#tyler gregory

[oddfuturing-blog]

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[cannibalwv]

Jacob and The Guitar Man Folk musician Tyler Gregory, a street busker in Lawrence, Kansas, sat down at his usual spot on May 13, having found himself without a gig that evening. He entertained passers by with his acoustic picking and foot stomping rhythm. He made a few bucks, talked to a few folks, and otherwise spent the day doing what he loves and sharing it with others. Then a child approached. Not the first of the day. Not even the first one of the day to cut a rug on the sidewalk. But Jacob was different. And because of what happened next -- in more than ways one -- Tyler's life is now different. Maybe Jacob's, too. In Tyler's words:

Unlike most kids that come up to me with curiosity, I felt so much energy coming off of him and I was completely overwhelmed. His hand on my leg was very powerful and about brought me to tears while playing. Not because he is blind or autistic ... but because of a connection I have never felt and one that is impossible to explain. Honestly, a feeling that came from my toes all the way up my body and surrounded me. I can't begin to explain it. I want to try to put it into words, but there is no way to tell how powerful his energy felt. It was a powerful moment that made my day and reminded me of the good things in life. Reminded me why I love different interactions with people when playing music. Reminded me of how powerful music can be between two people.

The response to Jacob and Tyler's shared experience have been overwhelming. Jacob's parents are touched that their son has brought so many people joy. Tyler, too, is touched that his music was the binding agent for such an emotional experience. His website is being flooded with hits, his e-mail inundated with kind words. His CDs are being bought up left and right. Because of Jacob, he's closer to realizing a dream. Watch the video above if you need to smile today. You may even choke back a tear or two. This is the power of music, folks.

[jessicatangerine-blog]