Well, I've nailed my to-do list for the day, even if it was a day littered with procrastination.
After working from home this morning (just put in 3 hours, because I've agreed to be in the office for 'full' days on Tuesday and Thursday this week), my plan was simple: to complete the gaps in the two comedy tours we have coming up (one solo, one with Edd and Andy) but I spent a bit longer than I should have done with that...indeed, my 'scheduled' outbox now has 108 emails in it ready to go tomorrow. I'm just missing 3 dates, that's all, hopefully from those a venue or two will pop up.
I replied to a bunch load of more gig offers that have come in, plus studio offers and odd 'guest appearance offers' (ie; would I like to be a guest on a radio show about Ben Folds? Yes, yes I would) and then finally had a chance to be creative after all of this admin.
That's really when the procrastination kicked in; I did my washing, I did some more washing - those clothes were arguably clean (enough) already, I drove into Ely just to buy some shower gel and was far too chatty to the very confused till assistant. I bought a scratchcard and joked to the woman in the newsagent that it could be my lucky day! Fucking wasn't.
Eventually, though, I nailed episode 14 of the soap - it's a lovely one, all in one big scene, which I'm really proud of (the writers of Porridge used to do this so well), and big and dramatic too. Just finished episode 15, that took just over 2 hours to write. It feels like a sitcom episode, I may have to tone it down a bit, but it ends with a "oooohhhh" moment. Hopefully that's what the audience will be doing, anyway. I'm also really aware of the fact that I've given my character, Harvey (who isn't in it much at all) by far the funniest lines of the whole episode, and I don't want to be one of those writers that does that.
Monday, 29 February 2016
Sunday 28th February 2016
Decided to have today off, which is a first for a while. Didn't quite manage it because, you know, emails - emails everywhere, all of the time, that need replying to now, instantly...show offers, artist signings, script readings...
Still, it was fairly relaxed. Visited Mum, she thinks the dog is ill, the dog clearly isn't (she just hadn't eaten for about 2 hours) but I understand the importance the dog has right now.
Confirmed performance dates for the musical. Really need to write the musical at some point.
Made a to-do list which is so extensive I think it could make many a grown man cry.
Still, it was fairly relaxed. Visited Mum, she thinks the dog is ill, the dog clearly isn't (she just hadn't eaten for about 2 hours) but I understand the importance the dog has right now.
Confirmed performance dates for the musical. Really need to write the musical at some point.
Made a to-do list which is so extensive I think it could make many a grown man cry.
Sunday, 28 February 2016
Saturday 27th February 2016
Good productive morning of admin stuff - generally getting the shows in shape, making more progress on our big night of stand-up shows which launch in July and getting flustered that the Bristol tour date venue don't reply to emails.
Then off to Bedford for our big live DVD filming show; lovely venue that we've played in a few times before, really long soundcheck (4pm start), Keiran is a brilliant soundman who knows us well.
It's so weird that we've suddenly become the sort of band that warrants a £15 ticket and can still sell out a big venue. Long show tonight - 21 songs, thought we were a bit nervous to start with (all seated audience, lots of expectations and so, so many cameras, just everywhere) but by about 3 songs in we hit good form. I seem to have a new admirer; a girl who shouted "I love you, Paul," during the gig which was nice, but she's far too young (early twenties) and the daughter of our biggest fan so it's not something I can consider...still good for the ego, though. FH does seem to be, in the works of Vix, "a better option than Tinder" for me at the moment...
Really strong show though we're putting on at the moment, these do feel like 'shows' rather than gigs. We're getting quite big, you can feel it, and we're rising to the new challenges relatively comfortably. It's nice, isn't it, feeling like you're part of something successful? It really is a novelty.
Then off to Bedford for our big live DVD filming show; lovely venue that we've played in a few times before, really long soundcheck (4pm start), Keiran is a brilliant soundman who knows us well.
It's so weird that we've suddenly become the sort of band that warrants a £15 ticket and can still sell out a big venue. Long show tonight - 21 songs, thought we were a bit nervous to start with (all seated audience, lots of expectations and so, so many cameras, just everywhere) but by about 3 songs in we hit good form. I seem to have a new admirer; a girl who shouted "I love you, Paul," during the gig which was nice, but she's far too young (early twenties) and the daughter of our biggest fan so it's not something I can consider...still good for the ego, though. FH does seem to be, in the works of Vix, "a better option than Tinder" for me at the moment...
Really strong show though we're putting on at the moment, these do feel like 'shows' rather than gigs. We're getting quite big, you can feel it, and we're rising to the new challenges relatively comfortably. It's nice, isn't it, feeling like you're part of something successful? It really is a novelty.
Saturday, 27 February 2016
Friday 26th February 2016
Went into the office today and decided to be really chatty. They didn't like it at first, in fact - initially they were clearly trying to ignore me, but eventually they started replying to my 'banter.' By the end everyone seemed happy enough. SEE? It can work.
As I was walking down the Mill Pond area afterwards, I was stuck behind an old lady - she had a walking stick and everything. As I was mid-overtake, my phone rang, "hello my dear," I said, as it was V, but the old woman obviously didn't realise I was talking to my phone and thought I'd just crept up behind her and said those words. It really freaked her out, it was horrible.
Anyway, calming down, I met up with Emma for an early drink. Emma's great - I ask her to act in projects, I talk her through the plot and what is involved, and she just says yes without hesitation and puts it all in her diary. So easy to work with. I've cast her in the soap, to take the role of Tamara - the failed fitness instructor who just wants to eat pizza and sleep with her boss. We also discussed a new film idea I've been working on called 'Tilt', which I'm quite excited by but don't really have the time to do properly just yet. In the summer, maybe.
Then met up with my FH bandmates for dinner with our producer, a wrap party to celebrate the album. Was lovely, great conversation, great food, just really nice. V is really trying to get me a girlfriend, I'm quite enjoying watching her efforts - the latest one being her workmate, who she has been chatting to a bit about me. We'll see.
