Kathy & I attended a fantastic concert last evening by guitarist Tommy Emmanuel. For those who aren’t familiar, look him up and check out some of his recordings or videos. Regarded by many as the greatest living guitarist on the planet, his resume includes over 20 record albums and two Grammys. The dude can play!
Today, I got an e-mail from the concert promoters thanking us for attending and wanting to make sure we were aware of another acoustic guitar player that would be performing there soon and hoping we would attend. I’m sure he’s an excellent guitar player and I am fully aware that everyone needs to start somewhere. But this guy’s claim to fame, at least according to the promoters, is that he has received “over 20 million views collectively for his Youtube videos.”
That’s a lot of views, certainly. But I’d love to ask, “so what else has he done?” I suppose I’m missing the point, but it’s pretty amazing to me that someone’s Youtube videos qualifies him as a successful musician and one worth paying money to hear. I suppose we might decide to go, but at least I know I can see his videos to help me make the decision.
First, let me mention that these photos are outstanding, Tom.
My wife and I have been more involved in the local music scene since moving back to NY and I am amazed at the talent there is in the area. Since she is a pretty good musician herself, we have become friends with many musicians who would not be recognized but still have qualifications that far exceed some “famous” names. There are many events throughout the year that folks can attend, many of them free. You just have to find them.
Thank you, Ken. We’re also trying to make time to explore more of the music and arts scene here in Charlotte. As you say, much of the talent is in places where you need to find it. And while many of our friends are paying hundreds of dollars per ticket to relive the 70s with aging rock stars, there are plenty of other places to get good music, often free! Although I will admit to seeing Art Garfunkel a couple of weeks ago. 😉 But he performed to a polite and graying crowd at a very small venue, and tickets were very reasonable.