Before my feet hit the floor, I was on my face before The Father.
I didn’t want this if it wasn’t 100% Jesus behind it.
(Beautiful picture of somebody praying at sunrise.)
The day dragged by at certain times and went too fast at others. “This is crazy”, I thought! Then, around 3:30pm, my phone rang…
“Hello, is this Dusty?” I heard on the other end.
“Yep, sure is! Is this Drew?” I asked.
“It is!” Drew responded. And just like that, the conversation began.
It couldn’t have gone any better. I had to laugh several times during our conversation when he asked me if I had any issues with driving/riding long distances or sleeping on air mattresses. I assured him that wasn’t gonna be an issue! Haha, once a World Race, always a World Racer, right?!
(Travel in Mozambique… Way too many people in one vehicle.)
(Back to the days of living in Mozambique… 115F, no shower, no AC, laying on concrete, and sleeping under a mosquito net to prevent malaria… Yep, I think the floor of the hotel will suffice. LOL)
About 30 minutes later, we wrapped up our call, and he said he’d make a call to confirm that he wanted me to join him for his tour.
As soon as the conversation was over, I could hardly contain my excitement! This was really happening!
My roommates were patiently waiting in the living room for me to come tell them how it went, but I couldn’t let it happen without playing it up, first.
I quickly grabbed a piece of gold paper and wrote, “NASHVILLE” on it and placed it in my back pocket.
As serious as could be, I walked into the living room (with a sad look on my face).
“Well… How’d it go?” They asked.
“They have somebody already” I said… Giving it a few seconds.
Then I ripped the gold paper out of my back pocket and said, “I’m not going to Hollywood, BUT I AM GOING TO NASHVILLE!!! I got the internship!!!" Jumping up and down, hollering!
My roommates, who couldn’t contain their excitement, quickly tackled me!
So, with all that being said, on March 25th I will report to Nashville, Tennessee for training, before heading out to Texas for the first show!
(Map of USA with Nashville, TN in red.)
What will my internship look like you ask?
- Working with the fans (this is right up my alley because I LOVE people)!??
- Helping drive to our different locations from time to time.
- Helping set-up/break down before and after shows.
- Coaching the volunteers working the merchandising tables at each show, showing them the ropes.
- Making sure Drew and The Neighbors (pun intended), have what they need.
- It is unpaid, but all my expenses are paid for, with the potential of a small stipend.
- Etc.…
I say, “etc.” because, there’s no telling what it’ll actually look like on the field, but I’m open to whatever and I’m excited for this opportunity! I believe without a doubt that God opened this door for a reason, so I’m walking into it with hands open, trusting Him.
Some of you know this, but I used to work in radio prior to the World Race, and I loved it! I miss it so much some days. This is a great opportunity to see another side of the music industry and learn a few things in the process. Many of you have asked, “Are you gonna be singing and playing?” That'd be cool, but no, I wont be. However, with my love and passion for music, I feel like it’s a great opportunity to grow even more.
The tour will run from March 28th – April 12th (about 2 weeks). We’ll start in Waco, Texas and end in Chattanooga, Tennessee. Once the tour is finished, I’ll return back to Gainesville, and will be back to work.
Sitting here writing this, I keep having to stop and ask myself, “Is this really happening?” This feels like a dream. I feel unworthy and like I’m stepping into something that I know little about. Which is true, but I am eager to learn and hop on the bull and ride!
If you’ve never heard of Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors or Judah and The Lion, I’d highly recommend looking them up and listening to them! They’re some legit talented musicians! Heck, if you get a chance, you should total come on out to the show(s)!
(List of the tour dates and locations.)
God is good. He’s showing me that more and more everyday and it's very humbling.
Don’t be afraid to dream big, y’all! God has put it inside of you for a reason. Don’t allow yourself to settle for less than the best! Go after it and don’t be afraid. You never know what God might set in your lap… The Father is good.
(Ellie, Drew, and Myself in September 2012 at their show.)
Thanks for the prayers and support. I look forward to giving updates and hopefully seeing each of you out on the road! I truly am the most blessed man alive.
Love y’all.
