The X Factor

I suppose as writers we have our own form of X Factors in terms of the many competitions that take place each year for Bloggers and Authors alike. Clearly not financed on the scale of the musical X Factor that some of us are partial to watching on television each year but, nevertheless, a win is a win and/or even a place in the finals is a win in terms of helping one along with book sales and sponsorship for one’s endeavors, whether it be blogging or writing/promoting a new novel…

Well, today I converted somebody I thought would be unconvertable. Steadfast in his love for those unsigned musicians that plug away over the years and never make it to the big time, I took John Winstanley, a recent Simons 10QI Interviewee, as my guest to the popularised music X Factor Finalists music tour in Manchester.

John, previously an Indie music promoter, is also an author and has written the autobiography Unsigned Unscene. The book, which is available in both paperback and eBook form outlines his experiences in the world of music promotion and offers advice and inspiration to those attempting to enter the trade in a professional manner. It recently became a Waterstones Bestseller in the Preston store and looks set to go a long way as John is as good, if not better, at promoting his own work as the work of young musicians…

The reason for this post is that I just wanted to share that if one remains open to new experiences and change, it is amazing how one can be surprised by the results. I was initially dubious about taking John along in fear he may slit his wrists rather than sit through such a show, but true to his great open mindedness and without duress he agreed to join me and take on board the experience.

The exact word he used I hope will not tarnish his good reputation in the indie world. As we left the Phones 4 U arena in Manchester he admitted to having been “overwhelmed” by the experience. I doubt he would ever have bought a ticket for such a show, yet having now been, his eyes have been opened to a new and different world of entertainment which he found thoroughly enjoyable. As a good friend and colleague in the world of literature I truly respect that and thoroughly enjoyed the show myself and indeed his great company. So I thought I would embed the memory by sharing some of the pictures I took during the show. They are not of the best quality taken via phone as opposed to the usual Canon EOS 600 (being my weapon of choice at such events). But nonetheless they are ok and should serve as a reminder that change and new experiences can be embraced and should not be feared…

Enjoy the gallery and have a great weekend one and all!