Crowe - Letters of Support

I’ve been an avid fan of yours since LAC. When I thought of what words of support I could give you now, I concluded that the best support I can give is some solid advice. So here goes!

1. Make another major motion picture as soon as possible. CM is a great film and without question, the best film of 2005 thus far. I’m sure that the June release, the phone incident, the high price of theater tickets and concessions, and the early release of DVDs do have an impact on the box office. But in my opinion, the real problem here is your decision to make so few films the past several years. I’m certain that you’ve heard the expressions “When you’re hot, you’re hot" and “Don’t mess with success.” After ABM we had to wait 2 years for M&C and then another 1 ½ years for CM. For those who are not avid Russell Crowe fans, that translates into “Out of sight, out of mind”. To make matters worse, since ABM the only time you appear in the U.S. now is to promote your latest picture and CD, then, you’re out of here. Even if you are considered by many (including myself) to be the greatest actor of our generation, you need to be more visible in the U.S. That means making a major motion picture at least once a year, going to award shows even if you’re not nominated, and the like - because without the fans you don’t have the box office.

1b. Another argument for making at least one picture a year is that when something negative does occur it gives the vultures something else to talk about, rather than obsessing over the negative incident. For 2 years following ABM, whenever your name was mentioned, all I ever heard was how the BAFTAs cost you a 2^nd Oscar and how fat you were becoming. (All the later required was a quick PR fix stating that you were gaining weight for your next picture, M&C. Not only did Hanks and Zellweger not have any PR problems gaining and losing weight for a film, they were admired for it because it was announced why they were doing it.) So when you do something that arouses negative press, you must come back quickly with another feature film, otherwise the public and the media are left with nothing else to talk about.

2. Although you would never want to make a bad film (particularly at this point in your career), not every film you do has to be nominated for Oscars. Look at the careers of Hanks, DeNiro, and Penn the past 5 years. A romantic, sexy film with Nicole Kidman may not have garnered any awards, but it would have been gold worldwide.

3. No more negative press – either intentional or unintentional. That just doesn’t work for you. Your fan base ranges in age from people in their 30’s to those in their 70’s. In the U.S., ADULTS don’t like to see their movie idols behave in irresponsible, irrational or unacceptable ways. And it’s a given that in order for any actor to be successful, they must have the fans behind them.

3b. I just heard on TV that you also threw a vase that night in the hotel. If that’s not true, your PR people need to make a statement immediately to refute the allegation. Saying nothing only makes the situation worse. If the allegations are true, do what you have to do and get on with it. In the future, have your personal assistant handle these things. Never, never put yourself in the line of fire!

4. The next time that you go on a long promotional tour or on location to shoot a film, it’s obvious you need to have your wife and son with you. You have more mobility now with Charlie, before he starts school, then you will later on. And as a musician, Dani should be able to compose music anywhere. The truth is that in order for any marriage to survive, and for a family to grow and thrive, everyone involved must take turns sacrificing for the greater good. So the next time that you go on location, forget the hotels. Have the studio rent you a house with a piano and a nice backyard for a dog and Charlie’s toys.

In conclusion, very few people in the world are blessed with one golden opportunity after another throughout their entire lives. For most people, they’re lucky if they’re handed even one good opportunity in a lifetime. Then there are those rare people that through hard work and sheer determination make their own opportunities in life. And that’s you Russell!! Win the crowd!

Good Luck and God Bless.

Love, Claudia

I am so happy that you have found the love of your life and have been blessed with a beautiful, precious son. Thank you for sharing him with us through pictures and updates as he learns and grows. I hope you know how much we hold dear the fact that you,ve allowed us a peek into the window of your family..

