Barbara Harley
First Glance
© 2001 Rinse the Dish Records (656613450222)
CD IN STOCK. ORDER NOW. Will ship immediately.
Called 'Easy Country,' because it's easy to listen to. The topics won't bring you down, the lyrics are plain and easy to understand, the melodies are fun to sing along with, and the musical arrangements are rich.
tracks
- 1 Second To None
- 2 Don't Waste The Tears
- 3 First Glance
- 4 One Man
- 5 Time's Been Kind
- 6 She's Got Mail
- 7 I Adore You
- 8 I'm Gettin' Out (While The Gettin' Is Good)
- 9 One Kiss At A Time
- 10 The Bitter With The Sweet
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"I'd like to think my music is uplifting and reflects the real life experiences of everyday working people!" - Barbara Harley
"First Glance" Single Reaches #107 on World Wide Mainstream Most Played Artists (Major & Indie)! Barbara's debut single, "First Glance," made #107 out of over 2200 artists receiving airplay worldwide!
Harley's voice is what people first comment about when hearing her music. Her unique, lovely voice combines strength and fragility, a seemingly impossible combination, but an appropriate description, nonetheless.
Winner of the New Jersey Country Music Association's "Female Singer/Songwriter of the Year" for 1999, 2000 & 2001, Barbara combines her unique voice with a strong and melodic writing style, which she has sharpened in recent years with cowriters Al Lind and Kim Jakubicki. Barbara has just been nominated for the 3rd time!
Although some would call her an Americana Artist, or even a folk artist, Barbara shies away from the "dark side of the moon" lyrics and musical styles found so often in those genres. Her artistic mission is soundly tied to Country Music, a concern for what people are thinking and feeling, and a desire to touch her listeners, uplift them and help them through their day.
The topics that Barbara and her cowriters write about are issues and things from everyday life, the things that concern us, that uplift us. Barbara is adamant about touching her listeners in a positive and uplifting way.
When asked to describe her music, Barbara said, "I call my music 'Easy Country,' because it's easy to listen to. The topics won't bring you down, the lyrics are plain and easy to understand, the melodies are fun to sing along with, and the musical arrangements are rich. Add to that formula the stellar musicianship of Nashville's top players, and you have something that is very easy on the ears."
Barbara's audience is the mature listener who has been abandoned by commercial country radio. She is not chasing the "pop" age group that is driving so many country artists today. She seeks to cultivate her audience from men and women whose lives are more complicated than a music video.
Surprisingly, Barbara's musical message seems to bridge generations. "I'm an elementary music teacher by day," Barbara notes. "Even though I don't write for children, they seem to love my songs, right along with their parents. It's not unusual for parents to tell me that their children know all the lyrics to the CD and ask their parents to play it. I love kids, and I just get such a kick out of that! It's nice to know that parents can play "First Glance" and not worry if their children are listening!"
What motivates Barbara to write and sing? "Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to see someone singing along with my songs, seeing them smile - or even tear up here and there - but see them get in touch with their feelings through my songs. That's why I am a songwriter, that's why I am an artist." Barbara Harley
Influences: Cat Stevens, Clint Black, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Eagles, Faith Hill, Lee Ann Womack, Linda Ronstadt, The Beatles, The Byrds
MEDIA: Barbara's press kit can be found at www.barbaraharley.com.
JOIN Barbara's Monthly E-NewsLetter, Barbara Harley News by e-mailing us today!
BIOGRAPHY of Barbara can be found on her website link.
PHOTOS, NEWS, REVIEWS, & MORE, visit Barbara's website today!
REVIEWS: If you listened to Barbara's Easy Country sound, we'd love to hear your review.
BUY FIRST GLANCE today here on CDBABY!
-Rinse the Dish Records
reviews
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woweee
author: Students of Barbara Harleyshes got mail is our favorite song ! we know all the words! WOOOHOO
Top notch songs and recording.
author: BrianExcellent songs, beautiful voice and high quality production. What else is there to say?
Great Album
author: Doug MorrisBarbara and her co-writers, Al Lind & Kim Jakubicki,wrote all 10 songs on this album, and they are all good songs. The really nice part of this arrangement, is that Barbara has such a great voice for singing the songs! Numbers like "Second To None," "First Glance," and the very modern "She's Got Mail," which starts off with the sound of modem connecting to the Internet, should be good enough to make this album a winner by themselves. But then there are also the songs that I like best on here; the ballad type "Time's Been Kind," & "The Bitter With The Sweet," and the toe tapper "I'm Gettin' Out (While The Gettin' Is Good)." This is such a good album that I'm really looking forward to the next release from this raven haired beauty who sings like an angel.
