Recent Interests

I have been studying two books by Don Miguel Ruiz, based on ancient Toltec wisdom. The names of the two books are 'The Four Agreements, Toltec Wisdom' and ‘The Four Agreements, Study Guide’ -

Using the four agreements to master the dream of one’s life is the essence of these books. My intent is to evolve ‘my dream/life experience/focus’ so I am living/dreaming a life that is not only wholesome, loving, and considerate…but a life that is truly who I am/what I am/how I am. Many of us have, at one time or another, bought into some idea about our lives that doesn't serve who we really are…I am truly coming to realize that there is no better ‘moment’ than now to undo those agreements.

Current Releases, Intentions & Activities

Regards my music: I have made a decision to develop music that emphasizes melodic and harmonic development. This highly complements my musical education.

I enjoy critiquing my instrumental compositions and am forever analyzing them, asking: How can I modify this or that? How can I develop an improvisational line over this harmonic or melodic structure? How can I write a string section that is more vibrant, alive and intriguing?

Adjust your speakers and enjoy my most recent music compositions. You will find that the music continuously repeats. I did this on purpose, so you can continue listening while you work in your office on other things.

Be sure to check back weekly, as I am in a very productive mode…and have many many songs of this nature in the works. It takes me quite a few hours to arrange, record and master each song…so now you know what I do with my time.

My goal for this year, 2009, is to release two new albums, while learning all I can regards how to more effectively develop and bring music to those who enjoy listening to my music. All of my music is copyrighted and is registered with the Office of the Registrar.

These past few years, I have diligently worked on developing my engineering, mastering and mixing skills. As a result, I haven't released a new album in a very long time. It has taken quite an effort to put all the tools in place. This is a work in process. As well, I have been exploring every musical avenue that presents itself...from blues to rock to ballads to voice over/humor. The music you are currently listening to is the culmination of those efforts. I absolutely love and enjoy composing and producing this music.

Some years ago, I completed a highly structured classical music theory/composition/performance/vocal technique program while attending college in San Luis Obispo, CA. Thirty students enrolled in the program, and two years later only seven of us graduated. After graduating, I moved to the Bay Area and Santa Cruz where I continued studying advanced vocal technique at Hayward State University, and completed courses in advanced jazz theory/composition with Ray Brown.

My favorite composers/theorists have been Ray Brown, with whom I studied, Nelson Riddle, Duke Ellington, Jerry Coker, Mark Levine, and Thelonius Monk to name a few. The old blues singer Jimmy Reed is my all time favorite harmonica player. My all time favorite master of melodic development is Ella Fitzgerald.

Time to get busy. I hope you enjoy my music.

-Morton

PS - Make it a great day!

The Music

Morton Davis: Composition, arranging, lyrics, vocals, piano, guitar, harmonica, alto sax, soprano sax.

Mixing & Mastering

Morton Davis

All music on this site is copyrighted through the Office of the Registrar, and is registered with ASCAP.