Berger Video A Video Production / Digital Video Editing / Sound Design / Broadcast Video Studio

I was recently invited to perform with Congressman Joe Crowley for his ”Joe Unplugged” performance at the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in Washington DC. I’m traditionally a drummer – and drummers aren’t typically plugged in. So the obvious choice was to approach the gig with a percussion style. So, what to bring for equipment?

I spoke with my new friend and internet marketing guru, Eric S. Townsend about this challenge. “I would bring a set of maracas” he offered semi-sarcastically. “What’s with drummers and the endless supply of gear they bring? You should be able to get the job done with next to nothing. Bring maracas – people will love it!”

I thought about that and agreed. It’s not the equipment that’s most important – it’s the person getting the job done. The gear is just a tool. You can create rhythm with your hands if that’s what you have to work with.

This reminded me of a piano player with whom I used to perform in a house band in Georgetown – Doctor Hot Pepper and the Good Looks. The club lost electricity one evening. The Doctor was on piano and without hesitation shouted, “work with what ya got.” By adapting to the situation, we were still able to create with the tools available – truly unplugged! The crowd loved it and it was a great experience. The Doctor was a great entertainer and he was an easy guy to perform with. He’s no longer with us but I remember that lesson.

Recently, I watched Elvis Costello perform at the Shakespeare Theater. It was just him and his guitars. At one point he had some technical difficulties in the middle of performing his classic, Alison. He lost his guitar and without a beat kept it going, off mike! Not only did he continue in acapella with no amplification, we the audience joined in on the chorus to help out. It was a moment! We witnessed a master at his craft working with what he had available and getting the job done more than just fine.

Back to “Joe Unplugged.” I decided to bring a conga and a couple hand instruments. It was one of the best times I had performing. After all, Congressman Joe Crowley is an easy guy with whom to perform. Whather he’s on Capitol Hill, or working with constituents or strumming a guitar and singing – he’s a master at his craft.