Rock WILK: YOUR THOUGHTS?
Kevin Yu
July 15, 2010
Heard you perform at Nuclear Poetry yesterday. I believe the piece was Ellie. It was intense and raw. Thank you for touching upon such a subject in a tactful manner. Others whom I have heard perform a piece on that topic, did it in such a way that inadvertently infer that those victims do not have a voice, hence someone else had to speak for them. You came across as empathetic and somewhat outraged for her. I must admit I was tearing and shaken up with that performance and for that I thank you! Amazing!
Lalita LaMonte
June 5, 2010
I like picture #23. I see a battled and beaten man who is very quiet but ready to lash out if only at the right time. Those are signs of someone who posses a wise and understanding soul. Wisdom is a gift that you should hold close to your heart. No one can take that from you.
Your name encomasses who you are. Not any old rock...the rock that is so strong that not even a mighty storm could break. The only way that mighty rock could be broken is with your own will. You have "broken yourself open" with no regrets. How has it made you feel? The longest journey is the journey inward.
Peace David
Lalita
Mik
February 21, 2010
Unabashed and critical piece of work!
...your soul...laying bare, for the whole world. A conspicuous performance.
Claire
February 7, 2010
JAYsus, Man—expecting something important beforehand but not knowing what or why, not knowing you then but knowing you are a whole of pieces and a piece of all of our whole—a collective voice of internal voices. Lyrical like Kerouac, broken and open like Billie Holiday, a wanderer simultaneously propelled and pulled forward, taking us all with you.
I wanted to wrap you in a hug after the show. Wanted you to know that your search and your anger matter to all of us. Wanted you to know that there's always a table where there's a place for you.
JessIca
February 5, 2010
Rock! What can I possibly say to describe your 2/5/10 show? I felt like a newcomer & an old friend at the same time. I have never seen you that collected & broken open while splintering your audience as your journey took them home. Thank you for showing me how to take leaps forward while looking back, for showing that... it is possible to be grounded in your past without being shackled. Truly your performance & the evolution of BROKE WIDE OPEN are in a symbiotic relationship now more than ever. I am in willingly broken pieces ready to search for my truth. Peace.
Cartel Zuri
January 24, 2010
All words spill from bleeding pages when dysfunction ingages are minds and hearts, never torn apart but sewn together forever.........Spill the ink my friend :)
Chris H
December 19, 2009
I've been 2 many shows but never saw someone pour their life out like that..& ur journey of self discovery... Amazing
Greg Demaras
December 16, 2009
That was brilliant, thank you!
Marcus John
December 16, 2009
Your talents are endless. God has great plans foryou brother.
Mia Roman
December 16, 2009
soooo.... where do i start? from the moment i walked in I felt an energy that was tranquil and magnetic which put me at ease. I took my seat in the last row and was in awe of your performance and dialogue. I had a mix of emotions as you spoke... tears flowed and then they were followed by a chuckle and laughter. Your story of survival shows diligence and strength. You have a powerful tool and that is your voice... Thank you for sharing it with us.
Madalasl Mobili
December 16, 2009
I spent most of Wednesday lying on my couch, I was that affected by Broke Wide Open. I would love to talk with you sometime about my experience of being with you in this way. Congratulations and thank you.
Gold
December 16, 2009
I, laying n the bed @ the Hospital 4 Joint Diseases, took notice when u walked n2 the room & filled it with good energy. "Who is that man visiting the patient next 2 me?"...I wondered....Rock Wilk, Rock Wilk, Rock Wilk. I understand now...the other night I experienced a gift- Broke Wide Open. Your truth is inspiring, moving, entertaining & LARGE. Thank U 4 sharing your vulnerability. Thank U 4 being strong, facing your fears,4 growing, 4 evolving, 4 seeking. Thank U 4 "I m a person & so r u.":-) Embedded within your body of work r analogies that r so on point & succinct, I wanted 2 Scream! The characters u chose & your descriptive words took me 2 places with my eyes Wide Open. Continue 2 B Vocal; Continue 2 B U; Continue 2 Rise..Thank U 4 Being Rock Wilk
Billy swift
August 20, 2009
The show was amazing! Society fails to mention everything that Rock WIilk feels compelled to expose. I can't think of a single person that I know who would see his show and not walk out with a much broader and indepth understanding of prejudice in America. I'm glad i got to see the show for $10, rather than the $200 that everyone will pay in a year or two
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
August 19, 2009
So Rock, my first comment was 2/23/09!! What a difference 6 months make! By far your show on 8/15 affected me the most but then you have gone deeper and so must the audience.
I was inspired to write and took notes before they left my brain as my soul was being fed your truth. I still am enraptured by the reactions the people have to your words. No one leaves unaffected!
