First of all, let me extend congratulations to each and every one of you. Today marks a significant milestone. Secondly, I must share a crucial principle: attention to detail is paramount. I was under the impression I wasn’t scheduled to deliver this commencement speech until I saw it printed on the invitation. While Gary Burton assures me we discussed it, the memory eludes me. Nevertheless, I approached this responsibility with utmost seriousness. I pondered, what is the message you truly need to hear today? What words will resonate with you and remain etched in your minds? So, let’s begin with this fundamental question: Just how extraordinary are you?
When my stepson was around eight years old, he declared, “Mom, I must be an exceptional swimmer.”
“Why? What makes you say that?” she asked.
“Well, because out of all those millions of sperm, I was the first to reach the egg!”
Consider that for a moment. Among countless possibilities, you were brought into existence. Let’s delve a little deeper. Two billion individuals globally subsist on a mere two dollars daily. A staggering one billion live on less than a dollar each day. This encompasses half of the world’s population. And this same half will likely not progress beyond a sixth-grade education. These three billion people will, in most cases, never venture more than 50 miles from their birthplace. Tragically, two-thirds will not live to see their 50th birthday, and nearly all will endure labor far more arduous than most of us in this assembly. It prompts reflection on the true importance of fretting over an unsuitable shirt or a bad hair day.
Allow me to shift focus to myself for a moment, but not in the vein of self-aggrandizing narratives like “Then I wrote this hit song” or “Then I produced that iconic album.” If I possessed a definitive formula for achieving 14 Grammy Awards (note how I subtly included that), I’m certain you’d all be poised with pens and paper, listening intently. However, I do not. But what I do have to share is equally vital.
I was raised on an island in British Columbia. Like many of you, I harbored an immense passion and fervent desire to create music from my earliest recollections. I was already earning as much as my father by the age of 13. I was an average student, and after completing the 11th grade, I left school and journeyed to England to pursue my musical aspirations. I have never experimented with drugs. I abstain from alcohol. I’ve never been arrested, nor engaged in a physical altercation. My relationship with my parents was harmonious 99% of the time. I cherish my sisters, and they reciprocate that affection. My love for my children surpasses all else in the world. I adore my wife, and I am passionate about my work. I was fortunate enough to discover something I was deeply passionate about and possessed a natural aptitude for. I became singularly focused, and from the age of 10 until this very morning, I have dedicated myself tirelessly to realizing my dream. I haven’t indulged in excessive partying, and I don’t feel as though I’ve missed out on anything significant.
Except perhaps a college education. Not solely for musical pursuits, but to cultivate a more well-rounded perspective. I wish I had acquired greater knowledge of Greek mythology, Roman history, the cosmos above us, or the oceans surrounding us. Therefore, remain receptive to subjects beyond music. Remember the foundational lessons from grade school: Look… and… listen. Nature endowed you with two ears, two eyes, but only one mouth. Hence, observe and listen twice as much as you speak. Absorb as much knowledge as you can across diverse fields, because knowledge is indeed power.
Now, if you haven’t retained anything I’ve conveyed thus far, that’s perfectly acceptable. However, endeavor to remember what I’m about to impart, as I believe it comes with a guarantee, unlike my earlier jest about the Grammys.
And here it is: Don’t be a musical snob. Early in my career, I had stints playing in Chuck Berry’s band and, shortly after, Neil Diamond’s band (not concurrently, of course). I was dismissed from both engagements. Do you know why? Because I harbored a lack of respect for music that relied on just a few simple chords. Coming from a classical and jazz background, I considered such music beneath my standards. These were two of the most prolific songwriters of the past half-century, yet I was unwilling to play what I derisively termed “stinking C-F-G” chords. I believed there was no dignity in playing C-F-G progressions. However, C-F-G can possess profound dignity when executed with the appropriate skill and, more importantly, with the right mindset. Thus, I committed two errors simultaneously: ‘I disrespect your music, but I’ll gladly accept your compensation.’ Again, don’t be a musical snob.
Here’s a stark reality. I could return to Los Angeles tonight and assemble a top-tier big band with the most exceptional musicians globally. I could have them rehearse all day tomorrow and then perform at my daughter’s wedding tomorrow night from 8:00 p.m. until midnight. I could even accommodate my uncle’s desire to sing a few songs, despite his vocal limitations. I’d compensate each musician $300, and they’d be grateful to receive their checks that very night. They’d drive off in their aging vehicles to their modest rental homes in the valley, hoping for another call from me. Why do certain musicians consistently secure prestigious gigs and opportunities, while others are relegated to weddings? It’s not solely about talent; it’s about attitude.
It’s probable that many keyboard players present today possess superior technical skills to my own. While that is commendable, technical prowess alone won’t propel you to the pinnacle of success. However, attitude will. And if you perceive every opportunity that arises as a valuable stepping stone, that too will guide you to the top. Consider these examples: Dennis Quaid, Bruce Willis, and Russell Crowe all have rock and roll bands. None are particularly exceptional musically. Imagine one of them invites you to join their band. You might not be enthralled by their music or the other band members. However, they are prominent figures in the film industry, and you aspire to compose film scores. You won’t secure film scoring opportunities by merely sending demo tapes to Warner Brothers. Your breakthrough could very well originate from accepting, with enthusiasm, an offer to play with Dennis Quaid’s C-F-G band. You and Dennis might even collaborate on the theme song for a movie, which you’ll come to appreciate.