I'm sure there are times when you look out at the crowds of people (women) clamoring to get to you and you think we,re all crazy (scary) and need to get a life. While some of that may be true, LOL, the thing I hope you understand is that we want to see you to, in some small way, thank your for the positive impact you've had on our lives. There are many of us who have dared to step out of the ruts we were in, reached out to experience life in new and different ways and met some of the most wonderful people because of the influences and examples set by you. Just looking at the names of others who have posted letters of support for you, I see names of people I have actually met and some who are now wonderful, close friends. I would have never met them if it weren't for our mutual interest in you, your movies and your music.

I"m very much looking forward to the new album and the proposed tour! Please keep the memories of Stubbs BBQ and Shiner Bock on your taste buds! ;)

Dear Russell,
Every time I listen to "Raewyn," it makes so much emotion well up within me. Having recently lost my father, your words have helped me put some of my own sorrow into perspective. This is such a powerful and poignant song about love and loss, and it will always be close to my heart.
You give so much of yourself in both your music and your acting, and I appreciate that immensely. So many of the characters you've portrayed will always stay with me, because you brought them so vividly to life, as only you can do. Your films have given me hours of enjoyment, taking me on journeys that I'll always remember. Your music has touched me as well; you write from the heart, and I am always moved by the openness and honesty of your lyrics. Thank you for all that you have done and all that you are, as both an artist and a person; you've certainly enriched my life. - Gayla

*************************

Hey, Russell,

Wanted to say thanks so much for the letters to us. You shouldn't have to explain and justify every little thing you do, that's gotta be terribly frustrating -- but we're happy to read or hear anything you have to say. Let the gossip writers go to the devil in their own time, if you can; we still think you're "strong and brave and good with tools" regardless - .lol.

Loved Raewyn. I love it when theres more to a poem or a story or a song than first meets the eye,or ear, I guess, because the music gave the lyrics more meaning than I had expected. I'm looking forward to the rest of the album, thanks so much for sharing your family stories, your personal stories with us. I know you've said you write them down because you have to, but I also know there's something of a cost when you put something so personal out in front of the public. I think even beyond the pleasure we get from the music, most of us appreciate and value the act of revelation itself as it deserves to be valued.

And I have to echo Cindy---I know there are some legitimate concerns about Charlie being photographed, but I feel like a fond auntie whenever I see a picture of your beautiful boy, so forgive us if we get too enthusiastic about that. He's such a sweetie.

You sign autographs, "Love, Russell" or at least you used to! so here's some backatcha.

xxx's, MsMac (MM01)

PS. The Preacher! The Preacher! Please, oh, please, we wanna hear the Preacher!!

*********************************

Russell,
I just want to let you know how much I'm enjoying Raewyn. If this is any indication of the rest of the songs, I can't wait to get My Hand, My Heart.
My prayers are with you, Dani, and Charlie.
Paulette

Russell - Raewyn is a beauiful, song,cant wait to hear the rest of the song,s, you put so much love into the songs,also when you are acting, u have somethig that draws me to the film,every film i have seen you in is great,I loved The Sum of Us,i watched that cos of the story i did not know you than,and it is a great film of the love between a father and his son, and the fact that is son was gay,and he stood by him, you everything into your film's has you do with your songs,you also have A Beautiful Mind, Russell,and Heart, good luck, pat

Russell, I think your new song Raewyn is beautiful. It sets the mind, the time and the mood. Very quiet and thoughtful. Am looking forward to May 10 and the rest of My Hand MY Heart. Carol S.

Dear Russell,

Just want to thank you for the many hours of pleasure I have had in watching your many films and going to your concerts in Austin and Chicago. I have all of your films on either DVD or video tape and all of your CDs. They are very prized possessions of mine.

Also, I have had a chance to meet many wonderful people all over the world who are your fans whom I would never have met if we hadn't all been fans of yours. Thank you so much for this also.

.....and also thank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings in your song Raewyn. ...and in your other songs. You are a master story teller both in your music and your films.

Wishing you, Dani, and Charlie the very best!

