2016 seems to have been a more poignant year than most. We’ve lost many cultural icons this year – artists who have not simply filled a place in the cultural landscape but whose careers created one. Most recently, we lost Leonard Cohen. I don’t profess to be a huge fan but I was still touched by his passing and able to reflect on what an extraordinary artist he was. It made me consider the legacies left behind.
Artists, of course, never seek to establish a legacy. Nor do they purposely intend to break/cross/create new cultural directions. Those that do, do so via a lifelong dedication to their sound, one which constantly evolves as they learn more about their art and themselves.
Art is built upon honour and respect. As a jazz musician, the traditions of those that have passed before us is continually referenced and revered. Performances of Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and John Coltrane are considered exemplars by current day musicians, who seek to distill their spirit in their present-day performances.
I realise that many of my favourite artists are getting closer to the end of their careers. They too will be commemorated upon their passing. It makes me sad to think about that. Some of these artists have shaped my career, and by that token, my life.
When they’re gone, I’ll miss them and honour their memory.
But the sadness of their passing will be softened by the opportunity it provides the next generation. It’s an opportunity for audiences and artists alike to be exposed to something new – something which can challenge, inspire and move us. Something that honours the contributions of those who have come before, and takes them further or in a new direction entirely.
While I’m still in the earlier stages of my career and relatively young, I am so excited to be part of that next generation. I’m incredibly proud to be part of a ‘bloodline’ of amazing artists who have cultivated a creative society in Australia. I’m excited to share the future with a community of like-minded, passionate, hard working, innovative and creative people, many of them my closest friends. I’m thankful to be able to share my art more easily than ever before with audiences across the world.
At this point, I want to highlight the wonderful South Australian music community, who celebrated some of its best and brightest last week in the South Australian Music Awards. I feel proud to have worked with so many of them and excited to collaborate on future projects. Special mentions go to awardees Tom Barnes who mixed Two Cities with me, and Max Savage, with whom I’ve had the privilege to share many stages, studios and community town halls.
I’m also incredibly humbled and grateful to have been nominated myself for Best Jazz Album in The Age Music Victoria Awards. I’m absolutely honoured to be considered alongside some of my favourite Melbourne musicians, and regardless of the outcome, emboldened by the recognition.
This is what art does. It honours the past, celebrates the present and looks forward to the future. I’m excited to be part of that. I look forward to working hard, challenging myself, creating and being part of a thriving community for many years. At the end of it, I’m looking forward to reflecting on what I’ve contributed and achieved, and that which remains unfinished, ready for future generations.
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