Tuesday, July 19, 2011

What is Beyond the Farthest Star?

Natalie, Pastor Rob Gore, & Jonathan Gore on Set of BTFS
It has been over a year and a half since I first sat in the waiting room for auditions for the feature film “Beyond the Farthest Star”. I started out as the “check-in” girl. Well actually, I started out running the camera for the auditions, and then got moved up to checking in the actors. It was then that I caught the “bug” of this film and began to invest everything I could possibly give to be a part of this movie.

As we sat last Friday night at the test screening, I couldn’t believe it was finally here. The first time I would sit down and see the movie from beginning to end. I had read the script of course, worked for two months of pre-production, saw countless audition tapes, co-wrote a song featured in the movie, was on set everyday for the four week shoot, and even worked a couple months of post production. But this was the defining moment where it would all come together on the big screen.
We had the Virtual Reality Theatre in Irving, TX completely packed with local pastors, guests, contest winners, and even a few TV Stations such as Trinity Broadcasting Network and Daystar. I sat next to Cherami Leigh (who stars as Anne Wells in BTFS) and we re-lived those four amazing weeks of filming back in April of ’10. We laughed as we saw our friends on the screen and at the amazing transformation of Cherami herself on screen vs. real life.
You see, Cherami plays a character that is broken and beat down, a Pastor’s Daughter with many secrets, who even had a failed attempt of suicide. So as my friend, the curled-hair-and-cute-dress girl, sat next to me I almost forgot that she was the same girl who was being tormented on screen, dressed in black with cuts on her wrist. She does such an amazing job at portraying the character of Anne that I actually got lost in it. I could see the world the way Anne did, feel and question the way she did, hurt the way she did.
Another star attending the test screening was the leading male Todd Terry. He is such a phenomenal actor and it is a HUGE honor just to know him. I don’t think there is another person on this planet that could have done a better job than Todd did as Adam Wells. He grips you from the very beginning of the film, causing you to go on this journey of self discovery, worth, loss, and redemption all in less than two hours.
So what is beyond the farthest star? The tag-line for the movie reads “Closer Than You Think”. I don’t want to spoil the ending, or even give too many clues away, but know this; it is not discovered through religion, but through relationship.
I love that this movie is not “in your face” about the message of Christ. But rather, you watch a journey of discovery. This journey is so real, and so raw, that if you aren’t looking close enough, you may not even be able to find the answer. I think that is why Jesus spoke in parables. It reminds me of the verse in Jeremiah 29:13 that says "Seek Me and you will find Me, when you seek me with all your heart." Sometimes all it takes is looking.
One thing is for sure, there is at least one person in this movie that the audience will be able to relate to; whether it’s the leading female Maureen Wells (played by the AMAZING Renee O’Connor, XENA) who is completely trapped in her web of lies, Pastor Adam Wells (Todd Terry), who has the weight of the world on his shoulders, Anne Wells (Cherami Leigh), who would give anything to leave this life, or any one of the other colorful characters that bring this story to life.
I couldn’t have been more proud of the film I watched last Friday night. I think I speak for my generation when I say, we don’t like things “sugar- coated”, we don’t like to be lied to. We want truth. And this film does just that, while still managing to ask you soul-gripping questions that provoke “what really is beyond the farthest star”?
The audience was left with few dry eyes, and the feedback was wonderful. You can see the video of the audience’s reaction to the film here: (VIDEO RESPONSES)
If I could come away with just two words to describe my time working on Beyond the Farthest Star, it would be this: Life Changing.
The director/writer, Andrew Librizzi, gave me the opportunity of a lifetime. Starting out as a college-graduate intern, to coming away with the honor of co-writing a song for the band in the movie with my brother Jonathan Gore, making memories that will last a lifetime, and learning more about God’s supernatural Grace, Favor, and Redemption that cannot be learned through any other way than by experience.
Thank you to all the cast/crew that worked on this magnificent film, and to the wonderful town of Leonard, Tx for letting us invade your lives! I am so excited to see what God is going to do!
Be sure to visit http://www.beyondthefartheststar.com/ and click the “BRING IT” button to bring this film to a theater near you, and also be on the lookout for the novel to be released in conjunction with its theatrical release! Become a fan on Facebook for the latest updates, and of course, check back here for upcoming news on my brand new EP.
With Love,
Natalie
Jeremiah 29:13 “Seek Me and you will find Me, when you seek Me with all your heart.”

