Posts made in May 2024

Manee Valentine – LUCKY 7

JAZZ SENSATION MANEE VALENTINE SET TO RELEASE HIS NEW ALBUM – LUCKY 7

International Jazz Crooner, BMI affiliated, and Recording artist, Manee Valentine will celebrate the release of his new album “Lucky 7” – dropping on June 1, at The Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood on Sunday, June 2, 2024. (The physical CD will be available at Amazon; digital CD is already available.) 

The album “Lucky 7” features 7 original compositions written by Argentine, songwriter Ike Montana. Manee Valentine will be performing several songs from “Lucky 7,” and some from his previous CD “Red Soul,” plus he will dazzle his audience by performing many favorite American standards. Keeping with his 7 themes, he has 7 talented female jazz musicians accompanying him: Beth Marlis (guitar), Anne King (trumpet), Amanda Campos (sax), Sherry Luchette (bass), Amanda Mora (trombone), and Ana Barreiro (drums). His very seasoned music director, Karen Hernandez, has many accolades. Karen burst onto the jazz scene in the ’60s, and she has many film credits to her name as well, including original songs in “Pretty Woman” and “The Fabulous Baker Boys.” Alongside her is music arranger Carlos Luna, he too has many television credits.

Valentine has the vocal precision and control of many that have come before him, but he has a bit of a Latin twist in there for good measure. Manee Valentine says, “I just love bringing a good story from a great ballad to life, but in my own fresh way! I listen to all the greats and take away what I can use for myself, I take pride in having my own unique style, and I love what I do!”

As the Creative Director of 7Notas Music Designers & Publishing, Manee Valentine has an uncanny and natural ability to create lyrics and melodies for his original songs. He specializes in adapting and translating popular songs, including standards and current hits.

Coming from Miami, Manee Valentine was able to get a real feel for what Florida had to offer musically. Miami is the mecca for rich Latin music and is a great place to learn the ropes. But he feels Los Angeles is really the place to be seen and grow as an artist. With Manee Valentine’s velvety smooth voice and enormous stage presence, he can trigger emotions of better days and toe-tapping happiness of what’s to come. Every generation, who are lovers of Jazz and Big Bands, will enjoy his rhythmic renditions and arrangements of the great American songbook. Truly a throwback to a time when crooners were gold, whether interpreting a romantic ballad or singing to the beat of swing, Manee Valentine is a force to be reckoned with.

Catch Manee Valentine at The Catalina Jazz Club on June 2, 2024, at 7:30 PM, with doors opening at 6:00 PM.  

Tickets – 

https://www.ticketweb.com/event/the-manee-valentine-show-at-catalina-bar-grill-tickets/

YouTube Videos:

Videos for his new CD “Lucky 7”:

“Lucky 7” is on – social media platforms: Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, and most music digital platforms. 

https://www.facebook.com/manee.valentine/

https://www.instagram.com/maneevalentine/

https://www.youtube.com/@maneevalentine9328

Catalina Jazz Club

6725 W. Sunset Blvd.

Hollywood, CA 90028


Manee Valentine Q & A

  1. How has your family inspired you and your artistic career?

I come from a musical family, so inspiration and creation can be triggered by emotional experiences and events.

  1. Where do you see your career going in 5 years?

I have the “Hollywood Dream.” To perform on worldwide stages, produce more of my original songs, collaborate with other performers, and see my screenplays on the small and big screens.

  1. Talk about any producers you have worked with.

As a producer myself, I have been very fortunate to have had producers as collaborators which allows the project to maintain its originality from the initial versions of its inception.

  1.   Where do you get your ideas for your music projects?

We are all vessels of the ultimate creator. Anything, everything, and everybody is a song. Any word, any thought, and every action are a crucial part of a story that can become a song.

5. What charities are you aligned with and why?

I would love to work with the American Heart Association. I think we would make a great match! 

6.  What music projects will you be involved with in the future?

I have an amazing production in the works! All original songs related to the Great American Song Book, that is all I can share for now. I’m really excited about it; I think it can be a game-changer in my career.  

7.  What are your biggest influences?

Everything is an influence, music, life experiences, and conversations with people. Even when I’m sleeping, I am being influenced by the supernatural LOL! I always have my phone nearby just in case I wake up in the middle of the night with a song in my head. I record myself because if I wait until the morning, I will forget what I have created in my dreams.

Everyone has their own unique creative process. Some songwriters write the lyrics first and then add the music, and others write the music first and then add the lyrics. I am blessed to be able to create both at the same time. 

