Living the Dream

Last night after choir practice, Joreen and I stopped at the Brewhouse on the West Shore (great food and good beer selection). They have live music on Wednesdays, and as we were sitting down in walked Rhyne McCormick. Then he walked in again, and again, carrying his gear to set up and play. Rhyne's a great guy, and sat down to talk with us while he waited for the three guys whose table was right where he needed to set up to get done chitchatting so he could go to work. (Lord, I'm sorry for that sentence structure and I'll try to do better. Amen.)

We talked about playing solo, local venues, the state of live music in general, and playing about 20 dates a month. (He does that, we don't.) In fact, as I'm typing this, he's on his way to a job near Syracuse, New York. Check out this schedule: http://www.rhynemccormick.com/

The folks who know me have heard me use the phrase "living the dream" jokingly, but there's something inspiring about seeing somebody really give it a serious shot. Rhyne has a dream of writing, performing, sharing his music and he spends a great deal of time and effort at it. If you get the chance, go catch a performance of his. His material is thoughtful, melodic and engaging, and he has one of the best voices in town.

Those who do this kind of work are in it for many reasons: the money, of course, especially when it's your only gig; but as much or more, so the respect of those whose opinions they value, fellow musicians and music lovers who listen, make eye contact, applaud, request songs, and make the performer feel more like a "live musician" and less like a radio in the background. Here's to you, Rhyne, wishing you safe travel, good tips and an easy load-in tonight and always.