As I mentioned at the Q&A, I believed the ending could be fleshed out more, thought that was a bit rushed. Feel the impact of your last relationship could be brought in the show given how much positive you have gained through the negative to get you to be BROKE WIDE OPEN! Also, the only drawback for me, the thing that took me out of the show, was the sound effect for flashing forward or flashing back. I think it would work well once or twice. And some of the flashes were back to back to back, lol. I followed easily because I have followed your shows for some time. Don't know how people hearing it for the first time might react. I wouldn't want anyone to miss any part of your show! ;) I know you will take these criticisms as a stimulus for advancement. :)
That said, I look forward to BROKE WIDE OPEN's further growth and definition . I will continue to attend your shows as my own evolution has been further triggered by your work. Many thanks for your courageousness that is boundless. Peace! ;)
kristine
August 19, 2009
I thought your one man show was very soulful and well-put together.You are very smart and have a good understanding on how to speak from the heart. As you where speaking for the different people being portrayed,I felt like I was really there with you at the time when the situations occured. Your imagry and dialogue were right on point and I would go to see "Broke Wide Open" again.
myriam
August 19, 2009
Nice show last saturday in Asbury Park. The perfect final touch to end a sunny day at the ocean and to feel just alive. Broke. But wide open. Go on. Myriam. PS : My nephew ( with me at the show) approved this message
mj
August 18, 2009
hi rock -
I liked your performance & also your music on the CD. I can hear that you have opened up yourself in this process. You have "broke wide open".
Performance (sat 15th):
1st 1/2 the characters came alive & I got a sense of your anguish of your situation.The 22 facts did move kind of fast;I caught on about #10... The 2nd 1/2 of show moved slow; characters were not that clear nor how you came to be in Asbury(since it was clear you weren't leaving the city again..) I found myself drifting away from story & I wanted you to just open the box to get the answer you were seeking; & to hear your bio moms side of the story. last 1/2 seemed thrown together fast. too many FU's for my ears; it changed the who you are for me.(a nice Jewish boy with a beautiful voice & talent...speaking this of course with THE accent)
I did hear your anguish & sense of rejection come thru. I liked the moving between reading,music, & video.
Good luck with this project.
Looking forward to the final version.
I like the beat in your music.
I think the G train is the only subway I have never ridden on!!Have you ever ridden the "aboveway" subway on Staten Island?
Natalia Papailiou
August 18, 2009
I truly enjoyed your courageous performance Saturday night. You were able to make your story compelling to a diverse audience. I think we all saw a part of ourselves in your story which created a converstaion of relatedness that was pleasantly unexpected. All of this aside, I cried when you found resolution with your father, honoring him for adopting you and acknowledging him for coming to all of your games. I looked over and my twin sister was crying too. It's amazing how you were able to touch complete strangers...and I look forward to seeing what you do next.
Dennis Lucas
August 17, 2009
Rock your show was mind blowing. There are only two things that I didn't like. The first was that I got there late and I am so curious as to what I missed and the second is that I have no one to talk to about it. Its like a good movie you want to relive it through conversation but I was the only person from my circle that saw it. I can't belive how real it was, how you were indepth and honest. The connection that you made with the crowd that seemed to take no effort. The best thing is how different people can relate to your story. You had the crowd display different emotions and It was great to sit back and listen to all the great comments. I learned so much about you and can't wait to learn more. Keep doing your thing.
Greg Demaras
August 17, 2009
Your performance this past Saturday night was amazing. Thank you for always taking the next step!
carol
August 16, 2009
You are incredibly talented, Rock. Your performance was so powerful. I sit and watch in awe and yet I feel intimately connected as you expose your pain, insight and humor about your life. Your story, your words stay with me - "Your sight makes you Deaf!" Awesome - many more but I could only paraphrase - brilliant.
THANK YOU!
carol
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
August 14, 2009
Looking forward to your the revolution and evolution of BROKE WIDE OPEN! The growth you are showing is incredible. You even have a h8r now which all gr8s do, lmao. There will always be ppl who just don't get it. Self-absorbed cannot be confused with introspection unless those claiming it don't look inward themselves. That alone speaks volumes. Remember you hold a mirror to all, not just yourself & some can't stand the reflection and can only respond with deflection. Keep that Tsunami coming that I compared you to when I first started coming to your shows. Those open will be cleansed, those closed will be washed away. Peace always! :)
Rock WILK
August 14, 2009
Memento Mori-
I hear you and take your words into consideration as I do all the words that find themselves to this page. I appreciate the fact that you find me so interesting that you would take the time to leave your thoughts. My "struggle" will continue, I promise you.
Peace
Rock
memento mori
August 13, 2009
What a narcissist. So self-absorbed! Get your head out of your ass, and stop pretending to look like an ex-con or a gang-banger when you are just a middle class white boy. Start being true to yourself instead of copying others and then whatever talent you might have will emerge. Still struggling after all these years should be your first clue...
