John Butler Trio workshop

Recently some of the GRIND team got an opportunity to meet John Butler (musician) and Michael Barker (drummer). Mark, Ryan, Kai, Pritika, Neville and I arrived at The Northern Territory Open Education Centre; as people started to set up. Neville volunteered to test the guitar and played a beautiful song for the crowd.  Technically he was the open-ing act, support solo artist for John Butler!.  We all cheered him on then started to discuss what we should ask John Butler and how he would react to his all time biggest fans… To think that we were minutes away from meeting the amazing…the incredible John Butler!!! Finally the man with dreadlocks walked in, all eyes on John…no pressure! Everyone started taking photos  including me!  Here we were in front of one of the world’s most talented guitarists ever. Woooah!!! He firstly thanked everyone for coming and introduced his awesome drummer Michael. John Butler talked about his music and his influences, He inspired us with his experiences, philosophies and his general take on life.

One of our Grinders, Neville opening for John Butler!

His perspective was not only interesting but easy to relate to. I have found myself listening to his songs and applying elements of his art to my own life. John Butler knows how to connect with his audience through his music, which I think is important.  Meeting John and Michael was brilliant; I have gained a HUGE respect for the both of them, as musicians and speakers.  John’s unique guitar style and profound creativeness is a testament to any up and coming bands.

We asked the guys some questions and they were more than happy to answer.  They told us practice and warming up before a gig is essential. We were then lucky enough to watch as they performed some songs for us. John Butler got the audience singing along to “Zebra”…da da dada da…Definitely a day I’ll never forget!!!

“Being in the moment; being happy with what one has rather than always being consumed with what one does not have. Enjoying and being grateful for the gifts we have NOW.” – John Butler -