Hello old friend… it's been a while since I've checked in. Like everybody else, I've been hunkering down, locked down… being tested like never before. One thing I know, I'm not alone.
It's so easy to feel like the only one when we're forced to go against our grain as we've had to over this last year… and going into the new one. I have these conversations with my kids, my wife, my friends… as cliche as it sounds, and actually is, it's the test. The ultimate test.
We can go along in this life when everything seems to be working out just right… but it's coming… and that's not being morose… it's acknowledging all the pieces of this wondrous thing called life. If you've read any of my previous blog posts I've shared a bunch on this subject. And I also believe that those who poke their heads above the proverbial foxhole have their exposure to all the finer points in life. The ultimate joys and the most painful of lows. But if we live long enough, the balance happens. The most challenging and testing experiences materialize. And I know coming out of what has been extremely challenging has shown me why both sides must be. The contrast shows the other side. No way to know what pure joy is unless compared to the opposite.
Funny how as a young man when things were happening you would have hoped for as an up and coming musician, things seemed like it was all rosy and glorious and quite honestly, that's what part of the gig is. To portray a feeling… a comfort in a world that is both so ecstatic and challenging, at the same time.
I always knew though… and again, this is not meant to sound fatalistic, morose, pessimistic, it's about embracing all that comes our way. As a wise mentor has said to me, as was told to him along the way, “You'd better love what you're getting because that's what you're getting”.
I had a great discussion on this with his brother. His brother challenged that and said that there's no way to love something as tragic as loss of loved ones, especially when it's early, out of order. No way to love the problems of being a landlord with all the headaches, (sounds like a first class problem to me, right?!?! But again, problems are problems0.
In pondering that idea, how can you love what you're getting when it hurts so much? Well, as I understood the phrase, it's loving the big picture, of having a life. Getting one in the first place. Within it are all the pieces, I mentioned above. The highest of highs, and the lowest of lows. I look at everything right now, coming to what I believe is looking at the light at the end of the tunnel of this crazy moment in history… the pandemic. The forced lockdown… the challenge of whether those around us are where we want to be. For me? Absolutely… I feel so fortunate and grateful to be around people I couldn't imagine being without, (although through my own fairly recent experience of loss I realize I will be without someday, or vice versa).
Does that make me sad? Hell no! It makes me celebrate every moment. Knowing that these moments are the greatest gift I've ever been given. To hear my 2 sons making music together in the next room. Laughing as they have all their lives. I know how lucky I am to have that, today. To laugh uncontrollably with my beautiful wife Tracy. Finding a way to look at this moment in time as crazy as it is and find a way to not let it take us emotionally down the tubes.
I choose to believe that there are blue skies ahead. I've always been that way. Even if I'm wrong, that's my attitude. And as the world is about to open up again I realize more than ever what my calling, my responsibility is. Why I've been given the gifts I have. And that's to provide medicine. The medicine of music. The 2 times I've performed with the new band I'm in, “The Rise Above”, the response from people has been unbelievable. But I can understand it. Any chance to take in what I love so much, music, performance, brilliance… I want it so much. *I* certainly want to hear and see performances!
So as I spoke to one of my dearest friends Jay DeMarcus yesterday, we talked about what's in store. And our new band, “The Rise Above” is in the garage with the engines purring. We have an amazing team of management and agents and it looks like we're going to be coming out to see you guys. As soon as it's safe.
So in the meantime, I'm here in my studio writing new music, daily. I want to start sharing that with you so stay tuned for that. And when this world opens up it will be so wonderful to see your faces again.
I go back to the first 5 years of joining Chicago when it was all so brand new and what that felt like. So new… releasing records that went all the way to the top of the charts. Performing to so many screaming fans. I can only imagine what this next renaissance is going to be like. All the amazing talent that has been home honing their craft. As horrible as the lockdown has been, for creatives, it has put everybody back in the woodshed, as they call it. Practicing… dialing it in.
So I believe, we're right at the turning point. I know it's been tough friends… but we need to just hang in a little longer. In the meantime, here's a video of my new band “The Rise Above”. Jay DeMarcus – Rascal Flatts, Deen Castronovo – Journey, Chris Rodgriguez – Keith Urban/Amy Grant/Peter Cetera, Thomas Yankton – Rascal Flatts, and myself… check out this video and it tells you exactly what this band is about… and we're coming to visit you… get ready. And if you dig it, please leave a comment below. Let me know what this music has meant to you. Please share your stories of what Journey has meant to you. Rascal Flatts. Chicago. Here we come.
All my love to all of you,
Jason
Jason, you have been a part of my life since you joined Chicago. Have missed you, but am so looking forward to you and the new band. They are incredible. Your voice is so angelic. Thank you
Where have you been Jason….hope you and your family are well. God Bless..
Fabulous guys!
Wonderful blog brother! You always have the right energy and wisdom to share with the fans! Enjoyed this a lot.
Looking very forward to more Rise Above concerts in the future!!! That was my only concert in 2020… so THANK YOU!