8.  What advice would you give to a young musician starting out?

Preparation is key. Study, practice, and work hard. Build a vision of your goals and be grateful for every step that comes to pass on the way to success.

9.  Talk about your performance training. Who have you trained with and why?

Every job, no matter how small or big, is a training class. Every rehearsal, every practice, and every moment of creating is training.  

10.  If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be? 

I would love to record a duet with Vikki Carr! She is one of the most talented female crooners from that era. 

11. What do you do to prepare for a live show?

I make sure all chart books are in order, practice and corroborate every lyric sheet in the books, attend rehearsals, and avoid overworking “the pipes” to arrive at the desired tone and clarity of my voice for the performance. I maintain a relaxed mental frame and enjoy the ride.

12. When did you know you wanted to be a recording artist?

When I was 16 years old.

13. What recording artists did you admire as a child?

Many, I was exposed to all types of music. I had a special liking for ballads, jazz, and big bands.

14. What’s the Miami music scene like compared to Los Angeles?

Miami is the other side of the coin when it comes to cultural genres, but it was still interesting to learn and grow in the industry. You must have solid roots and an understanding of your musical identity to navigate through the tropical and Latin influences in the local music scene.

15. What do you do to relax?

I create.

16. What other businesses do you plan on starting to promote your brand?

Teaming up with my wife and business partner to expand our brand and foundation.

17.  What’s the one thing you think everyone could do to make the world a more positive place?

Slow down, step back, breathe, and enjoy the moment.

18. What would you be doing if you were not a recording artist?

There has never been another option, this is who I am.

19. What are your first steps in taking on a new project?

It must inspire me to the core, and hopefully, it will be contagious.

20.  What do you want to leave as your legacy?

To create new standards. A quality of songs and writings that will transcend in time. 

21. Talk about your current album.

Jazz is truly an American legacy for all generations throughout the world, and as such, it is recognized and has influenced many cultures and listeners. 

With this production, we intend to bring to the forefront the results of the influence of American Jazz to more Latinos around the world. Lucky 7 is a collection of seven new original songs written and produced in Buenos Aires, Argentina by Ike Montana, also arranged and produced by Dani Vila with Argentinian musicians. Our Hollywood team set up the vocal recording sessions at Valentine Records, in Studio City.

22. How do you overcome challenges in your career?

By keeping a clear mindset and allowing time to take us through to the best possible resolution.

23. How did you start singing?

When my mother gifted me a blue acoustic guitar, I was about 9 years old. I should write a song called, “My Blue Acoustic Guitar” LOL!

24. Who in your family has been your mentor?

Everyone and most importantly, my better half.

25. What are your health regimes?

I don’t really have any. I try to make healthy choices.

26. What’s the most fun event you have performed at?

Club Tropigala at the Fountainebleau Hotel in Miami!

27. What was it like the first time you performed on stage?

Exhilarating! Everything felt just right, an out-of-body experience.

28. How does your family support you in your career?

Wholeheartedly, especially my wife. She produces my shows and my CD productions, we work hand in hand on all my projects.

 29. What do you want your fans to know about you

I am very grateful and excited for the opportunity to share with them the journey of achieving a dream!

30. What is your fashion sense?

I would say I’m very classic, with a touch of glam. I’m fortunate that my wife is a stylist, and she has polished my image throughout the years. 

31. How do you feel about the current state of the music industry?

It is a work in progress. With all the restructuring and innovations by technology, it is up to the artist to pave their own path. The beauty of this is that we can all produce and promote our own productions without depending on a record label.

32. What sets your music apart from other singers and jazz musicians?

I’d like to think I keep myself present in the moment. This allows me to provide an innovative style of interpretation to the melodies each time by channeling the audience’s energy for inspiration. This makes every performance different and unique.

33. What goals and milestones have you set for yourself? Are there specific achievements you’re aiming for in the near future?

“The sky is the Limit,” are the very first steps to accomplishing the dreams we have been promised. 

34. What’s your favorite song that you sing?

So many, I couldn’t think of one specifically.

35. What are your tricks of the trade?

For my eyes and ears only! LOL!

36. Do you think your music is timeless?

Absolutely, and then some!

37. Where can people find your music?

I’m on most social media platforms.

38. What is the typical demographic of your fans?

Positively ageless.

39. Are there any singers who are not on this planet that you wish you would have met? What would you have asked them? 

The Rat Pack, I would ask to join them. They were missing the Latin touch!

