Do It Or Die

 

They’re unassuming as they take the stage. I’m not quite prepared for what happens, even though I know the lyrics, melodies and harmonies to every song.

They come to life with the first note. The vibrant music escapes not from their fingers as they play the instruments; not from their voices, or even their lungs as they sing; no, it escapes with fury from the core of their existences. It’s as if in this moment, they must do this with passion or die. I see sweat spilling, spit spewing, and uncontrollable rhythm emerge. There’s no performance here; they’re just fanning the flames of a fire that mustn’t be quenched.

I sit in awe with a touch of jealousy. I sing along, but mostly, I’m just captured by the energy in the room. It’s as if nobody’s breathing for fear of ruining of the moment, yet there’s a collective sigh of relief with the realization that this is what music should be.

Lyrics that reach out and grab hearts and won’t let go.

A blend of notes that seize raw emotions.

Passion that ignites passion.

I watch, I sing and I silently wonder how any of us live without breathing life into the spark that burns deep inside. I also wonder how to gather the courage to allow the flames to erupt. I’m stuck somewhere in the middle…between desire and letting the passion have its way with me. It’s as if my voice is stuck somewhere between my core and my lips.

But these creative musicians…

They’ve found the key to unlocking the safe, to exploring the mystery. They’ve found the key: do it or die.

I’m searching for my key…

It’s harder than we thought it’d be
We’re losing blood with every beat
Our song is not a dying dream
You’re not alone, you’re not alone
 

“Green Eyes And A Heart Of Gold,” The Lone Bellow

Note: I saw The Lone Bellow in concert a few months ago, and haven’t been able to forget their passion. If you’re not familiar with them, you can check them out in the video below.

 

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