Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Dawson.
Hi Justin, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Ever since I was a child, I have been mesmerized by music—everything about it. Music has never been a major factor in my life. As a professional musician now, I still strive to be continually in awe of new music and new ways of playing and listening.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, has it been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest challenges was feeling good enough to play with other musicians and feel like I had something to contribute. After all, music as a whole can seem like a bottomless pit. It’s easy to fall into the trap that if I need to improve, there’s no way I’ll comprehend what other musicians are playing. How I overcame this and continue to confront these thoughts is that my love for music outweighs my anxious tendencies and propels me forward.
As you know, we’re big fans of your work. What can you tell our readers who might not be as familiar with it?
I am a professional freelance supporting artist. I specialize in playing the acoustic bass and mostly play jazz or improvisational music. I am most proud that every day, I can make a living playing music that provides both my livelihood and others’ fulfillment of joy. What sets me apart is that I truly love music. I genuinely love supporting musicians and helping them get to the mental place where they feel comfortable enough to create something unique and in the moment. That is the most joyful thing when playing.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Treat everyone I play with— and every musical situation I find myself in— with love and respect.
Pricing:
- $1000 base fee for private events plus $100 an hour per musician
Contact Info:
- Instagram: justindawsonmusic
