Open Your Eyes, Paolo
Play this while you read: “New Shoes” – Paolo Nutini
Stars sing with their eyes open.
That’s what I’ve noticed as I’ve photographed a few singers here and there. The ones that are really big, or want to be really big keep their eyes open and engage with the audience, while soaking in everything around them. Then there is the other side, to singing in public. The ones who go inside, sing to themselves and and secretly want it to just be over.
Yes, some of the greatest singers is history have closed their eyes on occasion. I’m talking about their default state, singin’ a verse. I’m not even talking about talent. A lot of very talented people aren’t stars. To be a star you need talent, plus something more indescribable that’s completely separate from talent. There’s something about those that have “it,” and those that don’t. And, not surprisingly, it’s usually in the eyes.
I found myself pondering this as I took photos of talented and fun Scottish balladeer, Paolo Nutini, as he played a free show to a hundred people or so. The crowd was too shy to even walk up to the edge of the stage, and he was too shy to open his eyes. And, I really liked his music. I thought it was cool. Anytime, you bring the horn section to a free show scores you points with me. He’s got a lot of talent and charisma. He just doesn’t open his eyes.
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Tags:concert, music, paolonutini, photo, promenade, santamonica
This entry was posted on Friday, August 15th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
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Eyes closed or open… does it really matter to me? NO, have been to lots of gigs from Paolo and his lads and I enjoyed it much more than going to a show from other “stars” performing with eyes wide open – and deliver a not too good entertainment! Most important thing is that a musician is touching your inside and that does Paolo 100% with his songs and way of performing them… to me (and lots of others). “Stars” seem to be different in our days and that’s good!!!
Well said Petra !
the pictures are awesome. that’s what matters to me