I stumbled upon this YouTube video. It caught my attention because it seemed off-brand for Elliott Smith: the dark, brooding artist on a couch at six a.m. with a puppet behind him (not Sesame Street) and the host of America’s Funniest Home Videos.
Huh?
It made more sense when I saw the date. It was before Elliott Smith was “Elliott Smith.” He was an artist trying to make it, promoting his self-titled album. Doing all the things we’re supposed to as artists: performing the music wherever you can, being grateful anyone invited you anywhere because of your songs.
I love this video because it reminds me Elliott Smith was grinding. Nothing was guaranteed. He was taking opportunities to be heard. And while he may not have loved the setting, he handled it like a pro. He did his thing.
I also love the video because it’s evidence that music, wherever it is, can permeate the place—no matter how strange that place may be. Music cannot help but make people feel something.
You experience that watching this video. I was bracing for a train wreck before he started playing his guitar. Then the music pulled me in, and I knew it would all be okay.
So maybe you’ve accepted a gig at the grand opening of your local hardware store. Maybe you’re performing at the senior center (been there) or a birthday party.
It’s not Madison Square Garden, but so what? Remember that your songs can still work. The music will take care of itself.
Like Elliott Smith, you just have to be there and deliver it.
Love,
Aaron