They know nothing about you. Don't assume anything.
2007-08-18
People will always and forever ask you, “What kind of music do you do?”
Musicians often say, “All styles, really.”
If the stranger you said that to happens to be a fan of African music, watch out! You better combine the polyrhythmic drumming of West Africa with the rich vocal harmonies of South Africa, with the microtonal reeds of Northeast Africa. And if they have any awareness of the rest of the world, then your CD better combine rage-rap, country linedancing, Chinese opera, ambient techno trance, Hungarian folk songs, and the free jazz of Ornette Coleman. (Hey - you said “all styles” didn't you?)
This example is extreme, but constantly remember: people know nothing about you, or your background, or where you're coming from. If you say you sound “totally unique” - then you better not have any chords, drums, guitars, words, or any sounds that have ever been made in the history of music.
When you speak to the world, you are speaking to strangers from all kinds of backgrounds and tastes.
Open your mind. Realize you don't sound like all styles, and you're not totally 100% unique.
Do them a favor. Don't assume anything. Say what it is you sound like. Narrow it down a bit.
If you do this in a creative way, (“We sound like the Incredible Hulk having sex.”) - you can intrigue people and make them want your CD, or want to come to your next show. Whereas if you had said, “Everything” - then you didn't make a fan.
The talking points here are really great!! don't be too generic in your response. So many people answer as mentioned above and It doesn't work. Thanks for the thoughtfulness in writing this.
Some good words here. I will start to implement some of the points raised. Its worth a go, thanks for the advice
I am a jazz musician, I find I have to explain to people what jazz is and the differences in styles and then describe what I do.
My sound... "Its like sitting outside watching you mom hang out the laundry, with a gentle warm breeze that begins changing into a chaotic wind storm and the temperture drops suddening getting very cold, and some of the cloths fall on the ground. And then you mom runs out of the house and picks you up and holds you in her loving arms for a moment. And like out of nowhere the wind stops its fierce billowing and everything is peaceful".
As The Fonz once said, When you assume, you make an ass out of u and me. Love the honesty!!