Traffic was moderate and the ride was enjoyable as we listened to the songs selected for Phil's set.
At some point I was singing along and simultaneously distracted by the sky.
It was stunning.
My daughter keeps telling me I'm going to fool around and drop my cell phone out of the car window when I get an inkling to snap a picture.
I heeded her warning, and pointed my phone toward the windshield this time. Besides, it was much too hot yesterday not to enjoy every ounce of the air conditioning that was cooling the car.
I marveled at the sight, thanked God and was feeling extremely grateful and happy.
The rehearsal was so much fun. Spur of the Moment guitarist, Wayne Bruce was our host. He had chairs arranged, and mikes set up for us to use, although the acoustics in the room were quite nice. Chris "Big Dog" Davis was on keys, and with Sol Edler and my sister Lori on vocals, I didn't mind singing soprano at all.
It's so wonderful when the blend is sweet and everyone is cooperative, friendly and pleasant--no egos or drama or agendas.
There's a point when you feel like family, and you strive to be a loving family that respects each member and shares an important philosophy: If each person does his or her part, and does it well, success can be enjoyed by everyone.
It is critical, I think, as a background vocalist, to care about another person's work, and be prepared. Even if changes are made, it just makes sense to, as much as possible, come into a rehearsal ready and with genuine knowledge and appreciation, even admiration, of the artist and their work. Otherwise, it's just a gig, and who wants that?
I don't know. I guess some people do, but I love to sing waaaaay too much to be irritated, bored, or unconcerned while doing it. Even though it IS work, it should never feel like a backbreaking chore.
The effort put forth is to make something pleasing, not just to self, but to everyone who will hear, and you want the listening experience to be a fortunate one--memorable for good reasons.
Phil said if we heard something that fit nicely within the chords, and didn't destroy the integrity of the harmony, just do it. It's nice to have freedom, but the background vocals he'd done on his projects were so nice, it's hard to tamper with them.
His creativity and excellent ear gave us a few challenges we were only too happy to tackle.
He just sat in a chair and sang like there were thousands of people in the room.
It's great to see someone really enjoy what they do--especially when it's something you like to do as well.
Although I've sung background vocals on the last two Super Cruises, this will be my first time participating in the Capital Jazz Fest in Columbia, and I'm really excited.
Rehearsal with the full band is tonight.
Seeing things coming together nicely--like the sun and the clouds--really makes me smile...: )
#bgvlife
#capitaljazz
#philperry
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