My name is David Bryant! I am known as “Mr. Support Friend” and I’d like to welcome you to my support website and blog!
ABOUT MRSUPPORTFRIEND.COM
On my website and blog you’ll have an opportunity to get to know more about me and My Support Friends, see what others have to say about me and explore what I have to offer to support you in achieving your dreams and goals.
Thanks for visiting the site.
My Support Friends and I wish you all the best in achieving your dreams and goals.
KEEP SHINING &
HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY! DAVID BRYANT
“MR. SUPPORT FRIEND!” 🙂
REVIEW THE VIDEO ABOVE
AND OVERVIEW BELOW TO SEE
WHAT YOU GET FOR YOUR $37.00
AND JOIN MY SUPPORT FRIENDS
DAVID BRYANT
“MR. SUPPORT FRIEND”
SUPPORT COACH
& ENTREPRENEUR
MY SUPPORT FRIENDS OVERVIEW
“My Support Friends” Is An Online Membership Community of People. Professionals & Entrepreneurs Who Support Each Other In 5 Support Categories:
1. GROUP SUPPORT 2. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT 3. WELLNESS SUPPORT 4. MONEY SUPPORT 5. ENTREPRENEUR SUPPORT
I started “My Support Friends” because I believe that being a “Support Friend” and connecting with other “Support Friends” can enhance and add value to what you are already doing to make a difference in your own life and the lives of others.
I’ve always been a person who believes in THE POWER OF GIVING & RECEIVING QUALITY SUPPORT & FRIENDSHIP!
WHY DID I CREATE
MY SUPPORT FRIENDS?
When I was a successful songwriter in the 80’s I was blessed to write songs for Whitney Houston, Jody Watley, Eddie Money, Smokey Robinson and many other popular music artists.
It wasn’t just my talent as a songwriter that led to my success, it was the relationships and collaborations with other talented songwriters, producers, musicians and music professionals that led to my songs being recorded by popular music artists.
I believe that the friendships and relationships you build with quality like-minded people can lead to amazing things and it’s one of the main reasons why I created “My Support Friends.”
I encourage you to review the information below and if you like what you see, PURCHASE A MY SUPPORT FRIENDS MEMBERSHIP!
IT’S ONLY $37.00 and I donate $2.00 from every membership purchase to the 501(c3) non-profit tree planting charity “One Tree Planted” to support the environment.
A Community of Positive Like-Minded People, Professionals & Entrepreneurs Who Network With Each Other, Share Valuable Resources With Each Other and Empower, Encourage & Support Each Other In Achieving Dreams & Goals. (Unlimited Value)
2. MY SUPPORTFRIENDS SUPPORTFOLIO
Empowering Support Content, Videos, Posts, Coaching & Mentoring, Products, Services, Programs & Activities Related To Personal Development, Wellness, Money, Entrepreneurship, Women’s Empowerment, Parenting, Crypto Including The Power 5 Crypto Supportfolio, AI, Social Media, Marketing, Music & More. (Unlimited Value)
3. THE OPPORTUNITY TO
GIVE & RECEIVE SUPPORT
The Opportunity To Give & Receive Support By Sharing Information About Free & Affordable Products, Services, Programs, Activities, Content & Resources Related To The 5 Support Categories. (Unlimited Value)
4. MY SUPPORT GUIDE FOR PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
An 8 Session 80-Page PDF & Workbook. ($37.00 Value)
An 8 Session Video Series That Includes Support Coaching & Commentary Related To All 8 Sessions In My Support Guide For Personal Development. ($97.00 Value)
SESSION 1: My Personal Development Story, Dreams & Goals
SESSION 2: My Wellness & Money Support Triangle
SESSION 3: The 7 Values of Attraction
SESSION 4: The F.E.E.L. REAL Keys 4 Success
SESSION 5: The 7 Obstacles & Obstacle Course
SESSION 6: The 3 Types of People Based On Status & Personality
SESSION 7: The 3 Awareness Tools
SESSION 8: My Positive Words
5. MY SUPPORT GUIDE FOR FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT
An 18 Session 283-Page PDF & Workbook. ($37.00 Value)
An 18 Session Video Series That Includes Support Coaching & Commentary Related To All 18 Sessions In My Support Guide For Financial Empowerment. ($97.00 Value)
SESSION 1: Financial Dreams & Goals: Identifying and setting personal financial dreams and goals to create a clear vision for your financial future.
SESSION 2: The 5 M’s For Money: A Money Empowerment Tool and symbol that contains 5 important keywords to keep in mind as you pursue your Money dreams and goals.
SESSION 3: Financial Empowerment Basics: Cultivating a positive and proactive mindset to achieve financial empowerment and success.
SESSION 4: Personal Finance Basics: Establishing a strong financial foundation through budgeting, saving, managing debt, building an emergency fund, and maintaining good credit.
SESSION 5: Investing Fundamentals: Setting financial goals, planning for retirement, and exploring various investment opportunities, including side hustles.
SESSION 6: Trading & Investing Basics: Introducing the basics of trading and investing, covering various asset classes and strategies.
SESSION 7: Crypto, Blockchain & Digital Assets: Understanding the evolving landscape of cryptocurrencies, blockchain technology, and digital assets.
SESSION 8: Stocks & Bonds: Gaining an understanding of stocks, bonds, and the stock market to make informed investment choices.
SESSION 9: Options & Futures: Learning about the complexities and potential rewards of trading options and futures.
SESSION 10: Commodities: Exploring the world of commodities, their types, and how to invest in them.
SESSION 11: Currencies & Forex: Understanding currencies, exchange rates, and the risks and rewards of forex trading.
SESSON 12: Funds: Exploring various types of funds, including equity funds, index funds, ETFs, and hedge funds.
SESSION 13: Real Estate Investing: Learning about real estate investments and strategies to grow wealth through property.
SESSION 14: Taxes: Gaining insight into tax planning, understanding tax obligations, and strategies to manage taxes efficiently.
SESSION 15: Creating and Maintaining Wealth: Developing sustainable strategies for wealth creation and maintenance through diversified investments, sound financial planning, and continuous learning.
SESSION 16: Generational Wealth: Building and preserving wealth for future generations through estate planning and effective wealth transfer strategies.
SESSION 17: Glossary: Providing 630 definitions and explanations of key financial terms used throughout the guide.
SESSION 18: Conclusion: Summarizing the key points from each session and reinforcing the path to financial empowerment.
6. MY SUPPORT GUIDE FOR DSNM
DIRECT SELLING NETWORK MARKETING:
A 17 Session 83-Page PDF & Workbook. ($37.00 Value)
A 17 Session Video Series That Includes Support Coaching & Commentary Related To All 17 Sessions In My Support Guide For Financial Empowerment. ($97.00 Value)
SESSION 1: My Dreams & Goals Support List For DSNM
SESSION 2: Direct Selling
SESSION 3: Network Marketing
SESSION 4: Regulators & Compliance
SESSION 6: The 3 DSNM Blood Types
SESSION 7: Products & Services That Can Make A Difference
SESSION 17: The 30 DSNM Assessment Questions Checklist
7. MY SUPPORT GUIDE FOR ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) ($37.00 Value)
An 18 Session 109-Page PDF & Workbook. ($37.00 Value)
An 18 Session Video Series That Includes Support Coaching & Commentary Related To All 18 Sessions In My Support Guide For Artificial Intelligence. ($97.00 Value)
SESSION 1: Understanding AI Basics: This session introduces the fundamental concepts of AI, including what it is, how it works, and why it matters.
SESSION 2: A Brief History of AI: Explore the fascinating milestones that have shaped AI from its early beginnings to its current status as a transformative technology.