Michael Raysses, NPR commentator/columnist
May 27, 2009
In the song "Forget", Mr. Wilk has achieved creative nirvana by penning the perfectly motivated work. There is no word, sound or silence that doesn't blend seamlessly within this piece's immaculate framework. It reaches the apotheosis of artistic expression by conveying what it means to be a fucking human being, sounding a narrative that traffics in the need to banish memory while compelling the opposite result--being unforgettable once heard.
Few people would dare pose the questions raised in this song. Fewer still would have the courage and grace to answer them. Mr. Wilk has gifted everyone who hears this with something that we are left to conclude has no expiration date: hope.
And for that, we will forever owe him.
Yours in debt,
Michael Raysses
Tylik Tigga Railey
May 22, 2009
For those who missed it, Rock was phenomonal, such a deep writer, and a social composer of the dark side of life but fusing simplistic beauty with art, damn u caught my soul wit this one my friend
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
May 18, 2009
So I went to Ma'Plej on 5/4 & just recently on 5/16. The growth, power & passion from one show to the next is astounding. Evolution at its finest. If you think you're moved by reading his work or listening to his CD, come see his show live! Your spirit will eternally thank you for it. Peace Rock! :D
D. Jeanne
May 10, 2009
Rock, The Ma'Plej 5/4/09 show came off Incredibly well to the sold out crowd, Bravo ~ nicely done production, clear, high-powered and concise! Your listeners, well, they gasped at certain parts of the show, (probably inaudible to you in the hot seat), and WOW'ed under their breath's after nearly Each piece.
You are an Amazing and monster talent! Keep up the excellent writing, connecting with your attentive audience, and powerful, original performing! You mirror life in ways that are deeply felt, remarkably poignant, and timeless. Looking forward to hearing More from you! D. Jeanne
Kari A.
May 6, 2009
Question:
Many people in today's popular culture ask: Where is true art in our world? What happened to artists that did not take the easy way to commercial success but instead remained true to themselves and what they had to say?
Answer: ROCK WILK...
Brilliant,Powerful, Truthful & Fearless.
Rock Wilk is destined to break out and become a modern classic. His slow burning emotional power speaks from the soul.
Ma'Plej is not to be missed.
Powerful,searching for truth in the world
tommy
May 4, 2009
another day in the salt mines missing the show, yadda yadda yadda. rock, what i dug about "ft greene" was the native american chant overlays on your snapshot spits...and the double-dutch fingersnaps and handclap rhythms cool, the ancestral moans from under the weeds and words lending that 'better get this shit right' context. don't know (or wanna know) that spineless realtor wishing all things middle-class-and-below to poof-vanish. don't work that way baby when the big wheel of karma gets finished. hear that mikey bloomberg? checked out the rest beyond "ft greene" place of my birth....and rock, you are like that little energetic lifeblood flower pushing like crazy up out of the concrete, all happy and angry and giving it....and i think that's what folks like about you.
Thanks for that. Peace.
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
May 4, 2009
And so now the time has finally come! Ma'Plej tonight!!! :D
AD Burgdeis
April 29, 2009
what? words here speak truth musically, forcefully, gracefully. I am moved by this work. It is unforgettable once you hear it.
thank you, you are a movement unto yourself.
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
April 7, 2009
Finally got my tix to the show in May! Yeah! I'm lookin' to wear my new I'm A Person & So R U t-shirt, ;)
Nicole Homer
March 28, 2009
I just wanted to hi and show a little bit of love.
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
March 27, 2009
Questions. The rebirth of this new piece feeds the vicious recycling of questions leading to answers leading to more questions, but the reality is that despite the infinite curiosity leaving me perplexed, the certainty of this destiny is nothing short of factual. This one is a heart-piercing, soul-lifting bullseye!
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
March 25, 2009
So after seeing a little bit of your latest piece on FB, & getting to listen to you read it in Asbury last week, I've finally been able to listen to "Questions" on your site. So great you have the lyrics to your work here. This latest creation is watercolor flexible & oil-painted permanence in the delivery of its canvased imagery. Thanks.
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
March 21, 2009
Ok, I've noticed I start all my comments here with "Ok", LOL. It's official, I'm a die-hard Rock Wilk fan. I've attended his last few shows, 1 @ Borders, and then saw a couple last nite in Asbury. Mad talent that does not quit, even when he feels unwell! He touches your soul by baring his own either with musical accompaniment, a capella, or even adjusting his show to fit his audience. But my fav is full-blown uncensored Rock! Can't wait for his May show in NY. The stories behind & within the words takes you on a journey every time to a place where the TRUTH is unapologetic, as it should be. But I have to say I enjoy the audience reactions almost as much as the performace, seeing how people are affected by his words/songs. You may think it's great, you may be a hater, or be uncomfortable, but NO ONE is EVER indifferent. My iPod now plays a daily dose of Rock. Peace!
