By Brendan Keller-Tuberg. In a way, when it comes to expressing one’s self, it might be more honest and therefore respectful to sound different than others, in my opinion.
Short of inviting someone to a show, how do I say I’m a real musician without sounding totally elitist? Why do I even feel the need to do so in the first place? Why can’t I just have a simple conversation without second guessing my life choices?
The whole world has been stuck at home for months now, with nothing to do, yet somehow music streaming numbers are down. People have more free time than ever and many are actually spending less time listening to music than before quarantine. As artists we should be extremely concerned with this situation.
Our words have power, and the meanings behind them control how we view the world. Unfortunately, many of our music terms have dehumanizing definitions: they reinforce negative thought patterns, put us in mental boxes, and limit our connection with the music. Regularly confronting these terms and redefining them to better serve us is an essential …
This evolving list of suggestions stand out among the clutter, had a lasting effect on me, or struck me as profoundly human and real in some way.
Utah pianist, composer, vocalist, and historian Isaiah Smith joins me to share a black perspective on American history and music. In pt. 1 we discuss racism in Utah, how music schools overlook the African influence on European composers, and his interpretation of American history from the start of slavery up through Dr. King. Pt 2 focuses …
Wayne Wallace – prolific recording artist, composer, arranger, and producer – joins me to discuss the state of the music world in the midst of Covid-19. He shares a seasoned perspective on how musicians can come out of this more connected with our craft, each other, and the little things.
Saxophonist, entrepreneur, and one woman show dynamo Erica von Kleist joins The Happy Musicians to discuss her “flip out decision” to leave New York and move to Montana. Our conversation explores the thoughts she shared in her viral mental health FB post and other negative elements of the music world. Tune in if you like …
Preservation Hall drummer and spiritual being Walter Harris joins me to discuss creative visualization, love, compassion, community, and the other beautiful, mystical aspects of the universe. He also explains the cultural and spiritual significance of Mardi Gras, emotionally charged practice, and his experience manifesting his dreams out of prison. At its best this interview offers …
Saxophonist, composer, bandleader, educator, and activist Roxy Coss joins me to discuss how she maintains her wellbeing through a jam-packed, multifaceted career. She also speaks about her Women In Jazz Organization, actions we can take to better support women and non-binary musicians, and how happiness is a choice.