Like...what
does that mean? Only Gaga knows. I like Gaga, and I think I like the song, but
I loved the title enough to use it for my next book title.
Actually
the title was my editor, Monique Patterson's idea and the conversation went
something like this:
Monique: Hey, JD!
Yes, you've missed another deadline and no, before you ask, you can't
have any more money yet, so stop asking.
But how are you?
Me: Hey Monique.
Yeah, I know the book's late again, but it's coming…it’s coming, I promise. I just need another week. And, I got bills to pay, so don't be so
negative, and send a sistah a check.
Monique: Oh, okay.
I'll see what I can do. By the
way. I was looking for some new music on
iTunes and I came across this song title that I thought would be great for a
book. I immediately thought of you when
I saw it.
Me: (a bit flattered) Well, let me hear it.
Monique: It's called Beautiful, Dirty, Rich by Lady
Gaga. Do you think you can do something
with that?
Me: (feeling
so honored that I was moved to tears)
Why yes, MP! I love the title and
I'd love to use it for my next book.
Monique: Groovy, JD!
That's just groovy!
I've used
quite a few titles or lyrics from songs for several of my books; Don't Want No
Sugar title is comprised of song lyrics from Bessie Smith's Boweavil
Blues. This Fire Down In My Soul comes
from lyrics in a song called, Don't Leave Me This Way by Thelma Houston. And Somebody
Pick Up My Pieces was a song originally performed by Willie Nelson, and was
eventually re-released by Bettye Levette.
Admittedly, I tend to resort to music for titles when I can't come up
with something catchy on my own. And I
have no problem returning the favor.
PSA For
the Week:
Attention
Musicians (songwriters and performers): If you are ever at
a loss for a song title, or lyrics, feel free to borrow any of my titles for
your inspiration, as I have borrowed from you.
I am happy to share.
Ms. Mason,
ReplyDeleteThe Ebony Moments Book Club in Mobile, Alabama would like to Skype you. We will be discussing Beautiful, Dirty, Rich at our October meeting. WOW! This book was a page turner for me. It was full of twist and turns, and when is the sequel coming out. What is the process for setting up a Skype interview with you? Please email me the details and process in order to make this happen.
kdtsmith00@yahoo.com
Thanks in advance for your consideration.
Keisha D. Smith
A diamond in the Rough,
The Jewel of the Nile!
Jesus is Love !