"First Glance” contains nice melodies that are simple and go down smooth and eas
author: The Muses MuseI have an unpleasant confession to make. I’ve become just cynical enough about the music industry to have half a second of worry when I first saw Barbara Harley’s CD. “Uh oh… a very pretty woman in multiple attractive poses”… But never fear! She’s got the goods and “First Glance” is a very good CD. I can think of another pretty brunette contemporary country artist that writes lots of uplifting songs… Shania. But Barbara keeps her production much closer to planet earth than Ms. Twain’s latest releases. “First Glance” has very professional sounding production quality without leaning anywhere near overproduced gloss. Barbara and her writing partners Al Lind and Kim Jakubicki write storysongs that are surely right at home anywhere near Harley’s address in Nashville. The subjects are largely about aspects of love and its loss – her own and others. It's a little of the bitter but mostly the sweet. She sings them in a thoroughly pleasing sweet voice with nice range and flawless performances throughout the CD. “First Glance” contains nice melodies that are simple and go down smooth and easy as Kentucky bourbon. She’s assembled some first rate session players to contribute on every song. They add very nice touches of lap steel, fiddle and mandolin without ever getting in the way. My favorite though is a bit different than the rest. On “I’m Getting Out” there are a few more minor chords and a little more sass and edge in the singing and playing. I admit that my first glance almost had me forming the wrong first impression, but I think any fan of the Dixie Chicks and other contemporary country artists would enjoy Barbara Harley’s “First Glance.
a great sound for tired ole ears.
author: chuck "dusty dawg"wilsonheard your music on jrri.....nice and easy...great songs/backing....most enjoyable. " dusty dawg "
This CD is a trophy of achievement and determination ...
author: George Peden of CountryReviewNew Jersey’s Barbara Harley has released her debut disc, First Glance, on the new Rinse The Dish Records label. For the singer who started her career as a grade school Paul McCartney clone, singing on a box top while playing a left-handed air guitar, she is primed to score. Her ten-tracks are radio-friendly, varied and spirited. The proof of abilities first rewarded by judges at the New Jersey Country Music Association’s Female Singer/Songwriter of the Year award – an award Harley won for three consecutive years (1999-2001). Along with her album co-writers, Al Lind and Kim Jakubicki, Harley recently enjoyed success as her debut single, "First Glance", grabbed notable Independent chart placement. "Writing my own songs has been a real boost to me," Barbara has said. "Not just the obvious reason of creating songs, but as an artist, too. Nothing beats playing and singing your own songs and having the audience love what you do!" And there is a lot to love on this album. Harley’s voice, described as easy listening, is a tuneful, rich, melodic confidence suffering no microphone shyness or fear of peeling back layers to reveal a depth of feeling. A tight band of seasoned players adds musical muscle to an array of well-crafted songs, rounding out an impressive effort. "I call my music 'Easy Country'," Harley tells, "because it’s easy to listen to. The topics won’t bring you down. The lyrics are plain and easy to understand. The melodies are fun to sing along with, and the musical arrangements are rich. Add to that formula the stellar musicianship of Nashville’s top players, and you have something that is very easy on the ears." Bounding with a variety of rocky tracks, like the infectious "First Glance" and "Second To None" to mellow moments of reflection as heard on the semi-religious "One Man" to the lover’s pain of "Don’t Waste The Tears", this CD is a trophy of achievement and determination. "I’d been saving gig money for several years," Harley tells in her biography, "just to be able to go the extra mile with this CD. I wanted it to be something really special with songs that feel good, and say who I am as an artist and songwriter." For this guitar-playing College of New Jersey music graduate, a highlighted performance comes on "I Adore You". With an honesty not wasted on the induced heart-flutters, Harley’s vocals carry the intended devotion to its intended destination. The song telegraphs its message of appreciation, much like the reality check offered on "The Bitter And The Sweet". The song is a journey to the acceptance of life’s hardships. Backed up by the best of Nashville’s session players, including Eddie Bayers and Danny Parks, Harley touches on grey moods, feelings and situations of shared understanding. She reflects on some bitter moments – a lost cat and the accompanying tears only an eight-year-old can cry, to a summer lover who left a ring but not his heart as he headed back to college. Grandma’s chorused advice, based on homespun logic, dries the tears. "The good will outweigh the any bad times you meet/ if you just learn to take the bitter with the sweet." A modern day agony aunt flaunts her Cyber prowess in "She’s Got Mail". The track will connect immediately with Internet chat room junkies. A heroine who receives e-mail from a losing-at-love husband carries the mid-paced shuffle along. "Lonely Heart" needs advice on how to win his wife back. Long story short – man follows the advice of worldly Cyber confidante, showers his wife with love, and everyone leaves the screen with a warm glow. Barbara Harley has made a fine album. The songs here are first rate; there’s no fillers or long instrumental breaks to fit and pad. A courtesy nod also to the inspired songwriting that, with the provided lyrics, offers the chance to sing (read) over storylines that are modern and timely. Finally, there is Harley’s voice – emotive, vibrant, and free of the tricks and nuances that trip lesser talents. Harley has chosen a fitting title for her album. One listen, and it will be obvious. This lady has the capabilities of a singer with more than a one-album shelf life. A first glance will prove it. A listen will confirm it.
