Alive
Greetings, Animusic 3 backers --
Wayne Lytle here. Generally, our (annoyingly rare) newsletters and updates have been written collectively by "The Animusic Team". Given that the team has recently shrunk, this one is primarily written by me.
Departure
It has always seemed that Dave Crognale was significantly farther ahead with his parts of a given production than I was with mine. This would lead me to having conflicting desires at any given time: Do I to wear my “programmer” hat, wear my “musician” hat, or to put on my “director” hat and sync up with Dave on artwork? For Dave, his “artist” hat began to spend increasing amounts of time on the shelf while he wore “customer support” and “web guy” hats. Labels like "business" and "accounting" were hard to find on any hats around here.
This suboptimal load balancing caused a subtle strain that was ultimately unmaintainable. So we both felt it was time to let go of the familiar Wayne-and-Dave production unit of 16 years, and for each of us to move forward into the unknown. Frankly, financial constraints made it an absolute necessity. But even putting that factor aside, we knew it was right, we were in agreement, and both felt at peace with the decision.
For Dave, this took the form of selling his house and driving his family across the country to California...on a professional and spiritual journey into the unknown.
Flying Solo(-ish)
For me, it meant returning to being the only full-time Animusic person. My plate was already spilling over, even more so now; yet I'm quite excited about this new startup-like format. I'm enjoying working with all the fun instrument parts Dave modeled over the last few years (including some I hadn't even seen yet!). Also, I'm more comfortable making optimizations/changes to the production system without any concern about breaking someone else's workflow. So, that part feels good.
What doesn’t feel so good is being farther behind on this project than I ever imagined possible. The stress I continue to experience personally, financially, and emotionally would be hard to overstate. Even so, despite the current state of things being so close to the ragged edge, I am very grateful that these challenges are all in the context of pursuing my dream. On some days it feels more like a nightmare, but it really isn’t. So many in the world are going through true difficulties, often at the hands of others. I only have myself to blame.
So, let me share with you the status of things here, and what I anticipate unfolding (as best I can).
For the sake of clarity, I should state that as founder/director of our tiny company, I'm the one ultimately responsible for all major Animusic undertakings, including Animusic 3. Getting stuff out to backers (including things still not finished yet) is on me. Several other people have and do help with various facets of Animusic (and continue to stick with me thru a less-than-thrilling period of my life). But I’m really the central factor in the timetable stretching to the breaking point. My bad.
Initial (pre-Animusic 3) Rewards
At the writing of this update, we are shipping the final batch of the initial phase of the Kickstarter rewards: “So12” CDs and Animusic Kickstarter t-shirts to backers within the USA.
Comparable packages for our international backers is next in the queue.
But, what about...
...Animusic 3? That was the whole point of the Kickstarter effort. I wish the ancillary items hadn’t consumed so much time and shipping costs, but they did. I got so lost in the CD I couldn’t find my way out. I’m really sorry for that. There were, however, other unforeseeable factors that jammed up our gears (I’ll elaborate on below, for those of you who are interested).
Now I really would have preferred to hold off on sending you this update -- until I could give you a real, tangible completion date. But since it was so overdue already, and some people were losing hope that Animusic 3 would ever see completion, it was important to send an update now.
Is it ever going to be finished? I have asked myself that numerous times; Dave has too. Both of us hit some of the lowest points in our lives over the last couple of years, several unrelated to Animusic.
If I’m living and breathing (barring some cataclysmic event)... YES, it will be finished.
What I can say at this point is that hope in completing this project rests significantly on a new approach that for years I’d expected to try "sometime in the future". Well, the project dragged on for so long that...well, the future is here now! More on that below (in the “Unreal Engine” section, if you're interested).
Multi-part rewards
The poster? That (along with Animusic 3 itself) is the other incomplete item. While we obviously can’t ship what doesn’t exist yet, a reasonable question is: Why don’t we just send multiple partial shipments? Frankly, finances are so tight right now that postage is actually a factor. I’d be the first to say: That’s hardly fair to people who kicked in for certain more expensive packages. I don’t feel good about it at all. For that matter, I don’t feel good about not answering people’s communications either. Especially if they’re in Crayon and include “top secret” drawings of suggested future music animation ideas!
