Interesting posts. I agree with most lines of thought completely.

Each time I hear what passes today for music, I think about the newcomers out there who are as good as it gets.

Leanne La Havas has Prince and Stevie Wonder flying around the world to her concerts. She is 24 years old and may be as good (making adjustments for time related changes) as my all-time favorite (and the person who taught me to appreciate sensitive, complex ballads and structures) Ella.

Listen to our own Rory Hoffman. Granted the brilliant ones are harder to find, but they're out there.

I was at Summer NAMM and there were kids at the Opreyland hotel with holes in there shoes who could blow me away on guitar.

Granted, the "gems" are harder to find. But they are there and will survive, I believe.

In real life, it's harder, these days, to make a living playing live for people.

But, there are many options...sound scores...commercials...re-focusing to specialize in organizational events...corporate gigs...government AFFILIATED JOBS. THERE'S lots more!

Just got back this morning for two days in Louisville working on a video annual report score for an American car manufacturer...the first job for this client. Got this work because of work I have been doing for a Japanese auto manufacturer for about 10 years. Got the Japanese company because the president of the firm heard me perform at a local restaurant; then with the Philharmonic as gusts soloist (my FAUX Didley act...HA HA)!

Adaptability is the key. I'm not playing what I want to play. But I'm playing, and that's the GREATEST THING, EVER!

Hang in there, friends. Great, well reasoned, and POLITE exchange of articulate observations!


Thanks,


Russ