It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Josh Ritter. I’ve always said, as much as I revere his talent and tunes, it is his elegant brand and career path that have me intrigued — he’s genuine to the bone and it is obvious to anyone.
“I’m singing for the love of it — have mercy on the man that sings to be adored.” — Josh Ritter
All of that said, I had the opportunity to meet Josh a few years back after his show at the Aladdin Theater in Portland, OR. I practically chased him down to get my chance to speak with my then, idol. Of course, it was a younger me. I was star struck. I had bought a shirt at his merch table that I wanted signed and even had one of my CDs in my hand that I gave to him as I said, “I’d be honored to open for you someday. Any time. Anywhere.” I must have looked very professional as it was an old Rhetoric Tuesday CD that was covered with a single duct tape strip with a hand-written Lander on it, my new band name.
My optimism was comical.
Well, years have gone by and many bloody noses later, I had the chance to meet Josh again — but this time under a whole new set of circumstances. Without revealing my sources, I was placed on Josh Ritter’s guest list and given an exclusive after show pass. I would have the opportunity to meet Josh, but this time, I was told that he would know who I was and that he had heard my music. No shameless self-promotion necessary.
My girlfriend and I were led down the stairs into Lola’s Room where Josh was waiting to meet the small group of guests — we were two of five in total. He immediately recognized the others as obvious friends but we were strangers amongst them. So he walked over.
I won’t make it out to be a bigger story then it actually is; however, I will say, I spoke with Josh for about 10 minutes — about life, Nashville, his music and even some of mine. As much as I wanted to spray him with a fire hose of information, I refrained. With some simple niceties and multiple hugs goodbye (offered by him), I left with a skip in my step and a beaming smile.
I still have full intentions of opening for him someday but it will happen in its own season. For now, I’m happy for having gotten to met my idol — this time as peers. I won’t forget that night as long as I live.