40. Who is your music mentor?

Daldo Romano (D’Aldo), who worked for CBS Records, EMI Latin, and Universal Music Latino. He passed away recently. He was a great friend and always encouraged and guided me.

41.  How has technology changed the way you record?

Amazingly! I love the many options and conversions to variables from the past to the present and can’t wait for future applications with AI for compositions and all else. The future has caught us off guard. Let’s take it as a positive experience and make the best out of it.

How to Overcome Driving Anxiety

5 Tips to Follow

Driving is a pivotal part of modern life, offering independence and the freedom to explore the world around us. However, for many individuals, the thought of stepping into the driver’s seat can trigger anxiety.

Whether you’ve recently obtained your license or have suddenly developed a fear, remember that you can get through it. By following the right steps, you’ll soon be able to drive safely, comfortably, and confidently.

Interested in learning more? Below we are going to discuss five tips to help you overcome your driving anxiety.

Understand the root of your fear.

To conquer any phobia, it helps to understand where it is coming from. Reflecting on the origins of your anxiety is an essential step in overcoming it.

Has there been a specific incident that triggered your anxiety? What about underlying health concerns? Once you’ve determined the cause, you can approach the situation with better clarity and guidance.

Find a great driving instructor.

Once you’ve determined the root of your problem it’s time to find a great driving instructor. The right professional will help you regain your confidence and can provide advice to enhance your abilities.

The more content you are behind the wheel, the easier it will become. Practice really does make perfect, so try and step outside of your usual comfort zone.

Check out the Ferrari Driving School Brooklyn NY to get started.

Start slow.

While frequent driving will help build up your skills, refrain from rushing during the early stages. Gradual progress will desensitize you to the fear, making it less daunting over time.

Be patient and don’t feel upset if you’re not seeing progress straight away. You’re not going to be driving on fast highways anytime soon, but you may be able to drive short distances around the neighborhood.

If your vehicle has seen better days, it’s also wise to look into purchasing a new car. Sometimes an upgrade is just what you need to get back on track.

Practice relaxation techniques.

Before and during driving, practice relaxation techniques to ease your body and mind. Deep breathing and meditation can significantly reduce your anxiety, and it won’t take away from your concentration.

Even listening to calming music can help you stay focused and relaxed on the road. It’s often the simplest things that make the biggest difference.

Challenge negative thoughts.

Anxiety often comes with several negative scenarios that make your fear worse. Challenge these thoughts by asking yourself practical questions such as:

-How likely is the scenario to occur?

-What are the facts versus my feelings?

-Have I encountered a similar accident before?

From here, you can replace these with positive affirmations. Always remind yourself that you are a safe and capable driver.

Final Words

By facing your fear and taking positive steps, you’ll transform from an anxious driver to a confident navigator. The freedom and independence that comes from this will not just benefit you behind the wheel either. You’ll develop skills that will allow you to tackle anything the world throws at you.

Good luck!

GRIFF – MISS ME TOO

Global pop sensation Griff announces her debut album vertigo, arriving July 19th via Warner Records. Pre-order the album HERE. Featuring anthemic new single “Miss Me Too,” the full tracklist was unveiled by Griff in a huge, spray-painted dress designed by Central Saint Martins graduate Eden Tan. 

Griff has also confirmed a global headline tour, with the North American leg kicking off on September 13 in Washington, DC and running through October 10 in Phoenix, AZ. Pre-sale tickets are available now for those who pre-order the album, with general sale beginning on Friday, May 3. See the full list of dates below, and click HERE for more information.

Before Griff’s debut album had a name, or its titular first single, it had a feeling: vertigo. That pit-of-your-stomach, up-is-down sense that the world is spinning faster than you can keep up with, and your own place in it has never felt less secure. The album is a journey of self-discovery that Griff has shared over three volumes in real-time, weaving songs that resonate with the vertigo arc into work that moves through melancholy and heartache into healing and joy. vertigo witnesses Griff scaling new creative heights without compromising the hand-stitched, home-made magic that first marked her out as British Pop’s most modern, exciting voice. 

“The album is about vertigo as an emotion and the dizziness and upside down feeling of heartache,” Griff shares. “I wanted to drop this project in parts from insular low feelings (Vol.1) to desperate euphoria (Vol.2) and with volume three, the full story.”

