BILLY JONAS: Life So Far

Billy Jonas

Life So Far

© 2000 Billy Jonas (703034100325)

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neo-tribal folk / singer-songwriter

tracks

1 One
2 Late
3 Hit the Bottom
4 The Bus
5 Coup D'etat
6 I See Stars
7 Lighting of the Lamps
8 God Is In
9 We're On Our Way
10 You Come to Me
11 Sleeeeeeeping
12 My Life So Far
13 My Life So Far (outro)
14 My Life So Far (epilogue)

notes

A Billy Jonas performance is an explosion of energy.
In singalongs, bangalongs, whisperalongs, as well as improvised songs,
his
primary instrument is the audience. Everyone becomes part of a
performance
that reaches out and ". . . touches even the most hardened of hearts."
(Fayetteville Morning News)

Concerts begin with a simple "tuning" of the audience; from there a
whimsical trajectory carries listeners through stories of life, love,
and
triumph over 'Murphy's Law.' Jonas' original pieces are played on
fanciful
"industrial re-percussion" instruments made from found objects. He
sings in
a clear tenor voice; his guitar work is adventurous, alternately
percussive
and lyrical.

Jonas' heartwarming work has been enjoyed across North America since
1987.
Previously a member of the highly acclaimed duo, "The Billys," he has
been
featured at prestigious festivals and venues nationwide (see selected
venues). Jonas has shared stages with some of the world's favorite
acoustic
artists, including Patti Larkin, Ani DiFranco, David Wilcox, Richard
Thompson, and Pete Seeger.

Jonas' recent CD, "Life So Far," sparkles with unique perspectives and
found
sounds. Songs filled with hope, yearning, wonder, and wisdom include
special
guests David Wilcox, Glen Velez, Robert Moog (on Theramin), and
Zimbabwe's
Black Umfolosi voice and percussion choir. Jonas also has released a
video
for younger audiences, entitled "Bangin' and Sangin,'" that has
garnered
critical acclaim, including a Parents Choice Gold Award, and inclusion
on
the New York Times "Best" listing.

Billy Jonas' performances will inspire, inform, and enlighten. His work
is
born out of respect and reverence, and seeks to honor the creative
energy
in everyone. Billy provides performances and workshops for adult
audiences
and/or family audiences.

Billy is accompanied by a full ensemble of singers and
re-percussionists at
larger venues.

reviews

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  • Everyone has already said it....
    author: Marla Lewis

    ...but I'll try to add something. As a fellow singer/songwriter who has also won Parents' Choice and other awards,I seek out unusual, brilliant music. The pop hit stuff bores me to death. It's very rare that I listen to a CD twice. Like everyone else reviewing Billy on this page, I can't stop listening to these songs! They are brilliant on so many levels. My only regret is that I can't contact Billy personally and rave to him out loud! Thanks, Billy. I hope we meet someday.

  • Takes me back to the south side
    author: David

    As a fellow south sider I loved the album. The messages are wonderful the music outstanding and the energy keeps me going every day. I can't wait for his next album.

  • Energetic and awesome!
    author: Carol

    I especially like "God is in" and "My life so far". Billy's music on this CD is energetic and life enriching.

  • Love it!
    author: Jenn

    I absolutely love this CD! The lyrics are original and catchy.

  • Funny, insightful, biting, groovy, wise, tolerant, in-tune music!
    author: Kate Murphy

    The lyrics are fresh. The melodies are memorable or hummable. This is one of those timely CD's that I leave in my CD player and just play over and over and over until it has become an inextricable part of this period of my life. I use the God Is In song to wake my kids up with in the morning.

  • Cool, funny, deep, and great!
    author: Kate

    This is a great CD with a lot of unusual cuts - music one doesn't get to hear often. Billy Jonas' lyrics (or poems) are amazing - funny, sad, everything - sometimes all at once. The rhythms, drums, and music rocks and has a humor and pathos of its own. God Is...is one of the best of its kind - the reason I bought the CD. I was happy to find so much more!

  • What I listen to when I need to center ...
    author: Ben's mom

    "The Bus" is one of the most profoundly moving songs I've heard in decades, a journey across & into our country's forgotten heart. It is heartbreaking and sporadically funny as it describes with intimate tenderness the intersecting lives of people who are often ignored and derided by the surface image of America. Never judgemental, these vignettes present the beauty that is to be found in everyman and everywoman; a love song for the common man. This entire CD is an unforgettable emotional journey.

  • Great, Inspirational, Loved the percussion!
    author: Melissa

    It was reccomended to me for one song and I like them all. Great Cd to help change the mood.

  • Wonderful
    author: Michael

    Inspiring lyrics, great percussion, wonderful harmonies and plenty of variety. Kind of like Iron & Wine meets Paul Simon. Liked it so much I bought 2 more for gifts.

