Day 49 - April 29th 2009
After a few days of breathing in today would be the beginning of me piecing my life back together. There were some things that I hadn’t sewn up tightly in my absence and today was going to be the beginning of making that happen. I had a few meetings set up and I needed to see about the check for my vacation time at Drexel (I have almost three weeks worth of pay coming). I also had laundry to do. I’m a little slower about it at home, you think you have all day and it slips away from you. Today is also the day that the Bang Camaro performance airs on Jimmy Kimmel Live, like I forgot about that. I was also intrigued by Arlen Specter’s switch back to the democratic party.
It was official, I was cancelled for the show in Redando Beach on May 9th. I’m sure members of my family are happy that I’ll be home but now if I am rescheduled I’ll probably be stuck opening up the show playing to no one. This has to be the last time I allow people to talk me out of playing no matter where it is. I’m gonna have to remain at the wheel of my life if this is going to work and do what I have to do in order to make it in this business.
My day would really start around 5:30 when I left the house to go to O.N.E. to meet with the owner. Not good news. We didn’t do well enough while I was away, so the brass wants to move us to Monday Nights. I’m not sure if I can do that with Philly Rising being every Monday. I would have to find someone to run the event in my place, not sure if that’s possible or not.
I met up with Chris at El Fuego and we ventured over to Zot to see if Gina was around, no dice. On the way to Downey’s we saw an old restaurant that’s being converted to an arts center. It reminded me a lot of Rhino’s, I’m seeing all ages shows at a Dry Venue depending on cost this could be a worthwhile enterprise.
We walked over to Lickety Split and I was greeted by the beautiful Dani Mari. We’re pretty good friends and have always had a good business relationship. I missed her particular charm. We talked about happenings and she mentions that they might need someone to take over Wed Nights and an occasional Friday. Of course I’m interested. We’ll see what happens. Things change at Lickety more often than not, so we’ll see.
We left and headed over to Teremeh’s house, she was hosting a viewing party. Miguel, Dave, and and a few others show up. It was good to see people I hadn’t seen in two months, especially Miguel who had been reading my blog the whole tour. Jake showed up as well, with a beard he hadn’t shaved since I left for tour. We turned on Kimmel and watched. I’d never really watched his show, the guys pretty funny. We’d all go crazy every time they would show Bang Camaro and see me in my Boy Wonder T-shirt. Dude from Lost was on the JJ Abrams was on and my friends wanted him to shut up. Though the hour would never end.
Jimmy Kimmel introduces us and there we are. The brood known as Bang Camaro. As I watch it memories fill my mind of that day, of the whole experience. This time the people on the TV are strangers, they’re people I know. I was so excited for me and more so Bryn and Alex, they’ve worked really hard to make Bang Camaro successful and it seems like it’s turning the corner and to boot there were a lot of close-up shots of me..kinda felt like a star for a minute. We went for it and we ruled…hard! There are few thrills that will ever match that one and if I’m never successful again beyond this no one can take this moment away from me. It felt incredible, everyone around me was so proud. I was proud.
I called Bryn to tell him how much he ruled. Jaso Fox called me to tell me how hard we won. It was pretty sweet
I don’t know what the hell is going to happen next but right now I’m floating on air. Nice thought to go to sleep by.
Rise up Revolution
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 49
Day 48 - April 28th 2009
Home
After two months I woke up in my own bed this morning. Fitting back in will be strange. Doz told me everything would be different. I didn’t know how right he’d be. It’s kind of like the Twilight Zone. Everything’s the same except for me, well at least it feels that way. My room’s exactly the way I left it the house smells the same but I’m seeing it all through a new pair of eyes. As I wake up it’s confirmed that I’m not the same as when I left.
The Phone rings. It’s the brass from O.N.E. the club I book on Wed Nights. I have a meeting tomorrow…this is good, well hopefully it’s good. I can book some shows and get some more money comin in. The Broke part certainly isn’t fun but getting the HYPE! back on track is part of the long term plan. I need the flexibility that a full time job (or even a freelance job in my previous field) just doesn’t provide. Currently the plan is to get something or several things that I can leave if/when I need to travel again. Plans may change they always do.
As the day rolls by I see emails and texts from friends welcoming me home. It seems as if I was missed, which is kinda cool. I also get to catch up on some things that I missed like television and housework. There are three piles of clothes in the middle of the floor. Mostly my dirty laundry left over from tour along with some other clothes. Sitting on my butt watching TV in my underwear, strangely nice. I feel like a kid on Summer vacation, especially considering the weather. Mom calls, she wants me to pick up her dry cleaning around the corner from her house. I look up and realized that it closes in about 90 mins. I come back inside and hop on Facebook to talk to some friends.
I fear that I was away long enough to change but not long enough to make it stick. Everyone wants to advise me on what to do and I’m allowing them to get into my head. Out there I had really taken control. Making my own decisions, choosing what I wanted to do and doing it. I wasn’t out there on vacation for two months. I learned how to survive out there on my own and I don’t want that guy to be buried. I matured while I was away and I was so excited to bring that guy back. It’s easy to stand on your own when you have the support of others around you who share your dreams and goals. it’s harder to do it when the people around you shake their finger no at you because they don’t understand. It will be something I wrestle with as the weeks and months progress.
Turns out the people in Minneapolis were serious about me coming out there and playing. Just need to find the cash. Putting together this touring thing is going to be a hand full. I have to stand myself up again. I don’t know how I meet this challenge yet but I’m looking forward to it.
