Key Of Grey

Photo courtesy of William.N

October 9th, 2008 – This Friday marks the first time I’ve performed a solo live set in 5 years. Understandably, I’m nervous even though it’s an intimate coffee house venue and there’s nothing at stake; it’s just for fun.

One of the reasons I’m doing this is I feel that playing live makes you write better songs. When there’s the pressure of other people, some that don’t even know you, listening to something as intimate as what you’ve written, you’re forced to think about what will work where and with what. Of course, you can write songs for yourself and ignore everyone else, but aside from writing to console yourself, songs are a form of communication to others. If you want people to pay attention and appreciate your message, you have to put your feelings into a medium that will captivate others as well as yourself.

There is something to be said about an artist who can play the songs that he or she has recorded with as equal an impression live as on the CD. Whether the song sounds the same or not is moot to me. Playing live is sort of like a test of an artist, there is no replacement for hearing music live and unfiltered. There’s a band here in Vancouver that plays live funk music called Soulstream. Every time I hear them, I get so psyched up about playing live but I never get around to it.

Playing live also gives you a chance to try out new songs. If you show your mom a song, it’s not likely that she’ll say bad things about your music. A complete stranger who grudgingly came out to hear her uncle sing Eagles covers, on the other hand, may not be immediately perceptive. If you can win her over, then you probably have a hit on your hands.

There are many reasons why playing live is beneficial, but none is as important as the fun factor. Go out there and play open mics at coffeehouses, bars, weddings, funerals, whatever…soak in the experience. Have fun!