Goa is a place of musical crossroads. Recently we were privileged to experience the sense of commitment, passion, vision, humility and the free-ranging aliveness to diverse influences that characterize the songwriting, singing and guitar playing of Steve Young. His concert on 12 February at the Kala Academy and his masterclass earlier that afternoon were inspirations to our keen musicians.

Steve Young transports his audience to magical places, meeting exotic characters, reliving situations and events, feeling the pulse of living and expressing its deep spirituality. “Music is a reflection on Humanity”, comments Steve. He defies categorisation because his music knows no boundaries. He is the reincarnation of the troubadour tradition, touring to all corners of the musical world, singing about his experiences and of the interesting characters that people his world with conviction and bitter-sweet spirituality. He has achieved world wide acceptance because his audiences welcome his blend of musical styles within himself.

He doesn’t write songs to sell: “I can’t look at the marketplace; I can’t get excited about that”. He doesn’t know why some of his songs have become great hits. He tries to explain by saying: “It’s about the lasting power of music and the courage of the human spirit”. He feels that the process of composition is sheer inspiration – a word, a phrase, a melody starts the spiritual journey: “A real song is like a spirit that whispers in your ear. To me music is a spiritual thing”.

His illustrated talk had to be moved from the Black Box to the main hall at the Kala Academy because the response exceeded expectations. It was heartening to find so many Goans making the time on a weekday afternoon to attend a live, informative and entertaining guided tour through influences ranging from Appalachian and Celtic, Blues, Flamenco, Mexican, American Country and Folk. The examples, sung and played in his imitable style were a treat for the audience. He demonstrated strumming and how he incorporates running bass, rhythm and melody simultaneously to create variety through a judicious combination of these elements. A rare chance to observe a great master at work. We thank the American Center, Mumbai and the Kala Academy for arranging these sessions.

He was taken up by Ravi Shankar, his total avoidance of drugs and alcohol and the absence of the third in Indian music, which made it not committed to the major or minor key but produced a modal sound. The depth and spirituality of Indian music inpires him to buy a sitar and learn to play it. He was totally fascinated by his trip to India, a new experience, which has made him much richer musically and spiritually.

You can meet Steve Young electronically by emailing him: budayoung@aol.com or by visiting his website: steveyoung.net.