Autographs

From some people, they are worth a lot of money. For most of us, not so much except if it is on a check or contract of some sort. Autographs can be really cool, but at the same time are a little weird. Someone simply signs their name or something similar to it. I've gotten several autographs. The first I remember was from former Philadelphia Eagle and five-time Pro Bowler Pete Retzlaff. It was at the Landis Store Hotel in Berks County, PA. I was a little kid and had no idea who this guy was, but I was told by adults that he was a football player and I should ask for his autograph. Since then, I got many from the Reading Phillies, the minor league affiliate of the big boys. Some of my other favorites are those of Billy Joel when we had backstage passes in Hershey, Maynard Ferguson at the Blue Note in NYC, and Paul "The Pope" Owens at Reading Stadium.

I don't ask for many anymore since I don't need proof that I met someone and I don't know how it proves it anyway. In a day of forgeries, I wonder how any autograph can be worth anything to others. There was a former NHL player on NHL Home Ice today who said he was told to only autograph photos, not hockey cards since that would actually lower the value of the card. I remember playing the local carnival circuit many years ago and kids would come up to the band and ask for autographs. To me, it felt like the big time. To them, we were famous. Over the years I've tried to keep an even keel and worked hard at not becoming egotistical. I've encountered too many people like that and didn't like their company. I may have gone too far. I only recently started to understand that what I do is important to people, and that's okay. Finding the balance is important. Here's what I mean:

Last week, a couple who has been following me for years threw a party before a gig I had at the Fogelsville Hotel - a pre-event party. I was invited, but knowing we had to set up equipment, I initially thought I would pass, but appreciated the effort. After I saw the on-line invitation and all the guests as well as the praises I received in their invitation, I changed my mind. I saw how important this was to them that I attend. They were telling their friends who have never met me that they hoped I would be able to make it. Not being used to such attention, I was amazed and humbled. While trying to avoid being cocky, I almost risked that perception by ignoring their generous offer.

A few months ago I wrote a song for Sirius XM Radio station NHL Home Ice's show "Hockey This Morning" with Scott Laughlin, Shawn Lavigne, and the Paperboy (XM204, Sirius 208). To my surprise they actually played it several times earlier this season. As a thank you, I sent a few of my shirts to the guys in Toronto, the show's home. In return, though they had already given me the gift of airplay, they sent me a care package of several items including a large book of pictures - "2008 The Year in Photographs" which they autographed. It was at that moment that I realized I never signed the shirts. I was thrilled to have their autographs, but never thought of mine as a bonus to a gift.

I guess the value of an autograph is in the eyes of the beholder. To those who give them, it is an inexpensive gift. To those who receive them, it can be priceless. I cringe when I hear of stars charging for autographs, though I understand it, because I know there are people who sell autographs. To me, unless I received it in person as a connection and memory of an event, it really doesn't have much value. In a way, an autograph is a way to be a part of someone's life for at least an instant, not as a spectator, but as an actual actor in the play of their life.

What do you think about autographs? From whom is your favorite? Do we take on their greatness through this ritual? Or is it just cool that we met the person?

Jim Meck

Jim will be playing at Bear Creek on March 12th 7PM, Bridge Inn on March 13th at 7PM, and at the Grand Opening of the White Palm Tavern (formerly Topton House) on March 14th at 7PM. See www.jimmeck.com for more info.