I have always taken a certain amount of pride in never quite fitting in with the popular crowd. I'm not sure why that is, but even as far back as a kid, I chose to hang with the "not co cool". Hell who was I kidding, I was never cool, and loose no sleep over not being so now.
Now, not being able to play, well that's an all together different subject. If I could not play my music, if I would ever find myself in life where what I feel inside could not be expressed through my music, well I'm certain that would mark the end of things. Even when I was trucking, I would play music whenever I had a chance. Whenever I stopped for the night, I would always take out the guitar and literally play myself to sleep. Some times playing a favorite tune, or more often than not, just play without having any idea what I was playing, no preconceptions, just simply play and create something.
That is the experience. I have played in many cover bands, I have done the whole Bar Band scene, and it was somewhat fun, but never quite satisfying. When I finally opened up to my original music, now that's when I found my strength. I found that I could entertain and give listeners a much more entertaining experience if I simply played my music. To quote a very dear friend, "Play something you know Rex!" and I am proud to say, I have been.
In my region, it is not always popular to play only your original stuff. There are expectations in regards to that. If you are not Alternative Rock, or Heavy Metal, or part of the "in crowd" then venues are limited. That translates into my not being able to do many shows, as I would like. However, when I do get that chance, oh boy! I play my ass off for as long as I am allowed. That part will never change. Music is that one thing that deep down inside, I know I am at my best.
I am humbled by those who have blessed me with their ears. Those individuals who have found something in my music to relate to, and enjoy. That is why I wrote it, so it rewards me to know that. I have been told many times I need to clean up my roughness, and hone my act, and perhaps that is true. However, I am spontaneous, and tend to place more emphasis on how it feels as opposed to how I look.
Thanks for stopping by to read this, I know that I am not all that good at the promotional side of things, but then again I am no big deal either. Funny story, Today I was with Chris, we were on our way to Wal-Mart to get those last minutes items for the 4th of July. As we turned into the parking lot, Chris said "Look honey!" I looked and saw nothing, I began to ask what I was looking for when she started laughing. You see it is a standing joke in my home, that I am clueless,even when it comes to recognizing my name on a huge Banner advertising my upcoming show. I don't know, I guess the thought just never occurs to me... What can I say?