Awesome stuff guys, can’t wait to see the new band and hear the rest. Best of luck to you all.
Well said. Rise Above was my only concert in 2020. Looking forward to more in 2021!
I watched both shows and I can only say: FANTASTIC !!
Excellent! Great to hear from you, Jason. Sending good vibes from Alabama. Hang in there. Looking forward to the music world opening back up. See you soon, I hope!
Wow!! Amazing!! Great to hear your voice. Blog is great too
I’d have to write a blog myself, if I took the time to explain what all the musicians and the music they’ve made (all of you) have impacted my life. I’ve no doubt, that music is a huge part of why I’m still here. It’s gotten me through everything. Good, bad and in between. Can’t wait to see what’s in store. Stay well.
I totally agree! When we first went into lockdown I tried to look for something positive in what was happening. I realized the time with my youngest son. I never had that much time just the two of us. At the time he was seventeen just getting ready to enter the adult world. The days were long at some times but I am so thankful for that we had it Now he is working and going to school and there’s not a lot of time.
There were moments when listening to your music really helped me out of a funk and other times I couldn’t listen because it made me miss seeing you live. So glad the blue skies are coming . Hoping to see you on the road soon!!
Hi Jason…..so wonderful to hear you in your new band!
So much talent here to listen to and your fabulous voice is such a gift
Looking forward to seeing you when it is SAFE~
Joanne
That was awesome. Jason and crew, outstanding.
Jason, we have been blessed since 1986 to hear your talents and listen to your many stories every year since! We always look forward to seeing you whenever we can and are certainly excited to see you with The Rise Above out on the road soon! Your words of wisdom are always something take in and we thank you for your friendship to us. Brian and Laura
Love it! Can’t wait for the album and tour! But…that’s not a new video! I’ve watched it at least a dozen times going back to late last year. Can’t wait to hear something new!! Love you guys!
OMG! his is AMAZING!!! I do hope you get to Kentucky! I can’t wait to hear more, and more, and MORE!
That was awesome!! Cant wait till you get back on the road again ..
oh guys this is awesome fantastic voices & music stay in the groove hang in there music cures all frustrations & makes you smile
This band is tight I miss seeing you with Chicago but really love what you’re doing “NOW” my friend.. I remember you asking me what was my favorite song off the new Chicago album, that had only been out a month. I said NOW is my favorite and you said Right!? Take care Scheffy, Raybear
Such great perspective and outlook. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to seeing you on the road 🙂
Craig Carreno
Wow! The rise above is absolutely awesome! I grew up with all three bands. Many memories are attached to the songs from them. Thank you all for putting this band together.
I have missed your words of wisdom Jason. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings with us. I agree, as hard as this Pandemic has been on my family and I, there “have” been MANY good things happening too. It’s easy to get caught up in the bad news day after day, flashing across the tv and the internet. I can certainly understand why so many people are suffering from depression. It’s a tough world out there! However, being on lock down forced me to slow down and when I did, I began to see everything around me more clearly. I noticed things that I missed before and my appreciation for even the littlest things grew. While I miss hugging my mom, going for coffee with friends, or enjoying concerts and dinners out, I feel blessed that my husband is here to hold me, my friends call and text, and we’ve been able to follow musicians virtually. Not only that, but as you said, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, so before long, the world will open up again and we will be able to enjoy all the things we are now missing. The best part is knowing our new found appreciation will make everything even better than before! As for your new band and the above video, all I can say is it’s SUPERB! I can’t wait to hear more. Please let us know if any of the songs can be purchased. Take care Jason
Thank for always keeping us fans in your thoughts. What a unique group of guys in this band. Each unique in their own right. Looking forward to see you live here in the Youngstown, Ohio.
Take care,
PS.. I have my signed CD…waiting on the next one.
Jason you never seize to amaze me. You have been a big role model in my life.You always ♥ put a smile on my face. Thank you for your love. You Are an Angel with big Heart .
Love Always
INCREDIBLE! Sending much love to you and your family xo
Bruh, despite life’s challenges, I’ve learned that embracing your passion with child – like enthusiasm gives you the strength to push through anything. In this past year, I’ve lost my father and my oldest and best friend, but they keep giving me signs that they’re with me. I survived Covid back in October and I’m dealing with some lingering effects. I call it the “Covid Cough”, but despite this minor annoyance, I’m still grinding.
After 7 years, I was blessed to be able to get back into a profession my Mom says I was born to be in. Back in radio and on the air everyday and again, embracing my passion with child – like enthusiasm. I’ve been given the honor of programming one of the oldest Black radio stations in the country and it’s a humbling experience.
Checked out “Here I Am” when you first released it, and when I saw that you were working with Bill & Jay again, I embraced it with, say it with me, child – like enthusiasm. The same enthusiasm IO had in the mid 80’s, as a young Music Director, I played the debut single from Chicago’s 18th album, featuring this fresh faced 20 something year old kid on lead vocals. LOL. I also had the pleasure of meeting that fresh – faced kid during a stop in Mobile, Alabama.