As I was walking down the Mill Pond area afterwards, I was stuck behind an old lady - she had a walking stick and everything. As I was mid-overtake, my phone rang, "hello my dear," I said, as it was V, but the old woman obviously didn't realise I was talking to my phone and thought I'd just crept up behind her and said those words. It really freaked her out, it was horrible.
Anyway, calming down, I met up with Emma for an early drink. Emma's great - I ask her to act in projects, I talk her through the plot and what is involved, and she just says yes without hesitation and puts it all in her diary. So easy to work with. I've cast her in the soap, to take the role of Tamara - the failed fitness instructor who just wants to eat pizza and sleep with her boss. We also discussed a new film idea I've been working on called 'Tilt', which I'm quite excited by but don't really have the time to do properly just yet. In the summer, maybe.
Then met up with my FH bandmates for dinner with our producer, a wrap party to celebrate the album. Was lovely, great conversation, great food, just really nice. V is really trying to get me a girlfriend, I'm quite enjoying watching her efforts - the latest one being her workmate, who she has been chatting to a bit about me. We'll see.
Thursday 25th February 2016
Up early to go and do an interview with local TV, which is being broadcast until the end of March so I had to work out what exactly I'm promoting around then...the FH tour will be pretty much done by then, but my solo show is touring around that point. Weird having to do promo for that one considering it still feels underdeveloped, but not as weird as being interviewed by my ex-girlfriend. In all fairness to J, she is so professional it was almost like we barely knew each other - very glossy to the camera, gets the job done, hides the fact we dated for 6 years really well.
Got back, nailed episode 11, did some freelance work, got stressed writing episode 12 and kicked a few things. Had dinner, wrote episode 12 over a long period of 4 hours, had a beer, wrote episode 13, eventually finishing at about 2.30am.
Got back, nailed episode 11, did some freelance work, got stressed writing episode 12 and kicked a few things. Had dinner, wrote episode 12 over a long period of 4 hours, had a beer, wrote episode 13, eventually finishing at about 2.30am.
Wednesday, 24 February 2016
Wednesday 24th February 2016
Today would have been Dad's 65th birthday. It got to all of us a bit; we went to his former workplace and laid some roses next to his memorial plaque/tree. It's always strange going back there, I have vivid childhood memories of going to his shop and hanging out all day, and going to the post office, and the park, and generally being free. It's only now, as an adult, that I realise what incredibly amazing times they were. Maybe I should have shown my appreciation more at the time, I don't know.
Emotional day, another landmark since his passing...just Father's Day to deal with and then I think that's the whole 'firsts' set ticked off. Harsh times. Very harsh.
Yet throughout this whole family day my phone has been buzzing with emails and messages constantly...everything is happening. David is booking some really great acts for our stand-up shows in July (that will both bring the best comedians to Cambridge and equally make money for charity), Griff has signed an act to our label (which I agreed to, obviously), chatting to Katie about the soap opera and and how we can make it work even though she's London-based and only in Cambridge every now and then (but she's such a wonderful actress I just have to bring her in, somehow), we've booked up time to finish, rehearse and perform the musical with Claudia and Marcel which I'm scripting - that'll premiere for 2 nights in Cambridge at the end of June (and they want to take it to the Edinburgh Fringe), I've arranged a meeting with Emma to discuss about five million projects. Everything is piling up.
Evening gig with Claudia and band was fine, a lot of waiting around and a short set, but an appreciative, listening audience. A14 shut on the way home, the 20 minute journey took 70. Got back and finished episode 10 of the soap opera, including the 'really big scene' which takes everything up a notch.
An old friend of Dad's was talking to us earlier; he told us how he used to tell my dad off for still going into work despite being so incredibly ill. Dad simply responded with, "you know me, it's what I do."
I think he'd be quite proud of my schedule right now.
Emotional day, another landmark since his passing...just Father's Day to deal with and then I think that's the whole 'firsts' set ticked off. Harsh times. Very harsh.
Yet throughout this whole family day my phone has been buzzing with emails and messages constantly...everything is happening. David is booking some really great acts for our stand-up shows in July (that will both bring the best comedians to Cambridge and equally make money for charity), Griff has signed an act to our label (which I agreed to, obviously), chatting to Katie about the soap opera and and how we can make it work even though she's London-based and only in Cambridge every now and then (but she's such a wonderful actress I just have to bring her in, somehow), we've booked up time to finish, rehearse and perform the musical with Claudia and Marcel which I'm scripting - that'll premiere for 2 nights in Cambridge at the end of June (and they want to take it to the Edinburgh Fringe), I've arranged a meeting with Emma to discuss about five million projects. Everything is piling up.
Evening gig with Claudia and band was fine, a lot of waiting around and a short set, but an appreciative, listening audience. A14 shut on the way home, the 20 minute journey took 70. Got back and finished episode 10 of the soap opera, including the 'really big scene' which takes everything up a notch.
An old friend of Dad's was talking to us earlier; he told us how he used to tell my dad off for still going into work despite being so incredibly ill. Dad simply responded with, "you know me, it's what I do."
I think he'd be quite proud of my schedule right now.
Tuesday, 23 February 2016
Tuesday 23rd February 2016
Really using this 'not sleeping well' thing to my advantage...I get so much done when I'm awake for longer!
Went into the office today which was fun because it's so weird; nobody talks, at all. I feel like I should talk, but when I try it just doesn't work. I'm not quite clicking there yet, but then again part of me thinks nobody does in that environment. Odd, such an odd day. Still, in the massive client list, some actual genuine names made me chuckle, so I've written them down and will put them in a show. I can't believe these are the names of real people: Paul Death, Jeffrey Buggered (SURELY THIS IS A TYPO?), Kipper Jones (my favourite) and Vanessa Hammerslag.
