The Future

Hello friends,

As June begins, I find myself feeling a shift.

The last few weeks have been filled with music, travel, friends, and plenty of good memories. But now I’m feeling ready to turn my attention toward what’s next.

The playtime isn’t over completely, but the focus is now.

This summer I’m focusing on three things: my health, my music, and building this newsletter.

Musically, I’m looking forward to a busy summer of performances, writing new songs, and continuing to grow as a musician. One of the joys of is realizing there’s still plenty left to learn.

I’m also spending more time thinking about the future of what I’m building online.

Lately I’ve been handing out stickers with my website on them and meeting some interesting people. I’ve even been considering a shirt with a giant QR code on it. If somebody wants to hear my music, why make them type a website address?

One topic that’s been rattling around in my head lately is the connection between a performer and an audience. Why do some nights feel magical? Why do I sometimes enjoy listening more than playing? And how do you find meaning in what you do regardless of the reaction you receive?

I’m still sorting through those thoughts, but I suspect they’ll become a future article here on Rhythm Never Retires.

Party People, Let’s Dance!

If you’d like to help keep the music rolling down the road, here are a few ways:

• Share this newsletter with a friend.

• Invite me to play a house concert.

• Tell me about a venue, winery, retirement community, RV park, coffeehouse, or event that might enjoy live music.

• Come say hello at a show.

Some of my favorite opportunities have come from readers and friends.

If you’d like to support my music, writing, and newsletter, you can subscribe, share an article, visit my website, or buy me a coffee.

Every bit of support helps keep the music playing.

My current live music schedule is always pinned to the top of my Substack page.

If you’re nearby this summer, I’d love to see you at a show.

One thing life keeps teaching me is that we don’t have to wait for January 1st to start fresh.

Sometimes a new month is enough.

June feels like one of those times.

The focus is now.

See you next week,

Alex Muddy Smith

What are you focusing on this summer?

Leave a comment and let me know.