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
March 19, 2009
Ok ur cd should come with a warning! The Valentine's Day cd. No lie I should not have been driving when I heard 'You Are'. In fact I'm typing this in my car as soon as I could park. I swear that piece broke me in a good way. Funny thing is I wrote 'Homecoming' b4 listening 2 ur piece. Just like my fav authors, singers etc. my deepest emotions were ripped from me and I will b 4ever affected. Thank u. Let me stop b4 I drown my phone with my tears. C u 2morrow.
Undobnoff
February 28, 2009
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GreenOneTen80
February 24, 2009
You are musical genious. I LOVE "JOHNNY" amongst all the others, but that one touches the deepest parts of my soul. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world.
Jessica Keck aka "Ica"
February 23, 2009
Tsunami power
Slamming with truth and justice
Hail the true poet!
Ok, Rock, you are having Ink's novice inspired to attempt a haiku about you. Just finished listening to your CD & reading every last word on this site. You have truly made the words confrontational & inspirational synonymous. I was moved by your words & harmonies, your music the perfect glove to the hand of your lyrics. Muchas gracias, Merci Beaucoup, & a very heartfelt thank you for sharing yourself with the world. What?! There are others out there who actually speak their mind with a passionate punch in the face against injustices?! I am privleged to witness your evolving greatness. When I heard "What Did You Mean", I remembered you talking about it to us at the session. That spoke volumes to me as an American woman of Ecuadorian descent with no accent, & a family tree with leaves of every color. I get mistaken for being from India all the time (no offense intended), but I prefer to be asked about my heritage; let it be done w/o assumption. Reading your "Thank you"'s was like a revelation b/c you did it like you might not get to again, WOW! That's how it should be done. You told me exactly what your CD would be w/o any petty arrogance & all brilliant confidence in the true sense of the word. Looking forward to your show on 3/31! Peace.
Debbie Darke
February 21, 2009
I have followed Rock Wilk's music, and now his Spoken Word pieces, for many years. I initially learned about him when he performed for the students at the school I was teaching at. His honest and open approach to music has a way to infiltrate everyone on a personal level. He had the deepest respect for the students when he performed and through his immense talent and humor each and every one of the students, as well as the adults, hoped for another appearance soon thereafter! Kids are mesmerized and taught
through his unbelievable talent in a beautiful and respecting manner. Adults
are also moved by his spoken word pieces as well as his music. His work opens
wide any heart that has been through life altering changes. I have been
lucky enough to hear his latest poems for students and I am simply blown away by his talent as well as the topics that he has tackled. These topics relate so pertinently to issues of today's kids. Now, as a mother of three elementary school aged children, I look forward to yet another Wilk creation to share with them. Such topics as kindness, tolerance, patience and individuality help to support parents in their quest to raise confident, kind and tolerant human beings. Our world is a better place for having Rock Wilk as the poet, the musician and a human being who truly believes in every word he writes, sings and
performs. He is an artist that has stayed true to his admirable beliefs as he has navigated the artist's world and all the while has continued to touch and inspire those around him. We should garner these gifts as an artist that he exquisitely offers and hold them tight. Each and every one of us will learn a thing or two from Rock Wilk if we do.
Tony James
February 18, 2009
"The Gift" is truly that - magnificently so!
Your pain-infused art speaks as it should - to truth!
Keep telling it, my brother!
Ivy Ray
February 18, 2009
rockman
What a privledge and pleasure to have been along side you for these years of my life, beginning with Mikells, to witness you and of course, your voice and your choice of how to express what you taste and see, evolve.
For me, although everyones voice is valid and important, i, as the witness the receiver, often in spoken word, get given so much, that theres little, if no room for me, to think, feel, interpret on my own, its a style thing, i appreciate when im given a little space to live, to breath, to think. Having said that
Valentines Day. You are there. There is not a breath where you are not present with all of what you have. When you speak it is clear concise and like the edge of a knife, no ambiguity, no fucking doubt and even a little space here and there for me to participate with you, to join you, as a witness of it all.
Congratulations Rock Wilk. And as someone formally said to you please stop....it was to much.... i shout back PLEASE KEEP COMING, keep going keep speaking, keep singing, keep BOTHERING, in whatever way you choose to see fit! there is NEVER enough truth.
LOVE, PEACE AND COURAGE to you rock wilk Ivy Ray.
Cherokeepeace
February 17, 2009
by the way... I just realized that even though i wrote " i just read your poetry...." and saw that i made a mistake... I just listened to it actually... but listening made me feel like i was reading the words somehow...magical :)
Cherokeepeace
February 17, 2009
I just read your poetry for children and I just love it... inspiring... full of life and lesson's that havent been heard in this format. Not like this... And given with such heart and soul... Is there a book for children coming?