SESSION 3: Types of AI: Discover the different types of AI, from Narrow AI to General AI, and understand their various applications and potential.
SESSION 4: How AI Works: Learn the inner workings of AI systems, including how data, algorithms, and machine learning models come together to enable intelligent behavior.
SESSION 5: AI Tools & Technologies: Dive into the core tools and technologies that power AI, including popular software, platforms, and frameworks.
SESSION 6: AI In Everyday Life: Understand how AI is already woven into the fabric of daily life, from virtual assistants to personalized recommendations.
SESSION 7: The Ethical & Societal Impacts of AI: Examine the ethical dilemmas and societal impacts that arise from the use of AI, including issues around bias, fairness, and automation.
SESSION 8: AI & The Future of Work: Investigate how AI is reshaping the workplace, creating new opportunities, and challenging traditional job roles.
SESSION 9: AI & Creativity: Discover how AI is being used to augment human creativity in fields like art, music, and writing.
SESSION 10: Making Money With AI: Learn how AI can be leveraged for financial gain, whether through investment opportunities, AI-driven businesses, or personal ventures.
SESSION 11: AI & Personal Finance: Explore how AI is transforming the world of personal finance, from smart budgeting tools to AI-driven investment platforms.
SESSION 12: AI & Data Privacy: Understand the crucial role AI plays in data privacy and the potential risks involved in the collection and use of personal data.
SESSION 13: AI In Healthcare: Discover the revolutionary ways AI is advancing healthcare, from diagnosing diseases to developing personalized treatment plans.
SESSION 14: AI For Social Good: Explore how AI is being used to address global challenges, from environmental sustainability to humanitarian aid.
SESSION 15: The Future of AI: Get a glimpse into the future of AI, its potential developments, and the ways it might shape our world in the decades to come.
SESSION 16: ChatGPT: This session provides an in-depth look at ChatGPT, its capabilities, how it works, and practical examples for utilizing it effectively in various fields.
SESSION 17: Glossary: A comprehensive list of 100 key AI terms and concepts to enhance your understanding of the material covered in this guide.
SESSION 18: Conclusion: A final review of the guide’s sessions, offering key takeaways and closing thoughts on the role AI will play in our future.
8. MY SUPPORT GUIDE FOR WELLNESS: Coming Soon! ($37.00 Value)
9. ACCESS TO MY SUPPORT FRIENDS SUPPORTCAST: Live & Recorded Zooms, Video Content & Interviews Related To My Support Friends, My Support Guides & The 5 Support Categories. (Unlimited Value)
10. YOU + 2 SHARE & SUPPORT SYSTEM: After you purchase your $37.00 MEMBERSHIP, you’ll receive a link to “Join My Support Friends Facebook Group.” Once your membership is approved, SEND ONE OF OUR ADMINS A MESSAGE with the names of 2 FACEBOOK FRIENDSYOU WOULD LIKE TO SUPPORT & EMPOWER and INVITE YOUR 2 FRIENDS TO JOIN THE MY SUPPORT FRIENDS FACEBOOK GROUPFOR FREE!
11. THE OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME A VIP SUPPORT FRIEND: You Can Qualify To Become A VIP Support Friend If You Do The Following 5 Things:
1. Actively Engage In The My Support Friends Facebook Group.
2. Post Content & Comments At Least Once A Week.
3. Refer 2 or More Quality Facebook Friends To The Facebook Group.
4. Review My Support Guides In The Guides Section.
5. Give & Receive Quality Support.
THE 5 BENEFITS OF BEING A VIP SUPPORT FRIEND
1. Access To Private VIP Support Friends Zooms: For VIP Support Friends Only. (Unlimited Value)
2. A Personalized Recorded Zoom Interview Called “My Support Friends Supportcast” With My Support Friends Founder David Bryant Mr. Support Friend: Share Information About Yourself & The Products, Services, Programs & Activities You Are Passionate About. After The Interview, The Recording Will Be Uploaded To The Guides Section of My Support Friends Facebook Group. Plus, You’ll Receive A Copy of The Recording So You Can Share It With Others On Facebook, YouTube, etc… (Unlimited Value)
3. A Personalized My Support Page @ MrSupportFriend.com: Share Information About Yourself, The Products, Services, Programs & Activities You Are Passionate About & Information About My Support Friends. (Unlimited Value)
4. The Opportunity To Co-Brand My Support Guides: Includes Your Name, Your Contact Info & Your My Support Page Link. (Unlimited Value)
5. The Opportunity To Earn $20.00 Support Commissions: For Each New Support Friend You Refer Who Purchases A $37.00 Membership. (Unlimited Value)
SUPPORTING EACH OTHER BY SUPPORTING EACH OTHER
Each one of us is a BEAUTIFUL, VALUABLE & UNIQUE HUMAN RESOURCE who has the opportunity to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in our own life and the lives of others and when we come together to SUPPORT EACH OTHER WITH GOOD INTENTIONS & QUALITY RESOURCES wonderful things can happen!
JOIN MY SUPPORT FRIENDS!
REFERRED BY
DAVID BRYANT
“MR. SUPPORT FRIEND”
SUPPORT COACH
& ENTREPRENEUR
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APPROVED BY ADMINS
TESTIMONIALS ABOUT DAVID BRYANT “MR. SUPPORT FRIEND!”
David is a special soul who has created his mission to be that of helping support others to manifest their desires…. He is the Mother Teresa of men and always gives you a spiritual vitamin boost of get-up-and-BAM!!!
– Raine Vance
David is a rare find and a truly one of a kind guy. David’s broad based knowledge in so many areas makes him an incredible asset to anyone that aligns themselves with him. His intentions are always from the heart and his words of wisdom come from the depth of his soul. I often wonder if David will be the next great philosopher of the 21st century.
– Allie Cheslick
David Bryant, in my opinion, is one of Earth’s most prized gems. Everything that David does for the better of humanity is done with the purest form of good intention. He cares about life and those around him. He touches those he meets, including me, right to the core with his positive energy. I am proud to call David Bryant a friend and confidant.
– Stacy Lupinacci
FEATURED TESTIMONIAL
FROM CELEBRITY NANNY
& PARENT COACH
MARVA SOOGRIM
David is a wonderful business coach! As a Celebrity Nanny who provides expert advice on parenting, I was looking for a quality coach who could help me organize my thoughts, vision and ideas I have to expand my “Marvalous” brand that supports and empowers Parents, Grandparents, Daycare Workers, Nannies & Others. David makes starting a business pretty fearless, he’s a genius in helping you to see the finished product or solutions to your business problems in early on sessions. You do not feel the fear. His guidance, encouragement and positive energy has been extremely helpful and for that I am very grateful.
A MARVALOUS COMMUNITY
& SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR
PARENTS & BABIES
I feel honored that Marva asked me to join her “Marvalous Support Team” as a coach and consultant for her “Marvalous Community & Support System” for Parents, Grandparents, Daycare Workers, Nannies & Others that she will be introducing to the world soon.
If you’re pregnant, a parent, or someone you know is pregnant, or a parent of a newborn baby, I strongly encourage you to connect with Marva Soogrim, world-renowned parent and baby coach and nanny to the stars.
Marva and her unique “whole family” approach to caring for newborns is a very valuable parenting and personal development resource for young moms, dads and babies.
It’s been a lifelong dream of Marva’s to share her personal development and parenting wisdom with millions of young parents worldwide. And now the general public is going to be able to access the support, wisdom and coaching Marva has been providing celebrities and high net worth families with for decades.
To learn more about Marva and connect with her online, visit her website and social media pages by clicking the links below.
It’s a “Marvalous Opportunity” for young parents and their children!