At First Glance..... Second To None
author: Ron HoystedBarbara Harley has come to our intention when I received a copy of her debut album 'First Glance'. We receive many albums every week, somtimes to many to go through. One thing that is emerging is that the Independent Artist is a force that can not be ignored. Play the "BIG' artists, but don not (I repeat) do not ignore these Independent Artists they are the future in Country Music, because they are bringing Country Music to what is was. without the glitz and million dollar productions. COUNTRY MUSIC AT IT'S ROOTS
She is good!
author: Arno van KampenBarbara Harley is in my program " Country Collection" the month artist. I play one month long two tracks from her new album! And i can say: she is a very good singer! My compliments Barbara! greetings from the Netherlands!!! Arno van Kampen
Harley "June Spotlight Artist" on Radio Show!
author: Harry Boerman, DJ, Country SpotlightI received Barbara Harley’s CD today. I couldn’t believe my ears, this is SUPER!!!!! Where has she been all the time??? I receive a dozen promotional CDs and albums a week from all over the world. There are good and bad singers on these CDs. Believe me, with this singer you have a ‘diamond’ in your hands. Because of that, she will be the “Newcomer of the Month” for June on my show, “Country Spotlights.”
BEAUTIFUL MUSIC BY BARBARA
author: Betty & Dick S. from NJDEAR BARBARA, We love your performances in person and on CD. Keep up the great and creative work. BETTY AND DICK S., NJ
Uplifting songs that describe people's experiences
author: Darla D from NJDear Kim, (Barbara’s Cowriter) I was thrilled to hear that your real work was continuing as a budding songwriter. I want to tell you that I just love the new Barbara Harley CD! I have a small car, and so I only ever have about 6 CD's with me at a time. This one has been traveling with me quite a bit! Uplifting songs that describe people's experiences and have the power to really mean something are priceless. "Don't Waste the Tears" is a place that we've all been! Boy, am I ever glad that's over. "One Kiss at a Time" is something I strive to remember day by day. "The Bitter with the Sweet" is like a favorite book that you can learn different lessons from at different stages of life. I really like everything about the CD. The music is fluid, snappy, and good for driving. The message is worth listening to over and over. And the sense of humor in some of the songs reminds me not to take it all so seriously. I hope that you and Barbara continue to promote your work. Good luck and best wishes to you. Darla D., NJ
Your New #1 Fan!
author: John R from NJBarbara, Hello!! It's you new # 1 fan, John R. I just wanted to tell you how much Lisa and I and Dave Q enjoyed seeing you "two Saturdays" in a row ! (at the Publick House). I have been playing your CD very often, I really am enjoying your voice and your beautiful songs. I think the whole recording is a huge hit. I can't wait to see you in "concert" again. Keep on plucking away till you heart is content. God has certainly blessed you with a wonderful voice and many other gifts. Good luck & God Bless You. Sincerely, John R from NJ
Awesome Production!!!
author: D. HansonAnd in case I haven't mentioned it yet, I thoroughly enjoy the CD! There are many excellent songs on it, with some awesome production!!!See ya soon! D. Hanson
I Really Love It
author: John L.Barbara; I just got your CD and I really love it. I was wondering, I collect signed photos of country singers. I would appreciate it if you could send me one. Thank you and best of luck in your career. - John L.
Makes You Fall In Love With Country Music All Over Again
author: Nyc Country Music SceneBarbara Harley has gone big time with her new CD. Every song has BIG hit potential, is easy to listen to, and makes you fall in love with country music all over again. Her talents are vast and ably displayed on this CD.
