Identity

Every artist has a name that they are known by. Some prefer to come up with stage names other than their own and are known mostly by these names. I am sure some would prefer if their real names were never known but it is hard to keep secrets these days, thanks to Wikileaks and Wikipedia. It is even harder when you have a past that you would rather keep hidden. Information has a strange way of popping up from the most unexpected sources and at the most unpleasant time.

I was joking with some friends on Saturday about my stage name. I use my normal name as a musician and I was joking about using a different name. I like being the opening act whenever we have an event. I like it because I have the opportunity to set the stage for those to come after me, and also because I don’t really like being the main event in a meeting. Another reason is that I believe the groups present at events are at their most attentive at the beginning, eager with anticipation and ready to receive whatever is on show. As the event wears on, they either become more excited and thereby less likely to listen to what you are actually going to say, or they become bored and can’t wait for the thing to be over.

I just watched a guy with a guitar; microphone and microphone stand blow a full hall away. I liked that, but was quick to remember that this guy doesn’t have a personal relationship with God so his music is basically to be consumed and perhaps forgotten, when the next best thing comes around. I am reminded that the music I produce should be of a longer lasting significance, so I keep praying, so that I don’t start straying.

PS: I am still at the song composition stage, so no rush!