THE SEARCH FOR KINDRED SPIRITS IS OVER
Community building is one of the most important things that Beats by Girlz does, and while for some, the idea of a lyric-writing feedback session might not seem exciting or sexy like an open mic or a workshop on something mega tech-y, I think that it’s a great way to get to know other creators in our community, thus fulfilling one of BBG’s key purposes.
Last month, in March, at our Lyric-Writing Feedback Session (the theme of that month’s meet-up) we got to read lyrics by some incredible people in our community. It was great to listen to everyone give top notch advice and suggestions, because it made me realize how important it is to have a circle of peers, of friends, that you can count on to give you honest and useful feedback.
For those of us who got to study music at an institution, a school, or a college, we had the privilege of finding kindred spirits in that built-in community, without having to worry about meeting other musicians, because we were constantly around them. But, if that structure is gone or was never there to begin with, meeting new people with shared interests and values can be incredibly difficult. It’s a question I constantly ask myself: How do adults even make friends? Furthermore, where am I going to find musicians to play on my tracks once I graduate?
To that point, I keep on seeing these ads for what this company is self-titling as a “Tinder for musicians.” My first gut-reaction, when I saw an ad for this pop up on my Instagram feed was, “That’s going to get creepy real fast.” Maybe what’s throwing me off is the fact that they’re using “Tinder” as a point of comparison: combined with my series of bad experiences with sleazy guitarists, I’m very wary of this app. However, one thing does remain true: Someone created it because they saw a need for it in the market. Someone woke up one morning and though, “Damn, I really need to find a trombone player and don’t know where to start.” And that’s how this app probably got its funding.
There is a hunger, a deep desire in all musicians to make meaningful connections with their peers. What we do, this crazy field we’ve decided that we’re madly passionate about, is highly collaborative, and there’s really no way around that. Also, who else are you going to send your music memes to?
This is why at last month’s meet up, when I walked into that room of smart and talented individuals, whose only desire was to inspire and uplift the people around them, it literally filled my heart with positivity and light. It was so great to see the BBG community expanding right in front of my eyes, because it gives me hope that maybe I won’t have to deal with strangers over the internet, and, instead, I can find like-minded friends in a fun and nurturing space.
So, I want to encourage everyone to come to our next meet up, which is an aux-friendly open mic, on April 5th, at 7pm, at the Record Co. People who want to perform are welcome to sign up to do so on the day of the event. But, in my opinion, what’s even more important than getting to play a tune or a beat, is meeting all of the wonderful people who are a part of our community. So, even if you’re not a performer, or if you feel like taking a break from your adoring public, come through and get to know some of the amazing people in our community. You never know, maybe you’ll find your future collaborator there!
Click on the button below to reserve your spot!