THE GIRL’S GOT IT GOIN ON!
author: Jamey Garner, Nyc Country Music SceneI can't believe that I haven't heard about Barbara Harley until now. The girl's got it goin on! Barbara's latest effort, First Glance, recorded at Bayou Recording Inc. in Nashville, is radio friendly all the way. From the songwriting talents of Harley and her co-writers, Kim Jakubicki and Al Lind, come ten slick "Nashvillian" tunes that any number of Music City's female vocalists might cut. Barbara also had the forethought to piece together a fleet of talented musicians and engineers. It certainly paid off! I found it particularly interesting that all of her pre-production was done at the Gator Hole, which was where I cut my first Nashville demos! Small world. Harley is quoted as saying, ‘I'd like to think that my music is uplifting and reflects the real life experiences of everyday working people.’ Well Barbara, you are on the right track. That is exactly what country fans want to hear from their music. It is what draws us in and entices us to stick around for the ride. We wish you great success with this release.
"First Glance" A Winner!
author: Cindy Beth Gordon, Associate Writer, Musicdish.comKeyboardist & Songwriter Barbara Harley's "First Glance" is a record that is quickly receiving much recognition and critical acclaim in the music industry. Barbara's rich, warm vocals and fun personality together with a great collection of songs written by first rate writers Barbara Harley, Al Lind and Kim Jackubicki are sure to win the hearts of country music fans of all ages. If you are a country music fan, I'd highly recommend checking out Barbara Harley's "First Glance." You won't be disappointed!
It Should Open The Heavy Doors Of The Nashville Songwriting Scene
author: Bab MakinLike Eddie Rabbit, Bailie & the Boys and Mary Chapin Carpenter before her, Barbara Harley proves with her solo debut CD "First Glance," that you don't have to be a country girl to make good country music. The North Plainfield native has a nice sound that easily can be compared to popular new country singer-songwriters, such as Trisha Yearwood and Shania Twain. Her well-crafted debut deservedly has gained interest from the country music industry because of its commercial potential. If the effort doesn't land a recording deal, it should open the heavy doors of the Nashville songwriting scene. Bob Makin Entertainment Editor Courier News Bridgewater, NJ
This Will Be On My Program Tonight!
author: Bob Adkins, 100.3 Fm, Baybreeze CountryI received Barbara's CD, FIRST GLANCE, and I didn't need to have a First Glance at it to know this will be on my program Tonight. A great strong confident voice, I LOVE IT. Thank you again for the CD. Yours in Country, Bob Adkins, Program Host BayBreeze Country, 100.3 Bay FM Redland Bay, Queensland, Australia
I still can't decide which song I like best!
author: Russ From NjDear Barb, I wasn't sure what to expect as I opened your CD "First Glance". I sat at my computer placed the CD in and then opened the book to read the words as you sung. Guess what! I didn't need the book, you sang so clear and every word could be understood. Almost 4 hours later after letting the CD constantly play I could only find one problem with the entire cD.....I still can't decide which song I like best! I love them all. Keep up the great job! God Bless, Love Russ
FIRST GLANCE A WINNER!
author: Cindy Beth GordonBarbara Harley's "First Glance" is a record that is quickly receiving much recognition and critical acclaim in the music industry. Barbara's rich, warm vocals and fun personality together with a great collection of songs written by first rate writers Barbara Harley, Al Lind and Kim Jakubicki are sure to win the hearts of country music fans of all ages. If you are a country music fan, I'd highly recommend checking out Barbara Harley's "First Glance." You won't be disappointed! By Cindy Beth Gordon Music Journalist (Associate writer - www.Musicdish.com), Keyboardist & Songwriter
I LOVE IT.
author: Bob Adkins, 100.3 Fm, Baybreeze CountryFIRST GLANCE can now be heard on BayBreeze Country, 100.3 Bay FM in Queensland, Australia! Bob Adkins, program host has added several cuts from FIRST GLANCE to his playlist of Australian and international country artists. Bob has this to say about FIRST GLANCE: “I received Barbara's CD, FIRST GLANCE, and I didn't need to have a First Glance at it to know this will be on my program Tonight. A great, strong confident voice, I LOVE IT. Thank you again for the CD.” Yours in Country, Bob Adkins, Program Host BayBreeze Country, 100.3 Bay FM, Redland Bay. Queensland, Australia Redland Bay, Queensland, Australia
THE GIRL'S GOT IT GOIN ON!
author: Jamey Garner, Nyc Country Music SceneI can't believe that I haven't heard about Barbara Harley until now. The girl's got it goin on! Barbara's latest effort, First Glance, recorded at Bayou Recording Inc. in Nashville, is radio friendly all the way. From the songwriting talents of Harley and her co-writers, Kim Jakubicki and Al Lind, come ten slick "Nashvillian" tunes that any number of Music City's female vocalists might cut. Barbara also had the forethought to piece together a fleet of talented musicians and engineers. It certainly paid off! Harley is quoted as saying, ‘I'd like to think that my music is uplifting and reflects the real life experiences of everyday working people.’ Well Barbara, you are on the right track. That is exactly what country fans want to hear from their music. It is what draws us in and entices us to stick around for the ride. We wish you great success with this release.
