Interview: Geoff Byrd, Singer/Songwriter And Musician - Page 6

I had a band for two weeks before going on. It was a nightmare of pressure and worrying about results and all the things that limit true expression. I let it be anxiety causing. I don't like the idea of competition in my music so in that respect, I wouldn't do it again. I couldn't perform well at all. My band did great, but I feel like I let them and myself down. I pretty much sucked on national TV. But in hindsight, it led me to the correct path in my life. My ego needed to have its ass kicked so that I could learn how to be happy whether I am a star or not. Thank God for that show now. But at the time, I was pretty hard on myself about not performing well. I thought it was going to be all original and suddenly I'm doing "Blowing in the Wind" with a four-on-the-floor rock beat. Wow, not my best moment. But again, necessary. I'm a better man because of it. I take full responsibility for sucking. I was much better opening for Hall and Oates on stage in my home town because I don't worry about singing and then immediately being judged. It's un-natural. I don't envy those American Idol kids.

Your work has never struck me as overly political, but clearly, Barack Obama's election as President is going to have repercussions across all aspects of popular culture. Do you think it will have any effect on the lyrics you write?

There were some political moments on Featurette the record, especially, "Under the Sun" and "Terra Firma". But I like to keep it sneaky. I really like Obama. I believe he is a cool guy underneath all the formalities that are necessary to the office. I think he is charming and has a good sense of humor. I hope to meet the dude one day!

As of right now, what are your main priorities in life, musical or otherwise? What does the future hold for Geoff Byrd?

I am really excited about my new record "X Ray Eyes". I am experimenting with hip-hop and groove and pop. There is a real focus on syncopation and rhythm. I am having more fun than I have in years with this one. I am playing live with an acoustic guitar and a DJ. It's going over well and I am having a blast playing live shows again.

Article Author: Wesley Mead

Wesley Mead is a politics student from England. He spends far too much time and money on DVDs. You can catch up with a range of his content from around the Internet, including lists and articles, here.

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