11 Comments

Sorry I’m late… I finally had time to pay attention to this and, as usual, I agree. I’ve always tried to live the idea, that we ALL do better when we all do better, and I love that you’ve applied that to your career. More music is never a bad idea. I was a bartender for a long time, so I suppose I was technically hurting ppl (or at least helping them hurt themselves) but I was one of those, “therapist”, bartenders so hopefully I helped a little too, lol. I wish I had the guts to do what you do, singing has always been one of my favorite things to do. But my career consisted of touring the local malls singing, Somewhere Out There, in a children’s choir and being the queen of karaoke in my hometown for a hot minute, in my late teens. Please keep doing your thing, and I’ll continue my current occupation as an enthusiastic, local backup singer (from the audience of course)!❤️

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You and your band are true artists and you definitely have put in the work. I was an actress, and I love acting more than anything, but in my late thirties I went to law school. Now I do short performances for Judges and I feel like I help people. You are correct, in the United States the arts are not respected and supported. I gave up the fight for a little security, but my spirit still longs for the spotlight. Once you are bitten by the bug, nothing is ever the same! Congratulations on your ongoing success, I know it is hard work!

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This is eye-opening for those who wonder what it’s like to be a rockstar. It’s hard and at the same time as fabulous. Thanks for your insight.😍

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"qualified in the role of elder statesman" ......So, not for notihng, but...I have that exact same thought every time I hear " American Primative, Where the Road Goes" I think this IS an Elder Statesmen giving a perfect summary of acheiving something meaningful. I feel some relief as I am in a similar place- 2 kids part way though college, minimal debt- whew- light at the end of a tunnel...not done with a creative career, but rather a creative approach to a boring career ( IT Healthcare) -also it helps it i treat it like a crusaide - healthcare for the most vunerable.

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Oh, what a wonderful world we would live in if everyone, in every profession would follow these standards. Thank you for sharing this. And thank you for your bravery. Sharing that cornrow photo ranks up there with running into a burning building to save a snake.

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This is so helpful on many levels, but for me the last paragraph stands out. You have applied to music, writing, performing, etc. the same philosophy that I attempt to live by…namely that the path is the destination. Thanks, Rhett. I’m glad you’re sharing these thoughts with us!

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Thank you for your continued wisdom and insight, Rhett. Your palms are always opened to others and raised towards the sun 👐🙌🌞❤️

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Thanks for this!! I love your writing style, and the songs you write, your singing and moving about the stage with your bandmates!! Love too, the glimpses you give us of your life!! You are the Real Deal!

And thank you for NOT adopting

the Corn rows style!!!!! 😂

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I really appreciate the wisdom, clarity, and voice of this piece even if we are on opposite teams, Oxford-comma-wise. :)

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Yeah. I’m all over the place comma-wise. Gotta figure that out.

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I love number 2, which holds true across professions. Anything you build is done creating a network and a tribe. If you're always in competition mode, you need to realize that competition works both ways. Align yourself who will build you up, not try to knock you down because they are trying to take from you. It's worked for me!

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