The things we learn running through this world. The more things change, the more they stay the same. Take for instance this. I was recently called to play guitar and sing backup for an Oscar nominated musician. This isn’t the first time it’s happened. In fact it happened exactly a year ago. A mutual friend was contacted and asked if they knew someone that was in Park City for Sundance. He knew I was there and recommended me. So they called and asked all sorts of questions and figured they could work it out. Then after everything is in place… They call back and say, oh, well, now it’s going to work out with my current band.
It happened again this week. Same person calls, asking if I’d be interested in doing it this time around, for a much bigger event at Sundance. I’m like well, sure why not. Then it mushrooms into, can you do NAMM as a warmup as well. I’m like sure, that would work out nicely. So a day goes by and I’m waiting word on what’s to happen. I call yesterday and we speak around noon. I’m told, they’re putting the final pieces together and they ask, you’re still good for both NAMM and Sundance. I reply with yup.
I’m being told we’re on. I call my family and tell them I’m coming up for a few days to hang and perform with an Oscar nominated artist. Late yesterday afternoon I get another call from the artist now saying that the people putting the event together are now offering enough money for the artist to pay her regular guitar player. Pause… Uh, ok. Thanks, again. So this time around, not only was it supposedly a done deal, but wow. I understand wanting to work with someone who is your regular person. It’s less of a hassle to teach someone stuff and you know how they play. But to get everything in order then have it called off because you can now offer more money to your regular guy. Ouch.
I don’t know what I’ll say in a year if I get that call again. Care to take any guesses?
As Joe Walsh, I’m sure he’s had his ups and downs. From what I’ve heard, there have been some big ups, and some very big downs. I can’t remember when I first heard this song. But I can say, they I really dig it. If you don’t own it, the link is to the Eagles version that they did live on tour. That’s equally cool, but I didn’t have it immediately available. Enjoy, and support a guy who has had some ups and downs.
(** Disclaimer: If Joe’s label decides to make life not so good for me so far, I’ll drown the audio in alcohol to wash away the sin. The post will remain to show my ability to keep a level head. **)