I say all that to say this. Despite the craziness of the last year, you and I are very blessed to be doing something that we’re passionate about. We have people around us who love and cheer for us. For you, my friend, I hope the blessings continue and WHEN this pandemic ends, I look forward to seeing you on tour somewhere.
You guys sound great. I listened to a lot of Christian music in the late 80s, early 90s. Chris Rodriguez is one of the most underrated guitarists out there.
You guys sound Amazing!! Can’t wait to see you live!!
This is awesome! Looking forward to the music. A huge thanks!
I’m looking forward to all the music coming our way. We need it so much these days. Thank you Jason.
Absolutely Brilliant!Very much looking forward to seeing you live!
from the first day I met you at that Gerard Mcmahon audition in 1982 to our time at Womphoppers in 1984 – then on to our time together on the road traveling planet Earth many times over riding the CHI-TRAIN – you’ve always been a huge inspiration – and yes, there’s a song about that we have both sang many times too….love your slammin’ new band and I’ll leave you with this – Jason and Jay – Just 2 Kids….massive big love to one and all and all the very best!!!….ps would you please give me that clavicle…..tippy tap tap to the very top of the world!!
Awesome! Keep it coming!!!
There can be love in the sadness, the frustration and the madness.
Like a rainbow in the darkness if I can’t see it is it real?
I need faith, in all, to accept what comes my way. A gratitude, inside, will help the way I feel.
Peace brother.
Brendo
So glad to see Deen drumming for you!!!!!!
What a great collaboration ! Love every thing about your new band Jason ! I got to see you in Concord NH with Mickey Dolenz, Chris’Cross , Tod Rundgren … not sure who else ! If was GREAT , So great to hear your band will be touring !!! Love your voice & music ! Must be great to know you’d kids inherited your talent .My hubby and II will be looking for you in our area soon !
Linda
Jason it is so hard to believe that it has almost been a year since we saw you on Valentine’s day in Florida. Listening to you after the show and the excitement you shared with all of us about this new journey. I am so thankful that I was able to be there and hear you that night. I wish you all the best of luck on this new adventure. You deserve it and so much more. I can’t wait to see you and The Rise Above out on the road. Until then stay safe and enjoy your family.
Chills!! You guys are amazing!! Definitely will look forward to seeing you all together as a life long Chicago, Journey and Rascal Flatts fan:)
Hi, Jason! I’m glad you decided to appear again!!
Chicago and Journey’s songs has meant beautiful things to me…specially Chicago’s music with your voice on it, Jason.I could say any things..but I specially would say, you have som of the most beautiful songs, romantic and uplifting, and I really would like to hear them!!
It’s wonderful that you are back, and will become more active soon. I just would like to hear more of your new music. “Hard To Sat I’m Sorry” is a beautiful song and a great hit, very representative of Chicago, but with all respect, I would really like you to performe more of your original songs, and not just the same three or the four songs all the time. You have so many great songs of your own with Chicago. And the songs you have recorded from 2000’s, and 2010s, Chicahmgo XXX, NOW, and more…That without mentioning all if your 90’s miscellaneous music,from diverse projects, and from Japan !! I want you to song much of the wonderful music you have done over all these years…little by little.
That music is so great, special…I would like you to know how really meaningful it is… to me, and I’m sure, to so many other people!! It is really various, Jason, as much as the old Chicago classics that you always sing.
I love and admire you enormously Jason!!You are such a cool, nice, great guy, and good hearted man. Take care!
You guys are tight, Rise above, what can I say, perfection, Can’t wait for more. Love to everyone.
Blown away!! Vocal juggernauts what a light filling experience keep on rockin.
Thank you for sharing your positive thoughts! I’m so glad I saw you perform 4x in 2019! Looking forward to your new music, seeing you on stage with your new band and taking in the musical medicine for sure! That moment is my light at the end of the tunnel. ❤️
duuuuuuuuuuuuuude! love your rambling’…so much good stuff goin’ on over there, I am so glad to glad to see you firing it up, again.
nice!
hit me up when you are between episodes of cool happenings.
Wow its nice seeing you with these talented young individuals, as young as Jason Scheff, am crazy about you,i mean,your music…. thank you for sharing your talents,, God bless
Jason when you joined Chicago in 1985 that was the best thing that happened to the Band. My wife loved you and all your songs. We tried to see you in 2019 with Todd Rungren but she had cancer and could not make it. She past away in December 2019 and when i hear your voice I always think of her smile. Thanks for all the memories. Keep the music coming.
Jason, this is BEYOND EXTRAORDINARY!!! I’m SO THRILLED for you & foresee huge success for you & your band!!! Luvyabunches!!!
Wow! That was incredible! I can’t wait to see more!
hello you cowrote+kit hain rare cd would like to buy hope production&orchestrations will be okay here latest here i am was terrible
Now I’m reborn! This is what lifts my soul. Thank you. just keep rocking!