Leslie Garisto Pfaff
February 12, 2009
Rock: Thanks so much for performing at the Nutley Schoolwide Poetry Festival. The kids (and their parents) loved your wonderful, insightful, sometimes funny words and delivery. And I could tell you were thrilled at the sight of so many kids loving the written and spoken word. A million thanks.
David Santos
February 10, 2009
YOU GOT A REAL STYLE ROCK!!!!...a style is something that is hard to have....especially in this derivin', conivin', fakin' it, gonna be makin' it hurry up and be takin' it climate of talkin' bout nonsense....You got a REAL style....
Francesca in LA
February 7, 2009
Wow. Listened to "You Are". I wish that ever in my life someone would have felt that way about me. It made me cry, so I can only imagine what it did to you. Keep going. This has got to be cathartic... If nothing else, it‚s making for some pretty righteous poetry!
Holly Long
February 6, 2009
"You Are"- the eternal You. The Everything You. Rock, you connecting with the You and speaking your You to Me and to all of Us is Beauty. We need to find each other like this. Thank You. And thank you, Rock.
Beth Wernick
February 6, 2009
"You are".......well, its probably the most amazing and honest love poem a man ever wrote...
you are one brave heart my friend
Greg Demaras
December 30, 2008
Great show in NY Rock! I love to witness the Ma'Plej evolution, thanks again. Can't wait to see what's coming next.
Keep it coming!
Greg
Michael Raysses
December 20, 2008
mr. wilk's song on katrina does more in :42 seconds to address the tragedy known as 'katrina' than the pathetic non-response of the federal government in the first three days after the flood.
speaking power to truth and speaking truth powerfully, wilk is an artistic bail-out in a time of spiritual bankruptcy...
keep the riches flowing, mr. wilk.
all the best,
michael raysses
joe clancy
October 23, 2008
sorry to have missed.
had to choose between your concert and a memorial to a recently deceased friend.
knew there would never be another cahnce in this lifetime to honor this friend - and know in our hearts and sould there will be many more chances to honor your genius. looking forward to them and causing some as well.
Keep moving and feeeling, and shaking the rafters.
peace,
Joe and Karen
Audrey Martells
October 23, 2008
Courageous, creative, ground breaking. Thanks for inviting me to share in your journey. With each performance i see you making your vision come to life more and more. The Theater Lab is an unforgiving but truthful place to present your theater piece close up and in your face. The entire audience shared in your journey and could easily see the potential of your piece.
Possibly adding a couple of actors in the future to make a character come alive in your piece. They could assist in pushing the humor hidden inside your critiques of certain individuals in your life with actors. They might visit the stage with you and possibly bring your interpretation to life while you steadfastly deliver an unwavering message from center or side stage. Some times you acknowledge them some times you don't. Sometimes they interact with you sometimes they don't. This may reveal another layer to your brilliant piece and allow the other sides of your personality to come through and connect with your audience. I loved the slide show! It also added to your delivery of such powerful messages. Lighting added some mood but could also be used to create even more drama and effect. But last night your show was most powerful when you spoke with no music to drown out your words. Just you and the audience taking it in. The potential is great . So what's next WILK?
Bobby from Dallas
September 2, 2008
I am very excited as your concert in Asbury will be a stop for us on my first visit to NYC. We are meeting friends from England (Moira)and will be attending your October 4th concert. I can't wait. Dallas has experienced a gentrification as well and I certainly do identify with your concerns about losing the cultural prescence to a totally different vein. I can wait to attend and am currently looking for your cd so I can be up on your style. Hope Curtis King somehow makes it on the 4th.
Amos "Moses"
July 1, 2008
You Rock and always will big Brother. Leah and Rachel send big hugs and kisses to you. Leah is here looking at your pic right now and saying "Hey there's Uncle Rock!" love you
Amos
shreedevi
June 4, 2008
red the poets life story..its interesting.the nature of the poet is really attractive..keep on singing and keep on entertain thepeople.
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karmath
Put The Message Where It Matters! WideCircles aka Wide Circles represents relevant, distributed, highly targeted and efficient internet word of mouth marketing using entertaining or informative messages that are designed to be passed along in an exponential fashion using social network mediums such as blogs, forums, wikis and so on.
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nataliya
March 25, 2008
In regards to “Have You Ever Heard” [For Sean Bell];
I can’t reiterate enough how essential it is to embrace artist likes Wilk, who acknowledge the injustices weaved into our society.