Gold, it's all gold.
Gig with G+V was great fun tonight, it was a company's Christmas party (in February, so I assume they're a hotel, or bar or something) and they were pretty much our audience. Basically a bunch of really drunk, pretty (if slightly chavvy) young ladies, many of whom liked the fact my name isn't in the band name or poster, so they took pity on me and chanted/sang "Paul...we love you Paul" throughout the whole evening. It was just lovely. I don't think it was honest affection, but I'll take it. As I left the venue, feeling like a king, I tripped on the step and they all laughed. What a guy!
Got back at 11pm. It's now 1.16am. Just nailed episode 9.
Went into the office today which was fun because it's so weird; nobody talks, at all. I feel like I should talk, but when I try it just doesn't work. I'm not quite clicking there yet, but then again part of me thinks nobody does in that environment. Odd, such an odd day. Still, in the massive client list, some actual genuine names made me chuckle, so I've written them down and will put them in a show. I can't believe these are the names of real people: Paul Death, Jeffrey Buggered (SURELY THIS IS A TYPO?), Kipper Jones (my favourite) and Vanessa Hammerslag.
Gold, it's all gold.
Gig with G+V was great fun tonight, it was a company's Christmas party (in February, so I assume they're a hotel, or bar or something) and they were pretty much our audience. Basically a bunch of really drunk, pretty (if slightly chavvy) young ladies, many of whom liked the fact my name isn't in the band name or poster, so they took pity on me and chanted/sang "Paul...we love you Paul" throughout the whole evening. It was just lovely. I don't think it was honest affection, but I'll take it. As I left the venue, feeling like a king, I tripped on the step and they all laughed. What a guy!
Got back at 11pm. It's now 1.16am. Just nailed episode 9.
Monday, 22 February 2016
Monday 22nd February 2016
Paul 'disciplined' Richards; that's what they (should) call me. I did well today, considering I was working from home with all the many temptations that go with it.
Did a 9.30am - 2.30pm shift of 'proper' work, which flew by mostly because of the Comedians Comedian podcast, had lunch and then wrote like a bastard.*
In between collecting emails of potential companies to sponsor the thing, I then wrote three whole episodes of the soap opera today. Admittedly, it's now gone midnight, but still - three gooduns. The latest one, that I finished about 10 minutes ago, episode 8, changes the pace of everything completely and I think it'll tug at the heart strings a bit. Tugged at mine, anyway, but maybe that's because I care so much about these characters. Bit annoyed that I'm out all day tomorrow and Wednesday as I just want to write more of this stuff. The formula is really simple; have 2 major storylines running parallel to each other (one about infidelity, the other about terminal illness) and 3 subplots brewing in the background that could break out at any moment. Every scene is really short, every episode has lots of scenes. It's taking me about 3 hours to write each 10 minute episode, but that's mostly because I spend half of that time looking at my notes and trying to work out where I thought it was going to go originally and seeing if it still works. Either way, as I'm sat here, drinking expensive whiskey that was a gift for a bit of work I did last year, from a Dad's Army glass, I think I'm really onto something with this show. And 30 episodes now already feels incredibly achievable.
*because those pesky bastards are renowned for their fast writing.
Did a 9.30am - 2.30pm shift of 'proper' work, which flew by mostly because of the Comedians Comedian podcast, had lunch and then wrote like a bastard.*
In between collecting emails of potential companies to sponsor the thing, I then wrote three whole episodes of the soap opera today. Admittedly, it's now gone midnight, but still - three gooduns. The latest one, that I finished about 10 minutes ago, episode 8, changes the pace of everything completely and I think it'll tug at the heart strings a bit. Tugged at mine, anyway, but maybe that's because I care so much about these characters. Bit annoyed that I'm out all day tomorrow and Wednesday as I just want to write more of this stuff. The formula is really simple; have 2 major storylines running parallel to each other (one about infidelity, the other about terminal illness) and 3 subplots brewing in the background that could break out at any moment. Every scene is really short, every episode has lots of scenes. It's taking me about 3 hours to write each 10 minute episode, but that's mostly because I spend half of that time looking at my notes and trying to work out where I thought it was going to go originally and seeing if it still works. Either way, as I'm sat here, drinking expensive whiskey that was a gift for a bit of work I did last year, from a Dad's Army glass, I think I'm really onto something with this show. And 30 episodes now already feels incredibly achievable.
*because those pesky bastards are renowned for their fast writing.
Sunday, 21 February 2016
Sunday 21st February 2016
I can't stress how much I like scheduling emails. At the risk of sounding dramatic, it could save my writing career. See, for the next two days I am really knuckling down to nailing this soap opera - so have written the emails for next week already, notably the future cabaret plans, and also a lengthy proposal to the local TV station about a chat show idea I have (PAUL RICHARDS INTERVIEWING PEOPLE WHILST RIDING AN EXERCISE BIKE) which is a winner.
But also because I really, really love writing this soap opera - I mean, I've only nailed five episodes so far (4 and 5 were done today) but I'm actually really into these characters, I'm really starting to care for them...Ellie Patterson (to be played by Izzy) is probably the first really strong woman character I've ever written, because she has emotions and shit, whilst 'The Perry Family' are so naively kind to each other I feel frustrated for them, yet I'm the one writing it. It all feels lovely, if a bit like a sitcom. A sitcom that will run for twice a week for 15 weeks. The first 3 episodes were to establish the characters, episode 4 offered a complete change of scenery, and 5 goes back to building the tension, as will 6. Episode 7 everything gets a bit juicy and it's all madness from then on. I'm really into this, you know.
Can we pull it off? It's a lot of filming. I really hope so, because it's a lot of writing.
Anyway, that was pretty much my day...writing, and pacing around getting excited by words on a screen, like a loser.