Over the past few months I’ve been going on a personal self development journey and it’s been amazing and beautiful to dig deep and have good dialogue and coaching sessions with someone I’ve never met, but day 1 when we had a consultation call we connected and that vibe was immediate and impactful. I just knew this was the right individual to connect with, SELF invest to SELF develop. Helped me break out my comfort zone and being content, get myself to have confidence and believe within me and fight self-doubt and the chatter in my head and see greatness and potential.
Thank you David Bryant for being my life coach these past 4 months or so, our sessions have been AMAZING and Inspiring!!! This has excited me and went along with other personal things I’ve been workin’ on and definitely mindset goin into 2020. To me that’s a new chapter, new year and new decade. I been knowing I wanna do something and new in 2020 so I’m ready and excited for what 2020 has in store.
Tobias is one of my favorite Support Friends. I am blessed and grateful to have the opportunity to support him and others in achieving dreams and goals. 🙂 – David Bryant “Mr. Support Friend!”
MORE TESTIMONIALS ABOUT DAVID BRYANT ‘MR. SUPPORT FRIEND!”
David Bryant… “Mr. Support Friend!”
A brilliant sole of shining light and one of my dearest friends. We have worked together on different projects and I have not seen many people in my life as dedicated as David 🙂
David is a special soul who has created his mission to be that of helping support others to manifest their desires…. He is the Mother Teresa of men and always gives you a spiritual vitamin boost of get-up-and-BAM!!!
His heart is wide open and he has an ocean of loving vibrations to fill you up when your spirit is dampened by the winds of life…. he will lift your heart to the mountain peaks of love!
He is very spiritual in nature and has a wealth of knowledge in the personal development, wellness, financial empowerment and arts and entertainment related fields. All you have to do is reach out and ask.
From coaching & empowerment to emotional apple pie & ice-cream… David has a remedy for you to balance your success. Always there when you need him… never more than a phone call, email, IM, webinar away…. His light shines endlessly through the night!!!
Simply put… Don’t leave home without him!
“Sunny D”… he puts the vit “D” in sunshine…. love you always….
I enjoy giving and receiving support in the “My Support Friends” Facebook Group. Working with David is a true pleasure. He is incredibly helpful with any questions or situations, providing invaluable guidance, encouragement, and positive energy. He offers fresh perspectives that I hadn’t previously considered.
I am happy to contribute a letter to your website! You have always been a selfless person, looking for ways to support people in their business ventures, when facing health challenges and in their personal lives. I’ve considered you a true friend since we got to know each other as kids 35 years ago. I’ve seen you at high and low times and you’ve always remained the same caring person! Our Families have interacted to support each other’s health concerns as you and I have battled with serious set backs, and you have continued to view these ailments as opportunities to grow instead of fall into self pity.
You have a keen business mind, and great creative talents! Back in the day when we were writing songs for Sister Sledge (and others), I admired your sense of what could work commercially. Your years of exploring meditation, Chinese medicine and energetic medical modalities, has given you a great base to judge the effectiveness of the product lines you’ve shared with all of us.
The best type of friend is someone who does not judge you but instead accepts you as you are and are not. As we all grow and learn, your ethical way of living your life will continue to serve us as we strive to make this a better world!
Wishing you love and success with all of your ventures!
I was online when I met David, I had him in my top friends list for so long and I didn’t even know him. One of the reasons I remember having him there was his infectious smile and the positive energy that emanated from his picture. Upon writing him an email one evening, to my greatest surprise, David wrote back immediately and gave me his phone number so we could chat. That was May of 2006, as I write this March 13, 2007 He has become one of my closest and dearest friends and not to mention one of my mentors. In speaking with David and getting to know him and what Mr. Support Friend was all about, I was impressed and humbled at his honesty, integrity, intellect, personal development skills, his knowledge of marketing, his intuition, his gentle nature, his no ego spirit, but what impressed me most of all, HIS HEART!!!
David is a rare find and a truly one of a kind guy. His support, friendship and encouragement mean so much to not only me, but the countless others he has inspired and blessed by his spirit over the years.
David’s broad based knowledge in so many areas makes him an incredible asset to anyone that aligns themselves with him. His intentions are always from the heart and his words of wisdom come from the depth of his soul. I often wonder if David will be the next great philosopher of the 21st century.
If you have a chance to connect with David, all I can say is that’s the smartest thing you have ever done in your life. He has helped people in all areas of life including, music, health and wellness, life coaching and personal development. I highly recommend you get yourself connected and aligned with one of the brightest stars in the universe, David, Mr. Support Friend.
I am grateful and humbled to know you, but I am honored to be able to call you my Friend!
David, although I’ve only known you for a short period of time in comparison to others, I thank God for allowing our paths to cross. You are my benchmark of someone who’s passionate participation and natural talent to help others has inspired so many to make a decision to never give up. You are a magnificent example of how and what one can do to overcome life’s challenges and achieve a full, happy, healthy and productive life.
During the times we’ve talked on the telephone or interacted with one another electronically, I’m often left with admiration of your initiatives that illustrate your desire and commitment to support others in their endeavors. Then, you further extend yourself to connect people with similar initiatives and endeavors to collaborate. Such a selfless person.
You have truly been a blessing in my life. Your spoken words of encouragement, actionable gestures of support, and profound messages of wisdom have inspired me to continuously seek new ways of fulfilling my mission.
David, you have truly made a difference in my life….
Hi! My name is Melanie. David’s friendship came into my life at a very significant time, when I was going through some personal struggles and was in need of guidance and support. We developed a great friendship and being the positive person he is, David turned out to play a HUGE role in me getting my life on track and being able to heal a lot from past experiences. He’s been like a big brother to me and for his friendship I am eternally grateful. David helped me believe in myself and gave me good council that I needed. I trusted him because I knew he was about truth and his intentions were good. I knew Dave when he was still struggling with some past health challenges. He has overcome so much and done his best to remain positive and be a light in the lives of others. Now, with his health back in tact, he is able to bring the world the best Mr. Support Friend there is, as he continues to fulfill one of the many missions God has for him here on this earth. Being a true friend and serving others is just something that comes natural to David…
In July 2013 I had a talk with David about people I have connected with. He said “there are dream takers and dream makers.” This is so true. The friend who told you that you weren’t pretty enough. The teacher who suggested that you weren’t smart enough. The parent who steered you away from your dreams in order to live out theirs vicariously through you. Surround yourself with people who you will benefit from. The ones that see in you what you may or may not see within yourself. Friends that will push you towards your dreams, your goals and your purposes. Also, make sure too they are reciprocating the same encouragement back. That is crucial! These are the types of friendships to hold onto.
They say, “First impressions last a lifetime.” The first time I met David Bryant was fifteen years ago at an event in the Hollywood Hills. We only spoke briefly for about thirty seconds, but the impact was such that I mentally filed away his face and name. Years later, amidst a transition into the field of songwriting, I decided to track David down in search of advice.
The impulse to make contact was invaluable. I cannot say enough about DB. His credentials speak for themselves; they evidence a highly accomplished, consummate professional. However, David is also generous with his knowledge, honest in his opinion, and gracious with his critique. His aim is to support not a mere career, but a life on the whole. He is a diamond in the rough, both in the field of entertainment, and in life. Thank you David!
David Bryant is one of those rare gems we hope to find in life. He strives to live with integrity and come from a place of good intentions. He’s very intelligent with deep thoughts and a deeper heart. His love for helping others to create the life of their dreams are endless. I love that he’s so talented in many areas of life and that he’s a great songwriter with soul as well. Know that when you have David as a friend and guide in life that you will be treated with the utmost respect and he’ll do whatever he can to help elevate you to the next level. Thank you David for being you… I know the world is a better place because of you!
