1987. Chaos broke out as greed reigned supreme. Human's hunger for wealth and power gave rise to terrorism, war and fraud. The authorities cared about nothing but their pockets and the poor were discriminated. Outlaws got away with their deplorable crimes while the innocent suffered. In the midst of this ensuing entropy, a child was born. His name was Joshua Neil Farro.
Paramore 2005
18 years later, armed with the gift of music, he, together with his brother and friends embarked on a life changing journey to bring joy into youths' ever so dull life. 3 more years later, their growing fame finally catapulted them onto my computer screen as I watched them make musical magic on stage in Congress Theater, Chicago. I succumbed to their overwhelming talent and charisma. Almost all of them were jumping up and down on stage, trying to add fun and make the overall experience a memorable one for their fans. Though, it was the cool and somewhat shy guitarist who stayed put most of the time that caught my attention.
Final Riot! in Chicago 2008
Josh @ the Final Riot! Chicago
I googled the band I found out he was Josh Farro the lead guitarist. I also found out he composed most of the songs and was one of the main people who planned out the concert's setlist. I was amazed by his skills and as of that day, he became my role model. Josh is a really down to earth guy from what I see through interviews and their video logs. Although he's surrounded by fame, he keeps grounded by his strong believe in God. He and the band never thought of the huge amount of money they're raking in but instead concentrated on what truly matters to them, music.
Paramore backstage.
source: jennalfarro.blogspot.com
source: jennalfarro.blogspot.com
Josh made me realise why I love music in the first place. It's never about the achievement but passion and self satisfaction. I got into music for all the wrong reasons. When I first learned the piano, I only thought of what grade am I at, what grade will I get to next, is it high enough, is the money put into learning worth every cent. All these blinded me from the most important thing, music itself, and passion. Lessons started getting tedious, I couldn't understand what my teacher was trying to say and learning the piano felt like an added burden in life. After failing a grade, I gave up completely. I never knew I could be a part of music again till Josh came into the picture and enlightened me. Now, I'm back on the piano and is progressing steadily on the 6th Grade. I also taught myself the guitar under his influence and is arguably fluent now. I even took part in several live performances. I wouldn't say they were great but I had fun.
= )
Today, I want to thank the guy who played a huge part in my life and doesn't have a clue about it. Josh, you make music that puts a smile on my face, that livens up my dull days and gives me hope, but most of all, you made me who I am today. Thank you man! and Happy Birthday! Rock on!!!
p/s: Can't wait to hear what you and Novel American have been working on. Pray that you guys find the right person soon.
