INDEPENDENT LENS | Water Flowing Together | PBS

I saw this film tonite on PBS. It is the story of Jock Soto, a Dine (Navajo) ballet dancer. I was moved by his story which culminates in his retirement from professional dancing with the New York City Ballet at age 40 after a 24 year career. He is an artist who gave his life over to his craft at great personal sacrifice. I respect him so much and I encourage you to see this film about a rare talent and a gifted human being. I would be greatly honored to meet him someday! RR

George Smoot: The design of the universe

This fascinating video is a presentation by Nobel Prize winner George Smoot on the nature of the universe. Prepare to expand your mind! His presentation begs lots of questions concerning the creation, design and structure of the universe. Another question that arises is our relative importance in the grand scheme of all things. It definitely puts me in my place! RR

Yma Sumac interview and Montana 1991

I just learned that Ms. Sumac passed away on November 1st. I have previously posted her videos on my blog so regular readers know of my great respect for this grand lady of song. This is a great interview with this great talent who finishes with a beautiful rendition of Montana. I will always treasure her recorded voice of the 1950's. She was a special lady with a special talent that impressed a young boy so many years ago... RR

Divine Flute Music of Lord Krishna

Here is some beautiful Indian flute playing from India. I like the flute performance and the syncopated drumming that accompanies it. The drone of the sitar in the background serves as a bed on which the flute can play. The flute is in a free form improvisational style and evokes the spirit of India. The music encourages the listener to sit back, relax and just be a human being for awhile. RR

SE Electronics Reflexion Filter

I just found this on YouTube. I have the very same model and am using it to record flute, guitar and vocals for my new album. It's great because it greatly reduces unwanted ambient room noise when recording. This is a great alternative to expensive and unsightly acoustic treatments. I highly recommend it! RR

Navy Carrier Squadrons - Move Along

The song is "Move Along" by the All American Rejects. The video is by Navy Carrier Squadron VAW-113 "The Black Eagles". These folks make the coolest videos! It makes me feel proud to be an American when I see these guys. They are doing a difficult job to the best of their ability. During their free time, they have fun with their buddies and do a great job of building morale by creating some really good videos.

I greatly respect people in the military. I catch a lot of grief from fellow artists for taking this position. Truth be told, I prefer the company of most military people to most artists. My experience has shown me that most military people are fun, optimistic, patriotic, respectful and highly professional. Thank you, Black Eagles, for your service to our country! RR

Bella Notte

I just couldn't resist! It's old fashioned and sappy but it works on a level that has made this movie a classic! Enjoy! RR