EGO the Great Band Killer

A sure fire way for a band or artist to fail almost every time is: unchecked EGO. Now some folks are great and they know it, and people keep telling them their great, and they believe it, and them comes the destructive attitude that comes with the belief in your own greatness. Some people just think their great and they suck, and for them they usually get nowhere, so they are irrelevant to this discussion.

A belief that the world only revolves around you is very destructive in any relationship: marriage; friendship; work; or band. Fortunately at Hit Play, as the principals are older and more grounded, this issue is less of a problem. For others it may take up the majority of your time.

I remember when the deal for E-Girl first came through two of our players Bob (Hammond organ) and Brian (harp n bass) both approached Phil Garland (our leader) and said whatever he needed to do to be successful whether its replace them or get extra players its cool. This was a great thing. It immediately allowed Phil to concentrate on what was best for all of us(making the best music) and not have to worry about hurting ego's along the way. I was amazed that such great players would so willingly step aside for the team. With that attitude its hard to fail.

so whats the point?

we were thinking about signing a great local singer to the label. He's 16 years old and sings with a maturity that you cant believe. But he thinks he's great, and his friends tell him he's great, and his ego is not developed enough to "handle" the acclaim: so he was impossible to work with; refused to learn lyrics; would miss rehearsals; change songs night of shows; refuse to take instruction from people who new more than him. The result we all walked away. He may "make it" but if he doesn't check his ego forget it. Who will want to work with that?

 When I think of the really great musicians in Out of Truth and how willing they were to do whatever it takes, and this kid who wouldn't even learn the lyrics to songs I laugh.

So check your EGO or it will defeat YOU.

 Tell me what you think.

peace,

dave.hitplay