Dear friends, fans and family:
While this second band announcement may seem like a domino effect of members, I can wholeheartedly say that it is in fact a step in the right direction for all of us. While I am completely supportive and understanding of Marc's decision to leave the band and of
the Rubin Brothers' decision to keep going, I have reached a decision that
is the fairest for me and the remaining members. Although this is a difficult
thing for me to say, I must tell you that I have decided not to continue
playing drums for Sky Blues.
I want to first thank Marc, Cliff and Jon for seven indescribable years that I'll never forget. There were so many great times, experiences, and most of all, so much great music.
I couldn't possibly express my admiration for these three guys with whom I spent so much time, sweat, energy, passion, (and, for me, blood, as many of you remember the shape of my hands after a gig). But as all things must come to an end, it was time for me to put my active role in Sky Blues to rest. While it was not an easy decision to make, I know it's the right decision.
One of the many reasons I decided to move on from Sky Blues was due to the decrease in enthusiasm that I had towards the business. While my love of playing the drums has only increased over the years and continues to increase as I continue to listen to music
and go to concerts, something in my heart was telling me it was time. I know that I gave it a shot and I'll never regret that or look back and question what I did for so many years. At times I wonder if I gave the band enough time. Maybe, maybe not; what I do know is that it was enough time for ME.
Over the years, Sky Blues has provided me with so much. I loved drumming, I loved writing music and lyrics, and I loved being able to create and express myself without having to talk. I made many new friends along the way, expanded myself creatively, intellectually,
and musically, I got to travel to 20 states, and there's so much, so much more. One thing that has always amazed me since the band started is the first question I am asked by anyone who knows me; old, young, close friend, distant acquaintance, or whoever knows me even remotely. The first question upon seeing me is "How's the band?" I think that says a lot! My parents' friends, my sisters' friends, any and everyone I come into contact with socially: "How's the band, Sous?" That single question alone makes me realize how special and significant Sky Blues has been in my life and always will be.
Although my drumming has been put on the back burner for now, the past months have allowed me to get back to where it all started for me ...the piano. While my career path has
changed for now, I am content knowing that I will always have the capacity and appreciation to play music for the rest of my life. Getting back to the piano also has some other benefits. I've got this adorable 1-year-old niece, my godchild Paige, and I don't think she would have appreciated me writing her a song on the drums. Kind of painful if you ask me. But the piano is a great way to write some lullabies for the little critter.
The only thing I can say now is that I wish Jon and Cliff nothing but the best in their continued pursuit in the music business. I know Marc is doing well these days and I know
Cliff and Jon will continue to make their mark in music right where the four of us left off.
So to all of you, the ones that made it most rewarding for me, thank you. I know this is cliché, but it's been a great run and I will never forget it. I wish all of you
the best of luck in your own pursuits in life. I hope I will be able to support you in your endeavors as you have supported me and the guys in ours. And on that note, if I may, I would like to leave you with a quote from one of my favorites, Dr. Seuss.
Greg de Sousa |