With a 360-approach on everything from production, fashion and design, to the spiral motif long connecting vertigo in plain sight—right down to her signature hairstyle—Griff’s debut album turns the tumultuousness of young adulthood into a source of power. Latest single “Miss Me Too” is a euphoric, existential banger about the little-discussed irony of losing confidence as you supposedly grow older and wiser, and was accompanied by a beautifully choreographed video physically exercising such emotions. Throughout the record, the BRITs Rising Star winner draws on her sideways origin-story, from her unorthodox Chinese-Jamaican outsider-status growing up to launching an international music career from the confines of her bedroom. That tenacious, no-nonsense talent always wise beyond her years also sounds like she is living: free of expectation, and moving through a world in which there is no one way to make your debut album or to be yourself.

FOLLOW GRIFF

Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Press Materials

GIBSON ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

Gibson Announces Ayoni and The Picturebooks As New Artist Spotlight Program Musicians This Month

Gibson’s Artist Spotlight Program Features a Revolving and Diverse Roster of Musicians and Provides Emerging Artists with Global Exposure

Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. As part of Gibson’s commitment to artist-first culture, and music discovery, Gibson has launched the brand’s first-ever Artist Spotlight program which features an evolving and diverse roster of musicians and provides emerging artists from diverse genres around the world with global exposure and services committed to their career growth worldwide. Today, Gibson is thrilled to introduce two new talented additions to the Gibson Artist Spotlight roster, Ayoni and The Picturebooks.

In line with Gibson’s ongoing commitment to elevating new music from emerging musicians around the world throughout the year, the Gibson Artist Spotlight Program will showcase an evolving roster of musicians who will be celebrated across Gibson’s global and international channels. Fans can learn more about Gibson Artist Spotlight musicians and listen to their music every month HERE.

Ayoni

Ayoni is a multifaceted singer, songwriter, producer, and instrumentalist from Barbados, making waves across the music industry.

With her soaring, soulful pop/R&B vocals, Ayoni has garnered millions of streams and has received widespread acclaim from prominent publications such as Ones To Watch, The Fader, Essence, V Magazine, and more. Having lived in Singapore, Indonesia, and the United States, she developed a global worldview, absorbing a variety of experiences while nurturing her ever-evolving passion for creating and performing music.

Listen/Watch to Ayoni’s single and video for the song “Vision” HERE.

Ayoni made her big screen debut at the Tribeca Film Festival last summer, starring in the documentary Uncharted, produced by Alicia Keys and She Is The Music. The film follows Ayoni’s journey and those of other BIPOC women creators in the music industry. She would go on to release a song titled “Purpose,” which she wrote during the making of the film.

Ayoni has collaborated with other creatives such as Ricky Reed, Snakehips, Full Crate, Michael Calfan, and Kabwasa. She is a featured artist on two songs on Noname’s critically acclaimed album Sundial, and in October of 2023, she performed the song “boomboom” with Noname on NPR’s Tiny Desk, HERE.

Ayoni was chosen as an artist in residence for the Sofar Sounds London Residency, late last year. This spring, she was selected for the 2024 Gibson Artist Spotlight program and released a music production and vocal pack with Splice.

As she prepares to step into her next creative chapter, Ayoni will release her next single, “Bitter In Love,” and her debut album is slated for the summer of 2024.

Read more about Ayoni on the Gibson Artist Spotlight program HERE.

The Picturebooks

The Picturebooks, a distinctive rock duo from Gütersloh, Germany, consists of the gritty vocals and fierce guitar work of Fynn Claus Grabke and the dynamic drumming of Philipp Mirtschink. Their raw, minimalist style, marked by a blues-infused garage rock sound, sets them apart in the rock music scene.

Formed in 2009, The Picturebooks quickly gained recognition for their visceral performances and unique approach to music production, often utilizing custom-built instruments and unconventional recording techniques. Their discography includes several albums that showcase their evolution in sound, with “Home is a Heartache” and “The Hands of Time” as notable examples.

Listen/watch The Picturebooks single and video “Masquerade” HERE.

Known for their DIY ethic, The Picturebooks have toured extensively worldwide with over 400 shows in the last five years, captivating audiences worldwide with their powerful live shows and establishing a loyal fan base.

The Picturebooks have four albums under their belts already and will release their fifth album, Albuquerque, in July 2024.

Read more about The Picturebooks and the Gibson Spotlight Program HERE.

Gibson’s Spotlight Artist program features artists from North and South America and Europe, China, and Japan. Throughout the year, Gibson Artist Spotlight program musicians will be introduced across Gibson social media, as well as other channels, and their music will be highlighted through various collaborative moments in locations across the globe.