Hey! A Little Respect? (for you)
I had a mini-revelation a while back, as I was pondering the flavor of some people’s expression of disappointment (and various other dis- words). Imagining myself in their shoes I couldn’t quite relate to the bite that some of it had. I couldn’t picture myself reacting in a similar way...I wouldn’t care much about updates or whatever, I’d just want the DVD....Then it hit me...not everyone thinks the same, and some people are more “people person’s” or other personality type who considers lack of communication to be blatant disrespect!
Whoa...I’m so sorry!...to any and everyone who may have felt like I disrespected you or that I didn’t care (or even had some nefarious intent). I shouldn’t have assumed you’d just know I was glued to the workstation, and pulling more all-nighters than I ever did in college or grad school. How would you know? I just wish I had more to show for it. Thanks so much for understanding.
- Now I certainly don’t expect everyone to want more info than the essential status, so thank you for reading this far!
- And for sticking with us during this challenging time.
- The remainder of this update reveals some unusual details of the backstory.
- Not required reading.
- No, it won't be on the test.
Animusic History
Backing up a bit, for anyone interested in the bigger picture...
I founded Animusic in the mid-90's, and with funds from our first paying job was able to hire Dave for a period of time. Over the years he's worked part-time, full-time, sometimes returning to a previous job for a while then jumping back in at Animusic when my needs for 3-D modeling and fancy artwork coincided with the availability of funding. Even back then, “The Wayne and Dave Team” was not exactly load balanced -- Dave's work queue would run dry before I could adequately fill it. Over the years I felt the stress of that in an increasing way, while Dave was underutilized. (There is only so much re-checking of UV coordinates on our 350-ish 3D model parts he could do before giving in to the temptation to gold plate the PVC piping for what I refuse to call "Pipe Dream 3: Solid Gold".)
At the very peak of production for Animusic 2, Dave and I worked full-time and for a brief while there we had another half-time person working remotely from California. So the extent of the production team at its largest was 2 1/2 people, and its smallest, one (yours truly).
But a business obviously needs someone to cover non-production areas, such as order fulfillment, inventory, and the exciting world of bookkeeping. During the Animusic 2 timeframe, we had a couple of people working remotely (only one full-time), and an additional person helping with business development. He also worked remotely from CA, being paid a fraction of what he's worth, often working gratis. (Being a caring friend, he's still helping and advising today.) So headcount on the biz side also peaked at 2 1/2, decreased to just Dave splitting his time up to include non-art activities (e.g. customer support, stuffing envelopes), then as of a few weeks ago...0.
Well, my lovely, patient, and persevering wife stepped in a while ago to ensure the "shipping department" continues to fill mail bins with outgoing packages. Some of these have gone to you all, and some are in the hopper. One of Dave's non-artistic responsibilities was maintaining a "database" (read: Excel spreadsheets) of each Kickstarter tier. Being a detail-oriented artist, Dave is meticulous in all he organizes, so our Kickstarter data is suitable for framing. Not a pixel out of place. But really not the most fulfilling artistic undertaking, nor best use of a talented artist...
Animusic Today
So where are we today? It's me on production, my wife handling shipping, and my dad applying his years of experience with small businesses needing help with database stuff (and my mom applying her years of experience working with my dad). My dad (with my mom’s help) preps a batch remotely, sends Pat the data, and she stuffs CD's and T-shirts. I'll be completely transparent with you all (despite it being more than a little embarrassing): there have been times when we have had to hold off sending out a batch until we could afford the postage.
Struggles & Challenges
Chronic Fatigue, ADHD, Bell’s palsy,...
Until now, I've chosen not to directly address some of the personal struggles I've had, because (1) I didn't want them to sound like a bunch of excuses, and (2) I didn't want family, friends, or relatives to be broadsided by sharing with you all what they may not have been aware of. At this point, that's no longer much of an issue.
Over the last few years, I have had periods of severe fatigue with no apparent explanation (some have suggested Lyme's Disease, which isn't out of the question in our area). Several years ago I was diagnosed with ADHD and pretty severe depression. I'm actually not entirely sure I believe that, and I neither embrace it nor see myself as a victim. On the other hand, I can't deny that I struggle mentally sometimes in ways I don't immediately see in anyone else. Yet as some will point out, I seem to be able to do things most others can't as well. So, I'm unique. We're all unique in wonderful ways.
It gets weirder. The day after we shot the Kickstarter video I was eating breakfast and telling my wife my left eye felt dry. She was noticing that the left half of my face was not keeping up with the rest of me, and I was slightly slurring my speech. Nope, not a stroke (but good guess). Cranial Nerve #7 on the Left side apparent decided it had had enough Left eye blinking, smiling, frowning, and pronouncing the Left side of words. Less than 12 hours after the Kickstarter video shoot, no less.
