Despite performing in huge venues and stadiums, being the opening act had its downsides. We had to deal with very short set lists, little or no soundcheck, poor front-of-house sound, and often terrible monitor mixes. However, it was still an incredible opportunity and an unforgettable experience. Almost everyone asks me questions like, "How was Whitney? What was she like? Did you get to know her?" I'd like to answer these questions, and more, in a separate blog post, where I can dedicate more effort to setting the stage, and adding context and details. Stay tuned!
Around this time, I was living in a less-than-desirable neighborhood at 101st Street and Central Park West, NYC. My music studio was in another dump, The Music Building on 8th Avenue, near the the Port Authority Bus Terminal. However, living close to the iconic Mikell's jazz club, and enjoying long lunches near my studio at Hero Boy or Manganaro's on 9th Avenue, were small but much needed rewards. In a year or so, I would visit a friend in Journal Square, Jersey City, where I would soon be living for many years ahead. At the time, I had no idea what was to come.
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