James F Wright |
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James F. Wright
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CONFERENCE ADDRESS MEMORIALIZED IN SONG LATEST JAMES F. WRIGHT CD, THE CAPTAIN, July 8, 2002 Seattle, WA - Do you remember the story? The recent release of The Captain - 4th CD release by James F. Wright - may well trigger memories youd forgotten were there. Music touches feelings that words alone cannot. Inspired talks are, well inspiring - they catch the imagination and ignite the heart. And sometimes that which they inspire comes as a surprise, long after the initial delivery. In this case, the principle applies repeatedly: to the millions first inspired by the deJager address, You Never Know Who You May Save, in General Conference, October 1976. Again, as Jim Wright was driving to a music engagement and began composing The Call. And many times since, in the ongoing fireside series by Wright (presented free of charge), where audiences are consistently moved by the message of the beloved and often-repeated story from deJagers address. In brief: Six generations of Jacob deJagers fathers ancestors lived in the little village of Scheveningen, Holland, where they all worked in the fishing industry. The sea claimed many victims every year. During a particularly severe storm, a rowboat was sent to rescue the crew of a distressed fishing boat - a perilous venture at best. All but one crew member was rescued - there was simply no more room in the rowboat. The rescue team returned with the rest of the crew, totally exhausted from their ordeal. The coast guard captain then asked for volunteers to make the treacherous attempt to retrieve the remaining fisherman. A nineteen-year-old youth, Hans, whose father died at sea, and whose older brother had been missing at sea for more than 3 months, felt compelled to volunteer, despite his mothers protests. More than an hour later, when the rowboat came back within shouting distance of shore, the captain cried to the rowboat crew, Did you save him? The crowd on the beach, lighting the sea with their torches so the crew could find their way in through the storm, saw Hans rise from his rowing bench, and he shouted with all his might, YES! And tell Mother it is my brother, Pete! Wright says, One night, I was driving to a scheduled performance in the Napa Valley (in northern California). Elder deJagers talk was brought so suddenly and powerfully to my recollection, its message clear and strong, reaching the very depths of my soul - I had no choice but to pen several verses as I wove through freeway traffic. (By the way - I dont recommend this approach under normal circumstances!) The thing is, when inspiration hits, you have to go with it. I have to admit, this experience was almost like taking dictation directly from the Spirit. (A sentiment often expressed by poets and composers of inspired music.) After completing the song, Wright began incorporating it into his fireside series that encompasses the greater northwest and Canada. He says, I noticed that this song was reaching my audiences in ways I hadnt expected. Many were moved to tears - perhaps as they recalled someone who had saved them; or someone to whom they had reached out. In more than 150 firesides since 1999, The Call has become the highlight of my presentation. Truly, you never know who you may save - but you have to step forward and respond to the call. The Call provides a solid anchor for Wrights nautically-themed CD, The Captain, which offers poignant stories in song. From The Captain: Oh, Master. This is the captain. Ive been steering this old ship wrong Are you really out there? Think Im lost in a storm Also featured on the CD are two first-time releases from composer and U.S. Senator, Orrin Hatch, for which Wright provides the vocals: Ship of Dreams, - reflections of an immigrant entering the New York harbor - and If Only When Elder deJager learned of the song inspired by his address, he told Wright, Im just an old Dutchman, and Im happy anyone would remember anything I said from the pulpit - especially 26 years ago! Thank you. Elder deJager also noted that he was impressed with the whole CD and especially appreciated the cover presentation. About James F. Wright Wright is widely known throughout the northwest and Canada - for his one-of-a-kind voice, and lyrics that touch the soul. Somewhere between the distinctive sounds of Kenny Rogers and Bruce Springsteen, Wrights voice, and the depth of his personal involvement in his music, will hold your attention and lift your spirits. Wrights CDs are available in LDS bookstores, or directly from Alika Productions, (800) 939-9736. To learn more about James F. Wright - the man, and his music, visit www.jamesfwright.com
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