That’s a lofty goal from where I’m sitting Craig. But judging from what I’ve heard from you so far I’d say thats a very attainable goal for a player with your talent. 

I wish I could offer up some advice that would push you over the top but unfortunately I don’t have any. Like you, I think I have the same goal, but I’m stuck in the “developing structure” stage. 

This is definitely a Robert question. I’m sure he’ll steer you in the right direction. 

So I guess my 2 cents is to keep playing what you love and let your creativeness and inspirations get the best of you. You’re already a darn good musician, let the rest take care of itself....

Hey, you are already there! Just go for it.

Maybe contact some coffee shops and offer to perform there!?

Posted by: robert

Hey, you are already there! Just go for it.

Maybe contact some coffee shops and offer to perform there!?

Wow,  you really think so?

How do you connect with an audience? Apart from  the music there must be a human social interaction to make a good gig into a great one? Or does the music just speak for itself?

You've played live.  It must be very different to jamming at home or recording.  How do you cope with the jittery nerves? My biggest concern is that I would freeze up and play nothing!

As a side question do you have any albums or songs that you have recorded?  I would love to hear from such an accomplished musician!

And lastly I humbly  hope you will find the time to do the student focus response soon. Really excited to learn from you! 

Yeah for sure! You don't have to be perfect in every single way  (although perhaps you are? haha) in order to play for people.

The gig can be a background thing, and it's up to you how much you talk between songs. Sometimes, you end up being more of a background so speaking may not be needed. Other times, if people are really paying attention, you can tell some stories between songs or whatever. 

Nerves get better the more you do it! Focus on the music and not the audience.

I don't have any albums. Shame on me! Gotta get cracking at that.  I've done a few recordings here and there but no much.

I will do the student focus response this upcoming week if all goes well. Thanks!

RR is right, you are there and ready to go for it.  Create your version of songs and song list like stories, patiently setting the tone and mood, Do not try to sound like anyone but you playing the material and You will connect with listeners.  If you try to cover a tune like it sounds from original artist you will fall short.  Be you, make your sound and you will not suffer the impossible comparison to the song the listener remembers.

Build your art and draw the listener into your expression.  And have fun.

Posted by: Clayton

RR is right, you are there and ready to go for it.  Create your version of songs and song list like stories, patiently setting the tone and mood, Do not try to sound like anyone but you playing the material and You will connect with listeners.  If you try to cover a tune like it sounds from original artist you will fall short.  Be you, make your sound and you will not suffer the impossible comparison to the song the listener remembers.

Build your art and draw the listener into your expression.  And have fun.

Not much chance of sounding like someone else as all the songs will be original instrumentals. There will be familiar influences of course. 

Good advise. Song lists like stories. I really like that. 

BTW Do you mind if I use your backing track when I gig? 

Craig, my pleasure for you to gig with any of my material.  That would be too cool.  

I'll have to link up two or three projects from last year that were in the same vein of older school funkyness.  Heres a project, based on MGA Rhythm & Licks 3 rhythm progression, with and without the lead guitar:

Memorial Days w lead

Memorial Days backing w rhythm

An issue that I learned long ago is to try to enjoy every project or activity you want to do. I'm not very good at giving advice, but if you accept the suggestion, raise your project without ambitions beyond those you pursue. Take care of it, treat it and enjoy it. Be careful in every note you play and do not be in a hurry. That is the true path to success. Above all yours.