Phylis Johnson, Dallas, TX

Just to say that I really enjoy your music and acting. I'm really excited about the new release, it is a beauitful song. I makes me think of my sister whom I lost many years ago, she was 21. Hope that your family is doing well. I know that Charles is a hand full at the age that he is...(thoughts of my own kids at that age go through my mind)..big smile.....you and Dani will cherish these days forever. Looking forward to the movie in June. So best of wishes and keep doing all that you do for us all. A true fan forever.

dd

Dear Mr.Crowe,
I am not an English-speaking person so I can´t convey all that I want to tell you.
You are so talented, so charismatic,so intense, so chamaleonic that you impress me every time I watch one of your films. You are the greatest actor now! I also think that you are a fascinating man, passionate and authentic .
I am looking forward to your next film, Cinderella Man, the truth is that I can´t wait any longer! I am also looking forward to your new album , which I will listen to with enjoyment, for the lyrics, the music and your voice, which is wonderful.
I hope you will star in many, many films because you are enormously talented!

Thank you, virginiamanis

********************************

I'm writing this with tears in my eyes right now. How could "Raewyn" not affect anyone who has lost someone through a premature death of a loved one? My Dad died suddenly at 42, when I was only 12 and my Mom had to raise my brother and sister who were both teenagers, and me. How many nights must she have lied awake shaking after losing her soul mate and worrying about how she would manage to raise this family? How many times did we not lend a hand or tell her that she meant the world to us?

Thanks Russell for putting into words the thoughts and emotions of so many of us. Keep up the good work. Can't wait to hear the whole album. I am looking forward with anticipation to your next project be it in music or movies. Wherever you set your mind to go, you put your heart and soul into it and it affects us.

Thanks again,
Joan

I am a 61 year old fan from North Dakota who really 'gets' where you are coming from, both creatively and personally. In my past lives I must have been a singer and an actor just like you. Your song 'Raewyn' is truly heartbreaking and breathtaking at the same time.

I hope you realize your fan base is very diverse, filled with complicated people, many of whom post their own insecurities on message boards. Just remember the fans out here who honestly admire the intelligence, wit, creative genius, and love of family that you represent.

Thank you for the beautiful song, "Raewyn." I especially like the way the delicacy of the music contrasts with the power of the message. It meant a lot to me to hear the personal story behind the song. Thank you for caring enough to write to us directly. I'm excited about this new, more immediate way of getting your music. As you said, it's like "fresh bread." Can't wait for the next taste!

Dear Russell,
I lost my mother nine years ago and I didn't cry. It wasn't because I didn't love her, I did. It was that she was very unhappy and decided in her own time when to die. When I heard Raewyn, I cried for my mom. It was something that I needed to do and thanks to you I could. Please don't let the negative people get to you, there are those who only get pleasure from hurting others.
I can't wait to download the rest of the songs, my favorite has always been "Painted Vail."Best wishes to you , Dani and Charlie and thanks for sharing. Please don't stop.
Thank you, Dreama

I lost my beloved father just a few days ago and I haven't cried. I lost my twin son at one day old and I never cried, but I cried at your song. I thank you for that. Cheryl

Dear Murph and RC

Theres no need to post my support for R, I do it everyday in my own way in Gruntland. I have a pretty good idea HE KNOWS how much I admire his work as an actor and his play as a musician.

What I would like to say is how much I appreciate Murphs news everyday. Its a job well done.

Thanks

*Cat w/cheshire smile

Russell, this song came from your soul and heart. You need to continue writing and producing music. It would be such a waste for you to quit. I have “Other Ways of Speaking” and “Bastard Life or Clarity” and listen to them all the time. I also have the dvd “Texas”. You are not only a rocker, but also a poet with all your music. I enjoy all levels of your music. You write from the heart.

Continue the excellent work!! I am truly a fan and support your music. -- Shirlene

I would simply like to say that I am really fortunately to be able to listen again your music and especially read these lyrics.

When I read Raewyn's lyrics ....... I was really touched. Our family, our wife/husband, our children ... are the most important things in life.

I also thank you for writing sometimes to your fans. It really pleases me and I also have the certainty of the exactness of what is written.