I’m spending the rest of the evening vegging out. This is my first night at home so I’m gonna stay in and watch Reaper. My meeting is tomorrow at 4 so I’ll be out then. Kimmel’s also tomorrow and I think my buddies and I are all getting together to watch. It’ll be good to see everyone and share in this experience. With my luck Doz’ll be standing right in front of me.
Home
After two months I woke up in my own bed this morning. Fitting back in will be strange. Doz told me everything would be different. I didn’t know how right he’d be. It’s kind of like the Twilight Zone. Everything’s the same except for me, well at least it feels that way. My room’s exactly the way I left it the house smells the same but I’m seeing it all through a new pair of eyes. As I wake up it’s confirmed that I’m not the same as when I left.
The Phone rings. It’s the brass from O.N.E. the club I book on Wed Nights. I have a meeting tomorrow…this is good, well hopefully it’s good. I can book some shows and get some more money comin in. The Broke part certainly isn’t fun but getting the HYPE! back on track is part of the long term plan. I need the flexibility that a full time job (or even a freelance job in my previous field) just doesn’t provide. Currently the plan is to get something or several things that I can leave if/when I need to travel again. Plans may change they always do.
As the day rolls by I see emails and texts from friends welcoming me home. It seems as if I was missed, which is kinda cool. I also get to catch up on some things that I missed like television and housework. There are three piles of clothes in the middle of the floor. Mostly my dirty laundry left over from tour along with some other clothes. Sitting on my butt watching TV in my underwear, strangely nice. I feel like a kid on Summer vacation, especially considering the weather. Mom calls, she wants me to pick up her dry cleaning around the corner from her house. I look up and realized that it closes in about 90 mins. I come back inside and hop on Facebook to talk to some friends.
I fear that I was away long enough to change but not long enough to make it stick. Everyone wants to advise me on what to do and I’m allowing them to get into my head. Out there I had really taken control. Making my own decisions, choosing what I wanted to do and doing it. I wasn’t out there on vacation for two months. I learned how to survive out there on my own and I don’t want that guy to be buried. I matured while I was away and I was so excited to bring that guy back. It’s easy to stand on your own when you have the support of others around you who share your dreams and goals. it’s harder to do it when the people around you shake their finger no at you because they don’t understand. It will be something I wrestle with as the weeks and months progress.
Turns out the people in Minneapolis were serious about me coming out there and playing. Just need to find the cash. Putting together this touring thing is going to be a hand full. I have to stand myself up again. I don’t know how I meet this challenge yet but I’m looking forward to it.
I’m spending the rest of the evening vegging out. This is my first night at home so I’m gonna stay in and watch Reaper. My meeting is tomorrow at 4 so I’ll be out then. Kimmel’s also tomorrow and I think my buddies and I are all getting together to watch. It’ll be good to see everyone and share in this experience. With my luck Doz’ll be standing right in front of me.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 48
Day 47 - April 27th 2009
It’s definitely 5:30 and I wake up to a familiar sight. Sadler and Carmen are asleep on the floor and Fox’s in the bed next to me. Today I leave and head back to reality. I said good bye to the Leslie boys as we left them to get ready to take their flight.
Everything was smooth as mom dad and I headed to the airport and got on a plane. Best not to think about everything right now. I’m headed home, I can’t wait to see everyone. It was gonna be a long flight and unfortunately this laptop isn’t built for that…I’d love to watch Nick and Norah on the plane. We’d fly a couple of hours and end up in Arizona. I spoke with a musician who just played a festival she had a ukulele and a banjo we discussed some music, the tour, everything. She was cool peoples.
We hopped on the plane that would take me back to Philadelphia. I couldn’t help but listen to Bang Camaro II on the way back. I found this like hidden song at the end of the last track, something about Stiletto heels. I should ask Bryn where the rest of that tune is it was like a minute long. My mind was focused on the task at hand. I had to make sure I got to Philly Rising, the Open Mic that I host on time. I’d been gone long enough so if I could get there on-time I would love to.
I thought I’d be happy to be home but I almost choked up when I saw the skyline. It was good to be home. It couldn’t have went smoother. We got off the plane took a cart to baggage and our bags were right there. The shuttle to take us to the parking lot pulled right up and by 7:05 I was back on stage at World Café Live. Deep sigh of relief.
Open Mic was amazing. I was very excited to see so many new faces. There were a buttload of talented people including Jason Min from Miss Vintage who won tonight. My best friends Casey, Zach and Julie showed up and hung out with me. It was so great to see them after being away. We wrapped up around 11 and I got in the car and went home. It was 2 and I was still up still on West Coast Time. Had a quick Facebook convo with Jason Fox and decided I should try to catch up on some sleep
I got a whole lot of thinking to do tomorrow
It’s definitely 5:30 and I wake up to a familiar sight. Sadler and Carmen are asleep on the floor and Fox’s in the bed next to me. Today I leave and head back to reality. I said good bye to the Leslie boys as we left them to get ready to take their flight.
Everything was smooth as mom dad and I headed to the airport and got on a plane. Best not to think about everything right now. I’m headed home, I can’t wait to see everyone. It was gonna be a long flight and unfortunately this laptop isn’t built for that…I’d love to watch Nick and Norah on the plane. We’d fly a couple of hours and end up in Arizona. I spoke with a musician who just played a festival she had a ukulele and a banjo we discussed some music, the tour, everything. She was cool peoples.
We hopped on the plane that would take me back to Philadelphia. I couldn’t help but listen to Bang Camaro II on the way back. I found this like hidden song at the end of the last track, something about Stiletto heels. I should ask Bryn where the rest of that tune is it was like a minute long. My mind was focused on the task at hand. I had to make sure I got to Philly Rising, the Open Mic that I host on time. I’d been gone long enough so if I could get there on-time I would love to.
