In a casual conversation the other day, somebody who just recently became a retiree, asked whether singers and musicians also formally retire and if so, what do they look forward to when their last performance turns into an almost forgotten memory. This question filled me with some sense of gratitude – in some way I felt fortunate knowing that there is no such thing as a cut-off age in performing arts. Certainly any musician or singer is entitled to retire, but there is no age restriction prohibiting anyone from being creative in the musical realm. I guess I would happily answer the question with a counterquestion: Why would anyone in the music business feel the need to retire when they still have the ability to perform, enjoy what they are doing and knowing that the best is yet to come? Isn’t that much to look forward to?
While I am on the subject of “the best is yet to come”. At the end of last year, I was fortunate to receive a Lifetime Achievement Legends Award from SACMA (South African Country Music Association). The news took me by surprise. Not in the least did I expect something like that would come my way. When I finally processed the news, I involuntary relived the years I spent on my music path. Some memories filled me with great joy and some other made me wish I had a second chance, but through it all I realized that every moment shaped me into the artist I am today. I am privileged to stand in a profession where after all these years, I am still able to (in some way or other) contribute to my form of art.
The award ceremony was a memorable event that I will forever treasure and I am much grateful that I was honoured (acknowledged) as an artist in such a tangible manner. It would be far from the truth to say that I did not enjoy the hype that accompanied the occasion. Like a child after a birthday party, I was exhausted from all the anticipation and excitement.
I woke up the following morning with all the excitement still fresh in my mind, but it was as though my inner self wanted to discuss my emotions and I allowed it obediently. My perception of that inner conversation was profound! I became aware that worldly acknowledgement is a good thing but one should be very weary not to put your trust in worldly credits because it is fleeting and will always have you wanting more – it is never enough, compared to God who acknowledge us for who we are in Him. You never have to prove yourself or impress Him in any way – you are enough and that thought is soothing to my soul.
Don’t get me wrong. I do not condemn any worldly acclamation. There surely is a place for that too. I merely realized that if I never had the opportunity to experience credit in the eyes of the world, it would have been okay - Jesus is all I need!
When it comes to music, there is always plenty to look forward to. I am convinced that music will always be part of our lives (musicians and non-musicians alike), no matter what age we reach. May every song you listen to, fill you with great joy.
Be blessed
Charlie