It's called Bell's Palsy, and is often just temporary (gradually subsiding over a few weeks). I optimistically assumed I’d be fine in 2 weeks, but a year later, the Left half of my face had only improved about 40% (where it leveled out). At this point, my Left Eye closes far enough that I usually don't have to consciously blink or put in drops. But on some days it's completely blurry, and I effectively work with one good eye. If I'm really lucky, I will sometimes see 3 separate images of the screen, which I would have sworn was impossible with just 2 eyes. It's not.
RSI
But the most challenging (and least favorite) health issue for me is, unfortunately, all too common these days: RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury). Apparently I'm pretty intense at my workstation, and lock my mouse-hand (Right) in very strained positions (there’s actually a name for it...”the claw”), especially when precisely click-dragging animation or MIDI key frames. Too many 14-hour days of mouse-wrestling -- I can no longer use a normal mouse. I tried a vertical mouse (initially great, eventually worse), but finally settled on to a Wacom tablet and pen I had in the closet from years ago. But it's hard to break the habit of over gripping. During the final stages of mixing the So12 CD I would wake up in the morning with a slightly swollen hand and red knuckles.
Frustratingly, Right-hand finger #2 (middle) now involuntarily curls under when I type on a computer keyboard, while finger #3 (ring) is beginning to sympathize with the rebellion. More troubling: on a synth (or piano) keyboard, finger #2 curls under so finger #3 tries to cover for both (but it’s weak and slow). No more Rick Wakeman riffs for me, and the semi hunt-and-peck typing really obstructs the flow. I need to be more consistent about using the voice dictation headset (case in point: just realized I'd forgot it was on, had reverted to typing, and now finger #3 and the tendons above the Metacarpal really ache).
So I've explored trackpads, Midi knobs, X-keys, launchpad, voice recognition, iPad remote, LeapPad, Spaceball, Joystick and XBox 360 controllers. (No, not all at the same time). Some help more than others (winners: X-keys, voice, XBox controller). And I can tell you that obstruction by unfamiliar controllers is pretty distracting.
Hope for the Future
There is one very concrete element that is expected to propel the completion of this project in a significant and tangible way. Years ago I would dream about this magical “some day” thing....
Real-time Rendering, meaning that instead of each frame taking 20+ minutes to compute one single frame (30 frames per second of animation), we could see the results at the same speed they’d be viewed by the audience. Back then it was assumed to mearly be daydreaming.
Unreal Engine 4
Enter Unreal Engine, originally a video-game creation platform (with associated compromises in render quality), has evolved to become what is now increasingly used outside the gaming industry for pre-rendered video projects in areas from scientific visualization to entertainment. Videos that can be choreographed in real-time (or near-real-time) and rendered far, far, far faster than with the old render farm approach (with racks of servers running all night).
UE4 is very deep, and I'm still ramping up into what is probably the solution we've wanted all along. I’m also using Python more to shuttle data between AnimusicStudio, Luxology Modo, and UE4. I feel like I'm finally looking at a production pipeline that is actually right for us, and that I have reason to hope. That may sound like a Hallmark card, but it's not. It simply reflects my conscious decision to shift my focus from past failures and setbacks (the voices of gloom and doom) to hope in the future, unfolding now.
Single Focus
Although it’s been suggested by more than one doctor as well as family members that I really need to ease up and take a break, I don’t see that as a viable possibility any time soon. The commitment to finish Animusic 3 is at the forefront of my mind every waking moment.
:-(
Perhaps some people are motivated by disparaging comments, slanderous accusations, and even threats, but I’m not one of them. What motivates me is not doubt, suspicion, guilt, or shame, but encouragement and understanding.
Do you wonder if I feel bad? Oh, man...you have no idea. No idea. If I thought it would help get Animusic 3 done, I'd hang my head and mope around for years. That sure hasn't helped thus far. So...
Onward
With that said, I do want to again thank all of you for being with us along this much-longer-than-anticipated journey. I do not take your support lightly! I wish the production had progressed way more quickly, yet here we are. Disappointing people is not something I enjoy! At all.
I truly believe that God created me and put me here on earth to bring joy to people...through music in general, Animusic most specifically. That’s my mission, and that’s what I will do.
