Last night was the last of my Ringfinger shows and to be honest I am not sure when / if I will play again in a solo capacity. It had been 13 years since the last time I took a stab at something in the realm of touring and after just a few shows I was quickly reminded how difficult it can be. The hard part isn't getting up and playing in front of people really personal material alone, it is just the very act of trying to get yourself booked into venues no less getting people to come....hell even getting friends to care which in case you were wondering, if you ever think of touring over the age of 30, be prepared for less than 1% of the people you know to actually come to your shows. Don't get me wrong, since I am quite a few years past the 30 mark... I get it, I really do so that isn't me being bitter, it was much more of an incredible reality check.
Even more so I have to be in awe of the touring bands who make it look so easy and big crowds night after night. The accomplishment isn't just in the music they play but the stamina and patience required to get out there and play night after night no matter what - no matter how crappy you are feeling or how small the crowd is. I have more respect for those touring bands than ever, I really do.
A big thank you to those who did come out and support my small handful of shows. It felt great to sing again and share the music from record in a live capacity. Some of these songs have been floating around recorded for a LONG time and performing them live breathed new life into the material which as an artist is really exciting and refreshing. To make old songs feel new again was worth the stress of touring alone. I have always carried the philosophy of making music for myself first and foremost because of the great joy and centering it brings me so being able to share it in any capacity, live or on record is just gravy. Mmmmmm gravy.
Thank you (especially you Mr. Close) and good night.
i'm really glad i got to see you in RVA (and wish i had been able to make it to DC last night), but this post is harshing my mellow something fierce. i sincerely hope this is not the last the world has seen of Ringfinger live. hats off for the courage and dedication to bring us your music in a concert setting.
ReplyDeleteJust wanted to say that I love you! I find it inspiring how you are constantly growing and appreciating the world around you. It's a remarkable feat to tour by yourself; you should be proud. Keep on keeping on, Tracy! xoxo
ReplyDeleteTracy,I just wanted to let you know what an absolute pleasure and thrill seeing you perform for the first time in Richmond and then again at Maxwells. Being in the crowd I noticed how moved a lot of people were by your performance. I sincerely hope this isn't the last time we see you perform or release music.
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