If you’re a performer, and we all are performers in one arena or other, audience response is generally a major factor in determining success or failure of any endeavor. But not always. Have you ever been in the situation where one person made all the difference in how you rated a performance?

I remember playing at a festival on top of Beech Mountain in North Carolina many years ago. I was having a good day, but I was new to the area and didn’t really know anyone there. Between sets a grizzled storyteller came to my table, sat down, and engaged in a good-old visit. He let me know how good he thought I was, naming songs he’d particularly enjoyed and suggesting others as well. The man’s name was Doc McConnell, and he made my day. Later I saw him featured in articles in magazines such as Southern Living. Not too long ago, Doc took his stories to a whole different level as he passed on, no doubt entertaining a new set of patrons in a heavenly arena.

This past year, Sound Traveler was privileged to play on the Doc McConnell stage at the Jonesborough Days festival in Tennessee. As I looked on the appreciative audience in front of me there, I couldn’t help thinking about how one person can make a huge difference. One person has often made all the difference for me. What about for you? If so, click on the title of this entry and share it. – Bob Tatum

PS: Sound Traveler will be performing at the Space Coast State Fair on Thursday afternoon from 4:30 until 6:00 PM. We’d love to see you there. It should be a great day for a fair.

3 Comments to “SongTravelin’: 11.09.10 — When Even One Fan Is Enough….”

• November 9, 2010 at 9:57 am
  Jacques says:

  Sometimes one person “gets it” when the majority is not really tuned in. I am familiar with Doc McConnell, and he was a keen observer. That’s one reason he was such a successful storyteller. My wife is the one who keeps me focused on what is really good. Sometimes I have a tendency to get carried away in my own thought processes. She gently brings me back to earth so I can be nurtured to soar again.
• November 9, 2010 at 9:59 am
  Libby says:

  It may sound corny, but for me it’s my dog. Unconditional love is the best!
• November 9, 2010 at 3:06 pm
  Kay says:

  I had the response of one girl keep me in Scout leadership for four more years.