I could never come close to expressing the gratitude and love that Deb and I both feel. You saved my life and never ever hesitated to come to my aid when I needed a friend or confidant. You Sir, are a man among men.
David is one of the rare people I’ve come across with so much compassion, integrity, positivity, and a genuine desire to be there for the world all the time with a life long dedication. He’s knowledgeable and dedicated to everything he approaches. In my work with David I’ve been impressed over and over again with his willingness to look at himself as he approached new areas of thought. He is simply awesome!
Gina Briganti, Basc, RMT
Holistic Health Consultant
David was sent to me when I most needed him. He was there for me when I didn’t know what to do with myself. He helped me through a difficult time and I am so grateful to have him in my life. He is a shining star 🙂 I value and appreciate our friendship.
David Bryant, in my opinion, is one of Earth’s most prized gems. Everything that David does for the better of humanity is done with the purest form of good intention. He cares about life and those around him. He touches those he meets, including me, right to the core with his positive energy. I am proud to call David Bryant a friend and confidant.
Stacy Lupinacci
Bay Area, Ca
Host of “The Positive Side”
Reiki 2 Practitioner
David is a ray of sunshine. If you’re feeling down, had some negativity from others, or just having a bad day, one minute of David’s energy, and your whole spirit changes to feelings of love and happiness.
After speaking to David, you realize how many great positive people and opportunities await you on your journey. David understands your emotions, why you have those feelings, and he knows how to help you reach your goals. David is Mr. Support Friend, if you need any kind of support, David is the friend to turn to! David is a genius, a true master of how to bring into your life all the things that you desire! I strongly recommend you to have a session with David as often as you are able because I know from experience that true prosperity on every level will then enter your life. Thank you David! We are all blessed to have a friend like you!
You are such a wonderful and special part of my life. I remember the first time I met you, weeks later we sat and had the long conversation. I knew then that you were sincere, honest and a good listener. I am truly honored to be your friend, thanks for letting me be a part of your community and for bringing wonderful things into my home and my life.
What can I say about David, except that he is one of the most positive, intelligent, talented and caring individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing! He truly puts his heart and soul into helping others achieve their goals; be it music, health, or all around quality of living. He loves people, and it shows!
On a personal level, David has supported me through my wellness program and changing journeys, and I value and treasure our friendship. I have seen him go above and beyond the support and encourage others, and he is truly making a difference….. one life at a time 🙂
SYLVESTER STALLONE & DAVID BRYANT “MR. SUPPORT FRIEND!”
I feel blessed and grateful that I had the opportunity to meet Sylvester Stallone and work with him and members of his family. Watch the video below to hear Tony Robbins tell Sylvester Stallone’s “Rocky” story. It’s an inspirational story.
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” – COACH JOHN WOODEN
THE IMPORTANCE OF
CONSTANT SELF-IMPROVEMENT
by Craig Impelman
Coach John Wooden challenged himself every day with constant self-improvement: Never be satisfied. Work constantly to improve. Perfection is a goal that can never be reached, but it must be the objective. The uphill climb is slow, but the downhill road is fast.
He believed that valid self-analysis is crucial for improvement. In order to improve a little each day, we must constantly be learning, and to do that, we must be observing constantly and stay open-minded.
A key component of Coach’s constant self-improvement program was how he worked with his assistant coaches. He encouraged them to challenge his ideas, thus creating the valid self-analysis he knew was critical to self-improvement.
In his book A Game Plan for Life: The Power of Mentoring with Don Yeager, Coach describes how Abraham Lincoln inspired his approach:
“An incredible example of Lincoln’s wisdom can be seen in the people with whom he chose to surround himself. I pride myself on having read just about every major book ever published about Abraham Lincoln, but the one that has affected me the most in recent years is Doris Kearns Goodwin’s exceptional text Team of Rivals. In this book, Goodwin examines in profound depth a well-documented but not widely discussed political decision: When Lincoln was elected to the presidency, he appointed a number of former political opponents to serve as his advisers and to fill various posts.
“By selecting men whom he knew disagreed with him or differed from his own platform, he assured himself, he would be confronted with legitimate challenges to his ideas, rather than finding himself in a pool of yes-men.”
“Based on Lincoln’s example, I encouraged my assistant coaches to speak up with ideas that might differ from or even completely contradict my own. Those disagreements never got heated, but sometimes they were very intense. Just as I imagine Lincoln would have been, I was pleased when those challenges arose because it meant that my fellow coaches were as passionate about our team as I was. Nothing ruins a team more quickly than apathy.”
In Coach Wooden’s book Wooden on Leadership with Steve Jamison, Denny Crum, one of his former assistant coaches, describes working with Coach:
“Coach Wooden never thought he knew everything. In spite of the fact that he’d been winning championships every year—four or five of them when I got there as an assistant coach—he wanted to keep learning and improving as a coach and leader.
“When I came up with an idea, he would never tell me, ‘Well, this is the way we’ve always done it and we’re winning championships. So, no, I’m not changing.’ He was open to change. His approach was to listen; if he thought it made sense, try it. If it works, great. If not, move on. He was always searching for ways to improve.”
As Coach liked to say: A leader destined for success asks, “What can we do to improve?” A leader destined for failure says, “That’s the way it’s always been done.”
I took the Myers-Briggs 16 Personalities Test and I have to say it was spot on. The test says I am a Protagonist (ENFJ)!
For those of you who know me let me know if you agree with the results below.
And for those of you who don’t know me well all I can say is the results below are definitely in alignment with me being MR. SUPPORT FRIEND!
Protagonists (ENFJs) feel called to serve a greater purpose in life. Thoughtful and idealistic, these personality types strive to have a positive impact on other people and the world around them. They rarely shy away from an opportunity to do the right thing, even when doing so is far from easy.
Protagonists are born leaders, which explains why these personalities can be found among many notable politicians, coaches, and teachers. Their passion and charisma allow them to inspire others not just in their careers but in every arena of their lives, including their relationships. Few things bring Protagonists a deeper sense of joy and fulfillment than guiding friends and loved ones to grow into their best selves.
One of my strengths is providing “Support Coaching & Mentoring” to individuals, businesses and groups. I am very good at evaluating a situation whether it be personal, relationship, career, or business related, and then providing potential solutions, ideas, branding, strategies and other forms of support for the situation.
My Areas of Expertise Include:
Mindset & Personal Development
Wellness & Money
Support, Friendship, Motivation & Encouragement
Crypto & Blockchain Education, Research & Support
Business & Creative Development
Branding & Marketing
I’ve been doing this with great results for several years. Sometimes people just need someone who is not a family member or friend to talk to about a particular situation related to their personal life. I am not a counselor, or therapist, but what I am good at is listening, supporting and providing helpful feedback to people.
I enjoy supporting groups, as well as creatives and business entrepreneurs in various career fields and categories with Support Coaching & Mentoring.
If you already have a brand. or you are trying to create a brand, or figure something out related to your career, business and/or organization, I can provide you with quality Support Coaching & Mentoring.
WELCOME TO MY
MUSIC COACHING
& MENTORING BLOG!
IF THIS IS YOUR FIRST TIME VISITING THIS BLOG I ENCOURAGE YOU TO
REVIEW THE INFORMATION ON THIS BLOG AND ADD ME AS A FRIEND
ON FACEBOOK & OTHER SOCIAL MEDIA!
If I invited you to this page, or you found it on your own, I highly encourage you to CONNECT WITH ME:
IF YOU ARE INVOLVED WITH MUSIC!
YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS INVOLVED WITH MUSIC!
YOU LOVE MUSIC!
