Movies. A great song. A stellar album or book …
Look, if you had one shot, or one opportunity
To seize everything you ever wanted in one moment
Would you capture it or just let it slip? – Eminem
I love being inspired. Getting that inner-gut sensation and motivation to write a song, jot down ideas, cook a family meal, be a better husband, father, etc … that feeling to be creative. To make something that is yours and yours only. That feeling that anything in life is possible.
There are many things that inspire me including an amazing passage in a song, the sound of a choir, an uplifting moment in a movie, a walk, a long drive … it’s endless. So, with the Oscars this weekend, I’ve made a list of movies that have inspired me and extend an invitation to you to include your favourites as well;
“Rudy” – Whenever it was on TV (and it’s on a lot!) my Dad and I used to watch it and we cried like babies every time Rudy hit the field.
“It’s A Wonderful Life” – I saw it for the first time this past Christmas and I think I’ll make it a yearly tradition. Considering it’s sixty years old, it still packs a powerful message.
“Dead Poets Society” – That scene when they all stand on their desk chairs. Carpe Diem.
“The Shawshank Redemption” – Determination.
Music can be such an inspiration too. Whether picking up my guitar or listening to an amazing recording or hearing a heartfelt vocal, there are so many ways to be inspired by music. Too many favourite to list, so here’s a short list;
“God Only Knows”, The Beach Boys – Easily on this list. I love everything about this song including the heartbreaking lead vocal by Carl Wilson. I get goosebumps every time I hear it.
“Dark Side of the Moon”, Pink Floyd – In dreams albums don’t sound this good. A masterpiece that has inspired so much great music.
‘Lose Myself”, Eminem – Amazing story sung with conviction. He means it, and you can feel that. I crank it every time and feel the possibilities.
What gets to you? Is it something in nature? Your family? A movie? A book, a song or an album?
Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments section. The conversation is yours.
Thanks for reading. See you next time.
CRAIG ROBERTSON 
During the giant snowstorm, I was shoveling snow to an old recording of a band I was in. I was the bassist. I’ve forever been my own worst critic. I picked up the bass primarily cuz the bassist was a better drummer.
So I always thought myself mediocre because I never took the effort to learn Bass Clef or the notes on the scale and relied on tabs to get me along. I never thought myself any good because I was doing JUST cover songs. I was also about to sell my incredible Fender American Special P-bass because of these disingenuous thoughts.
However, listening to myself again with fresh ears, I discovered that what my friends and loved ones and bandmates were saying. I may not be able to slap da bass (YET) but I’ve covered RHCP (Dani California), Led Zeppelin (The Ocean), Foo Fighters (White Limo and All my Life) and CSN (Almost Cut My Hair). These in themselves are not easy bass riffs and to learn them, some of them by ear, takes some talent.
Guess what I’m saying here is I re-inspired myself to play again by listening to old recordings of myself.
Awesome Mike. Thanks for posting, keep playing!
Hey Craig, so glad I found you. This is an amazing journey you are embarking on and I wish you nothing but the best!
What inpires me? My daughter Maya who you have met. Despite health issues and a recent stay at Sick Kids her spirit and toughness shine through. She was born to me for a reason and I try to give back to her through our fund raiser which you came to a couple years ago.
I admire your courage and respect your journey. Keep well my friend.
Paula
Paula,
So glad to find you too. Your daughter’s journey is inspiring as all can be. What a trooper who we can all learn from.
Keep in touch and keep well,
Craig