Re: Re: RE: Re: [Harp-L] "Mojo" on an instrument

[Pat Powers <patpowers@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Well put, Bill. 

I think "spiritua influence" is the key term regarding the mojo you're referring to.  Knowing someone great played an instrument makes it feel special, therefore it is!  There is nothing different about the instrument except for you're perception of it, which just goes to show that being truly great is all in your mind. The great ones that project "mojo", are actually projecting self-confidence in thier ability and talent. It takes all 3 to be truly great. This translates to anything you do; music, sports, art, or even your career. If you have any doubts in your ability or talent, you can not be at your best.  Athletes ususally refer to it as "being in the zone", musicians call it "mojo", but it's all a state of mind -- You gotta believe in yourself.






patpowers@xxxxxxxxxxx

Aug 16, 2010 11:38:43 AM, bkumpe@xxxxxxx wrote:



In "Mojo Red's" defense, I think I probably should define some terms. There
are a lot of players who have what is popularly known as "Mojo," a
combination of talent, skill, personality and force of will that allows them
to project their emotion through their music and into a crowd. I can name
dozens of harp players who have that. And, it is a rare gift.

But occasionally, you run across a player who has something else. They may
carry a "mojo bag" or a "gris gris" or whatever on their person or in their
bag. That's what I was talking about along with those rare occasions when
somebody picks up a used instrument and feels the power or presence of the
previous owners as he plays it. That's not just stagecraft and that is what
I was asking about. I'm asking because I am planning a writing project
concerning the spiritual influences on the blues and blues musicians one of
these days when I have the time to write again.

Bill Kumpe
Tulsa, OK