When I was a kid playing in my first band, that actually got paid to play, we had to learn covers by other artists. At the time I hated it because I was sure our original songs were amazing or we should maybe cover Phish and that was it. Among the many songs we would cover that really were a lot of fun like “L.A. Woman” and “Alive” was the Neil Diamond classic “Sweet Caroline”.
I still don’t know how we all know to sing the ad lib “oh oh oh” and “so good so good” but as a teen it was enchanting. To see people young and old affected by music and to full commit to singing along, much like watching a bar room floor slowly fill up with dancers, was enchanting. Looking back I’m so glad that I gave playing cover songs a chance, not only has it given me a career in music but helping other people have fun is one of the most rewarding parts of being a musician, from covers to broadway musicals I’m thankful for Neil Diamond and his album Hot August Nights!
This August join me for four solo acoustic gigs! Friday, August 1 at Icarus Brewing in Brick, 7:30pm all Grateful Dead show! Saturday, August 10 at Toms River Brewing (hopefully outdoor in the beer garden) 6pm. Friday the 16th I’m playing a wide variety to classic songs at Half Moon Point (amazing dinner menu) 7:30pm till last call. Then Saturday the 24th a mellow cafe gig at A Thyme for All Seasons, music starts at 5:30pm (I hear the Mac and Cheese is great). All the details are on my event calendar and Instagram. See you soon “So Good!” Dave
