| Quotes from “A Conversation with Donald Lawrence”
“I felt honored to be in the presence of such great musical giants. It feels good when you can come across people of such stature who are willing to share. That in itself is such a blessing. I left with a renewed vision and purpose in direct proportion to my ministry and music. Thank you to the Songwriting Series staff along with BMI for such a great opportunity. Looking forward to more of its kind in the future.”
~Kevin Wheatley
"This night of stormy rain was another lesson about how God blesses us in the midst of a storm. This session was a light in darkness. I received so many confirmations from both the inspiring speakers Max and Donald that as an independent singer-songwriter-producer, I am following the right path, "Outside of the box," -- The road less traveled," the road that leads back to the creative source, the divine connection. Thank you Gwendolyn for the excellent stand that you have taken for us on this creative journey. Thank you for creating this wonderful support system that is truly divinely inspired. Sincerely and with my deepest appreciation."
~Wilma Matthews
“An experience saturated with valuable information. I left the event feeling better informed, better equipped, and more focused than when I arrived!”
~Rob Murat
"It was life changing, life giving, and a personal experience I'll never forget, thank you Donald, BMI and A Queen Production!"
~Rochelle “Shelly” Taylor
“This was a very interesting gathering of forward-thinking, talented people.
I especially appreciated the insights Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence shared from their experiences in the industry. It's rare for up-and-coming artists like myself to get opportunities like this one, and I am so thankful to Ms. Gwendolyn Quinn for her thoughtful consideration towards me when she invited me to come. It was well worth the effort, and after coming out of a combat situation [Iraq war] only a few days before, there was nowhere I would rather have been than surrounded by the influential people of music and fellow aspiring artists…Wednesday, 8 November was also my birthday, and it was certainly memorable. I plan on making it count! Thank you ALL again!”
~Lindsey K. Ham
”I really really cannot express how much this particular event meant to me.
First of all I've always believed that music writers shouldn’t box themselves into a genre and when Donald Lawrence said if it wasn’t for producing music for Stephanie Mills, that he never would have learned to produce his albums. He said music is music. I loved how Donald Lawrence said that it’s about the content of a song and not exactly the music category that the song may be categorized in. I really needed to hear that. For someone like me who longs to have a theatrical career acting/writing, but who is based out of the church, I needed to know that their should be no conflict. Now I can move on with confidence.”
~Jerome Brooks
”Thank you for your most generous invitation to attend ’A Conversation with Donald Lawrence.’ The entire evening was informative and inspiring. I have had the pleasure to work with Donald as a choreographer on Bible Stories and he has not changed - he has grown. I brought an aspiring model and dancer to the event someone who did not know of Donald's greatness. He was motivated by Donald's positive, knowledgeable and people friendly approach.”
~Walter Rutledge
“‘A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ was an evening filled with information and inspiration! Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence both shared selflessly of their talents, knowledge, and experiences in the music industry. For all in the room, this was truly an incomparable opportunity to glean from two of the industries finest!”
~Damon Williams
“‘A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ was like spending an evening with an uncle who works in the music business. It was intimate, informative and inspiring. To have the opportunity to receive insight from successful music power brokers such as Donald Lawrence and Max Siegel in such a relaxed setting is invaluable. I would recommend this series to anyone interested in the business of songwriting, singing or producing. Keep up the great work!"
~Robyn Ryland-Sanders
“The experience was exceptional…At times we feel we've learned enough in life, but as time passes, they're always ways to learn more and more....if not each and every day, it should be every minute, second and so forth.....That what makes life and our true fulfillment/desire real”
~Pais Donovan
“The evening with Donald Lawrence was such an inspirational and moving session. It is so refreshing to meet children of God who can exemplify God's grace in their daily work. I now have an even better appreciation for him after hearing him speak and to know that everything he sings about is in his daily walk with God.”
~Derrick Marable
“The conversation with Donald Lawrence was uplifting and very informative; Max Siegel in his own right was amazingly inspiring!! Thanks for all you do Gwendolyn, you are truly appreciated.”
~Nakeesha M. Witherspoon
“The event was excellent!! Both Donald and Max were eloquent, informative and humble. I learned a lot!”
