We all need a little inspiration sometimes. Sometimes we spend too much time operating at a superficial level, just sort of skating across the surface, not having the time or inclination or courage to go deeper.
We need to go deeper sometimes. To get down and dirty and emerge bigger and better for it…warts and scars and scrapes and burns and all.
Music helps me get there. I am so thankful that there are people on this planet who have the courage to go deep, the courage to create from that place, and the courage to put it out there for all of us to see and enjoy…and even criticize.
These are a few of my favourites, all live performances – I much prefer the perfect imperfection and intensity of live performances.
These songs inspire me. They push me to push myself, personally and professionally. To take risks. To put myself out there. And to forgive myself for being only human.
The first one is K.D. Lang singing “Hallelujah“ at the Juno Awards (Canada’s music awards) in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 2005. Hallelujah was written by Leonard Cohen, a Montrealer. It’s been performed by many artists, but this is one of my favourite renditions.
The second is The Tragically Hip, a band from Kingston, Ontario, singing “Nautical Disaster“ on SNL in 1995. As a former Maritimer, this one touches me.
And the last one is the Black Crowes, live in Atlanta, Georgia, singing “She Talks to Angels.”
I hope they inspire you to go where you need to go, like they do me. Let me know, OK?
