and Why Music Inspires
For the past 2 years I’ve made the pilgrimage to Byron Bay Bluesfest for a dose of good, filthy delta blues and rock.
Bluesfests 30th anniversary was not to be missed. Held each Easter in Byron Bay, Northern NSW, Australia. Bluesfest is one of the worlds top festivals An overdose of sound and energy over five incredible days getting up close and personal with some of the worlds greatest live acts.
Just the way I like it.
Art is everywhere you look.
Music, writing, sound and lighting. I believe it’s all art on a grand scale created by artists and technicians at the top of their game.
Lyrics come from the page and can be as laboured over as any novel. While a writer toils away in isolation, a songwriter has the added magic of being able to bring songs to life with musicians and production and performance. Just like the playwright who gets to hear the audience respond to his words and ideas in real time.
The novelist not so much. Always it’s the blank page and the audience of one. Until, if you’re lucky, you find a tribe of fans.
One artist that blew my mind was Fantastic Negrito. Powerful lyrics, powerful charisma and a kick ass band.
Take that bullshit. Turn it into good shit.
Fantastic Negrito
Live music reminds me always that art is not made without sacrifice or passion. It’s a wonderful thing watching and listening to musicians at the top of their game creating art not because it’s some sort of pose, but because it’s simply got to be done.
So what’s this got to do with writing?
Simply, the connection is passion. If you are writing without passion, and only because you think becoming a writer will give you some sort of social boost, then you are not much better than a sad Springsteen cover band down your corner bar.
If you you are writing from a place of deep passion and conviction then you are creating art.
You can then call yourself a writer.
Just like those musicians walking the stage of Bluesfest who are there to create art with sound and words and lyrics.
2 worlds. One art.
Or perhaps you disagree…