00:51
Gregory Carroll Highlight
A real job that is a successful job for someone is a job that's driven by their passion and their love.
About Gregory
- Growing up, his dad and friends were always listening to jazz out on the porch; Gregory was allowed to hang out with them one day.
- First artists he heard were Ella Fitzgerald and Lionel Hampton; thought, "I want to play that instrument Lionel Hampton is playing."
- Got a little keyboard and picked up the Lionel Hampton tune by ear; his parents realized he had to develop this talent.
- Took piano lessons for free through public school; teacher introduced him to the vibraphone, which he recognized as Lionel Hampton's instrument.
- Was working at a fast food restaurant in high school; quit, vowed it was the last time he'd ask, "Do you want fries with that?"
- When he was teaching music, he was disheartened by parents telling talented kids, "You have to get a real job," felt that belittled his career.
- Struggled with the idea that he wouldn't be a famous musician, eventually got over it, realized he'd be happy as an executive, a teacher, anything in music.
- Says that at some point, you may realize, "getting it all may never be achievable...and that's okay!"
