TOMMY CICERO
These are a couple songs I wrote back in Spring of 2020. I did not realize it at the time, but I was laying the groundwork for what is transpiring in my life right now. The instrumentals were were produced by Tom Morello for his album, The Atlas Underground. I was not sharing the songs publicly since I don't have permission to use the beats. I decided to post them since I believe my heart is in the right place, the message can help others, and it helps promote Tom's music. I'm reminded of that famous quote, "Tis more expedient to ask for forgiveness than permission." So, here you go!
Shout out to Kylie!
Inspired by Trevor Moawad
Original Song on YouTube
Original Song on YouTube
Trevor Moawad was a mental strength coach who was highly respected in the sports world. His highest profile client was Russell Wilson, who became his good friend. Unfortunately, we lost Trevor to cancer in 2021. He left behind some gold, though. Trevor's book, It Takes What it Takes, inspired me to write the same song. I felt like it needed it's own anthem. 🤘🏼 This book can help you shift your thinking from negative to neutral. You don't have to pretend it's all good all the time. It's more important to not go negative. It helps you push through any hardship or setback.
"It takes what it takes, whatever it takes! Getting back up. Shaking off the mistakes. A 'Can Do" attitude eliminates mental waste, while making greatness. It takes what it takes, whatever it takes!"
It's all in our head. It's the attitude we bring to each day. We get to choose. Smart choices. Stack wins.
Dance within the chaos! Bonus points for doing it with a smile 😁
I also shared the original songs from the same album, "The Atlas Underground." Through synchronous fate, the lyrics from both songs compliment the ones I wrote, surprisingly well! I encourage you to listen to those songs too, for a complete listening experience. Tom, Whethan, and K.Flay, are all from the Chicago area, like me. And Whethan's dad taught math to my niece Kylie at the same high school I went to, Glenbard North, in Carol Stream, IL. She introduced me to Whethan's music, which is how these two songs originated. Not that it means much to me now, but back then, these synchronicities helped keep me moving forward. Making progress. At the time, I thought it was all coming together, and I was right! It just needed it to marinate for a while longer. Divine timing. 💫
While I am grateful to everyone who touched this project in some way, I'm mostly grateful to Tom Morello for creating these songs, and the work he does to help create a more just world for every human. Authentic and humble. Modern Stoic and eclectic artist. The Force is strong with that guy! 🙏🏼❤️☀️
Original album track list on YouTube