I thought I’d be happy to be home but I almost choked up when I saw the skyline. It was good to be home. It couldn’t have went smoother. We got off the plane took a cart to baggage and our bags were right there. The shuttle to take us to the parking lot pulled right up and by 7:05 I was back on stage at World Café Live. Deep sigh of relief.
Open Mic was amazing. I was very excited to see so many new faces. There were a buttload of talented people including Jason Min from Miss Vintage who won tonight. My best friends Casey, Zach and Julie showed up and hung out with me. It was so great to see them after being away. We wrapped up around 11 and I got in the car and went home. It was 2 and I was still up still on West Coast Time. Had a quick Facebook convo with Jason Fox and decided I should try to catch up on some sleep
I got a whole lot of thinking to do tomorrow
Monday, April 27, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professionla Musician 47
Day 46 - April 26th - 2009
It was more like an Epilogue than an actual tour date today. Woke up in the AM to my phone being deader the Bea Arthur (Too soon?). I’d lost my charger backstage at Jimmy Kimmel and needed to get another one because today was a day I needed my phone. Leslie was playing a Barbeque and invited everyone to it. I was able to get my parents in. I was told most of the guys were going to make the BBQ so I was excited to see everyone and say my last goodbyes. I also had my first ever show in Los Angeles. I’d never done any Boy Wonder stuff so far away from Philly so we had to get directions from the hotel to the Barbeque, then from the barbeque to Molly Malone’s.
I charged my phones and as we were on our way to the barbeque the texts and phone calls were flying in from LA friends that were coming to the show. I was excited that everyone was so motivated to see me. A truly amazing thing. I even got a call from a friend from elementary school that lives out here. She said she was coming.
I pulled up to the BBQ and the level of California there was awe inspiring. Hot girls dressed like hippies in short skirts. Laid back people basking in the cool weather, little kids running around, and people getting ready to play music. I saw the guys and I hugged them, it was great to see everyone in a more relaxed setting. Admittedly it was a pressure cooker sometimes with so many of us on top of each other. A dude named Caesar played. His tunes reminded me a little bit of Radiohead or something like that. His voice was a lot less agonizing than Tom Yhorke’s making the music easier to listen to. Then all of a sudden Bryn asked me to play a song. He had cleared it with the Leslie guys so I went and grabbed my six string.
Jason Fox said they wanted to wait a little while to play so I could play several songs. I tuned up and inhaled. I could literally smell my allergies kicking in…this was going to suck balls. I toughed it out and did the best I could and either people were really polite or they liked what they heard.
I was able to stick around and listen to the Leslie guys. It was awesome to hear them with the volume turned down. There are a lot of subtleties in their music that I was able to pick up better with the amps turned down. They really are the real deal. Unfortunately I had to say my final final goodbyes and head over to the gig. I had gotten a text message from one Laura Wilson she wanted to meet me at the place I was playing Molly Malone’s for a drink. The club reminded me of a nicer version of The Fire back home.
Laura Wilson was the talent buyer at World Café Live when I was really getting my project going. I had played their open mic and done some shows for them for about six months and was granted direct access to her, after some begging (a lot of begging) she was the first person to ever let me book a show anywhere. She was the person that hired me to host Philly Rising and whenever I did stuff at World Café Live she was always the one that took care of me. So I owe a great deal to her for helping me to become the man I am today. I hadn’t seen her since she left for Los Angeles so I was happy to see her. We traded stories and laughed and talked. It was always nice to see a friendly face especially when it’s attached to a sane person that has their stuff together. She had to leave before the show but it was great to see her.
It was nearing the time and people started rolling in. The Midnight Miles Crew (Laila, Serina, and Sara) Christina From High School and her crew, Latifah from Elementary School, My cousin Mickey plus the small crowd that was there. But the highlight for me was when Rod and Rich (with their lovely ladies in toe) from Bang Camaro showed up followed by Leslie a few moments later. Musicians of this caliber that have toured the country countless times aren’t obligated to see little old me play by myself in some club somewhere. I was really touched that they came out to support me.
The time was upon me. It was time to see if I could be good in LA….I opened with my Ain’t No Sunshine/Woman medley and when it was over I said Hello LA to a round of applause. I picked up right away on how much my time with Bang Camaro has allowed me to grow as a performer. I wasn’t a slouch before I left but a wall that I usually had set up between me and an audience was completely gone. I was interacting with the crowd making them laugh. I definitely sounded better than I did earlier in the day. I finally played my new song Get me to California, a tune written that fateful night in Denton after the long walk. It was well received especially by my tour mates. I was pretty happy about that. After a few more tunes I ended my set with 3000 Miles Away, I figured since I was about that far away from home it would be fitting.
I got to say goodbye to Rich and Rod one more time, the Leslie boys were gonna stay with me tonight but we split off to get grub.
My cousin Mickey took us to the World Famous Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles. I didn’t even get to my chicken before the itis gripped me up and wouldn’t let go. I fell asleep in the back of the van and woke up in front of the hotel where Leslie was waiting. We went up to the room where Sadler was asleep outside with his sunglasses on (he’s even cool in his sleep…lol) Sadler hit his air mattress, Carman made a bed out of the couch cushions, and Jason Fox bunked with me…Back to back one last time, mainly cause we rule, even in our slumber.
I fly home tomorrow to questions of what’s next. I’m scheduled to go straight to Philly Rising because only a fool would get off a plane and head straight to host an open mic.