Wayne
Richard Gordon am August 22, 2015
Thank you, Wayne, for the update. Health comes first. Has to. Every time. Without it, nothing else is possible. Then comes communication. That generates understanding and patience in the world around you, which helps with the breathing room and time needed to create. So, please, take all the time you need to make the A3 that makes you (and all of us who were along for the ride even in our own very incidental way) proud! But, first your health, and then communication - for, as far as I'm concerned, as long as it takes until you are satisfied...
James O. am August 21, 2015
Mr. Lytle,
I want to see Animusic 3 some day. But not at the expense of anyone's health. I will spare everyone a recitation of my own medical escapades, and merely say that I understand, and those who have not experienced things like that can't understand it, not really (and I hope they never really understand, as the cost of that knowledge is far too high).
But I also understand how sometimes having a goal is the only thing that gets you through. So if working on Animusic 3 helps, do it when you can and want to, and don't do it when you can't or don't want to.
If it eventually gets done, great. If not, well, it was only money (I'm pretty sure I've paid way more to hospitals just for advil pills than I've ever paid to you!). Besides, I've made more money since then; I don't need that little bit back.
Kickstarter projects are like life: always a gamble, and never sure if or how it will pay off. I wish more people understood that. But life is far more important than all the Kickstarter projects put together. Please keep that in mind, good sir.
Bud Willner am August 21, 2015
Just say to yourself that you can do it and you can so hang in there.
Charles Ruth am August 21, 2015
Hey Wayne,
I'm with Dave and the rest of the good folks here. Take care of yourself first. I am 77 and right now I am having trouble with typing with my right hand for some of the reasons you list, so I know what it is like.
You have given us (or at least me) hours of pleasure. So slow down, get better and it will.
Have a great year.
Chuck Ruth
West Palm Beach, Fl
Dave Firbank Sr. am August 21, 2015
Having past 70 and getting dumped on by all those pesky "junk genes" we inherit, I can well appreciate your problems. The program is far enough behind schedule that taking some "personal and family health" time whether 6 weeks or 6 months will do more to get the job done as you would want, than plowing on regardless (damn the torpedo's etc.) And you may still have most of your sanity as well. Interesting thing about humans; we have a "3 month memory" for political and social events. The delay with A3 is long enough that it's past that "I forgot to remember it was late point". So another delay for health reasons is in the best interests of everyone involved. What ever you decide is good by me, more financial input (?) good by me!! Good health first, then all things will be as they should. Good things come to those who wait; Great things come to those who are willing to wait longer!
Dave R Firbank sr.
British Columbia
Rob den Dunnen am August 21, 2015
Hello Wayne, and family,
I have read the response from fellow backers, and I'm glad that so many sympathize with you.
After having read your post carefully, I understand that you've made every effort to not disappoint your fans.
Take the time to realize your great work in the future.
I wish you a speedy recovery, and take care.
Regards, Rob
The Netherlands.
Kendric Beachey am August 21, 2015
Wayne, I was so excited to see your note I literally put two fists in the air at my desk at work. I've been listening to Future Retro in my head all day since I read it.
I'm sending positive vibes your way and wishing you the best of luck in getting the RSI mitigated - it sure sounds like you are on the ball in your search for a solution! What a blessing that your wife, dad, mom, etc are giving support with some of the other functions.
I would also love to chip in a few bucks a month via Patreon or whatever. I'm sure my kickstart money has already served its purpose, and I stopped feeling its absence long ago.
Stay healthy, stay sane, stay awesome!
BUZZSAW am August 21, 2015
My mom had Bell's Palsy and I know all about that.
I'm a lot like you in certain ways, and appreciate your attitude about things. I spent 30 years as a musician and then 8 as a studio engineer and producer. I can understand all that it takes to do a project, and what you're doing is way beyond what I ever did.
I hope that if your energy really gets low you take a break even if only for a day. I hope you eat well even if you don't get ideal sleep.
I can wait indefinitely for the final DVD, and have enjoyed the CD a lot. I gave you an amount of money that I could easily afford, and if for some reason I don't get a DVD, I don't care as you have already demonstrated your talent with the first two projects and deserve all the help you can get. If I wasn't out of work right now, I'd send you $150 which is a lot more than my original contribution. But I'd do it as I know it would be going to a fine artistic cause ultimately.