But also because I really, really love writing this soap opera - I mean, I've only nailed five episodes so far (4 and 5 were done today) but I'm actually really into these characters, I'm really starting to care for them...Ellie Patterson (to be played by Izzy) is probably the first really strong woman character I've ever written, because she has emotions and shit, whilst 'The Perry Family' are so naively kind to each other I feel frustrated for them, yet I'm the one writing it. It all feels lovely, if a bit like a sitcom. A sitcom that will run for twice a week for 15 weeks. The first 3 episodes were to establish the characters, episode 4 offered a complete change of scenery, and 5 goes back to building the tension, as will 6. Episode 7 everything gets a bit juicy and it's all madness from then on. I'm really into this, you know.
Can we pull it off? It's a lot of filming. I really hope so, because it's a lot of writing.
Anyway, that was pretty much my day...writing, and pacing around getting excited by words on a screen, like a loser.
Saturday 20th February 2016
Still not sleeping well; evaluating everything a bit too much right now - right from the deeper stuff (what if there actually is a heaven/hell rather than just nothing, as I'd previously assumed?) to more practical stuff (should my to-do lists be digital these days?).
Spent a bit of the day rewriting the first episode of the soap, and then finding more potential companies to chase regarding sponsorship for it. I kind of figured that if I email every company in the world about it, one of them is bound to say yes.
Evening gig with Claudia and band in town - nice venue, good food, good beer. Managed to double it up with a photoshoot for the 'Make or Break...' show as Andy came down. First half was a bit flat, I thought, second half really, really strong.
Spent a bit of the day rewriting the first episode of the soap, and then finding more potential companies to chase regarding sponsorship for it. I kind of figured that if I email every company in the world about it, one of them is bound to say yes.
Evening gig with Claudia and band in town - nice venue, good food, good beer. Managed to double it up with a photoshoot for the 'Make or Break...' show as Andy came down. First half was a bit flat, I thought, second half really, really strong.
Saturday, 20 February 2016
Friday 19th February 2016
I didn't mind working so much today, mostly because I knew I had made good progress with the soap yesterday.
Really want to write and produce a manic film, like Clockwise - watched it again the other day and the energy of it is just amazing. I'll add it to my list.
Evening charity show for Macmillan really shouldn't have worked, but it did. So well. Small but lovely venue (The Red Bull is fast becoming my new favourite place in Cambridge - everything from the quality of performance space to the amazing staff and great food), completely sold out to the point it was a bit sweaty, and every single act - Daisy, Izzy, Melody, David - were all so strong. Long show but so much quality the audience just lapped up all of it, it was a pleasure to host.
I get that (understandably) I'm still not myself right now, but these nights - really good fun nights, make things a lot easier.
Really want to write and produce a manic film, like Clockwise - watched it again the other day and the energy of it is just amazing. I'll add it to my list.
Evening charity show for Macmillan really shouldn't have worked, but it did. So well. Small but lovely venue (The Red Bull is fast becoming my new favourite place in Cambridge - everything from the quality of performance space to the amazing staff and great food), completely sold out to the point it was a bit sweaty, and every single act - Daisy, Izzy, Melody, David - were all so strong. Long show but so much quality the audience just lapped up all of it, it was a pleasure to host.
I get that (understandably) I'm still not myself right now, but these nights - really good fun nights, make things a lot easier.
Thursday, 18 February 2016
Thursday 18th February 2016
Did my best to still get up for a reasonable hour (9am) after getting in at 3am from the gig last night, but the danger of working from home is...well, cat naps I guess. Did about 4 hours freelance work, but over a period of about 8. Sent the boss a client list I've been building for him and he replied saying it was "interesting." What the fuck does that even mean?
Confirmed venue for Greater Manchester Fringe, it's a lovely beautiful venue. Just need to confirm Edinburgh now, that would be lovely. Confirmed a tour date in Bamford. No idea where that is, I've just said yes to it and will look at a map nearer the time.
Spent the evening re-writing episode 3 of the soap opera. Let's be honest, this is taking so much longer than it should do, but that episode needed writing from scratch. I got a real buzz writing it, not being arrogant or anything but it's really strong. Those initial three episodes were the hardest to write, I'm sure I'll say that retrospectively - but the characters are now really established so the other 27 should be a bit easier, yeah?
Confirmed venue for Greater Manchester Fringe, it's a lovely beautiful venue. Just need to confirm Edinburgh now, that would be lovely. Confirmed a tour date in Bamford. No idea where that is, I've just said yes to it and will look at a map nearer the time.
Spent the evening re-writing episode 3 of the soap opera. Let's be honest, this is taking so much longer than it should do, but that episode needed writing from scratch. I got a real buzz writing it, not being arrogant or anything but it's really strong. Those initial three episodes were the hardest to write, I'm sure I'll say that retrospectively - but the characters are now really established so the other 27 should be a bit easier, yeah?
Wednesday 17th February 2016
Did a couple hours of freelancing in the morning, just 2 hours to keep things ticking over, aided by my usual dose of Red Bull, Dad's Army and Lindt chocolate eggs.
Then popped over to CB2 to book up various show dates for the year: a tour performance of 'Least of Your Problems', 2 nights for the '50 Ways..' live show (bit optimistic) for July, a tour performance of 'The Make or Break...' show, a 3 night September run for a charity event my housemate is hosting and my Christmas show dates.
And then FH book me up for another bunch of shows and I realise just how busy my year is going to be...
Met up with the guys and we made the 5 hour journey up to Manchester for tonight's gig. 5 hours to play in front of 17 people...shouldn't really work, should it? But they were a nice, seated, listening audience. Met a fan of ours who has been following us for 2 years but never seen us live as he lives in Rochdale, he was singing along in the front row, it was lovely. Played well tonight, acoustic but long show - 19 song set, hurt my hands a bit. Home by 3am, and now writing this blog, scheduled to go live at some point tomorrow, such is my continued obsession with delaying everything.