It was more like an Epilogue than an actual tour date today. Woke up in the AM to my phone being deader the Bea Arthur (Too soon?). I’d lost my charger backstage at Jimmy Kimmel and needed to get another one because today was a day I needed my phone. Leslie was playing a Barbeque and invited everyone to it. I was able to get my parents in. I was told most of the guys were going to make the BBQ so I was excited to see everyone and say my last goodbyes. I also had my first ever show in Los Angeles. I’d never done any Boy Wonder stuff so far away from Philly so we had to get directions from the hotel to the Barbeque, then from the barbeque to Molly Malone’s.
I charged my phones and as we were on our way to the barbeque the texts and phone calls were flying in from LA friends that were coming to the show. I was excited that everyone was so motivated to see me. A truly amazing thing. I even got a call from a friend from elementary school that lives out here. She said she was coming.
I pulled up to the BBQ and the level of California there was awe inspiring. Hot girls dressed like hippies in short skirts. Laid back people basking in the cool weather, little kids running around, and people getting ready to play music. I saw the guys and I hugged them, it was great to see everyone in a more relaxed setting. Admittedly it was a pressure cooker sometimes with so many of us on top of each other. A dude named Caesar played. His tunes reminded me a little bit of Radiohead or something like that. His voice was a lot less agonizing than Tom Yhorke’s making the music easier to listen to. Then all of a sudden Bryn asked me to play a song. He had cleared it with the Leslie guys so I went and grabbed my six string.
Jason Fox said they wanted to wait a little while to play so I could play several songs. I tuned up and inhaled. I could literally smell my allergies kicking in…this was going to suck balls. I toughed it out and did the best I could and either people were really polite or they liked what they heard.
I was able to stick around and listen to the Leslie guys. It was awesome to hear them with the volume turned down. There are a lot of subtleties in their music that I was able to pick up better with the amps turned down. They really are the real deal. Unfortunately I had to say my final final goodbyes and head over to the gig. I had gotten a text message from one Laura Wilson she wanted to meet me at the place I was playing Molly Malone’s for a drink. The club reminded me of a nicer version of The Fire back home.
Laura Wilson was the talent buyer at World Café Live when I was really getting my project going. I had played their open mic and done some shows for them for about six months and was granted direct access to her, after some begging (a lot of begging) she was the first person to ever let me book a show anywhere. She was the person that hired me to host Philly Rising and whenever I did stuff at World Café Live she was always the one that took care of me. So I owe a great deal to her for helping me to become the man I am today. I hadn’t seen her since she left for Los Angeles so I was happy to see her. We traded stories and laughed and talked. It was always nice to see a friendly face especially when it’s attached to a sane person that has their stuff together. She had to leave before the show but it was great to see her.
It was nearing the time and people started rolling in. The Midnight Miles Crew (Laila, Serina, and Sara) Christina From High School and her crew, Latifah from Elementary School, My cousin Mickey plus the small crowd that was there. But the highlight for me was when Rod and Rich (with their lovely ladies in toe) from Bang Camaro showed up followed by Leslie a few moments later. Musicians of this caliber that have toured the country countless times aren’t obligated to see little old me play by myself in some club somewhere. I was really touched that they came out to support me.
The time was upon me. It was time to see if I could be good in LA….I opened with my Ain’t No Sunshine/Woman medley and when it was over I said Hello LA to a round of applause. I picked up right away on how much my time with Bang Camaro has allowed me to grow as a performer. I wasn’t a slouch before I left but a wall that I usually had set up between me and an audience was completely gone. I was interacting with the crowd making them laugh. I definitely sounded better than I did earlier in the day. I finally played my new song Get me to California, a tune written that fateful night in Denton after the long walk. It was well received especially by my tour mates. I was pretty happy about that. After a few more tunes I ended my set with 3000 Miles Away, I figured since I was about that far away from home it would be fitting.
I got to say goodbye to Rich and Rod one more time, the Leslie boys were gonna stay with me tonight but we split off to get grub.
My cousin Mickey took us to the World Famous Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles. I didn’t even get to my chicken before the itis gripped me up and wouldn’t let go. I fell asleep in the back of the van and woke up in front of the hotel where Leslie was waiting. We went up to the room where Sadler was asleep outside with his sunglasses on (he’s even cool in his sleep…lol) Sadler hit his air mattress, Carman made a bed out of the couch cushions, and Jason Fox bunked with me…Back to back one last time, mainly cause we rule, even in our slumber.
I fly home tomorrow to questions of what’s next. I’m scheduled to go straight to Philly Rising because only a fool would get off a plane and head straight to host an open mic.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 46
Day 45 - April 25th 2009
This had to be the weirdest wake-up in two months. One, I’m in a bed, Two, I’m at a nice hotel, Three, My parents are in the next room. No guys on the floor, no tip toeing so I don’t wake anyone, no 7 Am shower, the routine I had grown used to had all but been blown up. Weird, different. I’m not with the boys, that’s even weirder.
Dad and I went down to get the free in the lobby. Embassy Suites Free is on a whole other level. Pancakes that I don’t have to make myself, hot syrup fresh fruits, all manner of juices, Starbucks Coffee, and teas…Yeah hotel stays with mom and dad are sweet. We discussed what my plans for the future might be. He’s suggesting employment, I don’t disagree with him, but I know I need something that I can leave for long periods of time and tour if need be, be it with Boy Wonder or Bang Camaro or whatever else might come my way. The two weeks leading up to my departure for this tour were hella stressful, I don’t wanna have to quit another full time job. My dad asked me what it all meant. What was the sum of this experience? What did I learn? I told him I’d have to get back to him on that.