I'm hoping that by saying that, others will chip in some more money, knowing they are SPONSORING AN ARTIST and not waiting for a guaranteed timeline.
As you indicated, there are people who like to hear from you more often, though I had no problem with the frequency of your communications. I also know that I hate communicating with someone unless I have something new and significant to report, but we both need to learn that some people need to hear from either of us more often.
I might have overlooked something in your list, but what I like to use for a mouse is the Logitech Thumb ball. Mine is for a right hand, I have it glued to my station so it doesn't move around, and all control is done with your thumb. I find I don't have that rigid "tension" in my hand, which I used to have years ago with a standard mouse. Maybe you've already tried this, but you may know someone who'll let you borrow one.
Please know that as you've seen below, you have a bunch of people who support you and wish the best for you, totally apart from the project. Anyone else who is critical or unsupportive probably did not invest their life savings on Kickstarter for your project, and though I know you will worry about those people, I hope you don't, as I know you are a decent guy.
Stay healthy and it will be done some day. Overdoing it would only get it done a little sooner, NOT a lot sooner. I'm glad you let people know you're only one guy. I hope you remember that, too.
All the best!
Mike Weunski am August 21, 2015
Hey I moved how can I get my new address set up?
Andy Pilcher am August 21, 2015
Still with ya, man. Echoing a thankfully common sentiment here, take your time. Your health is a much higher priority than your (admirable) work ethic. Please do not sacrifice your health for a job, no matter how passionately you feel about it. I can relate to that and am perhaps not the best example in that respect, but I've learned how to say "no" when it's needed. And yes, just say the word on additional financial support, I'm in for that as well. Frankly, the longer the DVD takes, the sweeter it will feel when it is actually finished! Thank you for sharing your gift with us! I've been enjoying SO12 ("My King" is probably my favorite track), that's plenty for now.
Kevin Hill am August 21, 2015
Hang in there Wayne!...Although I don't know you personally I can tell by your words and your work on Animusic that you're 100% dedicated to this thing but when push comes to shove you MUST take care of yourself first. I have no doubt that this thing will get finished, and as much as I want to see it done this isn't life or death for me here...We love and appreciate all that you've done for us so far and I'm sure Animusic 3 will be more than worth the wait. :)
René Yedema am August 21, 2015
Take care, Wayne. Health is more important than anything.
Thanks for the update.
Simon Meacock am August 21, 2015
Thanks for the update, I'd rather wait and have you finish it properly than have you stress yourself out. Set yourself a manageable work schedule and stick to it. It'll come out when it comes out... :o)
Kelly Haskins am August 21, 2015
Wayne, if you do set up a Patreon account, I will support you there too.
To my fellow backers, I have to say that I am very touched by all of the positive comments. I'm sitting here in tears because you are all so supportive. Animusic fans are the best. :)
Kelly Haskins am August 21, 2015
(Sorry for the duplicate post from the general comments area, but I didn't realize you could comment on a particular post. Plus I want to add that I would also be happy with a downloadable copy of Animusic 3, so you can save on material/shipping costs on the DVD.)
Hey Wayne, thanks for sending the update this evening. First things first: I believe in you. my husband and son and I are tremendous fans of Animusic, and own the first 2 DVDs, which we've watched so often it's amazing they still play. Your music and art are truly unique, and we are willing to wait for you...we are willing to wait for Animusic 3...because we enjoy your creations so much. It's simple. Sure, I would have loved to have already received the DVD for #3. But, I can sympathize with your challenges. I'm sorry for what you've been through and hope that you gain some positive energy from fans like me and my family, who will be so entirely thrilled when we finally do see that [digital download link or] DVD come in the mail. To the rest of the backers, I hope that you take a moment and consider your comments. Even though many (most?) of you are upset, impatient, and have given up that you'll ever see your rewards, I hope you can see that supporting Wayne is in everyone's best interests. And I hope that Wayne will send us updates more often, because I bet most of the backer anger is due to a lack of communication. To Wayne again: if there is bad news, tell us. If there is good news, tell us. We are your supporters and we just want to know how it's going. And, you know, to eventually receive the backer rewards. :) Hang in there! (P.S. Please oh please oh please someday make the Animusic Studio available as a product because it would be so dang awesome to be able to create our own songs and animations. We dream about it in our family - someday sitting in front of the PC or XBox and sharing our creations with the rest of Animusic fandom. :)
Michael Shumate am August 21, 2015
I send you my good thoughts and hope that you can complete A3 without any further deterioration of your health.
