I've always been inspired by the creativity of Jack White.
His collective output for the past decade is both immense and
multi-faceted; Artist, Actor, Singer/Songwriter,
Producer, multi-band member, label owner, etc...
On the track 'Little Room', from the classic LP 'White Blood Cells',
Jack White sings/writes:
"Well you're in your little room and you're
workin' on something good. But if it's really good, you're gonna
need a bigger room. And when you're in the bigger room, you might
not know what to do. You might have to think of how ya got
started, sittin' in your little room..."
When I first heard those lyrics (and that stompin' beat by Meg),
I was astonished how simply and accurately he'd described the
creative arc of aspiring musicians. How many of your favourite
artists do those words PERFECTLY describe? As a dejected hip-hop
fan in the early 00's, I recalled the early days of Wu-Tang,
A Tribe Called Quest & J Dilla. Later, the words of 'Little Room'
perfectly matched so many Rock 'N Roll bands (like Kings of Leon)
who's trajectory I'd followed since the beginning and slowly watched
decline in awesome, whilst ascending in popdom.
The White Stripes just put out a new live DVD called
'Under Great White Northern lights'. It's helmed by
Malloy brother Emmett, who also directed one of my favourite
surf films 'Thicker Than Water'.
Here's some more quote-worthy-quotes, (a la Jack White)
from the film, to help you keep creative:
"Inspiration & work ethic ride right next to each other..."
"Deadlines.. make you CREATIVE"
"Opportunity and telling yourself.. 'Oh, I've got all the time in the
world, all the money in the world, you got all the colours in the
palate you want...ANYTHING you want.. I mean, THAT JUST
KILLS CREATIVITY."
Mr. White is one WISE DUDE, and part of the reason for his continued
success is a strong work ethic and his commitment to reigning in his
creative impulses, to challenge himself (and produce better art).
Under Great White Northern Lights is out now in many formats..
I grabbed the CD/DVD version and it's better than a steal for
only $18.99. (Canada only). You should also check out their first
'live' film Under Blackpool Lights..
[[For further reference, look into the rules he put in place, when
he was creating the epic album 'Elephant'.]]