Then popped over to CB2 to book up various show dates for the year: a tour performance of 'Least of Your Problems', 2 nights for the '50 Ways..' live show (bit optimistic) for July, a tour performance of 'The Make or Break...' show, a 3 night September run for a charity event my housemate is hosting and my Christmas show dates.
And then FH book me up for another bunch of shows and I realise just how busy my year is going to be...
Met up with the guys and we made the 5 hour journey up to Manchester for tonight's gig. 5 hours to play in front of 17 people...shouldn't really work, should it? But they were a nice, seated, listening audience. Met a fan of ours who has been following us for 2 years but never seen us live as he lives in Rochdale, he was singing along in the front row, it was lovely. Played well tonight, acoustic but long show - 19 song set, hurt my hands a bit. Home by 3am, and now writing this blog, scheduled to go live at some point tomorrow, such is my continued obsession with delaying everything.
Tuesday, 16 February 2016
Tuesday 16th February 2016
So I've found this other amazing app thingy, that you can add on to your email account, and it lets you schedule your emails. It's quite addictive - I mean, it's 1.30am now, and I've written a load of emails that will be sent just after midday tomorrow. I'll be on the road to Manchester by then on the way to a gig, it's like being in two places at once! Izzy will get an email from me at 12.18pm tomorrow about fringe stuff, but I wrote it just a minute ago...I'm getting quite into scheduling my life. I wish I could do this with all aspects of my life, that would be lovely. Just a day, sat down down, working out what the week has in store, and program it all in.
Literally, tonight I sat down and just wrote every email I want/needed to send, and then lined them up for later. Isn't technology amazing? I spent 5 hours writing them, though.
I've had 2 beers, I get quite excited after two beers.
The day was fine, did some freelance work - as I work from home I did it in my pants JUST BECAUSE I CAN, and then was a good son again and took Mum shopping to the usual million places she wanted to go to. Odd vibes there, as you'd expect given everything; I don't feel like I'm doing enough, she keeps saying it feels like it's a "hassle" for me to be there. I'd like things to settle for a bit, but also wouldn't like that because it means we're comfortable with Dad not being around, which somehow feels disrespectful. Either way, it's all a bit horrible.
Got back, scheduled the last of the emails, using the app from yesterday for multiple mail (90-odd venues for potential tour dates) and the thing from today (chasing up musical meeting stuff that has fallen by the wayside), and wrote a mailing list thing...that I've scheduled to go out tomorrow afternoon.
I don't feel like I have enough tour dates, I used to have more. I could do with more. I've sent a lot of emails the last few days, if nothing comes from this then fine - I'll just stick to writing/filming stuff, which is probably best anyway? It's 2016, the year when people finally stop going out at all and instead watch everything online?
Literally, tonight I sat down and just wrote every email I want/needed to send, and then lined them up for later. Isn't technology amazing? I spent 5 hours writing them, though.
I've had 2 beers, I get quite excited after two beers.
The day was fine, did some freelance work - as I work from home I did it in my pants JUST BECAUSE I CAN, and then was a good son again and took Mum shopping to the usual million places she wanted to go to. Odd vibes there, as you'd expect given everything; I don't feel like I'm doing enough, she keeps saying it feels like it's a "hassle" for me to be there. I'd like things to settle for a bit, but also wouldn't like that because it means we're comfortable with Dad not being around, which somehow feels disrespectful. Either way, it's all a bit horrible.
Got back, scheduled the last of the emails, using the app from yesterday for multiple mail (90-odd venues for potential tour dates) and the thing from today (chasing up musical meeting stuff that has fallen by the wayside), and wrote a mailing list thing...that I've scheduled to go out tomorrow afternoon.
I don't feel like I have enough tour dates, I used to have more. I could do with more. I've sent a lot of emails the last few days, if nothing comes from this then fine - I'll just stick to writing/filming stuff, which is probably best anyway? It's 2016, the year when people finally stop going out at all and instead watch everything online?
Monday 15th February 2016
My Monday in the office freelancing. Nobody talks there, literally nobody, it's so weird. A whole day of silence and occasional glances of reassurance. I think I'm doing okay there, but I can't really tell. They could really hate me, but are just not into words.
Anyway, long day there, and sorted stage-times and stuff for Friday's charity event which should be great, but the venue feels unconventional. It could really be terrible, given the space. Not sure. Ticket sales are gradually improving.
Got back and decided to really get my year into shape, especially now that I've found an app that allows me to email multiple venues properly without it going into spam folders. Suddenly it was 2am, but I'd sent a lot of emails. Too much admin, not enough actual creativity, Richards.
Anyway, long day there, and sorted stage-times and stuff for Friday's charity event which should be great, but the venue feels unconventional. It could really be terrible, given the space. Not sure. Ticket sales are gradually improving.
Got back and decided to really get my year into shape, especially now that I've found an app that allows me to email multiple venues properly without it going into spam folders. Suddenly it was 2am, but I'd sent a lot of emails. Too much admin, not enough actual creativity, Richards.
Sunday 14th February 2016
Really achieved bugger-all today, apart from avoid all that Valentines nonsense that fills up my Facebook feed.
Started making notes for a storytelling show called 'Story Time With Ol' Lanky Pants' - it'll be a morning show at the fringe, potentially. I like the idea that I'm right out of evenings, so this could be a show that I tour as a morning show only. I've then realised the potential flaws in touring a morning show.
And yet, all of these ideas detract away from the soap opera. Did a little work on it, but then went to see Mum. Her first Valentines in 42 years without Dad, so it made sense to go around and sit in his chair, playing the Playstation for a bit.
Wanted to have a productive evening but Spurs are second in the league and Match of the Day was thrilling. I'll just write today off, then.
Started making notes for a storytelling show called 'Story Time With Ol' Lanky Pants' - it'll be a morning show at the fringe, potentially. I like the idea that I'm right out of evenings, so this could be a show that I tour as a morning show only. I've then realised the potential flaws in touring a morning show.