John Kay am August 21, 2015
Wayne - you rock! And I mean that in the traditional sense too. As far as I'm concerned you finish it in your own time as I know it's worth waiting for. I can't offer any practical help so you will have to make do with my best wishes for your health and your family and please remember that your health and family are more important than any CD - even an Animusic one!
Terri am August 21, 2015
Nevermind..... I finally found the address on your webpage:
99 Eastlake Rd.
Ithaca, NY 14850
Check is in the mail. Look for it. Anyone else? Let's help him out!
Also, for my part, I'd much rather have the DVD, than a poster. Let's get to the prize and worry about the niceties later.
Robert Tuttle am August 21, 2015
Stuff happens in life, and the reality is how you see it. I am very glad that you posted your comments, because it gives all of us a reality check. It is also great hearing that your family is helping. Keep up the great work and think positive - It will work out in the end.
Terri am August 21, 2015
Wayne, please post a snail mail address where we all can send you further support. We want to see this succeed, but not at the expense of your family and health. Thanks!
Moses Lambert am August 21, 2015
Is there anything that we can do to help? I wouldn't mind at all kicking in some more money if that's what you need. I just want to get the album - I dearly love A1 & A2 - frequently play them.
Phil Carter am August 21, 2015
Chiming in to offer my own words of encouragement. We have never doubted that you were still working on the project, but the long periods of silence were discouraging. As one or two other people have remarked, all we were hoping for was a little bit more communication. :)
That said, having read every word of this update, I am horrified at what you've been going through. Please take care of yourself first -- I (and others) do want to see Animusic 3 eventually, but not at the expense of destroying your health, your sanity, and your relationships.
I would also like to confirm what several other people have mentioned. Given your comments on financial difficulties, I am assuming that means that the $$ which was originally pledged in the Kickstarter project has been utilized already. Please consider setting up a Patreon account so that interested backers (and I'm sure there are many of us) who are interested in helping to defray your monthly expenses can assist with that. I got into this wanting to support your company's artistic endeavors, and a few more bucks a month won't hurt. I already support a number of other artists on Patreon.
Stay well, and never doubt that despite the naysayers, there are plenty of other people out here pulling for you!
Rob am August 21, 2015
Thanks for the update. Will wait as long as it takes. Enough said.
Steven Jurick am August 21, 2015
Wayne,
Thanks for that update. I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Dave and your health. I will not dry up and blow away if I don't get Animusic 3 anytime soon so don't sweat it. I completely empathize with your plight and wish you nothing but God Speed going forward. Keep up the great work and look forward to reading the next update. I'm still having fun watching all the old Animusic videos :)
Sandy Ressler am August 21, 2015
Hey Wayne...whooahhh lots of crap going on in life...but keep on keepin' on as I suspect most of us "fans" are still behind you...I sure am. Moving to Unreal Engine also opens up a whole host of other possibilities (i.e. doing VR environments) but clearly you also need to focus. I might suggest that you focus on one song/video and release it. Concrete finished output would no doubt be very mentally satisfying. Good luck and don't give up it will happen!
Tammy Lindsay am August 21, 2015
Thank you so much for the greatly detailed update. I fully support you and your project and I'm happy to say I am along for the journey that is Animusic 3. I support you and the project.
P.S. put your health before the project's health! We don't want anybody hurt :(
Khalil Elbaggari am August 21, 2015
Thanks for the update and sorry to hear about all the bumps in the road. Speaking for my self, I don't mind waiting for Animusic 3. Your health comes first!
Take care :)
Butch Heth am August 21, 2015
Wayne,
As fluently stated by others, we are backing a creative endeavor, and not worried about a time schedule. My children are grown, but they enjoyed 1 and 2 , and my grandchildren really enjoy what they have, and are excited to see the new release. If it takes a long time, we're patient. Please let us all know if there's a way to assist financially to grease the wheels. I know throwing money isn't always the solution, but we trust your judgement.
Joseph A Thompson am August 21, 2015
As many others have said, Wayne, take care of yourself first. We can wait for the DVD! We know it will be worth waiting for!
The PA Sinfonia Orchestra am August 21, 2015
We are all supporting your work and we are willing to wait. I know it will be beautiful when you finish it. And I too would be willing to kick in some more money.
