Pics from an Open Jam a couple weeks back.

lopxtc · #1 05-18-2009, 10:37 AM

So about two months ago I had posted here about attending my first open blues jam ever. The first night I went I ended up being totally intimidated by players in the house and I chickened out. The second time I went I got myself on stage and proceded to lead the biggest train wreck in history. I was totally nervous and couldnt keep my leg from shaking at what felt like 300 bpm LOL. I blew chord changes, and it was obvious, however the house bass player was nice enough to tell me that while I did screw up my beat was right on and I kept the tempo perfect with the drummer. Honestly I was afraid the person running it was going to run me out of the joint LOL.

Well several weeks down the road and I have become something of a key regular there now. Played on stage about five times and each time getting about 2-3 songs. Everyone there including the person running the show, who I will add has played with Albert King and several other top name blues musicians, has commented on how much Ive come along and a couple weeks back even gave me the closing song for the night.

So anyhow, I just wanted to finally be able to put up some pics of me playing and say that Im finally starting to feel comfortable actually calling myself a bass player.

Aaron

Steve Clark · #2 05-18-2009, 10:55 AM

Good for you! Keep getting out there. It's just music and nobody dies.

DaveF · #3 05-18-2009, 11:05 AM

Congrats man! It only gets easier....

dave64o · #4 05-18-2009, 11:27 AM

Congrats to you and a high five to the house band for giving you that kind of encouragment. If they decided to be a complete d*** to you it could have easily had the exact opposite effect.

gregoire1 · #5 05-18-2009, 11:59 AM

I totally understand the "leg shaking at 300bpm". Its a terrible thing to not be able to control your own body, especially when you need it most!
Last month, we were alternating sets with another band. The other bass player CLEARLY had more experience than I did, and I told him (before the show) how intimidated I was. He seemed shocked! How could anyone be intimidated by him? I felt foolish for bringing it up, but, I had lowered his expectations of me so much, that I no longer felt that intimidated.

My right knee still shook. But my hands were smooth as silk!

Mr. Mig · #6 05-18-2009, 12:10 PM

Congradulations and keep it going.

Tenma4 · #7 05-18-2009, 12:16 PM

Congrats Aaron. I haven't been to Backstreet in a while. My wife and I, along with a couple of friends used to stop in there every so often. I've always wanted to do the Sunday night jam. I'm assuming that's when it is still. I've always had something scheduled on Sunday nights, but other than a gig this coming week, I'm free. I may have to come out and join you some time soon. Perhaps I'll be a spectator the first week. Sounds like fun.

Jay