On the first Wednesday of each month Tossing It Out participates in Alex J. Cavanaugh's Insecure Writer's Support Group--a forum of writers who convene to discuss the struggles as well as the triumphs of pursuing the literary life. For a complete list of participants visit Alex's Blog. It's an extensive list which will lead you to much worthwhile information. The co-hosts for the March 4 posting of the #IWSG are Chemist Ken, Suzanne Sapseed, and Shannon Lawrence!A Very Special Battle of the Bands/Insecure Writer's Combined Post
On March 1st Tossing It Out also participated in the bi-monthly Battle of the Bands event which occurs each month on the 1st and 15th. In this event two different music artists face off with the same song for voters to decide which version they like the best. This recent Battle featured rock
interpretations of Beethoven's Für Elise by Orion's Reign from Greece and Sebastian Sidi of Los Angeles. On Monday March 2nd I was joined by Orion's Reign guitarist Michael Batistatos for a special interview. In our current post Sebastian Sidi joins me in my first video Tossing It Out episode with some of his thoughts on dealing with and overcoming insecurity.
Be sure to check out the links following the summarized textual transcription of what is contained in the interview provided for those unable to view the video. My thanks to Sebastian Sidi and to Red Rock Recording Studio in Los Angeles for making this video possible I hope you enjoy the interview. If you do watch this video I hope you might click the like button at YouTube and leave a brief comment there as well as on this blog.
If you were not able to view the video, here is a condensed text version of the interview:
Hi, I'm Arlee Bird from the blog Tossing It Out. We're here for the March 2015 post for Alex J Cavanaugh's "Insecure Writer's Support Group". I'm joined by Sebastian Sidi who is one of the competitors in my most recent Battle of the Bands post. I hope you've taken the time to visit that post and vote on your favorite song version. If not, be sure to visit that post after you've finished here.
Arlee: Who are you and what do you do?
Sebastian: I am a self-promoted and self-marketed musician, primarily playing piano. I have been in the business of music full time for about 15 years.
Arlee: What exactly do you do here at Red Rock Recording Studio?
Sebastian: Initially I built the studio to have control over recording my own albums. Now I also produce recordings for other bands and artists
Arlee: I've seen you perform a number of times and have watched you interact with fans. You exude a sense of confidence in what you do and don't ever appear to be insecure. In fact from what I've seen, you are one of the most self-confident people I've met and seem to be successful in every dream you strive to achieve. Who has been the greatest force of instilling that self-confidence within you?
Sebastian: Hands down that would be my father. He's shown me that you just have to go for it. It doesn't matter if you fail as long as you try. If you don't at least try you'll never no and if one thing doesn't work you can keep trying until you succeed. Just try your best.
Arlee: If there are times when you feel insecure how do you deal with those negative feelings in order to keep moving forward?
Sebastian: We're all insecure. Anytime I go onstage I'm scared. The moment I step on the stage I realize that I'm responsible for the emotions of the audience. Even if I have to pretend I have to appear confident in order to relax my audience. Once they are at ease then I feel confident and can do my job.
Arlee: Over the years you've worked with many young people as well as seasoned musicians. How do you instill more confidence in the artists you work with and mentor?
Sebastian: I begin be letting them know I'm going to be honest with them. I'm not going to feed them false hope. I work on developing their talent and what they need to be professional not to be a hit, but to make a career in music. I keep it real in order to arm them to have control over their careers so they will be prepared to manage their own futures.
Arlee: You are in the music and entertainment business, but there are many aspects that are similar to what writers deal with in their lives. What advice would you give to insecure writers and anyone else who is presently hindered with feelings of insecurity that might encourage them in their quest to break free of insecurity and start achieving their dreams?
Sebastian: First of all you have to practice some social skills and get out to meet the people who can help you with your career. You need to talk to people about what you're doing. Also start doing things pertaining to your dream and don't wait for the approval of others as to whether you should pursue your dreams. Have something to show people to give what you're doing credibility.
