The year 2020 has been awful for many reasons. Coronavirus surprised all of us. It made the world go into forced hibernation. Another reason this year has been tough is that we lost two rock music geniuses – Neil Peart and Eddie Van Halen. Neil was the drummer and lyricist for the progressive rock band Rush. Eddie needs no introduction. The world experienced a huge loss of creativity when each of them passed away. Lord knows we could use a lot more creativity and new ideas in the world these days.
Neil and Eddie were musical heroes of mine
I truly enjoyed the music that Neil and Eddie created over the years. So many great albums between their two bands. Too many strong songs to list here. Both of them were the best at what they do. Neil played drums so well his nickname was the professor. Eddie Van Halen inspired a whole generation of guitar players. I already wrote about why the death of Eddie Van Halen made me so sad. I certainly hope we do not lose more musical geniuses this year. We already lost some not too long ago.
Prince and David Bowie were both know for their creativity
A few years ago the world lost two musical geniuses – David Bowie and Prince. These two men were very different people, but both of them were extremely creative. They each produced a large body of work (over 30 albums), full of both hits and misses. I am impressed by the breadth and depth of their creativity, and their drive to make new music. Many rock musicians have a moment of greatness and then sink back into obscurity…never to be heard from again.
How do you stay relevant?
Somehow David Bowie and Prince were able to remain relevant for many years. Each of them changed the music scene with their creative ideas. David Bowie became Ziggy Stardust and released one of the best albums of the 70s. He returned a decade later with the album Let’s Dance which was brilliant. Prince ruled the 80s for a few years with his new music and movie Purple Rain. He was already popular by then but took it to a whole new level. These landmark efforts made each of them a household name which is pretty amazing. Both of them continued writing and releasing music until their last days on earth. They never really faded away.
You have creativity – use it
I encourage you to be a creative force in the world. I am not saying that you need to be musical, or emulate the lifestyle of these rock stars. Most of them struggled with drugs and relationships. What I am saying is that it takes time, energy, effort, and discipline to be creative, and generate new ideas. Too many people fall into a rut and never get around to bringing something new into the world. Don’t be like that – contribute your ideas. It is one of the main reasons that God created you. I have already noticed that you are very creative, full of unique ideas. Cultivate and share your ideas. They will make the world a better place.
Dearly beloved, We are gathered here today, 2 get through this thing called life. Electric word life. It means forever and that’s a mighty long time.”
Let’s Go Crazy by Prince
I am Doug Keating and this is my letter to sons.