Day 28: Band vs Solo + a Giveaway!
So, here's the biggest downside to making a record I've found so far. You spend all this time making the song sound exactly like you've always dreamed it would sound. I mean you spend hours making sure every little detail is perfect and exactly what's been playing in your head when you sing the song. And then... then you go to gig and play your song solo, without all the beautiful parts you've helped create, and you so desperately miss all those parts. UGH. It can sometimes really break your heart.
I've stopped playing a few of my songs at solo shows because I can't seem to sing them confidently without the band anymore. It sucks. But, the other night as I was playing a concert in my friend Tracie's backyard (more on that in November, or just go check out her post today, she's writing all about it) I fell back in love with playing solo. It's weird, I loved the freedom of getting to do whatever I wanted, I didn't worry if my band would follow or not. I was completely in the moment with each song and tried to play the best acoustic version of the songs I could. And I ended up so happy. If it hadn't been so chilly, I could have played for another hour.
{photo courtesy of Megan Britt Photography}
Don't get me wrong though, I still prefer playing with the band. Mainly because then you guys get to hear what's playing in my head too. But also because they are fun people and I love having company on stage. But, I'm so happy that just me and my guitar are comfortable with these songs again. I'm still not playing a few solo, but maybe I'll work up to them.
I also think sometimes I forget that I'm not horrible. (yes, I'm fully aware that is a strange sentence.) I like to surround myself with musicians that are better than me. I think you learn so much from being the weakest link on stage, but sometimes I let the fact that I'm not as good as the rest cloud the fact that I'm a pretty decent guitar player and I like these songs. So, here's to gaining a bit of confidence in playing solo again. BUT - please come hear me AND MY BAND OF MEN on Friday at The Neighborhood Theater :)
She's chatting all about the amazing backyard concert she hosted the other night which I happened to sing at:) She is such a generous and kind soul that I'm so honored to know. She is always so encouraging and sooo supportive. I just love her :) I hope you will go read about the GORGEOUS house concert she hosted the other night and while you are there, enter to win a CD!
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