When You Love What You Do...

When we love what we do, it's not work. Labors of love don't quite feel like labor, and sometimes good deeds do go unpunished.

This is about a very small contribution I'm very proud of. About a year ago, I started a not for profit collective of musicians to bring live music back to our community. Maplewood and South Orange are some of the communities I serve, and in very short order the three clubs that staged live music closed. Business acumen, musicians, and alcohol don't seem to be a recipe for success (imagine that). The economic downturn was simply too much for the local clubs to ride out.

Solely with the selfless help of local musician volunteers, we staged our first show to rave reviews (much to everyone's surprise). We got coverage from the NY Times, several local newspapers and websites. The first show was an experiment, and we subsequently put on several more shows. 

We were invited to participate in South Orange's Outdoor Music Series this summer and had an amazing concert for close to 600 people on the hill. That was our fifth show. 

Just a few days ago, NJ.com asked me to write a few words about my favor place to play in New Jersey, which is in South Orange. Our sixth show is tomorrow night and will be our biggest yet. How is this about real estate? It's about community and about one very small contribution that make our communities special. There are many more meaningful examples, but this small corner is one that brings me great joy.

When we love what we do, it's not work. I love our communities, and I'll tell anyone that will listen how great they are. 

I hope to see you tomorrow!

NJ.com article can be found here.
Event website can be found here.