I woke up this morning, rolled out of bed and with the sweet smell of small batch coffee brewing I took a deep breath and stepped into an ice cold shower. It’s been my ritual since last year September and now, with the cooler Autumn mornings setting in, it’s becoming quite a challenge.
Its just one of the many small things I’ve changed in my life the last few months and I chalk it all up to discipline because I definitely don’t feel like cold plunging, running for hours or lifting weights every day. I just get up, get dressed and get it done. No emotion. Doing these hard things first thing in the morning sets me up for the day full of inevitable challenges and difficult hours. Self induced suffering I suppose, tailor made by me for me and designed to make me more resilient in this life with its ever increasing complexity. I am no stranger to self induced suffering. It used to be on the negative side of the spectrum though. Drinking, staying up for days on end and making questionable decisions. And then of course, being irresponsible with my time, heart and emotions. These days I’m doing much better. I feel strong, healthy, focused and my mind is as clear as a whistle.
This place I find myself in is essential right now, it has become my safe haven and means of survival in a world that is just becoming more superficial and irrational day by day. Contrary to what I thought would happen in the wake of these health decisions I find myself in a place where the creative well is filling up and starting to spill onto the page. I find myself reaching for my notebook more often and I’m fighting resistance while inviting the muse back into my more sober, less destructive mind. I’m still fighting the same battles personally and also with my chosen art form. The infuriating tendency that so many South African musicians don’t want to see the sun shine on their fellow artists, the gatekeepers, often disguised as promoters, managers and venue owners that literally choke the life and enthusiasm out of up and comers and veterans alike. It’s enough to make you want to quit. My heart aching for JARR Bar, Steve, Marge and the crew. Another venue that actually supported South African Blues, Rock and Folk. Another Inn Keeper gone on the highway of blues. Add to that the absolute junk that’s coming out of radio speakers these days and you have yourself an artistic conundrum. But then, you sit down on a strangers couch one random Friday night and you get to share your songs and stories with people willing to listen and who respect your art and the effort you put into it. That’s where the magic happens. Right there you realise that it’s a privilege to play and to be able to write songs. To see the world a little different than most and to be able to bring empathy to lost souls and broken hearts in these hard times. You also remember the good times. The tours through the Karoo, AARDKLOP arts festival, living room sessions and a personal highlight … opening for Piet Botha, shortly before his passing. Piet was and still is a legend in South African rock, blues and folk circles and his passing left a huge gaping hole in our world. He was not too famous to allow an unknown opening act like me to play a few songs and to support my efforts. Unlike some other famous folks out there on the circuit today who just can’t find it in themselves to give unknowns a chance, Piet Botha did and I am grateful that I got to be inspired by his otherworldly songwriting and powerful music.
On Saturday, May 18th I will be joined by my fellow road warriors and members of The Vagabonds for a show at Loop Str restaurant in Potchefstroom. I really like the place and it’s a privilege to be invited to play there. If you’re in the area, pop in for some great food, exotic beer and friendly people. I’m sure it’ll get a bit wild after the show and more memories will be made.
Most of all, let’s be kind and be the change we want to see in this world. Every single person is fighting a hard battle of their own and a little empathy and tolerance can make all the difference.
JB