Many persons have a great affection for you and respect you ... you have to know that.

Your song Raewyn shows you are reflecting on your connection to the history of your family. That's part of your new direction in your life as a husband and parent. I am touched by your heart on the sleeve emotions and your honesty. Raewyn finds a private place in me too.

Its a beautifully produced song. You have found some wonderful and talented musicians to support you. Still, for me your song was too moody, too raw for comfortable listening. So I'm looking to hear some more uplifting songs on the rest of of your album.

Will you find time to tour in Australia as well as North America? I miss the old rocking Russell and hope that one day you will come back to give us an old fashioned rock and roll thrill. My best wishes for your new musical direction.

I listened to the song a few days ago, just after it was released, and was immediately touched by the emotion of the song. I thought of my dad, my mom, my children, my brother.....

You offered a piece of your soul in this song, may everyone see it for the precious value it holds.
I'm lookin forward to hearin the rest of your new CD~ y'all take care

I didn't know that much about Alan Doyle before Raewyn was released, but i really enjoyed listening to the joint radio interview you both gave last week, and think you have a great friend there. He seems like a really good (and cool) guy. I'm glad you were able to strike up a friendship and write some songs together from the heart. Music is such a great form of creative expression. Every painter that finishes a canvas can have joy in seeing something that's been a perfect expression of what they feel or see in their mind's eye. It's the same with music.

I'm sorry your family has had to inwardly deal with the sadness of your Aunt and Uncle's deaths for many years now. Perhaps you were led to write Raewyn in order to bring about a healing to yourself and those closest to you, as well as countless others who will hear your song, that could have lost a loved one through similar tragic circumstances. I've enjoyed reading the encouraging messages to you on here, and think each one has been from the heart. Just wanted to add mine, too. Here's sending a lot of positive thoughts and good wishes to you and Dani and little Charlie Boonker.

As a fan that "discovered" you in LA Confidential, I was impressed with the way you told a story. You used all facets of your being to convey the truth and integrity of what you were trying to say.

I'm proud to say that that can now extend to the songs you write. The biggest difference being it's your story and words that tell the story. For that, I thank you for letting us take a peek into your life. What a gift, to be such a sensitive and thoughtful storyteller. I can't wait to hear more!!

Dear Russell,

I appreciate you keeping in touch with us via this site, through the personal words and comments that you kindly allow Murph to share with all of us. I have to tell you that this past week has been full of many personal trials and difficulties for me, and receiving access to "Raewyn" was one of the bright spots that about made the rest of the week look up! The lyrics are beautiful and I admire your talent, the way you express yourself so strongly and so intimately through your music, and am grateful to you for sharing your emotions and your hopes and thoughts with me and the rest of the world.

I wish I could adequately describe how much and how deeply you've inspired me, as a musician, an actor, and as a human being. I think many of the people who are currently taking such cruel pleasure in cutting you down have forgotten that yes, you are a human being, just as they are, with faults and weaknesses and hurts and sorrows just like the rest of us. Only, the rest of us aren't having to account for everything we do to the entire planet (as you shouldn't have to do.). I love you for your honesty. I love that you have never tried to be anything that you weren't; that you've never backed down from standing up for things that you believe in or for fighting for what's fair. Through observing you, you have taught me to explore my own potential and talents, to stand up for myself and to be a stronger person who's true to my own self and my own beliefs. Besides giving me countless hours of joy watching your films, listening to your songs, and spending time with other wonderful friends around the world that I've met because of you, you've given me courage. The courage just to BE, and that's pretty powerful.

Thank you. - Lisa

****************************

Dear Russell,

I'm happy to have this chance to tell you what "Raewyn" means to me. Not that long ago, I lost a son about Lachlan's age, and my other son lost his only sibling. We all have learned that communication is essential to the healing process. There is nothing, nothing, more important in this life than family and loved ones. Thank you for bringing this beautiful song to us, and a cyber hug to Jocelyn and Alex for allowing us to share their pain.