MY MUSIC STORY
In my 20’s I became a very successful songwriter writing songs for music artists including Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Jody Watley, Eddie Money, Dionne Warwick, Vanessa Williams and Smokey Robinson to name a few. Now I support and empower others who are involved with music, as well as music fans who love music, which is just about everyone on the planet.
I wasn’t the best songwriter in the world, but I was a “Successful Songwriter” and a lot of my success had to do with 8 things:
My Parents: They Supported & Encouraged Me.
My Mindset & Attitude: People Wanted To Work With Me.
My Natural Gifts & Talent: I’m Good At Knowing When Things Feel Right.
The Vision I Had For My Career: I Had A Clear Vision Of What I Wanted.
The Relationships I Developed Along The Way: aka “CONNECTIONS!”
The Mentors I Had: This Saved Me A Lot Of Time, Money & Energy.
Luck: Sometimes Things Are Just Meant To Be.
God’s Plan: There’s God’s Plan & Your Plan & Your Plan Doesn’t Matter!
The support my music friends and I have to offer is not just for people and professionals involved with, or interested in music, but for anyone who loves music.
We also have resources we can share with you related to other areas of life.
REAL TALENT is important if you want to succeed in the Music Industry. However, Money, Wellness, Personal Development and developing the right Mindset, Vision, Success Plan, Networking Skills, Attitude, Social Media Presence and Connectionsis equally important so you don’t waste time, money and energy along the way.
When I was pursuing my songwriting career in my 20’s I had “MENTORS” who encouraged me and shared important wisdom with me that helped me to become successful and overcome the many obstacles and disappointments you experience along the way. I’d love to pay it forward and be your Coach & Mentor!
I can provide you with valuable Music Support, Coaching & Mentoring combined with Artist Development, Career Development, Personal Development & Business Entrepreneurship.
You may already have a Vocal Coach, Music Teacher, Dance Teacher, Manager, or maybe you are naturally talented, self-taught, attend classes and/or you’re figuring everything out on your own. That’s great!
But here’s the question…
Do you have a Music Coach & Mentor who has been successful, or is currently achieving success in the music industry to educate, motivate, support and empower YOU?
I have achieved success at the highest levels of the music industry and know how important Mindset & Developing Yourself is to navigating the obstacle course of life and a music career. We are here to help YOU achieve your dreams and goals.
My experience includes, but isn’t limited to, songwriting, producing, music publishing, talent-mining, artist development, and creating marketing strategies for artist-specific campaigns.
A partial list of music artists, songwriters and producers I have written songs for, produced and/or worked on projects with include the following music artists:
Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Jody Watley, Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick, Deniece Williams, Al McKay, Sister Sledge, Nile Rodgers, Bernard Edwards, Diane Warren, Bootsy Collins, Eddie Money, A Taste of Honey, The Pointer Sisters & Many More!
When you work with me you’ll have the opportunity to not only EMPOWER YOURSELF with valuable information, education and motivation, but also develop new friendships, relationships and collaborations we other creative and business professionals I know that could lead to wonderful things.
HERE ARE JUST A FEW OF THE THINGS YOU’LL GAIN ACCESS TO:
Talent, Song & Career Evaluations.
Artist & Career Development & Mentorship.
Valuable Tips For Songwriters, Producers, Singers, Musicians, Rappers & DJ’s.
Strategies & Opinions As To What You Could Do To
Increase Your Chances Of Achieving Your Dreams & Goals.
The Core Values To Attract High Quality People & Develop
High Quality Relationships, Partnerships & Collaborations.
Personal Development & Mindset Strategies For Success & Overcoming Obstacles.
Effective Communication & Awareness Tools For Personal & Professional Development.
Music Marketing, Promotion, Branding & Social Media Support.
Music Industry Business Knowledge & Resources.
Downloadable PDF Files, Tools, Resources, Questionnaires & Much More!
If you love music and you love to learn and grow and support and empower yourself and others who are interested in achieving music dreams and goals, I am here to SUPPORT YOU!
When my mom died almost 10 years ago there was a girl named Stacy who was a student at Cal State LA where my dad taught dance. Stacy was selected to greet people attending my mom’s Celebration of Life Event that was held at the university. I started talking to her to find out her story and told her my story.
I found out that Stacy loved music and really loved this song by a young music artist named Beach Boy. That was his music artist name at the time. These days he goes by his real name Garrett Douglas. Stacy played me one of his songs on her phone and I was impressed. I was impressed enough to pass along his song to a young friend of mine who was well connected in the music industry.
I had mentored my friend since she was a senior in high school when I was working with Jennifer Love Hewitt. She use to listen to my songs and would come up with great suggestions for who should sing my songs. I knew she had a gift to recognize a good song and what artist might be good for that song. So I told her people get paid a lot of money in the music industry to be A&R Reps and Music Publishers you should consider pursuing that as a career. I’ll never forget she said “REALLY?” I said “YES!” She had a dream at that time of getting into the fashion industry.
So right after she graduated high school she took my advice, jumped the velvet rope and got a job as an intern at a major record label Elektra Records. After her internship she went on to become a successful music industry professional working with many high level music industry professionals in management, merchandise, touring, publishing, TV and record labels. 20 years later my friend now works at one of the biggest music companies in the world.
Dreams and goals often take time. It’s a process and part of that process is developing yourself and your skills and meeting different people you cross paths with on your life journey. Proof of that is my music industry friend who I mentored and Garrett the music artist who Stacy referred to me that I referred to my music industry friend.
Garrett just got a major label record deal after 10 years of pursuing his music, arts and entertainment dreams and goals. Here is a recent social media post he made to my friend congratulating her on a new music industry job she just got at a major music industry company.
SOCIAL MEDIA POST
BY GARRETT DOUGLAS
“Do you remember when you added my music to NIGHTCLUB CITY (the facebook video game)?!?! My name use to be Beach Boy. About 10 years ago you gave me so much exposure through your great friend David Bryant – ANYWAYS, last week I got a HUGE record deal with ATLANTIC RECORDS from Craig Kallman! I believe the universe works on its own terms and that you and David were all part of this process since day 1!! So CONGRATS and THAAAAAANK YOUUUU. YOU ARE A QUEEN! ”
How wonderful is that?
ALWAYS REMEMBER TO NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS AND GOALS! KEEP THE FAITH AND CONTINUE TO DEVELOP YOURSELF, DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS AND CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE, PROFESSIONALS AND MENTORS WHO SUPPORT AND ENCOURAGE YOU! WHEN YOU DO THAT WONDERFUL THINGS CAN HAPPEN!
As Earth, Wind & Fires says…
“When you wish upon a star
Your dreams will take you very far!”
“You’re a Shining Star
No matter who you are
Shining bright to see,
What you can truly be!”
You can truly be a SHINING STAR by using and/or sharing MrSupportfriend.com with other SHINING STARS!!!
One of my favorite people in the world. Words of Wisdom from Magic Johnson speaking to graduate students at Stanford. There is a reason why he was successful in basketball and is successful in business. I highly encourage you to watch this video.
WELCOME TO MY WHO INFLUENCED YOU? (WIY?) PAGE ON MY WEBSITE!
I ENCOURAGE YOU TO WATCH THE SHORT VIDEO ABOVE AND REVIEW THE INFO IN THIS BLOG SO YOU CAN FIND OUT WHO INFLUENCED ME AND BE ONEOF THE FIRST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD TO PARTICIPATE AND SUPPORT WHO INFLUENCED YOU?
MESSAGE FROM DAVID BRYANT ABOUT THE WHO INFLUENCED YOU? PROJECT AND ONLINE SERIES!
Hello and THANK YOU for taking the time to review the information in this blog! I’m currently working on a project that I am very excited about, and I hope that you will want to be one of the first people involved with the project.
