Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’ve only written one book: It’s All in the Lyrics: My Journey to Becoming a Home Studio Musician.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
It’s All in the Lyrics: My Journey to Becoming a Home Studio Musician is my latest release. I wrote this book after attending a Garth Brooks concert in 2017. After his retirement, I left the country music scene for hard rock/heavy metal and wanted to trace that journey.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I don’t believe so. I guess I’d have to have someone watch me to find them. I do despise Calibri as a font, though. It makes my soul burn with unmatched fury every time I see it. Is that weird?
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As a kid, I read Goosebumps and R.L. Stine’s works. I prefer to read music memoirs, leadership, process excellence, Enlightenment era thought, political theory, Christian living, and satire. I’m a big fan of John Maxwell, Simon Sinek, Stephen Colbert, and AJ Jacobs (his social experiment writing is hilarious).
What are you working on now?
It’s All in the Lyrics will probably be my last book. I plan to start recording music from my home studio. If I do publish anything else in the future, it’ll probably be poetry/creative writing compilations.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
As an artist, book promotion is challenging for me. I don’t want to promote, I want to create, so I’m using platforms that have that expertise: Fiverr, KDP Select, Goodreads Giveaways, etc.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Create your art! Don’t let fear or doubt control your ability to craft. I had to write this book to learn artistic honesty, but now, I feel like it’s important for me to pursue my passion for music.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
As an atypical author, I draw inspiration from musicians. I’ve received a lot of awesome life advice from several places, but the best artistic advice I’ve heard comes from three of my favorite vocalists:
– Garth Brooks’ The Change: “It’s not the world that I am changing. I do this so this world will know that it will not change me.”
– Ryan Clark in Demon Hunter’s The Tide Began to Rise: “If this is all the love my spirit can give there is not a reason left to live.”
– Jesse Hasek in 10 Years’ From Birth to Burial: “Farewell welfare.”
These lyrics have taught me, not only how to create art, but also, how to live a good life.
What are you reading now?
I’ve been trekking through Lacey Sturm’s writings: The Reason was phenomenal! Ariel Bloomer’s Turn Your Pain to Art. Brian “Head” Welch’s Eyes Wide Open. I’m looking forward to Dave Grohl’s Storytellers next.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Music! I just moved for the military, so I’m going to build my home studio back up, then get back to work with the music creation process. I hope to see people on music platforms very soon!
What is your favorite book of all time?
Besides the Bible, I enjoy reading Enlightenment era philosophy. I feel like a weird answer would be best here, so I’m gonna say “There’s a Boy in the Girl’s Bathroom” by Louis Sachar. I reread it every few years, even as an adult. The formerly abandoned kid in me can’t help but drink from the nostalgia of relating to Bradley Chalkers. I read it through the lens of a parent these days. What can I do to make my own children feel a strong sense of belonging in turbulent times. This book helps me connect with them and remember what it was like being a child.
Author Websites and Profiles
Tony Kessel Website
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