I shared with FB friends so thought I would here as well.
Hey friends, I want to share something, with the hope it may inspire someone. For as long as I can remember, I am a stutterer. Didn't bother me too bad until the high school years. I can remember the stress building up as it got closer to my time to read aloud, taking zeros on oral book reports, and not being able to look friends in the eye and talk. I was mocked but never really bullied. "Taking my part" was expected and demanded from my dad. I was kind of scary with my big head anyway. I very well remember the fear of talking to a girl to ask her out. Even worse if I had to meet the parents. I remember getting my drivers license and my first proud trip thru the McDonalds drive-thru. I couldn't get my order out and had to drive away. I have lots of stories to tell. Some pretty funny now. Like the time I got ready to order inside Burger King only to see a sign on the register that said "speak clearly I read lips." I lost it. Sweet girl was embarrassed for me. Even as the kids were growing up it would get tough at times. Anyway, zoom forward to the present. I can't believe I'm part of an awesome band and actually speak in front of crowds. I'm going on TV for an interview this Friday morning, and next Monday I start teaching a public class for beginning harmonica. If you had told me this 15 years ago I would have said NO WAY! I'm sure some of you have heard me have mild bouts at times? No big deal any more. I sure hope this encourages someone in a similar situation. Get help early and NEVER GIVE UP! ********
Forum buds this is the video of interview/jam. I did okay. Rushed my playing at times, but had fun
WJHL.com ---------- www.facebook.com/catfishfryeband
Last Edited by harpdude61 on Mar 27, 2015 3:45 PM
I can tell you enjoy what you're doing and I enjoyed watching/listening to you do it. Very fine. ---------- Ted Burke __________________ ted-burke.com tburke4@san.rr.com
big balls, good job...all by yourself! no less! I was expecting a back up band to kick in any moment! You clearly did not need it. Nice sound, from the heart!
Duane, from where you came from to here and now, you have come just light years. I remember when you first posted about losing one band and gaining another. Those cats saw something in you and it's what you show in that interview and solo piece. You have the cool fire and you relate to people, having come from a tough place early on.
As a kid I was very insecure and I got pushed around a lot. There was always an extrovert in there someplace but my fears held me back for a long time. Through a lot of trials into adulthood, I finally found my way onto stage and also onto how to make a harp sing, and my voice to sing, and it has changed everything in a very good way. You have done that same thing.
Hats off to you man. ---------- http://www.reverbnation.com/jawboneandjolene
Very cool Duane. You have the personality to go with your harp skills. A great entertainer and I'm sure you'll be a very good teacher. Your enthusiasm is bound to rub off on your students!
Good on you Duane. I think it's important that people know how cool the harp can be when played properly and you are helping spread the word! BronzeWailer's YouTube
As soon as I clicked that video, I said to myself I know that show. Loved your playing and really wish my schedule would work out. I would love to take your class.