We went up and got mom and then I hopped on the net for a while in the business center and then came upstairs. I watched Transformers for 20 minutes then it watched me for the rest of it. I woke up around 4 for the free cocktail party at 5. Then the folks and I had dinner at 6 and went back upstairs to get ready. Picked up a change of clothes and in a few moments we were headed toward the car to the World Famous Viper Room. It would take us forever to get there, Dad can‘t see the streets signs, no one can, it’s impossible. While in the car I got a txt from my buddy Kevin’s girlfriend Jes. Apparently they had gotten married while I was on the road. They wanted me to be in the wedding but I didn’t pick up my phone that much out here. My nephew/Godson is also crawling now, something else I missed.
We finally arrived and the routine begins. Dan gives me a wrist band and I find the guys, Leslie was wrapping up their set and Parlor Mob from Jersey came on. Once they were done it was time to warm up and rock it one last time.
The stage was small…smaller than usual. The crowd was hot though. They ate up every second of it. As the show was going I looked around and realized that this may be the last time we’re all together. Sure there’ll be more shows, more tours, I’m sure I’ll run to Boston or Charleston and hang out with people but it won’t really be like this ever again. I’ll have to admit I got a little emotional as I shook my hips and gyrated for the hot girl in the front row. I was so busy taking everything in, trying to get through the days and nights, and going bonkers, I hadn’t realized that I had formed a bond with these guys that’ll never be broken, there isn’t a drug, a cocktail, that can match that. Luckily I was done with the introspection in time to do back to backs with Jason Fox. Bang Camaro stage left pretty much rules.
We stuck around and watched the last band. I said some goodbyes, which were very hard to do. I am going to miss their stankin asses. I have like 16 brothers now. There were some mentions of some plans afterwards but nothing materialized so I headed back to the hotel.
My show is tomorrow night. I go back to being Boy Wonder again not that I ever stopped. I love singing and playing and making music. I pick up my football and run with it again. I wonder how strange it will be to perform by myself. I haven’t played a straight up solo acoustic show in…almost two years. Great now I’m nervous…lol a lot of my LA friends say they’re coming so it’ll be good to see them if they show. One more day in LA…gotta love it.
This had to be the weirdest wake-up in two months. One, I’m in a bed, Two, I’m at a nice hotel, Three, My parents are in the next room. No guys on the floor, no tip toeing so I don’t wake anyone, no 7 Am shower, the routine I had grown used to had all but been blown up. Weird, different. I’m not with the boys, that’s even weirder.
Dad and I went down to get the free in the lobby. Embassy Suites Free is on a whole other level. Pancakes that I don’t have to make myself, hot syrup fresh fruits, all manner of juices, Starbucks Coffee, and teas…Yeah hotel stays with mom and dad are sweet. We discussed what my plans for the future might be. He’s suggesting employment, I don’t disagree with him, but I know I need something that I can leave for long periods of time and tour if need be, be it with Boy Wonder or Bang Camaro or whatever else might come my way. The two weeks leading up to my departure for this tour were hella stressful, I don’t wanna have to quit another full time job. My dad asked me what it all meant. What was the sum of this experience? What did I learn? I told him I’d have to get back to him on that.
We went up and got mom and then I hopped on the net for a while in the business center and then came upstairs. I watched Transformers for 20 minutes then it watched me for the rest of it. I woke up around 4 for the free cocktail party at 5. Then the folks and I had dinner at 6 and went back upstairs to get ready. Picked up a change of clothes and in a few moments we were headed toward the car to the World Famous Viper Room. It would take us forever to get there, Dad can‘t see the streets signs, no one can, it’s impossible. While in the car I got a txt from my buddy Kevin’s girlfriend Jes. Apparently they had gotten married while I was on the road. They wanted me to be in the wedding but I didn’t pick up my phone that much out here. My nephew/Godson is also crawling now, something else I missed.
We finally arrived and the routine begins. Dan gives me a wrist band and I find the guys, Leslie was wrapping up their set and Parlor Mob from Jersey came on. Once they were done it was time to warm up and rock it one last time.
The stage was small…smaller than usual. The crowd was hot though. They ate up every second of it. As the show was going I looked around and realized that this may be the last time we’re all together. Sure there’ll be more shows, more tours, I’m sure I’ll run to Boston or Charleston and hang out with people but it won’t really be like this ever again. I’ll have to admit I got a little emotional as I shook my hips and gyrated for the hot girl in the front row. I was so busy taking everything in, trying to get through the days and nights, and going bonkers, I hadn’t realized that I had formed a bond with these guys that’ll never be broken, there isn’t a drug, a cocktail, that can match that. Luckily I was done with the introspection in time to do back to backs with Jason Fox. Bang Camaro stage left pretty much rules.
We stuck around and watched the last band. I said some goodbyes, which were very hard to do. I am going to miss their stankin asses. I have like 16 brothers now. There were some mentions of some plans afterwards but nothing materialized so I headed back to the hotel.
My show is tomorrow night. I go back to being Boy Wonder again not that I ever stopped. I love singing and playing and making music. I pick up my football and run with it again. I wonder how strange it will be to perform by myself. I haven’t played a straight up solo acoustic show in…almost two years. Great now I’m nervous…lol a lot of my LA friends say they’re coming so it’ll be good to see them if they show. One more day in LA…gotta love it.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 45
Day 44 - April 24th 2009
Today is the big day. I had the feeling rush through my body just before I opened my eyes. I understood the gravity of it and the crazy part was I wasn’t nervous at all. When I got up Ramsey (who was nice enough o let me have the extra bed) was taking the boys to a meeting leaving the room to myself. I ironed my pants and shirt, not wanting to look like a dirt bag on national TV. I checked out of Ramsey’s room and went into the room with the rest of the guys. I found my comb, the braids are coming out today.