It’s called “WHO INFLUENCED YOU?” (WIY?) and I was invited to be a Co-Creator of the project by my friend of over 35 years Lorelei McBroom who has a successful professional background in Music, Arts & Entertainment. She has worked with some superstar music artists including The Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, Rod Stewart. Lou Reed and Nile Rodgers.
I also have a successful professional background in Music, Arts & Entertainment and have received Gold & Platinum Records and Awards for songs I co-wrote for celebrity music artists including Whitney Houston, Jody Watley, Eddie Money, Dionne Warwick. Jeffrey Osborne, The Jets, Vanessa Williams and many others.
WHO INFLUENCED YOU? INTRODUCTION TO OUR CONCEPT
THE INFLUENCES
“WHO INFLUENCED YOU?” explores and connects past, present and future influences in music, film, television, social media, sports, comedy, fashion, business, science, community, culture and more.
THE QUESTION
The question “WHO INFLUENCED YOU?” sparks conversations and stories related to the influences in an individual’s personal life and career. It also creates a genealogy and inspirational lineage between individuals and provides people with the opportunity to apply the question to their own lives and the lives of others
THE GOAL
The goal of “WHO INFLUENCED YOU?” is to expose younger and older generations to people, professionals and content they may not be aware of, where by connecting different generations with each other.
WHO INFLUENCED WHO?
Below are a few influential music artists.
SAM COOKE INFLUENCED
ROD STEWART
& STEVE PERRY OF JOURNEY
Sam Cooke was known as the “King of Soul” thanks to his distinctive voice. Some of his influences were gospel music, Ray Charles and Bob Dylan.
Rod Stewart and Steve Perry were both influenced by Sam Cooke. We encourage you to explore the music, videos, hashtags and social media pages of all 3 music artists.
Sir Rod Stewart spoke openly about the man who inspired him on social media. The legendary singer said that without Sam Cooke, who was known as the King of Soul thanks to his distinctive voice, “there may not have been a Rod”. The legendary singer spent “thousands” of hours trying to emulate the sound of his hero. Rod described him as his “one and only influence”.
At age 12, Steve Perry heard Sam Cooke’s song “Cupid” on his mother’s car radio, and it inspired him to become a singer. Many of Steve’s melodies and emotional vocal style were Influenced by his love and admiration of Sam Cooke.
ARETHA FRANKLIN INFLUENCED
WHITNEY HOUSTON
& ARIANA GRANDE.
ARIANA GRANDE WAS
ALSO INFLUENCED
BY WHITNEY HOUSTON
Whitney Houston and Ariana Grande were both influenced by Aretha Franklin. Ariana was also influenced by Whitney. We encourage you to explore the music, videos, hashtags and social media pages of all 3 music artists.
Aretha’s central influence, was Clara Ward of the renowned Ward Singers. Other gospel greats of the day Albertina Walker and Jackie Verdell helped shape young Franklin’s style. Aretha was also influenced by Billie Holiday, Mahalia Jackson, Dinah Washington and Ruth Brown to name a few.
Whitney grew up around Aretha Franklin and was inspired by her voice and music. Aretha encouraged Whitney in her talent and their friendship grew as Whitney established herself as an artist. Aretha had close connections to Whitney’s family and was good friends with her mother Cissy Houston who was one of Aretha’s background singers.
According to Whitney’s website she had many musical influences and drew inspiration from all across the pop, soul and gospel music landscapes, but the artists acknowledged in the Grammy Museum had a special impact on Whitney and her career. They include: Roberta Flack, Aretha Franklin, Cissy Houston, Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, Darlene Love, Dee Dee Warwick and Dionne Warwick.
Ariana Grande was influenced by both Aretha and Whitney. Ariana had the honor of paying tribute to Aretha by singing one of Aretha’s classics “Natural Woman” at her funeral.
In 2013, Grande told Billboard: “Whitney holds such a special place in my heart. “She inspired me to start singing as a little girl. I’d watch “The Bodyguard” and tell my mom I wanted to do that one day. Her riffs are so precise and I love her tone.”
JAMES BROWN INFLUENCED
MICHAEL JACKSON
& BRUNO MARS
MICHAEL JACKSON ALSO
INFLUENCED BRUNO MARS
Michael Jackson and Bruno Mars were both influenced by James Brown. We encourage you to explore the music, videos, hashtags and social media pages of all 3 music artists.
James Brown was known as “The Godfather of Soul” and “Soul Brother #1.”
After watching jazz and R&B singer Louis Jordan’s performance footage, James Brown wanted to be a musician and entertainer. He was also inspired by some of his contemporaries, like Little Richard, Elvis Presley, and Ray Charles.
At James Brown’s funeral Michael called James Brown “my greatest inspiration.” He told the audience of 9,000 that from the age of 6 his mother would make him watch television whenever Brown came on to perform. “When I saw him move I was mesmerized,” Jackson said. “I’ve never seen a performer perform like James Brown and right then and there I knew that that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
Bruno Mars was also heavily Influenced by The Godfather of Soul. Here’s what he said: “I’d watch James Brown on an old concert from 1964 ‘The T.A.M.I. Show.” “Seeing him changed my life.” And during an appearance on 60 Minutes, Bruno cited Michael Jackson as one of his biggest musical influences.
James Brown also had a big influence on Rap & Hip Hop with many djs, music artists and record producers sampling his recordings and beats.
What a great example of the influence from one generation to another.
MAX MARTIN INFLUENCED
BRITNEY SPEARS & THE WEEKND
Max Martin is considered a master in the craft of songwriting and production. His songs and productions have influenced pop music since the late 90’s including more than 20 Billboard Hot 100 #1 songs.
We encourage you to explore the music, hashtags and social media pages of the music artists Max has worked with.
MAX MARTIN’S HITS INCLUDE:
Britney Spears’ “Baby One More Time”, the Backstreet Boys’ “I Want It That Way”, NSYNC’s “Bye Bye Bye”, Kelly Clarkson’s “Since You’ve Been Gone”, “Katy Perry’s “I Kissed A Girl”, Pink’s “Raise Your Glass”, Taylor Swift’s “Shake It Off”, Ariana Grande, Jessie J and Nikki Minaj’s “Bang Bang”, Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop The Feeling”, and The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” which is the #1 song on Billboard’s All-Time Hot 100 Songs list.
Max has also influenced several younger songwriters and producers, such as Dr. Luke and Shellback.
A great example of Max’s influence on a music artist is The Weeknd’s rise to superstardom. It all started when he linked up with Max on Ariana Grande’s “Love Me Harder,” which led him to tell his label to get him more work with Martin. He told the head of A&R “If I’m gonna be the biggest in the world I need a handful of songs like that.” That eventually led to Martin and The Weeknd collaborating to create the global hits “Can’t Feel My Face” and “Blinding Lights.”
In 2016, Martin won the prestigius Polar Music Prize. During the ceremony, he indicated who his four main influences are: ABBA, Kiss, Prince, and Lasse Holm.
Britney Spears congratulated Max on winning the prestigious Polar Music Prize. She said “I think you’re a genius, it’s such an honor to work with you. You’ve been a part of my career from the beginning.”
DR. DRE INFLUENCED SNOOP DOGG,
EMINEM, MARY J. BLIGE,
KENDRICK LAMAR, TUPAC, 50 CENT,
SCOTT STORCH & THE WAY THE WORLD
LISTENS TO MUSIC WITH
BEATS BY DRE.
Rap & Hip-Hop were heavily influenced by Andre Young aka Dr. Dre. We encourage you to explore the music, hashtags and social media pages of Dr. Dre and all the music artists he has worked with.