Arlee: Marketing is a daunting challenge for many writers who often tend to be reclusive and apprehensive about meeting the public and promoting themselves and their work. What marketing advice can you offer to them?
Sebastian: Focus on what the public perception of you will be. Do you have a quality product that is packaged well? If you are out in public are you offering a good presentation that makes you come across as authentic, professional, and credible? Don't spare expense in order to cur corners, but in the end make you look bad to the public. Consider all of the little details that will make the public feel secure in buying your product. Your packaging is just as important as your product. Make tiny goals to take little steps toward the big goal.
Arlee: What are some of the other services you are now offering?
Sebastian: Currently besides my own music I am offering video production, photo shoots, and promotional consultation. I can handle video services such as book trailers, personal profile videos, and any type of promotional video needs. Also we can provide recording services for the spoken word as well as music. I also can create original music if that's something you need for video or any other uses.
Arlee: Thanks for meeting with the Insecure Writer's Support Group and anyone else who may have dropped by. This has been the very first video edition of Tossing It Out made possible by my guest Sebastian Sidi. Be sure to check out the links provided below to learn more about Sebastian's work and about Red Rock Recording Studio.
***************************
For more information about Sebastian Sidi, bookings, performance schedule, or products available for purchase visit Sebastian's website: http://www.sebastiansidi.com/ You'll find some wonderful CD's for purchase as well as a DVD documentary and concert video that has been broadcast on many PBS stations.
If you are interested in audio or video production find more information at Red Rock Recording Studio: http://redrockrecordingstudio.com/ Feel free to contact Sebastian about your promotional needs.
And now for Sebastian's most recent recording from Red Rock Recording Studio:
If you have still not voted on the most recent Battle of the Bands post, please do so by clicking this link.
Do you have anything to add to Sebastian's advice ? Have you personally utilized the services of a recording studio or videographer for your author needs or anything else? Would you like to see more video features at Tossing It Out?
.
Great interview. That sure was something different. Have a lovely Wednesday.
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting.
DeleteLee
Excellent advice! IWSG members will get a lot out of this.
ReplyDeleteLiked his view on being in control but open to suggestions.
And when he mentioned an obligation to the audience - yes! That I fully understand as a guitarist. Whenever my band performs, we have to do our best for the audience. (And since we are a Christian band, our best for God.)
Good stuff, Lee and Sebastian!
And hope we get more videos from you, Lee.
I thought you might enjoy hearing the topic from a musician's perspective.
DeleteLee
I already cast my BoTB vote. It was nice to watch your interview of Sidi. I totally agree with him in that you have to take the plunge to find out if others like you or to simply live your dream and let it take you to the next level. That's what I did with my children's book and all though I like the story, I discovered writing for children isn't my calling after all. I did learn I have a place with other like-minded folks in Blogosphere. Will I ever make a living doing what I do? I don't know, but I enjoy the interaction and creative process for now. This is all I need at the moment and anything else that follows will be welcomed. Nice interview, Lee!
ReplyDeleteGood point--if you do make the attempt, you can stop dreaming and either proceed with following that dream or let it go to move on to something else to which you're better suited. Just dreaming can waste a lot of valuable time and energy when there is no action to the dream.
DeleteLee
Social skills! Who would've ever thought those were needed? LOL When I teach my book promotion seminar, that's one of the first things I tell attendees. They have to work on people skills.
ReplyDeleteYeah, you have to market and to be effective you have to get out and actually interact some. Any more it's rare to be a reclusive writer hidden away writing while somebody else does all the promotional work. Besides, it's kind of fun to meet new people now and then.
DeleteLee
Great interview! It's definitely comforting to know artists in other mediums go through what writers go through. You assume musicians are always comfortable on stage in front of a crowd. You never really see the nervousness when they're performing, so it's amazing how well they hide it.
