Commentary: COVID-19 sucker punched Delaware’s vibrant music scene, but it’s not a TKO
I’ve had the joy of being a full-time musician for close to 40 years. In that time, I’ve witnessed several peaks and a few valleys when it comes to gig opportunities in our state. For the most part, I’ve been able to make a good living here in Delaware and would definitely consider our little treasure of a state to own a vibrant music scene.
2020 promised to be the busiest of my career. I had 270 shows on the books, and many of my colleagues were looking forward to a busy schedule, as well. Our friends in the restaurant, country club, bar and theater scene were rocking and rolling, too. It seemed everyone was doing well, until COVID-19 came in with a collective sucker punch that sent us all to the canvas. One thing I know for sure, the moment you think you have everything figured out, the universe will show you, mister, that you don’t. While many of us were down on that canvas rolling around, we were learning quickly how much determination and fight was in us to get back on our feet.
My Delaware music scene brothers and sisters are a strong, talented and resourceful bunch. Many adapted to the circumstances by learning new skills, writing and recording new albums, as well as utilizing social media platforms like Facebook Live to reach and expand their audiences.
As for our restaurant and hospitality folks, well, you want to talk about adapting? You want to talk about resilience? In 2020, our Delaware hospitality and restaurant industry business owners, managers, waiters, waitresses and bartenders wrote the book on how to survive a pandemic. It might as well have been “War and Peace.” Without them, we all wouldn’t have great places to go for dinner or to see a show. Without them, I wouldn’t have a job. That’s just a fact.
As for me, even though the loss of income was brutal, the “forced time off” oddly brought a few positive benefits. For one thing, my vocal cords finally enjoyed a rest that was long overdue. Second, my restless spirit learned to embrace the quiet time to “just be” and to appreciate the little blessings that I was missing while racing out the door trying to make a buck. For that, I am grateful.
Our music scene has experienced a long, painful pause. But I believe we are on the verge of a new vibrancy. As more folks get vaccinated over the spring and summer, venues will return to full capacity. The patrons who have stayed home for over a year will have a newfound appreciation for the joy that live music and great food brings their life.
I’m looking forward to seeing all of us get back up off the canvas … to finish this round and, ultimately, triumph over COVID-19.
Sol Knopf is an award-winning singer/songwriter and solo performer in Delaware.
