Posted by Alex Bruening on February 18, 103 at 20:30:06:
I count myself fortunate to have seen John Hartford play live, although at the time I had no idea who he was or how great his music is. It was a small crowd on that Sunday show, an impromptu encore presentation of sorts since the previous night sold out. Not too many folks new about it so I was able to get a great seat at the Grey Eagle.
Anyhow, I sat there wondering why he wasn't playing his instrument, as I was unaware of his illness. So I sat there almost mad that this guy was just holding his instrument, As I sat there John was looking in my direction and it seemed as if he was looking right at me while knowing exactly what I was thinking. About that time I over heard some folks talking about his condition. Then I understood and was more able to enjoy the show without my mind being preoccupied with unfair thoughts.
As the show wound down, his band started playing a great tune and John started calling for folks to dance, and they did, they cleared the chairs and danced the way John wanted them to, as he wanted to but couldn't. Then as he called for the band to play faster, he got up from his chair, banjo in hand and danced for a few.
After the show I went and bought some of his CD's and I've been hooked ever since. It still makes me feel bad ,however, that he seemed to know what I was thinking. He looked at me like he knew that I thought he the he was some arrogant "to good to be playing for you" type of muscian. I now know and shortly after that show knew, that this was not the truth. It does not sit well with me to think that a man that I am so inspired by caught my extremely negative vibe at such a special moment, his second to last show and my first.
I just wish that I had that show back so that I could fully appreciate it for what it was, not what I thought it was.
Thanks for letting me spill my guts.
Alex