Go and Try

I spoke at an Entertainment Forum last night and I got a chance to talk about my experience.  In 1993 I took a leap of faith and auditioned for the role of Dorothy in my school's spring musical, The Wiz! (thanks to Mrs. Cosby, I love her for that!)  Mrs. Cosby told me to "Go and try."  Sounds simple right?  How many times do we tell our friends, co-workers, children and partners to, "go and try."  As I've gotten older I've found that it is far more easy to tell someone else to "go and try", but we rarely head our own advice.  When my co-panelist and I were discussing our different musical journeys with the audience, I said something that really stuck out.  I said, "I have a deep passion for music, but I probably don't go after it like I could."  That's a very poignant statement and an honest one.  Almost an oxymoron of sorts.  How many artists actually "go and try" like they could?  I'm not sure about you, but I know when I was hungry for it, I went hard!  My singing group worked HARD!  We had rehearsals, dance class, studio sessions and performances every week.  It seemed like everyday we were working on something that was pertinent to our careers.  We wanted it.  But as we get older, a lot of us start to develop the "What If" mindset.  "What if this doesn't work?"  "What if they don't like my music?"  "What if I don't make it?"  Then that turns in to, "I need a job!"  "I've got bills to pay!"  The "starving artist" is a real thing.  Ask anyone who has or is really trying to "make it".  Some may have not actually starved, but they had to give up something or a lot of everyday things that we take advantage of, to make their dreams come true.  Some gave up their childhoods, relationships, "free time", so they could work on their craft.  They grinded so hard and now the work has generated fame and fortune.  But these same folks can't walk down the street, go to the movies or even have a bad hair day because of the dreams they have worked so hard to achieve has materialized.  Reality is, everyone is NOT going to "make it".  I live in a city where there are tons of talented people.  Some gig daily, some never see a stage, but what you're willing to give up to come up will make a difference.  Some folks die trying and some folks dreams die in the process.  I believe as an artist, you can help paint your own picture.  So what some major label doesn't think you'll be marketable!  So what some random A&R person can't see past what may seem to be a flaw physically and in to your musical soul!  You have to believe in who you are as an artist and be true to that.  If you truly have a passion, no one can stop you from pursuing it.  Period.  Don't try to be the next Beyonce' or Jill Scott, they're already here and still making records.  If you are the best you, a truely genuine artist, someone will follow.  You have to be able to balance what you want and what you're willing to give or give up to make what you say is your dream come true.  It's not going to fall from the sky in your lap, trust me I've tried waiting on that shower and my legs are still dry.  There is a destiny out there waiting for you so, go and try!  And as my bestie Leslie Green would say, "Be great!"