Musicians aren’t exactly famous for their ability to handle relationships well. The stereotype is that our art comes first, and that there is always a part of ourselves we withhold from our loved ones as we’re devoted to another muse. That may be true for some, but perhaps it’s impossible to distinguish whether it’s a product of our personalities and choices rather than the fact that we have a musical gene weaving through our DNA.
Recently a fellow songwriter shared with me a difficult situation with his wife resulting from a seemingly insignificant performance of a popular song. The song brought up some sensitive issues, and in doing so, created a rift within the most important relationship in his life. As songwriters and artists, it’s only natural we sing and write about issues close to home. By the very act of connecting with our audience, we focus on what provokes thought and causes emotion. We can even bring to life an experience that was not our own, and write it with such sensitivity, such detail, that it becomes real once more in the span of that 3 and half minutes.
