Category: Think Piece
I became a rockstar at 14. Playing bass in one of Trinidad and Tobago’s biggest metal bands Incert Coin, I performed in countless venues to scores of metalheads across the island.
Though my professional path diverged from music performance, the experience shaped the woman I am today, instilling ‘badass rockstar’ qualities I carry through life.
I encourage you to unleash your inner rockstar
Lessons from the stage…
In August 2006, my father took me to audition for Incert Coin, a revered band in Trinidad’s metal music scene. Draped in black and wearing orange All Star Converse, I auditioned as their bassist, a 14-year-old girl in a veteran metal band. Despite nerves, the band welcomed me, and I became known as “that badass bass girl” in a male-dominated scene.
I personally felt like I had to hold my own on a stage with these head-banging musicians stomping and performing for a sea of ruthless concert goers eagerly waiting to be summoned to the mosh pit. For me, It was a dream – euphoria. I was liberated from chains I really didn’t know existed at the time because I had no idea that many girls and womxn would never have the opportunity to feel this freedom. Here are my lessons from the stage.
Confidence: The Key
Rockstars exude confidence on stage, owning it like they were born for it. It’s about ‘faking it till you make it’ and then being unstoppable. Embrace your inner confidence, even if it ruffles a few feathers.
Brutality: Commanding Attention
Being ‘brutal’ as a rocker means demanding attention and executing with precision. It’s about showing your wrath and leaving a lasting impression.
Heart: The Driving Force
Rockstars pour their heart into every performance, bleeding for their craft. Show up on the stage of life with passion, making your presence known and leaving a mark.
Conclusion
During my time as Incert Coin‘s bassist I was constantly learning lessons from the stage and challenging myself. It taught me to embrace confidence, brutality, and heart—qualities not exclusive to male rockstars but inherent in all of us.
These are the characteristics of rockstars—of women, girls, LGBTQ+ individuals—the qualities that empower us to own our stage, wherever it may be.