The Gibson’s Artist Spotlight program follows other artist-first programs and initiatives that the brand has introduced over the past five years, including the Marquee Artist program which currently features singer/songwriter Abraham Alexander.  The Marquee Artist Program invests in furthering the careers of artists on the rise who reflect the brand’s mission to celebrate and amplify music across genders, genres, and generations.  Marquee artists have access to Gibson’s global resources and work with the brand to create collaboratively inspired cultural campaigns, participate in product development, and launches, support Gibson Gives nonprofit initiatives, and join in special events across Gibson’s products and channels, reaching millions of fans worldwide. In addition, the Gibson Generation Group (Gibson G3) program supports youth artists worldwide through its two-year career mentoring program, while the Gibson Gives Scholarship program provides financial support to students with music career aspirations, and Gibson Records, a record label that works with artists to produce, record, and promote guitar-driven music across the globe.

 Gibson:

GIBSON.COM | TW | IG | FB | GIBSON APPGIBSON GARAGE NASHVILLE | GIBSON GARAGE LONDON | GIBSON TV

Epiphone:

EPIPHONE.COM | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE

Kramer:

KRAMERGUITARS.COM | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE

MESA/Boogie:

MESA/BOOGIE.COM  | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

KRK:

KRKMUSIC.COM TWITTER INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | YOUTUBE

Maestro:

MAESTROELECTRONICS.COM | @MAESTROELECTRONICS

NEW LAMBORGHINI LONG ISLAND

Automobili Lamborghini celebrated the debut of its redesigned showroom in Long Island on April 30 with a VIP event following the brand’s best year in terms of sales and deliveries in 2023. The grand opening event featured the market premiere of the Urus SE [1] – the first plug-in hybrid SUV and the most powerful version of the best-selling car ever for the company.

Lamborghini clientele were joined by local VIPs and business leaders, as well as key brand executives, including Automobili Lamborghini Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Stephan Winkelmann; Chief Marketing and Sales Officer, Federico Foschini; and Lamborghini America Chief Executive Officer, Andrea Baldi. 

2023 was an extraordinary year of growth for Lamborghini, as we delivered more than 10,000 cars to customers, expanded our retail footprint, and entered the second phase of the Direzione Cor Tauri investment program with the world premiere of our first V12 hybrid plug-in HPEV,” said Winkelmann. “2024 promises to be another exciting year with a second hybrid added to our lineup – the Urus SE, which made its U.S. debut last night in New York City. To meet growing demand for our cars, it’s critical to invest in our partners and customers with a further elevated brand experience. Situated just outside of Manhattan, the state-of-the-art Long Island showroom showcases Lamborghini’s new design direction as we continue the transition to a new era of electrified vehicles.”

Located at 115 S Service Rd, Jericho, NY 11753, Lamborghini Long Island features the best of Italian automotive design and engineering, with the latest super sports cars and Super SUVs on the market. The 5,575 square-foot storefront provides an immersive brand experience, complete with Collezione and Accessori Originali fashion offerings and an Ad Personam customization room, where clients can personalize their dream cars with a nearly infinite array of bespoke colors and materials.

The opening of the Long Island showroom comes at a time of immense growth for Lamborghini, as the company delivered 10,112 cars globally in 2023, a 10% increase over 2022, with the Americas region accounting for 3,465 units, a 9% increase over the previous year. These exceptional results provide a strong foundation as Lamborghini continues the second phase of the Direzione Cor Tauri investment program – the roadmap through electrification, which began with the global launch of the brand’s first HPEV, the Revuelto [2], in March 2023, followed by the premiere of the first plug-in hybrid Super SUV, the Urus SE, on April 24, 2024.

Guests who attended the grand opening of Lamborghini Long Island had the opportunity to see the Revuelto and Urus SE in person. With more than 1,000 horsepower and a top speed of 217 mph, the Revuelto features a brand new 6.5-liter V12 mid-engine with three electric motors and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. For customers in the market for a Super SUV, the Urus SE features a twin-turbo 4.0 V8 engine and a 25-kWh lithium-ion battery, which deliver a total output of 800 CV (789 horsepower), reaching a top speed of 194 mph (Urus S: 190 mph).

[1] The vehicle is not yet offered for sale and is therefore not subject to Directive 1999/94/EC. The fuel consumption and emissions data is in the type approval stage.

