Take a little soul, throw in some jazz, mix it with some blues, add a touch of R&B and the result is the electrifying sounds of Blair Clark.
Clark has captivated audiences all over the U.S. and Europe.As a singer, songwriter and entertainer, Clark has written for various artists, including co-writing with Narada Michael Walden and Preston Glass. As a producer, he has created in studios in Los Angeles, Dallas and Nashville.
Clark has spent more than two decades shaping the next generation of musical talent. He is the president and founder of B# Voice and Performance School, coaching, producing and mentoring vocalists of all ages for over 35 years, specializing in vocal training and performance technique.
Beyond performance and coaching, Clark is the president and owner of Artist Development Company, where he refines talent, builds brand awareness and connects artists with industry opportunities.
For more information, visit Clark’s official websites: Artist Development, Blair Clark Music and B# Voice and Performance School.
Photo: Greg Kicinski Photography
The Reality of Competition
I am not a big fan of competitions when it comes to music. Whether it is beauty pageants, show choir, or TV competitions like “The Voice,” “American Idol,” or “America’s Got Talent,” these shows rely on judges to determine who is the best.
This often leaves the final decision up to personal preference, favoritism, or politics. Can you compare Johnny Cash to Michael Jackson, or Billie Eilish to Whitney Houston? No.
But let’s face it: We live in a competitive world, especially when it comes to the arts. Students in school are constantly competing to be placed in a better show choir, fighting for solo opportunities, or auditioning for the lead in the next school musical.
Professional recording artists face a similar battle. They are in a constant competition to be picked up by a management company, signed by a booking agency, or landed with a record label. On top of that, they are always managing their social media to get more views, likes, followers, and subscribers. It requires constant effort.
Elements of a Competitive Edge
So, what are you doing to stay competitive or keep your edge?
From the school-age artist to the professional recording artist, the secret lies in two words: practice and preparation. Your God-given talent is just the beginning. You have to practice every day so you will be prepared for any and all opportunities that come along.
I often see students frustrated to the point of tears because they did not get placed in the choir they wanted or the solo they expected. However, they stopped applying themselves and simply expected their natural gifts to carry them through.
Commitment Over Luck
You might hear people complain, “So-and-so always gets the solo.” But that person always practices, doesn’t miss lessons, has fun learning, and maintains a competitive edge. One of my favorite quotes is, “I only practice on the days that I eat.”
Make a plan to practice. Find a place to rehearse, and have fun growing and creating.
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