And yet, all of these ideas detract away from the soap opera. Did a little work on it, but then went to see Mum. Her first Valentines in 42 years without Dad, so it made sense to go around and sit in his chair, playing the Playstation for a bit.
Wanted to have a productive evening but Spurs are second in the league and Match of the Day was thrilling. I'll just write today off, then.
Sunday, 14 February 2016
Saturday 13th February 2016
Too many ideas at the moment - my notepad is bursting, but there just aren't as many hours in the day as I'd like. And then naturally whilst I'm writing notes for these ideas, writing soap opera time is slipping away somewhat...
Still, a good day of band stuff today. FH in Milton Keynes, early soundcheck, amazing soundguy, cracking venue. Got to use my Tama kit today (the one I bring out for bigger shows) and the bass drum on that is just so warm and gorgeous to play.
Sold out show, all seated, proper 'show' not a gig. Much better than last night - just a bit sharper, there was a lovely buzz on stage that we were on good form. Audience loved every second of it, the surprise Bowie cover and new encore worked well...played our new album in it's entirety, as well as bits of the first one.
As a band we're in a really good place right now; we're on an adventure, it's growing and growing. Feels like it's the only bit of my life that I can be sure is working (as much as I enjoy the unpredictability of the other stuff), we're a unit, fighting for each other and - 5 years in - building something rather special. Cracking night.
V was my passenger on the way home and we talked about grief, and life and deep stuff all the way back and it did confirm that, although we're all in our 30s, pushing this music thing for a bit longer is the right thing to be doing...and it feels like we're getting quite good at it.
Friday, 12 February 2016
Friday 12th February 2016
Woke up in Bilston (Woverhampton) in Ade's spare room, feeling a little slow - we all enjoyed the very cheap bar next door to the venue a bit too much last night.
Back on the road by 8.30am, straight to Cambridge to show my face at the freelance office. I'm trying too hard to instigate friendliness there and they're just not having it. I'm doing a good job for them, there's evidence of that, but I think they would prefer it if I didn't smile so much/try so hard to be sociable.
And then over to Histon, into the estate and off for the first night of our tour to plug FH album number 2. Tiny venue in Rugby, and slightly odd set-up by breaking the set up into two but the promoter has a right to do these things. Packed crowd, even though it was tiny it still felt quite vibrant. We were a bit sloppy tonight (understatement), yet still sold a box full of the new album...probably a sign of a good band (just like when a football team plays badly but still wins) but we need to sharpen up a bit by tomorrow's big sell-out show.
Back on the road by 8.30am, straight to Cambridge to show my face at the freelance office. I'm trying too hard to instigate friendliness there and they're just not having it. I'm doing a good job for them, there's evidence of that, but I think they would prefer it if I didn't smile so much/try so hard to be sociable.
And then over to Histon, into the estate and off for the first night of our tour to plug FH album number 2. Tiny venue in Rugby, and slightly odd set-up by breaking the set up into two but the promoter has a right to do these things. Packed crowd, even though it was tiny it still felt quite vibrant. We were a bit sloppy tonight (understatement), yet still sold a box full of the new album...probably a sign of a good band (just like when a football team plays badly but still wins) but we need to sharpen up a bit by tomorrow's big sell-out show.
Thursday 11th February 2016
Up early to do a couple hours freelancing from home, and then a quick read-over the stuff I wrote yesterday.
A week after my M6 disaster, back on the same road heading to the same place, but this time it wasn't so bad. I mean, it's still a shit of a road with delays everywhere, but got to Bilston in 3 hours. Met up with my mate Ade, we got the tram over to Birmingham to meet up with Steve and then off to watch the incredible genius that is Joe Jackson.
The first ever record I ever listened to was Night and Day by JJ, and it was one of my dad's favourite records...it didn't feel right going to a JJ gig without him, but I knew he wouldn't have wanted me not to go. I was a little emotional about it all (internally, I'm a bloke, after all) but the gig was just stunning. The sixth time I've seen Joe, with various line-ups, and this was up there. A class act, wonderful set, exceptional arrangements and a cracking band. Played everything I wanted to hear - he is truly the man. Tear-jerkingly good. I want to be as good as Joe Jackson, in something or another.
A week after my M6 disaster, back on the same road heading to the same place, but this time it wasn't so bad. I mean, it's still a shit of a road with delays everywhere, but got to Bilston in 3 hours. Met up with my mate Ade, we got the tram over to Birmingham to meet up with Steve and then off to watch the incredible genius that is Joe Jackson.
The first ever record I ever listened to was Night and Day by JJ, and it was one of my dad's favourite records...it didn't feel right going to a JJ gig without him, but I knew he wouldn't have wanted me not to go. I was a little emotional about it all (internally, I'm a bloke, after all) but the gig was just stunning. The sixth time I've seen Joe, with various line-ups, and this was up there. A class act, wonderful set, exceptional arrangements and a cracking band. Played everything I wanted to hear - he is truly the man. Tear-jerkingly good. I want to be as good as Joe Jackson, in something or another.
Wednesday 10th February 2016
This soap opera is turning out to be harder to write than I thought; I think the problem is that I'm enjoying it too much. The plan was to simply bash out the episodes, quickly, and then go back and tweak them. What's actually happened is I care about the characters too much and I'm writing them carefully. It takes ages.
The other problem is that it's already turning into a comedy, which was never the plan. In fact, there's a scene in episode 2 featuring Johnny and Ellie (to be played by Josh and Izzy) which is possibly the funniest 3 minutes I've ever written. I need to decide sharpish whether this is going to be a comedy or not, because the expectations change either way - it can't just have occasional 'funny bits' in it, I don't think.
Either way, three episodes nailed. 27 to go. On schedule, but it's very rare that I get a whole full, free day like this to write. Can't help but feel I could have done more.
