Interview: Geoff Byrd, Singer/Songwriter And Musician - Page 4

No, I just think I am so much happier creating my own gravitational pull. I like creating my own planet rather than orbiting everyone else's. I don't like tapping people on the shoulder and asking their permission to do what I dig doing. So I just learned to do it all myself. I enjoy making my own videos, recording my own songs, playing the instruments, marketing it myself and putting it up online. I have just learned to follow up with leads that naturally and organically appear. I don't beat myself up always worrying about how much more I could be doing. I just start with my friends and family and follow up with people that visit my planet. It is so much easier than worrying about what everyone else is doing and what I might be missing out on. Anxiety bites. So now I slow down and try to stay in the moment at all times. Like Michael J Fox says, "happiness is a decision." I believe that. I am happy these days. I can say it and mean it, finally. I write songs for other artists, produce my own records, work a bit with film and TV and hang out with my friends and eat good food. I get by and I am happy doing it. The economy is tough now, but it will turn around and like a forest fire actually clearing the way for a healthier forest, we will see healthier smaller businesses popping up with low overhead and more creative solutions. Things are going to be great in 2 years I believe.

Outside of being a singer-songwriter, your "regular" job a couple of years back was teaching in a high-school. How has that experience informed your work, and vice versa? Would you rather be a Madonna- or Springsteen-style international superstar right now, or do you like striking a balance between life as a rock star and more down-to-earth activities?

I like right where I am. If another tour comes around and I can open up... I'm into it! I am talking to you, Elton; and you, Seal; and you, Elvis Costello! Maybe if I'm lucky I might play with Prince or Paul. I love not having the pressure of filling seats and just opening up for great musicians. It is a win win. I don't mind being an opening act and an under-the-radar kind of guy at all. In fact, I am really comfortable in those shoes. Of course, I will always play with Hall and Oates at the drop of a hat as well. Anytime, anywhere... I can go for that. Yeah, I know, don't quit my day job. What day job? Oh, and a shout out to Reynolds High School (the school Geoff worked at). Those were three great years.

Article Author: Wesley Mead

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