Dr. Dre was inspired to get into music when he heard Grandmaster Flash song ‘The Adventures Of Grandmaster Flash On The Wheels Of Steel.’ He told Vibe; “That made me want to DJ. It made me want to know what hip-hop was. That was the song that did it. I immediately went home and called some friends and we were taking apart one of my friend’s mother’s stereo sets.. We figured out how to make a mixer from the balance button and got it cracking—started making mixtapes.”
That was the beginning of a global Hip-Hop legacy as a super producer and music artist that is second to none.
Dre had predecessors and peers, but he’s the sonic architect of West Coast rap: Integral to its inception, he shaped and then reimagined the contours of its sound. His influence extends from the ‘80s to the unlikely day that people stop playing “Nuthin But a G Thang” and “California Love.”
Much of gangsta rap until Dr. Dre was characterized by abrasive, rock-inspired beats, echoing the frequently violent lyrics they accompanied. But with The Chronic, Dr. Dre helped popularize the subgenre known as G-funk rapping over slower, bass and synth-laden grooves, and favoring live instruments over samples.
Dr. Dre also created “Beats by Dre” that influenced the way people listen to music worldwide.
And this year Dr. Dre and many of the legendary Hip-Hop artists he has produced performed live at the Super Bowl halftime show. Hip-Hop has influenced generations worldwide. So millions of fans tuned in to the Super Bowl just to see the halftime show.
HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE & SUPPORT WHO INFLUENCED YOU?
The way that you can participate and support “WHO INFLUENCED YOU?” is on social media by following our INSTAGRAM and subscribing to our YOUTUBE channel where you can respond to questions, content and interviews related to WHO INFLUENCED YOU? and maybe even appear in an episode or segment of the WHO INFLUENCED YOU? ONLINE SERIES.
We are at the very beginning stages of WIY? so if I reached out to you or one of My Support Friends reached out to you and shared this blog with you this is a great time for you to get involved with the project! Click the links below to visit our social media pages.
The people who influenced me the most were my parents, Anne & Ardie Bryant.
My mother was an amazing person. I have so much love and respect for her and admired her strength and positive attitude about life. She was a giving person and a total optimist! I was blessed to have the mother I had while she was alive and we will always be connected in spirit forever.
And then there was my dad Ardie Bryant. He taught me so much about life and is a major part of the reason I have achieved many of the successes I have in my life.
My father was an entertainer. One of the few “master jazz tap percussionists” in the world. He had a unique gift of inspiring people of all ages with his talents and his spirit. He passed away at the age of 87 and was still active as a public speaker, teacher and mentor. I hope I am as active as he was when I reach 87. He was also a very popular dance professor at Cal State LA.
Although I did not get a chance to see my father perform in his prime, I have met some of the people he worked with like Count Basie and Quincy Jones. Both had great things to say about my dad. It really does amaze me when I think about the legends my dad knew and worked with including Nat King Cole, Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughn, Charlie Parker, Dizzie Gillespie, Louis Armstrong, the list goes on and on.
COACH JOHN WOODEN INFLUENCED ME!
When people ask me Who Influenced You? Coach John Wooden is one of the people I mention. Coach Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success” inspired me to create “My Wellness & Money Support Triangle” that is included in Session 2 of my Personal Development Training.
I received a copy of Coach Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success” at his basketball camp when I was 13 years old. In my opinion it is one of the greatest life empowerment tools ever created! Some consider Coach Wooden to be the greatest basketball coach of all time and I would have to agree with that. However, he was a “Teacher” first and foremost and an amazing Life Coach & Mentor for all of his players and everyone else he crossed paths with. He lived to be 99 years old and the example he set for others as a human being is second to none!
Coach John Wooden’s “Pyramid of Success” is a masterpiece and I encourage everyone to click the link below to check it out and explore Coach Wooden’s website and his many books he authored. His content, teachings and philosophies are extremely empowering and timeless!
Thank you Coach Wooden for influencing my life and everything you did to empower, inspire and influence the lives of others. Your legacy lives on!
MY HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC TEACHER JERRY GRANT INFLUENCED ME
My high school music teacher Mr. Grant had a big influence on me musically. He always made the classes fun and hip and was one of the best teachers I ever had.
He was also a contemporary jazz musician and tv/film composer, who wrote music on the side for his own projects and for popular tv shows such as Starsky & Hutch and the Rockford Files.
Slowly but surely I started catching on in class and eventually ended up taking private lessons on the side from Mr. Grant. It was at this point that I decided to pursue a “music career” as a professional songwriter instead of going to college.
Growing up, I taught myself how to play the piano by ear and took a few piano lessons from my friend David Achon’s mom. I had also written a few songs as a child, one of which my father recorded for one of his projects when I was about 13.
But it was not until the summer after high school that I decided to try to make a career out of it. My plan was to give myself 2 years to see if I could make it, and if I couldn’t, then I would go to college.
MY MUSICAL INFLUENCES AND HOW I BECAME A SUCCESSFUL SONGWRITER
Being an only child, one of the things I used to do to entertain myself in my room, was listen to records and the radio.
Some of my musical influences growing up were The Jackson Five, James Taylor, Marvin Gaye, The Beatles, Earth Wind & Fire, Herbie Hancock, Leonard Bernstein & Stephen Sondheim’s West Side Story Soundtrack and of course my all-time favorite STEVIE WONDER!
My all-time favorite songwriter is Burt Bacharach, my all-time favorite song is “You’ve Got A Friend” written by Carole King and performed by James Taylor, and my all-time favorite record producers are Mutt Lange, who co-wrote and produced the classic “Everything I Do I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams and Arif Mardin who I will get to in a moment.
But it was not until I graduated from high school that I decided to pursue a career in music as a professional songwriter.
I was fortunate enough to achieve success as a songwriter over the years. I was not the most talented songwriter in the world. However, I was good at attracting the right creative and business people into my life which led to good things for me. People wanted to work with me and enjoyed being around me. Yes I had talent, but more importantly I developed the right relationships and friendships with other talented people.
Some of my favorite songs that I’ve co-written include:
I co-wrote the song “Moment of Truth” for Whitney Houston with Jan Buckingham. It was first released as the B-Side of the single “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and was also included in 2 of Whitney’s movie projects “Waiting To Exhale” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” the movie.
My biggest hit song was “Don’t You Want Me” by Jody Watley co-written with Jody and the wonderful Franne Golde. It reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was a #1 Dance Record as well. Below is an extended clip of it.
I also co-wrote the song “The Love in Your Eyes” with Adrian Gurvitz and
Steve Dubin for Eddie Money. The single reached #24 on the Billboard Hot 100
and #1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
One of my favorite songwriting experiences was co-writing “Back On Holiday” with Robbie Nevil and Steve Dubin. I started doing my Stevie Wonder impression and that inspired melodies Robbie and I wrote for the song. Robbie loved the band “War” so he thought about them when arranging the saxophones. Steve had the groove and Robbie and I wrote the lyrics. It was such a fun experience! Below is an extended version of the song that I love.
“Work Me Down” is a song I co-wrote with legendary hall of fame songwriter Diane Warren for the movie “Disorderlies” starring The Fat Boys, I produced the song in New York, it was performed by Laura Hunter and co-produced by The Latin Rascals. The song was also a big hit in the dance and cheerleader competition community.
Another fun experience for me was working in the studio with record producer Richard Perry recording a song I co-wrote with Adele Bertei and Sandra Bernhard called “My Life” for the Pointer Sisters. I did the drum programming and played moog bass and keyboards, Bill Botrell engineered and Paul Fox played keyboards as well. Below is a clip of the song. It’s one of my favorite songs I co-wrote. Love Adele’s lyrics!!!
“Diamond Real” by Michael Wycoff is also another favorite of mine that I co-wrote with Al McKay of Earth, Wind & Fire and Janice Marie Johnson of “A Taste of Honey.” Michael does a great job singing the song. His gospel R&B influenced vocals shine! Take a listen to the extended version below.
