In my local band Fellowcraft, I play guitar: a1981 Les Paul, lovingly known as "Betty," and I do most of the vocal duty. In Flashband, I have played bass, drums, and performed as a solo vocalist. Music is paramount to my very being, because, without it, I wouldn’t have much of a life. I have to play music. It's really that simple.
My first Flashband experience was at the Sounds of the '60s, at Gypsy Sally’s in Georgetown. I was a spectator. I was completely blown away by the talent that I saw. Each and every band was phenomenal. Some of them so good, that if they had had a t-shirt or a record, I would have bought it outright. It was amazing to see so many talented musicians performing on such a short timeline; in fact, it blew my mind.
I later signed up for FlashBanned, the event to draw attention to the First Amendment and banned books. It was surreal. In all my days of playing, I have only ever started a mosh-pit once as a musician, and it was at Heaven and Hell with Flashband as we performed “Killing in the Name," one of Rage Against the Machine’s most iconic songs.
To say that Flashband has changed my life is an understatement. First, it’s a way to keep my chops fresh between Fellowcraft gigs and rehearsals. I’m learning new songs, trying new techniques and even new instruments.
Secondly it’s opened the door for me to the music industry in DC. I’ve met several important people, bookers, photographers, the owners of the rehearsal space, and so on. The connections that this organization has awarded me are unbelievable.
Last, and most importantly, it’s introduced me to so many amazing people and musicians. I have had a chance to play with so many great people, people that gone on to become fast and lifelong friends. I’ve watched bands form and go on to make a sizable legacy as DC acts away from Flashband. It’s really about the people; it’s amazing what happens when you get this many musicians together. We’ve become an extended family, and it’s incredible.
To new musicians, I say be yourself, but be open-minded to what you can accomplish outside your comfort zone. If you’ve never played punk, or metal, or indie, give it a shot. Try something new and put yourself in an uncomfortable place; you’ll be surprised with what you can accomplish. I’ve seen so many flowers blossom on the stages of Flashband Showcases, and from it, have come some truly amazing acts. That could be you, if you get uncomfortable and put yourself out there to be tested.
I was so nervous when I first performed, so scared of messing up, but when I looked out and saw everyone jumping up and down to our band’s songs, it all washed away. I did mess up, but I didn’t care, and neither did the fans. It was surreal.
The best part of playing music in DC is the people you meet, and the connections you make. I try to make it a fun experience whenever I play, for our fans, our friends, our families and the bands that are with us on the bill. Music is about shared experience and unified expression. It's personal, and public at the same time. Every venue is a little different; the vibe or the mood… but each time I play, I feel the same euphoric rush that I felt the first time I ever played live. That’s why I do it.
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