In 1986, The Pursuit of Happiness’ debut single, “I’m An Adult Now,” became a smash hit. The band’s lead singer and guitarist, Edmonton-born Moe Berg, is still in the music business, producing artists such as Shannon Lee Briggs and The Cliks, as well as writing fiction. Now 47 and living in Toronto with his wife and young daughter, he reflects on changes brought on by two decades of adulthood.
When we signed our publishing deal and record deal, there was still the legacy of record companies actually nurturing young artists and bringing you along, whereas now that’s not really the case. I think record companies aren’t really willing to do development. They’re more interested in grabbing hold of something that’s a guaranteed success.
Back then, I was very driven. I would barely recognize that person now. I was very centred around being a musician and a songwriter and recording artist and touring – I didn’t let much get in my way. Now I have a balance in my life. I still become very committed to whatever project I’m working on. I have very high standards, maybe higher now than I ever had. Fortunately for me, I have periods where I’m not in the studio and I can spend time with my daughter. Our family can go travelling and do things that are not work-related that are still fun and enriching and part of what’s great about life.
The culture disposes of you, to some degree. It’s important to accentuate the positive things about you and about the brand you’ve created so that people, instead of looking at you as someone who’s washed up, they’ll look at you as someone who is still vital and has something to offer.
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