Scott Henderson Discussion

[basscadet]

Hi Scott,

You have mentioned here in the forums and on GW that you are a father. As a dad, I can only imagine that touring while having a young kid at home could be tough.

In my own life, my musical career has had to take a major backseat while my kids are still pre-K. ...gauging the prices of healthcare and basic necessities in the US, I don't know if I will ever be able to make it back to full-time playing/touring...but, I digress...

This lead me to wonder; how did becoming a parent change your approach to music, creatively and professionally, especially during the younger years? Considering that you are a well known, professional guitarist this seems like it may have been a bit different compared to a day-job/weekend warrior musician.

Thanks for taking the time to read (and answer if you have time!)

[Scott Henderson]

I was a late dad - I was 50 when my daughter was born, so I'd already established my name, and now my career has no place to go but down. ha ha

I was still able to tour because my wife is a very strong person and can deal with being a single mom while I'm away. Thank goodness I'm not a rock musician - jazz tours are much shorter, usually not more than 5 or 6 weeks.

The main thing I gave up for my daughter was composing - that's why there were 10 years between Well To The Bone and Vibe Station. When I was home, I couldn't lock myself in my room and ignore her, because writing is very difficult for me and takes a huge amount of time. Now she'll be a teenager soon and is busy with her own stuff so I'm able to write again - she enjoyed seeing Vibe Station go from a few ideas to a finished album, and she sang all the parts on "The Orphan" on the HBC album.

[basscadet]

Very interesting, thanks for sharing! I had wondered how this sort of thing goes down for more established players.

And I hear you on the touring...I used to work out of Nashville, I remember doing 9 months straight of circuit country bars around the US. It was a...character building experience.