Every now and then someone asks me if I really play the uke. Yeah, I do. I’m not very good but I love to play. No, I mean I REALLY love to play. And the uke has been a big help with my stage fright issues. Occasionally, just to prove that I play and that the world will not crumble if I play in public, I do THIS. For the record, I’m very realistic — I know that I play okay and my singing, well, I’m mostly on key, but that’s about it.… continued…
Not on my list of things to accomplish? Drink cheap beer back stage at a divey bar and then, play in a “band” on stage at said bar. Nonetheless, if that’s not on your to-do list for this lifetime, I highly recommend you add it, pronto. If you’re in a city famous for music — Nashville, Austin, Seattle, or New York City, so much the better.
Vintage aloha shirt from Goodwill, silk flower haku lei from a neighbor, PBR from an ice bucket marked “Band Beer Only.” Ukulele (not pictured) by Pono via Scotty’s Music on Kauai.… continued…
Last week, two different people from two very different places asked me about starter ukes. I tell everyone the same thing: Get a Flea, I love mine, it’s portable, made of plastic (mostly) and fits in the overhead compartment on the plane, plus, it’s sturdy as all get out and does okay if you leave it in a hot car. It’s not super cheap, but it’s not irreplaceable either and it’s friendly, oh so friendly.… continued…
Left to right in this imperfect yet perfect photo are:
- Carel N: Founder, director and agent
- Pat K: Reluctant drummer, court jester
- Pam M: Stage frightened vocalist, mad strummer
That’s not the entire crew, there are four more:
- Gregg P: Actual musician and bass player
- Rod H: Cheerful guy who knows how to sing on key
- Dan S: Songwriter, lead uke, and music historian
- Sid the New Guy: Drop in accordion player and wearer of best hat
…even ukulele players.
Hey, I never said I had skill or talent, only that I did, indeed, play the uke. This mangled version, mistakes and all, is based roughly on this one from Chordie. You should record yourself playing it and show me how it ought to be done.
Happy Sunday.… continued…
