Good afternoon, Wednesday. It's been a long day of back and forth and calls and craziness. So what else is new, really?
I'll tell you what. Last night I got to do something new that's actually pretty old. I went to see my first concert at the Apollo, and there's no person to see there than Leon Bridges. Leon is the real deal- the perfect combination of silky smooth old school with a new school swag. His voice has magic powers.
And I couldn't help but feel humbled to see him at such a legendary venue. It got me thinking about how the Apollo is such a national treasure and New York institution, and for lack of a better term, an amazing brand.
Here's what I mean- I called there yesterday afternoon to find out if he had an opening act and the box office operator was super friendly and cool. She asked me how I was and when I asked her back, she said, without any sarcasm, "Living the dream". That's what's so great about the Apollo- dreams are made there, sure dreams are crushed there too, but I gravitate towards places and people who have big dreams and big talent. I knew it was going to be a fun night from that call.
When we got there, everyone from the gent who took our tickets to the bartender who made my drink to the lovely guy who showed us to our seats were super professional and very nice. They all seemed happy to be there, to bask in the glory of a venue where some of the best music of all time has been played and performed. I was struck by how small the room really is, and how tiny the seats were, though there's not a bad seat in the house.
As for my why the Apollo is a stellar brand theory- it's really important to honor tradition, heritage, yet continue to move forward and keep things fresh. It's important to give talented people a chance to shine, sing, dance, and often, bomb. It's not always an easy place, but it's a place where many geniuses come to give it a shot. I'd like to think companies have much to learn from the Apollo- creative entities particularly. Embracing talent, creating an atmosphere where people can live their dreams and feel they are contribute, and celebrating a rich heritage while discovering new shining stars is what we should all aspire to. I felt lucky to be in that house last night- though I'm a sucker for New York old school landmarks and couldn't help but get swept up in the patina of that beautiful, authentic old house.
And Leon came on and killed it with his buttery voice and amazing dance moves and well turned out, tight band. It was really one of those nights where you know you are witnessing something special, and he knew it too- because his mom was in the audience from Texas to experience her baby boy play the Apollo. It was very special on all fronts. He did all of my favs like "Better Man" and "Coming Home", and thought what an incredible singer this young guy was, and how fortunate we were to experience him.
If you ever have a chance to see a show there, do. And if you are leading a business think about showtime at the Apollo, and look for ways to encourage new talent to check you out and show you what they've got. Oh, and create an atmosphere that keeps them coming back for more. That's all I've got for now. Cause that's what's up this soulful Wednesday in my beautiful city. Yours, in uptown funk. XO