Who’s cool to me?

3 people come to mind. 1 local legend and 2 celebrities.

Three examples of “cool” that I had the chance to witness in 2022 & 2023.

Nick Mulvey

I went to his concert in January 2023. He put on a show. Nick leaned into who he was. His performance was just him. His style was his own. His music flowed from the depths of his soul.

He was singing without restraint. Those of us in the crowd were just there to bear witness.

Unapologetically himself

Vibing with who he was

In touch with who he is

Expressing himself fully

It was real

It was cool

It was him

Black Pumas

Same deal. Pure flow. Got to witness them in December 2022 with one of my best friends, Geno.

The word Smooth comes to mind when I think of them.

The flow was effortless because they were playing in alignment. It wasn’t contrived. It wasn’t forced. It was a melodic sense of flow.

It was crisp expression of their craft. They just shared what they had to give.

On that night, it was Colors, Black Moon Rising, and an unforgettable Fast Cars rendition.

Eric’s voice was his gift, as he belted it out. Adrian’s guitar sang its own song, as he set the beat & followed along.

I’m just grateful I got to be on the receiving end in the crowd.

Nick at Gnarwhal

A little context here is necessary. This guy is a photographer, a surfer, and a local coffee shop owner.

Of all the coffee shops where we could pickup a cappuccino in Santa Monica & Venice, Chris & I often opted for Gnarwhal on the off-chance we’d be greeted by Nick.

Nick’s friendliness was a gift.

His smile and warm “What’s up man!” was what he had to give.

He shined a light in every interaction.

He was welcoming to every single person who walked in.

It was his way of showing to all of his patrons that he actually cared about them.

That is cool.

And it’s no secret… Nick’s warm coolness was probably why his coffee shop never struggled for business.