enjoyed it. I’m really gratified that you did. I hope you will stay in touch, maybe take a moment to sign up for the newsletter on my home page if you haven’t already!

Many thanks again,

David

Bridgette Grijalva
November 30, 2012 at 1:22 am

Precious, as I listen to the quite places of your heart sing, i am feeling your spirit reaching out to the unknown places from within you. You were made for this dear. To sing from your spirit from within. Keep that part of you flowing which will bring greater measure of your gift. This is your call.

David Munk
November 30, 2012 at 2:30 pm

Hi Bridgette! Thank you for your lovely comments. I hope you’ll take a moment to sign up for my newsletter on my home page so I can keep you involved in all the latest stargayzing news!

Dean
December 1, 2012 at 1:22 am

I’ve had a crush on Jason Gould since forever. He’s gorgeous in every way, and now I find out that he’s got a heavenly voice. Be still my heart!

David Munk
December 3, 2012 at 6:34 pm

Hi Dean. Thanks so much for reading and taking the time to comment. Please take a moment and sign up for my newsletter on my home page so we can stay in touch and I can send you my monthly updates! I know Jason appreciates all this feedback!

Kyal-Erik
December 3, 2012 at 5:57 am

All I can say is ….WOW! I am so glad that Jason decided to share that voice with us…and the collection of songs is nothing short of wonderful. His voice is beautiful, he has a loving warmth about him that not only comes across when he’s on stage, but also when he opens his mouth to either speak or sing…I’m looking forward to more from this man for sure. The song “Morning Prayer,” by the way, made me weep uncontrollably because it was so beautiful and spoke to me on a very deep level…I had not realized that my heart had been so wounded until Jason sang that song to me in my living room, so to speak. Please tell him to keep doing this..he was born for this, just like his mother was, and…if you can, say hello for me from Kyal in Phoenix with a hug and an even bigger THANK YOU.

Also, a huge thank you to you for posting this interview–I was really glad to find it and learn more about JG’s music.

Best to you both!

David Munk
December 3, 2012 at 6:35 pm

Hi there Kyal — Thanks so much for taking the time to read my piece and especially for sharing your thoughts. I’d love you to sign up for my monthly newsletter on the home page of my blog so we can stay in touch. I will pass your sentiments on to Jason. Thanks again. David

Cindy
December 7, 2012 at 4:46 pm

Jason, I believe you have a very spiritual connection to music. You have inherited the ability to sing with passion and express your feelings through songs. Your voice produces a sound that makes the words reach each listener so they may know you, or perhaps relate to their own life.

Jason, you have ventured outside of yourself with strength and courage to move forward in life. Do not look back. Only think positive and stop worrying about what others think. I am straight and I do not care that you are gay. I am interested in your singing.

Your personal life should not be of any interest. Just be happy with your choices in life because that is all that matters. You are very blessed to have parents that love you and are proud of you.

Now, get busy and prepare to release your next full CD. You have fan base out there, larger than you know, who are ready to support you because of you.

Your Fan,
Cindy

David Munk
December 7, 2012 at 8:45 pm

Hi Cindy,

Thank you for your warm and spirited reply! I sent it to Jason. I hope you’ll stay in touch and keep reading stargayzing. I send out a monthly newsletter which you can easily sign up for on the home page. Have a happy holiday!

David

Candy Hill
December 7, 2012 at 5:45 pm

David, Wonderful interview with Jason. I only found out this morning about Jason’s singing through one of Barbra’s recent interviews. Then, listened to his music, saw YouTube videos of his performances on Barbra’s recent tours and read everything I could find on the internet about this new venture of his. Oh my goodness, I LOVE that this beautiful, soulful young man is finally finding his own voice… These first songs he has released are so very personal and touching – indeed he HAS found his voice and what a beautiful voice and beautiful soul… I looked on his self-titled website and did not see a way to contact him, but, please let him know how many people are pulling for and supporting him. Yes, indeed, “the apple does not fall far from the tree,” where his mother is concerned, but I would give the same accolades to him regardless if he was a complete unknown. Please strongly encourage him to continue to write and make music and to PLEASE share his talents/gifts with the rest of the world. His music really spoke to me and I supremely look forward to the release of a full-fledged CD! Kindest regards to both you and Jason… Candy Hill

David Munk
December 7, 2012 at 8:47 pm

Hi Candy,

Thank you for your warm thoughts and taking the time to read stargayzing. I have been asking folks to sign up for my monthly newsletter on my homepage so I can have an effective way of reaching out to people who like the blog without involving FB, which I cannot stand for reasons to numerous to get into now.

Thank you again for reading and commenting. I know Jason appreciates the messages.