Deborah Diesen am August 21, 2015
When my kids were younger and watched the Animusic 1 & 2 DVDs, they often turned on the part with your voice, and listened to your commentary. So as I read your Kickstarter update, I could “hear” your voice talking to your backers. And the voice that I heard was that of a talented, thoughtful, and honest person.
As I see the role of backer, it's not really about backing a particular outcome. We're backing a creative act, and the people (now person) doing the creating. I hope that as you continue on this Animusic journey, at whatever pace is right for you, that you remember to treat yourself with compassion and kindness, just as you would anyone else facing the struggle of being a creative person in an imperfect world. Take care of yourself, and let go of the worries that you’ve let folks down. You haven’t. Any backer who doesn’t recognize that wasn’t truly a backer in the first place.
In tough times, people are fond of saying that everything happens for a reason. I don’t buy into predestiny thinking, but I do think that if you remain open and self-compassionate in the midst of it all, there is room for other things, some of them quite wonderful, to attach to the difficult circumstances. These are the things that later seem to have been the very reason for the struggle.
What you’ve gone through these last several years has been immense, but you’re still standing, putting your heart into the joy of music. That’s an amazing accomplishment. Thank you!
Barbara Kramer am August 21, 2015
Your health is more important than the project. Take care of yourself and the rest will follow. Hard to believe any of your backers would feel otherwise, but please don't let the negatives get the better of you. Keep on keeping on.
Bruce Paul Fink am August 21, 2015
Very much looking forward to what you come up with in the end, but value your health and life more as an artist working out directions and results way beyond the norms. As a life long sculptor and full time individual active and loner artist of 60 plus years I feel some of your frustrations but your quality of living would still be my greatest wishes for what you are doing. Hug your family for me as your local being supporters also.
Kathleen Wyatt am August 21, 2015
Having read the comments that were posted prior to mine, I agree with those who have offered to help with expenses. If you figure out a way to set that up, let us know!
Kathleen Wyatt am August 21, 2015
Thank you, Wayne, for the update. I know there are some who don't care what the circumstances are, they just want their stuff, but I think most of us who have enjoyed Animusic and shared it with family and friends don't care how long it takes as long as we know we haven't been forgotten or abandoned. I wish you well, and my prayers will include you and your family. The project somehow managed to grow into an immense monster that you all are still trying to tame, and I certainly give you credit for hanging in there despite everything that has gone on because of, and in addition to that monster. I know that it is hard to take precious time away from the project to write an update, but please remember to "write home" once in a while!
Danielle Nicolet Dormont am August 21, 2015
Hello, thank you for that message. Luck for the future. Do not lose confidence. Take care of yourself and your family before anything else. Friendships Switzerland (Google translation because I don't spreak English)
Siriuscybernetic am August 21, 2015
Thank you for your open update! Take care! one more comment to read and on your plate... <;-) ...
John Dean am August 21, 2015
Thanks for the update. That's all it takes to keep most of the wolves at bay, I think. Sorry to hear about all the struggles you've been going through, glad to see you're still pushing on, and am patient that Animusic 3 will arrive when it arrives. I'd rather wait for a good product than get a rushed one.
David Abrames am August 21, 2015
Wayne, It is really nice to hear from you. Really sorry to hear that Dave is no longer with you. I understand your frustrations and difficulties and all the other 'stuff' you have had to deal with. I have tried to send you notes of support and encouragement from time to time so I hope that has helped. I fully agreed with all the other positive comments and if you come up with a way for us to help with some of your costs please let us know I know your really true fans and supporters will only be too glad to help all we can. I did not invest in this project to get a DVD but to support an artist.
Clea Forsell am August 21, 2015
I'm so sorry to hear things have been so rough for you, I have faith that you can complete Animusic 3 and eagerly look forward to seeing it. Fighting!!!! ^_^
Jaron Viëtor am August 21, 2015
What those people under my said! We've all waited so long, we can wait longer.
You may want to consider creating a patreon.com account, as this seems to be more of an ongoing thing that will need regular funds as opposed to a one-time-funding thing.
I'd happily pay a few dollars a month in exchange for regular updates on progress and nothing more... and I'm sure many others would, too! That might lighten your load a little, especially if you make it clear up front that people are paying for updates only. We'd be supporting your work, not demanding results. Just a suggestion, but it seems like a good fit for the situation to me...
