Make the Connection

Of the many lessons that I've learned as a musician and really as a human being, is that it's always important to connect with people.
For alot of folks (and even for me at times...), that is the equivalent of pushing string uphill. I think some  of the reasons that performers feel that way is that deep down inside we're all just a little insecure.  We may not see ourselves as worthy of this talent; but here we are.The thing we need to do though is to really see what's good for our art and to utilize those things to help us see inside ourselves and bring out and dispel our inhibitions.
My being overweight has nothing at all to do with type of performer I am, or the type that I could be.
A few mornings ago, I was watching Tavis Smiley on PBS; he was interviewing the legendary Carol Burnett. Now here is a classic example of what I'm talking about. Among the many questions he asked, he wanted to know how it was that she came to be so comfortable during her pre show Q and A period, and her interviews on and off the air.
She explained that she realized that it was best to connect with her audience,thereby allowing them to feel as though they had a hand in the show. In other words, doing those Q and A sessions off the cuff helped people to relax and have a good time.
As a musical performer, I've found that that works for me too. If you've ever been to a Carpenter Ants show, you'll see the band pumping away and cranking out some wonderful music, but you'll also see me among the audience. I'll grab someone and start dancing with them, I'll come up and sing to to them, I'll also talk to the audience about what's going on in the world (theirs and ours...), and in general just try to make them feel wanted and loved, because in truth, they are.
I cherish being on stage and playing for people, I'm grateful that people have paid to see us, and continue to do so.
It's a very lucky person who gets to stand in front of many and express themselves in their own way. It's a  rare privelege to feel the love that can be generated by singing to someone.
Being a performer has allowed me into some uninque and wonderful places...physically and mentally, and it's an experience that I hope that anyone who aspires to the stage shares. Look inside yourself, gaze out into the audience, extend your hand to them, and take them along for the ride, and the best way to do that...make the connection.
Cheers everybody...
Here's a video...enjoy.
www.youtube.com/carpenterants at the acoustic coffee house 3
Support Live music today tomorrow and always.