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 -

Friday 31st of August had come, and the excitement nerves had reached a whole new level. Those of us who were going (Shana, Mackenzie & Pritika), were picked up at our school’s carpark early in the morning.We got to see John Butler, and miss out on some school, how lucky were we!

“Look, John Butler!” screamed someone in the car pointing to someone with dread locks walk-ing up the path, as we neared the place where it was held, but it was only Kris Ke-ogh, the VET music teacher from Darwin High!

The excitement had gone over capacity in our bod-ies as we walked inside. We were the only ones there apart from some technical guys and oth-ers who were also there for the workshop andwe took our seats right at the front. It wasn’t too long till the seats started to fill with music students and others from around Darwin.The workshop was being broadcast throughout the whole of the Northern Territory to rural schools who could also interact with the instant messaging too.

Not too long after, John Butler and Michael Barker entered the room; their bassist was not present though! The room was in awe that they were actually seeing him in person and not on the television! They both sat down as Butler rehydrated himself with his oversized bottle, he also gave respect to the Traditional Owners and had a little talk to us.

Soon after, the workshop began. I started off with the first question “If you weren’t a musician, what would’ve you been?”“Definitely an art teacher” he replied. One of the questions that was asked that I remember, was what his thoughts on the Government intervention in rural communities of Australia. This gave us his perspec-tive on the intervention and was a real eye-opener.

The whole workshop went for 2 hours, but I can say that the best part of the whole thing was the performance from John and Michael. They performed Zebra for us, and it was absolutely amazing! This was certainly something I will remember for the rest of my life!