  • The Best!
    author: Magda Hiller Wilson

    Life So Far is so good that I've purchased it twice (and more for gifts). My husband took my copy - it is a superb mix of thought provoking, insightful and brilliantly written and performed songs. God Is In is a song that reaches beyond my religious questioning.

  • Love it! Love it! LOVE IT! BILLY JONAS IS ONE TALENTED ARTIST!!!!!!!
    author: jane gordon

    Billy Jonas is truly an inspirational artist - I listened to his cd I purchased at the falling leaves rendezvous all the way home and then HAD to purchase this one!! Thank goodness there are people like billy jonas to entertain us in the masses!!!!!!!!!!!

  • Late...but on time
    author: Nan

    Not just about "G!d is in"...this CD has a lot to offer listeners of all ages. Personal favorite is Late, but we boogie to Coup D'etat! Fantastique!

  • Uber cool CD!
    author: Janet

    Great CD - I'm so glad that I bought it. We have been listening to it pretty much nonstop for the last week. Can't wait to turn my friends onto Billy Jonas.

  • I heard God is in at a yoga retreat and loved it.
    author: Deanna

    I first heard God is in... at a yoga retreat and loved it. Had to go buy the cd and now I play it in my classes and several people have bought it. My 6 and 3 year old boys love it as well!!!!!!

  • bwahahaha Mr. Rogers..... Billy Jonas is our friend....
    author: Matt McGyver

    I first heard God is in (God is Sin, Goddess in, God is Zen) on WMNF community radio in Tampa, and I've been tracking the CD for about 18 months, hopping Billy was coming down to play. Finally had to have it the other day and bought it and like so many of the other reviewers; I now have to buy copies for everyone. Like so many others God is In really puts me in touch with the Goddess in everything (me) and brings me peace. But Billy sings to us on such a personal level that all his songs make me feel peacefull. I'm really excited about the "What Kind of Cat..." lyrics and I'm off to buy it too. The Billy Jonas as Mr Rogers comparison was too much, I love it. Thanks Billy, namaste.

  • fantastic - great energy!
    author: Habib Kayce

    This cd is so much fun, it really gives you the "Billy Jonas" spirit in your own home. I picked it up after seeing him perform "God is in" and "One" in person - it was such a treat, and he was so joy-filled, I had to get the disc - and I'm more than pleased with the whole album. Thanks Billy!

  • This CD is great for people of all ages!
    author: Karen

    I first heard "God is In" at a sacred sleepover for women between the ages of 25 and 65 at our Unity church. The purpose of the sleepover was to share ideas and things that moved us along in our spiritual growth. I went straight to my computer when I got home and ordered the CD. I love it and can always depend on it to inspire me whenever I play it.

  • amazing music and inspiring lyrics
    author: Clay

    I first heard the song "God is in" at a UU conference and i had to track down the CD. This is a great CD, "one" "coup d'etat" "god is in" and "my life so far" are awesome songs and the others are really good too.

  • author: rita

    life so far- it is rare to find an entire CD that is smart, lyrical and fun. heartbreaking, in a good way...

  • Increadible
    author: Jackie

    I first heard God Is In from a friend of mine and loved it so much i bought the CD...the rest of the CD is at LEAST as increadible. Everyone i've played even one song to is online looking for their own copy! you won't be dissapointed!

  • Fantastic!
    author: Lauren Kriel

    I first heard God Is In at a conference and looked all over for the CD. When I finally found it online, I ordered it as soon as I could and since I got it, I've been enjoying every song!

  • Wonderful collection of songs. God Is In is truly inspired.
    author: Barbara

    We recently ordered this album and are really enjoying it. The music is upbeat and fun. I highly recommend it.

  • Perfectly Perfect & Born of The True Muse!
    author: Sara Hickman

    ONE totally blew my mind. It made me want to listen over and over. I still haven't gotten past the third track on this cd because I can't stop listening to the first three tracks, and I've had the cd for over a week. Thank you, Billy, for inspiring me! Absolutely astounding. I am telling everyone about you.

  • Amazing music that brings The Truth into audiences.
    author: Meg Flannagan

    This is amazing music that touches at the core of what humanity is and should be. Billy Jonas has courage in broaching the unspeakable and naming the un-name-able. I have not been able to stop listening to it or take it out of my hands for a week. Something that every person active in a faith tradition should have!!

  • Incredibly creative and inspiring!
    author: Tasha Grand-Harkness

    Love Billy's music. The music and lyrics are awesome, so inspiring. God Is In makes a believer outta me. Love this CD.

  • Can't stop listening to it!
    author: True

    Energetic, playful, whole--really great music! So many different feelings expressed and done with a great perspective. . .just makes Life feel better.

  • Billy Jonas is my hero!
    author: J.R. Shearrow

    This CD is incredible, fun for children, and funny for adults that catch the jokes. I only gave the CD 4 out of 5 because it doesnt capture the feeling of seeing him in concert. I saw him recently and it's one of the most incredible things I have ever seen. Ever. Excellent CD anyways.