I had promised the guys I would do it before the tour was over and tonight seemed like the perfect time to do it. I like the way my hair looks like that. But after a few days it falls straight and I look like Lil Bow Wow so I kept the braids in the whole tour. Nick wanted to leave sooner rather than later to drop Mayte off and pick up Dan. Once we did that we were on our way.
It took us about 45 minutes to drive ten miles but we finally arrived for load in, and I saw the first sign.
We were here, finally after two months on the road. When they talked to me about joining them for this tour this was one of the things they mentioned that perked my interest, they had played Conan in January where I’d seen them for the first time and now they’re getting another shot to be on national television, and I get to be included in that. Truly amazing.
This wouldn't be my first rodeo, I've appeared on some local TV I was even on an episode of VH1 Fanclub about four years ago. So I sort of knew the game already. But this would be my first time ever doing something on broadcast television, meaning anyone with a TV can watch it.
When we arrived we loaded in our gear and then we were shown our dressing room by the security guard. The sign was a trip.
We're rockstars and we get our own dressing room complete with Fruit Trays and waters and sodas in the fridge. California Pizza kitchen would be catering later. So much free.
We put some stuff on the stage and bagged out for lunch. We went to an In and Out Burger and as I was standing in line I saw someone I recognized, his name escaped me but I called it out anyway. I tapped him on his shoulder and there he was, Sean Purtill my first college buddy. I hadn’t really seen him since the first semester of my freshman year of college, all these years and he was still in the biz that I had climbed out of. Many of the old Temple crew are outside as well. We talked and exchanged info. I have more friends in LA than I realized.
I went outside to join the rest of the gang and Carlos Mencia is sitting at the table behind me. Looked like he was taking a meeting or something I guess the burgers here really are good.
We walked back to the studio and hung in the dressing room for a while until Bryn, Alex, and Doz got there to wire up their stuff and we did a very extensive sound check. These guys leave nothing to chance. We did a camera rehearsal of both songs, followed by an instrumental recording of Revolution. Then it was time to relax and get ready.
The world famous Kimmel Green Room opened up around six. Open bar, free food, beautiful people, the feeling that a guy could live like this…lol. I had a white wine and some shrimp on a stick. I went up the stairs and peaked into the studio audience. There they were Mom and Dad, I waved. I’ve lived with them all my life and this is the most time I’ve spent away so it was good to see them We saw some of the guest stuff and we got the call from a stage manager that it was time to go on. So we took to the stage.
What happened? What usually happens with this band. We ruled…hard! It’s hard not rule standing in between Morgan Brown and Jason Fox. We were like the Patriots before the Superbowl…winning. The crowd was into it, the studio audience was into it, and for the first time my parents saw me shake things that I never shook at home. We did our thing. As we were coming off Jimmy Kimmel told me I was the best one…just like he did to Morgan before me and Jason Fox after me. It was the only time we would physically meet Mr. Kimmel. It happened so fast I didn’t get any impressions on him.
We partied for a little bit in the green room. I grabbed mom and dad and brought them down and introduced them to everyone. I had a few Coronas before they kicked us out. We unloaded and a guy was outside talking to my mom. Apparently his son is a musician and cousins with Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, he was playing at the knitting room later. He bought a CD from me and I took his card. Probably make contact with him sometime tomorrow.
The boys went to the Rainbow Room to party. I went to the Embassy Suites with my parents. I wanted to rest. I wonder what kind of shenanigans they got into. I’m sure I’ll hear all about it at The Viper Room tomorrow night.
Off to bed now…Big day tomorrow as the week of ruling continues
A TV interview I did like two years ago for Wild about Philly...notice as I struggle not to look at her boobs durign the interview, also notice how I fail miserably
Today is the big day. I had the feeling rush through my body just before I opened my eyes. I understood the gravity of it and the crazy part was I wasn’t nervous at all. When I got up Ramsey (who was nice enough o let me have the extra bed) was taking the boys to a meeting leaving the room to myself. I ironed my pants and shirt, not wanting to look like a dirt bag on national TV. I checked out of Ramsey’s room and went into the room with the rest of the guys. I found my comb, the braids are coming out today.
I had promised the guys I would do it before the tour was over and tonight seemed like the perfect time to do it. I like the way my hair looks like that. But after a few days it falls straight and I look like Lil Bow Wow so I kept the braids in the whole tour. Nick wanted to leave sooner rather than later to drop Mayte off and pick up Dan. Once we did that we were on our way.
It took us about 45 minutes to drive ten miles but we finally arrived for load in, and I saw the first sign.
We were here, finally after two months on the road. When they talked to me about joining them for this tour this was one of the things they mentioned that perked my interest, they had played Conan in January where I’d seen them for the first time and now they’re getting another shot to be on national television, and I get to be included in that. Truly amazing.
This wouldn't be my first rodeo, I've appeared on some local TV I was even on an episode of VH1 Fanclub about four years ago. So I sort of knew the game already. But this would be my first time ever doing something on broadcast television, meaning anyone with a TV can watch it.
When we arrived we loaded in our gear and then we were shown our dressing room by the security guard. The sign was a trip.
We're rockstars and we get our own dressing room complete with Fruit Trays and waters and sodas in the fridge. California Pizza kitchen would be catering later. So much free.
We put some stuff on the stage and bagged out for lunch. We went to an In and Out Burger and as I was standing in line I saw someone I recognized, his name escaped me but I called it out anyway. I tapped him on his shoulder and there he was, Sean Purtill my first college buddy. I hadn’t really seen him since the first semester of my freshman year of college, all these years and he was still in the biz that I had climbed out of. Many of the old Temple crew are outside as well. We talked and exchanged info. I have more friends in LA than I realized.