David

Marc
December 11, 2012 at 5:35 am

I saw Barbra Streisand both nights at the Bowl, she was phenomenal but each night I left with the melody of Jason Gould’s recording of “Nature Boy” in my head. Such a gorgeous arrangement! I’ve had it in heavy rotation on my MP3 since those shows.

David Munk
December 12, 2012 at 12:21 am

Hi Marc. I heard from friends it was a great show! I’m so glad you read our interview and took the time to comment. I hope you’ll take a moment and sign up for the newsletter on the homepage of stargayzing for my periodic email blasts so we can stay in touch! Thanks again David

Nan Carlson
December 11, 2012 at 8:33 pm

It is so thrilling that we will all be blessed with his beautiful voice. It is just unique. He can sing anything!
I listened to his EP and every song is precious.

It’s the best gift that I have received this year.

David Munk
December 12, 2012 at 12:22 am

Hi Nan. Well of course I’m in agreement! I hope you’ll stay in touch and keep stargayzing. If you sign up for the newsletter on the homepage I can keep you in the loop! David

Amy Erickson
December 17, 2012 at 6:00 pm

Oh my goodness… words can’t express what I feel when I hear Jason sing. I figured he could probably sing, having the mom he has! I didn’t realize how absolutely beautiful his voice is. Thank you for sharing…
I am sitting here in tears because of the beauty and warmth but also missing my brother who passed away from AIDS and was the first to introduce me to Barbra’s beautiful music.
There is something very spiritual to his sound, his words, everything.

The interview was very insightful David!
THANK YOU! Can’t wait to get his album

David Munk
December 18, 2012 at 4:37 am

Hi Amy,

Thank you for reading the blog and for taking the time to share your feelings. I will definitely share your comments with Jason. Thank you also for signing up for the newsletter – it made my day!

David

Amy Erickson
December 18, 2012 at 6:45 pm

Thank you David! Please do share my comments with Jason. I am SO happy I “discovered” you and your newsletter 🙂
I’m still listening to Jason today (and a little of his mom)
~Peace~

Hope Guinn
January 9, 2013 at 2:35 am

WOW. I think Jason Gould has the voice of angels. As I listened to this song (“Morning Prayer”), I was reminded that God has a purpose for all us, and for Jason, his is to both affect and effect many through his music. What a medium to touch souls and change lives. Please thank Jason for no longer withholding his voice from the world. Amazing indeed.

David Munk
January 9, 2013 at 7:14 pm

Hi Hope. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment on the piece. I’m glad you liked it! I hope you’ll take a moment to sign up for my monthly newsletter on the home page of the blog. It will make it easier for us to stay in touch! Thanks again! David

Anthony Hess
January 28, 2013 at 11:30 pm

I am so excited that Jason decided to find his voice. I am so moved while listening to him sing. I know what an incredible journey this must have been and is for him. I have long been a HUGE fan of his mothers. And now I am a HUGE fan of her son! I have enjoyed watching him movies such as “The Prince of Tides”, and following the other projects that he has been involved in. Jason, I only want to ask you to please put out a full CD, I do not have an IPhone, IPOD or other electronic device that you can download an EP on. You have a beautiful and soulful voice, the vulnerability and sensitivity that you display in your singing is so pleasing to the ear. Any one who tries to compare your voice with that of your mothers, is missing something really special. Just as she has and continues to do in touching our lives with her beautiful voice and talent. You now are touching the lives of others by sharing your self, your vision, your voice and your talent. BRAVO! And I will continue to hope to see a full CD soon that I made ad to my collection. I also have a beautiful CD of your Aunt Roslyn Kind singing. So much talent in one family! All my best and warmest wishes for your continued success. Please keep recording!

Janis Margolis Fine
March 6, 2013 at 5:28 pm

Awesome and very sincere interview. Thanks for sharing Cuz!

Love,
Janey

David Munk
March 12, 2013 at 3:04 pm

You’re most welcome!

David Young
March 16, 2013 at 9:16 pm

I am really happy to have had the chance to read this interview. Jason is clearly a strong and beautiful spirit, make no mistake having a mother in the stratosphere and a dad with some excellent work on record would have made it more difficult for him to be taken seriously not made it easier. I love it that he has done it in his own time, at his own pace and on his own terms. Stay strong Jason, your decisions have unquestionably been the right ones so keep making them.

David Munk
March 18, 2013 at 2:17 am

Hi David! Thank you for taking the time to read my interview and comment. I hope you’ll stay in touch. Please take a moment and sign up for the monthly newsletter on the home page!

daniela grunwald
April 20, 2013 at 8:01 pm

jasons voice make my tears run,because my soul was so warm touched,i love his voice and his personality.

