I thank the security guard who guides me into the backstage area of the venue where my friend and guitarist Mitch is performing. He just released his first album in October and is performing tonight in New York City, so of course I flew out to see him.

I follow the security guard through the backstage area, smiling when I finally see Mitch and Sarah. “Hey man, excited for your show?” I grin, nudging his shoulder and nodding in acknowledgment to Sarah.