Sean Farbolin am August 21, 2015
Wayne, I'm with Dave 100%. Take care of yourself. Try not to stress. I'm a huge fan of Animusic, and I am glad to hear it's still chugging along, but I can wait. Don't forget that our lives are not on hold for this. I look forward to the day I get an email saying the project is complete, but I'm not going to get mad or upset that it hasn't happened yet. The backers aren't a crowd of 3000 angry customers demanding a product. We're (at least most of us, I think) a community of 3000 fans that love the work you've done and gave you money to be able to make more. You should enjoy the work and not feel obligated to spend 14 hours a day on the computer. Schedule time off. You need it. You may even be more productive. There is definitely a law of diminishing returns when it comes to sitting at a workstation for way too long. I have a degree in Animation and know all too well how much it sucks to be in that position. I can't imagine trying to maintain it like you have. Speaking of which, I am now living amongst some fantastic digital artists (at least a couple I know are already fans of Animusic) and working as a 3D modeler myself right now. In fact, I am creating models that are used in a custom application with specially placed tracking points. If there's something that I can do or pitch to a friend with a useful specialty, I'd love to help out. You've got my email.
Again though, most importantly, take it easy! How long have you been on the computer? Get up and go outside! We support you!
Patrik Gunnersten am August 21, 2015
Dave Hamara alreday nailed it in his comment, take care of yourself and focus on YOU!
My money is just money and there is more to back you further.
fredgiblet am August 21, 2015
Good to hear that things are still moving. I personally approach every KS with the due date as a suggestion, not a guarantee. I'll be here when you're done, and I'd rather it be done right than fast.
Dawn Glaser Ortiz am August 21, 2015
Not sure that you will be reading this anytime soon due to your crazy load, but wondered if the RollerBall Pro 2 mouse or a mouse run by your feet would be of any help. Not sure on the precision of the foot mouse, but have seen several variations of mice. Outpt occupational therapy might help some too with the fingers, splint at night to help rest. Take care of yourself now, before anything becomes permanent!!!
Dave Hamara am August 21, 2015
Whoa, Dude - you seriously have to take care of yourself before us! This is Kickstarter - I can't believe people are giving you a hard time. What don't they understand about "backer"? It's not like any of us are going to starve on your account. Hell, I'll chip in another $50 if it will help.
You said you wanted to develop this awesome "Animusic Editor", and it sounds like you have already accomplished that. In spite of everything, you have the software up and running and you can build and animate models. That's seriously cool! And I have SO12 on the playlist in my car - I'm certainly in no hurry to get the CD. Put me at the bottom of the list. From one engineer/artist to another - Seriously, pat yourself on the back for a job well done so far, and take a break. Beating yourself daily until your morale improves just doesn't work :) Relax for a while, and play with your new toy when the muse strikes. I'll wait.
LIke I said, I'm happy to chip in a few bucks to help keep the project (and the artist) alive. Just tell me how. ANd from reading the comments, I expect I'm not alone in this.
Julie Verley am August 21, 2015
Hugs to you, Wayne. Please just keep on keepin' on. True fans will always be here for you and we understand that Life sometimes takes control with projects.
I'll always be here.
Hugs, Julie
Wacek am August 21, 2015
Hello Mr. Wayne,
thank you for this open and very detailed and emotional update.
Sure, people are waiting for the result, but not at any price! So please, please be a little bit egoistic! Think of you, your wife, and your family.
Your fans can wait. Especially, if AniMusic 3 will carry the label "tbc" instead of "In remembrance of Mr. Wayne, who put his whole energy to finish this one DVD".
Take care!
All the best from good old Germany!
Allen Cobb am August 21, 2015
Getting more rest, staying healthy, not rushing -- these will produce better software, and faster. For all the stress, maybe learn TM -- it's saved my own stress issues for 40 years (20 of which were writing elaborate code in assembler). In any case, ignore the complaints, and know that we're in awe of your creativity, and Animusic has inspired us for years. And blown our friends' minds again and again. We want you around for a long time, gently fostering new and more delightful waves of creativity in sight and sound. That's the priority. Take it easy. Work hard and accomplish the impossible -- but DON'T RUSH! Enjoy the legions of admiring Animusic lovers who are savoring what is yet to come. Take excellent care of yourself. We're pulling for you, happily, with all the best thoughts for your health and happiness. That comes first.
Osrosk am August 21, 2015
Thanks for the update!
I primarily supported you and your work, so it's great to hear something about your work.
The DVD is secondary (but I can't say that I'm not looking forward to it ;-)!
/A "people person's"