“50 bullets just because they could” is such a powerful statement. The line confirms the unmerited and negligent abuse of power by those in positions of authority- those who call the shots. These people are walking around with guns - with unimpeded command. We better hope that as citizens at the mercy of this corrupt system that the man with the gun and the badge has correct social politic, or it is “hunting season”.
Wilk pounds the provoking question into his song, and into our heads, “have you ever heard even one time in your life a story like Sean Bells about three guys that were white?” To me, this helps unveil the stabbing harshness of the social forces that run our country. The powers-that-be, such as Uncle Sam and law enforcement use fraudulent morality tactics stemming from a bureaucracy in which one branch of the hegemony systematically extracts rights from another group of people in order to protect the assets of the gentry. These people just get away with it while innocent people die.
Wilk’s song about Sean Bell’s case is valuable as a tool of social awareness and a method to shed light on a tragedy that most people would otherwise feel disconnected from. I think that is what I love most about all the songs I have heard from Wilk thus far; his role as a stimulus in boosting social awareness and promoting resolution through acknowledgement and understanding of the demoralization that plagues our society.
Jeff Knapp
March 20, 2008
Rock me baby,
After all these years I'm still learning about you.
The music and the words are great. But most importantly, they are real. And anyone can see it. And everyone can hear it. Can't stop listening.
Jeff
Gjallar MC
January 8, 2008
Hi Wilk... nice page, nice music! I wish you many good ideas for the future and a I hope we will do a feature track soon.
Greetings from Germany.
Peace, Gjallar MC
CARTEL ZURI
November 21, 2007
I KNOW ALOT OF PEOPLE WHO HAVE SO CALLED "MASTERED" THE ART OF LYRICISM...BUT TO TRULY BECOME A MASTER YOU MUST FIRST BE A "SLAVE"
SLAVE TO THE EMOTIONS AND REALNESS OF WHAT IS BEING SAID..I LOVE THE FACT THAT YOU WERE NOT ASHAMED TO "BLEED" ALL OVER THESE TRACKS...ALL I CAN SAY IS :"DAMN, YO"
BESOS MI AMIGO :)
I AM IN AWE OF YOU MORE AND MORE AS EACH WORD UNFOLDS!
CARTEL ZURI
"THE LYRICAL TRINITY"
Lisa Wieneke
October 9, 2007
I’m not a professional music critic. Nor am I a singer, songwriter or musician. What I am is a champion of all that’s good, honorable and integrous in people. I know it when I see it and I grab onto it with both hands and don’t let go. And so it was I recognized Wilk.
Wilk is a person and an artist whose immensely soulful reserves of honesty are a wakeup call, a slap in the face, and a tender ode all at once.
In BROKE WIDE OPEN he unleashes a series of what I can only term ANTHEMS. Anthems to love and the loss of it; to discovery, betrayal, bigotry, hope, gratitude and a very real, very visceral rage at the small-minded, closed-hearted position people take out of ignorance or hatred.
If you aren’t challenged, opened, inspired, angered or just plain shaken to the core by these songs, you’re either asleep, in denial, or simply unwilling to be affected.
This is raw, naked honesty and vulnerability. This is a smoldering anthem to all the pain, confusion and anger of a wide-awake soul in a land of sleepwalkers. There is no denial here. No hiding. No half measures. This is a soul offered up unadorned in an acoustic landscape that pounds at you with word and rhythm until you either have to shut it off or surrender to the places it wants to take you inside yourself. Maybe, if you allow it, to some of the most honest places you’ve ever been willing to see in yourself.
Wilk exposes the most intimate aspects of his life, his heart and his psyche to us with equal parts pathos and rage. Openly. Shamelessly. Awe-inspiringly. And the beauty is that as he sings his Self, you see your own reflection. Do you like what you see? Be honest. And if you don’t, take note. This is a wakeup call. Be CONSCIOUS. Take responsibility. Be willing to CHANGE.
This album isn’t just some songs with a socially conscious message. This album is an EXPERIENCE waiting to be had… by you. So turn off the phone, the TV, the computer. Sit alone in a room. Put this album on. Let his voice carry you, assault you, shame you, and uplift you by turns. Let his words, these soul-anthems, sear you, open you, call forth the naked truths hiding inside that want to be experienced and expressed.
Most of all, read deeper between the lines for the core truth that all the songs express. Without love, without the true realization that we are all connected, all part of one great big picture, we are stuck in a fear mentality: A place with no light, no heart, and no hope. ONLY by coming from the heart can we aspire to find peace and true meaning in life.
So what if the journey is painful or scary or you can’t see where the road leads? It’s the only journey worth taking. Have courage. Have heart. Wake up. Wilk did. And he had the fortitude and the grace to share it with all of us. To entrust his soul to our scrutiny. To invite us to examine our own lives, our own souls and choose to Live Awake…
Julie Donnelly
October 7, 2007
Wonderful website Rock! I roamed around for a long time, and I really enjoyed the music clips. Beautiful story about your mother, I hope you'll one day do a positive uplifting song about her and call it "Beshert." You know, she's always just inches away from you, guiding you every moment.
