I have been involved with this CD for almost a year. “I BELIEVE” is the title of this endeavor. The road from start to finish has witnessed many ups and downs. Yes, frustrations were all too common at times, but the work continued regardless. Today those feelings are gone!
“I BELIEVE” is a gospel collection of varied songs of faith. I began this process by listening and searching out gospel songs. This list was a long one indeed. I continued the thought process and, eventually, reduced the list to a total of fourteen songs. The selections ended with a diversified list of songs hopefully most may find peace and enjoyment. (The selections are shown below.)
Once I had finalized the list of songs the other work began. This work included deciding on what key my voice worked the best in. The arrangement process, also, began to take place after the key was determined. This all takes much time. At this point I devised a chart system to indicate order to each song. Introductions and instrumental breaks needed decided upon, too.
These recordings are multi-track recordings on a digital recorder. Each song has from eight to fourteen individual tracks on them. I played all instruments except the steel guitar , hence the time of work producing this CD. Also, I did some harmonies on a few songs. One song, for instance has two lead vocals and four harmonies between myself and Marci Williams. (See below)
My dear friend, Marci Williams quickly offered her talents to do some harmonies for the songs once she realized the plans for this CD. Of course, I was hoping she would be interested in singing. Marci is a very talented singer; guitarist and artist and I truly appreciate her efforts. She would record the songs, that I had partially completed, and practice them at home when time allowed. 
Another dear friend, Dick Vernon agreed to add some steel guitar work to give some songs a country-flair! Dick and I have played together many times over the last fifteen, or so, years. Thank you Dick!
On a sad note, Bill Lettrich agreed to play some fiddle tunes to add more diversity to some songs. Billy came to the house and we went over a few songs. It was decided I would record what was done and mail the recordings and charts to him to practice. Billy called and said he didn’t think he could do the songs justice, but I didn’t know what was to happen. Bill was 87 years old and mentioned, while he was at the house, about not feeling well. He said the fiddle playing was keeping him alive. About a week, or so, later I received word that Bill Lettrich had passed away.
Billy’s unexpected passing would make me reevaluate my arrangements. I played some keyboards and piano in a few places. Also, I would add additional guitar work to fill the places the fiddle was to have been included .
My wife, Laurie needs some praise here at this time. Many hours in the recording studio, arranging, rearranging and performing were required to do this CD. I appreciate her patience with me for the long hours busy with the work. She is a good woman.
Anyone interested in purchasing this CD the donation price is $10.00 with an added $5.00 for shipping and handling. The CD may, also, be picked up. My e-mail is: lasmail@windstream.net My Address is: 481 Butler Road, Kittanning, PA 16201
THE SONG LIST
1. Climb Higher
2. I BELIEVE (Title song)
3. He Knows My name
4. When He Was On The Cross
5. You’re Worthy Of My Praise
6. Thanks To Calvary
7. Wasted Years
8. Revelation Song
9. Mercy Walked In
10. Bless My Soul
11. Help Me
12. I Can’t Even Walk
13. Ancient Words
14. Come Morning
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
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