The other problem is that it's already turning into a comedy, which was never the plan. In fact, there's a scene in episode 2 featuring Johnny and Ellie (to be played by Josh and Izzy) which is possibly the funniest 3 minutes I've ever written. I need to decide sharpish whether this is going to be a comedy or not, because the expectations change either way - it can't just have occasional 'funny bits' in it, I don't think.
Either way, three episodes nailed. 27 to go. On schedule, but it's very rare that I get a whole full, free day like this to write. Can't help but feel I could have done more.
Wednesday, 10 February 2016
Tuesday 9th February 2016
Was working till really late last night, but nice to get stuff done. That's the joy of Monday nights I guess; I'm barely ever gigging on on a Monday.
Ultra-productive today too - in a soap opera-writing sort of way. Spent a lot of the day being a good son, visiting mum, taking her to every shop in town, but generally not feeling like I'm not doing enough and feeling a bit beaten down by her uncharacteristic put-downs ("Louis Walsh says if you haven't made it in a band by 19, you should give up," and "most people your age have a wife and kids") but I'll put it down to grief.
Home, and grumpy, I carried on nailing the plot for the soap, something I'd spent hours working in whilst sat in Waitrose car park waiting for mum.
Ended up working on it till 1am, simplified the plot and cut 4 cast members, as I want this to be a 30 episode thing, not 50, as I think 30 is enough, yeah? Quite excited by these characters, this could be the project that motivates me to get up in the mornings...something that has been a bit of an issue, recently.
Monday, 8 February 2016
Monday 8th February 2016
A day of discipline; managed to do 10 and a half of my 20 freelance hours in one day. That frees me up a bit to work on the soap opera for the next few days.
As a result, quite a tedious day to be honest, but with good radio (football debates, Dad's Army, Mark Steel's in Town).
Still in two (okay, several) minds about what to do about the fringe this year, have to keep progressing, somehow. I'll sleep on it, and probably just give in and go back to the usual place.
As a result, quite a tedious day to be honest, but with good radio (football debates, Dad's Army, Mark Steel's in Town).
Still in two (okay, several) minds about what to do about the fringe this year, have to keep progressing, somehow. I'll sleep on it, and probably just give in and go back to the usual place.
Sunday 7th February 2016
Didn't set my alarm...that was dangerous. As a result, lost half the day, but maybe my body needed sleep. Last nights gig annoyed me, a lot.
Spent a lot of time on the soap opera, it's slowly coming together, nicely enough. A lot of work to do, though, and not a lot of time to do it in.
Popped out to do a lounge show around Brian's house - the most relaxed I've felt in ages on 'stage', the show feels really comfortable now. Happy Paul.
Spent a lot of time on the soap opera, it's slowly coming together, nicely enough. A lot of work to do, though, and not a lot of time to do it in.
Popped out to do a lounge show around Brian's house - the most relaxed I've felt in ages on 'stage', the show feels really comfortable now. Happy Paul.
Sunday, 7 February 2016
Saturday 6th February 2016
Yeah, I could really do with writing the soap opera. Tomorrow, that's when I'll start it.
Today was all band stuff. Long rehearsal (our tour starts next Thursday) and then wedding gig. I don't like wedding gigs - in between soundcheck and dinner, somebody had clearly touched my drums and also knocked over Griff's guitar. No damage, but it's lack of respect isn't it? And then after the gig, the bride put her mp3 player through our PA, instead of paying for a DJ, and then got annoyed/angry/upset when we had to pack away our PA because our set had finished hours ago...people just take the piss, don't they? I get we get paid for it, but I hate weddings.
Today was all band stuff. Long rehearsal (our tour starts next Thursday) and then wedding gig. I don't like wedding gigs - in between soundcheck and dinner, somebody had clearly touched my drums and also knocked over Griff's guitar. No damage, but it's lack of respect isn't it? And then after the gig, the bride put her mp3 player through our PA, instead of paying for a DJ, and then got annoyed/angry/upset when we had to pack away our PA because our set had finished hours ago...people just take the piss, don't they? I get we get paid for it, but I hate weddings.
Friday 5th February 2016
Yesterday was just daft. Today was a bit easier, though - took about two hours to get back, the plan to make it in time for a meeting but then had a text saying I wasn't needed in it so just did a bit of work from home instead.
This is the month where I need to write the soap opera; all 50 episodes of it, if this is to actually happen. I'd like it to, but making notes, albeit very good notes, isn't the same as having a script.
Evening lounge show around Izzy and Alasdair's felt good tonight, this show feels like an actual show now - I've cut the intro, added 8 new lines, suddenly it feels sharper. It's not far off, it is Paul Richards being Paul Richards, but I'm getting quite good at this. Lovely evening in great company.
This is the month where I need to write the soap opera; all 50 episodes of it, if this is to actually happen. I'd like it to, but making notes, albeit very good notes, isn't the same as having a script.
Evening lounge show around Izzy and Alasdair's felt good tonight, this show feels like an actual show now - I've cut the intro, added 8 new lines, suddenly it feels sharper. It's not far off, it is Paul Richards being Paul Richards, but I'm getting quite good at this. Lovely evening in great company.
Friday, 5 February 2016
Thursday 4th February 2016
That was a ridiculous, and, you could argue, pointless day. Well, woke up and did a couple hours freelance work from home, but then set off on what have been a simple journey to Bilston. It was for a lounge show; another work in progress evening and, having fiddled with the script a lot I was feeling quietly confident about this one. Also, I had a cracking time there - at Ade's house, last year, it was where Inadequate Man really started to come together.
But then there was an accident on the A6. A huge, bugger of an accident, closing two junctions.
