I'm not one to take on “corporate gigs,” but I guess you can categorize this one as such. It was a situation along the lines of so-and-so works at a place I regularly play, and this person had a relative that works at this “corporate” place, and they're having an event and looking for music… So, I took it, not knowing what to expect.

The reason I shy away from corporate-type events most of the time (as well as weddings, etc.) is because I am not a DJ. I don't have a wealth of cover material to perform, nor do I want to. I'm a songwriter. And while at many shows I do incorporate 50% originals and 50% covers, I'm not playing covers that are current stuff like Chappell Roan's ‘Pink Pony Club,’ nor do I play any of the old, tired, played-a-million times songs like ‘Sweet Caroline,’ or ‘Don’t Stop Believin'.' Sorry, it's just not my thing.

Having said that…

This private event was at a landscaping business in Glastonbury CT. It was sponsored by ABC - Associated Builders and Contractors, a trade association in the construction world. Having worked in construction at one point in my life, I had some common ground with the event. It was a sizeable event, with about 200 people from various construction and related businesses, gathering to network. It was later relayed to me by someone from ABC, that they included me on their website for the event. Pretty cool! I've performed at some places that are actual venues that neglect to list shows on their sites!

I figured I would just do what I do, be myself, play the songs I always play - “mine” and “theirs.” This formula has taken me many places, on quite a journey, and basically works. If you've ever heard the advice, “just be yourself,” well… there's a reason for it. I never want to come off as inauthentic or worse - fake - and generally it's appreciated. That was the case here. I played my songs, the cover songs, and it was genuinely enjoyed by folks all around, judging by all the nodding heads and kind words I received. That certainly made me feel more at ease. Everyone at the event was so nice, especially my liaison, Fran, who made me feel so welcome.

I played for about 75 minutes, then let the ABC and EAQ folks use my PA to give some speeches. As soon as they were done, the skies opened and it started raining. Now, let me say, that one can judge others by the quality of their character by whether or not they help the lonely musician scramble to get his or her gear out of the rain and into a safe space. I'm happy to report that these were terrific people, helping to bring my stuff inside, then getting a pop-up tent to cover me and my gear up while I dried off and packed things up. I was grateful for their help.

When I was young, I had aspirations of performing in arenas, like my heroes did. If someone said, “You're going to be playing music at a networking event for tradespeople on a patio at a landscaping business,” I would've have shook my head in protest. But that's what I did. I'm glad I did. It may not have been Madison Square Garden, but I deeply appreciate the opportunity given to share MY songs to a new group of people. And make some bucks…

-SA 7.2.26