ReplyDeleteI've heard it said that when you stop being nervous before going on stage it's time to quit. Being nervous puts you on top of your game and keeps you focused on what you are doing.
DeleteLee
Being responsible for the audience's emotions. I think that is a good lesson for writers to pay attention to for their readers. People read books and will continue to read books if they have an emotional connection to them, so I have to be confident in doing that with every world. Thanks Arlee.
ReplyDeleteThe mission of the entertainer or the author is to bring the consumer into their world. We have to make a connection in order for our audience to stay focused on what we have to offer.
DeleteLee
Lee, I am very impressed with how you have handled and directed your latest series of blog posts! I am not a blogger, just a "normal person" (ha!) that visits and reads the posts of a few blogs. However, writing and promotion is in my background, and all that experience informs me that you are really rolling lately. I've owned and published several newspapers, written many stories, and created and orchestrated many promotions for businesses, public agencies, and individuals. To my eyes, you've really stepped up to the plate and whacked it out of the park lately!
ReplyDeleteYou found two interesting bands doing cool and unusual versions of a well-known piece. You found and employed a new voting system, you teased us with bits about what was coming next, and then interviewed one band from the other side of the globe and video interviewed the other locally. You managed to kill two "birds" with one stone by tying it into the IWSG subject matter as well. Wow! If you somehow manage to keep up this top-notch standard with your blog, you will gain many, many followers! I am sure you will challenge yourself to get even better.
I am interested in details of how you did this video, if you are willing to share. I suggest NOT sharing it and keeping the secrets to yourself! Either that or create a series of blog posts teaching other bloggers what you have learned (earning even MORE followers.) Did you know these bands, or contact them out of the blue and get them to talk? (Actually, my son has a small, occasional blog devoted to interviewing obscure bands and he usually does his interviews right after attending shows.) Did you rehearse your questions with Sebastian or did you wing it? Was he given advance notice about what you would ask? Was the videography done with a live person, or two cameras that switched back and forth at your (or Sidi's) direction, or did they switch randomly, or were they simply running the whole time and then you switched shots later in editing? I tried counting between your camera angle switches and found no particular pattern... other than you staying on a shot 40 seconds or less for the most part, and usually no less than 8-10 seconds.
Finally, although my vote on "Fur (how do I get the umlaut???) Elise" went to Orion's Reign, I really liked Sebastian. I found his interview engaging, and am now going to follow his career a bit and if he's in my area I'll go see him. His participation here benefits him also, and is JUST the sort of thing writers should do to promote themselves. Offer to speak to schools, nursing homes, churches, assemblies of all kinds. It will only help... unless you stink. If you are a bad writer and people simply dislike the material, it will go just like a bad movie. All the hype in the world only nets a big opening weekend before the word gets out.
Great work, Lee.
(It appears my first comment was eaten by the blogger multiverse; hope it does not show again; hopefully I didn't double-publish! )
DeleteThank you for this very encouraging comment. I did put a lot into this series and it's one of those things that I have tried to do in the past with lesser success and hopefully can manage now and then in the future.
DeleteI've known Sebastian for a number of years and followed his career. His "Fur Elise" has long been a crowd favorite and I was very aware that there were many covers on YouTube so after screening many I decided to use Orion's Reign's version since I knew Sebastian liked that style as did many of my readers. I contact Orion's Reign and they graciously consented to participate.
I then contacted Sebastian about the idea and he was open to doing the interview. Since it came on #IWSG day it was the perfect tie-in. And since Sebastian is now so focused on his recording and video production we both recognized this as a way of helping to promote that.
Sebastian was totally responsible for the video production and editing himself. I prepared the questions ahead of time, but he answered off the cuff. He's very good at this as he has done many interviews over the years.
He had a set up of two cameras running at once and then he went back and edited and produced the videos that I then downloaded on my YouTube channel. We did everything very quickly and in the time we had I thought Sebastian did an outstanding job with it. If you watched the music video later you see what he can do with the music recording. He's just starting out with the video stuff, but he's really catching on quickly. Then, Sebastian is a very talented guy and a quick learner at everything he does.