Good luck with your tour, I bet you'll do just fantastic!
Wishing you well,
Julie
Rock
October 1, 2007
the best days of my childhood happened in Memorial Park. I would love to hear other people's memories of Memorial Park and "Downtown" SV.
Jay Shore
September 30, 2007
Spring Valley NY 10977. It was my life from 1965-1978. I lived it, loved it learned from it. I would not trade the memories for anything else. That world I knew in Spring Valley all seems so long ago. So much has happened since I walked the streets of "The Suburbs". It sometimes seems like it all was a dream. I long for the simpler times of those by gone days. My Spring Valley I miss it so much! Jay
Bx
September 10, 2007
Had a chance to listen to the whole album and I couldn't pick a favorite if a gun were pointed at my head. So, if I had to choose a first single, it would be "2 Days" only because I find it in my mind when I'm not paying attention. That's what you want a single to do, right?
Me too!
September 10, 2007
Re; track for single number 1 - Song for my Mother is my favourite track but it is probably too intense and personal for a single - Johnny is definitely the best track but it would need to be revised to get any air play in England - the Queen gets offended by swearing!!! Played the CD to friends who did not know your work & a straw poll had a clear winner - 'Stroke' Why? It's catchy, upbeat & easy to remember - they are still singing it several days later!!!
Cera Kiesel
August 25, 2007
Thanks for giving me the link. What an interesting life you have lived. My daughter has not seen her father once in her life. My husband wants to adopt her. It's hard knowing that you have flesh and blood out there, but not knowing why they choose to stay away. Hopefully, my daughter can find the strength within herself to know her path, just as you have.
Me
August 22, 2007
Yo. The only thing more intense than the music is the thank you's!! And they are equally as moving, too. All good things should come to someone as good as yourself; I wish I snap my fingers and have it be so. Keep on keeping on. Brumboo.
vida418@aol.com
August 13, 2007
Hey Rock~ the content of the Black and white song seems just as solid as your name, you should have kept it. a terribly shocking story...and not a damn thing was done about it because sadly, its become a typical circumstance...but only because nobodys done a thing about it. Much respect to you for spreading awareness. I definitely dig this site.
a new friend,
Vida
Jeff Rosenblatt-Rosey
August 12, 2007
Rock,
Great job especially Song for My Mother. If you have any live shows let me know.
An old Ramapo classemate.
Jeff Rosenblatt
trina love
August 4, 2007
simply blown away...you're broke wide open and its beautiful! can't wait to shoot this.
Logan Wilk
August 3, 2007
Hey Uncle Rock
I listened to "Song for My Mother" and I was amazed. I remember when Gramma used to break out in tune. She would be so proud of you. We all are. I can't wait to buy the album.
See you soon.
amy phillips
July 31, 2007
Your music is so personal, yet universal. Thanks for sharing it all with us. I only wish you great success with this. You deserve it.
Marcy Le Vine
July 31, 2007
Sweet! Nice job. Can't wait to hear it cover to cover. Best of luck to you always.
Lori Fiorella
July 29, 2007
so love the easiness and yet power of your music; the inspiration behind it brings tears to my eyes. A true accomplishment. Thank you
sitting atop the ferris wheel...her spirit in stillness
July 26, 2007
...you did it...I understand alot now...rest easy friend, your intentions caress her lovely spirit...holla rock
Larry Keiser
July 26, 2007
Rock (Alan, I have to call you what your mother called you): It's a beautiful tribute to a beautiful person. I admired you for your caring and your devotion.
Mom is very proud.
Larry
Carri (Bueno) Garbus
July 24, 2007
"Song for My Mother" is beautiful. She sounds like she was a wonderful woman. I also have lost my mother, my best friend, and my dad. It's amazing how we can still go through life without them. I never thought it would be possible. You have a fabulous voice and beautiful music. Keep the music coming.
Carri
Ian L
July 24, 2007
Very cool stuff. Funny where people find their inspiration...
Keep it coming!
From along time ago...Ian
amos
July 24, 2007
Really hard to hear this one. You got through to your sister. G-d, I miss Mom and Dad so much. Love you.
Amos
tommy
July 23, 2007
Heavy, definitely heavy. I KNOW you
wrote this one on the train, bro.
That was cool having Moms in the song. I thought of that movie about the guy whose Mom lives in Coney Island and is glued to the TV set. My hair stood on my neck thinking of my Mom hearing your Mom.
Deep....
Gail
July 22, 2007
I feel like my heart is breaking when I listen to some of your music. It is so full of emotion and so full of who you are. The "Song for My Mother" is very special and hearing your mom singing was almost too overwhelming for me. I did know your mother and I am so lucky to be able to say that. I know that I will listen to this over and over again. Love.