~Melaine Rochford
"’A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ left me intoxicated with hope and
aspirations to move forward in my quest of God's gifts.”
~Theresa Payne
"Gwendolyn, I really thought the Songwriting Series was amazing. There was so much information given to the audience. Donald Lawrence is so down to earth. I loved the choir that he created on the spot. I was one of the singers! He has a great business attitude. I was introduced to another side of the business that night. Please forward information to my email address regarding future events for the Songwriting Series."
~Perthea Saunders
“You got my vote as PR person of the year. The Songwriting Series with Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence was excellent. I felt it was very informative and I got great information from it. On a scale of one to ten, I give it an 11. Can’t wait for the next one. Thanks for inviting me.”
~Richard Blair
The Songwriting Series
Quotes from Participants
“What I have received here is worth more than a music college course from Harvard. Gwendolyn this was first class.”
~Basil Gibbs
“The best $50.00 you’ll spend on a career in music. The most worthwhile gift ever. How generous? That there are folks in this industry that care enough to share, and not charge you the money you’d make off your first hit record. Thanks Gwendolyn!!”
~Kristance Coates
“An excellent series with very knowledgeable and accessible people. This was an uplifting and inspiring experience. I am completely encouraged to continue and develop my songwriting to completion.”
~Mano Kashef
“I believe the workshop was amazing. Eric Roberson and Gordon Chambers are two blessed individuals. God lives within them. The entire workshop was so helpful. I learned so much about the industry and the business side. Very informative.”
~Dahha Anderson
“This Songwriting Series is a huge boost and learning experience for me as a young and emerging writer/entertainer. I recommend it to all singers, producers and songwriters because there is so much information learned at this workshop. Gordon Chambers, Eric Roberson and Keith Johnson helped me with my confidence and my technique. Thank you so very much!”
~Markita Y. Prescott
“Beautiful, brilliant, ‘funominal’ this songwriting series was truly a learning experience.”
~S. Toussaint
“Eric and Gordon are master teachers and great writers. I would recommend this series to anyone that is willing and able to master their craft.”
~Nicole Rachea
“I loved the songwriter's seminar. I give it 4 G Clefs. I look forward to the next session. Thanks Gwendolyn.”
~James Kearney
“Encouragement from musicians of this caliber have changed my life.”
~John Williams II
“Knowledge is power! Power is strength from knowing the craft.”
~Michelle McLeod
“This was an extremely informative workshop on the business of music. It is a must for any aspiring songwriter.”
~Bette Vargas
“This seminar was excellent. I didn’t know it was going to be this informative. I left inspired to write, network and get involved in this industry.”
~Gabriella Cudjoe
“The Songwriting Series not only inspired me, but showed me how to hone my craft of writing. Thank you to A Queen Production for putting on this series.”
~Elsa Lathan
“Thank you for making the business of music available to the masses, it was priceless.”
~Amille Harris
“I’ve been lifted spiritually, creatively, and expressively. I can’t wait until the next session.”
~Deepa Soul
“This workshop was very informative and helpful. Keith Johnson, Eric Roberson and Gordon Chambers were delightful, funny and helpful. It was a positive experience. Thank you.”
~Deidre Harston Dennis
“Powerful, the workshop was an extreme blessing. I can’t wait for the next one.”
~Nakeesha M. Witherspoon
“Love the series. Want to come to more. I loved the critique, it opened my eyes and it drives me to work harder. Gordon, Eric and Keith really presented us with challenging dialogue and advice that hits home. I thank Ms. Quinn very much.”
~Darius F. Talley
“I love the Songwriting Series.”
~Andre McDonnell
“This was a blessed day for me as a musician. The business is an eye opener. Thank you and God Bless.”
~Jerry McLeod
“As a songwriter this was a note to add to my creations!
~Jerome Brooks
“This event was not attended in vain, it is an event worth attending again.”