Somewhat sadly Sebastian has indicated that he wants to focus more on the video and recording end of what he is doing and less on the performance. Although he has two videos that have appeared on many PBS stations around the country so you never know, you might catch him on your local station one day.
Thanks for the interest. It makes what we put into all this more worthwhile.
Lee
I don't know what happened to Sheboyanboy6 's big comment but here it is--the comment to which I responded above:
DeleteLee, I am very impressed with how you have handled and directed your latest series of blog posts! I am not a blogger, just a "normal person" (ha!) that visits and reads the posts of a few blogs. However, writing and promotion is in my background, and all that experience informs me that you are really rolling lately. I've owned and published several newspapers, written many stories, and created and orchestrated many promotions for businesses, public agencies, and individuals. To my eyes, you've really stepped up to the plate and whacked it out of the park lately!
You found two interesting bands doing cool and unusual versions of a well-known piece. You found and employed a new voting system, you teased us with bits about what was coming next, and then interviewed one band from the other side of the globe and video interviewed the other locally. You managed to kill two "birds" with one stone by tying it into the IWSG subject matter as well. Wow! If you somehow manage to keep up this top-notch standard with your blog, you will gain many, many followers! I am sure you will challenge yourself to get even better.
I am interested in details of how you did this video, if you are willing to share. I suggest NOT sharing it and keeping the secrets to yourself! Either that or create a series of blog posts teaching other bloggers what you have learned (earning even MORE followers.) Did you know these bands, or contact them out of the blue and get them to talk? (Actually, my son has a small, occasional blog devoted to interviewing obscure bands and he usually does his interviews right after attending shows.) Did you rehearse your questions with Sebastian or did you wing it? Was he given advance notice about what you would ask? Was the videography done with a live person, or two cameras that switched back and forth at your (or Sidi's) direction, or did they switch randomly, or were they simply running the whole time and then you switched shots later in editing? I tried counting between your camera angle switches and found no particular pattern... other than you staying on a shot 40 seconds or less for the most part, and usually no less than 8-10 seconds.
Finally, although my vote on "Fur (how do I get the umlaut???) Elise" went to Orion's Reign, I really liked Sebastian. I found his interview engaging, and am now going to follow his career a bit and if he's in my area I'll go see him. His participation here benefits him also, and is JUST the sort of thing writers should do to promote themselves. Offer to speak to schools, nursing homes, churches, assemblies of all kinds. It will only help... unless you stink. If you are a bad writer and people simply dislike the material, it will go just like a bad movie. All the hype in the world only nets a big opening weekend before the word gets out.
Great work, Lee.
Nicely done interview. I saved it on my YouTube! Thanks Lee, for sharing this with us and I voted, though it was a hard decision to make! I voted for Seb, because I liked him playing the piano, and his video was better, I thought. I liked the Orion version as well, especially the end where they make fun of making the video!
ReplyDeleteYes, it was a tough choice. Sebastian told me he was tempted to vote for the Orion's Reign video. Both were very good.
DeleteLee
It's always interesting to learn about the artists behind the performance. This was great. I admire anyone who does everything himself, and this musician certainly does.
ReplyDeleteWhen I said Sebastian is "multi-talented" I meant it.
DeleteLee
Wow! That was a cool interview, Arlee! I'm thoroughly impressed. Sebastian has a lot of excellent advice, too. Thanks for that!
ReplyDeleteHe did have very good advice, but musicians and writers are both in the entertainment business so there are many things that are the same.
DeleteLee
Lee, I am very impressed with how you have handled and directed your latest series of blog posts! I am not a blogger, just a "normal person" (ha!) that visits and reads the posts of a few blogs. However, writing and promotion is in my background, and all that experience informs me that you are really rolling lately. I've owned and published several newspapers, written many stories, and created and orchestrated many promotions for businesses, public agencies, and individuals. To my eyes, you've really stepped up to the plate and whacked it out of the park lately!