Jay Shore
July 22, 2007
I just listened to "Song for my Mother" and I am blown away! I had to collect myself and then call my own mother. That song tore through my rib cage and pulled on my heart! Rock your songs have incredible power yet a soothing gentleness runs throughout the productions. Major props for your talent. Not to bad for a former Ramapo brother!
DOBBS
July 22, 2007
Whew!! Whatta way to start a Sunday! Just listened to "Song for my mother" and read the back story--the tears just flowed. Your lyrics expressed all my own feelings about myself and the death of my own mom. And hearing your mom sing proudly in that heavy bronx accent brought me back to those high school days hangin' at the Wilks'! Thanks for all of it, ALAN!
Robin
Holly Long
July 12, 2007
Move that pain through you- you know it's what fuels your songs..so present. Real. Out of your darkness comes Knowing Thyself and living with your fear- finding the light. Redeem yourself, brother. I feel you-
Holly
tommy
July 9, 2007
Hey. Heavy thoughts on the website about how people you think you know
can surprise you with the ugliest stuff coming from their very mouths, hearts, and
minds. Happened to me this past July 4th weekend after someone had a few drinks
and spilled her guts about how she really felt about me and my race.....like I represented
every single guy ever born of my hue.
On the song, I wonder if the sentiments of "What Did You Mean" ever float through Matisyahu's
mind .....or if he's into this thing for other reasons. I don't know enough about him
other than knowing he blows peoples' minds when they see a Hasid sounding like
a Jamaican dude.
I do know that MOST people take the path of least resistance if it means taking
a stand that's unpopular even if most likely hurtful to "friends".......sad but true.
The ones that speak up I like to think make up my circle of friends, ya know?
I'll share a poem I wrote years ago about a Social Worker friend who got his
ass beat in the hood doing what he thought was right prior to the beating:
Social Worker Death Prayer
Those who go where murder looms
Helping people furnish rooms
Wear a curse born on the lips of
Theirs and thems race.
To ignore the pace of hate
Means breathing the fire of fate
Oh such an ungodly mistake
His and hers trustworthy state.
When a deed means no coming back
From a vicious project attack
All the worms' eyes cast high
Some people are good, but why?
Burros get laze in the sun
Knowledge knows that their porting ain't done
But social workers, the real ones,
(the ones who really bleed real ones)
Move along in a fix
Hoping hard to avoid evil tricks....
And it's R.I.P. for the ones who
Didn't see complete the power of hate.
Good to know artists like yourself are truly singing about something
other than bullcrap. Go Rock.
-tommy
Other side of the river
July 9, 2007
"when keepin it real is right"...speak your truth Rock!
Audrey Landers
July 9, 2007
Rock, You're doing great work! The music is awesome!
Shreedevi
July 8, 2007
Thanks for the heartfelt expressions! We're out here feeling your music.
julie
July 1, 2007
Yo, That was very honest...reading your words and listening to the song with just percussion I could actually feel this person running for their life...literally. I'm sorry for your friend, he must be quite something for you to write such a powerful piece...he will not be forgotten. Did you use mostly percussion in honor of him, you mentioned his drum playing...whether you did or not, it really heightened the song.
loved it.
Jay Shore
July 1, 2007
I just listened to "Bye Bye" and the song just stood me right up! It hit a nerve deep inside me that moved me in a way I just can't describe. Just keep bringing these street masterpieces. I love em!
Chi-chi
June 30, 2007
Loving the faux Prince groove of Upside Down.
Really funky stuff...
Keep 'em coming
Chi-chi x
coney island rock
June 27, 2007
got 2 trays of wheat grass in the fridge right now...beautiful song Rock
Michael Raysses
June 26, 2007
mr. wilk's accomplishments with his latest effort is no mean feat--he has stylistically invoked modern-day gods (stevie, prince), while creating songs that pulse with an urgent vitality.
who says pop music can have substance?
that would be rock wilk.
thanks for the much-needed breath of fresh air.
Rick Fishkin
June 25, 2007
Wilke,
Always love the music. Keep it Goin! Any live gigs in the near future, I didn't see anything on the website-Let us all know.
Ricky Fish
julie griffin
June 19, 2007
i'm so proud to know you...after 20 years, your music, your words still bring me to tears.
MsLove
June 19, 2007
Hey, I loved reading the story behind Treat You Like My Own. Amazing really, cause you've always been a Rock to me. (See I'm black, and I say nice things..lol)
drame
June 18, 2007
This is not joke this is a true life experience coming from the botom of someone's bleading heart.
therefor it has to be cheriched.
and willk, you are a ROCK KEEP ON ROCKING
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