High Five! from The Morning Code's Ashwin Alexander

The following are five (of the many) things which have led me to be where I am today as a musician. These things enable and inspire me to write and perform as part of an indie band. Being in a band is tough, so any inspiration or help along the way is priceless.

1. Band Class

As a student, my band class looked something like this - I played trumpet. I later taught myself to play guitar, but the musical fundamentals and discipline that band class gave me were irreplaceable.

2. Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails

NIN aren't my favorite group (they're close, but the Smashing Pumpkins take the top spot), but Trent Reznor is definitely my musical role model. The way that he took risks, maintained artistic control, and ultimate succeeded with his musical career was phenomenal.

3. The Fender Stratocaster

Why do I pick the Strat? Because a kid can buy a used Fender Stratocaster for a hundred bucks and a professional musician can spend a few thousand on one if he wants to. Having a timeless, versatile tone allows a musician to grow up with a Strat, which isn’t true of the 2nd most famous guitar, the Les Paul. The Les Paul is no doubt a great instrument, but not a very accessible one.

(Here’s John Frusciante with his Fender)

4. DIY Audio Production

Digital music production has come a long way from that picture below. The fact that a musician can buy a couple thousand dollars worth of equipment and (with the right knowledge) be able to make a great sounding album or demo is insane. The type of technology that was impossible even 10 years ago has broken down a major barrier for many indie bands…now artists can make their own records!

5. iTunes

With itunes and digital music as the norm for music listeners, any indie artist can have their music available globally for around $40 or less. This concept is nothing short of revolutionary.

To celebrate the end of the nine to five, a Green Light Go staff member or artist will leave you with their short list of favorite things, better known as the High Five!

This week's High Five! is brought to you by: Ashwin Alexander