ReplyDeleteYou found two interesting bands doing cool and unusual versions of a well-known piece. You found and employed a new voting system, you teased us with bits about what was coming next, and then interviewed one band from the other side of the globe and video interviewed the other locally. You managed to kill two "birds" with one stone by tying it into the IWSG subject matter as well. Wow! If you somehow manage to keep up this top-notch standard with your blog, you will gain many, many followers! I am sure you will challenge yourself to get even better.
I am interested in details of how you did this video, if you are willing to share. I suggest NOT sharing it and keeping the secrets to yourself! Either that or create a series of blog posts teaching other bloggers what you have learned (earning even MORE followers.) Did you know these bands, or contact them out of the blue and get them to talk? (Actually, my son has a small, occasional blog devoted to interviewing obscure bands and he usually does his interviews right after attending shows.) Did you rehearse your questions with Sebastian or did you wing it? Was he given advance notice about what you would ask? Was the videography done with a live person, or two cameras that switched back and forth at your (or Sidi's) direction, or did they switch randomly, or were they simply running the whole time and then you switched shots later in editing? I tried counting between your camera angle switches and found no particular pattern... other than you staying on a shot 40 seconds or less for the most part, and usually no less than 8-10 seconds.
Finally, although my vote on "Fur (how do I get the umlaut???) Elise" went to Orion's Reign, I really liked Sebastian. I found his interview engaging, and am now going to follow his career a bit and if he's in my area I'll go see him. His participation here benefits him also, and is JUST the sort of thing writers should do to promote themselves. Offer to speak to schools, nursing homes, churches, assemblies of all kinds. It will only help... unless you stink. If you are a bad writer and people simply dislike the material, it will go just like a bad movie. All the hype in the world only nets a big opening weekend before the word gets out.
Great work, Lee.
A wonderful interview. It's refreshing to know that even successful people sometimes are scared but continue on which all of us should do. Fathers do know best. We just have to listen to their advice. Thanks so much for your time, Sebastian and Arlee.
ReplyDeleteAny advice is always worth thinking about whether it be good or bad, we just don't know which until we consider it and weigh it out.
DeleteLee
Oooh... you made a movie...
ReplyDeleteWell, technically I didn't make it, but I was in it.
DeleteLee
Holy carp, Mr. Bird you just took BOTB and IWSG to a whole new level. Congrats, this was very impressive. I admit it, I'm a tad bit green with envy.
ReplyDeleteI loved this interview with Sebastian Sidi. I admit it in the BATTLE for 'Fur Elise', I voted for "Orion', but I loved the original piece you posted here. I will definitely watch for him, and should he be appearing in the Reno/Tahoe area, I'll get my ticket early.
I really liked that he said he felt an obligation to give the audience his best, It seems that so many performers today, don't share those sentiments.They might be ale to produce top notch recordings, but when it comes to a live performance it's less than so-so. Obviously, Mr. Sidi works hard to do both. I hope I have the opportunity some time to see him in person.
This post as well as the BOTB and interview with 'Orion' are certainly and 'E Ticket Ride' (just dated myself there, didn't I?).
Sebastian has always connected with his audience and cared about them enough to build a super loyal fan base. I'd like to think he might perform in your area someday, but it sounds like he is redirecting most of his time to his recording and video producing and staying home more.
DeleteLee
Damn, BOIDMAN, you've gone BIG TIME! I noticed it was even a two-camera set-up (long-ago actor-guy here, so I notice those kinds o' things).
ReplyDeleteEarlier today I was wondering why your blog bit wasn't posted (I'd remembered that it was supposed to have something to do with Sebastian Sidi - whom I'm proud to say I voted for in your BOTB installment). I started to worry that maybe you were sick or something really bad had happened, since normally you post early in the AM.
