[Harp-L] Being a Pro

[SONNYTONE@xxxxxxx]

Jonathan , maybe the issue with you not understanding where I can coming  
from, is that you are where you are musically, have not paid the duesman, drove  
12 hours for 3 days to get to the next gig, mostly playing while driving with  
your leg, and life's experiences that either make us fold or push forward. If 
 you actually got to this pro level I speak of after doing what it takes to 
get  there, you may feel as passionate at it as I do. EVERY pro will have their 
 stories, bottom line is we took the time and effort to make our instrument,  
stage presence, and God given gift to this next level. The ones in the middle 
or  less can't comprehend where I am coming from because they aren't at the 
level of  skill and performance it takes to be called a PRO. I will always 
speak my mind,  nothing was handed to me, Sonny showed me things when I was only 
playing harp  for 2-3 years, formative years, then I went into Chicago blues 
bands. Only  through these past 4 years have I gone back and seriously spent the 
time needed  to advance above the line, and continue to do so. It is more of 
a tease once you  get to where you can perform anywhere, anytime and make an 
audience feel the  money they spent to see you was worth it. If you haven't had 
fresh Abalone stir  fried right from the sea in Alaska, you don't know what 
it tastes like, somewhat  of my analogy. There is nothing better than putting 
the harp in your mouth and  practicing to get to the next step. Maybe someday 
you can look back at what I am  saying if you get to that point and understand 
where I am coming from, never  take it personally my friend, at 52 years old I 
had the rug pulled out from  under me in several ways physically, I got off 
the pitty pot and put total focus  on rehab'ing and practicing, it was these 
marathon practices sessions, going  back and listening to Sonny again, that has 
me speaking up now. I can't touch  most of the things Jason Ricci and many 
other pros can do, but I have something  that is unique, it is my responsibility 
in life to share it with whomever loves  his style and wants is directly from 
the man who was with the man. This may  sound like bragging, but I stay on my 
knees in life, it is a shorter fall on  your face if you forget how precious 
life is, and what gift God gave me. Be  well, having mortality at an arm's 
length either makes you put your head under  the covers or come out swinging, I 
chose the latter. Sonny  Jr.