Dena
April 27, 2013 at 1:22 pm

Jason, I am so thankful you have found you’re voice, because it shakes the heavens with a purity and thunder that only belongs to you, and in sharing you have given a wonderful gift to the world! I just listened for the first time and my ears are still echoing with the way in which you grab onto beauty from the first note until the last, and never let go! Thank you for mastering your talent and sharing it with the instant fans you will gather. Not all will appreciate the depth of the lyrics and emotion – there is just SO MUCH you are offering at once, but that is why most of us will be drawn to listen to not just the beauty of how you sing, but the importance of what you are singing. You have touched me deeply and spiritually as if you have the voice of an angel. I love your work from the start and look forward to all you do in the future. David, thanks for a great interview, and Jason, please now that you have started, please don’t ever stop! I am off to buy your first “EP” – you are a tender man with a voice that surely God wants you to share! Thank you for having the courage to make that decision! May you continue to do so, whether it seems for better or for worse, it always shall be for the better as long as your intentions are! Carry on sir, here is to your great future and success! It is hard to explain, but I feel as though I know you because you have reached so deeply inside my very soul with such a strong and tender sound, and with such a spiritual and emotional impact all at once. Few musicians have had this impact on me in my life, (and we are the same age). You have pure talent sir, please don’t ever think of squandering it for a second! Thank you for sharing, and for moving me deeply, with warm admiration, your newest fan as of this second, and evermore … Dena. PS. May God bless you and the world with a long and ever inspirational career in music, and wherever else He would have you share your talents! You are better than good enough! You Mom has always been one of my favorite female vocalists – but you are one of the first male vocalists to ever reach that level of appreciation from me!

David Munk
April 27, 2013 at 4:40 pm

Hi Dena. Thank you for taking the time to read Stargayzing. I hope you’ll stay in touch. You can sign up for our once a month newsletter on the homepage! David

text flirting tips for girls
May 30, 2013 at 10:00 am

Heya just wanted to give you a brief heads up and let you know a few of the images aren’t loading properly. I’m not sure
why but I think its a linking issue. I’ve tried it in two different browsers and both show the same results.

David Munk
May 30, 2013 at 12:08 pm

Hi,

I woke up this morning and there is no right column of my blog! Ugh. Thank you for letting me know. I’ve contacted my tech person. Much appreciated!

David

Robert Toth
December 25, 2013 at 4:25 pm

I downloaded the EP Christmas Eve Day; that night [Christmas Eve] just before going to bed, I put my headphones on and listened to the EP. “Hello”….”Morning Prayer” et al. What Jason does with his voice – how he crafts a song with his voice like a painter choosing a brush or palette knife for specific effect. His soaring octaves and bending, twisting sharps, flats and whole notes, lyrics….I sat back in the dark in my recliner, drank in the nuances of his voice and cried! [yes, I really cried] This young artist – poised, elegant and very human has a wonderful, interesting future ahead of him. Paix.

Max Nirvine
December 27, 2013 at 4:00 pm

Hi there, is it possible for me to have the lyric of the song Hello on the EP? Thanks so much!

David Munk
December 27, 2013 at 9:46 pm

Hi Max. I am sorry that I don’t have any lyrics on the song – just the interview. Thanks so much for taking the time to read Stargayzing- I hope you’ll stay in touch. Happy New Year! David

Diane Hourigan
January 12, 2014 at 1:17 pm

Thanks for the insightful interview. I ordered the physical CD after I saw him on Barbra’s PBS special and have listened to it over and over and over. What a mesmerizing voice Jason has! For those of us having grown up listening to and admiring Barbra, I can only imagine how difficult it has been to get the courage to sing to the world. My first thought was to lament all the music we have missed and then I realized it would not have been the same until he was ready. I think Jason has one of the greatest voices out there! It is smoky and clear at the same time. I can’t wait to hear more music from him and at the same time a part of me is concerned for him because of how difficult it is to be in the limelight. I selfishly want lots more music from him, want to hear him sing in person, and also wish I could protect him from the slings and arrows that increased visibility will undoubtedly bring. I know he understands that is part of the business and taking the first step was probably the hardest. I wish him only the best and can’t wait for more music!!

David Munk
January 12, 2014 at 9:14 pm

Hi Diane,

Thank you for your lovely note, which I forwarded to Jason. I know he appreciates the response his music is getting from listeners. I appreciate you taking the time to read Stargayzing and especially appreciate you taking the time to let me know you liked the piece. Please feel free to sign up for the monthly newsletter on the homepage. It’s the best way to stay in touch. I hope you’ll keep Stargayzing with me.

David

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