Now I see why this blog bit showed up later than usual. Pretty cool, Lee, pretty damn cool! Someday I'll probably be saying that it was I who inspired you to enter blogging and people won't believe me. Ha!
Anyway, this was a really fun change-o'-pace, and now I'm off to vote Thumbs Up at YouTube. (In fact, I think I'll borrow a page from the Democrat Play-Book and vote several times. Maybe I'll even get my gardener and housekeeper to vote for your video at YouTube. In fact, I've got some dead friends and relatives who are just dying to vote for your video at YouTube.)
Please tell Sebastian I voted for him in 'BATTLE OF THE BANDS', and if he ever needs to hire someone for his studio, or ever wants to loan a bloke in need a lotta dough, I'm available and will quit my day-job for any handout I can get.
I have found that someone who is talented in one form of the arts is often talented in several ways. That's why many actors or musicians also have drawing and painting talent; why stand-up comedians can often become entertaining actors; why some musicians can become actors, etc. And it sounds like Sebastian is one of those multi-talented artist types.
Lee, you might just put 'BATTLE OF THE BANDS' on the map yet.
~ D-FensDogg
'Loyal American Underground'
Strangely I guess this post did one of those things others have mentioned about not appearing through the reader even though it actually did post at 2 AM my time. It was there you just didn't see it!
DeleteI hope a lot of people vote a thumbs up on the video as I think it somehow means something on YouTube but I'm not sure what.
Yeah, Sebastian is one of those versatile guys who can try something and be good at it. It's mostly due to what he talks about in the video. If you don't try something, you don't do it. And if you try and fail, well, at least you tried and hopefully learn something from you effort. It's ideal advice for the "insecure writers" and everyone else and that's why I scheduled this for today's post.
Next BOTB won't be quite as big as this one was, but I think it will still be a good one.
Lee
Yeah, Lee, this didn't appear in my Dashboard until just shortly before I visited and commented. In fact, to be precise, my Dashboard right now is claiming that this blog bit was published "three hours ago".
DeleteAfter I left my first comment, I scrolled up to the top to start reading the other comments published before mine and I saw that the first one was submitted at 3:39 AM.
Buggy Blogspot. Nuttin' new to see here, folks. Move along, move along!
~ D-FensDogg
In my sidebar most of the day it showed my Monday post and I couldn't figure why. About an hour ago the new one popped up and showed it had been up for 11 hours. Yeah, life on the internet as usual.
DeleteI normally don't have too much problem though so I'm not too upset, but I was wondering why some of my visits were coming more slowly than normal.
Lee
This was a very interesting and well done interview. Sounds like an amazingly busy man. Amazing what parental help in self-actualization can do for a person. Guess I'd be the flip side to that coin.
ReplyDeleteSebastian's dad is very supportive. He's always been at Sebastian's concerts that I've attended. His mother was also very supportive of everything Sebastian did.
DeleteLee
I haven't used videos to promote any of my books, yet. Probably because they were novellas and only sold as ebooks, but I would like to do it for my first print book. :)
ReplyDeleteThis was a cool interview.
Video promos are pretty cool. Don't know how effective they are on line, but it's a good visual aid to have if you have a place to use the videos.
DeleteLee
I am going to try to listen to the interview when I am at home but his responses show such confidence and knowledge about how to market oneself and be approachable to the public. I think this will be great help to anyone who must deal with the public whether it be an author or someone who must talk to groups of people. He is right, once the people are comfortable then you become more at ease
ReplyDeleteEven for authors since they are marketing to the public, they need to learn how to establish a loyal following and that can be achieved with personal contact and public appearances. It can be scary to do, but it gets easier once we've started doing it.
DeleteLee
Like the interview video! Arlee in person (so-to-speak). :)
ReplyDeleteAs close to in person you'll probably get without be being there. Well, other than the A to Z Twitter chats that I attend.
DeleteLee
Wow, look at you go. Big time now.