In short, I left at 2pm, expecting to be there for 5pm for pre-show beers, food and a catch up with friends, but didn't make it until 10.40pm. 10.40PM! I'm obviously grateful that I wasn't involved in the accident directly; I'm grateful and aware of that, but equally...there was one point when I didn't move for four hours. And, as I said yesterday...I really could do without any time to dwell at the moment. Spent a long time sat on the M6, with no food, just a couple cans of Emerge, and no human contact. Bad thoughts, bad times. Horrible.
Eventually made it to the house just as the audience were leaving. They were very nice and apologetic "on behalf of the Midlands" but had trains to catch to go home...disappointed regarding the lack of show but lovely all the same. I still stayed there overnight, my old chum Steve - an old friend from many years ago, was there with Ade and his girlfriend, so the four of us sat, drank and watched the '50 Ways...' film, which they all liked. It was a nice catch up, but I was still gutted not to do the show.
But then there was an accident on the A6. A huge, bugger of an accident, closing two junctions.
In short, I left at 2pm, expecting to be there for 5pm for pre-show beers, food and a catch up with friends, but didn't make it until 10.40pm. 10.40PM! I'm obviously grateful that I wasn't involved in the accident directly; I'm grateful and aware of that, but equally...there was one point when I didn't move for four hours. And, as I said yesterday...I really could do without any time to dwell at the moment. Spent a long time sat on the M6, with no food, just a couple cans of Emerge, and no human contact. Bad thoughts, bad times. Horrible.
Eventually made it to the house just as the audience were leaving. They were very nice and apologetic "on behalf of the Midlands" but had trains to catch to go home...disappointed regarding the lack of show but lovely all the same. I still stayed there overnight, my old chum Steve - an old friend from many years ago, was there with Ade and his girlfriend, so the four of us sat, drank and watched the '50 Ways...' film, which they all liked. It was a nice catch up, but I was still gutted not to do the show.
Wednesday, 3 February 2016
Wednesday 3rd February 2016
Freelancing again today, with the guy who barely talks. Would feel awkward normally, but he just seems so comfortable with it. When I did try to talk; ie - to ask him a question (I knew the answer, I JUST FELT LIKE TALKING) my voice cracked like a pubescent 13-year-old and all the other freelancers looked on, giggling.
And then something *marginally* funny happened, which I'll put in a show. The current show, in fact; this one needs all the help it can get.
Mum is really down today about Dad, which has made me down too. And then my show tonight was cancelled because the host was also ill, which is great because it means I can re-write and rest my tired vocal chords, but I've just found myself dwelling on sad things. Stop dwelling, Richards, there's no need for this.
And then something *marginally* funny happened, which I'll put in a show. The current show, in fact; this one needs all the help it can get.
Mum is really down today about Dad, which has made me down too. And then my show tonight was cancelled because the host was also ill, which is great because it means I can re-write and rest my tired vocal chords, but I've just found myself dwelling on sad things. Stop dwelling, Richards, there's no need for this.
Tuesday 2nd February 2016
Still barely with a voice. The timing of this is horrible...as much as everyone seems to have it at the moment. Did a couple hours work for the new place - did it from home as per my contract and merely involved me watching videos about the product so I can get a clear idea about it. Can see myself getting used to this...
Then took mum shopping - everywhere, mostly for various dog treats from specialist places. Crazy, but that dog is all she really has now. There's a lot of sadness in the air at the moment, like a second wind of grief.
Lounge show at Phill's; big audience, not sure why, and generally quite lovely throughout. The thing I liked about them was that they were so honest - I mean, they didn't laugh for the first 8 minutes or so but that's entirely justified. Big laughs in the middle, and, for the second night running, slight confusion by the disjointed 'punchline.'
I was full of cold and could barely talk at times, it was both a hindrance but also, in a strange sort of way, made the audience like me even more...possibly out of pity.
Either way, drove home feeling like shit, but with a head buzzing with ideas of how this script can be improved. It's a really good show on paper, these improvements will help kick it in the right direction.
Then took mum shopping - everywhere, mostly for various dog treats from specialist places. Crazy, but that dog is all she really has now. There's a lot of sadness in the air at the moment, like a second wind of grief.
Lounge show at Phill's; big audience, not sure why, and generally quite lovely throughout. The thing I liked about them was that they were so honest - I mean, they didn't laugh for the first 8 minutes or so but that's entirely justified. Big laughs in the middle, and, for the second night running, slight confusion by the disjointed 'punchline.'
I was full of cold and could barely talk at times, it was both a hindrance but also, in a strange sort of way, made the audience like me even more...possibly out of pity.
Either way, drove home feeling like shit, but with a head buzzing with ideas of how this script can be improved. It's a really good show on paper, these improvements will help kick it in the right direction.
Monday, 1 February 2016
Monday 1st February 2016
Woke up feeling rougher than I have done on a long time. Look, I had bugger all to do in January...why couldn't I have been ill then? But no, first day of new show and new freelance post and I can barely talk or stand up.
The 'work' stuff was fine, it's a different sort of environment and feels a bit like a library but the hours are more flexible than I could ever wish for abd the work, whlist there is a lot of it, is logical.
But the show tonight was a low. I'd not had a chance to read through it beforehand but it was a mess. Yeah, so there are obvious jokes in there but it's clearly written by a man in a dark place. It's not theatre but it's barely comedy, it's not storytelling enough to go in the Kitson pigeonhole but the story isn't light enough to go in the Rhod Gilbert catagory. It's just not quite sharp enough. I wish I was more talented.
The 'work' stuff was fine, it's a different sort of environment and feels a bit like a library but the hours are more flexible than I could ever wish for abd the work, whlist there is a lot of it, is logical.
But the show tonight was a low. I'd not had a chance to read through it beforehand but it was a mess. Yeah, so there are obvious jokes in there but it's clearly written by a man in a dark place. It's not theatre but it's barely comedy, it's not storytelling enough to go in the Kitson pigeonhole but the story isn't light enough to go in the Rhod Gilbert catagory. It's just not quite sharp enough. I wish I was more talented.
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