MAKES YOU FALL IN LOVE WITH COUNTRY MUSIC ALL OVER AGAIN!
author: Nyc Country Music SceneWhat makes you fall in love with country music all over again? According to recent CD reviews in the New York City Country Music Association's CD Store, it’s Barbara Harley’s FIRST GLANCE. Here’s what they had to say: “Barbara Harley has gone big time with her new CD. Every song has BIG hit potential, is easy to listen to, and makes you fall in love with country music all over again. Her talents are vast and ably displayed on this CD.”
I THINK HER MUSIC IS GREAT!
author: Jeff Austin, Dj, Cat Country 96 FmFIRST GLANCE has found an early enthusiast with DJ Jeff Austin from “Cat Country” in Allentown, PA. Austin, who is the top DJ in his time slot for all stations in the listening area, has this to say about FIRST GLANCE: "I'm promoting Barbara because I think that her music is great. Her music stands up with what I play on 96.1-FM, “Cat Country” out of Allentown, PA. What’s also great about FIRST GLANCE is the list of award winning musicians that played on it. They are the same musicians playing on the hit songs I play every week on “Cat Country.” Finding local talent with this caliber of song writing and singing is exciting for me. I’m a DJ, so music is what I’m all about.” Jeff Austin
I still can't decide which song I like best!
author: RussDear Barb, I wasn't sure what to expect as I opened your CD "First Glance". I sat at my computer placed the cd in and then opened the book to read the words as you sung. Guess what! I didn't need the book, you sang so clear and everyword could be understood. almost 4 hours later after letting the cd constantly play I could only find one problem with the entire cd.....I still can't decide which song I like best! I love them all. Keep up the great job! God Bless, Love Russ
REAL GOOD MUSIC!
author: MarrilynHi, Barbara! I want to take this opportunity to let you know just how much I'm enjoying your CD. Each and every song is great and I know them all by heart already. It's a good thing I live alone, ‘cause I sing along with them! Anyway I want wish you all the luck in the world in making your dream come to fruition. I listen to country music in my car, and on my beloved CMTV. Your music is certainly right up there with them! Once again, best of luck and success......... Marilyn
Swaying Heavy Metal Fan Your Way!
author: Kim C.Hi Barbara! I just wanted to let you know that little by little I'm swaying people your way. I've played your disc for many people, including a heavy metal fan that said if you don't make it - there's something really wrong with the music world. I thought you'd appreciate that. I totally agree ;) Love, Kim C. from Indianan
It's SUPER!
author: Judy C, N.c.Barbara, I just played the CD on my computer here at work - it's SUPER! I wish I'd bought MORE! The songs are really terrific!!! Judy C., NC
You Are Fantastic!
author: Tom From NjHey Barbara, I listened to your music and you are fantastic. I really enjoyed it. I wish I knew more people that were into your specific genre, but being from New Jersey and dealing with the demographics, I deal with, I am at a loss. But, I will be keeping my ears open for you. As far as your songwriting skills go, well, I could always use some help in that department. Being a rookie at this whole thing, maybe you could show me a thing or two! Hope to talk to you soon. - -Tom, NJ
GREAT JOB!!!!
author: Neil BoumpaniI finally heard the cuts from your album. GREAT JOB!!!! There seems to be a rich quality to your singing that is really beautiful. Your writing is equally as impressive. I just wanted to drop this note and let you know how great you sounded - keep up the good work! I look forward to hearing more of your music. ‘ Neil Boumpani, NJ
Dennis and I really enjoyed your music!
author: Barb And Dennis W.Hi All! Dennis and I really enjoyed your music...it was an enlightening experience to see and hear someone's 'dreams' come true!! Meeting you all was truly an inspiration... Loved the song about the 'tree' ... was disappointed to see it not on the CD... but then, ALL your songs should be on CD!! We will pass on your Web sites to family/friends... Happy Holidays, and keep singing!! Barb and Dennis W.
"Platinum" !!!
author: Zoltan Z.Hi Barbara, Your CD is excellent, especially played back on a good system, I only with the song "Trees" would have been on it. Oh well, I guess on the NEXT album !! : ) I would like to receive your Newsletter and continue to keep in touch with you and Kim, following your career as you make it to "Platinum" !!! Sincerely, Zoltán Z.