ReplyDeleteOne sure has to have confidence indeed and not be afraid to accept another opinion, as it could make things even better.
If we don't accept other opinions we will grow more slowly if at all.
DeleteLee
That was a great battle, and while I voted for Orion's version, I thoroughly enjoyed Sadi's playing. Certainly a multi-talented artist. Loved the marketing and professional advice too. All professionals need to learn to present themselves to the public in a positive way.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the pep talk Lee and Sadi.
Sebastian Sidi knows what he is doing!
DeleteLee
Thanks for the comment Dolorah. I know by Sadi you mean Sidi. =) Keep on Rock'n!
DeleteThank you for putting the transcript on there! In the evening, I can't watch the videos if I'm watching something with my husband, but I can't necessarily get back to a blog to watch it later. Very helpful! And he had some great information. Marketing can be a rough thing for authors, especially marketing themselves.
ReplyDeleteI know some people look at blogs during work or can't access videos for other reasons so I wanted the essential information to be there to read in those cases. I know how difficult the marketing is for many authors because it's such a frequent topic of conversation.
DeleteLee
Great interview. Sebastian's N.R.G video rocked!!! Totally made my evening.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Tanya! Glad you enjoyed it. YOU ROCK!!!
DeleteThank you Tanya and thank you Sebastian for dropping in to interact with new fans!
DeleteLee
{Blogger experienced down time issues across the nation. I waited a couple of hours before attempting post.}
ReplyDeleteLee, "You" never cease to amaze me with your talent. I enjoyed this. As before, I'll look at your questions to answer them.
1 - Do you have anything to add to Sebastian's advice ?
["Make tiny goals to take little steps toward the big goal."] - Sebastian
A - I find that a lot of people lack patience with themselves. I think his advice aids in that regard.
2 - Have you personally utilized the services of a recording studio or videographer for your author needs or anything else?
A - I had an unique position for seven years, assisting my brother in his recording studio, for his television program. He showcased local talent... all arts. Normally, my job was to be assist with sound check, and lighting effects. However there were times I sang with bands, to warm up the audience. Ha! He had so many requests for one particular show, we made dics to distribute... it was a hoot. (A totally unexpected result.) Another time he show cased my painting. It was a wonderful interview that brought many clients. A very exciting venture!
Would you like to see more video features at Tossing It Out?
A - Why not? You do this so well!
I do like Sebastian's latest recording - such talented artists.
Thank you, Lee, and thanks to Sebastian for providing great advice, and a peek into his world!
Thank you for answering the questions so thoroughly. You've provided more enlightening information about you as well and that was quite interesting.
DeleteLee
I like his altruistic attitude - that he's responsible for the audience's reactions/emotions when he performs. It's a good perspective to hold as an artist. We're responsible for our readers' responses. Thanks for putting a lot into your IWSG post.
ReplyDeleteArlee, on the A to Z note, I blew it. I signed up (#653) but forgot to designate Adult Content/AC. Should I sign up again, or can someone on the team add that? Sorry for the inconvenience and for not paying attention in class.
Rawknrobyn@aol.com
Thanks. Be well.
Artists have a job to do and if they don't do it then their customers won't continue to seek their services.
DeleteI've let Alex know about your blog. It's AC? I've never noticed anything all that bad.
Lee
Oh geeze...I thought we had to designate if our challenge posts were adult content. Sorry again. I'm a...I dunno, nudnik or something. My challenge posts will be a little inappropriate, that's all. Or maybe very inappropriate, depending on perspective. I'll tell Alex, never mind. Sorry for the trouble, Arlee. Smiles.
DeleteAnd it's a shame more artists don't feel as responsible for their fans as does Sebastian.
Thanks, Arlee. Have a great day.
Neat interview!
ReplyDeleteSebastian's N.R.G video was great! I would love to see more videos on your blog. Like the idea of video promos :)
ReplyDeleteI'm going to try to continue doing more videos if I can master the art of it.
