Music When You Need It Most

Hey everyone,

Justin Sims here. I hope you are all doing well in these anxious times. If you are like me, you keep waking up hoping that you will see some good news on your phone, only to realize that we are still in the midst of a crazy pandemic, unlike anything any of us have ever seen before. I would imagine we have all been doing things to stay busy and distract ourselves, but at the end of the day, we are all going to be worried about our health and most importantly, the health of those we love. I wish I had a solution that could make all of the stress go away completely, but unfortunately, I don't think there is a magic fix right now. But I did want to remind everyone of the amazing gift we all still get to share that can help make all of this down time a little more tolerable, and possibly even enjoyable. Of course, that gift is music...but mainly, how it allows us to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. Just as we are all in this pandemic together, we can all share our talents and that feeling of community that music has brought to us for so many years. 

Music brings so many people so much joy, but the most common reason people don't play as much as they would like is "I don't have enough time". Well my guess is...that excuse will not hold up right now. Just think about how happy learning a new song or figuring out a new drum groove has made you in the past...now imagine getting that feeling 10x while being stuck at home! I vote everyone should pick up their guitar, ukulele, or whatever dusty instrument is laying around the house, and start practicing away! And when you feel comfortable with your progress, pick up your phone and post a video. Post a live stream of you playing. Share your talents and your passion. Everyone is just scrolling on their phones seeing bad news after bad news...but what if they were to find a video of an excited hobbyist, sitting around with their dog, learning a classic rock song that they've always wanted to find the time to learn. There's no way that this can't shine a little light in your life and the lives of others in these trying times!

If you aren't a musician but a music enthusiast, be the one that supports these living room rockstars! I'd suggest you visit Facebook, Mixer.com, Instagram and/or any of the other social media platforms and show some love to all of the gifted musicians out there. All industries are being hit by obstacles right now, but the service industry may be taking the biggest immediate hit. I just hope we make sure that all of the talented musicians in our city and surrounding states are not forgotten. Of course, you can go online and Venmo them some money, but as money is tight for a lot of people right now, even a little bit of encouragement or a like on a post can go a long way. 

I wish I knew how long this craziness was going to go on but unfortunately, none of us do. There's a chance it keeps going for longer than any of us could imagine, but just remember that we are all in this together. And not only are we together, but together with music in our souls! We at Sims will be here to help and support you as we do the best we can, and we know that you will be there for everyone around you as well. If you get sad, mad, or just bored...get up, grab your guitar, plug it up, and rock out for the family (and the neighbors)...and I guarantee your day will improve. 

If there is anything we can do for any of you, please feel free to email us at [email protected] or text us on our web chat. While everyone's health is the most important concern right now, we want to make sure that the music stays strong in our community and helps us keep hope for a brighter tomorrow!

Thanks for all of your continued support. Please stay safe and Rock On!

Sincerely,

Justin Sims

Justin Sims