Kelly Duff's Blog

Thrilled to debut my trailer for Tame My Racing Heart.⁠ https://youtu.be/2HtiZm063mQ

A million years ago, when I was in grade school, I attempted to create a fan-based newsletter. I’m pretty sure it was for Rick Springfield or Duran Duran. I remember cutting out pictures in magazines, writing (by hand) information about Rick or Simon, or whoever I was in love with at the time. I usually included lyrics to songs or information I found in Tiger Beat magazine. It was very rudimentary — there was no internet, no google, just me, and whatever tangible things I had around my room. I had no means to copy and distribute it, so it was a short-lived project.

In college, I joined the student-run radio station and was pleasantly surprised to see the current station manager putting together a newsletter for the radio staff. Again, being the late-80’s, I saw him cutting out radio charts from magazines and typing up lists of current station management. Then, he photocopied each page and stapled them in packets, distributing them at our weekly meetings. I immediately offered to help.

Well, here we are in 2020. I’ve started my own company, I’ve “finished” the book (cover art pending and about a zillion other steps I need to take to upload the darn thing), and as I dive into the world of self-publishing, I find myself facing a task I never thought I’d perform again.

I’m creating a newsletter.

Now, truth be told, pictures of my adorable pooches will probably take the spotlight there. And let’s be honest, it’s what the people want. But as I’m in the throes of learning all about the massive undertaking that is self-publishing, this newsletter just might be the one thing that’s getting me really excited. I’m finding out that newsletters are not about selling the book. Okay, of course, they are but really it’s about getting the chance to interact with your readers/friends. And a lot of you out there know how much I like to entertain!

So, if you’re looking for something to read while you’re, I don’t know, in the bathroom at work and maybe stalling so you don’t have to go back to your desk, then please subscribe (http://kellyduffwrites.com/subscribe). I promise not to be a PITA (come on, you know what that stands for), yes there will be pictures of Stella and Louie, and I will even give some free stuff away. Can’t wait to share it!

XO Kelly

Here are 5 of my favorite love songs right now:

Summer Romance - Tim Minchin

I am obsessed with this song right now. I saw him on CBS last Saturday morning. Normally, he creates fun little tunes that are wildly offensive (so yeah, I love those too) but this time, he’s created a more serious album. I adore him and was equally impressed by his role as Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar.

Gravity - Sarah Barielles

While her song "Between the Lines” was an inspirational part of Tame My Racing Heart, this song moves me…especially when she belts it out at the end.

Hurricane - Emerson Hart

One of the best shows I ever saw was Tonic, with K’s Choice and The Verve Pipe. At the end of the concert, all three bands got on stage and performed Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds and it was a religious experience, to say the least. In the last couple of years, I’ve obsessed over Tonic’s lead singer, Emerson Hart, and his solo stuff. The first time we went to Nashville, we drove around listening to his music. This song was a great soundtrack to drive to.

River - Leon Bridges

There’s a moment in the miniseries Big Little Lies, when this song comes on and it’s so poignant. A friend of ours got married a few years ago and this was the first song they danced to.

How Long Will I Love You - Ellie Goulding

The first time I heard this song, tears formed in my eyes. It’s a love letter.

I could list a hundred more love songs, but for now, enjoy these five.