If you were around in the late 1970’s and early 80’s- you would have heard the very catchy 1977 hit “Ariel” by Dean Friedman on the radio.
You would also have heard contemporary artists in a similar singer-songwriter style such as: Billy Joel ,Andrew Gold,Eric Carmen , Randy Newman , Christopher Cross - as well as the big albums of 1977 Fleetwood Mac “Rumors” and the Eagles “Hotel California”.
You could say Friedman was writing about everyday life-as he enjoyed a series of memorable chart hits from then on.
In a very accessible style , he channelled everyday events in peoples life into song : “Ariel” in particular is about romance with a free spirited and music loving Jewish girl from New Jersey- and name checks local landmarks and restaurants.
Check out “Lydia” from 1978 and the push and pull of a relationship between the two lovers.
Speaking with Melodyvibe, he explains his inspiration to be a songwriter like this :
“My mom was a classically trained singer and performer on Broadway and in Film so I grew up in a house filled with music, starting with the classic Broadway musicals and arias, then Top-40 radio and ultimately the singer-songwriters of the '70's who I had a strong affinity for: Joni Mitchell, Randy Newman, Carol King, Paul Simon, James Taylor, Bernie Taupin/Elton John, etc... folks who painted vivid images with words and music.”
His songs truly are vignettes of life ,encapsulated in beautiful melodies - and normally just presented in a simple backdrop featuring piano ,guitar , bass ,drums and sometimes sax and harmonica.
Sometimes less is more - with the focus on a great melody and good lyrics being the most important.
Versus today- with an abundance of music production editing and processing tools -which can produce the humanity and simplicity out of a track - and focus on production rather than the song and connecting with listeners.
Fast forward to 2024 and Dean Friedman is currently embarking on 40+ City 2024 UK/Ireland Tour accompanying release of a new compilation album, “More Words & Music”.
“More Words & Music” is Friedman’s second compilation album (following the previous ‘Words & Music”) and contains hand-picked tracks from Friedman’s last eight studio albums.
The album opens with the romantic blues jazz feel of “Your Pretty Face” augmented with an evocative harmonica top line melody.
“Too Much Stuff” - a walking jazz homage to an abundance of possessions. Humor and irony abounds and the wonderful alliteration and word play in the lyrics drive the song home.
The range of subject matter and inspiration for the songs is wide- and all songwriters should note that there is inspiration for songs absolutely everywhere!
In fact Dean even wrote an inspiring book just about that : “The Songwriters Handbook” (see link below).
Back to the album..
“The Deli Song (Corned Beef on Wry) - a jaunty relationship song set amidst the backdrop of a busy deli!
“This Guitar” - an old guitar that’s been used and abused and is worn out -and a metaphor for any relationship that has ran its course.
We also hear a recent track: “American Lullaby” from 2021 , that is a take on the current state of the world.
Dean explains:
“My latest album, “American Lullaby”, “reflects my personal take on all the crazy stuff that’s been happening in America – and around the world - for the last six years. Like all lullabies, it’s filled with tales of dark deeds and disaster, but couched in soft, gentle tones, meant to soothe and comfort the listener, while gently bracing them for the potential terrors that await.”
Regarding his creative process and Deans method for putting a song together, he explains:
“Every song is different but, in general, they all start with 'play' - improvisation, noodling around on an instrument or word-processor.
Once I stumble upon an idea - a lyric or musical phrase, or harmonic progression, or melody, or rhythm - it's a matter of finishing the crossword puzzle.”
So we come full circle and Dean Friedmans music is as relevant today as it ever was - with catchy melodies , humor and relatable subject matter-that is most welcome into todays antagonistic and fragmented world!
Dig into this wonderful album and his entire back catalog - and catch him on tour :
Dean Friedman holds a very special place in popular songwriting and happy memories to all who have enjoyed his songs over the years.
More info here:
https://www.amazon.com/Songwriters-Handbook-Dean-Friedman/dp/0988674637