On Tuesday August 22nd the Triad Songwriting Guild will be hosting a Songwriter Night at Gypsy Road Brewing in Kernersville, NC. Festivities begin at 6pm. I’ll be performing a couple new songs. Among the wonderful and gracious songwriters that night will be the fantastic Patrick Barry.
I’ve gotten to know Patrick this past year with the Triad Songwriting Guild. He’s toured the US with his band The Barry Brothers from Hume, New York. Patrick was also a Marine. From my personal experience of growing up with a Marine dad, though, it may be best to say is a Marine. It’s pretty formative.
Thankfully circumstances and love landed Patrick in High Point, NC where he writes and records music. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know him. Very cool, talented, generous, and kind guy. You can find his music and more at https://linktr.ee/patrickfantastic
Three Questions with Patrick Barry
KC: I’ve been thinking a lot about time lately. There’s a quote by Annie Dillard “how we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.” How do you spend your days, Patrick?
PB: That's a great question. When I was younger I didn't really think about time much at all, but I find myself almost obsessed with it over the past few years. Lost time, making up time, being late, wasted time...and how worrying about time can even tend to make you waste even more time...unless you use it for focus, inspiration and discipline.
Generally my days are filled with family, work, some kind of fitness and writing. On the weekends we get out into nature, hiking, biking and working on our cabin in Claudville, VA.
KC: To fit music and creativity into life it seems to really depend on habits, particularly establishing the good kind! Based on your socials, it seems like you post some kind of video daily. How did you make that a habit? And any tips for sticking to them?
PB: Historically I have struggled with a healthy balance and artistic guilt. I'll put everything in my life on hold as I try and hit a cd release date deadline (that I had 4 months to complete), and then have to catch up on life and work frantically because of my procrastination. My goal has always been to do a bit every day, always make progress. I read "Atomic Habits" a few years ago and it helped me tremendously. I think it takes 63 days to lock in a habit?
I get made fun of for my 30 day challenges, but they seem to help me prove to myself that I CAN do it. Grease the rails to keep momentum towards a goal. Be strict but also give myself some grace. We get sick, days get away from us...just try to keep a tourniquet on it when you stray from the path. Don't let it become months, just days or weeks.
I've been having a lot of fun with quick covers. Just 60 secs of a song I love or that was requested. It keeps me playing, learning and engaging with my fans, friends and family in a creative way. Progress and movement every day. I don't let myself get embarrassed and try not to overthink it. I WILL cringe at what I am doing now in a year, I'm ok with that. I am expecting it, and that is freeing.
KC: That’s great. It’s tough to know what will be a “
future cringe” and what will not. What do you find is the source of inspiration for what you’re doing musically? Has that changed over time?
PB: I find myself humbled and inspired by the great songwriters of our day, as well as so many before. I also love a great, catchy alternative rock song. Graduating high school in 1998, modern/alt rock radio was my soundtrack and I couldn't get enough of it. Our Lady Peace, Eve 6, Third Eye Blind, Beck...
As I have gotten older, I focus more on the words. Petty, Townes, Isbell, Childers, Cash, Bruce...they can be powerful with the arrangement (and catchy) but their words speak a simple and soul-speaking truth. I really like newer artists like Wilderado and Noah Kahan who is having an incredible moment right now.
I want to be there as an artist (or some blend of that) but I still have enough insecurity that I hide behind big arrangements and production. While they are fun for me to write and put together, I know it's a crutch I hope to lose. I am forcing myself to be minimalistic on my next project and only giving myself a few weeks to do it...so wish me luck.
KC: Lastly, many famous musicians served in the military. Johnny Cash and Elvis and Jimi Hendrix come to mind. You were in the US Marine Corps. That must have really influenced you in some way. Should aspiring artists enlist?
PB: I am not sure any of them chose to be in the military, but I think certain aspects of it help. Perspective is important and pushing (or being placed) outside of your comfort zone can put your eyes, ears and heart in unique situations that can unlock a deeper truth. I think you can get there without enlisting though. Travel often outside of the tourist traps and then lock yourself in a cabin for a week every year...it's just as good and you won't have to buzz your head.
Thanks Patrick!