I went outside to join the rest of the gang and Carlos Mencia is sitting at the table behind me. Looked like he was taking a meeting or something I guess the burgers here really are good.
We walked back to the studio and hung in the dressing room for a while until Bryn, Alex, and Doz got there to wire up their stuff and we did a very extensive sound check. These guys leave nothing to chance. We did a camera rehearsal of both songs, followed by an instrumental recording of Revolution. Then it was time to relax and get ready.
The world famous Kimmel Green Room opened up around six. Open bar, free food, beautiful people, the feeling that a guy could live like this…lol. I had a white wine and some shrimp on a stick. I went up the stairs and peaked into the studio audience. There they were Mom and Dad, I waved. I’ve lived with them all my life and this is the most time I’ve spent away so it was good to see them We saw some of the guest stuff and we got the call from a stage manager that it was time to go on. So we took to the stage.
What happened? What usually happens with this band. We ruled…hard! It’s hard not rule standing in between Morgan Brown and Jason Fox. We were like the Patriots before the Superbowl…winning. The crowd was into it, the studio audience was into it, and for the first time my parents saw me shake things that I never shook at home. We did our thing. As we were coming off Jimmy Kimmel told me I was the best one…just like he did to Morgan before me and Jason Fox after me. It was the only time we would physically meet Mr. Kimmel. It happened so fast I didn’t get any impressions on him.
We partied for a little bit in the green room. I grabbed mom and dad and brought them down and introduced them to everyone. I had a few Coronas before they kicked us out. We unloaded and a guy was outside talking to my mom. Apparently his son is a musician and cousins with Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, he was playing at the knitting room later. He bought a CD from me and I took his card. Probably make contact with him sometime tomorrow.
The boys went to the Rainbow Room to party. I went to the Embassy Suites with my parents. I wanted to rest. I wonder what kind of shenanigans they got into. I’m sure I’ll hear all about it at The Viper Room tomorrow night.
Off to bed now…Big day tomorrow as the week of ruling continues
A TV interview I did like two years ago for Wild about Philly...notice as I struggle not to look at her boobs durign the interview, also notice how I fail miserably
Friday, April 24, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 44
Day 43 - April 23rd 2009
We had to be up particularly early today, I had showered the night before because I figured there wouldn’t be time for everyone to do so this morning. I woke up around 7which was still earlier than everyone else. But then again I had gotten plenty of rest the night before. I had a grasp on how important the day was for the band so I felt like I needed to be at my best physically. My air mattress is dead so I slept in a sleeping bag in a nook between the bed and the air conditioner.
I went downstairs to enjoy the San Diego Free one last time. I made myself a waffle and saw Paris again who said he was praying for me. It blows me away how just sharing similar beliefs can bond strangers together. I was encouraged by his words.
Had to help get everyone up, Dan wasn’t here so it kinda fell to Sean, Jason, and I to wake up our respective rooms. I don’t like fighting with people so I tapped Bryn and he got up and everyone else got up and got ready. We packed the trailer and piled in the van 13 strong.
Today we go to LA, finally. It had been five years since I’d been on the West Coast. Almost ten since I’d been to LA itself checking out schools and the like. We were here to do a showcase for Fontana, a division of Universal that distributes music for independent record labels like Bang Camaro’s label Black Sword. They get it in all of the stores so that you can go to FYE and buy a copy. I was surprised at how chilly it was today in a city famous for it’s perfect weather.
We walked inside and they had a soul food place cater the event; fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese. I was truly at home, come to find out that this was the urban music portion of Fontana Fest. We were treated to performances from artists on Master P’s new label Hollywood Dreams, he walked in (tall guy) and introduced himself and his label. He said that this venture was about making these kids dreams come true. First out of the gate was Little King an 8 year old rapper complete with hip hop swagger and 7 year old dancing “video girls” it was a bit disturbing especially since the girls had a ton of make up on their face. Then there was The Fabulous Girls and another R&B artist it was a little off putting. I’m sort of against having kids in the entertainment industry hardcore. I didn’t really dive into show business till my mid teens with acting and what not, going to CAPA (The Creative and Performing Arts High School in Philly) every once in a while we would get the kid that did a couple of movies or did some commercials before they got there, they would have plenty of cash to throw around from residuals and would often have their own apartments, and all I ever met except one was a complete mess. Whether this is my moment in the sun or the beginning of my success I’m thankful it’s happening at 26 and not 13.
We were then treated to a set by DJ Quick and Kurrupt. That was pretty cool. I grew up listening to a lot of the West Coast Hip Hop (My brother was really into NWA and Death Row) so to see Dj Quick up there was an amazing thing.
There was another rock band and then we played. Pleasure Pleasure, Revolution, and Lady Lightning was all we needed to rock the crowd. That day off made us all well rested and we were all in excellent shape. There was talk of an after party, open bar, free food so we stuck around. I changed my shirt to a longsleeve and a few hours later we went inside.
The party was amazing excellent spread and the server girls were friendly and gorgeous. I even ended up in a full blown 20 minute conversation with a Marilyn Monroe impersonator. She literally followed me around the party arm in arm. It was truly bizarre, she was very good at her job though. I managed to pass her off on Bryn and Morgan and I slipped off into the sunset. I was talking to industry people and making some contacts and what not for the day that I’d be ready to shop my own stuff. Everybody was really nice and laid back and as I was walking to find the brothers a voice hits my ear drum
Max: Would you like a reading?
