I remember when Gravity Kills started and it really seemed that it was the band against the world. The only fans of the band that existed where Matt, Doug, Kurt, myself and the few family and friends that had heard Guilty before it was released on Pointessential Volume One. I had no idea what the road ahead looked like. I had no idea that I was going to be so lucky as to emotionally touch people that I had never met with music that I helped create. Sure, I thought I knew. I had dreamed my whole life about hearing a song of mine on the radio or playing to a packed house somewhere but that was all kind of bullshit. The essence of my experience can be encapsulated by the experiences I shared with others and the people that made themselves part of my experience. Yes, I did say MY experience. I know this sounds selfish. Let me explain. My experience in the music business has been infinitely enhanced by the people that made an effort to reach out to me, not the other way around. People who make a decision to become your fans are beyond special. That is the reason you do it. You really only have communication when someone responds to you. If you are speaking, whispering, screaming, etc. and nobody talks back, have you really communicated? Don't get caught up in the number of people that talk back to you and let you know they are listening. You can sort of figure out that the sample of people that will really open up to you personally and communicate how your song made them feel is small compared to everyone that has actually heard your music if you are really getting your message out there and across. It is amazing to me that I am constantly in touch with fans that have been around for years and that we all consider ourselves real friends. I actually had a friend that started out as a fan send me a holiday package this week. Really cool if you think about it.
My whole point to this is to create dialogue with your audience. Be open to hearing what people who were touched by what you do want to say back to you. Take down the barrier that stands between you and your audience. You just might get way more back than you ever gave out in the first place.
:) Christmas is a time for celebrating what's important-- family, good friends, and yummy food! Even though you say you didn't seek us out, that's not true... You did and still do by writing music and lyrics that touch our lives. Even if someone is not a strong believer in the 'spiritual' side of things-- we all 'resonate' together through good music and great lyrics. So, keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteI remember in high school (I graduated in 2003), I listened to the self titled album over and over. Everytime I break up with a girlfriend or have a rough patch, I throw it in and it makes me feel better. "Goodbye" and last" especially help... Thank you guys!
ReplyDeleteJeff, I have remained a huge fan ever since I met you at the X-Games Expo in San Diego. To date that, that was the year before X-Games #1. I think Doug is one of the most awesome producers and followed some of the bands he worked on as well (Radio Iodine is still in my truck for driving music) I was heartbroken when I read that Gravity Kills was giving it up because no one wanted to hear that style of music anymore. Where is the face of the bug-in-your-ear so I may punch it?
ReplyDeleteI am grateful that you are making a return. I personally enjoy everything your style, especially the vintage looking mic you use. Gravity Kills always packed a house in San Diego and I will remember those good times. Now I look forward to more.
Rock On!
Molten
I was 10 when I heard of Gravity Kills for the first time. It was 1996 and I've just bought the Mortal Kombat soundtrack (with "Goodbye" demo). I was blown by this song.
ReplyDeleteI've never got the chance to see GK live cause I'm from Poland and it's a fucking long way from here to USA ;)
But who knows? I'm really happy that you guys are back on track.
Hope to see You somewhere, someday!
Take care Jeff!
Jakub