I'm hoping that you will be able to ignore the "white noise" in the background and know that you have a great many supportive fans who wish you only the best in life, both in your film and musical endeavors, and with your beautiful young family.

I know you don't like having pictures of Charlie published, and I don't blame you, but I have to say that it thrills us to see that beautiful boy. Every time I see you talking about Charlie it makes me wish I could start those child-rearing years all over again.

Very much looking forward to downloading "My Hand, My Heart" and hearing your other collaborations with Alan Doyle. We've also been counting the days until "Cinderella Man" opens, it's been a long time coming, and judging from the trailer and the 'buzz', I think it's a winner. Of course, we're always eager to hear of your next film project, whenever you're ready, of course, LOL!

Very best to you, Dani, and Charlie.

Cindy

*************************************

Russell, your music brings joy to my soul and has on more than one occasion lifted me from the depths of despair. Your talent as an actor is immeasurable, you can convey with a look more than pages of script could.

Your joy in becoming a husband and father is contagious.

Keep doing what lifts your heart. Your talent is a gift that can't be learnt...enjoy it, and keep sharing it with us for as long as you can.

Bejay

Russell,

Occasionally I read poetry at random when things aren’t going right in my life. My dog, Bradley isn’t doing very well so I opened a poetry anthology and I read this line by Emily Dickenson:

Just a note of support for RC. I thoroughly enjoyed Raewyn, I think more so because of the background he shared with us. He is very gracious in terms of dealing with us and I for one am very thankful for that. A week or so ago, I posted my reasons for being a fan of his on the Network 54 board, as T/ronsgirl. If you had the opportunity to read it, it pretty well sums up my feelings on the subject. - Teresa

1. After plunking down my $.99 to iTunes, I finally got to hear Raewyn. I like the words and music. Part of it reminds me of the some of the songs from Master and Commanders violin and cello pieces.

It does not matter what the numbers on any chart are, because all we Russell fans really need is to hear the magnificent voice; whether it is talking, or singing.

2. Thank you Russell, and thanks for giving your side of the Garth story.

We haven't seen you and heard from you in a long while. Good Luck on the album and with Cinderella Man too.
Regards to your mates in and out of TOFOG.

Please come back to the NYC . -- Sally

**********************************
This was my first involvement with using iTunes. I bought a prepaid card for $15 and downloaded Raewyn after listening to the "teasing" 30 second portion several times. The song is great. Russell's voice truly sounds magical; his baritone sound can melt my soul. I did buy the other 3 albums of TOFOG here in the States.

I often said with all this new technology, if there was a store I could go to and pick just the songs I wanted and put them on CD's I could replay over and over for about $20, I would gladly do so. iTunes gives me that. But it was Russell's song that showed me the artist and the fan can both enjoy each other.

Thanks Russell -- Beverley, Michigan

Just finished listening to Raewyn. Bravo Russell. My “goose bump factor” for music is whether or not the song has passion, whether or not it grabs my heart, and Raewyn did that for me. Nothing in life affects a person more than the death of a loved one and the birth of a child. Everything changes after these events. My father died unexpectedly of a massive heart attack when I was only 25. I thought nothing else in life could be more disruptive and life-altering until I had my children, the latter of course being a joyful event. Still, it’s an ironic thing how such a joyful moment in life opens the floodgates to a new appreciation for the magnitude of loss. Somehow, seeing life begin deepens that place in our hearts for sorrow, as life has just become far more precious. Thanks for the song and God Bless your folks! - Mary

The song reminds me of the folk era & the great singer-songwriters of the 60's, 70's, etc. I can't wait for May 10th!

Please….pretty please let Russell know that he does have fans that appreciate all that he does – BOTH MUSIC AND ACTING! Let him know that we adore the fact that he is so open with his life and he shares so much with us. I cannot even begin to imagine how he must have felt reading some of the crap that was posted about Raewyn. - Madchen

Support For Russell