Friday, July 15, 2011

MUSIC REVIEW: Alex Masters "Long Way Home"

As the first few notes of Alex Masters' new EP "Long Way Home" began to play I started to wish I was in my car with the windows rolled down and an open road. The perfect blend of melody and hook captures you at the first few measures. Something that as an artist I know can be difficult to do. The "summery sounds" of the title track "Long Way Home" play and I find myself wanting to put it on repeat even before moving onto the next. "Baby keep driving, we can go for miles, lets take the long way home" are sung with innocence and joy, as I wish that while I was in my imaginary car on the open road, that I also had someone to share that moment with.

"Breakable" is probably my personal favorite track on her EP. The lyrics "be careful what you say, don't look at me that way unless you mean it, baby I mean it" ring true to my heart and I'm sure there are tons of others out there that know this feeling all too well.

"Bulletproof" really showcase's Alex's vocal talent. She has a beautiful sound of ease and purity, going effortlessly from low notes to higher ones. Her tone is unique and can grasp your attention and keep it, making you want to hear the story she is about to tell.

"Jesus & Roses" is by far the most beautiful track off this EP. "another pointless fight, another tearful night... that's how it goes so, welcome home, oh, and of course you're right" is my favorite line she sings. Brilliantly written, witty and clever, with a hint of sarcasm, showing vulnerability and wishful thinking. Anyone looking for a song to relate to during a rough patch in a relationship should listen to this song... and then ask yourself "How long does maybe take?"

I find it incredibly therapeutic to write about the things that I go through in life, but a huge risk comes with that. Vulnerability. When "I Should've Said No" came on, I started to cry. The hontesy and pain in Alex's voice resonates throughout the whole room as you listen to what I can only imagine was a real life experience, a story that only the artist herself could tell. Beautifully written, with wisdom and love, making me wish more than anything that I could turn back time and tell the little girl in the story the words she sings. To let her know that in the end it will be okay and that it is alright to feel, to hurt, and to learn from our mistakes.

Once "East Coast" and "You Stay" began to play I immediately wished I was back in my car on the open road. These two along with the title track are a MUST for your summer road trips. With two requirements: 1. Windows down. 2. Music loud :)

All in all, Alex Masters' debut EP "Long Way Home" couldn't be a better way to make a splash into the pop country music scene. If you haven't bought it by now, then you need to this very instant. You can purchase it now on iTunes or on her official website (links below.)As my friend, and fellow Belmont classmate, I know the hard work, pain, love, and passion it takes to pour your heart out in song, and Alex has crafted that into a perfect blend of musical bliss. Enjoy everyone!

With Love,
Natalie

Alex Masters Official Site
Long Way Home on iTunes

Thursday, July 14, 2011

RoadRacing: Living Fearless



In April of this year I was introduced to what would soon become a huge part of my life and my passion; The Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association. Back in November of 2010 I was my cousin John Keene’s, Expert #410, “Plus 1” to the CMRA end of the year Banquet. I don’t remember a day that I had ever been that emotionally unstable in my whole life as I was that day. My cousin was trying to cheer me up and decided he would take me to the Motorcycle Exhibit and then later  to the Banquet. Little did I know that I would be so welcomed and feel so accepted on such a day when all I wanted to do was curl up in my bed and cry.

It’s funny how life works out, because if I hadn’t have been through the circumstances that brought me to the CMRA Banquet with John, then I wouldn’t be a part of the most amazing Roadracing family that is the CMRA. Few people know the backstory, nor do they understand the gravity that came with being introduced to the amazing passion that is Roadracing.