Sting’s 13-year-old daughter desires to learn drums. His nanny happens to be your neighbor. She knows you are a drummer, though unaware if you’re the next Steve Gadd or Jeff Porcaro. She simply knows you play drums. She inquires if you’d be willing to give Sting’s daughter drum lessons. Absolutely, you would. Even if your primary instrument is piano. Because one day, Sting will hear you play, and another day, his regular drummer might fall ill. And you’ll be offered the gig! What you decline is as crucial as what you accept. Either of these scenarios could irrevocably alter the trajectory of your life. I needn’t provide further illustrations; you grasp the concept.
Don’t be a musical snob. I assure you that Kenny G and Herb Alpert derive as much fulfillment from their musical endeavors as John Coltrane and Miles Davis did. All of them had the privilege of creating music authentically, in their own style, and all maximized their musical potential. Don’t be a musical snob.
I once considered arranging a big band performance as a gift for Kenny G on his 10th wedding anniversary. He declined. He explained that those musicians often looked down upon him and made him feel uneasy. Sixteen musicians missed out on potential income due to their misplaced attitude.
Another crucial aspect as you achieve success: cultivate humility and gratitude. Always seek mentors and strive to be a kind and supportive mentor to others. One of the most indelible moments of my life was attending a performance by Stan Getz and Gary Burton in Vancouver. My friend and I, around 14 years old, were astounded to gain backstage access afterwards. To this day, I cherish the photograph of my friend holding Stan Getz’s saxophone and myself holding Gary’s mallets. Gary, as you know, is one of the most extraordinary and gifted musical forces on our planet. He was incredibly gracious and generous with his time that day. I was in awe. Little did he realize he was laying the groundwork for my presence here today, some 38 years later. So, be kind. You can never fully anticipate the impact you might have on someone or how it might return to you, amplified tenfold.
The message I’m endeavoring to convey must, of course, be balanced with your personal integrity and instincts. But I trust the essence is clear. The musical choices you will confront—right or wrong, beneficial or detrimental—will significantly shape the life you ultimately lead. Evaluate each decision carefully. If uncertainty prevails, postpone your decision until the following day. I must confess, I’ve performed my share of less-than-ideal gigs. I recall playing nightly in a bar with a particular singer. One day during rehearsal, I suggested to him, “Tonight, during that song, let’s…” (tells a brief anecdote).
But fundamentally, we are discussing rather basic principles: hard work, kindness, openness, opportunity. You cannot solely rely on “luck.” Someone once observed, “The harder I worked, the luckier I became.” I believe luck is the convergence of talent, preparation, and opportunity. In essence, if we all adhered to kindergarten rules, we’d all be winners. Share everything. Play fair. Don’t physically harm others. Clean up your own messes. Don’t take what isn’t yours. Apologize when you cause someone pain. Wash your hands before eating. Flush the toilet. Live a balanced life. Draw. Paint. Sing. Dance. Engage in both play and work daily. Take naps. And allow me to add one of my own: be nice to nerds, because chances are you’ll end up working for one.
At one point in my life, my aspiration was to attend Berklee College of Music. My path diverged, but yours has led you here. For those of you who are scholarship recipients, my words cannot fully express the depth of your achievement today. For those whose parents funded their education here, I commend you and your parents. For those who worked evenings and weekends to finance your own education, you already understand the core message; my speech is likely redundant for you. Receiving an education at this remarkable institution is invaluable, but Berklee, or any music school, is not a guaranteed ticket to success. The individuals who manage the music industry are indifferent to your educational background, or even if you possess one at all. But let me offer some encouraging news!
I believe this is an opportune time to enter the music industry. Those who lament the industry’s challenges are simply not resilient enough to thrive within it. Individuals of my generation might claim, “I had to exit the business; it’s become too arduous.” However, they didn’t willingly leave; the industry evolved beyond them. Indeed, it is more demanding for me at 52 than it was at 22, but it will be even more challenging at 72. Puff Daddy doesn’t perceive it as difficult; he is thoroughly enjoying himself. That young jazz trumpeter I saw on Leno recently doesn’t consider it hard; he likely feels he has entered paradise. Success is attainable, and you are capable of achieving it.
The digital realm is rapidly permeating lifestyles with a mere click. The major music corporations are all vying for a share of this digital landscape. I can assure you, the leaders of the music industry are astute. The digital transition will stabilize, be refined, and payment structures will be resolved, ultimately benefiting you, the beneficiaries of this extraordinary evolution. There are 500 television channels, all requiring content. ProTools exists, enabling album production in your bedroom. And a consistent audience will always exist for quality music. You represent the next generation of music creators, and I believe the opportunities are abundant for you to seize. And we need your contributions. But please, don’t fixate on the number of notes you can fit into a measure. Focus on the enduring impact of your music long after you are gone.
My concluding thought is this: there’s a television program titled “The Young and the Restless,” and that is precisely what you are meant to be at this juncture. However, there’s also a saying that holds profound truth, especially at age 22: “Life is short.” 22 swiftly transitions to 32, then 42, then 72, faster than you can fathom. In fact, we often jokingly refer to that TV show as “The Young and the Rest of Us.” Therefore, utilize your time wisely. Avoid excessive procrastination. Work diligently. Play with enthusiasm, and ensure you do not reach your final moments with regrets of “I wish I had just…” or “I should have…” or “If only I had…”
You are living in the most remarkable era in arguably the most exceptional country globally. Yet, for the first time in history—spanning billions of years—we possess the technological capacity to obliterate this entire planet with the flick of a switch. So, endeavor to alter that trajectory if you can. And while you are engaged in saving the planet, treat each day as if it were your last, because one day, you will be correct. Until then, three words from one of history’s greatest philosophers, Nike: ‘Just do it.’
