Billie Holiday

I've had a very eventful last few days. 

For one, I attended my first PRIDE event . . . something I thought I'd never do.  It was absolutely crazy, and I have at least one long blog that I need to write about it.   

Secondly, as some of you know, I'm a baby attorney (a brand new one).  Earlier today, I went to my first hearing, which was in a small, surprisingly charming town in Southern Mississippi. Nothing wild happened, but it was certainly an experience that I'll never forget.

Third, I attended a GLBT Chamber of Commerce dinner tonight.  I went because, over the last few weeks, I've felt a new need to give back to the gay community, to impact it in some positive way.  I'm not yet sure what this new passion I've developed will manifest itself into . . . but it's something that I'm definitely committed to.

I plan to write about all of these topics, but I'm tired from traveling and want to crash soon.

So instead of writing a long blog tonight, I want to share something with you that is very special to me . . . the music of the great Billie Holiday.  After the GLBT dinner, which was at the historic Melrose Hotel in Dallas, my friends and I had drinks in the comfortable hotel bar. 

I orderd a Bacardi and Diet Coke and asked the jazz piano player if she knew any Billie Holiday songs. 

She grinned and said that Billie was her absolute favorite. 

So . . . after a very generous tip from me, the pianist played several moving songs, reminding me just how special Billie Holiday was.  Sadly, Billie's life was filled with tragedy, drug abuse, and tumultuous relationships.  However, it was also full of love, admiration, and endless musical talent. 

Her haunting voice is an amazing reflection of the highs and lows that she went through, and they are somewhat reflective of what we, as gay men, experience in our own lives. 

Enjoy this song. 

Comments

I read but i never comment on anything but i just wanted to say i liked the song it was moving and inspiring

[Ken]

What part of SoMi?
I lived in Hattiesburg for 4 years and absolutely loved it there.

[Justin]

Mad props dude...I'm not too knowledgable about BH but I love her voice.

[Jay]

I too am looking for a way to give back somehow. Or at least get more involved. I've kinda become alot less involved in gay life since I started working.