  • Great CD! Wonderful lyrics, moving and funny.
    author: Tom Massiah

    I hear influences of James Taylor and Paul Simon, which is not to take away from the originality and inventiveness of this CD. Superb lyrics, moving, funny. There's nothing I can say about God Is In that hasn't already been said. I am recommending this CD to friends who appreciate eclectic music.

  • Loved the CD!
    author: Ellen

    A rabbi I know used "Do what you do, let your light shine through" in services; another used "G!d is In." I guessed I would like the CD before it came; I was right. It's now one of my favorites and I'll be recommending it to friends.

  • WOW!
    author: Sharon A. Koeth

    I am sharing this CD with everyone I know--most especially the song, God is In, which I love. Everyone who hears it thinks it is remarkable. Thank you so much. My son is a singer/songwriter also and I can't wait for a chance to hear him sing "God is In." Blessings, Sharon

  • Life So Far is witty, fun, and deeply spiritual
    author: Jon

    I got this CD because a friend played God Is In for a church group that we are a part of. It is so profoundly imaginative that I had to check out more of Mr. Jonas' music. I am impressed with his inventiveness (the clever use of cut and paste sounds in One), his deeply spiritual view of life so far (God Is In), and his wry use of language full of internal rhymes and double meanings (Hit the Bottom). This is music that I will enjoy for a long, long time.

  • God Is In is one of the best sermons I've ever heard (or given!)
    author: Rabbi Paul

    God Is In is one of the best sermons I've ever heard (or given!)

  • beautiful CD. I loved "God is in"
    author: Jon Horvitz

    It's a great CD. I heard "God is in" at a small club in Boston, and couldn't believe the beauty of the song - words, music, instrumental complements to the words. I couldn't wait to order the CD. I'm shocked that his CD's aren't available in record stores everywhere. He's great.

  • Good stuff
    author: Glenn

    This CD is really easy to listen too and can always make me smile. Its really great for anyone who likes folk.

  • "God Is In" is GREAT! Truly enjoyable CD.
    author: Sue Collins

    My daughter got "What Kind of Cat Are You" and then I ordered this CD. I'd like to try more!

  • Excellent. Listen to the lyrics
    author: Steve

    GOD is in should be a classic. I'm from the '60s when we used to say...yeah...but listen to the words. Well I can finally say that again.

  • Incredible Energy-Awesome Lyrics
    author: Gillian

    I bought this one after my brother gave me "What kind of cat are you." My kids will not listen to anything else. My two-year old walks around singing "Some Houses" and "Pharoah" all day. This CD is even better. I wish he would come tour in Rochester....

  • God Is In Billy Jonas
    author: Brenda Sutton

    A pal of mine played God Is In for me while her 4-year old son sang along. (His favorite lyric: God is in the latest fad, except bungy jumping... it's dangerous and bad!) And I was hooked. Now I'm busy trying to figure out the chords, and touting Billy Jonas to everyone I meet. I've only had the cd for a week, and I'm about to wear it out. Wise and witty lyrics and rhyme schemes, fascinating percussion, energy, passion, and charisma.

  • BEAUTIFUL!
    author: Amber

    I first heard "God is In" on NPR, and was hooked. I nearly had an accident writing down the artist and album title. I immediately bought this album, and cannot stop listening to it. 'Esoterica' and 'coup d'tas' are now a part of my active vocabulary. I love it!!

  • fabulouso!
    author: Rachel

    I first heard this CD a year ago from a friend who had been raving for months. I bought it the next day and listened to it ALL SUMMER LONG (I'm not kidding!) Since then I've bought it for at least 3 friends, and introduced many more to the joy of Billy Jonas. Now they're all hooked and the joy is spreading... whahoo!

  • awesome,not just for kids,or i am not grown yet!
    author: mindy h. graham

    i think jonAS WILL THE MISTER ROGERS OF THE NEW AGE....HE HAS THE SAME CREATIVE,HAPPY MAGNETISM THAT DRAWS CHILDREN AROUND....I LOVE IT....WISH I WERE STill A KID...cannot wait to see his video

  • most excellent!
    author: Jan Berry

    I bought this CD after finding Billy Jonas' CDs sold out in the lobby after the Ann Arbor Folk Festival. Wasn't sure that a CD could measure up to his fine onstage performance, but I shouldn't have worried -- this CD is most excellent!

  • Billy Jonas is a cyclone of rhythmic brilliance!
    author: Cynthia Lynn

    Life So Far is an eclectic mix consisting of rhythmic brilliance, carefully crafted inspiring lyrics and high energy fun!

  • I like it more each time I listen to it!

    I ordered this CD after enjoying Billy Jonas opening for David Wilcox... Some songs are deep, some are funny... he tells stories with each of his songs. Great energy in the CD, even with the more reflective songs. A great new find for anyone who prides themselves on an eclectic music collection! I enjoy it more each time I listen to it.

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