October 28, 2011
Jazz Singer Haiku
* VI, VII & VIII contributions
I
Now, time for the jam
Singer standing, chart in hand
Oh God, please say no
II
Sporting a champ’s gaze
Don’t look so proud of yourself
You just chirp a bit
III
Jazz Singer Haiku Suite
Shall I come in now?
Or shall I come in later?
How do they all know?
What do I do now?
The others are soloing,
But I’m at the front!
Shall I try a scat?
I’m centre of attention,
Swaying awkwardly.
IV
Can’t look at the crowd.
Can’t look at the band either.
I’ve fucked all of them.
V
Technique, history,
Theory, scales, musicianship,
All a mystery.
VI*
Epiphany strikes
I sound, on all types of Jazz
Like a drowning boy
VII*
A subtle sax fill
Confuses and angers me
I’m always in tune!
VIII*
I’ve booked the best band,
Someone’s done my charts for me,
Now, which dress to wear?
IX
Must never let show
I harbor secret hatred
Of other women…
Smile, be nice, polite.
They’ll never know what it’s like
To be centre stage.