Dana Clark

"If you're having a bad day any day, you should hear Dana Clark make music. Clark is a singer and songwriter who plays piano, flute and guitar. Her music fuses folk, jazz, blues and pop. Her song subjects lean toward peace, freedom, compassion and spirituality. Clark is one of those rare people who not only believes the world can be a better place but works to help the world be a better place. The music on "Trust Your Heart," created by Clark, bassist/guitarist Kevin Lewis, and percussionist Julie, is varied, but the message is steady. Songs such as "Leap of Faith," "Most Miracles Are Made" and "Something to Believe" might make curmudgeons cringe, but if those curmudgeons actually listen, they'll have a better day. Believe it."

JIM BEAL 
SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

"I can tell from your compositions that you are a very caring individual with much compassion for those who face real challenges in their lives and for those who suffer real pain and hardship.  You truly want to help people through your music, and I am sure that you are.  I think you are someone who makes a difference in this mixed-up world in which we live. "Trust Your Heart to Lead You Home" especially touched me.  Sometimes I wake during the night and find that song running through my mind.  That's when I knew I needed to write to you.  Perhaps it has something to do with the unexpected loss recently of my brother.  I want to play this song for my sister-in-law.  I think it will help her.  It will give her hope for finding a new path in her life."

LINDA WAGGONER

"I want to thank you for an unusual opportunity to use one of your songs.  I purchased two of your CDs at a concert at First UU Church several months ago. I recently used "The Pleasure of My Pain" to introduce my class topic on abuse and neglect.  I teach mental health nursing at SAC.  The students were silent and speechless for several minutes after the song.  As you said in a recent post, "Words make you think a thought.  Music makes you feel a feeling.  A song makes you feel a thought."  Your song was more powerful than anything I could have said.  A couple of weeks ago a student in the class wanted to know where to get your CD.  She had looked in the expected stores after I gave students your name in class.  I showed her your website while she was in my office.  She looked me up again recently to tell me it was a gift to her sister who was in an abusive situation. She had left the guy after hearing your song of agony and hope.   

I plan to use your song each time I teach the class.  Never know how many lives you touch.  Thanks so much."

GAIL DAY

"I heard the CD, especially the song "Pleasure of My Pain,"…in a mental health class… My Prof. had all the students in class remain quiet as we listened to the whole song.  She then asked us what we thought about the woman going through her personal abuse with her husband.  The song was really touching and strong.  I fell in love with all the words!   [Two women I know] both had been going through emotional and physical abuse…They recently both got out of their relationships & are trying to cope being without their significant others in making positive changes for themselves.  I told them that I would try to get them that particular song, so they could understand they’re not alone & that they will get through all their pain that they’re currently feeling and let it go to move on. Thank you for your inspiring music. It's good therapy!  "

"Dana Clark sings as she lives: soulfully, hopefully, passionately. Her melodies and messages evoke our own deepest desires for harmony among people of the world. Dana believes in people, in the power of people to rise up, united in positive action. We can believe along with Dana, sing as she sings, and lend our voices for a "World of Justice, World of Peace."

REV. LINDA MARTELLA-WHITSETT
MINISTER, UNITY CHURCH OF SAN ANTONIO

"On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Oasis Women's Center, I would like to express our appreciation for your wonderful concert at College Avenue Presbyterian Church on 11th June 2006. Your beautiful songs of peace and love were inspiring and thought-provoking.  Everyone enjoyed the afternoon concert very much and valued the time that you spent with them.  We appreciate your understanding of the problem of domestic violence in our community and your concern for those who are suffering from abuse."

MARGARETTE TRUSHEL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
OASIS WOMEN'S CENTER
Alton, Il.

"Dana--your powerful and precious gift of music helps us feel our lives, moves us to tears, and inspires us to action. Your presence and courage consistently leaves us in awe. Your God-given spirit shows through. Gracias."

PATRICIA CASTILLO
DIRECTOR, P.E.A.C.E. INITIATIVE