The intention with which you play has an effect on the audience

The word busker means itinerant entertainer.

It’s a more sophisticated way of saying street performer. But the best part about that term is, it comes from the root word which means, to seek.

That definition really hits home for me. Because as a a busker myself, the goal isn’t to make money, although that happens. The goal isn’t to get famous, although park goers will recognize me from time to time as the guy who sings in the tunnel.

What I’m seeking there is joy, connection and service. In that order. This is my artistic approach as a songwriter in public.

Step one, play my music as loudly and lovingly as possible. Sing like something’s escaping. Play like your life depends on it. That yields joy for me.

Step two, use music as a feeling bond between myself and others. Share the joy with them. Participate in a public exchange of energies that allows all people to feel held and nurtured by the presence of life.

Step three, frame the entire experience as my contribution of service that makes a small, but real difference in the world.

The other day a father of two and his wife hung out and listened to a few of my songs, singing and dancing the whole time. They said it was the highlight of their day. Which made that moment the highlight of my day.

The funny thing is, I screwed up multiple times while playing those songs. But it didn’t seem to matter to the audience. The sheer enjoyment I exuded overshadowed my shortcomings.

Folds, the piano man of my generation, writes in his music memoir that an audience’s time, presence, and attention are great gifts to a performer, and you should never sleepwalk your way through playing music, skipping across each note as if each one was a step closer to getting the fuck out of there. It is far braver to actually care, to savor each phrase, to give something of yourself, no matter what kind of music it is. The intention with which you play each note has an effect on the people listening.

Whether you’re a busker or not, seek meaning beyond the immediate transaction.

Sing like something’s escaping. Feel the relief of letting your guard down and expressing your love fully. Act from a motivation of contribution of service.

And you will elevate your ability to bring joy yourself and others.

How does what you seek impact whom you change?