~Michael Noel
“Thank you, thank you, thank you! I cannot thank you enough for this seminar. It helped me so much for what I need to know when dealing with this music industry. I realized how ignorant I was to the business aspect of music. It’s not all about singing and writing anymore! Eric and Gordon were so warm, while open about their experiences. They basically kept it real and just told you how it is! (Smile!) I even got to sing one of my songs, networked and received positive criticism on how to bring out the best in me. It’s deep because I can do that for anybody else but rarely try to do it for myself! So last night I vowed to learn my craft and master it to the best of my ability. I was so grateful for the opportunity…thanks again…”
~Keyonda Reid
“My spirit found a home tonight. I am so inspired to pursue my songwriting. I felt my creativity rise up and soar. I felt like each creative person was a kindred soul. I was with like minds and cheering for everyone.”
~Jennifer P. Chrismas
“The Songwriting Series is a resource gem. Professionals sharing and passing their torch to God’s newly anointed. A wonderful support source. Thank you Gwendolyn!”
~Wilma Matthews
“God’s given talents -- nurture the soul of music.”
~Shirley Turner
“What a great musical experience! Who knew that not only does a tree grow in Brooklyn, but great songwriters are thriving in Brooklyn.”
~Lara Stingley
“If you want helpful feedback, inspiration, networking and advice come to this workshop.”
~Robert Wright
“I just see the Songwriting Series as a place where blessings flow and dreams come true.”
~Andrew Belletty
“Each time I attend the Songwriting Series workshop I leave more inspired to create.”
~Terry Spivey
“Thanks for sharing your gift of knowledge and life experiences. I learned a lot.”
~Mary Aulston
“This is the moment…Raymond [Angry] playing piano, [Joss Stone’s former music director] playing and…Barry [Eastmond] and Gordon [Chambers] singing their composed hits…Polished and unpolished presentations is what makes the series true, raw and different…The feeling is very personal and you are not a number.”
~Unnamed participant
“On a cold, cold winter day, when all I longed to do was stay in. This was worth coming out for and then some.”
~Traciana Graves
“The guests were so great – approachable and addressed each songwriter with attention.”
~Michele Earl
“Barry Eastmond brings a joy and love for music that reminds you why you write and why you sing. The type of person that makes you feel warm like the sun. Many kudos to Barry Eastmond!"
~Nicole Rachea
“Inspirational, encouraging and refreshing. A wealth of information.”
~Monet
“I have no idea of how I got on the mailing list, but I am glad that God let it happen. I thought today’s series was so valuable. I have learned so much, and have been inspired by the presenters, as well as the audience. I got here on a wing and a prayer, but it was worth it.”
~Kenny Pitt
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be here and meet, network and hear other songwriters, as well as industry professionals. The environment was intimate and nurturing.”
~Zahmu Sankofa
“The Songwriting Series is onto something and they are getting it right.
These workshops bring the information to you straight.”
~Unnamed Participant
“As a songwriter, I was again given the opportunity to be in a small surrounding with big name professionals who took time with each person and question. Thanks Gwendolyn for looking out for those with dreams. The information is intense and it makes you say, ‘Hey do I really want this?’ You learn the truth. J. Phoenix was very raw and a blessing.”
~Jerome Brooks
“Each speaker spoke to me where I’m at. Even as a neophyte to these aspects of the business -- you can take away something that will inspire you, even in other aspects of life.”
~Wylene Jackson
“The Songwriting Series features renowned industry professionals who share invaluable insight and experiences. Participants have an unique opportunity to learn and grow in a relaxed, open and encouraging setting.”
~Unnamed Participant
“Thank you Gwendolyn for not ‘Leaning unto your own understanding’ but to what the Lord has placed in your heart…This is a tremendous program.”
~Unnamed Participant
“It’s a blessing to be blessed by somebody who is blessed. The Songwriting Series will make its mark.”
~Harper Desmond
”I enjoyed myself. I got a lot of valuable information from it”
~Darleen Owens
“Very comprehensive.”
~Unnamed Participant
“Don’t plan for God…Let God plan for you.”
~Basil Gibbs
“Never give up on your dreams.”
~Sheila R. Johnson
“That ye would walk worthy of God.” 1 Thessalonians 2:12
~Ann Rivers
“The series is so rich! The VIP guests were so helpful and sincere in their comments – they moved us along as songwriters. Thanks.”
~Michele Earls
“Like a sponge, I absorbed knowledge from everyone in the room. I count it a privilege to be among so much talent, from industry professionals to rising artists. Thank you for sharing.”
~Yvonne Farley | 
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