DeleteLee
Thanks Rachna. I have a lot of videos on my channel. www.youtube.com/sebastiansidi Thanks for your comment.
DeleteI simply enjoyed the rocking tune as I visited other blogs. I can forego that second cup of coffee.
ReplyDeleteI do that sometimes when there is music on blogs.
DeleteLee
Arlee, maybe you've posted yourself in video before, but if so I HADN'T SEEN IT. It was so bizarre (for me) to see you talking and moving and being. Makes me realize that you think you know someone via a blog, but seeing them makes you think... probably not. It was all very strange. But fun. Thank you for sharing yourself in this way.
ReplyDeleteOh, and the interview was interesting, too. I voted for Sebastian in the battle I love me some piano:)
Thanks for voting for me Robin. Although I also love Orion's version as I'm a huge metal fan. =)
DeleteRobin, I also enjoy actually seeing other bloggers in videos or even better, in person. The experience of seeing that someone is a real person and not just some faceless entity hiding behind a blog makes everything come into better focus.
DeleteLee
Great job on the interview and the video!
ReplyDeleteSO much fun to watch it, not just read it!
Heather
Thanks for sharing the video on Facebook. I'm hoping to get at least 100 hits before tomorrow comes.
DeleteLee
It's awesome that the studio Sebastian made for himself is now helping others!
ReplyDeleteThanks Nicki. Yeah, it's very cool to see something grow and become a reality. I'm very happy and fortunate to be in this room every day working on music and video.projects.
DeleteI've heard a lot of musicians say that they still get nervous before they go on stage, no matter how long they perform. That's so interesting to me. I'm sure most writers, if not all, still get nervous when they publish a new book. Art is such a personal expression of who we are, so it makes sense that we have some insecurities about sharing it.
ReplyDeleteI think nervousness kept in control keeps us more acutely aware of ourselves. It's a positive reaction to a situation.
DeleteLee
Very interesting interview and I just went back to the BotB post and voted.
ReplyDeletegot it! thanks
DeleteLee
What a great interview! As an audience, we are there as followers--it doesn't cross our minds that the person up there may be scared! I have experienced that as an author presenting. Just feel relaxed and happy and look like you're enjoying yourself; the audience will feed off of that!
ReplyDeleteSuch an inspiring interview, thanks Lee!
♥.•*¨Elizabeth¨*•.♥
It's great advice that applies to anyone from an entertainer to a salesperson to an author. To be credible you have to at least appear that you know what you're doing.
DeleteLee
A great post to read Lee. I seem to reconise the man on the left now I wonder where I saw him...lol?
ReplyDeleteThat was a great interview. What a superb idea to interview Sebastian. The artist's life is similar across the board. I like what he said about, "I am responsible for the emotions of the audience." I am a musician and a writer. I knew that part as a musician when I was young and playing for church! I understood it more as a writer when I produced my first play. I told one of the guys in the show that I almost cut a part out because I was afraid of the emotional reaction! I also like how Sebastian tells us to get out there and live, interact with people. How else are we going to get material?! And, my boyfriend and I are really enjoying his recording this morning as I type this comment. Thanks, Arlee and Sebastian!!!
ReplyDeletePlay off the Page
Such an encouraging comment. I thought we did cover some good points to which Sebastian provided excellent answers.
DeleteLee
What a great interview. Re: nervousness before going on stage. I've read of several artists (e.g.,Carly Simon & Barbra Streisand) who threw up before each concert. How could they be insecure? The same way we writers are.
ReplyDeleteIt's a weird feeling to go in front of an audience. I can see where getting sick might be one response. Who doesn't have some inkling that we are going to fail?
DeleteLee
I also liked when Sebastian said that he felt "responsible for the emotions of the audience." It's amazing how involved he is in every aspect of the performance. Lee, it was fun seeing you in action. You asked terrific questions, and were very poised during the interview.
ReplyDeleteThanks for going the extra distance, and I hope to see more video blogs from you!
Julie