[2] Fuel economy values of Revuelto: Fuel economy combined (electricity+gasoline): 23 MPGe (EPA); Fuel economy combined (gasoline only): 12 MPG (EPA)

New Lamborghini Long Island showroom via 360 MAGAZINE.
Automobili Lamborghini Unveils Redesigned Showroom in Long Island Showcasing First Plug-In Hybrid Super SUV via 360 MAGAZINE.

KENZIE – CLOSE TO YOU

‘Kenzie and ASTN are a formidable force. You’ll experience goosebumps when you hear their velvety vocals and undeniable chemistry.‘–Vaughn Lowery

Singer/songwriter kenzie to debut her emotional new single, “close to you feat. ASTN” on Friday, May 3rd. Written by Mackenzie Ziegler, Ellen Murphy, David Bowden, Dante Bowden, Joseph Ruffin, “close to you” is about the feeling of love and loving someone so much that you would do anything and everything for them. Alongside the new track, kenzie will premiere the music video, which features kenzie and ASTN, singing directly to each other in harmony.

kenzie will also be performing at KCRW’s School Night LA showcase at Bardot Hollywood on May 13. Get tickets for the evening HERE

Exploring the Mental Game of Golf

5 Strategies for Staying Focused and Confident

Golf is often referred to as a “mental game.” While proper swing mechanics and skills are essential, a golfer’s mindset and focus play a huge role in their performance. From pre-shot routines to managing emotions, the mental side of golf cannot be ignored. In this article, we’ll explore 5 key strategies to strengthen your mental game and play your best golf through enhanced focus and confidence.

Establish a Consistent Pre-Shot Routine

One of the best ways to maintain focus and composure on the course is to have a solid pre-shot routine. This involves going through the same sequence of thoughts, practice swings, and deep breaths before each shot. Keep it simple – things like picking your target, visualizing the shot shape, and taking a few practice swings work for most golfers. Sticking to this routine prevents overthinking and distraction before a shot. It also instills confidence through repetition and familiarity. Make sure to use your routine on every shot, especially when nerves kick in on pressure putts. When choosing a putter, look for putter reviews from experts to ensure you select one that inspires confidence.

Stay Present Through Deep Breathing

It’s easy to get wrapped up in past mistakes or future concerns during a round of golf. Counteract this tendency by regularly taking deep breaths to calm your mind and body. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a couple seconds, and exhale fully through your mouth. Deep breathing stops any spiraling negative thoughts, brings you back to the present, and helps you focus entirely on the shot in front of you. Try taking 3-5 deep breaths before approaching each shot. This simple practice clears mental clutter, boosts oxygen levels, and promotes confidence and concentration.

Focus Only on Controllables

Golf delivers all sorts of uncontrollable factors – weather, bad breaks, playing partners, etc. Don’t waste mental energy worrying about things out of your control. Instead, stay laser-focused on your swing thoughts, pre-shot routine, and target. Forget about the swirling wind or a bad tee time. You can only control your aim, setup, swing mechanics and on-course strategy. The more attention you give to controllables, the less you’ll be distracted by golf’s unpredictable variables. This instills confidence and helps you play your best golf.

Turn Negative Self-Talk into Positive Affirmations

The inner voice in your head can easily undermine confidence and focus with negative self-talk like “I always miss this putt” or “My swing feels horrible today.” Actively counter those thoughts with specific, positive affirmations: “I got this 4-footer” or “My tempo is smooth.” Don’t just tell yourself to think positive – actually replace the negative script with upbeat statements said out loud or in your head. Affirmations boost confidence, optimism and focus. Say them often until they become natural self-talk. This mental switch empowers you to play your best.

Stay Patient and Take It One Shot at a Time

Golf punishes both complacency and desperation. Arrogance leads to lazy mistakes while frustration causes rushed, emotional play. The antidote is simply staying patient and taking it one shot at a time. Don’t let past errors or a mounting scorecard rattle you. Don’t get ahead of yourself trying to force birdies and recover many strokes at once. Breathe, refocus, and commit to hitting each shot with total concentration. Patience and playing shot-by-shot keep your mind calm, disciplined and in the moment. This mentality minimizes mistakes and helps you post your best possible score.

Strengthening your mental game is crucial for peak golf performance. Mastering these mental strategies allows you to minimize costly errors while playing to your full potential. So, incorporate these tips into your next round or practice session. When it comes to golf, a strong mental approach is just as important as sharp skills.