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  • Writer's pictureGRAHAM

"LESSON NUMBER TWO" by Bob Gemmell


Bob Gemmell, a musician and singer-songwriter from Santa Cruz, is perhaps best known as the frontman of the band Big Medicine Head.

Bob Gemmell's song "Lesson Number Two" is a masterful blend of simplicity and depth, capturing the essence of life's most crucial principles. Recorded in Eugene, Oregon, and produced by Sterno Bums International, the collaboration between Jeff Davis and Bob Gemmell brings a unique sonic quality to the track. The song revolves around two vital lessons: maintaining control and responsibility, symbolized by "always keep a hand on the wheel," and nurturing emotional connections, encapsulated in "let everyone you love know how you feel." These themes are universally relatable, making the song resonate on a deeply personal level.


The musicianship on "Lesson Number Two" is both rich and engaging. Bob Gemmell's heartfelt guitar and vocals lead the charge, supported by JeffyD's rhythmic expertise on drums and bass. The melodic piano and additional vocals by Lee Takasugi, along with Johnny McGuire's complementary guitar and vocals, create a cohesive and dynamic sound. The ensemble's synergy, which began on a sunny day in Santa Cruz, California, is evident throughout the track, with each musician contributing to the song's emotional weight and musical complexity.


The first lesson in the song, "always keep a hand on the wheel," serves as a powerful metaphor for staying vigilant and responsible in life's journey. It highlights the importance of being mindful and proactive, ensuring that we navigate our paths safely and avoid unnecessary risks. This lesson is not just about physical survival but also about maintaining control over our actions and decisions, which is a fundamental aspect of leading a stable and secure life.



In contrast, the second lesson, "let everyone you love know how you feel," emphasizes the significance of emotional expression and connection. It encourages listeners to be open and communicative with their loved ones, fostering deeper and more meaningful relationships. This aspect of the song underscores that while survival is crucial, the true richness of life comes from the love and connections we share. Bob Gemmell's lyrical simplicity and clarity make these lessons accessible and memorable, urging us to prioritize both our safety and our emotional well-being.



Graham writes

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