lessons from a rock band reunion
November 9, 2005 by Mary Wynne-Wynter
I recently got to see a new friend play a 20 year reunion gig with her old all-female band Lizzie Borden & the Axes. Reunion gigs are big in Boston and fans will come to see their favorite bands from prior decades. As well as being fun, talented and highly entertaining, I can't stop thinking about the connection the band made with their audience. They barely had time to practice and they are now middle-age women with varying 'real' jobs like certified financial planner and veterinarian....and its been 20 years! Part of the success of their set was the music itself which had everyone up and dancing. But even more, it was how aligned they were with their fans..old and new. They are not afraid to be exactly who they are..still sexy, take no b.s. attitudes, without pretense and with the ability to poke a little fun at themselves (and at their audience which included at least one ex-husband). I learned a lot from watching them and will remember this takeaway for any presentation work I'm involved in (especially if there are any signs of boredom): 'for God's sake lighten up!'. Skills and expertise are fine but its real people and honesty (with a touch of humor) that make a strong connection and get people (literally and figuratively) dancing in the aisles!.