song for chris garneau

the unofficial record release performance
at joe's pub
for my friend chris garneau's forthcoming album
"music for tourists"
was an exhibit in duality

excitement
pride
sadness
regret

there is talent in all of us
but it must be nurtured
handled with care

success is not earned overnight
albums aren't recorded in just a month's time

i don't think that chris has been working
a day job
for the better part of over two years

which makes me proud
and curious
but more than a little bit jealous

his new album is amazing, by the way

and just what i fell in love with
from the very first chord that i heard

i'm excited for him
for his work
his dedication
his ability to get it all done
with no full-time restaurant responsibilities
occupying eight hour days, six times a week

the after-party
at his friend and producer duncan sheik's tribeca loft
was another profoundly manhattan experience

the recording studio
collection of classic guitars
open bar
bobo types
family members
weed

it wasn't the first time i'd been to duncan's
and certainly wasn't the first time i'd seen chris perform
but there's always that internal struggle
standing by
as your friends receive praise after praise

yet
the thing is
that it's not always all about you
or your experience

it's sometimes his night
her reward
or their great big moment to shine

be proud of accomplishment
in all its varied forms

it will touch him at this moment
and perhaps you in the next

in spite of everything
stand by
quietly
smiling

a living, breathing symbol of support

visit the website at "chrisgarneau.com"
or visit the myspace page at "myspace.com/chrisgarneau"