I turned around and thought about it
Me: Sure
It was a woman with Tarot Cards. I’m not a believer in any of this stuff, but I’ve never had one done and I was curious about it. I imagine that it’s all about reading people and telling them what they wanted to hear,, especially in this environment. Besides I like a good hustle so why not?
She said my past was about me having an abundance of skills and someone wanting to help me. My present was about me gaining fortitude and trying to be stronger. She says my future is about me taking all these skills and running with them that great abundance and smooth sailing was in my future. Not likely, but the reading was strangely accurate a little spooky. I know my help comes from God not cards on a table.
So the party was in full swing and then someone says “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome our entertainment for the evening, The Crystal Method.” Yes they Crystal Method DJed the party, it was amazing. Couldn’t dance to the music but it was still hittin pretty hard. I walked around ate and drank a little more and talked to some more people before we left for the hotel.
I slept in the back of the van and when we got there I had traveled up to the room and prepared to sleep on the floor when our manager Ramsey came in and said he had an open bed. My last night sleeping in a hotel room with the Camaro Crew and I get my own bed….sweet.
We got Kimmel tomorrow so I need to get some rest. This is Probably the biggest of all big days.
We had to be up particularly early today, I had showered the night before because I figured there wouldn’t be time for everyone to do so this morning. I woke up around 7which was still earlier than everyone else. But then again I had gotten plenty of rest the night before. I had a grasp on how important the day was for the band so I felt like I needed to be at my best physically. My air mattress is dead so I slept in a sleeping bag in a nook between the bed and the air conditioner.
I went downstairs to enjoy the San Diego Free one last time. I made myself a waffle and saw Paris again who said he was praying for me. It blows me away how just sharing similar beliefs can bond strangers together. I was encouraged by his words.
Had to help get everyone up, Dan wasn’t here so it kinda fell to Sean, Jason, and I to wake up our respective rooms. I don’t like fighting with people so I tapped Bryn and he got up and everyone else got up and got ready. We packed the trailer and piled in the van 13 strong.
Today we go to LA, finally. It had been five years since I’d been on the West Coast. Almost ten since I’d been to LA itself checking out schools and the like. We were here to do a showcase for Fontana, a division of Universal that distributes music for independent record labels like Bang Camaro’s label Black Sword. They get it in all of the stores so that you can go to FYE and buy a copy. I was surprised at how chilly it was today in a city famous for it’s perfect weather.
We walked inside and they had a soul food place cater the event; fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese. I was truly at home, come to find out that this was the urban music portion of Fontana Fest. We were treated to performances from artists on Master P’s new label Hollywood Dreams, he walked in (tall guy) and introduced himself and his label. He said that this venture was about making these kids dreams come true. First out of the gate was Little King an 8 year old rapper complete with hip hop swagger and 7 year old dancing “video girls” it was a bit disturbing especially since the girls had a ton of make up on their face. Then there was The Fabulous Girls and another R&B artist it was a little off putting. I’m sort of against having kids in the entertainment industry hardcore. I didn’t really dive into show business till my mid teens with acting and what not, going to CAPA (The Creative and Performing Arts High School in Philly) every once in a while we would get the kid that did a couple of movies or did some commercials before they got there, they would have plenty of cash to throw around from residuals and would often have their own apartments, and all I ever met except one was a complete mess. Whether this is my moment in the sun or the beginning of my success I’m thankful it’s happening at 26 and not 13.
We were then treated to a set by DJ Quick and Kurrupt. That was pretty cool. I grew up listening to a lot of the West Coast Hip Hop (My brother was really into NWA and Death Row) so to see Dj Quick up there was an amazing thing.
There was another rock band and then we played. Pleasure Pleasure, Revolution, and Lady Lightning was all we needed to rock the crowd. That day off made us all well rested and we were all in excellent shape. There was talk of an after party, open bar, free food so we stuck around. I changed my shirt to a longsleeve and a few hours later we went inside.
The party was amazing excellent spread and the server girls were friendly and gorgeous. I even ended up in a full blown 20 minute conversation with a Marilyn Monroe impersonator. She literally followed me around the party arm in arm. It was truly bizarre, she was very good at her job though. I managed to pass her off on Bryn and Morgan and I slipped off into the sunset. I was talking to industry people and making some contacts and what not for the day that I’d be ready to shop my own stuff. Everybody was really nice and laid back and as I was walking to find the brothers a voice hits my ear drum
Max: Would you like a reading?
I turned around and thought about it
Me: Sure
It was a woman with Tarot Cards. I’m not a believer in any of this stuff, but I’ve never had one done and I was curious about it. I imagine that it’s all about reading people and telling them what they wanted to hear,, especially in this environment. Besides I like a good hustle so why not?
She said my past was about me having an abundance of skills and someone wanting to help me. My present was about me gaining fortitude and trying to be stronger. She says my future is about me taking all these skills and running with them that great abundance and smooth sailing was in my future. Not likely, but the reading was strangely accurate a little spooky. I know my help comes from God not cards on a table.
So the party was in full swing and then someone says “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome our entertainment for the evening, The Crystal Method.” Yes they Crystal Method DJed the party, it was amazing. Couldn’t dance to the music but it was still hittin pretty hard. I walked around ate and drank a little more and talked to some more people before we left for the hotel.
I slept in the back of the van and when we got there I had traveled up to the room and prepared to sleep on the floor when our manager Ramsey came in and said he had an open bed. My last night sleeping in a hotel room with the Camaro Crew and I get my own bed….sweet.
We got Kimmel tomorrow so I need to get some rest. This is Probably the biggest of all big days.
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