One of my songwriting heroes growing up was Smokey Robinson. He is one of the greatest songwriters in the history of music. I am humbled, honored, blessed and grateful that he recorded a song I co-wrote with Bobby Sandstrom and Michael Price called “Wishful Thinking” that was included in the soundtrack for the movie “One Fine Mess” starring Ted Danson and Howie Mandel. I consider this one of my greatest songwriting accomplishments. God’s Plan!
THE STATEMENT MY FATHER MADE THAT INFLUENCED MY MINDSET AND HELPED ME TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL SONGWRITER
In my early teens my family had formed an independent music publishing company.
I knew it would be tough for me to make it in the music business, but I always remembered what my father told me when I decided to go for it.
He said “If you want to be a professional songwriter, you need to think and act like a professional songwriter. From this day on you are now competing with the best songwriters in the world and there are not many slots available. So you need to take it seriously.”
Boy was he right and I always used what he said as motivation when I was writing and creating my songs. I knew I was competing with the best in the world, so I used to visualize successful artists singing my songs during the writing process.
I would also do the “Flip-Flop” test with my songs after I completed them.
The “Flip-Flop Test” was simply this. I would listen to a few songs on an album, or a radio station, then I would flip the switch on my stereo system and play one of my songs like it was on that album or radio station.
If I felt my song was good enough to fit on the album, or be played on the radio, I knew I was at least in the ballpark. If I didn’t, I would rework the song until it felt right to me.
I always base my decisions on my feelings and instincts. Either it feels right, or it doesn’t.
No matter how talented you are, there is another side to being successful in the music business and that is getting your foot in the door with the right people and being prepared when it happens.
In my case, I feel there were 4 keys to my success as a professional songwriter:
Believing in myself.
My parents support and encouragement.
The high school I went to.
Working at the supermarket.
AL MCKAY INFLUENCED ME
When I attended Hollywood High School one of my classmates was Kate McKay, sister of legendary rhythm guitar player Al McKay of Earth, Wind & Fire.
Another one of my classmates was Mark Stevens, brother of R&B legend Chaka Khan.
Mark and I became friends and ended up hanging out a lot after we graduated high school. He was a talented bass player and singer, and like his sisters Chaka & Taka was involved in the music industry.
One day Mark got a call for an audition. Al McKay had just left Earth, Wind & Fire and was holding auditions for a new band he was putting together.
By fate, Mark needed a ride to the audition and asked me if I could give him a ride. This would turn out to be my first big break into the music industry.
When we got to the audition, Al greeted us and Mark introduced me to him.
Al said “Wait a minute, David Bryant. Your name sounds familiar to me.”
I said “Well I go to Hollywood High and I am friends with your sister Kate.”
Al said, “That’s it, my sister told me about you.”
I had no idea Kate had mentioned me to Al, but I was sure happy she did.
He said “You’re the songwriter right?”
I said “Yes that would be me and I am also a huge Earth, Wind & Fire fan and it’s hard to believe I am standing here right now talking to you.”
Then Al told me that he wanted to hear a tape of my songs and if he liked them, maybe we could write some songs together along with some new writers he had signed to his music publishing company.
You have to understand, I used to spend hours alone in my room as a kid listening to Earth, Wind & Fire records and now here I was face to face with one of my musical heroes and he was interested in possibly working with me.
So was I excited? That would be an understatement!
Well to make a long story short, Al ended up liking my stuff and asked me if I wanted to write some songs with him and another up and coming songwriter at the time Tony Haynes.
The collaboration led to my 1st song that was recorded by a major artist. The song was called “Send A Little Love”, the group that recorded it was “The Spinners” and it was produced by Mtume & Lucas, whose songwriting and production credits included “The Closer I Get To You” and “Never Knew Love Like This Before.”
Al, Tony and I ended up writing more songs together and worked on several projects together including A Taste of Honey, Finis Henderson and others.
Al McKay had a big influence on me as a songwriter. I learned a lot from Al and I am thankful that he recognized my talent and gave me my 1st break in the music industry.
Below are 4 of my favorite songs Al co-wrote and/or produced. “September”, “Sing A Song” and “Boogie Wonderland” by Earth, Wind & Fire and “Best Of My Love” by the Emotions.
In addition, below are 4 songs I co-wrote with Al. “Sayonara” and “Never Go Wrong” by A Taste of Honey, and “Lovers” and “You Owe It All To Love” by Finis Henderson.
ARIF MARDIN INFLUENCED ME
Another key contact I made through Mark Stevens was the legendary music producer and arranger Arif Mardin.
Arif worked with and produced some of the biggest and best artists in the music industry including: Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, Average White Band, The Bee Gees, Hall and Oates, Phil Collins, George Benson, Bette Midler and Norah Jones, which won him the 2003 Grammy Award for Producer of the Year.
Here are 5 of my favorite Arif productions!
I met and worked with a lot of talented and successful people in the music industry over the years and I have a lot of respect and admiration for Arif. He was a big influence for me.
In a world of sharks and greedy people who are out for themselves and will step on you to get where they need to go, Arif always treated me with respect, asked me for my opinions and never once asked me for any percentage of my song royalties in order for him to record one of my songs on a project he was working on.
His talent was enormous and his character was impeccable!
Arif ended up recording a song I wrote the music for called “Your Place Or Mine” with Melissa Manchester who he was producing at the time.
Melissa & Allee Willis wrote the lyrics and it ended up being the main title theme for a film called “A Little Sex” starring Tim Matheson & Kate Capshaw.
The time I spent around Arif watching him work was incredible. He used to invite Mark and I down to recording sessions and over to his hotel room when he was in town to watch him work and hang out.
2 events that I feel fortunate to have experienced in person with Arif, were watching him work in the studio with legendary studio musician, keyboard player and arranger Greg Phillinganes on Chaka Khan’s version of “We Can Work It Out”. Greg started playing with Stevie Wonder when he was just a teenager and went on to play on many hit records in the 80’s including all of Michael Jackson’s biggest albums and became Michael’s musical director on tour.
Greg, who was influenced by Stevie Wonder, is playing the Moog bass keyboard and the other keyboards on “We Can Work It Out” and did the rhythm arrangement. It is my favorite Moog bass track Greg ever did and he played Moog bass on all the Michael Jackson hits in the 80’s. Mike Sembello and Raymond Pounds who also played with Stevie played guitar and drums on the Chaka session which I had the privilege to be at the day they recorded the rhythm tracks. It was an amazing day in the studio watching them lay down the rhythm tracks. A memory I will always cherish.
I also had the opportunity to watch Arif figure out how to modulate his arrangement of Chaka’s version of “A Night In Tunsia” so he could fit a sample of Charlie Parker’s solo break into the track and have Herbie Hancock double the sample on keyboards of the famous solo break that Charlie Parker did in the song. By the way Herbie is playing the keyboard solo on the record and doubled the solo in 1 take. Truly amazing! The recording won a Grammy for best vocal arrangement. Chaka’s vocals are incredible!
Arif also gave me 4 valuable words of wisdom that I try to pass on to anyone interested in pursuing a music career.
Believe in yourself!
Be prepared by having your craft and talent in order.
Stay away from the negative temptations such as drugs, alcohol, partying, negative people, etc…
And 4 and most importantly, if you can not accept disappointment and rejection, you need to find another career, because it’s going to happen no matter what level of success you achieve!
He said if I could learn to master these 4 things, then I had a chance to be successful.
Arif passed away in 2006, but his musical productions, arrangements, achievements and spirit will live forever.
Below is a video clip related to Arif about the making of his last album and life story.
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