Musings of a Dumb Ass

Musings of a Dumb Ass...... When art loses control of art...... I spent a major part of my life on stage looking out at an audience. It was a great time for me and I relished every second of it, and in retrospect when I think about it it's almost unbelievable I was afforded to do what most only dream of. My chosen field was country music and the artists who inspired me were unique individuals with talents not mirrored by their peers. My departure from entertainment was by my own choice and although sometimes I have an urge to stand on a stage somewhere, my decision to stay out is as strong as my commitment was to get in so long ago. The Las Vegas offering of The Country Music Associations' award show has come and gone again and I have a twinge of sadness at the loss of soul and true style and individuality that once was necessary to occupy a space of recognition in America's only homegrown music that belongs to each of us. They all generally sound alike, look alike, sang tiresome songs, and each entertainer looked like anyone off the street from anywhere USA, except those who were undefinable. It was so scripted for both the performers and the audience in attendance that nothing was left to spontaneity. I suppose that was just too much of a gamble for the producers. To hunger for the equal of Gene Watson, John Cash, Johnny Horton, Tammy Wynette, Conway Twitty, Lorreta Lynn, Faron Young, Tanya Tucker or Ernest Tubb would put you in opposition to all those who make a yuck face at the mere thought of such hicks while worshipping the yodeling, syllable torturing through the nose caterwauling of Garth Brooks and the tinselness of Shania Twain. None of the greats who gave life to Americas' music could get past the secretary's of Nashville's deciders today. I was so proud of the effect I could have on my audience through the music I played. I realize that would not be the case today. But I also realize response of the audience is measured by the exposure they've had, and if the bar is continually lowered and controlled, the audience will eventually be much easier to please and control. I am so glad I was a part of another time. Since George Strait and Alan Jackson was ignored at the awards I guess they don't measure up either...... or perhaps they're just too country for today................... Oh well.....................