Umbrella Show Photos
July 8, 2014
www.kurtscobie.com/blogs

On May 16th, 2014 I had the honor of performing "The Wake" for a special art show in Atlanta. Matt Armstrong (a local artist) has created a series of works which he calls "Umbrella" that shines a light on the issue of human trafficking. I am very excited to share a few photos from that night, taken by photographer BobbiJo Brooks.

Competitions & Motivation
June 10, 2014
www.kurtscobie.com/blogs

A big part of me is anti-competitions when it comes to creative works. The idea of putting art up against art to determine a "winner" seems absolutely asinine. I hate it.

At the same time I think there is a place for these competitions.

I recently participated in a single-elimination songwriter competition and it was an absolute blast! The competition part of it was fine, but the fun part was meeting other musicians from across the U.S. perform their original songs, and making new friends. The pros certainly outweighed the cons.

And one thing more. I found myself more motivated to get back out there and perform. Being an independent artist can get lonely. And if you don't participate in competitions, or open mics, or tours, or ANYTHING with other human beings, you will burn out. By spending time in a community of like-minded people, you fuel your passion and drive to keep doing what you do.

This is not an introvert vs. extrovert thing either. I am Captain Introvert. I am energized by my alone time. I like my space. Yet, I still need people. I need my support system. I believe we were designed to operate in community.

The best part about this competition that I was in is that I went into it not focused on the competition, but on networking and making friends (and reconnecting with old friends). That made all the difference. When it is only about competing and winning is when it becomes pointless. Because if you win and you have no one to share in your victory, you're not really better off. And if (when) you lose and you have no one there to build you back up, that really sucks. We weren't made to do this thing alone.

So, I'm going to keep participating in stuff like this, because I always see a spike in my motivation, inspiration, and creativity. And I always learn a lot.

What Kind of Story Am I?
May 28, 2014
www.kurtscobie.com/blogs

It is interesting to me how songs can evolve over time. Not just as I am writing them, but even years after writing, recording, and releasing them. They seem to take on new layers of meaning for me as time goes by. There are a few songs of mine that have taken on different meanings over the years. Sometimes, when performing an "older" original song, I think back to the time when I wrote the song and I can see a drastic difference in who I was before versus who I am today.

"Blank Page" is an older song (from the "Crash" EP) that talks about Truth. And while I have firm convictions about the Truth, I still have my moments of doubt, confusion, and questioning. This song talks about that.

I can look back on my 30 years on this earth and see the seasons of emptiness or trial or challenge and it actually gives me confidence. Because once you've made it to the other side of a rough patch your perspective changes.  It isn't easy, but now when I face life's tough circumstances, I can have hope and peace because I can see how God has been faithful to me.

I suppose that is the biggest difference I can see in my life. That life is just better when I take my focus off of myself and my problems and my desires, and walk with arms and heart wide open.

So, I might still have some questions. Some doubts. Confusion. And it is all valid. But, taking the focus off of my problems and looking to God for comfort and steadfastness has made an incredible difference in the way I live my life.

I am more at peace. I have a lasting and deep joy. I am learning what it means to really love. It is a process. And finding enjoyment in the journey is a million times better than chasing moments of passing happiness.

I still haven't got it all figured out. But I am becoming more ok with that.

What kind of story am I? I'm not completely sure. But, I am putting some things together. With the guidance of trusted friends and a loving God who is infinitely patient I am learning what it is I am supposed to do with this blank page sitting in front of me.



FREE Download of this performance: www.kurtscobie.com/free-download