Many moons ago, we boarded a bus to Vegas from LA with friends for New Years Eve 2001. Kids in tow we were in for a experience that lingers in the present. On that bus so long ago was a little known singer named Jason Mraz. He entertained us with a guitar, some vocals and antics during the trip which included a songfest in a hotel room for about 20 people. Soon after that he had a record deal and since then many many tours around the world as part of a successful career. It has been a fascinating treat to watch this young man grow up into a mature muscian. A muscian with a unique style and a sense that as we listened to him we are let into his heart...a place full of clever lyrics, sing-a-long melody and heartfelt emotion. A nice place to visit.
Barefoot, he led us through his old favourites and some delicious new songs with Toca on percussion and sidekick humour. I won't say I wasn't mezmerised by him. In a mid concert out of body moment I wondered at my ability to sit, connected to the song. My mind went on the path he led joyfully. When it did wander it was to my most favourite thing to ponder...the creative process. In Jason's case the process comes from a strong talent base. His vocal range is from the highest highs to the lows that might initiate a tidal wave in the harbor...or so he implied.
Jason tells his personal story speaking of things in song he may not be able to speak about face to face. His exposed humanity connects us to the process...the process of self expression. We are taken to places of our own insecurity and the bravery needed to let it out. He makes choices. He makes choices to combine a bit of bongo style percussion and a bit of operatic style vocals on the piano. The mixture of influences keeps the mind engaged...just like...just LIKE! YOU KNOW WHAT I AM GOING TO SAY! Just like us, making quilts that combine lots of different cultural influences and techniques to create a unique message!
Confidence is a big part of the job. We had the pleasure of going to the sound check in the afternoon. I was completely overwhelmed and fascinated while watching the artists at work. From the sound guy that quietly walked around to the corners of the Opera House listening...just listening, to the film guy angling for camera angles, the lighting guys experimenting with colour and texture....to Jason himself. Singing. Talking over the harmonies, song to song blends and choreograpy. What would later appear to be a seamless montage of songs was actually very well thought. When he opens up and sound comes out, it wraps around us taking us where he is. I wished over and over that I could sing like that to release my message. I envy his ability to connect so completely that it almost hurts.
I woke up this morning with lyrics in my head and a feeling of contentment. In the process is release. Release of frustration, emotion, and the acceptance of the message. The message that in a lot of ways we are all the same. Isn't that what we are here for? to connect? Jason has a message of love, his own but also the love that unites us all and lucky he has enough courage and insight to get the message right. Like a love struck teenager I was completely in the spell.
Time to do the laundry and groceries. back to reality...k
Nice new look to the Blog! Lovely pics.
Posted by: Salley | Sunday, 20 November 2011 at 07:26 PM
I usually listen to music recommendations on blogs - and wow - Jason Mraz - never heard of him before this - just listened to his Remedy - and how awesome is he?? I'll be sure to check him out more!
Posted by: Irene | Monday, 28 November 2011 at 01:39 PM
Mr A-Z certainly does R-O-C-K!!! ; ) The first time we saw him, he was opening for Alanis Morissette. The next time...HE was the MAIN EVENT!!! Couldn't be happier for him and his awesomeness!!! LOVE him and his brainy art.
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