Sharing His Gift

Keith Harris

Tonight, at the ARC, I was fortunate enough to hear the testimony of monstrously talented KEITH HARRIS.  Keith is a phenomenal drummer, keyboardist and producer who hasn't even seen his 40th birthday yet!  Geez!  Talk about an over-achiever!!!  He is the drummer for Black Eyed Peas.  He also produces some of their songs and those of other artists, too.  Simply a Jack of all trades!

Keith talked to us about his journey from Chicago to Boston to Brooklyn to Hollywood hotshot!  Whew!  What struck me most was his message that he was simply doing what he loved.  Even when it meant driving four hours each way from Brooklyn to Boston every weekend to play at his church.  While attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, he presented some of his music to Bad Boy Entertainment's (now Bad Boy Records) Rich "Younglord" Frierson.  And the rest, as they say, is history.  Keith's mentoring and eventual career took off from there.

After Pastor Tourè Roberts's Q&A with Keith, the audience was allowed to pepper Keith with questions.  My heart was warmed through and through as I listened to young person after young person pour out their hearts to Keith.  All I heard was youth seeking wisdom from an elder.  As it should be.  We live in a world today where everybody caters to the whims of the young.  When, in actuality, it should be reversed.  Heck, we older cats have lived long enough to TEACH.  Not to CATER to!  Don't get me started.  Anyway, Keith responded to all questions as sincerely as he could.  By the time all was said and done, I'm sure 100% of the audience felt they learned some valuable information in regard to being centered first, then pursuing their purpose/passion in life.

Life truly is an amazing phenomenon, 'cause, back in March 2011, I actually WORKED Keith's wedding.  I was there with An Catering.  Despite the fact that working for An was a drag, I thought the wedding was sensational!  :)