As a singer, my first response to big events is, “Anybody need someone to sing the National Anthem?!”  My favorite thing in this world is to sing.  Clearly. So in April I was invited to come and sing the National Anthem for the CMRA Races at Texas World Speedway.  It couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. I had just celebrated my 24th birthday, was finally coming out of the mess I was in, and couldn’t be more ready to take life by the reigns again.

TWS was one of the best weekends of my life. I brought my show, “The Natalie Gore Show” and got to document what I like to call my “turning point”.  Not to mention, I fell in love.

I fell in love with the sound of the racetrack. The roaring of two wheels speeding by the finish line. Laughter as families gather in the paddock.  The announcer sounding off with “First Call, Race 1”. The smell of leathers and gasoline. The sight of colors everywhere you look, bright orange tents, deep purple, blue, red, and green bikes,  and the hot pavement awaiting the arrival of competition.

When you first look at me you probably think girly girl. And that’s fine, because for the most part I am. I do not like to try risky things. I certainly don’t like to do anything dangerous. And I’m still the girl that yells everytime I’m on the back of a motorcycle for whoever is driving to “PLEASE SLOW DOWN!” But I did discover a part of me that I never knew. An adventurous side that is ready to throw everything I’ve ever been afraid of out the window and just grab life by the handle-bars, push my limit, and live fearless.

The CMRA has made an impact on my life that I never thought possible. I’ve never met a group of people more accepting, more kind, more willing to give, and yet still live life to the fullest. It’s inspiring. I’m the type of person that strives for competition. I absolutely do not like to lose. I’m driven and passionate about what I believe in and I refuse to compromise anything that could come between what I believe and the way I live my life.  

Being a part of the CMRA Races, filming “The Natalie Gore Show”, and singing the National Anthem is an honor. What you guys do is incredible. Racing in the rain. Racing in the most unbearable heat imagined. Racing when the man in front of you just flew off the track. Never giving up. Pressing on towards your dreams and goals.  It is an example to many.

I want to say thank you for everything that yall have done for me. For watching my shows, buying my music, and letting me get a taste of what it’s like to live fearless.

See you at Eagle’s Canyon. Kick some butt!!

With Love,
Natalie







Friday, July 8, 2011

I'll See You Soon



One month ago today my beautiful cousin Rebecca Jeanne Gore went to be with Jesus. She was only 19 years old… with a heart of gold, absolutely fearless, and completely in love with her Savior….


Rebecca,

I hope you know how much I love you and how much our family misses you. You are a beautiful light in our lives that will never be forgotten and not a day passes that I don’t think about you. Aunt Reginna gave me your heart necklace and I wear it everyday. It makes me feel close to you. Like your heart is next to mine. I’m in the process of writing you a song, and I hope its alright but I finished one that you wrote too that I found in your notebook. You are such an amazing writer. Last Sunday night I made our favorite Shepherds Pie that you and I made while we were living in Tulsa… it was wonderful, but definitely was missing your touch. It was all I could do to hold back tears while cooking it. What wonderful times we had in Oklahoma. I am so thankful that God gave you and I that time to grow close, not as my baby cousin who I grew up with, but as my friend. Rachael told me something the other night and said “Natalie, everytime you worship our Lord, you join Rebecca in the throne room of Heaven.” I will hold onto to that until I see you face to face J I can’t wait to see you again someday, as we walk the streets of gold… in a world where there’s no more pain, and it’s you I can finally hold. I love you my sweet girl.

                                    Love Always,
                                                Nat-Ney

In the words of my beautiful cousin Rebecca Gore, “How could something so unexpected change my life so desperately”?
















It's A Great Day To Be A Cow!

HOLY COW! Today some of the crew from Trinity Broadcasting Network decided to take advantage and support our love for cows and "Eat More Chikin"! July 8th is officially "Cow Appreciation Day" and Chick-Fil-A is giving away free meals for anyone that comes dressed as a cow... and if you don't feel like going all out, they are giving away free entrees for just a partial outfit.

Go online to download the "Cow Costume" below and enjoy any combo meal for FREE!! Today I am definitely a huge supporter of our cows.

