The Best Job I've Ever Had!

When I decided to become a full time musician, I knew that it wouldn't be easy. Partly because I was giving up the supposed security of the corporate world as well as the fact that I am not a new to town 19 year old trying to be a "star". But after carefully considering where I was in my life and evaluating what really makes me happy, I took the plunge. 

Now let me say it again. It's not easy! In fact, I've never worked harder in my life. Every day, I spend hours on the computer and/or phone. I contact venues for performance opportunities, respond to requests and update my web and social media sites. This is all very time-consuming and while extremely important, sometimes interferes with the creative side and why I chose this life. Some weeks are great with a full schedule of performances and others are empty and have me wondering if I made a mistake. Travel is a big part of what I do; but to travel you need money, which is a vicious cycle, since I've chosen to make money by making music and I have to travel to make music. You get the picture! 

Anyway, with all of this going on, the music can feel like it's the last priority. In these moments, I pick up my guitar. In an instant, I'm transported back to the excitement of my initial interaction with the instrument. My breathing slows, my stress is relieved and my heart is uplifted. I begin to sing and in my ecstasy, recall the emotion that inspired the lyrics. This moment is personal and yet I know it is not my own. Too often, I've watched the faces of fans connect with a lyric or entire song and know that they have been touched by the gift in me. That knowing is worth all of the long hours, late nights, bad dietary habits and endless miles. 

My desire is for my music to inspire. Just a glimpse of that happening is enough to keep me going! I hear the music of life and I want to help everyone hear it too. But not just with their ears; but rather in their hearts and souls. So, I toil; but it is, for all its weight, a joyous toil. I work! Harder than I've ever worked in my life and I love it!

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