An update: there's so much happening
🕑 Added 2023-01-19 02:48:46 +0000 UTCHello my dearest patrons,
I'm sorry I have been relatively quiet. Let me give you a summary of the last two weeks. :)
As soon as we hit 2023 I started to completely and entirely focus on work for the visuals for this album. The album is a FULL movie, narrative and all. There were locations to nail down, storyboards to finish, shot lists to create then re-order, gear to rent and drive around Manhattan in my friends cars, crews to contract, a set to design, a script to write and costumes to coordinate, to name a few things. There were at least 24 people who crossed our set within the 7 days that we ended up shooting.
It was easily the most intense preparation I've ever done for anything, and the second I got on set there was something for me to do every single second. I've never felt more like I was learning on the job.
All that said, on day 3 of the shoot I collapsed. I came home shivering and crying with a fever of 102 and a horrible sore throat. I went to the doc the next day and got tested for everything. Everything was negative. This was my body letting me know that what I was doing, the level of pressure I was putting on myself, the way I was forgetting to eat full meals and drink water, was utterly unsustainable.
I'm used to brief discomfort like that, but this was the first time that I've had to figure out how to navigate doing this for a prolonged period of time. And with a day of rest in the middle of the process I got there. And I'm ok now.
This is about to be the year of self-care. I have so much work to do this year, and I've never been more overwhelmed by it- between this film, the album and all of the content I want to make and shows I want to do. But this last year actually gave me the space to learn what outside of my career makes me happy. And I need to double down on that and on my physical and mental maintenance so that I can remain grounded in the midst of the chaos. I feel ready to take on that task, for sure.
The film is in the can, and I am beginning to edit it. The album is getting its final mixes done. I could not be more proud of it. I've never made anything this beautiful. And there are so many beautiful opportunities for it on the horizon. Prepare yourselves for a lot of photos and screenshots.
I'll schedule a livestream for us to listen to Brooklyn this month and hopefully another song from the album too.
None of this would be possible without you. This film and this album are THE most financially risky things I've ever done. But the stories are important and I believe in them so hard. I want to awaken people to their own humanity with everything I do, and I've never been more sure that what I'm working on will accomplish that. That's so special to be able to say. And thank you for allowing me to do that. xx
More to come,
xxMKR
Comments
Malinda Kathleen Reese
I use it for genuinely everything, Brian. Your guitar gets good use too!! So so grateful for your gifts those years ago.
Kara Petrich
We love you and are proud of you for everything❤️
Neal Sarin
Glad you're doing better, Malinda. Self care is so important, and so easy to overlook. Me and Fergus will be sending you doggie enhanced heartbeams.
Christine E. Butler
Here again, suggesting that u set your alarm (phone) and smart watch to remind you to eat or drink. When you've been so busy to think 🤔. That's how I do it at work. Lots of love ❤ again.
Elie
Sending good vibes. Glad to hear you're doing better
Adrian Brekelmans
Your prose communicating with us fans is excelling. Spillover from songwriting? Enduring, famous songs come from suffering overcome; I'll bet your body shutting down will inspire a gem from you.
Noelle Krumbhaar
I'm so glad you were able to recover. I saw the post about getting sick. Girl, you know we love you, and will be patient with releases. I know you're excited, and glad you're back to self care. Don't make me mom you lol. Can't wait for the releases (well, I can, but still)!
David Plunkett
The Plunkett family motto is "festina lente." Hasten slowly. I hope that can work for you, too. Take the time you need.
Greg Smethells
Sounds like the newness and the pressure are being felt. But if a feeling or thought is not helping you take steps towards what is best for you then acknowledge it and let it go. Tell yourself this will be great and it will. I’m dealing with a bad flare up of my nerves in my lower body and am following my own advice here. So far so good.
Rrrose
I am so glad you are going to be taking care of yourself. Sending best wishes for healthy self-care and much success in this new year...
john kiefer
Have you ever considered adding a verse to the Viking song? I love that song and it is part of what I’d be interested in you as a performer.
john kiefer
Melinda, I would love to see you live at the Bethel Woods for the performing arts. That is the site of the 1960s Woodstock event in Bethel New York. It’s a great venue only 90 minutes from midtown New York City.Give it consideration.
Christine E. Butler
I’ve been wondering what has been going on. Have not seen anything since u got back from overseas. Oh ,so glad you are doing well. Lots of love to you and your team. Your guardian angel is slacking.
Craig Streett
Much love. Be well.
Jettred2001
Please take care of yourself first, we don't need anything bad happening to you.
Klea
Happy new year Malinda! Remember to take care of yourself in this one :)
Klea
I am so proud of you, Malinda!!! ❤️❤️
Brian L Hughes
I'm proud to see that MR-200 in your videos.
Kristen Estes
Like others have said; excited for all the things, but most importantly please take care of yourself (physically, mentally, emotionally, everything!). We’re cheering you on and will be here when you’re finished. Be kind to yourself and work at a human pace! (It doesn’t have to be one or the other 💜) Rest and play are both important for body, brain, and soul.
Kyle Tuttle
Proud of you Malinda! Keep taking care of yourself!
Tom McGrath
You are truly staggering with your talent, your drive & your vision. Please try to be kinder to yourself so we can (selfishly) marvel at & enjoy your future endeavors 😊
Cinnder
As others have said: excited for the film-album, but always put please always your health first. Having said that, if you're putting so much of yourself into this work of art I know it's going to be totally amazing. 💖
KlausBeckEwerhardy
Happy New Year - and don't overdo it. (Do as I say, not as I do 😏)
Sarah Olson
I cannot wait to see how everything turns out! Take care of yourself first though Malinda. We’ll all be here for when you’re finished, whenever that may be.
Glenn Morrical
I am excited for the album, but it more important that you take care of yourself. I am glad you feel better, but please don’t overdo it.
Felipe Loureiro
We're all excited and can't wait to hear (and see!!!) more from you. Take as much time as you need and go easy on yourself. Glad you're feeling better. All of the best!!
Robert Kleinschmidt
We want you around bringing us joy for many more years, so please: take care! 😉🥰
Staten Young
So glad you’re doing better! Take of yourself!
Michael Caswell
Please remember to take care of yourself first and foremost, but I am excited to be able to listen to your finished product, as you are a great talent with an incredibly beautiful voice
Richard prout
Yay! Thank you… excited!
lith_ithilwa
I can’t wait to see and hear more! That’s an interesting concept, a movie-album :) I just love what you do and how genuine you are. Please listen to your body too - you deserve it! Best of luck xx
Bradford Sanders
Take your time! We all understand creating takes time!
Jonathan Isip
Happy to see the album taking shape, but also the reminder to prioritise yourself and care first and foremost. We love seeing you do amazing things, especially so when you’re grounded and content about it! Looking forward to everything coming up! xx
Adam Carman
I’m excited to see the finished product, Malinda! Take care of yourself! You’re amazing! :)
Dan Santoro
Glad you’re feeling better now, please don’t forget to take care of yourself. Let’s make EVERY year a year of self-care :)
Gilles Doyen
Please take as much time as you need to recover. That is your priority. Wish you health and lots of caring bestowed on you.