Enjoy America!
http://www.cowappreciationday.com/





MOOOOOO
Natalie








 "I'd like to be a cowboy but ohh I'm scared of cows... moo moo moo how they scare me!" (The Adventures of Mary-Kate & Ashley Olsen: Logical I Ranch)

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Send Your Questions in for CMRA Expert Motorcycle Racer Austin Gore!

Hey Yall! I'm headed to Oklahoma this weekend to sing the National Anthem and film another episode of "The Natalie Gore Show" for the Central Motorcycle Roadracing Association Races.

I'm so excited to announce that I will be hanging out with CMRA Expert Motorcycle Racer, Austin Gore #69 (who oddly enough is NOT related... but we have decided we are long lost cousins!) and I want YALL to send in your questions!!! This Q&A interview will be featured in a new segment I have created called "Spotlight Racer".... so here's your chance to be a part of "The Natalie Gore     Show"!

Austin is the 2010 Formula 4 Champion.

Send your questions by commenting below or send them to me on twitter... @NatalieGore

Don't forget to check out Austin Gore @ www.austingore.com


See Yall at the Racetrack!
XOXO
Natalie

Sights & Sounds of Falling :)


#34 on the "Top 100 New Releases for iTunes France"



Anybody know what # this one is?!


wassuppp!!! 

 My article on "Falling" featured in a blog in Spain... and translated in Spanish:




I love my Twitter fans <3









All I can say is Thank You. :)

XOXO 
Natalie

Monday, July 4, 2011

"I Lost All Track Of Time, When Your Eyes Met Mine"



It has been two years, almost to the day, since I released new music. Two years of writing, growing, learning, graduating college, starting a "real" job, moving away from home, moving back home, heart ache, loss, and love.

So then the question turns to this, why "Falling" as my first single?

Well, over the past couple of years I've been stretched in ways I didn't know were possible. I've seen pain and heart ache I never thought would actually "happen to me". When I was more lost and more alone than ever before, I was put in a situation where the ONLY thing I could lean on was the Lord, and thats when I wrote "Falling".

"Falling" gave me hope. For the first time in a long time, I could see the joy and the happy side of things. Whether it be love, or just life in general.

I wanted to release something that showed, despite everything, there is always going to be something new, exciting, and hopeful that can come into your life when you least expect it.

One of my favorite lines in this song is "You open the door for me, look at me so sweetly, and you didn't know what I had been through..." these words, for me, expressed the fact that "hey, you didn't know the heartache, loss, and pain of my past, and yet despite all that, here I am with butterflies in my stomach"

I think there's something so powerful about hope.

The Bible defines hope as this: "confident expectation". It is not just "wishful thinking". It is being sure in the things we are believing for. It is attached to the FAITH in God that things will get better.

I bet you didn't think I could turn a sappy love song into a Bible lesson? haha Well, I don't mean to preach, I just want this song to give you what it gave me... Hope.

Hope that someday my Prince will come.
Hope that things will get better.
Hope that in the darkest day of my life, someone can walk in and change it for the better.
Hope that I am worth it.
Hope that you will see my heart when this song is played.
Hope that you will know that God loves you so much and He can change any situation you are in.
Hope that dreams come true.

When you play "Falling" in your car, on your ipod, or in your stereo remember this: on your darkest day, things can change in an instant... just have hope.     :)

A huge thank you to Andrew Nordan for not only producing this song, but for lending his amazing voice to make it even better than I had imagined it to be. My dream has always been to release a duet, and I truly believe there is nothing more beautiful than a male and female duet. It helped bring this song to life and tell such a sweet story. You are a true artist!

Thank you to my family, for being so supportive, even though this is a bit different than the songs I usually release. Yall are my rock :)

To my fans on Twitter and Facebook, thank you for supporting me and always buying my music, sending me sweet messages, watching my silly shows, and loving me for me! I love yall SO MUCH.


And lastly, to Jesus, my Lord and Savior. I would not be here if it wouldnt have been for you. You put my life back together and gave me more than I could ever imagine or dream. I love you so much.


XOXO
Natalie